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Hot Mess
Too much partying and self-inflicted trouble have left Cameron Lacey’s life a complete mess. But he’s determined to change, and he’ll do anything to keep a roof over his head until he gets himself together. When he's introduced to Sam Powell, he can’t believe Sam will let him stay without expecting anything in return—in Cameron’s world, nothing is free. Realizing Sam’s bleeding heart is exactly as it appears throws Cameron for a loop… and completely head over heels. Unfortunately, old habits die hard.
Cameron’s demons rear their ugly heads, leading to a series of backsliding disasters and fumbled attempts by Sam to save Cameron from bad choices. As Cameron struggles to become who he wants to be instead of who he is, he also comes to hope Sam will discover that what’s right for him might not be what he’s looking for—but who he already has.
Cameron’s demons rear their ugly heads, leading to a series of backsliding disasters and fumbled attempts by Sam to save Cameron from bad choices. As Cameron struggles to become who he wants to be instead of who he is, he also comes to hope Sam will discover that what’s right for him might not be what he’s looking for—but who he already has.
200 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 3, 2013
4 people are currently reading
287 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
December 3, 2013
It sounds so good, but it could go wrong,...what to do?
The first few pages of this book had me thinking Sam is a saint, too good to be true (possibly too good in general) and an all around great guy.
I don't have a sister but if I did and she asked me to take in a 20 year old stranger working on his GED, I think I'd need more than a few minutes and a cup of coffee to decide.
“So Cameron was from a broken home, and probably kicked out because he was gay, and then fell into the clutches of a predator. Great. Add to that the fact Elena really seemed to care about the guy, and there was no way Sam could say no.
Yep, bleeding hearts ran in his family like nobody’s business.”
So yes, Sam takes him in. Cameron is the opposite of Sam in almost all things. Cameron is very concerned with his appearance, he doesn't make the best decisions when he has some kind of emotional setback, he then sort of sabotages himself every time. Sometimes with real and difficult consequences. Sam is stable, down to earth and very reliable.
I felt for Cameron, especially as more of his history comes out, it helped explain a lot of his ( usually poor) choices.
There are friends that interfere and I didn't like Ryan much, you know when the people closest to you call you an asshole, that should maybe give you a hint, buddy.
What I really liked about this story though was, that there is NO instant lust or love.
As a matter of fact Sam has exactly that thought: “The upside in all of this was Sam definitely didn’t go for the “barely legal” type, and he was almost positive a kid that pretty wouldn’t go for an almost-thirty, average Joe like himself, so there wasn’t going to be any sexual tension to complicate things.”
And although Cameron is all for adding 'benefits' to their relationship it's not because he is attracted to Sam, it's because he knows nothing in this world is free. He just can't believe Sam is truly just a genuinely good man.
But over time Cameron starts to see and believe it, they spend time together and Cameron also start to see Sam in a different light. They spend time together and Sam is happy to not come home to an empty house and to have someone to talk to and enjoy meals with.
But as the blurb alludes to Cameron is messed up and makes some really poor choices. Time and again Sam shows himself as the good man he really is when confronted with the consequences of Cameron's behavior. But even Sam reaches his limit at some point.
Eventually though things change or maybe I should say Cameron changes. I didn't necessarily like the way he went about it, but he did what he needed to do for himself and maybe what he thought he needed to do for Sam.
He finally did what he could have and should have done from the beginning, that's where I really saw his growth, he starts taking responsibility for himself and maybe now he can have what he really want - Sam.
I really liked this story, yes I was aggravated with both men at times, but I was also invested and wanted to see them get it together and be happy. I loved seeing Cameron change from self destructive to self sufficient and Sam finally seeing things that were right in front of him all along.
The first few pages of this book had me thinking Sam is a saint, too good to be true (possibly too good in general) and an all around great guy.
I don't have a sister but if I did and she asked me to take in a 20 year old stranger working on his GED, I think I'd need more than a few minutes and a cup of coffee to decide.
“So Cameron was from a broken home, and probably kicked out because he was gay, and then fell into the clutches of a predator. Great. Add to that the fact Elena really seemed to care about the guy, and there was no way Sam could say no.
Yep, bleeding hearts ran in his family like nobody’s business.”
So yes, Sam takes him in. Cameron is the opposite of Sam in almost all things. Cameron is very concerned with his appearance, he doesn't make the best decisions when he has some kind of emotional setback, he then sort of sabotages himself every time. Sometimes with real and difficult consequences. Sam is stable, down to earth and very reliable.
I felt for Cameron, especially as more of his history comes out, it helped explain a lot of his ( usually poor) choices.
There are friends that interfere and I didn't like Ryan much, you know when the people closest to you call you an asshole, that should maybe give you a hint, buddy.
What I really liked about this story though was, that there is NO instant lust or love.
As a matter of fact Sam has exactly that thought: “The upside in all of this was Sam definitely didn’t go for the “barely legal” type, and he was almost positive a kid that pretty wouldn’t go for an almost-thirty, average Joe like himself, so there wasn’t going to be any sexual tension to complicate things.”
And although Cameron is all for adding 'benefits' to their relationship it's not because he is attracted to Sam, it's because he knows nothing in this world is free. He just can't believe Sam is truly just a genuinely good man.
But over time Cameron starts to see and believe it, they spend time together and Cameron also start to see Sam in a different light. They spend time together and Sam is happy to not come home to an empty house and to have someone to talk to and enjoy meals with.
But as the blurb alludes to Cameron is messed up and makes some really poor choices. Time and again Sam shows himself as the good man he really is when confronted with the consequences of Cameron's behavior. But even Sam reaches his limit at some point.
