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Down Under
The year 2089 finds Australia split between east and west, with a wall to ensure the east stays safe. College student Aiden Taylor is traveling from Perth to Sydney to see Men at Work, who have been revived after cryogenic freezing. Regrettably, only days into his trip, his moped is stolen—and then he meets a naked man from the east. The man turns out to be Matthew King, who offers Aiden a ride—no strings attached—all the way to Sydney.
When another attack occurs the following night, Aiden discovers Matthew’s impossible he’s a were-kanga. At least that gives them something to talk about when they experience delays at the wall. One thing leads to another, and soon friends with benefits turns into something more. But when the summer is over, Aiden must return to school in Perth. How can he leave Matthew behind?
When another attack occurs the following night, Aiden discovers Matthew’s impossible he’s a were-kanga. At least that gives them something to talk about when they experience delays at the wall. One thing leads to another, and soon friends with benefits turns into something more. But when the summer is over, Aiden must return to school in Perth. How can he leave Matthew behind?
128 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 25, 2013
1 person is currently reading
210 people want to read
About the author
Tam Ames
21 books104 followersI'm a single mom to a great adult daughter, and I have a full-time job as well. I started reading m/m romancein 2008, then went to reviewing and then writing.
Some dares and prompting of friends led me to the role of author and they've always been my biggest cheerleaders.
You can contact me at tam.ames01@gmail.com
Some dares and prompting of friends led me to the role of author and they've always been my biggest cheerleaders.
You can contact me at tam.ames01@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
July 11, 2013
Confession time. *clears throat and shuffles feet about* Um…..I knew nothing about this book when I bought it. I mean NOTHING. I skipped the book blurb completely. The Bigger They Are, the Harder They Fall by Tam Ames was one of my favorite discoveries and surprises on the GR block this year. Her style and humor fit right inside my reading heart. I’ve been patiently
That said…..You could imagine my surprise when I came across the first mention of a were-kanga. Haha… I loved this book. Pure story telling magic! An adventure hopping (Come on! :) You have to give me one. ) with humor, chemistry, and energy. Huge energy!
Aiden is determined to make it across Australia on his own. Moped-ing his way to the concert of his dreams. But one thieving gang of thugs later and Aiden’s trip becomes more of a curl up and cry test of survival. Thank goodness for naked heroes! Life swings back around to the happy side in a hurry when Aiden sets eyes and hands all over Matthew, the naked guy swooping in to his rescue. Haha….Sounds crazy, right? But SO much fun! You have to dive in and meet these guys--Aiden especially!
”This is bad, right? You’re in some kind of cult, and now I know about were-kangas, I can never leave? Like the mob? Or that hotel in California? You’ll kill me if I tell? I swear, I’ll never tell anyone. Are you going to make me drink the purple Kool-Aid?”
Aiden is a riot! He has a fast, babbling, energetic voice. A sweetheart with a brain that moves and panics at the speed of light! Some of his jokes and free flowing craziness run a bit long at times, but truly nothing could wipe the smile off my face. I haven’t laughed this hard in a long time. I’m talking belly laughs, happy tears, and snorts! This was my biggest laugh:
Ms. Ames must have had a blast creating this world. You can feel her love and enthusiasm in every Tasmanian devil, ninja kangaroo, and glow! My only disappointment was that I wanted more details on the world around them and more, more were-kanga action. Have you seen the size of a kangaroo’s tail? The fun we could have had with…*cough* Nevermind.
A pure joy to read! I’m still smiling.
Highly recommended.
June 29, 2013
Aiden, a 20-year-old college student, is determined to prove to his mother and best friend that he is able to take care of himself while he is traveling from Perth to Sydney to see Men at Work concert. Alas, on the first night, his moped (and all of his money) is stolen -- and what's with this naked man he meets that night?!?
------------
This little story from Tam Ames is really cute ... I think the key ingredient is because of Aiden as the main narrator. Sometimes his brain is working way over-the-top which ends up in HILARIOUS thoughts and babbling. I wonder how Matthew can keep up with him *lol*. I also love how Matthew is a were-kanga, which is the FIRST were-kanga I ever read, EVER! Good choice of shifter, there, Tam :).
There is a little insta-thingy there, from Matthew -- since he is a shifter and he has a sense of who will be most compatible with him. But I totally love (and agree) with Aiden's reaction there.
...
Aiden squinted. “Are you trying to say this is that ‘mates’ bullshit they pull in romance books? ‘You’re my one true love forever and ever, and I’ll pine and die if I don’t have you’ kind of shit?” He wasn’t convinced.
...
So refreshing to find that kind of reaction about true mates *lol*. I like how they decide to take their time, although those times are pretty much fast forward because of the length of the story.
As for my nitpicks ... for a story that sets in 2089, this feels too, ehm, contemporary. I don't feel any sense of 'futuristic' situation, except for Australia being split in half, and an effect of nuclear explosion. Plane and moped are just too contemporary transportation. I always imagine 73 years in the future, transportation will be more advanced (you know, something like "Beam me up, Scotty" *grin*).
The idea of Aiden, who is only 20-years-old (which means he was born in 2069 -- nice year!), to actually know about The Eagle's "Hotel California"? Also too contemporary. I have 20-year-old friends from my time at school this year, who don't even know New Kids on The Block. For them, it's all about One Direction, Justin Bieber, and those Korean singers.
