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The Traveler and the Tourist #1
Two Tickets to Paradise
A vacation is exactly what these men need to find love in their lives. It may be about looking for a little fun, gaining a fresh perspective after a breakup, or building up the nerve to take the plunge. Whether they travel by plane, train, or automobile, none of them want to go it alone. They're hoping romance will be the ticket to finding paradise in another man's arms.
Stories
Haunted by Jana Denardo
Off the Tracks by Chelle Dugan
Krung Thep, City of Angels by Zee Kensington
Sunlight on Water by Susan Laine
Fall Forward by Jamie Lowe
A Good Night's Sleep by Anna Martin
All You Need by Dar Mavison
All at Sea by JL Merrow
Something Different by Sean Michael
Perpendicularity by Mal Peters
The Jeep Guy by Eric Renner
Know Nobody by G.R. Richards
Reconnecting by Claire Russett
Mending and Moving On by Cecilia Ryan
New Lease by B.G. Thomas
Stories
Haunted by Jana Denardo
Off the Tracks by Chelle Dugan
Krung Thep, City of Angels by Zee Kensington
Sunlight on Water by Susan Laine
Fall Forward by Jamie Lowe
A Good Night's Sleep by Anna Martin
All You Need by Dar Mavison
All at Sea by JL Merrow
Something Different by Sean Michael
Perpendicularity by Mal Peters
The Jeep Guy by Eric Renner
Know Nobody by G.R. Richards
Reconnecting by Claire Russett
Mending and Moving On by Cecilia Ryan
New Lease by B.G. Thomas
355 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 19, 2012
2 people are currently reading
111 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
April 26, 2012
Review originally posted here: http://thebookpushers.com/2012/04/24/...
I love and hate anthologies. They open my eyes to new authors, new stories and new situations that might push my comfort zone. With this anthology, I was hoping to find some new m/m authors that I could glom onto and find some great reads. While there were some good stories in this anthology, there were some not-so great stories either.
Haunted by Jana Denardo
In Denardo’s story, a couple go on a working vacation together. One a photographer and the other an author of ghost phenomena. This story was super cute. Trestan and Connor were super secure in their relationship, and excited to be on vacation together, getting the chance to experience some hauntings first hand. They have quite a few sexy times and I enjoyed all their moments together. B+
Off the Tracks by Chelle Dugan
This story really threw me for a loop. Owen was set to go on vacation to celebrate his best friends divorce. He trips and falls, knocking his head and landing back into the past. There he meets James and begins to fall for them. One night he falls asleep and wakes up back in present time, but to a life he always dreamed of, with James. I’m not a huge fan of time-travel, but when you throw in a weird dream/alternate reality thing, I just couldn’t connect with the story. C-
Krung Thep, City of Angels by Zee Kensington
A young Marco is making his first international trip, backpacking through Thailand. When he gets lost one day, Chris, a frequent traveler, comes to his rescue and the two spend a few marvelous days together. I am not a huge fan of couples that come to such a quick HEA, and while they didn’t make any declarations, it felt as if they moved super quickly in their relationship. I did like the way Zensington described Thailand, that aspect of this story made it an enjoyable read for me. B-
Sunlight on Water by Susan Laine
Ari is on vacation in Florida and meets the sexy Ryan. They have some steamy moments together, and when Ari tells Ryan his family won this extravagant vacation, Ryan takes off. Despite Ryan admitting he is a hustler, Ari wants to make a relationship work. This story didn’t really work for me. I never got a feeling of either character, and didn’t like their perfectly wrapped up HEA. D
Fall Forward by Jamie Lowe
Chase and Harrett are going on their first vacation as a couple, and arguing about what is and is not acceptable to display their relationship in the small town they are going to. When they set their worries of others aside and just enjoy each other, sexy times commence. This story was super short, but cute too. B-
A Good Night’s Sleep by Anna Martin
In all the stories of the couples that first meet, I think this might be one of my favorites. There isn’t a laid out HEA, instead a cute little HFN where Alex and Matt decided to travel together after a sexy night together on the train. Yes, there was train sex. It was good! B+
All You Need by Dar Mavison
Trent and Rory are taking a much-needed trip into NYC on a limited budget and a rocky place in their relationship. They argue and snap at each other, but are eventually able to work out the kinks in their relationship and get back to a happy place. This story was ok, but for some reason didn’t stand out as great as some of the other rekindling romances from this book. C
All at Sea by JL Merrow
Josh is on a family vacation, and runs into Rupe while renting a boat. The two connect as friends, and quickly take their relationship to the next level. They lean on each other and have a somewhat believable HEA, given they met in this short story (possibly due to the mini-epilogue in which it explains they broke-up and got back together throughout their lives.) Will definitely find more Merrow to read! B
Something Different by Sean Michael
This might have been my favorite second chance story in this anthology. Adam and Tucson were once lovers, and broke up long ago. When they both end up in Vegas on vacation, they pick up their romance and realize they were better together than apart. I really liked this story, it was super cute and sexy and well done. I will definitely be looking into more of Michael’s work. A-
Perpendicularity by Mal Peters
Kyle is an Olympic snowboarding champion in France for a tournament. What was supposed to be a romantic weekend turned into a solo trip. But one look at Kyle’s personal chef and he thinks he might be able to make time for a little romance. He and Dylan have a great friendship that leads to more and was super cute. I liked it. B+
The Jeep Guy by Eric Renner
I had a horrible time getting into this story. I couldn’t get through it at all and ended up DNFing it after a few pages.
Know Nobody by G.R. Richards
This short was more erotica than romance for me. Gerald wants to get away, and heads to Niagara Falls to “hook up.” He has an erotic evening with three twinks he picked up in a bar. But when his long-time best friend Sylvain shows up, he realizes what has long been in front of his face and the two begin a relationship. I didn’t really like this one very much. Not enough romance for me. D
Reconnecting by Claire Russett
I adored this story. It was probably one of my favorites. Sam is at a work conference and dreads running into the love of his life – John. John knows what he lost when he left Sam, and is determined to win the man back. Anyway he possibly can. There is sexy moments and angst and a wonderful reconnection story. I likey. A
Mending and Moving On by Cecilia Ryan
Bryan and Liam meet on the plane, and again once they land in Spain. Their relationship develops quickly and progresses to something serious in a VERY short time. I had a hard time reconciling them moving so quickly, especially since Liam was willing to give up his nomad lifestyle for a happily ever after. C
New Lease by B.G. Thomas
This story intrigued me at first, and then went downhill, unfortunately. Wade and Kent are both dealing with the loss of their partners, but Kent is handling it better than Wade. I felt as if Wade was victim to an abusive relationship, and didn’t like that he was constantly thinking about killing himself. I had a hard time relating to either hero and their decisions. D
All in all this anthology was what I expected. There were some great stories, and some not-so-great ones. I personally am glad I read it though, because it gave me the chance to find some new to me authors that I am excited to check out!
I love and hate anthologies. They open my eyes to new authors, new stories and new situations that might push my comfort zone. With this anthology, I was hoping to find some new m/m authors that I could glom onto and find some great reads. While there were some good stories in this anthology, there were some not-so great stories either.
Haunted by Jana Denardo
In Denardo’s story, a couple go on a working vacation together. One a photographer and the other an author of ghost phenomena. This story was super cute. Trestan and Connor were super secure in their relationship, and excited to be on vacation together, getting the chance to experience some hauntings first hand. They have quite a few sexy times and I enjoyed all their moments together. B+
Off the Tracks by Chelle Dugan
This story really threw me for a loop. Owen was set to go on vacation to celebrate his best friends divorce. He trips and falls, knocking his head and landing back into the past. There he meets James and begins to fall for them. One night he falls asleep and wakes up back in present time, but to a life he always dreamed of, with James. I’m not a huge fan of time-travel, but when you throw in a weird dream/alternate reality thing, I just couldn’t connect with the story. C-
Krung Thep, City of Angels by Zee Kensington
A young Marco is making his first international trip, backpacking through Thailand. When he gets lost one day, Chris, a frequent traveler, comes to his rescue and the two spend a few marvelous days together. I am not a huge fan of couples that come to such a quick HEA, and while they didn’t make any declarations, it felt as if they moved super quickly in their relationship. I did like the way Zensington described Thailand, that aspect of this story made it an enjoyable read for me. B-
Sunlight on Water by Susan Laine
Ari is on vacation in Florida and meets the sexy Ryan. They have some steamy moments together, and when Ari tells Ryan his family won this extravagant vacation, Ryan takes off. Despite Ryan admitting he is a hustler, Ari wants to make a relationship work. This story didn’t really work for me. I never got a feeling of either character, and didn’t like their perfectly wrapped up HEA. D
Fall Forward by Jamie Lowe
Chase and Harrett are going on their first vacation as a couple, and arguing about what is and is not acceptable to display their relationship in the small town they are going to. When they set their worries of others aside and just enjoy each other, sexy times commence. This story was super short, but cute too. B-
A Good Night’s Sleep by Anna Martin
In all the stories of the couples that first meet, I think this might be one of my favorites. There isn’t a laid out HEA, instead a cute little HFN where Alex and Matt decided to travel together after a sexy night together on the train. Yes, there was train sex. It was good! B+
All You Need by Dar Mavison
Trent and Rory are taking a much-needed trip into NYC on a limited budget and a rocky place in their relationship. They argue and snap at each other, but are eventually able to work out the kinks in their relationship and get back to a happy place. This story was ok, but for some reason didn’t stand out as great as some of the other rekindling romances from this book. C
All at Sea by JL Merrow
Josh is on a family vacation, and runs into Rupe while renting a boat. The two connect as friends, and quickly take their relationship to the next level. They lean on each other and have a somewhat believable HEA, given they met in this short story (possibly due to the mini-epilogue in which it explains they broke-up and got back together throughout their lives.) Will definitely find more Merrow to read! B
Something Different by Sean Michael
This might have been my favorite second chance story in this anthology. Adam and Tucson were once lovers, and broke up long ago. When they both end up in Vegas on vacation, they pick up their romance and realize they were better together than apart. I really liked this story, it was super cute and sexy and well done. I will definitely be looking into more of Michael’s work. A-
Perpendicularity by Mal Peters
Kyle is an Olympic snowboarding champion in France for a tournament. What was supposed to be a romantic weekend turned into a solo trip. But one look at Kyle’s personal chef and he thinks he might be able to make time for a little romance. He and Dylan have a great friendship that leads to more and was super cute. I liked it. B+
The Jeep Guy by Eric Renner
I had a horrible time getting into this story. I couldn’t get through it at all and ended up DNFing it after a few pages.
Know Nobody by G.R. Richards
This short was more erotica than romance for me. Gerald wants to get away, and heads to Niagara Falls to “hook up.” He has an erotic evening with three twinks he picked up in a bar. But when his long-time best friend Sylvain shows up, he realizes what has long been in front of his face and the two begin a relationship. I didn’t really like this one very much. Not enough romance for me. D
Reconnecting by Claire Russett
I adored this story. It was probably one of my favorites. Sam is at a work conference and dreads running into the love of his life – John. John knows what he lost when he left Sam, and is determined to win the man back. Anyway he possibly can. There is sexy moments and angst and a wonderful reconnection story. I likey. A
Mending and Moving On by Cecilia Ryan
Bryan and Liam meet on the plane, and again once they land in Spain. Their relationship develops quickly and progresses to something serious in a VERY short time. I had a hard time reconciling them moving so quickly, especially since Liam was willing to give up his nomad lifestyle for a happily ever after. C
New Lease by B.G. Thomas
This story intrigued me at first, and then went downhill, unfortunately. Wade and Kent are both dealing with the loss of their partners, but Kent is handling it better than Wade. I felt as if Wade was victim to an abusive relationship, and didn’t like that he was constantly thinking about killing himself. I had a hard time relating to either hero and their decisions. D
All in all this anthology was what I expected. There were some great stories, and some not-so-great ones. I personally am glad I read it though, because it gave me the chance to find some new to me authors that I am excited to check out!
