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Men of Smithfield #3
Seth and David
He's everything I've never wanted -- too young, too weird, too wild.
I wasn't impressed that I had to get my weekly massage from a guy with a toe ring. But when I discovered David Cooke's skills as a masseur were literally orgasmic, I couldn't stop thinking about him and his amazing hands, day and night. Especially at night.
He's full of surprises. And despite my bad behavior, David's just as eager to explore this chemistry between us. Turns out, there's a lot more to him than hemp pants and tattoos. If he's so wrong for me, why does being with him feel so right?
I wasn't impressed that I had to get my weekly massage from a guy with a toe ring. But when I discovered David Cooke's skills as a masseur were literally orgasmic, I couldn't stop thinking about him and his amazing hands, day and night. Especially at night.
He's full of surprises. And despite my bad behavior, David's just as eager to explore this chemistry between us. Turns out, there's a lot more to him than hemp pants and tattoos. If he's so wrong for me, why does being with him feel so right?
90 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 2, 2009
32 people are currently reading
352 people want to read
About the author
L.B. Gregg
25 books627 followersLB Gregg (Lisabea) writes fun, fast-paced contemporary male/male romances for a variety of publishers including Riptide, Samhain, and Carina Press. Her wildly successful Men of Smithfield books feature hot, hunky men looking for love in small town New England. Find more information about LB, The Men of Smithfield, and her fun series Romano and Albright at www.lbgregg.com.
You can also friend LB on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/lb.gregg.1
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 162 reviews
November 23, 2014
Written November 22, 2014
3.8 stars - Yummy gay men candy - 4 entertaining hrs
Book #3
Seth and David was my third 'stand-alone' novella in this series in just a week. AND i once again ENJOYED.
Another adorable lovebirds couple in Smithfield
These Men of Smithfield stories are steamy, emotional and with that nice light and easy feel I like.
My reviews so far:
***********************************************************
He's everything Seth never wanted - too young, too weird, too wild...
Seth Weston is shocked. His weekly female masseuse is indisposed and entering the room is a rather handsome young man with a toe ring and some kind of strange (harem) clothings.
OMG!! Seth soon discoverer that David Cooke's skills as a masseur are literally orgasmic. His hands are amazing...and Seth enjoy...maybe a bit to much! The proof is there just like an embarrassing eyesore. Wet and sticky!
So begins a rapidly speeding story of an emotionally neglected uncle, his cute six year old niece and a sexy young man. A touching story about strong burning desire, not yet released anger, sadness and despair (after death) and the promising beginning of something new and better.
***********************************************************
Lovely narrated by Shannon Gunn once again
I freaking LOVE Mr Gunn's (own) grunting caveman style by now. A fun and, for these books also, a fitting emotional and intense narration style.
He just know the "right" way of high-reading these stories. Someone would say he over-do it sometimes and maybe gets some second characters cheesy voices, but who really cares? The two men I'm interested in sounds always just good (..and sexy, angry, sweet...like gorgeous men.)
***********************************************************
This was the warm and family-cozy summer story...
L.B. Gregg make her characters kind of real life ordinary (no faultless supermen men here) and I feel just enough interest for them — and their 'manly' troubles in life — to have time enough to sincerely appreciate these pretty short stories.
Her/his books (3 'read' now) are also always added with pretty funny moments, a lot of joking and banters. As well as some speedy suspense plots and nice second characters.
~ Feeeel Gooood books for me in other words. ~
Next up the fourth audiobook with Adam and Holden's hopefully steamy and fun love story.
I LIKE - longing for the last one...tonight
3.8 stars - Yummy gay men candy - 4 entertaining hrs
Book #3
Seth and David was my third 'stand-alone' novella in this series in just a week. AND i once again ENJOYED.
Another adorable lovebirds couple in Smithfield
These Men of Smithfield stories are steamy, emotional and with that nice light and easy feel I like.
My reviews so far:
***********************************************************
He's everything Seth never wanted - too young, too weird, too wild...
Seth Weston is shocked. His weekly female masseuse is indisposed and entering the room is a rather handsome young man with a toe ring and some kind of strange (harem) clothings.
OMG!! Seth soon discoverer that David Cooke's skills as a masseur are literally orgasmic. His hands are amazing...and Seth enjoy...maybe a bit to much! The proof is there just like an embarrassing eyesore. Wet and sticky!
So begins a rapidly speeding story of an emotionally neglected uncle, his cute six year old niece and a sexy young man. A touching story about strong burning desire, not yet released anger, sadness and despair (after death) and the promising beginning of something new and better.
***********************************************************
Lovely narrated by Shannon Gunn once again
I freaking LOVE Mr Gunn's (own) grunting caveman style by now. A fun and, for these books also, a fitting emotional and intense narration style.
He just know the "right" way of high-reading these stories. Someone would say he over-do it sometimes and maybe gets some second characters cheesy voices, but who really cares? The two men I'm interested in sounds always just good (..and sexy, angry, sweet...like gorgeous men.)
***********************************************************
This was the warm and family-cozy summer story... L.B. Gregg make her characters kind of real life ordinary (no faultless supermen men here) and I feel just enough interest for them — and their 'manly' troubles in life — to have time enough to sincerely appreciate these pretty short stories.
Her/his books (3 'read' now) are also always added with pretty funny moments, a lot of joking and banters. As well as some speedy suspense plots and nice second characters.
~ Feeeel Gooood books for me in other words. ~
Next up the fourth audiobook with Adam and Holden's hopefully steamy and fun love story.
I LIKE - longing for the last one...tonight
August 5, 2021
Audiobook - 3 stars
Story - 2.5 stars
This was Okay in the beginning then the drama llama happened and I was over it.
Story - 2.5 stars
This was Okay in the beginning then the drama llama happened and I was over it.
November 5, 2016
This was a fun, easy read, with great humor, and lovely characters 
It's my first book from this author, and the style is new to me, but I liked it :) I'll have to read the rest of this series now
Seth is taking care of his niece after his sister died, he's new to parenthood, and is slowly adapting to a life with a child in it.
