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Home #7
Walk With Me
A Book in the Home Series
When Eli Block steps into his parents' living room and sees his childhood crush sitting on the couch, he starts a shameless campaign to seduce the young rabbi. Unfortunately, Seth Cohen barely remembers Eli and he resolutely shuts down all his advances. As a tenuous and then binding friendship forms between the two men, Eli must find a way to move past his unrequited love while still keeping his best friend in his life. Not an easy feat when the same person occupies both roles.
Professional, proper Seth is shocked by Eli's brashness, overt sexuality, and easy defiance of societal norms. But he's also drawn to the happy, funny, light-filled man. As their friendship deepens over the years, Seth watches Eli mature into a man he admires and respects. But when Seth finds himself longing for what Eli had so easily offered, he has to decide whether he's willing to veer from his safe life-plan to build a future with Eli.
When Eli Block steps into his parents' living room and sees his childhood crush sitting on the couch, he starts a shameless campaign to seduce the young rabbi. Unfortunately, Seth Cohen barely remembers Eli and he resolutely shuts down all his advances. As a tenuous and then binding friendship forms between the two men, Eli must find a way to move past his unrequited love while still keeping his best friend in his life. Not an easy feat when the same person occupies both roles.
Professional, proper Seth is shocked by Eli's brashness, overt sexuality, and easy defiance of societal norms. But he's also drawn to the happy, funny, light-filled man. As their friendship deepens over the years, Seth watches Eli mature into a man he admires and respects. But when Seth finds himself longing for what Eli had so easily offered, he has to decide whether he's willing to veer from his safe life-plan to build a future with Eli.
224 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 6, 2014
38 people are currently reading
891 people want to read
About the author
Cardeno C.
69 books2,379 followersCardeno C. - CC to friends - is a hopeless romantic who wants to add a lot of happiness and a few "awwws" into a reader's day. Writing is a nice break from real life as a corporate type and volunteer work with gay rights organizations. Cardeno's stories range from sweet to intense, contemporary to paranormal, long to short, but they always include strong relationships and walks into the happily-ever-after sunset.
Heartwarming Stories. Strong Relationships. Forever Love.
Website: www.cardenoc.com
Blog: (Shared Blog) https://gayromanceauthors.blogspot.com/
Twitter: @CardenoC
FB Profile: http://www.facebook.com/CardenoC
FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carde...
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCX6M...
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/cardenoC/
Heartwarming Stories. Strong Relationships. Forever Love.
Website: www.cardenoc.com
Blog: (Shared Blog) https://gayromanceauthors.blogspot.com/
Twitter: @CardenoC
FB Profile: http://www.facebook.com/CardenoC
FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carde...
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCX6M...
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/cardenoC/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 228 reviews
December 29, 2019
Mazel tov, Cardeno C.! The final book in the Home series was a bit hit with me!
Oy, when all of these mensches on Goodreads told me that Cardeno C. was writing a M/M book about a Rabbi, I said "baruch hashem!" I mean, I'm a Jewish girl from a NYC suburb and, even though I'm married to a goy, I have a serious soft spot for Jewish M/M. So me not reading a rabbi M/M book? That's just meshugaas! So I decided to ignore my streak of Cardeno C. books that were too schmaltzy for my taste and give this one a go. And let me tell you, I got much naches from this story!
(Okay, I'm all out of Yiddish phrases...)
So anyway, this book. Aside from the Jewish details (which the author nailed, Cardeno C. is either Jewish or just knows the Jewish experience like the back of his/her hand), what I liked best about it was the slow-burn romance. These two guys really get to know each other over the course of years, and so when they finally get together, it feels like an accomplishment. I was practically giddy with excitement. It is also sexuality discovery story, which is a real passion for me. I drool over a good sexuality discovery story, and this was done really realistically. I really loved the first 70% or so. The humor, the emotion, it was all there for me.
I had a few issues with the last portion of the book, however. Part is really me being selfish. I also thought that Seth seemed overly confident for his first gay experience. Part of the reason that I love sexuality discovery stories is that the first time is so charged, so eye-opening. Seth seemed too practiced or something for my taste. I also thought that once the two men got together, the book became a bit schmoopy. It was full of "baby"s and verged on cheesy for me (<--- this has been my problem with Cardeno's books in the past).
Despite my issues at the end, this book was really fabulous overall. It is funny, light, and sexy and I think people of all religious backgrounds would be moved by this story. Especially for a girl like me who loves some hot M/M schtupping ;)
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
Oy, when all of these mensches on Goodreads told me that Cardeno C. was writing a M/M book about a Rabbi, I said "baruch hashem!" I mean, I'm a Jewish girl from a NYC suburb and, even though I'm married to a goy, I have a serious soft spot for Jewish M/M. So me not reading a rabbi M/M book? That's just meshugaas! So I decided to ignore my streak of Cardeno C. books that were too schmaltzy for my taste and give this one a go. And let me tell you, I got much naches from this story!
(Okay, I'm all out of Yiddish phrases...)
So anyway, this book. Aside from the Jewish details (which the author nailed, Cardeno C. is either Jewish or just knows the Jewish experience like the back of his/her hand), what I liked best about it was the slow-burn romance. These two guys really get to know each other over the course of years, and so when they finally get together, it feels like an accomplishment. I was practically giddy with excitement. It is also sexuality discovery story, which is a real passion for me. I drool over a good sexuality discovery story, and this was done really realistically. I really loved the first 70% or so. The humor, the emotion, it was all there for me.
I had a few issues with the last portion of the book, however. Part is really me being selfish. I also thought that Seth seemed overly confident for his first gay experience. Part of the reason that I love sexuality discovery stories is that the first time is so charged, so eye-opening. Seth seemed too practiced or something for my taste. I also thought that once the two men got together, the book became a bit schmoopy. It was full of "baby"s and verged on cheesy for me (<--- this has been my problem with Cardeno's books in the past).
Despite my issues at the end, this book was really fabulous overall. It is funny, light, and sexy and I think people of all religious backgrounds would be moved by this story. Especially for a girl like me who loves some hot M/M schtupping ;)
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
February 18, 2015
I just reread the second edition of this book, and my rating from February 2014 stands. This is a great ending to a sexy, romantic series.
This is a highly enjoyable, slightly quirky story about Seth, a new assistant rabbi who has only ever dated women, and Eli, the main rabbi's son who's been pining for Seth since he first saw Seth at summer camp when he was 11 to Seth's 20.
Seth is careful, ordered, and structured; he doesn't rush into things and overanalyzes to a fault. Eli is a little brash, a bit flamboyant, and really funny.
When Seth first joins the temple, Eli throws himself at Seth with lots of sexual innuendos and not-so-subtle come-ons. But when Eli realizes Seth isn't interested, he back off, and the two become good friends.
The book spans 13 years from first meeting in 2001 when the two are 18 and 27 to the final chapter (with a true HEA!) set in 2014. The MCs are friends but not lovers for approximately 60 percent of the book before finally getting together, and we have a few chapters dedicated to their dating and settling in as a couple.
Each chapter features a wedding invitation at the beginning. One of Seth's jobs as rabbi is to officiate weddings, and many of these occasions are debacles of the highest order. The poor man cannot keep a suit clean!
I loved that the MCs are Jewish, and that neither has any religious guilt or shame about being gay. Eli and Seth's parents are completely open and accepting of their partnership.
Incidentally, my parents are exactly like this, and they are almost offended when people praise them. To quote my dad, You shouldn't get a reward for loving your children.
Eli and Seth's moms are quintessential, old-school Jewish mamas. I found their bossy ways hilarious, since I have a Jewish mama and can completely relate.
I would have liked more detail of the men's day-to-day interactions and perhaps a bit more steam. The other books in this series are really hawt; this one's more subdued.
Overall, this is a fluffy, fun, and HAPPY read about two charming Jewish boys falling in love.
This is a highly enjoyable, slightly quirky story about Seth, a new assistant rabbi who has only ever dated women, and Eli, the main rabbi's son who's been pining for Seth since he first saw Seth at summer camp when he was 11 to Seth's 20.