Plus, all those "baby's" as pet names, Tam. Wwwhhhy??! I have to change those endearments for my sake of sanity, you know?
Other than that ... an very enjoyable light read. I love it. I think Aiden will charm you all :)
------------
This little story from Tam Ames is really cute ... I think the key ingredient is because of Aiden as the main narrator. Sometimes his brain is working way over-the-top which ends up in HILARIOUS thoughts and babbling. I wonder how Matthew can keep up with him *lol*. I also love how Matthew is a were-kanga, which is the FIRST were-kanga I ever read, EVER! Good choice of shifter, there, Tam :).
There is a little insta-thingy there, from Matthew -- since he is a shifter and he has a sense of who will be most compatible with him. But I totally love (and agree) with Aiden's reaction there.
...
Aiden squinted. “Are you trying to say this is that ‘mates’ bullshit they pull in romance books? ‘You’re my one true love forever and ever, and I’ll pine and die if I don’t have you’ kind of shit?” He wasn’t convinced.
...
So refreshing to find that kind of reaction about true mates *lol*. I like how they decide to take their time, although those times are pretty much fast forward because of the length of the story.
As for my nitpicks ... for a story that sets in 2089, this feels too, ehm, contemporary. I don't feel any sense of 'futuristic' situation, except for Australia being split in half, and an effect of nuclear explosion. Plane and moped are just too contemporary transportation. I always imagine 73 years in the future, transportation will be more advanced (you know, something like "Beam me up, Scotty" *grin*).
The idea of Aiden, who is only 20-years-old (which means he was born in 2069 -- nice year!), to actually know about The Eagle's "Hotel California"? Also too contemporary. I have 20-year-old friends from my time at school this year, who don't even know New Kids on The Block. For them, it's all about One Direction, Justin Bieber, and those Korean singers.
Plus, all those "baby's" as pet names, Tam. Wwwhhhy??! I have to change those endearments for my sake of sanity, you know?
Other than that ... an very enjoyable light read. I love it. I think Aiden will charm you all :)
June 27, 2013
4.0/5.0
“Down Under” by Tam Ames is a fun, romantic adventure. Aiden Taylor is a young college student intent on showing the world (or at least his mum) that he is an adult. He has worked slinging burgers to take a trip to see “the cryogenically reconstituted Men at Work come back concert”. The new Prime Minister has changed the national Anthem to “Down Under” and this is an event Aiden does not want to miss.
Despite Aiden’s mums misgivings he takes off on his moped traveling by himself and staying in campgrounds. Shortly into his journey he is awakened to find his moped stolen which had most of his cash and the concert ticket. While bemoaning his situation he realizes someone else is there; a gorgeous naked man....
To read the full review please go to:
http://liveyourlifebuythebook.wordpre...
“Down Under” by Tam Ames is a fun, romantic adventure. Aiden Taylor is a young college student intent on showing the world (or at least his mum) that he is an adult. He has worked slinging burgers to take a trip to see “the cryogenically reconstituted Men at Work come back concert”. The new Prime Minister has changed the national Anthem to “Down Under” and this is an event Aiden does not want to miss.
Despite Aiden’s mums misgivings he takes off on his moped traveling by himself and staying in campgrounds. Shortly into his journey he is awakened to find his moped stolen which had most of his cash and the concert ticket. While bemoaning his situation he realizes someone else is there; a gorgeous naked man....
To read the full review please go to:
http://liveyourlifebuythebook.wordpre...
July 20, 2013
Liked it very much. I found Aiden hilarious. Matthew was a little card board hero, but the combo worked :-)
It was funny, sweet and entertaining.
It was funny, sweet and entertaining.
May 28, 2014
Ok I’m gonna be honest…I didn’t entirely get this story. I mean it was ok. I didn’t hate what I was reading, but it didn’t really resonant with me either. I think in part because there are a lot of things unexplained and a lot of the incidents occur without any real resolution. On the flip side I did like the connection between Aiden and Matthew.
Aiden Taylor is about to head into his final year in college, at twenty he’s convinced he’s an adult and can take care of himself. With his final summer he’s determined to go to Sydney to see the cryogenically unfrozen Men at Work perform once more. The only problem being that after the civil war in Australia the country is now divided between the east and the west. Travelling across that border from Perth to Sydney is not that easy. But Aiden has scrimped and saved and he’s got everything he needs to make the trek with or without his mother’s paranoid permission.
Matthew King is travelling home to Sydney after concluding some business deals in Perth for his family’s company. Stopping at one of the campsites along the way to indulge his other side Matthew certainly didn’t expect to run into a poor soul getting this moped and money stolen in the night. The poor kid is a mess and Matthew finds himself instantly draw to Aiden. Offering Aiden a ride to Sydney reveals the secrets both guys are keeping and springs a bond between them stronger than either could ever expect.
So Aiden is a little too naive for my taste. Leaving any of your belongings outside when you’re camping just seems ridiculously silly. I mean having your moped stolen, ok that sucks, but when you’ve left your money and ticket etc. on it that’s just over the top. Still his despair afterwards was giggle worthy. I loved his suicide mental thoughts they were so ridiculous but in a good way, which sounds totally weird but is somehow fitting. He’s very young mentally but for the most part I was ok with it.