April 5, 2012
http://top2bottomreviews.wordpress.com/
A Good Night’s Sleep by Anna Martin
Alex is taking a break from University and travelling the world for a year. He’s a med student who’s unsure of what practice, if any he wants to specialize in. One night he decides to take a train from Thailand to Padang Besar and is surprised to have a bunkmate, Matt. Matt is a photographer who is also taking time to travel the world to take pictures and explore different lands. When Matt is unable to sleep in his bunk, Alex offers to let him sleep with him. Soon they are swept up together in a passion neither man expected. But, what will happen when they arrive at their destination? Will they be able to part ways?
I liked this short story. Alex and Matt are strangers who have a really good chemistry together. Both characters are likeable and I enjoyed watching them meet and find a common ground between them.
Fall Forward by Jamie Lowe
Jarrett and Chase are boyfriends who decide to leave college for a weekend getaway. After being cooped up in the car together for hours, they start to bicker and both are not happy with how they are getting along. When they stop for the night will they be able to stop their bickering and enjoy their first vacation together?
I really liked the bantering between Jarrett and Chase. There were some funny moments in this short and I liked the chemistry and camaraderie between them. I would have loved to have read more about them.
Reconnecting by Claire Russett
Sam Jefferson is at a week-long conference for Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics in Corfu. He’s a professor that’s attended this conference every year. This year he almost didn’t attend because he’s afraid he’ll run into John Stanton who has been known to be a guest speaker at these events. Two years ago, John turned his back on the life Sam hoped they make together and since then, Sam is still hurt from being tossed aside so carelessly. But, John is determined to mend fences and make up with Sam. Will Sam give him a chance for them to reconcile, or will they separate forever?
This is one of the longer stories in the book. Sam’s pain and loneliness is apparent throughout the story. I really felt sorry for him, but once he met back up with John, quickly started to hope that these two men would find their way back together. I like the fast-pasted story and thought Sam and John were really good together.
Mending and Moving Along by Ceclia Ryan
Brian and Liam meet on a plane to Spain. They start a quick conversation, but once they arrived at their destination, Brian thought he’d never see Liam again. Brian is pleasantly surprised when he finds out that Liam is staying at the same resort he is, the men immediately become fast friends and soon fall into each other’s arms. But, once the vacation is over will Brian and Liam be able to part ways?
This was another really good short story. I enjoyed watching Brian and Liam get to know one another and the sexual chemistry between them was smoking hot! This is another story that is longer than most in the book and one of my favorites.
The Jeep Guy by Eric Renner
The Jeep Guy is written in journal form. Normally this would be a distraction, but reading the story through Eric’s eyes was definitely interesting. I enjoyed watching him travel and meet the sexy and very interesting Andy. They had really great chemistry together and I admit I was wrapped up in their story. Great read!
All at Sea by JL Merrow
Josh is a college student who reluctantly goes on vacation at the Isle of Wight with his mother and two sisters. Recently, Josh’s father left the family and Josh and his mother and siblings are trying to get through this tough time. He meets the very handsome Rupe and finds out that his summer vacation might not be a bad as he had anticipated it to be.
This story is told in first person with Josh’s point of view. Josh is a very likeable character and I enjoyed watching the short story unfold through his eyes. He and Rupe are well matched together, but both know once they get together that it will be staying together that is the challenge. I loved the ending and really enjoyed the story.
Haunted by Jana Denardo
Trestan and Connor are taking a working vacation in British Columbia to investigate haunted houses. Will they encounter something supernatural along the way?
I really loved this couple. They had a great chemistry together and I loved the banter these two had between them. There were several times I laughed out loud in this story and I enjoyed the sexy moments they had together. It was a fun and flirty story I hated to see come to an end.
Something Different by Sean Michael
Tucson Andrews is spending his thirty-fifth birthday in Vegas. Alone. When he literally bumps into his ex-lover Adam Brewster, his vacation takes an unexpected turn Tucson didn’t see coming. After ten years of being apart, can they once again reconnect together?
I love Sean Michael’s books and this short story was no exception. Fast-paced and steamy hot, this short was a pleasure to read. I loved the characters and watching them reconnect after so many years apart. Great read!
Perpendicularity by Mal Peters
After just breaking up with his girlfriend, Kyle decided to go to the resort in France that they had planned on vacationing together… alone. When he wakes to the delicious smell of fresh baked bread, he goes to investigate where these yummy smells are coming from. There he meets Dylan, who is a beautiful young man with a sweet personality. Will Kyle’s vacation end up being the best vacation he’s ever had?
I loved Dylan and Kyle. Both are unique and sexy characters that were easy to like. I enjoyed watching them flirt with one another as they got to know each other. I wish they had a longer story¸ because I hated to see this one come to an end. There is a definite HFN ending with a hope for more and I liked that.
Sunlight on Water by Susan Laine
When Aramas’s mother wins tickets to stay at a five star resort in the Keys, Aramas goes with his family with some reluctance. He’s weeks from moving into his own place in Miami where he’s convinced his life will truly begin. As an artist, when he spots a handsome young man around the resort, he’s immediately smitten with him. And, he’s more than a little surprised when the handsome man, Ryan, approaches him and sweeps him off into a whirlwind romance. But, when Ryan finds out that Aramas doesn’t come from money, will his affections be truly real?
This is another of my favorite stories in this anthology. Told in first person with Aramas’s point of view, the story moved smoothly and kept me captivated with the characters within it. I loved Aramas’s determination to fight for the man he knows Ryan can be and for them to build a life together. Such a sweet, sexy and romantic story, I truly hated to see it come to an end.
Off the Tracks by Chelle Dugan
Owen and his best friend, Tara are just before going on their planned vacation to Vancouver. They are celebrating Tara’s recent divorce, but when Tara has an unexpected family emergency and cannot make the trip, Owen is forced to go alone. In his mid-forties he doesn’t believe that he’ll ever find his true love and that it’s too late to find a life partner. When he first arrives he is unhappy to experience the gay scene alone, but feels better when he boards a train the next day to do some much needed exploring. Unfortunately, he falls and injures his head, and when he wakes up he’s realizes that he’s younger and everything is different than he thought.
This is another story that is one of my favorites in this book. I loved the second chance that Owen was given and really liked him as a character. I thought the time-travel spin was an interesting one and I loved Owen and James together!
All You Need by Dar Mavison
Trent and Rory have been in a committed relationship for years. Lately, they’ve been disconnected and both men feel like they’re headed for a breakup. When Trent surprises Rory with a weekend trip to New York, both men suspect that this might be their last chance to reconnect and be together. But, things are never easy and the trip ends up being not as fun as either man wanted. Will they still be able to save their relationship and cherish the love they have between them?
This is another story that’s one of my favorites in this anthology. I really liked both Trent and Rory and understood why they were struggling within their relationship. It was nice to watch them both work hard to strengthen their weakening relationship and I enjoyed the chemistry the two men had together. The story moves very fast and when it ended I had a smile on my face. I loved it!
Know Nobody by GR Richards
Gerald is ready to go somewhere where nobody knows him. He wants to escape, have some hot sex with a twink or three and escape the loneliness and humdrum of his everyday life. Even when his best friend, Sylvain begs him not to go, Gerald insists and ends up frolicking with the men he’d fantasized having sex with. When he’s surprised by his best friend, Gerald is struck with the realization that maybe what he’s always been looking for has been staring him right in the face the whole time.
This was a quick enjoyable read. It was fun watching Gerald let his hair down for a while. It was obvious to everyone but Gerald that Sylvain was really the man for him, and it was a blast watching him realize that.
New Lease by BG Thomas
For the past two years, Wade has been going through the motions of life. For twenty-five years he had been his lover’s dirty little secret, and when his lover died two years ago, Wade has been miserable. Deciding to end his life, he goes to the cabin they rented for two weeks every year to do the deed. But, when he meets his sexy and very kind man, Kent next door, everything in his world starts to change.
I really liked this story a lot. I felt sorry for Wade and hoped that he would find someone who really cared about him. Both Wade and Kent are honorable men who are both interesting and easy to like. I enjoyed the promise of a bright future for them and will be looking for more books by this author in the future.
Krung Thep, City of Angels by Zee Kensington
Marco has always dreamed of travelling the world. At twenty-three, he finally takes a chance and flies to Bangkok. But, after three days he wonders if he’s made a mistake by travelling alone, he’s lonely and has more than a little culture shock. When he meets the older and sexier Chris, Marco becomes more than a little infatuated with him. But, Chris is a world traveler himself and is used to being alone. Will Marco find a way to worm a way into Chris’s heart?
This story is another favorite. I really loved Marco’s naivety and zest to try something new. He’s a wonderful character that I couldn’t help but really like. Even Chris who has lived by his rules and for so long by himself couldn’t help but be charmed by Marco. I loved these two men together and wish their story had been longer.
I really loved this anthology. Every story was good and most of them were really great. I’m looking forward to reading more by all of these authors and highly recommend this book if you are looking for some sexy and romantic short stories to keep you warm at night.
A Good Night’s Sleep by Anna Martin
Alex is taking a break from University and travelling the world for a year. He’s a med student who’s unsure of what practice, if any he wants to specialize in. One night he decides to take a train from Thailand to Padang Besar and is surprised to have a bunkmate, Matt. Matt is a photographer who is also taking time to travel the world to take pictures and explore different lands. When Matt is unable to sleep in his bunk, Alex offers to let him sleep with him. Soon they are swept up together in a passion neither man expected. But, what will happen when they arrive at their destination? Will they be able to part ways?
I liked this short story. Alex and Matt are strangers who have a really good chemistry together. Both characters are likeable and I enjoyed watching them meet and find a common ground between them.
Fall Forward by Jamie Lowe
Jarrett and Chase are boyfriends who decide to leave college for a weekend getaway. After being cooped up in the car together for hours, they start to bicker and both are not happy with how they are getting along. When they stop for the night will they be able to stop their bickering and enjoy their first vacation together?
I really liked the bantering between Jarrett and Chase. There were some funny moments in this short and I liked the chemistry and camaraderie between them. I would have loved to have read more about them.
Reconnecting by Claire Russett
Sam Jefferson is at a week-long conference for Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics in Corfu. He’s a professor that’s attended this conference every year. This year he almost didn’t attend because he’s afraid he’ll run into John Stanton who has been known to be a guest speaker at these events. Two years ago, John turned his back on the life Sam hoped they make together and since then, Sam is still hurt from being tossed aside so carelessly. But, John is determined to mend fences and make up with Sam. Will Sam give him a chance for them to reconcile, or will they separate forever?
This is one of the longer stories in the book. Sam’s pain and loneliness is apparent throughout the story. I really felt sorry for him, but once he met back up with John, quickly started to hope that these two men would find their way back together. I like the fast-pasted story and thought Sam and John were really good together.
Mending and Moving Along by Ceclia Ryan
Brian and Liam meet on a plane to Spain. They start a quick conversation, but once they arrived at their destination, Brian thought he’d never see Liam again. Brian is pleasantly surprised when he finds out that Liam is staying at the same resort he is, the men immediately become fast friends and soon fall into each other’s arms. But, once the vacation is over will Brian and Liam be able to part ways?
