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Clumsy Cupid Guidebooks #1
Comment séduire un geek, manuel du fêtard
Ashley Byrne ne veut qu’une seule chose dans la vie : terminer son apprentissage de tatoueur et réaliser son rêve d’avoir son propre salon. En attendant, il passe ses nuits à faire la fête, flirter, et s’envoyer en l’air. Après tout, qu’a-t-il d’autre à penser ? À part sa coiffure et ses vêtements, pas grand-chose. Il a aussi pour habitude d’obtenir tout ce qu’il désire… jusqu’à ce qu’il rencontre Felipe Navarro.
Fee Navarro a tout ce dont il a besoin : un super boulot d’informaticien, un bel appartement, et tous les joujoux high-tech que son cœur de geek désire. Il ne donne pas dans les coups d’un soir, et il sait que les types comme Ash ne font que ça. Ash a peut-être le feu aux poudres pour Fee, mais Fee n’a pas l’intention de donner sa chance à un petit fêtard vaniteux aux tatouages trop nombreux et à l’égo surdimensionné. Tant pis pour lui si Ash n’a jamais été du genre à abandonner facile-ment. Ce dernier a un plan, et il n’a pas l’intention d’arrêter avant d’avoir prouvé qu’il ne compte pas que sur sa gueule d’ange : il est aussi digne de gagner le cœur de Fee.
Fee Navarro a tout ce dont il a besoin : un super boulot d’informaticien, un bel appartement, et tous les joujoux high-tech que son cœur de geek désire. Il ne donne pas dans les coups d’un soir, et il sait que les types comme Ash ne font que ça. Ash a peut-être le feu aux poudres pour Fee, mais Fee n’a pas l’intention de donner sa chance à un petit fêtard vaniteux aux tatouages trop nombreux et à l’égo surdimensionné. Tant pis pour lui si Ash n’a jamais été du genre à abandonner facile-ment. Ce dernier a un plan, et il n’a pas l’intention d’arrêter avant d’avoir prouvé qu’il ne compte pas que sur sa gueule d’ange : il est aussi digne de gagner le cœur de Fee.
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First published October 9, 2012
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About the author
Piper Vaughn
48 books1,153 followersPiper Vaughn is a romance author and lifelong fan of the genre. Since writing their first love story at age eleven, they’ve known writing in some form was exactly what they wanted to do. A reader to the core, Piper loves nothing more than getting lost in a great book.
Piper is of Puerto Rican descent and grew up in a diverse neighborhood in Chicago. They love putting faces and characters of every ethnicity in their stories, making their fictional worlds as colorful as the real one. Above all, Piper believes there’s no one way to have an HEA, and every person deserves to see themselves reflected on the page.
Sign up for Piper's newsletter: https://www.pipervaughn.com/newsletter
Piper is of Puerto Rican descent and grew up in a diverse neighborhood in Chicago. They love putting faces and characters of every ethnicity in their stories, making their fictional worlds as colorful as the real one. Above all, Piper believes there’s no one way to have an HEA, and every person deserves to see themselves reflected on the page.
Sign up for Piper's newsletter: https://www.pipervaughn.com/newsletter
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 270 reviews
September 20, 2012
Ash is a tatted up pretty boy who likes to party and hopes to one day open up his own tattoo shop. Fee is a geeky IT guy and Star Wars fanatic. No way should these two be attracted to each other but, the heart wants what the heart wants and Ash's heart wants Fee. As much as Fee tries to fight it he wants Ash too.
I wish I was better at writing reviews because this book was all kinds of awesome and I know I won't be able to express how much I loved it. And I did love it. It's just the right amount of sweet and sexy and the build up to when these two get together is pretty much perfect and Ash and Fee are perfect together. Ash and Fee's friends are a big part of the story as well and I have it from a reliable source that some of them will be getting their own story too:).
Thanks Piper and Xara for letting me read it early. You guys are the best!!
And did I mention that the sex scenes are holymotherofgod smoking hot??!! Well, they are:).
I wish I was better at writing reviews because this book was all kinds of awesome and I know I won't be able to express how much I loved it. And I did love it. It's just the right amount of sweet and sexy and the build up to when these two get together is pretty much perfect and Ash and Fee are perfect together. Ash and Fee's friends are a big part of the story as well and I have it from a reliable source that some of them will be getting their own story too:).
Thanks Piper and Xara for letting me read it early. You guys are the best!!
And did I mention that the sex scenes are holymotherofgod smoking hot??!! Well, they are:).
October 10, 2012
~SEXY NERD!!!~
OMG my ass is just all kinds of love in love with this story just all kinds of love. It was sexy, funny, and just cotton candy sweet without the toothache. I was expecting to like this one but I was not expecting to love it, this one is a 5+ Pants Off.
Ash is the pretty party boy and he makes no apologies about it. He can get anyone he wants and knows he's above average when it comes to looks and all that. As a tattoo artist, he has dreams of opening a tattoo parlour with his best bud but until then he's gonna party the night away and also fuck it away. When he runs in to Fee while helping his brother's girlfriend move his initial reaction is geek and not interested. Suddenly he's getting all hot under the collar for Fee and decides to make a move because after all what geek is gonna turn him down.
Well, Fee turns him down and Ash is left in shock but he knows the man is interested so he goes on the offensive. I am talking the dating guide that shows you how to connect with your geek. Learn his lingo to ultimately get in his pants and win his heart. Ash is having a hard time of it and is making a fool of himself in the process. Maybe, Fee is not interested and who could blame him. He has past dirty deeds longer than his arm and Fee looks like he would be in it for the long run. Ash is thinking maybe with Fee he could think about forever too.
I just loved the hell out of Ash. He is so funny and cute and really shined in the book. I enjoyed how he ultimately stopped trying so hard and went about being himself. Fee is now my new CLIF (character I'd love to fuck. I stole this from Amy Lane). He's all geeky but when you let him out of his cage, he sets the sheet and your pants on fire. Omo, I need a sexy nerd.
The build up of the relationship between the men was done very well. It started as friendship but developed in a very believable long lasting love. The sex is not frequent but when it does happened, GAWD I literally hyperventilated. I read so much sex that most of the time I don't really notice a difference. I noticed it here. Maybe it’s all to do with Fee's cool exterior but man.... Shit was hot. There relationship is also set in motion by supporting characters, characters I am very much looking forward to getting their own books (Ahem Jae) can never have too many sexy Korean characters.
Kudos to Piper Vaughn and Xara Xanakas for writing such an awesome book. I now dub you guys a Dynamic Duo, and your geeky ways knows no bounds. I now really want to go to a steampunk costume party, so I can drool all over the sexiness. I recommend this, and hope you fall in love with Ash and Fee as much as I did.
OMG my ass is just all kinds of love in love with this story just all kinds of love. It was sexy, funny, and just cotton candy sweet without the toothache. I was expecting to like this one but I was not expecting to love it, this one is a 5+ Pants Off.
Ash is the pretty party boy and he makes no apologies about it. He can get anyone he wants and knows he's above average when it comes to looks and all that. As a tattoo artist, he has dreams of opening a tattoo parlour with his best bud but until then he's gonna party the night away and also fuck it away. When he runs in to Fee while helping his brother's girlfriend move his initial reaction is geek and not interested. Suddenly he's getting all hot under the collar for Fee and decides to make a move because after all what geek is gonna turn him down.
