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Desert Menage #1
Nine Dates
2011 Valley Forge RWA Sheila Award Finalist
Secretary Beth Mitchell has a problem. A 6'2" gorgeous, blue-eyed problem. Office crushes universally suck, but she reckons hers truly takes the cake. For not only is sweet, charming John O'Brien her best friend at work, he's also taken. Not that it would matter if he wasn't, because to top it all off, John's gay.
Or so Beth thought… until he asks her out on a date. And in the span of a few moments, all Beth's preconceived notions about John come tumbling down when he asks, "You understand people come in more flavors than just gay or straight, don't you?"
Being raised in a small Midwestern town by a single mother gave Beth a solid grounding in realism and a strong work ethic, but did nothing to temper her driving ambition or quell her sense of adventure. So when John proposes something she never dared to imagine, Beth leaps at the opportunity, however untraditional, to be with him.
Only John's boyfriend, medical resident Paul Atwater, isn't so sure. When Beth shows up at their apartment proposing they give nothing less than a triadic relationship a try, he thinks the whole thing's a recipe for disaster. He argues, "There's got to be more to a successful ménage-a-trois than a nine date plan!"
For that's exactly the strategy Beth lays out. Nine Dates follows Beth, John, and Paul as they get to know each other. Tender romantic moments, steamy physical encounters, a strong dose of sarcasm, and brownies a la mode all feature heavily. Is it possible for a committed, monogamous relationship to welcome a new member, much less withstand the invasion? Is true love always the right path to follow? And just how complicated can things get?
Secretary Beth Mitchell has a problem. A 6'2" gorgeous, blue-eyed problem. Office crushes universally suck, but she reckons hers truly takes the cake. For not only is sweet, charming John O'Brien her best friend at work, he's also taken. Not that it would matter if he wasn't, because to top it all off, John's gay.
Or so Beth thought… until he asks her out on a date. And in the span of a few moments, all Beth's preconceived notions about John come tumbling down when he asks, "You understand people come in more flavors than just gay or straight, don't you?"
Being raised in a small Midwestern town by a single mother gave Beth a solid grounding in realism and a strong work ethic, but did nothing to temper her driving ambition or quell her sense of adventure. So when John proposes something she never dared to imagine, Beth leaps at the opportunity, however untraditional, to be with him.
Only John's boyfriend, medical resident Paul Atwater, isn't so sure. When Beth shows up at their apartment proposing they give nothing less than a triadic relationship a try, he thinks the whole thing's a recipe for disaster. He argues, "There's got to be more to a successful ménage-a-trois than a nine date plan!"
For that's exactly the strategy Beth lays out. Nine Dates follows Beth, John, and Paul as they get to know each other. Tender romantic moments, steamy physical encounters, a strong dose of sarcasm, and brownies a la mode all feature heavily. Is it possible for a committed, monogamous relationship to welcome a new member, much less withstand the invasion? Is true love always the right path to follow? And just how complicated can things get?
300 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2012
5 people are currently reading
102 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
February 13, 2014
I am in love with books about menage relationships, triads, tripods. Particularly MMF ones, where the males are involved. I have found a few novels that meet this criteria but sometimes they are all about the sex and not enough about the relationship. Nine Dates digs deep into the relationship aspect. Totally a 4.5 stars for me rounded up to 5. The author really takes the time to dig into all sides of a triad relationship. Focusing on the emotional, jealousy and love components. My only small complaint is that the sex is not nearly hot enough. It's there but I tend to lean on the more explicit, raw sexual stories. Overall great story. Love that it's a trilogy. Really taking the time to explore a true triad relationship and all the hardships they face. Sex scenes between all parties. MM, MF, MMF. :)
December 30, 2015
This is a highly erotic novel about a polyamorous triad trying to make it work through a 9-date plan. 3 with one guy, 3 with the other, and 3 together. The beginning is rough - while, in backstory, we learn that John and Beth had a long flirtationship leading up to the moments in the first chapter, in the reading of it, it looks and feels like instalove. We jump into the story with their romance already established and they're just beginning to act on it. Then there's the very cut-and-dry but lengthy explanation of the 9-date plan, and it's only after that we get to the real meat of the story.
The characters are well-done and counterbalance each other nicely, although it takes a while to get to a point where you can really see it. Paul comes off as a raging asshole through most of the beginning, but by the end I liked his character even more than John's.
Most of the book is the characters either talking, kissing, or boning. Which... makes sense, I suppose, since it's a contemporary novel all about going on dates - what else are they going to do? But unless you are heavily invested in the triad, or the gimmick of the novel, it's not going to be terribly fascinating. The kissing scenes were glorious, however, and many of the sex scenes were amazing as well.