This was another really good short story. I enjoyed watching Brian and Liam get to know one another and the sexual chemistry between them was smoking hot! This is another story that is longer than most in the book and one of my favorites.
The Jeep Guy by Eric Renner
The Jeep Guy is written in journal form. Normally this would be a distraction, but reading the story through Eric’s eyes was definitely interesting. I enjoyed watching him travel and meet the sexy and very interesting Andy. They had really great chemistry together and I admit I was wrapped up in their story. Great read!
All at Sea by JL Merrow
Josh is a college student who reluctantly goes on vacation at the Isle of Wight with his mother and two sisters. Recently, Josh’s father left the family and Josh and his mother and siblings are trying to get through this tough time. He meets the very handsome Rupe and finds out that his summer vacation might not be a bad as he had anticipated it to be.
This story is told in first person with Josh’s point of view. Josh is a very likeable character and I enjoyed watching the short story unfold through his eyes. He and Rupe are well matched together, but both know once they get together that it will be staying together that is the challenge. I loved the ending and really enjoyed the story.
Haunted by Jana Denardo
Trestan and Connor are taking a working vacation in British Columbia to investigate haunted houses. Will they encounter something supernatural along the way?
I really loved this couple. They had a great chemistry together and I loved the banter these two had between them. There were several times I laughed out loud in this story and I enjoyed the sexy moments they had together. It was a fun and flirty story I hated to see come to an end.
Something Different by Sean Michael
Tucson Andrews is spending his thirty-fifth birthday in Vegas. Alone. When he literally bumps into his ex-lover Adam Brewster, his vacation takes an unexpected turn Tucson didn’t see coming. After ten years of being apart, can they once again reconnect together?
I love Sean Michael’s books and this short story was no exception. Fast-paced and steamy hot, this short was a pleasure to read. I loved the characters and watching them reconnect after so many years apart. Great read!
Perpendicularity by Mal Peters
After just breaking up with his girlfriend, Kyle decided to go to the resort in France that they had planned on vacationing together… alone. When he wakes to the delicious smell of fresh baked bread, he goes to investigate where these yummy smells are coming from. There he meets Dylan, who is a beautiful young man with a sweet personality. Will Kyle’s vacation end up being the best vacation he’s ever had?
I loved Dylan and Kyle. Both are unique and sexy characters that were easy to like. I enjoyed watching them flirt with one another as they got to know each other. I wish they had a longer story¸ because I hated to see this one come to an end. There is a definite HFN ending with a hope for more and I liked that.
Sunlight on Water by Susan Laine
When Aramas’s mother wins tickets to stay at a five star resort in the Keys, Aramas goes with his family with some reluctance. He’s weeks from moving into his own place in Miami where he’s convinced his life will truly begin. As an artist, when he spots a handsome young man around the resort, he’s immediately smitten with him. And, he’s more than a little surprised when the handsome man, Ryan, approaches him and sweeps him off into a whirlwind romance. But, when Ryan finds out that Aramas doesn’t come from money, will his affections be truly real?
This is another of my favorite stories in this anthology. Told in first person with Aramas’s point of view, the story moved smoothly and kept me captivated with the characters within it. I loved Aramas’s determination to fight for the man he knows Ryan can be and for them to build a life together. Such a sweet, sexy and romantic story, I truly hated to see it come to an end.
Off the Tracks by Chelle Dugan
Owen and his best friend, Tara are just before going on their planned vacation to Vancouver. They are celebrating Tara’s recent divorce, but when Tara has an unexpected family emergency and cannot make the trip, Owen is forced to go alone. In his mid-forties he doesn’t believe that he’ll ever find his true love and that it’s too late to find a life partner. When he first arrives he is unhappy to experience the gay scene alone, but feels better when he boards a train the next day to do some much needed exploring. Unfortunately, he falls and injures his head, and when he wakes up he’s realizes that he’s younger and everything is different than he thought.
This is another story that is one of my favorites in this book. I loved the second chance that Owen was given and really liked him as a character. I thought the time-travel spin was an interesting one and I loved Owen and James together!
All You Need by Dar Mavison
Trent and Rory have been in a committed relationship for years. Lately, they’ve been disconnected and both men feel like they’re headed for a breakup. When Trent surprises Rory with a weekend trip to New York, both men suspect that this might be their last chance to reconnect and be together. But, things are never easy and the trip ends up being not as fun as either man wanted. Will they still be able to save their relationship and cherish the love they have between them?
This is another story that’s one of my favorites in this anthology. I really liked both Trent and Rory and understood why they were struggling within their relationship. It was nice to watch them both work hard to strengthen their weakening relationship and I enjoyed the chemistry the two men had together. The story moves very fast and when it ended I had a smile on my face. I loved it!
Know Nobody by GR Richards
Gerald is ready to go somewhere where nobody knows him. He wants to escape, have some hot sex with a twink or three and escape the loneliness and humdrum of his everyday life. Even when his best friend, Sylvain begs him not to go, Gerald insists and ends up frolicking with the men he’d fantasized having sex with. When he’s surprised by his best friend, Gerald is struck with the realization that maybe what he’s always been looking for has been staring him right in the face the whole time.
This was a quick enjoyable read. It was fun watching Gerald let his hair down for a while. It was obvious to everyone but Gerald that Sylvain was really the man for him, and it was a blast watching him realize that.
New Lease by BG Thomas
For the past two years, Wade has been going through the motions of life. For twenty-five years he had been his lover’s dirty little secret, and when his lover died two years ago, Wade has been miserable. Deciding to end his life, he goes to the cabin they rented for two weeks every year to do the deed. But, when he meets his sexy and very kind man, Kent next door, everything in his world starts to change.
I really liked this story a lot. I felt sorry for Wade and hoped that he would find someone who really cared about him. Both Wade and Kent are honorable men who are both interesting and easy to like. I enjoyed the promise of a bright future for them and will be looking for more books by this author in the future.
Krung Thep, City of Angels by Zee Kensington
Marco has always dreamed of travelling the world. At twenty-three, he finally takes a chance and flies to Bangkok. But, after three days he wonders if he’s made a mistake by travelling alone, he’s lonely and has more than a little culture shock. When he meets the older and sexier Chris, Marco becomes more than a little infatuated with him. But, Chris is a world traveler himself and is used to being alone. Will Marco find a way to worm a way into Chris’s heart?
This story is another favorite. I really loved Marco’s naivety and zest to try something new. He’s a wonderful character that I couldn’t help but really like. Even Chris who has lived by his rules and for so long by himself couldn’t help but be charmed by Marco. I loved these two men together and wish their story had been longer.
I really loved this anthology. Every story was good and most of them were really great. I’m looking forward to reading more by all of these authors and highly recommend this book if you are looking for some sexy and romantic short stories to keep you warm at night.
December 24, 2013
2.5 Stars
Anthologies present a challenge for me because I like my stories robust. I enjoy getting to know the characters and being enveloped into their lives, if only for a few hours. To me, a good book is like visiting with someone: they invite you into their home and you stay for a spell; have a cup of hot chocolate, kick your feet up, and talk story. For a few hours you're engrossed in someone else's life and it's absolutely wonderful. An anthology is more like an open house: you walk in, say hello, look around, and walk out. It's nice but often it's hard for me to connect.
This anthology was even more abbreviated, if that's possible. With nine stories crammed into 360 pages, it felt more like speed dating: you've got 15 seconds to tell me about yourself and then boom! It's on to the next story.
*sigh*
That's tough for me. Don't get me wrong, I didn't dislike these stories, it just felt frantic. I was dropped into the middle of a scene, the characters had a moment (or two) and then it was over.
I usually review anthologies by writing a blurb about each story. With nine stories, I said "forget about it!" So I'll write about the one I liked the most: Reconnecting by Claire Russett. This was hands down my favorite. I actually liked it a lot. Sam and John's story about second chances stole my heart. I felt like I got to know them a little and even though the ending was a bit rushed (15 seconds!), I got my HEA.
Bottom line: meh (except for Reconnecting).
Anthologies present a challenge for me because I like my stories robust. I enjoy getting to know the characters and being enveloped into their lives, if only for a few hours. To me, a good book is like visiting with someone: they invite you into their home and you stay for a spell; have a cup of hot chocolate, kick your feet up, and talk story. For a few hours you're engrossed in someone else's life and it's absolutely wonderful. An anthology is more like an open house: you walk in, say hello, look around, and walk out. It's nice but often it's hard for me to connect.
This anthology was even more abbreviated, if that's possible. With nine stories crammed into 360 pages, it felt more like speed dating: you've got 15 seconds to tell me about yourself and then boom! It's on to the next story.
*sigh*
That's tough for me. Don't get me wrong, I didn't dislike these stories, it just felt frantic. I was dropped into the middle of a scene, the characters had a moment (or two) and then it was over.
I usually review anthologies by writing a blurb about each story. With nine stories, I said "forget about it!" So I'll write about the one I liked the most: Reconnecting by Claire Russett. This was hands down my favorite. I actually liked it a lot. Sam and John's story about second chances stole my heart. I felt like I got to know them a little and even though the ending was a bit rushed (15 seconds!), I got my HEA.
Bottom line: meh (except for Reconnecting).
October 26, 2012
I've taken my time with this one. Over the summer I've read the stories slowly, and as the fall came, I longed to see which ones I would revisit. I have four favorites: A Good Night's Sleep, Krung Thep, All At Sea, and Reconnecting. All had wonderful, lively characters. While the first two are short scenes that lead to wonderful things, the last two span a lot of time, years even, and the stories are in-depth and driven. I have to say that the last two were my favorites when I was looking for deeper emotional connection, while the first two became almost fantasies of how holidays should be :) I recommend.
April 1, 2012
Some of these were very good, and some I didn't care for. A few times I found myself thinking the MCs were rather pathetic and not at all sympathetic, on the other hand there were a few that would probably rate a 4 star rating. There were established couples traveling, brief interludes of vacation romance, younger/older pairings, quite a variety and with several different locations from Thailand to New York City and Europe. Probably better to spread these out than read them all at once because I found the stories that didn't work for me, more towards the end. I don't know if that was just coincidence or if I'd started to tire of the theme.
November 14, 2013
For the sake of the couple of good books in this one I’ll round it up to 3 stars. But really I think my average is about a 2.5 star read for this one unfortunately. Or maybe that's just because they stories that annoyed me REALLY annoyed me. But hey, I finished it! Go me!
Ok so I've cut out most of the plot descriptions here for length, because well GR puts a character limit on me unfortunately. I will be posting the full length review on my blog though if anyone's curious what bits I cut out. :D
A Good Night’s Sleep by Anna Martin ★★★½
I liked this story to kick things off with this book. For a short story the strangers premise actually worked here. Normally it makes it more difficult to feel like you get a complete story, but this was really nice.
Short, sweet, and just the littlest bit hot. ;) I’d be curious to see more about these two and their travels, but as a start to a relationship or even just a little companionship on your travels this was pretty dang good. I’ll be looking to check out more books by the author.
Fall Forward by Jamie Lowe ★★½
Not really a fan of this one. I didn’t particularly care for either character and nothing in the story ever managed to endear them to me either.
Ok so I get that Jarrett’s learning a lesson here and that that’s the point of this little story. You’ve still got to live your life you can’t always be waiting for the bad shit to happen. But the irritation these two felt with each other for much of the story didn’t really leave me feeling like the liked each other all that much. It almost felt like they were just together for the sex. That’s the problem with a short story though if your characters don’t come off as all that likeable. There’s not a lot of time to recover and bring your audience back in with you. I’d take a pass on this story.