Well, Fee turns him down and Ash is left in shock but he knows the man is interested so he goes on the offensive. I am talking the dating guide that shows you how to connect with your geek. Learn his lingo to ultimately get in his pants and win his heart. Ash is having a hard time of it and is making a fool of himself in the process. Maybe, Fee is not interested and who could blame him. He has past dirty deeds longer than his arm and Fee looks like he would be in it for the long run. Ash is thinking maybe with Fee he could think about forever too.
I just loved the hell out of Ash. He is so funny and cute and really shined in the book. I enjoyed how he ultimately stopped trying so hard and went about being himself. Fee is now my new CLIF (character I'd love to fuck. I stole this from Amy Lane). He's all geeky but when you let him out of his cage, he sets the sheet and your pants on fire. Omo, I need a sexy nerd.
The build up of the relationship between the men was done very well. It started as friendship but developed in a very believable long lasting love. The sex is not frequent but when it does happened, GAWD I literally hyperventilated. I read so much sex that most of the time I don't really notice a difference. I noticed it here. Maybe it’s all to do with Fee's cool exterior but man.... Shit was hot. There relationship is also set in motion by supporting characters, characters I am very much looking forward to getting their own books (Ahem Jae) can never have too many sexy Korean characters.
Kudos to Piper Vaughn and Xara Xanakas for writing such an awesome book. I now dub you guys a Dynamic Duo, and your geeky ways knows no bounds. I now really want to go to a steampunk costume party, so I can drool all over the sexiness. I recommend this, and hope you fall in love with Ash and Fee as much as I did.
October 8, 2012
3.65*
I love the idea of this story, opposites attract, geek vs party boy...
For some reason I had a bit of trouble really getting into it, the first third was difficult for me , I kept wondering why on earth Ash kept trying to get to Fee?
I understood the challenge of it and that he was attracted and felt that it was reciprocated, but..i guess lucky for them Ash is tenacious, I didn't like the hot/cold or actually more cool/colder thing Fee had going on.
And imo Ash really came close to crossing into stalker territory.
And what's with Mari and Jack?
Finally around 50% it picked up for me and I got into the story and started enjoying it.
The friends were a nice group, and it was good to see a couple that doesn't live in a 'love bubble' during the whole story, on the other hand, I didn't see a lot of couple time..where they actually were a couple.
The 'conflict' at the end fortunately didn't drag on, but again here I'm sort of partial to Ash, even if he should have behaved differently initially.
It was a cute read and I enjoyed the second half, but these are just my niggles, most people will probably love this book and I will pick up the next one and hope Ty, Jae or Carley or even Donavan get their stories!
I love the idea of this story, opposites attract, geek vs party boy...
For some reason I had a bit of trouble really getting into it, the first third was difficult for me , I kept wondering why on earth Ash kept trying to get to Fee?
I understood the challenge of it and that he was attracted and felt that it was reciprocated, but..i guess lucky for them Ash is tenacious, I didn't like the hot/cold or actually more cool/colder thing Fee had going on.
And imo Ash really came close to crossing into stalker territory.
And what's with Mari and Jack?
Finally around 50% it picked up for me and I got into the story and started enjoying it.
The friends were a nice group, and it was good to see a couple that doesn't live in a 'love bubble' during the whole story, on the other hand, I didn't see a lot of couple time..where they actually were a couple.
The 'conflict' at the end fortunately didn't drag on, but again here I'm sort of partial to Ash, even if he should have behaved differently initially.
It was a cute read and I enjoyed the second half, but these are just my niggles, most people will probably love this book and I will pick up the next one and hope Ty, Jae or Carley or even Donavan get their stories!
October 25, 2012
I have the same reaction with Mandy. All through the book, I can only think of this: "Ash, maybe Fee is just not into you...".
The thing is, the story is one sided, we only get Ash's perspective. So while Ash grows up (so to speak) in the story, from the party boy (though I don't get the evidence a lot from here, only from what people 'said' about Ash, or what Ash thinks of himself) to this one who care about Fee, but the stand-offish attitude from Fee left me cold.
Even when Ash and Fee get together, I don't feel any proof that Fee feels for Ash, the way Ash feels for him. Fee still leaves Ash hanging (Fee rarely text, email, phones, whenever he is late) and that one huge secret in the end -- well, if Fee loves Ash, I think he should at least let Ash in, and confides in him.
Oh, and the way that Fee judges Ash from his reputation (which he hears from others) and dimisses Ash's worries about Donovan, that doesn't win him any point from me. I am also VERY annoyed on how Jack (Ash's brother) and his girlfriend, Mari, talk about Ash to Fee behind Ash's back. In addition, they never even give Ash a little clue, that "Fee is asking about Ash sometimes" and lets Ash thinks that Fee doesn't have any interest in him.
By half mark, I just don't care about this relationship and wish that Ash ends up with Jae (he can cook!) instead *shrugs*
So the 'nice' rating is for Ash and his character's development... If you ask me about the love story itself? I can only give it 2 stars.
The thing is, the story is one sided, we only get Ash's perspective. So while Ash grows up (so to speak) in the story, from the party boy (though I don't get the evidence a lot from here, only from what people 'said' about Ash, or what Ash thinks of himself) to this one who care about Fee, but the stand-offish attitude from Fee left me cold.
Even when Ash and Fee get together, I don't feel any proof that Fee feels for Ash, the way Ash feels for him. Fee still leaves Ash hanging (Fee rarely text, email, phones, whenever he is late) and that one huge secret in the end -- well, if Fee loves Ash, I think he should at least let Ash in, and confides in him.
Oh, and the way that Fee judges Ash from his reputation (which he hears from others) and dimisses Ash's worries about Donovan, that doesn't win him any point from me. I am also VERY annoyed on how Jack (Ash's brother) and his girlfriend, Mari, talk about Ash to Fee behind Ash's back. In addition, they never even give Ash a little clue, that "Fee is asking about Ash sometimes" and lets Ash thinks that Fee doesn't have any interest in him.
By half mark, I just don't care about this relationship and wish that Ash ends up with Jae (he can cook!) instead *shrugs*
So the 'nice' rating is for Ash and his character's development... If you ask me about the love story itself? I can only give it 2 stars.
November 30, 2014
This is a fun, light story about a party boy, Ash, who falls for a really good-looking, nerdy guy (Fee) who appears to want nothing to do with him. Ash isn't about to give up, though, and he goes so far as to buy a manual - a guide to translating geek-speak and behavior, and figuring out how to approach the man of his dreams.
If you can overlook the improbability that Fee can be that hot and perfect physically, when he spends all his time in sedentary pursuits, and believe that he can attract Ash that hard and fast, then this is amusing. It's a bit slow to get off the ground, but a lot of fun. The best bits for me were actually the "guidebook" sections (since as the spouse of a geek they rang wonderfully true.)
I liked some of the setbacks (winced at and loved the awkward bookclub meeting), and the secondary characters. Ash begins as a bit stalkerish, and Fee as cold, but there is some nice progression and by the end I could believe they were building something lasting.
