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Just a Drive by Tere Michaels

After weeks of flirting, “One Night” Wyatt Walsh spends a fabulous night with his shy coworker, Benji Trammell. As Wyatt tries to sneak out the next morning, he receives a call from his frantic, very pregnant best friend Raven—she needs him immediately. With no other way to get from New York City to the Pennsylvania town where Raven and her husband live, Wyatt accepts Benji’s offer to drive him there. Wary and unsure of each other, they start the trip at odds, but as time goes on, the barriers that usually keep people at a distance fail. And what started out as “just a drive” becomes a step toward romance.

Just a Stranger by Elle Brownlee

The excitement of meeting a stranger in a club can’t be beat. Loud bass sets the rhythm to Michael Wiercinski’s primal urges as he flirts with Andrew, a cute guy offering the promise of a hot night with no strings, no complications. Still, when their night is done, Michael admits there was something about Andrew that left him wanting more. Months go by with no sign of Andrew until Michael moves back home to help after his father’s heart attack. Once there, Michael is completely amazed to find Andrew Lucas living in his hometown. Despite surprising “complications” in Andrew’s life, Michael vows to take advantage of this second chance to make Andrew more than just a stranger.

Just a Weekend by Elizah J. Davis

James is a homebody in a predictable, if not altogether comfortable, rut. He’d rather stay in with a book than brave the Seattle bar scene. One night, after allowing his friend Kara to coax him out for drinks, he meets Devin—charming, gorgeous, and way out of his league. With a little bit of help from Kara, James leaves with Devin to indulge in a night together, which is as much time as he’s bound to get with a guy as hot as Devin. He doesn't expect the easy rapport that quickly develops between them, and when the weather conspires to keep them together, James wonders if this could be more than just a weekend fling.

254 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 1, 2013

4 people are currently reading
236 people want to read

About the author

Tere Michaels

40 books1,024 followers
Tere Michaels unofficially began her writing career at the age of four when she learned that people got paid to write stories. It seemed the most perfect and logical job in the world and after that, her path was never in question. (The romance writer part was written in the stars—she was born on Valentine’s Day.)

It took thirty-six years of “research” and “life experience” and well… life… before her first book was published but there are no regrets (she doesn’t believe in them). Along the way, she had some interesting jobs in television, animation, arts education, PR, and a national magazine—but she never stopped believing she would eventually earn her living writing stories about love.

Her home base is a small town in New Jersey, very near NYC, a city she dearly loves. She shares her life with her husband, her son—who is also her personal trainer—and an exceedingly spoiled cat. Her spare time is spent watching way too much sports programming, going to the movies and for long walks/runs in the park, reading, and doing yoga.

Nothing makes her happier than knowing she made a reader laugh or smile or cry. It’s the purpose of sharing her work with people. She loves hearing from fans and fellow writers and is always available for speaking engagements, visits, and workshops. Send her a message through her contact page or connect with her on Instagram (@TereMichaels) and Facebook.

She teaches regularly at SavvyAuthors, as well as running a private consulting and developmental editing business.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
Profile Image for Heller.
973 reviews118 followers
October 3, 2013
Just a Drive by Tere Michaels 4.5
 
My favourite story of the anthology. Wyatt and Benji have a one night stand and just as Wyatt is sneaking out the next morning he gets a panicked phone call from his foster sister. He needs to get to her and Benji offers to give him a ride. The result is probably the most awkward morning after ever. 
 
Wyatt is a bit of player and he likes it that way and he thinks Benji is one thing but then finds out he has his own secrets. I love how Wyatt is forced to acknowledge that Benji is more than just a fun lay. There was an unexpected emotional component here and the very beginnings of a well earned HFN/HEA. Loved this one.
 
Just a Stranger by Elle Brownlee 3.25
 
Michael and Andrew meet months later after they had met in a club and had a one night stand. A misunderstanding leads to the reunion being a tense one but that doesn't last long and the relationship moves at a slow, steady pace. This was the sweetest story of the bunch. Kids and puppies. HEA
 
Just a Weekend by Elizah J. Davis 4.0
 
Devin plays white knight when he rescues James from falling into the trap of sleeping with his ex and charms him into taking home his saviour instead. One night of hot sex with expectations of more when the pair become snowed in comes to a crashing halt when James' sister-in-law drops off her daughters the next day. This turns into a fun babysitting day and the men slowly get to know each other outside the bedroom. I adored how James thought he was boring but Devin was charmed by him and called him Mr. Darcy. A HFN but definitely could see it become a HEA. 
 
