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Better Than #2
Better Than Chance
Jay Reynolds has a crush on his project leader at work, but an office romance with Peter Morgan isn't likely to happen since Peter is straight. Worse, Jay soon fears Peter is homophobic, and his initial infatuation turns to loathing. But one fateful night, Jay is forced to acknowledge things aren't quite as they seem with Peter. Suddenly, his crush is back and unbelievably, Peter is interested too.
They begin a friends with benefits arrangement, which becomes difficult for Jay when he starts falling for his sexy boss. Peter’s past issues keep him from committing, and Jay has to decide if he can be satisfied with friendship if Peter isn’t ready to take a chance on anything more.
They begin a friends with benefits arrangement, which becomes difficult for Jay when he starts falling for his sexy boss. Peter’s past issues keep him from committing, and Jay has to decide if he can be satisfied with friendship if Peter isn’t ready to take a chance on anything more.
199 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 21, 2014
102 people are currently reading
977 people want to read
About the author
Lane Hayes
105 books1,719 followersLane Hayes loves a good romance! She’s the bestselling author of the Out in College, Starting From, Better Than, A Kind Of, Right and Wrong, and Leaning Into Series! Lane loves red wine, chocolate and travel (in no particular order). All things she can find in sunny SoCal where she lives with her amazing husband in a not quite empty nest.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 273 reviews
September 1, 2016
A great audiobook narrator makes you forget you are listening to an audiobook. You feel like you are living the story, rather than just reading it. Hence the magic of audiobooks.
**throws glitter and does a pseudo-mystical dance**
Lane Hayes, or whoever picked Tyler Stevens, is a very smart person indeed. His range of voices MADE the story for me. I loved Jay's sexy southern voice and Peter's more masculine voice as an awesome counterpart. The narrator rocked this story out and made it a great listen.
Now onto the story itself...
I ADORED the first book in the series, Better Than Good. It was GFY/OFY heaven, and I knew it would be a tough act to follow. However, I think the author did a nice job here, with a veerrrrryyyy slow burn, enemies-to-lovers (in a mild sense), office romance.
This book is very relationship-focused. It is all about the couple and very little else, which I happen to like. I don't like a lot of riffraff or poppycock clogging up my romance! (Okay, I just wanted an excuse to use those words... shhhh...) I loved how the relationship grew and progressed over time, and I enjoyed being on the journey with these two men.
My only sticking point is that I didn't really get Peter's reluctance to commit. I kind of got what the author was going for, but it felt a little weak to me. He seemed fully committed in his actions, so his reluctance to say it out loud felt incongruous with his behavior.
All in all, a very nice follow up by Lane Hayes with a lovely narration.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
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March 31, 2025
Better Than Chance is book two in the Better Than series by Lane Hayes. This is Jay and Peter’s story. It starts years earlier so we see Aaron from book one five years younger but still such an old soul.
Jay Reynolds is twenty eight years old and works for a well known lobbying firm. He is best friends with Aaron whom we met in book one. Jay has had a huge crush on one of his bosses for at least two years. He barely knows him but when he is chosen to work on a large project with his crush as the head, his crush turns into dislike. Instead of any positive feedback, he continually picks apart the smallest details of his presentations. But, in a moment of need with his friend, Aaron, it’s Peter that shows up and helps them out. And as he gets to know him better away from work, he’s forced to realize that Peter isn’t who he thought he was at all.
Peter Morgan is thirty two years old. He has noticed Jay at work but has kept his distance, not wanting any complications with his employees. He’s aware that Jay has some misconceptions about him and when their personal lives cross, he feels compelled to share the truth with Jay. He is not the relationship type of guy but if Jay is willing, he offers a friends with benefits sort of arrangement.
Peter and Jay spend more and more time together and Jay is falling fast. He wants more from Peter but Peter has made it clear that’s not what he wants. Jay will have to decide whether to continue as they are and accept that this is all Peter can offer him, or end things.
I loved these two and of course, loved seeing my beloved Aaron. Peter had so many walls up. He was his own worst roadblock. Jay was so perfect for him. They were perfect together. And Jay was so patient. But in the end, he had to stand up for himself and what he really needed which wasn’t friends with benefits. He wanted love with everything that goes with it. Now I’m ready for book three, Better Than Friends, which is Curt and Jack’s story. I can’t wait to get started.
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...
Jay Reynolds is twenty eight years old and works for a well known lobbying firm. He is best friends with Aaron whom we met in book one. Jay has had a huge crush on one of his bosses for at least two years. He barely knows him but when he is chosen to work on a large project with his crush as the head, his crush turns into dislike. Instead of any positive feedback, he continually picks apart the smallest details of his presentations. But, in a moment of need with his friend, Aaron, it’s Peter that shows up and helps them out. And as he gets to know him better away from work, he’s forced to realize that Peter isn’t who he thought he was at all.
Peter Morgan is thirty two years old. He has noticed Jay at work but has kept his distance, not wanting any complications with his employees. He’s aware that Jay has some misconceptions about him and when their personal lives cross, he feels compelled to share the truth with Jay. He is not the relationship type of guy but if Jay is willing, he offers a friends with benefits sort of arrangement.
Peter and Jay spend more and more time together and Jay is falling fast. He wants more from Peter but Peter has made it clear that’s not what he wants. Jay will have to decide whether to continue as they are and accept that this is all Peter can offer him, or end things.
I loved these two and of course, loved seeing my beloved Aaron. Peter had so many walls up. He was his own worst roadblock. Jay was so perfect for him. They were perfect together. And Jay was so patient. But in the end, he had to stand up for himself and what he really needed which wasn’t friends with benefits. He wanted love with everything that goes with it. Now I’m ready for book three, Better Than Friends, which is Curt and Jack’s story. I can’t wait to get started.
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...
March 1, 2016
3.5 Stars!
This is probably my least favorite of the series.....there must have been a reason why I skipped this one and read all of the others.
Needless to say, I still liked it. I don't remember Jay and Peter much from the other books, other than their names. Certainly not enough to remember personalities.
I think my biggest complaint about this book is Jay. He just plain annoyed me. I will say he did grow on me some.
I liked the plot and the whole office romance. And I liked Peter, but sadly we didn't get his point of view.
Overall it was a good read. It has some good steam and was low angst, always two pluses in my book.
Another book lost to my TBR conquered! Onward I go!
This is probably my least favorite of the series.....there must have been a reason why I skipped this one and read all of the others.
Needless to say, I still liked it. I don't remember Jay and Peter much from the other books, other than their names. Certainly not enough to remember personalities.
I think my biggest complaint about this book is Jay. He just plain annoyed me. I will say he did grow on me some.
I liked the plot and the whole office romance. And I liked Peter, but sadly we didn't get his point of view.
Overall it was a good read. It has some good steam and was low angst, always two pluses in my book.
Another book lost to my TBR conquered! Onward I go!
March 2, 2014
Written March 1, 2014
3.3 Stars - a slightly chewy and very sweet "Office Romance" - marshmallow chubby
Often, when I'm reading a tricky, rough, hilarous, complex -and sometimes even weird and kinky- PNR, fantasy, dystopia, sci-fi or a very tough crime romance, I usually say to myself that I should read more simple sweet contemporary romances instead.
~ Just simple, lovely and "digestible" M/M books to absorb in the reading corner here at home. ~
But then when I do just that, like now, then I'm sometimes pretty restles, bored and impatient. It happens hardly nothing in some of these stories. It's not exactly anything new or fresh in some of them. ...nothing new under the sun, just the same old (very niiiiice) "we met, we kissed, we f@cked, we loved for life" story over and over again. ~ ....Yes yes, I know! I'm pretty whiny and grumpy right now. There's actually super good CR books also.
~<>~<>~<>~<>~<>~
There's not much to say about Better Than Chance.
To me, this felt more like a nice how-we-met diary than an truly romantic, smexy, gay romance. It's all told by a, amusing guy with lot of self-irony, the 27-year-old openly gayish, Jay Reynolds.
It is a quite enjoyable and funny told week after week report, about what happened in Jay's life the year he met the The-Man-In-His-Life, the very handsome Peter Morgan.
Peter Morgan is the closeted, up-buttoned, very stylish, successful project leader and colleague (..one of the bosses) every gay man (and women) in Jay's office dream about. Peter Morgan might be a kind of larger-than-life hero but he never really lives up to that. He is just a sexy, needy man who really doesn't want to give anything at all (..at first), just take. I'd a hard time to really like him.