If you can overlook the improbability that Fee can be that hot and perfect physically, when he spends all his time in sedentary pursuits, and believe that he can attract Ash that hard and fast, then this is amusing. It's a bit slow to get off the ground, but a lot of fun. The best bits for me were actually the "guidebook" sections (since as the spouse of a geek they rang wonderfully true.)
I liked some of the setbacks (winced at and loved the awkward bookclub meeting), and the secondary characters. Ash begins as a bit stalkerish, and Fee as cold, but there is some nice progression and by the end I could believe they were building something lasting.
March 2, 2013
I loved this for all of the Geek Dating chapter excerpts that were included. Those had me laughing they were so clever and on point. Well done.
I liked these guys, Ash especially, it took me a bit to warm up to Fee though. He was too much of a mystery and it hurt his character for me. I felt a bit like Carey in thinking that he treated Ash badly I would have loved a POV from him or even battling chapters from their respective guide books. That would have been fantabulous.
This is a simple story with a little bit of angst. I liked reading how Ash grew up a bit as the story progressed. I'm looking forward to more of these because I want to know what's up with Ty.
I liked these guys, Ash especially, it took me a bit to warm up to Fee though. He was too much of a mystery and it hurt his character for me. I felt a bit like Carey in thinking that he treated Ash badly I would have loved a POV from him or even battling chapters from their respective guide books. That would have been fantabulous.
This is a simple story with a little bit of angst. I liked reading how Ash grew up a bit as the story progressed. I'm looking forward to more of these because I want to know what's up with Ty.
November 24, 2014
3.5 stars
Cute, low on angst, and very easy reading, but something was missing. I never felt that Fee was as invested in the relationship as Ash, maybe because we get only Ash's POV. I wanted more steam, fewer misunderstandings.
And what's up with all the loose ends, especially the side plot regarding Ash's friend Ty? This book felt like it was set up for a series that never materialized.
I did love the opposites attract trope and would love to read a follow-up.
Cute, low on angst, and very easy reading, but something was missing. I never felt that Fee was as invested in the relationship as Ash, maybe because we get only Ash's POV. I wanted more steam, fewer misunderstandings.
And what's up with all the loose ends, especially the side plot regarding Ash's friend Ty? This book felt like it was set up for a series that never materialized.
I did love the opposites attract trope and would love to read a follow-up.
September 27, 2012
Oh, Ash Byrne. The man who’s first name is the product of his last name. Tattoo apprentice, party boy extraordinaire, flighty, shallow, slutty, satisfied with coasting and looking for just a good time. Or is he? Ash is so much more than he seems at first glance, and watching him mature throughout this story was enchanting. It’s a little bit sad as he begins the change from immature to grown up and hears confirmation from others (shocked surprise that he’s not going out clubbing, more shock that he’s not getting wasted, surprise that he’s not hooking up) that his reputation is as bad as he made it. “Is that really what you think of me?” Seeing yourself like that, it’s tough.
When he is taken by surprise by his attraction to the nerdy Fee, Ash turns to the Clumsy Cupid Instruction Manual to find out how to get this geek to say yes. Imagine! The geek turned down Ash. No one does that, so the challenge is on. The fact that Fee is a friend of Ash’s brothers girlfriend doesn’t necessarily help the connection. They won’t give out any info on Fee. So Ash does the cool thing – he stalks him.
This story is just all kinds of sweet, funny and lovely. Ash, coasting on his looks, actually needs to work for someone. Fee is nervous, charming and attracted but not giving in. Ash is determined that Fee is going to go out with him, at least once, and he goes to great lengths to try to show Fee what he’s missing. He makes a fool of himself at a book club meeting, crashes a birthday party, pesters his brother and his girlfriend for Fee’s number, all because he was turned down. Or so he tells himself. Then he starts to get to know Fee and realizes, the physical is great and the internal is more amazing.
For his part, Fee is a great character, shy, nervous and then charming and endearing. He comes across badly at first, but manages to win over Ash’s friends with the real him. The conversation when Carley (Ash’s roommate) tells Fee about Ash snoring and farting in his sleep made me laugh out loud. That is real life stuff and it was so funny. Fee’s first dance with Ash, awesome. Fee’s first run in with Gil, an Ash former hookup, during that dance, not so great for either of them. The hard part is that both Ash and Fee have friends who point out the differences between them, mostly on the negative side for Ash.
Being from Chicago, I read very carefully the information regarding Ash and Fee making Chicago-style hotdogs and I was pleased to see it done correctly.
There is a line in the book that summed up so much for me. “Gil was enough before I knew I was capable of wanting more”. Incredible, Ash. That thought is one of the best I’ve read in a long time, because there are so many people who don’t realize they are capable of wanting more. Loved it.
The writing style is smooth and easy, with chapters broken up by information from the Party Boy’s Dating Guide, which was accurate and funny. This is a romantic, happy book, even at the difficult parts, and it made me smile. Very recommended.
April 28, 2014
4.5 stars! I really enjoyed this one. It was slow getting started, but once it got rolling, I had a hard time putting it down. Ash is the stereotypical carefree party boy. Always looking for a good time, a quick hookup. Fee is a geek. Star Wars obsessed, book club leader, thick black nerd chic glasses. This is not a simple case of opposites attract. Ash pursues Fee relentlessly, bordering on stalkerish, but Fee keeps turning him down. Ash has a bit of a reputation and Fee is more of a “relationship” type guy. I enjoyed watching them get past Ash’s past and learn to trust each other.
I noticed that Ash’s issues with his best friend Ty were not resolved in the end. I’m wondering if that was left open because he has his own book coming up next? *fingers crossed*
I noticed that Ash’s issues with his best friend Ty were not resolved in the end. I’m wondering if that was left open because he has his own book coming up next? *fingers crossed*
July 15, 2022
It took me SO long to get into this book, somehow the writing wasn’t for me at all. I found it clunky and I didn’t enjoy reading it.
The characters were the other thing I didn’t like, especially Ash. I couldn’t get into his thoughts and I just didn’t like him. Or any of the others for that matter. And liking the characters and their interactions is a huge part for me when it comes to liking a book, which in this case, I sadly did not.
I think this is definitely a me-problem, though, since a lot of people seem to love this book. I wish I would have, too.
The characters were the other thing I didn’t like, especially Ash. I couldn’t get into his thoughts and I just didn’t like him. Or any of the others for that matter. And liking the characters and their interactions is a huge part for me when it comes to liking a book, which in this case, I sadly did not.
I think this is definitely a me-problem, though, since a lot of people seem to love this book. I wish I would have, too.
November 17, 2015
3.5 stars
Slowwwwww Burnnnnnn
It couldn't get more slower than this!
If you happen to be the partying type, and a certain geek has caught your eye, there's a guide book that will help you navigate your way into his heart. You'll have to study if you want to catch your geek, and chapters on gaming, coding, and LARPing ought to do the trick.
At least... That's what Ash hopes. He's taking this guide to heart, after taking one look at Fee (what a stupid name) and deciding he has to have him.
It doesn't matter that Fee doesn't give him the time of day, and has on several occasions made it seem like he's just not that into him. Ash is not one to give up.
But sometimes I wish he had.
Because anyone else would.
It takes a long time for these two to get together, and sometimes I wondered why they would even bother. (One character came off stalkerish, the other disinterested.) But, when they do finally get in sync, it's awfully cute.