The book definitely ramps up in quality as the story goes - I think the author has a hard time introducing characters and situations, but once they're established, they flourish.
One thing that bothered me was the strict adherence to gender roles that pervades the entire book. From the structure of the dates themselves, to John's ideal life of married w/kids, to John's really weird speech about how the top/bottom dynamic works (it's bizarre, like why are you having this conversation, and also wtf are you talking about), to the way the guys treat her. Paul has a lot of unchecked sexist comments that he says intentionally to rile her, and she intentionally ignores to "not take the bait" but no one really calls him on it through the whole book.
Overall, this was a good book, with some really sweet and great moments, and the writing isn't bad. But it could have been better. It had rough edges that needed polishing. I would like to see how the author handles romantic triads with other characters, but she seems to only have one menage series and it's all this one couple.
The characters are well-done and counterbalance each other nicely, although it takes a while to get to a point where you can really see it. Paul comes off as a raging asshole through most of the beginning, but by the end I liked his character even more than John's.
Most of the book is the characters either talking, kissing, or boning. Which... makes sense, I suppose, since it's a contemporary novel all about going on dates - what else are they going to do? But unless you are heavily invested in the triad, or the gimmick of the novel, it's not going to be terribly fascinating. The kissing scenes were glorious, however, and many of the sex scenes were amazing as well.
The book definitely ramps up in quality as the story goes - I think the author has a hard time introducing characters and situations, but once they're established, they flourish.
One thing that bothered me was the strict adherence to gender roles that pervades the entire book. From the structure of the dates themselves, to John's ideal life of married w/kids, to John's really weird speech about how the top/bottom dynamic works (it's bizarre, like why are you having this conversation, and also wtf are you talking about), to the way the guys treat her. Paul has a lot of unchecked sexist comments that he says intentionally to rile her, and she intentionally ignores to "not take the bait" but no one really calls him on it through the whole book.
Overall, this was a good book, with some really sweet and great moments, and the writing isn't bad. But it could have been better. It had rough edges that needed polishing. I would like to see how the author handles romantic triads with other characters, but she seems to only have one menage series and it's all this one couple.
November 23, 2012
When it comes to writing “taboo with a twist”, Shanyn’s got it going on! I very much enjoyed her first novel, Old Enough to Know Better, in which she tackled the sticky wicket taboo of an older woman versus a very much younger man, the twist of which was that the relationship began while she was still married to a man her own age. In Nine Dates, Shanyn ups the ante by one and then some, as she leads the reader on an exploration of a ménage à trois that includes one straight woman and two bi-sexual men. Even though I myself am strictly hetero, I found myself drawn into the story as it unfolded with humor and a rare insight into the nature of men who are predominantly attracted to other men. These men find themselves falling for an unusual woman, one who has understanding enough to embrace them both (and whoo boy—does she ever!).
The sex, as in her first novel, is squirm-in-your-seat HOT, but it’s the relationships and how they develop that really hook the reader. I loved the juxtaposition of the personalities of the two men—John, inherently romantic and tender who first falls for Beth at the office; and Paul, the prickly doctor lacking “bedside” manner who reluctantly becomes attracted to her after being dragged into the threesome a tad against his will. The only minor complaints that I have are that Beth, a forward-thinking, strong-minded woman, turns uncharacteristically prudish at times, and she “giggles” and “whines” entirely too much in the presence of her men.
But what woman in her right mind wouldn’t grow a little addle-headed at having two men at once, and I do mean at once! I’ve juggled dates in the past—tried to hide one relationship from another with disastrous results, but Beth gets to have her cake (John) and eat it (Paul), too. Pun intended. How she goes from point A—very much alone—to points B and C together is a journey not to be missed. I’m looking very much forward to reading book two of the series Tri Me, the continuation of the saga. My rating of Nine Dates is actually 4.5 stars (most sites don’t allow the half stars, so I’m stating my rating here).
--Shari Broyer, author, Ether Man
The sex, as in her first novel, is squirm-in-your-seat HOT, but it’s the relationships and how they develop that really hook the reader. I loved the juxtaposition of the personalities of the two men—John, inherently romantic and tender who first falls for Beth at the office; and Paul, the prickly doctor lacking “bedside” manner who reluctantly becomes attracted to her after being dragged into the threesome a tad against his will. The only minor complaints that I have are that Beth, a forward-thinking, strong-minded woman, turns uncharacteristically prudish at times, and she “giggles” and “whines” entirely too much in the presence of her men.
