What do you think?
Rate this book
Improves with Age
Sometimes you can go home again. Reece Watkins left Montana after high school. A math major, he found a fulfilling career as an accountant in Washington with Mike, the love of his life. But then Mike dies of a heart attack, leaving Reece to reevaluate his own life and realize he’s on the same track. He decides to return to Montana and a slower pace.
Former football team captain Nick Kenison never left Montana. Instead, he married his high school sweetheart, had two kids, established a contracting business, and discovered he was gay. Now out and proud, Nick drives out to Reece’s to answer a call about roof repairs.
In high school, they were opposites, but now? The attraction between them is electric. Of course, it isn’t that easy—Reece is still dealing with body issues, self-esteem issues, and grief over Mike’s loss. Nick will have to teach him it’s never too late for love.
Former football team captain Nick Kenison never left Montana. Instead, he married his high school sweetheart, had two kids, established a contracting business, and discovered he was gay. Now out and proud, Nick drives out to Reece’s to answer a call about roof repairs.
In high school, they were opposites, but now? The attraction between them is electric. Of course, it isn’t that easy—Reece is still dealing with body issues, self-esteem issues, and grief over Mike’s loss. Nick will have to teach him it’s never too late for love.
58 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 16, 2013
1 person is currently reading
96 people want to read
About the author
Lavinia Lewis
142 books183 followersLavinia discovered reading at an early age and could always be found with her nose in a book. She loved getting lost in a fantasy world even then. When her parents bought her a typewriter for Christmas at aged eleven, her fate was sealed. She spent hours dreaming up characters and creating stories. Not a lot has changed.
Lavinia is a Welsh Valley girl who has lived all over the UK. Today she lives at home in the small village in which she grew up, just outside of Cardiff, Wales, but ask her again tomorrow and it could very well be somewhere different. She has travelled extensively to places as far and wide as Africa, Asia, Australia, North and Central America and most of Europe. Although some of her books are set in Texas she has never stepped foot in the state but plans to spend time there in the near future. She is a proud Brit, but feels quite at home when visiting the grand ol’ USofA.
Although Lavinia is a huge fan of the romance genre, particularly M/M she will admit to reading anything and everything. She loves horror, a good thriller and if a book has the capacity to make her cry, well, all the better. She loves a gritty, angst-ridden, gut-wrenching story, but is more than happy to settle in with a lighter, fluffier tale. She loves a happy ending and the characters in her books have thus far been lucky enough to find one. She can’t guarantee that will always be the case. She has two cats and wouldn’t part with them for the world, even though they make her sneeze.
Lavinia also writes M/F romance under the pseudonym Amy Armstrong.
Lavinia is a Welsh Valley girl who has lived all over the UK. Today she lives at home in the small village in which she grew up, just outside of Cardiff, Wales, but ask her again tomorrow and it could very well be somewhere different. She has travelled extensively to places as far and wide as Africa, Asia, Australia, North and Central America and most of Europe. Although some of her books are set in Texas she has never stepped foot in the state but plans to spend time there in the near future. She is a proud Brit, but feels quite at home when visiting the grand ol’ USofA.
Although Lavinia is a huge fan of the romance genre, particularly M/M she will admit to reading anything and everything. She loves horror, a good thriller and if a book has the capacity to make her cry, well, all the better. She loves a gritty, angst-ridden, gut-wrenching story, but is more than happy to settle in with a lighter, fluffier tale. She loves a happy ending and the characters in her books have thus far been lucky enough to find one. She can’t guarantee that will always be the case. She has two cats and wouldn’t part with them for the world, even though they make her sneeze.
Lavinia also writes M/F romance under the pseudonym Amy Armstrong.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
July 11, 2013
3.75*
I am discovering my love for stories with more mature characters, the chance at a new love and a new lease on life for people who think they've already had their chance at those things.
When I read for the blurb for this short I wanted to read it.
Reece lost his love three years ago, he has moved back to the town he grew up in and is starting over, but he is 48 years old and he is feeling it.
When Nick shows up to repair his roof he starts to feel things he hasn't felt since Mike died.
I don't want to give anything away, it's a pretty short story so I'm glad to say that although Reece is still recovering from loosing Mike and is ready to move on with the easy going and easy to smile Nick there is very little angst and no conflict.
It's told from Reece's POV but Nick is shown as a nice and really good guy. This is just a sweet little feel good read about two older guys finding happiness with each other.