Peter's manner didn't feel quite okay for a loooong time. Sometimes may actually not all, "poor beautiful guy", behavior be excused with these “sad old injustices and a bit harsh circumstances”.
~ I'm so tired of romance characters with frozen hearts and old unhealed emotional wounds. (Oops, today disappeared apparently all my empathy and sympathy completely.) ~
I was constantly in the "Jay-team". (Finally.. ) He wasn't treated quite worthy by Peter, in my opinion.
~<>~<>~<>~<>~<>~
There was something in this way of telling a story (in one single first POV from Jay) that didn't engage me this time. Even if Better Than Chance is cute and quite fun (Jay is a sweetie and a very funny character). It didn't work for me. It was simply too much narration and not enough dialogue for me.
I understand if some authors have a big interest in people's appearance, beautiful things, home decor and fashion - I have too - but why overwhelm us with all these details in a romance? (regarding details - some thoughts)
~<>~<>~<>~<>~<>~<>~
I'm sorry to say; it became romantic and a bit sentimental now and then but I never felt very much for this book. I really liked Jay, a cozy talkative cutie, and Peter he was a manly and sexy man in well-tailored suits and ties... - but something was missing here to reach the true heights.
~...this lady, as well. ~
Perhaps this book just needed more real drama -emotional conflicts, kink sex, more funny banters...I don't know..- to make this rather simple and undramatic story a bit more exciting. Better Than Chance is a sweet and steamy story, but in the end... I didn't care that much. Sorry...
Another nice dozen romance - "marshmallow chubby cute".
I LIKE - not great but sweet enough
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
# A buddyread with Bev, Andrea and Mona, we started February 28.
Thank you my dear Ladies! This time were we all very consistent and coherent in our opinion. Our buddy reading was more fun than the book. Yap, it's fact!
...The Ladies BR Quartette
3.3 Stars - a slightly chewy and very sweet "Office Romance" - marshmallow chubby
Often, when I'm reading a tricky, rough, hilarous, complex -and sometimes even weird and kinky- PNR, fantasy, dystopia, sci-fi or a very tough crime romance, I usually say to myself that I should read more simple sweet contemporary romances instead.
~ Just simple, lovely and "digestible" M/M books to absorb in the reading corner here at home. ~
But then when I do just that, like now, then I'm sometimes pretty restles, bored and impatient. It happens hardly nothing in some of these stories. It's not exactly anything new or fresh in some of them. ...nothing new under the sun, just the same old (very niiiiice) "we met, we kissed, we f@cked, we loved for life" story over and over again. ~ ....Yes yes, I know! I'm pretty whiny and grumpy right now. There's actually super good CR books also.
~<>~<>~<>~<>~<>~
There's not much to say about Better Than Chance.
To me, this felt more like a nice how-we-met diary than an truly romantic, smexy, gay romance. It's all told by a, amusing guy with lot of self-irony, the 27-year-old openly gayish, Jay Reynolds.
It is a quite enjoyable and funny told week after week report, about what happened in Jay's life the year he met the The-Man-In-His-Life, the very handsome Peter Morgan.
“Batman? Why? I mean, okay. I do get it. And to be completely honest with you....” I paused before admitting, “You sort of remind me of him.”
Peter Morgan is the closeted, up-buttoned, very stylish, successful project leader and colleague (..one of the bosses) every gay man (and women) in Jay's office dream about. Peter Morgan might be a kind of larger-than-life hero but he never really lives up to that. He is just a sexy, needy man who really doesn't want to give anything at all (..at first), just take. I'd a hard time to really like him.
“I couldn't wait. I want you, and I couldn't stop thinking about how much I want this. Us. Do you want this too? One night. Now.”
Peter's manner didn't feel quite okay for a loooong time. Sometimes may actually not all, "poor beautiful guy", behavior be excused with these “sad old injustices and a bit harsh circumstances”.
~ I'm so tired of romance characters with frozen hearts and old unhealed emotional wounds. (Oops, today disappeared apparently all my empathy and sympathy completely.) ~
I was constantly in the "Jay-team". (Finally.. ) He wasn't treated quite worthy by Peter, in my opinion.
~<>~<>~<>~<>~<>~
There was something in this way of telling a story (in one single first POV from Jay) that didn't engage me this time. Even if Better Than Chance is cute and quite fun (Jay is a sweetie and a very funny character). It didn't work for me. It was simply too much narration and not enough dialogue for me.
‘Peter pulled me into his arms and sealed his mouth over mine. I think the kiss was meant to stop the flow of speech rather than a precursor to passion, but it quickly became just that: a sensual fusion of lips and tongues.’
I understand if some authors have a big interest in people's appearance, beautiful things, home decor and fashion - I have too - but why overwhelm us with all these details in a romance? (regarding details - some thoughts)
~<>~<>~<>~<>~<>~<>~
I'm sorry to say; it became romantic and a bit sentimental now and then but I never felt very much for this book. I really liked Jay, a cozy talkative cutie, and Peter he was a manly and sexy man in well-tailored suits and ties... - but something was missing here to reach the true heights.
‘It is a well-known fact among those who know me that I am a nevous talker’
~...this lady, as well. ~
Perhaps this book just needed more real drama -emotional conflicts, kink sex, more funny banters...I don't know..- to make this rather simple and undramatic story a bit more exciting. Better Than Chance is a sweet and steamy story, but in the end... I didn't care that much. Sorry...
Another nice dozen romance - "marshmallow chubby cute".
I LIKE - not great but sweet enough
~~~~~~~~~~~~~
# A buddyread with Bev, Andrea and Mona, we started February 28.
Thank you my dear Ladies! This time were we all very consistent and coherent in our opinion. Our buddy reading was more fun than the book. Yap, it's fact!
...The Ladies BR Quartette
January 22, 2014
I read Lane's first book, 'Better Than Good,' in July 2013, absolutely loved it and gave it 5 stars, so when I was offered a chance of reviewing this one I jumped at it! I must admit I was surprised to find it was Peter and Jays story because in book one they're already an established couple and obviously very much in love so I was expecting a new couple and the build up to a new romance, but that's so not the case and I'm really happy with the outcome.
The book actually begins in the timeline of book one with Jay informing us that he and Peter are about to get married after being together for five years so its pretty much a foregone conclusion that this is going to have a HEA, no spoilers there. However, when Jay starts to tell us how the two of them got together and the book goes into flashback, that's when the fun and games really starts!
" Obviously there is a story here or I wouldn't be on the verge of agreeing to a lifetime commitment. I feel compelled to relate it because I have learned so much over these past few years from this man and our relationship. One important lesson is an age old one. Never judge a book by its cover."
And that, my friends, is the whole basis of this story....
Everything is told from Jays POV, so Peter and all his hang ups are only seen through the eyes of one person which I think works really well for this story because Peter is a very complex person whose character unfolds slowly as the story progresses and definitely not an easy man to read as Jay finds out. Mind you that works both ways as Jay can be just as complicated in his own way, totally messing with Peters views on relationships and his life in general!
They both work at the same Lobbying firm in Washington, but generally only in passing until they're paired up on a new project and it turns out that Peter is going to be project leader. Jay has a huge crush on him, so is excited to be finally working up close and personal with the guy. At this point he's convinced Peter's straight but he's drop dead gorgeous and everything Jay finds attractive in a man so he's wallowing in pure lust. Unfortunately that soon turns sour when Peter starts nitpicking at his presentations over the course of the project and pretty soon there's a real love/hate thing happening on Jays side so of course this is where the misunderstandings start.
These two guys dance around each other, making assumptions that aren't always true and hitting one brick wall after another until they finally settle into a friends with benefits relationship that you know from the word go isn't going to stay that way as its so obvious that the attraction they feel for each other is deepening by the day but true love never runs smooth and because of Peters complexities and Jays habit of jumping to conclusions when he's nervous, their relationship goes through some bumps until they finally wake up and smell the coffee... with the help of their wise friends who are always around to help them see the light. No Matt in this because its pre book one but the lovely Aaron is around to do what BFF's do best and he's just as gorgeous as ever. I Love him as a supporting character just as much as I did when he was a MC.
"... you were only looking at the surface. You weren't listening. You saw this gorgeous man you thought was unobtainable, you made assumptions at every turn, and never in your favour. You assumed he was straight and taken. You assumed he was an asshole until he did something to make you reconsider. Maybe Katie's right. Maybe where Peters concerned you are playing it safe because you're assuming he's going to reject you. Maybe you need to take a chance."
