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Southern Comfort #1
Last First Kiss
Eighteen-year-old Gage Harris is not a part of twenty-five year old Trent Foster’s plans. He likes Gage but the intense attraction between them makes remaining just friends unlikely, and the young farmer with two small children is a complication Trent doesn’t need.
Despite all the reasons to stay away, Trent is pulled into the small family. Gage’s boys are delightful and the young man’s honesty and genuine affection impossible to resist. Trent is intrigued by a life so different from everything he’s known. As he struggles to reconcile his plans with his feelings Trent begins to suspect that his random offer of a ride in the rain might lead straight to his last first kiss.
Despite all the reasons to stay away, Trent is pulled into the small family. Gage’s boys are delightful and the young man’s honesty and genuine affection impossible to resist. Trent is intrigued by a life so different from everything he’s known. As he struggles to reconcile his plans with his feelings Trent begins to suspect that his random offer of a ride in the rain might lead straight to his last first kiss.
275 pages, ebook
First published January 17, 2014
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 153 reviews
February 4, 2014
This is one of those books that comes out of NOWHERE and hits you right smack dab in the middle of the heart. I thoroughly enjoyed this.
Warning: it takes a certain kind of reader to fall for this book. You have to love young men with integrity and honor. You have to be ok with adorable kids. You have to be able to deal with slightly cringe-worthy life experiences. You have to handle the slow build. You have to embrace often-over-the-top-too-good-to-be-true-nicely-wrapped-up plot lines. AND…you have to feel totally fine to be swimming in sap.
Luckily, I am ALL those things.
Trent is a young hospital administrator who finds himself in a small town, biding his time until the next step in his life’s ladder. He happens upon a lovable farmer named Gage. Gage has 2 kids (4 and 2′ish), is in a loveless marriage, and carries the weight of the world on his shoulders. Oh yeah…and Gage is 18…yes, you do the math.
I admittedly was totally squeaked by Gage’s age and the life situation he finds himself in. However, Diane Adams convinces me somehow in her story that this happens and there are young men out there that take on that responsibility…and are way beyond their years. Gage is, quite possibly, the most adorable and honorable young man I’ve read in recent books. And though he may be borderline too-good-to-be-true, I love this character. I also adore Gage’s sons.
Gage and Trent’s friends-to-lovers growth took it’s time and I’m so glad it did. It would diminish Gage’s integrity if it hadn’t. Now, I’m very very sensitive when it comes to cheating in books (even the cheating a gay husband does on a wife) so I had some reservations about even the fairly innocent encounters Gage & Trent shared. But, since Cara (the wife) was such a non-entity throughout most the book, I was able to handle it better.
The family that the two men were building as their relationship grew warmed my heart and made me want to scream: “SEE?! Two men in a loving relationship CAN be awesome dads and raise amazing children! So there!”
I really enjoyed the author’s subtle and quiet style in this book. There were so many almost-missed details that felt perfectly presented (from farming tips to ways a young family saves money), but she never crosses the line to overly-detailed. By starting each chapter with a blog post by Gage, it helped the reader get inside his head and I felt that was a clever way for us to get both POV’s of the main characters.
My one niggle is that I felt Cara’s story was never developed and then *poof*…she’s gone. It didn’t really fit…and then it just was pushed out of the way too conveniently. But, the book could only be so long, I suppose.
I’m excited that this is book 1 in a series. I’m hoping and guessing that book 2 will be Dr. Jax’s story. *fingers crossed* (another lovable side character).
I would say that I highly recommend this book…but I get the feeling not everyone would like it. I, myself, loved it…and I’m hoping if, in the right mood for something sweet, you all would give it a chance.
September 27, 2023
Another underrated book. Reread 2023
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Still one of my fav MM books. I’ve been in a funk lately and after a series of bad-to-meh books I had to do what I always do: reread my oldies but goodies.
Last first kiss is a an absolute beauty of a book and it has the type of love story that I always adored- the kind one, the “show not tell” one . Every time I read it I’m so moved by its lovely characters.
Trent (25) a newly single guy who’s just been cheated on by his younger bf and who works for a medical clinic in a Southern small town, meets on his way to work a young farmer (18) . He’s smitten with the boy’s beauty and offers him a ride on a rainy day. Little does he know that Gage is not like any other boy. His first sexual experience at 14 with an older girl resulted in a pregnancy and because his son and his mother lived in harsh conditions with an abusive stepfather,at 16 he marries her and tells her he’s gay. Abandoned by his parents too,he gets help from his uncle who lets him rent an old farm house and hires him to work on his farm. At 18 , Gage is gay and married to a woman (who is quite frankly a mess) raising mostly alone his 2 kids and longing for a soul to connect and a shoulder to rely on. And Trent is judgmental at first , he doesn’t understand him, he keeps thinking that Gage should be in school, that there must be other ways , that he shouldn’t end up in this God forsaken town with no future. And yet he can’t stay away. Because Gage’s kids are amazing , Nash (4) is ..ah, I have no words. I cried when Trent brought pizza and he could have a WHOLE pizza by himself . And Trent falls for the kids, and for their kind and hardworking father who loves his kids so much . And he comes every day and helps with the house and the kids and he digs up potatoes in the sun and he hates and loves every minute of it. The writing is not out of this world yet the characters are so amazing they charm you from the very first page. The UST between Trent and Gage is out if this world though ..There’s only a handful of sexy scenes because Gage offers Trent only friendship (he takes his vows very seriously )but they’re done so well, they’re sensual and they transmit the guys’ longing and desperation. When they finally come together is like fireworks.
The only negative thing about this book is the total lack of epilogue. I would give anything for a further into the future epilogue. ANYTHING!
I adored these guys, I loved kind Gage , he’s so hardworking, providing for his 2 children and making them happy with the little they have. And Trent who grows so much and learn so much and who admires Gage and who is so smitten with those 3 persons he can’t see straight. 100% recomendable. 😍
PD .It’s been 9 years since publishing and it’s a shame the author didn’t go on with the series. I would have loved to read Jax’s story.
A very good story and a wonderful book -I really really didn’t have any expectations with this one and even though the end is kind of brusque (the wife problem is suddenly solved and everything is wrapped up too fast and too neatly) I find the love story very romantic and I adored Trent and Gage. Also I would have loved an epilogue -however I absolutely loved the book.
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Still one of my fav MM books. I’ve been in a funk lately and after a series of bad-to-meh books I had to do what I always do: reread my oldies but goodies.
Last first kiss is a an absolute beauty of a book and it has the type of love story that I always adored- the kind one, the “show not tell” one . Every time I read it I’m so moved by its lovely characters.
Trent (25) a newly single guy who’s just been cheated on by his younger bf and who works for a medical clinic in a Southern small town, meets on his way to work a young farmer (18) . He’s smitten with the boy’s beauty and offers him a ride on a rainy day. Little does he know that Gage is not like any other boy. His first sexual experience at 14 with an older girl resulted in a pregnancy and because his son and his mother lived in harsh conditions with an abusive stepfather,at 16 he marries her and tells her he’s gay. Abandoned by his parents too,he gets help from his uncle who lets him rent an old farm house and hires him to work on his farm. At 18 , Gage is gay and married to a woman (who is quite frankly a mess) raising mostly alone his 2 kids and longing for a soul to connect and a shoulder to rely on. And Trent is judgmental at first , he doesn’t understand him, he keeps thinking that Gage should be in school, that there must be other ways , that he shouldn’t end up in this God forsaken town with no future. And yet he can’t stay away. Because Gage’s kids are amazing , Nash (4) is ..ah, I have no words. I cried when Trent brought pizza and he could have a WHOLE pizza by himself . And Trent falls for the kids, and for their kind and hardworking father who loves his kids so much . And he comes every day and helps with the house and the kids and he digs up potatoes in the sun and he hates and loves every minute of it. The writing is not out of this world yet the characters are so amazing they charm you from the very first page. The UST between Trent and Gage is out if this world though ..There’s only a handful of sexy scenes because Gage offers Trent only friendship (he takes his vows very seriously )but they’re done so well, they’re sensual and they transmit the guys’ longing and desperation. When they finally come together is like fireworks.