Overall I found the stories in this anthology quite good. I confess to enjoying the snark over the sweet though but all are well worth the read. 
Profile Image for Jenn.
438 reviews233 followers
October 2, 2013
3.5 overall

Just a Drive by Tere Michaels

Just a Drive is the story of Wyatt and Benji that know each other through work dealings, and Wyatt plans on having a one-night stand with the handsome, younger man. He receives a call from his best friend the next morning, and Benji offers to drive him out of state, and the relationship progresses from there.

This story made me cry…more than once. That doesn’t happen. Benji, sweet, perfect Benji. That man has made it onto my fictional husbands shelf, and I could roll around in sighs forever for that man. Patient, genuinely kind, funny, gorgeous, confident, but still has just that hint of insecurity that comes across endearing rather than grating. And I related to Wyatt in many ways, and watching his walls crumble was beautiful and believable. The scene at the piano?? Good heavens, pass me that Kleenex box.

Rated: 5 stars

Just a Stranger by Elle Brownlee

Just a Stranger is a story about cop Michael and businessman Andrew out at a bar and feeling completely out of sorts. The club life and partying isn’t what either of them is comfortable with and both meet each other in the corner of the bar. They spend a night together, both wanting more, but Andrew feels his secrets will prevent him from ever dating someone seriously.

I thought this started out really great before the secrets came out, and then once that happened, everything kind of got maudlin and sappy. Not bad mind you, but it wasn’t what I was expecting and the tension left the story. I wanted more heat between the two characters, and Andrew and Michael are a bit like sugar all over the place. It’s still enjoyable, but just go in prepared that the ‘secrets’ aren’t quite as tragic or mysterious as you’d think. Also a lot of family members and little kids surround the two main characters, and I would have liked more focus on just Andrew and Michael.

Rated: 3 stars

Just a Weekend by Elizah J. Davis

Just a Weekend is again a short that started off GREAT. I loved both James and Devin and even James’ friend, Kara. Devin is the younger, pretty boy used to a quick hook-up that isn’t really that picky when it comes to partners for a night. James is just going through the motions, the dependable guy that doesn’t really think that he deserves or can get better than the occasional night of sex with his sleazy ex.

OK, so I enjoyed the premise, and I even thought the characters had some hot chemistry between the two of them, especially when Devin first went to James’ house and started looking around and climbed on top of him while on the couch. But then…kids. I get it; it’s my issue. Look, I don’t mind kids and I certainly usually can take them in small doses like a short story, but I just love books with lots of unresolved sexual tension that isn’t because of kids running around. This short was definitely cute and I loved Devin, but it got a little predictable, a little too sweet, and I wanted them to work for it a bit more.

Rated: 3 stars

I’d still recommend this anthology when you want something nice and easy, and I’d absolutely re-read the first story any time I want a happy pick-me-up!!!
Profile Image for Sara .
1,543 reviews154 followers
January 13, 2014
Just a Drive by Tere Michaels
4.5stars

So, I found out it's not too hard to forget that a snarky MC shares your youngest sons name; not when it's Wyatt Walsh. Wyatt, he just wants to get into the pants of young shy Benji Tramell and he finally gets his chance. But fate throws a wrench is Wyatt's plans as he tries to do the morning after sneak out and gets an emergency call from his BFF needing help. Without a car, license or anyway to get to her, shy Benji offers to drive Wyatt to Raven; a six hour drive with the boy who is SO not who he seemed at fist fuck, er um, glance.

Benji, what an amazing character! I loved the seeing the layers of this boy. As each one was pulled away we got not only what was underneath we got more and more of Benji and that is not a bad thing at all. Though not what he seemed at the beginning, he is the perfect match for Wyatt in every way and I love how he shows it and how he can still be so vulnerable with his strength.

Wyatt was such a brat in the best way and being in his POV you got why. His relationship with Raven and Rob was lovely to read. They way they supported each other is the way friends/family should be; they love him dearly but they call him out on his shit when he needs it and this is Wyatt so, yeah.

Oh! That Epilogue...well played, madam, well played. I had to blink a few times when I read the first words and then I got a big goofy grin on my face.

Wyatt and Benji were a delight to read. I adored the writing of Ms. Michaels; she pulls you in nicely to where you need to be and you don't want to leave even after the last word is read. She makes you blush even without the full on dirty sex scenes, just the reading the words "come on" had me letting out a small squeak. Yes, squeak. I could have read these two for days, they were so comfortable for me, just so damn yummy...like a steamed dumpling.

