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Three years ago, cameraman Powell Perdue and quarterback Talbot Wojewódka called it quits, citing irreconcilable differences. Powell wanted to live honestly, while Talbot felt he couldn’t and still succeed in professional football. One knee surgery and a trade later, Talbot finds himself back in town and quarterbacking for the Raptors, a struggling expansion team. Powell’s also back, working as a cameraman for KJOC-TV, following two years in Amsterdam and a second failed relationship.When an interview meant as a publicity play throws them into each other’s path, they’re forced to face a love that never quite died and wounds that never fully healed. For any hope at a win, they’ll have to change up the game. Talbot must brave walking through his closet door and into Powell’s arms, and Powell must risk his heart one more time by standing his ground and giving Talbot a second chance.A story from the Dreamspinner Press 2013 Daily Dose package "Make a Play".
85 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 31, 2013
4 people are currently reading
92 people want to read
About the author
Dawn Kimberly Johnson
34 books66 followersDawn lives in Huntington, West Virginia, and graduated from the W. Page Pitt School of Journalism & Mass Communications at Marshall University. An avid reader and storyteller since childhood, she was first published by Dreamspinner Press in 2009, shortly after discovering a delightful appetite for gay romantic fiction. Her interests include writing, seeking full civil rights for the LGBTQ community, drawing, and playing silly Facebook games. You can connect with Dawn at her author page at Dreamspinner Press: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/aut...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
June 12, 2013
Review written for Hearts On Fire Reviews - 3.5 stars
This story takes its time giving you the story of Powell, a TV news cameraman, and Talbot, NFL quarterback. These two were long-time friends who were in a relationship but split up basically due to Talbot’s inability to live out of the closet. There was more going on with what led up to the breakup, but the details are eventually made known to all as the story is told.
After three years apart, they find themselves facing each other when Powell has to provide camera support for player interviews at one of Talbot’s games. Talbot struggles with his decision to remain closeted in his profession. Circumstances eventually happen that enable him to rethink his stance and realize what’s important.
There isn’t nearly as much interaction between the MCs as I would have liked, though I did enjoy the football aspects and interactions with some nice side characters. I enjoyed the writing style which was smooth and well done. Everything comes full circle here, but I feel this is definitely a story that could benefit by being expanded to show more relationship development.
June 13, 2013
3.25*
Talbot lost his parents early, living with his aunt and uncle, he moved around a lot and always had to work to fit in as ' the new kid'.
This is probably part of why it took him so very long to 'rock the boat' as he put it.
But when he moves into town as a sophomore in high school and meets Powell, he finally has a best friend, a family and finally a lover.
All through college they are a couple, although a closeted one. Then football takes him away, the breakup was hard and leaves both of them sad, unhappy and at least Powell is angry ( understandably ).
Now they are both back in the same town and Talbot wants another chance.
It was cute and I liked it, but I wanted more on screen time with Talbot and Powell together, more than just anger and a bathroom hook-up.
Another chapter or two and this could have been really good.
And what's with Mel coming on to both of these guys? At least she wasn't horrible, but why do these stories need pushy ( and at least during dinner with Talbot slightly threatening IMO women?) and Coco the silly stupid woman?
Talbot lost his parents early, living with his aunt and uncle, he moved around a lot and always had to work to fit in as ' the new kid'.
This is probably part of why it took him so very long to 'rock the boat' as he put it.
But when he moves into town as a sophomore in high school and meets Powell, he finally has a best friend, a family and finally a lover.
All through college they are a couple, although a closeted one. Then football takes him away, the breakup was hard and leaves both of them sad, unhappy and at least Powell is angry ( understandably ).
Now they are both back in the same town and Talbot wants another chance.
It was cute and I liked it, but I wanted more on screen time with Talbot and Powell together, more than just anger and a bathroom hook-up.
Another chapter or two and this could have been really good.
And what's with Mel coming on to both of these guys? At least she wasn't horrible, but why do these stories need pushy ( and at least during dinner with Talbot slightly threatening IMO women?) and Coco the silly stupid woman?
October 22, 2017
Didn't like the MCs
June 14, 2013
This story shows what can happen when two men run not only from each other, but from the fact that they're gay. Or maybe the latter is the cause of the problem? Either way, neither Powell nor Talbot are being very mature in this story and now that they're over thirty and both back in their home town, it looks as if it's time they man up, face the facts, and do something to end their misery.
Powell is a master at trying to outrun his problems. Not that it ever worked, but he kept trying. He is still in love with Talbot, but you wouldn't be able to tell from his behavior. To tell the truth, he has some reason to be upset with Talbot, and the wound from what Talbot did (or Powell thought he did) never healed. A chance encounter (in a club's bathroom of all places) finally leads to the long-needed confrontation. Not that it leads to the kind of outcome that I expected - or that makes sense.
Talbot is as much an idiot as Powell. Not ready to come out when Powell asked him to, he also ran, burying himself in his football career. Not that it made him happy, and returning home and running into Powell again clarifies a few things for him as well. Talbot knows full well it is up to him to take the first step, but he also knows 'it takes two to tango', as they say. As it turns out, he has a couple more steps ahead of him than he thought...
