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Courtland Chronicles #1
By Chance
Alternate cover edition for ASIN:B00AEB5ECE.
A life of wealth and privilege doesn’t equal happiness—just ask Eric Courtland. Growing up with a cold, unfeeling father and unstable mother has taught him exactly what he doesn’t want out of life or love. The troubled young man prefers a solitary life and is content to keep it that way until a campus emergency saddles him with an unwanted roommate.
Popular, wholesome, straight Nick Thompson is far more temptation than Eric’s prepared for, but Nick’s warm, easygoing manner gradually cracks through Eric’s prickly protective shell.
After Eric suffers a traumatic attack, their friendship gives way to an intense passion. Eric’s no stranger to casual sex, but what he feels for Nick is something deeper, and more fragile.
Independent Eric doesn't know the first thing about being in a relationship, much less with a lover who can't even admit he's gay. But conservative Nick can't seem to find his way out of his own personal closet.
Rock, meet hard place.
A life of wealth and privilege doesn’t equal happiness—just ask Eric Courtland. Growing up with a cold, unfeeling father and unstable mother has taught him exactly what he doesn’t want out of life or love. The troubled young man prefers a solitary life and is content to keep it that way until a campus emergency saddles him with an unwanted roommate.
Popular, wholesome, straight Nick Thompson is far more temptation than Eric’s prepared for, but Nick’s warm, easygoing manner gradually cracks through Eric’s prickly protective shell.
After Eric suffers a traumatic attack, their friendship gives way to an intense passion. Eric’s no stranger to casual sex, but what he feels for Nick is something deeper, and more fragile.
Independent Eric doesn't know the first thing about being in a relationship, much less with a lover who can't even admit he's gay. But conservative Nick can't seem to find his way out of his own personal closet.
Rock, meet hard place.
122 pages, ebook
First published February 2, 2009
58 people are currently reading
870 people want to read
About the author
Cat Grant
51 books463 followersIf you're looking for epic sci-fi, fantasy, or historicals, that's not me. Contemporary all the way, baby!
However, if you're looking for down to earth, complicated characters dealing with real-world problems (and the occasional comfort read!), I might just fit the bill. :)
My Books:
Courtland Chronicles (m/m & m/m/f)
By Chance
Strictly Business
Complications
The Arrangement
Triad
Allegro Vivace (m/m)
Sonata Appassionata (m/m)
Icon Men (all m/m)
The First Real Thing (2012 EPIC Award Winner - Erotica)
Appearing Nightly
A Fool for You
Habanera (Originally titled Entangled Trio - 2012 EPIC Award Finalist - Erotica) (m/m/f)
Once a Marine (m/m)
Power Play (with Rachel Haimowitz) (m/m BDSM)
Power Play: Resistance
Power Play: Awakening
Irresistible Attraction (all m/m)
Priceless
Doubtless
Fearless
Flawless (2014 EPIC Award Finalist - Short Fiction)
Forthcoming:
The Only One Who Knows (with LA Witt) - January 2014
The Only One Who Matters (with LA Witt) - March 2014
Black Dog (Bannon's Gym #1) - April 2014
Takedown (Bannon's Gym #2) - July 2014
Guarded (with LA Witt) (work in progress)
However, if you're looking for down to earth, complicated characters dealing with real-world problems (and the occasional comfort read!), I might just fit the bill. :)
My Books:
Courtland Chronicles (m/m & m/m/f)
By Chance
Strictly Business
Complications
The Arrangement
Triad
Allegro Vivace (m/m)
Sonata Appassionata (m/m)
Icon Men (all m/m)
The First Real Thing (2012 EPIC Award Winner - Erotica)
Appearing Nightly
A Fool for You
Habanera (Originally titled Entangled Trio - 2012 EPIC Award Finalist - Erotica) (m/m/f)
Once a Marine (m/m)
Power Play (with Rachel Haimowitz) (m/m BDSM)
Power Play: Resistance
Power Play: Awakening
Irresistible Attraction (all m/m)
Priceless
Doubtless
Fearless
Flawless (2014 EPIC Award Finalist - Short Fiction)
Forthcoming:
The Only One Who Knows (with LA Witt) - January 2014
The Only One Who Matters (with LA Witt) - March 2014
Black Dog (Bannon's Gym #1) - April 2014
Takedown (Bannon's Gym #2) - July 2014
Guarded (with LA Witt) (work in progress)
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 175 reviews
February 28, 2013
Unlikeable characters, a relationship with no chemistry, and lots of drama. Apparently this series is headed toward a menage with a woman. I'm outta here.
dnf-not-4-me
October 11, 2014Reviews say the series continues with breaking up the MCs and one of them getting married but that they continue to sleep together. Sorry. Not for me.
May 12, 2013
3.5 Stars.
Easy reading, slightly angsty, passionate and yes, rather enjoyable. I was surprised how much I DID enjoy it actually.
The character Eric is a prickly sort, who comes across as real pissy and obnoxious - but I liked him, not many might but he has a strength and take no bullshit attitude that endeared me to him.
Nick's the hot jock who's not ... to be stereotyped. They make an explosive pair and I enjoyed every minute of their shenanigans, from their first meeting to their first, er ...moment. They both drove me crackers and I wanted to bash heads - but still I kind of fell for both of them.