Just a Stranger by Elle Brownlee
3 stars

This was a lovely story. Boy meets boy in the big city, have a one night stand and them pine over each other. Flash forward to small town rural America where they see each other again. Misunderstanding happen. Apologies happen, attempts at friendship happen. There is a lot of family on Michael's side that I absolutely loved and a bit of apprehension that this could be the real thing, the thing that Andrew has always wanted but can he have it? A few things come up that suck, it dragged a bit in the middle and I wanted the boys to just give it a shot, give each other a chance, but they get it worked out. All in all, a nice and warm story about love, trust, friendship and family.

Just a Weekend by Elizah J. Davis
4.5 stars

Oh...I adored this story. James being rescued by Devin was so stinking cute! Sure, he was prompted by Kara but everything that happened after was just them. I loved that James was your average guy who liked his solid and safe life but underneath that he was a little dirty with the make out sessions.

Devin was simply adorable with his "Prince Charming nice guy fetish" and was blown away by the things James would do for him that made him that much more attractive. Theses two fell into such a comfortable space so early, it was believable and I fell for them just as fast. The twist after their one night stand was so cute, I am a sucker for boys and kids and I fell for each of them harder that day and into the night with the fort. *sigh* I loved that their parting was not the fairy tale end that it should or could have been but I also thought the way they found each other again was so sweet. What a great story to end this anthology. Well done.

Profile Image for Jilrene.
938 reviews80 followers
May 12, 2015
4 fluffy warm fuzzy stars

These three stories are a little longer, so we get quite a bit of story. More of what each MC is doing and why. All three are omniscient 3rd person POV. Angst is very low; sweet is on overload.


Just a Drive is sweet fun. A romance between One Night Wyatt and Benji Who Wants a Boyfriend. An excellent little bit of fluff.

Just a Stranger has lots of warm fuzziness with a tiny little obstacle to overcome. A short and sweet read.

I liked Just a Weekend the best. It's sweet, light, and just right.
Profile Image for Pamela Su.
1,169 reviews30 followers
March 4, 2015
First anthology I have read where I loved every single story in it. LOVED, I said. Huh. Feels weird.

Well, to be fair, there's only three stories in here. But after some bad experiences with anthologies this month, I was really reluctant to read this. I AM SO GLAD I DID!

Just a Drive by Tere Michaels
- Utterly charming story about a player who is only after one night stands laid flat by a determined young man. It was amusing to watch Benji turn the tables on Wyatt.

Just a Stranger by Elle Brownlee
- Sweet little story with kids and a big family. Andrew finds himself surrounded by warm, caring people while he takes care of his dead sister's children. I love Michael and his wonderful family. This was leaning towards the sappy side but screw it, it was fun!

Just a Weekend by Elizah J. Davis
- Such an adorable story. I was grinning from start to end. Nothing amuses me more than seeing a couple being thwarted in the heat of passion. Devin rallied well to the unexpected direction of his weekend fling. James is a sweetie pie.

The stories unfolded so naturally. The circumstances in which all the main characters got to know each other never felt too contrived.

What I liked best is that I bought the romance. I believed they actually had time to get to know each other and fall in love.
Profile Image for Kaje Harper.
Author 92 books2,734 followers
January 1, 2014
Three stories about the one who got away, and second chances. I picked this up for the Tere Michaels story, but in fact I liked all three about equally.

Just a Drive by Tere Michaels - it takes an excellent writer to make me sympathize with an unlikeable MC. Tere Michaels succeeded in making me care about Wyatt, and I usually understand why he acted the way he did. But I wasn't quite sure what Benji saw in him, to be as amazing, determined, tolerant and upbeat as he was with Wyatt. The connection between the two didn't feel as deep as I'd have liked, so I spent a lot of time feeling like Benji deserved better.

Just a Stranger by Elle Brownlee - This was a very sweet story about Andrew, caring all alone for his sister's kids, and Michael, a cop with a big, wonderful family. I enjoyed the feeling of warmth in this, and although it was a bit perfect in that family life, it was a lovely story, like a big hug.

Just a Weekend by Elizah J. Davis - I liked this little slice-of-life, about two guys who meet at a bar and hit it off, only to be cock-blocked by emergency babysitting duties. This ended too soon for me - I loved the feel of this couple, and really wanted to see them spend some time together without the munchkins. My favorite story of the three.