If you like stories about men who have run from themselves for years before they see the light, if you enjoy reading coming out stories, even if the closet doors open later in life, and if you're looking for a read full of drama, emotions, and deep passion, then you will probably like this short story.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review.
June 6, 2013
Cute little story about finding your first love, then loosing that love because you weren’t comfortable in your own skin. Being given a second chance at love and being who you are.
Dawn Kimberly Johnson.. I need MORE! I loved this storyline. Talbot Wojewodka, or Bot, is a quarterback in a sport that is not gay friendly. Therefore he not only hides who he is, but the man he loves for fear of the backlash of coming out. Powell Purdue , or Po, can only hide for so long. When push comes to shove, Bot’s feet stay firmly planted in his closet.
When Bot takes a spot on a team in another state, Po does him one better and leaves the country. Several years later life and circumstance bring these two back together and fate gives them a second chance. Can Bot be honest about who he is and who he chooses to love, regardless of the outcome? Or will Po have his heart broken by the quarterback, again?
Heat level is promising, there are no naughty bits in this book. Heart rate is a 3, again there are no naughty bits. I would love to see this storyline and these characters with some sexiness thrown in the mix. Well written and emotional, I just wish it was longer, and steamier!
Dawn Kimberly Johnson.. I need MORE! I loved this storyline. Talbot Wojewodka, or Bot, is a quarterback in a sport that is not gay friendly. Therefore he not only hides who he is, but the man he loves for fear of the backlash of coming out. Powell Purdue , or Po, can only hide for so long. When push comes to shove, Bot’s feet stay firmly planted in his closet.
When Bot takes a spot on a team in another state, Po does him one better and leaves the country. Several years later life and circumstance bring these two back together and fate gives them a second chance. Can Bot be honest about who he is and who he chooses to love, regardless of the outcome? Or will Po have his heart broken by the quarterback, again?
Heat level is promising, there are no naughty bits in this book. Heart rate is a 3, again there are no naughty bits. I would love to see this storyline and these characters with some sexiness thrown in the mix. Well written and emotional, I just wish it was longer, and steamier!
June 16, 2013
Slightly predictable but highly enjoyable story about a closed professional quarterback and a TV cameraman.
Talbot still loves Powell and wants him back but his career means he can't fully declare their love to the world. Powell won't live in the closet and is trying to protect his heart at all costs.
I think I gave it an extra star just for the very public kiss the men finally share when they realise they are meant to be together no matter what.
Talbot still loves Powell and wants him back but his career means he can't fully declare their love to the world. Powell won't live in the closet and is trying to protect his heart at all costs.
I think I gave it an extra star just for the very public kiss the men finally share when they realise they are meant to be together no matter what.
dnf-not-4-me
April 24, 2015June 13 release of 2013 Daily Dose: Making a Play.
Reviews were lukewarm enough to steer me away. Too much good stuff to read right now.
Reviews were lukewarm enough to steer me away. Too much good stuff to read right now.
June 3, 2013
I liked the main concept of this story, but there is to much emotions of hurt and sadness. I couldn't really connect with Powell or Talbot and I'm not sure why, exactly. Powell behaved like an ass toward Talbot, maybe that's why.
June 2, 2013
2.5 stars. OK read, but the MC's got back together super fast.
June 7, 2013
Cardboard characters, melodrama, poor decision making skills (I'm going to drop everything and go to another country because I can't deeeal.)
Might have been better focusing on the hot radio host.
Might have been better focusing on the hot radio host.
June 15, 2013
Enjoyed it.
February 21, 2024
This is a fictional account of what it might be like if an active playing in the NFL were to become the first “out” player in the league.
Talbot Wojewódka is an NFL quarterback who has been traded to the team from his hometown. He’s working his way back from a serious knee injury and hoping for a few more good years in the league to secure his retirement. He hasn’t planned well and he’s been the victim of blackmail as he has tried to stay in the closet during his career. His one real relationship with Powell Perdue, his high school/college boyfriend ended when he realized he wasn’t being fair to Powell. Bot hasn’t had an easy life with his family either and is truly and desperately lonely. He tries to make friends with his new teammates and then gets thrown for a loop when the local TV station decides to send Powell and a female reporter to profile him for the team. He’s completely caught off guard by seeing Powell again for the first time since their breakup and the same old feelings surface.
Enter the twin children of the football team’s owner: Melicent, a beautiful straight woman who has designs on Bot and Melvin, a gay man who after struggling with his sexuality for years is making a success out of being a sports reporter. Melvin immediately recognizes Bot as a closeted player and while he’s pretty harsh with him, it’s something that Bot needs to hear and Melvin shocks Bot into coming clean about his past with Powell. Melvin ends up being a hero of sorts in this story – to himself and others.