Eventually though things change or maybe I should say Cameron changes. I didn't necessarily like the way he went about it, but he did what he needed to do for himself and maybe what he thought he needed to do for Sam.
He finally did what he could have and should have done from the beginning, that's where I really saw his growth, he starts taking responsibility for himself and maybe now he can have what he really want - Sam.
I really liked this story, yes I was aggravated with both men at times, but I was also invested and wanted to see them get it together and be happy. I loved seeing Cameron change from self destructive to self sufficient and Sam finally seeing things that were right in front of him all along.
November 21, 2014
4.25 stars
I was lucky enough to get this one during DSP November #tweetaway … and one of my ‘tough to please’ friends said it was good. I didn’t exactly read other reviews first because lately I decided that sometimes it was nice not knowing anything about a story beforehand. That I could read the stories without the ‘influence’ of others or because of hypes and so on.
Well, people, let me say that I thought this was a very solid read: strong characterizations and storyline. It check-marked most of what I liked from my romance too.
I admit I was a bit worried with the set-up of a young man who seemed to self-inflict troubles staying in a house of a thirty year old man. This could easily be a case of instant attraction, I thought. But I must say that Rowan McAllister put ahead the slow-built of trust and friendship between Cameron and Sam before the romance and physical connection happened. That made me very, very happy.
I loved Cameron so frickin’ much!! Sure, he messed up several times in this book – mistakes which made me wanted to shout at my Kindle and said, “No, no, Cameron, don’t do that!” – but I believed that he truly wanted to change his life for the better. I chalked it up because Cameron struggled with his past, the fact that he didn’t really have good role models (his family sucks balls!), and of course because Cameron was battling his own unrequited crush over Sam. It sure could screw someone up, especially someone as young as Cameron *hugs Cameron tight*
Sam, at times, felt too good to be true. He was just too nice!! But then again, it was good to have someone with good intentions like Sam – even if he frustrated me as well because he couldn’t see that he had a chance to have something good with Cam. Real life does have noble guys, who wants to help others with no strings attached. I loved how Sam handled Cameron’s mess – even at one time, Sam reached his limit and got upset – and I loved Sam believed in Cameron despite everything. Sam gave Cameron the chance to be better. And we all know that sometimes, for people like Cam, what they need is a second chance.
If there is a flaw in Sam is probably in the friends he keeps. One name. Ryan. OMG, that man is a jackass!! I seriously hated him – I didn’t know why Sam wanted to keep him in his life *grrrr*. Maybe he had a good quality but I was so angry with him throughout the book. No matter that he also gave reasons for Cameron to push himself in attempt to make himself worthy of Sam.
I was a little bit unhappy with the . But then again I could understand his reasons and it was also probably the best thing for him to do. So a bit unhappy but not exactly hating it.
All in all, this is a very satisfying read and definitely one of my favorite MM reads of the month…
I was lucky enough to get this one during DSP November #tweetaway … and one of my ‘tough to please’ friends said it was good. I didn’t exactly read other reviews first because lately I decided that sometimes it was nice not knowing anything about a story beforehand. That I could read the stories without the ‘influence’ of others or because of hypes and so on.
Well, people, let me say that I thought this was a very solid read: strong characterizations and storyline. It check-marked most of what I liked from my romance too.
I admit I was a bit worried with the set-up of a young man who seemed to self-inflict troubles staying in a house of a thirty year old man. This could easily be a case of instant attraction, I thought. But I must say that Rowan McAllister put ahead the slow-built of trust and friendship between Cameron and Sam before the romance and physical connection happened. That made me very, very happy.
I loved Cameron so frickin’ much!! Sure, he messed up several times in this book – mistakes which made me wanted to shout at my Kindle and said, “No, no, Cameron, don’t do that!” – but I believed that he truly wanted to change his life for the better. I chalked it up because Cameron struggled with his past, the fact that he didn’t really have good role models (his family sucks balls!), and of course because Cameron was battling his own unrequited crush over Sam. It sure could screw someone up, especially someone as young as Cameron *hugs Cameron tight*
Sam, at times, felt too good to be true. He was just too nice!! But then again, it was good to have someone with good intentions like Sam – even if he frustrated me as well because he couldn’t see that he had a chance to have something good with Cam. Real life does have noble guys, who wants to help others with no strings attached. I loved how Sam handled Cameron’s mess – even at one time, Sam reached his limit and got upset – and I loved Sam believed in Cameron despite everything. Sam gave Cameron the chance to be better. And we all know that sometimes, for people like Cam, what they need is a second chance.
If there is a flaw in Sam is probably in the friends he keeps. One name. Ryan. OMG, that man is a jackass!! I seriously hated him – I didn’t know why Sam wanted to keep him in his life *grrrr*. Maybe he had a good quality but I was so angry with him throughout the book. No matter that he also gave reasons for Cameron to push himself in attempt to make himself worthy of Sam.
I was a little bit unhappy with the . But then again I could understand his reasons and it was also probably the best thing for him to do. So a bit unhappy but not exactly hating it.
All in all, this is a very satisfying read and definitely one of my favorite MM reads of the month…
October 10, 2015
I really liked this book way more than I ever thought I would... honestly I wanted to read it due to the cute mess on the cover... Like I am drawn to those type of people in books...
God no in real life I would run far, far away but that is the beauty of books we can indulge in all our dysfunctions and put the book the *f* down when they get to be too much or too annoying.
Rowan McAllister does a brilliant job of dragging me into Cameron's drama much like Sam.
I so get why Sam sticks with him despite everyone pointing out how bad this kid is for him
Again yes in RL I would screaming at Sam for his stupidity but man does Ms. McAllister sell us not giving up on Cameron.
