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Jasper Swinton Novels #1
Above All
When volatile genius Dr Jasper Swinton accidentally hits a homeless man with his car one night in a seedy part of town, he finds himself taking responsibility for the man’s recovery in a very personal way. Before long, Brian has become such an integral part of his life that Jasper doesn’t know how he’ll ever begin to manage without him – until the day comes when he has to …
245 pages, ebook
First published August 1, 2012
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Jane Elliot
20 books32 followersI am no longer on Goodreads. You can contact me at my gmail account, under the name janethunder.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
August 3, 2012
Edit: Apparently and sadly this is a SGA P2P fanfic. I haven't watched the series or read the fandom, so it doesn't effect me. The problem I have, is that authors who publish fan-fiction need to mention it somewhere on their blogs or review page. I can guarantee you that readers will be pissed off at feeling duped and you don't want that. If its honestly out there an informed choice can then be made. And I have no intention of removing my rating, I refuse to let the fond and happy memories experienced to be ruined. ..........................................................................................................
Jasper is one talented, eccentric scientist, that sarcastic wit, killed me. His constant thoughts of revenge and scheming the downfall of his colleagues, friend and witchy neighbour, had me in stitches. I happily sat back and let it all unfold much to my amusement. Every plot he hatched was inspired although quite a few missed the mark, Ha! The evil little shit was adorable even when I wanted to knock him over the head for his stupidity and stubbornness. He's complicated and an obsessively focused genius, who meets his match, to a degree in Brian. A homeless veteran who Jasper takes into his home and heart, after that fateful meeting. Its a topsy-turvy relationship, Brian suffers from nightmares, claustrophobia and doesn't like to be touched, its a difficult adjustment for them both, learning to adapt and accept each other.
I love how the author balanced the sad with a lightness as well, it didn't overwhelm me thankfully. There is a brief separation between the two fools and the sexual part of the relationship only happens towards the end of the book. It's a new experience and there is no easy sex here, its painful and tough a lot of patience and understanding is needed. For me, it definitely was a more realistic portrayal and believable outcome. Not sure if other readers will see it that way though, its not smutty so be aware. I need to mention Jasper's jealous and unreasonable reactions towards Barney the kitten, who of course loves Brian best. Epic oh the joy, poor Barney suffers badly from withdrawal symptoms the yowling is testament to that, adorable darling! My only criticism is it needed a few more pages at the end to smooth and wrap things up in more complete way. Wonderful story, I loved it.
Jasper is one talented, eccentric scientist, that sarcastic wit, killed me. His constant thoughts of revenge and scheming the downfall of his colleagues, friend and witchy neighbour, had me in stitches. I happily sat back and let it all unfold much to my amusement. Every plot he hatched was inspired although quite a few missed the mark, Ha! The evil little shit was adorable even when I wanted to knock him over the head for his stupidity and stubbornness. He's complicated and an obsessively focused genius, who meets his match, to a degree in Brian. A homeless veteran who Jasper takes into his home and heart, after that fateful meeting. Its a topsy-turvy relationship, Brian suffers from nightmares, claustrophobia and doesn't like to be touched, its a difficult adjustment for them both, learning to adapt and accept each other.
I love how the author balanced the sad with a lightness as well, it didn't overwhelm me thankfully. There is a brief separation between the two fools and the sexual part of the relationship only happens towards the end of the book. It's a new experience and there is no easy sex here, its painful and tough a lot of patience and understanding is needed. For me, it definitely was a more realistic portrayal and believable outcome. Not sure if other readers will see it that way though, its not smutty so be aware. I need to mention Jasper's jealous and unreasonable reactions towards Barney the kitten, who of course loves Brian best. Epic oh the joy, poor Barney suffers badly from withdrawal symptoms the yowling is testament to that, adorable darling! My only criticism is it needed a few more pages at the end to smooth and wrap things up in more complete way. Wonderful story, I loved it.
July 22, 2016
In the beginning, this book reminds me of Isabelle Rowan's A Note in the Margin, with a homeless character as one of the main characters. However, this book has a lighter tone, especially because of Jasper as the main narrator of this book.
Jasper is a genius -- he constantly makes the 'lower-level' employees of him crying in fear. He is so endearingly condescending, with his blunt honesty for those he thinks doesn't measure up ("in his experience, psychology ranked down there with anthropology in the bottom rungs of the already useless arena of the soft sciences OR No Matter How Fast You Run, If You Can't Read, You Don't Belong at a University).
Think Sheldon Cooper from The Big Bang Theory, a genius in science but not so much in human interaction :). But at the same time, Jasper is also amusing as hell, with his determination to think about revenge schemes and his jealousy over Barney the cat (who loves Brian more, and Barney is supposed to be Jasper's cat, darn it!)
Brian is the love of Jasper's life ... he is a veteran with a ton of traumatic issues. As a prisoner of war for three years in Afghanistan, Brian suffers from claustrophobia and he doesn't do well with people touching him. I really appreciate the path that the author takes in Brian's journey towards full recovery. It is too easy to make Jasper's love heal all the wound. This is not how it goes here though. Brian asks help from professionals, which is of course, more realistic considering that Jasper doesn't really have nurturing gene in his blood *lol*.
Also, the road to their first sexual encounter is not simply roses and rainbows. Where everything is okay and beautiful, just because they're belong to one another. Nope, the two men stumble into their learning about gay sex. Especially since none of them have experience with it before. It feels more realistic somehow.
It hurt. A lot. Certainly more than all of those gay porn stories had led Jasper to expect. Then again, they'd probably been written by women --> cue me snickering.
The secondary characters (Michael, Harry, Ellen) are significantly important -- they're the people who help Jasper stay grounded and help Brian through his need to find his way back to the world. Oh, and don't forget Barney The Cat ...
My only complain -- which stops this story from getting higher rating is that the story rather trips in the last few chapters. It feels that it goes a little overboard with Jasper's continuing revenge scheme, like it is written to prolong the story somehow.
It also feels the story is moving a bit too fast with everything that Brian wants after he recovers: going on dates with Jasper, check, buying a car, check; buying an apartment, check ... Plus a sudden reinvestigation on Brian's military case. I just feel it's not as "tight" as the previous chapters.
However, in overall, this is a FANTASTIC story.
PS: Thanks Vio, for bringing this to my attention
Edited: May 21, 2013
My dear friend, Kate, pointed out in that this was a P2P Stargate Atlantis fanfiction. Since I am not part of the SGA fandom, never read the fanfic, I will still treat this as original fic. Will I recommend it? It all depends on your stance against P2P fan-fiction, I guess. I let you all make your own decision...