I enjoyed it and would have loved to read more about them together.
I am discovering my love for stories with more mature characters, the chance at a new love and a new lease on life for people who think they've already had their chance at those things.
When I read for the blurb for this short I wanted to read it.
Reece lost his love three years ago, he has moved back to the town he grew up in and is starting over, but he is 48 years old and he is feeling it.
When Nick shows up to repair his roof he starts to feel things he hasn't felt since Mike died.
I don't want to give anything away, it's a pretty short story so I'm glad to say that although Reece is still recovering from loosing Mike and is ready to move on with the easy going and easy to smile Nick there is very little angst and no conflict.
It's told from Reece's POV but Nick is shown as a nice and really good guy. This is just a sweet little feel good read about two older guys finding happiness with each other.
I enjoyed it and would have loved to read more about them together.
July 19, 2013
This is a book about second chance in love; both in a sense of experiencing love again after a loss, and in finally get together with someone from the past.
I like it that the characters are around 48 years old.
The writing is nice, but I can see that some people would love to see 'real' conflict, which the book is lacking. I don't mind it.
I like it that the characters are around 48 years old.
The writing is nice, but I can see that some people would love to see 'real' conflict, which the book is lacking. I don't mind it.
August 5, 2013
I thought this story was wonderful. The only downfall was it was too short and I think these characters deserve a lot more time. I would definitely be interested in reading more about them.
They are 'mature' characters in their late 40's (god I hate saying that as I am nearly there too and I don't feel mature or old at all!) who have seen a lot in their lives.
Reece is alone after the death of his long time partner a couple of years before and Nick is out but was married with kids. Together they prove that second chances at happiness are possible.
A lot of ground was covered in this relatively short story. Although I would have liked to see some more depth to the story, it still felt fulfilling with enough emotional pull to do these men justice.
Relatively early in the book Nick and Reece launch into a super hot sex scene, straight into it deep and dirty. I liked that the men were passionate and sexy.
The emotional connection builds between the men as they spend weeks together while Nick is working on the roof of Reece's house. It was lovely story of growing attraction and friendship and it was wonderful to see Reece's growing confidence and acceptance that he could move on and be excited about the future.
I wasn't too sure of the significance of the men knowing each other in high school and being opposites back then as there is not much of a back story provided. Perhaps it was just a way for them to feel comfortable with starting a relationship fairly quickly? The focus of the story is very much on the here and now, cramming in becoming friends, a bit of drama, falling in love, meeting the parents, meeting the kids. It's an emotional story without too much action.
What made it special was the insight into Reece's thoughts as he processes his feelings and of course, the happy ending!
I now publish all my m/m reviews on my blog so if you want to see all my m/m reviews in one place come visit at Because Two Men Are Better Than One!
They are 'mature' characters in their late 40's (god I hate saying that as I am nearly there too and I don't feel mature or old at all!) who have seen a lot in their lives.
Reece is alone after the death of his long time partner a couple of years before and Nick is out but was married with kids. Together they prove that second chances at happiness are possible.
A lot of ground was covered in this relatively short story. Although I would have liked to see some more depth to the story, it still felt fulfilling with enough emotional pull to do these men justice.
Relatively early in the book Nick and Reece launch into a super hot sex scene, straight into it deep and dirty. I liked that the men were passionate and sexy.
The emotional connection builds between the men as they spend weeks together while Nick is working on the roof of Reece's house. It was lovely story of growing attraction and friendship and it was wonderful to see Reece's growing confidence and acceptance that he could move on and be excited about the future.
I wasn't too sure of the significance of the men knowing each other in high school and being opposites back then as there is not much of a back story provided. Perhaps it was just a way for them to feel comfortable with starting a relationship fairly quickly? The focus of the story is very much on the here and now, cramming in becoming friends, a bit of drama, falling in love, meeting the parents, meeting the kids. It's an emotional story without too much action.
What made it special was the insight into Reece's thoughts as he processes his feelings and of course, the happy ending!
I now publish all my m/m reviews on my blog so if you want to see all my m/m reviews in one place come visit at Because Two Men Are Better Than One!
July 19, 2013
This was a sweet story about getting a second chance at happiness. Shame it was so short, but the author did well giving a complete story given the length. I did like that the characters were older.