This is good old fashioned romance at its best. Yes, it uses all the tried and tested tropes that appear in every m/m romance to move the story along to its satisfying conclusion but the difference here is that whereas some writers just feel flat, formulaic and samey, for me, Lane Hayes gets it oh so right as she puts her own spin on it, with her easy writing style, endearing, loveable characters, delicious sexual tension, great chemistry, sizzling love scenes and best of all that instant connection you get when you become grabbed straight away by the characters voice. What is it they say? If it ain't broke, don't fix it! I knew within minutes I was going to thoroughly enjoy my journey with Jay and I was never disappointed. She already had me with Aaron and Matts story and she pulled me into Jay and Peters with ease! Ms Hayes tells a great story.
My ratings are always based on the pure escapism and enjoyment I get as a reader from a book and this one ticked all my boxes and definitely floated my boat so that's why its 5 stars from me. I loved it! I just hoping there's more from the ' Better Than ' series, if there is then I can't wait.
The book actually begins in the timeline of book one with Jay informing us that he and Peter are about to get married after being together for five years so its pretty much a foregone conclusion that this is going to have a HEA, no spoilers there. However, when Jay starts to tell us how the two of them got together and the book goes into flashback, that's when the fun and games really starts!
" Obviously there is a story here or I wouldn't be on the verge of agreeing to a lifetime commitment. I feel compelled to relate it because I have learned so much over these past few years from this man and our relationship. One important lesson is an age old one. Never judge a book by its cover."
And that, my friends, is the whole basis of this story....
Everything is told from Jays POV, so Peter and all his hang ups are only seen through the eyes of one person which I think works really well for this story because Peter is a very complex person whose character unfolds slowly as the story progresses and definitely not an easy man to read as Jay finds out. Mind you that works both ways as Jay can be just as complicated in his own way, totally messing with Peters views on relationships and his life in general!
They both work at the same Lobbying firm in Washington, but generally only in passing until they're paired up on a new project and it turns out that Peter is going to be project leader. Jay has a huge crush on him, so is excited to be finally working up close and personal with the guy. At this point he's convinced Peter's straight but he's drop dead gorgeous and everything Jay finds attractive in a man so he's wallowing in pure lust. Unfortunately that soon turns sour when Peter starts nitpicking at his presentations over the course of the project and pretty soon there's a real love/hate thing happening on Jays side so of course this is where the misunderstandings start.
These two guys dance around each other, making assumptions that aren't always true and hitting one brick wall after another until they finally settle into a friends with benefits relationship that you know from the word go isn't going to stay that way as its so obvious that the attraction they feel for each other is deepening by the day but true love never runs smooth and because of Peters complexities and Jays habit of jumping to conclusions when he's nervous, their relationship goes through some bumps until they finally wake up and smell the coffee... with the help of their wise friends who are always around to help them see the light. No Matt in this because its pre book one but the lovely Aaron is around to do what BFF's do best and he's just as gorgeous as ever. I Love him as a supporting character just as much as I did when he was a MC.
"... you were only looking at the surface. You weren't listening. You saw this gorgeous man you thought was unobtainable, you made assumptions at every turn, and never in your favour. You assumed he was straight and taken. You assumed he was an asshole until he did something to make you reconsider. Maybe Katie's right. Maybe where Peters concerned you are playing it safe because you're assuming he's going to reject you. Maybe you need to take a chance."
This is good old fashioned romance at its best. Yes, it uses all the tried and tested tropes that appear in every m/m romance to move the story along to its satisfying conclusion but the difference here is that whereas some writers just feel flat, formulaic and samey, for me, Lane Hayes gets it oh so right as she puts her own spin on it, with her easy writing style, endearing, loveable characters, delicious sexual tension, great chemistry, sizzling love scenes and best of all that instant connection you get when you become grabbed straight away by the characters voice. What is it they say? If it ain't broke, don't fix it! I knew within minutes I was going to thoroughly enjoy my journey with Jay and I was never disappointed. She already had me with Aaron and Matts story and she pulled me into Jay and Peters with ease! Ms Hayes tells a great story.
My ratings are always based on the pure escapism and enjoyment I get as a reader from a book and this one ticked all my boxes and definitely floated my boat so that's why its 5 stars from me. I loved it! I just hoping there's more from the ' Better Than ' series, if there is then I can't wait.
January 21, 2018
4 stars
I really enjoyed this book. Lane Hayes writes great stories and this one was no different.
I've read Better Than Good last year and loved it. I expected no less from this one. An office romance was exactly was I was looking for and Jay and Peter were great together.
I loved the slow burn, I even liked the hot and cold attitude Peter had towards Jay.
This was a light read with low angst and I really loved the sweet ending!
I really enjoyed this book. Lane Hayes writes great stories and this one was no different.
I've read Better Than Good last year and loved it. I expected no less from this one. An office romance was exactly was I was looking for and Jay and Peter were great together.
I loved the slow burn, I even liked the hot and cold attitude Peter had towards Jay.
This was a light read with low angst and I really loved the sweet ending!
September 16, 2023
✰ 3.25 stars ✰
“My favorite movies and books all had happy endings and that would never change. But what I knew now because of Peter was that happy endings were only worth a damn when you worked for them.
Or when you finally took a chance.”
Jay Reynolds and Peter Morgan may have been the ideal perfect happy couple in Matt's eyes when he first met them, but Better Than Chance shows that their journey to their happily ever after was anything but. From Peter being Jay's supposedly-straight 'hunky boss man' with a vendetta to express disapproval at everything he did, to eventual friends with benefits to finally being the one person they'll end promising to spend their entire lives with, Lane Hayes delivers another lovely story of how taking a chance on life and love truly can be worth it. 🧡
“I couldn’t wait. I want you, and I couldn’t stop thinking about how much I want this. Us. Do you want this too? One night. Now.”
Jay and Peter had an interesting dynamic that started off with Peter not exactly charming Jay, despite his obvious attraction to his hot-ness. I laughed at Jay's initial reaction to Peter's less-than-obvious ways of trying to get his attention, before fate would play out their eventual first proper interaction. It was through misgivings and misunderstandings and finally a sweet set-up and expressive molten desire that morphed into an agreement of mutual interests that would not allow their feelings to go beyond the bedroom - a relationship with simply no strings attached. 😔😔
I wonder how long it will be when people will realize that sometimes, it's just not possible. 🤔 For, seldom does this ever work out well for anyone who wears their heart on their sleeves like Jay did. As he sees how special a person Peter is - that he had to be careful around him, when he was showing him a side to him that he could very well fall for.' Filled with romantic dinners, heart-warming get-away trips and heated business in the bed, he thought he would be stronger to stave off his feelings for his boss. 💕
'Peter was a quandary - a passionate lover and a fierce competitor in and away from the office, but he was also funny with a sweet boyish side that few people saw' and Jay was one of the special few who did get to see that side to him. And so, despite Peter's own personal reservations, even with his slight warnings of 'we're just friends' - Jay fell in too deep in love, before he could pull himself out. 💘💘
“We were good together, and we had fun together. And that was the problem.
Every day that passed, I wanted more. I wanted words that would acknowledge that we were more than “fuck buddies” and this was more than a temporary deal rooted only in physical attraction.”
At times, it did become a little repetitive as Jay's mind warred with himself over whether or not he could agree to just being friends with Peter, and 'just keep my end of the bargain and be happy with what was the best sex of my life with a stunningly handsome, successful, fun guy', I kinda understood where his feelings were coming from. When you never thought you could find love and when you find that with that one person who makes you feel that special feeling, you would ask them to take a chance on them or break it off before it gets worse. 🥺🥺 That moment when the hurt becomes worse than it already is when you hear those fateful words 'we're just friends'. ❤️🩹 And learning about Peter's history, made Jay even more determined that letting go off Peter was the only way for Peter to know, for sure, if he wanted to not let his past relationships with his family or past lover define him forever and let himself be 'willing to take a chance on the future.' 🙏🏻🙏🏻
“Maybe where Peter’s concerned, you are playing it too safe because you’re assuming he’s going to reject you. Maybe you need to take a chance.”
