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Impulse #1-3
Impulse: The Complete Trilogy
(This Digital Box Set contains all three volumes of the Impulse trilogy: Inertia, Acceleration and Velocity)
DRAWN TOGETHER BY IRRESISTIBLE FORCES
Quiet, grounded Detroit handyman Derrick Chance isn’t looking for a relationship. After spending his twenties recovering from a series of tragic losses, he’s content with his insular existence and not interested in risking the possibility of losing anyone else.
Stylish accountant Gavin Hayes has every reason to avoid entanglements, too. Fresh out of an abusive relationship with a world-class manipulator, he questions whether he’s ever going to be fit for another partner. At the very least, it will be months before he knows just how big an issue his future health will be if he tries again.
But when a series of home repairs unexpectedly turns into an extravagant game of flirtation, they discover that the last thing they thought they wanted is the one thing they can’t live without. As the autumn months pass and they wait for the final verdict on Gavin’s health, the two wounded men learn to open up, to let someone into their lives, and to trust again. But when Gavin’s dangerous ex re-enters the picture, will their new and fragile bond withstand the final test?
DRAWN TOGETHER BY IRRESISTIBLE FORCES
Quiet, grounded Detroit handyman Derrick Chance isn’t looking for a relationship. After spending his twenties recovering from a series of tragic losses, he’s content with his insular existence and not interested in risking the possibility of losing anyone else.
Stylish accountant Gavin Hayes has every reason to avoid entanglements, too. Fresh out of an abusive relationship with a world-class manipulator, he questions whether he’s ever going to be fit for another partner. At the very least, it will be months before he knows just how big an issue his future health will be if he tries again.
But when a series of home repairs unexpectedly turns into an extravagant game of flirtation, they discover that the last thing they thought they wanted is the one thing they can’t live without. As the autumn months pass and they wait for the final verdict on Gavin’s health, the two wounded men learn to open up, to let someone into their lives, and to trust again. But when Gavin’s dangerous ex re-enters the picture, will their new and fragile bond withstand the final test?
414 pages, ebook
First published June 26, 2013
1 person is currently reading
67 people want to read
About the author
Amelia C. Gormley
25 books226 followersAmelia C. Gormley published her first short story in the school newspaper in the 4th grade, and since then has suffered the persistent delusion that enabling other people to hear the voices in her head might be a worthwhile endeavor. She’s even convinced her hapless spouse that it could be a lucrative one as well, especially when coupled with her real-life interest in angst, kink, social justice issues, and pretty men.
When her husband and son aren’t interacting with the back of her head as she stares at the computer, they rely on her to feed them, maintain their domicile, and keep some semblance of order in their lives (all very, very bad ideas—they really should know better by now.) She can also be found playing video games and ranting on Tumblr, seeing as how she’s one of those horrid social justice warriors out to destroy free speech, gaming, geek culture, and everything else that’s fun everywhere.
You can find her self-published Impulse trilogy almost anywhere ebooks are sold, and check out her catalog of Riptide Publishing releases at their website.
(NOTE: If you are sending me a friends request just to try to promote your books to me or invite me to release events, I will unfriend and block you. I don't use GoodReads to spam people and neither should you.)
When her husband and son aren’t interacting with the back of her head as she stares at the computer, they rely on her to feed them, maintain their domicile, and keep some semblance of order in their lives (all very, very bad ideas—they really should know better by now.) She can also be found playing video games and ranting on Tumblr, seeing as how she’s one of those horrid social justice warriors out to destroy free speech, gaming, geek culture, and everything else that’s fun everywhere.
You can find her self-published Impulse trilogy almost anywhere ebooks are sold, and check out her catalog of Riptide Publishing releases at their website.
(NOTE: If you are sending me a friends request just to try to promote your books to me or invite me to release events, I will unfriend and block you. I don't use GoodReads to spam people and neither should you.)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
April 11, 2014
This book was provided free by the author in exchange for an honest review, through the Goodreads “Don't Buy My Love” program.
I really enjoyed this story. The pacing was wonderfully natural, and I loved seeing the bond between Gavin and Derrick develop over the course of the story. There was no instant love between them, and I appreciated that.
I really enjoyed both Derrick, and Gavin. They felt like real people to me, and their problems and issues felt honest, and not like silly, or contrived drama. I appreciated that, even though Derrick had been out of the dating scene for 10 years, he wasn't naïve, or sheltered. He was just a regular guy who had his own reasons for choosing not to chance the dating scene.
The ending fit the mood of the story, and the characters. I really loved the quiet feeling of this story. It was quite a departure from the other book by this author that I read, but I liked that. It really shows her range as an author, and I look forward to reading more of her books.
I really enjoyed this story. The pacing was wonderfully natural, and I loved seeing the bond between Gavin and Derrick develop over the course of the story. There was no instant love between them, and I appreciated that.
I really enjoyed both Derrick, and Gavin. They felt like real people to me, and their problems and issues felt honest, and not like silly, or contrived drama. I appreciated that, even though Derrick had been out of the dating scene for 10 years, he wasn't naïve, or sheltered. He was just a regular guy who had his own reasons for choosing not to chance the dating scene.
The ending fit the mood of the story, and the characters. I really loved the quiet feeling of this story. It was quite a departure from the other book by this author that I read, but I liked that. It really shows her range as an author, and I look forward to reading more of her books.
April 26, 2014
This author will be the death of me!! She's absolutely fabulous, and this trilogy is yet another amazing example of her wonderful writing. 5 stars
This is an amalgam of 3 novels 'Inertia', 'Acceleration' and 'Velocity' and tells the tale of Derrick and Gavin, their subsequent getting-to-know one another, and the issues that arise from their decision to get serious.
There is a character in this trilogy who definitely needs stringing up, he is completely vile and who more than gets his just desserts by the end of the book thank goodness...
Tissues would be good...Derrick has had a particularly hard time of things in the past, and be prepared for lots of anger at some of the things that happen throughout the 3 stories, but other than that, when you have a spare few hours, just sit back, take the phone off the hook and wallow in the 'awesomesauce' that is Amelia C Gormley's writing. Just so, so good!!
Many thanks to Deb for reading the original stories, and whose reviews made me want to read this. Mwah!!
This is an amalgam of 3 novels 'Inertia', 'Acceleration' and 'Velocity' and tells the tale of Derrick and Gavin, their subsequent getting-to-know one another, and the issues that arise from their decision to get serious.
There is a character in this trilogy who definitely needs stringing up, he is completely vile and who more than gets his just desserts by the end of the book thank goodness...
Tissues would be good...Derrick has had a particularly hard time of things in the past, and be prepared for lots of anger at some of the things that happen throughout the 3 stories, but other than that, when you have a spare few hours, just sit back, take the phone off the hook and wallow in the 'awesomesauce' that is Amelia C Gormley's writing. Just so, so good!!
Many thanks to Deb for reading the original stories, and whose reviews made me want to read this. Mwah!!
March 28, 2014
Disclaimer: The author furnished a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I’m a relatively new reader in the m/m romance genre (about 100 titles over the last 6 months) and it has been fascinating to see the variety of ways in which authors deal with sex. There seems to be a continuum, ranging from what amounts to little more than porn tossed in for entertainment and sales value, to beautiful, delicately written, sometimes almost spiritual experiences. Gormley definitely falls somewhere toward the loftier end of this spectrum. No one will be too shocked that, as a gay man, everything I encounter in life has some connection to musical comedy. In Musical Theatre 101, I was taught that up until 1943 a musical number tended to interrupt the plot and then, when the singers and dancers left the stage, the story would resume. Oklahoma! was groundbreaking because, for the first time, the musical numbers were integrated into the story, gave insight into the inner lives of the characters, and even moved the plot forward. This is exactly how I felt about the sex scenes throughout the Impulse trilogy. And, let’s face it, these books have A LOT of very, VERY HOT sex!!! Yet, rather than merely titillate, Gormley has a unique talent for integrating sex into the story and using it to reveal to the reader what is going on the in hearts and minds of her characters. This alone would place her work well above the tawdry fray, but what really knocked my socks off is that she actually advances the plot through the medium of the sexual act. All the while Gavin and Derrick are grappling with buttons and zippers and condoms and lube, they are simultaneously struggling with and working through the baggage and the inner demons that stand in the way of their individual happiness and the possibility of a nurturing relationship. The reader actually experiences the development of intimacy between two men as it is developing! Seeing this couple growing toward one another is almost like watching plants as they slowly turn to face the sun, except . . . did I mention that these guys are really, really hot?