One day at his weekly massage, he meets David, and has a orgasmic experience
Those two were lovely as a couple, I liked them both :) The part of the storyline with the photos, not a big fan of it, but oh well, I guess there was supposed to be some tension there :D
Seth's ex boyfriend - what a d*ck!
So, this was a nice short story, I'd recommend it if you're in a mood for some M/M, and don't have time for a long book :)
*ARC courtesy of Carina Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
It's my first book from this author, and the style is new to me, but I liked it :) I'll have to read the rest of this series now
Seth is taking care of his niece after his sister died, he's new to parenthood, and is slowly adapting to a life with a child in it.
One day at his weekly massage, he meets David, and has a orgasmic experience
Those two were lovely as a couple, I liked them both :) The part of the storyline with the photos, not a big fan of it, but oh well, I guess there was supposed to be some tension there :D
Seth's ex boyfriend - what a d*ck!
So, this was a nice short story, I'd recommend it if you're in a mood for some M/M, and don't have time for a long book :)
*ARC courtesy of Carina Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
April 27, 2013
Audio version, narrated by Shannon Gunn whose voice and narration are perfect especially for portraying just what an emotionally stunted dick Seth is and was hilarious when voicing Quinn.
This book was great. I haven't gotten into an asshole character so well in a while. It was well done here.
There were funny moments, sexy ones and others that evoked empathy. A good story that kept me company while cleaning :-)
This book was great. I haven't gotten into an asshole character so well in a while. It was well done here.
There were funny moments, sexy ones and others that evoked empathy. A good story that kept me company while cleaning :-)
May 5, 2015
*** 4.25 Stars ***
Oh, I liked that! I liked that a lot.
It was funny and dirty hot and action-packed (in a fun over-the-top way, not in an annoyingly melodramatic roll-my-eyes-until-they-hurt way). Seth and David were both great characters. I understood where each character was coming from and why they reacted the way they did in certain situations. And, as different as they were personality-wise, I still felt like they were the perfect foil for one another - like a sweet 'n salty treat; each component on its own is delicious, but together, they're unstoppable.
Lastly, I LOVED seeing the growth in Seth's character over the course of the novel. After reading Max and Finn, I wasn't very happy with the total personality transplant our asshat MC, Max, received around the 75% mark. It felt fake and forced and completely out of character. Seth's transformation, on the other hand, felt natural, genuine.
The best in the series so far! I'm glad that these two got their HEA, but I wish there was more stories featuring these characters.
Oh, I liked that! I liked that a lot.
It was funny and dirty hot and action-packed (in a fun over-the-top way, not in an annoyingly melodramatic roll-my-eyes-until-they-hurt way). Seth and David were both great characters. I understood where each character was coming from and why they reacted the way they did in certain situations. And, as different as they were personality-wise, I still felt like they were the perfect foil for one another - like a sweet 'n salty treat; each component on its own is delicious, but together, they're unstoppable.
Lastly, I LOVED seeing the growth in Seth's character over the course of the novel. After reading Max and Finn, I wasn't very happy with the total personality transplant our asshat MC, Max, received around the 75% mark. It felt fake and forced and completely out of character. Seth's transformation, on the other hand, felt natural, genuine.
The best in the series so far! I'm glad that these two got their HEA, but I wish there was more stories featuring these characters.
June 5, 2015
3,4 stars.
I gave the contemporary genre already up. But L. B. Gregg gave it back to me. I'll read more of her works, that is for sure.
I can't remember when I enjoyed the contemporary romance so much the last time. Even if the average rating doesn't reflect totally utterly the entertaining factor. But maybe it's a fate of a genre. Pour moi.
This book doesn't belong to my favorite in the series-in spite of a nice story-BECAUSE of children. Don't tell this to Elton John, but I'm not a big fan of kids in my gay romance books-I don't mean parenting for gay couples, I am talking about ME and my BOOKS. Not that I reject it completely, but I'm very difficult to satisfy with a gay romance containing kids.
I'm already listening the next book, and this one looks like my favorite in the series until now.
June 1, 2022
L.B. Gregg gets it right in her third book of the series. The villain isn't obvious and the ending isn't too short. The boys are opposites, but they need each other, and they will make a beautiful family. The plot flows and while the guys had their ups and downs, you have this feeling they will be alright. Seth needs David to make a human being out him and David needs Seth to help him with his life. They are two lost souls who need one another. This is a story that makes you smile.
Merged review:
Hot, sweet, and with great characterization, this installment in the men of Smithfield series far outshines the first two. Don't miss out!
Merged review:
Hot, sweet, and with great characterization, this installment in the men of Smithfield series far outshines the first two. Don't miss out!
July 24, 2009
Seth has to be one of my favourite characters in recent reading. He is gruff, kinda cheeky and arrogant.. He has such heart and the hardships he’s endured certainly endear him to the reader. His loss of control around David and need for some seriously grubby sex was totally hot. I nearly fell off my perch when I read their afternoon smex session:D Hello Boy Butter???
I think what really got me was the sense of family and the way that Seth’s niece was portrayed. I am obviously a sucker for wee, cute and sad. Here is a man that is doing his damnedest to make everything right with her world and not always being successful, but with such strength of character you know he’s going to do whatever it takes. Awwwwww. His partnership with David is almost something that he needs, because they’re more whole together than separate. That sense of connection and dare I say it community, in this cleverly built world was something quite special. And, Jelly Shoes. sigh.
Gorgeous writing and a small town that just invites you in. Get the goodness here at All Romance eBooks or Aspen Mountain Press.
http://sharrow.wordpress.com/2009/07/...
I think what really got me was the sense of family and the way that Seth’s niece was portrayed. I am obviously a sucker for wee, cute and sad. Here is a man that is doing his damnedest to make everything right with her world and not always being successful, but with such strength of character you know he’s going to do whatever it takes. Awwwwww. His partnership with David is almost something that he needs, because they’re more whole together than separate. That sense of connection and dare I say it community, in this cleverly built world was something quite special. And, Jelly Shoes. sigh.