And steamy.
And just plain adorable.
This story needed Fee's point of view (again, stupid name) to really understand why there was so much hesitation. Otherwise, it was sweet to the core, and I really liked that we got to see our two MCs as more than just their Party Boy/ Geek personas.
Tap your supply of patience and determination to get through the beginning, because the rest is totally worth it.
Slowwwwww Burnnnnnn
It couldn't get more slower than this!
If you happen to be the partying type, and a certain geek has caught your eye, there's a guide book that will help you navigate your way into his heart. You'll have to study if you want to catch your geek, and chapters on gaming, coding, and LARPing ought to do the trick.
At least... That's what Ash hopes. He's taking this guide to heart, after taking one look at Fee (what a stupid name) and deciding he has to have him.
It doesn't matter that Fee doesn't give him the time of day, and has on several occasions made it seem like he's just not that into him. Ash is not one to give up.
But sometimes I wish he had.
Because anyone else would.
It takes a long time for these two to get together, and sometimes I wondered why they would even bother. (One character came off stalkerish, the other disinterested.) But, when they do finally get in sync, it's awfully cute.
And steamy.
And just plain adorable.
This story needed Fee's point of view (again, stupid name) to really understand why there was so much hesitation. Otherwise, it was sweet to the core, and I really liked that we got to see our two MCs as more than just their Party Boy/ Geek personas.
Tap your supply of patience and determination to get through the beginning, because the rest is totally worth it.
January 3, 2013
so im totally what would happen if Ash and Fee had a kid. Geek to the core and inked. Or maybe im the offspring of a drunken night between Sheldon and Penny from the big bang theory. Either one would make perfect sense. But i digress.
I effing loooooved these guys, dude. And the geek guides had me cracking the fuck up. (i already knew every reference. thanks for pointing out what a nerd i am.) This was a light, sweet read. Just what i was in the mood for. Im totally with another reviewer tho. Kudos to Ash for growing up but changing your look wasnt necessary, which i believe his friends pointed out.
I effing loooooved these guys, dude. And the geek guides had me cracking the fuck up. (i already knew every reference. thanks for pointing out what a nerd i am.) This was a light, sweet read. Just what i was in the mood for. Im totally with another reviewer tho. Kudos to Ash for growing up but changing your look wasnt necessary, which i believe his friends pointed out.
June 22, 2013
This was just an adorable, slow burn romance. Enjoyed the geek references and loved that Fee (the Geek) and Ash (the tattooed party boy) really got to know each other for who they were beyond the stereotypes before jumping into bed.
Want to read
December 1, 2015Thanks for the gift, Viv!!
December 28, 2012
A Hearts On Fire Review
Adorkable!
This story is adorkable!
Piper Vaughn and Xara Xanakas make a great author team with their first book from the Clumsy Cupid Guidebooks series. It's cute but not exactly sparkly paper heart cutouts, funny and a story with heart. I loved the authors play on stereotypes - an insecure-ish, tattooed, good looking "party boy" (Ash) falling for a tall, toned, handsome "geek" (Fee aka Felipe). Ash and Fee are more than just a "party boy" and "geek". They are faceted and I adore them that way.
The way the chapters are introduced by chapters from the hilarious Clumsy Cupid Guidebook...awesome.
What was the best thing about this book? The easy readability! It's the kind of story that sucks you in and you won't even know it. You need to find out about Ash and Fee. You want them to finally rub one out. Towards about three-quarters of the story, I was really feeling it for Ash. (There's satisfaction at the end of the tunnel, smutsters.)
Another great thing, it was not an instant smut fest. These two worked on their relationship and built it to something meaningful before consummation. (And what a HOT one that was!) and they both tried to meet each other half way, they might have been opposites on paper but both men actually had more in common than most thought. They worked together.
What would have made it a five star read for me? If I could have read Fee's POV, instead of strictly Ash's POV. I was dying to know what he felt about Ash, especially in their awkward 'almost dating' period. I get Fee's socially awkward so his closed-off-ness, I get it. So his abruptness was not off putting to me. And it is necessary because if Fee was not socially inept, it wouldn't have been believable, in my theory. And sad face to what happened at Thanksgiving to Fee.
I loved the secondary characters, they were a great support system for Ash. Plus I have a feeling they are going to be featured in upcoming books from this series. (Which I will definitely be reading) There's not too much I can dissect in the 'hate-it' pile with this one. It's such a satisfying HEA.
FOUR & A HALF STARS for "The Party Boy's Guide to Dating a Geek".
(I want more to this series...NOW! *bats eyelashes* pretty please?)
Adorkable!
This story is adorkable!
Piper Vaughn and Xara Xanakas make a great author team with their first book from the Clumsy Cupid Guidebooks series. It's cute but not exactly sparkly paper heart cutouts, funny and a story with heart. I loved the authors play on stereotypes - an insecure-ish, tattooed, good looking "party boy" (Ash) falling for a tall, toned, handsome "geek" (Fee aka Felipe). Ash and Fee are more than just a "party boy" and "geek". They are faceted and I adore them that way.
The way the chapters are introduced by chapters from the hilarious Clumsy Cupid Guidebook...awesome.
What was the best thing about this book? The easy readability! It's the kind of story that sucks you in and you won't even know it. You need to find out about Ash and Fee. You want them to finally rub one out. Towards about three-quarters of the story, I was really feeling it for Ash. (There's satisfaction at the end of the tunnel, smutsters.)
Another great thing, it was not an instant smut fest. These two worked on their relationship and built it to something meaningful before consummation. (And what a HOT one that was!) and they both tried to meet each other half way, they might have been opposites on paper but both men actually had more in common than most thought. They worked together.
What would have made it a five star read for me? If I could have read Fee's POV, instead of strictly Ash's POV. I was dying to know what he felt about Ash, especially in their awkward 'almost dating' period. I get Fee's socially awkward so his closed-off-ness, I get it. So his abruptness was not off putting to me. And it is necessary because if Fee was not socially inept, it wouldn't have been believable, in my theory. And sad face to what happened at Thanksgiving to Fee.
I loved the secondary characters, they were a great support system for Ash. Plus I have a feeling they are going to be featured in upcoming books from this series. (Which I will definitely be reading) There's not too much I can dissect in the 'hate-it' pile with this one. It's such a satisfying HEA.
FOUR & A HALF STARS for "The Party Boy's Guide to Dating a Geek".
(I want more to this series...NOW! *bats eyelashes* pretty please?)
October 6, 2015
The name of the book refers to the fictitious dating guidebook which Ash consulted to win Fee’s heart. Each chapter of the story opens up with a fragment of the guidebook sharing cool trivia to help understand the typical geek’s world, even just the surface. Those were fairly accurate pieces of information if I may say so myself, being a self-professed geek and an IT professional. But what I really loved about those chapter openers is how the author associated those to actual tips on sustaining a healthy relationship with a geek. I certainly enjoyed and laughed while reading the witty metaphors!
The actual book (not the book within the book) was also funny and entertaining. The tone was kept moderately light all throughout with just little specks of drama to keep the story going. I quite enjoyed the game of cat and mouse which Ash and Fee played. Extra brownie points for the relationship arc which was slow and unhurried. Surprisingly though, despite the author’s humorous take of the story, the characters did not come off as shallow and contrived. Although Ash’s character may seem asshole-ish at first, he eventually grows on you. I liked how the author made him more interesting by placing him in an environment where he was completely out of his element. It was charming.