I think my biggest issue with this story though is that a lot of things are left very vaguely explained. I’m not really sure what happened with the civil war and how that changed things. I’m a bit lost over how Aiden’s issue all works. I’m also not sure how that translates into his status within the country. Matthew’s shifter abilities make a little more sense and are certainly easier to hide and pass unnoticed. But a lot of these things just get mentioned and then passed over and are a non-issue the further into the story we get. I just felt like I wasn’t fully integrated into the world in large part because the story is on the shorter side and it’s a lot harder to develop all of those things in such a quick span.
Still I really enjoyed Matthew and Aiden together as they found their balance as a couple. Matthew’s family made me giggle repeatedly at the men’s obliviousness to their cohorts sexual proclivities. I enjoyed watching them squirm and Matthew’s sister-in-laws’ crowing over her own awareness. It was all silly and fun in a good way. I give a lot of leeway for insta-love in shifter stories, which often rest on a mate bond to explain why two people are so compatible so quickly. I liked the fact that in this book the bond existed, but it wasn’t an end all be all. The bond Matthew felt with Aiden didn’t mean they had to be together it just suggested that they would be very compatible into the future. There was the potential to walk away for either of them and not end up destroying the other. Of course they wouldn’t do that. :D
This story has a sweet ending with a HEA all wrapped up in a bow. Like I said I enjoyed it, I just didn’t love it. I think I would enjoy seeing an expanded novel that dove more deeply into the world building and establishing what all the different elements meant. These two men coming together would have had a greater impact for me if I understood more clearly all the political ramifications behind the differences they hide. Still it was fun and sweet with some fun giggle worthy moments. All in all an interesting book, 3.5 stars overall.
Aiden Taylor is about to head into his final year in college, at twenty he’s convinced he’s an adult and can take care of himself. With his final summer he’s determined to go to Sydney to see the cryogenically unfrozen Men at Work perform once more. The only problem being that after the civil war in Australia the country is now divided between the east and the west. Travelling across that border from Perth to Sydney is not that easy. But Aiden has scrimped and saved and he’s got everything he needs to make the trek with or without his mother’s paranoid permission.
Matthew King is travelling home to Sydney after concluding some business deals in Perth for his family’s company. Stopping at one of the campsites along the way to indulge his other side Matthew certainly didn’t expect to run into a poor soul getting this moped and money stolen in the night. The poor kid is a mess and Matthew finds himself instantly draw to Aiden. Offering Aiden a ride to Sydney reveals the secrets both guys are keeping and springs a bond between them stronger than either could ever expect.
So Aiden is a little too naive for my taste. Leaving any of your belongings outside when you’re camping just seems ridiculously silly. I mean having your moped stolen, ok that sucks, but when you’ve left your money and ticket etc. on it that’s just over the top. Still his despair afterwards was giggle worthy. I loved his suicide mental thoughts they were so ridiculous but in a good way, which sounds totally weird but is somehow fitting. He’s very young mentally but for the most part I was ok with it.
I think my biggest issue with this story though is that a lot of things are left very vaguely explained. I’m not really sure what happened with the civil war and how that changed things. I’m a bit lost over how Aiden’s issue all works. I’m also not sure how that translates into his status within the country. Matthew’s shifter abilities make a little more sense and are certainly easier to hide and pass unnoticed. But a lot of these things just get mentioned and then passed over and are a non-issue the further into the story we get. I just felt like I wasn’t fully integrated into the world in large part because the story is on the shorter side and it’s a lot harder to develop all of those things in such a quick span.
Still I really enjoyed Matthew and Aiden together as they found their balance as a couple. Matthew’s family made me giggle repeatedly at the men’s obliviousness to their cohorts sexual proclivities. I enjoyed watching them squirm and Matthew’s sister-in-laws’ crowing over her own awareness. It was all silly and fun in a good way. I give a lot of leeway for insta-love in shifter stories, which often rest on a mate bond to explain why two people are so compatible so quickly. I liked the fact that in this book the bond existed, but it wasn’t an end all be all. The bond Matthew felt with Aiden didn’t mean they had to be together it just suggested that they would be very compatible into the future. There was the potential to walk away for either of them and not end up destroying the other. Of course they wouldn’t do that. :D
This story has a sweet ending with a HEA all wrapped up in a bow. Like I said I enjoyed it, I just didn’t love it. I think I would enjoy seeing an expanded novel that dove more deeply into the world building and establishing what all the different elements meant. These two men coming together would have had a greater impact for me if I understood more clearly all the political ramifications behind the differences they hide. Still it was fun and sweet with some fun giggle worthy moments. All in all an interesting book, 3.5 stars overall.
May 27, 2014
♥ `•.¸.•´ ♥ º ☆.¸¸.•´¯`♥ Too Charming 2 Resist. ♥ `•.¸.•´ ♥ º ☆.¸¸.•´¯`♥
Oh this. Just, so much fun. Honestly, this was just all kinds of fun.
Down Under is a humorous, light and romantic adventure with a couple twists. Aiden had me hooked from page one, kept me smiling and grinning to myself until the end. And what a sweet ending that was!
So, here we have Aiden, the main voice of the story, and reason this was such a charming read. He's all bubbly, energetic, little bundle of crazy (the good kind), and just plain adorable. Aiden's thoughts are constantly running wild ...
We are writing the year 2089, Perth, Australia. A nuclear explosion, which had bathed Western Australia in, caused a split between west and east. Another result were mutations, which made a bunch of humans, glow.