God no in real life I would run far, far away but that is the beauty of books we can indulge in all our dysfunctions and put the book the *f* down when they get to be too much or too annoying.
Rowan McAllister does a brilliant job of dragging me into Cameron's drama much like Sam.
I so get why Sam sticks with him despite everyone pointing out how bad this kid is for him
Again yes in RL I would screaming at Sam for his stupidity but man does Ms. McAllister sell us not giving up on Cameron.
December 30, 2013
3.5 stars.
This was a cute little story that could have been great.
I got why Cameron acted out the way he did, even as I wanted to shake some sense into him. I almost put the book down after what he did at Sam's party, but I stuck with it, and was glad that I did.
My real frustration lies in the fact that we really didn't get to see Cam get his shit together. He decides Sam's friend Ryan is right, and leaves, and cuts all contact with Sam, doesn't show up for seven months, and we don't get to SEE any of it. We are told as Cam tells Sam what he did. I really wanted to see Cameron making it on hi own.
I also felt like they fell back into bed entirely too fast. Yes, they had lived together, but just as friends, and I just thought that more needed to be said.
This was a cute little story that could have been great.
I got why Cameron acted out the way he did, even as I wanted to shake some sense into him. I almost put the book down after what he did at Sam's party, but I stuck with it, and was glad that I did.
My real frustration lies in the fact that we really didn't get to see Cam get his shit together. He decides Sam's friend Ryan is right, and leaves, and cuts all contact with Sam, doesn't show up for seven months, and we don't get to SEE any of it. We are told as Cam tells Sam what he did. I really wanted to see Cameron making it on hi own.
I also felt like they fell back into bed entirely too fast. Yes, they had lived together, but just as friends, and I just thought that more needed to be said.
December 4, 2013
Loved loved loved!
December 3, 2014
I was lucky to pick this up on a Dreamspinner Press tweetaway. It was my first book by the author and I really enjoyed it. The writing and characters were strong, with humor, a slow building romance, tension and just enough drama to keep me interested and invested in the characters.
Cameron is young and trying to get his life together after a harsh childhood, but as much as he tries he makes some poor decisions. Sam is a good man who takes in Cameron as a favor to his sister. He rebuffs Cameron's advances and really just wants to help him out, but even Sam has his limits. Sam's well meaning but (to me) mean-spirited friend and Cameron's horrible family don't help matters either. As the two bond and become friends, Cameron's feelings grow deeper but Sam doesn't seem to notice and this causes Cameron to do something that really rocks what they have built, but also causes him to finally face things he has pushed down for a long time.
I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed the story and am looking forward to reading more from Rowan McAllister in the future.
Cameron is young and trying to get his life together after a harsh childhood, but as much as he tries he makes some poor decisions. Sam is a good man who takes in Cameron as a favor to his sister. He rebuffs Cameron's advances and really just wants to help him out, but even Sam has his limits. Sam's well meaning but (to me) mean-spirited friend and Cameron's horrible family don't help matters either. As the two bond and become friends, Cameron's feelings grow deeper but Sam doesn't seem to notice and this causes Cameron to do something that really rocks what they have built, but also causes him to finally face things he has pushed down for a long time.
I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed the story and am looking forward to reading more from Rowan McAllister in the future.
Want to read
September 8, 2016FREE for one hour Hot Mess ebook by @RowanMcallister for #tweetaway. http://t.co/UbtJ99pftA
Ends 10pm EST - 11/3/14
Ends 10pm EST - 11/3/14
April 17, 2024
This book has been on my TBR for 7+ years, so I figured it was time to finally read it.
There were things I liked about the book. The relationship between Sam and Cameron, for the most part, was good.
Things I didn’t like?
1. Ryan. What a dick. Like, yeah, he is an asshole, but he is an asshole who continually bullies a 20 year old kid, even after Sam, his friend, has asked him multiple times to be nice to him. Ryan is a shitty friend, and Sam is shitty to keep him around.
2. Cameron is into fashion, apparently. And on one occasion, it’s mentioned they went on an outing and Cameron had a running commentary on people’s outfits. Sam, thinking of this commentary, muses how “his head was full of enough muffin tops and camel toes and cottage cheese to last a lifetime”. Now, pretty sure that’s less fashion policing and more body shaming, but what do I know?
3. How do you give a MC nipple piercings and not do anything with them? Rude.
There were things I liked about the book. The relationship between Sam and Cameron, for the most part, was good.
Things I didn’t like?
1. Ryan. What a dick. Like, yeah, he is an asshole, but he is an asshole who continually bullies a 20 year old kid, even after Sam, his friend, has asked him multiple times to be nice to him. Ryan is a shitty friend, and Sam is shitty to keep him around.
2. Cameron is into fashion, apparently. And on one occasion, it’s mentioned they went on an outing and Cameron had a running commentary on people’s outfits. Sam, thinking of this commentary, muses how “his head was full of enough muffin tops and camel toes and cottage cheese to last a lifetime”. Now, pretty sure that’s less fashion policing and more body shaming, but what do I know?
3. How do you give a MC nipple piercings and not do anything with them? Rude.
March 13, 2014
So I'm a sucker for the age gap, knight in shining armor story so this one worked out just fine for me. Cameron is a troubled abuse survivor who finds himself in need of a place to stay and Sam is just the guy to give it to him. It is not an easy road; Cameron's poor decision making skills and Sam's complete lack of self awareness both are obstacles that must be overcome. Throw in the Sam's jerk friend Ryan and heartache is sure to follow. Such relief that the "truth" Ryan threw in Cameron's face was just the wake up call he needed. Add in Sam's ah ha moment and thankfully these two got their act together. When they finally made it work, the relationship was just right - thank goodness!!