Gorgeous writing and a small town that just invites you in. Get the goodness here at All Romance eBooks or Aspen Mountain Press.
http://sharrow.wordpress.com/2009/07/...
June 1, 2009
Seth does not start off a very sympathetic character. There are veiled references to some tragedy but you don't really find out what that is until he has ranted about his time being wasted, judged (and found wanting - in several ways both negative and positive) David, the masseuse he gets stuck with and generally acts in rude and then very inappropriate ways that stun our other hero, David.
Fortunately, we soon discover what the tragedy was and begin to see Seth for the out-of-control, control freak that he is. Barely treading water in his new life but still able to eventually see David for the life-jacket that he will be.
I did not really like Gob-Smacked, the other book by this author although many, many other did. I thought the characters had too many anger issues. This book does not really change in that direction. I think Smithfield needs to find itself a really good therapist and put these guys on a couch. Some of them are much too happy to trot out their hair trigger tempers and start hitting people.
I marked this one up because I think that despite the unnecessary violence, there was real emotional depth between Seth and David, eventually and I felt connected to both of them. But I also think it ended too soon and took the easy way out. There are communication issues that they both must face and some very big hurdles as well that we do not get to see resolved.
Fortunately, we soon discover what the tragedy was and begin to see Seth for the out-of-control, control freak that he is. Barely treading water in his new life but still able to eventually see David for the life-jacket that he will be.
I did not really like Gob-Smacked, the other book by this author although many, many other did. I thought the characters had too many anger issues. This book does not really change in that direction. I think Smithfield needs to find itself a really good therapist and put these guys on a couch. Some of them are much too happy to trot out their hair trigger tempers and start hitting people.
I marked this one up because I think that despite the unnecessary violence, there was real emotional depth between Seth and David, eventually and I felt connected to both of them. But I also think it ended too soon and took the easy way out. There are communication issues that they both must face and some very big hurdles as well that we do not get to see resolved.
April 28, 2013
Another quick and easy read.
I can’t say I ever really warmed up to Seth, but I loved David and the girls were cute.
The little drama at the end worked for me and gave this story a little more interest, but on the whole there was nothing remarkable about it. Just another simple fast read to pass some time.
July 19, 2020
I've been curious about this series for awhile and I'm glad I gave it a shot. It's been ages since I've listened to anything narrated by Shannon Gunn and I've got to say he had a few voices I haven't heard him do before. I'll probably check out the rest of them since they're all on Audible Escape.
April 27, 2010
I’ve read this book for the DIK Book Reading Challenge.
This is the second book of this author’s Men of Smithfield series. I’ve read the first one too, Gobsmacked , but these books can all be read as standalones. The third book is Cover Me . And the fourth, In and Out , will be released in May. Besides the two MoS books I’ve also read L.B. Gregg’s latest, Catch Me if You Can . Between these three books and her blog Nose in a Book it’s safe for me to say that I really like her sense of humor. This is an author who can make me laugh out loud with her way with words! A lot!
That being said, I have to admit that Happy Ending didn't make me laugh out loud as much as the other books did. Still, Seth made me chuckle quite a lot and he's a rather refreshing character, with his gruffness and direct, short responses. And the opening scene is memorable and hilarious. Seth and David meet each other when Seth comes in for his weekly massage and David is the replacement for his usual massage therapist. The massage turns out to be a bit too much for Seth, who can’t help himself feeling attracted to the young, somewhat weird David. It’s not so much what happens that makes this a great scene, although you’ll never forget about the poor massage table ever, ahum, but it’s Seth’s view on things and his thoughts that adds a special touch to the scene. To give you an idea of his grumpy, self-assessing ‘voice’, here he is, waiting for his massage therapist, Linda:
Seth and David's first encounter doesn’t end in a friendly way and when they meet again I have a hard time picturing them together, also as a result of Seth’s twisted thoughts about David which oscillate from attraction to repulsion. What David thinks is a mystery but apparently he sees something in Seth. And before the night is over they end up in a dark alley having some fun together. Seth and David are an unusual and somewhat odd couple - talk about opposites attract - but eventually the author succeeded in making me believe in their pairing. Although I thought that the story ended at a point their relationship started to get interesting. And I found myself wishing the book had at least 50 more pages to see a little bit more of them as a couple. By then the non-romantic storyline, which was also part of this book, was wound up and imo that would’ve been the perfect moment to focus more on their feelings for each other. Ah well.
About that non-romantic storyline: I don’t want to reveal too much of this, because it’ll spoil your reading pleasure if you haven’t read the book yet. But there’re a dandy ex-boyfriend, some sneakily taken, compromising pictures, a threat from a loser dad, some secrets about fatherhood and a kidnapping, involved. All these elements bring some suspense and tension to the story that I didn’t get much from the evolving love story, to be honest. They gave Happy Ending a fast-paced plot with some good twists. That and the presence of Molly in Seth’s life - his, motherless niece that he describes as ‘a stout moppet with hair as thick and auburn as mine and eyes the color of copper’ - were the highlights of this story for me. I also enjoyed Seth and David as characters and a couple, but not as much as I wished to, because I feel I don’t know them well enough.
Nonetheless, Happy Ending was an enjoyable read for me that I’ll recommend to anyone who likes a fun, fast-paced, sexy quick read or who’s a fan, like me, of this author’s sense of humor and witty writing.
3.5 stars
This is the second book of this author’s Men of Smithfield series. I’ve read the first one too, Gobsmacked , but these books can all be read as standalones. The third book is Cover Me . And the fourth, In and Out , will be released in May. Besides the two MoS books I’ve also read L.B. Gregg’s latest, Catch Me if You Can . Between these three books and her blog Nose in a Book it’s safe for me to say that I really like her sense of humor. This is an author who can make me laugh out loud with her way with words! A lot!