Yep, Aiden glows in the dark :) *squeeee*
Aiden is determined to go on a road trip, by himself, on his moped to see his favorite band in concert. Sadly, on his way to Sydney his moped, including his concert ticket and all his money, was stolen. On the campground he runs into a handsome, naked, man who offers his help and a ride to Sydney (because Aiden really doesn't want to return home and face his mother's 'wrath'..)
Adien is reluctant, but eventually gives in because he had no other options, besides taking his life, perhaps. Turns out, taking that road trip with Matthew, the sweetest were-kanga ever, had been the best decision he ever made….
****
Personally, I really loved the fact, that even though it's set in the future, it's still very, very contemporary. There isn't anything sci-fi about it, no serious world-building and the shifter part is just there.
It all felt real enough to me, I didn't need any of the other bits and pieces, just some real sweet romance! And that's what you get here, a wonderful, fun and adorable romance between two men, were-kanga & glow-in-the-dark, or not.
Both MC's were utterly charming, and where Aiden is simply endearing and fun, Matthew is sexy, with a sweet heart and insatiable love for biscuits. They have wonderful chemistry, and some sexy bed-time-actvities. Yum.
****
And there were just too many fun lines, I could not put it down!
****
I soooo LOVED it.
Oh this. Just, so much fun. Honestly, this was just all kinds of fun.
Down Under is a humorous, light and romantic adventure with a couple twists. Aiden had me hooked from page one, kept me smiling and grinning to myself until the end. And what a sweet ending that was!
So, here we have Aiden, the main voice of the story, and reason this was such a charming read. He's all bubbly, energetic, little bundle of crazy (the good kind), and just plain adorable. Aiden's thoughts are constantly running wild ...
We are writing the year 2089, Perth, Australia. A nuclear explosion, which had bathed Western Australia in, caused a split between west and east. Another result were mutations, which made a bunch of humans, glow.
Yep, Aiden glows in the dark :) *squeeee*
Aiden is determined to go on a road trip, by himself, on his moped to see his favorite band in concert. Sadly, on his way to Sydney his moped, including his concert ticket and all his money, was stolen. On the campground he runs into a handsome, naked, man who offers his help and a ride to Sydney (because Aiden really doesn't want to return home and face his mother's 'wrath'..)
Adien is reluctant, but eventually gives in because he had no other options, besides taking his life, perhaps. Turns out, taking that road trip with Matthew, the sweetest were-kanga ever, had been the best decision he ever made….
****
Personally, I really loved the fact, that even though it's set in the future, it's still very, very contemporary. There isn't anything sci-fi about it, no serious world-building and the shifter part is just there.
It all felt real enough to me, I didn't need any of the other bits and pieces, just some real sweet romance! And that's what you get here, a wonderful, fun and adorable romance between two men, were-kanga & glow-in-the-dark, or not.
Both MC's were utterly charming, and where Aiden is simply endearing and fun, Matthew is sexy, with a sweet heart and insatiable love for biscuits. They have wonderful chemistry, and some sexy bed-time-actvities. Yum.
****
And there were just too many fun lines, I could not put it down!
"Groin to groin, hard-on to… whoa, hard-on. Okay, Matthew definitely treated his friends differently than Aiden did. "
****
“Do you have a preference?” he asked, looking at Aiden while stroking his own cock lightly.
Aiden was confused, and his brain wasn’t quite firing when he answered. “Boys? I thought we were clear on that."
I soooo LOVED it.
June 26, 2013
4 Hearts
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews
Australia has been split in two since 2050 with the East shutting itself off from the West when someone accidentally caused a nuclear explosion. Aiden is looking forward to the Men At Work comeback concert and sets off from Perth for Sydney, it’s a long journey by himself on his moped but he desperately wants to see the group. Unfortunately his moped is stolen along with his money and his prized ticket. Aiden then he meets a naked man, Matthew, who turns into his shining knight who offers him a ride to Sydney. When Aiden is attacked again Matthew comes to his rescue and Aiden discovers the myth about were-kanga’s is true, both men have secrets that they hide and it gives them a lot to talk about when they are held up at the border. They become close but Aiden’s time in Sydney is limited, could they have something more than just a summer romance?
This is a great story that was surprisingly funny and sweet in equal measure. Aiden is a brilliant character who has an unhealthy obsession with murderous Tasmanian devils, his inner monologue is hilarious and is even funnier when it slips out of his mouth. Matthew is kind and generous and is the perfect foil to Aiden’s slightly manic mind, they fit together from the start and make a great couple especially when Aiden stops panicking. The shifter aspect isn’t really that much of a big deal and neither is Aiden’s mutation, it’s more a story of two men who meet on the road and hit it off, shacking up together and falling in love but then one has to leave to return to his life and they decide what to do for the future.
The story is an easy fun read that has the twist of Matthew being in the closet and his dad trying to fit him up with a woman, rather than being angsty it is just a bit tense with some great reactions from Aiden that has you smiling quite often. There is some great sex and Matthew and Aiden certainly make the most of it. What I loved most about this story was that although they quickly jumped into bed together they spent plenty of time getting to know each other before saying ‘I Love You’ and Matthew also had a great explanation for his initial feeling for Aiden.
I recommend this if you want a different kind of shifter, if you want a humorous light read, if you want guys falling in love and finding their happy ever after, this is definitely a story that you should give a chance.