But what I want to commend the author for more than ever, is how she played with Fee’s character. Unlike most romances featuring geeky main characters, Fee was not described as the stereotypical geek (which annoys me in books which do). Although it can’t be denied that he is a geek through and through, the author made sure that the geekiness did not completely define him. His character clearly showed depth because in the end, I actually remember him more for being timid but steadfast, gentle but earnest. 3.5 dorky stars for this book!
October 5, 2012
I liked it very much, sorry if I repeat myself in my reviews, but that's what I did:) I enjoyed reading about Ash's pursuit of Fee, against my fears it didn't get on my nerves because it was dragged out too much. Nope, very believable in pace and development, especially Ash's growing up. Well, I was charmed by Ash's voice and this would have been a 5* read, only my small niggle was the 'conflict'. I felt as if it was too exaggerated - . I'm looking forward to the next book in this series and I hope I don't have to wait too long. If I were to guess, perhaps Ty's story?
4.5 stars
4.5 stars
May 31, 2014
I originally read this WAY back when and absolutely loved it.
I just finished listening to the audio and definitely enjoyed it, but reading it was better. Paul Morey is a great narrator, I just thought his voice came across as a little too old for the characters.
Also, and this is not exclusively to this book or narrator, if the story has references to another language or culture, FFS please make sure they get pronounced correctly. I find it really hard to believe a character by the name of Felipe Navarro, cannot pronounce Posole Rojo. Especially when he has the background to prove he should be able to pronounce it. Made me flinch every time.
Now I'm hungry.
I just finished listening to the audio and definitely enjoyed it, but reading it was better. Paul Morey is a great narrator, I just thought his voice came across as a little too old for the characters.
Also, and this is not exclusively to this book or narrator, if the story has references to another language or culture, FFS please make sure they get pronounced correctly. I find it really hard to believe a character by the name of Felipe Navarro, cannot pronounce Posole Rojo. Especially when he has the background to prove he should be able to pronounce it. Made me flinch every time.
Now I'm hungry.
February 5, 2021
0.5 stars.
This book was honestly painful to read. Don't get me wrong, the actual writing is good. The words are good. But. Every. Single. Character. In. This. Book. Are. Really. Unlikeable.
We have:
Ash: Low key stalker.
Fee: Arrogant, selfish, running hot and cold like crazy.
Ash's brother and his girlfriend: Rude, rude, rude. They are basically spilling all Ash's secrets to Fee without a hesitation in the world. But when Ash asks about fee, they lecture him about boundaries. What? Nope.
Ash's friends: Not very supportive. He needed new friends.
Fee's father: Abusive.
I'm surprised I made it through it. That's 8 hours I'll never get back.
This book was honestly painful to read. Don't get me wrong, the actual writing is good. The words are good. But. Every. Single. Character. In. This. Book. Are. Really. Unlikeable.
We have:
Ash: Low key stalker.
Fee: Arrogant, selfish, running hot and cold like crazy.
Ash's brother and his girlfriend: Rude, rude, rude. They are basically spilling all Ash's secrets to Fee without a hesitation in the world. But when Ash asks about fee, they lecture him about boundaries. What? Nope.
Ash's friends: Not very supportive. He needed new friends.
Fee's father: Abusive.
I'm surprised I made it through it. That's 8 hours I'll never get back.
October 2, 2013
Ok, wow. While I had pretty much resigned myself to giving this 2 stars... towards the end, it really pushed me to drop my rating even lower. Luckily, I'm in a good mood, so I stuck with 2 stars.
The main reason why it gets such a low rating is because I couldn't connect with Ash. I could not get an inside to his thoughts, reasons. I didn't understand how any of the boring stuff that happened between him and Fee impacted him and changed his mentality. And some passages were outright ridiculous. Like the moment when Ash arrives at Fee's birthday party, spend less than 5 minutes talking (I seriously believed they exchanged only 2 sentences between them) and yet Ash was amazed at how easy it was to talk to Fee and that he was indeed a nice guy. At which point (and for the rest of the book) I had this one question playing in my head at everything Ash did, questioned or believed: Why should I take for granted everything you say in relation to Fee? I felt in no way compelled to side with Ash or empathise.
I also felt slightly cheated as both MC were different from what I expected. Fee was geeky and shy and yet had plenty of friends, wasn't afraid to get into a fight if need be and had a hot body. Ash was this charismatic tattoo artist who bottomed for anyone wishing, who had awesome and understanding parents and who turned whinny and needy after one look at Fee. The scene that tipped me towards really disliking the book was the fight scene towards the end. After being together for a couple of months and claiming to know Fee somewhat well, Ash just jumps to his own conclusions, acts like a spoiled brat then mourns his impending break-up. And all because he couldn't give his boyfriend 5 minutes to explain. Really?!
Bottom line? A very sugary and sappy story with no attachment from my side for the characters. They contradicted the pre-envisaged picture I had of them and I couldn't grasp the mentality they had. Good luck to other readers. Hope they make it inside the characters and enjoy the book more than I did.
The main reason why it gets such a low rating is because I couldn't connect with Ash. I could not get an inside to his thoughts, reasons. I didn't understand how any of the boring stuff that happened between him and Fee impacted him and changed his mentality. And some passages were outright ridiculous. Like the moment when Ash arrives at Fee's birthday party, spend less than 5 minutes talking (I seriously believed they exchanged only 2 sentences between them) and yet Ash was amazed at how easy it was to talk to Fee and that he was indeed a nice guy. At which point (and for the rest of the book) I had this one question playing in my head at everything Ash did, questioned or believed: Why should I take for granted everything you say in relation to Fee? I felt in no way compelled to side with Ash or empathise.
I also felt slightly cheated as both MC were different from what I expected. Fee was geeky and shy and yet had plenty of friends, wasn't afraid to get into a fight if need be and had a hot body. Ash was this charismatic tattoo artist who bottomed for anyone wishing, who had awesome and understanding parents and who turned whinny and needy after one look at Fee. The scene that tipped me towards really disliking the book was the fight scene towards the end. After being together for a couple of months and claiming to know Fee somewhat well, Ash just jumps to his own conclusions, acts like a spoiled brat then mourns his impending break-up. And all because he couldn't give his boyfriend 5 minutes to explain. Really?!
Bottom line? A very sugary and sappy story with no attachment from my side for the characters. They contradicted the pre-envisaged picture I had of them and I couldn't grasp the mentality they had. Good luck to other readers. Hope they make it inside the characters and enjoy the book more than I did.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 16, 2012
I was so pro-Ash that anytime he was laughed at by his friends for trying to change or for liking someone different that I was a little hot around the collar. Every time someone threw his prior sex life in his face, I was indignant for him. He tried so hard and people didn't think he was serious and then when he changed a little people kept saying don't change for him. I seriously didn't warm up to Fee until about 65%. His lack of communication skills made him seem like one of those intellectual elitist. Later it just made him appear insensitive in a "I forgot/lost track of time" sort of way.
But get them together out of their environments (natural habitats) and they are good together. Their romance was so sweet and cute. My heart broke for Ty. Hopefully we'll get to see more of him in his own book.