Reconnecting by Claire Russett ★★★★
My favorite of the shorts so far! So much history between these two! It really drags you into the story quickly. Plus I’m silly and really enjoyed Mr. Anti-social himself. ;)
I’m a nerd I admit it. I have a soft spot for the geeks and the brainiacs. Sam’s character had me intrigued from the beginning. I really wanted to know more about who he was hiding from and why. His inner monologue had me smiling in a number of places. This short also perfectly depicts why established couples work so much better in shorts. Even though Sam and John don’t get together until the very end of the story, heck they don’t even really speak previously, all the history between them makes the story work and I buy in and am cheering for their HEA, which of course they get quite nicely.
I liked the way the author set this story up and executed everything beautifully. I’ll have to look for more by them in the future.
Mending and Moving On by Cecilia Ryan ★★★½
I liked this one well enough through the reading of it, but the end got a bit absurd for me. More than a tad bit forced to get the HEA in there. Some lovely descriptions of Spain though. :D
If this had remained a fun little romp while on vacation I think I would have rated it much higher. Their courtship in Spain is awkward, but not unbelievable and I enjoyed Liam pulling Brian out of his shell. But, because I don’t feel like ever really got to know much about Brian, even the past he’s running from is only remarked on briefly not really filled in in detail, I didn’t get to feel like these two guys were really falling in love. Having a great time and a whole heap of like sure, but this wasn’t an insta-love where I could buy the immediacy. Actually this would have worked better for me if it had ended with a let’s keep in touch and maybe an email months later saying “Hi, I’m gonna be in town, want to meet up?” hinting at a possible continuation than the route ultimately traveled. It just wasn’t a believable ending despite an otherwise fun story.
The Jeep Guy by Eric Renner ★★★
Ok so I kinda liked the quirky style of this story, the blogger posts was different. But it essentially goes nowhere. Pages of a guy obsessing over someone he’s met once in passing and then a really quick turn around to yes, meet my family/friends.
So while I liked the blogger post bit when it came to Eric’s internal monologue I didn’t like it when it came to his interaction with Andy. Not to mention his recitation of Andy just coming out and straight up saying “I’m gay hope that’s not a problem for you,” on a second meeting seemed very strange and silly. I also felt like while I got a little bit of Andy’s story, I don’t feel like I got to know much of anything about Eric’s backstory. I mean maybe I missed it, but I’m not even sure I know what Eric does for a living. In the end I kinda just went, EH, at the end of this one.
All at Sea by J.L. Merrow ★★★★½
As one of the few authors I recognized in this anthology I definitely had expectations going in. Luckily I wasn’t disappointed. This is up there as one of the best so far. Such a great way to do a short. It’s a look back at how the relationship began. As the reader you’re left assured that this couple gets their HEA even if we don’t get to travel along with them to it.
This was such a sweet start to a relationship. As I said before I liked the structure of this story, the reminiscing about how their relationship got started. It just worked. Josh was too cute lusting after the local boy and his inept attempts at starting a conversation made me smile. Rupe was quirky in such a fun way and the interest between the two seemed genuine. I liked seeing how their relationship began. Well written and definitely enjoyable.
Haunted by Jana Denardo ★★★
Well that was remarkably uneventful. I got all excited when I’m introduced to the idea of ghost hunters thinking something fun and fantastic was going to go off here. Instead all I got was MEH!
I wanted so much more out of this story. As a slice of life for an established couple it’s fine enough, but it goes nowhere. So they resolve a minor issue that really only takes one question being asked, so what. There was so much potential to have the ghost element be something fun and interesting even if you don’t want to take it into full on corporeal status. This just left me feeling let down and wishing for more.
Something Different by Sean Michael ★★★★
So I know exactly what I’m getting with a Sean Michael book. Sex, sex, and more sex. His book’s are generally smut personified and since I enjoy sex as much as the next red blooded female I don’t tend to complain. This is no different. If you’re in the mood for PWP this little short is perfect.
We'll make the most of our reunion in bed. ;D These two were super hot! I swear the temperature in my apartment went up a good ten degrees. I mean what chance do you have at a good relationship if you can’t get the sex right, right? Take out the pure forced coincidence and well no real plot and this book is great. It’s well written and I since these two had a long term past relationship I can forgive and forget the lack of action for steamy sex. I’d actually be curious to see a real story for these two.
Perpendicularity by Mal Peters ★★★★★
Well now aren’t you just a spot of bright light in the middle of everything. Love, love, loved this story! I don’t have a single complaint about this one other than it’s over too quickly. Please, oh please, give me more of these two.
Ok, so normally I detest present tense narrative. It always feels clunky and makes the story feel out of synch. While I did find myself noticing every time a present tense verb was used it didn’t pull me out of the story the way something like this normally would. Besides Kyle (hello snowboard hottie!) and Dylan we’re just too adorable for words. I loved the image of two wine induced drowsy boys on the coach in front of the fire. This whole tale was just the perfect romantic meeting. I fell in love as I was reading and would love to read more in these two’s story.
Sunlight on Water by Susan Laine ★
Gah! Gag me with a syrupy sweet spoon! Can you fit any more adjectives/metaphors into this writing? That was beyond awful! Insta-love on top of overly romantic drivel. BLEH!
That’s all I’m saying about this one. It was just awful and I may go into a sugar coma just from reading it. The over flowery prose does not help in anyway and just serves to make this unrealistic story painful to read. One day together and these two are head over heels, I want you forever, you’re really not a bad person give up your hustling ways for me, in love. Ummmm yeah, no!
Off the Tracks by Chelle Dugan ★★½
Well this is a strange take on a story. I have butterfly effect issues about this one. Time travel stories are hard to write and if you don’t do it correctly leave me going, yeah no.
I had a bunch of logic issues with this one. First of all in the story the point is made that Tara and Owen didn’t take this trip in his life before and in fact the guy she actually married wasn’t the guy she’s currently engaged too and took place 3 years in the future. If you’re going to use a time travel story and have it be to a point earlier in the characters life where they could have made a different choice, MAKE IT A POINT THEY ACTUALLY LIVED THROUGH! In the end this kinda ignores all the affected issues and just jumps to everything’s ok. Did Owen forget everything he knew about the future even though we jump back into his body later and he doesn’t actually live all those years? He still would have made choices based on the knowledge he did have. The brain dump in the end just bugged me. I’d round this up to 3 stars because the writing was good. Logical fallacies keep it at a 2.5 stars.
All You Need by Dar Mavison ★★½
It’s kinda hard to like a story when you dislike both the main characters. There just wasn’t anything redeemable about them for me. In fact I’m not even sure why they’re together.
Sure it's a low cost vacation to NY, but at least they’ll have each other...
Or at least that’s supposed to be the case. Instead it’s all a bunch of sniping and griping. I liked Trent at least a little more than Rory since he at least tried to do something nice, but in the end I wasn’t even sure if these two even liked each other, let alone loved each other. In fact I don’t think they say they love each other once in the story. Instead the entire trip goes badly until they finally fall into sex with each other and a broken bed later suddenly they talk to each other for a brief moment and everything is ok. I just feel like nothing is really solved. (And the first time I wrote this it was way better…stupid crashing computer)
Know Nobody by G.R. Richards ★½
This gets a half star bump for not being terribly written, it’s just not my cup of tea at all. In fact it’s just yucky, yucky, and more yucky…cause you know the older man with three hot twinks in weird dick underwear is just soooooooo entertaining.
Gerald is dissatisfied with his life. So he’s decided a vacation to Niagra Falls where he knows no one is in order. Even when his good friend and neighbor volunteers to go with him he immediately turns Sylvain down. This is about him getting laid and that’s it. Of course when he gets to one of the gay clubs in town it’s underwear night and he’s forced to strip down to his skivvies. Then it’s underwear parades and loads of hot boys. How can a man choose?
Apparently he can’t and he’s blind and stupid too. I thought you were supposed to get wiser with age, not regress into stupidsville where you think fucking 3 young twinks is such a great idea. Let alone that orgies hookups hahappening at random clubs is just so believable in the first place. In fact I think Sylvain showing up and Gerald running to him almost makes this story worse for me. Sylvain deserves someone better than an idiot who needs to go through a midlife crisis and can’t recognize what he has in front of him. And then spends their entire first time together thinking about the three hot guys he just left. Sorry Gerald but you’re a douche.
New Lease B.G. Thomas ★★★½
Well this is the first book in the anthology with a real angst factor. I definitely felt Wade’s pain. Felt his pain, but felt also like the man needed to grow a backbone.
Wade, you’ve been some man’s dirty little secret for more than 20 years and you’ve never once considered that this wasn’t ok. This was such a sad tale. It was hard to believe Kent’s interest in Wade as Wade was so, for lack of a better word, pitiful in his understanding of a real relationship. I’m happy this was a HFN story, it ended on a hopeful note and there was a little bit of a spark of real personality starting to show up with Wade. The story here was better than the last couple, but I think would have worked better as a longer novel giving more time for Wade and Kent to develop a relationship.
Krung Thep, City of Angels by Zee Kensington ★★★★
The innocent and the jaded, this novel actually does a good job of blending and balancing these two men. I quite enjoyed the introduction to these two and Thailand.
Normally I don’t feel like new meetings work well in shorts, but I liked this one. There was something about the polar opposite nature of these two men that made it really interesting. I liked seeing them together and in exploring the city learning things about themselves they never expected. It was fun to see the flame rekindle for Chris a little. This was the perfect HFN start to things and Marco is the cutest thing ever in his little pissy run to the airport and then realizing maybe things aren’t as over as he thought. Track down your man boy! All in all a fun way to end a mostly obnoxious book.
If I had my way I’d yank a few stories out of this anthology and throw the rest down a deep dark hole. I’ve never struggled so hard to get through something in my life. There were brief moments of light in the tunnel, but they were few and far between. Not a book I would recommend in it’s entirety to anyone.
Ok so I've cut out most of the plot descriptions here for length, because well GR puts a character limit on me unfortunately. I will be posting the full length review on my blog though if anyone's curious what bits I cut out. :D
A Good Night’s Sleep by Anna Martin ★★★½
I liked this story to kick things off with this book. For a short story the strangers premise actually worked here. Normally it makes it more difficult to feel like you get a complete story, but this was really nice.
Short, sweet, and just the littlest bit hot. ;) I’d be curious to see more about these two and their travels, but as a start to a relationship or even just a little companionship on your travels this was pretty dang good. I’ll be looking to check out more books by the author.
Fall Forward by Jamie Lowe ★★½
Not really a fan of this one. I didn’t particularly care for either character and nothing in the story ever managed to endear them to me either.
Ok so I get that Jarrett’s learning a lesson here and that that’s the point of this little story. You’ve still got to live your life you can’t always be waiting for the bad shit to happen. But the irritation these two felt with each other for much of the story didn’t really leave me feeling like the liked each other all that much. It almost felt like they were just together for the sex. That’s the problem with a short story though if your characters don’t come off as all that likeable. There’s not a lot of time to recover and bring your audience back in with you. I’d take a pass on this story.
Reconnecting by Claire Russett ★★★★
My favorite of the shorts so far! So much history between these two! It really drags you into the story quickly. Plus I’m silly and really enjoyed Mr. Anti-social himself. ;)
I’m a nerd I admit it. I have a soft spot for the geeks and the brainiacs. Sam’s character had me intrigued from the beginning. I really wanted to know more about who he was hiding from and why. His inner monologue had me smiling in a number of places. This short also perfectly depicts why established couples work so much better in shorts. Even though Sam and John don’t get together until the very end of the story, heck they don’t even really speak previously, all the history between them makes the story work and I buy in and am cheering for their HEA, which of course they get quite nicely.