That being said, I have to admit that Happy Ending didn't make me laugh out loud as much as the other books did. Still, Seth made me chuckle quite a lot and he's a rather refreshing character, with his gruffness and direct, short responses. And the opening scene is memorable and hilarious. Seth and David meet each other when Seth comes in for his weekly massage and David is the replacement for his usual massage therapist. The massage turns out to be a bit too much for Seth, who can’t help himself feeling attracted to the young, somewhat weird David. It’s not so much what happens that makes this a great scene, although you’ll never forget about the poor massage table ever, ahum, but it’s Seth’s view on things and his thoughts that adds a special touch to the scene. To give you an idea of his grumpy, self-assessing ‘voice’, here he is, waiting for his massage therapist, Linda:
It reeked of lavender. Why did everything in the goddamn room have to stink of it? I opened my mouth to breathe. I always meant to complain about the smell, but by the time Linda was through working out the kinks in my back it didn't seem that important. It shouldn't seem important now. This was yet another indication that I was stressed out and irritated.
Irritated that it was currently 2:05 and still no sign of Linda.
The music was getting to me. Who would choose this shit? Birds warbled over Celtic fiddles and bagpipes and penny whistles and—holy hell, it was giving me a tension headache. A little Dave Matthews would have been appreciated. I was tired and tense and whining to myself. Even I didn't like me right now.
Seth and David's first encounter doesn’t end in a friendly way and when they meet again I have a hard time picturing them together, also as a result of Seth’s twisted thoughts about David which oscillate from attraction to repulsion. What David thinks is a mystery but apparently he sees something in Seth. And before the night is over they end up in a dark alley having some fun together. Seth and David are an unusual and somewhat odd couple - talk about opposites attract - but eventually the author succeeded in making me believe in their pairing. Although I thought that the story ended at a point their relationship started to get interesting. And I found myself wishing the book had at least 50 more pages to see a little bit more of them as a couple. By then the non-romantic storyline, which was also part of this book, was wound up and imo that would’ve been the perfect moment to focus more on their feelings for each other. Ah well.
About that non-romantic storyline: I don’t want to reveal too much of this, because it’ll spoil your reading pleasure if you haven’t read the book yet. But there’re a dandy ex-boyfriend, some sneakily taken, compromising pictures, a threat from a loser dad, some secrets about fatherhood and a kidnapping, involved. All these elements bring some suspense and tension to the story that I didn’t get much from the evolving love story, to be honest. They gave Happy Ending a fast-paced plot with some good twists. That and the presence of Molly in Seth’s life - his, motherless niece that he describes as ‘a stout moppet with hair as thick and auburn as mine and eyes the color of copper’ - were the highlights of this story for me. I also enjoyed Seth and David as characters and a couple, but not as much as I wished to, because I feel I don’t know them well enough.
Nonetheless, Happy Ending was an enjoyable read for me that I’ll recommend to anyone who likes a fun, fast-paced, sexy quick read or who’s a fan, like me, of this author’s sense of humor and witty writing.
3.5 stars
dnf
December 14, 2019I didn't realize one of the MCs was raising a child, or I never would have bothered with this. DNF at the first mention of the kid, and onto the next book I go.
November 2, 2015
Oops. Read this out of order.
By all measures, I should have hated this But I didn't. I think it had something to do with a scene that featured shopping for books at a big box store (Target) that kind of had me flummoxed. The last time I was looking at books in Target, I was getting nutritional advice by looking at
. That, and a character that was compared to Thurston Howell the 3rd. Gilligan's Island FTW.
By all measures, I should have hated this But I didn't. I think it had something to do with a scene that featured shopping for books at a big box store (Target) that kind of had me flummoxed. The last time I was looking at books in Target, I was getting nutritional advice by looking at
. That, and a character that was compared to Thurston Howell the 3rd. Gilligan's Island FTW.
September 9, 2015
This series is cute, if not a little frustrating thanks to all the constant strife between the characters. I mean, it's charming at times, but can quickly turn grating. Good for a quick read, a distraction when you need it, but not something I'd bother with more than once.
Removed from Kindle
Removed from Kindle
February 26, 2013
3.75 rounded up
I loved the way this started, but too much was glossed over and i really needed more.
I loved the way this started, but too much was glossed over and i really needed more.
May 10, 2009
The story is written in the first person by Seth's point of vue: so while following his thoughts, i found him awfully blunt, sarcastic, quick on making judgements and a real control freak.
But his actions are all about "passion and loyalty".
David, with his tattoes and piercings, seems at first (always by seth's pov!!) to be a guy with no real purpose in life.
Seth is attracted to him but with all the things that happened to him he doesn't know how to act on it and always end up being an ass!!!
But David is full of surprises and has a hell of character.
I won't spoil the fun by revealing too much because discovering all about him and reading about Seth's reactions was really funny.
Their meetings and interactions was electric and full of mistakes. Nothing went as it should have been and i liked that!!
the book was fun, quick read. I'll give 4 because i think it deserved to have some more chapters about their relationship and not only about the crappy things going on in Seth's life.
But his actions are all about "passion and loyalty".
David, with his tattoes and piercings, seems at first (always by seth's pov!!) to be a guy with no real purpose in life.
Seth is attracted to him but with all the things that happened to him he doesn't know how to act on it and always end up being an ass!!!
But David is full of surprises and has a hell of character.
I won't spoil the fun by revealing too much because discovering all about him and reading about Seth's reactions was really funny.
Their meetings and interactions was electric and full of mistakes. Nothing went as it should have been and i liked that!!
the book was fun, quick read. I'll give 4 because i think it deserved to have some more chapters about their relationship and not only about the crappy things going on in Seth's life.
February 15, 2017
Fantastic novella, great character and plot development for its length. Loved the audiobook narration by Shannon Gunn. This is a new author for me and I'll definitely be coming back. Although the third installment in a series, this is a total stand alone read.
October 16, 2018
3.75*
Surprisingly good! I like kid stories and this had a good amount without being overwhelming.
This cameos from previous books didn't make this less, it can be read as a standalone.-
Surprisingly good! I like kid stories and this had a good amount without being overwhelming.
This cameos from previous books didn't make this less, it can be read as a standalone.-
May 23, 2013
I enjoyed this second book in the Men of Smithfield series. I enjoyed the style and the wonderful humour throughout the book. The characters were great including the children.