The only negative thing about this book is the total lack of epilogue. I would give anything for a further into the future epilogue. ANYTHING!
I adored these guys, I loved kind Gage , he’s so hardworking, providing for his 2 children and making them happy with the little they have. And Trent who grows so much and learn so much and who admires Gage and who is so smitten with those 3 persons he can’t see straight. 100% recomendable. 😍
PD .It’s been 9 years since publishing and it’s a shame the author didn’t go on with the series. I would have loved to read Jax’s story.
A very good story and a wonderful book -I really really didn’t have any expectations with this one and even though the end is kind of brusque (the wife problem is suddenly solved and everything is wrapped up too fast and too neatly) I find the love story very romantic and I adored Trent and Gage. Also I would have loved an epilogue -however I absolutely loved the book.
January 29, 2014
Is there anyone reading this who had children when they were young? I mean really young, like while you were still in high school. I myself had my first child when I was eighteen. If you said yes then you will understand this book and most likely recognize a lot of what goes on between this little family as having happened to you at some point in time or another. The disappointment from family members you see when they think you are throwing your life away. The jealousy you feel when you see others your age with nothing holding them back from following their dreams. The sheer frustration of dealing with an ornery two year old. And the abject fear that you are just not doing it right and you are doing more harm to your kids than good.
Gage is 18 years old and a father of two. His first child was born when he was only fourteen. Yes, you heard me right. Fourteen. He dropped out of school when his second child was born so he could go work on his uncle’s farm and provide for his family. He was only sixteen at the time. He has taken on the role of fatherhood with a quiet grace and simple acceptance while he is little more than a child himself.
Trent’s plans for his life did not include an 18 year old and his two little boys. He wanted more than the simple life. He was on the fast track to success. But this little trio had wormed themselves into his life and into his heart so deeply that he was irrevocably hooked. For life.
This isn’t an over-the-top, epic romance. No, this is just a simple story about two very young men finding each other and their lives together as they try to overcome obstacles derived from circumstance rather than angst. This is a slow burn that moves at a nice, easy pace. There is no “insta-love” here. It was really quite refreshing. The story is different than anything I have read before and so damned relatable that I suffered from my own version of “insta-love”.
The book isn’t perfect. The story is told mainly from Trent’s point of view and I never really connected to him completely. And the resolution to their problem was predictable. It worked out exactly how I thought it would. Some things seemed to be swept under the rug or handled a little too neatly. There were also just a few editing issues and proofreading errors but they didn’t really detract from the story.
But none of this mattered to me when I got to see through Gage’s eyes and hear his thoughts. Every fear, every doubt he had was like looking at myself in the mirror. Gage is essentially me as I was when I was that age. The parallels between his life, his thoughts, his feelings and mine when I was eighteen were startling to the point of being a bit eerie. It was like the author reached into my memories and pulled out everything that I felt when I was a new mother. Gage was what made this story for me. He and a precious little boy named Nash were vital to my enjoyment of this tale. No one was perfect in this story. They had issues, made bad choices, made mistakes, became real. It was beautiful.
This is the first book in the Southern Comfort series and I for one cannot wait for the next story.
Highly recommended.
P.S. Talk about cover love! So nice to see two boys with all their clothes on. Well done!
Copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
January 20, 2014
Totally fabulous - 5 stars all the way!
I was intrigued from the beginning, with it's clever blog post, right through until the wonderful, happy ending. Stupidly (I'm a very impatient person!) I started this book when I went to bed and then found myself unable to put it down until I'd read the very last page. Who needs a lot of sleep - so overrated!
I wasn't 100% sure what I was in for when the book started with Trent breaking up with his "We're a couple, but club sex doesn't count." boyfriend. What a douche bag! But the book moves away from the club scene and instead we get a slow introduction to Trent, interspersed with chapter introductions in the form of Gage's blog posts.
Trent is a medical administrator for a small practice in a small town - well educated, he had made decisions that will result in his career progressing. His stop in the current job and town is a temporary one to gain experience before moving on.
I found the reasoning for Trent's focus on his career quite insightful. "The lack of gay role models in his life, the absence of anyone to teach him being gay did not mean he had to fill his life with shallow, meaningless sexual encounters had left him empty. As a result he had focused exclusively on his career, trapped by his belief he wouldn't find purpose for his life anywhere else." Thank goodness his world opened up and he'd discovered that gay men could have life-long meaningful relationships, something that he was hoping for.
Trent enjoys the quiet life which includes a scenic country detour that becomes his regular route to work. His drive down a country road takes him past Gage each day. Gage is a farmer who walks the miles to work on his uncle's farm. One rainy day, Trent offers him a lift and thus starts a morning tradition. It is so gorgeous that a small thing, such as seeing Gage for a few minutes a day, can become so important in Trent's life and make his day.
Gage is a wonderfully unique character - a father at age eighteen with two adorable sons. His situation is very unusual, life's circumstances giving plenty of opportunity to show what a brave and honourable man he is. He made some tough decisions to support the mother of his children and give his boys the best life he could.
He seems so mature in so many ways that it is hard to remember he is only eighteen. However, he may appear strong and capable on one hand but on the other there are some lovely tender moments which show his vulnerability. His blog posts are heartbreaking at times, but so reinforcing of his mature reasoning and sense of ethics.
The success of this book for me with the gentle progression of the relationship between Trent and Gage and the struggles they both experienced in their attempt to do the right thing - the right thing by themselves, each other and the children. The children were superb - the individual characters were endearing (without being too cutesy) and the dialogue at the perfect level to capture the essence of a four year old.
A wonderful combination of plot and characters with emotion and drama - a true feel-good story.
This is an honest review of a book provided by the publisher, with no commitment for me to provide a review.
I publish all my m/m reviews on my blog so if you want to see all my m/m reviews in one place come visit at Because Two Men Are Better Than One!
I was intrigued from the beginning, with it's clever blog post, right through until the wonderful, happy ending. Stupidly (I'm a very impatient person!) I started this book when I went to bed and then found myself unable to put it down until I'd read the very last page. Who needs a lot of sleep - so overrated!
I wasn't 100% sure what I was in for when the book started with Trent breaking up with his "We're a couple, but club sex doesn't count." boyfriend. What a douche bag! But the book moves away from the club scene and instead we get a slow introduction to Trent, interspersed with chapter introductions in the form of Gage's blog posts.
Trent is a medical administrator for a small practice in a small town - well educated, he had made decisions that will result in his career progressing. His stop in the current job and town is a temporary one to gain experience before moving on.
I found the reasoning for Trent's focus on his career quite insightful. "The lack of gay role models in his life, the absence of anyone to teach him being gay did not mean he had to fill his life with shallow, meaningless sexual encounters had left him empty. As a result he had focused exclusively on his career, trapped by his belief he wouldn't find purpose for his life anywhere else." Thank goodness his world opened up and he'd discovered that gay men could have life-long meaningful relationships, something that he was hoping for.
Trent enjoys the quiet life which includes a scenic country detour that becomes his regular route to work. His drive down a country road takes him past Gage each day. Gage is a farmer who walks the miles to work on his uncle's farm. One rainy day, Trent offers him a lift and thus starts a morning tradition. It is so gorgeous that a small thing, such as seeing Gage for a few minutes a day, can become so important in Trent's life and make his day.