December 11, 2013
Good story, but I just didn't feel the connection between the MC's. Sam was a great guy, but too oblivious of Cameron's feelings. And it would be pretty hard to forgive Cam for some of the things he did.
Still, the writing was good and kept me turning the pages (on my kindle). :)
Still, the writing was good and kept me turning the pages (on my kindle). :)
March 10, 2016
Holy crap! Ryan pissed me off so badly. Cameron had some crap stuff he was dealing with and Ryan just saw what he wanted to see. Never even gave him a chance. I wanted to jump in and punch him for being such an ass. I can't believe Sam put up with his ass.
September 21, 2014
Thirty year old man falling in love/lust with a twenty year old sexual abuse survivor just out of high school who looks and acts like a sixteen year old? Creepy. As. Shit.
February 3, 2018
Wow. This book. It was... a bit upsetting. It had my guts in knots. The characters felt so real and I felt their pain so much. And I kinda loved it. I loved their relationship and how they were relatable. Okay, maybe things got a bit hyperbolic, especially Cameron's overreactions to things. But... he looked cute and forlorn on the cover and their pain was so real to me. I liked the contrasting characters and kinda slow burn. There was plenty of good times, I thought... and the sex was pretty steamy... but... perhaps... the ending... being together... the happily ever after... wasn't totally satisfying to me. I don't know what it needed, but it didn't quite leave me with a warm happy glow. But it was great emotional pain.
December 17, 2013
4 Stars
A "Live Your Life, Buy The Book" Review
When I picked this to review I thought I was getting a fun read about a troubled twink and an older guy falling in love. It was that but this wasn’t exactly what I’d call a light read. There was plenty of humor but it really revolved around Cameron escaping his past. Some of the content is heavy but the love story was good and I enjoyed reading Cameron’s journey.
Sam’s sister gets him to agree to let Cameron, a twenty year old soon to be homeless again ex student of hers, stay with him until he gets back on his feet. Yes, Sam is that really awesome type of guy who likes to see the good in people and help his fellow man out. I’ve read reviews saying this would never happen. Why not? I would hope somebody out there is willing to help. It’s a sad day when helping out a person is too fiction for fiction.
Anyway, Cameron moves in with Sam and thinks surely Sam is just like any other guy. At some point Sam is going to want sexual favors from Cameron. Cameron accepts this. It’s not ideal but he’s a horny twenty year old and Sam is an attractive man. When Sam doesn’t respond to any of Cameron’s advances or hints, Cameron not only realizes he’s been taken in by an honestly good guy, but that he wants something real with Sam. Sam looks at Cameron as a kid and a friend. He actually calls him kid through part of the book. No worries. Sam is oblivious to Cameron’s intent and he shows no interest in Cameron sexually for a large portion of the book. I would think that I wouldn’t like this because I like the “smexy” but it was really well done. I think if there was cock stirring going on it would have felt weird. Sam really wanted to help Cameron and Cameron NEEDED someone to be there for him. Just for him. Not to get in his pants. Sam being there helped Cameron see past his cynicism that he’d adopted at way too young of an age. Sam didn’t even realize he had those types of feelings for Cameron until much later in the book. So be prepared for a slow frustrating build but so worth it.
We get the POVs of both MCs which I always find interesting. Cameron’s POV was the one I found most intriguing. From the outside looking in you may see a troubled and slutty twenty year old mooching off a nice guy. When you get in Cameron’s head you get to see things differently. Cameron’s character is very flawed and he knows it, He does some amazingly stupid stuff but seeing his thought process makes you understand just how easy it is to just take the wrong path. One impulsive decision can change so much. Cameron could have come off terribly annoying and immature but I found him fascinating. Wanting Cameron to see him as a man and not a messed up kid was what set Cameron on the right path. Well, after a few screw ups. The graduation from friends to lovers was very good. I totally believe these two were meant for each other. Really good read with much more depth than I expected. I recommend.
A "Live Your Life, Buy The Book" Review
When I picked this to review I thought I was getting a fun read about a troubled twink and an older guy falling in love. It was that but this wasn’t exactly what I’d call a light read. There was plenty of humor but it really revolved around Cameron escaping his past. Some of the content is heavy but the love story was good and I enjoyed reading Cameron’s journey.
Sam’s sister gets him to agree to let Cameron, a twenty year old soon to be homeless again ex student of hers, stay with him until he gets back on his feet. Yes, Sam is that really awesome type of guy who likes to see the good in people and help his fellow man out. I’ve read reviews saying this would never happen. Why not? I would hope somebody out there is willing to help. It’s a sad day when helping out a person is too fiction for fiction.
Anyway, Cameron moves in with Sam and thinks surely Sam is just like any other guy. At some point Sam is going to want sexual favors from Cameron. Cameron accepts this. It’s not ideal but he’s a horny twenty year old and Sam is an attractive man. When Sam doesn’t respond to any of Cameron’s advances or hints, Cameron not only realizes he’s been taken in by an honestly good guy, but that he wants something real with Sam. Sam looks at Cameron as a kid and a friend. He actually calls him kid through part of the book. No worries. Sam is oblivious to Cameron’s intent and he shows no interest in Cameron sexually for a large portion of the book. I would think that I wouldn’t like this because I like the “smexy” but it was really well done. I think if there was cock stirring going on it would have felt weird. Sam really wanted to help Cameron and Cameron NEEDED someone to be there for him. Just for him. Not to get in his pants. Sam being there helped Cameron see past his cynicism that he’d adopted at way too young of an age. Sam didn’t even realize he had those types of feelings for Cameron until much later in the book. So be prepared for a slow frustrating build but so worth it.