Seth is careful, ordered, and structured; he doesn't rush into things and overanalyzes to a fault. Eli is a little brash, a bit flamboyant, and really funny.
When Seth first joins the temple, Eli throws himself at Seth with lots of sexual innuendos and not-so-subtle come-ons. But when Eli realizes Seth isn't interested, he back off, and the two become good friends.
The book spans 13 years from first meeting in 2001 when the two are 18 and 27 to the final chapter (with a true HEA!) set in 2014. The MCs are friends but not lovers for approximately 60 percent of the book before finally getting together, and we have a few chapters dedicated to their dating and settling in as a couple.
Each chapter features a wedding invitation at the beginning. One of Seth's jobs as rabbi is to officiate weddings, and many of these occasions are debacles of the highest order. The poor man cannot keep a suit clean!
I loved that the MCs are Jewish, and that neither has any religious guilt or shame about being gay. Eli and Seth's parents are completely open and accepting of their partnership.
Incidentally, my parents are exactly like this, and they are almost offended when people praise them. To quote my dad, You shouldn't get a reward for loving your children.
Eli and Seth's moms are quintessential, old-school Jewish mamas. I found their bossy ways hilarious, since I have a Jewish mama and can completely relate.
I would have liked more detail of the men's day-to-day interactions and perhaps a bit more steam. The other books in this series are really hawt; this one's more subdued.
Overall, this is a fluffy, fun, and HAPPY read about two charming Jewish boys falling in love.
April 4, 2014
Hear me *squee*
I've read almost every book Cardeno C. has written and always get excited when a new book comes out. This is the last one in the Home Series , *sniff sob* and I have been eagerly awaiting Eli and Seth's story.
( I have to pimp my favorite in this series He Completes Me here too, although Seth and Eli are giving Zach and Aaron a run for their money for my favorite Home Series couple)
Some of the guys from the other books make appearances, but you don't have to have read the others to enjoy this one.
I am not even sure how to review this aww-inducing book without getting all mushy and gushing going sappy-Mandy all over the place.
This book hit on so many of my * love it * buttons.
Eli is cute, funny and shamelessly enamored with Seth. He has been since he first laid eyes on the 9 year older Seth when he was just eleven years old.
Eli is so OTT flirty, poor Seth so serious and unprepared for hurricane Eli and how he is going to change his life.
“It seemed no matter what the circumstance, Eli had a way to catch me off guard and put me off balance.”
Seth feels that Eli is too young for him and he's also never really thought of himself as gay and what that will mean for his future. But he does know that he is drawn to Eli, likes Eli and wants him in his life. So that is as they say, the start of a beautiful friendship. It was wonderful to watch it develop. They are confidants, best friends and slowly but surely Seth starts to come to terms with what his feelings for Eli are and what they mean.
“Seeing him standing there, I got a glimpse into the man he’d grow into, and I ached to be by his side, watching it happen.”
Eli never doubted his feelings for Seth, I just kept thinking how awesome is it that at age 11 he just knew who he was going to love for his whole life, even when the man he fixated on didn't even know he existed at the time.
There is so much fun in this story. The weddings poor Seth has to officiate, he really does deserve hazard pay. There are dead animals, blood, broken noses, horse shit, fish euthanasia and a fire.
I'm pretty sure I've forgotten some of the adventures the marriage ceremonies caused, but I loved that not only were they entertaining to read about, but each chapter started with a wedding invitation and each chapter alternated POVs, which always lets me feel like I get to know them both better.
This is such a wonderfully sweet story, Eli matures, but in a lot of ways so does Seth. They really do grow together. It had me chuckling at the weddings and the men's families and sighing and smiling watching how perfect they are for each other.
“It had been a slow, gradual process taking him from a boy I didn’t notice to a man who, to me, took over the room until I could see nothing else. Eli was my everything and my heart hurt looking at him.”
I loved this book and can absolutely recommend it to all Cardeno C. fans and anyone who loves a real romantic story with a wonderful Happy End.
I've read almost every book Cardeno C. has written and always get excited when a new book comes out. This is the last one in the Home Series , *sniff sob* and I have been eagerly awaiting Eli and Seth's story.
( I have to pimp my favorite in this series He Completes Me here too, although Seth and Eli are giving Zach and Aaron a run for their money for my favorite Home Series couple)
Some of the guys from the other books make appearances, but you don't have to have read the others to enjoy this one.
I am not even sure how to review this aww-inducing book without getting all mushy and gushing going sappy-Mandy all over the place.
This book hit on so many of my * love it * buttons.
Eli is cute, funny and shamelessly enamored with Seth. He has been since he first laid eyes on the 9 year older Seth when he was just eleven years old.
Eli is so OTT flirty, poor Seth so serious and unprepared for hurricane Eli and how he is going to change his life.
“It seemed no matter what the circumstance, Eli had a way to catch me off guard and put me off balance.”
Seth feels that Eli is too young for him and he's also never really thought of himself as gay and what that will mean for his future. But he does know that he is drawn to Eli, likes Eli and wants him in his life. So that is as they say, the start of a beautiful friendship. It was wonderful to watch it develop. They are confidants, best friends and slowly but surely Seth starts to come to terms with what his feelings for Eli are and what they mean.
“Seeing him standing there, I got a glimpse into the man he’d grow into, and I ached to be by his side, watching it happen.”
Eli never doubted his feelings for Seth, I just kept thinking how awesome is it that at age 11 he just knew who he was going to love for his whole life, even when the man he fixated on didn't even know he existed at the time.
There is so much fun in this story. The weddings poor Seth has to officiate, he really does deserve hazard pay. There are dead animals, blood, broken noses, horse shit, fish euthanasia and a fire.
I'm pretty sure I've forgotten some of the adventures the marriage ceremonies caused, but I loved that not only were they entertaining to read about, but each chapter started with a wedding invitation and each chapter alternated POVs, which always lets me feel like I get to know them both better.
This is such a wonderfully sweet story, Eli matures, but in a lot of ways so does Seth. They really do grow together. It had me chuckling at the weddings and the men's families and sighing and smiling watching how perfect they are for each other.
“It had been a slow, gradual process taking him from a boy I didn’t notice to a man who, to me, took over the room until I could see nothing else. Eli was my everything and my heart hurt looking at him.”
I loved this book and can absolutely recommend it to all Cardeno C. fans and anyone who loves a real romantic story with a wonderful Happy End.
May 25, 2016
4 stars!
Walk with Me is the last book in the Home Series by C. Cardeno. I started with this part of the series, as all of them are working perfectly as stand-alones. And I have to say that I'm very interesting in reading the other books of this series; I'm looking forward to more sweet stories by this author.
And Walk with Me was definitly sweet - incredibly sweet even!. And this is mostly due to the story's charming characters. I immediately fell in love with Eli; he is young, sweet, full of energy and so very refreshing. And he is passionate in wanting to make his childhood crush become his lover.
Seth on the other hand is a little oldfashioned. When he starts to understand his feelings for Eli, he isn't able to overcome his doubts due to Eli's age and the fact that he is the son of his boss.
This story is all about sexual tension. It's everywhere! All around them and so very obvious - to everybody really! But somehow Eli and Seth manage to be terribly oblivious to the feelings of the other and they keep dancing around each other. It even got a little frustrating at times; I wanted to grab and shake some sense into both of them.
And I have to say that this book made me laugh out loud at countless times - theme weddings are really something!
Nice cover by the way!
Walk with Me is the last book in the Home Series by C. Cardeno. I started with this part of the series, as all of them are working perfectly as stand-alones. And I have to say that I'm very interesting in reading the other books of this series; I'm looking forward to more sweet stories by this author.
And Walk with Me was definitly sweet - incredibly sweet even!. And this is mostly due to the story's charming characters. I immediately fell in love with Eli; he is young, sweet, full of energy and so very refreshing. And he is passionate in wanting to make his childhood crush become his lover.
Seth on the other hand is a little oldfashioned. When he starts to understand his feelings for Eli, he isn't able to overcome his doubts due to Eli's age and the fact that he is the son of his boss.