I couldn't stand Nick's best friend who still holds a torch for him, but then I hate most women who are involved with guys in my m/m romances. So I'm not one to judge her, but she IS an annoying, stupid interloper.
Like I said: I was surprised how much I liked this story (read it in one sitting)and was really looking forward to more; this being book one and all, but then at the end there is an authors note that states that: This is the first in a series of books that span a twenty year relationship with three individuals - Eric, Nick and Nick's BFF (can't remember her name). No freaking WAY. Bugger that! I have no inclination to see this happy for now m/m relationship progress and evolve into an m/m/f menage with HER!. Nowadays the only ef I want in my m/m is the hot sexy action kind ending in I.N.G - NOT the bi-sexual/hetero kind.
Fortunately, this one can be read as a purely m/m romance with Eric and Nick ONLY (thank god).
Easy reading, slightly angsty, passionate and yes, rather enjoyable. I was surprised how much I DID enjoy it actually.
The character Eric is a prickly sort, who comes across as real pissy and obnoxious - but I liked him, not many might but he has a strength and take no bullshit attitude that endeared me to him.
Nick's the hot jock who's not ... to be stereotyped. They make an explosive pair and I enjoyed every minute of their shenanigans, from their first meeting to their first, er ...moment. They both drove me crackers and I wanted to bash heads - but still I kind of fell for both of them.
I couldn't stand Nick's best friend who still holds a torch for him, but then I hate most women who are involved with guys in my m/m romances. So I'm not one to judge her, but she IS an annoying, stupid interloper.
Like I said: I was surprised how much I liked this story (read it in one sitting)and was really looking forward to more; this being book one and all, but then at the end there is an authors note that states that: This is the first in a series of books that span a twenty year relationship with three individuals - Eric, Nick and Nick's BFF (can't remember her name). No freaking WAY. Bugger that! I have no inclination to see this happy for now m/m relationship progress and evolve into an m/m/f menage with HER!. Nowadays the only ef I want in my m/m is the hot sexy action kind ending in I.N.G - NOT the bi-sexual/hetero kind.
Fortunately, this one can be read as a purely m/m romance with Eric and Nick ONLY (thank god).
January 31, 2013
On the plus side this book is currently free on Amazon and it's not such a bad story about two young men falling in love and stepping out of the closet. But then I found out this was part of a series and in the future books not only is there lots of cheating but that this turns into an MMF book. This affected how I felt about this book and not in a good way.
It's not even a true menage. Eric ends up marrying women twice and also makes a separate arrangement to also have a relationship with Nick. I apologize to those this appeal to but YUCK. If only there was some kind of warning placed on this book. Gay men marrying women is not what I want to read about in mm romance.
It's not even a true menage. Eric ends up marrying women twice and also makes a separate arrangement to also have a relationship with Nick. I apologize to those this appeal to but YUCK. If only there was some kind of warning placed on this book. Gay men marrying women is not what I want to read about in mm romance.
August 26, 2013
I really wanted to like this. It never felt comfortable. The relationships didn't gel. If the sex had been hot, I would have upped my stars to 3.5, since I'm shallow and can be easily entertained by good sex.
February 25, 2013
This is not my book: angsty adolescent drama llama. YMMV.
venture-out
November 6, 2016FREE on Amazon US today (6/3/2013).
May 28, 2013
3.5 stars I really liked this story and both Nick and Eric for what both we’re trying to deal with in their lives. Eric has a hard time with his emotions and pushes people away stemming from a tough home life where he takes care of his mother because his out of the picture dad seems to only use them when he needs them. Nick is riding a scholarship for football to go to college and is afraid to come out because he can’t lose this funding. The ups and downs we’re angsty and the love was something they really had to work for which I loved.
This was a free read which is why I grabbed it, glad I did. I did find out this is a series after I read this and probably won’t read them as it twists into a menage’ thing Eric is Bi. But just no interest in seeing these guys go there. So I was pretty disappointed to hear.
This was a free read which is why I grabbed it, glad I did. I did find out this is a series after I read this and probably won’t read them as it twists into a menage’ thing Eric is Bi. But just no interest in seeing these guys go there. So I was pretty disappointed to hear.
Read
July 16, 2020This book was available free on Amazon and is the first book in a series that also includes some m/m/f. This particular story is set in the college days of Eric, son of a business tycoon and Nick, football jock. Forced to room together, this is a fairly typical story of gay boy falling for straight roommate who then fears coming out. Adding a level of complexity is Nick's relationship with his ex-girlfriend Ally and Eric's parental issues.
A good quick read.
A good quick read.
July 28, 2013
2,5 stars.
This was an ok read.
Probably it didn't grab me so much, because the old college room-mates/jock and nerd trope comes here in a not very original variation. And I read many of those.
Both MCs remained pale to me. I probably won't read the sequels.
It was written well, and it didn't show any of my pet peeves.
This was an ok read.
Probably it didn't grab me so much, because the old college room-mates/jock and nerd trope comes here in a not very original variation. And I read many of those.
Both MCs remained pale to me. I probably won't read the sequels.
It was written well, and it didn't show any of my pet peeves.
no-thanks
June 30, 2012No thanks because this series turns into a cheating thing with one of them getting married and still sleeping with the boyfriend. I made the mistake of reading The Arrangement first. Of course, that put me off the whole series. Don't like cheating.