937 reviews13 followers
January 11, 2021
I'm a fan of this author already, but this novella exceeded my expectations. The emotional ups and downs were raw in a way that was not angsty or melodramatic. Wyatt, our main POV character, had accepted his situation in a way that was heartbreaking to consider, but the story was all that much more heartwarming as he allowed himself to trust another person.

I loved Wyatt's relationship with his best friend/foster sister and her family. They were amazing characters, and were important to the overall plot of the story, and they never let us forget who Wyatt really was.

Overall, this is a quick but impactful read that I can highly recommend to anyone.
Profile Image for MostlyDelores.
609 reviews69 followers
October 8, 2013
Just a Drive, Tere Michaels. 3.5 stars. I love superficial Wyatt the man-whore, and Benji is almost too perfect. Some good snark.

Just a Stranger, Elle Brownlee. 2 stars. Pretty bland, Andrew is more like an uptight spinster from a fifties movie than a gay man, Michael and his gigantic family are better.

Just a Weekend, Elizah J. Davis. 4 stars. Adorbz. Even the kids didn't ruin it.
Profile Image for Justin.
600 reviews155 followers
September 6, 2016
Just a Drive by Tere Michaels - 4.5 stars
Just a Stranger by Elle Brownle - 3 stars
Just a Weekend by Elizan Davis - 4 stars
Profile Image for UltraMeital.
1,283 reviews49 followers
December 26, 2019
Anthologies can be tricky. That's why I saved this one for SO LONG. I knew I loved Tere's writing but since I didn't know the other two authors I was still a bit reluctant. Silly silly me. This anthhology was in one word AWESOME. I enjoy all three and HIGHLY recommend them. It also means I'll be looking into both Elizah and Elle's booklist. Really interested in getting more by them. 

Can't wait to start the next anthology (One Holiday Ever After) which is another colaboration between these three authors. 

Just a Drive by Tere Michaels ★★★★★

While I wasn't sure about this one when I started reading it, it didn't take long for me to be totally hocked. The pages seemed to turn themselves as I found myself nearing the end of this novella and feeling my heart swell with the tender love of Wyatt and Benji.

This novella is told solely from Wyatt Walsh's POV (okay, except for the sweetest epilogue). From first and maybe a second and even a third glance he sound like quite the douche.. But he has his reasons to keep people at an arm's length. The only person he is truly close to is his best friend Raven, practically his sister. They have known each other since they were young unwanted kids and though he lives now in New York and she in a small town with her husband (and soon to be born twins) when she calls - he comes to her help no questions ask, even if he's not sure what kind of help he'll be able to give. That's how he finds himself accepting the help of his one-night-stand - Benji. Beggars can't be choosers.

When Wyatt first spotted Benji Trammell in their mutual place of work he knew he needed to spend a night with the guy. When he finds the chance to ask him out it all goes according to plan, until he gets the call from Raven just as he is about to steal away from Benji's house. As Wyatt has NO way of getting to Raven with no car or another option of driving to the small town she lives in hours away from New York Benji's offer to drive him is not something he can refuse even if he's not sure what Benji's "angle" is.

Benji keeps surprising Wyatt at every turn. He is SUCH a sweet guy. He cares for Wyatt even when Wyatt tries to act like he's got things figured out - he doesn't... But as they spend more and more time together in Raven's small town Wyatt is conflicted by can't have enough of Benji to being scared to death of the idea of getting attached.

There is much more to this novella. It was truly a sweet and tender read. Not at all what it felt like at first glance when all Wyatt was interested in was getting Benji into the nearest bed. But Benji, he sees things differently, he somehow sees a bigger picture and he is not just a sweet and caring guy, he also knows what he wants and needs and though he took a risk with Wyatt I think he actually knew what he was doing. Well, at least half of the time ;)

It's been a while since I've read anything by Tere. I missed her writing. 


Just a Stranger by Elle Brownlee ★★★★½


I'll start by saying - giving this novella a 4.5 stars review is me being a brat! It SO deserves 5 stars but more than that is deserves a FULL length novel. Elle did a wonderful job of giving us a story with a very genuine timeline, a relationship buildup of about a year, and yet because it's a novella we needed to accept too many things developing without us "experiencing" them and though it was done well, I still feel like giving Andrew and Michael more real page time would have been better on all aspects.

As this is a novella I don't want to give anything away.. and there is.. See, when Michael and Andrew met for the first time they were all about the fun. The night wasn't even over before Andrew disappeared from Michael's apartment and life.. Andrew was just visiting the big city and as he is a VERY private person, Michael didn't know ANYTHING about him so how could he even START to look for him..