This story is all about sexual tension. It's everywhere! All around them and so very obvious - to everybody really! But somehow Eli and Seth manage to be terribly oblivious to the feelings of the other and they keep dancing around each other. It even got a little frustrating at times; I wanted to grab and shake some sense into both of them.
And I have to say that this book made me laugh out loud at countless times - theme weddings are really something!
Nice cover by the way!
April 19, 2019
That was so full of awesomeness that am going to start my Cardeno C audio gorge-fest all over again. I now have audio of ALL of my favorite Cardeno C books, and I'm not afraid to listen to them over and over until my cheeks hurt from all of the smiles.
Reread 08/30/2015, 09/01/2015, 09/05/2015, 09/17/2015, 11/28/2015, 12/29/2015, 3/13/2017, 6/17/2017, 2/26/2018, 7/25/2018, 4/19/2019
Reread 08/30/2015, 09/01/2015, 09/05/2015, 09/17/2015, 11/28/2015, 12/29/2015, 3/13/2017, 6/17/2017, 2/26/2018, 7/25/2018, 4/19/2019
September 16, 2021
Looking for narration that will have you laughing out loud, blushing at the sexy times, and cheering at the HEA? Look no further - Walk With Me delivers on all fronts. Filled with humor, hotness, and pure happiness Alexander Collins delivers a spotless performance.
I love Seth and Eli SO much!
Their story takes place over thirteen years, allowing you to really get to know Seth and Eli and to root for them to be together. This isn't a typical insta-love story. There is definitely relationship building and some major UST. When the sexy times finally commence after the slow, slow burn? Let's just say Seth may be professional and proper in the pulpit, but he is a freak in the sheets, and me likee. Me likee long time.
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This is also one of Cardeno's funniest stories. Seriously, there are so many laugh out loud moments in this, I can't even count them all, but I sure am grateful for them. The invitations at the beginning of each chapter are hysterical, and all the wedding shenanigans and fails are worth listening to the narration for alone.
Low angst, humor, heat, and light fluffy goodness - fans of the Home series collection (and newcomers alike) should be absolutely delighted with the story and narration performance. The story and narration is perfect!
HIGHLY AND DECIDEDLY RECOMMENDED!!
This review has been cross-posted at Reviews by Jessewave.
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This ties for my favorite book of the Home series with He Completes Me.
Read: 07/2014, 08/2014, 09/2014, 11/2014, 02/2015, 05/2015, 08/2015
January 27, 2014
Walk With Me is a total and utter joy to read. From the very beginning to the very end, I was hooked, and I did not want it any other way.
The main characters, Eli and Seth, are terrific in their own right. They were meant to be together, but, boy, it took some time....I fell in love with them both. Eli, so cheeky, full of life, hopeful. Seth so honourable, so sensible, so charming.
The story is engaging, fun, it made me worry from time to time, nothing boring here, but no major dramas either. Nope. All entertaining stuff. There were times I laughed so hard, and loud - who knew Rabbi's can preside over so many...interesting weddings. Other times I had a tear or two in my eyes.
I love it when the families of the MC's are good people - accepting, loving, just plain nice. Both families here were funny and nice people.
A big "A" for awww. Walk With Me is so romantic, sweet, there were some lovely turns of phrase and thoughts.
I have discovered few authors can write time passing like Cardeno C and make it seem like nothing is missing.
The build to the sex is both delicious and torturous all at once. But the sex is SO very good when it happens. Oh, yes, it is.
If you like Cardeno C this is a must-read. If you haven't read Cardeno C before, know Walk With Me can be read as a standalone, don't worry about it being part of a series.
Quality writing, beautifully presented (you will see what I mean when you read it), delightful story and characters. Seriously, get a copy of this book when it is released. Highly recommended. Review at http://ontopdownunderbookreviews.com/...
December 22, 2022
I adore this book. I know it's my favorite of this series,but I'm pretty sure it's my favorite by Cardeno C. I adored Eli and Seth. I adored Eli's snark and wit. I loved watching him grow into a man. I really loved watching the friendship transform into an everlasting love. If you are looking for a feel good story with a solid HEA, look no further than here.
2nd edition- read 05/29/2015 (1st edition read umpteen times)
Re-read 08/11/2015
Reread 1/13/2017 such a perfect slow burn
REREAD 12/21/2022 My absolute FAVORITE Cardeno book. There isn’t anything about this book that I didn’t like.
2nd edition- read 05/29/2015 (1st edition read umpteen times)
Re-read 08/11/2015
Reread 1/13/2017 such a perfect slow burn
REREAD 12/21/2022 My absolute FAVORITE Cardeno book. There isn’t anything about this book that I didn’t like.
January 15, 2019
I liked this! It's a super sweet, low angst, slow burn romance.
3.5 stars
3.5 stars
July 29, 2016
5 Stars! Loved this funny, sweet, spicy, friends to lovers story!
This is my second read by this author, and once again I was pleasantly surprised. Cardeno C. knows how to draw on a reader's emotions and tug at their heartstrings. I'm working backwards here, because although Walk with Me is the 8th book in the Home series, it's my first. But, no matter, the series is connected in theme only, not by characters or a continuing story, and it can be read as a standalone. The title of the series, Home, seems to define the adage, "home is where the heart is", because Walk with Me speaks the language of comfort, familiarity and love.
Seth had me at "Shalom"! What an easy going, charming, endearing man! Throughout the book he is the "calm in the storm", and when one wedding after another goes awry that he's officiating, he always seems to find the good among the chaos. Okay, so I'm just going to say it, there is something highly erotic about a man of the cloth exploring his sexuality. I got to tell you, Seth set my heart a flutter and made me tingle and other things...all over!! Is that sacrilegious...lusting over a rabbi?! Who cares...hello hell here I come!
While I didn't initially care for Eli, he was somewhat of a horn dog, I chalked it up to his youth and the fact that he was so enamored by Seth that it made him a little crazy...something I understood completely. I began to admire Eli, secure in who he was, determined to win Seth's heart by proving to him that he was deserving of his love, and my feelings for him changed. He grew into a beautiful caring young man, still adamant about who he wanted, but kept it quietly to himself, or so he thought. When the man of his dreams, the love of his life, realizes that Eli is who he wants, Eli was so blown away...well...talk about being shocked and in awe...pretty funny stuff, and incredibly sweet...and hot, let's not forget HOT!
There were so many things to love about this book; the writing is excellent, plenty of dialogue, entertaining secondary characters, it's passionate and sensual, and Cardeno C. is really good with the "shtick". You'll laugh as much as you swoon. The alternating points of view did a wonderful job of getting into the character's heads and allowed the reader to experience the emotional turmoil they were going through, especially in understanding Seth's thought process. But, what I think I loved the most was that Seth's choice didn’t define his sexuality; he didn't choose a gender, he chose Eli, the person he loved!
*A copy of the book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
February 7, 2014
We all have auto buy authors and Cardeno C has recently become one of mine so when I saw that his latest, but sadly last, in the Home series was up for grabs to review I was first one in the queue shouting: Me! Me! Me!
Walk With Me was just what I wanted it to be. Sweet, sexy, funny and engaging. Done in a sort of "When Harry Met Sally" style, it charts the friends to lovers story of Eli Block and Seth Cohen over a period of thirteen years but Eli actually falls in love with Seth, way before the book starts, as he reminisces about the first time he first set eyes on him at summer camp when he was eleven and Seth was a youth counsellor but when we first meet Eli, he's eighteen, happily out and proud to his parents and making one of many outrageous, open plays for twenty seven year old Seth when he arrives in Emile City to continue his Rabbi training under Eli's father, Rabbi Avi Block.
Secretly Seth is just as taken with Eli, in fact the first time he sees him, this beautiful, shamelessly flirty young man takes his breath away but Seth isn't ready to admit to any possible feelings of attraction to another man, even though he's had them before. In essence it becomes clear if you're going to put a label on him, Seth is Bi but he shy's away from his feelings for men and just dates the odd girl. This isn't really a GFY trope, more a will they/won't they romance because over the years they constantly fight their feelings for each other, whilst settling into a deep friendship that you know one day will have to come to a head because no one can fight true love when its staring them in the face!