February 27, 2013
2.5/5
I had no idea this what I was starting into a huge series when I picked up this book. I didn't find out there were more books until after I had already finished. TBH, I'm shocked at where this series leads. I don't plan on reading any more so none of that really matters.
This was just an okay book for me. I feel as though I've read a million college, closet case, MM romances and this one was just average. Nick and Eric both were pretty difficult to like or care about. I didn't understand why they broke up in the first place or how they then made it into a huge fiasco of trying to hurt each other and then ignore each other. That didn't make sense to me. Their reconciliation was equally as baffling for me. I can't see them lasting. I saw some reviews saying that later on in the series they both end up having a relationship with Ally. I can't see that happening after reading this book. I'll never find out how that works out because I don't care enough about any of them to continue reading.
I had no idea this what I was starting into a huge series when I picked up this book. I didn't find out there were more books until after I had already finished. TBH, I'm shocked at where this series leads. I don't plan on reading any more so none of that really matters.
This was just an okay book for me. I feel as though I've read a million college, closet case, MM romances and this one was just average. Nick and Eric both were pretty difficult to like or care about. I didn't understand why they broke up in the first place or how they then made it into a huge fiasco of trying to hurt each other and then ignore each other. That didn't make sense to me. Their reconciliation was equally as baffling for me. I can't see them lasting. I saw some reviews saying that later on in the series they both end up having a relationship with Ally. I can't see that happening after reading this book. I'll never find out how that works out because I don't care enough about any of them to continue reading.
September 4, 2023
2nd time I've read this, that I know of. Not a bad read, not at all. There are some really nice moments between the MCs and the relationship build up totally worked for me. There is a lot of drama with Eric's family which at times was a lot to deal with but at the same time did help to move the story and bring the MCs together.
Keeping original rating of 4 stars.
Keeping original rating of 4 stars.
September 24, 2018
I have to admit that there were aspects to this story that didn't jive with my idea of what a romance novella is or should be and yet they felt true and necessary within the confines of this story. This story - and the relationship between our two MCs - is messy. Which, come to think of it, wasn't >i>everyone's college experience a hot mess of irrational decisions, hormones, self-discovery, and occasionally a little regression before the inevitable personal growth?
I think it's worth reading the next in the series. I'm interested in seeing what happens to these two after college.
I think it's worth reading the next in the series. I'm interested in seeing what happens to these two after college.
December 26, 2012
In this re-worked, newly re-published start to the Courtland Chronicles, the drama is just beginning for two collegians from different economic backgrounds thrown together as a modern-day Oscar and Felix. Eric comes from a family who hides their emotions and hurt others before they let themselves get hurt which has led to him keeping to himself. He tries to keep his surroundings in order since his family life is so out of control until the day a naked football player comes out of his shower. Nick is a farmer's boy used to hard work who's outgoing but keeps a bit of himself hidden from the public. He's turned-off by the sullen Eric at first but a slow bond builds between them that becomes a turn-on to him and has them entering into a relationship that has a profound effect on both of them.
Eric's been out of the closet for many years but Nick doesn't want to deal with the repercussions resulting from this relationship. This becomes a big issue to their happiness. Another issue is Eric's jealousy and fear of admitting his true feelings. This leads to a big speed bump to their happiness that only their mutual friend Ally can fix. This leads to a sweetly satisfying conclusion that feels like the perfect ending.....for now.
The emotional issues in this story are believable and heart wrenching. Eric's home life is sad and I can understand why he's closed himself off. That's why Nick becomes so important to him, he brings peace to his life. He's sturdy and reliable and a breath of fresh air and I love the two of them together. Their relationship built slowly and steadily and culminates in some very sexy sexual interludes that aren't overly erotic, sweetly sensual is how they connect.
Along with these two likable main characters comes their mutual sidekick Ally. She used to date Nick and still has feelings for him but is willing to remain his best friend as she knows how wonderful he and Eric are together. She's outspoken but supportive and sweet and always on the periphery. I get the feeling her story isn't yet done either and I look forward to it being told.
As I never read the original story, this new version feels fresh and is well-written. It's melodramatic yet earthy feeling in its emotions. There's a definite ending with this story but also a sense of a beginning and I for one look forward to Eric and Nick's journey!
Eric's been out of the closet for many years but Nick doesn't want to deal with the repercussions resulting from this relationship. This becomes a big issue to their happiness. Another issue is Eric's jealousy and fear of admitting his true feelings. This leads to a big speed bump to their happiness that only their mutual friend Ally can fix. This leads to a sweetly satisfying conclusion that feels like the perfect ending.....for now.
The emotional issues in this story are believable and heart wrenching. Eric's home life is sad and I can understand why he's closed himself off. That's why Nick becomes so important to him, he brings peace to his life. He's sturdy and reliable and a breath of fresh air and I love the two of them together. Their relationship built slowly and steadily and culminates in some very sexy sexual interludes that aren't overly erotic, sweetly sensual is how they connect.
Along with these two likable main characters comes their mutual sidekick Ally. She used to date Nick and still has feelings for him but is willing to remain his best friend as she knows how wonderful he and Eric are together. She's outspoken but supportive and sweet and always on the periphery. I get the feeling her story isn't yet done either and I look forward to it being told.
