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On the 2
First rule of riding the subway:
Don’t talk to strangers.
Don’t even look at anyone.
But what if they’re grouchy and gorgeous and you’re sitting right next to them?
I always did like a challenge.
I want to turn that frown upside down, but he barely looks at me.
I take a chance and poke the bear, and to my shock, he plays along and growls back.
The more we meet on the train, the more I realize he’s not the uptight grump I first thought. Then one night, there he is—in my world, in my space…his tongue in my mouth.
Mind blown.
But I’m no fool. A man like Nash Roman doesn’t date a guy who sells suits at Macy’s.
Nash is prep school and Ivy League, and I’m night school while working two jobs to pay bills. Nash is fine wine, expensive restaurants and handmade suits, and I’m beer, corner takeout, and a lucky find at Goodwill.
What am I—street-smart Ethan Moreno—doing, playing in his world? This man is older than me, way richer than me, and has already made it clear he doesn’t believe in love. I should walk away. Instead, I’m falling for him. Hard.
Nash couldn’t care less if his father doesn’t think I’m good enough or if people gossip because we’re so different. I need to trust in him and us, but I’ve been burned before.
And just like the Uptown Number 2, sometimes you have to travel a different route to get to the final destination:
Forever.
Don’t talk to strangers.
Don’t even look at anyone.
But what if they’re grouchy and gorgeous and you’re sitting right next to them?
I always did like a challenge.
I want to turn that frown upside down, but he barely looks at me.
I take a chance and poke the bear, and to my shock, he plays along and growls back.
The more we meet on the train, the more I realize he’s not the uptight grump I first thought. Then one night, there he is—in my world, in my space…his tongue in my mouth.
Mind blown.
But I’m no fool. A man like Nash Roman doesn’t date a guy who sells suits at Macy’s.
Nash is prep school and Ivy League, and I’m night school while working two jobs to pay bills. Nash is fine wine, expensive restaurants and handmade suits, and I’m beer, corner takeout, and a lucky find at Goodwill.
What am I—street-smart Ethan Moreno—doing, playing in his world? This man is older than me, way richer than me, and has already made it clear he doesn’t believe in love. I should walk away. Instead, I’m falling for him. Hard.
Nash couldn’t care less if his father doesn’t think I’m good enough or if people gossip because we’re so different. I need to trust in him and us, but I’ve been burned before.
And just like the Uptown Number 2, sometimes you have to travel a different route to get to the final destination:
Forever.
268 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 7, 2023
207 people are currently reading
263 people want to read
About the author
Felice Stevens
92 books1,722 followersFelice Stevens writes romance because what is better than people falling in love? Her favorite part of a romance novel is that first kiss…sigh. She loves creating stories of hopes and dreams and happily ever afters. Her stories are character-driven, rich with the sights, sounds and flavors of New York City and filled with men who are sometimes deeply flawed but always real.
Felice writes M/M romance because she believes that everyone deserves a happily ever after. Having traveled all over the world, she can safely say that the universal language that unites people is love. Felice has written in a variety of sub-genres, including contemporary, paranormal and has a mystery series as well.
Felice is a two-time Lambda Literary Award nominee and the Lambda award-winner for Best Gay Romance for her book, The Ghost and Charlie Muir, as well as the e-Lit gold medal winner in romance for Broken Silence.
Felice writes M/M romance because she believes that everyone deserves a happily ever after. Having traveled all over the world, she can safely say that the universal language that unites people is love. Felice has written in a variety of sub-genres, including contemporary, paranormal and has a mystery series as well.
Felice is a two-time Lambda Literary Award nominee and the Lambda award-winner for Best Gay Romance for her book, The Ghost and Charlie Muir, as well as the e-Lit gold medal winner in romance for Broken Silence.
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March 11, 2024
RATING 4.5 STARS
On the 2 is a stand alone, grumpy/sunshine MM romance by the wonderful Felice Stevens. I fell so in love with the cover of this book and once I read it, I loved it even more. Felice has such a way of making me fall in love with her characters and I definitely did fall for these two!
Nash Roman is forty three years old and is the deputy chief financial officer of a large private hospital. Nash works long hours at the hospital and then goes home by himself. He doesn’t believe in love and his reasons for this are justified. But he also has closed himself off so securely that he doesn’t have any friendships either. He has a couple of people that he hooks up with once in awhile, both men or women. He’s not particular. And even that has become mundane, barely satisfying. His life is very bleak.
Ethan Moreno is thirty one years old and is a sales associate at Macy’s Herald Square in the men’s department. Ethan barely scrapes by, lives in a tiny one room apartment and is getting over an ex-boyfriend of three years he caught cheating on him. Still, he maintains his cheerful demeanor. When he first sees the man sitting on the train, he’s taken with how gorgeous he is, but also with the frown he wears. He wears his grumpiness like a shield. As these two continue to meet on the train each morning, Ethan does his best to annoy Nash, just to get a reaction out of him. But when the run into each other once more, outside of the train, things take a drastic turn.
You just never know what surprises life might have for you and if your closed off to everything, how will you even be able to experience something wonderful? I loved the effect Ethan had on Nash’s life. It was kind of a slow thing, the light started coming in little by little. A friend that Nash kept putting off finally was able to break in and Nash finally realized what a friendship could mean to him. As he let Ethan in, he also realized what his life had been missing, passion, laughter, and even love. But their lives are so different. As Nash accepts Ethan into his life, he could care less but to Ethan, the differences are important.
The blurb for the book pretty much says it all but I hope I was able to give you a little extra to convince you to jump on in with this book. I loved these two but I ADORED them together. They balanced each other. I loved seeing Nash’s life and heart open up. And I loved the confidence Nash and also his friends were able to give to Ethan. This was such a wonderful, feel good book that I am so glad I got the chance to read. I hope you fall in love with Ethan and Nash as well! Make sure you download the bonus chapter. It was adorable.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
On the 2 is a stand alone, grumpy/sunshine MM romance by the wonderful Felice Stevens. I fell so in love with the cover of this book and once I read it, I loved it even more. Felice has such a way of making me fall in love with her characters and I definitely did fall for these two!
Nash Roman is forty three years old and is the deputy chief financial officer of a large private hospital. Nash works long hours at the hospital and then goes home by himself. He doesn’t believe in love and his reasons for this are justified. But he also has closed himself off so securely that he doesn’t have any friendships either. He has a couple of people that he hooks up with once in awhile, both men or women. He’s not particular. And even that has become mundane, barely satisfying. His life is very bleak.
Ethan Moreno is thirty one years old and is a sales associate at Macy’s Herald Square in the men’s department. Ethan barely scrapes by, lives in a tiny one room apartment and is getting over an ex-boyfriend of three years he caught cheating on him. Still, he maintains his cheerful demeanor. When he first sees the man sitting on the train, he’s taken with how gorgeous he is, but also with the frown he wears. He wears his grumpiness like a shield. As these two continue to meet on the train each morning, Ethan does his best to annoy Nash, just to get a reaction out of him. But when the run into each other once more, outside of the train, things take a drastic turn.
You just never know what surprises life might have for you and if your closed off to everything, how will you even be able to experience something wonderful? I loved the effect Ethan had on Nash’s life. It was kind of a slow thing, the light started coming in little by little. A friend that Nash kept putting off finally was able to break in and Nash finally realized what a friendship could mean to him. As he let Ethan in, he also realized what his life had been missing, passion, laughter, and even love. But their lives are so different. As Nash accepts Ethan into his life, he could care less but to Ethan, the differences are important.
The blurb for the book pretty much says it all but I hope I was able to give you a little extra to convince you to jump on in with this book. I loved these two but I ADORED them together. They balanced each other. I loved seeing Nash’s life and heart open up. And I loved the confidence Nash and also his friends were able to give to Ethan. This was such a wonderful, feel good book that I am so glad I got the chance to read. I hope you fall in love with Ethan and Nash as well! Make sure you download the bonus chapter. It was adorable.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
August 2, 2023
On the 2 is probably one of the last places I'd look to strike up a conversation with a grumpy, but handsome stranger. Luckily for us, Ethan Moreno doesn't have that problem and we are treated to a front-row seat as he slowly chips away at Nash Roman's resolve not to get involved with anyone.
I liked the way Ethan works his way under Nash's skin and enjoyed their banter and the way they move from seatmates, to sort of friends to more. Nash doesn't know just how bad he needs someone like Ethan to show him how to really live, but once he starts to accept it he is a total sweetheart. The romance is sweet and sexy and you could feel just how much these two care about each other. There is depth to the relationship and both characters individually, and I was invested in it all. Of course, there is also that NYC feel that Felice Stevens infuses into each of her books.
This is a standalone story with an age-gap, opposites attract, grumpy/sunshine storyline. There are well-fleshed secondary characters, including the men of the Memories books. While Nash does struggle with his wanting more than he believes he should with Ethan, the main drama comes from outside the relationship with Nash's family and work issues and Ethan's desire to move forward with his career goals and end ties with his horrible ex. Another wonderful romance from Felice Stevens!
I liked the way Ethan works his way under Nash's skin and enjoyed their banter and the way they move from seatmates, to sort of friends to more. Nash doesn't know just how bad he needs someone like Ethan to show him how to really live, but once he starts to accept it he is a total sweetheart. The romance is sweet and sexy and you could feel just how much these two care about each other. There is depth to the relationship and both characters individually, and I was invested in it all. Of course, there is also that NYC feel that Felice Stevens infuses into each of her books.
This is a standalone story with an age-gap, opposites attract, grumpy/sunshine storyline. There are well-fleshed secondary characters, including the men of the Memories books. While Nash does struggle with his wanting more than he believes he should with Ethan, the main drama comes from outside the relationship with Nash's family and work issues and Ethan's desire to move forward with his career goals and end ties with his horrible ex. Another wonderful romance from Felice Stevens!
July 29, 2023
This would make a great film or short TV series because it's got a great 'meet cute' that works really well for episodic storytelling.
I'm a fan of Felice's New York set books because she brings her depth of knowledge from being a New Yorker herself so that you get a vivid picture of the setting.
She usually brings a unique Jewish flair to her narratives, but that's not the case here. It's more of an 'opposite side of the tracks' romance between two guys who both have long-term hurts hidden away.