Gage is a wonderfully unique character - a father at age eighteen with two adorable sons. His situation is very unusual, life's circumstances giving plenty of opportunity to show what a brave and honourable man he is. He made some tough decisions to support the mother of his children and give his boys the best life he could.
He seems so mature in so many ways that it is hard to remember he is only eighteen. However, he may appear strong and capable on one hand but on the other there are some lovely tender moments which show his vulnerability. His blog posts are heartbreaking at times, but so reinforcing of his mature reasoning and sense of ethics.
The success of this book for me with the gentle progression of the relationship between Trent and Gage and the struggles they both experienced in their attempt to do the right thing - the right thing by themselves, each other and the children. The children were superb - the individual characters were endearing (without being too cutesy) and the dialogue at the perfect level to capture the essence of a four year old.
A wonderful combination of plot and characters with emotion and drama - a true feel-good story.
This is an honest review of a book provided by the publisher, with no commitment for me to provide a review.
I publish all my m/m reviews on my blog so if you want to see all my m/m reviews in one place come visit at Because Two Men Are Better Than One!
August 11, 2020
I went into this book with rather high expectations. That's not always a good thing to go into a book with, but I'm very happy to report my expectations were not only matched they were exceeded.
This book had everything I love, a real romance feel, kids and a slight thread of angst running through it. My heart threatened to break a few times as we gradually learnt more and more about Gage's life.
Trent was exactly what Gage needed. I was rooting for him from the start.
Some might find Nash and Kody a little to perfect, I found them so adorable it was easy to go with the flow.
I did wonder at the hints to Trents temper. A few times it was mentioned as a big deal but was never really explained.
I also found myself wondering at times just what Cara was like when she was being a mother. For a main influence in the story she wasn't very fleshed out.
But despite my minor niggles this was still on of the best stories I've read in a while. Can't wait to read the next book in this series. It's got to be about Jax right? Lol
ETA I could read about Nash and Kody anytime lol. Those kids are the sweetest.
ETA Still can't get enough of Nash and Kody. I wish Diane would resurface :(
This book had everything I love, a real romance feel, kids and a slight thread of angst running through it. My heart threatened to break a few times as we gradually learnt more and more about Gage's life.
Trent was exactly what Gage needed. I was rooting for him from the start.
Some might find Nash and Kody a little to perfect, I found them so adorable it was easy to go with the flow.
I did wonder at the hints to Trents temper. A few times it was mentioned as a big deal but was never really explained.
I also found myself wondering at times just what Cara was like when she was being a mother. For a main influence in the story she wasn't very fleshed out.
But despite my minor niggles this was still on of the best stories I've read in a while. Can't wait to read the next book in this series. It's got to be about Jax right? Lol
ETA I could read about Nash and Kody anytime lol. Those kids are the sweetest.
ETA Still can't get enough of Nash and Kody. I wish Diane would resurface :(
November 19, 2014
Oh. Em. Geeeee. I adored this story!!! Just what I was in the mood for! I love the way the book unfolded, with a blog post at the beginning of each chapter so we heard Gage’s POV.
Gage is an 18-year-old father of two. Yes, two! He got a girl pregnant when he was 14, married her, and then realized he’s gay. But knowing he would lose his kids if he left her, he’s decided to stay with their mother, even if the marriage is a farce. Gage works hard on his uncle’s farm during the day and spends his nights and weekends working his own farm and taking care of his boys, since their mom never seems to be around. (I know she has issues of her own, but I didn't like Cara at all!)
One day, as Gage is walking to work in the rain, Trent pulls over and offers him a ride. They strike up an easy friendship, even though they are both attracted to one another. Gage doesn’t want to betray his wife, so he does his best to keep some distance between them. I loved watching their relationship develop and seeing Trent become part of their little family. There are some misunderstandings and complications along the way, but everything wraps up nicely in the end. I can’t wait for the next book in this series!
Gage is an 18-year-old father of two. Yes, two! He got a girl pregnant when he was 14, married her, and then realized he’s gay. But knowing he would lose his kids if he left her, he’s decided to stay with their mother, even if the marriage is a farce. Gage works hard on his uncle’s farm during the day and spends his nights and weekends working his own farm and taking care of his boys, since their mom never seems to be around. (I know she has issues of her own, but I didn't like Cara at all!)
One day, as Gage is walking to work in the rain, Trent pulls over and offers him a ride. They strike up an easy friendship, even though they are both attracted to one another. Gage doesn’t want to betray his wife, so he does his best to keep some distance between them. I loved watching their relationship develop and seeing Trent become part of their little family. There are some misunderstandings and complications along the way, but everything wraps up nicely in the end. I can’t wait for the next book in this series!
January 22, 2014
OMG the book. I was in my happy place by 15%. Damn can Diane Adams make you care about a character. What happened to 14 yr old Gage was technically a crime and i just hurt so much that because he's a boy no one did anything but treat him like shit. His "maybe I'll forgive her one day." Fuuuuck. Loved this. Just loved it.
January 28, 2014
Good Golly! Unexpected depth and emotion from an unlikely couple.
Filled with understatement and a quiet dignity, this story steals away your heart. On the one hand, you have Trent the upwardly mobile, young professional blazing his trail when a detour, the literal kind, takes him down the road less travelled and opens a whole new world to him.
Gage, what can I say other than it is so easy to make quick, erroneous assumptions about him. He has more honor in him than most people I've met and a beauty to him that is breathtaking, and I'm not talking about the physical.
Almost like star-crossed lovers, they make you ache and hope and wish and want to rail against life. But reality is truth and there is no perfect, only the decisions we have to make now. Life entails compromise or planning for different adventures. Dreams like spider webs can be respun. Spin!
Woof! Not a light read, but I never wanted to put it down to take a few moments away from it.
Favorite quote:
Filled with understatement and a quiet dignity, this story steals away your heart. On the one hand, you have Trent the upwardly mobile, young professional blazing his trail when a detour, the literal kind, takes him down the road less travelled and opens a whole new world to him.
Gage, what can I say other than it is so easy to make quick, erroneous assumptions about him. He has more honor in him than most people I've met and a beauty to him that is breathtaking, and I'm not talking about the physical.
Almost like star-crossed lovers, they make you ache and hope and wish and want to rail against life. But reality is truth and there is no perfect, only the decisions we have to make now. Life entails compromise or planning for different adventures. Dreams like spider webs can be respun. Spin!
Woof! Not a light read, but I never wanted to put it down to take a few moments away from it.
Favorite quote:
"If something is going to give its life to feed you, it deserves to be treated with respect.”
January 20, 2014
I don't know what to say.
Those of you who are my friends know how I feel about being married to a woman when you're gay. I don't read those types of stories. I gave this a chance because its Diane Adams. I just adore her and her writing style.
All I can say is damn!!! This was freaking amazing. I found myself rooting for Trent and Gage wife be damned. I respected the choice Gage made at such a young age. I don't think I could have in his shoes with my sanity in tact. I felt everything Trent did as I was reading and resented Cara right along with him. When Gage finally told Trent the circumstances I felt bad for her even shed a tear. As the book was coming to a close I was on pens and needles wondering how they were going to become a family. I kept looking at the percentage on my kindle going no its almost the end when, how?
You noticed I kept this spoiler free when I normally do a tell all in my reviews. This one I don't want to spoil. I want you to read the book. It is well worth it.
I know Diane was worried how we as readers would take this since she has ventured away from Alex and Jared. She needed have worried. This was outstanding. Job well done. I can't wait to read the next in this series. I'm looking forward to it.
Those of you who are my friends know how I feel about being married to a woman when you're gay. I don't read those types of stories. I gave this a chance because its Diane Adams. I just adore her and her writing style.