Along with a striking ability to bring her characters to life in vibrant Technicolor, I was very impressed by the honesty and openness with which HIV infection was handled. With any book I read, I usually have no trouble mentioning a “negative” or two, if only to keep things in balance, but I simply can’t find a single thing I don’t adore about these books. I hope it doesn’t stop at a trilogy and that we will see more of Derrick and Gavin in the future!
I’m a relatively new reader in the m/m romance genre (about 100 titles over the last 6 months) and it has been fascinating to see the variety of ways in which authors deal with sex. There seems to be a continuum, ranging from what amounts to little more than porn tossed in for entertainment and sales value, to beautiful, delicately written, sometimes almost spiritual experiences. Gormley definitely falls somewhere toward the loftier end of this spectrum. No one will be too shocked that, as a gay man, everything I encounter in life has some connection to musical comedy. In Musical Theatre 101, I was taught that up until 1943 a musical number tended to interrupt the plot and then, when the singers and dancers left the stage, the story would resume. Oklahoma! was groundbreaking because, for the first time, the musical numbers were integrated into the story, gave insight into the inner lives of the characters, and even moved the plot forward. This is exactly how I felt about the sex scenes throughout the Impulse trilogy. And, let’s face it, these books have A LOT of very, VERY HOT sex!!! Yet, rather than merely titillate, Gormley has a unique talent for integrating sex into the story and using it to reveal to the reader what is going on the in hearts and minds of her characters. This alone would place her work well above the tawdry fray, but what really knocked my socks off is that she actually advances the plot through the medium of the sexual act. All the while Gavin and Derrick are grappling with buttons and zippers and condoms and lube, they are simultaneously struggling with and working through the baggage and the inner demons that stand in the way of their individual happiness and the possibility of a nurturing relationship. The reader actually experiences the development of intimacy between two men as it is developing! Seeing this couple growing toward one another is almost like watching plants as they slowly turn to face the sun, except . . . did I mention that these guys are really, really hot?
Along with a striking ability to bring her characters to life in vibrant Technicolor, I was very impressed by the honesty and openness with which HIV infection was handled. With any book I read, I usually have no trouble mentioning a “negative” or two, if only to keep things in balance, but I simply can’t find a single thing I don’t adore about these books. I hope it doesn’t stop at a trilogy and that we will see more of Derrick and Gavin in the future!
March 24, 2014
I received this book in exchange for an honest review via the Goodreads Don't Buy My Love program.
OMG. I simply could not stop reading this book collection. The complete Impulse Collection features a love story between two adult men, Derrick, a gay man who is a virtual relationship-recluse, and Gavin, a worldly, wealthy, out gay man who is currently single and fearing results of recent HIV testing.
The beginning book, INERTIA, is told from Derrick's POV. He is an orphan since age 14, and currently has no remaining family. His brother died in Iraq, and he cared for his grandparents during their illnesses, but they passed on a decade ago. He has one had one girlfriend/sexual partner, LeeAnn, in his whole life and that relationship ended ten years ago, as well. LeeAnn had noticed Derrick's homosexual tendencies, and, while he's never explored, he's confident she was right. Derrick chose to hide himself away, emotionally and sexually, because he can't bear the thought of losing another loved one. He remains friendly with LeeAnn and Devon, his BFF from high school, and an elderly neighbor, only because they have know him his whole adult life, but he is unable to form close friendships easily. Derrick is a handyman, by trade, and he mostly keeps to himself with only a few social outlets.
On a custom job to build bookshelves for a new client, Gavin, Derrick is blindsided by Gavin's frank appraisal and sexual flirtation. Having sheltered his heart for so long, Derrick is unable to respond in kind, but repeated calls to repair one or another 'malfunctioning' appliance at Gavin's posh loft leave no doubt of Gavin's intent. And, Derrick reluctantly caves.
Unfortunately, Gavin's previous lover, Lukas, had coerced Gavin into unprotected sex, and refused to divulge his HIV status. So far, Gavin's tests have come back negative, but it's only been two months, and six are required for complete "clearance". The idea of falling in with another person who will become ill is overwhelming to Derrick, no matter how attracted he is to Gavin. He actually doesn't care about the HIV, it's more the notion that he will watch another person die that abhors him.
Still, Derrick can't stay away. And they really connect. It is a wonderful and soul-achingly excellent match. I just about died from all the tension and release thereof. Also, hot sex? Here. But, it's all protected so we don't agonize for Derrick's safety.
The second book, ACCELERATION, is exactly that. First meetings of friends, Derrick coming out publicly. The new stresses being a couple. Derrick tells this story, again, and it's a great insight. He's so used to caring for others, to controlling everything around him, that exposing even the slightest vulnerability is a huge leap of faith for him. Gavin is, at times, frustrated with Derrick's emotional strength and reserve. Particularly, when Derrick is being harassed by a hockey teammate for being gay. Derrick just wants to ignore these problems, but Gavin makes him face them, again making Derrick uncomfortable with the vulnerability of the situation.
Also, we pass the three month HIV test with flying colors, but there's new cause for worry--Lukas confesses to having been a rentboy in college, and later, while still refusing to get tested--upping the chances that Gavin's infected.
Regardless, Derrick and Gavin spend weeks together, building what seems to be a solid relationship. They do have a blow up, and it's reasonable that they need some time apart. Doing so only cements their strong bond, however. The sex? Molten. Seems delicious Gavin is a bit of a Dom. And, our control-freak Derrick is more than happy to lay those burdens down now and again. Dom/sub acts did not require the use of any outside tools/toys.
The third book, VELOCITY, brings an even faster pitch--as well as Gavin's voice to the POV. The chapters don't exactly alternate, but there are many told from Gavin's perspective. Lukas is back, chipping away at Gavin's confidence, trying to lure him away from Derrick. This especially insidious because he claims to be HIV positive, and with weeks to Gavin's six month deadline, he preys upon Gavin's fears that Derrick will abandon him. Or worse, that he'll infect his beloved partner. My god, the tension is so high! I couldn't stop turning the pages.
I will not give out the end, but I will say the pace never lets up. And, that I thoroughly loved this trilogy. And, I'm completely unsettled after reading it. Not because the ending isn't fantastic, but because I am so frustrated that my time with Derrick and Gavin is now up and I don't want to move on, dammit! I love these guys. They're freaking awesome. The sex? Ah-freaking-mazing. Just. The. Best. Really.
There are so many heart strings pulled, I think I might have internal damage. I really agonized with Gavin as his waiting game played out. And Derrick is so steadfast and confident. He committed his whole heart, long before he knew--because that was his way. He never once considered not being there for Gavin, because he loved him, and he would never abandon someone he loved.
OMG. I simply could not stop reading this book collection. The complete Impulse Collection features a love story between two adult men, Derrick, a gay man who is a virtual relationship-recluse, and Gavin, a worldly, wealthy, out gay man who is currently single and fearing results of recent HIV testing.
The beginning book, INERTIA, is told from Derrick's POV. He is an orphan since age 14, and currently has no remaining family. His brother died in Iraq, and he cared for his grandparents during their illnesses, but they passed on a decade ago. He has one had one girlfriend/sexual partner, LeeAnn, in his whole life and that relationship ended ten years ago, as well. LeeAnn had noticed Derrick's homosexual tendencies, and, while he's never explored, he's confident she was right. Derrick chose to hide himself away, emotionally and sexually, because he can't bear the thought of losing another loved one. He remains friendly with LeeAnn and Devon, his BFF from high school, and an elderly neighbor, only because they have know him his whole adult life, but he is unable to form close friendships easily. Derrick is a handyman, by trade, and he mostly keeps to himself with only a few social outlets.
On a custom job to build bookshelves for a new client, Gavin, Derrick is blindsided by Gavin's frank appraisal and sexual flirtation. Having sheltered his heart for so long, Derrick is unable to respond in kind, but repeated calls to repair one or another 'malfunctioning' appliance at Gavin's posh loft leave no doubt of Gavin's intent. And, Derrick reluctantly caves.
Unfortunately, Gavin's previous lover, Lukas, had coerced Gavin into unprotected sex, and refused to divulge his HIV status. So far, Gavin's tests have come back negative, but it's only been two months, and six are required for complete "clearance". The idea of falling in with another person who will become ill is overwhelming to Derrick, no matter how attracted he is to Gavin. He actually doesn't care about the HIV, it's more the notion that he will watch another person die that abhors him.
Still, Derrick can't stay away. And they really connect. It is a wonderful and soul-achingly excellent match. I just about died from all the tension and release thereof. Also, hot sex? Here. But, it's all protected so we don't agonize for Derrick's safety.