Jasper is a genius -- he constantly makes the 'lower-level' employees of him crying in fear. He is so endearingly condescending, with his blunt honesty for those he thinks doesn't measure up ("in his experience, psychology ranked down there with anthropology in the bottom rungs of the already useless arena of the soft sciences OR No Matter How Fast You Run, If You Can't Read, You Don't Belong at a University).
Think Sheldon Cooper from The Big Bang Theory, a genius in science but not so much in human interaction :). But at the same time, Jasper is also amusing as hell, with his determination to think about revenge schemes and his jealousy over Barney the cat (who loves Brian more, and Barney is supposed to be Jasper's cat, darn it!)
Brian is the love of Jasper's life ... he is a veteran with a ton of traumatic issues. As a prisoner of war for three years in Afghanistan, Brian suffers from claustrophobia and he doesn't do well with people touching him. I really appreciate the path that the author takes in Brian's journey towards full recovery. It is too easy to make Jasper's love heal all the wound. This is not how it goes here though. Brian asks help from professionals, which is of course, more realistic considering that Jasper doesn't really have nurturing gene in his blood *lol*.
Also, the road to their first sexual encounter is not simply roses and rainbows. Where everything is okay and beautiful, just because they're belong to one another. Nope, the two men stumble into their learning about gay sex. Especially since none of them have experience with it before. It feels more realistic somehow.
It hurt. A lot. Certainly more than all of those gay porn stories had led Jasper to expect. Then again, they'd probably been written by women --> cue me snickering.
The secondary characters (Michael, Harry, Ellen) are significantly important -- they're the people who help Jasper stay grounded and help Brian through his need to find his way back to the world. Oh, and don't forget Barney The Cat ...
My only complain -- which stops this story from getting higher rating is that the story rather trips in the last few chapters. It feels that it goes a little overboard with Jasper's continuing revenge scheme, like it is written to prolong the story somehow.
It also feels the story is moving a bit too fast with everything that Brian wants after he recovers: going on dates with Jasper, check, buying a car, check; buying an apartment, check ... Plus a sudden reinvestigation on Brian's military case. I just feel it's not as "tight" as the previous chapters.
However, in overall, this is a FANTASTIC story.
PS: Thanks Vio, for bringing this to my attention
Edited: May 21, 2013
My dear friend, Kate, pointed out in that this was a P2P Stargate Atlantis fanfiction. Since I am not part of the SGA fandom, never read the fanfic, I will still treat this as original fic. Will I recommend it? It all depends on your stance against P2P fan-fiction, I guess. I let you all make your own decision...
May 20, 2013
MORE EDIT 21 May:
The very wise and clever Kate has pointed out in her review that this is Pull 2 Publish Stargate: Atlantis fan fiction, and I can have more Jasper any time I want in the character of Rodney McKay.
I fell in love with Jasper. Everything else about this book is completely ordinary. And I'm pissed off, because Jasper is the creation of up to fifteen writers, nine directors, and David Hewlett. And not Jane Elliott. And this is why I don't like P2P unless the author has gone waaaay off canon and created their own vision in terms of characters, world, and plot.
Goddamn it.
Also, clearly, I need to use my TV to watch more than Game of Thrones.
Plus, that one star is an "I'm feeling all betrayed and miserable now" star: that might change *sad face*
(P.S. Shepherd has a really weird voice.JasperDammit, McKay! is adorbs. I don't ship them, myself, yet; I think McKay needs someone less annoying and more built. All strong and protective. Yums.)
Original review:
Ooooh, exciting talented new author!!! This was refreshing, funny, and delightful and I rec it to everyone.
It's not perfect, but the flaws (the pacing is off and the end is abrupt) are tiny compared to the joy that is the inside of Jasper's head. The dialogue is fabulous, I'm utterly in love with Jasper, and this book has the most evocative/best anal sex scenes of any book ever (pass the Neosporin).
“What if I wanted to be on the bottom?”
Another long pause.“You’d want that?”
“How should I know?” Jasper burst out. “I haven’t done this before either.” He flopped onto his side and glared at Brian in the dim light. “I told you earlier that we’ll figure this out, and we will, but it would be counterproductive to attempt advanced techniques before we’ve mastered the basics. Stop trying to rush this, Brian. There’s a difference between efficiency and recklessness.”
4.5 rounded up.
EDIT 20 May: I did realise today that Brian is very undeveloped as a character. He's a blank slate for Jasper to bounce off. But I don't care, because Jasper.
The very wise and clever Kate has pointed out in her review that this is Pull 2 Publish Stargate: Atlantis fan fiction, and I can have more Jasper any time I want in the character of Rodney McKay.
I fell in love with Jasper. Everything else about this book is completely ordinary. And I'm pissed off, because Jasper is the creation of up to fifteen writers, nine directors, and David Hewlett. And not Jane Elliott. And this is why I don't like P2P unless the author has gone waaaay off canon and created their own vision in terms of characters, world, and plot.
Goddamn it.
Also, clearly, I need to use my TV to watch more than Game of Thrones.
Plus, that one star is an "I'm feeling all betrayed and miserable now" star: that might change *sad face*
(P.S. Shepherd has a really weird voice.
Original review:
Ooooh, exciting talented new author!!! This was refreshing, funny, and delightful and I rec it to everyone.
It's not perfect, but the flaws (the pacing is off and the end is abrupt) are tiny compared to the joy that is the inside of Jasper's head. The dialogue is fabulous, I'm utterly in love with Jasper, and this book has the most evocative/best anal sex scenes of any book ever (pass the Neosporin).
“What if I wanted to be on the bottom?”
Another long pause.“You’d want that?”
“How should I know?” Jasper burst out. “I haven’t done this before either.” He flopped onto his side and glared at Brian in the dim light. “I told you earlier that we’ll figure this out, and we will, but it would be counterproductive to attempt advanced techniques before we’ve mastered the basics. Stop trying to rush this, Brian. There’s a difference between efficiency and recklessness.”
4.5 rounded up.
EDIT 20 May: I did realise today that Brian is very undeveloped as a character. He's a blank slate for Jasper to bounce off. But I don't care, because Jasper.
August 5, 2012
4.5 Stars
A true breath of fresh air...
We have Jasper who at the core is the heart of this book. He is a genius who knows it and easily makes the work minions tremble in fear, send them scurrying and avoid him like the plague. He also spends an unhealthy amount of time coming up with and executing revenge plots which mostly fail but even when there is victory, it's more the backhanded kind. Some hilarious moments there. Underneath all the grumbling and snark, Jasper is caring and nurturing (don't tell him I said that!), couldn't help but love him.