We get the POVs of both MCs which I always find interesting. Cameron’s POV was the one I found most intriguing. From the outside looking in you may see a troubled and slutty twenty year old mooching off a nice guy. When you get in Cameron’s head you get to see things differently. Cameron’s character is very flawed and he knows it, He does some amazingly stupid stuff but seeing his thought process makes you understand just how easy it is to just take the wrong path. One impulsive decision can change so much. Cameron could have come off terribly annoying and immature but I found him fascinating. Wanting Cameron to see him as a man and not a messed up kid was what set Cameron on the right path. Well, after a few screw ups. The graduation from friends to lovers was very good. I totally believe these two were meant for each other. Really good read with much more depth than I expected. I recommend.
March 20, 2014
What a great book this one was. Very entertaining, easy to love characters, great conflicts and relationships.
Book boyfriend material, totally! But I am still undecided if I want to have Cameron as a BF and marry Sam or the other way around. Because being completely honest, Cameron´s bad boy attitude, piercings and trouble making tendency works great with my teenaged heart. And Sam is perfect as husband and father of my future fictional children.
So, there. We can all be one happy family.
Back to the book, this was a light read. Even with all of Cameron´s issues, it was still not high on the angst. Their dynamic was a very interesting one, Sam has issues with the age difference and if you look at them separately you would never pair them together, but their weaknesses and strengths match.
Sam finds himself trying to join the world of the living after an awful break up. His sister introduces him to Cameron, a boy that needs help while getting back on his feet.
What they were not expecting was to find a friend in each other, enjoying their moments together, creating a routine and falling into a nice companionship.
Cameron makes mistakes, and has a hard time expressing his feelings. He feels comfortable with Sam and with the life they have. But his place outside of their friendship is not clear, it’s an unknown territory for Cameron. He feels inadequate, among Sam´s other friends.
Sam is completely blind to what´s going on around him. His apprehension about the age difference doesn’t let him see that what he wants and wishes for, is right in front of him.
And that the easy going relationship he has going on with Cameron is turning into something different, more important.
It takes some separation time, for both of them to come to their senses, and really see their relationship for what it is, acknowledge the sexual tension that has been there from day one, and act on those feelings.
If there was something that let me down it was on the proofreading side, some duplicate words, some missing ones; that took me out of the story a few times.
I like finding these gems every once in a while. Read it for the enjoyment of reading. Read it to fall in love with the bad boy, while secretly hoping that he has a HEA with the good boy.
Reviewed for Gay List Book Reviews
Book boyfriend material, totally! But I am still undecided if I want to have Cameron as a BF and marry Sam or the other way around. Because being completely honest, Cameron´s bad boy attitude, piercings and trouble making tendency works great with my teenaged heart. And Sam is perfect as husband and father of my future fictional children.
So, there. We can all be one happy family.
Back to the book, this was a light read. Even with all of Cameron´s issues, it was still not high on the angst. Their dynamic was a very interesting one, Sam has issues with the age difference and if you look at them separately you would never pair them together, but their weaknesses and strengths match.
Sam finds himself trying to join the world of the living after an awful break up. His sister introduces him to Cameron, a boy that needs help while getting back on his feet.
What they were not expecting was to find a friend in each other, enjoying their moments together, creating a routine and falling into a nice companionship.
Cameron makes mistakes, and has a hard time expressing his feelings. He feels comfortable with Sam and with the life they have. But his place outside of their friendship is not clear, it’s an unknown territory for Cameron. He feels inadequate, among Sam´s other friends.
Sam is completely blind to what´s going on around him. His apprehension about the age difference doesn’t let him see that what he wants and wishes for, is right in front of him.
And that the easy going relationship he has going on with Cameron is turning into something different, more important.
It takes some separation time, for both of them to come to their senses, and really see their relationship for what it is, acknowledge the sexual tension that has been there from day one, and act on those feelings.
If there was something that let me down it was on the proofreading side, some duplicate words, some missing ones; that took me out of the story a few times.
I like finding these gems every once in a while. Read it for the enjoyment of reading. Read it to fall in love with the bad boy, while secretly hoping that he has a HEA with the good boy.
Reviewed for Gay List Book Reviews
January 18, 2014
3.5 stars
I liked this book. Cameron was indeed a hot mess, in every sense of the word. Poor kid didn't know what's what most of the time. He tried, really tried to act like a mature adult, but even though he was 20 years old, the truth of the matter is that Cameron was left to grow up by himself. Sure, he lived in a house until his stepdad kicked me out for being gay and in the way, but no one really parented him. As a result, as much as his behavior and fuck ups were frustrating, I couldn'd help but sympathize with him and wanted to see him do well so badly!
Sam was a nice character. Nothing spectacular, just...nice. Very kind, almost to a fault, but sympathetic nonetheless. One thing that sort of bothered me is that the author overplayed the age difference between them. Sam kept telling himself that Cameron is too young and made comments about his age affecting this or that in his life. Dude, half the book you were 29 years old! I am offended! I am turning 29 in the summer and I MOST DEFINITELY DO NOT CONSIDER MYSELF OLD! I mean come on. How many hetero couples have a ten or more year difference and no one bats an eye?
Anyway, back to the review. So, basically, Cameron fucks up, Sam forgives him, they cook and play video games and go to sleep. Wash, rinse, repeat. That's what happens for most of the book, until eventually Cameron fucks up really bad and eventually goes off to sort himself out. HEA follows, and some hot smexy. Finally!