The second book, ACCELERATION, is exactly that. First meetings of friends, Derrick coming out publicly. The new stresses being a couple. Derrick tells this story, again, and it's a great insight. He's so used to caring for others, to controlling everything around him, that exposing even the slightest vulnerability is a huge leap of faith for him. Gavin is, at times, frustrated with Derrick's emotional strength and reserve. Particularly, when Derrick is being harassed by a hockey teammate for being gay. Derrick just wants to ignore these problems, but Gavin makes him face them, again making Derrick uncomfortable with the vulnerability of the situation.
Also, we pass the three month HIV test with flying colors, but there's new cause for worry--Lukas confesses to having been a rentboy in college, and later, while still refusing to get tested--upping the chances that Gavin's infected.
Regardless, Derrick and Gavin spend weeks together, building what seems to be a solid relationship. They do have a blow up, and it's reasonable that they need some time apart. Doing so only cements their strong bond, however. The sex? Molten. Seems delicious Gavin is a bit of a Dom. And, our control-freak Derrick is more than happy to lay those burdens down now and again. Dom/sub acts did not require the use of any outside tools/toys.
The third book, VELOCITY, brings an even faster pitch--as well as Gavin's voice to the POV. The chapters don't exactly alternate, but there are many told from Gavin's perspective. Lukas is back, chipping away at Gavin's confidence, trying to lure him away from Derrick. This especially insidious because he claims to be HIV positive, and with weeks to Gavin's six month deadline, he preys upon Gavin's fears that Derrick will abandon him. Or worse, that he'll infect his beloved partner. My god, the tension is so high! I couldn't stop turning the pages.
I will not give out the end, but I will say the pace never lets up. And, that I thoroughly loved this trilogy. And, I'm completely unsettled after reading it. Not because the ending isn't fantastic, but because I am so frustrated that my time with Derrick and Gavin is now up and I don't want to move on, dammit! I love these guys. They're freaking awesome. The sex? Ah-freaking-mazing. Just. The. Best. Really.
There are so many heart strings pulled, I think I might have internal damage. I really agonized with Gavin as his waiting game played out. And Derrick is so steadfast and confident. He committed his whole heart, long before he knew--because that was his way. He never once considered not being there for Gavin, because he loved him, and he would never abandon someone he loved.
March 24, 2014
I have been given this book in return for an honest review.
This book is a wonderfully written story about how the real scare of having unprotected sex effects relationships.
Derrick, a man who has not only not been in a relationship for 10 years, but has not had sex in 10 years, becomes attracted to Gavin a new client. Gavin has just come out of an abusive relatioship and has become aware he may have been exposed ro HIV. He has been tested and so far he's negative, but the positive possibility is still there. It's between the three month test and the six month test that this story takes place. Derrick has already gone through years of being the caregiver of his very ill grandparents, who have now passed, and is afraid of what this relationship might mean.
Both men are in need of THAT connection. When things move on and Gavin tells Derrick what's going on, conflicts arise.
I thought both their friends were fantastic characters and all their reactions were very believable. I thought the anguish and stress was well written.
This story also shows you can have safe sex and it still be fantastic!
There is a club scene I question why the author put it in. Didn't make sense to me. And I wouldn't call this a trilogy, I would have been upset buying any of these separately because it's just one continuous story. But other than that, GREAT READ!
This book is a wonderfully written story about how the real scare of having unprotected sex effects relationships.
Derrick, a man who has not only not been in a relationship for 10 years, but has not had sex in 10 years, becomes attracted to Gavin a new client. Gavin has just come out of an abusive relatioship and has become aware he may have been exposed ro HIV. He has been tested and so far he's negative, but the positive possibility is still there. It's between the three month test and the six month test that this story takes place. Derrick has already gone through years of being the caregiver of his very ill grandparents, who have now passed, and is afraid of what this relationship might mean.
Both men are in need of THAT connection. When things move on and Gavin tells Derrick what's going on, conflicts arise.
I thought both their friends were fantastic characters and all their reactions were very believable. I thought the anguish and stress was well written.
This story also shows you can have safe sex and it still be fantastic!
There is a club scene I question why the author put it in. Didn't make sense to me. And I wouldn't call this a trilogy, I would have been upset buying any of these separately because it's just one continuous story. But other than that, GREAT READ!
April 1, 2014
4 out of 5 stars
***This book was provided free by the author in exchange for an honest review, through the Goodreads “Don't Buy My Love” program***
I had to think for a few days after reading this book prior to writing the review. So many things I absolutely loved, and some that were disturbing. My overall impression is still overwhelmingly positive, but I couldn't quite give it that 5th star.
Positives:
First, this is the most beautifully formatted ebook I've ever read, and not just in this genre. Presentation makes a world of difference, and I wish more publishers put in this kind of effort. The cover art used again as chapter headings was lovely. And it was perfectly edited – I could not find any typos, grammar mistakes, or misused words to pull me out of the story. I enjoyed having all three books in one volume.
Second, the author clearly did her research thoroughly and well. The statistics related to HIV testing and transmission, as well as treatment, and the fact that she made a point to say the information in the book was state of the science as of 2011, but that further advances have been made. The characteristics of both domestic abusers and victims. Jewish traditions and customs such as tzedakah. And my personal favorite, a true picture of being elderly in a community, both with family (Derrick's grandparents) and without (Miss Ingrid).
The characterization was also exceptional. Derrick has abandonment issues sprung from losing his parents at an early age, and later compounded by caregiver burnout after being the sole caregiver for both of his grandparents through three years of illness, isolation, and ultimately death. He is so fearful of needing someone that he remains celibate for 10 years, and although he wants to have a relationship with Gavin, he is convinced from the beginning that it will fail and struggles to open up. Gavin has just gotten out of an abusive relationship where his boyfriend forced unprotected anal sex on him, and he now fears he is not just HIV positive, but ruined for further relationships because he doesn't trust his own judgement any longer. Both men face that “I want him/I don't deserve him” dilemma in different ways, but it never feels forced, staged, or unbelievable. I connected with both of these MCs. And though being together did benefit them both in the end (and yes, there is a deeply satisfying HEA), they worked through their issues with a lot of informal but wise and effective counseling from a host of well-drawn secondary characters. They face their own internal demons, homophobia, the spectre of HIV/AIDs, and domestic violence and one by one they conquer these obstacles.
Negatives:
I am still not sure what to think about the BDSM in the story. I typically enjoy vanilla sex in the books I read, and I truly don't think there is anything hardcore in this book, but I was somewhat uncomfortable with descriptions of pain and breath play, and VERY uncomfortable with the humiliation aspects of the scenes. I think the author introduced it in order to show how either character giving up control would enhance their trust, but for me, it was like reading and thinking “Oh, that's hot, that's really sexy. . . wait, umm, maybe. . . umm, no”. The fact that I was not completely put off by either man enjoying being humiliated (normally that would make me DNF a book) is a compliment to how the author presented not only the sex scenes, but the men in general. There is an awful lot of sex in these three books, and for vanilla readers like myself, fortunately most of it is not disturbing. Unfortunately, the disturbing (to me) parts are what I am remembering now that I've finished reading. For readers who enjoy BDSM as well as angst, this is probably a fantastic read.
Finally, in book 3 of the trilogy I was irritated by I think that entire subplot could have been edited out and I wouldn't have missed it a bit. I didn't feel it made a lot of sense for Gavin, who was otherwise quite self-aware at this point, to delude himself so much. It made me want to smack him. The denouement of Lukas' part of the story felt contrived and awkward.
Overall, I loved this trilogy, and am very happy I invested the time to read it. I will probably reread again in the future, and will definitely look for more works by this author. Recommended, and if you enjoy BDSM, you'll like it even more than I did.
***This book was provided free by the author in exchange for an honest review, through the Goodreads “Don't Buy My Love” program***
I had to think for a few days after reading this book prior to writing the review. So many things I absolutely loved, and some that were disturbing. My overall impression is still overwhelmingly positive, but I couldn't quite give it that 5th star.
Positives:
First, this is the most beautifully formatted ebook I've ever read, and not just in this genre. Presentation makes a world of difference, and I wish more publishers put in this kind of effort. The cover art used again as chapter headings was lovely. And it was perfectly edited – I could not find any typos, grammar mistakes, or misused words to pull me out of the story. I enjoyed having all three books in one volume.
Second, the author clearly did her research thoroughly and well. The statistics related to HIV testing and transmission, as well as treatment, and the fact that she made a point to say the information in the book was state of the science as of 2011, but that further advances have been made. The characteristics of both domestic abusers and victims. Jewish traditions and customs such as tzedakah. And my personal favorite, a true picture of being elderly in a community, both with family (Derrick's grandparents) and without (Miss Ingrid).