It's been months and though Andrew's life has stayed the same, Michael's has changed. He moved from the big city to the small town he grew up in and so imagine his surprise finding Andrew currently lives there as well.. But there is more than one thing Andrew haven't disclosed on their one night together and Michael's first emotions are anger and a sense of betrayal. Hot tempered he confronted Andrew only to realize he COULDN'T have been more wrong in his assumptions.

From there Michael does his best to not only apologize but to court Andrew and show him he really wants something between them and even though Andrew keeps him at an arms' length, sweet sweet Michael makes the effort to get to know Andrew enough so he can understand him better so he can win him over - and that he does :)

There's a lot more to this one, but I can't say more without spoilering so I rather not. I loved both of them. Andrew had a difficult childhood, growing up in the system, dealing with a smaller sister who kept making the wrong choices. He grew up too quickly but he never learned to trust or find anyone other than family to rely on and so even though Michael is practically offering him THE WORLD, he doesn't know how to handle it and he is actually quite scared. From Michael's POV it's obvious that Andrew is everything he could have wished for if only Andrew trusted him enough for them to build something real together, but slowly slowly with a patient of a saint they get there. 

I REALLY enjoyed this one. I've gotta try more by Elle !!!


Just a Weekend by Elizah J. Davis ★★★★★

James and Devin. Le sigh. I loved everything about these two. Their sweet banter, the imposible situation they found themselves in yet managed to handle it spontaneously, sweetly and quite originally. 

Like with the previous one, as the synopsis doesn't say much, I REALLY don't want to spoiler anything so I'll do my best to say what I can withoug saying anything really hehe

In a way the start of this one is a bit similar in concept (only!) to the previous one. Devin in on the look for a hookup and James, well, not really, he isn't sure, but when Devin rescues him from his annoying ex it isn't a hardship to take him home to his apartment to enjoy a night together. 

They don't expect the morning phone call and what it will entail. So instead of finishing their time together with a morning coffee or even a full breakfast they spend the rest of the day together but it's not anything they expected and not only because it snowed in and Devin was practically traped with James in his apartment. 

Neither of them were looking for a relationship but once their time together is up they realize it's exactly what they wish they have together, they just need to swap phone numbers first.. 

LOVED LOVED LOVED this one. I think it's my favorite of the three though all of them were great. Definitely need to add more books by Elizah.

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Profile Image for Wax.
1,295 reviews22 followers
November 30, 2017
Just a Drive by Tere Michaels

I honestly didn't like Wyatt that much. Benji was just too nice and Wyatt wasn't the nicest to him. Not my favorite story of the anthology.

Just a Stranger by Elle Brownlee

Probably my favorite story of the bunch. Michael's family was great.

Just a Weekend by Elizah J. Davis

Difficult to rate, because I did like the story but it just lacked something.
492 reviews8 followers
Read
December 18, 2020
I only read "Just a Drive" by Tere Michaels so far, and let me tell you. I was ingrossed from the beginning! I did wish to see what was going through Benji's head becuase Wyatt sure did a number on him a couple of times. But it worked out just how it was meant to and i really need a sequal because i want more of Wyatt and Benji!
Profile Image for Cindi.
1,722 reviews84 followers
October 6, 2013
Full review can be found at On Top Down Under Book Reviews.



A nice collection of three stories where the characters all meet as a result of a one-night stand. Each couple ends up wanting, and getting, more. A very entertaining read.



This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Profile Image for Dena.
2,761 reviews
August 3, 2016
I only read Tere Michaels Just A Drive--loved it. Tere Michaels is on my auto-buy list.
Profile Image for Tammy.
1,119 reviews8 followers
January 29, 2024
This review is for Tere Michaels' Just a Drive.

Just a Drive is a short novella found in the multi-author anthology One Night Ever After. It features Wyatt a seemingly callous player. His MO has always been to find a hot guy for one night of sex then leave before his partner wakes. When he sets his sights on Benji this is his plan. Before he can bail on Benji he gets a call from his pregnant best friend. There is a family emergency and he needs to get to Pennsylvania right away. Benji offers to drive him and provides great support while they are there. Wyatt is definitely a character that is hard to like. He is rude to everyone except Raven. I love that Benji does call him on it. Benji is almost too good to be true. He steps up and provides unobtrusive care to help Wyatt and his friend. You do eventually find out the reason for Wyatt’s behavior and it does go a long way to softening your feelings towards him. Both characters and the story were well developed for a short book. The epilogue provides an HFN leaning heavily towards HEA ending that is perfect for the story. I recommend this to MM romance readers looking for a quick read.
700 reviews1 follower
December 1, 2019
Just a Drive by: Tere Michaels