" So I was a serious guy who had never seriously fallen for anyone. And then Eli ran up.
He was holding a skateboard.
His hair was too long.
His jeans were too fitted.
His shirt was nonexistent.
He was my boss's son.
He was way too young.
And he was a he."
So that's the basis but like all good stories its how you get there that makes this such an enjoyable book. On the way Cardeno puts a lovely little twist on it by heading each chapter with a printed wedding invitation header that includes a great quote, theme of the wedding, couples names and the date, so through those, as milestones, we go on a journey that's not only funny, because those themed weddings don't always go to plan as poor old Seth finds out, and I got more than one giggle from them along the way, but they also highlight each stage of their relationship as it progresses from early (uneasy on Seth's part) crushing...through burgeoning solid friendship...to unavoidable hot for each other romance. Told from both POV's it shows how the misconceptions that tend to happen in this type of plot fuel the storyline and even though that's nothing new, because the two of them are so endearing it draws you in and you're caught up in all the hooha, urging them on to that foregone conclusion that we can see coming but for a long time eludes our lovely boys.
Now the thing is, if you're a fan of Mr C then you'll know that this writer is no slouch in the love scene department. This man writes HOT sex scenes and I mean HOT!!! Its part of what I love about his books. The connection and chemistry never fails to sizzle and many a time I've got pretty hot under the collar but this story is really quite different in so much as sex doesn't actually happen until just over half way because of course the whole idea is based on the long drawn out sexual tension that builds over the years as they dance around each other and do you know what? I liked that just fine because when the long anticipated inevitable finally happens, OMG! its soooo worth the wait and the love scenes that follow are ultra sexy and high voltage electric. In fact between the sheets Seth is nothing short of surprising!! Shallow or not that's partly what bumped it up to 5 stars and it wasn't just the sex it was because suddenly all that build up exploded into some awesome on page chemistry that was palpable and I could really feel the love that had been simmering so long.
Eli is one lucky boy and I became one very satisfied reader!
One constant thread throughout the book is of course that its set in and around the Jewish faith and three of the characters are Rabbi's but never once did I feel I was reading a 'religious' book. Neither did the religion result in any negativity towards the gay aspect of the story which you tend to get in most books that mix the two together. Is the Jewish religion more forgiving? I honestly don't know but I do know one thing, it was a refreshing change to see their sexuality embraced and accepted by religious figures in a m/m romance! This isn't an angsty book as such, most of the conflict comes mainly from the pulling and pushing between them and apart from one slightly bigger misunderstanding, most of it is Seth's reluctance to give in to his feelings for Eli so the overall feel of the book is light and hopeful rather than dark and morose and I loved it.
There were guest appearances from the guys we've grown to love from the other books in the series and the ending was just perfect. Satisfying and truly romantic. If Cardeno had to wrap up this series then this story is a fitting end. Sad to see the last of Emile City but let's be honest if you keep your books like I do they're only a second away on your kindle or bookshelf, so you can revisit them all again and again and I intend to do just that. I've read and fallen in love with all three books in his Family Series so now its on to his shifters which have been waiting patiently, but far too long for their turn to hook me in!
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Walk With Me was just what I wanted it to be. Sweet, sexy, funny and engaging. Done in a sort of "When Harry Met Sally" style, it charts the friends to lovers story of Eli Block and Seth Cohen over a period of thirteen years but Eli actually falls in love with Seth, way before the book starts, as he reminisces about the first time he first set eyes on him at summer camp when he was eleven and Seth was a youth counsellor but when we first meet Eli, he's eighteen, happily out and proud to his parents and making one of many outrageous, open plays for twenty seven year old Seth when he arrives in Emile City to continue his Rabbi training under Eli's father, Rabbi Avi Block.
Secretly Seth is just as taken with Eli, in fact the first time he sees him, this beautiful, shamelessly flirty young man takes his breath away but Seth isn't ready to admit to any possible feelings of attraction to another man, even though he's had them before. In essence it becomes clear if you're going to put a label on him, Seth is Bi but he shy's away from his feelings for men and just dates the odd girl. This isn't really a GFY trope, more a will they/won't they romance because over the years they constantly fight their feelings for each other, whilst settling into a deep friendship that you know one day will have to come to a head because no one can fight true love when its staring them in the face!
" So I was a serious guy who had never seriously fallen for anyone. And then Eli ran up.
He was holding a skateboard.
His hair was too long.
His jeans were too fitted.
His shirt was nonexistent.
He was my boss's son.
He was way too young.
And he was a he."
So that's the basis but like all good stories its how you get there that makes this such an enjoyable book. On the way Cardeno puts a lovely little twist on it by heading each chapter with a printed wedding invitation header that includes a great quote, theme of the wedding, couples names and the date, so through those, as milestones, we go on a journey that's not only funny, because those themed weddings don't always go to plan as poor old Seth finds out, and I got more than one giggle from them along the way, but they also highlight each stage of their relationship as it progresses from early (uneasy on Seth's part) crushing...through burgeoning solid friendship...to unavoidable hot for each other romance. Told from both POV's it shows how the misconceptions that tend to happen in this type of plot fuel the storyline and even though that's nothing new, because the two of them are so endearing it draws you in and you're caught up in all the hooha, urging them on to that foregone conclusion that we can see coming but for a long time eludes our lovely boys.
Now the thing is, if you're a fan of Mr C then you'll know that this writer is no slouch in the love scene department. This man writes HOT sex scenes and I mean HOT!!! Its part of what I love about his books. The connection and chemistry never fails to sizzle and many a time I've got pretty hot under the collar but this story is really quite different in so much as sex doesn't actually happen until just over half way because of course the whole idea is based on the long drawn out sexual tension that builds over the years as they dance around each other and do you know what? I liked that just fine because when the long anticipated inevitable finally happens, OMG! its soooo worth the wait and the love scenes that follow are ultra sexy and high voltage electric. In fact between the sheets Seth is nothing short of surprising!! Shallow or not that's partly what bumped it up to 5 stars and it wasn't just the sex it was because suddenly all that build up exploded into some awesome on page chemistry that was palpable and I could really feel the love that had been simmering so long.
Eli is one lucky boy and I became one very satisfied reader!
One constant thread throughout the book is of course that its set in and around the Jewish faith and three of the characters are Rabbi's but never once did I feel I was reading a 'religious' book. Neither did the religion result in any negativity towards the gay aspect of the story which you tend to get in most books that mix the two together. Is the Jewish religion more forgiving? I honestly don't know but I do know one thing, it was a refreshing change to see their sexuality embraced and accepted by religious figures in a m/m romance! This isn't an angsty book as such, most of the conflict comes mainly from the pulling and pushing between them and apart from one slightly bigger misunderstanding, most of it is Seth's reluctance to give in to his feelings for Eli so the overall feel of the book is light and hopeful rather than dark and morose and I loved it.
There were guest appearances from the guys we've grown to love from the other books in the series and the ending was just perfect. Satisfying and truly romantic. If Cardeno had to wrap up this series then this story is a fitting end. Sad to see the last of Emile City but let's be honest if you keep your books like I do they're only a second away on your kindle or bookshelf, so you can revisit them all again and again and I intend to do just that. I've read and fallen in love with all three books in his Family Series so now its on to his shifters which have been waiting patiently, but far too long for their turn to hook me in!
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September 5, 2014
This last book in the Home series had everything I enjoyed in the prior books. Eli has been in love with Seth since he was 11 and Seth was a counselor at his summer camp. Years later Seth comes to work at the temple where Eli's father is a rabbi and what starts out as a relentless campaign of sexual innuendo and extreme flirting on Eli's part, soon becomes a strong friendship. As Eli is away at college, Seth's embarrassment and hands off vow begins to slowly crumble.
The book follows the men with snippets throughout the years, often punctuated with outlandish weddings that Seth has the misfortune of officiating, as their relationship changes from lust to friendship and finally to love (with a bit of hot sex as well) in the Cardeno C fashion I know I can always count on. If you haven't read any of the other stories in the series, there are appearances by other characters, but it also works easily as a standalone.