The camaraderie of kindred spirits between Aaron and Jay was as strong as I remember - even more so than before. The Aaron prior to Matt was just as lovable and precious with his thoughts and his compassion and loyalty to Jay was so endearing to see. He also played a key part in bringing Peter and Jay closer together and I enjoyed that despite Jay's reservations of ever expecting Peter to care for him more than just a friend, Aaron offered enough voice of reason to convince Jay to see how blind he was to Peter's true feelings. 🥰🥰
I would have liked the writing to have packed more of a punch, though. The writing was light on the banter, but heavy on the angst, and still come off as a little flat - focusing primarily on whether or not it's worth making a relationship like theirs become the real deal. But, seeing how Jay and Peter realized how important being together was worth taking that leap of faith really warmed my heart. 🥹 🥹
And funnily enough, in a boss/employee relationship, it's somehow always the employee who falls first for the boss. It would be refreshing to read a situation where it's the other way around. Or I have yet to find those books that have those situations. 😒 And as Jay is retelling their story on the day of their wedding, there was a significant amount of telling over showing, which made the writing lose some of it's steam, but not too much for me to complain about it. Still worth a mention, of course. 🤷🏻♀️
“I want it all. I want to try to have it all with you.”
“You’re sure?” I didn’t stop the tear that leaked down my cheek, but Peter stepped close and wiped it neatly with his thumb. He let his hand slip around my neck as he brought his beautiful face close to mine.
“Very sure. Will you give me a chance?”
The beauty of a series, though, is to be introduced to new characters that will potentially play a part in the future; it's also a chance to see previous characters settled and happy in their present lives. Despite it being a lukewarm read, I did get a lovely glimpse into both and it makes me look forward to what else awaits these couples and what's to come as their love stories continue. 🫶🏻 🫶🏻
“My favorite movies and books all had happy endings and that would never change. But what I knew now because of Peter was that happy endings were only worth a damn when you worked for them.
Or when you finally took a chance.”
Jay Reynolds and Peter Morgan may have been the ideal perfect happy couple in Matt's eyes when he first met them, but Better Than Chance shows that their journey to their happily ever after was anything but. From Peter being Jay's supposedly-straight 'hunky boss man' with a vendetta to express disapproval at everything he did, to eventual friends with benefits to finally being the one person they'll end promising to spend their entire lives with, Lane Hayes delivers another lovely story of how taking a chance on life and love truly can be worth it. 🧡
“I couldn’t wait. I want you, and I couldn’t stop thinking about how much I want this. Us. Do you want this too? One night. Now.”
Jay and Peter had an interesting dynamic that started off with Peter not exactly charming Jay, despite his obvious attraction to his hot-ness. I laughed at Jay's initial reaction to Peter's less-than-obvious ways of trying to get his attention, before fate would play out their eventual first proper interaction. It was through misgivings and misunderstandings and finally a sweet set-up and expressive molten desire that morphed into an agreement of mutual interests that would not allow their feelings to go beyond the bedroom - a relationship with simply no strings attached. 😔😔
I wonder how long it will be when people will realize that sometimes, it's just not possible. 🤔 For, seldom does this ever work out well for anyone who wears their heart on their sleeves like Jay did. As he sees how special a person Peter is - that he had to be careful around him, when he was showing him a side to him that he could very well fall for.' Filled with romantic dinners, heart-warming get-away trips and heated business in the bed, he thought he would be stronger to stave off his feelings for his boss. 💕
'Peter was a quandary - a passionate lover and a fierce competitor in and away from the office, but he was also funny with a sweet boyish side that few people saw' and Jay was one of the special few who did get to see that side to him. And so, despite Peter's own personal reservations, even with his slight warnings of 'we're just friends' - Jay fell in too deep in love, before he could pull himself out. 💘💘
“We were good together, and we had fun together. And that was the problem.
Every day that passed, I wanted more. I wanted words that would acknowledge that we were more than “fuck buddies” and this was more than a temporary deal rooted only in physical attraction.”
At times, it did become a little repetitive as Jay's mind warred with himself over whether or not he could agree to just being friends with Peter, and 'just keep my end of the bargain and be happy with what was the best sex of my life with a stunningly handsome, successful, fun guy', I kinda understood where his feelings were coming from. When you never thought you could find love and when you find that with that one person who makes you feel that special feeling, you would ask them to take a chance on them or break it off before it gets worse. 🥺🥺 That moment when the hurt becomes worse than it already is when you hear those fateful words 'we're just friends'. ❤️🩹 And learning about Peter's history, made Jay even more determined that letting go off Peter was the only way for Peter to know, for sure, if he wanted to not let his past relationships with his family or past lover define him forever and let himself be 'willing to take a chance on the future.' 🙏🏻🙏🏻
“Maybe where Peter’s concerned, you are playing it too safe because you’re assuming he’s going to reject you. Maybe you need to take a chance.”
The camaraderie of kindred spirits between Aaron and Jay was as strong as I remember - even more so than before. The Aaron prior to Matt was just as lovable and precious with his thoughts and his compassion and loyalty to Jay was so endearing to see. He also played a key part in bringing Peter and Jay closer together and I enjoyed that despite Jay's reservations of ever expecting Peter to care for him more than just a friend, Aaron offered enough voice of reason to convince Jay to see how blind he was to Peter's true feelings. 🥰🥰
I would have liked the writing to have packed more of a punch, though. The writing was light on the banter, but heavy on the angst, and still come off as a little flat - focusing primarily on whether or not it's worth making a relationship like theirs become the real deal. But, seeing how Jay and Peter realized how important being together was worth taking that leap of faith really warmed my heart. 🥹 🥹
And funnily enough, in a boss/employee relationship, it's somehow always the employee who falls first for the boss. It would be refreshing to read a situation where it's the other way around. Or I have yet to find those books that have those situations. 😒 And as Jay is retelling their story on the day of their wedding, there was a significant amount of telling over showing, which made the writing lose some of it's steam, but not too much for me to complain about it. Still worth a mention, of course. 🤷🏻♀️
“I want it all. I want to try to have it all with you.”
“You’re sure?” I didn’t stop the tear that leaked down my cheek, but Peter stepped close and wiped it neatly with his thumb. He let his hand slip around my neck as he brought his beautiful face close to mine.
“Very sure. Will you give me a chance?”
The beauty of a series, though, is to be introduced to new characters that will potentially play a part in the future; it's also a chance to see previous characters settled and happy in their present lives. Despite it being a lukewarm read, I did get a lovely glimpse into both and it makes me look forward to what else awaits these couples and what's to come as their love stories continue. 🫶🏻 🫶🏻
January 22, 2014
For those who’ve read Lane Hayes’s debut book, Better Than Good, you might remember Jay and Peter as Aaron’s friends. In that book, we know that Jay and Peter have been partners for five years. This is the story of how they met...
I found this story pleasant to read – the romance was pretty straightforward, with a slightly teeny tiny Harlequin vibe to it. What do I mean by that? Well, Jay was a likable guy, very loyal to his friend, liked to jump to conclusions (he thought Peter was straight and had a girlfriend or wife). He also rambled a lot when nervous. While Peter came as this handsome bossy project leader who Jay crushed at first, until Peter seemed to be nitpicky on what Jay was doing, and frustrated the hell out of him. That was a common Harlequin style – at least to me.
Lane Hayes writing had this ease to it and I found myself enjoying Jay and Peter as they embraced the “friends with benefit” route, smiling along when Jay was nervous, worrying for Jay when – as how the this kind of arrangement usually ended in traditional romance – Jay realized he was falling for Peter and wanted more than just being f*ck buddy. The ending was, well, if you read your Harlequin, it was also in familiar territory. But you won’t hear me complaining. It was just RIGHT, it made me happy and that was more important..
There was a cliché plot though, that Peter’s unwillingness to commit had something to do with his Catholic mother who shunned him when he came out, that he disappointed her as a son. This kind of answer was something I found as "a lazy way out". Even if we didn't really get the mother's perspective here, after reading this genre for years, I was tired of having female portrayed as the villain, either as girlfriend, spouse, or mother figure.
However, in overall, this was a really good, light, entertaining contemporary romance. I would love to read more of this ‘series’. Maybe next book will be about Jack (Peter’s ex)?
PS: Personal pet peeve, yes, the "baby" endearment *sigh*. My issue not yours, I know. Still, need to be said (since this space is my review space and some things I need help to remember)
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
I found this story pleasant to read – the romance was pretty straightforward, with a slightly teeny tiny Harlequin vibe to it. What do I mean by that? Well, Jay was a likable guy, very loyal to his friend, liked to jump to conclusions (he thought Peter was straight and had a girlfriend or wife). He also rambled a lot when nervous. While Peter came as this handsome bossy project leader who Jay crushed at first, until Peter seemed to be nitpicky on what Jay was doing, and frustrated the hell out of him. That was a common Harlequin style – at least to me.