David was a wonderful contrast to Seth and they complimented each other very well. The pace was fast and the plot had some mystery/intrigue.
I actually listened to this story via the Audible version. While I loved the narrator and the voice he provided for each character, I still prefer to actually read a book rather than listen. I set the narration speed at 1.5 as the default speed was too slow for my liking. As it is, audio books take a lot longer to get through as my own reading speed is faster.
Reading would be my first choice, and I think I will only revert to audio books if there is a particular situation that prevents me from reading. In this case, I listened while driving and ironing!
I have now listened to the first two books in the series via Audible so will read the next book which should make an interesting comparison and give a different perspective on the series as I think listening rather than reading does change the opinion of the story - you are influenced by the narrators accents and inflections.
3.5 stars
David was a wonderful contrast to Seth and they complimented each other very well. The pace was fast and the plot had some mystery/intrigue.
I actually listened to this story via the Audible version. While I loved the narrator and the voice he provided for each character, I still prefer to actually read a book rather than listen. I set the narration speed at 1.5 as the default speed was too slow for my liking. As it is, audio books take a lot longer to get through as my own reading speed is faster.
Reading would be my first choice, and I think I will only revert to audio books if there is a particular situation that prevents me from reading. In this case, I listened while driving and ironing!
I have now listened to the first two books in the series via Audible so will read the next book which should make an interesting comparison and give a different perspective on the series as I think listening rather than reading does change the opinion of the story - you are influenced by the narrators accents and inflections.
3.5 stars
October 25, 2015
2009 Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention (5* from at least 1 judge)
January 9, 2015
I really enjoy LB Gregg's Smithfield series- and an extra star for the audiobook version- love the narrator chosen for this one!
November 9, 2015
Book 3: Seth & David - 3.5 stars
SERIES REVIEW HERE: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
July 12, 2016
il migliore della serie finora pubblicati,sensuale ed anche commovente.
May 13, 2017
I loved Shannon Gunn narating this. He had a great voice for the characters. I've read this before, and adore all the Smithfield books. They are witty and humourous. Even though Seth is an ass, I still wanted him to be happy.
October 22, 2012
Joint review with Lou originally posted here: http://thebookpushers.com/2012/10/19/...
Lou: I’m a fan of the Men of Smithfield series. I find the author’s voice engaging and I like the witty banter she creates between her characters. Unfortunately, I wasn’t that engaged with Seth and David’s story. I wasn’t keen on the character of Seth, and some of the plot I found to be too over dramatic for the length of the novel.
MinnChica: Gregg has quickly become one of my favorite m/m authors, and with the re-release of the Smithfield books, I’m loving her even more. I have to admit though, this wasn’t my favorite book in the series so far. While I enjoyed it, Seth and David just couldn’t compare to Max and Finn. But I have to give Kudos to Gregg, each new book in the series is so unique and they each have different themes and overall feel.
Lou: I’ve loved her previous books in the series, especially Finn and Max. With this book, Seth has become guardian to his niece after his sister passes away from cancer. Seth really doesn’t know much about parenting and children, and he relied on his sister’s best friend too much. When she cuts him loose and tells him he needs to step up to the plate, Seth is thrown into the deep-end, and the stress gets to him. Seth goes to his regular masseur, Linda, for his massage, but ends up getting David when Linda can’t make it. David ends up taking out the stress in Seth’s muscles, but Seth ends up aroused, so whilst David is doing his massage, Seth humps the table and comes.
I couldn’t help but think of Seth as a pervert because he felt no guilt, and I didn’t care that David was the other hero of the story. It’s downright creepy and verging on sexual harassment when you hump a freaking table and come in-front of someone you don’t know. I was so glad that David was terribly angry at Seth’s actions, and told him off. It was a bizarre beginning to a story.
MinnChica: It really was a bizarre beginning to the story, and that was probably why I wasn’t hooked immediately to the characters. It took me awhile to get into their romance, because I thought David had every right to call Seth a creeper and move on! LOL. I did like the way that Gregg explored the issue of parenthood in the story. Not only did Seth have to deal with taking over the care of his young niece, but he also had to deal with his niece’s father raising his sexuality as a huge issue. I liked that Seth’s friends really stood behind him and supported him 100% percent. It really added a likeable dimension to the story for me. Especially once secrets about David’s past are revealed. It also gave these two men a bond to forge their relationship on, which worked for me.
Lou: I do think family and friends became the central focus of the book. The romance between Seth and David builds, but somehow Seth manages to piss of David through out the story with his actions. Though the sex scenes were well done, I didn’t feel an emotional connection between them because so much was happening in the story. There’s blackmail, stalking, kidnapping, a determined ex, and there was Seth trying to bring up his niece and have some sort of relationship with David. It was too much for the length of the story, and each development ended up weaker as a result.
MinnChica: I agree that there was too much going on at times, especially for the length of this novella. It would have been a better read for me if not all of the external dramas were thrown into the story. I thought the slow build romance was enough tension in the story, and I would have liked to delve more into that. Because of the length and number of things that happened, I really didn’t feel the connection between these two, and wished we would have had more of a chance to really explore their relationship on page, instead of off.
Lou: This was an OK read for me. Seth and David’s romance felt very quick because of the extra sub-plots going on, and I couldn’t invest in the characters.
I give it a C.
MinnChica: All in all I enjoyed the 3rd Smithfield book, but it is definitely my least favorite in the series so far. David and Seth had a fun opposites attract romance, but it did feel as if much of it took place off the page. I enjoyed the parenthood aspect of the story, and hope we can see more of Seth and David in their father roles in the future.
I give Men of Smithfield: Seth and David a C
Lou: I’m a fan of the Men of Smithfield series. I find the author’s voice engaging and I like the witty banter she creates between her characters. Unfortunately, I wasn’t that engaged with Seth and David’s story. I wasn’t keen on the character of Seth, and some of the plot I found to be too over dramatic for the length of the novel.