Things don’t really go very well when Powell and his work crew end up at the same bar where Bot and Melvin are having a heart to heart. Bot makes a move on Powell and ends up a bit the worse for wear. Both men are torn up about their past breakup and while they obviously still have the same feelings, nothing else has changed. They don’t see each other again until the season opening game and an on field incident throws them together in a dangerous situation that has far ranging repercussions.
I wanted to like this story more. I’ve enjoyed the other stories I’ve read by this author, but I felt like there was a little bit too much in this story for the word count. For some reason, I found all the convoluted family relationships intertwined with the story of Bot and Powell distracting. The football team owner’s ex-wife being Powell’s boss at the TV station, Melvin and Melicent at the radio station and working for the team respectively, and then ultimately Gingham, the owner himself all are wrapped up in this story with their own issues. I really would have liked more interaction between Powell and Bot in the present. While it’s not my favorite story by this author, it’s still an enjoyable read and I hope one day it’s not just a fantasy.
Talbot Wojewódka is an NFL quarterback who has been traded to the team from his hometown. He’s working his way back from a serious knee injury and hoping for a few more good years in the league to secure his retirement. He hasn’t planned well and he’s been the victim of blackmail as he has tried to stay in the closet during his career. His one real relationship with Powell Perdue, his high school/college boyfriend ended when he realized he wasn’t being fair to Powell. Bot hasn’t had an easy life with his family either and is truly and desperately lonely. He tries to make friends with his new teammates and then gets thrown for a loop when the local TV station decides to send Powell and a female reporter to profile him for the team. He’s completely caught off guard by seeing Powell again for the first time since their breakup and the same old feelings surface.
Enter the twin children of the football team’s owner: Melicent, a beautiful straight woman who has designs on Bot and Melvin, a gay man who after struggling with his sexuality for years is making a success out of being a sports reporter. Melvin immediately recognizes Bot as a closeted player and while he’s pretty harsh with him, it’s something that Bot needs to hear and Melvin shocks Bot into coming clean about his past with Powell. Melvin ends up being a hero of sorts in this story – to himself and others.
Things don’t really go very well when Powell and his work crew end up at the same bar where Bot and Melvin are having a heart to heart. Bot makes a move on Powell and ends up a bit the worse for wear. Both men are torn up about their past breakup and while they obviously still have the same feelings, nothing else has changed. They don’t see each other again until the season opening game and an on field incident throws them together in a dangerous situation that has far ranging repercussions.
I wanted to like this story more. I’ve enjoyed the other stories I’ve read by this author, but I felt like there was a little bit too much in this story for the word count. For some reason, I found all the convoluted family relationships intertwined with the story of Bot and Powell distracting. The football team owner’s ex-wife being Powell’s boss at the TV station, Melvin and Melicent at the radio station and working for the team respectively, and then ultimately Gingham, the owner himself all are wrapped up in this story with their own issues. I really would have liked more interaction between Powell and Bot in the present. While it’s not my favorite story by this author, it’s still an enjoyable read and I hope one day it’s not just a fantasy.
May 4, 2018
Entertaining to read. The characters were all likeable. The 2 characters were together earlier in their lives and had gone separate ways. Talbot very much wanted to stay in the closet to protect her career, so he left Powell, so he could have a future as an out man while he (Talbot) stayed safely in the closet. They meet up 3 years later. And I'm pretty sure they still Love each other and the feelings from all those years together are still present.
June 14, 2013
Review originally posted here: http://thebookpushers.com/2013/06/10/...
I’m a sucker for sports romances, add in the m/m genre and if it’s done right, I am hopeless. I really liked the premise of this book, but I thought it was much too short.
Powell and Talbot were once lovers, but when Talbot refused to come out of the closet because of football career, Powell walked away from their relationship. After another failed romance, Powell returns home to lick his wounds. Little does he know that Talbot is back in town too, playing for the local professional football team.
When Talbot first sees Powell, he realizes that he isn’t over the man. But coming out of the closet when he is working for a new team is a career move he isn’t sure he’s willing to make. But every time they come in contact with one another, the sparks fly and soon neither will be able to let the other go. But will they be able to make a go of it, despite Talbot’s career and Powell’s fears?
While I enjoyed this book, my biggest complaint is that it was much too short. The novella didn’t really give enough time for the relationship between Powell and Talbot to develop. They left their relationship on some pretty negative terms when they broke things off, and the amount of pages didn’t really seem to allow for them to put aside their past hurts, and learn to trust one another again. I wanted to see them really appreciate one another instead of having such a quick happily ever after.
I liked Powell and Talbot as individuals. Powell was sweet and I loved his soft spirit. He was quiet and shy and a bit reserved, and I adored him because of it. I felt bad that he had to live his life in the closet when he was with Talbot the first time, and respected the fact that he refused to do it again. However, despite the big gesture Talbot gave at the end, I thought that Powell was a little too quick to forgive and forget the past.
I thought Talbot did the best with what he had. Early in his career, he was so scared to do anything that would harm his standing, and I could understand why. Being out and proud as a professional athlete is something that just isn’t done in this day and age, despite how much most of us wish it was. I understood his hesitance with coming out, and I was so sad that he had to live so many years denying who he really was. When he made his apology, I thought it was pretty epic and wonderful.