All I can say is damn!!! This was freaking amazing. I found myself rooting for Trent and Gage wife be damned. I respected the choice Gage made at such a young age. I don't think I could have in his shoes with my sanity in tact. I felt everything Trent did as I was reading and resented Cara right along with him. When Gage finally told Trent the circumstances I felt bad for her even shed a tear. As the book was coming to a close I was on pens and needles wondering how they were going to become a family. I kept looking at the percentage on my kindle going no its almost the end when, how?
You noticed I kept this spoiler free when I normally do a tell all in my reviews. This one I don't want to spoil. I want you to read the book. It is well worth it.
I know Diane was worried how we as readers would take this since she has ventured away from Alex and Jared. She needed have worried. This was outstanding. Job well done. I can't wait to read the next in this series. I'm looking forward to it.
February 11, 2014
I was intrigued by the blurb and very curious how an 18 year old gay father of two came to be a family man so young. Gage Harris is not your typical teenager. He is much wiser than most 30 year old; a man who is very grounded and accepting of his lot in life. It may not have been what he’d planned for himself, but he is not the “woe is me” type, but more the “grab life by the horns” kind of man.
Trent is a man with a plan. Recently graduated and moved to a small town for a new job opportunity. The plan is to get experience and get out. Move on to a big city and earn the big bucks. What wasn't planned was to meet a young, poor, farmer who smiles as if the world is all sunshine and unicorns; and who makes his heart wake up and rattle in his chest for the first time in his life.
Trent and Gage become friends after Trent begins picking Gage up on the side of the road and drops him off at his uncle’s farm where he works. This becomes a weekly trip that forges a friendship between the two men. While they are attracted nothing can happen as Gage drops the bombshell that not only is he a father but he is also married to a woman. Trent is crushed and tries to convince his heart that it’s nothing but friendship in their future.
The majority of the story is the blossoming friendship between Trent and Gage. Even though Gage is married, he is gay and his wife has known he was gay from the beginning. There is a story there and you will get it. She is also non-existent as a parent and all of the responsibility falls to Gage. Trent starts to help an overwhelmed Gage and begins to love his boys too. You learn a lot more about Gage’s wife Cara, and why she is the way she it. There is more than meets the eye, and at the end you can decide if you understand her or say good riddance. I said good riddance, myself.
This is a slow-burn romance and not a sex-fest. As a matter of fact the story is just about over before they even have sex. Gage is the main reason. As I said earlier, he is much older and wiser than his years. Even though his marriage is a farce and in name only, he is still a committed husband and father. Fortunately that changes for the guys and there is a definite HEA, as Gage would say, “if you’re going to do it, do it all the way”, and they do.
Definitely a sweet story with a touch of family drama, and with very likable characters that you root for and hope that life begins to settle down and the sun starts shining on them a bit more. Highly recommended for those who like a slow-burn and friends-to-lovers story with cute little kids.
Trent is a man with a plan. Recently graduated and moved to a small town for a new job opportunity. The plan is to get experience and get out. Move on to a big city and earn the big bucks. What wasn't planned was to meet a young, poor, farmer who smiles as if the world is all sunshine and unicorns; and who makes his heart wake up and rattle in his chest for the first time in his life.
Trent and Gage become friends after Trent begins picking Gage up on the side of the road and drops him off at his uncle’s farm where he works. This becomes a weekly trip that forges a friendship between the two men. While they are attracted nothing can happen as Gage drops the bombshell that not only is he a father but he is also married to a woman. Trent is crushed and tries to convince his heart that it’s nothing but friendship in their future.
The majority of the story is the blossoming friendship between Trent and Gage. Even though Gage is married, he is gay and his wife has known he was gay from the beginning. There is a story there and you will get it. She is also non-existent as a parent and all of the responsibility falls to Gage. Trent starts to help an overwhelmed Gage and begins to love his boys too. You learn a lot more about Gage’s wife Cara, and why she is the way she it. There is more than meets the eye, and at the end you can decide if you understand her or say good riddance. I said good riddance, myself.
This is a slow-burn romance and not a sex-fest. As a matter of fact the story is just about over before they even have sex. Gage is the main reason. As I said earlier, he is much older and wiser than his years. Even though his marriage is a farce and in name only, he is still a committed husband and father. Fortunately that changes for the guys and there is a definite HEA, as Gage would say, “if you’re going to do it, do it all the way”, and they do.
Definitely a sweet story with a touch of family drama, and with very likable characters that you root for and hope that life begins to settle down and the sun starts shining on them a bit more. Highly recommended for those who like a slow-burn and friends-to-lovers story with cute little kids.
January 2, 2022
I generally tend to stay away from books with no reviews on GR. I tend to rely on them to get a picture of the book I’m about to read, especially when the author is new to me as is the case with Diane Adams.
That being said, I’m glad I took the chance and bought this book since it turned out to be a very nice read.
Last first kiss provides no surprises and the book description basically tells you the story.
But, as we all know, the way the story is told makes a huge difference. The premise is not that original, probably read it dozens of times (maybe except Gage’s age…..18 and 2 boys already is a first for me) but being there for these characters is a sweet experience.
The story is told from Trent’s POV and could be found a bit lacking if not for Gage’s blog entries at the beginning of each chapter. Sure, they tend to loose their blog quality/ credibility as the story unfolds but they do a good job of providing a much needed perspective from Gage.
I love the boys in this story, kids stories are a favorite of mine but it’s a tough job to make them believable. The author did a great job, they were very lovable.
That being said, don’t get the wrong idea. This story is no masterpiece and has a lot of faults of its own. What made it a great read for me was that I was able to put aside my critical mind, leave behind the need for realism and just loose myself in a world where these guys are real and their love is possible. Which is mostly all I want from my romances ;)
So…..a great fluffy story, sweet , but not over the top, very domestic and a true comfort read. Recommended when in need of all of the above!
P.S.- this is the first in a new series- will definitely keep an eye out for the second one!
That being said, I’m glad I took the chance and bought this book since it turned out to be a very nice read.
Last first kiss provides no surprises and the book description basically tells you the story.
But, as we all know, the way the story is told makes a huge difference. The premise is not that original, probably read it dozens of times (maybe except Gage’s age…..18 and 2 boys already is a first for me) but being there for these characters is a sweet experience.
The story is told from Trent’s POV and could be found a bit lacking if not for Gage’s blog entries at the beginning of each chapter. Sure, they tend to loose their blog quality/ credibility as the story unfolds but they do a good job of providing a much needed perspective from Gage.
I love the boys in this story, kids stories are a favorite of mine but it’s a tough job to make them believable. The author did a great job, they were very lovable.
That being said, don’t get the wrong idea. This story is no masterpiece and has a lot of faults of its own. What made it a great read for me was that I was able to put aside my critical mind, leave behind the need for realism and just loose myself in a world where these guys are real and their love is possible. Which is mostly all I want from my romances ;)
So…..a great fluffy story, sweet , but not over the top, very domestic and a true comfort read. Recommended when in need of all of the above!
P.S.- this is the first in a new series- will definitely keep an eye out for the second one!
dnf
November 28, 2015DNF at 30%
Being a parent I can’t take it anymore.
- You do not leave your 18 month old child alone in the living room while you clean up in the kitchen and have a long chat with your friend.
- "I have to take a nap too. Daddy says naps till I'm six."
Kids do not nap until they’re six. I wish!
- Falling asleep with your 4 year old running around is not a good thing. But at least have the doors locked. Nash opens the door for Trent and they go outside together to dig potatoes. I would have expected Gage to wake up in a panic because his son is not there, but no… everything is fine when Gage wakes up hours later and finds him outside with Trent. I would have a fit!
I don’t think the author was trying to make Gage such a bad parent, but she did.