If Jasper is the heart, then Brian is the spirit. He is struggling simply to survive after a traumatizing past where everything that could've gone wrong did. There are a ton of issues for Brian to work through, a long road for him to heal and get back on his feet. And he does get back on his feet, both physically and emotionally, with plenty of help he was strong enough to finally accept and make the most of. His part of the story was nicely handled without being loaded with angst, despair or endless self-pity. It was woven with the lightness in a way that worked and didn't overwhelm.
Supporting the heart and the spirit are Michael, Harry and Ellen. They are Jasper's friends. Jasper may only have three friends, but he couldn't be blessed with better people in his life. They each in their own way somehow keep Jasper grounded and are integral in helping Brian. Amazing characters who also wormed their way into my heart.
An honorable mention to the adorable kitten, Barney and Mrs. Henderson who was a very disturbing source of amusement. A delightful story all around.
A true breath of fresh air...
We have Jasper who at the core is the heart of this book. He is a genius who knows it and easily makes the work minions tremble in fear, send them scurrying and avoid him like the plague. He also spends an unhealthy amount of time coming up with and executing revenge plots which mostly fail but even when there is victory, it's more the backhanded kind. Some hilarious moments there. Underneath all the grumbling and snark, Jasper is caring and nurturing (don't tell him I said that!), couldn't help but love him.
If Jasper is the heart, then Brian is the spirit. He is struggling simply to survive after a traumatizing past where everything that could've gone wrong did. There are a ton of issues for Brian to work through, a long road for him to heal and get back on his feet. And he does get back on his feet, both physically and emotionally, with plenty of help he was strong enough to finally accept and make the most of. His part of the story was nicely handled without being loaded with angst, despair or endless self-pity. It was woven with the lightness in a way that worked and didn't overwhelm.
Supporting the heart and the spirit are Michael, Harry and Ellen. They are Jasper's friends. Jasper may only have three friends, but he couldn't be blessed with better people in his life. They each in their own way somehow keep Jasper grounded and are integral in helping Brian. Amazing characters who also wormed their way into my heart.
An honorable mention to the adorable kitten, Barney and Mrs. Henderson who was a very disturbing source of amusement. A delightful story all around.
October 18, 2014
* I apologize in advance for any inadvertent squeeing that may occur in this review.
That was amazing. Seriously, I'm sitting here with this big smile on my face and I feel like I could just float away on the awesomeness. This was a wonderful book about a cantankerous engineer who ends up taking care of a homeless PTSD survivor after running him over. It's a very well-written and easy to read book. I started having anxiety about finishing very early on because I kind of wanted it to go on forever. The strength of this book lies in the brilliant characterization of Jasper, the engineer; a 40-something genius who is really a big child on the inside. He is seriously funny and ridiculous. A bit like Brain (from Pinky and the Brain) meets House (from House M.D.). Brian, the other half the romantic entanglement, is less well-defined in my head, but he was still a great character. The romance was very beautifully done; it was an extremely slow-burn kind of thing and the sex doesn't happen until after 90%. And here's the thing, the sex was decidedly unsexy, but it was written so honestly and compassionately that it's probably one of the greatest things I've ever read. I really liked that we're given this situation where two men in their forties are fumbling around like teenagers, the whole thing was just so sweet and endearing. Okay, that's all I've got to say about that. I'm just going to sit here and and enjoy the afterglow of this book a little bit longer.
That was amazing. Seriously, I'm sitting here with this big smile on my face and I feel like I could just float away on the awesomeness. This was a wonderful book about a cantankerous engineer who ends up taking care of a homeless PTSD survivor after running him over. It's a very well-written and easy to read book. I started having anxiety about finishing very early on because I kind of wanted it to go on forever. The strength of this book lies in the brilliant characterization of Jasper, the engineer; a 40-something genius who is really a big child on the inside. He is seriously funny and ridiculous. A bit like Brain (from Pinky and the Brain) meets House (from House M.D.). Brian, the other half the romantic entanglement, is less well-defined in my head, but he was still a great character. The romance was very beautifully done; it was an extremely slow-burn kind of thing and the sex doesn't happen until after 90%. And here's the thing, the sex was decidedly unsexy, but it was written so honestly and compassionately that it's probably one of the greatest things I've ever read. I really liked that we're given this situation where two men in their forties are fumbling around like teenagers, the whole thing was just so sweet and endearing. Okay, that's all I've got to say about that. I'm just going to sit here and and enjoy the afterglow of this book a little bit longer.
May 23, 2013
I haven't laughed so much in ages, and even though there is controversy surrounding the book and it's origins (surely Ms Elliot it would have been better to have been upfront and honest at the start, instead of all this cloak and dagger stuff??), all I can say is it was wonderful, and I would love more of Jasper and Brian!! 5 stars and a big
from meShortie review...lots of other really good reviews have already been posted for this book, even if some of them have had the rating removed (would suggest you take a look at the other reviews before forming your own opinion). Jasper, an aeronautical designer, who it seemed to me had already devoted his body and brain to science before his death, meets Brian by accidentally running him over...not Jasper's fault, Brian was being bullied at the time and was pushed in the path of Jasper's car. Brian is quite seriously injured and as he is homeless, Jasper takes him home to look after him. What follows is a really funny, sometimes laugh out loud funny, meeting of two guys, neither of whom is prepared to give an inch. Jasper is used to being in charge, has never had a relationship of any kind (male or female), which is probably explained by his bossiness, his childishness sometimes (the revenge attacks on his friends are hilarious), his stubbornness and the fact that he never really has time away from work so he doesn't have a social life. Brian's story is a lot more complicated, and you would need to read the book for that.
I will just say that Jasper's battles with the old bat next door Mrs Henderson are the highlight of the book for me, with the 'constantly streaming porn to her TV' trick working so well that she concedes defeat in their battles as long as he will fix her TV so the wavy lines disappear giving her a clear view....she's in her 80's!! Just wonderful.
May 20, 2013
Edit 20 May 2013: Kate pointed out that this was a P2P fanfic, and that much of what's so great about the story is from the original canon.
Original Review 07 Oct 2012:
Review Summary: Riveting story with one abrasive character and one badly damaged one, who manage to build a believable and satisfying relationship.
Review: I stupidly started this right before bed, thinking I'd read a few chapters and then sleep. Hah! I ended up staying up much too late to finish it. I also laughed a lot and was glad no one was trying to sleep next to me.