But get them together out of their environments (natural habitats) and they are good together. Their romance was so sweet and cute. My heart broke for Ty. Hopefully we'll get to see more of him in his own book.
November 14, 2012
The best thing about this book for me was the end. No not the ending but the actual fact that it was over. This book was SO incredibly painful to read. I normally adore Piper Vaughns books but, I just couldn't connect to either of the main characters. Ash was needy and immature and Fee was about as animated as a piece of toast. There were brief glimmers where I thought *finally* we're going to see something but, then they would crap out. I could not for the life of me understand what had Ash all hot over Fee.
I was so close to a DNF. THe pacing on this was just soooooooooooooooo drawwwwwwwwwwnnn ouuuut. I thought a similar slow build could have been accomplished in a way that would have been far more interesting to read.
Overall, I really wanted to love this book. I thought it sounded adorable from the blurb but, end of day I was not a fan.
I was so close to a DNF. THe pacing on this was just soooooooooooooooo drawwwwwwwwwwnnn ouuuut. I thought a similar slow build could have been accomplished in a way that would have been far more interesting to read.
Overall, I really wanted to love this book. I thought it sounded adorable from the blurb but, end of day I was not a fan.
April 19, 2016
I don't know why I let the cover keep me from reading this book for so long. I was afraid it really was some kind of guide. Nope. It was a super sweet love story and I must admit Fee seemed more like a hot piece of man meat than a geek to me but hey, I'm not complaining. I will say that I was almost as frustrated as Ash was with the long wait for actual intercourse. I like me some smexing. Still, a great, fun read. :)
July 8, 2021
Well this was absolutely the perfect palate cleanser after the last book I struggled to get through. I was hooked from the first and it felt fantastic to get my normal quick reading talents back into play. I devoured this one in a couple of hours last night. These two are one of those quirky relationships that while almost unbelievable just work.
Ashley Byrne is a party boy. He likes his hook ups almost anonymous. I quick suck or fuck at the club and a serious of one-night stands has made up his life so far. He loves his job as an apprentice at a tattoo shop and his plans with his best friend Ty to open their own shop. His party life style is an almost nightly occurrence, until the day he helps his brother move in with his girlfriend. When her friend shows up to help set up their computer Ash finds himself struck dumb.
Fee Navarro is a geek. Gorgeous, but a geek. He’s got a great IT job and a wonderful life. Having Mr. Pary Boy Central essentially start stalking him after one meeting isn’t exactly what he’s looking for. Sure, the guys hot, but there’s more to life than a hook up. He’s not ready to let some fly by night affair throw a wrench in things. Yet when Ash doesn’t seem to take no for an answer and keeps popping up maybe he really is serious about taking this somewhere real.
Ok I’m going to come right out with this from the first…I LOVE GEEKS! Of course when you make them as freakin’ gorgeous as Fee over here, well then how could anyone not love them? *le sigh* I absolutely get where Ash was struck numb, dumb, and stupid over this one. His asinine stalking plans are over the top ridiculous, but in the best way possible. After all, one has to get their man…and if he won’t talk to you what other option could you possibly have?
I actually really loved Ash as well. He’s got a little bit of the bad boy in him…Mmmmmmmm tattoos YUMMY! It’s not really his fault he’s never been forced to grow up. When pretty boys just fall at your feet and you’ve never had to work for sex in your life, well there’s absolutely no reason why he would have considered putting some real effort in to anything. I just love how absolutely flabbergasted he is by Fee’s ignoring him. Every little look at me thing he tried just made me giggle.
I understand some people may not like the practical guide sections, but as a geek myself and knowing most of the references (ok so not all the computer tech talking ones, because well computers are evil and make me want to throw things most days) I got a kick out of them. Sure some are overly pop culture and it’s a little unbelievable that Ash would have NO frame of reference for Star Wars, but that’s one of those itty bitty quirks I let slide to make a better story. And of course not everyone cares for those sorts of things so there’s just enough room for a nibble of truth to make it believable.
To quote one of my favorite reviewers on GR, SheReadsALot, this story is “ADORKABLE!” Watching Ash blush and have to put in some effort to win Fee over was great. I enjoyed the fact that this story didn’t have the two men fall instantly into bed with each other. Ash’s reputation cost him something and Fee needed to know where he stood with Ash before he’d really trust him. Of course once they do get together HOT doesn’t even begin to cover it. I loved the fact that both guys are willing to try new things in order to get to know the guy their dating better. Ash especially makes an effort to become a part of Fee’s world even when he doesn’t always understand it.
While I would have loved to have seen some of this story told from Fee’s perspective solely because he’s amazing I kinda liked being as in the dark about what’s going on in his head as Ash was. Granted some of the plot twists like Thanksgiving were pretty easy to figure out and to have at least an idea of what’s coming. Still the ambiguity Fee leaves in things makes it really easy for Ash to jump to conclusions.
I loved all the secondary characters in this book as well. Ash and his brother had such a great relationship and I adored their frequent meetings to receive their parent’s calls from home. Such a sweet way to impart the importance of family for these two. Of course Ash’s group of friends were maddening at times as they learned to look at Ash in a different way, but ultimately they just wanted what’s best for him. If I had one complaint about this book it’s that the cliff hanger of what’s going on with Ty could have used a few more hints so we weren’t left wondering for all eternity. Of course if Ms. Vaughn and Ms. Xanakas really are plotting a sequel I’m sure I’ll get my answer eventually. Please…pretty please…pretty please with sugar on top… *insert sad puppy dog face with eyes filled with pleading tears here* ... Ok I will.
I’d really like my sequel please. :D
This book just made me happy and was precisely what I needed when I started it. So glad I read it! Sweet, adorable and wonderful! The little bits of incongruous character traits that helped flesh out these characters just added to the fabulousness for me. Can’t wait for more!
Ashley Byrne is a party boy. He likes his hook ups almost anonymous. I quick suck or fuck at the club and a serious of one-night stands has made up his life so far. He loves his job as an apprentice at a tattoo shop and his plans with his best friend Ty to open their own shop. His party life style is an almost nightly occurrence, until the day he helps his brother move in with his girlfriend. When her friend shows up to help set up their computer Ash finds himself struck dumb.
Fee Navarro is a geek. Gorgeous, but a geek. He’s got a great IT job and a wonderful life. Having Mr. Pary Boy Central essentially start stalking him after one meeting isn’t exactly what he’s looking for. Sure, the guys hot, but there’s more to life than a hook up. He’s not ready to let some fly by night affair throw a wrench in things. Yet when Ash doesn’t seem to take no for an answer and keeps popping up maybe he really is serious about taking this somewhere real.
Ok I’m going to come right out with this from the first…I LOVE GEEKS! Of course when you make them as freakin’ gorgeous as Fee over here, well then how could anyone not love them? *le sigh* I absolutely get where Ash was struck numb, dumb, and stupid over this one. His asinine stalking plans are over the top ridiculous, but in the best way possible. After all, one has to get their man…and if he won’t talk to you what other option could you possibly have?