Despite the fact that I enjoyed both the heroes, I was a little disappointed with the development of their relationship. The book was very short, and for a second chance romance like this, I felt like there needed to be more time developing the trust between them that was broken the first time around. I would have liked to see them spend more time together, get to know one another again, instead of a few choice encounters before declaring their love for each other. It just felt rushed and a little hurried for me, which cast doubt on the romance itself.
All in all I liked the plot and characters of this book. However, I do wish that the romance aspect would have been more developed. I wanted to spend more time getting to see their relationship grow over time, instead of being rushed into a happily ever after that felt premature.
I give Audible a B-
I’m a sucker for sports romances, add in the m/m genre and if it’s done right, I am hopeless. I really liked the premise of this book, but I thought it was much too short.
Powell and Talbot were once lovers, but when Talbot refused to come out of the closet because of football career, Powell walked away from their relationship. After another failed romance, Powell returns home to lick his wounds. Little does he know that Talbot is back in town too, playing for the local professional football team.
When Talbot first sees Powell, he realizes that he isn’t over the man. But coming out of the closet when he is working for a new team is a career move he isn’t sure he’s willing to make. But every time they come in contact with one another, the sparks fly and soon neither will be able to let the other go. But will they be able to make a go of it, despite Talbot’s career and Powell’s fears?
While I enjoyed this book, my biggest complaint is that it was much too short. The novella didn’t really give enough time for the relationship between Powell and Talbot to develop. They left their relationship on some pretty negative terms when they broke things off, and the amount of pages didn’t really seem to allow for them to put aside their past hurts, and learn to trust one another again. I wanted to see them really appreciate one another instead of having such a quick happily ever after.
I liked Powell and Talbot as individuals. Powell was sweet and I loved his soft spirit. He was quiet and shy and a bit reserved, and I adored him because of it. I felt bad that he had to live his life in the closet when he was with Talbot the first time, and respected the fact that he refused to do it again. However, despite the big gesture Talbot gave at the end, I thought that Powell was a little too quick to forgive and forget the past.
I thought Talbot did the best with what he had. Early in his career, he was so scared to do anything that would harm his standing, and I could understand why. Being out and proud as a professional athlete is something that just isn’t done in this day and age, despite how much most of us wish it was. I understood his hesitance with coming out, and I was so sad that he had to live so many years denying who he really was. When he made his apology, I thought it was pretty epic and wonderful.
Despite the fact that I enjoyed both the heroes, I was a little disappointed with the development of their relationship. The book was very short, and for a second chance romance like this, I felt like there needed to be more time developing the trust between them that was broken the first time around. I would have liked to see them spend more time together, get to know one another again, instead of a few choice encounters before declaring their love for each other. It just felt rushed and a little hurried for me, which cast doubt on the romance itself.
All in all I liked the plot and characters of this book. However, I do wish that the romance aspect would have been more developed. I wanted to spend more time getting to see their relationship grow over time, instead of being rushed into a happily ever after that felt premature.
I give Audible a B-
August 18, 2013
Please comment on Josie's 4 sweet pea review at http://mrsconditreadsbooks.com/index....
Audible, by Dawn Kimberly Johnson, is a wonderfully angsty, intense short story which offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of professional American football
Successful quarterback Talbot Wojewódka is back in his hometown of Hawkestone, spinning out the remaining years of his career. What he wasn't expecting is to run into his ex lover Powell Perdue. Talbot and Powell split up years ago because Talbot wanted to remain in the closet, it was easier to pursue a career in professional football as a straight man. Talbot convinced himself it would only be until he was established and successful, that eventually the need for secrecy would be behind him, but he's still not there yet, just as deeply closeted now as he was back then.
Powell tried to move on after Talbot broke his Heart, but after a failed relationship he is also back in Hawkestone, as a cameraman for the local news station, KJOC-TV
What happens when the two men meet? Can they put the past behind them and risk their hearts on a second chance of happiness.
I loved the start of this book, with the action packed and tense sinkhole scene, it immediately grabbed me and got the adrenalin rushing, creating a nice contrast to our first glimpse of Talbot, reflectively contemplating his move back to Hawkestone, realising he's not where the thought he would be by now, still closeted, hiding who he is, which is a bjt awkward as Millicent Hawkestone, daughter of the Raptors owner Gingham, has him directly in her sights.
Seeing Talbot on the field stirs up all sorts of feelings for Powell and I liked the way the reason for their split unfolded, told in a very matter of fact manner when both Powell and Talbot, in separate scenes, relive the moments that led to Powell walking away. I really liked Powell, I don't often have a favourite character but I did in this book. Powell is funny, witty, intelligent and confident. Talbot, on the other hand was much more difficult to understand, conflicted, moody and demoralised, he wants his career, and Powell, who he never really go over, but he doesn't know how to have it all and he's not yet ready to choose. The residual animosity still simmering between both main characters comes over so well I was worried how the author would reconcile the two men, and while I won't go into specifics the ending is quietly satisfying.