I really enjoyed the characters and the slow build of their relationship. I also really enjoyed some of the secondary characters. Jasper was abrasive, obnoxious, and lovable. He did some pretty stupid things at times, but that fit perfectly with his genius character. Geniuses, in my experience, are often incredibly stupid about some of the most surprising things. I found his difficulty understanding or relating to people believable and endearing. He didn't seem capable of dissembling, except perhaps a little to further one of his various revenge plots.
I enjoyed his revenge plots to an extent, but after a while they began to seem a bit much. Perhaps that was intentional, to show us that Jasper didn't understand when it was appropriate to stop, but I think I already understood that and yet the revenge bit kept going and going and going. There was some great humor around it, but again there were times when it felt like too much. I wanted to say, "I get it already, can we get on with the story!"
Brian was a great foil for Jasper, and tried to keep his revenge tendencies at least moderately under control. Brian was a great character, so strong and capable and so damaged by what life had dished out. I ached for him while respecting the hell out of his inner strength. I thought it was wonderful that though Jasper helped Brian to heal, there was additional healing Brian needed to - and did - on his own.
Well, not exactly on his own, as he did it with the help of various friends and professionals, some of whom provided great additional depth and context. There was no Magic Penis in this book, neither to heal Brian nor to turn either guy magically gay, and I appreciated that greatly. What I didn't appreciate quite as much were the machinations involved in getting Brian that help. Or, I guess it would be more accurate to say I didn't appreciate how (or why) it was all kept secret from Jasper.
I loved the pace at which their relationship developed and how they explored together how to be with another man for basically the first time. Neither was gay for the other, as it was made clear they'd each been attracted to - or tried NOT to be attracted to - men before. But what they felt for each other was compelling enough to be worth exploring and pursuing, even if that meant facing some internal taboos. Their awkward first kiss and fumbling (and sometimes painful) sex was wonderfully and unusually realistic for a romance novel. Here's a great quote that gives you a lot of insight into the story and characters:
This review was originally posted at Reviews by Jessewave, where I received the book for free in exchange for an honest review.
Original Review 07 Oct 2012:
Review Summary: Riveting story with one abrasive character and one badly damaged one, who manage to build a believable and satisfying relationship.
Review: I stupidly started this right before bed, thinking I'd read a few chapters and then sleep. Hah! I ended up staying up much too late to finish it. I also laughed a lot and was glad no one was trying to sleep next to me.
I really enjoyed the characters and the slow build of their relationship. I also really enjoyed some of the secondary characters. Jasper was abrasive, obnoxious, and lovable. He did some pretty stupid things at times, but that fit perfectly with his genius character. Geniuses, in my experience, are often incredibly stupid about some of the most surprising things. I found his difficulty understanding or relating to people believable and endearing. He didn't seem capable of dissembling, except perhaps a little to further one of his various revenge plots.
I enjoyed his revenge plots to an extent, but after a while they began to seem a bit much. Perhaps that was intentional, to show us that Jasper didn't understand when it was appropriate to stop, but I think I already understood that and yet the revenge bit kept going and going and going. There was some great humor around it, but again there were times when it felt like too much. I wanted to say, "I get it already, can we get on with the story!"
Brian was a great foil for Jasper, and tried to keep his revenge tendencies at least moderately under control. Brian was a great character, so strong and capable and so damaged by what life had dished out. I ached for him while respecting the hell out of his inner strength. I thought it was wonderful that though Jasper helped Brian to heal, there was additional healing Brian needed to - and did - on his own.
Well, not exactly on his own, as he did it with the help of various friends and professionals, some of whom provided great additional depth and context. There was no Magic Penis in this book, neither to heal Brian nor to turn either guy magically gay, and I appreciated that greatly. What I didn't appreciate quite as much were the machinations involved in getting Brian that help. Or, I guess it would be more accurate to say I didn't appreciate how (or why) it was all kept secret from Jasper.
I loved the pace at which their relationship developed and how they explored together how to be with another man for basically the first time. Neither was gay for the other, as it was made clear they'd each been attracted to - or tried NOT to be attracted to - men before. But what they felt for each other was compelling enough to be worth exploring and pursuing, even if that meant facing some internal taboos. Their awkward first kiss and fumbling (and sometimes painful) sex was wonderfully and unusually realistic for a romance novel. Here's a great quote that gives you a lot of insight into the story and characters:
"I told you earlier that we'll figure this out, and we will, but it would be counterproductive to attempt advanced techniques before we've mastered the basics. Stop trying to rush this, Brian. There's a difference between efficiency and recklessness."Despite the slow, realistic development through most of the story, the end felt a bit rushed. While it made sense to me that once things started coming together for Brian they'd all happen pretty quickly, it felt like it was a bit too crammed in at the end. For all that I wished the revenge plots had been a bit less drawn out, I wished Brian's resolutions had been a little more so. I think it would be difficult to enjoy this story if you don't like Jasper, but if you do it's a riveting, humorous, enjoyable book.
This time the pause was shorter and when Brian spoke, he sounded amused. "I can't believe you just used the word 'efficiency' while discussing sex."
"The scientific method is an all-purpose tool," Jasper said haughtily. "Just because the populace is too ignorant to take advantage of it doesn't make it any less useful."
This review was originally posted at Reviews by Jessewave, where I received the book for free in exchange for an honest review.
May 15, 2013
Opposites do attract and Jasper and Brian fit that so well. Jasper is a stubborn, talented pain in the ass scientist who has only a few friends and loves trying to get revenge with pranks that never seem to quite work out for him. Brian on the other hand, while suffering with PTSD and recovering from being hit by Jasper's car is loved by everyone, even Barney who happens to be Jasper's kitten, but loves Brian more. This story, while sad in places because of what Brian went through, really doesn't take over the story with a lot of angsty moments and there were a lot of parts that had been laughing. You realize right from the start that there are going to be a lot of issues with Brian and honestly I didn't know if he could work through them, but Jasper, while being Jasper (you will understand once you read the story), is exactly what Brian needed to begin to heal and continue to rebuild his life. Both of these two just grew on me more and more as the story unfolded and they just belonged together so much, each giving the other what they needed. I think just watching how their relationship grew so gradually and how intertwined their lives became was just so wonderful.
November 4, 2017
2.5 Stars
Okay guys, here's the thing: I liked this book more than the rating suggests. However, my enjoyment largely hinges on how much I loved Jasper. Jasper, who is actually Dr. Rodney McKay (from Stargate: Atlantis) because this is previously posted and then "Pulled-to-Publish" fanfiction. Sure, the personality quirks were more exaggerated than in the show (not by much though) but there were so many inherent character traits on page that I think all that was missing here was the requisite citrus allergy.