I really enjoyed this book. I enjoyed how emotionally unavailable characters who feel that they are pulling to wool over someone's eyes discovers that they are the ones in trouble of losing their heart. It was a good book of two people who were attracted to each other try to gain the other's attention long enough to have a one night stand. Only problem is, the one night stand developed into so much more. I enjoyed the different twists in this book and the writing style of the author.
Profile Image for ButtonsMom2003.
3,832 reviews32 followers
January 30, 2023
My review is based on Just a Drive by Tere Michaels.

I enjoyed reading this story and boy was it HOT 🔥🔥🔥 I loved Benji from the get-go and Wyatt grew on me as the story progressed. Wyatt was always mister one and done but when Benji comes to his rescue to drive him to his BFF a few states away things begin to change for him. He wasn’t always very nice to Benji but he’s the character we’re not supposed to like until he finally redeems himself. The story has a solid HFN.
Profile Image for Darlene.
1,047 reviews10 followers
July 17, 2020
I don't know why it took me so long to read this book. It's been on my bookshelf for a long time. You can't go wrong in reading this book with three great stories by three different authors! Every one of these stories is excellent, well written, and each heading into their HEA. I highly recommend this book.
Profile Image for Iliana.
237 reviews2 followers
October 7, 2022
I don't usually like anthologies because I always get attached to the characters and then sad when the story is so short. I was expecting to do the same for this book but I just couldn't get into the character's story. While all of the stories were beautifully written, there wasn't anything that was stopping me from putting the book down.
Profile Image for Kirstin.
2,119 reviews19 followers
July 10, 2018
Loved all of the stories. Loved.
Profile Image for Secretly Reading.
944 reviews
November 19, 2013
Originally reviewed for The Book Vixen

In a Nutshell: This is a good anthology with a loose theme of men meeting one night and what develops from it.

Why I Read this Book: I am a huge Tere Michaels' fan as she’s written one of my favorite series of all time, Faith, Love & Devotion.

Just a Drive by Tere Michaels: I wanted to like this story more than I did. Wyatt is used to picking men up for just one night and he does that with his shy coworker, Benji. But as Wyatt is trying to duck out the next morning, he gets a phone call from his best friend that she need him. Benji overhears and agrees to drive Wyatt from the City to small town Pennsylvania. Benji is so kind and Wyatt is not. Wyatt doesn’t even have to ask for things but Benji is right there to provide them, from a long drive to getting Wyatt time off work with pay. I never understood why Benji would be attracted to Wyatt and this was the story’s fail for me. I did like that the story showed Benji and Wyatt’s relationship after they both returned to the City. Still, if I’m honest I have to admit this was my least favorite of the stories in this anthology because I never understood why Benji would want Wyatt and be so willing to forgive and work with his commitment issues.

Just a Stranger by Elle Brownlee: This was my favorite of the stories. Indianapolis police detective Michael takes home Andrew from a club. When their night together is done, Michael wakes up alone but wanting to find Andrew. Michael is unsuccessful until he returns home to farm country to help his family and he’s shocked to find Andre living in his hometown—and with kids. This story has lovely romantic development. Michael and Andrew are both mature men who have lived lives and have the scars to prove it. I understood why Andrew had to give himself some emotional distance from Michael and how Michael accepts this but slowly whittles away at Andrew’s shell. The best thing about these two is they communicate! Readers are privy to their private discussions ranging from the mundane to important things like building a life together. This story isn’t the most sexually explicit but the relationship was so well developed that I didn’t miss it much. Michael’s lovely family and Andrew’s kids are also lovely components to this story that was my favorite in the anthology. I’m now going to believe that the farm country that surrounds my area is as accepting as it is in this story!

Just a Weekend by Elizah J. Davis: James doesn’t normally bring men home from a club but he does after rescuing Devin from an ex-boyfriend. A snowstorm and babysitting duties force James and Devin together for a long weekend but could this fling be more? This was my second favorite story because the men spend lots of non-sex time together. James gets roped into watching his young nieces and how Devin responds to it is light, humorous and fun. The chemistry between James and Devin is very good as their night of sex is followed by a weekend of getting to know each other while watching My Little Ponies with a cranky five year old. The author makes a great decision to continue the story after the weekend which made me enjoy the story more as it separated the forced intimacy of the snowy weekend the men spent together and the long term relationship they both were craving.

IMO: I read this anthology for one story and it ended up being my least favorite. Still, I got two stories I did enjoy so I’d recommend this anthology.
*review copy provided by publisher*
Profile Image for GayListBookReviews.
472 reviews52 followers
December 31, 2013
B+

 My name is R.W. Beans and I am an anthology junkie. There is nothing I like more than to open an anthology and find new for me authors. A well done novella is an art form. Getting the right amount of story and character building while allowing the pace to move quickly enough that you get a complete story in a short amount of words is incredibly difficult. I loved this themed anthology collection.

In Just a Drive we meet two co-workers, that because of life’s many obstacles, are thrown into a situation of forced togetherness. This is an interesting take on the story of a one night stand. Wyatt is jaded and afraid of love, and Benji drops everything to help someone who he has crushed on, but who has hurt him.


The pain of both of these men is difficult to read, but I couldn’t put the story down. There is tremendous growth in Wyatt. He has to learn forgiveness and love before he can understand the deep compassion that Benji gave him.


A wonderful novella full of depth.


Just a Stranger was surprising. The one night stand was beautifully written and I was broken hearted when Andrew walked away. They had seemed to catch and match so perfectly.


Then the twist... and they reunite! I was sucked in. Michael was endearing.  The total devotion to showing Andrew who he really was and the levels he went to have a relationship with him made me cheer in my seat.


Michael’s family adopted Andrew’s family and showed them love. Unconditional love poured from them. I adore a story that shows the fight for the happily ever after. I liked that nothing was perfect, but that was alright, they had each other.


In Just a Weekend  we get to meet two men in very different places in their lives come together for a little longer than expected. They don’t get the weekend they dreamed of, instead they get to spend time getting to know one another.


James didn’t believe that Devin was really into him, but Devin saw past James insecurities to an amazing man. One he doesn’t feel he deserved.


I liked seeing past the bar clothes and hookup, moving deeper into their dreams of a future. They both had to come to terms with that weekend to remember so that they could do some healing and work on themselves afterwards, and deserve that beautiful happy ending.  In the end they were both in better places to pursue something neither one could have dreamed of.


If you are waffling about whether or not to pick up this collection or your favorite author’s next release I encourage you to swipe this up.  You may discover a new favorite author along the way.


Reviewed by Beans



To see more of this review and others like it please visit us at Gay List Book Reviews at www.gaylistbookreviews.wordpress.com

Profile Image for Cathy Brockman.
Author 5 books95 followers
October 30, 2013
Review Written for http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com/
overall: Wow All three of these stories were awesome I give them all a 5 and I’m gonna skip the rundowns since the blurbs tell enough about the stories and I will just tell what I thought of each story. Usually one story stands out in an antho to me but in here I am glad I don’t have to pick a favourite if so it would be a three way tie…
Just a Drive by Tere Michaels-♥♥♥♥♥
I adored this story. The thing I liked the most is it’s not love at first sight but lust at first sight. It also shows that some people have kind hearts, even if they appear rough on the exterior such as Wyatt (his and Raven’s relationship is above and beyond brotherly). Benji is absolutely adorable and sweet. I don’t know that I would be as generous as he was but he knows how to go after what he wants! And who doesn’t like babies so toss in twins and a grumpy cat and you have one heck of a great story with lots of twists and turns and a satisfying end.
I recommend this one if you like one night stands, road-trips, grumpy cats, twins, and a persistent, hot musical engineer.
Just a Stranger by Elle Brownlee ♥♥♥♥♥
I absolutely adored this story. I can’t decide which character I liked the most Michael or Andrew,( but I think the cop uniform could sway that decision for me).I also liked that this wasn’t a love at first sight thing. I loved the twists and how they landed up in the same town. I loved both men’s sense of family. What wasn’t to like about this story? I can’t think of a thing! Its beautifully written, great characters and interesting story! If you like men in uniform, landscape architects, a man that puts his life on hold to raise his sisters family, close knit family ties and some pretty hot mansex this is for you

Just a Weekend by Elizah J. Davis ♥♥♥♥♥
I found this one also sweet and hot. Though it’s less heated than the others it’s still very sexy. Though this one is a bit more love at first sight than the others it does move the relationship slower. The thing I liked best about this is the characters aren’t so stereotypical hot studs, more average men. I adored Devon’s attitude and spunk. There is some pretty sexy and cute fort scenes. Who couldn’t fall in love with a man that builds stranger’s kids a fort from sheets and couch cushions?
I recommend this entire anthology to anyone that wants to sample some awesome new authors works, one night stands that could lead to more and some sweet and hot mansex.