As I never read the original story, this new version feels fresh and is well-written. It's melodramatic yet earthy feeling in its emotions. There's a definite ending with this story but also a sense of a beginning and I for one look forward to Eric and Nick's journey!
May 23, 2013
This was a beautifully crafted story about Eric who kept to himself and cared first for his mother and her condition. He felt all his responsibilities were for her and then add to the mix Nick. Eric who is openly gay finds himself with a unwanted roommate who happens to be a straight football messy jock. Of course Eric instantly has the hots for him and that just pisses him off and doesn't fit into his already messed up life. Once he finds out Nick isn't as straight as they both thought they fall head over heels in love with each other. Nick who won't come out of the closet and Eric who won't be truthful about his home life make lots of mistakes with each other. They can't live without each other which is where we are by the end of this book. Leaving us eagerly awaiting the release of the second book. I am really enjoying this so far......
March 14, 2009
This is the second book by Cat Grant that I have read and it is one of her Courtland Chronicle's series. I've also read and enjoyed Strictly Business but I have not read The Arrangement as yet. I am terrible for not reading the series in order, but I will get around to it.
I really enjoyed this book which revisits Nick and Eric from Strictly Business and tells the story of how they first come to meet each other in College. I loved reading their back story, getting to know more about them, and what makes them tick in Strictly Business which is set later on in their respective lives.
I am not the greatest reviewer on earth, especially as I am pressed for time and stressed out of my brain atm with edits on my own book, but I highly recommend this book!
I really enjoyed this book which revisits Nick and Eric from Strictly Business and tells the story of how they first come to meet each other in College. I loved reading their back story, getting to know more about them, and what makes them tick in Strictly Business which is set later on in their respective lives.
I am not the greatest reviewer on earth, especially as I am pressed for time and stressed out of my brain atm with edits on my own book, but I highly recommend this book!
December 25, 2011
I tried to understand why Eric was the one who apologized at the end and I can’t. This is stupid. After their first serious fight Nick has sex with Ally and of course Eric is bitter and he has every right to be! So what that he called Nick a liar? If I was in Eric’s place I would have great temptation to throw boiling water at Ally’s private parts and beat up Nick and try my best to forget both of them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 17, 2014
3-3.5 stars
Nice & sweet romance, following Eric & Nick falling in love their junior year of college. It's nothing earth shattering but I enjoyed it.
I got this free months ago from Amazon but was hesitant to read it because reviews say this develops into a menage relationship in the other books. I hate menage but I can sometimes tolerate mmf so I'm going to continue with the series and see how it goes.
Nice & sweet romance, following Eric & Nick falling in love their junior year of college. It's nothing earth shattering but I enjoyed it.
I got this free months ago from Amazon but was hesitant to read it because reviews say this develops into a menage relationship in the other books. I hate menage but I can sometimes tolerate mmf so I'm going to continue with the series and see how it goes.
August 4, 2013
I really enjoyed this romance, the relationship developed slowly and I felt their connection growing, the sexual tension was hotness, and watching them both find their way was very enjoyable.
April 19, 2014
WOW !!!! 'Nuff said.
November 28, 2012
3.75 stars
A story of friendship, self-discovery and compromise.
Eric is a loner. He keeps to himself and he likes it that way. A self-confessed slut, he prefers his encounters with his men to be impersonal and without expectations. Then his world is turned upside down when, after returning from Christmas break, he finds himself with a roommate. A very handsome, football-playing roommate. And from then on he knows he is a goner.
Nick is an attractive jock who lives in denial and fear. He seems like your typical college junior, with a former girlfriend as a best friend and a football scholarship. But he is much more than that. He is an adorable, young man who fears giving in to his desires to be with a man. He doesn’t want to disappoint his parents and suffer the ridicule from his teammates. It isn’t until he meets Erick that he starts thinking about giving into to his desires, but even after sharing a kiss, he fights it.
I liked that Nick and Eric’s relationship started as a friendship. It added to the credibility of the story. From the outside it looked like any college friendship, but in reality these two were in constant fight with their emotions and desires, until that moment when Nick couldn’t hold back any longer and gives in. What develops next is a journey of new found affection and lust with heartbreak lurking in the corner.
I love to connect with my characters and although I did get to know them, it wasn’t enough for me to connect fully. I enjoyed the interactions between them. However, I wanted more more about the 'in between'. I wanted to see more of them as friends and then as lovers. I wanted the tender moments and the laughs and the getting to know each other. I wanted to know about their heartache in the time they were apart, feel their regret and see their growth, so that when they got back together and they made their apologies and grand gestures it would have felt more real to me.
The writing was good although it left me wanting to get to know more about the characters and the pace felt rushed at times. As I understand it, this is a revised edition of a book from the first series the author wrote. She admitted in an ‘Afterword’ included in this edition of the book that she was “still too green back then” to properly present what she had in mind, so I can overlook most of my pet peeves since I have read some of her later work and can attest to her growth as an author.