Review written for MM Good Book Reviews
Australia has been split in two since 2050 with the East shutting itself off from the West when someone accidentally caused a nuclear explosion. Aiden is looking forward to the Men At Work comeback concert and sets off from Perth for Sydney, it’s a long journey by himself on his moped but he desperately wants to see the group. Unfortunately his moped is stolen along with his money and his prized ticket. Aiden then he meets a naked man, Matthew, who turns into his shining knight who offers him a ride to Sydney. When Aiden is attacked again Matthew comes to his rescue and Aiden discovers the myth about were-kanga’s is true, both men have secrets that they hide and it gives them a lot to talk about when they are held up at the border. They become close but Aiden’s time in Sydney is limited, could they have something more than just a summer romance?
This is a great story that was surprisingly funny and sweet in equal measure. Aiden is a brilliant character who has an unhealthy obsession with murderous Tasmanian devils, his inner monologue is hilarious and is even funnier when it slips out of his mouth. Matthew is kind and generous and is the perfect foil to Aiden’s slightly manic mind, they fit together from the start and make a great couple especially when Aiden stops panicking. The shifter aspect isn’t really that much of a big deal and neither is Aiden’s mutation, it’s more a story of two men who meet on the road and hit it off, shacking up together and falling in love but then one has to leave to return to his life and they decide what to do for the future.
The story is an easy fun read that has the twist of Matthew being in the closet and his dad trying to fit him up with a woman, rather than being angsty it is just a bit tense with some great reactions from Aiden that has you smiling quite often. There is some great sex and Matthew and Aiden certainly make the most of it. What I loved most about this story was that although they quickly jumped into bed together they spent plenty of time getting to know each other before saying ‘I Love You’ and Matthew also had a great explanation for his initial feeling for Aiden.
I recommend this if you want a different kind of shifter, if you want a humorous light read, if you want guys falling in love and finding their happy ever after, this is definitely a story that you should give a chance.
March 9, 2015
****Reviewed for Prism Book Alliance****
This had been on my tbr for a while. I was intrigued by the blurb but somehow never got around to it. I managed to today and regretted not reading it sooner.
It was a fun twist on a shifter novel with low angst and lots of humour. Poor Aidan is not having the best of luck, unless you count running into hot naked men (well one man at any rate) in the middle of the night. The story isn’t very deep but it is entertaining.
My only complaint was the constant comments Aidan made about himself being like a girl for getting emotional. It started to get on my nerves. However, the rest of the book was light and charming so I was willing to overlook it.
All in all, a good book for a lazy afternoon.
This had been on my tbr for a while. I was intrigued by the blurb but somehow never got around to it. I managed to today and regretted not reading it sooner.
It was a fun twist on a shifter novel with low angst and lots of humour. Poor Aidan is not having the best of luck, unless you count running into hot naked men (well one man at any rate) in the middle of the night. The story isn’t very deep but it is entertaining.
My only complaint was the constant comments Aidan made about himself being like a girl for getting emotional. It started to get on my nerves. However, the rest of the book was light and charming so I was willing to overlook it.
All in all, a good book for a lazy afternoon.
June 27, 2013
4 Stars
"Down Under" by Tam Ames is a fun, romantic adventure. Aiden Taylor is a young college student intent on showing the world (or at least his mum) that he is an adult. He has worked slinging burgers to take a trip to see “the cryogenically reconstituted Men at Work come back concert”. The new Prime Minister has changed the national Anthem to “Down Under” and this is an event Aiden does not want to miss.
Despite Aiden’s mums misgivings he takes off on his moped traveling by himself and staying in campgrounds. Shortly into his journey he is awakened to find his moped stolen which had most of his cash and the concert ticket. While bemoaning his situation he realizes someone else is there; a gorgeous naked man. Aiden thinks he is dreaming but it turns out the man is very real and his name is Matthew King. Matthew lives in Sydney and is returning from a business trip in Perth.
Not wanting to tell his mum, Aiden comes up with some pretty hilarious fantasies to sort out his dilemma. Luckily he had some cash and his passport with him that was not on the stolen moped and a hot guy offering to take him to Sydney. Matthew is heading back that way anyway and says he would enjoy the company. The two setoff together and as they travel, the attraction between them grows. During their first night together there is another attempted robbery, this time of Matthew’s car. Aiden is attacked and during his rescue he thinks he sees a kangaroo attacking the men. Once he gains consciousness he finds out that the tale told to scare little kids about were-kangas has some truth even if Matthew is not the scary creature of those tales. Once again Aiden uses humor to deal with his problems and truth be known, he has a secret of his own.
The Australia of 2089 has been divided between the East and West complete with patrolled border crossings. It seems the borders can be closed and access restricted even when you have a passport. This leaves Matthew and Aiden four days in which to kill time before they have their appointment to cross. Thank goodness for hotel beds that sag in the middle.
I thoroughly enjoyed the light humor of the story. Aiden is a bit over the top and his reactions to situations are eye roll worthy at times. I thought it fit wonderfully into the story. Matthew is a lovely match for the young inexperienced Aiden. They both have issues they need to come to terms with and the romance is sexy and sweet. Matthew’s family, their reaction to Aiden and the ensuing events kept with the light hearted theme of the book. The origin of were-kangas is not really explored but it was a fun take on weres. It is nice to see a world where two men getting married is not an issue but at the same time the division of the country was a bit unsettling.