MinnChica: Gregg has quickly become one of my favorite m/m authors, and with the re-release of the Smithfield books, I’m loving her even more. I have to admit though, this wasn’t my favorite book in the series so far. While I enjoyed it, Seth and David just couldn’t compare to Max and Finn. But I have to give Kudos to Gregg, each new book in the series is so unique and they each have different themes and overall feel.
Lou: I’ve loved her previous books in the series, especially Finn and Max. With this book, Seth has become guardian to his niece after his sister passes away from cancer. Seth really doesn’t know much about parenting and children, and he relied on his sister’s best friend too much. When she cuts him loose and tells him he needs to step up to the plate, Seth is thrown into the deep-end, and the stress gets to him. Seth goes to his regular masseur, Linda, for his massage, but ends up getting David when Linda can’t make it. David ends up taking out the stress in Seth’s muscles, but Seth ends up aroused, so whilst David is doing his massage, Seth humps the table and comes.
I couldn’t help but think of Seth as a pervert because he felt no guilt, and I didn’t care that David was the other hero of the story. It’s downright creepy and verging on sexual harassment when you hump a freaking table and come in-front of someone you don’t know. I was so glad that David was terribly angry at Seth’s actions, and told him off. It was a bizarre beginning to a story.
MinnChica: It really was a bizarre beginning to the story, and that was probably why I wasn’t hooked immediately to the characters. It took me awhile to get into their romance, because I thought David had every right to call Seth a creeper and move on! LOL. I did like the way that Gregg explored the issue of parenthood in the story. Not only did Seth have to deal with taking over the care of his young niece, but he also had to deal with his niece’s father raising his sexuality as a huge issue. I liked that Seth’s friends really stood behind him and supported him 100% percent. It really added a likeable dimension to the story for me. Especially once secrets about David’s past are revealed. It also gave these two men a bond to forge their relationship on, which worked for me.
Lou: I do think family and friends became the central focus of the book. The romance between Seth and David builds, but somehow Seth manages to piss of David through out the story with his actions. Though the sex scenes were well done, I didn’t feel an emotional connection between them because so much was happening in the story. There’s blackmail, stalking, kidnapping, a determined ex, and there was Seth trying to bring up his niece and have some sort of relationship with David. It was too much for the length of the story, and each development ended up weaker as a result.
MinnChica: I agree that there was too much going on at times, especially for the length of this novella. It would have been a better read for me if not all of the external dramas were thrown into the story. I thought the slow build romance was enough tension in the story, and I would have liked to delve more into that. Because of the length and number of things that happened, I really didn’t feel the connection between these two, and wished we would have had more of a chance to really explore their relationship on page, instead of off.
Lou: This was an OK read for me. Seth and David’s romance felt very quick because of the extra sub-plots going on, and I couldn’t invest in the characters.
I give it a C.
MinnChica: All in all I enjoyed the 3rd Smithfield book, but it is definitely my least favorite in the series so far. David and Seth had a fun opposites attract romance, but it did feel as if much of it took place off the page. I enjoyed the parenthood aspect of the story, and hope we can see more of Seth and David in their father roles in the future.
I give Men of Smithfield: Seth and David a C
January 12, 2010
I had previously read Ms. Gregg's first Men of Smithfield book, Gobsmacked, so I was looking forward to Happy Ending.
THIS REVIEW MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS!!
This book started off with a bang (of sorts!) and kept my interest all the way through. It begins with Seth Weston, a gay professional, waiting for his regular Friday massage. His masseuse is late and he's pissed. A young man comes in, David, and says his masseuse had an emergency and he is filling in. Seth says whatever and the massage begins. The only problem is this is a REALLY good massage and Seth gets aroused. He gets so aroused that he "finishes" on the massage table. David gets upset, tells him this is not "that kind of massage establishment" and tells him to leave. Seth feels a bit guilty but physically feels relaxed and better than he's felt in ages.
Seth goes home and picks up Molly, his niece, for dinner. Seth's twin sister Nikki had died of cancer 6 months ago and left her 6-year-old daughter in Seth's custody. He's had a hard time of it - he doesn't know what to do with a 6-year-old girl - but they're doing okay. At dinner, who does his waiter turn out to be but David, the masseuse. Seth and David are very curt to each other during the meal, then Seth takes Molly home. He wonders why David has a bunchof part time jobs and tattoos and piercings and thinks he's just got no ambition. That night he fantasizes about David.
Saturday night, Molly is at her godmother's house so Seth went back to the restaurant bar for a drink. David is his waiter and they flirt with each other. They talk about going on a date and Seth waits for David behind the restaurant until his shift ends. They start to go to David's apartment but can't wait and have an "encounter" outside.
Sunday, Seth runs into David at Target while he's shopping with Molly. David has 9 brothers and sisters and Katie is the youngest. She and Molly are friends. David invites Seth and Molly to the library the next night as there is an author reading for the kids.
They get to the library and, surprise, the Children's author doing the reading is David. Seth learns that in addition to massage and waiting tables, David has a master's degree in education and several children's books under his belt. He choses to do massage because he likes it.
Seth is thinking about David a lot. They're opposites but he likes how he feels when he's with David. Meanwhile, Seth is getting phone calls from Molly's biological father, basically demanding money or he'll try to get custody; he's a loser alcoholic. ALSO, Seth's old boyfriend, Quinn, is in town. Quinn is a fussy-type guy who left Seth when Seth's sister was sick and moved in with them. Quinn took him for a financial ride and Seth hasn't forgiven him for not coming to his sister's funeral. Quinn keeps attempting to talk to Seth and Seth keeps shutting him out.
Seth receives photos in the mail of his "encounter" with David behind the restaurant, and David freaks out. Things get crazier when Molly gets kidnapped.
Ms. Gregg ties up all the loose ends nicely, with a surprise from David at the end. I liked this book. I liked watching Seth go from a grumpy curmudgeon to a nice guy. His worries over their age difference were cute. David was a likeable character and their relationship was sweet. It was certainly a Happy Ending.
THIS REVIEW MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS!!