The characterization was also exceptional. Derrick has abandonment issues sprung from losing his parents at an early age, and later compounded by caregiver burnout after being the sole caregiver for both of his grandparents through three years of illness, isolation, and ultimately death. He is so fearful of needing someone that he remains celibate for 10 years, and although he wants to have a relationship with Gavin, he is convinced from the beginning that it will fail and struggles to open up. Gavin has just gotten out of an abusive relationship where his boyfriend forced unprotected anal sex on him, and he now fears he is not just HIV positive, but ruined for further relationships because he doesn't trust his own judgement any longer. Both men face that “I want him/I don't deserve him” dilemma in different ways, but it never feels forced, staged, or unbelievable. I connected with both of these MCs. And though being together did benefit them both in the end (and yes, there is a deeply satisfying HEA), they worked through their issues with a lot of informal but wise and effective counseling from a host of well-drawn secondary characters. They face their own internal demons, homophobia, the spectre of HIV/AIDs, and domestic violence and one by one they conquer these obstacles.
Negatives:
I am still not sure what to think about the BDSM in the story. I typically enjoy vanilla sex in the books I read, and I truly don't think there is anything hardcore in this book, but I was somewhat uncomfortable with descriptions of pain and breath play, and VERY uncomfortable with the humiliation aspects of the scenes. I think the author introduced it in order to show how either character giving up control would enhance their trust, but for me, it was like reading and thinking “Oh, that's hot, that's really sexy. . . wait, umm, maybe. . . umm, no”. The fact that I was not completely put off by either man enjoying being humiliated (normally that would make me DNF a book) is a compliment to how the author presented not only the sex scenes, but the men in general. There is an awful lot of sex in these three books, and for vanilla readers like myself, fortunately most of it is not disturbing. Unfortunately, the disturbing (to me) parts are what I am remembering now that I've finished reading. For readers who enjoy BDSM as well as angst, this is probably a fantastic read.
Finally, in book 3 of the trilogy I was irritated by I think that entire subplot could have been edited out and I wouldn't have missed it a bit. I didn't feel it made a lot of sense for Gavin, who was otherwise quite self-aware at this point, to delude himself so much. It made me want to smack him. The denouement of Lukas' part of the story felt contrived and awkward.
Overall, I loved this trilogy, and am very happy I invested the time to read it. I will probably reread again in the future, and will definitely look for more works by this author. Recommended, and if you enjoy BDSM, you'll like it even more than I did.
April 7, 2014
I was given a copy of this book in return for an honest review (Goodreads DBML program).
I wish we could give half-stars because this was really a 3.5-star book for me.
Derrick Chance is content with the structured days that fill his quiet life. Years ago he suffered a series of tragic losses and since then he's avoided forming any new relationships. His first and only romantic relationship ended years ago. Into his life comes Gavin Hayes, a man who makes Derrick wish for more. Gavin is dealing with some serious issues of own, having just gotten out of an emotionally abusive relationship that may have put his health at risk.
I liked that this wasn't an Insta-Love story. Both Derrick and Gavin have to work to overcome their fears. While they may struggle with trusting each other, the real difficulty is in learning to trust themselves. This is a book about building a relationship, the courage it takes to start one and the determination it takes to maintain one.
Of the two main characters, it was Derrick that I enjoyed most, whose insecurities masked a quiet strength and such a good heart. I found myself pleased for Derrick when he would do something outside his comfort zone, happy for his small (and not-so-small) achievements. He and Gavin are supported by several well-drawn secondary characters that add dimension to the story (and some great BFF moments). While this book centered on Derrick and Gavin's growing relationship, the author was able to raise several serious subjects in a respectful and thoughtful way. The storyline was enhanced by the information the author was able to seamlessly weave into it.
And now for the sex... it was hot but clearly slanted towards BDSM. Some of the scenes went beyond my comfort zone and one went so far that I had to skip to the happy ending (but at least there always was a happy ending!). I did find myself blushing more than once. While a few seemed like scenes just to spice things up, most fit into the story and showcased the increasing levels of trust and honesty between Derrick and Gavin.
I hope it is obvious that I liked this trilogy. So why 3/3.5 stars? I had trouble connecting to Gavin even though I enjoyed his witty, urbane and sometimes vulnerable character. Maybe because most of the story is in Derrick's POV? Derrick's inexperience made me feel protective of him and I didn't fully trust Gavin not to hurt him emotionally. For most of the book, I was always just a little cautious of him. In the last volume, I also got frustrated with the Gavin/ex-boyfriend storyline. Some of Gavin's thoughts and choices puzzled me. Lastly, this is really a single story arc told in three volumes. I recommend the trilogy over the single books. Had I read the books expecting standalone stories, I would have felt dissatisfied.
This story was engaging from start to finish. I'm glad I had a chance to read/review it.
I wish we could give half-stars because this was really a 3.5-star book for me.
Derrick Chance is content with the structured days that fill his quiet life. Years ago he suffered a series of tragic losses and since then he's avoided forming any new relationships. His first and only romantic relationship ended years ago. Into his life comes Gavin Hayes, a man who makes Derrick wish for more. Gavin is dealing with some serious issues of own, having just gotten out of an emotionally abusive relationship that may have put his health at risk.
I liked that this wasn't an Insta-Love story. Both Derrick and Gavin have to work to overcome their fears. While they may struggle with trusting each other, the real difficulty is in learning to trust themselves. This is a book about building a relationship, the courage it takes to start one and the determination it takes to maintain one.
Of the two main characters, it was Derrick that I enjoyed most, whose insecurities masked a quiet strength and such a good heart. I found myself pleased for Derrick when he would do something outside his comfort zone, happy for his small (and not-so-small) achievements. He and Gavin are supported by several well-drawn secondary characters that add dimension to the story (and some great BFF moments). While this book centered on Derrick and Gavin's growing relationship, the author was able to raise several serious subjects in a respectful and thoughtful way. The storyline was enhanced by the information the author was able to seamlessly weave into it.
And now for the sex... it was hot but clearly slanted towards BDSM. Some of the scenes went beyond my comfort zone and one went so far that I had to skip to the happy ending (but at least there always was a happy ending!). I did find myself blushing more than once. While a few seemed like scenes just to spice things up, most fit into the story and showcased the increasing levels of trust and honesty between Derrick and Gavin.
I hope it is obvious that I liked this trilogy. So why 3/3.5 stars? I had trouble connecting to Gavin even though I enjoyed his witty, urbane and sometimes vulnerable character. Maybe because most of the story is in Derrick's POV? Derrick's inexperience made me feel protective of him and I didn't fully trust Gavin not to hurt him emotionally. For most of the book, I was always just a little cautious of him. In the last volume, I also got frustrated with the Gavin/ex-boyfriend storyline. Some of Gavin's thoughts and choices puzzled me. Lastly, this is really a single story arc told in three volumes. I recommend the trilogy over the single books. Had I read the books expecting standalone stories, I would have felt dissatisfied.
This story was engaging from start to finish. I'm glad I had a chance to read/review it.
August 24, 2016
I was given a free copy of this book by the author thru the GoodReads M/M Romance event Don't Buy My Love.
Ok this was a really good book but let me get my "not like" out of the way first. If I had read this trilogy as three single books I would have been mad. It doesn't take three books to cover four months of time, I'm just saying. The other thing I didn't like was that it was only told from Derrick's POV until about halfway thru the third book.
Now that I've gotten that out of the way let me say well done Ms. Gormley. You put a lot of issues on the table for healthy discussion; HIV, bigotry, domestic abuse,personal lose, and family. While reading this book I found myself thinking a lot about these themes. This again is one of those times I wish I had the gift of words as so many talented authors have, I'm not sure I know enough adjectives to describe this book. I'm sure the primary theme, aside from the MCs Gavin and Derricks growing relationship, was HIV which seems to have been down played a great deal in todays society. Safe sex programs and slogans aren't as in your face or as common place as they were 20 or 30 years ago so I feel like hetero and homo lifestyles treat it as a non-issue. I'm not going to even start on the bigotry that runs rampant today from race, to gender, to sexuality (thank you Tea Party you can sit down now we've seen you and we don't care). Oh lawd I'm supposed to be reviewing this book not doing my soapbox thing...sorry.
Oh I loved Derrick, I just picture him as an unmovable rock in a raging storm. I can understand his need for self protection by not becoming emotionally involved with anyone. All of the tragic family lose he had from the age of 14 to 21 I'm surprised he was able to maintain his friendship with Devon. By the way, loved Devon, Hannah, Andi, and Ms. Ingrid their love and support for Derrick and Gavin is the definition of family. But Derrick meets his match in a whirlwind named Gavin. Gavin shakes Derrick to his core and breaches that wall that Derrick has spent 10 years building.