The story is told from alternate POVs which works really well and its also full of great richly detailed secondary characters, the Hawkestone heir twins Millicent, who has the hots for Talbot, and her brother Melvin, who immediately recognises Talbot's secret, one he shares himself. Their mother Etta Hawkestone, owner of the news station and ex wife of Gingham. Rancid, the other new Hawkestone player, who becomes a friend and supporter of Talbot, even down to Coco Cline, Powell's reporter at KJOC-TV
As a Brit I know nothing about American football so I found everything written about the game fascinating, and as a Brit it seemed very well researched. My only gripe with the story is that I do think it should have been longer. Talbot and Powell take a long time getting where they are on the sane page, but even saying that anyone who loves angsty, tense ridden second chance stories should really enjoy Audible.
Audible, by Dawn Kimberly Johnson, is a wonderfully angsty, intense short story which offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of professional American football
Successful quarterback Talbot Wojewódka is back in his hometown of Hawkestone, spinning out the remaining years of his career. What he wasn't expecting is to run into his ex lover Powell Perdue. Talbot and Powell split up years ago because Talbot wanted to remain in the closet, it was easier to pursue a career in professional football as a straight man. Talbot convinced himself it would only be until he was established and successful, that eventually the need for secrecy would be behind him, but he's still not there yet, just as deeply closeted now as he was back then.
Powell tried to move on after Talbot broke his Heart, but after a failed relationship he is also back in Hawkestone, as a cameraman for the local news station, KJOC-TV
What happens when the two men meet? Can they put the past behind them and risk their hearts on a second chance of happiness.
I loved the start of this book, with the action packed and tense sinkhole scene, it immediately grabbed me and got the adrenalin rushing, creating a nice contrast to our first glimpse of Talbot, reflectively contemplating his move back to Hawkestone, realising he's not where the thought he would be by now, still closeted, hiding who he is, which is a bjt awkward as Millicent Hawkestone, daughter of the Raptors owner Gingham, has him directly in her sights.
Seeing Talbot on the field stirs up all sorts of feelings for Powell and I liked the way the reason for their split unfolded, told in a very matter of fact manner when both Powell and Talbot, in separate scenes, relive the moments that led to Powell walking away. I really liked Powell, I don't often have a favourite character but I did in this book. Powell is funny, witty, intelligent and confident. Talbot, on the other hand was much more difficult to understand, conflicted, moody and demoralised, he wants his career, and Powell, who he never really go over, but he doesn't know how to have it all and he's not yet ready to choose. The residual animosity still simmering between both main characters comes over so well I was worried how the author would reconcile the two men, and while I won't go into specifics the ending is quietly satisfying.
The story is told from alternate POVs which works really well and its also full of great richly detailed secondary characters, the Hawkestone heir twins Millicent, who has the hots for Talbot, and her brother Melvin, who immediately recognises Talbot's secret, one he shares himself. Their mother Etta Hawkestone, owner of the news station and ex wife of Gingham. Rancid, the other new Hawkestone player, who becomes a friend and supporter of Talbot, even down to Coco Cline, Powell's reporter at KJOC-TV
As a Brit I know nothing about American football so I found everything written about the game fascinating, and as a Brit it seemed very well researched. My only gripe with the story is that I do think it should have been longer. Talbot and Powell take a long time getting where they are on the sane page, but even saying that anyone who loves angsty, tense ridden second chance stories should really enjoy Audible.
June 23, 2013
3.75 stars
After three years away, professional footballer Talbot Wojewódka is back in his hometown of Hawkestone. The town where he left his partner after choosing football and the closet over his long time love, Powell Perdue. Powell spent two years in Amsterdam trying to get over Talbot, but realised that he didn't want to end up hurting the man he was with, cared for, but didn't love, like Talbot had hurt him. So he returned to Hawkestone to work as a news cameraman for the local station. When Talbot and Powell's paths cross it becomes evident that, despite Powell's hurt and anger with Talbot, the love for each other is still there.
The story starts with Powell's POV as he's on location for a news report, and what a great, tense and action packed start it was! Powell is confident, funny, intelligent and friendly. He enjoys his job and is good at it. But he never really got over Talbot "Bot" Wojewódka. As their past relationship is revealed, with the POV alternating between Bot and Po, it remains to be seen if they can find their way together this time around. Bot is deeply closeted and reluctant to rock the boat. After losing his parents as a young teenager, Bot went to live with his Aunt and Uncle, a military man. While they were decent enough, they had never wanted children. Between that and the constant moving, Talbot really only ever wanted to just feel like he belonged somewhere.
I liked Audible, but it didn't ever feel like it quite got there. It seemed to need a little bit longer to really develop the characters and their relationship. Most of the story was spent on Po and Bot's individual stories and Talbot's pursuit of Powell, who kept pushing him away citing Bot's continuing reluctance to open that closet door. A note on names: I still have no idea how Wojewódka is pronounced! There was a perfect opportunity when Bot was meeting the other new team member that the pronunciation could have been addressed. And on the same subject, I couldn't help but giggle at 'Po' and 'Bot'! Probably childish, but come on! Po and Bot?