This probably is a great book, but I can't look past the terrible depiction of kids/parenting in this one.
Being a parent I can’t take it anymore.
- You do not leave your 18 month old child alone in the living room while you clean up in the kitchen and have a long chat with your friend.
- "I have to take a nap too. Daddy says naps till I'm six."
Kids do not nap until they’re six. I wish!
- Falling asleep with your 4 year old running around is not a good thing. But at least have the doors locked. Nash opens the door for Trent and they go outside together to dig potatoes. I would have expected Gage to wake up in a panic because his son is not there, but no… everything is fine when Gage wakes up hours later and finds him outside with Trent. I would have a fit!
I don’t think the author was trying to make Gage such a bad parent, but she did.
This probably is a great book, but I can't look past the terrible depiction of kids/parenting in this one.
January 31, 2014
So many wonderful reviews already out there - I have nothing more to add. Only this: I love this book:)
And now I'm waiting for #2
And now I'm waiting for #2
January 30, 2014
This was a great read by a new author for me! The characterizations were well done, the kids really cool (although a little bit too mature for their age - but hey that seems to be the general theme of this story), and the story chugged along nicely. Even though I got a bit frustrated with the general story constellation at times.
Trent has recently graduated from his master's degree and is now the administrative force behind a new doctor's practice in a rural part of North Carolina. It's only the first step in his career ladder though, because as much as he likes his work, the rural conservatism of his surroundings makes him queasy sometimes, especially considering that he is definitely very gay. And besides, there could be a doctorate in his future, and maybe a CEO position in a hospital someday. A guy can dream, can't he?
And then, by pure chance, Trent meets Gage. 18-year-old Gage has more on his plate than Trent could ever imagine. Married with two little kids, Gage works on his uncle's farm during the week and on his own on the weekend. Days off don't exist in his world, but he still seems content with it, his love for his little boys compensating for all the hardships he has to take on. One of those hardships is his marriage - in name only. Gage is gay and everyone knows it, but as long as he is married he is determined to stay faithful to his wife Cara. Or at least as faithful as he can. Cara, though, seems to be always absent, making Gage more of a single father than anything else.
When Trent stumbles onto this little family, he's swept away fast and falls hard. The adorable boys, the combination of Gage's steadfast will and competency and his young age and vulnerability hit Trent hard and before he knows it, he's with them more often than he probably should be.
But Gage and his family haven't been part of Trent's plan, and Gage is stuck in a situation he can't get out of easily, and his boys always come first. It seems like an impasse, a puzzle they cannot solve, because one thing is clear. There may not be any free slots in the picture of Gage's family, but Trent still fits into their puzzle like the piece that was always missing to make it whole.
Okay, I have to admit I can't get over the fact how young Gage is here and how mature he already seems. Is that believable? I'm not sure. On the one hand, I've never, NEVER met any guy or girl at 18 that mature, competent and confident in his or her work. On the other hand, I really don't know anyone who'd had to make the kind of decisions that Gage had to do at his age. Maturity is a question of predisposition, experience, and context, so yeah. Maybe I'll believe it.
As I said I grew frustrated with the general story constellation - ergo, Gage being married - sometimes, . I still really enjoyed reading this story though! I loved Nash and Kody, loved how Gage and also Trent interacted with them. The characters weren't 2D figures in a play, they were shaped out as real people with real worries and real joys. I'm really looking forward to more books in this series!!
Recommended!
Trent has recently graduated from his master's degree and is now the administrative force behind a new doctor's practice in a rural part of North Carolina. It's only the first step in his career ladder though, because as much as he likes his work, the rural conservatism of his surroundings makes him queasy sometimes, especially considering that he is definitely very gay. And besides, there could be a doctorate in his future, and maybe a CEO position in a hospital someday. A guy can dream, can't he?
And then, by pure chance, Trent meets Gage. 18-year-old Gage has more on his plate than Trent could ever imagine. Married with two little kids, Gage works on his uncle's farm during the week and on his own on the weekend. Days off don't exist in his world, but he still seems content with it, his love for his little boys compensating for all the hardships he has to take on. One of those hardships is his marriage - in name only. Gage is gay and everyone knows it, but as long as he is married he is determined to stay faithful to his wife Cara. Or at least as faithful as he can. Cara, though, seems to be always absent, making Gage more of a single father than anything else.
When Trent stumbles onto this little family, he's swept away fast and falls hard. The adorable boys, the combination of Gage's steadfast will and competency and his young age and vulnerability hit Trent hard and before he knows it, he's with them more often than he probably should be.
But Gage and his family haven't been part of Trent's plan, and Gage is stuck in a situation he can't get out of easily, and his boys always come first. It seems like an impasse, a puzzle they cannot solve, because one thing is clear. There may not be any free slots in the picture of Gage's family, but Trent still fits into their puzzle like the piece that was always missing to make it whole.
Okay, I have to admit I can't get over the fact how young Gage is here and how mature he already seems. Is that believable? I'm not sure. On the one hand, I've never, NEVER met any guy or girl at 18 that mature, competent and confident in his or her work. On the other hand, I really don't know anyone who'd had to make the kind of decisions that Gage had to do at his age. Maturity is a question of predisposition, experience, and context, so yeah. Maybe I'll believe it.
As I said I grew frustrated with the general story constellation - ergo, Gage being married - sometimes, . I still really enjoyed reading this story though! I loved Nash and Kody, loved how Gage and also Trent interacted with them. The characters weren't 2D figures in a play, they were shaped out as real people with real worries and real joys. I'm really looking forward to more books in this series!!
Recommended!
May 3, 2017
This book was just a sheer delight. 5 stars from me
and welcome back Diane, we've missed you!!
Shortie review. Trent, looking for love but knowing that living and working in Bible Belt country down South, is not the preferred option for a gay man. He works as a practice manager for a medical practice and they're perfectly OK with his preferences..indeed, one of the doctors (Jax) is also gay. He starts driving into work a different way and more often than not sees a guy with startling blue eyes walking along the road, obviously on his way to work. One morning, the rain is pouring down and Trent gives Blue-Eyed Guy (Gage) a lift, and things progress from there. Gage, well my heart bled for him...father at 14, married at 16 and well, I'll leave you to discover the rest. Tissues would be a handy thing to have closeby. Can't wait for book 2, which I'm hoping will give us more of Trent and Gage (and Nash, loved Nash!!), and more info on the mysterious Dr Jax!!
February 1, 2014
This story and these two guys had me hooked from the beginning and I wanted to just keep reading. I really enjoy stories that have a slow build up, makes it so much sweeter in the long run. I actually kept waiting for something angsty to happen, but there really wasn't anything. Were there bumps in the road to a HEA, yes, but most made sense and the story progressed without a major amount of drama just to have drama. I had a soft spot more for Gage, I felt so bad for him, but he was such a strong person and acted more grown up than a lot of adults I have read in stories. I can't wait until the next one to see where the author takes it. I am hoping for more of Jax.
February 8, 2014
Sweet slow burn romance between a hospital administrator and a farmer with two young sons. I thought the chemistry between Trent and Gage worked well and little boys were realistically written and adorable. Don't go into this expecting sexapoolza but if you're in a mood for a slow spun story with a hot sex scene at the end, try this one out.
I'm there for book two.
I'm there for book two.
March 29, 2016
Adams writes smooth stories and sweet guys, sometimes with heart-aching angst, but not here. This was an easy read. Almost too easy, because I enjoyed it but never quite believed it. Gage is an amazing, loving, very-adult-feeling eighteen-year-old man doing the very best he can as a teen father to two boys. But we meet him when the worst of his trials are over - he's a great dad (we find out he did get serious parenting help from a relative, so it's not as unbelievable as it first seems.) His farming is going well, his kids have one minor health issue and no behavior issues to speak of. There are hints of how hard things were to get to this point, but because we are not in Gage's POV or in that time, they don't carry much emotional weight.