This book covers about a four month time period that starts with simple flirting that grows to full out LOVE! Getting over personal lose enough to let someone else in and dealing with possibility of HIV. The ups and downs of getting to know someone and being able to deal with their past and be supportive of their present and future. It made me question would I stay and/or would I be brave enough to handle it.
Ok this was a really good book but let me get my "not like" out of the way first. If I had read this trilogy as three single books I would have been mad. It doesn't take three books to cover four months of time, I'm just saying. The other thing I didn't like was that it was only told from Derrick's POV until about halfway thru the third book.
Now that I've gotten that out of the way let me say well done Ms. Gormley. You put a lot of issues on the table for healthy discussion; HIV, bigotry, domestic abuse,personal lose, and family. While reading this book I found myself thinking a lot about these themes. This again is one of those times I wish I had the gift of words as so many talented authors have, I'm not sure I know enough adjectives to describe this book. I'm sure the primary theme, aside from the MCs Gavin and Derricks growing relationship, was HIV which seems to have been down played a great deal in todays society. Safe sex programs and slogans aren't as in your face or as common place as they were 20 or 30 years ago so I feel like hetero and homo lifestyles treat it as a non-issue. I'm not going to even start on the bigotry that runs rampant today from race, to gender, to sexuality (thank you Tea Party you can sit down now we've seen you and we don't care). Oh lawd I'm supposed to be reviewing this book not doing my soapbox thing...sorry.
Oh I loved Derrick, I just picture him as an unmovable rock in a raging storm. I can understand his need for self protection by not becoming emotionally involved with anyone. All of the tragic family lose he had from the age of 14 to 21 I'm surprised he was able to maintain his friendship with Devon. By the way, loved Devon, Hannah, Andi, and Ms. Ingrid their love and support for Derrick and Gavin is the definition of family. But Derrick meets his match in a whirlwind named Gavin. Gavin shakes Derrick to his core and breaches that wall that Derrick has spent 10 years building.
This book covers about a four month time period that starts with simple flirting that grows to full out LOVE! Getting over personal lose enough to let someone else in and dealing with possibility of HIV. The ups and downs of getting to know someone and being able to deal with their past and be supportive of their present and future. It made me question would I stay and/or would I be brave enough to handle it.
March 27, 2014
(This book was received free in return for an honest review.)
I had a hard time deciding between 4 or 5 stars so let's go with 4.5, mostly because of the transition book 2 and partly because I could put the book aside without longing to read nonstop. The banter and joking is fun though and had me laughing out loud several times.
Book 1: Inertia sets the stage of main characters in particular level-headed carpenter/repairman Derrick and flirty accountant Gavin. The story is told from Derrick's POV and gives the reader a stark picture of his life age eighteen to present spanning some 13 or so years. He has spent the last ten celibate and gets the proverbial slap upside the head from a friend to start living in the here and now. He meets Gavin for a work consultation and Gavin starts flirting. The relationship progresses until Gavin discloses his possible HIV status which sends Derrick into a tailspin.
Book 2: Acceleration is also told from Derrick's POV. The boys are back together and struggling to keep their relationship afloat. Derrick is holding his feelings back and Gavin is conflicted on his end too. Domination and submission is played out both in the bedroom and in their personal lives. This book was all transition from tentative relationship to a more solid one, especially in regards to break-up and make-up.
Book 3: Velocity moves the POV to Gavin. I wished that book 2 had had a mix of POVs because the change threw me off for the beginning of the book. Gavin is moving out of his apartment and dealing his his manipulative ex. I really liked how the author had the characters speak in "plain" enough terms to allow the reader to fully understand the conflicts going on with Gavin especially how he comes to realize that he is a victim of abuse. Gavin's revenge is awesome.
Other notes of interest: jewish characters - yeah! Also loved Derrick's relationship with Miss Ingrid, the beloved grandmother figure. Devon and Hannah....inter-racial marriage? I couldn't quite figure that one out. Devon and Hannah's work with abuse and under-priveledged...and that the author spoke candidly about HIV and AIDS in the present day.
Final verdict...worth the time to read...maybe more than once.
I had a hard time deciding between 4 or 5 stars so let's go with 4.5, mostly because of the transition book 2 and partly because I could put the book aside without longing to read nonstop. The banter and joking is fun though and had me laughing out loud several times.
Book 1: Inertia sets the stage of main characters in particular level-headed carpenter/repairman Derrick and flirty accountant Gavin. The story is told from Derrick's POV and gives the reader a stark picture of his life age eighteen to present spanning some 13 or so years. He has spent the last ten celibate and gets the proverbial slap upside the head from a friend to start living in the here and now. He meets Gavin for a work consultation and Gavin starts flirting. The relationship progresses until Gavin discloses his possible HIV status which sends Derrick into a tailspin.
Book 2: Acceleration is also told from Derrick's POV. The boys are back together and struggling to keep their relationship afloat. Derrick is holding his feelings back and Gavin is conflicted on his end too. Domination and submission is played out both in the bedroom and in their personal lives. This book was all transition from tentative relationship to a more solid one, especially in regards to break-up and make-up.
Book 3: Velocity moves the POV to Gavin. I wished that book 2 had had a mix of POVs because the change threw me off for the beginning of the book. Gavin is moving out of his apartment and dealing his his manipulative ex. I really liked how the author had the characters speak in "plain" enough terms to allow the reader to fully understand the conflicts going on with Gavin especially how he comes to realize that he is a victim of abuse. Gavin's revenge is awesome.
Other notes of interest: jewish characters - yeah! Also loved Derrick's relationship with Miss Ingrid, the beloved grandmother figure. Devon and Hannah....inter-racial marriage? I couldn't quite figure that one out. Devon and Hannah's work with abuse and under-priveledged...and that the author spoke candidly about HIV and AIDS in the present day.
Final verdict...worth the time to read...maybe more than once.
July 10, 2013
Reprinted from www.glbtbookshelf.com.
The conclusion of the Impulse Trilogy, which includes INERTIA and ACCELERATION, we find Derrick and Gavin anticipating the winter holidays and all the dilemmas and pleasures of living together. The holidays mean sad memories for Derrick and the final verdict for Gavin on whether he is infected with HIV/AIDS, putting a serious damper on the festivities. Add onto these that Derrick is facing threats from someone on his amateur hockey team and that the one who may have infected Gavin, his old boyfriend Lukas, has reemerged with shocking revelations and apologies. If you were on the edge of your seat during the first two volumes it’s no different with the third and final. Growing love does not automatically solve all one’s problems, and these two have more than their share.
One fly in the ointment of an otherwise marvelously compelling book is the fact that near the end the point of view, which has been solidly Derrick’s throughout, the trilogy suddenly shifts to Gavin in an otherwise satisfying confrontation with Lukas.
Still as the reader has come to know Derrick and Gavin as the just plain gay folks their homely courtship has achieved your commitment very much along with theirs. It is highly pleasing to finally know the “rest of the story.” That it is as real as the characters is just that much more meaningful.
The conclusion of the Impulse Trilogy, which includes INERTIA and ACCELERATION, we find Derrick and Gavin anticipating the winter holidays and all the dilemmas and pleasures of living together. The holidays mean sad memories for Derrick and the final verdict for Gavin on whether he is infected with HIV/AIDS, putting a serious damper on the festivities. Add onto these that Derrick is facing threats from someone on his amateur hockey team and that the one who may have infected Gavin, his old boyfriend Lukas, has reemerged with shocking revelations and apologies. If you were on the edge of your seat during the first two volumes it’s no different with the third and final. Growing love does not automatically solve all one’s problems, and these two have more than their share.
One fly in the ointment of an otherwise marvelously compelling book is the fact that near the end the point of view, which has been solidly Derrick’s throughout, the trilogy suddenly shifts to Gavin in an otherwise satisfying confrontation with Lukas.
Still as the reader has come to know Derrick and Gavin as the just plain gay folks their homely courtship has achieved your commitment very much along with theirs. It is highly pleasing to finally know the “rest of the story.” That it is as real as the characters is just that much more meaningful.
May 14, 2015
I've had this trilogy on my kindle for over a year and I've no idea why I haven't read it before...I've read Strain by this author and absolutely loved that one but this one I think I can say is my favourite.......It follows Derrick who is a handyman...keeps to himself...he's not had a relationship for ten years and before that was with a woman....He seems to be stuck in the past holding onto things and just quiet and down to earth.....Gavin is an accountant who hires Derrick to put up some shelves but then starts asking him back to do other jobs and flirting with him.....when Derrick finally persuades himself to take a chance on impulse they really hit it off but Gavins secret could ruin everything..His ex Lukas has left him with an unsure health issue with isn't resolved until the final book.......Derrick and Gavin must fight most of the way against Gavins ex...Derricks hockey team-mates but they have friends and they realise they have each other eventually.....This really was an amazing read.....I loved Gavin and Derrick although Gavin comes across as the dominant one he still needs that bit of power from Derrick once in a while to ground him.......They were perfect together.....There was some angst but nothing near as bad as there could have been which made it just the more perfect...so perfect I've ordered them in paperback x
March 25, 2014
I got this book set for free for an honest review through the DBML prrogram of the M/M Romance group at goodreads.com.
I loved this book set because it showed most of the people in it with both their strengths and flaws. It seemed real and plausible. the plot of the story flowed smoothly. the only person other than some of the hockey team, which was mainly there for just the one scene, that seemed a little stockish was Lucas the villianous ex. He was the pathological con Artist to a tee. Now this book set had some scenes that were a bit heavier BDSM then I prefer but most of them diidn't bug me. The only thing that bothered me and it was more in my mind then a bad thing to do was the breath play scene. As an asthmatic, I do not find it erotic even though I know some people do enjoy it. Gavin and Derrick each had their issues to work through like any human does.
I strongly recommend this box set as a great read; but if semi heavy BDSM bothers you go elsewhere, but if you loved Training Season by Leta Blake you should be fine.
I loved this book set because it showed most of the people in it with both their strengths and flaws. It seemed real and plausible. the plot of the story flowed smoothly. the only person other than some of the hockey team, which was mainly there for just the one scene, that seemed a little stockish was Lucas the villianous ex. He was the pathological con Artist to a tee. Now this book set had some scenes that were a bit heavier BDSM then I prefer but most of them diidn't bug me. The only thing that bothered me and it was more in my mind then a bad thing to do was the breath play scene. As an asthmatic, I do not find it erotic even though I know some people do enjoy it. Gavin and Derrick each had their issues to work through like any human does.
I strongly recommend this box set as a great read; but if semi heavy BDSM bothers you go elsewhere, but if you loved Training Season by Leta Blake you should be fine.
July 13, 2017
3.5 ⭐️
Read
May 13, 2024MM romance. Two guys have past issues that inhibit their new relationship.
After finishing the first short book, I quickly got bored with book two and gave up.
After finishing the first short book, I quickly got bored with book two and gave up.
August 5, 2016
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through the M/M Romance group's DBML (Don't buy me love) program.
I’m giving this compilation four stars for plot and an extra star for the chapter heading artwork.
In the first book, Derrick is a loner who has basically put his life on hold after dealing with the loss of his grandparents just as he’s becoming an adult. He’s gone through his life by blocking out his attraction to men. He had a girlfriend in high school who now plays a supporting role in getting him to come out of his shell and start living. He has his own handyman business that he started when his grandparents were ill so that he could set his own hours. He’s now well established and was recommended to Gavin who needs some repairs.
Gavin just ended a horrible relationship with Lucas and was feeling a bit depressed so he starts flirting with Derrick to make himself feel better. When Derrick actually responds slightly favorably to the flirtation, Gavin starts intentionally breaking things or mentioning tiny problems just so he can get Derrick to come back and fix them. Then Lucas comes back and during the argument that follows, a doorknob gets shoved through the wall so when Derrick comes back to fix it, Gavin has to explain some things about his last relationship and Lucas.
Derrick is starting to like Gavin when Gavin admits that he is going through a “waiting and testing” phase since Lucas refused to provide HIV test results. Lucas had managed to get Gavin drunk enough to have sex without a condom and had pushed Gavin several times more into bareback sex.
Derrick reacted badly at first to Gavin’s revelations about his HIV status being up in the air, and he walks out on Gavin. Derrick’s reactions have more to do with the fact that he’d been a caretaker from an early age to his grandparent’s and he’d been walling off his emotions so that he wouldn’t feel the heartbreak and loss from getting to close to someone who might die. He soon figures out that Gavin’s early test results are negative and as time goes on, more negative results are only good news as the chance for a positive result decreases. He goes back to Gavin and apologizes for his behavior and they start developing a relationship.
In the second book, Gavin is mad at Derrick for still holding back on his feelings and not telling Gavin things. Gavin doesn’t feel like he can trust Derrick if he holds back so he walks out on Derrick. They work that issue out, but Derrick has to deal with homophobic insults and text message threats he receives from someone related to his hockey team.
Gavin and Derrick work through their respective problems and become closer. The threat of a potential HIV positive test still hangs over their heads.
In the third book, everything comes to a head. Lucas comes in with a lie that he’s tested positive for HIV, Derrick has a meeting this is hockey team to deal with the harassment, and Gavin’s 6-month HIV test is coming up.
I love this as a “compilation” instead of as three separate books. It would also have been just as good as one long novel instead of three novellas. The story smoothly transitions from one book to the next and the only thing noticeable was the fact that each book had a new set of chapter heading art, which matches the cover art for each book. As I already mentioned, I love the art. It gives the book a little more feeling that the author cared about the contents of the books.
The plot is well thought out and maintained continuity across the trilogy. It was believable and created a connection with the two main characters and their supporting characters. I didn’t see the Lucas situation ending as it had, (no spoilers read the book to find out what happened), but that was a great ending to his situation.
I’m giving this compilation four stars for plot and an extra star for the chapter heading artwork.
In the first book, Derrick is a loner who has basically put his life on hold after dealing with the loss of his grandparents just as he’s becoming an adult. He’s gone through his life by blocking out his attraction to men. He had a girlfriend in high school who now plays a supporting role in getting him to come out of his shell and start living. He has his own handyman business that he started when his grandparents were ill so that he could set his own hours. He’s now well established and was recommended to Gavin who needs some repairs.
Gavin just ended a horrible relationship with Lucas and was feeling a bit depressed so he starts flirting with Derrick to make himself feel better. When Derrick actually responds slightly favorably to the flirtation, Gavin starts intentionally breaking things or mentioning tiny problems just so he can get Derrick to come back and fix them. Then Lucas comes back and during the argument that follows, a doorknob gets shoved through the wall so when Derrick comes back to fix it, Gavin has to explain some things about his last relationship and Lucas.
Derrick is starting to like Gavin when Gavin admits that he is going through a “waiting and testing” phase since Lucas refused to provide HIV test results. Lucas had managed to get Gavin drunk enough to have sex without a condom and had pushed Gavin several times more into bareback sex.
Derrick reacted badly at first to Gavin’s revelations about his HIV status being up in the air, and he walks out on Gavin. Derrick’s reactions have more to do with the fact that he’d been a caretaker from an early age to his grandparent’s and he’d been walling off his emotions so that he wouldn’t feel the heartbreak and loss from getting to close to someone who might die. He soon figures out that Gavin’s early test results are negative and as time goes on, more negative results are only good news as the chance for a positive result decreases. He goes back to Gavin and apologizes for his behavior and they start developing a relationship.
In the second book, Gavin is mad at Derrick for still holding back on his feelings and not telling Gavin things. Gavin doesn’t feel like he can trust Derrick if he holds back so he walks out on Derrick. They work that issue out, but Derrick has to deal with homophobic insults and text message threats he receives from someone related to his hockey team.
Gavin and Derrick work through their respective problems and become closer. The threat of a potential HIV positive test still hangs over their heads.
In the third book, everything comes to a head. Lucas comes in with a lie that he’s tested positive for HIV, Derrick has a meeting this is hockey team to deal with the harassment, and Gavin’s 6-month HIV test is coming up.
I love this as a “compilation” instead of as three separate books. It would also have been just as good as one long novel instead of three novellas. The story smoothly transitions from one book to the next and the only thing noticeable was the fact that each book had a new set of chapter heading art, which matches the cover art for each book. As I already mentioned, I love the art. It gives the book a little more feeling that the author cared about the contents of the books.
The plot is well thought out and maintained continuity across the trilogy. It was believable and created a connection with the two main characters and their supporting characters. I didn’t see the Lucas situation ending as it had, (no spoilers read the book to find out what happened), but that was a great ending to his situation.
March 31, 2014
Derrick Chance, a quiet handy man hasn’t had an easy go of it. Losing his parents when he was a kid, he lives with his grandparents until they die when he’s 21 where he spends three years caring for both of them as they suffer from Alzheimer’s and cancer. But that’s not all. His older brother dies serving his country and his long time girlfriend breaks up with him. The strain of caring for his grandparents 24/7 with very little help and the other losses take their toll. Free now of the responsibility he pulls back and heals carving out a simple life as a handy man with a couple close friends.
Derrick has spent 10 years out of the relationship game when he meets Gavin Hayes to build Gavin some shelves. Gavin flirts with Derrick and for the first time Derrick feels something in return. Gavin has his own issues. Recently out of an emotionally abusive relationship and afraid he’s contracted HIV, he flirts with Derrick to prove he can, that he’s not damaged goods.
I fear I will be one of the decenters as I had a ton of problems with this story.
The flirting turns into a date and shortly after they go to bed and from there it turns into one the biggest sex-fests I’ve read after a while. I was stunned by the amount of sex in this story. You could cut out a hundred pages of sex and still have it dominate the story. I’m not against sex, I love it and there were parts of it that moved the story - Derrick’s first time with a partner in 10 years, them learning how to work under the weight of Gavin’s possible infection, and them switching at power plays in the bedroom. But the rest had no purpose and I skipped page after page after page trying to find some real story.
Derrick I truly loved. He’s been though so much and I could relate to everything he did and felt. He tries desperately to make the relationship work with tools he never had with a man rebounding from abuse. I think Derrick did a great job.
Gavin I couldn’t warm up to. He’s such a contradiction and though we learn about his demons early without his POV I couldn’t figure out what made him tick. I had hoped to have more time in his head but when that happened, I was disappointed which moves to another problem with this book - the POV. It’s all Derrick until the third volume where it switches to Gavin so suddenly I’m five pages in before I realize we’ve had a POV change. And the little time we are in Gavin’s head he’s basically only thinking about his ex, the man who manipulated him and may have infected him. While I understand he can’t forget what happened, his obsession with his ex despite everyone telling him to leave it alone was ridiculous. On top of that he does dumb things like meet with his ex alone with no one there to help or back him up if the ex gets abusive. It sets up the big “gotcha” at the end but those were the times I really felt Derrick could do better.
This book does get extra points for three excellent female characters, friends of Derrick and Gavin who know them well and treat them appropriately giving sound advice even if it doesn’t push the two men’s relationship. I haven’t seen such well written women in quite a while.
Included were some side stories that added some interest but really this book could have been trimmed down to a single solid volume. The three volumes here were unnecessary and filled with an eye rolling amount of sex. I can’t recommend it.
I received a copy of this story free of charge from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Derrick has spent 10 years out of the relationship game when he meets Gavin Hayes to build Gavin some shelves. Gavin flirts with Derrick and for the first time Derrick feels something in return. Gavin has his own issues. Recently out of an emotionally abusive relationship and afraid he’s contracted HIV, he flirts with Derrick to prove he can, that he’s not damaged goods.
I fear I will be one of the decenters as I had a ton of problems with this story.
The flirting turns into a date and shortly after they go to bed and from there it turns into one the biggest sex-fests I’ve read after a while. I was stunned by the amount of sex in this story. You could cut out a hundred pages of sex and still have it dominate the story. I’m not against sex, I love it and there were parts of it that moved the story - Derrick’s first time with a partner in 10 years, them learning how to work under the weight of Gavin’s possible infection, and them switching at power plays in the bedroom. But the rest had no purpose and I skipped page after page after page trying to find some real story.
Derrick I truly loved. He’s been though so much and I could relate to everything he did and felt. He tries desperately to make the relationship work with tools he never had with a man rebounding from abuse. I think Derrick did a great job.
Gavin I couldn’t warm up to. He’s such a contradiction and though we learn about his demons early without his POV I couldn’t figure out what made him tick. I had hoped to have more time in his head but when that happened, I was disappointed which moves to another problem with this book - the POV. It’s all Derrick until the third volume where it switches to Gavin so suddenly I’m five pages in before I realize we’ve had a POV change. And the little time we are in Gavin’s head he’s basically only thinking about his ex, the man who manipulated him and may have infected him. While I understand he can’t forget what happened, his obsession with his ex despite everyone telling him to leave it alone was ridiculous. On top of that he does dumb things like meet with his ex alone with no one there to help or back him up if the ex gets abusive. It sets up the big “gotcha” at the end but those were the times I really felt Derrick could do better.
This book does get extra points for three excellent female characters, friends of Derrick and Gavin who know them well and treat them appropriately giving sound advice even if it doesn’t push the two men’s relationship. I haven’t seen such well written women in quite a while.
Included were some side stories that added some interest but really this book could have been trimmed down to a single solid volume. The three volumes here were unnecessary and filled with an eye rolling amount of sex. I can’t recommend it.
I received a copy of this story free of charge from the author in exchange for an honest review.
September 3, 2016
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I'd heard really great feedback about the book collection "Impulse: The Compete Trilogy," and I was excited for the opportunity to read it. I'm glad to be able to say that my high expectations were met!
Derrick and Gavin are two men who meet by chance when a mutual friend suggests Derrick as a handyman/carpenter for Gavin. There is a frisson of attraction between them, but both men take time before acting on their desire to get to know each other better. This was both realistic and refreshing, because both of them had substantial challenges to face before starting a relationship was a reasonable option. Derrick had been hurt by the loss of loved ones, and he'd practically closed himself off from relationships for a decade. Gavin had recently ended an abusive relationship, and he struggles throughout the books with determining whether his feelings and reactions are wholly his own or if he's been emotionally and mentally scarred by his ex beyond repair. Both men are hesitant to trust, and the book collection does an exceptional job of addressing their concerns and the arcs of personal growth for each of them.
The communication between the men and with their friends was a relief, because while the conversations couldn't mean a quick fix for some of the major concerns (for example, fears about Gavin's abusive ex potentially having infected him with HIV are a significant part of all three segments), the discussions and honesty cleared up many stumbling blocks that come naturally with new relationships. The humor, respect, understanding, and kindness that Derrick and Gavin show to one another through their words and their actions (both in and out of the bedroom) helps draw the reader into their story, and it helps us believe that their expressions and actions of love have a strong foundation that can withstand many challenges for years to come.
I recommend reading all three books in this trilogy (Inertia, Acceleration, and Velocity) in sequence, as they won't make much sense if read out of order or if one of them is skipped. The trilogy covers a time span of a few months, and Ms. Gormley's writing truly grabs the reader's attention and doesn't let go. I must echo other reviewers who have said that the art and editing are both excellent, as I strongly agree. I greatly look forward to reading more from Amelia C. Gormley, and I highly recommend "Impulse: The Complete Trilogy."
I'd heard really great feedback about the book collection "Impulse: The Compete Trilogy," and I was excited for the opportunity to read it. I'm glad to be able to say that my high expectations were met!
Derrick and Gavin are two men who meet by chance when a mutual friend suggests Derrick as a handyman/carpenter for Gavin. There is a frisson of attraction between them, but both men take time before acting on their desire to get to know each other better. This was both realistic and refreshing, because both of them had substantial challenges to face before starting a relationship was a reasonable option. Derrick had been hurt by the loss of loved ones, and he'd practically closed himself off from relationships for a decade. Gavin had recently ended an abusive relationship, and he struggles throughout the books with determining whether his feelings and reactions are wholly his own or if he's been emotionally and mentally scarred by his ex beyond repair. Both men are hesitant to trust, and the book collection does an exceptional job of addressing their concerns and the arcs of personal growth for each of them.
The communication between the men and with their friends was a relief, because while the conversations couldn't mean a quick fix for some of the major concerns (for example, fears about Gavin's abusive ex potentially having infected him with HIV are a significant part of all three segments), the discussions and honesty cleared up many stumbling blocks that come naturally with new relationships. The humor, respect, understanding, and kindness that Derrick and Gavin show to one another through their words and their actions (both in and out of the bedroom) helps draw the reader into their story, and it helps us believe that their expressions and actions of love have a strong foundation that can withstand many challenges for years to come.
I recommend reading all three books in this trilogy (Inertia, Acceleration, and Velocity) in sequence, as they won't make much sense if read out of order or if one of them is skipped. The trilogy covers a time span of a few months, and Ms. Gormley's writing truly grabs the reader's attention and doesn't let go. I must echo other reviewers who have said that the art and editing are both excellent, as I strongly agree. I greatly look forward to reading more from Amelia C. Gormley, and I highly recommend "Impulse: The Complete Trilogy."
August 30, 2016
I received a copy of this in return for an honest review as part of the M/M Romance Group DBML program.
Derrick Chance spent 3 years taking care of his ailing grandparents starting at age 18 and his girlfriend of 7 years also broke up with him during that time frame. He's spent the last 10 years alone, not wanting to take a chance with being left again.
Gavin Hayes has just ended an abusive relationship & is uncertain how the recklessness of his former lover will affect the rest of his life. He's not in a good place to begin another relationship.
When Gavin hires Derrick to do some minor repairs in his home, he's attracted to Derrick & can't keep himself from flirting & fabricating reasons for Derrick to come back to fix more things. Derrick has no idea how to successfully be in a relationship, but he's drawn to Gavin. After a rocky start, he finds himself unable to push Gavin out of his life.
Inertia: I love Gavin! I love how he's funny & smart, how he goes after what he wants.
I like Derrick. He's steady, insightful, thoughtful. I wish he would have given Gavin some clue where his head was at before he walked out. But I'm glad he decided to give Gavin another chance.
These 2 are hot together.
Acceleration: I really enjoyed getting further into the heads of these 2 men & seeing how their relationship progresses.
Velocity: I like how the Hockey League owner handled the situation with Derrick being harassed. The scene where Derrick gets rough with Gavin was hot as blazes! I like how these 2 work together. Yeah they have their rough patches, but they keep being drawn together unable to stay apart. I think it makes them stronger together. I like how they're learning to trust each other. And I was very glad that Gavin was able to keep Lukas from scamming him yet again.
Derrick Chance spent 3 years taking care of his ailing grandparents starting at age 18 and his girlfriend of 7 years also broke up with him during that time frame. He's spent the last 10 years alone, not wanting to take a chance with being left again.
Gavin Hayes has just ended an abusive relationship & is uncertain how the recklessness of his former lover will affect the rest of his life. He's not in a good place to begin another relationship.
When Gavin hires Derrick to do some minor repairs in his home, he's attracted to Derrick & can't keep himself from flirting & fabricating reasons for Derrick to come back to fix more things. Derrick has no idea how to successfully be in a relationship, but he's drawn to Gavin. After a rocky start, he finds himself unable to push Gavin out of his life.
Inertia: I love Gavin! I love how he's funny & smart, how he goes after what he wants.
I like Derrick. He's steady, insightful, thoughtful. I wish he would have given Gavin some clue where his head was at before he walked out. But I'm glad he decided to give Gavin another chance.
These 2 are hot together.
Acceleration: I really enjoyed getting further into the heads of these 2 men & seeing how their relationship progresses.
Velocity: I like how the Hockey League owner handled the situation with Derrick being harassed. The scene where Derrick gets rough with Gavin was hot as blazes! I like how these 2 work together. Yeah they have their rough patches, but they keep being drawn together unable to stay apart. I think it makes them stronger together. I like how they're learning to trust each other. And I was very glad that Gavin was able to keep Lukas from scamming him yet again.
April 11, 2014
**This book was read as a part of the Don't Buy My Love reader/author program in exchange for a honest review.
This trilogy was a 3.5 star story for me. It was three shorter works all combined into one book. The first and second books are written from Derek's POV and the last one is written from Gavin's. The story is about Derek who is a reserved carpenter. He has not been in a relationship for a very long time due to caregiving for his grandparents and some other issues. He meets Gavin when he does some work for him. Gavin is a more outgoing type of personality and he is coming out of a pretty bad relationship. Gavin begins flirting and the two men transition through the books from friends to lovers. This book focuses on the development of the relationship over time. I enjoyed both of the MC's and I really enjoyed the fact that this author looked at the dynamics surrounding HIV testing and the possibility of being HIV positive and/or having aids. Often this issue is barely touched on in books if it's mentioned at all. This book also touched on other serious issues such as mistreatment due to homophobia and abusive relationships. The only thing that I really did not care was the sudden changing of the POV to Gavin in the last book. It broke up the flow for me. I would have liked to see them have equal POV or for it to be told third person. I didn't feel like we knew Gavin as well and then all of a sudden we are hearing from him. There is a lot of sex in the book and there are BDSM scenes so be aware if that is an issue for you. Overall this was a solid read with a really enjoyable story.
This trilogy was a 3.5 star story for me. It was three shorter works all combined into one book. The first and second books are written from Derek's POV and the last one is written from Gavin's. The story is about Derek who is a reserved carpenter. He has not been in a relationship for a very long time due to caregiving for his grandparents and some other issues. He meets Gavin when he does some work for him. Gavin is a more outgoing type of personality and he is coming out of a pretty bad relationship. Gavin begins flirting and the two men transition through the books from friends to lovers. This book focuses on the development of the relationship over time. I enjoyed both of the MC's and I really enjoyed the fact that this author looked at the dynamics surrounding HIV testing and the possibility of being HIV positive and/or having aids. Often this issue is barely touched on in books if it's mentioned at all. This book also touched on other serious issues such as mistreatment due to homophobia and abusive relationships. The only thing that I really did not care was the sudden changing of the POV to Gavin in the last book. It broke up the flow for me. I would have liked to see them have equal POV or for it to be told third person. I didn't feel like we knew Gavin as well and then all of a sudden we are hearing from him. There is a lot of sex in the book and there are BDSM scenes so be aware if that is an issue for you. Overall this was a solid read with a really enjoyable story.
August 13, 2016
I really enjoyed this story of Derrick and Gavin, their developing relationship and the needs they both have that are satisfied within it.
The writing is well paced and the story flows well, especially in this trilogy format. I think waiting for each new book would have been very frustrating!
The story builds its intensity, especially read as a whole, and the book and series titles really do play into the story well.
Inertia : a slow build up on the relationship as they meet (loved how Gavin kept finding things 'breaking'). We find out small bits of both their back stories - why Derrick has been alone for 10 years and some of Gavin's history with the dastardly Lukas.
Acceleration : things continue to build in pace between the two guys as they move fully into a relationship, and it's not without its issues, not least of which is the lingering Lukas. Gavin proves how strong a person he is and Derrick learns to express his thoughts and feelings.
Velocity : Lukas is back in all his fully manipulative glory, pushing the guys to test their relationship. They weather the storms well and learn different ways to deal with the negative feelings. Some of this was a bit on the edge of my comfort reading but it was written well and I could see how it could work for them.
I would recommend reading as a whole rather than spreading the books out as the stories did build as the titles indicate!
The writing is well paced and the story flows well, especially in this trilogy format. I think waiting for each new book would have been very frustrating!
The story builds its intensity, especially read as a whole, and the book and series titles really do play into the story well.
Inertia : a slow build up on the relationship as they meet (loved how Gavin kept finding things 'breaking'). We find out small bits of both their back stories - why Derrick has been alone for 10 years and some of Gavin's history with the dastardly Lukas.
Acceleration : things continue to build in pace between the two guys as they move fully into a relationship, and it's not without its issues, not least of which is the lingering Lukas. Gavin proves how strong a person he is and Derrick learns to express his thoughts and feelings.
Velocity : Lukas is back in all his fully manipulative glory, pushing the guys to test their relationship. They weather the storms well and learn different ways to deal with the negative feelings. Some of this was a bit on the edge of my comfort reading but it was written well and I could see how it could work for them.
I would recommend reading as a whole rather than spreading the books out as the stories did build as the titles indicate!
November 14, 2013
Inertia
Acceleration
Velocity
One of the best series/trilogy's I have had the pleasure of reading.
Acceleration
Velocity
One of the best series/trilogy's I have had the pleasure of reading.
April 12, 2014
This book was given free for a honest review.
I enjoyed read this book,Derrick Chance was a great guy that had not dated for a while. He then meets Gavin Hayes, who seems to be flirting with him at times, then other times seems so far away.
While this was a cute story, it was a little predictable with the ex trying to mess things up and illness. However I did enjoy it and glad that all books were together, or I would have been mad not knowing the ending. I think anyone that like a good love story with a little angst would love this book.
I enjoyed read this book,Derrick Chance was a great guy that had not dated for a while. He then meets Gavin Hayes, who seems to be flirting with him at times, then other times seems so far away.
While this was a cute story, it was a little predictable with the ex trying to mess things up and illness. However I did enjoy it and glad that all books were together, or I would have been mad not knowing the ending. I think anyone that like a good love story with a little angst would love this book.
April 3, 2015
Gavin and Derrick both have reasons to avoid relationships. One of them faced loss, repeatedly, and the other betrayal. Nevertheless, their attraction overcomes their hesitancy and they work to build a future.
A wonderful introduction to the HIV/AID's discussion and the necessity to practice safe sex.
A wonderful introduction to the HIV/AID's discussion and the necessity to practice safe sex.
July 22, 2015
This was a DNF for me. I was bored, I didn't care if the two MCs stayed together or not and Derrick was sabotaging the relationship by not being forthcoming or truthful. But again I didn't really care. I have too many books on my TBR list to waste time continuing with a story I don't care about.
August 10, 2016
4.5 Stars
August 25, 2014
2,5 I could not get into this book. The characters felt flat to me and the the book felt preachy. The main characters only have good qualities, the evil ex only has bad ones.
May 24, 2015
I really enjoyed this one. The chemistry between the MCs was good, the emotional baggage not completely overdone, and the romance was sweet.
Read
January 15, 20164.5 stars - previously reviewed under another account
July 16, 2018
I'm glad I got the whole trilogy at once because the books just continue and make up one great story. Perfectly imperfect MC's and a sexy, love story - very entertaining.
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