July 13, 2013
3.5 Stars
Reece Watkins has just moved back to his hometown. He's only been living in his new to him, farmhouse for a few months when the snow collapses the roof, leaving a big gaping hole in the attic ceiling. When the contractor he hires says he can't start the job for a few weeks, Reece panics, he can't have a big hole in his roof that long. He gets lucky when the guy says he might know someone who could do the job for him. Nick Kenison shows up to fix his roof and what do you know, these two know each each other from high school. Things between them progress very quickly but Reece is starting to have doubts. He's very self conscious about his looks and wonders if he's just to old and geeky looking for Nick, not to mention he's already been in love and lost his partner of twenty years and he's feeling guilty. When an accident occurs Reece realizes that all his worries were close to ruining the best thing that's happened to him since his partner died three years ago and to keep what he has, he's going to have to learn to let go of his doubts.
I'll admit I don't have a lot to say about this book. It was a pretty short story, though it did have just the right amount of panic from Reece, to make my stomach flutter a little. It was sweet and I really wanted it to be longer. I wanted to know more about Nick & Reece, and I wished for some of Nick's POV. So, if your looking for short, sweet and low angst, then this book's for you.
Reece Watkins has just moved back to his hometown. He's only been living in his new to him, farmhouse for a few months when the snow collapses the roof, leaving a big gaping hole in the attic ceiling. When the contractor he hires says he can't start the job for a few weeks, Reece panics, he can't have a big hole in his roof that long. He gets lucky when the guy says he might know someone who could do the job for him. Nick Kenison shows up to fix his roof and what do you know, these two know each each other from high school. Things between them progress very quickly but Reece is starting to have doubts. He's very self conscious about his looks and wonders if he's just to old and geeky looking for Nick, not to mention he's already been in love and lost his partner of twenty years and he's feeling guilty. When an accident occurs Reece realizes that all his worries were close to ruining the best thing that's happened to him since his partner died three years ago and to keep what he has, he's going to have to learn to let go of his doubts.
I'll admit I don't have a lot to say about this book. It was a pretty short story, though it did have just the right amount of panic from Reece, to make my stomach flutter a little. It was sweet and I really wanted it to be longer. I wanted to know more about Nick & Reece, and I wished for some of Nick's POV. So, if your looking for short, sweet and low angst, then this book's for you.
September 17, 2022
Kindle-Sort-ReRead
Meh
This moves fast enough to give whiplash.
No time to connect to either character. Hell they say maybe five words before pants are down and they're together.
From 30% there was nothing to read on for, I skimmed to 80% and it zoomed through contrived almost emotion.
Meh
This moves fast enough to give whiplash.
No time to connect to either character. Hell they say maybe five words before pants are down and they're together.
From 30% there was nothing to read on for, I skimmed to 80% and it zoomed through contrived almost emotion.
August 10, 2013
3.5 stars
Full review can be found at On Top Down Under Book Reviews.
I love a good opposites-attract story and I am all about stories that have older men in them. In Improves with Age both main characters, Reece and Nick, are in their late forties and they are as different as night and day.
Reece has moved back to his hometown after being away for twenty-eight years. He has been mourning his partner of twenty years for the past three and needs a change. He buys a house and immediately there are problems. There is a hole in his roof caused by snow and all the contractors are booked solid for weeks. Knowing he can't wait, one of the contractors suggests a builder who may be able to help Reece with his problem. That builder turns out to be an old classmate who was once the star football player on their high school team... and also very straight (or so Reece thought). Reece had been a nerd in school and nowhere close to being in Nick's crowd.
This little story starts off quickly . A sort of relationship begins but Reece is terrified of caring too much for Nick because of guilt. Has he waited long enough after Mike's death to love again? Is it possible to have two great loves in a lifetime?
The only real issue that I had with this book (other than the fact that it was way too short) was that it was told completely from Reece's point of view. I would have loved to have been inside Nick's head as well. Overall, a nice story.
This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Full review can be found at On Top Down Under Book Reviews.
I love a good opposites-attract story and I am all about stories that have older men in them. In Improves with Age both main characters, Reece and Nick, are in their late forties and they are as different as night and day.
Reece has moved back to his hometown after being away for twenty-eight years. He has been mourning his partner of twenty years for the past three and needs a change. He buys a house and immediately there are problems. There is a hole in his roof caused by snow and all the contractors are booked solid for weeks. Knowing he can't wait, one of the contractors suggests a builder who may be able to help Reece with his problem. That builder turns out to be an old classmate who was once the star football player on their high school team... and also very straight (or so Reece thought). Reece had been a nerd in school and nowhere close to being in Nick's crowd.