There are some nice moments, a minor injury which is well handled, but otherwise obstacles which appear and could become serious melt away without crisis. The wife who is the big moral obstacle to the romance here is almost totally absent from the story, appearing more a concept than a person. From the start of the book, her past, her knowledge and her behavior undermine her as a serious moral concern, other than by her existence. I wish she had had some significant redeeming qualities visible on page, to make her more than a straw man to be swept away for our heroes' HEA. The doctor is a nice secondary character, again smoothing the way, and the kids never have tantrums. Gage's sunny personality keeps him from agonizing over things, and the result is a very sweet comfort-style story with two adorable kids.
There are some nice moments, a minor injury which is well handled, but otherwise obstacles which appear and could become serious melt away without crisis. The wife who is the big moral obstacle to the romance here is almost totally absent from the story, appearing more a concept than a person. From the start of the book, her past, her knowledge and her behavior undermine her as a serious moral concern, other than by her existence. I wish she had had some significant redeeming qualities visible on page, to make her more than a straw man to be swept away for our heroes' HEA. The doctor is a nice secondary character, again smoothing the way, and the kids never have tantrums. Gage's sunny personality keeps him from agonizing over things, and the result is a very sweet comfort-style story with two adorable kids.
August 2, 2019
Still like it, it's a simple heartwarming tale, what I was in the mood for. Pity there 'series' never continued.
-- --
Wasn't sure about Gage being 18 with two small children AND working as a foreman on his uncles farm AND managing to fully plant his own land so as to be practically self-sufficent AND he makes his own jam... AND he has a high sense of what's right/honourable.
Hmmm. If you accept that though its a lovely story, the kids are cute without being precocious and the problems (not an angst-fest) felt real.
Pity his wife is so off screen, I liked that her character is someone who acts out but because of her own background/issues, her exit was needed for her to move on not just for their convenience but it would have shown better if less offscreen. She's not likeable and there is (an acknowledged) element of cheating but she's not a cardboard villianess.
The cheating didn't set sirens blasting though it's not something I like my romances.
Really enjoyed it. The characters are both likeable and make a nice family.
-- --
Wasn't sure about Gage being 18 with two small children AND working as a foreman on his uncles farm AND managing to fully plant his own land so as to be practically self-sufficent AND he makes his own jam... AND he has a high sense of what's right/honourable.
Hmmm. If you accept that though its a lovely story, the kids are cute without being precocious and the problems (not an angst-fest) felt real.
Pity his wife is so off screen, I liked that her character is someone who acts out but because of her own background/issues, her exit was needed for her to move on not just for their convenience but it would have shown better if less offscreen. She's not likeable and there is (an acknowledged) element of cheating but she's not a cardboard villianess.
The cheating didn't set sirens blasting though it's not something I like my romances.
Really enjoyed it. The characters are both likeable and make a nice family.
January 22, 2014
I bought this on Nic's 5 star rating and am really glad I did. It has a great build of sexual tension with the boys spending a lot of time looking (& licking their lips) but not touching or even flirting.
(Being surrounded by little kids will have that sobering effect).
The domestic situation, the farm work, the conversations with children were all realistically depicted and were a joy to watch. Observing Cara was not.
I liked the look we got of Jax (hope his story comes next), and the landscape and setting gave me a real sense of place.
However, it ended just a little too abruptly. I wanted longer drawn out (read more smexy) concluding chapters.
Really enjoyed it. Thanks Nic!
(Being surrounded by little kids will have that sobering effect).
The domestic situation, the farm work, the conversations with children were all realistically depicted and were a joy to watch. Observing Cara was not.
I liked the look we got of Jax (hope his story comes next), and the landscape and setting gave me a real sense of place.
However, it ended just a little too abruptly. I wanted longer drawn out (read more smexy) concluding chapters.
Really enjoyed it. Thanks Nic!
January 31, 2014
I really needed a sweet and fluffy story, and Last Firs Kiss did not disappoint me. The characters are well drawn, Trent's POV is cleverly counterbalanced by Gage’s blog posts and the kids are wonderful. There are some flaws, mostly in the ending
but still this was a nice comfort read.
but still this was a nice comfort read.
February 13, 2014
I was pleasantly surprised by this one. I didn't think I would be able to suspend my disbelief about a boy who becomes a dad at the age of 14, but the story was so skillfully done that I was not only able to suspend disbelief, I became completely caught up in the characters' lives and dramas. This is probably one I'll read again, which says to me that it's a keeper.
January 22, 2014
Oh, this is on my comfort read list! I love those kids!
April 8, 2014
I never understand the reasoning of people who say that children don’t belong in MM romance. I don’t always want to read squishy, gooey love stories where the one MC falls in love with the other MC and his children, but I enjoy them very much when I do choose to read them. It brings out the tenderness in the MCs I think, and makes us realize that love often isn’t convenient. You can’t stay in bed and have sex all day sometimes. It also brings awareness to the feasibility of two parents of the same gender making a family work. Not everyone who reads this particular MM romance has read 500 others before it. This might be their first one. I think it’s a great message for them to get early and often.
Last First Kiss is a love story about two men and two little boys. Trent Foster is a medical office administrator at a fairly small practice in a small southern town. He sees it as a stepping stone on the path of his career. He doesn’t intend to stay there forever. The traffic on his way to work one day causes him to take a back road he hasn’t traveled before. He sees a sexy young man walking to work and can’t help but admire him. Daily.
Gage Harris is eighteen years old. He is in a loveless marriage and already has two young sons. He walks to his job on his uncle’s farm because his wife takes his truck every day. He has an amazing work ethic and fathomless love for his sons, who are practically neglected by their mother. He sees Trent, in his sexy sports car, slowing down to look at him. Daily.
One day when Trent just can’t let Gage keep walking in the downpour, he stops and offers him a ride. The attraction is immediate and strong from both sides. The two men strike up a friendship which they sense is quickly turning into much more, but won’t cheat on Gage’s wife. Regardless of her behavior, Gage, whose family knows he is gay, holds on to his own morals.
The love that grows between Trent and Gage is so sweet and innocent at first. The unconditional love between Trent and Gage’s sons is enough to make any one cry. They have a father who they know loves them more than anything, but they still suffer from the loss of the love their mother should be giving them. Gage just can’t keep doing everything by himself and finds he really enjoys doing it with Trent by his side.
This is a slow-building romance, the old-fashioned kind that stays pretty chaste for awhile. Diane Adams give the reader just enough that we know more is coming. She also makes the reader kind of want Gage to stay true to his loveless marriage. He is trying to set an example for his boys, which is that real men keep their promises. Even when it is hard to do so.
I really liked this book. The characters were realistic and flawed, but they had their priorities in the right order. Many of us have heard the advice that once you have kids, your life changes forever. We also know that you can’t really quantify the all-encompassing reach of that change until you experience it. Gage learned the hard way, and stood up to the challenge when many men his age would have run the other way. Trent accepted love on Gage’s terms because he saw that Gage was worth it. Just as this book is worth your investment of time and money.
Last First Kiss is a love story about two men and two little boys. Trent Foster is a medical office administrator at a fairly small practice in a small southern town. He sees it as a stepping stone on the path of his career. He doesn’t intend to stay there forever. The traffic on his way to work one day causes him to take a back road he hasn’t traveled before. He sees a sexy young man walking to work and can’t help but admire him. Daily.