Profile Image for NancyM.
147 reviews
October 2, 2013
3.5 stars rounded up.

Just a Drive by Tere Michaels
Wyatt is pretty much a self absorbed a**. There is a little bit of back story so you can feel vindicated that he does have a reason to act the way he does towards any lasting relationships. Sure his story isn't as bad as some you read or hear about but it still left psychological scars on him. Benji is shown as a sweet guy who has some secrets up his sleeve. I thought it would get better and have Wyatt show his sweet/romantic side and let those walls down. I don't know if that's what was accomplished or not - so I'm left feeling description

Just a Stranger by Elle Brownlee
I liked this story better than the first. There is some misunderstandings between the MCs (seems as if all the blame is put on Michael) and it seems to go on longer than it should, but all together a good story.
description

Just a Weekend by Elizah J. Davis
Adorable. This is a very sweet and nostalgic story. Oh, blanket forts how I miss you. I think I shall go make one shortly. This story felt like getting a cuddly hug, reading a book while all snug with the wind howling or during a sudden downpour, or snuggling in warm, soft, fluffy blankets. description


A nice way to end this anthology.
Profile Image for my books.
587 reviews12 followers
February 19, 2017
3 good stories, I maybe liked the last one best, but they were all very good.
Profile Image for Ea_reader.
1,054 reviews3 followers
April 5, 2016
After loving every story in One Holiday Ever After, I jumped right into this one and was not disappointed. Again, I thoroughly enjoyed each story; I would probably give each one at least 4 stars on its own and the combo of all three gets 5 stars for the whole being more than the sum of the parts.

Just a Drive by Tere Michael
Wyatt and Benji make a great pair. Wyatt is cynical and has baggage from coming from a less-than-tolerant small town and parents who didn't care about him. Benji is the super nice guy (who has hidden depths) and who helps Wyatt out in a family emergency. Benji is quietly persistent with his kindness and his time and it's just what's needed to break through Wyatt's walls.

Just a Stranger by Elle Brownlee
I suppose some might think this one became sappy but for me, it stayed on the alright side of getting too sappy. I liked Michael and his family and the way they all embraced Andrew and the two kids. I liked the slow build of the relationship.

Just a Weekend by Elizah J. Davis
I smiled the whole way through this story; my cheeks hurt by the end. I just loved Devin and James - I loved their banter and their adorable awkwardness (which sort of alternated between the two of them in turns). I loved that they were both nice normal guys who hadn't yet found the right person for themselves, and then surprise, they were exactly right for each other.
Profile Image for Lois - Who Reads.
1,349 reviews
May 7, 2015
Just a drive – Tere Michaels (4*)
Wyatt only really cares about one person in his life, Raven who helped save him when they were young. Raven is a few states away, pregnant, bedridden and needs Wyatt by her side. Benji, who is exceedingly sweet and kind, offers to drive Wyatt and then sticks around to help. Wyatt has spent years keeping people at an emotional arms length but Benji is just there, helping, being sweet, and worming his way into Wyatt's heart and life.

Just a stranger – Elle Brownlee (3*)
Months after a one-night stand, Micheal and Andrew end up in the same small town and things do not start off well for these two men. This book has all the elements of a fun read, two men who have to push their way through some misunderstandings, a very supportive family, a slow romance, some cute kids and a happily ever after.

Just a weekend – Elizah J. Davis (4*)
What starts as a one-night stand, ends in snow, babysitting and blanket forts. This story is told from both points of view and gave us the humorous inner voices of these two adorable men. This is a an almost perfect little story.
Profile Image for Rachel Emily.
4,485 reviews382 followers
October 28, 2013
Just a Drive by Tere Michaels - 5 stars. I absolutely loved this! Right from the start, this story just hit all of my buttons for a "one night stand turns into more" type of story. Great writing, and I really loved Benji and Wyatt together, super hot and sweet at the end! I liked the pace of it and just loved the epilogue.

Just a Stranger by Elle Brownlee - 3 stars. This one was just OK for me. I felt like the author did more telling than showing in the story, and the writing just seemed to summarize things since so many months passed. All in all, it was fairly bland, especially after starting off with such a strong story.

Just a Weekend by Elizah J. Davis - 4 stars. I really liked the banter between the two main characters, very smart and fun to read. And now I want to build a cool fort too!
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