This little story starts off quickly . A sort of relationship begins but Reece is terrified of caring too much for Nick because of guilt. Has he waited long enough after Mike's death to love again? Is it possible to have two great loves in a lifetime?
The only real issue that I had with this book (other than the fact that it was way too short) was that it was told completely from Reece's point of view. I would have loved to have been inside Nick's head as well. Overall, a nice story.
This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for a fair and honest review.
August 4, 2013
Yes, it was predictable. Yes, it was insta-lust on their first meeting and normally that is a huge dislike for me. Anyway, in this book I liked it, the whole story was fun to read. It was a short read in between, very enjoyable and it left me with a smile. In fact, it reminded me that there is Snow on the Roof still patiently waiting TBR on my kindle. So, I will start reading that one pretty soon:)
September 28, 2013
3.5 to 4 stars. An appealing short story about two older mature men who have had a lifetime of experiences and find a second chance at a lasting love. It would have been nice to have but the short length didn't allow for more background in the MC's past relationships or their back history growing up in the same hometown. But it was romantic, sexy and well written.
September 26, 2013
Sweet and heartwarming story! <3
I love older MCs and second chances in love and here it delivered.
Beautiful book!
I love older MCs and second chances in love and here it delivered.
Beautiful book!
August 20, 2013
This review can be found at Brief Encounters Reviews.
There's not a lot of conflict in this story, but it's very sweet and always nice to see romantic heroes who are older. It's been three year's since Reece's partner of 20 years died of a heart attack and he's moved back to his hometown, in part to change his lifestyle so he doesn't end up on the same path. He bought an old "fixer-upper" which thanks to a hole in the roof in the middle of winter means a significant repair bill and no contractors available to do the work. Except one.
When he realizes who Nick is, it doesn't take them long till they are getting down in the hallway, when I say not long, I'm talking 10 minutes. :-) Before long Reece is swept up in a relationship with Nick who is easy-going, nice, friendly, and hot and seems to have a thing for Reece. The main conflict lies with Reece's guilt over moving on from his partner's death, and his own self-image as an older man at 49 with gray hair (a shame the cover has him blond) and getting older and thinking he had his one chance at love.
However, a fall off the roof by Nick makes Reece realize he'd be stupid to pass up a second chance at love. There are small conflicts, the moment to discuss anal sex, dealing with the holidays and Nick's kids and Reece's parents, but all are solved quite simply with no great drama. But they are both such nice guys you are happy that they have found each other, are boinking like bunnies, and their families are supportive and not mean or vindictive. So sometimes you don't want to deal with the drama. :-)
What I particularly liked, is all too often, it feels like no matter how good the relationship between a couple is, some author's feel compelled to tear down the dead partner, perhaps in an effort to show that the current partner is "better", and that wasn't done here. Reece's partner was a terrific guy, they got along well, they were faithful, there was no effort to show that this current relationship was better, it was just different and good in its own way. I also though Reece's understated mourning still was nicely done, how things would hit him at odd moments.
So when you're in the mood for something that makes you smile at the end and kind of go "awwww", with some characters who are older but not suffering from tons of baggage, it's a great story and I really enjoyed the time I took to read it.
There's not a lot of conflict in this story, but it's very sweet and always nice to see romantic heroes who are older. It's been three year's since Reece's partner of 20 years died of a heart attack and he's moved back to his hometown, in part to change his lifestyle so he doesn't end up on the same path. He bought an old "fixer-upper" which thanks to a hole in the roof in the middle of winter means a significant repair bill and no contractors available to do the work. Except one.
When he realizes who Nick is, it doesn't take them long till they are getting down in the hallway, when I say not long, I'm talking 10 minutes. :-) Before long Reece is swept up in a relationship with Nick who is easy-going, nice, friendly, and hot and seems to have a thing for Reece. The main conflict lies with Reece's guilt over moving on from his partner's death, and his own self-image as an older man at 49 with gray hair (a shame the cover has him blond) and getting older and thinking he had his one chance at love.