The book follows the men with snippets throughout the years, often punctuated with outlandish weddings that Seth has the misfortune of officiating, as their relationship changes from lust to friendship and finally to love (with a bit of hot sex as well) in the Cardeno C fashion I know I can always count on. If you haven't read any of the other stories in the series, there are appearances by other characters, but it also works easily as a standalone.
June 24, 2015
Sigh...
Really hoped I'd enjoy this one as much as I enjoyed Where He Ends and I Begin, but I didn't. I'm not a fan of over the top slap stick comedy, plus once they got together there was absolutely no conflict. 2.5 Stars.
Really hoped I'd enjoy this one as much as I enjoyed Where He Ends and I Begin, but I didn't. I'm not a fan of over the top slap stick comedy, plus once they got together there was absolutely no conflict. 2.5 Stars.
February 9, 2014
2.75
Maybe it was a mistake for me to read only the last book in this series without having read any of the others. Are Seth and Eli recurring characters? I get the feeling that I'm missing valuable information about the two of them.
This story is basically just one huge flashback extended over ten years and while the moments were somewhat sweet I didn't get the information that I like with a good flashback. This is where the big issue with this story was for me:
The characters do have great chemistry, both as friends and as lovers. That part worked for me but there too many holes here that I suspect may be filled from previous books so surprise, surprise book seven of this series isn't a standalone. O_o
Maybe it was a mistake for me to read only the last book in this series without having read any of the others. Are Seth and Eli recurring characters? I get the feeling that I'm missing valuable information about the two of them.
This story is basically just one huge flashback extended over ten years and while the moments were somewhat sweet I didn't get the information that I like with a good flashback. This is where the big issue with this story was for me:
The characters do have great chemistry, both as friends and as lovers. That part worked for me but there too many holes here that I suspect may be filled from previous books so surprise, surprise book seven of this series isn't a standalone. O_o
February 11, 2014
Loved it! I have been bored with several books lately, but this one hooked me right away and I finished it in one day. Lovely romantic story and very hot too.
June 4, 2016
*** This is a lighthearted, (sort of GFY) story, that is sweet, funny, and deeply moving ! ***
Eli with his wild ways, and brash nature has know older Seth since childhood.
After having gone to school, Seth is now a Rabi, and Eli still wants him.
These guy's journey is one of friendship, secret longing, and true emotions. I adore Cardeno's wonderful characters, who are so full of life !
Each and every characters is amazing, and the years tick by as these guys try to find their way.
Beautifully written, this story has a running theme of the strange weddings Rabi Seth must officiate as the newest of the Temple's leaders. What an awesome addition the quirky ceremonies were. Some were simply hilarious, and we could picture it all, even the craziness showed us the steadfastness of the Rabi, and his realistic inner search for his true self.
Let's see, there is Zombie wedding... gone wrong...
Rocky Horror fiasco...
horses, squirrels, dead doves and butterflies,
and dead fish, too !
Completely adorable, very sizzling and sexy, plus heaps of fun, this tale will long be remembered. In this series the stories can stand alone, but it is fun to recognize some of the previous people.
ENJOY !!!
=================.
Eli with his wild ways, and brash nature has know older Seth since childhood.
After having gone to school, Seth is now a Rabi, and Eli still wants him.
These guy's journey is one of friendship, secret longing, and true emotions. I adore Cardeno's wonderful characters, who are so full of life !
Each and every characters is amazing, and the years tick by as these guys try to find their way.
Beautifully written, this story has a running theme of the strange weddings Rabi Seth must officiate as the newest of the Temple's leaders. What an awesome addition the quirky ceremonies were. Some were simply hilarious, and we could picture it all, even the craziness showed us the steadfastness of the Rabi, and his realistic inner search for his true self.
Let's see, there is Zombie wedding... gone wrong...
Rocky Horror fiasco...
horses, squirrels, dead doves and butterflies,
and dead fish, too !
Completely adorable, very sizzling and sexy, plus heaps of fun, this tale will long be remembered. In this series the stories can stand alone, but it is fun to recognize some of the previous people.
ENJOY !!!
=================.
May 4, 2016
“The ability to marry brought with it legal rights and responsibilities, emotional relief and joy, and the potential to start an interfamily battle so profound the destruction of the Temple would seem small in comparison.”
Eli Block has been infatuated, mesmerized, and focused on Seth Cohen since he first laid eyes on him at age eleven. Years later, when Eli’s father hires Seth as an assistant Rabbi, Eli figures it is his chance to snag his man. But Seth is totally (sort-of) and completely (maybe?) straight and doesn’t know what to do with the brash and enthusiastic advances of the 18 year old man. Seth likes Eli, sure, but then most people do. He figures the best he has to offer the young man is his friendship. And when Eli sees that it will probably come down to friends or nothing, he chooses to be in Seth’s life however, and as whomever, he can.
Seth may see all of Eli’s beauty, but he does not know if he can give the man what he needs. Eli may want Seth, but he may have to cope with never having the love he desires. When friendship is flavored with want and need, is it possible that they can both find the love they crave?
Things I shall now never have within five miles of my (highly unlikely) wedding:
1) Animals. Especially ones prone to defecating, chasing, bleeding, and/or dying horribly gruesome deaths.
2) Fire. A room full of pyromaniacs does not mix well with all things hot and sparky.
3) Tents. These are dangerous, gravity prone accidents waiting to happen.
4) Children. Mostly because I find them smelly and annoying.
If there is one thing that Walk With Me has taught me, it is that weddings are dangerous and combustible. They are also only one day in a whole life of love, learning, and scrambling your way through with the person who means the most to you in the world.
This story is told (mostly) through a series of weddings that Seth officiates, over the course of several years (um…think it is more than five years, and less than ten…maybe. I can’t really be asked to do math right now). The weddings themselves are not the focal point, but more a comical stage to play out the lives of Eli, Seth, and their family and friends. And everything that can go wrong will go wrong–for the celebration itself, anyways.
For Seth and Eli, it is not so much a story of missed connections or wrong choices, but years of growing up and growing in love. Eli has always been half in love with Seth, but it is not a kind of love that lasts through thick and thin–-at least not in the beginning. And Seth, even when he is no longer sure he’s entirely straight, doesn’t know if his love for his friend is enough of a love for the man. I really liked how, despite the connection forged early on in their relationship, it takes year for them to reach the point where they are together as a real couple. And I am not just saying that as a total slow-burn junkie. And when they finally both fall…well who knew straight-laced, responsible Seth was so playful in bed? No to mention all his lovely toys…
While this book kinda reads like a “what not to do at a wedding if you treasure your life” guidance manual, it was a lot of fun to see all the crazy weddings. From the gruesome (oh, those poor squirrels) to the wacky (zombies!) to the downright morbidly competitive:
“I’m saving it and this entire wedding from pain and horror and screaming. It’s merciful. Like euthanasia for fish.” I caught the fish and started pulling my hand out. “Think of it like fishanasia.”
I dropped the fish into his hands. “How many is that? Do we have more than fifteen?”
“Eli!” Seth hissed. “Dr. Kevorkian didn’t count his kills.”
“That’s only because he didn’t have any competition.”
Seth opened his mouth to respond but was interrupted by Donny’s shout from across the room. “Done! How many did you get?”
The only real complaint I have is the three-year time jump, after Eli and Seth finally get together. I get that is was important to get to the last few weddings (and I wouldn’t have missed the deadfished wedding for anything) but it felt like there was a lot we missed out on in those three years of learning to be a couple. Would also have loved to see a bit more of hot-and-frisky Seth-–but that is probably just my libido speaking. The switching 1st person pov, was occasionally confusing as well, but it did not distract me too much.
Walk With Me is the last book in Cordeno C.’s Home Series, and I have to say it was a very nice cap on an already great cast of characters, stories, and romances. While I will miss getting the chance to see more of all these guys, I’ll take comfort in the fact that all I need to do to see them again is click a few buttons on my Kindle. I really enjoyed this story, and while I fully intend to force my bridesmaids to dress up as Daleks and my groomsmen as Cybermen, I think I’ve learned that it is probably best to leave all non-essential living creatures out of the ceremony. This book was fun, romantic, and a nice ending to 3 years in the lovely Emile City.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
November 4, 2015
This was lovely. So sweet and heartbreaking all at the same time.