Overall, I was a pretty happy reader throughout. I couldn't help but love Cameron. He was so insecure and vulnerable, and even at his worst fuckedupedness, I just wanted to hug him. I think this is part of the reason why I wasn't entirely convinced of Cam and Sam as a couple. It seemed to me that Cameron needed a friend, an authoriry figure, and just some plain old affection. I don't know how much of his attraction to Sam was attributed to actual attraction or to emotional neediness for a stable figure in his life who cares unconditionally.
In any case, I recommend this book to mm fans:)
I liked this book. Cameron was indeed a hot mess, in every sense of the word. Poor kid didn't know what's what most of the time. He tried, really tried to act like a mature adult, but even though he was 20 years old, the truth of the matter is that Cameron was left to grow up by himself. Sure, he lived in a house until his stepdad kicked me out for being gay and in the way, but no one really parented him. As a result, as much as his behavior and fuck ups were frustrating, I couldn'd help but sympathize with him and wanted to see him do well so badly!
Sam was a nice character. Nothing spectacular, just...nice. Very kind, almost to a fault, but sympathetic nonetheless. One thing that sort of bothered me is that the author overplayed the age difference between them. Sam kept telling himself that Cameron is too young and made comments about his age affecting this or that in his life. Dude, half the book you were 29 years old! I am offended! I am turning 29 in the summer and I MOST DEFINITELY DO NOT CONSIDER MYSELF OLD! I mean come on. How many hetero couples have a ten or more year difference and no one bats an eye?
Anyway, back to the review. So, basically, Cameron fucks up, Sam forgives him, they cook and play video games and go to sleep. Wash, rinse, repeat. That's what happens for most of the book, until eventually Cameron fucks up really bad and eventually goes off to sort himself out. HEA follows, and some hot smexy. Finally!
Overall, I was a pretty happy reader throughout. I couldn't help but love Cameron. He was so insecure and vulnerable, and even at his worst fuckedupedness, I just wanted to hug him. I think this is part of the reason why I wasn't entirely convinced of Cam and Sam as a couple. It seemed to me that Cameron needed a friend, an authoriry figure, and just some plain old affection. I don't know how much of his attraction to Sam was attributed to actual attraction or to emotional neediness for a stable figure in his life who cares unconditionally.
In any case, I recommend this book to mm fans:)
December 9, 2013
Personally I had fun with this one.
Cam had a terrible childhood and some troubles being an actual adult. Thanks to Sam and his sister he's getting the help he needs to "find himself" and prepare for community college. When Cameron arrives he is a little lost and doesn't really know how to "be himself", and he thinks sex is the answer for everything =P
Soon he finds out that it is different with Sam because for one, he wouldn't fool around with him and second, he is just a nice guy . And he really is. Sam treats him like a little brother and quickly they fall into a very adorable routine of playing house. It's pretty sweet to see them work out so well and how giving Cam a proper place in a family of sorts does wonders.
Still, Cam continues to fall into old habits whenever things become tough. Sam doesn't know how and why Cam seems to act out literally out of the blue at times, cause he simply is pretty oblivious to Cameron's feelings as well as his own. Whatever happens though, Sam isn't willing to give up on Cameron even when all the world seems to be against him, them.
I'm very pleased with the ending of the story as well as the development of Cam's character. They both are very likeable and have something wonderful together <3
The writing style and flow is very well and gives away a proper amount of impressions and feelings. It's quite a slow plot development with a bunch of incidents that actually made the whole story exciting. Just when you thought it is finally going well something happened.
The only real pain in the butt is one of Sam's friends - how i hate his guts!! ughs.
But since everything works out ...... :)
Cam had a terrible childhood and some troubles being an actual adult. Thanks to Sam and his sister he's getting the help he needs to "find himself" and prepare for community college. When Cameron arrives he is a little lost and doesn't really know how to "be himself", and he thinks sex is the answer for everything =P
Soon he finds out that it is different with Sam because for one, he wouldn't fool around with him and second, he is just a nice guy . And he really is. Sam treats him like a little brother and quickly they fall into a very adorable routine of playing house. It's pretty sweet to see them work out so well and how giving Cam a proper place in a family of sorts does wonders.
Still, Cam continues to fall into old habits whenever things become tough. Sam doesn't know how and why Cam seems to act out literally out of the blue at times, cause he simply is pretty oblivious to Cameron's feelings as well as his own. Whatever happens though, Sam isn't willing to give up on Cameron even when all the world seems to be against him, them.
I'm very pleased with the ending of the story as well as the development of Cam's character. They both are very likeable and have something wonderful together <3
The writing style and flow is very well and gives away a proper amount of impressions and feelings. It's quite a slow plot development with a bunch of incidents that actually made the whole story exciting. Just when you thought it is finally going well something happened.
The only real pain in the butt is one of Sam's friends - how i hate his guts!! ughs.
But since everything works out ...... :)
November 22, 2017
*** 3,8 not too satisfied with the ending stars ***
I enjoyed this book, enjoyed Cameron and Sam relationship. It's not an ista-lust or insta-love, in fact they grew their attraction for too long for my taste...you know me, I'm a kind of wham-bam-thank you maam kind of person... *lies*
I loved this book, I loved Cam the most. I liked Sam, but still IMHO, he's kinda dork when it comes to 'sign' and 'relationship'...and I hate him for being too nice for his so called friend Ryan.
So many times I wanted to throw a hammer to Ryan, such a butthole, that one.
I was kinda satisfied when ...LOL.
Overall, even I had some tears for Cam, this one is sweet without giving me diabetes.
The twist just right, the tense is right, even I cried for Cam's tortured past, at least he's now have Sam who love him that much.
I like John, Elena , and even Stefano. I would like to read about him some day...(err, maybe with John? ) *grins*
But as much as I adored the book, I'm always a sucker for an Epilogue and a WHAM! ending... well, I didn't get it.