This is a quick read and if you are looking for a light, quirky, sexy romance, with were-kangas as an added bonus, this just might be the book for you.
Deb's review can also be found at Live Your Life, Buy The Book
"Down Under" by Tam Ames is a fun, romantic adventure. Aiden Taylor is a young college student intent on showing the world (or at least his mum) that he is an adult. He has worked slinging burgers to take a trip to see “the cryogenically reconstituted Men at Work come back concert”. The new Prime Minister has changed the national Anthem to “Down Under” and this is an event Aiden does not want to miss.
Despite Aiden’s mums misgivings he takes off on his moped traveling by himself and staying in campgrounds. Shortly into his journey he is awakened to find his moped stolen which had most of his cash and the concert ticket. While bemoaning his situation he realizes someone else is there; a gorgeous naked man. Aiden thinks he is dreaming but it turns out the man is very real and his name is Matthew King. Matthew lives in Sydney and is returning from a business trip in Perth.
Not wanting to tell his mum, Aiden comes up with some pretty hilarious fantasies to sort out his dilemma. Luckily he had some cash and his passport with him that was not on the stolen moped and a hot guy offering to take him to Sydney. Matthew is heading back that way anyway and says he would enjoy the company. The two setoff together and as they travel, the attraction between them grows. During their first night together there is another attempted robbery, this time of Matthew’s car. Aiden is attacked and during his rescue he thinks he sees a kangaroo attacking the men. Once he gains consciousness he finds out that the tale told to scare little kids about were-kangas has some truth even if Matthew is not the scary creature of those tales. Once again Aiden uses humor to deal with his problems and truth be known, he has a secret of his own.
The Australia of 2089 has been divided between the East and West complete with patrolled border crossings. It seems the borders can be closed and access restricted even when you have a passport. This leaves Matthew and Aiden four days in which to kill time before they have their appointment to cross. Thank goodness for hotel beds that sag in the middle.
I thoroughly enjoyed the light humor of the story. Aiden is a bit over the top and his reactions to situations are eye roll worthy at times. I thought it fit wonderfully into the story. Matthew is a lovely match for the young inexperienced Aiden. They both have issues they need to come to terms with and the romance is sexy and sweet. Matthew’s family, their reaction to Aiden and the ensuing events kept with the light hearted theme of the book. The origin of were-kangas is not really explored but it was a fun take on weres. It is nice to see a world where two men getting married is not an issue but at the same time the division of the country was a bit unsettling.
This is a quick read and if you are looking for a light, quirky, sexy romance, with were-kangas as an added bonus, this just might be the book for you.
Deb's review can also be found at Live Your Life, Buy The Book
February 9, 2014
3.75*
Ok this is set in the not too distant future, Australia has been spilt in half.
Matthew comes from the 'better' half and is on his way home when he runs across Liam.
Liam was robbed of all his possessions and even worse, his tickets to the revival concert of Men At Work.
He's devastated and slightly shocked when the very naked Matthew offers his help.
Well Matthew keeps saving Liam's rear ( and to think Liam's mom was worried he was going to run into trouble *scoffs* )
This is told from Liam's POV and Liam has some funny thoughts and ways of thinking.
“Groin to groin, hard-on to… whoa, hard-on. Okay, Matthew definitely treated his friends differently than Aiden did. Aiden gasped and suddenly there were lips on his, softly coaxing his mouth open as his head spun. Naked guy, pressed up against him, in a bed, naked, kissing him, naked. Did he mention naked?”
And both of these guys have secrets, too.
So cute, sweet and totally easy fun and light.
A great way to spend an hour.
Ok this is set in the not too distant future, Australia has been spilt in half.
Matthew comes from the 'better' half and is on his way home when he runs across Liam.
Liam was robbed of all his possessions and even worse, his tickets to the revival concert of Men At Work.
He's devastated and slightly shocked when the very naked Matthew offers his help.
Well Matthew keeps saving Liam's rear ( and to think Liam's mom was worried he was going to run into trouble *scoffs* )
This is told from Liam's POV and Liam has some funny thoughts and ways of thinking.
“Groin to groin, hard-on to… whoa, hard-on. Okay, Matthew definitely treated his friends differently than Aiden did. Aiden gasped and suddenly there were lips on his, softly coaxing his mouth open as his head spun. Naked guy, pressed up against him, in a bed, naked, kissing him, naked. Did he mention naked?”
And both of these guys have secrets, too.
So cute, sweet and totally easy fun and light.
A great way to spend an hour.
October 12, 2014
3.5 Stars.
To not to repeat opinions for nothing, I agree almost completely with Ami's review, especially in regard to the feeling that the story is too contemporary to be futuristic.
In the only one of her nitpicks that I don't coincide is that the endearments didn't bother me; them do to the character's portrait in my opinion.
To that I add that for moments the story became a little flat and tedious, without events that keep sufficiently my interest, to the point that I delayed three days in being done with this relatively short story.
I want to finish emphasizing that I liked very much the neatness of Tam's writing style, the same that catches me in her reviews.
To not to repeat opinions for nothing, I agree almost completely with Ami's review, especially in regard to the feeling that the story is too contemporary to be futuristic.
In the only one of her nitpicks that I don't coincide is that the endearments didn't bother me; them do to the character's portrait in my opinion.