I loved how Ethan wasn't willing to ignore the 'grouchy-face' on the 2 (which I'm guessing is some kind of metro train system as I'm English clueless!)
But also that Nate very quickly realised he was looking forward to being bothered by the younger, cheerful guy who won't stop talking to him on a morning.
As the story progresses, a tentative friendship builds from the instant attraction they have for each other, brief as their encounters on the morning journey are.
An accident of fate puts them both in the same bar, and, one hot kiss in the toilets later, things start moving into different territory.
There's a secondary plot involving Nate's dad, who's a hot shot surgeon at the same hospital he works at, plus a third thread seeing Ethan look to further his career in fashion retail, and they wrap seamlessly together throughout the book.
It's an easy read, tension comes from outside of the relationship in the main, there's smoking hot sex, but these guys also learn how to be there for the other.
It's also subtly funny, with Ethan's sass being a great foil for Nash's more dry humour. I loved both workplace settings too. There's a good depth given to make both Macy's department store and the hospital Nash is assistant finance director at, feel real.
Guest appearances from Felice's Memories series help ground the story even more in her New York universe, but the book works as a standalone.
There's a lovely Epilogue to add more to the happy ending these guys find with each other and it rounds things off perfectly.
#ARC kindly received from the author via Chaotic Creatives in return for an honest and unbiased review.
I'm a fan of Felice's New York set books because she brings her depth of knowledge from being a New Yorker herself so that you get a vivid picture of the setting.
She usually brings a unique Jewish flair to her narratives, but that's not the case here. It's more of an 'opposite side of the tracks' romance between two guys who both have long-term hurts hidden away.
I loved how Ethan wasn't willing to ignore the 'grouchy-face' on the 2 (which I'm guessing is some kind of metro train system as I'm English clueless!)
But also that Nate very quickly realised he was looking forward to being bothered by the younger, cheerful guy who won't stop talking to him on a morning.
As the story progresses, a tentative friendship builds from the instant attraction they have for each other, brief as their encounters on the morning journey are.
An accident of fate puts them both in the same bar, and, one hot kiss in the toilets later, things start moving into different territory.
There's a secondary plot involving Nate's dad, who's a hot shot surgeon at the same hospital he works at, plus a third thread seeing Ethan look to further his career in fashion retail, and they wrap seamlessly together throughout the book.
It's an easy read, tension comes from outside of the relationship in the main, there's smoking hot sex, but these guys also learn how to be there for the other.
It's also subtly funny, with Ethan's sass being a great foil for Nash's more dry humour. I loved both workplace settings too. There's a good depth given to make both Macy's department store and the hospital Nash is assistant finance director at, feel real.
Guest appearances from Felice's Memories series help ground the story even more in her New York universe, but the book works as a standalone.
There's a lovely Epilogue to add more to the happy ending these guys find with each other and it rounds things off perfectly.
#ARC kindly received from the author via Chaotic Creatives in return for an honest and unbiased review.
September 30, 2023
I’m impressed with stories that surprise me a bit, and this meet cute certainly did. We get an incredibly cute grumpy/sunshine beginning as the two MCs keep running into each other.
It’s always so satisfying being part of a journey where the ice man thaws out. Nash is a prickly pear of a grump when we meet him and watching him soften and grow warm and protective is lovely.
Pretty low angst, nice bit of outside ex drama, overall a nice read. Tended to meander a bit in the first half, but there were plenty of new characters and events which helped it stay interesting.
HEA, m/m, rich/poor, grumpy/sunshine, insta-love, contemporary, NYC.
It’s always so satisfying being part of a journey where the ice man thaws out. Nash is a prickly pear of a grump when we meet him and watching him soften and grow warm and protective is lovely.
Pretty low angst, nice bit of outside ex drama, overall a nice read. Tended to meander a bit in the first half, but there were plenty of new characters and events which helped it stay interesting.
HEA, m/m, rich/poor, grumpy/sunshine, insta-love, contemporary, NYC.
September 25, 2025
Overall book review: 3.8
Audio book: N/A
Book cover: 4
I enjoyed this read.
So why then only 3.8?
Simply because I really enjoyed the grumpy sunshine
thing but when the turn in the relationship came, it
came on like a tsunami wave. Or that's what it
felt like to me anyhoo.
It didn't make the story bad, it didn't even make me
want to stop reading. I would have just liked the turn
about to be filled with more relationship depth and
getting to know each other.
Maybe building a little more between them during
the train rides or hell, having a lunch date or three
before getting into each others pants?
Yeah Yeah, I'm grumpy I know.
I did enjoy the story and I have to give
credit to the author, I saw so many red
flags for unnecessary DRAMA but the characters
actually handled this like adults!
I should actually give her a extra star for that
alone. Now that I think about it.
Every time I though "Cue the Drama"
it was handled smoothly and with no
"lets throw the kitchen sink" moments.
FABULOUS
All in all, nice little read with likeable
characters.
Audio book: N/A
Book cover: 4
I enjoyed this read.
So why then only 3.8?
Simply because I really enjoyed the grumpy sunshine
thing but when the turn in the relationship came, it
came on like a tsunami wave. Or that's what it
felt like to me anyhoo.
It didn't make the story bad, it didn't even make me
want to stop reading. I would have just liked the turn
about to be filled with more relationship depth and
getting to know each other.
Maybe building a little more between them during
the train rides or hell, having a lunch date or three
before getting into each others pants?
Yeah Yeah, I'm grumpy I know.
I did enjoy the story and I have to give
credit to the author, I saw so many red
flags for unnecessary DRAMA but the characters
actually handled this like adults!
I should actually give her a extra star for that
alone. Now that I think about it.
Every time I though "Cue the Drama"
it was handled smoothly and with no
"lets throw the kitchen sink" moments.
FABULOUS
All in all, nice little read with likeable
characters.
August 8, 2023
In the middle of the story, I was just realized that Nash's personality was close to my favorite guy, Micah. And I got to see Micah and Josh again as the cameo, also Nash and Ethan lived in the same universe as Alex and Rafe. How wonderful was that?
As for Nash and Ethan's story, it was Felice's classic with family, acceptance and forgiveness.
I loved it.
Full review to follow.
As for Nash and Ethan's story, it was Felice's classic with family, acceptance and forgiveness.
I loved it.
Full review to follow.
July 26, 2023
"I'm not letting you go, Nash."
"Who said I want to leave?"
On the 2 is my first book by author Felice Stevens and as the saying goes, it certainly won't be my last. I've already been perusing their backlist since I finished. The blurb for this one caught my attention and I'm so glad it did. I had a hard time putting it down. I love a Grumpy/Sunshine pairing and their meet cute was just so much fun. As someone who has spent plenty of time on the T in Boston, I'm well aware of the sacred rules of transport. A polite smile or a "Do you mind if I sit here?" is basically the unwritten only acceptable etiquette when dealing with strangers who are just trying to get through their commute. The fact that Ethan breaks these rules and with someone as buttoned up as Nash delighted me to no end.
The banter between these two was great! I couldn't wait until they took their morning commute meetups to outside the train bubble. It was lovely seeing Nash slowly open up. Ethan with his magnetic personality was such a great influence on him. They had fun together when they went out, and even more fun staying in if you're picking up with I'm putting down. *wink wink* There was some drama, but I was absolutely thrilled it did not lead to some big misunderstanding and/or midway breakup. I was worried it was heading that way and gave a big breath of relief when it didn't. In fact, the drama was dealt with in mostly a mature fashion and it was great to see that for a change.
Meeting a few of this authors' past MC's has made me want to check out their stories as well. Alex sure seems like a character and I'm interested in how he ended up with such a soft spoken hubby in Rafe. Micah was fun too. I have only 1 teeny niggle to mention after reading. It's not actually spoilery, but it's definitely spicy so I'll tag it so you can decide to read it or not.
"Who said I want to leave?"
On the 2 is my first book by author Felice Stevens and as the saying goes, it certainly won't be my last. I've already been perusing their backlist since I finished. The blurb for this one caught my attention and I'm so glad it did. I had a hard time putting it down. I love a Grumpy/Sunshine pairing and their meet cute was just so much fun. As someone who has spent plenty of time on the T in Boston, I'm well aware of the sacred rules of transport. A polite smile or a "Do you mind if I sit here?" is basically the unwritten only acceptable etiquette when dealing with strangers who are just trying to get through their commute. The fact that Ethan breaks these rules and with someone as buttoned up as Nash delighted me to no end.
The banter between these two was great! I couldn't wait until they took their morning commute meetups to outside the train bubble. It was lovely seeing Nash slowly open up. Ethan with his magnetic personality was such a great influence on him. They had fun together when they went out, and even more fun staying in if you're picking up with I'm putting down. *wink wink* There was some drama, but I was absolutely thrilled it did not lead to some big misunderstanding and/or midway breakup. I was worried it was heading that way and gave a big breath of relief when it didn't. In fact, the drama was dealt with in mostly a mature fashion and it was great to see that for a change.
Meeting a few of this authors' past MC's has made me want to check out their stories as well. Alex sure seems like a character and I'm interested in how he ended up with such a soft spoken hubby in Rafe. Micah was fun too. I have only 1 teeny niggle to mention after reading. It's not actually spoilery, but it's definitely spicy so I'll tag it so you can decide to read it or not.
July 22, 2023
Loved it! Such a sweet story
August 10, 2023
Tropes: grumpy/sunshine, age gap, rich/poor, found family
Feels: 3/5
Steam*: 2.5/5
Kinks: no
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content themes: cheating (not between MCs), neglectful parents, homophobia
Nash is 43, bisexual, rich. He's a bit antisocial, grumpy. He's bitter and estranged from his dad because when he was 6 years old his dad cheated on his mom and their relationship broke up and his mom was devastated. And his dad basically only sent money and cards after the breakup. His dad now works as a star doctor at the same hospital that Nash is an executive for and they are clashing because the dad wants to be more involved in his life and Nash can't get over the past. Nash is actually not a really appealing character, not very likable. He's immature in the way he thinks and acts. If you like strong, smart, alpha characters, you won't like Nash.
Ethan is 31, gay, works as a sales associate in Macy's men's wear department. He has ambitions to become a fashion buyer. He is a nice guy. He has just gotten out of a 3-year relationship where his ex cheated on him. His other significant in the past also cheated on him.