I felt like I got to know Powell a little more than Talbot, but I did like both. Rancid, the other new player for the Hawkestone Raptors, was pretty cool. He was a good guy and supported Talbot from the start. Etta, Powell's boss at the station, was fantastic! Strong, funny and unapologetic, I really liked her. Her son, Mel, was just like her. I wasn't so fond of cardboard cutout characters Melicent, Mel's twin sister, and Coco, reporter and Powell's work partner. The other members of the Raptors are virtually mere mentions, but that's understandable with the length of the story. Their only real function was the inferred homophobic attitudes prevalent in the sport keeping Talbot in the closet. With only moments left in play, I was wondering how the author was going to get the MCs together so close to the end, but she pulled it off and did it well.
All in all, an enjoyable story that I would have been happy for to be a little longer. The action scenes, both news and on field, were well written and fast paced.
After three years away, professional footballer Talbot Wojewódka is back in his hometown of Hawkestone. The town where he left his partner after choosing football and the closet over his long time love, Powell Perdue. Powell spent two years in Amsterdam trying to get over Talbot, but realised that he didn't want to end up hurting the man he was with, cared for, but didn't love, like Talbot had hurt him. So he returned to Hawkestone to work as a news cameraman for the local station. When Talbot and Powell's paths cross it becomes evident that, despite Powell's hurt and anger with Talbot, the love for each other is still there.
The story starts with Powell's POV as he's on location for a news report, and what a great, tense and action packed start it was! Powell is confident, funny, intelligent and friendly. He enjoys his job and is good at it. But he never really got over Talbot "Bot" Wojewódka. As their past relationship is revealed, with the POV alternating between Bot and Po, it remains to be seen if they can find their way together this time around. Bot is deeply closeted and reluctant to rock the boat. After losing his parents as a young teenager, Bot went to live with his Aunt and Uncle, a military man. While they were decent enough, they had never wanted children. Between that and the constant moving, Talbot really only ever wanted to just feel like he belonged somewhere.
I liked Audible, but it didn't ever feel like it quite got there. It seemed to need a little bit longer to really develop the characters and their relationship. Most of the story was spent on Po and Bot's individual stories and Talbot's pursuit of Powell, who kept pushing him away citing Bot's continuing reluctance to open that closet door. A note on names: I still have no idea how Wojewódka is pronounced! There was a perfect opportunity when Bot was meeting the other new team member that the pronunciation could have been addressed. And on the same subject, I couldn't help but giggle at 'Po' and 'Bot'! Probably childish, but come on! Po and Bot?
I felt like I got to know Powell a little more than Talbot, but I did like both. Rancid, the other new player for the Hawkestone Raptors, was pretty cool. He was a good guy and supported Talbot from the start. Etta, Powell's boss at the station, was fantastic! Strong, funny and unapologetic, I really liked her. Her son, Mel, was just like her. I wasn't so fond of cardboard cutout characters Melicent, Mel's twin sister, and Coco, reporter and Powell's work partner. The other members of the Raptors are virtually mere mentions, but that's understandable with the length of the story. Their only real function was the inferred homophobic attitudes prevalent in the sport keeping Talbot in the closet. With only moments left in play, I was wondering how the author was going to get the MCs together so close to the end, but she pulled it off and did it well.
All in all, an enjoyable story that I would have been happy for to be a little longer. The action scenes, both news and on field, were well written and fast paced.
June 26, 2013
3.5 Stars
After three years away, professional footballer Talbot Wojewódka is back in his hometown of Hawkestone. The town where he left his partner after choosing football and the closet over his long time love, Powell Perdue. Powell spent two years in Amsterdam trying to get over Talbot, but realised that he didn't want to end up hurting the man he was with, cared for, but didn't love, like Talbot had hurt him. So he returned to Hawkestone to work as a news cameraman for the local station. When Talbot and Powell's paths cross it becomes evident that, despite Powell's hurt and anger with Talbot, the love for each other is still there.
The story starts with Powell's POV as he's on location for a news report, and what a great, tense and action packed start it was! Powell is confident, funny, intelligent and friendly. He enjoys his job and is good at it. But he never really got over Talbot "Bot" Wojewódka. As their past relationship is revealed, with the POV alternating between Bot and Po, it remains to be seen if they can find their way together this time around. Bot is deeply closeted and reluctant to rock the boat. After losing his parents as a young teenager, Bot went to live with his Aunt and Uncle, a military man. While they were decent enough, they had never wanted children. Between that and the constant moving, Talbot really only ever wanted to just feel like he belonged somewhere.
I liked Audible, but it didn't ever feel like it quite got there. It seemed to need a little bit longer to really develop the characters and their relationship. Most of the story was spent on Po and Bot's individual stories and Talbot's pursuit of Powell, who kept pushing him away citing Bot's continuing reluctance to open that closet door. A note on names: I still have no idea how Wojewódka is pronounced! There was a perfect opportunity when Bot was meeting the other new team member that the pronunciation could have been addressed. And on the same subject, I couldn't help but giggle at 'Po' and 'Bot'! Probably childish, but come on! Po and Bot?