Or would it be next book? Who knows....HFN..that quite good.
I enjoyed this book, enjoyed Cameron and Sam relationship. It's not an ista-lust or insta-love, in fact they grew their attraction for too long for my taste...you know me, I'm a kind of wham-bam-thank you maam kind of person... *lies*
I loved this book, I loved Cam the most. I liked Sam, but still IMHO, he's kinda dork when it comes to 'sign' and 'relationship'...and I hate him for being too nice for his so called friend Ryan.
So many times I wanted to throw a hammer to Ryan, such a butthole, that one.
I was kinda satisfied when ...LOL.
Overall, even I had some tears for Cam, this one is sweet without giving me diabetes.
The twist just right, the tense is right, even I cried for Cam's tortured past, at least he's now have Sam who love him that much.
I like John, Elena , and even Stefano. I would like to read about him some day...(err, maybe with John? ) *grins*
But as much as I adored the book, I'm always a sucker for an Epilogue and a WHAM! ending... well, I didn't get it.
Or would it be next book? Who knows....HFN..that quite good.
August 3, 2016
I enjoyed the book for about two thirds of it. Sam was such a darling man, and Cameron, oh boy, could I understand him! Fucking up when you desperately try not to - it's so human. I could sympathize with him even when he was at his worst.
And then he left and cut off all the contact with Sam for seven months. And that was something I couldn't really forgive him for. He said he was grateful to Sam and Elena, he said they were his friends. Was giving Sam a few hundred bucks the extent of his friendship? What if something happened and Sam needed him in those seven months, needed a friend, needed support? He didn't even bother to give Sam his new phone number. So, I don't think it was a sign of Cameron getting more mature, it was exactly the opposite - another sign of his egoism and immaturity.
I also didn't feel any sexual chemistry between him and Sam, they worked so well as friends and I wondered how they'll move to lovers. Sam realizing he had sexual feelings about Cameron after Cameron left... it was such a cop out.
So yeah, quite disappointed with this one.
And then he left and cut off all the contact with Sam for seven months. And that was something I couldn't really forgive him for. He said he was grateful to Sam and Elena, he said they were his friends. Was giving Sam a few hundred bucks the extent of his friendship? What if something happened and Sam needed him in those seven months, needed a friend, needed support? He didn't even bother to give Sam his new phone number. So, I don't think it was a sign of Cameron getting more mature, it was exactly the opposite - another sign of his egoism and immaturity.
I also didn't feel any sexual chemistry between him and Sam, they worked so well as friends and I wondered how they'll move to lovers. Sam realizing he had sexual feelings about Cameron after Cameron left... it was such a cop out.
So yeah, quite disappointed with this one.
June 15, 2015
2.5 Stars rounded up because I'm feeling generous
Wasn't really a fan of Cameron. Not that much of a fan of Sam either. Mr. Perfect. I was glad when he told Cameron off. Cameron was 20? Bullshit. Then when something didn't go his way, he resorted back to his old ways. Childish. Plain and simple. How Sam could forgive him is beyond me. Oh wait, I forgot, he's Mr. Perfect.
Don't even get me started on asshole Ryan. Nope. But then Mr. Perfect thinks everything is hunky dory. NO! He's an ass. How could anyone be friends with him? The real talk he gave Cameron. Not cool. I wanted to punch him in the throat, even if I hated Cameron. He had NO right.
So yeah, wasn't a fan. :(
Wasn't really a fan of Cameron. Not that much of a fan of Sam either. Mr. Perfect. I was glad when he told Cameron off. Cameron was 20? Bullshit. Then when something didn't go his way, he resorted back to his old ways. Childish. Plain and simple. How Sam could forgive him is beyond me. Oh wait, I forgot, he's Mr. Perfect.
Don't even get me started on asshole Ryan. Nope. But then Mr. Perfect thinks everything is hunky dory. NO! He's an ass. How could anyone be friends with him? The real talk he gave Cameron. Not cool. I wanted to punch him in the throat, even if I hated Cameron. He had NO right.
So yeah, wasn't a fan. :(
July 9, 2015
A really nice story, nothing special tbh, but since I have a thing for hot, tattooed guys with lip-rings I liked Cam more than I probably should. Yes, he was annoying with all his flirting and running away, but on the other hand if he didn't act the way he acted there wouldn't be a happy end so YAAY for Cameron :)
September 5, 2014
4.5* I am so glad I finally read this--From the cover I expected a 3* read with little depth but was so glad to find it was so much more. I believed Cameron's growth and I was so glad it was not insta-love but instead a friendship first. recommend!
February 27, 2015
4.5 stars
I liked the story, but the ending felt like there should be an epilogue somewhere. Will there be a sequel? I don't mind sequel from other characters' PoV
I liked the story, but the ending felt like there should be an epilogue somewhere. Will there be a sequel? I don't mind sequel from other characters' PoV
December 5, 2013
Uhm, this is how it ends? Come on!!!
Full review on booklikes and my blog.
Full review on booklikes and my blog.
April 5, 2020
I liked this, maybe more than I thought I would.
March 21, 2014
What a great book this one was. Very entertaining, easy to love characters, great conflicts and relationships.
Book boyfriend material, totally! But I am still undecided if I want to have Cameron as a BF and marry Sam or the other way around. Because being completely honest, Cameron´s bad boy attitude, piercings and trouble making tendency works great with my teenaged heart. And Sam is perfect as husband and father of my future fictional children.
So, there. We can all be one happy family.
Back to the book, this was a light read. Even with all of Cameron´s issues, it was still not high on the angst. Their dynamic was a very interesting one, Sam has issues with the age difference and if you look at them separately you would never pair them together, but their weaknesses and strengths match.