But what woman in her right mind wouldn’t grow a little addle-headed at having two men at once, and I do mean at once! I’ve juggled dates in the past—tried to hide one relationship from another with disastrous results, but Beth gets to have her cake (John) and eat it (Paul), too. Pun intended. How she goes from point A—very much alone—to points B and C together is a journey not to be missed. I’m looking very much forward to reading book two of the series Tri Me, the continuation of the saga. My rating of Nine Dates is actually 4.5 stars (most sites don’t allow the half stars, so I’m stating my rating here).
--Shari Broyer, author, Ether Man
January 21, 2015
This book is more like a 2.5 for me but I'm rounding up because the writing was good and it's MMF. The story lacked a certain snap imho, as there was very little action not involving the nascent relationship. No running around trying to save the world or just stay alive. No bad guys, no intrigue.
Even with the relationshop, I felt something lacking. The sex scenes were okay, but I've read better with more details. There also could have been more of them for my taste. Maybe I'm too used to reading PNR. This story seemed a little vanilla despite being about a "triad." (I really don't like that word in this context)
The heroine was pretty cool. Smart, funny, logical, not too much emotional baggage or hangups. We did spend an awful lot of time in her head, though. Hero #1, John, was almost too good goody. Very Galahad. Hero #2, Paul, was the prickly one, or was that just prick? He eventually came around, but if there was conflict to be found in this book, he was it. Oh, and the ending was a little abrupt. No cliffhanger, but almost like a slamming door.
Anyway, I enjoyed it. Will probably read more from this author.
Even with the relationshop, I felt something lacking. The sex scenes were okay, but I've read better with more details. There also could have been more of them for my taste. Maybe I'm too used to reading PNR. This story seemed a little vanilla despite being about a "triad." (I really don't like that word in this context)
The heroine was pretty cool. Smart, funny, logical, not too much emotional baggage or hangups. We did spend an awful lot of time in her head, though. Hero #1, John, was almost too good goody. Very Galahad. Hero #2, Paul, was the prickly one, or was that just prick? He eventually came around, but if there was conflict to be found in this book, he was it. Oh, and the ending was a little abrupt. No cliffhanger, but almost like a slamming door.
Anyway, I enjoyed it. Will probably read more from this author.
July 12, 2013
A friend of mine suggested I check out this author and after I read her story "Old Enough To Know Better" I thought I'd give it a try. This isn't the type of material I typically read, so I was pleasantly surprised to find myself sucked into the story and wanting to know more - specifically how are they going to make this relationship work? The author does a great job at making her characters relatable and likable (even the snarky Paul), and I found myself rooting for them and their unconventional relationship. When I read there was a sequel to follow I was even more intrigued. Kudos to Shanyn Hosier for taking on this "taboo" topic! Some of the "scenes" were over the top for me - but then again I should have known what I was in for. It's clearly stated that this is for a mature audience! And not that this has anything to do with my rating, but the characters in my head look nothing like the ones on the cover except for Beth!
January 24, 2016
Just finished this book and I loved it. I appreciate a hot sex scene and this book definitely had it covered. There was also a nice story line as well, not just sex. Great read!
Reviewed on my website: http://www.paullynichols.com/?page_id...
Nine Dates by Shanyn Hosier... Menage awesomeness! I loved this book. One becasue there was an innocence to it because of the female character Beth. She was so freaking cute. Then, there was the hot, dirty goodness the book had to offer. I love a m/m romance just as the next girl, and this one was no different. Add sweet little Beth in the middle of two very successful and attractive men and you have menage heaven. This was my first read from Shanyn Hosier, but because of it I'll definitely be reading more.
Subscribe and suggest more reads at: http://www.paullynichols.com/?page_id...
Reviewed on my website: http://www.paullynichols.com/?page_id...
Nine Dates by Shanyn Hosier... Menage awesomeness! I loved this book. One becasue there was an innocence to it because of the female character Beth. She was so freaking cute. Then, there was the hot, dirty goodness the book had to offer. I love a m/m romance just as the next girl, and this one was no different. Add sweet little Beth in the middle of two very successful and attractive men and you have menage heaven. This was my first read from Shanyn Hosier, but because of it I'll definitely be reading more.
Subscribe and suggest more reads at: http://www.paullynichols.com/?page_id...
May 25, 2015
Nine Dates follows Beth as she attempts to enter a triadic relationship with John and Paul (an established couple of 10 years) through a nine date plan. Obviously things aren't as simple as they are on paper. This is a very sweet love story with a few wonderfully hot scenes sprinkled in. I finished the book in two days (couldn't put it down) and loved every second of it. My only issue was with Paul's character and how he seemed to be a false composite of extremes. He did have some redeemable qualities and through Beth's and John's eyes you kind of fall for him despite himself. Highly recommend to menage lovers.