However, a fall off the roof by Nick makes Reece realize he'd be stupid to pass up a second chance at love. There are small conflicts, the moment to discuss anal sex, dealing with the holidays and Nick's kids and Reece's parents, but all are solved quite simply with no great drama. But they are both such nice guys you are happy that they have found each other, are boinking like bunnies, and their families are supportive and not mean or vindictive. So sometimes you don't want to deal with the drama. :-)
What I particularly liked, is all too often, it feels like no matter how good the relationship between a couple is, some author's feel compelled to tear down the dead partner, perhaps in an effort to show that the current partner is "better", and that wasn't done here. Reece's partner was a terrific guy, they got along well, they were faithful, there was no effort to show that this current relationship was better, it was just different and good in its own way. I also though Reece's understated mourning still was nicely done, how things would hit him at odd moments.
So when you're in the mood for something that makes you smile at the end and kind of go "awwww", with some characters who are older but not suffering from tons of baggage, it's a great story and I really enjoyed the time I took to read it.
July 28, 2013
This is a wonderful short story about coming home, finding your youth, hope, and love. It's the first book I've read by this author but I was sufficiently impressed with the writing and the story to potentially look at reading some of her other works.
Reece Watkins has moved home after twenty-eight years. He needs the comfort of home after losing his long-term partner to a heart attack. Reece doesn't know what to make of the smoking-hot guy who shows up to fix his roof.
Nick Kenison is the high school football captain who married the head cheerleader, had two kids, and then decided to admit he was gay. He's never moved away from his hometown and he's very attracted to Reece.
This is a very sweet, well written short story. The author managed to convey quite a bit in the number of pages and I really enjoyed it.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Reece Watkins has moved home after twenty-eight years. He needs the comfort of home after losing his long-term partner to a heart attack. Reece doesn't know what to make of the smoking-hot guy who shows up to fix his roof.
Nick Kenison is the high school football captain who married the head cheerleader, had two kids, and then decided to admit he was gay. He's never moved away from his hometown and he's very attracted to Reece.
This is a very sweet, well written short story. The author managed to convey quite a bit in the number of pages and I really enjoyed it.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
August 31, 2013
This was a very cute and lovely short story about Reece who's come back to his home town after losing his long-time partner, and Nick, former football team captain, divorced but now out and proud, and owner of a building company. Both are in their late 40s, both attractive and when snow on the roof has become a problem for Reece in more ways than just one, Nick is there for the rescue.
Things happen very fast between Reece and Nick, but that's fine since this is a short story and a slow-build relationship would have busted the seams of this kind of narrative. I loved Reece and Nick, their maturity and the insecurity stemming from that (in Reece's case anyway). This story could have been angsty and heavy, but it really was not, despite Reece's rather recent loss. Instead, it was lighthearted, uplifting and optimistic, leaving you with a smile at the end. Was it predictable? Yes, absolutely. And I didn't care one bit.
Things happen very fast between Reece and Nick, but that's fine since this is a short story and a slow-build relationship would have busted the seams of this kind of narrative. I loved Reece and Nick, their maturity and the insecurity stemming from that (in Reece's case anyway). This story could have been angsty and heavy, but it really was not, despite Reece's rather recent loss. Instead, it was lighthearted, uplifting and optimistic, leaving you with a smile at the end. Was it predictable? Yes, absolutely. And I didn't care one bit.
February 21, 2016
Fun story with a bit older protagonists.
August 6, 2013
Cosy fun.
July 19, 2013
Blog Post: http://headouttheoven.blogspot.com/20...
My Rating: 1 of 5 Stars
Sometimes you can go home again. Reece Watkins left Montana after high school. A math major, he found a fulfilling career as an accountant in Washington with Mike, the love of his life. But then Mike dies of a heart attack, leaving Reece to reevaluate his own life and realize he’s on the same track. He decides to return to Montana and a slower pace.
Former football team captain Nick Kenison never left Montana. Instead, he married his high school sweetheart, had two kids, established a contracting business, and discovered he was gay. Now out and proud, Nick drives out to Reece’s to answer a call about roof repairs.
In high school, they were opposites, but now? The attraction between them is electric. Of course, it isn’t that easy—Reece is still dealing with body issues, self-esteem issues, and grief over Mike’s loss. Nick will have to teach him it’s never too late for love.
I usually love mature men romances or for that matter, any mature relationship of MF genre. It gives me a thrill to see that romance is not just for the young at heart or young teens or young adults. However, there are times when I just give a big sigh of frustration when nothing comes out of a great blurb and instead am given a sexually charged book with nothing much of romance. I must admit that the romance was served as a side dish but that is it. The main course was like observing guinea pigs procreate.
My Rating: 1 of 5 Stars
Sometimes you can go home again. Reece Watkins left Montana after high school. A math major, he found a fulfilling career as an accountant in Washington with Mike, the love of his life. But then Mike dies of a heart attack, leaving Reece to reevaluate his own life and realize he’s on the same track. He decides to return to Montana and a slower pace.
Former football team captain Nick Kenison never left Montana. Instead, he married his high school sweetheart, had two kids, established a contracting business, and discovered he was gay. Now out and proud, Nick drives out to Reece’s to answer a call about roof repairs.
In high school, they were opposites, but now? The attraction between them is electric. Of course, it isn’t that easy—Reece is still dealing with body issues, self-esteem issues, and grief over Mike’s loss. Nick will have to teach him it’s never too late for love.
I usually love mature men romances or for that matter, any mature relationship of MF genre. It gives me a thrill to see that romance is not just for the young at heart or young teens or young adults. However, there are times when I just give a big sigh of frustration when nothing comes out of a great blurb and instead am given a sexually charged book with nothing much of romance. I must admit that the romance was served as a side dish but that is it. The main course was like observing guinea pigs procreate.
September 1, 2013
Reece has a hole. On his roof, that is, and it’s the middle of winter. He gets a contractor, Nick, to help him out. Surprisingly, they went to the same school together, though they weren’t friends and they didn’t hang out. Now, though, as grown-ups, the chemistry between them is instantaneous. And I do mean instantaneous! You’ll see. But Reece lost his partner of twenty years three years ago, and he feels guilty for wanting to be with another man. As the repairs proceed, and the excuse to be together and have fun fades, they both have decisions to make. Letting go of the past isn’t easy.
Reece and Nick are both wonderful men, to die for sweet and kind and sexy as sin. From the start, their easy banter and hot sex just draws the reader in. Nick with his charming smile and Reece with his shy dreams and insecurities, they are a match made in heaven. But… Nick has two adult kids and Reece has his guilt. Both have to work on those. The whole story was just uplifting and positive and warm. Nothing I didn’t like about it.
This is a character driven story, and the plot moves with a quick pace. The writing is talented and effortless to follow. The characters are adorable, though older than the apparent norm in erotic romances, and their erotic scenes could make a glacier melt. Both men know who they are but letting go of fears is still hard. A small accident is exactly what they need to sort out their priorities. These down-to-earth men deserve their happy ending. Recommended!
Reece and Nick are both wonderful men, to die for sweet and kind and sexy as sin. From the start, their easy banter and hot sex just draws the reader in. Nick with his charming smile and Reece with his shy dreams and insecurities, they are a match made in heaven. But… Nick has two adult kids and Reece has his guilt. Both have to work on those. The whole story was just uplifting and positive and warm. Nothing I didn’t like about it.
This is a character driven story, and the plot moves with a quick pace. The writing is talented and effortless to follow. The characters are adorable, though older than the apparent norm in erotic romances, and their erotic scenes could make a glacier melt. Both men know who they are but letting go of fears is still hard. A small accident is exactly what they need to sort out their priorities. These down-to-earth men deserve their happy ending. Recommended!
August 11, 2013
Please leave comments on KymD's 4 sweet pea review at http://mrsconditreadsbooks.com/index....
Lavinia Lewis’ Improves with Age is a great, short love story about moving on and finding love again after tragedy.
Reece Watkins lost his long-time partner to a heart attack. Trying to deal with the loss of the man he loved, he moves back to his hometown in Montana. He buys an old farm-house, thinking he’d have time to renovate when, during the first rain, he finds a leaking roof.
Enter Nick Kenison.
Nick was the star of the high school football team when the two men were young. Reece would never have believed Nick was gay then. Now divorced and a father, Nick is ready to find true love and thinks Reece just might be that man.
Reece has a lot to deal with. Panic attacks, grief, self-esteem…you’d think he was a mess but Nick makes him realize there’s absolutely nothing wrong with him. Once Reece finds acceptance with Nick, his whole outlook begins to change.
This is one of those books that makes an older, single person believe love can still be found. Just because you reach a certain age, or lose a loved one, doesn’t mean love can’t be found a second-time around.
My only complaint? I wish the book had been longer! Lavinia Lewis does romance so well!!
Lavinia Lewis’ Improves with Age is a great, short love story about moving on and finding love again after tragedy.
Reece Watkins lost his long-time partner to a heart attack. Trying to deal with the loss of the man he loved, he moves back to his hometown in Montana. He buys an old farm-house, thinking he’d have time to renovate when, during the first rain, he finds a leaking roof.
Enter Nick Kenison.
Nick was the star of the high school football team when the two men were young. Reece would never have believed Nick was gay then. Now divorced and a father, Nick is ready to find true love and thinks Reece just might be that man.
Reece has a lot to deal with. Panic attacks, grief, self-esteem…you’d think he was a mess but Nick makes him realize there’s absolutely nothing wrong with him. Once Reece finds acceptance with Nick, his whole outlook begins to change.
This is one of those books that makes an older, single person believe love can still be found. Just because you reach a certain age, or lose a loved one, doesn’t mean love can’t be found a second-time around.
My only complaint? I wish the book had been longer! Lavinia Lewis does romance so well!!
October 7, 2013
Despite being someone that gravitates toward angst filled stories I really do love reading a light, feel good book. That is exactly what, Improves With Age, feels like. Reece and Nick are characters that knew each other growing up and are meeting again later in life. During the intervening years there have been many changes, some good, some devastating.
Reece settles back in his hometown after twenty years to move on from a loss, but the house he just bought has a hole in the roof. Luckily he has Nick recommended as a handyman. Reconnection and sex soon follow, though a little too quickly in my opinion.
When I think of this book I can almost imagine it as a romantic comedy movie. Me, cuddled on the couch on a Friday night in, watching these two guys finding love, snow on the roof and all. With just enough humor, sex, & emotional turmoil.
This isn't a revolutionary book, but it is fun and sexy. It's a short story so at times it felt a bit rushed. There wasn’t much conflict other than some internal uncertainty. But it was a short and sweet read, exactly what you need in a pinch, especially if you like middle aged characters.
Reviewed by Jules
Reece settles back in his hometown after twenty years to move on from a loss, but the house he just bought has a hole in the roof. Luckily he has Nick recommended as a handyman. Reconnection and sex soon follow, though a little too quickly in my opinion.
When I think of this book I can almost imagine it as a romantic comedy movie. Me, cuddled on the couch on a Friday night in, watching these two guys finding love, snow on the roof and all. With just enough humor, sex, & emotional turmoil.
This isn't a revolutionary book, but it is fun and sexy. It's a short story so at times it felt a bit rushed. There wasn’t much conflict other than some internal uncertainty. But it was a short and sweet read, exactly what you need in a pinch, especially if you like middle aged characters.
Reviewed by Jules
August 11, 2013
I really enjoyed this shorter story about two guys who went to HS together and end up reconnecting 30 years later when Reece moves back to town. Nick was the HS quarterback and Reece was a math nerd in HS so it wasn't like they ran in the same circles or really even knew each other then. When Reece buys an older home in his home town where he has relocated back to three years after losing his partner of 20 years, he ends up with the problem roof in winter and Nick comes to the rescue. But he ends up with a lot more than a repaired roof :)
I really liked all the relationships portrayed in this story - including Nick's kids and Reece's parents - especialy Reece's mother who seems to be somewhat of a character. If Ms. Lewis decides to write more about this couple, I'd be happy to read about them.
I really liked all the relationships portrayed in this story - including Nick's kids and Reece's parents - especialy Reece's mother who seems to be somewhat of a character. If Ms. Lewis decides to write more about this couple, I'd be happy to read about them.
July 26, 2013
This story is so heartwarming I found myself grinning like crazy while reading it. Reece has some issues to overcome on his way to a happily ever after with Nick. I will say I love the premise of this book. It is never too late to find your happiness and life is not over until they put you in the ground. Nick and Reece finally work it all out once they start talking about their issues, and it was great to witness them growing together.
You can read the rest of Jackie's review at The Novel Approach
You can read the rest of Jackie's review at The Novel Approach
March 15, 2014
It has been a while since I read this story, so I can't remember everything that happened. But I do remember that I had found it an enjoyable and lovely read. I adore second-chance-at-love and opposites-turn-to-lovers stories, and this definitely had it. I was a little nervous before reading this story because I thought that there might be some angst since one of the MCs has kids, and I wasn't sure if that would interfere in Reece and Nick's relationship. But I needn't have worried. This book was definitely smooth sailing with an HEA of course!
August 14, 2013
Love the older characters. Very cute.
February 18, 2015
wow. I am seeing good reviews for this, which surprises me, because all I can think is this is chapter 2 starts so ridiculously, I am DNFing.
September 2, 2025
Not what I was expecting.
Everything happened way to fast. No time to get to know the characters, just wam bam and done.
Everything happened way to fast. No time to get to know the characters, just wam bam and done.
October 3, 2025
Un relato que me ha hecho pasar un buen rato con su lectura.
August 1, 2013
Originally reviewed for The Book Vixen
As blog readers may know, I’m always searching out MM romance with mature leads so this short novella was a must read for me. I liked Reece, who returned to his Montana hometown after the death of his long-term partner. He’s got self-esteem issues that while realistic, also made him seem a bit needy. Nick is the contractor Reece hires to fix his roof and the men become sexually intimate VERY quickly. This romance is definitely one where it starts sexual and minimal emotional intimacy follows. I did like Reece’s worry about moving into a relationship with Nick so soon after his partner’s death and thought that was well done for such a short novella. Nick isn’t nearly as developed as Reece and that diminished my enjoyment of the novella. Still, the holiday theme of family building as the two men become a couple made for an enjoyable read for me.
*review copy from publisher*
As blog readers may know, I’m always searching out MM romance with mature leads so this short novella was a must read for me. I liked Reece, who returned to his Montana hometown after the death of his long-term partner. He’s got self-esteem issues that while realistic, also made him seem a bit needy. Nick is the contractor Reece hires to fix his roof and the men become sexually intimate VERY quickly. This romance is definitely one where it starts sexual and minimal emotional intimacy follows. I did like Reece’s worry about moving into a relationship with Nick so soon after his partner’s death and thought that was well done for such a short novella. Nick isn’t nearly as developed as Reece and that diminished my enjoyment of the novella. Still, the holiday theme of family building as the two men become a couple made for an enjoyable read for me.
*review copy from publisher*
July 27, 2013
I must have been tired. I didn't get the whole snow in top reference untl half way through. But since the story was so short , that was by chapter three. Again with the instant romance. Wtf! Are authors just spitting out books to add notches to a bookshelf? I'm sorry but I just read another and I'm tired of being done with a book two hours after I started it. Is it any wonder I look at word count before reading a synapses? This book came from my sister. I should have known. I liked that there wasnt too much sex, but the characters went from front door meeting to hand jobs in less than 10 minutes. Then meeting the family in maybe two months' time. The only conflict was their differing opinion on gray hair! Everything fell into place like a wooden puzzle you just shake the box to solve.
September 4, 2013
A hole in the roof had 48 year old Reece Watkins, who moved back to his hometown three years after his partner of twenty years passed away, meet again with former high school football team captain Nick Kenison. They were not exactly pals when they were students, yet hit it off straight... uhm, directly upon unplanned reunion.
Despite the way too fast hook up (waaay too fast to my liking) I quite like this story. Despite such WHOA! beginning between our two MCs, the issues that each had over their sudden relationship were reasonable. I wish there were more telling on how Reece and Nick really communicate to each other and their family instead of only Reece narating it. But as a whole, I quite enjoy this story. 3.5 stars .
Despite the way too fast hook up (waaay too fast to my liking) I quite like this story. Despite such WHOA! beginning between our two MCs, the issues that each had over their sudden relationship were reasonable. I wish there were more telling on how Reece and Nick really communicate to each other and their family instead of only Reece narating it. But as a whole, I quite enjoy this story. 3.5 stars .
January 20, 2016
quick read saw and had to read and it was a very fast pace story. Reece and nick knew each other when they were childhood.But they were both opposite to each other, reece has always been gay he lived with his partner for more them 20 years he partner died 3 years ago still grieving at time.. But for nick he had a girlfriend got married but years later divorced has 2 grown kids.
Reece has an hole in his roof when his friend advice there is someone to fix the roof. That someone come is Nick The very first time they meet again attraction is there so they let things happen fast but they both cant help. It just really sweet angst free.
Reece has an hole in his roof when his friend advice there is someone to fix the roof. That someone come is Nick The very first time they meet again attraction is there so they let things happen fast but they both cant help. It just really sweet angst free.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews