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Jasper's Mountain
When small-time thief Timmy Harwell recklessly “borrows” a Cadillac for a joyride, he doesn’t expect to find a cool $100,000 in the trunk. His elation turns to terror when he realizes the SUV and the dough belong to Miguel Garcia, aka El Poco, a Tijuana drug dealer with a nasty reputation. Timmy sees only one way leave the stolen car behind and run as fast as he can.
His getaway is cut short when a storm strands him outside Jasper Stone’s secluded mountain cabin. Jasper finds Timmy in his shed, unconscious and burning up with fever, and takes care of the younger man, nursing him back to health. The two begin to grow close, but Jasper, a writer who seeks only solitude, is everything Timmy isn’t. Straightforward, honest, and kind.
Timmy needs Jasper’s help—and wants his respect—so he hides his dishonest habits. But when El Poco comes after him, Timmy realizes he’s not the only one at risk. His actions have also put Jasper in harm’s way. Honesty now could mean Timmy loses the man he’s come to love, but not being honest could mean far worse.
His getaway is cut short when a storm strands him outside Jasper Stone’s secluded mountain cabin. Jasper finds Timmy in his shed, unconscious and burning up with fever, and takes care of the younger man, nursing him back to health. The two begin to grow close, but Jasper, a writer who seeks only solitude, is everything Timmy isn’t. Straightforward, honest, and kind.
Timmy needs Jasper’s help—and wants his respect—so he hides his dishonest habits. But when El Poco comes after him, Timmy realizes he’s not the only one at risk. His actions have also put Jasper in harm’s way. Honesty now could mean Timmy loses the man he’s come to love, but not being honest could mean far worse.
204 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 15, 2013
6 people are currently reading
188 people want to read
About the author
John Inman
42 books442 followersA Lambda Literary Award finalist and the author of over forty novels, John has been writing fiction for as long as he can remember. Born on a small farm in Indiana, he now resides in San Diego, California where he spends his time gardening, pampering his pets, hiking and biking the trails and canyons of San Diego, and of course, writing. He and his partner share a passion for theater, books, film, and the continuing fight for marriage equality. If you would like to know more about John, check out his website at----
http://www.johninmanauthor.com/John_I... or follow him on Facebook at www.facebook.com/john.inman.79
http://www.johninmanauthor.com/John_I... or follow him on Facebook at www.facebook.com/john.inman.79
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
December 25, 2015
The only thing that would have made me hate this book more than I did was if one of the main characters had kicked a baby.
I was initially drawn to Jasper's Mountain by the book's pretty cover - some magical mix of stock photography, fonts, and layout had me convinced that this book would deliver on the sweetness that I was craving this morning when I picked up my Kindle. I was also enticed by the potential discovery of an established, but new-to-me author whose work is almost universally enjoyed by my GR friends. But, it was the trope-y goodness of a book about a reclusive mountain man and a twink in need of refuge that really tripped my "WANT IT! NEED IT! GIVE IT TO ME NOW!" buttons.
Try as I might, though, I never warmed up to Inman's writing style. It had its moments of humor and authenticity, but the beginning of the novel, especially, felt too writerly to me to fit comfortably within the genre. That's not to say that I haven't read some brilliantly written romance novels with beautiful prose in my time, but I felt like this one was stretching to be more descriptive and evocative than the author could achieve without the readers seeing (or at least sensing) that effort.
The writing style aside, the biggest failure for me in this book was its characters and their relationship with one another. On his own, I quite liked Jasper. He seemed decent, kind, hard working, generous, trusting, self-deprecating, flawed, and just catty enough to be human. But Timmy? The dude was a loser. He was a thief, a liar, an opportunist, a user, a wuss, and, if I'm being completely honest, I think he may have been a borderline sociopath.
As a couple, Jasper and Timmy just did not work. Inman tried to convince readers that his characters were falling for each other, but there wasn't anything on the page to support these supposedly growing feelings. Yes, they boned like bunnies, but the men barely spoke to each other about anything, let alone the important, character-defining moments of their lives, their hopes, their dreams, etc. And, since every other word out of Timmy's mouth was a lie - and Jasper knew they were lies - the few conversations that they did have never led to trust or increased intimacy between them.
As far as I could tell, the only thing these two had nothing in common other than geography was a mutual love of the dick. That's fine if all you're looking for is a one night stand, but I refuse to even entertain "I love yous" based on so little. In other words, their relationship felt flimsy and false.
Not feeling their relationship and irritated by the writing style, I was about the DNF the book with a h0 hum rating and a "not for me" type review. Then, around 75%, shit hit the fan and it was like a train wreck I could not look away from.
All of a sudden there were dastardly villains, a life and death situation, a ridiculous never-in-a-million-years coincidence, and some pretty creative violence. None of that is particularly my cup of tea, but it was the whiplash-inducing I-love-him-but-I-can't-trust-him-but-I-love him cycle that Jasper maintained in the face of Timmy's emotional detachment to the violence and his compulsive adherence to his lies that boggled my mind and drove this book right into the basement for me. I mean, how can you love a man that nearly costs you your life and then, without blinking, tries to make you abandon everything about yourself that makes you a good person?
Honestly? I don't think you can.
Right up until the last page, I felt as if the only realistic resolution for these characters was for Jasper to turn his back on Timmy completely and walk away. Heck, I was hoping for that outcome. So, when Jasper incited a change of heart in Timmy at the eleventh hour, I just didn't buy it. Timmy wasn't genuinely remorseful for anything he'd done. He hadn't experienced any personal growth. He was just doing what Jasper said in order to salvage the relationship.
Generally, when I finish reading a romance novel I feel happy, or hopeful, or some indefinable mixture of a dozen positive emotions, but in the case of Jasper's Mountain, I just felt shitty and unresolved.
I was initially drawn to Jasper's Mountain by the book's pretty cover - some magical mix of stock photography, fonts, and layout had me convinced that this book would deliver on the sweetness that I was craving this morning when I picked up my Kindle. I was also enticed by the potential discovery of an established, but new-to-me author whose work is almost universally enjoyed by my GR friends. But, it was the trope-y goodness of a book about a reclusive mountain man and a twink in need of refuge that really tripped my "WANT IT! NEED IT! GIVE IT TO ME NOW!" buttons.
Try as I might, though, I never warmed up to Inman's writing style. It had its moments of humor and authenticity, but the beginning of the novel, especially, felt too writerly to me to fit comfortably within the genre. That's not to say that I haven't read some brilliantly written romance novels with beautiful prose in my time, but I felt like this one was stretching to be more descriptive and evocative than the author could achieve without the readers seeing (or at least sensing) that effort.
The writing style aside, the biggest failure for me in this book was its characters and their relationship with one another. On his own, I quite liked Jasper. He seemed decent, kind, hard working, generous, trusting, self-deprecating, flawed, and just catty enough to be human. But Timmy? The dude was a loser. He was a thief, a liar, an opportunist, a user, a wuss, and, if I'm being completely honest, I think he may have been a borderline sociopath.
As a couple, Jasper and Timmy just did not work. Inman tried to convince readers that his characters were falling for each other, but there wasn't anything on the page to support these supposedly growing feelings. Yes, they boned like bunnies, but the men barely spoke to each other about anything, let alone the important, character-defining moments of their lives, their hopes, their dreams, etc. And, since every other word out of Timmy's mouth was a lie - and Jasper knew they were lies - the few conversations that they did have never led to trust or increased intimacy between them.
As far as I could tell, the only thing these two had nothing in common other than geography was a mutual love of the dick. That's fine if all you're looking for is a one night stand, but I refuse to even entertain "I love yous" based on so little. In other words, their relationship felt flimsy and false.
Not feeling their relationship and irritated by the writing style, I was about the DNF the book with a h0 hum rating and a "not for me" type review. Then, around 75%, shit hit the fan and it was like a train wreck I could not look away from.
All of a sudden there were dastardly villains, a life and death situation, a ridiculous never-in-a-million-years coincidence, and some pretty creative violence. None of that is particularly my cup of tea, but it was the whiplash-inducing I-love-him-but-I-can't-trust-him-but-I-love him cycle that Jasper maintained in the face of Timmy's emotional detachment to the violence and his compulsive adherence to his lies that boggled my mind and drove this book right into the basement for me. I mean, how can you love a man that nearly costs you your life and then, without blinking, tries to make you abandon everything about yourself that makes you a good person?
Honestly? I don't think you can.
Right up until the last page, I felt as if the only realistic resolution for these characters was for Jasper to turn his back on Timmy completely and walk away. Heck, I was hoping for that outcome. So, when Jasper incited a change of heart in Timmy at the eleventh hour, I just didn't buy it. Timmy wasn't genuinely remorseful for anything he'd done. He hadn't experienced any personal growth. He was just doing what Jasper said in order to salvage the relationship.
Generally, when I finish reading a romance novel I feel happy, or hopeful, or some indefinable mixture of a dozen positive emotions, but in the case of Jasper's Mountain, I just felt shitty and unresolved.
August 28, 2013
When I saw this book, I was so excited to read it. And when I read Cindi's review, I was even more eager to read this one. It sounded so good and the cover is just beautiful. Well, I am happy to say I wasn't disappointed at all. This book was a really great read, and it is definitely one I am extremely happy I read.
Timmy and Jasper were a great couple... Sort of. I will admit, there are a lot of things in the way. Mainly Timmy's secrecy and lies, and the fact he put both of them in danger. But at the same time, they were a sweet couple. Some of the intimate moments these two shared were super sweet and bordered on cute for me. It's unusual for me to like a couple that started out on lies. But John Inman is an incredible author and he made me fall in love with them.
I really liked both MC's. They were likable - even Timmy - and they each had their own quirks. I was surprised that I did love Timmy. But I guess I was able to see how naive he was... It's strange, but I do think he was very naive in a lot of ways. Granted, so was Jasper, but they were different characters, different men, and different personalities, so it worked really well.
There's nothing I would have changed about the book. I am especially happy that Jasper's ex-wife wasn't actually in this book. She sounded like everything I hate in an ex. I was also glad there weren't many really bad things in the book. It was serious, sure. But neither of the MC's was seriously injured or worse - killed. And the bad guys were well written, too.
I really loved this book, and I am glad there is a feeling that a sequel could be written. Don't get me wrong, there's nothing left to answer. But the author could, in theory, write a sequel to this one day if he so wished.
Timmy and Jasper were a great couple... Sort of. I will admit, there are a lot of things in the way. Mainly Timmy's secrecy and lies, and the fact he put both of them in danger. But at the same time, they were a sweet couple. Some of the intimate moments these two shared were super sweet and bordered on cute for me. It's unusual for me to like a couple that started out on lies. But John Inman is an incredible author and he made me fall in love with them.
I really liked both MC's. They were likable - even Timmy - and they each had their own quirks. I was surprised that I did love Timmy. But I guess I was able to see how naive he was... It's strange, but I do think he was very naive in a lot of ways. Granted, so was Jasper, but they were different characters, different men, and different personalities, so it worked really well.
There's nothing I would have changed about the book. I am especially happy that Jasper's ex-wife wasn't actually in this book. She sounded like everything I hate in an ex. I was also glad there weren't many really bad things in the book. It was serious, sure. But neither of the MC's was seriously injured or worse - killed. And the bad guys were well written, too.
I really loved this book, and I am glad there is a feeling that a sequel could be written. Don't get me wrong, there's nothing left to answer. But the author could, in theory, write a sequel to this one day if he so wished.
July 7, 2015
Yeah, I’m a sucker for John Inman’s stories… I’m totally hooked to John’s exciting, suspenseful, funny, sometimes even scary or spooky… but always brilliantly written, imaginative stories.
Jasper’s Mountain is no exception, it’s a super sweet romance, mixed with some angst and mystery, and I loved every minute of it. Jasper and Timmy’s story sucked me in from the start and I couldn't stop reading, these guys just captured me.
The characters are fresh, real and interesting, the story line sweet and sexy and the plot is romantic, delightful, funny and thrilling. What could be better than a lost boy finding himself and falling passionately in love? I just wanted to hug Timmy and Jasper and never let them go.
And I loved Jasper’s four-legged buddies. The dogs Bobber, Jumper and Lola, the cats Fiji and Guatemala, and the rambunctious and noisy little pigs Harry and Harriet.
All in all, Jasper’s Mountain was another winner for me… a very entertaining read. Highly recommended!
September 18, 2013
4.5 stars rounded up
Gradually their hearts slowed, the laughter dissipated, and they fell into the alchemy of touch. Warm bodies. Hard cocks. Trailing fingers. Hairy legs, knotted tight. Strong arms, holding close. Stomachs pressed together. The scent of man. Two men. Longing for release. Longing for each other. Happy to be exactly where they were at that precise moment in their lives.
Need. The bedroom walls echoed with need.
I have never read John Inman before, but my blog partner - hi Cindi! loves his writing. I don't often get to read something Cindi does because it isn't always viable, and besides, we don't always have the same taste, even within genre. But I liked the sound of this book so I finally bought it and read it.
First of all, the writing is unusual for a romance (in this case a M/M) - it is third person omniscient, for the protagonists, and third person objective, for the antagonists. So, you get a three sixty look at the MC's, Jasper and Timmy, and enough of the antagonists when they are in the mix to build tension and suspense. Given the characters, I thought this was very well done, although a few readers may not necessarily be used to this style of writing.
Jasper Stone is a thirty two year old divorced man who owns a farm on 90 acres in San Diego. It's an inheritance of sorts from his deceased father. He is a solitary man for the most part. He writes books for a meagre income, has a nest-egg stashed away, and lives within his own means. He only lives forty minutes out of town if he needs to do something - like get laid, but he never brings anyone home and he doesn't often go in into town these days. He would like to have a special someone but he makes do. He has his dogs, his cats, and along the way he acquires some pigs, which he has always wanted. He is not a good farmer as the pigs soon become pets - Harry and Harriet. Oh, and everything he builds - from the shed to the pig-pen - is on a lean. I liked Jasper. I can relate to his desire to have a solitary lifestyle with animals over other people and perhaps something that isn't right for him. He loves his animals, he believes in honesty and doing what is right and he is kind and supportive.
Jasper comes home one night after a trip into town and finds the lights on, the front door open and the dogs all out to greet him. Thing is, nothing has been disturbed, nothing has been stolen and no one is about. Maybe in his keenness to get into town he left the door open?
Timmy Hartwell has been on Jasper's farm for several days watching the very attractive Jasper go about his work. He is also on Jasper's farm when the house is left open. As the days progress he is feeling decidedly unwell. He finds his way into Jasper's shed and that is where Jasper finds him, soaked through and running a fever.
Jasper notices that Timmy is attractive and Jasper is smitten with the young man. The reader is already privy to the fact that Timmy finds Jasper attractive as well. So mutual attraction is there, but Timmy is in and out of consciousness for a couple of days and Jasper takes care of him.
When Timmy feels better the two men enter a sexual relationship, despite Jasper's concern about where Timmy comes from and why he is on his farm on the mountain. Timmy is not forthcoming and this is one of the factors that people may have a problem with because Timmy does not tell the truth about what he has done and why he is at Jasper's. As much as he wants Jasper physically, and he wants him very much, he is motivated initially by staying off the radar of certain people looking for him. Timmy is definitely a flawed character but he is a likeable character as well.
So, there is a deceptive component to this book, and Cindi knows I am not good with that, but all is well written here and it adds to the intrigue and the build of the suspense. Yes, I could have clocked Timmy, but life has not been kind to him and he has learned to be streetwise and self sufficient in the only way he knows how in his twenty years of life. If he suddenly breaks out with honesty about all aspects of what he has done, his current dilemma, what will Jasper do? He is terrified that Jasper - who he sees as a good, decent man - won't want him, and even worse, won't like him. Timmy likes how Jasper sees him and makes him feel -
Somehow, Jasper had touched something inside Timmy. It was a touch Timmy had never felt before. But now that he had felt it, he knew he could never live without it again.
Of course, the antagonists arrive on the scene and there is some tension built when they arrive. They are not nice guys, but have they counted on Timmy and his deceptive ways? That is the question.
There is some smoking sex in this book, some really sweet moments, a good plot that moved the book along, a different slant that allowed the MC's perspective room to move. I enjoyed the thoughts and feelings that I was given and I liked both characters. I cannot finish without saying that I LOVED the animals and the way John Inman wrote them - the cuteness and the reality of pet ownership that had me laughing on more than one occasion. The book ends on a HFN, which makes a lot of sense if you read the book. The way it is written leaves it open-ended if the author chooses to revisit them in the future, and I for one hope he does.
I recommend this book for open-minded readers and those who are prepared to go the distance as it is required to get the whole picture.
If you want to see the style of writing or quotes then look at my status updates.
Gradually their hearts slowed, the laughter dissipated, and they fell into the alchemy of touch. Warm bodies. Hard cocks. Trailing fingers. Hairy legs, knotted tight. Strong arms, holding close. Stomachs pressed together. The scent of man. Two men. Longing for release. Longing for each other. Happy to be exactly where they were at that precise moment in their lives.
Need. The bedroom walls echoed with need.
I have never read John Inman before, but my blog partner - hi Cindi! loves his writing. I don't often get to read something Cindi does because it isn't always viable, and besides, we don't always have the same taste, even within genre. But I liked the sound of this book so I finally bought it and read it.
First of all, the writing is unusual for a romance (in this case a M/M) - it is third person omniscient, for the protagonists, and third person objective, for the antagonists. So, you get a three sixty look at the MC's, Jasper and Timmy, and enough of the antagonists when they are in the mix to build tension and suspense. Given the characters, I thought this was very well done, although a few readers may not necessarily be used to this style of writing.
Jasper Stone is a thirty two year old divorced man who owns a farm on 90 acres in San Diego. It's an inheritance of sorts from his deceased father. He is a solitary man for the most part. He writes books for a meagre income, has a nest-egg stashed away, and lives within his own means. He only lives forty minutes out of town if he needs to do something - like get laid, but he never brings anyone home and he doesn't often go in into town these days. He would like to have a special someone but he makes do. He has his dogs, his cats, and along the way he acquires some pigs, which he has always wanted. He is not a good farmer as the pigs soon become pets - Harry and Harriet. Oh, and everything he builds - from the shed to the pig-pen - is on a lean. I liked Jasper. I can relate to his desire to have a solitary lifestyle with animals over other people and perhaps something that isn't right for him. He loves his animals, he believes in honesty and doing what is right and he is kind and supportive.
Jasper comes home one night after a trip into town and finds the lights on, the front door open and the dogs all out to greet him. Thing is, nothing has been disturbed, nothing has been stolen and no one is about. Maybe in his keenness to get into town he left the door open?
Timmy Hartwell has been on Jasper's farm for several days watching the very attractive Jasper go about his work. He is also on Jasper's farm when the house is left open. As the days progress he is feeling decidedly unwell. He finds his way into Jasper's shed and that is where Jasper finds him, soaked through and running a fever.
Jasper notices that Timmy is attractive and Jasper is smitten with the young man. The reader is already privy to the fact that Timmy finds Jasper attractive as well. So mutual attraction is there, but Timmy is in and out of consciousness for a couple of days and Jasper takes care of him.
When Timmy feels better the two men enter a sexual relationship, despite Jasper's concern about where Timmy comes from and why he is on his farm on the mountain. Timmy is not forthcoming and this is one of the factors that people may have a problem with because Timmy does not tell the truth about what he has done and why he is at Jasper's. As much as he wants Jasper physically, and he wants him very much, he is motivated initially by staying off the radar of certain people looking for him. Timmy is definitely a flawed character but he is a likeable character as well.
So, there is a deceptive component to this book, and Cindi knows I am not good with that, but all is well written here and it adds to the intrigue and the build of the suspense. Yes, I could have clocked Timmy, but life has not been kind to him and he has learned to be streetwise and self sufficient in the only way he knows how in his twenty years of life. If he suddenly breaks out with honesty about all aspects of what he has done, his current dilemma, what will Jasper do? He is terrified that Jasper - who he sees as a good, decent man - won't want him, and even worse, won't like him. Timmy likes how Jasper sees him and makes him feel -
Somehow, Jasper had touched something inside Timmy. It was a touch Timmy had never felt before. But now that he had felt it, he knew he could never live without it again.
Of course, the antagonists arrive on the scene and there is some tension built when they arrive. They are not nice guys, but have they counted on Timmy and his deceptive ways? That is the question.
There is some smoking sex in this book, some really sweet moments, a good plot that moved the book along, a different slant that allowed the MC's perspective room to move. I enjoyed the thoughts and feelings that I was given and I liked both characters. I cannot finish without saying that I LOVED the animals and the way John Inman wrote them - the cuteness and the reality of pet ownership that had me laughing on more than one occasion. The book ends on a HFN, which makes a lot of sense if you read the book. The way it is written leaves it open-ended if the author chooses to revisit them in the future, and I for one hope he does.
I recommend this book for open-minded readers and those who are prepared to go the distance as it is required to get the whole picture.
If you want to see the style of writing or quotes then look at my status updates.
December 16, 2013
Full review can be found at On Top Down Under Book Reviews.
A small-town thief on the run. The kindness of a stranger. Bring the two together and there are a lot of secrets, hot sex, a bit of humor, some violence and later a nicely done happily-ever-after. This book has a lot of things I love. One, there is a large age difference between the two main characters, Jasper and Timmy (Jasper is thirty-two and Timmy is twenty). Two, the characters are as different as night and day and I am all about opposites-attract stories. Three, there is a large group of funny animals that somehow always make their way into this author's books (who wouldn't love two tiny piglets?).
John Inman wrote another wonderful book. Very rarely do I come across an author when I know that every book will be a winner. This is not one of his funny books (though there is some humor throughout) so don't go into it expecting another Loving Hector or Shy. But go into it knowing that you will get what you always get with this author's work: a very entertaining read. Highly recommended.
This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for a fair and honest review.
My Favorite Book Covers of 2013
A small-town thief on the run. The kindness of a stranger. Bring the two together and there are a lot of secrets, hot sex, a bit of humor, some violence and later a nicely done happily-ever-after. This book has a lot of things I love. One, there is a large age difference between the two main characters, Jasper and Timmy (Jasper is thirty-two and Timmy is twenty). Two, the characters are as different as night and day and I am all about opposites-attract stories. Three, there is a large group of funny animals that somehow always make their way into this author's books (who wouldn't love two tiny piglets?).
John Inman wrote another wonderful book. Very rarely do I come across an author when I know that every book will be a winner. This is not one of his funny books (though there is some humor throughout) so don't go into it expecting another Loving Hector or Shy. But go into it knowing that you will get what you always get with this author's work: a very entertaining read. Highly recommended.
This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for a fair and honest review.
My Favorite Book Covers of 2013
September 20, 2013
I have absolutely no idea why there are some reviews that take exception to some actions in this story. I guess everyone has an opinion and they are definitely allowed their opinions. What I read was just a sweet story with two well-developed characters. The sex was fairly hot, but not scotching and the premises was cute. Believable? Not really, but entertaining.
January 12, 2014
This book could have gone a lot of ways and the way it went I am happy with.
I really liked Timmy and Jasper and I loved Jasper's animals. I have always loved pigs so they made me smile. I liked how Jasper cared for them.
The setting was good, the characters were good, the bad guys were bad. The sex was awesome and the ending turned out well because I thought it may have gone bad.
I liked Timmy. I know he wasn't the most honest person but he had his reasons and being around his age I think I can say I could be just like him in his place. I thought that Jasper was nothing but kind. I would take a guy like Jasper.
I am for sure going to read more John Inman when I can get the time.
I really liked Timmy and Jasper and I loved Jasper's animals. I have always loved pigs so they made me smile. I liked how Jasper cared for them.
The setting was good, the characters were good, the bad guys were bad. The sex was awesome and the ending turned out well because I thought it may have gone bad.
I liked Timmy. I know he wasn't the most honest person but he had his reasons and being around his age I think I can say I could be just like him in his place. I thought that Jasper was nothing but kind. I would take a guy like Jasper.
I am for sure going to read more John Inman when I can get the time.
August 22, 2013
3.5 Stars
A "Live Your Life, Buy The Book" Review
Jasper Stone found himself living on 90 acres in the mountains outside of San Diego, not by choice, but rather by fortune. Well, not so much fortune, but it’s all he inherited from his father, after the man had given all his money away to charity. It is also something that Jasper somehow kept hidden from his witchy ex-wife, so it belonged solely to him after their divorce. As a writer, the seclusion suits him fine. He makes the drive to the city for supplies and for occasional bar excursions and hook-ups – with men. Oh yeah, realizing he was gay kind of led to said divorce. At age 32, the hook ups have been fast losing their appeal, and Jasper finds himself longing for a deeper, personal connection with someone.
There is a fairly lengthy narrative at the beginning of the book which sets up Jasper’s back story, describes his mountain home, his menagerie of pets and wildlife, and his life in general. The ambience of his home and life on the mountain, shared with his dogs cats and local wildlife, is vivid and it made me want to go there. The gorgeous cover art nails it.
One night when Jasper returns home in the wee hours, he finds the door to his cabin is wide open, and a light is on. The dogs are calm, nothing seems disturbed or missing. He chalks it up to a big “WTH, I must have been in a real rush to leave earlier”, and goes on with his days. His newest endeavor, building a shed for two newly acquired young pigs, is what eventually leads him to the discovery that he did indeed have an intruder – Timmy. The reader meets Timmy before Jasper does, and gets a narrative of his back story as well – only with less crucial details of current events. Seems he has stolen a car that turned out to belong to someone he did not want to tangle with. He ditched the car, and found himself on foot in Jasper’s woods – and becoming quite ill on top of it all. When Jasper finds Timmy, he is wet, feverish and nearly unconscious.
Jasper takes Timmy in and nurses him back to health. By doing so, he gets a whole lot more than he bargained for. He has an instant physical attraction to Timmy, and as soon as Timmy is lucid enough to realize how long Jasper is lingering over the sponge baths, he’s on board with mutual lust. Jasper wars with himself over his growing (literally) attraction. He knows nothing about Timmy, other than he’s young (20 according to the license in his wallet), he’s probably in some kind of trouble, and he’s obviously lying. Probably not somebody Jasper should be getting involved with in any capacity. This doesn’t stop the pair from acting on their shared attraction. As soon as Timmy is feeling up to it (ahem), the two are getting it on big time. The sex is hot and heavy.
The book as a whole, while certainly not a comedy, is written with good doses of humor. Sadly, the blunt depictions the author utilizes during the sex scenes took me out of them rather than drawing me in. Personally, while I can certainly relate to appreciating the human form, instant physical attraction, and bowing to lust, it became redundant to me to read about Jasper’s aching cock. While Timmy was recovering there was mention after mention of Jasper fighting his desire, or adjusting his pants. I kept thinking, OK, I get it – he wants sex with Timmy, badly! On with the story please.
Once Timmy is well, he still does not share his truth with Jasper, which has Jasper somewhat disappointed and drained. Despite this, both men realize that their fervor has evolved into deeper feelings for one another. Again, the sex scenes left me not quite feeling this emotional connection. Timmy wants Jasper to trust him, but with all of the unknowns, Jasper finds this difficult. One day, Timmy’s past catches up with him when some shady characters turn up on the mountain. I won’t give away what happens next, as the details of what brought Timmy to Jasper’s property are revealed. The story culminates in an exciting, surprising, (and somewhat violent way), where Jasper, and the reader, get all the answers they have been waiting for, and then some! Jasper accepted all of the revelations and events a bit too quickly for me, but they do lead to his HEA with Timmy.
As I was reading, I found myself wanting more details coming from dialogue. I wanted more information exchanged between the characters themselves in regard to how they felt. I wanted to know what kind of books Jasper wrote, what he was writing currently and to have Timmy be interested in this as well. Through the majority of the book Jasper knew without question that Timmy was lying and hiding a lot of information and yet he never truly pressed him on it. The shift from lust to love felt kind of fuzzy to me, as the two didn’t really know much about each other. Apparently proving, romantically so, that the heart really does rule the mind!
I was surprised that the blurb gives away a detail that remains a big question mark until late in the story…
Recommended for fans of instant attraction, hurt/care theme, opposites attract and saving the big reveals for the end of the story.
A "Live Your Life, Buy The Book" Review
Jasper Stone found himself living on 90 acres in the mountains outside of San Diego, not by choice, but rather by fortune. Well, not so much fortune, but it’s all he inherited from his father, after the man had given all his money away to charity. It is also something that Jasper somehow kept hidden from his witchy ex-wife, so it belonged solely to him after their divorce. As a writer, the seclusion suits him fine. He makes the drive to the city for supplies and for occasional bar excursions and hook-ups – with men. Oh yeah, realizing he was gay kind of led to said divorce. At age 32, the hook ups have been fast losing their appeal, and Jasper finds himself longing for a deeper, personal connection with someone.
There is a fairly lengthy narrative at the beginning of the book which sets up Jasper’s back story, describes his mountain home, his menagerie of pets and wildlife, and his life in general. The ambience of his home and life on the mountain, shared with his dogs cats and local wildlife, is vivid and it made me want to go there. The gorgeous cover art nails it.
One night when Jasper returns home in the wee hours, he finds the door to his cabin is wide open, and a light is on. The dogs are calm, nothing seems disturbed or missing. He chalks it up to a big “WTH, I must have been in a real rush to leave earlier”, and goes on with his days. His newest endeavor, building a shed for two newly acquired young pigs, is what eventually leads him to the discovery that he did indeed have an intruder – Timmy. The reader meets Timmy before Jasper does, and gets a narrative of his back story as well – only with less crucial details of current events. Seems he has stolen a car that turned out to belong to someone he did not want to tangle with. He ditched the car, and found himself on foot in Jasper’s woods – and becoming quite ill on top of it all. When Jasper finds Timmy, he is wet, feverish and nearly unconscious.
Jasper takes Timmy in and nurses him back to health. By doing so, he gets a whole lot more than he bargained for. He has an instant physical attraction to Timmy, and as soon as Timmy is lucid enough to realize how long Jasper is lingering over the sponge baths, he’s on board with mutual lust. Jasper wars with himself over his growing (literally) attraction. He knows nothing about Timmy, other than he’s young (20 according to the license in his wallet), he’s probably in some kind of trouble, and he’s obviously lying. Probably not somebody Jasper should be getting involved with in any capacity. This doesn’t stop the pair from acting on their shared attraction. As soon as Timmy is feeling up to it (ahem), the two are getting it on big time. The sex is hot and heavy.
The book as a whole, while certainly not a comedy, is written with good doses of humor. Sadly, the blunt depictions the author utilizes during the sex scenes took me out of them rather than drawing me in. Personally, while I can certainly relate to appreciating the human form, instant physical attraction, and bowing to lust, it became redundant to me to read about Jasper’s aching cock. While Timmy was recovering there was mention after mention of Jasper fighting his desire, or adjusting his pants. I kept thinking, OK, I get it – he wants sex with Timmy, badly! On with the story please.
Once Timmy is well, he still does not share his truth with Jasper, which has Jasper somewhat disappointed and drained. Despite this, both men realize that their fervor has evolved into deeper feelings for one another. Again, the sex scenes left me not quite feeling this emotional connection. Timmy wants Jasper to trust him, but with all of the unknowns, Jasper finds this difficult. One day, Timmy’s past catches up with him when some shady characters turn up on the mountain. I won’t give away what happens next, as the details of what brought Timmy to Jasper’s property are revealed. The story culminates in an exciting, surprising, (and somewhat violent way), where Jasper, and the reader, get all the answers they have been waiting for, and then some! Jasper accepted all of the revelations and events a bit too quickly for me, but they do lead to his HEA with Timmy.
As I was reading, I found myself wanting more details coming from dialogue. I wanted more information exchanged between the characters themselves in regard to how they felt. I wanted to know what kind of books Jasper wrote, what he was writing currently and to have Timmy be interested in this as well. Through the majority of the book Jasper knew without question that Timmy was lying and hiding a lot of information and yet he never truly pressed him on it. The shift from lust to love felt kind of fuzzy to me, as the two didn’t really know much about each other. Apparently proving, romantically so, that the heart really does rule the mind!
I was surprised that the blurb gives away a detail that remains a big question mark until late in the story…
Recommended for fans of instant attraction, hurt/care theme, opposites attract and saving the big reveals for the end of the story.
August 20, 2013
1.5
A story that captures the setting well, but fails to capture this reader’s heart.
The things I liked were the animals and the sense of place. Lola in particular stuck out as being such a sweet, loyal dog and I thought she made a nice character. There’s also a lot of good description that used more than just the visual sense, but taste, touch and sound as well.
Unfortunately, it hit too many of my triggers. Too much exposition, telling, flashbacks, and a strange perspective, which might have been omniscient? Some of Jasper’s thoughts felt inappropriate to the moment, and the sex scenes were uncomfortable to read—especially as poor choices for similes were used.
All this made it difficult for me to get into the story. I think the writing and ideas were all there, but could have been put to better effect if written in a more active tense.
A story that captures the setting well, but fails to capture this reader’s heart.
The things I liked were the animals and the sense of place. Lola in particular stuck out as being such a sweet, loyal dog and I thought she made a nice character. There’s also a lot of good description that used more than just the visual sense, but taste, touch and sound as well.
Unfortunately, it hit too many of my triggers. Too much exposition, telling, flashbacks, and a strange perspective, which might have been omniscient? Some of Jasper’s thoughts felt inappropriate to the moment, and the sex scenes were uncomfortable to read—especially as poor choices for similes were used.
All this made it difficult for me to get into the story. I think the writing and ideas were all there, but could have been put to better effect if written in a more active tense.
January 3, 2014
Loved it. Believable characters and some good action. Timmy may be a thief and a liar, but he needs someone to make him see that change is needed, that there is a better life.
dnf
May 6, 2015DNF at 31%
I’m so boooooooooooooored.
I’m so boooooooooooooored.
November 1, 2013
Five reasons why I highly recommend Jasper's Mountain by John Inman.
Jasper
When Jasper decides to finally leave his wife and admit to himself he is gay, he realizes that the solitude of the mountains is where he most desires to live. After his father, a successful gun dealer, gives away the million he made to different charities, Jasper's inheritance is little more than a 90-acre spread on the edge of town replete with a tumble down cabin and more alligator lizards than Jasper can endure. Over time, Jasper begins to accumulate three dogs and two cats (one of which delight in capturing and eating those pesky lizards), builds an admittedly crooked fence and ponders investing in a few piglets as well.
Life for Jasper, while solitary, is nonetheless idyllic, or at least that is what he keeps telling himself. When he feels the need for companionship, he simply takes a trip into town to visit a gay bar and hook up with another man. But you see, Jasper is that rare creature that actually feels both guilt and just a little bit disappointed in himself when he gives in to a one night stand encounter. What this sensitive, erstwhile novelist and genuinely sweet man really wants is someone to share his mountain, his life--a man he can love and be loved by, in return.
Jasper was a practical man and yet deep inside him lurked the heart of a dreamer. While he fully understood his life choices and the location in which he chose to hang his hat was as removed from society as possible, he still harbored a deep longing to find someone to take care of--to cherish. He plays at so many things, writing, building, running a ranch and the beauty of this character is that he knows that. He understands that the choices he has made will in the long run keep him from ever really having what his heart truly desires, yet there is no whining, no regret. There is strength within him that simply makes this man shine!
The way in which author John Inman writes this character allows us to see how beautifully simple a person Jasper is inside. It isn't that he is without fault or problems, but the total lack of guile, the decisiveness with which he opts to open his home and heart, and the wrenching way in which he is filled with despair over the loneliness of those one night stand makes Jasper someone who is instantly like-able, human, and real. His writing may fulfill him, but his heart seeks something more. As if in answer to Jasper's heartfelt longing, Timmy appears out of nowhere.
Timmy
Oh how to describe and review the immensity of this character? While he begins as almost a predictable "lost boy", having been raised in foster homes, abused, without love and now is a street-wise petty car thief and near homeless young man, Timmy, at his core, is so much more. Cautious and an inveterate liar, he hides in Jasper's woods, now terribly sick and on the run from the very bad men from whom he stole his latest car. No one has ever stayed long in Tim's life and sex has always been a means to an end, quick, loveless and frantic. But he has been watching this bear of a man with his many pets and he realizes that for the first time he may have stumbled upon someone who doesn't have an ulterior motive for being. Perhaps, just perhaps he has met a genuinely nice man, one who could be trusted. Poor Tim has suffered much in his young life and his self worth lies at the bottom of a deep well where it steadily convinces him that no one could ever really care about him, least of which this gentle giant.
So, when Tim falls ill and ends up seeking shelter in the new pigpen Jasper has just built, the very man who has been waiting to care deeply for someone all his life finds him. And Tim? He has way too many secrets that lay buried under lie upon lie to ever consider falling in love with a man like Jasper. But fate has a very different idea altogether.
Just when I thought my heart had been captured by the quiet and loving Jasper, it found just a wee bit more room for Tim. Young and broken in many ways, Tim hid behind a brash exterior that was outwardly slick and seemingly unfeeling. But it really was all an act for inside their lay such a desperate need to be loved that Tim practically vibrated when around Jasper. Tim's heart was one that was ripe for the picking and Jasper only needed to reach out and grasp it firmly in hand.
Jasper's Mountain
In the descriptive passages of John Inman's novel the mountain and ranch take on a life all their own. From the humorous alligator lizards to the threat of coyotes and mountain lions, the land is as much a part of Jasper as he is of it. The author uses the land not only to set the backdrop for the reclusive nature of Jasper's home and how it is a perfect place for Tim to hide away in but also to give us further clues into Jasper's personality. After all, this is a place that Jasper loves. He draws strength from its beauty and inspiration from its sweet cacophony of noises and wildlife. The bodily strength that Jasper exudes and that so excites Tim is a result of his working his land, putting up that crooked fence, refurbishing the broken down cabin.
Much like Jasper himself, the land demands little but to be left alone and afforded a little respect. The beauty of Jasper's heart and soul are reflected in the wild, unspoiled land that sits right outside his door. And like our main characters, the mountain exists within just a few miles of the city, so one does not have to look too far to see the parallels.... the quiet and untamed next to the noisy and overcrowded...the tranquil sweetness juxtaposed against the rushed and impersonal metropolitan...Jasper meeting Tim.
The Pets, including those darn little pigs.
A truly gifted writer uses every element of his story to either further the plot or develop his characters. Often, small children and pets are used in romance novels to show a gentler side to a gruff character or the sensitive side to someone who is otherwise, for want of a better word, a jackass. However, in Jasper's Mountain, the pets become a barometer not only for good and evil but act as comic relief, nurturing mother figures and real companions. Jasper's sensitive side is revealed in the carefully draped animals that grace his bed every morning and in the two piglets that seemed so forlorn in their new pen that he just had to bring them into the house to lay in front of the fire. But it is the sweet girl, Lola, who lies next to Tim as he lay so ill that just made my eyes well with tears. It was as if here was all the love that Jasper had been saving pouring out on Tim through this sweet pup. The animals clear acceptance of Tim, despite his subterfuge, tells us that here was a man worth waiting for, worth trusting, despite his faults.
The "Happy For Now" Ending
I know a lack of a clear happy ever after is for some of us a real deal breaker when it comes to our romance novels. I, myself, tend to steer away from a novel that leaves the fate of the intended couple hanging with no real sequel in sight. In the case of Jasper’s Mountain it must be said that for the author to have given this book any other kind of ending would have been a real disservice to all the careful planning and work he had done in all the previous chapters. Without spoiling anything for you, I will simply say that I was so impressed that this story did not take the easy route to fixing all the problems that arose for Tim and quite frankly that is what made this novel just brilliant!
Think about how often you enjoyed a novel only to be sorely disappointed when the end was tied up too neatly and too swiftly. I can relate to you the many times I shook my head in real frustration when an author seemed to run out of steam and just put together an ending to make sure we, the audience, got what we wanted, a neat little HEA. But John Inman does it one step better. He continues to remind us that his characters want and need love from each other and that trust is vital to their relationship. He gives us an ending that assures us that love has and will continue to prevail even if it has yet another hill to climb before it can rest squarely in the hands of our two main characters. I really applaud this author for staying true to his story, for keeping his men real. The ending to Jasper's Mountain was both satisfying and hopeful, just as this entire novel was from beginning to end.
I highly recommend Jasper's Mountain to you. It is a deeply satisfying romance story with an edgy feel to it. I fell in love with every aspect of this novel and once again John Inman delivered a story that will stay with me long after my kindle goes dark.
Jasper
When Jasper decides to finally leave his wife and admit to himself he is gay, he realizes that the solitude of the mountains is where he most desires to live. After his father, a successful gun dealer, gives away the million he made to different charities, Jasper's inheritance is little more than a 90-acre spread on the edge of town replete with a tumble down cabin and more alligator lizards than Jasper can endure. Over time, Jasper begins to accumulate three dogs and two cats (one of which delight in capturing and eating those pesky lizards), builds an admittedly crooked fence and ponders investing in a few piglets as well.
Life for Jasper, while solitary, is nonetheless idyllic, or at least that is what he keeps telling himself. When he feels the need for companionship, he simply takes a trip into town to visit a gay bar and hook up with another man. But you see, Jasper is that rare creature that actually feels both guilt and just a little bit disappointed in himself when he gives in to a one night stand encounter. What this sensitive, erstwhile novelist and genuinely sweet man really wants is someone to share his mountain, his life--a man he can love and be loved by, in return.
Jasper was a practical man and yet deep inside him lurked the heart of a dreamer. While he fully understood his life choices and the location in which he chose to hang his hat was as removed from society as possible, he still harbored a deep longing to find someone to take care of--to cherish. He plays at so many things, writing, building, running a ranch and the beauty of this character is that he knows that. He understands that the choices he has made will in the long run keep him from ever really having what his heart truly desires, yet there is no whining, no regret. There is strength within him that simply makes this man shine!
The way in which author John Inman writes this character allows us to see how beautifully simple a person Jasper is inside. It isn't that he is without fault or problems, but the total lack of guile, the decisiveness with which he opts to open his home and heart, and the wrenching way in which he is filled with despair over the loneliness of those one night stand makes Jasper someone who is instantly like-able, human, and real. His writing may fulfill him, but his heart seeks something more. As if in answer to Jasper's heartfelt longing, Timmy appears out of nowhere.
Timmy
Oh how to describe and review the immensity of this character? While he begins as almost a predictable "lost boy", having been raised in foster homes, abused, without love and now is a street-wise petty car thief and near homeless young man, Timmy, at his core, is so much more. Cautious and an inveterate liar, he hides in Jasper's woods, now terribly sick and on the run from the very bad men from whom he stole his latest car. No one has ever stayed long in Tim's life and sex has always been a means to an end, quick, loveless and frantic. But he has been watching this bear of a man with his many pets and he realizes that for the first time he may have stumbled upon someone who doesn't have an ulterior motive for being. Perhaps, just perhaps he has met a genuinely nice man, one who could be trusted. Poor Tim has suffered much in his young life and his self worth lies at the bottom of a deep well where it steadily convinces him that no one could ever really care about him, least of which this gentle giant.
So, when Tim falls ill and ends up seeking shelter in the new pigpen Jasper has just built, the very man who has been waiting to care deeply for someone all his life finds him. And Tim? He has way too many secrets that lay buried under lie upon lie to ever consider falling in love with a man like Jasper. But fate has a very different idea altogether.
Just when I thought my heart had been captured by the quiet and loving Jasper, it found just a wee bit more room for Tim. Young and broken in many ways, Tim hid behind a brash exterior that was outwardly slick and seemingly unfeeling. But it really was all an act for inside their lay such a desperate need to be loved that Tim practically vibrated when around Jasper. Tim's heart was one that was ripe for the picking and Jasper only needed to reach out and grasp it firmly in hand.
Jasper's Mountain
In the descriptive passages of John Inman's novel the mountain and ranch take on a life all their own. From the humorous alligator lizards to the threat of coyotes and mountain lions, the land is as much a part of Jasper as he is of it. The author uses the land not only to set the backdrop for the reclusive nature of Jasper's home and how it is a perfect place for Tim to hide away in but also to give us further clues into Jasper's personality. After all, this is a place that Jasper loves. He draws strength from its beauty and inspiration from its sweet cacophony of noises and wildlife. The bodily strength that Jasper exudes and that so excites Tim is a result of his working his land, putting up that crooked fence, refurbishing the broken down cabin.
Much like Jasper himself, the land demands little but to be left alone and afforded a little respect. The beauty of Jasper's heart and soul are reflected in the wild, unspoiled land that sits right outside his door. And like our main characters, the mountain exists within just a few miles of the city, so one does not have to look too far to see the parallels.... the quiet and untamed next to the noisy and overcrowded...the tranquil sweetness juxtaposed against the rushed and impersonal metropolitan...Jasper meeting Tim.
The Pets, including those darn little pigs.
A truly gifted writer uses every element of his story to either further the plot or develop his characters. Often, small children and pets are used in romance novels to show a gentler side to a gruff character or the sensitive side to someone who is otherwise, for want of a better word, a jackass. However, in Jasper's Mountain, the pets become a barometer not only for good and evil but act as comic relief, nurturing mother figures and real companions. Jasper's sensitive side is revealed in the carefully draped animals that grace his bed every morning and in the two piglets that seemed so forlorn in their new pen that he just had to bring them into the house to lay in front of the fire. But it is the sweet girl, Lola, who lies next to Tim as he lay so ill that just made my eyes well with tears. It was as if here was all the love that Jasper had been saving pouring out on Tim through this sweet pup. The animals clear acceptance of Tim, despite his subterfuge, tells us that here was a man worth waiting for, worth trusting, despite his faults.
The "Happy For Now" Ending
I know a lack of a clear happy ever after is for some of us a real deal breaker when it comes to our romance novels. I, myself, tend to steer away from a novel that leaves the fate of the intended couple hanging with no real sequel in sight. In the case of Jasper’s Mountain it must be said that for the author to have given this book any other kind of ending would have been a real disservice to all the careful planning and work he had done in all the previous chapters. Without spoiling anything for you, I will simply say that I was so impressed that this story did not take the easy route to fixing all the problems that arose for Tim and quite frankly that is what made this novel just brilliant!
Think about how often you enjoyed a novel only to be sorely disappointed when the end was tied up too neatly and too swiftly. I can relate to you the many times I shook my head in real frustration when an author seemed to run out of steam and just put together an ending to make sure we, the audience, got what we wanted, a neat little HEA. But John Inman does it one step better. He continues to remind us that his characters want and need love from each other and that trust is vital to their relationship. He gives us an ending that assures us that love has and will continue to prevail even if it has yet another hill to climb before it can rest squarely in the hands of our two main characters. I really applaud this author for staying true to his story, for keeping his men real. The ending to Jasper's Mountain was both satisfying and hopeful, just as this entire novel was from beginning to end.
I highly recommend Jasper's Mountain to you. It is a deeply satisfying romance story with an edgy feel to it. I fell in love with every aspect of this novel and once again John Inman delivered a story that will stay with me long after my kindle goes dark.
June 26, 2025
I have loved everyone of John's books.....They are easy to read..steady and filled with funny quips...angst in small amounts and hot men....saying that.I won't say this one's my fav but it's not far off......Jasper lives alone on his mountain with his dogs,cats and the wildlife for company...I loved Jasper from the start and really wanted him to be happy....Now Timmy.....Oh Timmy Timmy Timmy, he is a little bugger as us brits would say....I don't know how Jasper could trust him when all he did was Lie....I really think he should have come out and told Jasper the truth...I was praying for him to open his mouth and spill the truth....But.....He didn't when he should have...putting them both in danger....When the bad guys turn up I was on edge wondering if Timmy would now start telling the truth.....The ending was slightly abrupt for me..(would have loved and epilogue) but I really do recommend this book...Another great read from John Inman x
August 18, 2013
John Inman does it again! This suspenseful unlikely love story really grabbed me and wouldn't let me go. Jasper, a lonely man, who is tired of quick, meaningless sex and craves someone who he can share his life with -- and finds it in the most unlikely place. Timmy, a small-time con man who has made some mistakes but underneath is just as lonely as Jasper. The blurb describes the story well, so I'll just add that once again this author has created characters that will live forever in my heart. I adored Jasper and felt like I had known him all my life. Timmy, so exasperating but lovable just the same. Loved the surprising ending too. Five well deserved stars from what is quickly becoming my favorite author!
October 29, 2020
I would not have made that phone call. True Inman style from beginning to end.
August 24, 2013
I always wanted to live out in the middle of nowhere with a little property, a log cabin, and a bunch of dogs and cats to keep me company. Kind of like Jasper's ninety acre ranch. Of course I am a city girl, born and bred, so it was always just a dream. I can say, though, that was part of the appeal for me when I read the description of this story, not to mention I had read another of this author's books and enjoyed it. I was not disappointed with the writing, at all, as Mr. Inman showed, once again, how to meld sarcasm with very, very dry wit.
Jasper lives in his cabin on his property with his four-legged companions. He's mostly content and happy with his life although he's tired of the cold and unemotional hookups he has once in awhile when he drives into town. He's a published author although money his father left him allows him to live his meager lifestyle which is all he ever really wanted out of life. He's a pretty simple guy. Honest, straightforward, hardworking, and basic, which I don't mean as a criticism; Jasper is a nice guy.
Timmy is not a simple guy. He grew up in foster homes, he's streetwise and has an unhealthy love affair with nice cars. Everything Jasper is, Timmy either isn't, or has no experience with. Timmy has spent his life doing what he had to, whether it's lying or using people, in order to survive. Timmy is trapped now, though. He wants to tell the truth but he fears that Jasper will hate him and send him on his way. Too many people have sent him away already in his short life. Timmy doesn't have too much experience with nice people, mostly he's known users and abusers.
It was fun watching these two tip-toe around each other, Timmy trying to figure out how to prevent Jasper from knowing his secrets and Jasper knowing he's lying and trying to get the information out of him any way he can. Granted, because it's two guys, their thoughts run immediately to sex as they are both insanely attracted to each other. I swear, I think only men believe everything can be cured by an orgasm. *snort* The interesting thing is that Timmy uses sex to distract Jasper from taking him back to the city and though that isn't surprising, the colossal amount of guilt and shame Timmy feels about it is. Timmy isn't used to being treated with such kindness so he's really thrown for a loop on how to behave.
The men looking for Timmy finally find him and Jasper and it's not so pretty when they do. The ending turned out way better than I thought it would, however, so that made me happy. I liked this story, although, for me, it might have had some moments where it dragged a little and the mental ramblings of each character were a little too verbose. However, all in all, it was an exceedingly interesting story with strong characters and two pigs. Don't ask. It was also a very sweet love story filled with hope and redemption.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Jasper lives in his cabin on his property with his four-legged companions. He's mostly content and happy with his life although he's tired of the cold and unemotional hookups he has once in awhile when he drives into town. He's a published author although money his father left him allows him to live his meager lifestyle which is all he ever really wanted out of life. He's a pretty simple guy. Honest, straightforward, hardworking, and basic, which I don't mean as a criticism; Jasper is a nice guy.
Timmy is not a simple guy. He grew up in foster homes, he's streetwise and has an unhealthy love affair with nice cars. Everything Jasper is, Timmy either isn't, or has no experience with. Timmy has spent his life doing what he had to, whether it's lying or using people, in order to survive. Timmy is trapped now, though. He wants to tell the truth but he fears that Jasper will hate him and send him on his way. Too many people have sent him away already in his short life. Timmy doesn't have too much experience with nice people, mostly he's known users and abusers.
It was fun watching these two tip-toe around each other, Timmy trying to figure out how to prevent Jasper from knowing his secrets and Jasper knowing he's lying and trying to get the information out of him any way he can. Granted, because it's two guys, their thoughts run immediately to sex as they are both insanely attracted to each other. I swear, I think only men believe everything can be cured by an orgasm. *snort* The interesting thing is that Timmy uses sex to distract Jasper from taking him back to the city and though that isn't surprising, the colossal amount of guilt and shame Timmy feels about it is. Timmy isn't used to being treated with such kindness so he's really thrown for a loop on how to behave.
The men looking for Timmy finally find him and Jasper and it's not so pretty when they do. The ending turned out way better than I thought it would, however, so that made me happy. I liked this story, although, for me, it might have had some moments where it dragged a little and the mental ramblings of each character were a little too verbose. However, all in all, it was an exceedingly interesting story with strong characters and two pigs. Don't ask. It was also a very sweet love story filled with hope and redemption.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
August 26, 2013
Where to start....where to start...???
This is not really the typical John Inman book, like Hobbled or Shy. It works with a quieter sense of humor, often more self-reflecting sarcasm. So the fun actually is much more subtle and if you aren't in for that you'll be dissapointed. Well, I like subtle humor, often more than the obvious one, so I really enjoyed the way Jasper laughed and mused over himself. This is another point some people might find not as interesting. There is a lot internal reflection, funny but of course that isn't action. At first I had a bit of a hard time, I was waiting for actually something to happen - until I realized that something was happening, I got to know Jasper ;)
Well, despite this slightly different style it is in a few very obvious traits a John Inman book - the conflict and it's solution is like always a bit like a caricature, a bit sharper drawn, a bit more confeniently solved. Things just stumble in place. Yeah...that's his style. And it fits, it entertains.
So - after a slow start the book grew to me, both MCs are so wonderfully human. Yeah, Tim is a little shit, manipulative and really not the most honest person in the world. And Jasper gets a boner while washing him, which makes him uncomforable but, hey, that is honest and guys tell us all the time that some body parts just have a life of their own ;)
But as I said, you need to be willing to let yourself go with the flow, the slow burn of the fun and a lot of introverted sarcasm.
Then you'll like the book. Otherwise I'm not sure.
I enjoyed it.
This is not really the typical John Inman book, like Hobbled or Shy. It works with a quieter sense of humor, often more self-reflecting sarcasm. So the fun actually is much more subtle and if you aren't in for that you'll be dissapointed. Well, I like subtle humor, often more than the obvious one, so I really enjoyed the way Jasper laughed and mused over himself. This is another point some people might find not as interesting. There is a lot internal reflection, funny but of course that isn't action. At first I had a bit of a hard time, I was waiting for actually something to happen - until I realized that something was happening, I got to know Jasper ;)
Well, despite this slightly different style it is in a few very obvious traits a John Inman book - the conflict and it's solution is like always a bit like a caricature, a bit sharper drawn, a bit more confeniently solved. Things just stumble in place. Yeah...that's his style. And it fits, it entertains.
So - after a slow start the book grew to me, both MCs are so wonderfully human. Yeah, Tim is a little shit, manipulative and really not the most honest person in the world. And Jasper gets a boner while washing him, which makes him uncomforable but, hey, that is honest and guys tell us all the time that some body parts just have a life of their own ;)
But as I said, you need to be willing to let yourself go with the flow, the slow burn of the fun and a lot of introverted sarcasm.
Then you'll like the book. Otherwise I'm not sure.
I enjoyed it.
February 10, 2014
Once again, an amazing book from John Inman.
Jasper left his wife after admitting he was gay and live on his mountain, alone, but with 3 dogs and 2 cats, dreaming of a piglet or two.
He is 32 years old and also dream of a man he can love, one that can love him back. His few one night stands, makes him feel guilty, because Jasper is a romantic at heart.
One day after getting his piglets home, he finds a young man in his hog house.
The boy is sick as a dog, and Jasper takes care of him until he is better.
The boy, Timmy 20, is a nearly homeless petty thief that has lost his job, and "borrowed" a car from a Drug Lord.
Timmy gets right under Jaspers skin and into his heart, and the feelings are mutual. But Timmy is also a liar, ans that give them a lot of trouble.
I really love this book and the two guys here.
Jasper,beautiful, sweet, strong and hairy, with the biggest heart in the world and Timmy the young, gorgeous, cute and small guy, that need Jasper to love him and show him there are good things in the world.
Not to mention the animals here, the dogs that love Timmy from the start, the cats that don´t really care about anything, and the two sweet pigs that get there own place by the fire, so they don´t have to be alone in the hog house;)
"Le Sigh"
Love love love♥
Jasper left his wife after admitting he was gay and live on his mountain, alone, but with 3 dogs and 2 cats, dreaming of a piglet or two.
He is 32 years old and also dream of a man he can love, one that can love him back. His few one night stands, makes him feel guilty, because Jasper is a romantic at heart.
One day after getting his piglets home, he finds a young man in his hog house.
The boy is sick as a dog, and Jasper takes care of him until he is better.
The boy, Timmy 20, is a nearly homeless petty thief that has lost his job, and "borrowed" a car from a Drug Lord.
Timmy gets right under Jaspers skin and into his heart, and the feelings are mutual. But Timmy is also a liar, ans that give them a lot of trouble.
I really love this book and the two guys here.
Jasper,beautiful, sweet, strong and hairy, with the biggest heart in the world and Timmy the young, gorgeous, cute and small guy, that need Jasper to love him and show him there are good things in the world.
Not to mention the animals here, the dogs that love Timmy from the start, the cats that don´t really care about anything, and the two sweet pigs that get there own place by the fire, so they don´t have to be alone in the hog house;)
"Le Sigh"
Love love love♥
March 22, 2015
This is my first book by John Inman, and it wont be my last. I really liked the story, the characters, Timmy and Jasper were great! Loved the craziness of Jasper's cabin with the dogs, the pigs, cats, and one little theif. The only thing I would have changed was to know how it all turned out, did he end up in jail? Did they turn in all the money? But it really is a fun read. I'll be checking out more of his other books for sure.
August 25, 2013
Jasper is a beautiful character, pure and honest as other protagonists of books by Mr Inman and I appreciated his way to trust and to love Timmy ,but Timmy lies to Jasper till to end, and was a bit disturbing read of him and especially of Jasper and his pain .Honestly, I breathed a sigh of relief the end because Jasper will take a right decision at least for me. And while I have found the story a little slow in some points vice versa I think few are the pages that explore the Timmy's age( twenty and with difficult past ) in relation with Jasper's age and maturity.
January 20, 2018
I thought about quitting many times, because more than half book run in circles with the attraction/lust vs untrustworthy issue, and it's simply BORING. When the plot finally moves on.... I found the development unconvincing. I did appreciate the end, but it was not enough to save the whole.
April 29, 2018
I wanted to like this book and at times I did ... but unfortunately I found myself blinking and hoping several pages would disappear. The only saving grace of this book was the two hunky guys, jasper and Timmy.
September 30, 2018
Jasper lives a quiet life in his secluded cabin. He doesn't have many visitors, which is why he's surprised when he finds Timmy Harwell holed up in one of his sheds. Timmy's ill and in need of some recuperation, and Jasper finds he enjoys the company as he nurses Timmy back to health. In fact, the two grow closer than either Jasper or Timmy would have guessed possible. But Timmy was running from something...and that something is trouble that Jasper may not be too pleased to learn about when it finally catches up with him.
When two unlikely people come together, it's always interesting to me to see how an author chooses to build the relationship. There's a lightness to Jasper and Timmy's interactions, that I think contrasts what they are used to and contributes to how quickly they fall into step together. And it makes it all the more interesting when that world is knocked around a bit by the men who are hot on Timmy's tail. And when the truth about TImmy's past comes out...
When two unlikely people come together, it's always interesting to me to see how an author chooses to build the relationship. There's a lightness to Jasper and Timmy's interactions, that I think contrasts what they are used to and contributes to how quickly they fall into step together. And it makes it all the more interesting when that world is knocked around a bit by the men who are hot on Timmy's tail. And when the truth about TImmy's past comes out...
August 6, 2024
Ce livre fait parti de mes coups de coeur de l’année 2017.
J’ai aimé le début du livre. Là où on se trouve avec Jasper et son amour pour sa montagne, ses animaux, sa tranquillité, etc… Limite, j’aurai aimé me transporter jusque dans son univers pour pouvoir ressentir tous cela. J’imagine tellement bien cette montagne, ce chalet et ses animaux de compagnie qui sont adorables.
Jasper est un personnage qu’on ne peut qu’aimer. C’est en tout cas mon ressenti car c’est un homme qui malgré son physique de bel homme, on se rend compte qu’au fil des pages que c’est quelqu’un de gentil, de maladroit, de prévenant. En lisant celles-ci, je me disais que c’était l’homme parfait avec ses qualités et ses défauts. Je me suis beaucoup attachée à lui et sa bande d’animaux assez diverse.
Timmy est un jeune homme adorable car il se la joue gros dur mais on peut voir sa timidité et sa gentillesse même si c’est un menteur invétéré. C’est le seul point noir pour moi pour lui mais après si il ne l’était pas, l’histoire n’aurait pas été écrite. J’ai aimé lire les premières lignes de son apparition quand il est fourré dans la forêt à regarder Jasper. Ses pensées sont tellement mignonnes et on peut le dire perverse hahaha.
L’histoire de ce couple est bien ficelée et malgré les non-dits on peut sentir l’amour qui s’étend dans ce chalet. Cela faisait un moment que je n’avais plus ressenti un sentiment de protection envers un couple. Je les trouvais tellement adorable que j’aurai aimé pouvoir les protéger de l’ombre de El Poco. Je m’y attendais qu’un jour, El Poco ferait son apparition mais que cela allait se finir ainsi. J’étais totalement subjuguée par l’esprit assez machiavélique de Timmy. Au fil des pages, je me disais que c’était pas possible mais il l’a fait. C’est vraiment là que le suspense arrive. J’ai dévoré les dernières pages pour voir ce que le couple ,que j’ai apprécié tout au long de ma lecture, allait devenir car El Poco n’est pas n’importe qui.
Ce livre m’a emmené dans la vie d’un homme qui pensait ne trouver personne qui aimerait autant sa montagne que lui. Cet homme qui découvre un jeune dans sa propriété et qui entrevoit un futur possible ensemble si ce dernier laisserait tomber ses barrières. Une histoire rythmée par leurs disputes et leurs moments d’affection. Une vie remplie d’animaux (coup de coeur pour les chiens et cochons), des moments de taquinerie mais aussi de « peur » surtout à la fin quand El Poco arrive pour réclamer ce qu’on lui a volé. J’ai adoré me laisser porter par l’univers que John Inman a créé. Tellement en douceur et de suspense mais qui ne tombe pas non plus dans les clichés. Un juste milieu qui est parfait.
J’ai aimé le début du livre. Là où on se trouve avec Jasper et son amour pour sa montagne, ses animaux, sa tranquillité, etc… Limite, j’aurai aimé me transporter jusque dans son univers pour pouvoir ressentir tous cela. J’imagine tellement bien cette montagne, ce chalet et ses animaux de compagnie qui sont adorables.
Jasper est un personnage qu’on ne peut qu’aimer. C’est en tout cas mon ressenti car c’est un homme qui malgré son physique de bel homme, on se rend compte qu’au fil des pages que c’est quelqu’un de gentil, de maladroit, de prévenant. En lisant celles-ci, je me disais que c’était l’homme parfait avec ses qualités et ses défauts. Je me suis beaucoup attachée à lui et sa bande d’animaux assez diverse.
Timmy est un jeune homme adorable car il se la joue gros dur mais on peut voir sa timidité et sa gentillesse même si c’est un menteur invétéré. C’est le seul point noir pour moi pour lui mais après si il ne l’était pas, l’histoire n’aurait pas été écrite. J’ai aimé lire les premières lignes de son apparition quand il est fourré dans la forêt à regarder Jasper. Ses pensées sont tellement mignonnes et on peut le dire perverse hahaha.
L’histoire de ce couple est bien ficelée et malgré les non-dits on peut sentir l’amour qui s’étend dans ce chalet. Cela faisait un moment que je n’avais plus ressenti un sentiment de protection envers un couple. Je les trouvais tellement adorable que j’aurai aimé pouvoir les protéger de l’ombre de El Poco. Je m’y attendais qu’un jour, El Poco ferait son apparition mais que cela allait se finir ainsi. J’étais totalement subjuguée par l’esprit assez machiavélique de Timmy. Au fil des pages, je me disais que c’était pas possible mais il l’a fait. C’est vraiment là que le suspense arrive. J’ai dévoré les dernières pages pour voir ce que le couple ,que j’ai apprécié tout au long de ma lecture, allait devenir car El Poco n’est pas n’importe qui.
Ce livre m’a emmené dans la vie d’un homme qui pensait ne trouver personne qui aimerait autant sa montagne que lui. Cet homme qui découvre un jeune dans sa propriété et qui entrevoit un futur possible ensemble si ce dernier laisserait tomber ses barrières. Une histoire rythmée par leurs disputes et leurs moments d’affection. Une vie remplie d’animaux (coup de coeur pour les chiens et cochons), des moments de taquinerie mais aussi de « peur » surtout à la fin quand El Poco arrive pour réclamer ce qu’on lui a volé. J’ai adoré me laisser porter par l’univers que John Inman a créé. Tellement en douceur et de suspense mais qui ne tombe pas non plus dans les clichés. Un juste milieu qui est parfait.
December 8, 2013
John Inman is one of my favorite authors. I eagerly anticipate everything that he writes. Some of his books are hits, and a few miss the mark. Unfortunately, Jasper's Mountain misses the mark for me. I try to suspend disbelief in every novel (since they are all set in a fictional world), but I just cannot understand the lead character, Jasper's motivation for his undying love of Timmy in this book.
Here is a really thumbnail summary of the story. Jasper lives primarily "off the grid" in a rural area. Timmy, steals a car that belongs to a drug lord, and is then being chased. He supposedly dumps the car over a cliff (not true) after setting it on fire (not true).
He ends up at Jasper's cabin and Timmy is very very sick. We are never told whether it is flu or pneumonia, but he is out-like-a-light for several days. When he finally comes around, we learn that Timmy manipulates and lies about almost everything and he is quite a con artist (almost to the peril of himself and Jasper).
About 2/3 through the book, Jasper wises up and realizes that he can't trust Timmy any further than he can throw him. He says "you can't love a liar". Despite that revelation, the constant lies, and the near death experience, Jasper decides in the end to stay with Timmy and make a go of it.
There is a lot of melodrama here, and a plot that I did not care for. This book tries way too hard for a happy ever after ending. It was a ridiculous ending and discredited the author's work. Overall, this is a two star story. I look forward to a better book by Mr. Inman.
August 9, 2013
3.5 Stars
Jasper Stone found himself living on 90 acres in the mountains outside of San Diego, not by choice, but rather by fortune. Well, not so much fortune, but it’s all he inherited from his father, after the man had given all his money away to charity. It is also something that Jasper somehow kept hidden from his witchy ex-wife, so it belonged solely to him after their divorce. As a writer, the seclusion suits him fine. He makes the drive to the city for supplies and for occasional bar excursions and hook-ups – with men. Oh yeah, realizing he was gay kind of led to said divorce. At age 32, the hook ups have been fast losing their appeal, and Jasper finds himself longing for a deeper, personal connection with someone...
One night when Jasper returns home in the wee hours, he finds the door to his cabin is wide open, and a light is on. The dogs are calm, nothing seems disturbed or missing. He chalks it up to a big “WTH, I must have been in a real rush to leave earlier”, and goes on with his days. His newest endeavor, building a shed for two newly acquired young pigs, is what eventually leads him to the discovery that he did indeed have an intruder – Timmy.....
Please read my full review here:
http://liveyourlifebuythebook.wordpre...
Jasper Stone found himself living on 90 acres in the mountains outside of San Diego, not by choice, but rather by fortune. Well, not so much fortune, but it’s all he inherited from his father, after the man had given all his money away to charity. It is also something that Jasper somehow kept hidden from his witchy ex-wife, so it belonged solely to him after their divorce. As a writer, the seclusion suits him fine. He makes the drive to the city for supplies and for occasional bar excursions and hook-ups – with men. Oh yeah, realizing he was gay kind of led to said divorce. At age 32, the hook ups have been fast losing their appeal, and Jasper finds himself longing for a deeper, personal connection with someone...
One night when Jasper returns home in the wee hours, he finds the door to his cabin is wide open, and a light is on. The dogs are calm, nothing seems disturbed or missing. He chalks it up to a big “WTH, I must have been in a real rush to leave earlier”, and goes on with his days. His newest endeavor, building a shed for two newly acquired young pigs, is what eventually leads him to the discovery that he did indeed have an intruder – Timmy.....
Please read my full review here:
http://liveyourlifebuythebook.wordpre...
September 10, 2013
I can't pinpoint what exactly went wrong here, but this book fell flat on all the promises the blurb held.
Jasper’s initial feeling towards Timmy were disturbing. Timmy was unconscious, Jasper was giving him a sponge bath and he inappropriately touched Timmy until he got an erection...honestly, disturbing. Just thinking about taking advantage of Timmy or jerking off in the kitchen, yes, believe it or not those were the options.
The mystery that was what kept this book going, dragged for way too long. And by the end I couldn’t care about it, I just wanted it to be over.
And the ending was...well, let’s just say it’s left open and unresolved in so many ways it is totally unsatisfying. It felt like the author took the easiest way out of the tangled plot.
The book has all the ingredients, the lonely hero, the bad boy runaway, the mystery, the sex, but even when those were present when put together as part of the story they just didn’t work.
Reviewed by Connie
Jasper’s initial feeling towards Timmy were disturbing. Timmy was unconscious, Jasper was giving him a sponge bath and he inappropriately touched Timmy until he got an erection...honestly, disturbing. Just thinking about taking advantage of Timmy or jerking off in the kitchen, yes, believe it or not those were the options.
The mystery that was what kept this book going, dragged for way too long. And by the end I couldn’t care about it, I just wanted it to be over.
And the ending was...well, let’s just say it’s left open and unresolved in so many ways it is totally unsatisfying. It felt like the author took the easiest way out of the tangled plot.
The book has all the ingredients, the lonely hero, the bad boy runaway, the mystery, the sex, but even when those were present when put together as part of the story they just didn’t work.
Reviewed by Connie
November 10, 2013
This was a very charming little read with engaging characters, a very sweet romance and some nice, steamy sex. The whole thing of one MC rescuing the other, more vulnerable one and nursing him back to health is a trope I find very appealing, and it was extremely well done here. But I did have problems with a few elements, all related to credibility. I thought the resolution involving the two cartel members was a tad far-fetched. I also felt issues between the 2 MC's, particularly regarding a pattern of dishonesty on the part of one of them, were a little too easily resolved, and that at the end they were looking at things through some seriously rose-colored glasses in believing certain legal issues would work themselves out so easily.
February 26, 2014
Rating: 3.75 stars out of 5
If you are looking for a lighthearted romance, then this is probably not the story for you. But Jasper's Mountain has so much to offer. Its well written, believable, and full of layered characters that will hold your attention from start to finish. And no matter how I felt about Jasper and Timmy as a couple, I never stopped reading, not once. Pick it up and decide for yourself.
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July 4, 2016
4.5 stars
I love John Inman and the only reason I didn't give this 5 stars is because I don't like liars. Timmie just can't come clean and it hurts Jasper deeply. I do realise though that fessing up to your lies is easier said than done. In this way, I found the character to be more realistic if not more likeable.
Jasper is a sweetheart with his herd of animals, his crooked pig shed and his not super successful writing career. I loved the way he nursed Timmie back to health and took a chance on him against his better judgement.
I love John Inman and the only reason I didn't give this 5 stars is because I don't like liars. Timmie just can't come clean and it hurts Jasper deeply. I do realise though that fessing up to your lies is easier said than done. In this way, I found the character to be more realistic if not more likeable.
Jasper is a sweetheart with his herd of animals, his crooked pig shed and his not super successful writing career. I loved the way he nursed Timmie back to health and took a chance on him against his better judgement.
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