This book started off with a bang (of sorts!) and kept my interest all the way through. It begins with Seth Weston, a gay professional, waiting for his regular Friday massage. His masseuse is late and he's pissed. A young man comes in, David, and says his masseuse had an emergency and he is filling in. Seth says whatever and the massage begins. The only problem is this is a REALLY good massage and Seth gets aroused. He gets so aroused that he "finishes" on the massage table. David gets upset, tells him this is not "that kind of massage establishment" and tells him to leave. Seth feels a bit guilty but physically feels relaxed and better than he's felt in ages.
Seth goes home and picks up Molly, his niece, for dinner. Seth's twin sister Nikki had died of cancer 6 months ago and left her 6-year-old daughter in Seth's custody. He's had a hard time of it - he doesn't know what to do with a 6-year-old girl - but they're doing okay. At dinner, who does his waiter turn out to be but David, the masseuse. Seth and David are very curt to each other during the meal, then Seth takes Molly home. He wonders why David has a bunchof part time jobs and tattoos and piercings and thinks he's just got no ambition. That night he fantasizes about David.
Saturday night, Molly is at her godmother's house so Seth went back to the restaurant bar for a drink. David is his waiter and they flirt with each other. They talk about going on a date and Seth waits for David behind the restaurant until his shift ends. They start to go to David's apartment but can't wait and have an "encounter" outside.
Sunday, Seth runs into David at Target while he's shopping with Molly. David has 9 brothers and sisters and Katie is the youngest. She and Molly are friends. David invites Seth and Molly to the library the next night as there is an author reading for the kids.
They get to the library and, surprise, the Children's author doing the reading is David. Seth learns that in addition to massage and waiting tables, David has a master's degree in education and several children's books under his belt. He choses to do massage because he likes it.
Seth is thinking about David a lot. They're opposites but he likes how he feels when he's with David. Meanwhile, Seth is getting phone calls from Molly's biological father, basically demanding money or he'll try to get custody; he's a loser alcoholic. ALSO, Seth's old boyfriend, Quinn, is in town. Quinn is a fussy-type guy who left Seth when Seth's sister was sick and moved in with them. Quinn took him for a financial ride and Seth hasn't forgiven him for not coming to his sister's funeral. Quinn keeps attempting to talk to Seth and Seth keeps shutting him out.
Seth receives photos in the mail of his "encounter" with David behind the restaurant, and David freaks out. Things get crazier when Molly gets kidnapped.
Ms. Gregg ties up all the loose ends nicely, with a surprise from David at the end. I liked this book. I liked watching Seth go from a grumpy curmudgeon to a nice guy. His worries over their age difference were cute. David was a likeable character and their relationship was sweet. It was certainly a Happy Ending.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 8, 2012
Seth, Seth, Seth. Herein lies ONE of my problems and thus explains my deduction in stars. I was really considering a 2.5 stars, but the Epilogue was unexpected and very much appreciated. So 3 stars it is.
I really liked the concept behind this book. Two very different men fall for each other, their chemistry is off the charts hot and each has an event that has impacted their lives. However, what this story lacked was the emotional connection between the main characters. That to me is a very essential element in the story.
Seth came across as an arrogant, self serving, opinionated man. He has custody of his niece after his sister's death and has been dealing with his feelings about this and the loss of his relationship with his lover Quinn. I understood were he was coming from and even felt for him and his struggles, but I just could not get over his assumptions about David. I think that is why it was so hard for me to really connect with him. David was sweet, funny and adorable. I truly liked him. However, I felt there was so much more to him than what was written on the page. I would have loved to know more about the main characters, since they were so different. It really would have helped in making this union a more believable one.
The story lacked a lot of dialog, which is one of my favorite elements. It consisted mostly of Seth's thoughts and opinions, which really some of them I could have done without. There were some show of emotions from Seth and David and that at least gave me a glimpse into their personality and vulnerability and helped me connect a bit more with them. Molly, Seth's niece, was a great addition, as well as her friend Katie. I would have enjoyed reading more about these characters and how they interacted as a family after Seth and David got together.
Overall, the book was good. I liked the concept and enjoyed the chemistry between the characters and the interaction between them. What really saved it from an 'OK' book for me was the scene at the start, their first (or second, depending how you look at it) encounter and the Epilogue. I loved those!
I am happy to say that I'm looking forward to reading more books from this series and any other books from L.B. Gregg.
I would like to thank NetGalley and Carina Press for the opportunity of reading and reviewing this title in exchange for my honest review.
I really liked the concept behind this book. Two very different men fall for each other, their chemistry is off the charts hot and each has an event that has impacted their lives. However, what this story lacked was the emotional connection between the main characters. That to me is a very essential element in the story.
Seth came across as an arrogant, self serving, opinionated man. He has custody of his niece after his sister's death and has been dealing with his feelings about this and the loss of his relationship with his lover Quinn. I understood were he was coming from and even felt for him and his struggles, but I just could not get over his assumptions about David. I think that is why it was so hard for me to really connect with him. David was sweet, funny and adorable. I truly liked him. However, I felt there was so much more to him than what was written on the page. I would have loved to know more about the main characters, since they were so different. It really would have helped in making this union a more believable one.
The story lacked a lot of dialog, which is one of my favorite elements. It consisted mostly of Seth's thoughts and opinions, which really some of them I could have done without. There were some show of emotions from Seth and David and that at least gave me a glimpse into their personality and vulnerability and helped me connect a bit more with them. Molly, Seth's niece, was a great addition, as well as her friend Katie. I would have enjoyed reading more about these characters and how they interacted as a family after Seth and David got together.
Overall, the book was good. I liked the concept and enjoyed the chemistry between the characters and the interaction between them. What really saved it from an 'OK' book for me was the scene at the start, their first (or second, depending how you look at it) encounter and the Epilogue. I loved those!
I am happy to say that I'm looking forward to reading more books from this series and any other books from L.B. Gregg.
I would like to thank NetGalley and Carina Press for the opportunity of reading and reviewing this title in exchange for my honest review.