Gage Harris is eighteen years old. He is in a loveless marriage and already has two young sons. He walks to his job on his uncle’s farm because his wife takes his truck every day. He has an amazing work ethic and fathomless love for his sons, who are practically neglected by their mother. He sees Trent, in his sexy sports car, slowing down to look at him. Daily.
One day when Trent just can’t let Gage keep walking in the downpour, he stops and offers him a ride. The attraction is immediate and strong from both sides. The two men strike up a friendship which they sense is quickly turning into much more, but won’t cheat on Gage’s wife. Regardless of her behavior, Gage, whose family knows he is gay, holds on to his own morals.
The love that grows between Trent and Gage is so sweet and innocent at first. The unconditional love between Trent and Gage’s sons is enough to make any one cry. They have a father who they know loves them more than anything, but they still suffer from the loss of the love their mother should be giving them. Gage just can’t keep doing everything by himself and finds he really enjoys doing it with Trent by his side.
This is a slow-building romance, the old-fashioned kind that stays pretty chaste for awhile. Diane Adams give the reader just enough that we know more is coming. She also makes the reader kind of want Gage to stay true to his loveless marriage. He is trying to set an example for his boys, which is that real men keep their promises. Even when it is hard to do so.
I really liked this book. The characters were realistic and flawed, but they had their priorities in the right order. Many of us have heard the advice that once you have kids, your life changes forever. We also know that you can’t really quantify the all-encompassing reach of that change until you experience it. Gage learned the hard way, and stood up to the challenge when many men his age would have run the other way. Trent accepted love on Gage’s terms because he saw that Gage was worth it. Just as this book is worth your investment of time and money.
February 8, 2014
Heh...
Some parts were great, others were just way too sweet, incredible, convenient, and after-school special-y.
The best part of this is the children...though the story itself is okay as well.
Some parts were great, others were just way too sweet, incredible, convenient, and after-school special-y.
The best part of this is the children...though the story itself is okay as well.
June 27, 2017
Well, that was interesting!
Loved Gage so much. He was young, yes. But he didn't sound like that. He was mature, kind, a good father... Well, seeing him with the boys was so amazing.
Trent was great as well, although he pissed me off when he didn't talk to Gage about what he saw at the bar.... I wanted him to be franker at that point. Anyway... I understood it was a difficult decision and I forgave him for it. But almost didn't forgive him for not going to fight for Gage. But I gotcha he thought he was doing what the young man wanted. Good think they run into each other. (was it a spoiler? oops)
The kids took my heart. Nash and Kody was great. Loved them so much! :D
And they definitely stole the scene :)
Anyway, I really liked this story, but it needs an epilogue... And since it's supposed to be the first book of a series, I hope the next one it will be about the same characters, because there were open questions in the end of this book.
And yet in this series, I hope to see a book about Doc Jax. It would be great. He was a really good character... :)
Loved Gage so much. He was young, yes. But he didn't sound like that. He was mature, kind, a good father... Well, seeing him with the boys was so amazing.
Trent was great as well, although he pissed me off when he didn't talk to Gage about what he saw at the bar.... I wanted him to be franker at that point. Anyway... I understood it was a difficult decision and I forgave him for it. But almost didn't forgive him for not going to fight for Gage. But I gotcha he thought he was doing what the young man wanted. Good think they run into each other. (was it a spoiler? oops)
The kids took my heart. Nash and Kody was great. Loved them so much! :D
And they definitely stole the scene :)
Anyway, I really liked this story, but it needs an epilogue... And since it's supposed to be the first book of a series, I hope the next one it will be about the same characters, because there were open questions in the end of this book.
And yet in this series, I hope to see a book about Doc Jax. It would be great. He was a really good character... :)
July 18, 2014
3.75 STARS
The First Last Kiss is a sweet friends to lovers story about love, life and family. It’s an emotional, heartwarming and at the same time heartbreaking story about two men who learn to love and to become a family.
Gage is an 18 year old boy who doesn’t dream to go to college or have a career, because he has to work to provide for his two sons and his wife. Gage knew he is gay by the time his first child was born, but he married anyway with the mother of his child.
Gage wants only to survive. He dropped out of high school when his second child was born and since then, he works for his uncle on his farm. With an absent wife who doesn’t care about anybody, he is a single father with two sons to raise.
Trent is 25 year old and he works as a healthcare administrator in a small family practice. He wants to work there a few years to have more experience, but after he plans to move for a better job.
Gage meets Trent when Gage is walking to work and Trent offers him a ride. They are attracted to each other, but they can be only friends, mainly because Gage is married. Even if his relationship with his wife is not good, Gage doesn’t want to betray her. So they become friends.
Trent meets Gage’s boys and spends a lot of time together. He doesn’t want to abandon his plans for anything or anybody and he knows they didn’t include a farm and a man with two small children in Carolina, but soon he is drown to this family. He wants to spend more and more time with them and he doesn’t understand the strength of commitment he feels for Gage. Gage has been alone for a long time, but not anymore, because Trent has manage to erase his loneliness.
I enjoyed the storyline from the beginning; nothing was rushed or boring, but what I enjoyed the most is the development of Gage and Trent’s relationship. It was great! Their relationship was not rushed and felt normal and real.
I really liked how Gage POV is told; this was very refreshing! Both main characters in this story are lovable and very well developed. Gage was a great character, even if he’s not entirely credible because he’s too mature for an 18 year old boy. He is responsible, honorable and he’s a good father. I really admired his determination and courage!
Trent has a good heart, he admires Gage for his courage to raise his children alone and I like how badly he wants to help this family with anything. He’s not only perfect for Gage, he is perfect for the whole family.
The two little children were adorable, but I felt somehow the big one ( 4 years old ) was too mature and he had way too many responsibilities.
The ending was too rushed for my liking and predictable, clearly I was expecting something else, maybe something more interesting?!? I wanted to see more of Cara and her relationship with Gage and the children, maybe how she affects Gage and Trent’s relationship…( But this is only me! )
There’s no angst in here and the heat level is very moderate ( not a good thing for me ), but overall I enjoyed this story!!
The First Last Kiss is a sweet friends to lovers story about love, life and family. It’s an emotional, heartwarming and at the same time heartbreaking story about two men who learn to love and to become a family.
…life hurts, but then you keep on going.
Gage is an 18 year old boy who doesn’t dream to go to college or have a career, because he has to work to provide for his two sons and his wife. Gage knew he is gay by the time his first child was born, but he married anyway with the mother of his child.
Gage wants only to survive. He dropped out of high school when his second child was born and since then, he works for his uncle on his farm. With an absent wife who doesn’t care about anybody, he is a single father with two sons to raise.
Everyone says I’m going to fail. I don’t believe them. Their truth is not mine.
Trent is 25 year old and he works as a healthcare administrator in a small family practice. He wants to work there a few years to have more experience, but after he plans to move for a better job.
Gage meets Trent when Gage is walking to work and Trent offers him a ride. They are attracted to each other, but they can be only friends, mainly because Gage is married. Even if his relationship with his wife is not good, Gage doesn’t want to betray her. So they become friends.
Trent meets Gage’s boys and spends a lot of time together. He doesn’t want to abandon his plans for anything or anybody and he knows they didn’t include a farm and a man with two small children in Carolina, but soon he is drown to this family. He wants to spend more and more time with them and he doesn’t understand the strength of commitment he feels for Gage. Gage has been alone for a long time, but not anymore, because Trent has manage to erase his loneliness.
When you aren’t here all I can do is think about you, and now that you are I can’t stop touching you. And I want..I want you. - Gage
Staying away from him is like fighting gravity. - Trent
I enjoyed the storyline from the beginning; nothing was rushed or boring, but what I enjoyed the most is the development of Gage and Trent’s relationship. It was great! Their relationship was not rushed and felt normal and real.