To that I add that for moments the story became a little flat and tedious, without events that keep sufficiently my interest, to the point that I delayed three days in being done with this relatively short story.
I want to finish emphasizing that I liked very much the neatness of Tam's writing style, the same that catches me in her reviews.
dnf
May 26, 2015I made it about 49 pages into this story but couldn't continue. Aiden protested so much that he wasn't a kid but every thought, action, and reaction like someone a good five years younger than his proclaimed twenty. And Matthew. First thing he says is that he won't try to sleep with aiden. Five pages later what is doing? Trying to seduce Aiden. The bits of plot felt like they were dropped on you like Tetris blocks that don't quite fit. It may be that I am just having a low tolerance day because I have enjoyed Tam's writing in the past. However, Down Under is a miss for me due to poor characterization and bizarre pacing. Since I did not finish the book I will not give it a starred rating.
June 25, 2013
4.5 stars!!
Pre-Release Review posted on "The Blog of Sid Love"
Pre-Release Review posted on "The Blog of Sid Love"
November 9, 2018
I think this could've been a good novel. As a novella, it falls somewhat short. Significant chunks, and critically these are relationship development points, are quickly summarized in a textbook case of telling where showing would have been stronger.
Aiden didn't seem mature enough to be in this relationship, and his incessant (and misogynistic) worrying that emotions made him "a girl" really got on my nerves.
There are some gems of lines in here which I enjoyed, and the unique premise is very cool, so I really wanted to like it more than I did. Ah, well.
Aiden didn't seem mature enough to be in this relationship, and his incessant (and misogynistic) worrying that emotions made him "a girl" really got on my nerves.
There are some gems of lines in here which I enjoyed, and the unique premise is very cool, so I really wanted to like it more than I did. Ah, well.
January 11, 2018
I love the idea of the world. With Australia being divided in half. Mutants glowing in the dark, best of all were-kangas. I'd love more in this world, with more details.
Aiden swears he's not a kid, but he acts pretty childish. Just the defensiveness alone, when someone calls him kid, makes him seem younger.
I really wish Aiden had admitted he loved Matthew, before he was given the tickets.
Very cute though. I enjoyed it.
Aiden swears he's not a kid, but he acts pretty childish. Just the defensiveness alone, when someone calls him kid, makes him seem younger.
I really wish Aiden had admitted he loved Matthew, before he was given the tickets.
Very cute though. I enjoyed it.
August 6, 2013
B+
What an interesting book. There is quite a lot going on in this book along with a very cute, funny love story. The world the author has come up with is extremely intriguing and I wanted more of it. I thought it was incredibly creative and felt new. I like the small glimpse we are given into a society that was both dystopian in feel, and with the were-kanga, shifter. I know very little about Oz and the landscape, but again the author gave me just enough description to have me in the story, in the campsites, on the road, in the city. I liked all the different layers behind the love story.
The love story itself was incredibly fun. Aiden is funny and vibrant with goals and dreams that the young have without the fear of failure...until everything goes wrong. I mean everything. He is a beautiful combination of naive and fearless, but also quivering in his boots. The chance he takes when Matthew bounds in on the scene to save his skin, is reckless. But I couldn’t stop reading.
I wrote out a list. Never go on a great adventure on a moped. Never camp alone. Never let a naked were-kanga into your tent. Okay maybe the last one...because Matthew was Aiden’s saving grace. The snarky and funny relationship with the flaming hot smexy-time scenes were great.
I loved how Matthew underestimated his family. I loved how Aiden’s mom was worried sick. I loved the two of them figuring out this crazy relationship together.
If there were any complaints it would be that I wanted more world building and a larger scope of interaction with the problems they faced. It’s never a bad thing to want more from an author. So bring on more were-kanga and mutant Aussies. I’m in.
Reviewed by Beans
What an interesting book. There is quite a lot going on in this book along with a very cute, funny love story. The world the author has come up with is extremely intriguing and I wanted more of it. I thought it was incredibly creative and felt new. I like the small glimpse we are given into a society that was both dystopian in feel, and with the were-kanga, shifter. I know very little about Oz and the landscape, but again the author gave me just enough description to have me in the story, in the campsites, on the road, in the city. I liked all the different layers behind the love story.
The love story itself was incredibly fun. Aiden is funny and vibrant with goals and dreams that the young have without the fear of failure...until everything goes wrong. I mean everything. He is a beautiful combination of naive and fearless, but also quivering in his boots. The chance he takes when Matthew bounds in on the scene to save his skin, is reckless. But I couldn’t stop reading.
I wrote out a list. Never go on a great adventure on a moped. Never camp alone. Never let a naked were-kanga into your tent. Okay maybe the last one...because Matthew was Aiden’s saving grace. The snarky and funny relationship with the flaming hot smexy-time scenes were great.
I loved how Matthew underestimated his family. I loved how Aiden’s mom was worried sick. I loved the two of them figuring out this crazy relationship together.
If there were any complaints it would be that I wanted more world building and a larger scope of interaction with the problems they faced. It’s never a bad thing to want more from an author. So bring on more were-kanga and mutant Aussies. I’m in.