Lane Hayes writing had this ease to it and I found myself enjoying Jay and Peter as they embraced the “friends with benefit” route, smiling along when Jay was nervous, worrying for Jay when – as how the this kind of arrangement usually ended in traditional romance – Jay realized he was falling for Peter and wanted more than just being f*ck buddy. The ending was, well, if you read your Harlequin, it was also in familiar territory. But you won’t hear me complaining. It was just RIGHT, it made me happy and that was more important..
There was a cliché plot though, that Peter’s unwillingness to commit had something to do with his Catholic mother who shunned him when he came out, that he disappointed her as a son. This kind of answer was something I found as "a lazy way out". Even if we didn't really get the mother's perspective here, after reading this genre for years, I was tired of having female portrayed as the villain, either as girlfriend, spouse, or mother figure.
However, in overall, this was a really good, light, entertaining contemporary romance. I would love to read more of this ‘series’. Maybe next book will be about Jack (Peter’s ex)?
PS: Personal pet peeve, yes, the "baby" endearment *sigh*. My issue not yours, I know. Still, need to be said (since this space is my review space and some things I need help to remember)
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
July 26, 2016
**2.8 Not So Better Stars**
An awesome BR, reading a not so awesome book.
I wish I could have loved this one, as much as I loved Better Than Good...but I didn't. So much could have been different to improve this story, but unfortunately it lacked in a lot of areas. From too much description in places they saw, people they met etc. To the characters not spending enough time together, resulting in a weak love story and equally weak bond. But then again, that's just my opinion guys...its your choice whether you're willing to give this a chance.
An awesome BR, reading a not so awesome book.
I wish I could have loved this one, as much as I loved Better Than Good...but I didn't. So much could have been different to improve this story, but unfortunately it lacked in a lot of areas. From too much description in places they saw, people they met etc. To the characters not spending enough time together, resulting in a weak love story and equally weak bond. But then again, that's just my opinion guys...its your choice whether you're willing to give this a chance.
April 16, 2017
I'm pretty new to the writing of Lane Hayes. I quite enjoyed book 1 of this series, Better Than Good, and we met Peter and Jay in that book. As of Better Than Good, they have been together for about 5 years and are gloriously happy.
Better Than Chance is kind of a prequel of the series, because it goes back to when Jay Reynolds first meets Peter Morgan and tells the story of how they started out. The whole story, except the prologue and epilogue, is a flash back to their early relationship.
Jay and Peter both work for the same lobbyist firm in Washington, DC, and they meet when Peter is put in charge of a project that Jay is working on. Their work relationship is strained, though, because from Jay's point of view, Peter is always nitpicking Jay's work, asking his to change really minor things. And this frustrates Jay to no end because Peter doesn't seem to be doing this to anyone else. Jay concludes that Peter is being a homophobic ass.
After the project is done, we do find out more about Peter. He is not homophobic in the least. In fact, he is gay and out. He is also very attracted to Jay, but they work together, and Peter doesn't do relationships, so Peter is cautious and Jay is stubborn.
My frustration with this story is that for the first half of the book, Peter is barely even in it. For the first 30% we mostly only get Jay's judgmental assumptions that Peter is singling him out because Peter is homophobic - in spite of the fact that Peter has never once mentioned anything in regards to Jay's - or anyone else's - sexuality, and never once made any kind of homophobic gesture.
After the halfway point, though, I really enjoyed the story (until Jay played the martyr, anyway). Peter is more likable than Jay is, and Jay is a likable guy when he's with Peter. It worked. And their sexy times were luscious and I loved how they were able to laugh together, too.
Even then, though, there were some issues. I wish they would have talked more - or at all, really - about where their relationship was going, instead of avoiding all relationship talk, and when Jay figured out that he needed to speak up Jay took the coward's way out, and I'm just not fond of that plot device. Thankfully, they do manage to get their HEA, but it's all due to Peter not giving up. That doesn't sound like the actions of a man who is afraid of commitment.
Though I didn't like Better Than Chance nearly as much as I did Better Than Good, I'm still glad I read it, if for no other reason, we meet Jack, who is one of the MC's for book 3, here and we get some background. I'm sure that background will be repeated in the next book, at least somewhat, but my reading OCD demands I read all the books. ;-)
-----------------
Review copy of Better Than Chance was generously provided by the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
Better Than Chance is kind of a prequel of the series, because it goes back to when Jay Reynolds first meets Peter Morgan and tells the story of how they started out. The whole story, except the prologue and epilogue, is a flash back to their early relationship.
Jay and Peter both work for the same lobbyist firm in Washington, DC, and they meet when Peter is put in charge of a project that Jay is working on. Their work relationship is strained, though, because from Jay's point of view, Peter is always nitpicking Jay's work, asking his to change really minor things. And this frustrates Jay to no end because Peter doesn't seem to be doing this to anyone else. Jay concludes that Peter is being a homophobic ass.
After the project is done, we do find out more about Peter. He is not homophobic in the least. In fact, he is gay and out. He is also very attracted to Jay, but they work together, and Peter doesn't do relationships, so Peter is cautious and Jay is stubborn.
My frustration with this story is that for the first half of the book, Peter is barely even in it. For the first 30% we mostly only get Jay's judgmental assumptions that Peter is singling him out because Peter is homophobic - in spite of the fact that Peter has never once mentioned anything in regards to Jay's - or anyone else's - sexuality, and never once made any kind of homophobic gesture.
After the halfway point, though, I really enjoyed the story (until Jay played the martyr, anyway). Peter is more likable than Jay is, and Jay is a likable guy when he's with Peter. It worked. And their sexy times were luscious and I loved how they were able to laugh together, too.
Even then, though, there were some issues. I wish they would have talked more - or at all, really - about where their relationship was going, instead of avoiding all relationship talk, and when Jay figured out that he needed to speak up Jay took the coward's way out, and I'm just not fond of that plot device. Thankfully, they do manage to get their HEA, but it's all due to Peter not giving up. That doesn't sound like the actions of a man who is afraid of commitment.
Though I didn't like Better Than Chance nearly as much as I did Better Than Good, I'm still glad I read it, if for no other reason, we meet Jack, who is one of the MC's for book 3, here and we get some background. I'm sure that background will be repeated in the next book, at least somewhat, but my reading OCD demands I read all the books. ;-)
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Review copy of Better Than Chance was generously provided by the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
April 20, 2014
Wonderful and romantic
I was in a mood for something fluffy...
cute
and sweet...
and this book delivered just that.
It also delivered beautiful chemistry
and courage to fight for what you deserve.
At the end it left me feeling all loved up in this fairy-tale style romance.
Very enjoyable... ❤️
I was in a mood for something fluffy...
cute
and sweet...
and this book delivered just that.
It also delivered beautiful chemistry
and courage to fight for what you deserve.
At the end it left me feeling all loved up in this fairy-tale style romance.
Very enjoyable... ❤️
January 29, 2014
I can’t give this book anything less than 5 stars
Lane Hayes delivered!
She delivered:
chem·is·try
ˈkeməstrē/
noun
the complex emotional or psychological interaction between two people.
“their affair was triggered by intense sexual chemistry”
She delivered:
Sexual tension
Sexual tension is a social phenomenon that occurs when two individuals interact and one or both feel sexual desire, but the consummation is postponed or never happens. ..
She delivered:
love
ləv/
noun
a person or thing that one loves
verb
feel a deep romantic or sexual attachment to (someone).
“do you love me?”
Peter and Jay AKA Jaybird. I loved them!!!!!! Loved it!!!! I will admit, the beginning of the book dragged a bit for me, but it was needed. The setting and the tone and the disconnect and dislike was needed to understand the characters. Their 1st kiss! Melt worthy. Hit me right in the GOOD FEELZ.
Their story was entertaining, laugh worthy, seriously hott!!!
A little angsty, a whole lotta tension, sexual that is, chemistry between Pete and Jay. Ahhh this book had it in spades.
Lane Haynes reminded me with this story about the joy and heartbreak of falling in love! The dates, the laughs, the heartaches and the tears are soo soo worth it when you get to the end goal.
Thank you for a worthwhile, honest, give me butterflies, make my heart beat faster, shake my head, tension filled enjoyable story. It was really fun taking this ride with Peter and Jay.
Mare~Slitsread
Lane Hayes delivered!
She delivered:
chem·is·try
ˈkeməstrē/
noun
the complex emotional or psychological interaction between two people.
“their affair was triggered by intense sexual chemistry”
She delivered:
Sexual tension
Sexual tension is a social phenomenon that occurs when two individuals interact and one or both feel sexual desire, but the consummation is postponed or never happens. ..
She delivered:
love
ləv/
noun
a person or thing that one loves
verb
feel a deep romantic or sexual attachment to (someone).
“do you love me?”
Peter and Jay AKA Jaybird. I loved them!!!!!! Loved it!!!! I will admit, the beginning of the book dragged a bit for me, but it was needed. The setting and the tone and the disconnect and dislike was needed to understand the characters. Their 1st kiss! Melt worthy. Hit me right in the GOOD FEELZ.
Their story was entertaining, laugh worthy, seriously hott!!!
A little angsty, a whole lotta tension, sexual that is, chemistry between Pete and Jay. Ahhh this book had it in spades.
Lane Haynes reminded me with this story about the joy and heartbreak of falling in love! The dates, the laughs, the heartaches and the tears are soo soo worth it when you get to the end goal.
Thank you for a worthwhile, honest, give me butterflies, make my heart beat faster, shake my head, tension filled enjoyable story. It was really fun taking this ride with Peter and Jay.
Mare~Slitsread
November 27, 2014
Sweet,funny, sexy, and emotional. 4 stars ♥
June 1, 2016
The words. All the words.
Loved Jay. Loved Peter. Not really sure what their problems were but I wanted to see them happy so I read on.
My biggest problem with this series is all the unnecessary words. Lemme 'splain.
I remember a lesson while in English class way back when. We were told not to repeat the same word too often when writing a story. 'Use a thesaurus' she said. 'It will introduce you to new words' she said. Of course that's exactly what it did. It was a tool to help expand the vocabulary of us young ruffians. I fear that this is a lesson this author took a bit too literally. At times it felt like a thesaurus threw up all over the place.
Also using the word cock multiple times during a sex scene is okay. It's necessary in fact. As you know? That's the part of the body that's going to get the most action at that particular point in the book. Using other words is okay too as there are lots to choose from for that particular appendage but never, NEVER is it okay to call it a 'member'. Just no. Never.
I do like the characters in this book as I liked them in the last. I'm reading the next book as I want to see this series through and there is a Harley riding tattooed bad boy in the next one so I kind of have no choice but I was disappointed with this. The writing is just a little stilted, the voice of Jay is very much the same as the voice of Aaron from 'Better Than Good' and having started 'Better Than Friends' I fear it's going to be the same there too.
Now I am aware that some of my issues are my personal issues and I have stated before that I often have a problem with present tense first person POV so that might be why I found it difficult to read. This just wasn't really for me.
Loved Jay. Loved Peter. Not really sure what their problems were but I wanted to see them happy so I read on.
My biggest problem with this series is all the unnecessary words. Lemme 'splain.
I remember a lesson while in English class way back when. We were told not to repeat the same word too often when writing a story. 'Use a thesaurus' she said. 'It will introduce you to new words' she said. Of course that's exactly what it did. It was a tool to help expand the vocabulary of us young ruffians. I fear that this is a lesson this author took a bit too literally. At times it felt like a thesaurus threw up all over the place.
Also using the word cock multiple times during a sex scene is okay. It's necessary in fact. As you know? That's the part of the body that's going to get the most action at that particular point in the book. Using other words is okay too as there are lots to choose from for that particular appendage but never, NEVER is it okay to call it a 'member'. Just no. Never.
I do like the characters in this book as I liked them in the last. I'm reading the next book as I want to see this series through and there is a Harley riding tattooed bad boy in the next one so I kind of have no choice but I was disappointed with this. The writing is just a little stilted, the voice of Jay is very much the same as the voice of Aaron from 'Better Than Good' and having started 'Better Than Friends' I fear it's going to be the same there too.
Now I am aware that some of my issues are my personal issues and I have stated before that I often have a problem with present tense first person POV so that might be why I found it difficult to read. This just wasn't really for me.
June 30, 2014
This book made me increasingly claustrophobic. By its end, I wanted to crawl out my skin and hurl my headphones away.
There was too much. And way too little.
Too much:
Everyone is exquisitely gorgeous, darling.
Everyone is a rich, successful yuppie, honey.
Everyone is white.
Except for one Asian-American at a sushi restaurant and one African-American lawyer who speaks as if she's from BedStuy and bops her head and wrings her neck, who incidentally works at the lower class firm to which Jay relocates.
Every woman is a 'fag hag'.
Every straight man is pudgy.
Every sex scene is explosive.
Every characterising phrase is repeated ad nauseum.
Every article of clothing and accessories is a designer brand label. Did I pick up Vogue magazine by accident?
Every one has a bloody biblical name. WTF.
Every element from book 1 is repeated.
Too little:
Every element from book 1 is repeated. Yeah.
There was nothing original here. No point to this and no heart.
**********************************************
In short, I bloody hated this book...it's making me consider a serious break from m/m.
I am TIRED of the lack of diversity.
Lack of diversity in race, culture, country, class, plot, age, circumstances, sexual spectrum, vocabulary, story arc, ability, finances, education, expression...every goddamn thing.
I am tired of m/m's increasing homogeneity. And I am utterly fed up with reading stupid stereotypes. Authors can write all the ignorant rubbish they want but I am hard pressed to continue to spend money on this foetid garbage. I am seriously going to be vetting my books on a different level henceforth.
I am very nearly over this genre, at present.
Okay, rant released....for now.
There was too much. And way too little.
Too much:
Everyone is exquisitely gorgeous, darling.
Everyone is a rich, successful yuppie, honey.
Everyone is white.
Except for one Asian-American at a sushi restaurant and one African-American lawyer who speaks as if she's from BedStuy and bops her head and wrings her neck, who incidentally works at the lower class firm to which Jay relocates.
Every woman is a 'fag hag'.
Every straight man is pudgy.
Every sex scene is explosive.
Every characterising phrase is repeated ad nauseum.
Every article of clothing and accessories is a designer brand label. Did I pick up Vogue magazine by accident?
Every one has a bloody biblical name. WTF.
Every element from book 1 is repeated.
Too little:
Every element from book 1 is repeated. Yeah.
There was nothing original here. No point to this and no heart.
**********************************************
In short, I bloody hated this book...it's making me consider a serious break from m/m.
I am TIRED of the lack of diversity.
Lack of diversity in race, culture, country, class, plot, age, circumstances, sexual spectrum, vocabulary, story arc, ability, finances, education, expression...every goddamn thing.
I am tired of m/m's increasing homogeneity. And I am utterly fed up with reading stupid stereotypes. Authors can write all the ignorant rubbish they want but I am hard pressed to continue to spend money on this foetid garbage. I am seriously going to be vetting my books on a different level henceforth.
I am very nearly over this genre, at present.
Okay, rant released....for now.
August 23, 2014
Wonderful:) Loved it from first to last page, no over the top drama, but a nice flowing story of two men meeting and getting to know each other. I loved following along Jay and Peter onto their HEA.
June 23, 2016
Jay (Aaron's high-maintenance stubborn bestie from Better Than Good) is involved in an intense work project where his work crush, Peter Morgan, is the team leader. "However, once I had to interact with him, infatuation fled and I was left wondering why the most gorgeous ones were either straight, taken, or just plain assholes."
When Peter helps rescue Aaron from an incident at the bar, Aaron informs Jay "Hunky boss man has the hots for you” and sets them up on a date under the guise of meeting Peter for drinks to thank him for his help. Peter's GQ model looks paired with a killer soft southern accent intrigue Jay, and Peter is equally smitten:
Cue the amazing passionate off-the-charts fantastic sex, but soon Peter and Jay become real friends. But when Jay wants more, Peter has to decide if he can overcome his past and enter fully into a life with Jay.
I loved Jay and Peter, although there was a bit of needless miscommunication along the way, and the story held my interest every step of the way. 4.5 stars.
I received an ARC of the "Better Than Bundle" from Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Review also posted to GayBook Reviews. Check it out!
When Peter helps rescue Aaron from an incident at the bar, Aaron informs Jay "Hunky boss man has the hots for you” and sets them up on a date under the guise of meeting Peter for drinks to thank him for his help. Peter's GQ model looks paired with a killer soft southern accent intrigue Jay, and Peter is equally smitten:
"You’re a little wild and reckless too, not to mention completely fucking odd at times, but maybe that’s part of your charm. I find you insanely attractive. I wish I didn’t. I mean… you know what I mean. This can never happen, but… you interest me.”They decide on one night of sex - one night of wicked very hot wild monkey sex - which quickly leads into a friends with benefits situation when Peter says he's not boyfriend material or interested in a relationship.
Cue the amazing passionate off-the-charts fantastic sex, but soon Peter and Jay become real friends. But when Jay wants more, Peter has to decide if he can overcome his past and enter fully into a life with Jay.
I loved Jay and Peter, although there was a bit of needless miscommunication along the way, and the story held my interest every step of the way. 4.5 stars.
I received an ARC of the "Better Than Bundle" from Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Review also posted to GayBook Reviews. Check it out!
January 6, 2016
Another great buddy read with the girls....which is more than I can say about the book. Light, fluffy, disappointing and fairly pointless. 3 stars.
June 16, 2017
*Reread 2/27/15*
Loved Peter - he was successful, smart, sexy. And despite his commitment issues, he obviously comes around! This was better than the first book!
Loved Peter - he was successful, smart, sexy. And despite his commitment issues, he obviously comes around! This was better than the first book!
August 20, 2017
I went back and forth on this book for a few different reasons. I was a little annoyed right off the bat because chapter 1 (prologue?) starts with Jay talking about their upcoming wedding... then we jump back to the start of the their story. It's a romance, I know they're gonna end up together! For me, this throws off my rhythm and felt unnecessary. It didn't add anything.
It's definitely a solid 3 star, but sometimes the problem with audiobooks is that you can't parse out what's the story and characters versus what's the narration. Jay kinda annoyed me, his narrated voice was often overly soft and lilting, frequently just being a straight out whisper for no reason. Combined with his accent it felt very Gone With The Wind (which I have admittedly never actually seen). But very southern belle. He did feel accurately represented, but I wasn't really a fan of his voice.
I've read several books that have been narrated by Tyler Stevens, and generally he does a good job. He's not a favorite narrator of mine but also not one I've had issue with. It was probably more an issue with some of the plot and dialogue than the narration, but I also don't think that the narration necessarily adds anything to this story, if you're trying to decide whether to read or listen.
So, the story itself? It was alight. There were niggles here and there, but honestly, 10 minutes after finishing the book I can't even really remember them. Jay was very presumptuous and rude for a large part of their early interactions, and I think that put me off. Once they got together it got better. They had good chemistry and the sex was definitely hot.
I couldn't place the timeline with relation to book 1, which was distracting. The boys from book 1 aren't together in this until the epilogue, so I guess technically this book takes place before book 1? That's a bit confusing. If so, they probably mentioned Jay and Peter in that book but I don't remember.
The secondary characters in this book were likable, really only there to progress Jay and Peter's story, which was fine. Although after all the buildup about Peter's history and his mom, that never eded up being addressed in a significant way or resolved . That would be fine if they had another book, but as we're moving on after that, I'm left feeling a little unsatisfied.
Received audio version from the publisher in exchange for an honest review, reviewed for Hearts On Fire
It's definitely a solid 3 star, but sometimes the problem with audiobooks is that you can't parse out what's the story and characters versus what's the narration. Jay kinda annoyed me, his narrated voice was often overly soft and lilting, frequently just being a straight out whisper for no reason. Combined with his accent it felt very Gone With The Wind (which I have admittedly never actually seen). But very southern belle. He did feel accurately represented, but I wasn't really a fan of his voice.
I've read several books that have been narrated by Tyler Stevens, and generally he does a good job. He's not a favorite narrator of mine but also not one I've had issue with. It was probably more an issue with some of the plot and dialogue than the narration, but I also don't think that the narration necessarily adds anything to this story, if you're trying to decide whether to read or listen.
So, the story itself? It was alight. There were niggles here and there, but honestly, 10 minutes after finishing the book I can't even really remember them. Jay was very presumptuous and rude for a large part of their early interactions, and I think that put me off. Once they got together it got better. They had good chemistry and the sex was definitely hot.
I couldn't place the timeline with relation to book 1, which was distracting. The boys from book 1 aren't together in this until the epilogue, so I guess technically this book takes place before book 1? That's a bit confusing. If so, they probably mentioned Jay and Peter in that book but I don't remember.
The secondary characters in this book were likable, really only there to progress Jay and Peter's story, which was fine. Although after all the buildup about Peter's history and his mom, that never eded up being addressed in a significant way or resolved . That would be fine if they had another book, but as we're moving on after that, I'm left feeling a little unsatisfied.
Received audio version from the publisher in exchange for an honest review, reviewed for Hearts On Fire
November 19, 2018
This was one of those amazing books that take you completely by chance (*pun intented*). I started reading it on my phone while driving but immediately found that I couldn't put it down when I got home; I had to put everything else I was reading aside and pick this up. Which I did. So after almost 8 hours of nonstop reading I came to an end. And it was totally worth it:)
This is a sweet, tender and emotional story, without much drama but which eventually got angstier the closer it came to the end. I so LOVED it! Those two men were just destined to be together, made for each other, sweet and hot at the same time. Loved, loved it!
Maybe I'll be able to write a more coherent review after some time has passed, but right now all I fell is ... WOW!!! Straight to my keeper shelf it goes.
*****Re-read Nov 2018********
Would rate it with 3 stars if I was reading it for the first time but I won't change my initial review/rating because I'm in a bad mood. However, it seemed too superficial to me this time, how beautiful they both were, how they were attracted to each other's looks, what an Italian God Peter was, how handsome Jay was, it really bothered me. I loved the ending though.
This is a sweet, tender and emotional story, without much drama but which eventually got angstier the closer it came to the end. I so LOVED it! Those two men were just destined to be together, made for each other, sweet and hot at the same time. Loved, loved it!
Maybe I'll be able to write a more coherent review after some time has passed, but right now all I fell is ... WOW!!! Straight to my keeper shelf it goes.
*****Re-read Nov 2018********
Would rate it with 3 stars if I was reading it for the first time but I won't change my initial review/rating because I'm in a bad mood. However, it seemed too superficial to me this time, how beautiful they both were, how they were attracted to each other's looks, what an Italian God Peter was, how handsome Jay was, it really bothered me. I loved the ending though.
October 25, 2015
Overall book rating: 4 I want it all stars
Audio book: Narrator Tyler Stevens 3.5 Stars
Book cover: 2 Stars
This was a romantic story I really loved it. Jay was a fluffy and sweet character. Peter was just Peter...
Audio book: Narrator Tyler Stevens 3.5 Stars
Book cover: 2 Stars
This was a romantic story I really loved it. Jay was a fluffy and sweet character. Peter was just Peter...
February 11, 2015
Pretty much the same as with book # 1 of the series. Good, but not much conflict and no real surprises.
Am I going to remember much about it next week? Not really. : (
Am I going to remember much about it next week? Not really. : (
June 23, 2014
What a wonderful, wonderful story.
After reading the first novel Miss Lane Hayes published (Better Than Good) I was surprised by her easy way of writing and her ability to get you sucked into the story she had written, especially being a new author. That is such a wonderful surprise as a reader :)
So, when I was offered a chance to review this second book at her request, I jumped at the opportunity.
In my review of part one I said I was hoping for a story about Jay and Peter and this novel brings just that.
It’s great to read how they got together and to read their personal story.
As we read the story about how Peter and Jay get together, this seems to be set at the same time Aaron meets Matt but this story can be read as a standalone.
We comfortably get involved in a different kind of love story, where Jay, who has a crush on his boss Peter, finds himself seeing that attraction returned back at him.
Where at first Peter seems anything but gay or even gay-friendly, things take a turn for the better when he becomes a saviour when Aaron, Jay’s best friend, finds himself in trouble.
That moment things changes between the two men and they fall into a comfortable but very sexy friends-with-benefits relationship.
But what happens if that isn’t enough anymore especially when things from the past seem to be an obstacle that they cannot climb either alone or together?
The expected drama is there and it makes sense.
After we as readers become just as comfortable with the relationship between the two men as they are themselves, it hits hard. But again as a reader you feel the need for them to get through it to find a way to remotely even having a wish for a HEA.
You can sense the struggle in both men and as a reader you will find yourself supporting and understanding both of their decisions.
Nowhere in this story did I find a place that didn’t make sense.
Right up to the end you feel there is a need for whatever is happening, no matter how hard or difficult the situation seems to be. You thrive on the hope that is lying underneath.