If this had stayed just plain 'ole fanfic? I'd have given it about 4 stars. Because I love fanfic. LOVE IT. Especially well-written, fun, alternate universe-type fanfic (of which, this is). BUT, McKay is already familiar, fleshed out and kind of iconic in the scifi genre...so to take him almost lock, stock and barrel as he's known to the fandom, put him in your book and then profit off it? Yeeeeeeaaaaah, that bothers me. It's why writers get so pissy about people churning out fanfiction of their property in the first place...and in that we agree. Out of character fics won't get much traction so doing a bad job with the MCs isn't as harmful as doing a good job, like this, and then getting acclaim for it. (It's one of the bajillion complaints I have about that Mommy-Porn book that shall remain nameless.)
So, in a way I'm glad I got challenged to read this because I got to finally voice my opinion on P2P fanfic. I'm not vehement in my dislike of it, but I'm disappointed that in some cases the writer is good enough that it's a bit of a disappointment they didn't try harder to create a character of their own.
(I could also tell who were the side-characters with barely any effort and it's been YEARS since I've seen that damned show, so...)
*Also, this view of P2P is for fanfic only. Those writers that posted great, original stories for free then pulled them to publish is a completely different kettle of fish all-together. I have no problems with that.
Okay guys, here's the thing: I liked this book more than the rating suggests. However, my enjoyment largely hinges on how much I loved Jasper. Jasper, who is actually Dr. Rodney McKay (from Stargate: Atlantis) because this is previously posted and then "Pulled-to-Publish" fanfiction. Sure, the personality quirks were more exaggerated than in the show (not by much though) but there were so many inherent character traits on page that I think all that was missing here was the requisite citrus allergy.
If this had stayed just plain 'ole fanfic? I'd have given it about 4 stars. Because I love fanfic. LOVE IT. Especially well-written, fun, alternate universe-type fanfic (of which, this is). BUT, McKay is already familiar, fleshed out and kind of iconic in the scifi genre...so to take him almost lock, stock and barrel as he's known to the fandom, put him in your book and then profit off it? Yeeeeeeaaaaah, that bothers me. It's why writers get so pissy about people churning out fanfiction of their property in the first place...and in that we agree. Out of character fics won't get much traction so doing a bad job with the MCs isn't as harmful as doing a good job, like this, and then getting acclaim for it. (It's one of the bajillion complaints I have about that Mommy-Porn book that shall remain nameless.)
So, in a way I'm glad I got challenged to read this because I got to finally voice my opinion on P2P fanfic. I'm not vehement in my dislike of it, but I'm disappointed that in some cases the writer is good enough that it's a bit of a disappointment they didn't try harder to create a character of their own.
(I could also tell who were the side-characters with barely any effort and it's been YEARS since I've seen that damned show, so...)
*Also, this view of P2P is for fanfic only. Those writers that posted great, original stories for free then pulled them to publish is a completely different kettle of fish all-together. I have no problems with that.
December 19, 2015
I really liked the book it had a lot of my favorite themes, I love the snarky MC paired with an alphaish love interest. I don't know why because in person I know Jasper would drive me to physical violence but in book form I do a happy dance while laughing at his antics. Like Alan Rickman in book form. Why does the snark sound funnier with a British accent. I have huge battles and vendettas in my own mind and while ranting to friends about people who slighted me in some form but who otherwise have no knowledge of my existence. It keeps me happy and avoids actual confrontations. I love reading about people who have the brains, courage, looser ethical guidelines or whatever than me live out my fantasy in book form. Like that snappy Chihuahua going after the Great Dane you know nothing is going to happen but God love him look at him go. It is just funny. Some of the set up had me raising eyebrows and saying "Whaaaaat" but again if I am into the plot I can go with pretty much anything.
I am conflicted on the whole fanfiction to paid story controversy. An author is an artist who's work deserves to be respected and plagiarism is lazy thievery but there are only so many plots and some of my favorite books and movies are take off, send ups, adaptations or "reimagining" of other stories, so make your arguments and I will agree with you because I can be convinced pretty easily on either side, I am not committed but for me it was worth the money I paid.
I am conflicted on the whole fanfiction to paid story controversy. An author is an artist who's work deserves to be respected and plagiarism is lazy thievery but there are only so many plots and some of my favorite books and movies are take off, send ups, adaptations or "reimagining" of other stories, so make your arguments and I will agree with you because I can be convinced pretty easily on either side, I am not committed but for me it was worth the money I paid.
Read
May 21, 2013This appears to be SGA fanfic. :(
I've removing my rating.
***********************************************
What a sweet and funny and utterly charming read!
Jasper, the prickly, slightly obsessive compulsive scientist, is adorably naive and clueless when it comes to matters of the heart. Watching him fall head over heels for the mysterious Brian is delightful. There is hurt comfort (where the comfort is sometimes delivered with all the sensitivity of a lumberjack wielding a chain saw) and a slow, tentative burn and when they finally get down to having sex it's messy and awkward and, dare I say it? Realistic.
Well written, with such endearing characters, I look forward to reading more of this author's work.
Highly recommended.
I've removing my rating.
***********************************************
What a sweet and funny and utterly charming read!
Jasper, the prickly, slightly obsessive compulsive scientist, is adorably naive and clueless when it comes to matters of the heart. Watching him fall head over heels for the mysterious Brian is delightful. There is hurt comfort (where the comfort is sometimes delivered with all the sensitivity of a lumberjack wielding a chain saw) and a slow, tentative burn and when they finally get down to having sex it's messy and awkward and, dare I say it? Realistic.
Well written, with such endearing characters, I look forward to reading more of this author's work.
Highly recommended.
Read
May 21, 2013Did I love this book?
Yes, yes I did. I thought it was fun and snarky, and so wonderfully fresh.
Then I read Kate's review and found out that was SGA fanfic that was pulled to publish. So, not only could I have read this online for free, I wouldn't have been paying royalties to someone who has written a book using other people's characters.
Will you like this book? Maybe.
It all depends on how you feel about P2P fan fiction. Because while Jasper might be a breath of fresh air in the m/m world, Dr. Rodney McKay has been available for some time on DVD.
I'm not going to rate this one, because despite my enjoyment of it, I don't support P2P fanfic.
Yes, yes I did. I thought it was fun and snarky, and so wonderfully fresh.
Then I read Kate's review and found out that was SGA fanfic that was pulled to publish. So, not only could I have read this online for free, I wouldn't have been paying royalties to someone who has written a book using other people's characters.
Will you like this book? Maybe.
It all depends on how you feel about P2P fan fiction. Because while Jasper might be a breath of fresh air in the m/m world, Dr. Rodney McKay has been available for some time on DVD.
I'm not going to rate this one, because despite my enjoyment of it, I don't support P2P fanfic.
May 27, 2013
This was a fun read! I have no idea how much similarities there are with Stargate Atlantis and I don't read fanfic, so for me this was new and I loved it. The prologue was rather technical, so I took a break, but finally I came back and then the story was just unputdownable. Jasper's revenge campaigns were just too funny and his on the one hand rather brutal honesty, on the other hand awkwardness with all around him was appealing to read as well. And then to follow Jasper and Brian slowly, but surely opening up to each other, tentatively and then closing up again when in doubt of the reaction, that was very endearing. I wouldn't mind to read more about Jasper and Brian.
September 21, 2012
The 5 star review means that this book was successful and perfect -for me. I read this one in one sitting, and enjoyed it from beginning to end. These two complicated, difficult characters were perfect (that word again) for each other, and the secondary characters were strong and charming in this story, too. I don't know what I enjoyed more, the slow trip and adjustment to romance or the subplot of childish, complicated or extremely involved revenge skeems that Jaspers manages to be sucessful...or not. I also adored the prejudiced, homophobic, senior citizen with a weakness for porn. This book is funny, tender, emotional and a hooot. What else could you ask for?
May 12, 2013
In this story genius Jasper Swinton hits with his car homeless Brian Sparks and so they begin their road to HEA. But don't think that this book is another version of A Note in the Margin. At the beginning it may feel like that. But quickly you learn that Jasper is a character like no other.
I loved Jasper, all of his eccentricities and all his verbal diarrhea. He has no brain to mouth filter. I enjoyed how Brian keeps him in check so easily. Despite Brian's initial situation as a homeless man, I like that both MCs start their journey at the same level. Not one is better or "more" than the other.
I also liked that their sexual life seems so real, and also that it developed slowly. Here are two almost 40 year old guys that have never had sex with another man for different reasons (and yes this is no Gay for You story thank goodness!). Their approach to man-love is not without reservations and mishaps. Not jumping in the sack and going from 0 to 60 for these two.
I don't mean to compare books or authors but when I was done reading this book I was reminded of the book Latakia. I think it's the character development that's done so well on both books and both stories were so engrossing that I felt the same sense of satisfaction after finishing them. This is one entertaining book and because of that you won't be able to put it down.
I loved Jasper, all of his eccentricities and all his verbal diarrhea. He has no brain to mouth filter. I enjoyed how Brian keeps him in check so easily. Despite Brian's initial situation as a homeless man, I like that both MCs start their journey at the same level. Not one is better or "more" than the other.
I also liked that their sexual life seems so real, and also that it developed slowly. Here are two almost 40 year old guys that have never had sex with another man for different reasons (and yes this is no Gay for You story thank goodness!). Their approach to man-love is not without reservations and mishaps. Not jumping in the sack and going from 0 to 60 for these two.
I don't mean to compare books or authors but when I was done reading this book I was reminded of the book Latakia. I think it's the character development that's done so well on both books and both stories were so engrossing that I felt the same sense of satisfaction after finishing them. This is one entertaining book and because of that you won't be able to put it down.
September 14, 2012
I loved Jasper! He was a bad-tempered, workaholic, revenge-obsessed, grumpy bastard of a man with absolutely zero skills in inter-personal relations. Yet somehow he was still loveable and made me laugh several times. The slow build of his relationship with Brian was perfect; sweet and funny and awkward and heartbreaking all at the same time. All in all, a really satisfying story.
September 7, 2014
What can I say? This book is hilarious, quirky, touching, blah, blah, blah. I love the characters and it's so nicely developed that I didn't get much dissonance, if any.
edit:
...so...
This is P2P...
Now I'm sad.
edit:
...so...
This is P2P...
Now I'm sad.
November 24, 2012
Above all is a highly enjoyable romance between a quirky engineer and a slightly damaged homeless man. The story was light, fun, and a joy to read.
May 4, 2018
This certainly wasn't for me. I'm not sure if it would of been better if I'd watch the show this was a fanfic from or if the author had just tried harder to write it as if the reader had no idea of the TV show.
While it was a story line I normally enjoy there was just too much that was unbelievable, from the broken bones to the working in a high security department nothing felt real. I have no idea how old anyone was or how they came to be friends or why they all put up with Jasper.
Overall this was just an OK read for me and I wonder at what I am missing that it got so many 4 and 5 star reviews.
While it was a story line I normally enjoy there was just too much that was unbelievable, from the broken bones to the working in a high security department nothing felt real. I have no idea how old anyone was or how they came to be friends or why they all put up with Jasper.
Overall this was just an OK read for me and I wonder at what I am missing that it got so many 4 and 5 star reviews.
August 28, 2012
Reviewed for Hearts On Fire Reviews
The blurb doesn’t mention just how funnily obnoxious Dr. Jasper Swinton really is. Volatile doesn’t do him justice, the man is so socially inept (and sometimes it seems it is on purpose). He doesn’t have much of a filter from what he thinks to what he says. Which is how he finds himself out of a job. Need to be careful what you say to Generals when you work for a place dependent on the military, don’t you know. Jasper is crude, rude, brash and so very interesting. He really only has three friends, Ellen and Harry who he worked with, and Michael.
When Jasper loses the job and goes off on a ramble in his car, he ends up hitting a man, Brian. Not his fault, but he feels responsible. And so out of character for him (he thinks). When Brian freaks out over being taken to the hospital, or having police called, Jasper takes the man to see Michael, who is a doctor. Brian has two broken legs, bruised ribs and is unable to take care of himself on the streets. So Jasper, again in an uncharacteristic move, takes him home to care for him.
This is where Jasper, with all his bluff and bark, shows how sweet he is. He gives up his two thousand dollar mattress to sleep on the back killer couch, and cares for Brian, who is fearful, prone to episodes and generally uncommunicative and sullen. Jasper has spent his life “smothering, ignoring, and/or denying every one of his homosexual urges” and now he’s kind of at a loss as to why he finds himself holding Brian’s hand, smiling to see him and wanting to make him feel better. It’s funny and it’s sweet as Jasper tries to reconcile how he feels. Brian, for his part, has a lot of demons. A lot.
I loved that these men, neither of which has had a true m/m relationship before, don’t immediately jump into bed together (well, sex wise!) and have perfect unions. No, even their first kiss “wasn’t a great kiss. It wasn’t even a very good kiss”. Brian wouldn’t open his mouth, their noses were in the way, it wasn’t working. But it had the potential to be something incredible. As does their relationship. Their eventual sexual relationship is fraught with disaster, painful and awkward, something you can completely see happening in real life.