I liked the way the author set this story up and executed everything beautifully. I’ll have to look for more by them in the future.
Mending and Moving On by Cecilia Ryan ★★★½
I liked this one well enough through the reading of it, but the end got a bit absurd for me. More than a tad bit forced to get the HEA in there. Some lovely descriptions of Spain though. :D
If this had remained a fun little romp while on vacation I think I would have rated it much higher. Their courtship in Spain is awkward, but not unbelievable and I enjoyed Liam pulling Brian out of his shell. But, because I don’t feel like ever really got to know much about Brian, even the past he’s running from is only remarked on briefly not really filled in in detail, I didn’t get to feel like these two guys were really falling in love. Having a great time and a whole heap of like sure, but this wasn’t an insta-love where I could buy the immediacy. Actually this would have worked better for me if it had ended with a let’s keep in touch and maybe an email months later saying “Hi, I’m gonna be in town, want to meet up?” hinting at a possible continuation than the route ultimately traveled. It just wasn’t a believable ending despite an otherwise fun story.
The Jeep Guy by Eric Renner ★★★
Ok so I kinda liked the quirky style of this story, the blogger posts was different. But it essentially goes nowhere. Pages of a guy obsessing over someone he’s met once in passing and then a really quick turn around to yes, meet my family/friends.
So while I liked the blogger post bit when it came to Eric’s internal monologue I didn’t like it when it came to his interaction with Andy. Not to mention his recitation of Andy just coming out and straight up saying “I’m gay hope that’s not a problem for you,” on a second meeting seemed very strange and silly. I also felt like while I got a little bit of Andy’s story, I don’t feel like I got to know much of anything about Eric’s backstory. I mean maybe I missed it, but I’m not even sure I know what Eric does for a living. In the end I kinda just went, EH, at the end of this one.
All at Sea by J.L. Merrow ★★★★½
As one of the few authors I recognized in this anthology I definitely had expectations going in. Luckily I wasn’t disappointed. This is up there as one of the best so far. Such a great way to do a short. It’s a look back at how the relationship began. As the reader you’re left assured that this couple gets their HEA even if we don’t get to travel along with them to it.
This was such a sweet start to a relationship. As I said before I liked the structure of this story, the reminiscing about how their relationship got started. It just worked. Josh was too cute lusting after the local boy and his inept attempts at starting a conversation made me smile. Rupe was quirky in such a fun way and the interest between the two seemed genuine. I liked seeing how their relationship began. Well written and definitely enjoyable.
Haunted by Jana Denardo ★★★
Well that was remarkably uneventful. I got all excited when I’m introduced to the idea of ghost hunters thinking something fun and fantastic was going to go off here. Instead all I got was MEH!
I wanted so much more out of this story. As a slice of life for an established couple it’s fine enough, but it goes nowhere. So they resolve a minor issue that really only takes one question being asked, so what. There was so much potential to have the ghost element be something fun and interesting even if you don’t want to take it into full on corporeal status. This just left me feeling let down and wishing for more.
Something Different by Sean Michael ★★★★
So I know exactly what I’m getting with a Sean Michael book. Sex, sex, and more sex. His book’s are generally smut personified and since I enjoy sex as much as the next red blooded female I don’t tend to complain. This is no different. If you’re in the mood for PWP this little short is perfect.
We'll make the most of our reunion in bed. ;D These two were super hot! I swear the temperature in my apartment went up a good ten degrees. I mean what chance do you have at a good relationship if you can’t get the sex right, right? Take out the pure forced coincidence and well no real plot and this book is great. It’s well written and I since these two had a long term past relationship I can forgive and forget the lack of action for steamy sex. I’d actually be curious to see a real story for these two.
Perpendicularity by Mal Peters ★★★★★
Well now aren’t you just a spot of bright light in the middle of everything. Love, love, loved this story! I don’t have a single complaint about this one other than it’s over too quickly. Please, oh please, give me more of these two.
Ok, so normally I detest present tense narrative. It always feels clunky and makes the story feel out of synch. While I did find myself noticing every time a present tense verb was used it didn’t pull me out of the story the way something like this normally would. Besides Kyle (hello snowboard hottie!) and Dylan we’re just too adorable for words. I loved the image of two wine induced drowsy boys on the coach in front of the fire. This whole tale was just the perfect romantic meeting. I fell in love as I was reading and would love to read more in these two’s story.
Sunlight on Water by Susan Laine ★
Gah! Gag me with a syrupy sweet spoon! Can you fit any more adjectives/metaphors into this writing? That was beyond awful! Insta-love on top of overly romantic drivel. BLEH!
That’s all I’m saying about this one. It was just awful and I may go into a sugar coma just from reading it. The over flowery prose does not help in anyway and just serves to make this unrealistic story painful to read. One day together and these two are head over heels, I want you forever, you’re really not a bad person give up your hustling ways for me, in love. Ummmm yeah, no!
Off the Tracks by Chelle Dugan ★★½
Well this is a strange take on a story. I have butterfly effect issues about this one. Time travel stories are hard to write and if you don’t do it correctly leave me going, yeah no.
I had a bunch of logic issues with this one. First of all in the story the point is made that Tara and Owen didn’t take this trip in his life before and in fact the guy she actually married wasn’t the guy she’s currently engaged too and took place 3 years in the future. If you’re going to use a time travel story and have it be to a point earlier in the characters life where they could have made a different choice, MAKE IT A POINT THEY ACTUALLY LIVED THROUGH! In the end this kinda ignores all the affected issues and just jumps to everything’s ok. Did Owen forget everything he knew about the future even though we jump back into his body later and he doesn’t actually live all those years? He still would have made choices based on the knowledge he did have. The brain dump in the end just bugged me. I’d round this up to 3 stars because the writing was good. Logical fallacies keep it at a 2.5 stars.
All You Need by Dar Mavison ★★½
It’s kinda hard to like a story when you dislike both the main characters. There just wasn’t anything redeemable about them for me. In fact I’m not even sure why they’re together.
Sure it's a low cost vacation to NY, but at least they’ll have each other...
Or at least that’s supposed to be the case. Instead it’s all a bunch of sniping and griping. I liked Trent at least a little more than Rory since he at least tried to do something nice, but in the end I wasn’t even sure if these two even liked each other, let alone loved each other. In fact I don’t think they say they love each other once in the story. Instead the entire trip goes badly until they finally fall into sex with each other and a broken bed later suddenly they talk to each other for a brief moment and everything is ok. I just feel like nothing is really solved. (And the first time I wrote this it was way better…stupid crashing computer)
Know Nobody by G.R. Richards ★½
This gets a half star bump for not being terribly written, it’s just not my cup of tea at all. In fact it’s just yucky, yucky, and more yucky…cause you know the older man with three hot twinks in weird dick underwear is just soooooooo entertaining.
Gerald is dissatisfied with his life. So he’s decided a vacation to Niagra Falls where he knows no one is in order. Even when his good friend and neighbor volunteers to go with him he immediately turns Sylvain down. This is about him getting laid and that’s it. Of course when he gets to one of the gay clubs in town it’s underwear night and he’s forced to strip down to his skivvies. Then it’s underwear parades and loads of hot boys. How can a man choose?
Apparently he can’t and he’s blind and stupid too. I thought you were supposed to get wiser with age, not regress into stupidsville where you think fucking 3 young twinks is such a great idea. Let alone that orgies hookups hahappening at random clubs is just so believable in the first place. In fact I think Sylvain showing up and Gerald running to him almost makes this story worse for me. Sylvain deserves someone better than an idiot who needs to go through a midlife crisis and can’t recognize what he has in front of him. And then spends their entire first time together thinking about the three hot guys he just left. Sorry Gerald but you’re a douche.
New Lease B.G. Thomas ★★★½
Well this is the first book in the anthology with a real angst factor. I definitely felt Wade’s pain. Felt his pain, but felt also like the man needed to grow a backbone.
Wade, you’ve been some man’s dirty little secret for more than 20 years and you’ve never once considered that this wasn’t ok. This was such a sad tale. It was hard to believe Kent’s interest in Wade as Wade was so, for lack of a better word, pitiful in his understanding of a real relationship. I’m happy this was a HFN story, it ended on a hopeful note and there was a little bit of a spark of real personality starting to show up with Wade. The story here was better than the last couple, but I think would have worked better as a longer novel giving more time for Wade and Kent to develop a relationship.
Krung Thep, City of Angels by Zee Kensington ★★★★
The innocent and the jaded, this novel actually does a good job of blending and balancing these two men. I quite enjoyed the introduction to these two and Thailand.
Normally I don’t feel like new meetings work well in shorts, but I liked this one. There was something about the polar opposite nature of these two men that made it really interesting. I liked seeing them together and in exploring the city learning things about themselves they never expected. It was fun to see the flame rekindle for Chris a little. This was the perfect HFN start to things and Marco is the cutest thing ever in his little pissy run to the airport and then realizing maybe things aren’t as over as he thought. Track down your man boy! All in all a fun way to end a mostly obnoxious book.
If I had my way I’d yank a few stories out of this anthology and throw the rest down a deep dark hole. I’ve never struggled so hard to get through something in my life. There were brief moments of light in the tunnel, but they were few and far between. Not a book I would recommend in it’s entirety to anyone.
December 1, 2013
Haunted - Jana Denardo 4 stars
Trestan and Connor have an established relationship and they go on vacation together in this story. There are some ghosty stuff, but that deosn't take over the story.
I liked this one, it's nice seeing an established couple being happy together.
Off the Tracks - Chelle Dugan 3 stars
Owen hits his head and travels to the past where he meets and alls in love with James. One night he falls asleep and wakes up back in the present again, but it's not the present that he left...
Krung Thep, City of Angels - Zee Kensington 3 stars
Marco is travelling through Thailand and one day he meets Chris who helps him when he gets lost. Hot lust follows, quickly followed by love and it was a bit too quick for me...
Sunlight on Water - Susan Laine 2 stars
Hustler Ryan finds a rich and attractive guy in Florida, or so he thinks. After Ryan and his ”mark” Ari have had some hot sex together, Ryan finds out that Ari isn't rich at all! Never the less, even though Ryan not knows Ari isn't rich and furthermore, Ari knows that Ryan was only in it for the money, they try to make a go of a relationship. I didn't care very much for either of the MCs and the story didn't grab me at all.
Fall Forward - Jamie Lowe 3 stars
Harrett and Chase go on vacation and have different opinions on whether it's acceptable to display their affection towards each other in the small town they're going to. Then they have hot make-up sex. The end.
A Good Night’s Sleep - Anna Martin 4 stars
Alex and Matt meet on a train and have sex. After that they decide to travel together. That's pretty much it, but it was cute and sexy, worth a read.
All You Need - Dar Mavison 2 stars
Trent and Rory are having diffculties in their relationship and they take a vacation to see if they can repair it. There was too much arguing in this story for me to enjoy it, but they do seem to be ironing their difficulties out, at least mostly.
All at Sea - JL Merrow 3 stars
Josh and Rupe meet each other while on vacation. They become friends and then, very quickly, lovers. But I guess that's the thing with vacation flings, it's now or never, kind of. There might even be a future for them... Well, the author actually lets us know that there is, in an epilogue.