I loved reading Seth and Eli's journey. Yes, at times it broke my heart but it was worth it in the end. It wasn't overly angsty, more you just ached for them to just be together. Eli was just adorable. I wanted to give him a big hug and tell him everything was going to work out perfectly. Seth...Seth needed a shake so badly for the first half of this book. I get why he was so hesitant, but it was hard knowing how perfect they were together and that the only thing that was stopping them being completely happy was Seth's confusion. He was perfect in the second half though. They were so sweet and hot together. The ending was so wonderful and romantic. I still have happy butterflies in my stomach from it.
I loved how each chapter started with a wedding invitation. I thought it was really clever. The weddings were all seriously hilarious. I laughed so much throughout this book.
This would have been a four star book for me but there was one thing that seriously annoyed me, and I had to take a star of for it.
I still really, really loved this book and this couple. They were amazing. It's left me with a seriously happy feeling inside!
I loved reading Seth and Eli's journey. Yes, at times it broke my heart but it was worth it in the end. It wasn't overly angsty, more you just ached for them to just be together. Eli was just adorable. I wanted to give him a big hug and tell him everything was going to work out perfectly. Seth...Seth needed a shake so badly for the first half of this book. I get why he was so hesitant, but it was hard knowing how perfect they were together and that the only thing that was stopping them being completely happy was Seth's confusion. He was perfect in the second half though. They were so sweet and hot together. The ending was so wonderful and romantic. I still have happy butterflies in my stomach from it.
I loved how each chapter started with a wedding invitation. I thought it was really clever. The weddings were all seriously hilarious. I laughed so much throughout this book.
This would have been a four star book for me but there was one thing that seriously annoyed me, and I had to take a star of for it.
I still really, really loved this book and this couple. They were amazing. It's left me with a seriously happy feeling inside!
June 30, 2020
Very sweet love story with a friends to lovers theme. Cardeno C. includes a good deal of humor in this one, in the form of "weddings gone wrong". There are some pretty funny mishaps.
I did the audiobook which was narrated by Alexander Collins (who I completely forgot is also Mark Westfield whom I love, so I was pretty happy about that). I really enjoy his voice.
an audiobook copy of Walk With Me was provided to me for the purpose of my honest review
I did the audiobook which was narrated by Alexander Collins (who I completely forgot is also Mark Westfield whom I love, so I was pretty happy about that). I really enjoy his voice.
an audiobook copy of Walk With Me was provided to me for the purpose of my honest review
March 10, 2018
2.5 / 5
By this point I've for sure determined that Cardeno C's non-shifter stuff is generally not for me. I often find her characters and plots boring and two saccharine.
Pretty much the only part of this story I loved was the fact that the main character was a queer rabbi. There was a long build up which isn't unto itself a bad thing, but honestly I didn't care a lot for the main couple. The theme weddings were interesting, but I didn't get any laughs out of them (which was probably what the author intended). I think I'll just keep my eyes peeled for her shifter stuff and nix the rest.
By this point I've for sure determined that Cardeno C's non-shifter stuff is generally not for me. I often find her characters and plots boring and two saccharine.
Pretty much the only part of this story I loved was the fact that the main character was a queer rabbi. There was a long build up which isn't unto itself a bad thing, but honestly I didn't care a lot for the main couple. The theme weddings were interesting, but I didn't get any laughs out of them (which was probably what the author intended). I think I'll just keep my eyes peeled for her shifter stuff and nix the rest.
September 3, 2014
REVIEWED FOR PRISM BOOK ALLIANCE
4.5 Stars
I have really enjoyed this entire series and this book was a perfect addition. Eli and Seth will quickly grab your hearts as they take you on their journey that spans over a decade.
If there was ever any truth in ‘love at first sight’ Eli Brock would be the one to believe it. He was only 11 years old when he first ran into Seth, who was 20, at a summer camp. That first meeting, although unknown at the time, would set the ball rolling on a friendship in the future that would become an epic love story.
After Eli hasn’t seen Seth for a few years he comes home to find him sitting in his living room. Seth has finished his rabbi training and will be will working for Eli’s father at the temple. Eli is 18 and horny and puts on quite a desperate show for Seth. Eli’s parents are amused but Seth nearly swallows his tongue!
Over the next few years a lot of things change and there is a lot of suggestive flirting. Eli goes away to college and starts to grow up. He has his first sexual experiences and they don’t live up to the fantasy. On each visit back home he spends more and more time with Seth and they become very close friends. He realises eventually that his overt flirting with the other man may damage the friendship they have built and he reins it in. He would be devastated if he lost his best friend.
His feelings haven’t changed though and he still wants Seth more than anything else in the world.
Seth first found Eli and his flirting intimidating. As the years have passed he comes to value Eli’s friendship and respect the man that Eli is becoming. When the flirting stops and Eli starts talking about boyfriends at college Seth realises he is jealous. This leaves Seth in a quandary. For the first time ever he needs to seriously consider his sexuality and his feelings for this much younger man that is a huge part of his life. He is an all or nothing kind of man and if he was ever going to give more of himself to Eli it would be his all and it would be forever.
This story is very funnily told through other peoples weddings. Some of them are hilarious! As the younger and still training member of the temple these events usually fall to Seth and he seems to bounce from one disaster to the other. Eli is the first person Seth talks to about each disaster and it seems the only people in the world who don’t realise that they are already virtually in a relationship together is themselves.
When Seth realises what he wants with clarity he just has to figure out how best to finally say yes to a man that has been asking since he was 18. I loved the strength of Eli’s feelings when they finally got together. His shaking body, his love, his fear and his utter bewilderment that he had in his arms the one thing he had wanted for so long. It was the perfect completion of their friendship and the start of their love affair. It was also the perfect way to end our stay in Emile City.
4.5 Stars
I have really enjoyed this entire series and this book was a perfect addition. Eli and Seth will quickly grab your hearts as they take you on their journey that spans over a decade.
If there was ever any truth in ‘love at first sight’ Eli Brock would be the one to believe it. He was only 11 years old when he first ran into Seth, who was 20, at a summer camp. That first meeting, although unknown at the time, would set the ball rolling on a friendship in the future that would become an epic love story.
After Eli hasn’t seen Seth for a few years he comes home to find him sitting in his living room. Seth has finished his rabbi training and will be will working for Eli’s father at the temple. Eli is 18 and horny and puts on quite a desperate show for Seth. Eli’s parents are amused but Seth nearly swallows his tongue!
Over the next few years a lot of things change and there is a lot of suggestive flirting. Eli goes away to college and starts to grow up. He has his first sexual experiences and they don’t live up to the fantasy. On each visit back home he spends more and more time with Seth and they become very close friends. He realises eventually that his overt flirting with the other man may damage the friendship they have built and he reins it in. He would be devastated if he lost his best friend.
His feelings haven’t changed though and he still wants Seth more than anything else in the world.
Seth first found Eli and his flirting intimidating. As the years have passed he comes to value Eli’s friendship and respect the man that Eli is becoming. When the flirting stops and Eli starts talking about boyfriends at college Seth realises he is jealous. This leaves Seth in a quandary. For the first time ever he needs to seriously consider his sexuality and his feelings for this much younger man that is a huge part of his life. He is an all or nothing kind of man and if he was ever going to give more of himself to Eli it would be his all and it would be forever.
This story is very funnily told through other peoples weddings. Some of them are hilarious! As the younger and still training member of the temple these events usually fall to Seth and he seems to bounce from one disaster to the other. Eli is the first person Seth talks to about each disaster and it seems the only people in the world who don’t realise that they are already virtually in a relationship together is themselves.
When Seth realises what he wants with clarity he just has to figure out how best to finally say yes to a man that has been asking since he was 18. I loved the strength of Eli’s feelings when they finally got together. His shaking body, his love, his fear and his utter bewilderment that he had in his arms the one thing he had wanted for so long. It was the perfect completion of their friendship and the start of their love affair. It was also the perfect way to end our stay in Emile City.