Also, this was originally the third book of the series so I understand why I am not getting a complete insight into these characters. I imagine this was given in previous books at the time, so I expect more character development in the installments to come and a more thorough exploration of this relationship. I also enjoyed the back story of the girlfriend, Ally, and how she interacted with both men and the family conflict presented in the story. It is my understanding that these will be explored further in the next revised books, so I am looking forward to reading more of this series. I am especially eager to learn more about Eric. His pain was very palpable and my heart went out to him the most.
All that said, I still think it was a very good story with great follow up potential. So I encourage you to give it a try because after all is said and done, these are great characters and their first foray into a meaningful relationship was a treat to read.
A story of friendship, self-discovery and compromise.
Eric is a loner. He keeps to himself and he likes it that way. A self-confessed slut, he prefers his encounters with his men to be impersonal and without expectations. Then his world is turned upside down when, after returning from Christmas break, he finds himself with a roommate. A very handsome, football-playing roommate. And from then on he knows he is a goner.
Nick is an attractive jock who lives in denial and fear. He seems like your typical college junior, with a former girlfriend as a best friend and a football scholarship. But he is much more than that. He is an adorable, young man who fears giving in to his desires to be with a man. He doesn’t want to disappoint his parents and suffer the ridicule from his teammates. It isn’t until he meets Erick that he starts thinking about giving into to his desires, but even after sharing a kiss, he fights it.
I liked that Nick and Eric’s relationship started as a friendship. It added to the credibility of the story. From the outside it looked like any college friendship, but in reality these two were in constant fight with their emotions and desires, until that moment when Nick couldn’t hold back any longer and gives in. What develops next is a journey of new found affection and lust with heartbreak lurking in the corner.
I love to connect with my characters and although I did get to know them, it wasn’t enough for me to connect fully. I enjoyed the interactions between them. However, I wanted more more about the 'in between'. I wanted to see more of them as friends and then as lovers. I wanted the tender moments and the laughs and the getting to know each other. I wanted to know about their heartache in the time they were apart, feel their regret and see their growth, so that when they got back together and they made their apologies and grand gestures it would have felt more real to me.
The writing was good although it left me wanting to get to know more about the characters and the pace felt rushed at times. As I understand it, this is a revised edition of a book from the first series the author wrote. She admitted in an ‘Afterword’ included in this edition of the book that she was “still too green back then” to properly present what she had in mind, so I can overlook most of my pet peeves since I have read some of her later work and can attest to her growth as an author.
Also, this was originally the third book of the series so I understand why I am not getting a complete insight into these characters. I imagine this was given in previous books at the time, so I expect more character development in the installments to come and a more thorough exploration of this relationship. I also enjoyed the back story of the girlfriend, Ally, and how she interacted with both men and the family conflict presented in the story. It is my understanding that these will be explored further in the next revised books, so I am looking forward to reading more of this series. I am especially eager to learn more about Eric. His pain was very palpable and my heart went out to him the most.
All that said, I still think it was a very good story with great follow up potential. So I encourage you to give it a try because after all is said and done, these are great characters and their first foray into a meaningful relationship was a treat to read.
July 26, 2016
Genre & Keywords: Gay | Coming Out | Friends become Lovers | Students | Roommates
Rating: 3.5 of 5 stars | Heat level: 2 of 3 flames
By Chance is a totally sweet story about two very young men, who have to share a dorm room because of unexpected circumstances. Rich lone wolf Eric isn’t too happy about that. But quarterback Nick is a nice and easy guy and Eric’s attitude doesn’t scare him away, the two men become friends despite of Eric’s defenses. Eric is gay and has the hots for Nick from the beginning, but doesn’t act on it, because Nick is straight and Eric never gets involved with men for more than one night. However when Nick crawls into Eric’s bed one night to keep him warm, because he’d suffered a shock, things start to change.
It’s been described well how Nick and Eric become more than friends. Their sexual feelings are tangible and it’s believable how they become lovers. Their relationship isn’t going to be easy, thanks to Eric’s issues (with his family, especially his father) and Nick’s inability to openly admit he’s gay, a back and forth of attraction and rejection starts. Cat Grant knows very well how to make all the emotional layers insightful. Their behavior and feelings are very genuine, stirring, and sometimes raw. It’s hard to really like Eric, though you learn to know where his actions are coming from. On the other hand, it’s very, very easy to love Nick. He’s such a cutie and very warm-hearted. The love scenes are sweet and sexy but not very memorable, I’m afraid. Because I’ve read the story just last week and I can hardly remember any of the sex scenes, but that’s fine: their feelings and understanding of each other are the centre of gravity in this novel, for me. And I consider the erotic scenes a nice bonus.
By Chance isn’t a standalone book; it’s the third installment in Cat Grants bestselling Courtland Chronicles series, but in chronological order it’s the first. Together with Strictly Business and Complications it’s a prequel to the novel The Arrangement. And in December there will be released a fifth novel in the series: Triad. And I’m definitely willing to try some more of the stories in this series, after reading By Chance.
Back Blurb:
For Eric and Nick, it's irritation at first sight. Wealthy, arrogant Eric Courtland is an island unto himself...and content to stay that way until chance brings quarterback Nick Thompson into his life. Nick's warm and easy nature pierce straight through Eric's well-fortified defenses and coax him out of his shell. It doesn't take long for their friendship to deepen into love. Eric's fear of commitment and Nick's inability to come to terms with his own sexuality threaten to tear them apart. By Chance is the third installment in Cat Grants bestselling Courtland Chronicles Series.
Rating: 3.5 of 5 stars | Heat level: 2 of 3 flames
By Chance is a totally sweet story about two very young men, who have to share a dorm room because of unexpected circumstances. Rich lone wolf Eric isn’t too happy about that. But quarterback Nick is a nice and easy guy and Eric’s attitude doesn’t scare him away, the two men become friends despite of Eric’s defenses. Eric is gay and has the hots for Nick from the beginning, but doesn’t act on it, because Nick is straight and Eric never gets involved with men for more than one night. However when Nick crawls into Eric’s bed one night to keep him warm, because he’d suffered a shock, things start to change.
It’s been described well how Nick and Eric become more than friends. Their sexual feelings are tangible and it’s believable how they become lovers. Their relationship isn’t going to be easy, thanks to Eric’s issues (with his family, especially his father) and Nick’s inability to openly admit he’s gay, a back and forth of attraction and rejection starts. Cat Grant knows very well how to make all the emotional layers insightful. Their behavior and feelings are very genuine, stirring, and sometimes raw. It’s hard to really like Eric, though you learn to know where his actions are coming from. On the other hand, it’s very, very easy to love Nick. He’s such a cutie and very warm-hearted. The love scenes are sweet and sexy but not very memorable, I’m afraid. Because I’ve read the story just last week and I can hardly remember any of the sex scenes, but that’s fine: their feelings and understanding of each other are the centre of gravity in this novel, for me. And I consider the erotic scenes a nice bonus.
By Chance isn’t a standalone book; it’s the third installment in Cat Grants bestselling Courtland Chronicles series, but in chronological order it’s the first. Together with Strictly Business and Complications it’s a prequel to the novel The Arrangement. And in December there will be released a fifth novel in the series: Triad. And I’m definitely willing to try some more of the stories in this series, after reading By Chance.
Back Blurb:
For Eric and Nick, it's irritation at first sight. Wealthy, arrogant Eric Courtland is an island unto himself...and content to stay that way until chance brings quarterback Nick Thompson into his life. Nick's warm and easy nature pierce straight through Eric's well-fortified defenses and coax him out of his shell. It doesn't take long for their friendship to deepen into love. Eric's fear of commitment and Nick's inability to come to terms with his own sexuality threaten to tear them apart. By Chance is the third installment in Cat Grants bestselling Courtland Chronicles Series.
May 21, 2014
I’ve been meaning to read one of Cat Grant’s titles for simply ages now, so when I laid hands on By Chance, I grabbed it. (It’s a free read on Amazon, BTW.)
Eric Courtland has it all, except a happy home life, it would seem. Money can’t make up for the realities of a dysfunctional family and Eric has withdrawn from meaningful human interaction as much as possible. Whatever sexual encounters he has are quick, anonymous liaisons – no strings attached. He’s quite happy – or at least he thinks he is – alone in his college dorm room. One that he’s paid good money to keep without any annoying roomies.
At least that’s until Nick washes up on his doorstep due to a problem in the dormitory where he was supposed to be assigned. Eric has to share his space with this football jock, and he is beyond unhappy about this unexpected, unwanted interloper into his carefully ordered existence.
But there’s more… (Well, of course, otherwise this wouldn’t get juicy.)
Eric’s been out and proud since he was sixteen and Nick… Well, Nick’s decidedly straight (I mean, really, he’s on the football team, y’know.)
Nick’s sunny disposition thaws Eric’s glacial chill in short order, however, and it’s lovely seeing the dynamics shift as Nick pries Eric out of his shell. Nick’s ex and best friend, Ally, helps too, even though it’s clear from the outset that she’s still holding a torch for Nick. Love triangle much? But that’s okay. I feel for Ally, but she’s a good, loyal friend to Nick when he needs it, and she’s got fire enough to stand up to Eric when he’s engaging in douchebaggery.
The tension between Eric and Nick quickly heads toward the bedroom, and Nick discovers that he might not be as straight as he initially thought he was. Of course he now faces a conundrum: does he come out publicly? And Eric has his own demons to face, with his ailing mother preying on him the most.
Grant’s writing is deliciously easy to slip into, and at the time of reading, I really needed a pleasant diversion, which she supplied by the bucket load. The blossoming relationship between Eric and Nick is sweet until it hits its first, inevitable snags. Both lads need to work through their issues, but of course I won’t delve into spoiler territory suffice to say it’s satisfying to see them resolve their conflict.
By Chance is perfectly balanced – great dialogue, characters and external and internal dramas. If you’re looking for a quick m/m read, this one’s a treat.
Eric Courtland has it all, except a happy home life, it would seem. Money can’t make up for the realities of a dysfunctional family and Eric has withdrawn from meaningful human interaction as much as possible. Whatever sexual encounters he has are quick, anonymous liaisons – no strings attached. He’s quite happy – or at least he thinks he is – alone in his college dorm room. One that he’s paid good money to keep without any annoying roomies.
At least that’s until Nick washes up on his doorstep due to a problem in the dormitory where he was supposed to be assigned. Eric has to share his space with this football jock, and he is beyond unhappy about this unexpected, unwanted interloper into his carefully ordered existence.