Something Different - Sean Michael 5 stars
Well, me and Sean Michael don't really mix that well. However, my biggest problem with Mr Michael is that his stories tend to drag on for far to long. Often Mr Michael, to my mind, has a good idea, executes it well enough, but then doesn't leave well enough alone. This one was different, maybe because it's a short story.
Adam and Tucon used to be a couple but broke up long ago. Now they meet my chance and rekindle their romance and decide to give it another go.
Well done, Mr Michael! Finally a story that ends where it should! A solid 5 star story.
Perpendicularity - Mal Peters 3 stars
Kyle is in France to compete in snowboarding. His personal chef Dylan looks even tastier than the food he prepares, so there is some romance that wasn't intially on the menue. Pun intended.
The Jeep Guy - Eric Renner 2 stars
Andy and Eric meets on vacation. Sex follows and mybe something in the future...
Know Nobody - G.R. Richards 1 stars
Eeeeewwww! I normally don't have a problem with PWP, especially in short stories, but this was not a threesome, but a foursome! That's two guys too many for my personal tastes. The MCs best friend turns up and finally Gerald (the MC) realizes that Sylvian (the BFF) is The One. Ooookay...
Reconnecting - Claire Russett 4 stars
John left Sam some time ago and now they meet again at a conference. John has realized he made a misstake leaving Sam, so he fights to get him back. Sam is feeling really burned by John leaving him and doesn't want anything to do with him. Guess who gets his wish...
Mending and Moving On - Cecilia Ryan 2 stars
Liam and Bryan meet while travelling to Spain. They almost immidiately fall in insta-love and decide to try for a HEA. The End.
New Lease - B.G. Thomas 2 stars
Wade and Keith have have both lost their partners and now they meet while on vacation. This story was way too angsty for me, I just couldn't get into it.
Trestan and Connor have an established relationship and they go on vacation together in this story. There are some ghosty stuff, but that deosn't take over the story.
I liked this one, it's nice seeing an established couple being happy together.
Off the Tracks - Chelle Dugan 3 stars
Owen hits his head and travels to the past where he meets and alls in love with James. One night he falls asleep and wakes up back in the present again, but it's not the present that he left...
Krung Thep, City of Angels - Zee Kensington 3 stars
Marco is travelling through Thailand and one day he meets Chris who helps him when he gets lost. Hot lust follows, quickly followed by love and it was a bit too quick for me...
Sunlight on Water - Susan Laine 2 stars
Hustler Ryan finds a rich and attractive guy in Florida, or so he thinks. After Ryan and his ”mark” Ari have had some hot sex together, Ryan finds out that Ari isn't rich at all! Never the less, even though Ryan not knows Ari isn't rich and furthermore, Ari knows that Ryan was only in it for the money, they try to make a go of a relationship. I didn't care very much for either of the MCs and the story didn't grab me at all.
Fall Forward - Jamie Lowe 3 stars
Harrett and Chase go on vacation and have different opinions on whether it's acceptable to display their affection towards each other in the small town they're going to. Then they have hot make-up sex. The end.
A Good Night’s Sleep - Anna Martin 4 stars
Alex and Matt meet on a train and have sex. After that they decide to travel together. That's pretty much it, but it was cute and sexy, worth a read.
All You Need - Dar Mavison 2 stars
Trent and Rory are having diffculties in their relationship and they take a vacation to see if they can repair it. There was too much arguing in this story for me to enjoy it, but they do seem to be ironing their difficulties out, at least mostly.
All at Sea - JL Merrow 3 stars
Josh and Rupe meet each other while on vacation. They become friends and then, very quickly, lovers. But I guess that's the thing with vacation flings, it's now or never, kind of. There might even be a future for them... Well, the author actually lets us know that there is, in an epilogue.
Something Different - Sean Michael 5 stars
Well, me and Sean Michael don't really mix that well. However, my biggest problem with Mr Michael is that his stories tend to drag on for far to long. Often Mr Michael, to my mind, has a good idea, executes it well enough, but then doesn't leave well enough alone. This one was different, maybe because it's a short story.
Adam and Tucon used to be a couple but broke up long ago. Now they meet my chance and rekindle their romance and decide to give it another go.
Well done, Mr Michael! Finally a story that ends where it should! A solid 5 star story.
Perpendicularity - Mal Peters 3 stars
Kyle is in France to compete in snowboarding. His personal chef Dylan looks even tastier than the food he prepares, so there is some romance that wasn't intially on the menue. Pun intended.
The Jeep Guy - Eric Renner 2 stars
Andy and Eric meets on vacation. Sex follows and mybe something in the future...
Know Nobody - G.R. Richards 1 stars
Eeeeewwww! I normally don't have a problem with PWP, especially in short stories, but this was not a threesome, but a foursome! That's two guys too many for my personal tastes. The MCs best friend turns up and finally Gerald (the MC) realizes that Sylvian (the BFF) is The One. Ooookay...
Reconnecting - Claire Russett 4 stars
John left Sam some time ago and now they meet again at a conference. John has realized he made a misstake leaving Sam, so he fights to get him back. Sam is feeling really burned by John leaving him and doesn't want anything to do with him. Guess who gets his wish...
Mending and Moving On - Cecilia Ryan 2 stars
Liam and Bryan meet while travelling to Spain. They almost immidiately fall in insta-love and decide to try for a HEA. The End.
New Lease - B.G. Thomas 2 stars
Wade and Keith have have both lost their partners and now they meet while on vacation. This story was way too angsty for me, I just couldn't get into it.
September 29, 2019
Haunted by Jana Denardo 3.3*
Off the Tracks by Chelle Dugan 3.5*
Krung Thep, City of Angels by Zee Kensington 3.2*
Sunlight on Water by Susan Laine 3*
Fall Forward by Jamie Lowe 2.8*
A Good Night's Sleep by Anna Martin 3*
All You Need by Dar Mavison 3.2*
All at Sea by JL Merrow 3*
Something Different by Sean Michael 2*
Perpendicularity by Mal Peters 2.1*
The Jeep Guy by Eric Renner 2.4*
Know Nobody by G.R. Richards 2.5*
Reconnecting by Claire Russett 2.5*
Mending and Moving On by Cecilia Ryan 3*
New Lease by B.G. Thomas 3.5*
Off the Tracks by Chelle Dugan 3.5*
Krung Thep, City of Angels by Zee Kensington 3.2*
Sunlight on Water by Susan Laine 3*
Fall Forward by Jamie Lowe 2.8*
A Good Night's Sleep by Anna Martin 3*
All You Need by Dar Mavison 3.2*
All at Sea by JL Merrow 3*
Something Different by Sean Michael 2*
Perpendicularity by Mal Peters 2.1*
The Jeep Guy by Eric Renner 2.4*
Know Nobody by G.R. Richards 2.5*
Reconnecting by Claire Russett 2.5*
Mending and Moving On by Cecilia Ryan 3*
New Lease by B.G. Thomas 3.5*
September 27, 2012
This is the latest Dreamspinner Press anthology, which I picked up from NetGalley.
Because there are so many short stories included, I'll change up my usual review format and talk briefly about each one.
A Good Night's Sleep by Anna Martin - B- - Two guys backpacking through Thailand and Malaysia meet on a train and hook up (yep, train sex). The story is very short, so the hopeful kind of HFN is appropriate. I know I got this from NetGalley and I can expect to find some errors which (hopefully) won't be there in the final version, but can I just say that Sydney, Australia is spelt with a "y" and not an "i"?
Fall Forward by Jamie Love - D - 2 college guys take their first vacation together. I didn't really enjoy this story; it was a bit clumsy and delved into boring minutiae.
Reconnecting by Claire Russett - B - Physics professor meets up with the ex who broke his heart at a conference in Corfu. Quite good but I didn't get the excitement over getting a free 16GB flashdrive as conference swag - are they that expensive?
Mending and Moving On by Cecilia Ryan - B - Two guys meet up in Spain - one is nursing a broken heart (although, not that broken because he connects pretty quickly with the other guy, let's face it). Apart from that I don't like it when adults, especially guys "giggle", I did enjoy this one. It was quite sweet overall and had a believable hopeful kind of HFN. But, do men really say I don't like being "penetrated"?
The Jeep Guy by Eric Renner C- This was an odd little story which took me a while to work out - Guy meets another guy during a beach vacation. The story is told initially via blog posts but by the end that device seemed to have been dropped, but without any real explanation.
All at Sea by JL Merrow - B Story about first love on holiday on the Isle of Wight with a sweet surprise at the end. Touching and happy. I liked it.
Haunted by Jana Denardo - C Story about a ghost hunter writing and his photographer boyfriend. I was expecting a ghostly conflict but it was more about the writer being worried his boyfriend was bored/unhappy about all of their working vacations - which was sorted out by one simple conversation.
Something Different by Sean Michael - B Very sexy story about 2 ex-lovers getting back together after 10 years apart, when they bump into each other while they are both holidaying in Las Vegas. I wouldn't have minded a longer story and to know more about the how of their future, but I did believe they would make it.
Perpendicularity by Mal Peters - B- Cute story about a pro snow boarder and a chef who meet in the French Alps. It has a hopeful HFN ending. Strangely, the story was told in 1st person present tense which felt a bit odd. I would have happily read more of these two however.
Sunlight on Water by Susan Laine - D The clumsy writing made this one difficult for me to finish "He had that surfer thing going on and the surfboard next to him emphasised the impression" (ya think?). Young guys meet on the beach. One is a hustler but nevertheless; insta-love. Did not like.
Off the Tracks by Chelle Dugan - C- This was a kind of odd time travel story. A lot of telling not showing (which I can kind of understand in such a short format, but still). I liked the style but the time travel thing threw me a bit.
All You Need by Dar Mavison - B- Relationship in trouble story - a couple go to New York for a weekend and find some common ground. If the story had've been longer, perhaps I would have more confidence that their problems were over, but it's a more hopeful than happy ending. I liked the alternating first person POV and how the same problems were shown from each man's perspective. What they also had in common was that they didn't want the relationship to end.
Know Nobody by GR Richards - C- Story about an older guy who takes a trip to somewhere he knows nobody so he can hook up. He gets lucky with three (!) younger men after "undies night" at a local gay bar. His BFF turns up and they suddenly realise they belong together. Lots of sex but not much emotional connection.
New Lease by BG Thomas - C+ A guy who's been someone's dirty little secret for 20 years is still grieving his death and goes to their holiday rental considering suicide. He meets a handsome man there who awakens his dormant libido and gives him hope for the future. I liked the style but struggled a bit with why anyone would have put up with that for so long.
Krung Thep, City of Angels by Zee Kensington - C Young guy hooks up with older more experienced traveller in Bangkok. The young guy felt very young - much younger than 23. Hopeful happy for now ending.
Overall Grade: B-/C+
http://kaetrinsmusings.blogspot.com.a...
Because there are so many short stories included, I'll change up my usual review format and talk briefly about each one.
A Good Night's Sleep by Anna Martin - B- - Two guys backpacking through Thailand and Malaysia meet on a train and hook up (yep, train sex). The story is very short, so the hopeful kind of HFN is appropriate. I know I got this from NetGalley and I can expect to find some errors which (hopefully) won't be there in the final version, but can I just say that Sydney, Australia is spelt with a "y" and not an "i"?
Fall Forward by Jamie Love - D - 2 college guys take their first vacation together. I didn't really enjoy this story; it was a bit clumsy and delved into boring minutiae.
Reconnecting by Claire Russett - B - Physics professor meets up with the ex who broke his heart at a conference in Corfu. Quite good but I didn't get the excitement over getting a free 16GB flashdrive as conference swag - are they that expensive?