I really liked how Gage POV is told; this was very refreshing! Both main characters in this story are lovable and very well developed. Gage was a great character, even if he’s not entirely credible because he’s too mature for an 18 year old boy. He is responsible, honorable and he’s a good father. I really admired his determination and courage!
Trent has a good heart, he admires Gage for his courage to raise his children alone and I like how badly he wants to help this family with anything. He’s not only perfect for Gage, he is perfect for the whole family.
The two little children were adorable, but I felt somehow the big one ( 4 years old ) was too mature and he had way too many responsibilities.
The ending was too rushed for my liking and predictable, clearly I was expecting something else, maybe something more interesting?!? I wanted to see more of Cara and her relationship with Gage and the children, maybe how she affects Gage and Trent’s relationship…( But this is only me! )
There’s no angst in here and the heat level is very moderate ( not a good thing for me ), but overall I enjoyed this story!!
Real love should be better, more, it should fucking mean something.
February 24, 2014
I had to put aside a number of qualms in reading Diane Adams' "Last First Kiss." The youth fetish of m/m romance is in full sway, since the main characters are 25 and 18. I also had to choke down a little incredulity at the idea of any teenager being quite as awesomely selfless as Gage Harris is. That forced me to take a sort of fairy-tale leap of faith. That said, however, the story of these two young men and their improbable romance won my heart and left me weepy any number of times.
What appealed to me about this story is the idea that an ambitious young gay man, with a graduate degree from a prestigious southern school, would find himself captivated by an even younger man who seems on the surface to be a loser in every stereotypical southern-white-trash way; but whose personal integrity then becomes the main attraction.
Trent is resigned to singlehood after his first (and only) boyfriend makes it clear that his concept of fidelity is driven by convenience rather than commitment. The chance meeting with Gage on a rural back road leaves Trent smitten with his pretty face, but appalled at the circumstances of Gage's life - married with two little boys at the age of 18. As Trent begins to understand the facts behind Gage's tale, and to appreciate the deep personal integrity that guides him, his perspective begins to shift.
This is a long, slow, sweet burn of a romance. It is a story about finding goodness where you don't expect it; finding acceptance in a world filled with prejudice; and finding out that love can take you places you never expected to go.
By odd coincidence, I read this book while traveling for business, and found myself just a short drive from the small town in North Carolina where Trent lives. Adams has created a strong sense of place for this novel, and the locale plays a significant role in the story, adding authenticity and context. While weak editing distracts from Adam's good writing, it wasn't enough to undermine my enjoyment. .
Diane Adams seems to have written a lot of Christian fiction, as well as m/m romances, which strikes me an, um, interesting combination, to say the least. But, as a gay man, it makes me wonder some about the author's own story, as deep-south religion-based anti-gay prejudice is one of the motivating anxieties that Trent has to confront. Sounds to me as if there was a personal journey in there somewhere.
What appealed to me about this story is the idea that an ambitious young gay man, with a graduate degree from a prestigious southern school, would find himself captivated by an even younger man who seems on the surface to be a loser in every stereotypical southern-white-trash way; but whose personal integrity then becomes the main attraction.
Trent is resigned to singlehood after his first (and only) boyfriend makes it clear that his concept of fidelity is driven by convenience rather than commitment. The chance meeting with Gage on a rural back road leaves Trent smitten with his pretty face, but appalled at the circumstances of Gage's life - married with two little boys at the age of 18. As Trent begins to understand the facts behind Gage's tale, and to appreciate the deep personal integrity that guides him, his perspective begins to shift.
This is a long, slow, sweet burn of a romance. It is a story about finding goodness where you don't expect it; finding acceptance in a world filled with prejudice; and finding out that love can take you places you never expected to go.
By odd coincidence, I read this book while traveling for business, and found myself just a short drive from the small town in North Carolina where Trent lives. Adams has created a strong sense of place for this novel, and the locale plays a significant role in the story, adding authenticity and context. While weak editing distracts from Adam's good writing, it wasn't enough to undermine my enjoyment. .
Diane Adams seems to have written a lot of Christian fiction, as well as m/m romances, which strikes me an, um, interesting combination, to say the least. But, as a gay man, it makes me wonder some about the author's own story, as deep-south religion-based anti-gay prejudice is one of the motivating anxieties that Trent has to confront. Sounds to me as if there was a personal journey in there somewhere.
January 26, 2014
4.5 Stars
Diane Adams has gifted us with another winner. Last First Kiss features wonderfully depicted characters placed in a beautifully drawn setting (I swear I could smell the hay and feel the earth on my hands). I felt as much a voyeur as a reader watching the story of Trent and Gage unfold. I particularly love how the author kept me guessing as to explanations and outcomes - lots of "whoa" moments! There was a real feeling of connection between myself and both Trent and Gage -learning about Gage's life and struggles as Trent spent time with him, knowing their inner hopes and fears.. all of this compelled me to read until 3:30am! I could not put this book down.
I particularly enjoyed, and found it refreshing to read about two young men, especially Gage at 18, who were very level headed and responsible. It amazed me to watch him work so hard to do the right thing, and to watch Trent grapple not only with what he felt was right, but this total "whammy" from left field thrown at him in the form of Gage and his boys. Party boys running from commitment these two are not! There were a few things in the plot that I would have like to have seen explored more...Cara never being at the house when Trent was there and Trent's temper issues? Certainly nothing to take away from the story, just my brain at work... Jax was an awesome secondary character - I really like how he kind of swooped in from left field to help out. Really looking forward to more about all of the guys. Kudos to Diane Adams, she has definitely created more characters whose relationships I want to watch grow.
Diane Adams has gifted us with another winner. Last First Kiss features wonderfully depicted characters placed in a beautifully drawn setting (I swear I could smell the hay and feel the earth on my hands). I felt as much a voyeur as a reader watching the story of Trent and Gage unfold. I particularly love how the author kept me guessing as to explanations and outcomes - lots of "whoa" moments! There was a real feeling of connection between myself and both Trent and Gage -learning about Gage's life and struggles as Trent spent time with him, knowing their inner hopes and fears.. all of this compelled me to read until 3:30am! I could not put this book down.
I particularly enjoyed, and found it refreshing to read about two young men, especially Gage at 18, who were very level headed and responsible. It amazed me to watch him work so hard to do the right thing, and to watch Trent grapple not only with what he felt was right, but this total "whammy" from left field thrown at him in the form of Gage and his boys. Party boys running from commitment these two are not! There were a few things in the plot that I would have like to have seen explored more...Cara never being at the house when Trent was there and Trent's temper issues? Certainly nothing to take away from the story, just my brain at work... Jax was an awesome secondary character - I really like how he kind of swooped in from left field to help out. Really looking forward to more about all of the guys. Kudos to Diane Adams, she has definitely created more characters whose relationships I want to watch grow.
April 19, 2015
This was wonderful ... will write a better review after a re-read ... highly recommended tho'
So ... I've just re-read after a couple of months and this book is still in the awesome category and has been added to my favourites shelf ... The characters are vivid and engaging ... The angst is pertinent and pushes the story along at a perfect pace ... There were no clunky consistency issues and the editing was top notch ... The sexual tension between the characters was masterfully drawn out and the smex was written in a highly erotic way that didn't overwhelm the romance ... I'm looking forward to reading the sequel and would recommend this book to all and sundry.
So ... I've just re-read after a couple of months and this book is still in the awesome category and has been added to my favourites shelf ... The characters are vivid and engaging ... The angst is pertinent and pushes the story along at a perfect pace ... There were no clunky consistency issues and the editing was top notch ... The sexual tension between the characters was masterfully drawn out and the smex was written in a highly erotic way that didn't overwhelm the romance ... I'm looking forward to reading the sequel and would recommend this book to all and sundry.
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