I felt like I got to know Powell a little more than Talbot, but I did like both. Rancid, the other new player for the Hawkestone Raptors, was pretty cool. He was a good guy and supported Talbot from the start. Etta, Powell's boss at the station, was fantastic! Strong, funny and unapologetic, I really liked her. Her son, Mel, was just like her. I wasn't so fond of cardboard cutout characters Melicent, Mel's twin sister, and Coco, reporter and Powell's work partner. The other members of the Raptors are virtually mere mentions, but that's understandable with the length of the story. Their only real function was the inferred homophobic attitudes prevalent in the sport keeping Talbot in the closet. With only moments left in play, I was wondering how the author was going to get the MCs together so close to the end, but she pulled it off and did it well.
All in all, an enjoyable story that I would have been happy for to be a little longer. The action scenes, both news and on field, were well written and fast paced.
After three years away, professional footballer Talbot Wojewódka is back in his hometown of Hawkestone. The town where he left his partner after choosing football and the closet over his long time love, Powell Perdue. Powell spent two years in Amsterdam trying to get over Talbot, but realised that he didn't want to end up hurting the man he was with, cared for, but didn't love, like Talbot had hurt him. So he returned to Hawkestone to work as a news cameraman for the local station. When Talbot and Powell's paths cross it becomes evident that, despite Powell's hurt and anger with Talbot, the love for each other is still there.
The story starts with Powell's POV as he's on location for a news report, and what a great, tense and action packed start it was! Powell is confident, funny, intelligent and friendly. He enjoys his job and is good at it. But he never really got over Talbot "Bot" Wojewódka. As their past relationship is revealed, with the POV alternating between Bot and Po, it remains to be seen if they can find their way together this time around. Bot is deeply closeted and reluctant to rock the boat. After losing his parents as a young teenager, Bot went to live with his Aunt and Uncle, a military man. While they were decent enough, they had never wanted children. Between that and the constant moving, Talbot really only ever wanted to just feel like he belonged somewhere.
I liked Audible, but it didn't ever feel like it quite got there. It seemed to need a little bit longer to really develop the characters and their relationship. Most of the story was spent on Po and Bot's individual stories and Talbot's pursuit of Powell, who kept pushing him away citing Bot's continuing reluctance to open that closet door. A note on names: I still have no idea how Wojewódka is pronounced! There was a perfect opportunity when Bot was meeting the other new team member that the pronunciation could have been addressed. And on the same subject, I couldn't help but giggle at 'Po' and 'Bot'! Probably childish, but come on! Po and Bot?
I felt like I got to know Powell a little more than Talbot, but I did like both. Rancid, the other new player for the Hawkestone Raptors, was pretty cool. He was a good guy and supported Talbot from the start. Etta, Powell's boss at the station, was fantastic! Strong, funny and unapologetic, I really liked her. Her son, Mel, was just like her. I wasn't so fond of cardboard cutout characters Melicent, Mel's twin sister, and Coco, reporter and Powell's work partner. The other members of the Raptors are virtually mere mentions, but that's understandable with the length of the story. Their only real function was the inferred homophobic attitudes prevalent in the sport keeping Talbot in the closet. With only moments left in play, I was wondering how the author was going to get the MCs together so close to the end, but she pulled it off and did it well.
All in all, an enjoyable story that I would have been happy for to be a little longer. The action scenes, both news and on field, were well written and fast paced.
June 21, 2013
Beans: I became caught up in the lives of these men. They have so much in their past it seems impossible to move forward. Po is brave and open and wounded and Talbot is stoic , fearful and lovely. I ached for these men. They had open wounds and dreams that were unfulfilled and needed each other. When they realized the love they had wasn’t lost, but put on hold, there was a beautiful struggle. I do have to say that I loved the sexual tension between them. It was intense.
Nina: I loved this novella. There was a surprising amount of action in this story. Po is awesome and can really think on his feet, if there is ever an emergency I want him standing right next to me.
I always find professional athlete m/m love stories a little heartbreaking. This story was worth a little bit of aching. It was sweet, funny, exciting and full of love. These guys are drool worthy on their own, together they leave a person sweating and needing air and a large cold drink. I enjoyed the relationship between Po and Bot, both past and present. The lasting love they had for each other was beautiful and I was so very glad they got their second chance.
The supporting cast was fantastic. I love it when the author fills the world around the romance with strong characters whose stories I want to know. There were so many friends and coworkers that enriched their lives, making them feel real to me. Because finding yourself facing your past and feeling all the love your younger self felt still filling your heart would be marvelously terrifying. Luckily, these men had a lot of love and support from the people around them. Their story didn't end when the book did, they have some rough miles ahead of them. They also have good people backing them and best of all, they get to make the journey together. Which, really, is all that either of them truly wanted.