Mending and Moving On by Cecilia Ryan - B - Two guys meet up in Spain - one is nursing a broken heart (although, not that broken because he connects pretty quickly with the other guy, let's face it). Apart from that I don't like it when adults, especially guys "giggle", I did enjoy this one. It was quite sweet overall and had a believable hopeful kind of HFN. But, do men really say I don't like being "penetrated"?
The Jeep Guy by Eric Renner C- This was an odd little story which took me a while to work out - Guy meets another guy during a beach vacation. The story is told initially via blog posts but by the end that device seemed to have been dropped, but without any real explanation.
All at Sea by JL Merrow - B Story about first love on holiday on the Isle of Wight with a sweet surprise at the end. Touching and happy. I liked it.
Haunted by Jana Denardo - C Story about a ghost hunter writing and his photographer boyfriend. I was expecting a ghostly conflict but it was more about the writer being worried his boyfriend was bored/unhappy about all of their working vacations - which was sorted out by one simple conversation.
Something Different by Sean Michael - B Very sexy story about 2 ex-lovers getting back together after 10 years apart, when they bump into each other while they are both holidaying in Las Vegas. I wouldn't have minded a longer story and to know more about the how of their future, but I did believe they would make it.
Perpendicularity by Mal Peters - B- Cute story about a pro snow boarder and a chef who meet in the French Alps. It has a hopeful HFN ending. Strangely, the story was told in 1st person present tense which felt a bit odd. I would have happily read more of these two however.
Sunlight on Water by Susan Laine - D The clumsy writing made this one difficult for me to finish "He had that surfer thing going on and the surfboard next to him emphasised the impression" (ya think?). Young guys meet on the beach. One is a hustler but nevertheless; insta-love. Did not like.
Off the Tracks by Chelle Dugan - C- This was a kind of odd time travel story. A lot of telling not showing (which I can kind of understand in such a short format, but still). I liked the style but the time travel thing threw me a bit.
All You Need by Dar Mavison - B- Relationship in trouble story - a couple go to New York for a weekend and find some common ground. If the story had've been longer, perhaps I would have more confidence that their problems were over, but it's a more hopeful than happy ending. I liked the alternating first person POV and how the same problems were shown from each man's perspective. What they also had in common was that they didn't want the relationship to end.
Know Nobody by GR Richards - C- Story about an older guy who takes a trip to somewhere he knows nobody so he can hook up. He gets lucky with three (!) younger men after "undies night" at a local gay bar. His BFF turns up and they suddenly realise they belong together. Lots of sex but not much emotional connection.
New Lease by BG Thomas - C+ A guy who's been someone's dirty little secret for 20 years is still grieving his death and goes to their holiday rental considering suicide. He meets a handsome man there who awakens his dormant libido and gives him hope for the future. I liked the style but struggled a bit with why anyone would have put up with that for so long.
Krung Thep, City of Angels by Zee Kensington - C Young guy hooks up with older more experienced traveller in Bangkok. The young guy felt very young - much younger than 23. Hopeful happy for now ending.
Overall Grade: B-/C+
http://kaetrinsmusings.blogspot.com.a...
November 18, 2013
A Good Night’s Sleep A simple story about a hook up on an overnight train. Entertaining but not much to it.
Fall Forward I wasn’t sure what the point of this was? Jarret? Is paranoid about being in the boonies while gay and he didn’t need to be? Kind of dull.
Reconnecting Another story with a fairly simple plot, two former lovers reconnecting at a conference, but it’s well told and the remembered sex scene was all kinds of hot…
Mending and Moving On The story is fine and there are some lovely descriptions of Spain, but
The Jeep Guy Contrary to the other story with similar plot, this one worked for me. Quick vacation romance, quirky guy meeting someone more straight-laced who wants to make a change… But this one worked for me because the “big leap” is that when Andy is supposed to leave with his family Eric says, stay a few more days here with me. Sure there is some speculation about the future so the potential for being together is implied but it’s not a commitment made on the page.
All At Sea This is told as a flashback for how a couple met this was a sweet story of two teenage boys, Josh and Rupe who meet while Josh’s family is on vacation in the Isle of Wight. The narrator mentions at the end that they went through some rocky periods but the story is just a happy recollection of the meeting of a successful couple.
Perpendicularity Kyle is a semi-famous snowboarder being comped a fabulous room in France. After a break up he’s alone for Valentine’s Day until he follows his nose and finds Dylan, his personal chef for the visit. They have a nice evening together with lots of hands on time but no sex. A week later Kyle tracks Dylan down. He can’t stand the idea of leaving France without attempting another meeting. Enjoyable.
Haunted A cute story of 2 guys in a long term relationship who take working vacations to track down ghosts. There is a “twist” with the ghosts doing their ghostly thing while Connor and Trestan are getting down & dirty but there is no real resolution with this. It’s nice to read about a happy couple.
Sunlight on the Water The only positive thing to say about this was that there are two points for flavored lube. Overwrought, hard to follow and completely ridiculous.
Off the Tracks This story didn’t make much sense. There is time travel but is it a dream and alternate reality…. The characters were fine but it didn’t hold together for me.
City of Angels Nicely written and a good description of two kinds of travelers, the newbie and the jaded professional. There are other stories in this anthology that touch on this theme, but I thought this one pulled it off well enough. It’s a bit of a rush to the HFN but not too unbelievable as they don’t seem to be promising each other much more than the rest of the trip. I could understand who these two people were.
All You Need An interesting take on a vacation story. A couple (Rory and Trestan) who take a budget “weekend away” to NYC to help resuscitate their flailing relationship. They’ve taken to arguing constantly since the failure of the business they tried to start together. It comes together nicely, and it’s nice to have a change of pace from “two strangers meet and hang out and then end up together” but neither character was particularly likeable. I will say, it’s probably one of the more realistic stories in the collection!
Something Different A good example of a Sean Michael story, it’s PWP but it doesn’t feel like it. I love his hot scenes. Sure, two 2 former lovers reconnect in Vegas after 10 years and after a quick scene getting a drink end up in bed… But, because there are comments that refer to the past it almost feels like there is more here LOL. I know, ridiculous, but I fall for this every time.
Know Nobody I really disliked this. Gerald and his friend Sylvain discuss the fact that he’s going to Niagara Falls for a hookup. He gets there, ends up with 3 drunk twinks, has a “blast” with them until they start puking… then he meets back up with Sylvain and finds that this was the one all along and then they get it on? Ugh. The multiple partners doesn’t bother me it’s the fact that it’s just out of nowhere…
New Lease Wade is grieving the loss of his partner at the cabin where they used to vacation. He meets up with Kent in the cottage next door. Kent has also lost a partner. Kent tries to cheer up the obviously distraught Wade. I liked the writing in this although some of Wade’s back story was intense.
Fall Forward I wasn’t sure what the point of this was? Jarret? Is paranoid about being in the boonies while gay and he didn’t need to be? Kind of dull.
Reconnecting Another story with a fairly simple plot, two former lovers reconnecting at a conference, but it’s well told and the remembered sex scene was all kinds of hot…
Mending and Moving On The story is fine and there are some lovely descriptions of Spain, but
The Jeep Guy Contrary to the other story with similar plot, this one worked for me. Quick vacation romance, quirky guy meeting someone more straight-laced who wants to make a change… But this one worked for me because the “big leap” is that when Andy is supposed to leave with his family Eric says, stay a few more days here with me. Sure there is some speculation about the future so the potential for being together is implied but it’s not a commitment made on the page.
All At Sea This is told as a flashback for how a couple met this was a sweet story of two teenage boys, Josh and Rupe who meet while Josh’s family is on vacation in the Isle of Wight. The narrator mentions at the end that they went through some rocky periods but the story is just a happy recollection of the meeting of a successful couple.
Perpendicularity Kyle is a semi-famous snowboarder being comped a fabulous room in France. After a break up he’s alone for Valentine’s Day until he follows his nose and finds Dylan, his personal chef for the visit. They have a nice evening together with lots of hands on time but no sex. A week later Kyle tracks Dylan down. He can’t stand the idea of leaving France without attempting another meeting. Enjoyable.
Haunted A cute story of 2 guys in a long term relationship who take working vacations to track down ghosts. There is a “twist” with the ghosts doing their ghostly thing while Connor and Trestan are getting down & dirty but there is no real resolution with this. It’s nice to read about a happy couple.
Sunlight on the Water The only positive thing to say about this was that there are two points for flavored lube. Overwrought, hard to follow and completely ridiculous.
Off the Tracks This story didn’t make much sense. There is time travel but is it a dream and alternate reality…. The characters were fine but it didn’t hold together for me.
City of Angels Nicely written and a good description of two kinds of travelers, the newbie and the jaded professional. There are other stories in this anthology that touch on this theme, but I thought this one pulled it off well enough. It’s a bit of a rush to the HFN but not too unbelievable as they don’t seem to be promising each other much more than the rest of the trip. I could understand who these two people were.
All You Need An interesting take on a vacation story. A couple (Rory and Trestan) who take a budget “weekend away” to NYC to help resuscitate their flailing relationship. They’ve taken to arguing constantly since the failure of the business they tried to start together. It comes together nicely, and it’s nice to have a change of pace from “two strangers meet and hang out and then end up together” but neither character was particularly likeable. I will say, it’s probably one of the more realistic stories in the collection!
Something Different A good example of a Sean Michael story, it’s PWP but it doesn’t feel like it. I love his hot scenes. Sure, two 2 former lovers reconnect in Vegas after 10 years and after a quick scene getting a drink end up in bed… But, because there are comments that refer to the past it almost feels like there is more here LOL. I know, ridiculous, but I fall for this every time.
Know Nobody I really disliked this. Gerald and his friend Sylvain discuss the fact that he’s going to Niagara Falls for a hookup. He gets there, ends up with 3 drunk twinks, has a “blast” with them until they start puking… then he meets back up with Sylvain and finds that this was the one all along and then they get it on? Ugh. The multiple partners doesn’t bother me it’s the fact that it’s just out of nowhere…
New Lease Wade is grieving the loss of his partner at the cabin where they used to vacation. He meets up with Kent in the cottage next door. Kent has also lost a partner. Kent tries to cheer up the obviously distraught Wade. I liked the writing in this although some of Wade’s back story was intense.
November 30, 2013
Overall most of the stories were HFN, some better than others, some much worse. I don't know if it was the theme but it just seemed to drag on and none of the stories were stellar.
A Good Night's Sleep
(Alex & Matt)
I liked it - it was a beginning, I was interested enough that I would read more about the pair. I thought it was odd, however, when the author referred to "soccer". I thought, at first, she was a north American author writing a British character, but she's not. Saying "soccer" instead of football kind of took me out of the story for a moment. Not important but just "huh?" :)
Fall Forward
(Chase & Jarret)
Chase was constantly rude to Jarret. Jarret was a bit whiny but still. I got Chase's point about not being afraid all the time, but also Jarret's about discretion. The story was only ok for me.
Reconnecting
(Sam & John)
Nice little story about second chances. Though the first relationship must have been something to still have such a connection two years later.
Mending and Moving On
(Brian & Liam)
I found it very romantic in a movie sort of way, especially the ending.
Jeep guy
(Eric & Andy)
Story premise was ok, delivery was severely lacking. I did not like the narration style at all.
All At Sea
(Josh & Rupe)
I thought this was sweet. A quick look back on how they met, you get to know them a bit and a HEA without it feeling rushed. So far my favourite.