Much as I loved Jasper and most of the book, there were a couple things that kept me from giving this story five stars. Brian’s actions in leaving said more to me about his non-commitment to Jasper than anything. The last part, focusing on Jasper’s revenge plots, just dragged for me, going on too long even though I wanted him to get revenge, because even worse than that were the actions of Jaspers so-called “friends”. The fact that, especially in the case of Michael, they knew how much pain Jasper was in, knowing this was his first time really connecting with someone, what he was doing trying to find Brian, and they still harbored him, kept him hidden and let their friend suffer. Not the actions of friends, in any way. Especially Michael, shame on you. By the end of it, I didn’t want anything remotely Michael related to be in there, and every action, (the checking account, etc) just made it worse. Jasper deserves more from his friends. Even Barney deserts him for Brian. Poor man.
This is an endearing, funny story of less than perfect characters. The dramatic and horrific events in Brian’s past, causing PTSD and flashbacks, are dealt with realistically and without the magic wand approach. There is hope for Brian and hope for Jasper, and that makes it amazing.
The blurb doesn’t mention just how funnily obnoxious Dr. Jasper Swinton really is. Volatile doesn’t do him justice, the man is so socially inept (and sometimes it seems it is on purpose). He doesn’t have much of a filter from what he thinks to what he says. Which is how he finds himself out of a job. Need to be careful what you say to Generals when you work for a place dependent on the military, don’t you know. Jasper is crude, rude, brash and so very interesting. He really only has three friends, Ellen and Harry who he worked with, and Michael.
When Jasper loses the job and goes off on a ramble in his car, he ends up hitting a man, Brian. Not his fault, but he feels responsible. And so out of character for him (he thinks). When Brian freaks out over being taken to the hospital, or having police called, Jasper takes the man to see Michael, who is a doctor. Brian has two broken legs, bruised ribs and is unable to take care of himself on the streets. So Jasper, again in an uncharacteristic move, takes him home to care for him.
This is where Jasper, with all his bluff and bark, shows how sweet he is. He gives up his two thousand dollar mattress to sleep on the back killer couch, and cares for Brian, who is fearful, prone to episodes and generally uncommunicative and sullen. Jasper has spent his life “smothering, ignoring, and/or denying every one of his homosexual urges” and now he’s kind of at a loss as to why he finds himself holding Brian’s hand, smiling to see him and wanting to make him feel better. It’s funny and it’s sweet as Jasper tries to reconcile how he feels. Brian, for his part, has a lot of demons. A lot.
I loved that these men, neither of which has had a true m/m relationship before, don’t immediately jump into bed together (well, sex wise!) and have perfect unions. No, even their first kiss “wasn’t a great kiss. It wasn’t even a very good kiss”. Brian wouldn’t open his mouth, their noses were in the way, it wasn’t working. But it had the potential to be something incredible. As does their relationship. Their eventual sexual relationship is fraught with disaster, painful and awkward, something you can completely see happening in real life.
Much as I loved Jasper and most of the book, there were a couple things that kept me from giving this story five stars. Brian’s actions in leaving said more to me about his non-commitment to Jasper than anything. The last part, focusing on Jasper’s revenge plots, just dragged for me, going on too long even though I wanted him to get revenge, because even worse than that were the actions of Jaspers so-called “friends”. The fact that, especially in the case of Michael, they knew how much pain Jasper was in, knowing this was his first time really connecting with someone, what he was doing trying to find Brian, and they still harbored him, kept him hidden and let their friend suffer. Not the actions of friends, in any way. Especially Michael, shame on you. By the end of it, I didn’t want anything remotely Michael related to be in there, and every action, (the checking account, etc) just made it worse. Jasper deserves more from his friends. Even Barney deserts him for Brian. Poor man.
This is an endearing, funny story of less than perfect characters. The dramatic and horrific events in Brian’s past, causing PTSD and flashbacks, are dealt with realistically and without the magic wand approach. There is hope for Brian and hope for Jasper, and that makes it amazing.
October 26, 2015
2012 Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention (5* from at least 1 judge)
March 10, 2018
I really adored a great deal about this romance between Brain, a homeless vet, and Jasper, a genius with no filter.
Because Jasper is so filled with all the feels and aggressive with them as well as super smart, there is a lightness to this story which given Brian circumstances would otherwise not be there.
I love Jasper's heart, mind, endless revenge plots, and attempts to do better. The secondary cast who loves him just as he is is wonderful too.
The romance between with Brian is well done in terms of falling in love and relationship. Brian has ton of issues and he does see a therapist but there could have been a richer handling of these ideas. However, what is addressed is well done including not great sex at first.
So, I was charmed, even when this was silly and over the top.
Not sure I need to read the second book for this couple but I do like Jasper's voice so I might.
Because Jasper is so filled with all the feels and aggressive with them as well as super smart, there is a lightness to this story which given Brian circumstances would otherwise not be there.
I love Jasper's heart, mind, endless revenge plots, and attempts to do better. The secondary cast who loves him just as he is is wonderful too.
The romance between with Brian is well done in terms of falling in love and relationship. Brian has ton of issues and he does see a therapist but there could have been a richer handling of these ideas. However, what is addressed is well done including not great sex at first.
So, I was charmed, even when this was silly and over the top.
Not sure I need to read the second book for this couple but I do like Jasper's voice so I might.
April 26, 2021
I know it’s fanfic but since I have no clue about SGA I’ll treat it as a regular book. Well, I absolutely loved it and I find its rating to be too low for such a surprisingly funny , emotional and endearing read (mostly funny ) . The writing is very good and since it’s from Jasper’s POV it’s hilarious- I didn’t even miss Brian’s POV since Jasper is such an interesting character - endearingly petty and high maintenance but very kind at his core (I liked the fact that Brian saw that as he said “You’re the nicest man I,ve ever met “). All and all a good story , very enjoyable.
July 11, 2016
Хоть я никогда и не смотрела Stargate Atlantis, мне не нравится, когда воруют разработанных другими людьми персонажей и основывают на них свою коммерческую деятельность. Поэтому сразу минус 1 звезда.
А в остальном достаточно приятный юмористический романчик (ключевое слово - юмористический). Основываясь на аннотации, думала, будет немного драмы... Нет, оказался сплошной флафф и юмор. Я всё же люблю произведения чуть серьёзнее.
А в остальном достаточно приятный юмористический романчик (ключевое слово - юмористический). Основываясь на аннотации, думала, будет немного драмы... Нет, оказался сплошной флафф и юмор. Я всё же люблю произведения чуть серьёзнее.
May 23, 2013
2.5 stars. I know there were some reviews on how this was originally Stargate fanfic, but since I've never watched the show (or read any of the fanfic) that didn't bother me. While the beginning caught my attention, the actions of Jasper's 'friends' totally ruined the rest of the book for me. Who needs friends like that? Plus the sex scenes were just awkward and not sexy at all.
October 11, 2012
The story was disappointing. The descriptions of the setting were flat, and the characters were almost nonexistent. Honestly, I was getting mixed signals about Jasper and Brian's sexual orientation. When the sex scenes finally happened late in the book, there was no sensuality.
November 23, 2015
Cute overload! And with just the perfectly right amount of angst to balance out the fluff. Jasper really reminds me of Sheldon Cooper and that’s quite a buzzinga buzzkill for the romance. I had no idea this was originally a fanfic though O_O?
September 22, 2021
Loved it!
Want to read
June 14, 2024Hi, I'm searching a site where can I buy this book. If someone one knows please write me. Thank you
December 9, 2013
The story is narrated by Jasper Swinton, an eccentric genius who seems to have been born without the necessary social filters governing polite behaviour, which means he has few friends willing to put up with his snide comments. Basically, Jasper calls 'em as he sees 'em. Although his comments can be hurtful at times, they are also extremely funny and I often found myself laughing out loud at his observations. The dialogue between Jasper and the people in his life, whether friend or foe, is very witty and Elliot does a great job with it. Despite the fact Jasper isn't very nice, you can't help but liking him because he is getting away with outrageous behaviour I suspect a lot of us would like to imitate if wasn't for those pesky social filters getting in the way. One of the funniest moments for me is when Jasper takes Brian home for the first time and Jasper slaps Brian around the head telling him to stop it when he starts to hyperventilate. I'm not sure that is a recommended treatment for hyperventilation but it sure was effective.
Brian is a bit more mysterious and it takes Jasper a while to break down his defences to get to the heart of the real story, a feat that irritates Jasper no end because his scientific mind likes cold hard facts. As it turns out, Brian is an ex-Marine who spent three years as a POW in Afghanistan before being dishonourably discharged by a commanding officer who used him as a scapegoat. Brian is also suffering from PTSD and a crippling case of claustrophobia which has led to his change in circumstances. Being rescued by Jasper offers Brian a second chance but he has some trust issues to overcome before he can take full advantage of it.
The romance between Jasper and Brian is inevitable but it is a very low key affair. Jasper hasn't been involved in a sexual relationship for over twenty years, and Brian has equally little experience of being with a man since his last lover was killed in action two days after their first encounter. The romance is definitely not all hearts and flowers because there are many obstacles to be overcome, but even then it is the very definition of the word awkward. Once the two men have progressed enough in their relationship to want to attempt anal intercourse, nothing really goes to plan, and I have to admit I liked that a lot because it seemed so much more realistic. Jasper, of course, researches the topic to death much to Brian's chagrin and it reduces the act to something so clinical neither man is satisfied. However, practice makes perfect as they say, and I'm sure both men will enjoy their repeated attempts to get it right.
The parts of the story that just didn't sit right with me were Jasper's friends concealment of Brian which I found rather cruel. These friends may have been acting at Brian's request but I still found it hard to accept because they could see how much it was destroying Jasper. How hard would it have been for them to assure him of Brian's safety and say he would be in touch when he felt ready? I also didn't like how the last part of the novel was so concentrated on Jasper's revenge schemes. They may have been funny in their own way but it seemed to me like Jasper had regressed into a frat boy half his age and weren't all that worthy of a grown man reputed to be a genius.
Brian's past as a pilot was also a little contrived, what are the chances of working on a project in need of a pilot, just for you to hit one with your car later the same day? It's also a bit too convenient that Brian ends up working in the one place that leads him to having his dishonourable discharge reviewed so there are no prizes for guessing which career path Brian is about to follow.
Despite these niggles, I really liked the author's style and how she managed to seamlessly blend the lighthearted moments with more darker issues. I also liked how she portrayed the unlikely romance between these two men and the lack of perfection during their most intimate moments was downright refreshing. The witty dialogue was also pure genius and a pleasure to read, so I'm definitely going to check out her other books.
Posted from BitterSweet Reviews
Brian is a bit more mysterious and it takes Jasper a while to break down his defences to get to the heart of the real story, a feat that irritates Jasper no end because his scientific mind likes cold hard facts. As it turns out, Brian is an ex-Marine who spent three years as a POW in Afghanistan before being dishonourably discharged by a commanding officer who used him as a scapegoat. Brian is also suffering from PTSD and a crippling case of claustrophobia which has led to his change in circumstances. Being rescued by Jasper offers Brian a second chance but he has some trust issues to overcome before he can take full advantage of it.
The romance between Jasper and Brian is inevitable but it is a very low key affair. Jasper hasn't been involved in a sexual relationship for over twenty years, and Brian has equally little experience of being with a man since his last lover was killed in action two days after their first encounter. The romance is definitely not all hearts and flowers because there are many obstacles to be overcome, but even then it is the very definition of the word awkward. Once the two men have progressed enough in their relationship to want to attempt anal intercourse, nothing really goes to plan, and I have to admit I liked that a lot because it seemed so much more realistic. Jasper, of course, researches the topic to death much to Brian's chagrin and it reduces the act to something so clinical neither man is satisfied. However, practice makes perfect as they say, and I'm sure both men will enjoy their repeated attempts to get it right.
The parts of the story that just didn't sit right with me were Jasper's friends concealment of Brian which I found rather cruel. These friends may have been acting at Brian's request but I still found it hard to accept because they could see how much it was destroying Jasper. How hard would it have been for them to assure him of Brian's safety and say he would be in touch when he felt ready? I also didn't like how the last part of the novel was so concentrated on Jasper's revenge schemes. They may have been funny in their own way but it seemed to me like Jasper had regressed into a frat boy half his age and weren't all that worthy of a grown man reputed to be a genius.
Brian's past as a pilot was also a little contrived, what are the chances of working on a project in need of a pilot, just for you to hit one with your car later the same day? It's also a bit too convenient that Brian ends up working in the one place that leads him to having his dishonourable discharge reviewed so there are no prizes for guessing which career path Brian is about to follow.
Despite these niggles, I really liked the author's style and how she managed to seamlessly blend the lighthearted moments with more darker issues. I also liked how she portrayed the unlikely romance between these two men and the lack of perfection during their most intimate moments was downright refreshing. The witty dialogue was also pure genius and a pleasure to read, so I'm definitely going to check out her other books.
Posted from BitterSweet Reviews
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