Nina: I loved this novella. There was a surprising amount of action in this story. Po is awesome and can really think on his feet, if there is ever an emergency I want him standing right next to me.
I always find professional athlete m/m love stories a little heartbreaking. This story was worth a little bit of aching. It was sweet, funny, exciting and full of love. These guys are drool worthy on their own, together they leave a person sweating and needing air and a large cold drink. I enjoyed the relationship between Po and Bot, both past and present. The lasting love they had for each other was beautiful and I was so very glad they got their second chance.
The supporting cast was fantastic. I love it when the author fills the world around the romance with strong characters whose stories I want to know. There were so many friends and coworkers that enriched their lives, making them feel real to me. Because finding yourself facing your past and feeling all the love your younger self felt still filling your heart would be marvelously terrifying. Luckily, these men had a lot of love and support from the people around them. Their story didn't end when the book did, they have some rough miles ahead of them. They also have good people backing them and best of all, they get to make the journey together. Which, really, is all that either of them truly wanted.
June 8, 2013
My Reaction: goofy smiling face. Disappointment: How come this is so short?
I am so disappointed that this is such a short story. This is one of those that would have come out better if it had been a bit longer. The writing style was great, the story line was great, the characters were great, I liked the suspense in the beginning and wish the author Dawn Kimberly Johnson had spent more time on it or elaborated on it, and the smexy scenes were Just Right!
This is one of those short stories that had not disappointed me and it left me smiling at the end. Kept going on to the next page in hopes that it were longer.
Is it too late to request a longer version?
Three years ago, cameraman Powell Perdue and quarterback Talbot Wojewódka called it quits, citing irreconcilable differences. Powell wanted to live honestly, while Talbot felt he couldn’t and still succeed in professional football. One knee surgery and a trade later, Talbot finds himself back in town and quarterbacking for the Raptors, a struggling expansion team. Powell’s also back, working as a cameraman for KJOC-TV, following two years in Amsterdam and a second failed relationship.
When an interview meant as a publicity play throws them into each other’s path, they’re forced to face a love that never quite died and wounds that never fully healed. For any hope at a win, they’ll have to change up the game. Talbot must brave walking through his closet door and into Powell’s arms, and Powell must risk his heart one more time by standing his ground and giving Talbot a second chance.
I am so disappointed that this is such a short story. This is one of those that would have come out better if it had been a bit longer. The writing style was great, the story line was great, the characters were great, I liked the suspense in the beginning and wish the author Dawn Kimberly Johnson had spent more time on it or elaborated on it, and the smexy scenes were Just Right!
This is one of those short stories that had not disappointed me and it left me smiling at the end. Kept going on to the next page in hopes that it were longer.
Is it too late to request a longer version?
May 7, 2015
This was pretty good throughout the majority of he book. It was a novella-length book and and had enough slow parts that it dampened my enjoyment of the book. I felt like there were too many extraneous characters that didn't add much to the story. There were also some scenes in the book that felt gratuitous, like they were therre to addmore book to the book. I feel it would have worked better as a short story...
The 2 MCs were pretty hot, as were the sex scenes. This book was an intallment in the "Make a Play" collection on Dreamspinner press. The collection on the whole was well worth the investmnent.
The 2 MCs were pretty hot, as were the sex scenes. This book was an intallment in the "Make a Play" collection on Dreamspinner press. The collection on the whole was well worth the investmnent.
August 3, 2013
This fun story starts off with a bang, introducing us to TV cameraman Powell. When he's assigned to cover the local pro football team's new players we learn Powell was once involved in a relationship with quarterback Talbot, and the two men are still profoundly attracted to each other. This was a light, breezy read loaded with fun characters. I would have loved to have seen the story fleshed out and better developed. As it was, the romance felt rushed and some problems weren't fully addressed, but I loved some of the character turns and the crisp, smart writing kept me engaged.
April 9, 2015
Talbot and Powell were together Talbot couldn't come out because of his TV cameraman career Powell as a football player out. Now still in love and have an second chance back will that chance back fire or not.
November 24, 2015
Great love story
Loved this book it kept me up to finish it. The characters were easy to fall for. Great flow and well written. Will recommend this to my friends and family. The only downside was I wanted more it ended to soon. :)
Loved this book it kept me up to finish it. The characters were easy to fall for. Great flow and well written. Will recommend this to my friends and family. The only downside was I wanted more it ended to soon. :)
July 5, 2013
3.5 stars
June 8, 2013
This was a nice story but the reunion was too quick. I didn't really get them as a "couple" before it happened.
April 12, 2016
Not much to say about it; will not stay with me for long.
September 5, 2013
Likeable characters but the relationship seemed to progress really quickly. They had a painful history and that all seemed to fall by the wayside. Apparently Love solves all. Cute book though.
August 4, 2014
3.5 stars
August 30, 2016
3.75
Short and sweet, this story will keep you interested. It has a little intensity and a sideline of angst. It's all about 2nd chances.
Short and sweet, this story will keep you interested. It has a little intensity and a sideline of angst. It's all about 2nd chances.
June 23, 2013
3.5/5 stars
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