Sam finds himself trying to join the world of the living after an awful break up. His sister introduces him to Cameron, a boy that needs help while getting back on his feet.
What they were not expecting was to find a friend in each other, enjoying their moments together, creating a routine and falling into a nice companionship.
Cameron makes mistakes, and has a hard time expressing his feelings. He feels comfortable with Sam and with the life they have. But his place outside of their friendship is not clear, it’s an unknown territory for Cameron. He feels inadequate, among Sam´s other friends.
Sam is completely blind to what´s going on around him. His apprehension about the age difference doesn't let him see that what he wants and wishes for, is right in front of him.
And that the easy going relationship he has going on with Cameron is turning into something different, more important.
It takes some separation time, for both of them to come to their senses, and really see their relationship for what it is, acknowledge the sexual tension that has been there from day one, and act on those feelings.
If there was something that let me down it was on the proofreading side, some duplicate words, some missing ones; that took me out of the story a few times.
I like finding these gems every once in a while. Read it for the enjoyment of reading. Read it to fall in love with the bad boy, while secretly hoping that he has a HEA with the good boy.
Reviewed by Connie
To see more of this review and others like it please visit us at Gay List Book Reviews at www.gaylistbookreviews.wordpress.com
Book boyfriend material, totally! But I am still undecided if I want to have Cameron as a BF and marry Sam or the other way around. Because being completely honest, Cameron´s bad boy attitude, piercings and trouble making tendency works great with my teenaged heart. And Sam is perfect as husband and father of my future fictional children.
So, there. We can all be one happy family.
Back to the book, this was a light read. Even with all of Cameron´s issues, it was still not high on the angst. Their dynamic was a very interesting one, Sam has issues with the age difference and if you look at them separately you would never pair them together, but their weaknesses and strengths match.
Sam finds himself trying to join the world of the living after an awful break up. His sister introduces him to Cameron, a boy that needs help while getting back on his feet.
What they were not expecting was to find a friend in each other, enjoying their moments together, creating a routine and falling into a nice companionship.
Cameron makes mistakes, and has a hard time expressing his feelings. He feels comfortable with Sam and with the life they have. But his place outside of their friendship is not clear, it’s an unknown territory for Cameron. He feels inadequate, among Sam´s other friends.
Sam is completely blind to what´s going on around him. His apprehension about the age difference doesn't let him see that what he wants and wishes for, is right in front of him.
And that the easy going relationship he has going on with Cameron is turning into something different, more important.
It takes some separation time, for both of them to come to their senses, and really see their relationship for what it is, acknowledge the sexual tension that has been there from day one, and act on those feelings.
If there was something that let me down it was on the proofreading side, some duplicate words, some missing ones; that took me out of the story a few times.
I like finding these gems every once in a while. Read it for the enjoyment of reading. Read it to fall in love with the bad boy, while secretly hoping that he has a HEA with the good boy.
Reviewed by Connie
To see more of this review and others like it please visit us at Gay List Book Reviews at www.gaylistbookreviews.wordpress.com
July 11, 2016
I started to read this very insecure of what was in the menu for me in this book, because of summary i can say that it was worth it for me to stick to it and finish it!
I have to confess that at some point during the start i thought about putting it down because of the frustrating moments that it put me through, Cameron childish behaviors just got me me a few times, his lack of communications is just what in a way leads to so many problems, not that am saying that it could have maybe made it worst but still, but again once i went a bit deeper in to what was happening it touched my heart what he went though, and i did a bit of research and kind off got to understand his actions and thought process.
I love the fact that this is not a love relationship from the beginning, that they get to be friends and go through some major head each before anything romantic starts, in my eyes it gives Sam and Cameron relationship more solid ground for them to build with out certain complications, i'm also glad that we see Cameron really making an effort to become a man and to become better, trying to work and overcome his demons.
Ryan in the one that got even more on my nerves being a dick head for most of the books, i mean even his friends say so, also Sam at some point for being so oblivious and Cameron with the way he was dealing with certain things.
But anyway, i think it was worth it, this is the first book of its kind that i have read so i really liked it and i would totally read it again
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 10, 2014
Wow, what a great story. We never know who will come into our lives when we need them the most. This story takes us on a journey of two people who were at a crossroads in their life. One searching for stability and the other wanting acceptance. What they both didn’t realize was that what they need is right in front of them.
See the entire review at The Novel Approach: http://thenovelapproachreviews.com/20...
See the entire review at The Novel Approach: http://thenovelapproachreviews.com/20...
October 24, 2014
Wow.
What a great book! I absolutely loved Cameron. I cried and cried. It was so heart-breaking to see the issues he had to overcome. It was a wee bit over the top .
I liked the fact that it was not an insta-love theme, but the tension was too slow to built and the revelation came a little bit too late.
All in all, a wonderful tear-jerker book.
What a great book! I absolutely loved Cameron. I cried and cried. It was so heart-breaking to see the issues he had to overcome. It was a wee bit over the top .
I liked the fact that it was not an insta-love theme, but the tension was too slow to built and the revelation came a little bit too late.
All in all, a wonderful tear-jerker book.
December 5, 2014
I felt for Cameron! I was so glad Sam was there for him and gave him faith which he needed. Cameron had been screwed over by so many people that I was happy that he still had the outlook that he had! :) And in the end, he was the better person out of everyone! Hopeful happy ending!
(I was kinda curious as to what Elena would have said in the end but I'm sure she would have been okay with it, lol. Was just a little tidbit in my head.)
(I was kinda curious as to what Elena would have said in the end but I'm sure she would have been okay with it, lol. Was just a little tidbit in my head.)
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