June 25, 2013
Great characters and great writing voice. What intrigues me about this series is how the author writes about making a ménage relationship work. Much different and deeper than writing a ménage for sex sake.
July 11, 2014
Loved the entire series
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September 23, 2021I know I shouldn’t take everything serious but I’m going to try to break down how I dislike John and Beth interaction. So we get told how Beth has a crush on her coworker whose sweet, funny, and have lots in common with her. Okay great. Then we get a scene of them having lunch outside as a “date” and the entire conversation was just... sad. John got angry when the protagonist kept questioning his intentions to the point that she had to blur out to John that he has a boyfriend. And that she doesn’t want to be a side piece. Understandable right? Well John instead of explaining clearly his intentions just tells her “who do you think pushed me to ask you out?.” Really John? He couldn’t be more sympathetic and try to slowly explain himself?
Then the next scene the protagonist misses a day at work and apparently John got so bothered by it that everyone at work noticed and thought they were fighting. She calls John and what does he say to her? “Where are you” all irritated. Why not ask her if she’s okay? Or did something happen? I want to like the characters, especially the heroes that I’m reading, unfortunately I dislike John.
Then the next scene the protagonist misses a day at work and apparently John got so bothered by it that everyone at work noticed and thought they were fighting. She calls John and what does he say to her? “Where are you” all irritated. Why not ask her if she’s okay? Or did something happen? I want to like the characters, especially the heroes that I’m reading, unfortunately I dislike John.
March 21, 2021
Rounded up from 2.5
It all starts because Beth and John are crushing so hard on each other, but they are seriously boring together and it wasn't entertaining at all reading their dates. Paul was much more interesting (albeit a bit of a douche) and had a better dynamic with Beth.
The story itself feels kinda short, but it has a nice enough pace, even tho the ending felt a little abrupt.
(Also, this book has one of the WORST covers I've ever seen. If I'd go based on this, I'd never have read this book. Seriously. Paul looks like a serial killer, not even remotely like the guy described in the book. Jfc. 😂)
It all starts because Beth and John are crushing so hard on each other, but they are seriously boring together and it wasn't entertaining at all reading their dates. Paul was much more interesting (albeit a bit of a douche) and had a better dynamic with Beth.
The story itself feels kinda short, but it has a nice enough pace, even tho the ending felt a little abrupt.
(Also, this book has one of the WORST covers I've ever seen. If I'd go based on this, I'd never have read this book. Seriously. Paul looks like a serial killer, not even remotely like the guy described in the book. Jfc. 😂)
January 4, 2021
Solid start to a three part ménage story which feels realistic.
May 10, 2015
Having just finished my reread of this book I felt it time to explain why I only gave it 4 stars. It certainly wasn't for lack of enjoyment, as I loved it. I also felt that the relationship that was forming between the three of them was well written to show the problems with feelings that may arise. Paul comes across as a bit spiteful and resentful, but were I to be in his shoes I know for a fact I'd behave the same way. I felt he was being put in a position that he didn't really want, John his partner of 10 years found he had feelings for Beth and I believe Paul decided to share rather than risk losing him completely. This isn't a story full of angst, maybe that's what I think was missing, for me everything, even John's spite, was just.........Luke warm! Nothing was hot enough, including the sex scenes, everything was NICE! Having said that I really did love the story so read the other books in the trilogy. I would recommend this book to others as it's an enjoyable read.
October 13, 2015
Nicely building but plenty steamy story of a woman lured into a ménage with an established male couple, one set and eager and the other sarcastic and sometimes reluctant. Interestingly, the sweet one is the top and the gruff one a bit of a sub. But all-in-all plenty of two way and three way sizzle. Written almost exclusively from the heroine's point of view, it focuses more on her emotions and physical responses while doing a nice job of defining two hot but different men in a novella with p,ent of heat.
January 17, 2016
I just could not get into this story or this arrangement. This is a story where the established couple of John and Paul decided after a 1oyr commitment to each other they want to bring in a third...not just any third...a female at that. It just didn't flow right and I never felt the connection that John and Beth should have had...after all they were "falling in love" after working together for a year!
It may be a good read for some, but it just didn't work for me.
It may be a good read for some, but it just didn't work for me.
August 8, 2014
Really enjoyed this book and the characters, make you understand what people that choose something out of the norm deal with due to closed minded people.
January 25, 2015
An enjoyable story with strong characters. I'm looking forward to reading the next instalment of this series and seeing where this relationship between John, Paul and Beth goes.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews