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Measured Doses
This book is out of print.
After his father beats him, Chad escapes to the only safe haven he can think: his former teacher, Dion. But when he arrives at Dion's door, it's opened by a stranger—who promptly finds himself catching an unconscious man.
Unable to turn away the broken, battered Chad, Jeremy takes him in and tends his wounds, even if he would much rather have nothing to do with the student that his ex, Dion, cheated on him with …
Warning: Story contains a threesome
After his father beats him, Chad escapes to the only safe haven he can think: his former teacher, Dion. But when he arrives at Dion's door, it's opened by a stranger—who promptly finds himself catching an unconscious man.
Unable to turn away the broken, battered Chad, Jeremy takes him in and tends his wounds, even if he would much rather have nothing to do with the student that his ex, Dion, cheated on him with …
Warning: Story contains a threesome
105 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 25, 2014
90 people want to read
About the author
T.T. Kove
81 books167 followersWrites queer romance, usually of the new adult, slice-of-life variety.
Find me:
www.acpress.co.uk
www.patreon.com/ttkove
Find me:
www.acpress.co.uk
www.patreon.com/ttkove
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
April 30, 2016
Posted at Outlaw Reviews
After a vicious beating, Chad leaves the home of his violent alcoholic father. Short on options, he drops in at the home of his former English teacher, Dion, and falls unconscious into the arms of Dion’s partner, Jeremy.
Even though Jeremy and Dion have been together a little over two years, the last four months have been difficult with the couple living like strangers and sleeping in separate beds because Dion admitted to having a fling with a former student.
Now that student is in their home, but Jeremy is no heartless man. He takes Chad in, helps heal his wounds and cooks him nourishing meals. In time, Jeremy discovers that Chad and Dion have strong feelings for each other and he himself is not immune to Chad’s vulnerability and youthful charm.
Chad’s life has been extremely difficult. Other than a few stoner friends, he has no one he can really count on. His aunt seems kind enough, but is oblivious to Chad’s abuse at her brother’s hands. She believes instead that his mother’s death has sent him spiraling into drug and alcohol abuse, so she sends him to group therapy.
Jeremy is still angry and hurt by Dion’s infidelity, and Chad blames himself for the tension in their relationship. Jeremy takes matters into his own hands to find a solution to make all three men happy.
I love hurt/comfort stories, relationship conflicts and reconciliation, so I was thrilled to get the opportunity to read this. Unfortunately, there were a number of things that didn’t work so well for me.
Dion felt guilty about the pain he caused Jeremy and though that was mentioned numerous times throughout the story, I never really got a sense of how Dion really felt. I would have liked to read more about his and Jeremy’s relationship before Chad and the events that led to the affair. Instead, we get everything from Jeremy’s perspective, which made Dion a dull and static character. I also would have liked more tension, serious conversations, and outpouring of feelings instead of Jeremy’s internal angst.
Far too much time was spent with Chad’s stoner friends and his clueless aunt, none of whom added anything to the story.
There were some inconsistencies with the characters’ ages and how they behaved. Early in the story, Chad was approaching 20. By the end, he was 18. This was something an editor should have caught. It was noticeable enough for me to go back to the beginning to verify his age. Dion was apparently a decade older than Chad, while Jeremy was 24. In many ways, Chad seemed a lot younger than his 18/19 years. It was hard for me to believe that Jeremy was just a few years older. The way he spoke to and treated Chad led me to believe he was considerably older.
While I’m glad they reconciled in the end, I felt it was a bit rushed. There was too much emphasis on the sexual aspect of their relationship and not enough on the emotional.
I enjoyed parts of this story, others not so much, but I would definitely be interested in a sequel, just to see if Chad can overcome the difficulties in his young life and to see whether these three men can remain happily together.
*Book provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
After a vicious beating, Chad leaves the home of his violent alcoholic father. Short on options, he drops in at the home of his former English teacher, Dion, and falls unconscious into the arms of Dion’s partner, Jeremy.
Even though Jeremy and Dion have been together a little over two years, the last four months have been difficult with the couple living like strangers and sleeping in separate beds because Dion admitted to having a fling with a former student.
Now that student is in their home, but Jeremy is no heartless man. He takes Chad in, helps heal his wounds and cooks him nourishing meals. In time, Jeremy discovers that Chad and Dion have strong feelings for each other and he himself is not immune to Chad’s vulnerability and youthful charm.
Chad’s life has been extremely difficult. Other than a few stoner friends, he has no one he can really count on. His aunt seems kind enough, but is oblivious to Chad’s abuse at her brother’s hands. She believes instead that his mother’s death has sent him spiraling into drug and alcohol abuse, so she sends him to group therapy.
Jeremy is still angry and hurt by Dion’s infidelity, and Chad blames himself for the tension in their relationship. Jeremy takes matters into his own hands to find a solution to make all three men happy.
I love hurt/comfort stories, relationship conflicts and reconciliation, so I was thrilled to get the opportunity to read this. Unfortunately, there were a number of things that didn’t work so well for me.
Dion felt guilty about the pain he caused Jeremy and though that was mentioned numerous times throughout the story, I never really got a sense of how Dion really felt. I would have liked to read more about his and Jeremy’s relationship before Chad and the events that led to the affair. Instead, we get everything from Jeremy’s perspective, which made Dion a dull and static character. I also would have liked more tension, serious conversations, and outpouring of feelings instead of Jeremy’s internal angst.
Far too much time was spent with Chad’s stoner friends and his clueless aunt, none of whom added anything to the story.
There were some inconsistencies with the characters’ ages and how they behaved. Early in the story, Chad was approaching 20. By the end, he was 18. This was something an editor should have caught. It was noticeable enough for me to go back to the beginning to verify his age. Dion was apparently a decade older than Chad, while Jeremy was 24. In many ways, Chad seemed a lot younger than his 18/19 years. It was hard for me to believe that Jeremy was just a few years older. The way he spoke to and treated Chad led me to believe he was considerably older.
While I’m glad they reconciled in the end, I felt it was a bit rushed. There was too much emphasis on the sexual aspect of their relationship and not enough on the emotional.
I enjoyed parts of this story, others not so much, but I would definitely be interested in a sequel, just to see if Chad can overcome the difficulties in his young life and to see whether these three men can remain happily together.
*Book provided by author in exchange for an honest review.
February 26, 2014
3.5 Hearts--Psst...c'mere.
I'm a reader that likes trashy, angst ridden complicated reads, at times. So when I read this premise, oh baby, was it my kind of read: cheaters (love reading about it), teacher/student affair (yup!) and menage? Mmm...sounds like a recipe for trash, trouble and lust aka a must-read for me. One man's trash is another man's treasure. And I can find treasure in hot messes. And this story was decent hot mess. If abuse and/or cheating are a trigger, step away from the book.
Chad (a ginger twink and owner of a below average penis!) is nineteen and majorly troubled. His father uses him as a punching bag, he has no self esteem and doesn't care to be used by others, his one moment of happiness born out of an affair was cut short by his love and ex-teacher. He doesn't tell everyone the extent of the abuse he goes through, he thinks he's stupid, worthless and uses drugs and alcohol as an escape. His only skill he thinks he has is that he is great at sex. I mean, he did set out to seduce his teacher, Dion. The cheating happened before the story starts. The story begins with the aftermath and spends a lot of time discussing emotions. Angst, baby, front and center.
Chad is abused by his father one day and goes to the only place he knows, his ex-lover's Dion's flat. Unfortunately (or maybe fortunately), Dion doesn't answer the door. Jeremy, Dion's boyfriend does. Dion had told Jeremy of his indiscretion months ago and broke it off. However, Jeremy has made Dion suffer but can't seem to let go because he loves the man. And can't help but help Chad because he feels a connection to him, not one born out of hate or jealous...something else. Within days Chad goes on a downward spiral with drugs and booze but when he reaches rock bottom, Jeremy and Dion are there to save him. And offer light to his very dark tunnel.
The story mostly is told from Jeremy and Chad's POV. The two are damaged and own up to their part in the major angst going on. I enjoyed tat part. Jeremy never played the blame game on Chad. He knew his partner was in the wrong. I enjoyed each main character though, Dion played more of a minor role when comparing the three.
What I also enjoyed about the story is that the three people involved had some time to works through their relationship issues. And anti-cheating readers who like a lot reassurance that the aggrieved party is a bad cheater and appropriate groveling can rest assured. Dion owned what he did. Chad owned what he did. Jeremy was the wronged party, gave stress to Dion's life those months after.
But they all formed a throuple (threesome couple). How? Why?
After sorting most of the emotions (they were an emotional mini crew- MANTEARS and angst and such), the lust brewing between them finally erupted around 79%. And it was delicious. And it fit for the theme boiled throughout the story.
Issues? A few. Continuity-around 43% Chad is talking to his friend Wynn in what I assume was a hospital and then Jeremy & Dion show up and then are at home. And Wynn just disappeared. *shrugs* Oh and towards the end it seems Chad forgot emphatically telling everyone he's nineteen going on twenty because he's eighteen years old at the end of the story. *shrugs* I'm not one for excessively MANTEARS, most of it was justified so I won't harp about it. The story did not hit soap opera level dramatics but it got close a few times.
Even with the issues, it was a decent read that ended with a strong HFN and if I close one eye, hold up a hand to my face and look through the side of my eye...a HEA too
It does seem that this book can be read as a standalone as Chad is a member of a group therapy member of other reoccurring characters. I was not lost.
Would I read more from this author? Sure. Why not?
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.
I'm a reader that likes trashy, angst ridden complicated reads, at times. So when I read this premise, oh baby, was it my kind of read: cheaters (love reading about it), teacher/student affair (yup!) and menage? Mmm...sounds like a recipe for trash, trouble and lust aka a must-read for me. One man's trash is another man's treasure. And I can find treasure in hot messes. And this story was decent hot mess. If abuse and/or cheating are a trigger, step away from the book.
Chad (a ginger twink and owner of a below average penis!) is nineteen and majorly troubled. His father uses him as a punching bag, he has no self esteem and doesn't care to be used by others, his one moment of happiness born out of an affair was cut short by his love and ex-teacher. He doesn't tell everyone the extent of the abuse he goes through, he thinks he's stupid, worthless and uses drugs and alcohol as an escape. His only skill he thinks he has is that he is great at sex. I mean, he did set out to seduce his teacher, Dion. The cheating happened before the story starts. The story begins with the aftermath and spends a lot of time discussing emotions. Angst, baby, front and center.
Chad is abused by his father one day and goes to the only place he knows, his ex-lover's Dion's flat. Unfortunately (or maybe fortunately), Dion doesn't answer the door. Jeremy, Dion's boyfriend does. Dion had told Jeremy of his indiscretion months ago and broke it off. However, Jeremy has made Dion suffer but can't seem to let go because he loves the man. And can't help but help Chad because he feels a connection to him, not one born out of hate or jealous...something else. Within days Chad goes on a downward spiral with drugs and booze but when he reaches rock bottom, Jeremy and Dion are there to save him. And offer light to his very dark tunnel.
The story mostly is told from Jeremy and Chad's POV. The two are damaged and own up to their part in the major angst going on. I enjoyed tat part. Jeremy never played the blame game on Chad. He knew his partner was in the wrong. I enjoyed each main character though, Dion played more of a minor role when comparing the three.
What I also enjoyed about the story is that the three people involved had some time to works through their relationship issues. And anti-cheating readers who like a lot reassurance that the aggrieved party is a bad cheater and appropriate groveling can rest assured. Dion owned what he did. Chad owned what he did. Jeremy was the wronged party, gave stress to Dion's life those months after.
But they all formed a throuple (threesome couple). How? Why?
After sorting most of the emotions (they were an emotional mini crew- MANTEARS and angst and such), the lust brewing between them finally erupted around 79%. And it was delicious. And it fit for the theme boiled throughout the story.
Issues? A few. Continuity-around 43% Chad is talking to his friend Wynn in what I assume was a hospital and then Jeremy & Dion show up and then are at home. And Wynn just disappeared. *shrugs* Oh and towards the end it seems Chad forgot emphatically telling everyone he's nineteen going on twenty because he's eighteen years old at the end of the story. *shrugs* I'm not one for excessively MANTEARS, most of it was justified so I won't harp about it. The story did not hit soap opera level dramatics but it got close a few times.
Even with the issues, it was a decent read that ended with a strong HFN and if I close one eye, hold up a hand to my face and look through the side of my eye...a HEA too
It does seem that this book can be read as a standalone as Chad is a member of a group therapy member of other reoccurring characters. I was not lost.
Would I read more from this author? Sure. Why not?
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.
March 9, 2014
So this was how Mandy introduced this story to me (via whatsapp), when I asked for her help to list down some m/m/m titles to read for this month's personal challenge
----------------
Mandy: How do you feel about cheating? Is that an absolute no go?
Me: Is the cheating on page?
Mandy: No it happened before the couples still together but not really talking or sleeping together. Then the kid he cheated w/ shows up. I thought of you since it's not too long and almost no sex
----------------
Yes, I admit, the cheating part makes me cringe a little bit. I prefer not to have one, although it's not an absolute deal breaker. I think, I decide to read it after all because of the fact that the cheating happens off-page and how Mandy says that this is almost no sex. I figure, maybe it helps my brain with the whole threesome thing. However, when I read the blurb that it also deals with abusive father, I'm also a little bit worried. I don't know if the angst and the threesome will be a good combination for me to enjoy.
Well, what can I say, Mandy knows her ménage ... because it turns out that I LOVE this one. While I usually am annoyed with the idea of established couple suddenly bringing a third to the equation, what charms me to this story is the complexity of the situation. It is clear that Jeremy feels hurt that his partner cheated on him. But I can also sense his conflict because he ends up feeling sorry and protective to Chad, whose father has beaten him repeatedly. It's not a simple situation and because of that, I feel very much engrossed by it. Sometimes, life is not simply black and white and I cannot feel myself being annoyed with any of the characters. The hurt/comfort theme feels good here.
The story is taken from Jeremy's and Chad's perspective. I think that is a good idea because these two are the ones that need to work through their way to the three-way relationship. Jeremy is the one whose trust is betrayed. While Chad, he clearly loves Dion first. Knowing how kind Jeremy is, Chad doesn't want to destroy Jeremy and Dion's relationship the second time around.
I am actually glad that I don't have to read about Dion, because I might get annoyed by him ... cheating on his partner, not wanting Jeremy hurt, but at the same time still develops feeling for Chad? Yeah, better not to read his thoughts!
The resolution might wrapped up a little too neatly though. It might have to do with the length. Having said that, I'm satisfied enough with everything that I'm willing to give this my 4-stars.
Personal MMM Challenge March 2014: story #2
----------------
Mandy: How do you feel about cheating? Is that an absolute no go?
Me: Is the cheating on page?
Mandy: No it happened before the couples still together but not really talking or sleeping together. Then the kid he cheated w/ shows up. I thought of you since it's not too long and almost no sex
----------------
Yes, I admit, the cheating part makes me cringe a little bit. I prefer not to have one, although it's not an absolute deal breaker. I think, I decide to read it after all because of the fact that the cheating happens off-page and how Mandy says that this is almost no sex. I figure, maybe it helps my brain with the whole threesome thing. However, when I read the blurb that it also deals with abusive father, I'm also a little bit worried. I don't know if the angst and the threesome will be a good combination for me to enjoy.
Well, what can I say, Mandy knows her ménage ... because it turns out that I LOVE this one. While I usually am annoyed with the idea of established couple suddenly bringing a third to the equation, what charms me to this story is the complexity of the situation. It is clear that Jeremy feels hurt that his partner cheated on him. But I can also sense his conflict because he ends up feeling sorry and protective to Chad, whose father has beaten him repeatedly. It's not a simple situation and because of that, I feel very much engrossed by it. Sometimes, life is not simply black and white and I cannot feel myself being annoyed with any of the characters. The hurt/comfort theme feels good here.
The story is taken from Jeremy's and Chad's perspective. I think that is a good idea because these two are the ones that need to work through their way to the three-way relationship. Jeremy is the one whose trust is betrayed. While Chad, he clearly loves Dion first. Knowing how kind Jeremy is, Chad doesn't want to destroy Jeremy and Dion's relationship the second time around.
I am actually glad that I don't have to read about Dion, because I might get annoyed by him ... cheating on his partner, not wanting Jeremy hurt, but at the same time still develops feeling for Chad? Yeah, better not to read his thoughts!
The resolution might wrapped up a little too neatly though. It might have to do with the length. Having said that, I'm satisfied enough with everything that I'm willing to give this my 4-stars.
Personal MMM Challenge March 2014: story #2
March 1, 2014
I was very conflicted about reading this book after skimming through the blurb that makes it pretty clear it contains cheating and ménage. According to my previous experience I knew I could either end up liking it or hating it with passion that usually leads to that furious book moving to a bin (while fighting the notice that I really can't do that since the book is still opened on my screen) In the end a curiosity and temptation were too strong and I don't regret giving in at all.
The first character you get to meet is Chad. My heart went to him almost immediately since he's just utterly fucked up and at the end of his rope. Regularly beaten by his alcoholic father, keen on loosing himself in drugs, booze and random sex and to top it off in love with his ex-teacher who already is in loving relationship. Quite a mess, right?
I won't go to the details but it wasn't like any ménage I've read before (ok, I admit I haven't read much of them:D). The ménage books I have under my belt so far always had a couple that consented to looking for the third or all MCs getting together gradually. This one started with cheating and it of course made a big difference, especially for the cheated one (Jeremy).
Them coming together could sound like an emotionally hard task but it went surprisingly smooth and I have to say that I enjoyed it. The only thing that is marring it for me is that Dion chose Jeremy over Chad in the beginning and never quite got me convinced that he loved Jeremy and Chad the same way. The good thing is that the book doesn't give you enough space and time to question it and get frustrated over it properly..
The first character you get to meet is Chad. My heart went to him almost immediately since he's just utterly fucked up and at the end of his rope. Regularly beaten by his alcoholic father, keen on loosing himself in drugs, booze and random sex and to top it off in love with his ex-teacher who already is in loving relationship. Quite a mess, right?
I won't go to the details but it wasn't like any ménage I've read before (ok, I admit I haven't read much of them:D). The ménage books I have under my belt so far always had a couple that consented to looking for the third or all MCs getting together gradually. This one started with cheating and it of course made a big difference, especially for the cheated one (Jeremy).
Them coming together could sound like an emotionally hard task but it went surprisingly smooth and I have to say that I enjoyed it. The only thing that is marring it for me is that Dion chose Jeremy over Chad in the beginning and never quite got me convinced that he loved Jeremy and Chad the same way. The good thing is that the book doesn't give you enough space and time to question it and get frustrated over it properly..
March 23, 2014
When I read the blurb I wasn't quite sure what awaited me in this story.
I saw cheating with a student, beatings and and an ex, and thought, do I want to read this?
Yes, I did want to.
Ok, I'll admit it, the threesome warning totally sold me on it. :)
The hurt-comfort theme, second chances, reconciliation of love and a ménage, it's like Mandy-Heaven.
Chad is nineteen and has no prospects. He didn't finish school, loses himself in drugs and alcohol just to escape the sad state of his life.
He lives with his very abusive father and oh, did my heart break for that boy. He has no hope, he thinks he is worthless and stupid and doesn't feel like he is worthy of love or affection and all he can do is fail.
“Like there was something wrong with him that simply couldn't be fixed. Like he was broken.”
I can't tell you how much I felt for him, my oldest son has dyslexia and just the thought of a child going all through school thinking and being told he's stupid and always failing, when that isn't the case at all. It was Chad who was failed by everyone who should have been there for him.
Then of course he suffers from not only his father's cruel blows but also cruel words.
He needs a place to go, for some reason he won't confide or look to his aunt for more help, the only place he can think of to go is to Dion's, his former teacher's home.
The teacher he fell for and who after having sex with him told him he has a boyfriend and can't continue on with him.
This all happened in the past and is off page, so it took a while for me to see what feelings and emotions the men actually had for each other.
When Chad arrives someone he didn't expect opens the door. Jeremy, the boyfriend.
Jeremy is awesome. I mean really. He sees Chad and the state he is in, and despite his anger and the betrayal he feels towards Dion, he is nothing but kind and gentle to Chad.
No wonder Dion loves him.
“Because I feel sorry for him. Because he has a crappy life and he sees no way out of it." Jeremy wrapped his arms loosely around Dion's neck. He looked at Chad's bruised, swollen face. "Because you care for him, Dion, and I care about you.”
I wanted to get more of Dion's feeling and emotions, but they are really only conveyed through Jeremy, but I get his guilt, he feels guilty for both hurting Jeremy and also for hurting Chad. He has strong emotions for both men, that's why I wished I could have seen the development between Chad and Dion, that led up to the cheating.
Jeremy has been understandably angry about Dion's actions but after spending time with Chad he starts to see what Dion must have seen that led up to the short affair.
Chad also feels guilty, he loves Dion, but even he can see what a wonderful man Jeremy is. He is sorry for coming between them. Chad has no self esteem and despite wanting nothing more than love, doesn't really think he deserves it.
“They weren't acting like boyfriends, like lovers and partners, around each other at all. And that was most definitely Chad's fault, and yet … yet they wanted to help him. It didn't seem like they wanted anything in return, either.”
I really liked this story and so wished it had been longer, Chad overcoming his addiction and devastatingly low self worth was something I wanted to witness more of, I wanted more of the backstory between Chad and Dion and some of the future between the men. And I have to add, Jeremy's mom is not only a well-read woman but obviously wise. (You'll understand when you read the book)
I'm greedy and while this book was definitely worth reading, I so wanted it to have just been more. More before, more during and more after.
If there is ever a sequel I'll be on it in a heartbeat.
*warning* although the blurb should be warning enough, if you have issues with cheating in anyway this won't be the book for you. I'm not a fan of cheating, but for some reason I couldn't be angry here, not when it worked out the way it did, and all the men are really good guys and Chad deserves as much love as he can get.
There was also a small discrepancy with Chad's age, throughout most of the book he's almost twenty and at the end he's eighteen.
Merged review:
I'm a little under the weather so I'm doing a reread, and this story deserves the reread.
I've reviewed this one already, but I figured it can't hurt to say a little something about it.
Chad, abused by his dad, no self esteem and he self medicates his problems with drugs and alcohol.
His bright spot was Dion, he fell for him, but Dion called it off because he loves his partner Jeremy.
It leaves Chad reeling and since he can't stand school anymore ( grrr so mad at school systems failing these kids).
When he hits rock bottom he has nowhere to go.
“Who else have I got? The answer was very simple; he had no one. No one gave a shit about him, and it was partly his own fault for always pushing people away.”
Jeremy helps Chad, even if he has every reason not to, but there seems to be something about the young man that draws both him and Dion in.
The story doesn't skip the serious issue of infidelity and the pain it causes.
"Jealousy, hurt, frustration, worry … maybe a mix of all of them.”
Chad has a lot and I mean a lot of issues to work on mind of course Dion and Jeremy do too, but this was very much Chad's journey out of the dark place he's been in for far too long.
“Chad couldn't take it. Couldn't take the kindness and the hope it gave him.”
“All I ever wanted was for someone to love me, for who I am. But I'm really nothing so how can that ever happen? I'm just a failure in everything”
This won't be for everyone, I know cheating is a no-go for some. But for me at least, it worked, it was off page, it wasn't trivialized or excused and I liked all the men and wanted them to find their way. Together.
*shout out to Jeremy's mom, gotta love her*
July 29, 2016
Chad lives in fear of angering his father, an abusive alcoholic who has mistreated him for years. He barely remembers his mother and is desperate for someone to love him. Burying his emotions under a fog of drugs and alcohol, he does the best he can to succeed at school and find work so he can escape his father's home. While his private pain should be obvious to those around him, life rarely works out the way it should and it's easy to ignore the young man in the shadows.
When he falls in love with his teacher, he's willing to do whatever it takes to hang on to that love. Even if it means destroying the relationship Dion has with his long term boyfriend. Chad is so desperate for someone to love him that he doesn't care. When Dion chooses his lover over Chad, it starts him on a downward spiral into depression. When desperation drives him away from his father, he turns to the only person he can think of who might care. Dion isn't the man who answers the door when Chad knocks, instead it's Jeremy, the man Dion chose over him.
Chad is confused by the emotions that he feels for Jeremy, the kind man he was determined to hate. As his life continues to spin out of control and the horror of his living situation comes to life, both Dion and Jeremy step up to support Chad. There's just something about the beautiful and vulnerable you man that is hard to resist. Someone is bound to get hurt, and Chad is convinced it's going to be him.
A beautiful story about life and love.
A different kind of love story, Measured Doses is my first experience with T.T. Kove's writing, but it won't be my last. A novella length story about overcoming past hurts, learning to forgive, and finding the courage to reach for unconventional love. A uniquely paced story line told from various points of view, I enjoyed the complex emotions and character interactions. With supporting characters that added depth to the story, and a thread of reality that makes this a raw and sometimes difficult story to read, this is not a book for readers who are looking for a lighthearted story. Note: Contains sexual situations, drug/alcohol use, and physical abuse that may be disturbing to some readers.
A copy of Measured Doses was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
When he falls in love with his teacher, he's willing to do whatever it takes to hang on to that love. Even if it means destroying the relationship Dion has with his long term boyfriend. Chad is so desperate for someone to love him that he doesn't care. When Dion chooses his lover over Chad, it starts him on a downward spiral into depression. When desperation drives him away from his father, he turns to the only person he can think of who might care. Dion isn't the man who answers the door when Chad knocks, instead it's Jeremy, the man Dion chose over him.
Chad is confused by the emotions that he feels for Jeremy, the kind man he was determined to hate. As his life continues to spin out of control and the horror of his living situation comes to life, both Dion and Jeremy step up to support Chad. There's just something about the beautiful and vulnerable you man that is hard to resist. Someone is bound to get hurt, and Chad is convinced it's going to be him.
A beautiful story about life and love.
A different kind of love story, Measured Doses is my first experience with T.T. Kove's writing, but it won't be my last. A novella length story about overcoming past hurts, learning to forgive, and finding the courage to reach for unconventional love. A uniquely paced story line told from various points of view, I enjoyed the complex emotions and character interactions. With supporting characters that added depth to the story, and a thread of reality that makes this a raw and sometimes difficult story to read, this is not a book for readers who are looking for a lighthearted story. Note: Contains sexual situations, drug/alcohol use, and physical abuse that may be disturbing to some readers.
A copy of Measured Doses was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
February 22, 2014
I was lucky enough to win a copy of this book and I really enjoyed it. But, I do recommend reading the previous books in this series to get the full enjoyment out of the story although this can be read alone. I personally got more out of the story when I read the previous books. I will also say if you hate cheating, you probably wont enjoy the book.
February 17, 2014
Book provided by the author.
What an emotional read. It had an interesting plot that kept me hooked and some well developed characters.
I couldn't help becoming invested in Chad's future, he had a very hard life and I shed a few tears with him through some of it.
I'll definitely read more from this author.
What an emotional read. It had an interesting plot that kept me hooked and some well developed characters.
I couldn't help becoming invested in Chad's future, he had a very hard life and I shed a few tears with him through some of it.
I'll definitely read more from this author.
March 12, 2014
Slight inconsistency: during the bulk of the book, Chad is 19, turning 20 in December. Yet, in the epilogue he's 18.
There were also some editing issues, mostly a missed word in a sentence or a word that doesn't belong or a verb in the wrong tense.
Other than the above 2 things: this was a very sweet story with three loveable characters!
There were also some editing issues, mostly a missed word in a sentence or a word that doesn't belong or a verb in the wrong tense.
Other than the above 2 things: this was a very sweet story with three loveable characters!
February 26, 2014
So happy I took a chance and read this book!! I would love to see a sequel.
January 21, 2016
I was given the book Measured Doses by the author through the Goodreads M/M Romance Group’s Don’t Buy My Love program for an honest review. This story is told in third person through the eyes of Jeremy and Chad.
April 9, 2016
I was provided a copy of this book as part of the M/M Romance Group's DBML program on GoodReads in exchange for an honest review.
I have found that there is always a delicate balancing act you have to perform when writing m/m/m type stories. Especially when you want it to come out as a balanced relationship, and not just a couple that is having a fling with another man (not that that is bad...I'm all for a little hot and heavy three-way action). I do think that the way this was written, in regards to the relationship developing, was done very well. It wasn't love (or even lust) at first sight, but something that grew between Chad and Jeremy (seeing as Chad and Dion clearly have the lust portion of the event covered, before Chad and Jeremy had even met).
However I never really felt the heat between any of the characters. I never really felt anything, to be honest. Not anger, or lust, or desire. They felt way to clinical for me to get a good grasp on what they were really feeling and what they say they were feeling. It didn't help that the dialogue felt like the script to an after-school-special. It was saying all the 'right things' but it constantly fell flat of reality. Chad is a low-income, undereducated, druggy/alcoholic from England (somewhere)...but he reads as just another cookie-cutter abused kid with parental issues. And aside from a few slang terms, and few mentions of the schooling system over there, it never really felt like it was unique to England in any way. Everyone talks in such flat, clinical, monotones, that you never get a feel for any of the characters or any of the settings. Which is sad, since they could really be interesting.
And for the love of all that is holy, if a dude basically blacks-out after being beat half to death, on your porch, you do not just give him a quick wash and a bandaid. You drag his ass to A&E--if only because him dying of an internal hemorrhage on your guest room bed, is going to really put a crimp in your interior decorating scheme. Jeremy is a cook, not a doctor--if Chad had fallen at his feet because he needed a souffle made, then Jeremy would be his guy. Not so much if Chad needed to find out if ribs were broken enough to turn his lungs into a bagpipe.
I love m/m/m stories, and I do like the idea of Dion's cheating leading to a relationship between all three of the guys, because that is a complicated mess I would enjoy watching unfold, but this story never really moved past the surface and I didn't really get why they were attracted to each other.
2.5 stars
I have found that there is always a delicate balancing act you have to perform when writing m/m/m type stories. Especially when you want it to come out as a balanced relationship, and not just a couple that is having a fling with another man (not that that is bad...I'm all for a little hot and heavy three-way action). I do think that the way this was written, in regards to the relationship developing, was done very well. It wasn't love (or even lust) at first sight, but something that grew between Chad and Jeremy (seeing as Chad and Dion clearly have the lust portion of the event covered, before Chad and Jeremy had even met).
However I never really felt the heat between any of the characters. I never really felt anything, to be honest. Not anger, or lust, or desire. They felt way to clinical for me to get a good grasp on what they were really feeling and what they say they were feeling. It didn't help that the dialogue felt like the script to an after-school-special. It was saying all the 'right things' but it constantly fell flat of reality. Chad is a low-income, undereducated, druggy/alcoholic from England (somewhere)...but he reads as just another cookie-cutter abused kid with parental issues. And aside from a few slang terms, and few mentions of the schooling system over there, it never really felt like it was unique to England in any way. Everyone talks in such flat, clinical, monotones, that you never get a feel for any of the characters or any of the settings. Which is sad, since they could really be interesting.
And for the love of all that is holy, if a dude basically blacks-out after being beat half to death, on your porch, you do not just give him a quick wash and a bandaid. You drag his ass to A&E--if only because him dying of an internal hemorrhage on your guest room bed, is going to really put a crimp in your interior decorating scheme. Jeremy is a cook, not a doctor--if Chad had fallen at his feet because he needed a souffle made, then Jeremy would be his guy. Not so much if Chad needed to find out if ribs were broken enough to turn his lungs into a bagpipe.
I love m/m/m stories, and I do like the idea of Dion's cheating leading to a relationship between all three of the guys, because that is a complicated mess I would enjoy watching unfold, but this story never really moved past the surface and I didn't really get why they were attracted to each other.
2.5 stars
March 30, 2014
Chad's homelife is horrible beyond measure and has no one to turn to. After Chad' father beats him again ends up at his ex-teacher Dion's home only to collapse into Dion's boyfriend Jeremy's arms. Jeremy is stunned by Chad's youthful appearance and obvious hurts. Jeremy is unsure of his feelings but Chad stirs something in him that even he can't explain to himself. Dion feels like he's being pulled into direction especially now that Chad is living with them. Will Jeremy get over his hurt? Will Dion accept Chad's presence? Will Chad find a place to call home? Your answers await you in Measured Doses.
Measured Doses brings home the reality that love isn't always easy but very complicated and messy for everyone involved. Chad is very lonely, always takes things negatively, and confused. Jeremy wants to blame Dion for his affair with Chad but finds that he understands his attraction. Dion is guilt ridden and very much cares what happens to Chad. Together Dion and Jeremy, show Chad that he can be accepted and loved for himself. I thought the author did wonderful job of telling this story.
Measured Doses brings home the reality that love isn't always easy but very complicated and messy for everyone involved. Chad is very lonely, always takes things negatively, and confused. Jeremy wants to blame Dion for his affair with Chad but finds that he understands his attraction. Dion is guilt ridden and very much cares what happens to Chad. Together Dion and Jeremy, show Chad that he can be accepted and loved for himself. I thought the author did wonderful job of telling this story.
March 2, 2014
I liked this book and will probably buy more by this author. The writing and the story are both good but there's a little too much melodrama. However, I appreciate the slow buildup to the menage and enjoyed the read.
August 6, 2016
Although this book is part of a series it still reads well as a standalone. My only problem is that it ended when they all get together. I think their relationship should have been further explored, like how do they manage to get along as a threesome.
March 24, 2014
Loved this book! So much emotion adding to the mystery, suspense, thriller, romance that is all in this one story. Totally awesome!.
June 2, 2014
I received a copy of this book via Goodreads' Don't buy My Love program in exchange for an honest review.
Chad is a nineteen y/o gay man whose father is an abusive drunk. He escapes the torment of his daily life--detached, depressed, unemployed, no boyfriend--with drugs and alcohol. One day his father beats him into unconsciousness. When he awakes, Chad needs to escape and can't turn to any of his few supports--knowing they will turn in his father--so he stumbles to the apartment of his former teacher (and lover) only to have Dion's boyfriend receive him.
Jeremy wants to hate the wretched mess of a boy on his doorstep--but he only feels pity. This broken boy can't even stand, and it was Dion who cheated, not Chad. So, he takes Chad in, cleans him up and puts him to bed. When Dion comes home, Jeremy informs him of Chad's presence. Dion's worry and relief both aggravate and scare Jeremy--he can sense Dion's lingering concern and affection for a Chad. Did Jeremy do the right thing bringing a rival into his own home?
See, ever since Dion broke things off with Chad and admitted to his affair to Jeremy, these men have been sleeping separately and living in a state of hostile truce. Three months of existing in the same apartment, no headway on rebuilding the relationship. Chad knows he's upsetting Dion's life and he leaves--only to nearly die of alcohol poisoning at a friend's house.
Chad can't return home, and he doesn't want to impose on his aunt, but, strangely, he accepts Jeremy's offer to live with Jeremy and him. Jeremy seems bent on reforming Chad--and he can clearly see the love Dion has, still, for Chad. Truly, it seems that Jeremy is feeling an affection for Chad was well. It is the counsel of Jeremy's mother that Jeremy think outside the traditional constraints of relationships. Dion has love for both Chad and Jeremy, and the BIG CHOICE for Jeremy is to force Dion to choose a single lover (and perhaps lose Dion to Chad) or to convince Dion to include Chad as a partner and keep all three men together.
It's quite the dilemma. I felt like it was handled with a lot of sensitivity and cautious introspection on Jeremy's part. His relationship has really been on the rocks, and yet, his love for Dion is strong. Likewise, Dion has been torn my guilt for months and is terrified for Chad's well being, as well as expecting a GOTCHA moment from Jeremy. He doesn't want to hurt either Chad or Jeremy, but can't help loving them. Chad really needs the unconditional love of someone, and he has been devastated since Dion broke off their tryst.
I'm not sure if the resolution with Chad's father was poetic justice or convenience--wished we'd had a little more there. Also, there was no need for either a prologue or an epilogue--those should have been regular chapters as they were continuous with the story. A continuity edit is in order. It seems Chad is 19, almost 20, until the end of the book when he's 18. O_o
I liked the flow--the pace was good, and we didn't drag through a bunch of days just to get to "the good stuff" but I really could have used a tiny bit more introspection from Chad and Jeremy leading up to, and regarding, their kiss. I felt Jeremy's feelings were a bit rushed, too impulsive, for the brooding character he is. On the whole, I really enjoyed the open mindedness of the story, and it's cast, and the careful and conscientious plotting. The story had a lot of heart to go with all its heartbreak.
Chad is a nineteen y/o gay man whose father is an abusive drunk. He escapes the torment of his daily life--detached, depressed, unemployed, no boyfriend--with drugs and alcohol. One day his father beats him into unconsciousness. When he awakes, Chad needs to escape and can't turn to any of his few supports--knowing they will turn in his father--so he stumbles to the apartment of his former teacher (and lover) only to have Dion's boyfriend receive him.
Jeremy wants to hate the wretched mess of a boy on his doorstep--but he only feels pity. This broken boy can't even stand, and it was Dion who cheated, not Chad. So, he takes Chad in, cleans him up and puts him to bed. When Dion comes home, Jeremy informs him of Chad's presence. Dion's worry and relief both aggravate and scare Jeremy--he can sense Dion's lingering concern and affection for a Chad. Did Jeremy do the right thing bringing a rival into his own home?
See, ever since Dion broke things off with Chad and admitted to his affair to Jeremy, these men have been sleeping separately and living in a state of hostile truce. Three months of existing in the same apartment, no headway on rebuilding the relationship. Chad knows he's upsetting Dion's life and he leaves--only to nearly die of alcohol poisoning at a friend's house.
Chad can't return home, and he doesn't want to impose on his aunt, but, strangely, he accepts Jeremy's offer to live with Jeremy and him. Jeremy seems bent on reforming Chad--and he can clearly see the love Dion has, still, for Chad. Truly, it seems that Jeremy is feeling an affection for Chad was well. It is the counsel of Jeremy's mother that Jeremy think outside the traditional constraints of relationships. Dion has love for both Chad and Jeremy, and the BIG CHOICE for Jeremy is to force Dion to choose a single lover (and perhaps lose Dion to Chad) or to convince Dion to include Chad as a partner and keep all three men together.
It's quite the dilemma. I felt like it was handled with a lot of sensitivity and cautious introspection on Jeremy's part. His relationship has really been on the rocks, and yet, his love for Dion is strong. Likewise, Dion has been torn my guilt for months and is terrified for Chad's well being, as well as expecting a GOTCHA moment from Jeremy. He doesn't want to hurt either Chad or Jeremy, but can't help loving them. Chad really needs the unconditional love of someone, and he has been devastated since Dion broke off their tryst.
I'm not sure if the resolution with Chad's father was poetic justice or convenience--wished we'd had a little more there. Also, there was no need for either a prologue or an epilogue--those should have been regular chapters as they were continuous with the story. A continuity edit is in order. It seems Chad is 19, almost 20, until the end of the book when he's 18. O_o
I liked the flow--the pace was good, and we didn't drag through a bunch of days just to get to "the good stuff" but I really could have used a tiny bit more introspection from Chad and Jeremy leading up to, and regarding, their kiss. I felt Jeremy's feelings were a bit rushed, too impulsive, for the brooding character he is. On the whole, I really enjoyed the open mindedness of the story, and it's cast, and the careful and conscientious plotting. The story had a lot of heart to go with all its heartbreak.
January 16, 2016
3-3.5 stars
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was a short an easy read in spite of the fact that it deals with heavy topics.
Chad has not had an easy life. His mother died when he was 11 and his father is an alcoholic who uses him as a punching back. He is not booksmart and had trouble with the workload at school, so he ends up having an affair with a teacher, Dion, who is kind to him.
When the teacher breaks up with him - due to the fact that he has a boyfriend - Chad spirals out of control, losing the only good thing in his life. He drops out of college and spends most of his time drunk or high with his dysfunctional group of friends or getting slapped around by his abusive father.
One day the abuse goes to far and Chad escapes, battered and bruised. He runs to his ex-teachers flat, only to encounter the mans boyfriend, Jeremy. Jeremy is a kind person and takes Chad in and takes care of him - although he is well aware of who Chad is.
Jeremy and Dion are not in a good place. They are still together, Dion has confessed his sins, but they are essentially living separate lives, sleeping in separate beds, and have done for the past 3 months.
I really enjoyed the first part of the story, although I was very apprehensive about the idea of a threesome when the original couple was already heading for break up. It is stated many times that Jeremy and Dion love each other and do not wish to break up, unfortunately though we don't really see it. We see distance and hesitation between the two. And conflict when Chad shows up - naturally.
The romance is slow, but still end up feeling rushed at the end, if that makes sense? I never actually believed that this was an equal relationship between the three. There was still too much unaccounted for baggage between Jeremy and Dion and I wasn't sure if Chads feelings for Dion were real, or just a product of the fact, that Dion was the first person in his life who had been kind to Chad? The story would have greatly benefited from another 4-5 chapters where some of these things were worked out.
We got a pretty good idea about who both Chad and Jeremy are, as a lot of the story is told from their pov. But Dion was kind of invisible. We see him through Jeremy's eyes and a bit through Chads, but we do not get to know him.
There was a lot of things happening around Chad, some of which made sense and drove the story, and some which seemed superfluous. The aunt I really didn't feel bring anything to the story at all. It felt like the author just threw her in there to show off a happy lesbian couple? Josh and Damian brought nothing to the story, but kept cropping up. This is book 5 of a series though, so maybe their story is in one of the books I haven't read?
All in all though an interesting little story and I would read something from this author again.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was a short an easy read in spite of the fact that it deals with heavy topics.
Chad has not had an easy life. His mother died when he was 11 and his father is an alcoholic who uses him as a punching back. He is not booksmart and had trouble with the workload at school, so he ends up having an affair with a teacher, Dion, who is kind to him.
When the teacher breaks up with him - due to the fact that he has a boyfriend - Chad spirals out of control, losing the only good thing in his life. He drops out of college and spends most of his time drunk or high with his dysfunctional group of friends or getting slapped around by his abusive father.
One day the abuse goes to far and Chad escapes, battered and bruised. He runs to his ex-teachers flat, only to encounter the mans boyfriend, Jeremy. Jeremy is a kind person and takes Chad in and takes care of him - although he is well aware of who Chad is.
Jeremy and Dion are not in a good place. They are still together, Dion has confessed his sins, but they are essentially living separate lives, sleeping in separate beds, and have done for the past 3 months.
I really enjoyed the first part of the story, although I was very apprehensive about the idea of a threesome when the original couple was already heading for break up. It is stated many times that Jeremy and Dion love each other and do not wish to break up, unfortunately though we don't really see it. We see distance and hesitation between the two. And conflict when Chad shows up - naturally.
The romance is slow, but still end up feeling rushed at the end, if that makes sense? I never actually believed that this was an equal relationship between the three. There was still too much unaccounted for baggage between Jeremy and Dion and I wasn't sure if Chads feelings for Dion were real, or just a product of the fact, that Dion was the first person in his life who had been kind to Chad? The story would have greatly benefited from another 4-5 chapters where some of these things were worked out.
We got a pretty good idea about who both Chad and Jeremy are, as a lot of the story is told from their pov. But Dion was kind of invisible. We see him through Jeremy's eyes and a bit through Chads, but we do not get to know him.
There was a lot of things happening around Chad, some of which made sense and drove the story, and some which seemed superfluous. The aunt I really didn't feel bring anything to the story at all. It felt like the author just threw her in there to show off a happy lesbian couple? Josh and Damian brought nothing to the story, but kept cropping up. This is book 5 of a series though, so maybe their story is in one of the books I haven't read?
All in all though an interesting little story and I would read something from this author again.
Want to Read
June 13, 2014This book was provided for free by the author in exchange for an honest review, as part of Goodreads M/M Romance Group's 'Don't Buy My Love' event.
When I nominated myself to review T.T. Kove's 'Measured Doses', I expected a sweet love story with endearing characters, yet no more remarkable than any of the thousands of m/m romance novels I've read in the past. And to be honest, in some ways that is exactly what I got. 'Measured Doses' tells the story of Chad, a troubled and abused young man at the cusp of adulthood who, at a moment of deepest despair, finds compassion, support and love in the arms of his former teacher Dion and Dion's lover Jeremy. There is no promise of a happily-ever-after outcome, and the sweetness of the story is tempered with a healthy dose of realism.
But there is always a 'but', and in this case the 'but' makes of 'Measured Doses' one of the most difficult m/m romance novels I've read in a long time. This story does not deal with any of the polular 'political' LGBT-related topics that most m/m romance authors prefer as the setting fortheir stories, such as homophobia, coming-out, workplace harassment, homelessness or bullying. Instead, the central character (Chad) struggles with a pernicious lack of self-regard, fuelled by domestic abuse and a severe learning disability. Drugs, alcohol and sexual promiscuity seem to offer him the only escape from what is rapidly becoming an unbearable life.
This focus on the inner turmoil of a young gay man is what makes 'Measured Doses' such a hugely important story in my opinion. All youngsters, whether straight or LGBT, have to deal with doubts about themselves at some point or another. That kind of emotional and psychological angst is a perfectly normal part of growing up, as we learn about ourselves and the changes and challenges we are faced with in a rather uncaring world. However, the challenges and obstacles faced by LGBT youngsters are generally so much worse than those faced by straight youngsters. After all, at least straight youngsters have the reassurance that their world is geared towards them. Young LGBT men and women enjoy no such reassurance - does it, therefor, come as a surprise that they are disproportionately represented in the ranks of homeless youths, juvenile sex workers or drug-related juvenile arrests?
All in all, T.T. Kove's 'Measured Doses' was no easy read. It is an important book, though, as a serious critique of the way society so often fails to protect its weakest and most vulnerable members. On the technical side, this is a well-written book with well-developed, loveable and 'real' characters, and for all the seriousness of the storyline and setting, and despite how difficult it was to read a book that brought back so many sad memories of my own youth, I honestly enjoyed my reading experience.
When I nominated myself to review T.T. Kove's 'Measured Doses', I expected a sweet love story with endearing characters, yet no more remarkable than any of the thousands of m/m romance novels I've read in the past. And to be honest, in some ways that is exactly what I got. 'Measured Doses' tells the story of Chad, a troubled and abused young man at the cusp of adulthood who, at a moment of deepest despair, finds compassion, support and love in the arms of his former teacher Dion and Dion's lover Jeremy. There is no promise of a happily-ever-after outcome, and the sweetness of the story is tempered with a healthy dose of realism.
But there is always a 'but', and in this case the 'but' makes of 'Measured Doses' one of the most difficult m/m romance novels I've read in a long time. This story does not deal with any of the polular 'political' LGBT-related topics that most m/m romance authors prefer as the setting fortheir stories, such as homophobia, coming-out, workplace harassment, homelessness or bullying. Instead, the central character (Chad) struggles with a pernicious lack of self-regard, fuelled by domestic abuse and a severe learning disability. Drugs, alcohol and sexual promiscuity seem to offer him the only escape from what is rapidly becoming an unbearable life.
This focus on the inner turmoil of a young gay man is what makes 'Measured Doses' such a hugely important story in my opinion. All youngsters, whether straight or LGBT, have to deal with doubts about themselves at some point or another. That kind of emotional and psychological angst is a perfectly normal part of growing up, as we learn about ourselves and the changes and challenges we are faced with in a rather uncaring world. However, the challenges and obstacles faced by LGBT youngsters are generally so much worse than those faced by straight youngsters. After all, at least straight youngsters have the reassurance that their world is geared towards them. Young LGBT men and women enjoy no such reassurance - does it, therefor, come as a surprise that they are disproportionately represented in the ranks of homeless youths, juvenile sex workers or drug-related juvenile arrests?
All in all, T.T. Kove's 'Measured Doses' was no easy read. It is an important book, though, as a serious critique of the way society so often fails to protect its weakest and most vulnerable members. On the technical side, this is a well-written book with well-developed, loveable and 'real' characters, and for all the seriousness of the storyline and setting, and despite how difficult it was to read a book that brought back so many sad memories of my own youth, I honestly enjoyed my reading experience.
September 11, 2014
I got a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through the M/M Romance group.
This was an enjoyable short story. Please note that when I say enjoyable I don't mean fluff and happy thoughts going all through the installment. Actually, Measured Doses has LOTS of angst. But since I LOVE angst, then I was perfectly fine with it.
In this book we get to know Chad. He's a 19 year old guy who has TONS of troubles. His father is an alcoholic who's been abusing him for a long time. Hitting him constantly and in some cases leaving him unconscious after one of his rage episodes. His mom died when he was a kid, and having no siblings he finds himself with no one to turn to, and even if he's tried to find a job so he can move out it's pretty complicated cuz he can't get one.. - And that's leaving the alcohol and drugs issues aside.
After being beaten up by his dad and being left unconscious on the floor Chad wakes up and tries to get help. The only person he can think of going to is Dion.
Dion is Chad's ex teacher.. Needless is to say that Chad is in love with him. When Chad arrives to Dion's house he finds that the teacher isn't home and he meets Jeremy (Dion's boyfriend) instead.
Jeremy is this.. absolutely gorgeous lad. He knows Chad and Dion's story very well (and he ain't happy about it... ). Even with that he manages to put his negative feelings aside and help Chad. What develops there is a very sweet, caring relationship.
When Dion finds out that Jeremy helped Chad out all the past conflicts surface. A sort of sad journey starts when we see how loving two people it's so very damn complicated.. And finding a solution it's nearly impossible... nearly.
You see, they find a way to make things work. They start a three way relationship. How they get there is the good part.
Now - I know I'm probably in the minority, but threesomes are usually not my thing. However, I've found a couple of books that have a threesome that I ended up loving - Please, count THIS book into that very short list. This threesome was really good. I think this is, probably, because I read about three people that decided to be equally committed to each other, so it wasn't just three people having sex.. And that was nice to read.
I guess that my only problem with the story is that I felt that it all went too quickly.. Not storywise quickly, but more like I felt rushed while reading it. I truly think that the plot has tons of potential. I guess I just would have loved that it went at a slower pace.
All in all, this is a very nice short story.
This was an enjoyable short story. Please note that when I say enjoyable I don't mean fluff and happy thoughts going all through the installment. Actually, Measured Doses has LOTS of angst. But since I LOVE angst, then I was perfectly fine with it.
In this book we get to know Chad. He's a 19 year old guy who has TONS of troubles. His father is an alcoholic who's been abusing him for a long time. Hitting him constantly and in some cases leaving him unconscious after one of his rage episodes. His mom died when he was a kid, and having no siblings he finds himself with no one to turn to, and even if he's tried to find a job so he can move out it's pretty complicated cuz he can't get one.. - And that's leaving the alcohol and drugs issues aside.
After being beaten up by his dad and being left unconscious on the floor Chad wakes up and tries to get help. The only person he can think of going to is Dion.
Dion is Chad's ex teacher.. Needless is to say that Chad is in love with him. When Chad arrives to Dion's house he finds that the teacher isn't home and he meets Jeremy (Dion's boyfriend) instead.
Jeremy is this.. absolutely gorgeous lad. He knows Chad and Dion's story very well (and he ain't happy about it... ). Even with that he manages to put his negative feelings aside and help Chad. What develops there is a very sweet, caring relationship.
When Dion finds out that Jeremy helped Chad out all the past conflicts surface. A sort of sad journey starts when we see how loving two people it's so very damn complicated.. And finding a solution it's nearly impossible... nearly.
You see, they find a way to make things work. They start a three way relationship. How they get there is the good part.
Now - I know I'm probably in the minority, but threesomes are usually not my thing. However, I've found a couple of books that have a threesome that I ended up loving - Please, count THIS book into that very short list. This threesome was really good. I think this is, probably, because I read about three people that decided to be equally committed to each other, so it wasn't just three people having sex.. And that was nice to read.
I guess that my only problem with the story is that I felt that it all went too quickly.. Not storywise quickly, but more like I felt rushed while reading it. I truly think that the plot has tons of potential. I guess I just would have loved that it went at a slower pace.
All in all, this is a very nice short story.
February 25, 2015
4/14/2004, London, England; Chad (19+, gay) Dad beat him profusely on a daily basis.
Chad had had enough.
1st stop was Dion (gay, 24+, Chad former college teacher). He was not at his flat.
Jeremy (chef, gay, 24, Dion partner, Jem) greeted him. He doctored him up, & Chad showered & got all cleaned up.
In the morning Chad was gone.
Jeremy went to speak with Aunt Harriet (Chad, Lesbian, Angie partner) who owns Harriet's Café in Soho.
Chad (19) showed up for group therapy. Josh, Damian (med student), Mal, Quinn, Noelle, Rayne (m) Sterling, Catlin (Cat), Doc, & Madison Sisco were in attendance also.
Wynn (Chad BMF) was in police custody. He was released.
Madison had committed suicide.
How will Chad’s life turn out?
Guys are gay, girls are lesbians.
Wow, the conservative mental health I worked for 8 yrs. as a crisis MSW we did not have a support group for GLT?. How unique. KC, KS, & MO, Lawrence, Topeka, KS have places for them to go. The 6A school district I worked in only did individual counseling also.
I’m strictly heterosexual but I can personally relate to the abuse of all sorts.
Threesomes rarely work out, someone always feels left out. Except with the unorthodox Mormon faith.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written could be true-to-life book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great movie, or mini TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Goodreads; Author; PDF book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
Chad had had enough.
1st stop was Dion (gay, 24+, Chad former college teacher). He was not at his flat.
Jeremy (chef, gay, 24, Dion partner, Jem) greeted him. He doctored him up, & Chad showered & got all cleaned up.
In the morning Chad was gone.
Jeremy went to speak with Aunt Harriet (Chad, Lesbian, Angie partner) who owns Harriet's Café in Soho.
Chad (19) showed up for group therapy. Josh, Damian (med student), Mal, Quinn, Noelle, Rayne (m) Sterling, Catlin (Cat), Doc, & Madison Sisco were in attendance also.
Wynn (Chad BMF) was in police custody. He was released.
Madison had committed suicide.
How will Chad’s life turn out?
Guys are gay, girls are lesbians.
Wow, the conservative mental health I worked for 8 yrs. as a crisis MSW we did not have a support group for GLT?. How unique. KC, KS, & MO, Lawrence, Topeka, KS have places for them to go. The 6A school district I worked in only did individual counseling also.
I’m strictly heterosexual but I can personally relate to the abuse of all sorts.
Threesomes rarely work out, someone always feels left out. Except with the unorthodox Mormon faith.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review. Only an honest one.
A very awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very well written could be true-to-life book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a great set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great movie, or mini TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Goodreads; Author; PDF book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
June 4, 2014
This book was provided for free by the author in exchange for an honest review through Don't Buy My Love.
This is a short and very promising read
Chad an abused teenager, out of desperation, turns to his old teacher for help and safety. However, Dion was not just his teacher but had also had a short fling with him. Dion left Chad because he didn’t want to continue cheating on his lover Jeremy. Jeremy and Dion are still coping with the fact that Dion cheated and things are not really great between them. Chad stepping back into their life at this juncture, as broken as he is, mentally and physically, is a terrific plot premise and was what drew me to the book
When Chad reaches Dion’s house, hurt badly, Jeremy opens the door, and you know from his reactions that he will soon figuratively open the door for Chad in their life.
I liked the portrayal of Chad and his small circle of friends and his support group. Some of characters though seemed unnecessary and superfluous. His aunt Harriet didn’t seem to add much to the narrative. The plot thread involving Wynn and Madison, adds to the story in terms of helping Chad realize he can’t always seek escape by getting high. But the interactions with Wynn deviated a little from the main plot.
Since the overall story is short, many bits seem glossed over - Chad’s reactions to the tragedies around him, Jeremy and Dion’s reconciliation, even the hurried threesome towards the end. There seemed to be too much going on in too few chapters at that point. And the last chapter then where Chad is discussing his current life situation seems tacked on.
I found Chad’s portrayal good. He’s hurt and lost and confused. Jeremy was likeable - he seems quite mature and understanding for a twenty five year old. Dion was a little colourless.
I’d have loved to see more of the three men together – even just talking and interacting.
This is a short and very promising read
Chad an abused teenager, out of desperation, turns to his old teacher for help and safety. However, Dion was not just his teacher but had also had a short fling with him. Dion left Chad because he didn’t want to continue cheating on his lover Jeremy. Jeremy and Dion are still coping with the fact that Dion cheated and things are not really great between them. Chad stepping back into their life at this juncture, as broken as he is, mentally and physically, is a terrific plot premise and was what drew me to the book
When Chad reaches Dion’s house, hurt badly, Jeremy opens the door, and you know from his reactions that he will soon figuratively open the door for Chad in their life.
I liked the portrayal of Chad and his small circle of friends and his support group. Some of characters though seemed unnecessary and superfluous. His aunt Harriet didn’t seem to add much to the narrative. The plot thread involving Wynn and Madison, adds to the story in terms of helping Chad realize he can’t always seek escape by getting high. But the interactions with Wynn deviated a little from the main plot.
Since the overall story is short, many bits seem glossed over - Chad’s reactions to the tragedies around him, Jeremy and Dion’s reconciliation, even the hurried threesome towards the end. There seemed to be too much going on in too few chapters at that point. And the last chapter then where Chad is discussing his current life situation seems tacked on.
I found Chad’s portrayal good. He’s hurt and lost and confused. Jeremy was likeable - he seems quite mature and understanding for a twenty five year old. Dion was a little colourless.
I’d have loved to see more of the three men together – even just talking and interacting.
September 8, 2016
I was given a free copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
More like 3.5 stars
I'm not sure where to begin or even how to explain how I felt about this book. For me it was a very interesting and sometimes hard read and I'm glad I read this book. If you have issues with cheating or abuse this might not be for you.
I felt torn a lot reading this book between feeling sorry for Chad to not really liking Chad. Chad is a very broken young man, who in my opinion is looking for a reason just to wake up everyday. For a while that reason was Dion, his teacher, until Dion put an end to their short affair. I also had mixed feeling about Jeremy. I understood his hurt but I also feel like if it hurt that much why stay and "punish" the other person and yourself?
This story is a very unique approach to ménage; dealing with a cheating partner and a very troubled young man. I'm glad the ménage didn't happen super quick or all lusty. It was a slow build with Jeremy dealing with his own hurt and seeing the guilt that not only Dion had but also Chad. And Chad self-esteem growing just a little bit.
Since the story is only told from Chad's and Jeremy's POV Dion (for me) comes across as a prop/focal point for the two men. And for the most part that works because everything starts with both their love for Dion and wanting him happy and in love. Chad and Jeremy grow to trust, like, and eventually care a great deal for each other.
There were some things I wanted to more about but then I saw this is part of a series hopefully those other stories will provide what I felt I was missing. With that said I didn't feel lost or if anything was missing from the story to keep it from being complete.
More like 3.5 stars
I'm not sure where to begin or even how to explain how I felt about this book. For me it was a very interesting and sometimes hard read and I'm glad I read this book. If you have issues with cheating or abuse this might not be for you.
I felt torn a lot reading this book between feeling sorry for Chad to not really liking Chad. Chad is a very broken young man, who in my opinion is looking for a reason just to wake up everyday. For a while that reason was Dion, his teacher, until Dion put an end to their short affair. I also had mixed feeling about Jeremy. I understood his hurt but I also feel like if it hurt that much why stay and "punish" the other person and yourself?
This story is a very unique approach to ménage; dealing with a cheating partner and a very troubled young man. I'm glad the ménage didn't happen super quick or all lusty. It was a slow build with Jeremy dealing with his own hurt and seeing the guilt that not only Dion had but also Chad. And Chad self-esteem growing just a little bit.
Since the story is only told from Chad's and Jeremy's POV Dion (for me) comes across as a prop/focal point for the two men. And for the most part that works because everything starts with both their love for Dion and wanting him happy and in love. Chad and Jeremy grow to trust, like, and eventually care a great deal for each other.
There were some things I wanted to more about but then I saw this is part of a series hopefully those other stories will provide what I felt I was missing. With that said I didn't feel lost or if anything was missing from the story to keep it from being complete.
June 4, 2014
(I received a copy of this book free in return for an honest review)
Measured Doses is an alternating POV story about a physically abused teen, an ex-teacher/lover and the ex's boyfriend. Chad, is nineteen and is repeated beat by his alcoholic father. One day, the abuse is so severe that he goes to the only person who he thinks can help him, his former professor and ex-lover, Dion. Yet, it's Dion's estranged (although still living together) boyfriend, Jeremy who takes in Chad and "nurses" his injuries even after he finds out who Chad is. The relationship between all three men takes an interesting turn when Jeremy realizes that he is attracted to Chad too.
The story is told in a rather straightforward manner, I almost want to say very stilted language - like a rough copy that needs the flourish and polish. There were a few minor editing errors (enough) that I'm noting them because where they occurred they were glaring. The worst: second to last page where Chad says he's 18, after the story refers to him being 19, almost 20 several times. Leaves a bad taste in my mouth when I'm laughing at the end of the book when that was not the author's intention I'm sure.
I'm also a fan of when an author sets the story out of the USA and keeps the characters true...Unfortunately, that didn't happen here, bringing down my rating above.
I did however enjoy the plot and story-line and characters (for the most part). I found Jeremy's POVs to be extremely wordy and round-a-bout, but Chad's POVs are well written, well-developed and I was definitely rooting for him to succeed.
Measured Doses is an alternating POV story about a physically abused teen, an ex-teacher/lover and the ex's boyfriend. Chad, is nineteen and is repeated beat by his alcoholic father. One day, the abuse is so severe that he goes to the only person who he thinks can help him, his former professor and ex-lover, Dion. Yet, it's Dion's estranged (although still living together) boyfriend, Jeremy who takes in Chad and "nurses" his injuries even after he finds out who Chad is. The relationship between all three men takes an interesting turn when Jeremy realizes that he is attracted to Chad too.
The story is told in a rather straightforward manner, I almost want to say very stilted language - like a rough copy that needs the flourish and polish. There were a few minor editing errors (enough) that I'm noting them because where they occurred they were glaring. The worst: second to last page where Chad says he's 18, after the story refers to him being 19, almost 20 several times. Leaves a bad taste in my mouth when I'm laughing at the end of the book when that was not the author's intention I'm sure.
I'm also a fan of when an author sets the story out of the USA and keeps the characters true...Unfortunately, that didn't happen here, bringing down my rating above.
I did however enjoy the plot and story-line and characters (for the most part). I found Jeremy's POVs to be extremely wordy and round-a-bout, but Chad's POVs are well written, well-developed and I was definitely rooting for him to succeed.
December 23, 2015
Review also posted on http://www.wodfreview.com
After a particularly horrendous beating from his father Chad runs to the only person he can think of that may be able to help him, his former teacher and ex-lover Dion. He makes his way to Dion’s but it’s not Dion that answers the door but Jeremy, Dion’s boyfriend. Jeremy catches Chad as he’s about to pass out and does the only thing he can do, he helps Chad into the apartment and takes care of him. Surprising all of them feelings develop between Chad and Jeremy while Dion admits to wanting both Chad and Jeremy. Now they have to figure out if a relationship between the three of them can work.
This story is full of angst and required more than a couple of tissues. My heart broke for Chad, Jeremy and grudgingly for Dion. T.T. Kove was able to make me love all of them despite the cheating and the eventual ménage story line. I can’t wrap my head around how a ménage could possibly work but their story does and I attribute that to the way the story is written.
There is an HEA but I think there can be so much more story to tell about these three guys.
August 8, 2014
Chad is looking for somewhere to escape too but he can only think of one place he will be safe. After his father beats him, he finds himself on the doorstep of his former teacher, Dion. However the man who opened the door to the nearly unconscious Chad was not Dion, but his boyfriend Jeremy. Jeremy decides to help Chad and take care of him but soon comes to the realization that this student of Dion’s is also the one that Dion cheated on him with. What will become of Dion and Jeremy? How will the presence of Chad in their apartment affect their relationship?
I thought that the plot of this book was decent. I liked that there was a background established prior to their relationship developing more. I do have to say that there were a lot of things going on in Chad’s life. It was like the poor kid could never catch a break but somehow he worked his way through the abuse and the alcohol and ended up finding a relationship that worked for him in the end. I wouldn’t mind reading another book by T.T. Kove.
I received this book from the author for an honest review.
I thought that the plot of this book was decent. I liked that there was a background established prior to their relationship developing more. I do have to say that there were a lot of things going on in Chad’s life. It was like the poor kid could never catch a break but somehow he worked his way through the abuse and the alcohol and ended up finding a relationship that worked for him in the end. I wouldn’t mind reading another book by T.T. Kove.
I received this book from the author for an honest review.
December 25, 2014
(I received a copy of this book free in return for an honest review)
Chad is abused by his father and goes to the home of an ex teacher,Dion, with whom he had a one night stand, only for the door to be opened by Dion's boyfriend Jeremy.
Jeremy takes Chad in and cares for him. Things have not been right between Dion and him in the 3 months since the one night stand.
The next day, Chad leaves and attends a party where he ends up with alcohol poisoning and is admitted to the ER. Dion and Jeremy go to the hospital.
Once he is released from the hospital Chad goes back to their flat to get well.
I love ménages, especially MMM, but for me this one seemed to come together a little quickly. It was Jeremy's mom saying that she had read in one of her books about threesomes and thought that that might work in their case as obviously Jeremy and Dion as well as Dion and Chad loved each other.
That said, it was a shortish read and I did enjoy it.
Chad is abused by his father and goes to the home of an ex teacher,Dion, with whom he had a one night stand, only for the door to be opened by Dion's boyfriend Jeremy.
Jeremy takes Chad in and cares for him. Things have not been right between Dion and him in the 3 months since the one night stand.
The next day, Chad leaves and attends a party where he ends up with alcohol poisoning and is admitted to the ER. Dion and Jeremy go to the hospital.
Once he is released from the hospital Chad goes back to their flat to get well.
I love ménages, especially MMM, but for me this one seemed to come together a little quickly. It was Jeremy's mom saying that she had read in one of her books about threesomes and thought that that might work in their case as obviously Jeremy and Dion as well as Dion and Chad loved each other.
That said, it was a shortish read and I did enjoy it.
June 9, 2014
I got this book for free in exchange for an honest review through the DBML program of the M/M Romance Group at Goodreads.
This is an interesting menage book, which is not something I read a lot of. Chad is a 19 year old ex college student who had a sexual encounter with his english professor Dion who broke it off because Dion loves his boyfriend Jeremy. After getting viciously breaten up by his father, Chad goes to Dion's apartment because he has nowhere else to go. Dion isn't home but Jeremy catch Chad before he hit the ground.
The menage evolves because both Jeremy and Chad love Dion and Dion love both Jeremy and Chad and Chad and Jeremy like each other a lot. There are some twist and turns before it get settled a good read.
This is an interesting menage book, which is not something I read a lot of. Chad is a 19 year old ex college student who had a sexual encounter with his english professor Dion who broke it off because Dion loves his boyfriend Jeremy. After getting viciously breaten up by his father, Chad goes to Dion's apartment because he has nowhere else to go. Dion isn't home but Jeremy catch Chad before he hit the ground.
The menage evolves because both Jeremy and Chad love Dion and Dion love both Jeremy and Chad and Chad and Jeremy like each other a lot. There are some twist and turns before it get settled a good read.
June 14, 2014
I read this book for free in exchange for my honest review. I actually enjoyed this book.In my opinion, the characters were down to earth and had real issues in thier lives. It wasnt a story where Jeremy just swept the whole incident away like it didnt happen. No, he was angry and his anger was justified. I wish there was a little more dialog between jeremy and chad then Dion and chad to show how they blended. That part was too quick. Chad and Dion didnt really talk. Overall, I really enjoyed the book. It touched on depression and mental illness. We got to see chad grow as he became healthier. Great story
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