I actually really loved Ash as well. He’s got a little bit of the bad boy in him…Mmmmmmmm tattoos YUMMY! It’s not really his fault he’s never been forced to grow up. When pretty boys just fall at your feet and you’ve never had to work for sex in your life, well there’s absolutely no reason why he would have considered putting some real effort in to anything. I just love how absolutely flabbergasted he is by Fee’s ignoring him. Every little look at me thing he tried just made me giggle.
I understand some people may not like the practical guide sections, but as a geek myself and knowing most of the references (ok so not all the computer tech talking ones, because well computers are evil and make me want to throw things most days) I got a kick out of them. Sure some are overly pop culture and it’s a little unbelievable that Ash would have NO frame of reference for Star Wars, but that’s one of those itty bitty quirks I let slide to make a better story. And of course not everyone cares for those sorts of things so there’s just enough room for a nibble of truth to make it believable.
To quote one of my favorite reviewers on GR, SheReadsALot, this story is “ADORKABLE!” Watching Ash blush and have to put in some effort to win Fee over was great. I enjoyed the fact that this story didn’t have the two men fall instantly into bed with each other. Ash’s reputation cost him something and Fee needed to know where he stood with Ash before he’d really trust him. Of course once they do get together HOT doesn’t even begin to cover it. I loved the fact that both guys are willing to try new things in order to get to know the guy their dating better. Ash especially makes an effort to become a part of Fee’s world even when he doesn’t always understand it.
While I would have loved to have seen some of this story told from Fee’s perspective solely because he’s amazing I kinda liked being as in the dark about what’s going on in his head as Ash was. Granted some of the plot twists like Thanksgiving were pretty easy to figure out and to have at least an idea of what’s coming. Still the ambiguity Fee leaves in things makes it really easy for Ash to jump to conclusions.
I loved all the secondary characters in this book as well. Ash and his brother had such a great relationship and I adored their frequent meetings to receive their parent’s calls from home. Such a sweet way to impart the importance of family for these two. Of course Ash’s group of friends were maddening at times as they learned to look at Ash in a different way, but ultimately they just wanted what’s best for him. If I had one complaint about this book it’s that the cliff hanger of what’s going on with Ty could have used a few more hints so we weren’t left wondering for all eternity. Of course if Ms. Vaughn and Ms. Xanakas really are plotting a sequel I’m sure I’ll get my answer eventually. Please…pretty please…pretty please with sugar on top… *insert sad puppy dog face with eyes filled with pleading tears here* ... Ok I will.
I’d really like my sequel please. :D
This book just made me happy and was precisely what I needed when I started it. So glad I read it! Sweet, adorable and wonderful! The little bits of incongruous character traits that helped flesh out these characters just added to the fabulousness for me. Can’t wait for more!
February 15, 2013
Superficial and frequently irritating, this one didn’t work for me.
The framing device of the “Guidebook” about “Geeks” was off-putting because it seemed to be written for nonagenarians living under a rock. You don’t need to be a geek to know what RTFM means, or the difference between Kirk and Picard. Steampunk fandom has no more to do with “geeks” than any other media fandom such as Potter, hobbits or comics, yet those didn’t rate chapters in the “Guide.”
Ash was clueless about computers (while trying to get a business off the ground. ‘Gee, we could have a website? I never thought of that’) and completely ignorant of universal pop cultural references such as Star Wars. Yet he wasn’t presented as unusual or a recluse, just “not a geek.”
Ash was infatuated with Fee from the moment he saw him, which is fine on a physical level. But he kept after Fee through weeks of nonexistent or tepid response at best. Given his reputation for being able to take his pick of hot club boys on any given night, his obsession with Fee seemed to be a product of his own stubbornness and not based on any knowledge of Fee’s personality.
Fee was keeping Ash at arm’s length because he didn’t want a casual, short-term fling—a good conflict. Once he had agreed they were dating, however, his coyness in the bedroom became more an annoyance than a tease. Non-virgin adult men don’t do “first base, second base, maybe next week third base” when dating someone. If they’re dating, they’re fucking. A week or two of caution is believable, but it was dragged out beyond that here.
As others have pointed out, Ash was jealous and too quick to jump to conclusions. The final “big” blowup was based on a misunderstanding that everyone in the book (including the reader) figured out, but not Ash.
I’ll stop here. I regret that I couldn’t connect better with anything in the book. I have enjoyed other books by one of these authors. This book certainly pleased many reviewers, so feel free to give it a try and hope for better luck.
August 26, 2013
This book took me a little getting into, I'm not sure why, maybe because at the start Ash seemed a tad cocky and full of himself. As I read on though, I slowly fell in love with it and Ash and Fee.
Ash is the good time boy, likes to club and party and NEVER says no. I can see why the authors wrote him as so sure of himself at the start, it showed his character arc after meeting Fee beautifully. A tattoo artist who is hoping to own his own shop soon with his best friend, this is the first book I have ever read where I wanted some visuals - I really, really wanted to see the tattoos that Ash designed. I loved how Ash worked so hard to get Fee to notice him and the 'out of his comfort zone' book meeting had me squirming with embarrassment for him.
Fee is the quiet and somewhat shy 'geek' that Ash falls for. He is a lovely character, one of the most sincere I have ever read. I like how he genuinely wants to help people. I like how he trusts people - though it took him a little time with Ash, but hey all those rumours were true. I adored how protective he was, keeping Ash away from his dad. The only thing I didn't like so much is how he was so beautiful. I'll explain. When Ash first meets Fee the first impressions are that he's a real geek - yeah Ash is attracted to him and thinks he's hot but he is wearing the 'wrong' thing etc, then when we see Fee dressed up for clubbing everyone comments on how stunning he is. I'd really have liked it for him to still be a bit less than perfect and for him to be so stunning just to Ash's eyes - that's what love is, you think that the one you love is the most beautiful person in the world, even if the rest of the world doesn't agree. It's just a small complaint, because who doesn't like their heroes to be fit?
Oh and the waiting - hot, hot, hot. Scorching.
I can't wait to read the next book in this series, I really want to find out what is going on with Ty (Ash's best friend and co-owner of tattoo shop). I want to know if things continue to be good for fee and Ash. I've read lots of Piper Vaughn short stories and knew I'd love her style - she does falling in love brilliantly, but this is my first full length novel of hers and I'll certainly be reading more. I've never read any Xara X Xanakas but will look for further works by her too. A fun book recommended for a fun read.
Ash is the good time boy, likes to club and party and NEVER says no. I can see why the authors wrote him as so sure of himself at the start, it showed his character arc after meeting Fee beautifully. A tattoo artist who is hoping to own his own shop soon with his best friend, this is the first book I have ever read where I wanted some visuals - I really, really wanted to see the tattoos that Ash designed. I loved how Ash worked so hard to get Fee to notice him and the 'out of his comfort zone' book meeting had me squirming with embarrassment for him.
Fee is the quiet and somewhat shy 'geek' that Ash falls for. He is a lovely character, one of the most sincere I have ever read. I like how he genuinely wants to help people. I like how he trusts people - though it took him a little time with Ash, but hey all those rumours were true. I adored how protective he was, keeping Ash away from his dad. The only thing I didn't like so much is how he was so beautiful. I'll explain. When Ash first meets Fee the first impressions are that he's a real geek - yeah Ash is attracted to him and thinks he's hot but he is wearing the 'wrong' thing etc, then when we see Fee dressed up for clubbing everyone comments on how stunning he is. I'd really have liked it for him to still be a bit less than perfect and for him to be so stunning just to Ash's eyes - that's what love is, you think that the one you love is the most beautiful person in the world, even if the rest of the world doesn't agree. It's just a small complaint, because who doesn't like their heroes to be fit?