But there’s more… (Well, of course, otherwise this wouldn’t get juicy.)
Eric’s been out and proud since he was sixteen and Nick… Well, Nick’s decidedly straight (I mean, really, he’s on the football team, y’know.)
Nick’s sunny disposition thaws Eric’s glacial chill in short order, however, and it’s lovely seeing the dynamics shift as Nick pries Eric out of his shell. Nick’s ex and best friend, Ally, helps too, even though it’s clear from the outset that she’s still holding a torch for Nick. Love triangle much? But that’s okay. I feel for Ally, but she’s a good, loyal friend to Nick when he needs it, and she’s got fire enough to stand up to Eric when he’s engaging in douchebaggery.
The tension between Eric and Nick quickly heads toward the bedroom, and Nick discovers that he might not be as straight as he initially thought he was. Of course he now faces a conundrum: does he come out publicly? And Eric has his own demons to face, with his ailing mother preying on him the most.
Grant’s writing is deliciously easy to slip into, and at the time of reading, I really needed a pleasant diversion, which she supplied by the bucket load. The blossoming relationship between Eric and Nick is sweet until it hits its first, inevitable snags. Both lads need to work through their issues, but of course I won’t delve into spoiler territory suffice to say it’s satisfying to see them resolve their conflict.
By Chance is perfectly balanced – great dialogue, characters and external and internal dramas. If you’re looking for a quick m/m read, this one’s a treat.
May 13, 2015
I have had this whole series on kindle for over a year and I am asking myself why had I not read this book sooner. This was a really good book my only compliant is that it has a BDSM tag on it and there was no BDSM in it. Eric Courtland grew up with a cold, unfeeling father and unstable mother has taught him exactly what he doesn’t want out of life or love. The troubled young man prefers a solitary life and is content to keep it that way until a campus emergency saddles him with an unwanted roommate. Nick Thompson is a jock who is popular and straight and is pure temptation to bi-sexual Eric. Nick is everything that Eric is not he is easy going and doesn't get nervous around people. When Eric is attacked for trying to hook up in a public rest room Nick offers him comfort and they share a kiss that left Nick confused and Eric scared. This was a really good book I felt bad for Eric they way his father treated him and his mother. Eric pushes Nick away because he doesn't know how to handle his emotions and Nick is to afraid to come out although he has know for awhile that he is gay. I also like Ally although she is in love with Nick when she realized that Nick and Eric where together she didn't want to see Nick hurt so she confronted Eric about it and helped Nick when they broke up. This is a really good first book in this series and I am looking forward to reading the next book.
March 21, 2015
This was almost a DNF for me, but that might have had something to do with the fact that I was reading it on an 11 hour coach trip from London to Amsterdam - nothing short of a nuclear blast would have held my attention during that nightmare.
The writing is really good, though I noticed quite a few phrases that were more english than american (something I do all the time). The characters were OK, I liked them - Eric's relationship with his parents was interesting.
I found it hard to tell them apart, Eric and Nick speak and think the same way, with the same kinds of language, more distinction would have been nice.
The story was fairly standard and something I've read in novels and fanfiction a lot. I understand that there's a whole series of these stories, but, I feel that the first one was enough for me, it wrapped up quite nicely and I'm not too interested in having the characters break up and make up again. Also, I saw that it eventually ends in a 3-way relationship with the female character from this book, I didn't find her very interesting, she was kind of bland and every-white-heroine-from-an-indie-movie-ish for me. I would be interested to read about a 3-way relationship but, with slightly more interesting characters maybe.
All in all, it was OK, but quite forgettable. I would still read more by the author because the writing was good, but would look for more original ideas.
The writing is really good, though I noticed quite a few phrases that were more english than american (something I do all the time). The characters were OK, I liked them - Eric's relationship with his parents was interesting.
I found it hard to tell them apart, Eric and Nick speak and think the same way, with the same kinds of language, more distinction would have been nice.
The story was fairly standard and something I've read in novels and fanfiction a lot. I understand that there's a whole series of these stories, but, I feel that the first one was enough for me, it wrapped up quite nicely and I'm not too interested in having the characters break up and make up again. Also, I saw that it eventually ends in a 3-way relationship with the female character from this book, I didn't find her very interesting, she was kind of bland and every-white-heroine-from-an-indie-movie-ish for me. I would be interested to read about a 3-way relationship but, with slightly more interesting characters maybe.
All in all, it was OK, but quite forgettable. I would still read more by the author because the writing was good, but would look for more original ideas.
February 3, 2013
Contemporary college M/M romance with gay-for-you plot where a sad isolated (out and proud) rich boy finds a way towards happiness by sharing his 'single' room with a roommate when there is a housing shortage in collage. Eric Courtland is our 'poor' little rich guy who knows that he has a lot of hang-ups, but doesn't feel motivated to fix anything. So the unwanted roommate is Nick Thompson who is the new lead quarterback for the college football's team who has a body like a Greek god, although it is probably just a healthy young body unlike all these over weight under-exercised young (and not so young) modern people. Nick Thompson is pretty much the opposite of Eric, because he is social and well liked on the campus and sexually confused. Eric knows what he likes and he likes Nick.