Haunted
(Trestan & Connor)
It was nice to hear about a place I've been. The haunting part of the story was lame and other wise was an uneventful slice of life in an established couples life. meh
Something Different
(Tucson & Adam)
PWP second chance story. Hot sex but little substance.
Perpendicularity
(Kyle & Dylan)
So, I first thought I wasn't going to like this because of the present tense narrative. I hate present tense narrative - so few can do it properly! However this author does! I quite liked this story. I liked that they didn't rush but you felt the connection. I would like to read more of this couple.
Sunlight on Water
(Ryan & Armas)
I liked it up till the end. The whole "I love you after one time and now you have to have me" kind of vibe didn't work for me
Off the Tracks
(Owen & James)
I liked this one. A little bizarre with the time travel but I was glad Owen and Tara got a do over.
All You Need
(Rory & Trent)
Sometimes all you need is a good laugh and a break. I liked that this was almost a second chance kind of book. That their relationship was on the rocks but they pulled it back. How long it will stay that way, who knows, but they found a reprieve.
Know Nobody
(Gerald & Sylvain?)
Did not like this as a romance. As a piece of erotica, it was kinda hot but failed as a romance.
New Lease
(Wade & Kent)
I wanted to cry for Wade and at the same time, how could you let someone you saw for two weeks out of the year control you so badly for so long?!?! It doesn't seem possible
Krung Thep, City of Angels
(Marco & Chris)
I enjoyed this one, though the connection is made a little too quickly (one day? really?) it wasn't insta-love and left room for an expanded story.
A Good Night's Sleep
(Alex & Matt)
I liked it - it was a beginning, I was interested enough that I would read more about the pair. I thought it was odd, however, when the author referred to "soccer". I thought, at first, she was a north American author writing a British character, but she's not. Saying "soccer" instead of football kind of took me out of the story for a moment. Not important but just "huh?" :)
Fall Forward
(Chase & Jarret)
Chase was constantly rude to Jarret. Jarret was a bit whiny but still. I got Chase's point about not being afraid all the time, but also Jarret's about discretion. The story was only ok for me.
Reconnecting
(Sam & John)
Nice little story about second chances. Though the first relationship must have been something to still have such a connection two years later.
Mending and Moving On
(Brian & Liam)
I found it very romantic in a movie sort of way, especially the ending.
Jeep guy
(Eric & Andy)
Story premise was ok, delivery was severely lacking. I did not like the narration style at all.
All At Sea
(Josh & Rupe)
I thought this was sweet. A quick look back on how they met, you get to know them a bit and a HEA without it feeling rushed. So far my favourite.
Haunted
(Trestan & Connor)
It was nice to hear about a place I've been. The haunting part of the story was lame and other wise was an uneventful slice of life in an established couples life. meh
Something Different
(Tucson & Adam)
PWP second chance story. Hot sex but little substance.
Perpendicularity
(Kyle & Dylan)
So, I first thought I wasn't going to like this because of the present tense narrative. I hate present tense narrative - so few can do it properly! However this author does! I quite liked this story. I liked that they didn't rush but you felt the connection. I would like to read more of this couple.
Sunlight on Water
(Ryan & Armas)
I liked it up till the end. The whole "I love you after one time and now you have to have me" kind of vibe didn't work for me
Off the Tracks
(Owen & James)
I liked this one. A little bizarre with the time travel but I was glad Owen and Tara got a do over.
All You Need
(Rory & Trent)
Sometimes all you need is a good laugh and a break. I liked that this was almost a second chance kind of book. That their relationship was on the rocks but they pulled it back. How long it will stay that way, who knows, but they found a reprieve.
Know Nobody
(Gerald & Sylvain?)
Did not like this as a romance. As a piece of erotica, it was kinda hot but failed as a romance.
New Lease
(Wade & Kent)
I wanted to cry for Wade and at the same time, how could you let someone you saw for two weeks out of the year control you so badly for so long?!?! It doesn't seem possible
Krung Thep, City of Angels
(Marco & Chris)
I enjoyed this one, though the connection is made a little too quickly (one day? really?) it wasn't insta-love and left room for an expanded story.
December 2, 2013
A fairly forgettable anthology with some good but not outstanding stories.
Most anthologies are hits and misses. This is one of those that didn't quite succeed in keeping my interest and the stories, while not terrible, were not particularly enjoyable.
Most were just okay or meh so I won't bother to name them. There were stories that I did like and I will elaborate a little on those.
A Good Night’s Sleep by Anna Martin
I don't expect much from short stories and so this was a nice start to the anthology. I got a little tickle out of this story because it mentioned the city (and country!) that I live in.
All at Sea by J.L. Merrow
One of my favorite stories from the anthology. A short story done well. A sweet but brief glimpse of the start of a beautiful relationship between two people of different cultures but still totally made for each other.
Something Different by Sean Michael
Sean Michael does short, smutty stories very well. This was an enjoyable, sexy short.
New Lease by B.G. Thomas
An interesting, fairly heart-wrenching premise. Missing a little something in the execution but I found the theme quite memorable.
Krung Thep, City of Angels by Zee Kensington
Ooh, seasoned traveler with rookie tourist. I loved this story. A wonderful finish to a collection of mostly okay stories.
Most anthologies are hits and misses. This is one of those that didn't quite succeed in keeping my interest and the stories, while not terrible, were not particularly enjoyable.
Most were just okay or meh so I won't bother to name them. There were stories that I did like and I will elaborate a little on those.
A Good Night’s Sleep by Anna Martin
I don't expect much from short stories and so this was a nice start to the anthology. I got a little tickle out of this story because it mentioned the city (and country!) that I live in.
All at Sea by J.L. Merrow
One of my favorite stories from the anthology. A short story done well. A sweet but brief glimpse of the start of a beautiful relationship between two people of different cultures but still totally made for each other.
Something Different by Sean Michael
Sean Michael does short, smutty stories very well. This was an enjoyable, sexy short.
New Lease by B.G. Thomas
An interesting, fairly heart-wrenching premise. Missing a little something in the execution but I found the theme quite memorable.
Krung Thep, City of Angels by Zee Kensington
Ooh, seasoned traveler with rookie tourist. I loved this story. A wonderful finish to a collection of mostly okay stories.
November 30, 2015
Overall, I had issues with many of the anthology stories. Some flat out were tough to make it through, and if I didn't have to read it for a challenge it definitely would've been a skip. Others were amazing and I wished could've been longer.
My favorites:
Reconnecting by Claire Russett
- Sam is a professor of physics attending a conference in Corfu. He runs across his ex, John, who he never wanted to see again. Sam had been willing to give up his career to follow John years ago, but John didn't want him to do that so they broke up. Seeing each other again brings back good and bitter memories.
All at Sea by JL Merrow
- Eighteen year old Josh is vacationing with his mother and sisters on the Isle of Wight when he meets Rupe (short for Rupert). There is immediate attraction and little flirting. However, can a summer romance last when both are going to different universities at summer's end?
My favorites:
Reconnecting by Claire Russett
- Sam is a professor of physics attending a conference in Corfu. He runs across his ex, John, who he never wanted to see again. Sam had been willing to give up his career to follow John years ago, but John didn't want him to do that so they broke up. Seeing each other again brings back good and bitter memories.
All at Sea by JL Merrow
- Eighteen year old Josh is vacationing with his mother and sisters on the Isle of Wight when he meets Rupe (short for Rupert). There is immediate attraction and little flirting. However, can a summer romance last when both are going to different universities at summer's end?
October 30, 2012
Heart of Fire Review
I've had this book for awhile, and I just got around to finishing it. It's one of those reads that requires a certain mood or something. This is a book consisting of short stories about men hooking up, or finding love while traveling around the world. Some were just going away for the weekend, others a real adventure.
As is to be expected, not all of the stories were good. Some of them I just wanted to skip all together, but I didn't. I guess that's just my personal opinion though. Other stories though, were absolutely amazing. They kept me drooling and hoping for the happily ever after.
It could have used some more editing in places, but it wasn't so distracting like it is in some books. Nothing major stuck out to me about the writing style. Most of the authors I had never heard of, which was good. It gave me a chance to sample pieces of their work.
I've had this book for awhile, and I just got around to finishing it. It's one of those reads that requires a certain mood or something. This is a book consisting of short stories about men hooking up, or finding love while traveling around the world. Some were just going away for the weekend, others a real adventure.
As is to be expected, not all of the stories were good. Some of them I just wanted to skip all together, but I didn't. I guess that's just my personal opinion though. Other stories though, were absolutely amazing. They kept me drooling and hoping for the happily ever after.
It could have used some more editing in places, but it wasn't so distracting like it is in some books. Nothing major stuck out to me about the writing style. Most of the authors I had never heard of, which was good. It gave me a chance to sample pieces of their work.
December 20, 2013
I liked 7 of the stories enough to say I enjoyed them, most of those 7 anyway. But I disliked the other 9 or so stories and downright did not like one or two at all. I read this for the Scavenger Hunt and may not have finished if not for that.
Those that I enjoyed best were A Good Night's Sleep by Anna Martin, Reconnecting by Claire Russett, Mending and Moving On by Cecilia Ryan, All at Sea by JL Merrow, Something Different by Sean Michael, Off the Tracks by Chelle Dugan and New Lease by B.G. Thomas. My top stories were Off the Tracks and Something Different.
The best that I can say is that the anthology introduced me to some new authors and I may look up their other work in the future.
Those that I enjoyed best were A Good Night's Sleep by Anna Martin, Reconnecting by Claire Russett, Mending and Moving On by Cecilia Ryan, All at Sea by JL Merrow, Something Different by Sean Michael, Off the Tracks by Chelle Dugan and New Lease by B.G. Thomas. My top stories were Off the Tracks and Something Different.
The best that I can say is that the anthology introduced me to some new authors and I may look up their other work in the future.
September 10, 2014
I am one of those people who either love or hate anthologies. Sometimes I'm lucky and find new authors that I really like, new stories that I really enjoy. I was hoping for both by reading this anthology, and while there were some good stories, there were quite a few that I really didn't care for and a few I really didn't like at all. Disappointed a little with this one.
July 8, 2012
Definitely some stories I liked more than others, could have used more editing (then instead of than, etc.), but I enjoyed it for not really caring much for short stories. Now if I could just get that damn song out of my head!!
June 15, 2013
Anthologies are a mixed bag.
I mostly enjoyed this one. There were a couple of stories I just skimmed through, but then on the other hand, there were a couple of stories I loved and would have liked to read more about.
And I found a new author to check out.
January 8, 2016
Quick Thoughts on Anna Martin’s A Goodnight’s Sleep
I did not connect very well with the boys here – it is a short story and them having a go at it right away was a bit “uhm, okay no” for me. It’s a lil’ fling while travelling and all that… and that’s it.
I did not connect very well with the boys here – it is a short story and them having a go at it right away was a bit “uhm, okay no” for me. It’s a lil’ fling while travelling and all that… and that’s it.
June 9, 2012
kindle edition.
Great summer sitting by the pool reading. M/M romance anthology with the theme of vacations.
Great summer sitting by the pool reading. M/M romance anthology with the theme of vacations.
August 12, 2012
I enjoyed some of these stories more than others, but that's to be expected, often, in an anthology. Nice to find some new authors, some of which I'll definitely more reading more of.
September 9, 2013
A great book full of enjoyable short stories. A wonderful way to find new authors.
November 3, 2013
3.75* overall
August 24, 2014
Love the different stories all about travel, from the established couples to the ones that just meet and you can see they will be great to together.
October 26, 2015
2012 Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention (5* from at least 1 judge)
June 9, 2013
3.5 stars
November 3, 2014
3,75stars
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