September 25, 2015
Originally posted on http://mikkysworldofbooks.blogspot.ro...
Where do I begin?
Walk With Me is a story about friendship, about never giving up even when it feels like you’ve reached the end of the road.
Eli Block is a colorful character. At least that’s the way he appears in the beginning.
He’s all for telling it like it is and going after what he wants and his eyes are set on the elusive rabbi Seth Cohen, on whom he’s always had a crush.
What Eli never imagined was walking into a wall of rejection.
Seth is straight, always has been and, even if that weren’t true, Eli is way too young to consider accepting his advances. At least that’s what he’s trying to convince himself of.
But Eli is not ready to give up without a battle.
One of the things I liked about this book was how the story was told.
Since it covers a decade or so in the life of the characters, skipping through large periods of time was unavoidable BUT, it was expertly done so it seemed like no more than one day has passed from one chapter to the other.
There are a lot of funny situations involving Seth and wedding ceremonies and almost every new reunion happens after one such event. A clever way to take the reader’s mind off the fact that maybe years have passed between scenes – add humor to the story.
Another point was earned by the way the author still managed to show how the characters grow and evolve step by step along the way.
Especially Eli.
You’ll see him go from hormonal teenager to a responsible and respected adult who’s had his fair share of disappointments and has made mistakes that, in the end, helped him grow and evolve, and taught him a few important lessons.
One thing that remains a constant among all the changes are Eli’s feelings for Seth.
From almost strangers to best friends, the bond between Seth and Eli strengthens and builds one step at a time, going through every stage and preparing them for a day that might never come.
This was a really good novel I highly recommend. Cardeno C. sure knows how to tell a story.
And since this is supposed to be an audiobook review, I can only say, WOW!
The book is funny if you read it but I was howling with laughter while listening to it.
If you know me then you know how picky I am when it comes to narrators and audiobooks, and it takes a lot to get a positive review from me but this one totally deserves it. Alexander Collins is brilliant and you’ll love every second of it.
Definitely a must read/listen to.
Where do I begin?
Walk With Me is a story about friendship, about never giving up even when it feels like you’ve reached the end of the road.
Eli Block is a colorful character. At least that’s the way he appears in the beginning.
He’s all for telling it like it is and going after what he wants and his eyes are set on the elusive rabbi Seth Cohen, on whom he’s always had a crush.
What Eli never imagined was walking into a wall of rejection.
Seth is straight, always has been and, even if that weren’t true, Eli is way too young to consider accepting his advances. At least that’s what he’s trying to convince himself of.
But Eli is not ready to give up without a battle.
One of the things I liked about this book was how the story was told.
Since it covers a decade or so in the life of the characters, skipping through large periods of time was unavoidable BUT, it was expertly done so it seemed like no more than one day has passed from one chapter to the other.
There are a lot of funny situations involving Seth and wedding ceremonies and almost every new reunion happens after one such event. A clever way to take the reader’s mind off the fact that maybe years have passed between scenes – add humor to the story.
Another point was earned by the way the author still managed to show how the characters grow and evolve step by step along the way.
Especially Eli.
You’ll see him go from hormonal teenager to a responsible and respected adult who’s had his fair share of disappointments and has made mistakes that, in the end, helped him grow and evolve, and taught him a few important lessons.
One thing that remains a constant among all the changes are Eli’s feelings for Seth.
From almost strangers to best friends, the bond between Seth and Eli strengthens and builds one step at a time, going through every stage and preparing them for a day that might never come.
This was a really good novel I highly recommend. Cardeno C. sure knows how to tell a story.
And since this is supposed to be an audiobook review, I can only say, WOW!
The book is funny if you read it but I was howling with laughter while listening to it.
If you know me then you know how picky I am when it comes to narrators and audiobooks, and it takes a lot to get a positive review from me but this one totally deserves it. Alexander Collins is brilliant and you’ll love every second of it.
Definitely a must read/listen to.
January 25, 2014
I was honored with an advance copy of this book directly from the author.
And I read and giggled and laughed out loud and sighed and awww'd and sniffled and smiled.
I loved the inclusion of the various wedding invitations as much as the depictions of wedding disasters, and I adored both main characters, their families and their friends. Theirs was a journey of hope, faith and love. The writing draws you in from the start and never let's you go. It's engaging, honest and humorous, yet emotional when befitting the situation, and holy hot boysecks. The whole relationship with its slow burn is permeated by respect for each other, and a deep, abiding connection. Seth might have taken his time, but when he figures it out, it's full steam ahead. And Eli, persistent and so sure of what he wants - simply a joy to behold.
Utterly beautiful. Thank you, CC. It was an honor.
And I read and giggled and laughed out loud and sighed and awww'd and sniffled and smiled.
I loved the inclusion of the various wedding invitations as much as the depictions of wedding disasters, and I adored both main characters, their families and their friends. Theirs was a journey of hope, faith and love. The writing draws you in from the start and never let's you go. It's engaging, honest and humorous, yet emotional when befitting the situation, and holy hot boysecks. The whole relationship with its slow burn is permeated by respect for each other, and a deep, abiding connection. Seth might have taken his time, but when he figures it out, it's full steam ahead. And Eli, persistent and so sure of what he wants - simply a joy to behold.
Utterly beautiful. Thank you, CC. It was an honor.
December 28, 2014
Really liked this one. The 13 year wait for Seth to 'get with the programme' must have seemed like forever to Eli, it was sooo difficult for him just to pretend to be friends....and I also think Seth was a little cruel not to have told Eli that he was falling in love with him when he knew how long Eli had waited for him. Tut tut. The wedding crises were funny to start with, and then just got a little silly...dead goldfish, really?? I adored Eli, he was like a very excitable puppy...even at the age of 24, and I liked how he kept calling Seth 'old man', hehe. Both sets of parents knew what would happen eventually, but decided not to rush the guys into seeing what everyone else could see, but Seth obviously couldn't. 4 stars.
August 4, 2017
Sigh. So good.
This is a perfect light, romantic, moving romance. It is a great friends to lovers with Jewish leads. It takes places of a span of many years as the younger hero grows up.
It is funny with the weddings the rabbi hero attends. He is great in always but so is the other hero.
It is so loving. The book also looks at biphobia in intersting ways. The writer so a good job keeping the drama low and the characters evolving.
Once the heroes get together after a really slow burn, its hot.
I loved every moment and this will become a comfort read.
It could have been more. The religious aspects could have been explored and Seth should have had a much more detailed conversation about his feelings but so nice overall.
This is a perfect light, romantic, moving romance. It is a great friends to lovers with Jewish leads. It takes places of a span of many years as the younger hero grows up.
It is funny with the weddings the rabbi hero attends. He is great in always but so is the other hero.
It is so loving. The book also looks at biphobia in intersting ways. The writer so a good job keeping the drama low and the characters evolving.
Once the heroes get together after a really slow burn, its hot.
I loved every moment and this will become a comfort read.
It could have been more. The religious aspects could have been explored and Seth should have had a much more detailed conversation about his feelings but so nice overall.
January 27, 2014
Original Blog Post: http://headouttheoven.blogspot.com/20...
Review Based On eARC
Walk With Me is the story of Eli Block & Seth Cohen. Their story spans from 2001, when a young Eli first gets a good look at Seth. The course of their story, their romance, moves as time does, when Eli starts growing up, and Seth is squarely marked on his cross hairs. It finally ends in January, 2014, where the series also marks its end.
This is a ridiculously funny, loving, romantic, and utterly sweet, story that sent me laughing from beginning till end. Once I did reach the end, though, I could not help but tear up. For so many reasons.
Eli was young, much younger compared to Seth which does start out their relationship on an uncomfortable level. The young hero worshiping Eli was a force to contend with and clearly, Seth was at odds on what to do, how to react, what to make of it all.
Seth was a conservative and formal kind of guy. Well, to the public he is. He strove to become a good rabbi, leader to his flock. His conservative world was put into check by the hurricane that was Eli.
As uncomfortable their friendship begins, it soon morphs into a solid, platonic relationship. It is not something Eli wants, but he'll take it. He'll take anything just to be with Seth. And Seth does seem to be accepting, a solid shoulder to cry on. Soon, the closeness between the men is apparent to all, and we readers wait it out. We walk with the men as they set out on their adventure.