Eric definitely has been dealt a bad deal in life with a suicidal mother and a apathetic cruel father, but he is surviving in his own way until he meets Nick when he really starts to live. So there are ups and downs, but their relationship felt really realistic because it isn't roses and sunshine all the time, especially when were young and hormonal. What am I talking about, it just gets worse when you get old and even more hormonal!
Wonderful story with more to come because I read the first chapter of the series and it sounds good too.
116 pages and kindle freebie
3 solid stars
Eric definitely has been dealt a bad deal in life with a suicidal mother and a apathetic cruel father, but he is surviving in his own way until he meets Nick when he really starts to live. So there are ups and downs, but their relationship felt really realistic because it isn't roses and sunshine all the time, especially when were young and hormonal. What am I talking about, it just gets worse when you get old and even more hormonal!
Wonderful story with more to come because I read the first chapter of the series and it sounds good too.
116 pages and kindle freebie
3 solid stars
November 28, 2012
Actually 4 1/2 stars!
According to the author’s notes, BY CHANCE is volume one of a reworked, re-released series, The Courtland Chronicles. Since I did not read the previous version I can only comment on this one. When originally published the books came out in a different order than chronologically, which would give the reader an insight into the future that is unavailable here. I’m one of those readers who prefers to read a series in chronological order so this suits me just fine.
I enjoyed this book and look forward to the further stories of this series, in the order things occur. Ms Grant is a skilled writer of emotions and builds characters who grow but need to mature and develop more even at the end of the book. It makes the reader care deeply for them and want them to be successful with each other and in life. This is a character-driven book with angsty plot turns that make the reader ache for the characters. The challenges for Eric, Grant, Ally, and Eric’s mother are not over at the end by a long shot. I’m eager to read the next book!
Please see my complete review on December 3, 2012 at http://mrsconditreadsbooks.com/index.... plus a commentary by the author at http://mrsconditreadsbooks.com/index....
According to the author’s notes, BY CHANCE is volume one of a reworked, re-released series, The Courtland Chronicles. Since I did not read the previous version I can only comment on this one. When originally published the books came out in a different order than chronologically, which would give the reader an insight into the future that is unavailable here. I’m one of those readers who prefers to read a series in chronological order so this suits me just fine.
I enjoyed this book and look forward to the further stories of this series, in the order things occur. Ms Grant is a skilled writer of emotions and builds characters who grow but need to mature and develop more even at the end of the book. It makes the reader care deeply for them and want them to be successful with each other and in life. This is a character-driven book with angsty plot turns that make the reader ache for the characters. The challenges for Eric, Grant, Ally, and Eric’s mother are not over at the end by a long shot. I’m eager to read the next book!
Please see my complete review on December 3, 2012 at http://mrsconditreadsbooks.com/index.... plus a commentary by the author at http://mrsconditreadsbooks.com/index....
December 7, 2012
By Chance is the first installment in The Courtland Chronicles by Cat Grant. I enjoyed the romance between Eric Courtland and his college roommate Nick. While Eric is a prickly, selfish bastard in the beginning of the novel, under Grant's deft hand he is turned into a sympathetic character who finally figures out he's worthy of love. I also liked Nick, the shy farm boy who falls for his gay roommate and comes to terms with his own sexuality. This was a nice coming-of-age tale that used the GFY trope expertly.
This 2012 edition has been revised and re-written from an earlier period. Some previous reviews stated that there was "cheating" between Nick and Ally (Nick's friend and former girlfriend), but I did not see that in this version. So for people like me who dislike cheaters, have no fear, there is none of that in here.
As for the rest of the series, I will have to pass, as I don't read menage/triad books, but By Chance can easily stand alone as a self-contained novel of college love and discovery.
This 2012 edition has been revised and re-written from an earlier period. Some previous reviews stated that there was "cheating" between Nick and Ally (Nick's friend and former girlfriend), but I did not see that in this version. So for people like me who dislike cheaters, have no fear, there is none of that in here.
As for the rest of the series, I will have to pass, as I don't read menage/triad books, but By Chance can easily stand alone as a self-contained novel of college love and discovery.
April 8, 2019
I'm not sure what took me so long to read this book, but I'm glad I finally did. There is nothing new plot-wise, but that didn't detract from my overall enjoyment of the story. It kept my attention throughout, and my interest is piqued enough to continue with the series.
As far as characters go, Eric has to be my favourite. He is flawed and conflicted, and has intrigued me in a way that not many characters have. Not because he is particularly likeable, but because of how complex he is. There is much more to him than meets the eye. As to Nick, he is a pretty simple man and kind of bland in comparison to Eric, but that's not to say I didn't love him. He is sweet and caring, and I look forward to knowing him better. I'm still not sure how I feel about Ally. I guess time will tell...
Bottom line, this was a great start to what appears to be an interesting series, and I can't wait to read the other four books.
As far as characters go, Eric has to be my favourite. He is flawed and conflicted, and has intrigued me in a way that not many characters have. Not because he is particularly likeable, but because of how complex he is. There is much more to him than meets the eye. As to Nick, he is a pretty simple man and kind of bland in comparison to Eric, but that's not to say I didn't love him. He is sweet and caring, and I look forward to knowing him better. I'm still not sure how I feel about Ally. I guess time will tell...
Bottom line, this was a great start to what appears to be an interesting series, and I can't wait to read the other four books.
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