Oh and the waiting - hot, hot, hot. Scorching.
I can't wait to read the next book in this series, I really want to find out what is going on with Ty (Ash's best friend and co-owner of tattoo shop). I want to know if things continue to be good for fee and Ash. I've read lots of Piper Vaughn short stories and knew I'd love her style - she does falling in love brilliantly, but this is my first full length novel of hers and I'll certainly be reading more. I've never read any Xara X Xanakas but will look for further works by her too. A fun book recommended for a fun read.
October 8, 2013
I loved how the book was set up, with the beginning of each chapter being part of the dating guide.
Rating 4
Observations whilst reading, Contains Spoilers:
My rating was Initially 5 as the beginning of the novel was excellent, but unfortunately after they began going steady the story became a bit boring and felt more like 3 stars(Ash monologue about the lack of sex was grating). The drama with Fee's dad was obvious, since we get a major hint at his Bday party.
I liked the slight dig at torrent sites, authors fighting back against pirating. Although it is so easy these days that most people don't even care.
The initial book club scene was my favorite, you know a scene is great when you feel embarrassed right along with the MC. What made this scene better was that it was a role reversal where the popular character gets to feel embarrassment.
What was sad is how our society today is all about sex, you never hear anyone say that they are saving themselves for marriage. I'm also guilty here but I'm a lot like Fee, wait till it at least means something. Damn Ash lost his virginity at 13, and here I thought 18 was young.
We never got insight into their past relationships, and Ash's was hinted at several times. I would have liked to know what went wrong there. We also never got insight on how Fee knew about Donovan's tattoo...
The only part that had me interested in the end was what was going on with Ty. I suppose we will get this in the sequel. Since it is almost a year since this was released (one day early), I'm thinking that perhaps there may not be a sequel.
Small pet peeve, when a character during sex says "MINE". It annoys me to know end, partly because it is so overused. I would prefer better monologue of perhaps "I'm never letting you go!". Still showing that possessive side. Just a thought authors.
The ratio of dialogue to sex was perhaps low. I'm surprised normally I'm the one that says there was to much sex.
Rating 4
Observations whilst reading, Contains Spoilers:
My rating was Initially 5 as the beginning of the novel was excellent, but unfortunately after they began going steady the story became a bit boring and felt more like 3 stars(Ash monologue about the lack of sex was grating). The drama with Fee's dad was obvious, since we get a major hint at his Bday party.
I liked the slight dig at torrent sites, authors fighting back against pirating. Although it is so easy these days that most people don't even care.
The initial book club scene was my favorite, you know a scene is great when you feel embarrassed right along with the MC. What made this scene better was that it was a role reversal where the popular character gets to feel embarrassment.
What was sad is how our society today is all about sex, you never hear anyone say that they are saving themselves for marriage. I'm also guilty here but I'm a lot like Fee, wait till it at least means something. Damn Ash lost his virginity at 13, and here I thought 18 was young.
We never got insight into their past relationships, and Ash's was hinted at several times. I would have liked to know what went wrong there. We also never got insight on how Fee knew about Donovan's tattoo...
The only part that had me interested in the end was what was going on with Ty. I suppose we will get this in the sequel. Since it is almost a year since this was released (one day early), I'm thinking that perhaps there may not be a sequel.
Small pet peeve, when a character during sex says "MINE". It annoys me to know end, partly because it is so overused. I would prefer better monologue of perhaps "I'm never letting you go!". Still showing that possessive side. Just a thought authors.
The ratio of dialogue to sex was perhaps low. I'm surprised normally I'm the one that says there was to much sex.
July 26, 2016
3.5*
I will admit that I almost DNF. I am SO very glad that I kept going. The first third of the book was a tad slow. I just didn't get the point. There was nothing, to me, that said romance. It all seemed rather one sided.
THEN came the rest of the book. Wow. I already adored Ash. Now I had a reason to adore Fee. They were so very cute together. Being with Fee helped Ash to grow up. Being with Ash helped Fee not be so serious. They truly complemented each other. Of course, there has to be some misunderstandings along the way. They were dealt with in a reasonable manner. They weren't overly drawn out, but they did happen.
I think I would have rated this a LOT higher had there been more to the first third of the book. I just really needed something to show WHY Ash was going through all that he did. Overall this was a really great book. If you can make it past the first bit, it is smooth sailing after. :)
I will admit that I almost DNF. I am SO very glad that I kept going. The first third of the book was a tad slow. I just didn't get the point. There was nothing, to me, that said romance. It all seemed rather one sided.
THEN came the rest of the book. Wow. I already adored Ash. Now I had a reason to adore Fee. They were so very cute together. Being with Fee helped Ash to grow up. Being with Ash helped Fee not be so serious. They truly complemented each other. Of course, there has to be some misunderstandings along the way. They were dealt with in a reasonable manner. They weren't overly drawn out, but they did happen.
I think I would have rated this a LOT higher had there been more to the first third of the book. I just really needed something to show WHY Ash was going through all that he did. Overall this was a really great book. If you can make it past the first bit, it is smooth sailing after. :)
May 15, 2014
I put this book on my TBR in Oct of 2012. I always found a reason to talk myself outta picking it up and reading it at that time....until NOW!
I was Ash's personal cheerleader for most of the book. I've never found myself rooting for a guy to get his man, more than I did for Ash!
I will admit that the book started out a tad slow but still had enough oomph to keep me reading without groaning about it. I liked Fee from the beginning and I can understand his reasons for not really wanting to get involved with Ash but once he decided that he did the story went up on my 'I love this' meter!
Funny, Cute, Good sexy times (and not just sex) and great secondary characters. I can't wait for the next one...Ty, maybe?
I was Ash's personal cheerleader for most of the book. I've never found myself rooting for a guy to get his man, more than I did for Ash!
I will admit that the book started out a tad slow but still had enough oomph to keep me reading without groaning about it. I liked Fee from the beginning and I can understand his reasons for not really wanting to get involved with Ash but once he decided that he did the story went up on my 'I love this' meter!
Funny, Cute, Good sexy times (and not just sex) and great secondary characters. I can't wait for the next one...Ty, maybe?
September 10, 2013
This story was not an only enjoyable tale of a geek and a party boy, it was darn fun to read! Ash and Fee have a very slow building relationship but once they exploded, they were very hot together. I really enjoyed the slow buildup of their romance, though. It was enjoyable watching Ash as he was slowly awakened to his own sense of self and his life took on new meaning and purpose. Fee was an adorable geek, but powerfully sexy and attractive and when he wanted to finally impress Ash, he took his breath away.
I'm hoping there will be more stories about the secondary characters in this story, most of whom were very memorable. These authors did a wonderful job of combining just the right touch of IT nerdiness and partyboy humor in this story. Three cheers.
I'm hoping there will be more stories about the secondary characters in this story, most of whom were very memorable. These authors did a wonderful job of combining just the right touch of IT nerdiness and partyboy humor in this story. Three cheers.
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