Working as the assistant to Eli's father, Avi, who just happened to be the head rabbi, Seth found himself the focus of some strange, sometimes, highly physical, wedding tournaments - themed most of them. 'Tournaments' being the operative word here and the only hint I will give out.
I wonder where the author found all those strangely worded and quoted themed wedding invitations? These set the tone for the upcoming chapters. It came to the point where I was almost scared to read those invites for poor, poor Seth. I don't know what to make of it. But poor, poor rabbi! That was pure evil, really, to have the poor man go through all those - challenges. Funny, but still evil hahahhaa
Of course, I did laugh myself hoarse. The stunning visuals were enough to make me cover my eyes and just laugh my way through while trying mightily to calm down. There were times the visuals were just too overwhelming the only thing I could do was put down the book and try not to laugh.
I have followed the Home Series by author Cardeno C. almost from the very beginning, even before I even thought of this review blog. Through the series, I saw an author grow as an - well, author. For although this does mark the end of this particular beloved series, this book #7 also shows us readers and fans the growth of the author. This is probably her best work.
Her writing style has improved so much, her stories have become more visual with each new story, leaving a lot of imagining on our part. Now this talent, this ability, is not something that one can develop overnight, but seemingly right in front of us, this author has done just that. Giving us readers the stories we could only dream of. Beautiful stories of men, their relationships and their lives.
I love this series and still continue to read the books. I am sad to see it end. However, I am also very happy that the author has decided to grow and give us readers more to look forward to.
Review Based On eARC
Walk With Me is the story of Eli Block & Seth Cohen. Their story spans from 2001, when a young Eli first gets a good look at Seth. The course of their story, their romance, moves as time does, when Eli starts growing up, and Seth is squarely marked on his cross hairs. It finally ends in January, 2014, where the series also marks its end.
This is a ridiculously funny, loving, romantic, and utterly sweet, story that sent me laughing from beginning till end. Once I did reach the end, though, I could not help but tear up. For so many reasons.
Eli was young, much younger compared to Seth which does start out their relationship on an uncomfortable level. The young hero worshiping Eli was a force to contend with and clearly, Seth was at odds on what to do, how to react, what to make of it all.
Seth was a conservative and formal kind of guy. Well, to the public he is. He strove to become a good rabbi, leader to his flock. His conservative world was put into check by the hurricane that was Eli.
As uncomfortable their friendship begins, it soon morphs into a solid, platonic relationship. It is not something Eli wants, but he'll take it. He'll take anything just to be with Seth. And Seth does seem to be accepting, a solid shoulder to cry on. Soon, the closeness between the men is apparent to all, and we readers wait it out. We walk with the men as they set out on their adventure.
Working as the assistant to Eli's father, Avi, who just happened to be the head rabbi, Seth found himself the focus of some strange, sometimes, highly physical, wedding tournaments - themed most of them. 'Tournaments' being the operative word here and the only hint I will give out.
I wonder where the author found all those strangely worded and quoted themed wedding invitations? These set the tone for the upcoming chapters. It came to the point where I was almost scared to read those invites for poor, poor Seth. I don't know what to make of it. But poor, poor rabbi! That was pure evil, really, to have the poor man go through all those - challenges. Funny, but still evil hahahhaa
Of course, I did laugh myself hoarse. The stunning visuals were enough to make me cover my eyes and just laugh my way through while trying mightily to calm down. There were times the visuals were just too overwhelming the only thing I could do was put down the book and try not to laugh.
I have followed the Home Series by author Cardeno C. almost from the very beginning, even before I even thought of this review blog. Through the series, I saw an author grow as an - well, author. For although this does mark the end of this particular beloved series, this book #7 also shows us readers and fans the growth of the author. This is probably her best work.
Her writing style has improved so much, her stories have become more visual with each new story, leaving a lot of imagining on our part. Now this talent, this ability, is not something that one can develop overnight, but seemingly right in front of us, this author has done just that. Giving us readers the stories we could only dream of. Beautiful stories of men, their relationships and their lives.
I love this series and still continue to read the books. I am sad to see it end. However, I am also very happy that the author has decided to grow and give us readers more to look forward to.
March 1, 2015
Walk With Me by Cardeno C was a wonderful ending to a wonderful series. I am so sad to see the Home series end, as I fell in love with all the characters and gorgeous love stories. But if it had to end, this was definitely the way to go. Eli and Seth popped up in many of the Home series books, especially in Just What the Truth Is as close friends of Micah Trains. We were given enough information to make me completely curious to know the story of the rabbi with the younger man. Walk With Me definitely did not disappoint!
I, once again, fell in love with both main characters! Eli and Seth have opposite personalities, yet are perfect for each other. Eli is so confident in himself, and is lucky enough to know his own heart. His strength and long, abiding love for Eli is inspiring! While Seth is a number of years older than Eli, it took him time to sort out his true feelings. When he finally figures it out, though, he throws himself headfirst into what he wants. The connection between them is palpable, and the chemistry is off the charts!
I also really loved the wedding theme throughout the book, and the surprising accompanying comic relief! The situations Seth was put through while performing wedding ceremonies were almost too much to be believable, but completely realistic! I could totally see the horse fiasco escalating and becoming a real issue. Cardeno C again provided the perfect couple and mixture of love, lust, humor and humanity in Walk With Me.
“Reality isn’t supposed to be as great as fantasies and daydreams, but mine was even better.” ~ Alicia, 4 stars
I, once again, fell in love with both main characters! Eli and Seth have opposite personalities, yet are perfect for each other. Eli is so confident in himself, and is lucky enough to know his own heart. His strength and long, abiding love for Eli is inspiring! While Seth is a number of years older than Eli, it took him time to sort out his true feelings. When he finally figures it out, though, he throws himself headfirst into what he wants. The connection between them is palpable, and the chemistry is off the charts!
I also really loved the wedding theme throughout the book, and the surprising accompanying comic relief! The situations Seth was put through while performing wedding ceremonies were almost too much to be believable, but completely realistic! I could totally see the horse fiasco escalating and becoming a real issue. Cardeno C again provided the perfect couple and mixture of love, lust, humor and humanity in Walk With Me.
“Reality isn’t supposed to be as great as fantasies and daydreams, but mine was even better.” ~ Alicia, 4 stars
October 8, 2014
What a lovely book, and tied for best in the home series for me.
C.C. has this wonderful ability to write longing through passages of time. I loved the chemistry between Eli and Seth, how their relationship continuously evolved, I even loved the silly wedding tales from Hell.
My one niggle is that there some points I wish weren't skipped over during the passage of time. I would have loved to experience
The ending was a perfect way to end the book and the series. I'll miss these gentlemen and look forward to visiting Emile City in future through a reread.
C.C. has this wonderful ability to write longing through passages of time. I loved the chemistry between Eli and Seth, how their relationship continuously evolved, I even loved the silly wedding tales from Hell.
My one niggle is that there some points I wish weren't skipped over during the passage of time. I would have loved to experience
The ending was a perfect way to end the book and the series. I'll miss these gentlemen and look forward to visiting Emile City in future through a reread.
February 22, 2014
I admit to being in love Cardeno C. but every time I read another book by her I remember why. I eagerly gobble up every single word. No skimming the boring part here, everything's relevant and I love that. These two were so made for each other. Yes, it took them forever to realize it but the journey was so worth it. My only niggle with this book was the sex. Yes, there was sex and good sex at that but Eli had never had a good experience bottoming and Seth had never had man-sex before so I wanted to see both of their first times, dammit. Like in detail!! *stomps feet in tantrum*
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April 19, 2015
Sweetness does not explain this. I don't know what does, but I liked it a lot. The end of the series is perfect. Friends to lovers, not for lack of trying for the straight to lovers part, but it happens. The long progression of a friendship turned relationship is full of sugar, family, holidays and weddings. I laughed more in this book than in all the others combined. Really laugh out loud kinda stuff. It's fun and felt so good to drown myself in a bunch of books filled with these kinds of feelings.
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