Reviewed by Beans
July 14, 2017
synopsis:
it is the future, and australia has been split into two halves, east and west. aiden is trying to head to the west to see a men at work concert. as he travels, his moped is stolen, so he loses his ticket and his money, but he meets a naked guy. when aiden runs into matthew the next morning in the wash house, matthew offers to take him to sydney. aiden agrees and they travel together. along the way, matthew learns that aiden glows, and aiden learns that matthew is a were-kangaroo. they are stopped at the border for a few days, and get to know one another even better. when they hit sydney, matthew invites aiden to stay at his place.
what i liked: i liked the unique story setting. i also liked aiden, and how he was determined to still have an adventure, even though he didn't have the money. i liked that matthew didn't have a problem with aiden hitching a ride.
what i didn't like: there were a lot of secrets kept for such a short story.
it is the future, and australia has been split into two halves, east and west. aiden is trying to head to the west to see a men at work concert. as he travels, his moped is stolen, so he loses his ticket and his money, but he meets a naked guy. when aiden runs into matthew the next morning in the wash house, matthew offers to take him to sydney. aiden agrees and they travel together. along the way, matthew learns that aiden glows, and aiden learns that matthew is a were-kangaroo. they are stopped at the border for a few days, and get to know one another even better. when they hit sydney, matthew invites aiden to stay at his place.
what i liked: i liked the unique story setting. i also liked aiden, and how he was determined to still have an adventure, even though he didn't have the money. i liked that matthew didn't have a problem with aiden hitching a ride.
what i didn't like: there were a lot of secrets kept for such a short story.
September 1, 2016
Down Under was a funny, fast, sweet, romantic ride of a story. It is set in the future and has were-kanga (smile) characters in it, but was far from being either a futuristic or shifter story. To me what it was closest to was a fairy tale with a marvelous MC/narrator. Aiden was the main draw and selling point of Down Under. I loved his voice and reading all of his skittering, humorous thoughts and ideas. I also enjoyed the sweet and sexy relationship that developed between Aiden and Matthew. I do agree with several other reviewers that it seemed too contemporary to be set on 2089. I also would have liked a bit more were-kanga action (other than what took place in Aiden's imagination) as I loved that concept.
Overall, though Down Under was a pleasure to read and left me with a smile on my face.
Overall, though Down Under was a pleasure to read and left me with a smile on my face.
September 8, 2013
The moment I got to the cryogenically frozen Men At Work followed by the mention of were-kangas I was SOLD. I'm rather drawn to odd and quirky books because I write them. I like to see the strangeness others come up with. Ames was clearly having a good ol time writing this and I couldn't stop grinning.
I would have liked to see more details on the worldbuilding but to be honest it wasn't needed. I was just rolling with Aiden's and Matthew's story. My only nitpick I'd have to say are all of the problems they faced were mere small misunderstandings and were smoothed over in minutes. I didn't need angst, I just wanted to see issues that needed time to sort through.
Overall it was fluffy, silly, and a helluva lot of fun. I'll defintely be buying more Tam Ames books. :D
I would have liked to see more details on the worldbuilding but to be honest it wasn't needed. I was just rolling with Aiden's and Matthew's story. My only nitpick I'd have to say are all of the problems they faced were mere small misunderstandings and were smoothed over in minutes. I didn't need angst, I just wanted to see issues that needed time to sort through.
Overall it was fluffy, silly, and a helluva lot of fun. I'll defintely be buying more Tam Ames books. :D
April 7, 2016
A really silly fun read with some humor, just what I needed after the last tear-jerker. I would have given this a five star read if there was more were-kanga shifting written into the plot. I mean how unique is that?! A missed opportunity to play that up more. And I really liked this world idea with the wall dividing Australia between the mutants and others. I hope there is another book in the works, there is so much more I want to enjoy, give me more were-kangas!
July 9, 2013
Received this one From a contest from the Author.
Loved this Sweet Quick read.
Enjoyed the Quirky Characters, Interesting setting, and Slightly Predictable Plot. Love the slight Twists on Boy save Boy Story Line With a Happily Ever after.
Recommend this one to any one who Loves their M/M Hot with a sweet side.
Loved this Sweet Quick read.
Enjoyed the Quirky Characters, Interesting setting, and Slightly Predictable Plot. Love the slight Twists on Boy save Boy Story Line With a Happily Ever after.
Recommend this one to any one who Loves their M/M Hot with a sweet side.
March 3, 2014
This was a fun read! I love Aiden's inner monologues, lol. Matthew was a sweetheart! <3
I love that both were hiding something and it made them even cooler in my eyes! :) I love shifter/paranormal stuff, especially unique ones so those were definitely a plus! And a happily ever after in the works? A+++
I love that both were hiding something and it made them even cooler in my eyes! :) I love shifter/paranormal stuff, especially unique ones so those were definitely a plus! And a happily ever after in the works? A+++
August 29, 2015
The depiction of Australian in the future is more the product of non-Australian fantasies about what the country is like -- Paul Hogan has a lot to answer for -- than an actual reflection of how the culture could evolve. While this is meant to be amusing, I found it offensive from the start ("Down Under" was the national anthem) and could not finish.
September 9, 2016
There was lots to enjoy in this futuristic shifter story.
Read
July 1, 20134.5 Stars
Please read review at The Blog of Sid Love
Please read review at The Blog of Sid Love
July 18, 2013
Strange background but I really liked it.
October 3, 2015
3.5 stars rounded up
September 13, 2014
Freaking hilarious!
August 13, 2014
loved this!
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