They meet on the subway. Ethan prods at Nash the hot grump and tries to engage him in conversation. They regularly meet on the subway during morning commute and chat over time. They meet outside of the subway and start something up.
I didn't really love this story. It kind of fell flat for me. It was a decent premise, I like the combination of tropes. I think this author maybe struggled a little bit with sharing plot details and character development details in a natural way. There were moments where characters said things to each other when normally they wouldn't say those kind of things at those moments naturally. It was more like they were said to advance the plot for the reader's sake. Like for example there was a really fast over share where Ethan summarized his two significant boyfriends and how their relationships started and crashed, and it was just too fast for all that detail. And another example was Nash talking to his father and mentioning that his dad made him cry in the past and I'm like this isn't the type of thing that Nash would actually share with his dad who he doesn't open up to. He wouldn't want to give him that power over him or show that vulnerability given the type of guy he is.
Another thing that annoyed me was that Nash had two f*** buddies, it really was super casual with the guy so that didn't bother me. But the woman that he was regularly hooking up with was someone who was Holly that he worked with regularly and she was clearly thinking that their relationship was more than it was and she was trying to lock him down. Nash had sex with her a couple times after he started flirting with Ethan but before they actually hooked up, which is not fantastic but ok. But then we got well passed the 50% mark in the story before Nash actually ended it with her. It just dragged on too long that overlap. Especially because Ethan clearly had a thing about being cheated on, I just kept waiting for the shoe to drop and an ugly scene to happen - though when it did it was kind of nice that Ethan trusted Nash but meh
*FYI, I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
Feels: 3/5
Steam*: 2.5/5
Kinks: no
Angst: low
HEA: yes
Pairing: MM
Triggers/potential icks/content themes: cheating (not between MCs), neglectful parents, homophobia
Nash is 43, bisexual, rich. He's a bit antisocial, grumpy. He's bitter and estranged from his dad because when he was 6 years old his dad cheated on his mom and their relationship broke up and his mom was devastated. And his dad basically only sent money and cards after the breakup. His dad now works as a star doctor at the same hospital that Nash is an executive for and they are clashing because the dad wants to be more involved in his life and Nash can't get over the past. Nash is actually not a really appealing character, not very likable. He's immature in the way he thinks and acts. If you like strong, smart, alpha characters, you won't like Nash.
Ethan is 31, gay, works as a sales associate in Macy's men's wear department. He has ambitions to become a fashion buyer. He is a nice guy. He has just gotten out of a 3-year relationship where his ex cheated on him. His other significant in the past also cheated on him.
They meet on the subway. Ethan prods at Nash the hot grump and tries to engage him in conversation. They regularly meet on the subway during morning commute and chat over time. They meet outside of the subway and start something up.
I didn't really love this story. It kind of fell flat for me. It was a decent premise, I like the combination of tropes. I think this author maybe struggled a little bit with sharing plot details and character development details in a natural way. There were moments where characters said things to each other when normally they wouldn't say those kind of things at those moments naturally. It was more like they were said to advance the plot for the reader's sake. Like for example there was a really fast over share where Ethan summarized his two significant boyfriends and how their relationships started and crashed, and it was just too fast for all that detail. And another example was Nash talking to his father and mentioning that his dad made him cry in the past and I'm like this isn't the type of thing that Nash would actually share with his dad who he doesn't open up to. He wouldn't want to give him that power over him or show that vulnerability given the type of guy he is.
Another thing that annoyed me was that Nash had two f*** buddies, it really was super casual with the guy so that didn't bother me. But the woman that he was regularly hooking up with was someone who was Holly that he worked with regularly and she was clearly thinking that their relationship was more than it was and she was trying to lock him down. Nash had sex with her a couple times after he started flirting with Ethan but before they actually hooked up, which is not fantastic but ok. But then we got well passed the 50% mark in the story before Nash actually ended it with her. It just dragged on too long that overlap. Especially because Ethan clearly had a thing about being cheated on, I just kept waiting for the shoe to drop and an ugly scene to happen - though when it did it was kind of nice that Ethan trusted Nash but meh
*FYI, I rate steam based on a combination of quality & quantity. I note kink separate from steam because I don't want to underrate steamy reads that don't have much kink.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 17, 2023
I liked those characters and had a good time reading. My issue was with the clumsy information drops. It kept me from immersing.
Like:
'I am looking for a better job.'
'Good for you. You need a boyfriend, too'. She was always trying to find someone. One day she even....
Every single time with the pointless details and side stories. Often, I had the feeling I was supposed to recognize characters form previous novels by this author.
Like:
'I am looking for a better job.'
'Good for you. You need a boyfriend, too'. She was always trying to find someone. One day she even....
Every single time with the pointless details and side stories. Often, I had the feeling I was supposed to recognize characters form previous novels by this author.
July 23, 2023
Nash was the last one looking for a relationship, but Ethan kind of grew on him without him even fighting the gradual relationship and bond growing between them. Low angst with lots of sizzle! I loved Nash standing up to Oscar. It was so Alpha! I liked that Nash was beginning to have a relationship with his dad. The secondary characters are entertaining and ones to watch for their own upcoming stories!!!
July 27, 2023
Meet Ethan the extrovert and Nash the introvert. These two meet on the subway and seem to have little or nothing in common, but there is an instant attraction. Ethan is a senior sales associate at the Macy’s flagship store and Nash is the Deputy Chief Financial Officer of a large New York hospital. Nash lives in a lush condo while Ethan lives in an apartment so small he says he could bump into himself turning around.
Nash refuses to admit how drawn he is to Ethan and even refuses to tell Ethan his name, at first. Ethan is drawn to Nash and isn’t shy about trying to chat him up. They meet each day on the 2 and Ethan is usually successful in grabbing a seat next to Nash. Eventually, Nash does thaw and gives Ethan his name.
Nash has fantasies about kissing Ethan and seeing him naked. One of those fantasies comes to life when Nash runs into Ethan in a bar one fateful night. They share a kiss that will set your socks on fire, and Nash can no longer deny his feelings for Ethan.
I loved how these two men came together to face and conquer their fears. Ethan has a cheating ex who won’t go away and Nash has little or no relationship with a father who cheated on his mother and then abandoned them both. I was surprised by the one person who helped these two men come together and stay together while also helping Nash begin again with his father.
On the 2 will grab you from the first page and keep you engaged until the very end. I read this book in one sitting. So will you. It’s a definite keeper!
Nash refuses to admit how drawn he is to Ethan and even refuses to tell Ethan his name, at first. Ethan is drawn to Nash and isn’t shy about trying to chat him up. They meet each day on the 2 and Ethan is usually successful in grabbing a seat next to Nash. Eventually, Nash does thaw and gives Ethan his name.
Nash has fantasies about kissing Ethan and seeing him naked. One of those fantasies comes to life when Nash runs into Ethan in a bar one fateful night. They share a kiss that will set your socks on fire, and Nash can no longer deny his feelings for Ethan.
I loved how these two men came together to face and conquer their fears. Ethan has a cheating ex who won’t go away and Nash has little or no relationship with a father who cheated on his mother and then abandoned them both. I was surprised by the one person who helped these two men come together and stay together while also helping Nash begin again with his father.
On the 2 will grab you from the first page and keep you engaged until the very end. I read this book in one sitting. So will you. It’s a definite keeper!
August 16, 2023
This author has been on my TBR for a while so I was excited to see a book from them available on KU. Unfortunately, I’ve come to see this author isn’t for me so I’ll be removing those books from my TBR.
One of my personal pet peeves is when an MC is with another character during the story, especially if it happens after meeting their love interest.
Here, Nash meets Ethan the day after his fuck buddy had ‘ridden him like a pogo stick’. Now, I appreciate that it lacked detail other than the pogo stick reference but we come to learn that Nash has 3 casual sex partners and Julia is someone that works with him so she’s the one that’s always more readily available. Apparently sex to him has become boring and he even thinks there’s barely a difference between sex with Julia and his right hand sooooo it made me feel like there wouldn’t be anymore sex with Julia. But that’s not the case. Nash doesn’t like going home to his empty house soooo -
Yah, there hasn’t been much progress in the interactions with Ethan and Nash but they’re constantly thinking of each other. Still, Nash goes home with Julia, they have sex ( thankfully it’s not really detailed other than her getting ontop and getting herself off ) he doesn’t finish so he goes into the bathroom to shower and jerks off thinking about Ethan ( real romantic, I know)
So turns out Julia doesn’t really like Nash she’s just trying to push their no-strings-sex into relationship territory to climb up the career ladder because of Nash’s connections. There are some other scenes where she kisses his lips, sits on his lap and comes on to him, he tells her no but I feel like he could’ve been more proactive in avoiding those things altogether but I guess it happened to lead up to her showing up at his house while he was with Ethan.
I kinda wish Ethan and Nash talked about how long it had been since Nash was last with Julia considering she showed up expecting sex and had been telling people they were together but 🤷🏻♀️
Aside from hitting personal pet peeves of mine, I didn’t feel the connect and the dialogue never flowed for me, so I’m calling this a miss for the author when it comes to personal preferences.
I’m off to my next read. ~
My ratings always reflect my enjoyment of the story. ❀
One of my personal pet peeves is when an MC is with another character during the story, especially if it happens after meeting their love interest.
Here, Nash meets Ethan the day after his fuck buddy had ‘ridden him like a pogo stick’. Now, I appreciate that it lacked detail other than the pogo stick reference but we come to learn that Nash has 3 casual sex partners and Julia is someone that works with him so she’s the one that’s always more readily available. Apparently sex to him has become boring and he even thinks there’s barely a difference between sex with Julia and his right hand sooooo it made me feel like there wouldn’t be anymore sex with Julia. But that’s not the case. Nash doesn’t like going home to his empty house soooo -
Yah, there hasn’t been much progress in the interactions with Ethan and Nash but they’re constantly thinking of each other. Still, Nash goes home with Julia, they have sex ( thankfully it’s not really detailed other than her getting ontop and getting herself off ) he doesn’t finish so he goes into the bathroom to shower and jerks off thinking about Ethan ( real romantic, I know)
So turns out Julia doesn’t really like Nash she’s just trying to push their no-strings-sex into relationship territory to climb up the career ladder because of Nash’s connections. There are some other scenes where she kisses his lips, sits on his lap and comes on to him, he tells her no but I feel like he could’ve been more proactive in avoiding those things altogether but I guess it happened to lead up to her showing up at his house while he was with Ethan.
I kinda wish Ethan and Nash talked about how long it had been since Nash was last with Julia considering she showed up expecting sex and had been telling people they were together but 🤷🏻♀️
Aside from hitting personal pet peeves of mine, I didn’t feel the connect and the dialogue never flowed for me, so I’m calling this a miss for the author when it comes to personal preferences.
I’m off to my next read. ~
My ratings always reflect my enjoyment of the story. ❀
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 26, 2023
GAH… I Loved This Book!!! It started as a grumpy/ sunshine book but that changed not long after Nash met Ethan on the number two train. Nash grumpy and reading a newspaper on the train on his way to work, then Ethan gets on the train at the the next stop and nearly falls on his lap, then sits down next to Nash and starts a conversation , he being grumpy and want to read tries to avoid Ethan but ends up saying a few words and this continues for awhile and when one of them don’t show up, they worry about why the other isn’t on the two. Eventually they run into each other in a bathroom at a pub and kiss, then everything changes, they talk more frequently on the two, become friends/ lovers and Nash becomes the sweetest boyfriend ever with Ethan, even though he never had a boy or girl friend before because of his childhood… I had tears streaming down my face a few times because of Nash, he so needed a hug and someone to love him. Happy he is trying with his father. I’m glad Ethan showed up in Nash’s life and they both get their happily after. The short story to follow I loved as well. So sweet!
July 11, 2024
On the 2 by Felice Stevens is so good! I didn't know what to expect as this is my first book from this author but it certainly won't be my last.
I loved the realistic nature of this novel and also the pure angst and LOVE! It's such a real NYC kind of love. The author did an excellent job capturing what it's like to live and work in the city in both aspects of being wealthy as well as trying to make it in the fashion world.
Ethan Moreno is a fun loving, fast talking, FIT graduate who wants to work his way up in the fashion industry. He takes the 2 train everyday to his job. As does the sexy, mysterious and broody Nash Roman who appears to be one of those kings of industry finance types, which he is, but turns out he's also so much more.
When Ethan decides to spark up a conversation with Nash, they end up becoming intrigued by the other.
I loved seeing the progression of their relationship from strangers to best friends to becoming each other's favorite person.
It was so real, so cute and so enjoyable to read. I really loved this book. I hope you enjoy it too. It's one of my favorites this year.
Tropes:MM/Gay Romance Opposites AttractAge GapGrumpy Sunshine
I loved the realistic nature of this novel and also the pure angst and LOVE! It's such a real NYC kind of love. The author did an excellent job capturing what it's like to live and work in the city in both aspects of being wealthy as well as trying to make it in the fashion world.
Ethan Moreno is a fun loving, fast talking, FIT graduate who wants to work his way up in the fashion industry. He takes the 2 train everyday to his job. As does the sexy, mysterious and broody Nash Roman who appears to be one of those kings of industry finance types, which he is, but turns out he's also so much more.
When Ethan decides to spark up a conversation with Nash, they end up becoming intrigued by the other.
I loved seeing the progression of their relationship from strangers to best friends to becoming each other's favorite person.
It was so real, so cute and so enjoyable to read. I really loved this book. I hope you enjoy it too. It's one of my favorites this year.
Tropes:MM/Gay Romance Opposites AttractAge GapGrumpy Sunshine
August 7, 2023
It’s been a while since I’ve been completely captivated by a book within the first couple of pages.
I made the huge mistake of thinking “I’ll just read a page or two’ before getting ready for work…. I am a fool! I did have to drag myself away after a chapter (I don’t regret being 15mins late!), but the story did have the unfortunate effect of making me think about it all day…. I’m not going into details. For the best experience, I’d recommend letting this story unfold with only the info from the blurb.
What I can tell you though, is that this book is quintessential Felice Stevens. The story in itself is fairly light with heaps of humour. I’d classify it as low angst. It’s an opposites attract story, with strong found family vibes. Although it is light overall, it does have emotional depth, which made me fall in love with the characters even more, but it’s not an intense emotional experience and never heavy. It adds texture to the story, but it maintains its easygoing and relaxed feel throughout.
My favourite thing about Felice Stevens is the way she writes her characters. They are always so alive, it’s almost like watching a movie unfold in my head rather than just written words. Her characters are so very human, flaws and all. It is this ‘not perfect’ element that makes me all the more invested in following them on their journey to their happy ending.
Whether you are a long-time reader of Felice Stevens, or if this is your first time, I highly recommend On the 2. Just take my word for it, and don’t start it just before you have to go somewhere important!!
I made the huge mistake of thinking “I’ll just read a page or two’ before getting ready for work…. I am a fool! I did have to drag myself away after a chapter (I don’t regret being 15mins late!), but the story did have the unfortunate effect of making me think about it all day…. I’m not going into details. For the best experience, I’d recommend letting this story unfold with only the info from the blurb.
What I can tell you though, is that this book is quintessential Felice Stevens. The story in itself is fairly light with heaps of humour. I’d classify it as low angst. It’s an opposites attract story, with strong found family vibes. Although it is light overall, it does have emotional depth, which made me fall in love with the characters even more, but it’s not an intense emotional experience and never heavy. It adds texture to the story, but it maintains its easygoing and relaxed feel throughout.
My favourite thing about Felice Stevens is the way she writes her characters. They are always so alive, it’s almost like watching a movie unfold in my head rather than just written words. Her characters are so very human, flaws and all. It is this ‘not perfect’ element that makes me all the more invested in following them on their journey to their happy ending.
Whether you are a long-time reader of Felice Stevens, or if this is your first time, I highly recommend On the 2. Just take my word for it, and don’t start it just before you have to go somewhere important!!
August 17, 2023
4.25 Stars!
What a wonderful grumpy/sunshine story! Nash and Ethan started as strangers on the subway, but Ethan slowly wore Nash down on each commute they shared. I liked seeing the grumpy (I don't need anyone) Nash finding himself talking to Ethan more and a few others around him. I loved Ethan's drive and love of his work and career goals, and I'm glad that he found a way around the obstacles in front of him. Seeing Nash find passion and start embracing friendships and his attraction and feelings for Ethan was amazing. Nash has so much more than he gave himself credit for, and I'm glad that Ethan was so persistent on the train at the beginning. I could understand Ethan's reluctance toward the end, and I'm glad that he came to the right conclusion on his own. I enjoyed their journey and how they supported each other through a variety of trials, helping each other navigate and see the possibilities. They were an amazing couple once they let each other in.
Many of the supporting characters were fantastic. I loved Alex and his boundless positivity about his friendship with Nash, even as Nash tried to deny it. I loved the people Alex brought in to Nash and Ethan, so they had more friends to lean on. I definitely need to go back and read (or reread, in one case) the stories with Alex and Micah.
*Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement.*
What a wonderful grumpy/sunshine story! Nash and Ethan started as strangers on the subway, but Ethan slowly wore Nash down on each commute they shared. I liked seeing the grumpy (I don't need anyone) Nash finding himself talking to Ethan more and a few others around him. I loved Ethan's drive and love of his work and career goals, and I'm glad that he found a way around the obstacles in front of him. Seeing Nash find passion and start embracing friendships and his attraction and feelings for Ethan was amazing. Nash has so much more than he gave himself credit for, and I'm glad that Ethan was so persistent on the train at the beginning. I could understand Ethan's reluctance toward the end, and I'm glad that he came to the right conclusion on his own. I enjoyed their journey and how they supported each other through a variety of trials, helping each other navigate and see the possibilities. They were an amazing couple once they let each other in.
Many of the supporting characters were fantastic. I loved Alex and his boundless positivity about his friendship with Nash, even as Nash tried to deny it. I loved the people Alex brought in to Nash and Ethan, so they had more friends to lean on. I definitely need to go back and read (or reread, in one case) the stories with Alex and Micah.
*Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement.*
August 5, 2023
This was such a lovely grumpy/sunshine and age story. As per usual I loved Felice's storytelling and it had more hooked from the start. In this story we meet Ethan who is fiercely independent but has just come out of a bad relationship with an ex who is still after him. He gets drawn to broody Nash on the subway and is determined to talk to him. At first Nash is reluctant but little by little Nash finds that he enjoys the company with Ethan. They start spending time outside meetings on the train every morning. They both have their issues but find that with the support of each other they can deal with them better. I thought their relationship was sweet and I loved reading their story.
August 6, 2023
This is now my new favorite Felice Stevens book. I adored Ethan and Nash's story. They were special from the start and only got better as things progressed. I highly recommend this story.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
August 7, 2023
Sweet romance
Really enjoyable book that kept me entertained right til the end. I enjoyed the characters of both Ethan and Nash, their first meeting, and then following how their relationship developed into more. Their banter back and forth had me smiling at times, I loved the humour between them. They are sexy together, driven, and perfect for one another. I felt for Ethan, whose insecurities held him back somewhat, and liked how Nash wouldn't let go. It's a lovely grumpy/sunshine romance. Nash is quiet, doesn't suffer fools gladly, and shies away from dating, with no intention of entering into a relationship. Ethan's outgoing, cheerful, and an optimist, it's totally an example of opposites attract. The ending is lovely, it's a story which will certainly give you the "feels" as you're reading it. Definitely recommended
I received an ARC of this story, which in no way influenced my opinion.
Really enjoyable book that kept me entertained right til the end. I enjoyed the characters of both Ethan and Nash, their first meeting, and then following how their relationship developed into more. Their banter back and forth had me smiling at times, I loved the humour between them. They are sexy together, driven, and perfect for one another. I felt for Ethan, whose insecurities held him back somewhat, and liked how Nash wouldn't let go. It's a lovely grumpy/sunshine romance. Nash is quiet, doesn't suffer fools gladly, and shies away from dating, with no intention of entering into a relationship. Ethan's outgoing, cheerful, and an optimist, it's totally an example of opposites attract. The ending is lovely, it's a story which will certainly give you the "feels" as you're reading it. Definitely recommended
I received an ARC of this story, which in no way influenced my opinion.
August 9, 2023
Sweet book❤️ Grumpy sunshine ❤️ very low angst, no 3 act breakup. A lovely story about finding the love of you life and allowing yourself to fall in love and be loved ❤️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
August 27, 2023
4.5 stars for the Audiobook
This review and much more can be found at Love Bytes Review
Nash Roman is a financial analyst who likes to use his commute on the 2 train to catch up on his Financial Times reading 🙂 He lives in a nice condo in Brooklyn and he takes the 2 train every day to his job. On one particular morning, a younger man sits down next to him and disturbs his preferred solitary journey. He’s shocked because the guy is so gorgeous. He’s also quite chatty. They could not be more opposite. Nash likes numbers – they are clean and predictable – unlike people who are messy and unpredictable 😉 As you might imagine, Ethan (his erstwhile seatmate) works in the men’s department at Macy’s Herald Square flagship store. He finds people fascinating 🙂 He manages to goad Nash into a conversation that is so far from Nash’s comfort zone, but he can’t seem to help himself. Post this conversation, Nash finds himself thinking about the man and then reluctantly hoping to see him again on the train sometime.
It seems that Ethan had noticed Nash before and was looking for an opportunity to talk to him. The summer months of lower ridership made it possible. When he spots the open seat again the next day, he goes back for more. Thus begins their morning chats on the 2 train. Nash can’t figure out why he can’t get this guy out of his head. He’s bisexual and it’s not like he hasn’t been attracted to and slept with men before. He doesn’t date or have relationships though. Ethan is intrigued by Nash and he loves sort of forcing him into conversation 🙂 Then after Nash has a particularly stressful evening, they end up at the same bar and run into each other in the men’s room. Nash has had a couple drinks and he just snaps and kisses Ethan. He can’t believe he did that and when he sees Ethan with someone, he leaves. He’s is feeling really off-kilter and so he avoids his usual train for a couple of days. He didn’t ask permission and he knows that Ethan has had a breakup with a douchey cheating ex who is still trying to get back with him and he feels terrible about it.
Much of Nash’s stress comes from having issues with his world-renowned doctor father who is trying to run his life after he’s taking a very prestigious position at the same hospital where Nash works. He had cheated on Nash’s mother and left them on Thanksgiving when Nash was a kid. He never made any attempt to do anything except pay child support and now all of a sudden he wants to be his father? Um, no. Nash is not interested. Also his wife is much younger than Nash – literally half her husband’s age. He doesn’t hold anything against her, but he’s not going to be part of some happy family now after what he went through. He’s got a booty call in Julia, one of the lawyers at the hospital and he’s got one friend – Alex – who is a doctor who works under his father. Other than that, he lives a pretty solitary existence. Suddenly he’s tired of being alone. The one person he’s interested in spending time with is Ethan. So he breaks down and asks. He’s got no idea what he’s doing, but he just feels better when he’s with Ethan.
Nash hasn’t a clue what he’s doing. He’s never dated anyone. But Ethan deserves to be treated well. He’s got his own family issues with his parents moving to Texas. He had a sister who passed away and they wanted to get away from bad memories and also they didn’t know how to react to their gay son. Nash’s mother had died and he was angry with her for many years, but he’s been alone a long time. They are both a little unsteady at first. Nash is so far out of Ethan’s league as far as he knows but Nash couldn’t care less that Ethan put himself through college and lives mostly paycheck to paycheck. He wants to support him in his job and he clearly has plans. He also wants to make sure that his ex leaves him alone. Ethan’s landlady also is looking out for him. And she likes Nash right away 🙂
The real surprise is that Nash begins to realize that maybe he needs to let go of the past. He does his best to bring Ethan into his world without pushing him or making him feel like he’s not in the same world as Nash’s friends. They are all really nice guys and enjoy meeting Ethan. Ethan’s friends are also great and Nash finds that maybe they can really make this work. When his father announces some big news, Nash is furious at first. But then being with Ethan and seeing his friends have families and realizing that being alone isn’t all it’s cracked up to be, his eyes are opened to what he might be missing if he continues down this path of anger and resentment of things that can’t be undone. And if Ethan is beside him every step of the way, well things can only get better, right?
I really enjoyed this story of two very different men finding what they need and want in each other. Nash is a very buttoned up guy. He’s not had an easy life with his parents splitting up and his father cheating and leaving his family behind when he was still a small child. Yes, he went to good schools and has a good job, but his neglectful father now trying to take charge/butt into his life at the the same hospital where he works is on his very last nerve. Ethan is an initially annoying ray of sunshine on Nash’s morning commute from Brooklyn to his job in Manhattan. Ethan is younger and also he’s got a totally different outlook on life. He’s still making his way and he’s driven to succeed. I loved what a good friend, tenant, co-worker and boyfriend he was! The supporting characters were great – I loved Gladys and Pete! Nash starts out wound so tight he probably squeaked. Ethan was just what he needed to pull him out of his very tough shell he’s built as a result of his early life. Diana was a lovely breath of fresh air and she and Ethan were seriously sweet together. It was nice to see Nash and his family move forward with good things for everyone.
Matt Haynes did a great job with this book! His performance was top notch. Ethan was bright and light. Nash was tight and a bit dark. Thankfully they both changed a bit and opened up more as the book went on. I could listen to this book again and again. So many lovely scenes and moments. Real emotion and so well done! A great marriage between this author and narrator yet again. Highly recommended.
This review and much more can be found at Love Bytes Review
Nash Roman is a financial analyst who likes to use his commute on the 2 train to catch up on his Financial Times reading 🙂 He lives in a nice condo in Brooklyn and he takes the 2 train every day to his job. On one particular morning, a younger man sits down next to him and disturbs his preferred solitary journey. He’s shocked because the guy is so gorgeous. He’s also quite chatty. They could not be more opposite. Nash likes numbers – they are clean and predictable – unlike people who are messy and unpredictable 😉 As you might imagine, Ethan (his erstwhile seatmate) works in the men’s department at Macy’s Herald Square flagship store. He finds people fascinating 🙂 He manages to goad Nash into a conversation that is so far from Nash’s comfort zone, but he can’t seem to help himself. Post this conversation, Nash finds himself thinking about the man and then reluctantly hoping to see him again on the train sometime.
It seems that Ethan had noticed Nash before and was looking for an opportunity to talk to him. The summer months of lower ridership made it possible. When he spots the open seat again the next day, he goes back for more. Thus begins their morning chats on the 2 train. Nash can’t figure out why he can’t get this guy out of his head. He’s bisexual and it’s not like he hasn’t been attracted to and slept with men before. He doesn’t date or have relationships though. Ethan is intrigued by Nash and he loves sort of forcing him into conversation 🙂 Then after Nash has a particularly stressful evening, they end up at the same bar and run into each other in the men’s room. Nash has had a couple drinks and he just snaps and kisses Ethan. He can’t believe he did that and when he sees Ethan with someone, he leaves. He’s is feeling really off-kilter and so he avoids his usual train for a couple of days. He didn’t ask permission and he knows that Ethan has had a breakup with a douchey cheating ex who is still trying to get back with him and he feels terrible about it.
Much of Nash’s stress comes from having issues with his world-renowned doctor father who is trying to run his life after he’s taking a very prestigious position at the same hospital where Nash works. He had cheated on Nash’s mother and left them on Thanksgiving when Nash was a kid. He never made any attempt to do anything except pay child support and now all of a sudden he wants to be his father? Um, no. Nash is not interested. Also his wife is much younger than Nash – literally half her husband’s age. He doesn’t hold anything against her, but he’s not going to be part of some happy family now after what he went through. He’s got a booty call in Julia, one of the lawyers at the hospital and he’s got one friend – Alex – who is a doctor who works under his father. Other than that, he lives a pretty solitary existence. Suddenly he’s tired of being alone. The one person he’s interested in spending time with is Ethan. So he breaks down and asks. He’s got no idea what he’s doing, but he just feels better when he’s with Ethan.
Nash hasn’t a clue what he’s doing. He’s never dated anyone. But Ethan deserves to be treated well. He’s got his own family issues with his parents moving to Texas. He had a sister who passed away and they wanted to get away from bad memories and also they didn’t know how to react to their gay son. Nash’s mother had died and he was angry with her for many years, but he’s been alone a long time. They are both a little unsteady at first. Nash is so far out of Ethan’s league as far as he knows but Nash couldn’t care less that Ethan put himself through college and lives mostly paycheck to paycheck. He wants to support him in his job and he clearly has plans. He also wants to make sure that his ex leaves him alone. Ethan’s landlady also is looking out for him. And she likes Nash right away 🙂
The real surprise is that Nash begins to realize that maybe he needs to let go of the past. He does his best to bring Ethan into his world without pushing him or making him feel like he’s not in the same world as Nash’s friends. They are all really nice guys and enjoy meeting Ethan. Ethan’s friends are also great and Nash finds that maybe they can really make this work. When his father announces some big news, Nash is furious at first. But then being with Ethan and seeing his friends have families and realizing that being alone isn’t all it’s cracked up to be, his eyes are opened to what he might be missing if he continues down this path of anger and resentment of things that can’t be undone. And if Ethan is beside him every step of the way, well things can only get better, right?
I really enjoyed this story of two very different men finding what they need and want in each other. Nash is a very buttoned up guy. He’s not had an easy life with his parents splitting up and his father cheating and leaving his family behind when he was still a small child. Yes, he went to good schools and has a good job, but his neglectful father now trying to take charge/butt into his life at the the same hospital where he works is on his very last nerve. Ethan is an initially annoying ray of sunshine on Nash’s morning commute from Brooklyn to his job in Manhattan. Ethan is younger and also he’s got a totally different outlook on life. He’s still making his way and he’s driven to succeed. I loved what a good friend, tenant, co-worker and boyfriend he was! The supporting characters were great – I loved Gladys and Pete! Nash starts out wound so tight he probably squeaked. Ethan was just what he needed to pull him out of his very tough shell he’s built as a result of his early life. Diana was a lovely breath of fresh air and she and Ethan were seriously sweet together. It was nice to see Nash and his family move forward with good things for everyone.
Matt Haynes did a great job with this book! His performance was top notch. Ethan was bright and light. Nash was tight and a bit dark. Thankfully they both changed a bit and opened up more as the book went on. I could listen to this book again and again. So many lovely scenes and moments. Real emotion and so well done! A great marriage between this author and narrator yet again. Highly recommended.
June 30, 2025
This was a fun, sweet, sexy book and I had a great time with it overall! The voice actor was great and I thought he handed the characters very well! The voice actor made the story even more enjoyable!
Nash is a cis white 43 year old bisexual man. He has a moderate preference for women, and is partially closeted because it’s easier for him (he’s open about his attraction to women but makes sure never to mention his attraction to men unless it’s “relevant”), but accepts and knows that he’s bisexual. He has only ever openly dated women, but occasionally has dated men on the down low (his dad only ever knew about the women in his life, too). He’s the grumpy in this book. He’s a junior assistant financial officer (or some kind of accountant) for Mercy hospital. He likes the (supposedly) black and white reality of numbers. He has daddy issues and has been on strained terms with his father since he was 6. His dad cheated on his mom and left them and moved out of state with the girlfriend. The dad wants Nash to be “the best” at everything in life, including being a doctor or failing that to be the CFO of the hospital. The dad also expects Nash to choose “the best” partner, which means a cis woman who can provide children, and doesn’t approve of Nash “choosing wrong” when he chooses Ethan (a gay man). Honestly part of why Nash likes Ethan so much might be because his dad wouldn’t like it.
Ethan is a cis white gay 31 year old man. He’s openly gay. He’s the sunshine in this duo. His most recent boyfriend cheated on him and insists Ethan had no reason to break up over this. Ethan works at Macy’s as a salesperson and wants to break into fashion. He’s a kind man and works hard. He’s concerned and cares for his loved ones. He falls fast for Nash despite Nash needing some wooing to thaw after their first meeting. He does worry Nash won’t want to be with him long term because Nash is so private and prefers to keep his attraction to men quiet, and Ethan doesn’t want to cause any problems in that area. Luckily Nash realizes being semi-closeted isn’t worth losing Ethan and relaxes some.
I didn’t love that Nash’s dad thought being with a woman was the “superior choice” and even at the end when they’re all friendly again Nash knows that his dad would prefer he married a woman and had bio kids, and yet shrugs it off and lets it go to maintain his relationship with his dad. And Nash’s wife (who is Ethan’s age) is an “ally” and yet never challenged her husband’s casual homophobia other than “now, now, dear.” It’s all treated as just fine since he’s not aggressive about it but it IS harmful. Didn’t love how that was handled. But it kind of goes with Nash insisting he’s not closeted yet also acknowledging he hides his attraction to men at work because it’ll create “drama” and mix his personal and professional lives, yet he’ll hook up with a woman coworker many times and doesn’t think that’s exposing his personal life or creating drama? What???
Other than that, I liked Ethan a ton and I loved that he’s sweet but not a doormat for Nash. I liked that Nash relaxed on some stuff and that he accepted he was bi and didn’t try to insist he was straight but sometimes was attracted to men and loved them (which is definitively bisexuality). That was really nice.
Contains:
—grumpy/sunshine
—bisexual/gay
—age gap (12 years)
—commitment-phobic MC (Nash)
—brief on page MF sex (very low detail, it’s like one sentence) between Nash and his FWB Julia (he also has another FWB Denise, and occasionally Mario)
—slow burn
—homophobia (from Julia and Nash’s dad)
—homophobia is mostly brushed off as “not that bad” and forgiven quickly
Other:
—first person dual POV.
—cheating: no.
—romantic rival: kind of. Nash has a woman he casually goes out with and sleeps with regularly named Julia who wants to be with him. Ethan has an ex-boyfriend who cheated he tries to get him back. Neither MC is interested.
—breakup: no.
—kids: no, the MCs don’t intend to have kids.
—sex: explicit open door scenes. Strict roles. Nash tops and Ethan bottoms.
—HEA: yes.
Dr. Roman didn’t appear to feel the cuteness and frowned. “I thought we’d be seeing Julia tonight. From what I’d heard, the two of you have been together quite a while. Very nice *woman*.”
I didn’t miss the emphasis. Nash’s jaw tightened, and I reached under the table to squeeze his knee, but he paid me no attention.
“Go ahead, Dad. I know you have something to say.”
“Don’t be so defensive. I’m just wondering how you go from dating a woman to a man. And the times we’ve met Julia, she seemed perfect.”
“I can’t believe you don’t see how wrong Nash was. He used me,” [Diana] hissed. “He used me as a cover so no one would suspect he was gay. I can’t imagine your husband is okay with this. I’m sure he wants his son to be normal.”
“I thought your father basically tolerated me, and only because you care about me and he doesn’t want to jeopardize the relationship building between the two of you. Don’t get me wrong. He’s nice enough, but I always had the feeling he’d be happier if you were with a woman.”
“My father…” Nash sighed. “My father is a study in contrasts. You’re probably right that he’d prefer I be married to a woman and have children, but he can see how happy I am and that it’s because of you.”
Nash is a cis white 43 year old bisexual man. He has a moderate preference for women, and is partially closeted because it’s easier for him (he’s open about his attraction to women but makes sure never to mention his attraction to men unless it’s “relevant”), but accepts and knows that he’s bisexual. He has only ever openly dated women, but occasionally has dated men on the down low (his dad only ever knew about the women in his life, too). He’s the grumpy in this book. He’s a junior assistant financial officer (or some kind of accountant) for Mercy hospital. He likes the (supposedly) black and white reality of numbers. He has daddy issues and has been on strained terms with his father since he was 6. His dad cheated on his mom and left them and moved out of state with the girlfriend. The dad wants Nash to be “the best” at everything in life, including being a doctor or failing that to be the CFO of the hospital. The dad also expects Nash to choose “the best” partner, which means a cis woman who can provide children, and doesn’t approve of Nash “choosing wrong” when he chooses Ethan (a gay man). Honestly part of why Nash likes Ethan so much might be because his dad wouldn’t like it.
Ethan is a cis white gay 31 year old man. He’s openly gay. He’s the sunshine in this duo. His most recent boyfriend cheated on him and insists Ethan had no reason to break up over this. Ethan works at Macy’s as a salesperson and wants to break into fashion. He’s a kind man and works hard. He’s concerned and cares for his loved ones. He falls fast for Nash despite Nash needing some wooing to thaw after their first meeting. He does worry Nash won’t want to be with him long term because Nash is so private and prefers to keep his attraction to men quiet, and Ethan doesn’t want to cause any problems in that area. Luckily Nash realizes being semi-closeted isn’t worth losing Ethan and relaxes some.
I didn’t love that Nash’s dad thought being with a woman was the “superior choice” and even at the end when they’re all friendly again Nash knows that his dad would prefer he married a woman and had bio kids, and yet shrugs it off and lets it go to maintain his relationship with his dad. And Nash’s wife (who is Ethan’s age) is an “ally” and yet never challenged her husband’s casual homophobia other than “now, now, dear.” It’s all treated as just fine since he’s not aggressive about it but it IS harmful. Didn’t love how that was handled. But it kind of goes with Nash insisting he’s not closeted yet also acknowledging he hides his attraction to men at work because it’ll create “drama” and mix his personal and professional lives, yet he’ll hook up with a woman coworker many times and doesn’t think that’s exposing his personal life or creating drama? What???
Other than that, I liked Ethan a ton and I loved that he’s sweet but not a doormat for Nash. I liked that Nash relaxed on some stuff and that he accepted he was bi and didn’t try to insist he was straight but sometimes was attracted to men and loved them (which is definitively bisexuality). That was really nice.
Contains:
—grumpy/sunshine
—bisexual/gay
—age gap (12 years)
—commitment-phobic MC (Nash)
—brief on page MF sex (very low detail, it’s like one sentence) between Nash and his FWB Julia (he also has another FWB Denise, and occasionally Mario)
—slow burn
—homophobia (from Julia and Nash’s dad)
—homophobia is mostly brushed off as “not that bad” and forgiven quickly
Other:
—first person dual POV.
—cheating: no.
—romantic rival: kind of. Nash has a woman he casually goes out with and sleeps with regularly named Julia who wants to be with him. Ethan has an ex-boyfriend who cheated he tries to get him back. Neither MC is interested.
—breakup: no.
—kids: no, the MCs don’t intend to have kids.
—sex: explicit open door scenes. Strict roles. Nash tops and Ethan bottoms.
—HEA: yes.
Dr. Roman didn’t appear to feel the cuteness and frowned. “I thought we’d be seeing Julia tonight. From what I’d heard, the two of you have been together quite a while. Very nice *woman*.”
I didn’t miss the emphasis. Nash’s jaw tightened, and I reached under the table to squeeze his knee, but he paid me no attention.
“Go ahead, Dad. I know you have something to say.”
“Don’t be so defensive. I’m just wondering how you go from dating a woman to a man. And the times we’ve met Julia, she seemed perfect.”
“I can’t believe you don’t see how wrong Nash was. He used me,” [Diana] hissed. “He used me as a cover so no one would suspect he was gay. I can’t imagine your husband is okay with this. I’m sure he wants his son to be normal.”
“I thought your father basically tolerated me, and only because you care about me and he doesn’t want to jeopardize the relationship building between the two of you. Don’t get me wrong. He’s nice enough, but I always had the feeling he’d be happier if you were with a woman.”
“My father…” Nash sighed. “My father is a study in contrasts. You’re probably right that he’d prefer I be married to a woman and have children, but he can see how happy I am and that it’s because of you.”
August 13, 2023
“What happened to the grouch I used to look forward to seeing on the morning 2 train?”
“Was I really that bad?” It was either my snort of disbelief or the sky-high arch of my brow that caused him to shake with laughter. “Okay, okay. I get it. I know I was. But I didn’t know.”
“About?”
He pulled me tight. “Anything. Everything. You. Me. Us.”
On The 2 by Felice Stevens is a fun, easy-to-read, grumpy/sunshine, age-gap romance.
Macy's menswear sales associate, Ethan Moreno, is the sunshine to Hospital Deputy Chief Financial Officer, Nash Roman's grumpy personality.
Whilst the first rule of riding the subway is 'Don’t talk to strangers', Ethan ignores all the rules when he sits next to Nash one day and strikes up conversation with his grouchy fellow commuter.
And when the pair continues to meet, Nash slowly begins to open up a little more and even looks forward to seeing Ethan each morning.
But when they meet outside of work, suddenly all bets are off as they share a scorching hot kiss.
I loved the banter between these two, and seeing Nash begin to open up, not just with Ethan but also in his friendship with Alex.
I could understand why Nash was so closed off after everything in his past, but I was happy to see him bloom with Ethan's help and love and to see him making strides with his father.
Nash had never really had love in his life, and to see him with Ethan was really sweet.
"I love you, Ethan. I thought I wanted only one thing in life—to be left alone—but I was wrong.”
Ethan was a real sweetheart, and he always made me laugh, like when Nash invited him home, which was against all his rules as they didn't know each other well at that stage.
'I could hear the commentator on Dateline: “Ethan was the kind of person who lit up a room. A bright light. Everyone loved him.”
I couldn’t help being a bright light, but I could damn well make sure I didn’t put myself into a foolish situation. But this was Nash.'
That last sentence summed these two up; they were just drawn to each other - despite Nash's initial reluctance. Ethan and Nash were meant for each other.
My only pet peeve was that Nash was seeing other people for casual hook-up's before he'd met Ethan, and that continued even after they met (but before they were together). Seeing the MCs with anyone else is just not something I enjoy in any book, but I know no feelings were involved from Nash.
I really liked the other couples who were friends of Nash. I think they've all had books and I'd like to read their stories in the future.
I thoroughly enjoyed On The 2. Nash and Ethan are a perfect couple. I hope we see more of them in future books, even as side characters, so we can see how they're doing.
Thanks to Felice Stevens for allowing me to read an arc copy of the book.
“Was I really that bad?” It was either my snort of disbelief or the sky-high arch of my brow that caused him to shake with laughter. “Okay, okay. I get it. I know I was. But I didn’t know.”
“About?”
He pulled me tight. “Anything. Everything. You. Me. Us.”
On The 2 by Felice Stevens is a fun, easy-to-read, grumpy/sunshine, age-gap romance.
Macy's menswear sales associate, Ethan Moreno, is the sunshine to Hospital Deputy Chief Financial Officer, Nash Roman's grumpy personality.
Whilst the first rule of riding the subway is 'Don’t talk to strangers', Ethan ignores all the rules when he sits next to Nash one day and strikes up conversation with his grouchy fellow commuter.
And when the pair continues to meet, Nash slowly begins to open up a little more and even looks forward to seeing Ethan each morning.
But when they meet outside of work, suddenly all bets are off as they share a scorching hot kiss.
I loved the banter between these two, and seeing Nash begin to open up, not just with Ethan but also in his friendship with Alex.
I could understand why Nash was so closed off after everything in his past, but I was happy to see him bloom with Ethan's help and love and to see him making strides with his father.
Nash had never really had love in his life, and to see him with Ethan was really sweet.
"I love you, Ethan. I thought I wanted only one thing in life—to be left alone—but I was wrong.”
Ethan was a real sweetheart, and he always made me laugh, like when Nash invited him home, which was against all his rules as they didn't know each other well at that stage.
'I could hear the commentator on Dateline: “Ethan was the kind of person who lit up a room. A bright light. Everyone loved him.”
I couldn’t help being a bright light, but I could damn well make sure I didn’t put myself into a foolish situation. But this was Nash.'
That last sentence summed these two up; they were just drawn to each other - despite Nash's initial reluctance. Ethan and Nash were meant for each other.
My only pet peeve was that Nash was seeing other people for casual hook-up's before he'd met Ethan, and that continued even after they met (but before they were together). Seeing the MCs with anyone else is just not something I enjoy in any book, but I know no feelings were involved from Nash.
I really liked the other couples who were friends of Nash. I think they've all had books and I'd like to read their stories in the future.
I thoroughly enjoyed On The 2. Nash and Ethan are a perfect couple. I hope we see more of them in future books, even as side characters, so we can see how they're doing.
Thanks to Felice Stevens for allowing me to read an arc copy of the book.
June 9, 2024
old post reposted
Who needs to follow their pre-set reading orders when you run across a good look on a Facebook add? Here's "On The 2" by Felice Stevens.
["First rule of riding the subway.
Don’t talk to strangers.
Don’t even look at anyone.
But what if they’re grouchy and gorgeous and you’re sitting right next to them?
I always did like a challenge.
I want to turn that frown upside down, but he barely looks at me.
I take a chance and poke the bear, and to my shock, he plays along and growls back.
The more we meet on the train, the more I realize he’s not the uptight grump I first thought. Then one night, there he is—in my world, in my space…his tongue in my mouth.
Mind blown.
But I’m no fool. A man like Nash Roman doesn’t date a guy who sells suits at Macy’s.
Nash is prep school and Ivy League, and I’m night school while working two jobs to pay bills. Nash is fine wine, expensive restaurants and handmade suits, and I’m beer, corner takeout, and a lucky find at Goodwill.
What am I—street-smart Ethan Moreno—doing, playing in his world? This man is older than me, way richer than me, and has already made it clear he doesn’t believe in love. I should walk away. Instead, I’m falling for him. Hard.
Nash couldn’t care less if his father doesn’t think I’m good enough or if people gossip because we’re so different. I need to trust in him and us, but I’ve been burned before.
And just like the Uptown Number 2, sometimes you have to travel a different route to get to the final destination.
Forever"]
Grump versus sunshine. Medium to low angst. No third-act-break-up. Supportive as hell friends. Confused and slightly (or a lot) toxic exs.
This book was super cute! I binged the first half, got sick (unrelated--but don't day drink on an empty stomach, especially an alcohol you already have a poor relationship with), and binged the second half.
The sex scenes were a little short but they were still very steamy. Nash and Ethan were very fluffy and sweet and protective. Nash wanted Ethan, needed Ethan, well before he was even ready to admit he more than lust-y feelings. It was just...very sweet.
Now I need to go and read about the other couples mentioned in this book (a stand alone but in a connected universe).
#onthe2 #dateusinteruptus #felicestevens #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
Who needs to follow their pre-set reading orders when you run across a good look on a Facebook add? Here's "On The 2" by Felice Stevens.
["First rule of riding the subway.
Don’t talk to strangers.
Don’t even look at anyone.
But what if they’re grouchy and gorgeous and you’re sitting right next to them?
I always did like a challenge.
I want to turn that frown upside down, but he barely looks at me.
I take a chance and poke the bear, and to my shock, he plays along and growls back.
The more we meet on the train, the more I realize he’s not the uptight grump I first thought. Then one night, there he is—in my world, in my space…his tongue in my mouth.
Mind blown.
But I’m no fool. A man like Nash Roman doesn’t date a guy who sells suits at Macy’s.
Nash is prep school and Ivy League, and I’m night school while working two jobs to pay bills. Nash is fine wine, expensive restaurants and handmade suits, and I’m beer, corner takeout, and a lucky find at Goodwill.
What am I—street-smart Ethan Moreno—doing, playing in his world? This man is older than me, way richer than me, and has already made it clear he doesn’t believe in love. I should walk away. Instead, I’m falling for him. Hard.
Nash couldn’t care less if his father doesn’t think I’m good enough or if people gossip because we’re so different. I need to trust in him and us, but I’ve been burned before.
And just like the Uptown Number 2, sometimes you have to travel a different route to get to the final destination.
Forever"]
Grump versus sunshine. Medium to low angst. No third-act-break-up. Supportive as hell friends. Confused and slightly (or a lot) toxic exs.
This book was super cute! I binged the first half, got sick (unrelated--but don't day drink on an empty stomach, especially an alcohol you already have a poor relationship with), and binged the second half.
The sex scenes were a little short but they were still very steamy. Nash and Ethan were very fluffy and sweet and protective. Nash wanted Ethan, needed Ethan, well before he was even ready to admit he more than lust-y feelings. It was just...very sweet.
Now I need to go and read about the other couples mentioned in this book (a stand alone but in a connected universe).
#onthe2 #dateusinteruptus #felicestevens #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
August 16, 2023
Hi Y’all! Come in and grab a Heineken or glass of wine and some sushi while I tell you about this book I just listened to.
The title is on the 2 by Felice Stevens
The cover is hot and goes well with the title. Then I read the blurb and it really got my interest because grumpy / sunshine and age gap? Yep I’m in.
Who’s my favorite main character ? Ethan because of his bubbly outgoing nature but close second was Nash because… yeah sexy older grump? I liked Alex to… I can’t say Nash’s friend but closest thing to one. I found he had a book too and yep I’m going after that. .
The story has several settings. There is the 2 where they met and a lot happens. Then Ethan’s workplace and co-workers and friends there, Ethan’s apartment , Nash’s office and his apart. There’s more less significant places too. I loved how there are so many settings but they all make the story move and interesting.
The story is a sweet, fun feel good romance.
What surprised me most about the book was ? Something that happens with Nash’s dad. That was a real shock lol but I also relate since I too am in Nash’s same shoes in that aspect in a way… nope no hints gotta read or listen!
There’s a lot of plots going like the settings. I won’t list them all I’ll make you get the book. But there are jealous ex’s and plenty of life twist and turns.
What did I like best? Everything. It’s just one of those books that hook you but I think I’ll pick the meeting on the 2. This was a pretty unique meet cute!
This story is full of feels! But if your a Felice fan you expect that… if this is a first you’ll be addicted and know if you need a pick up grab one of her books. This is now top of my list.
I loved the ending. It was HFN but we know we are getting one with Felice just not how loll this was unexpected and sweet and really brought together a few things.
I listened to this on audio and the narration really made the book. The voices are separate enough you can tell who is who, the tension you can feel. It was great.
I recommend this if you can get it ( if not get the book and whispersync)
How hot was the book? 2 it’s hot but lots of sexual tension too.
If you like grumpy/sunshine, age gap, opposites attract you will love this!
The title is on the 2 by Felice Stevens
The cover is hot and goes well with the title. Then I read the blurb and it really got my interest because grumpy / sunshine and age gap? Yep I’m in.
Who’s my favorite main character ? Ethan because of his bubbly outgoing nature but close second was Nash because… yeah sexy older grump? I liked Alex to… I can’t say Nash’s friend but closest thing to one. I found he had a book too and yep I’m going after that. .
The story has several settings. There is the 2 where they met and a lot happens. Then Ethan’s workplace and co-workers and friends there, Ethan’s apartment , Nash’s office and his apart. There’s more less significant places too. I loved how there are so many settings but they all make the story move and interesting.
The story is a sweet, fun feel good romance.
What surprised me most about the book was ? Something that happens with Nash’s dad. That was a real shock lol but I also relate since I too am in Nash’s same shoes in that aspect in a way… nope no hints gotta read or listen!
There’s a lot of plots going like the settings. I won’t list them all I’ll make you get the book. But there are jealous ex’s and plenty of life twist and turns.
What did I like best? Everything. It’s just one of those books that hook you but I think I’ll pick the meeting on the 2. This was a pretty unique meet cute!
This story is full of feels! But if your a Felice fan you expect that… if this is a first you’ll be addicted and know if you need a pick up grab one of her books. This is now top of my list.
I loved the ending. It was HFN but we know we are getting one with Felice just not how loll this was unexpected and sweet and really brought together a few things.
I listened to this on audio and the narration really made the book. The voices are separate enough you can tell who is who, the tension you can feel. It was great.
I recommend this if you can get it ( if not get the book and whispersync)
How hot was the book? 2 it’s hot but lots of sexual tension too.
If you like grumpy/sunshine, age gap, opposites attract you will love this!
October 11, 2023
4.7 Stars
Nash and Ethan meet on the 2 subway train—Ethan can’t help but talk to the sexy grump in the seat next to him. And when he sees him again, he can’t help but poke the grumpy bear. To his surprise, Nash responds—even if he does keep retreating behind his newspaper. But Ethan doesn’t really think he stands a chance with a man like Nash who is obviously caviar to Ethan’s fast food. But when they start running into each other outside the subway, things take a turn.
‘“Am I naked?” I blinked, brought back to reality by his low chuckle of amusement. “Excuse me?”
“You’re staring at me, so either I’m naked”—he paused, and I sensed he had a flair for the dramatic—“or you’d like me to be.”’
“His eyes danced, and my heart stuttered. Oh, God. I’m going to fall in love with him.”
‘“I…I just…I just want you with me. Please, Ethan? I need someone who’s going to be there for me. Someone on my side.” Good-bye, heart. You belong to Nash now.’
This is a really fun, low angst, steamy, grumpy/sunshine mm romance. These two have the perfect grumpy/sunshine dynamic, and it gives them such an interesting journey from strangers on a train to lovers. Nash is so determined to not have a relationship or love in his life. Even though he’s attracted to Ethan from the start he refuses to let himself acknowledge it, yet he can’t quite stop himself from interacting with Ethan at least a little bit, and a little more, each time. Nor can he stop himself from looking forward to seeing Ethan each day. And Ethan doesn’t really have any hope of a relationship with Nash, but he can’t stop himself from trying anyway. I like how they are able to bond a bit through shared trauma from cheating, even if those things happened in different ways. There’s actually a lot going on in the lives of these characters—Ethan has ambitions in his career, an ex who is sort of stalking him, a family whose reaction to him when he came out scarred him a bit, and landlords who are more like the family he should have had. Nash has a father who left him as a child and now that they work for the same hospital seemingly wants to control his life, a step-mother who is younger than he is, and a co-worker he hooks up with who wants more now that his famous father is around. It’s a lot. Plus there is the wealth disparity between these two that doesn’t phase Nash but worries Ethan. It all works together so well to create obstacles and conflicts that amazingly do more to bring Nash and Ethan together than to tear them apart. I really liked that aspect of this story—with all of these issues there could have been a lot of angst, but there really wasn’t too much.
I loved the side characters too—Ethan’s co-workers and his landlords were great allys for him. Nash’s coworker who just refused to accept no for an answer and was determined to be his friend. And even Diane, Nash’s step-mother. She was so wonderful, and I loved her relationship with Ethan. Just lovely!
Nash and Ethan meet on the 2 subway train—Ethan can’t help but talk to the sexy grump in the seat next to him. And when he sees him again, he can’t help but poke the grumpy bear. To his surprise, Nash responds—even if he does keep retreating behind his newspaper. But Ethan doesn’t really think he stands a chance with a man like Nash who is obviously caviar to Ethan’s fast food. But when they start running into each other outside the subway, things take a turn.
‘“Am I naked?” I blinked, brought back to reality by his low chuckle of amusement. “Excuse me?”
“You’re staring at me, so either I’m naked”—he paused, and I sensed he had a flair for the dramatic—“or you’d like me to be.”’
“His eyes danced, and my heart stuttered. Oh, God. I’m going to fall in love with him.”
‘“I…I just…I just want you with me. Please, Ethan? I need someone who’s going to be there for me. Someone on my side.” Good-bye, heart. You belong to Nash now.’
This is a really fun, low angst, steamy, grumpy/sunshine mm romance. These two have the perfect grumpy/sunshine dynamic, and it gives them such an interesting journey from strangers on a train to lovers. Nash is so determined to not have a relationship or love in his life. Even though he’s attracted to Ethan from the start he refuses to let himself acknowledge it, yet he can’t quite stop himself from interacting with Ethan at least a little bit, and a little more, each time. Nor can he stop himself from looking forward to seeing Ethan each day. And Ethan doesn’t really have any hope of a relationship with Nash, but he can’t stop himself from trying anyway. I like how they are able to bond a bit through shared trauma from cheating, even if those things happened in different ways. There’s actually a lot going on in the lives of these characters—Ethan has ambitions in his career, an ex who is sort of stalking him, a family whose reaction to him when he came out scarred him a bit, and landlords who are more like the family he should have had. Nash has a father who left him as a child and now that they work for the same hospital seemingly wants to control his life, a step-mother who is younger than he is, and a co-worker he hooks up with who wants more now that his famous father is around. It’s a lot. Plus there is the wealth disparity between these two that doesn’t phase Nash but worries Ethan. It all works together so well to create obstacles and conflicts that amazingly do more to bring Nash and Ethan together than to tear them apart. I really liked that aspect of this story—with all of these issues there could have been a lot of angst, but there really wasn’t too much.
I loved the side characters too—Ethan’s co-workers and his landlords were great allys for him. Nash’s coworker who just refused to accept no for an answer and was determined to be his friend. And even Diane, Nash’s step-mother. She was so wonderful, and I loved her relationship with Ethan. Just lovely!
August 21, 2023
I really loved this grumpy/sunshine combo – Nash and Ethan are just perfection and Felice gives them such a great love story! These two meet on the busy subway, crammed in with other commuters, not the best meet-cute but there’s certainly a connection between these two and despite Nash’s grumpy, stand-offish attitude, Ethan isn’t going to just let it go. And what begins is the start of a completely swoon-worthy, heart-melty romance!
Ethan and Nash couldn’t be more different! Ethan works in the men’s department at Macy’s with dreams of furthering his career in men’s fashion as a byer for a high end brand. He doesn’t come from money or have the fanciest of things but he’s proud of what he does and who he is. Nash on the other hand is a financial executive of a large hospital, comes from and has money and a fancy apartment. He’s also very closed off and doesn’t believe in love, especially after how his father left him and his mother when he was young. Again, these two make an unlikely pair, but there’s an undeniable connection and as they get to know each other that connection deepens and turns in to so much more than either of them expected.
As with all of Felice’s books, there is so much heart and feeling in this journey! It’s not an overly angsty story, but more about these two opening up to love, embracing that and finding their way together. They both face some challenges, there’s their age difference along with their status differences that effect both men differently, but they are things these two learn to go through together. I really loved seeing that side of both Nash and Ethan as they support each other, I especially loved seeing the softer side of Nash! There are also a lot of wonderful, fun moments between these two. Ethan really brings out the best in Nash and together they are something special. And if you’re a Felice fan you’ll get some absolutely epic guest appearances, I LOVED seeing Micah and Josh again! Overall, a fantastic read filled with heart and humor that I completely fell in love with!
Ethan and Nash couldn’t be more different! Ethan works in the men’s department at Macy’s with dreams of furthering his career in men’s fashion as a byer for a high end brand. He doesn’t come from money or have the fanciest of things but he’s proud of what he does and who he is. Nash on the other hand is a financial executive of a large hospital, comes from and has money and a fancy apartment. He’s also very closed off and doesn’t believe in love, especially after how his father left him and his mother when he was young. Again, these two make an unlikely pair, but there’s an undeniable connection and as they get to know each other that connection deepens and turns in to so much more than either of them expected.
As with all of Felice’s books, there is so much heart and feeling in this journey! It’s not an overly angsty story, but more about these two opening up to love, embracing that and finding their way together. They both face some challenges, there’s their age difference along with their status differences that effect both men differently, but they are things these two learn to go through together. I really loved seeing that side of both Nash and Ethan as they support each other, I especially loved seeing the softer side of Nash! There are also a lot of wonderful, fun moments between these two. Ethan really brings out the best in Nash and together they are something special. And if you’re a Felice fan you’ll get some absolutely epic guest appearances, I LOVED seeing Micah and Josh again! Overall, a fantastic read filled with heart and humor that I completely fell in love with!
August 6, 2023
On the 2 is Felice Stevens' newest standalone m/m romance and I am here for it! Felice's stories always make me laugh, cry, smile, get hot and bothered and give me hope. Ethan and Nash meet on the 2 train. Nash is older and grouchy and Ethan is young, talkative and happy. It's the perfect New York story of opposites who randomly meet on the subway. Nash doesn't want to like Ethan. He's too young, too handsome. But he can't stop thinking about him and waiting to see him the next morning. Ethan loves riling up the older man. He's just being friendly, but damn if he isn't attracted to Nash. They finally exchange names and when Fate steps in one night and they find themselves at the same bar, it is on! But then Nash is afraid what this means. He's been so used to working and being alone and Ethan makes him feel things he's never felt. He wants to be with him, but he's scared. Ethan isn't afraid to be with Nash. He wants him more than anything. They have crazy chemistry and more in common than they think. Nash doesn't care about Ethan's status or what anyone thinks, but Ethan does. He doesn't want to look like he's only with Nash for his money, because he's just not. On top of this, Nash is still struggling with his relationship with his father who broke his heart when he was a kid but wants to make it right. When Nash realizes his life is better with Ethan, he will stop at nothing to make him his. Forever. I loved these two so much! Their sexiness, their banter, their humor. Just everything. I also love Nash's friends, who are from previous books of Felice's that I haven't read, YET! This story has everything you want in a romance. Fun, sexiness, humor, friends, family, loyalty, lust and hope. Oh, and a happy ending!
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