October 6, 2012
I'm kind of sorry they changed the title of this story, because I think Happy Ending as the title of a romance about a massage therapist is just hilarious. The sexy new cover is a big improvement on the old edition, though.
Our narrator Seth, whose life has sucked pretty fiercely for the last year, begins the story as he is tensely waiting for a massage. When his usual masseuse Linda is unexpectedly replaced by a young guy named David with great hands, Seth finds himself having an unexpected "happy ending" on the massage table. This is the sort of humiliating scene I would normally find excruciating to read but it actually came off as funny -- David is appalled and furious, but Seth is so relieved, he's barely even embarrassed.
Seth has been a tentative dad to his niece Molly since his twin sister died, and it turns out that David has a lot of experience with young kids. As Seth and David continue to run into each other, Seth finds his uptight ideas about how proper dating and sex are supposed to be done continually turned upside down -- and he discovers he likes it. But complications abound, including threats from Molly's biological father, the return of Seth's pompous jerk of an ex, and some ugly pictures taken of David and Seth in flagrante delicto.
Although short, this story nicely blends romance, humor, sadness and suspense. I liked how upfront Seth is -- when threatened, he contacts his attorney and the police, refusing to let anyone intimidate him just because he's gay. And though he is definitely uptight (to begin with) his narration has an appealing wry humor. David is sweet, but also no pushover. (Except in bed.) I would have liked to see the two characters have more time together to develop the romance, and especially would have like to learn more about David, who has a really interesting backstory that isn't much explored. Still, I finished the book with a smile on my face.
Seth and David is the second title in the Men of Smithfield series. I haven't read the first book and found this one stands alone just fine.
(reviewed from e-arc provided by NetGalley)
Our narrator Seth, whose life has sucked pretty fiercely for the last year, begins the story as he is tensely waiting for a massage. When his usual masseuse Linda is unexpectedly replaced by a young guy named David with great hands, Seth finds himself having an unexpected "happy ending" on the massage table. This is the sort of humiliating scene I would normally find excruciating to read but it actually came off as funny -- David is appalled and furious, but Seth is so relieved, he's barely even embarrassed.
Seth has been a tentative dad to his niece Molly since his twin sister died, and it turns out that David has a lot of experience with young kids. As Seth and David continue to run into each other, Seth finds his uptight ideas about how proper dating and sex are supposed to be done continually turned upside down -- and he discovers he likes it. But complications abound, including threats from Molly's biological father, the return of Seth's pompous jerk of an ex, and some ugly pictures taken of David and Seth in flagrante delicto.
Although short, this story nicely blends romance, humor, sadness and suspense. I liked how upfront Seth is -- when threatened, he contacts his attorney and the police, refusing to let anyone intimidate him just because he's gay. And though he is definitely uptight (to begin with) his narration has an appealing wry humor. David is sweet, but also no pushover. (Except in bed.) I would have liked to see the two characters have more time together to develop the romance, and especially would have like to learn more about David, who has a really interesting backstory that isn't much explored. Still, I finished the book with a smile on my face.
Seth and David is the second title in the Men of Smithfield series. I haven't read the first book and found this one stands alone just fine.
(reviewed from e-arc provided by NetGalley)
October 17, 2012
Overall
Despite Seth being a jerk in the beginning, I really enjoyed this story. I normally hate main character jerks who get the guy, but here it worked, because even though Seth is a jerk, he also tries to do the right thing, and as we see, hasn't always been a jerk. And in many ways he isn't a jerk...just a little closed-minded.
It's a sweet little story that's a mix of serious emotional topics and humor. And some sexy times. Seth and David definitely have physical chemistry, and the clash between that and their emotional involvement is nice.
I'd call this story a palate cleanser, as it is enjoyable and good, but doesn't draw the reader into the drama so far that it's overwhelming.
Review
There is some drama in the non-romantic parts of the plot, which I found to be the weakest parts of the story, but the drama between the lead men was perfectly enjoyable. David is a good, nice guy (who may be a little spastic at times), Seth is a surface jerk (who has been using one line of thinking so long it's habit). Seth has some growing to do, and David is the catalyst. They are a nice mix and the end is completely satisfying.
Also, for people who like stories with kids, there are two here, but for the rest of us, those kids, while playing an important, focal role, are old enough not to be too needy, and they don't overwhelm the story. It was a nice balance, considering the situation.
I don't have much to say about this one. It was good, I enjoyed the story (even the nonromantic elements of the plot that I found to mediocre), and I really liked the characters, especially Seth, who gets to grow and transform over a short number of pages. A nice, pleasant read.
Received this book for review.
Be sure to check out my other reviews on my blog.
Despite Seth being a jerk in the beginning, I really enjoyed this story. I normally hate main character jerks who get the guy, but here it worked, because even though Seth is a jerk, he also tries to do the right thing, and as we see, hasn't always been a jerk. And in many ways he isn't a jerk...just a little closed-minded.
It's a sweet little story that's a mix of serious emotional topics and humor. And some sexy times. Seth and David definitely have physical chemistry, and the clash between that and their emotional involvement is nice.
I'd call this story a palate cleanser, as it is enjoyable and good, but doesn't draw the reader into the drama so far that it's overwhelming.
Review
There is some drama in the non-romantic parts of the plot, which I found to be the weakest parts of the story, but the drama between the lead men was perfectly enjoyable. David is a good, nice guy (who may be a little spastic at times), Seth is a surface jerk (who has been using one line of thinking so long it's habit). Seth has some growing to do, and David is the catalyst. They are a nice mix and the end is completely satisfying.
Also, for people who like stories with kids, there are two here, but for the rest of us, those kids, while playing an important, focal role, are old enough not to be too needy, and they don't overwhelm the story. It was a nice balance, considering the situation.
I don't have much to say about this one. It was good, I enjoyed the story (even the nonromantic elements of the plot that I found to mediocre), and I really liked the characters, especially Seth, who gets to grow and transform over a short number of pages. A nice, pleasant read.
Received this book for review.
Be sure to check out my other reviews on my blog.
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