If I have to give some critique I would have loved a little bit more interaction between Aaron and Matt together with Peter and Jay as couples as they all are together in the end.
After part 1 I mentioned that I was curious for Curt’s story, and now I sure hope that we also will be getting Jack’s story. He definitely deserves his HEA in my opinion :)
And ok, I’ll admit I wouldn’t mind at all reading more of any of these man in whatever kind of novel that is coming (I hope).
Review posted at :
http://sidlove.com/2014/01/22/release...
After reading the first novel Miss Lane Hayes published (Better Than Good) I was surprised by her easy way of writing and her ability to get you sucked into the story she had written, especially being a new author. That is such a wonderful surprise as a reader :)
So, when I was offered a chance to review this second book at her request, I jumped at the opportunity.
In my review of part one I said I was hoping for a story about Jay and Peter and this novel brings just that.
It’s great to read how they got together and to read their personal story.
As we read the story about how Peter and Jay get together, this seems to be set at the same time Aaron meets Matt but this story can be read as a standalone.
We comfortably get involved in a different kind of love story, where Jay, who has a crush on his boss Peter, finds himself seeing that attraction returned back at him.
Where at first Peter seems anything but gay or even gay-friendly, things take a turn for the better when he becomes a saviour when Aaron, Jay’s best friend, finds himself in trouble.
That moment things changes between the two men and they fall into a comfortable but very sexy friends-with-benefits relationship.
But what happens if that isn’t enough anymore especially when things from the past seem to be an obstacle that they cannot climb either alone or together?
The expected drama is there and it makes sense.
After we as readers become just as comfortable with the relationship between the two men as they are themselves, it hits hard. But again as a reader you feel the need for them to get through it to find a way to remotely even having a wish for a HEA.
You can sense the struggle in both men and as a reader you will find yourself supporting and understanding both of their decisions.
Nowhere in this story did I find a place that didn’t make sense.
Right up to the end you feel there is a need for whatever is happening, no matter how hard or difficult the situation seems to be. You thrive on the hope that is lying underneath.
If I have to give some critique I would have loved a little bit more interaction between Aaron and Matt together with Peter and Jay as couples as they all are together in the end.
After part 1 I mentioned that I was curious for Curt’s story, and now I sure hope that we also will be getting Jack’s story. He definitely deserves his HEA in my opinion :)
And ok, I’ll admit I wouldn’t mind at all reading more of any of these man in whatever kind of novel that is coming (I hope).
Review posted at :
http://sidlove.com/2014/01/22/release...
March 19, 2020
A marvelous story of a vivacious, happy, out and proud man, and a powerful businessman, who travels and has his heart locked away.
Jay, 28, a tall, lean man working for the businessman/boss, Peter, 32, also super tall and very muscled. Jay, dark blonde with blue eyes,
has secretly wanted Peter,
dark hair and Italian looks, ever since he met him. He ticks off all of Jay's likes. (trigger: Jay's friend Aaron gets attempted drugging at dance club, gets rescued)
They agree to a one-niter, but it's not enough. That night is ingrained in each man, and they'll never get enough. We see them talk, dine, hang out, and find out they have a lot in common. In addition, they try new things, like kayaking, and more. Their sex is scorching hot, with lots of variety.
I like the story flow, the interesting characters, and their struggle to admit their true inner feelings.
Jay makes his stand, and Peter must examine his inner thoughts.
ENJOY !
======
Jay, 28, a tall, lean man working for the businessman/boss, Peter, 32, also super tall and very muscled. Jay, dark blonde with blue eyes,
has secretly wanted Peter,
dark hair and Italian looks, ever since he met him. He ticks off all of Jay's likes. (trigger: Jay's friend Aaron gets attempted drugging at dance club, gets rescued)
They agree to a one-niter, but it's not enough. That night is ingrained in each man, and they'll never get enough. We see them talk, dine, hang out, and find out they have a lot in common. In addition, they try new things, like kayaking, and more. Their sex is scorching hot, with lots of variety.
I like the story flow, the interesting characters, and their struggle to admit their true inner feelings.
Jay makes his stand, and Peter must examine his inner thoughts.
ENJOY !
======
February 18, 2023
RECENSIONE A CURA DI LADY MARMELADE
Una lettura di stampo decisamente estivo questa: divertente, frizzante, con poco dramma e molta passione! Non supera di certo il primo libro, ma è stata una piacevole lettura anche questa!
Il protagonista della storia, l’esuberante Jay, è un logorroico senza speranze: non sopporta i silenzi e cerca di riempirli chiacchierando senza sosta!
L’ho amato davvero molto perché mi somiglia parecchio; diciamo che tra me e lui non so chi ha la favella più lunga! Un altro punto in comune che ho con Jay è quello di giungere spesso a conclusioni affrettate. Credo che sia colpa del nostro cervello iperattivo, infatti siamo entrambi degli organizzatori nati: Jay è un lobbista, è abituato ad analizzare per lavoro, stimare costi e prevedere le situazioni. Io non sono una lobbista ma vi posso assicurare che anche il mio lavoro consiste nella gestione del lavoro altrui e tutti i giorni l’imprevisto è dietro l’angolo…
Non è colpa nostra se siamo svegli e sempre un passo davanti agli altri!
Venite a leggerla sul nostro blog!
Una lettura di stampo decisamente estivo questa: divertente, frizzante, con poco dramma e molta passione! Non supera di certo il primo libro, ma è stata una piacevole lettura anche questa!
Il protagonista della storia, l’esuberante Jay, è un logorroico senza speranze: non sopporta i silenzi e cerca di riempirli chiacchierando senza sosta!
L’ho amato davvero molto perché mi somiglia parecchio; diciamo che tra me e lui non so chi ha la favella più lunga! Un altro punto in comune che ho con Jay è quello di giungere spesso a conclusioni affrettate. Credo che sia colpa del nostro cervello iperattivo, infatti siamo entrambi degli organizzatori nati: Jay è un lobbista, è abituato ad analizzare per lavoro, stimare costi e prevedere le situazioni. Io non sono una lobbista ma vi posso assicurare che anche il mio lavoro consiste nella gestione del lavoro altrui e tutti i giorni l’imprevisto è dietro l’angolo…
Non è colpa nostra se siamo svegli e sempre un passo davanti agli altri!
Venite a leggerla sul nostro blog!
April 22, 2020
Audio and Ebook Reviewed on : 04-11-20
This was the perfect audio, for me to listen, during this unprecedented times, we're all are living
Better Than Chance
By: Lane Hayes
Narrated by:Tyler Stevens
Overall: 5 stars
Performance: 5 stars
Story: 5 stars
I first "met" Peter and Jay in Better Than, series book 1 ; Matt and Aaron 's story. And right away, I wanted to get to know more about them, as a couple and as individuals.
So happy to report, Peter and Jay are truly charming and loveable heroes. Their journey to HEA was a delicious romp that didn't disappoint.
I found it to be, utterly entertaining, sexy, fun with low amounts of angst and minimal amount of drama. In other words, absolutely perfect.
Tyler Stevens delivered a faultless , engaging and convincing narration.
#BooksILove #AudibleCreditWellSpent #ListenedOn2020 #BetterThanChance #LaneHayes
This was the perfect audio, for me to listen, during this unprecedented times, we're all are living
Better Than Chance
By: Lane Hayes
Narrated by:Tyler Stevens
Overall: 5 stars
Performance: 5 stars
Story: 5 stars
I first "met" Peter and Jay in Better Than, series book 1 ; Matt and Aaron 's story. And right away, I wanted to get to know more about them, as a couple and as individuals.
So happy to report, Peter and Jay are truly charming and loveable heroes. Their journey to HEA was a delicious romp that didn't disappoint.
I found it to be, utterly entertaining, sexy, fun with low amounts of angst and minimal amount of drama. In other words, absolutely perfect.
Tyler Stevens delivered a faultless , engaging and convincing narration.
#BooksILove #AudibleCreditWellSpent #ListenedOn2020 #BetterThanChance #LaneHayes
August 14, 2015
So I'm gonna go ahead and be in the minority again and just say this book was...less than impressive. Jay is judgmental and just always assumes he knows what's going on, and while I can understand this in terms of wanting to watch the character grow and learn, he never really suffers any consequences for his rude, unfair behavior. Peter was, at best, an almost non-entity, and his flat personality paired with Jay's overbearing obnoxiousness made this an irritating read.
February 21, 2015
I honestly did not understand why Peter's baggages gave him commitment issues. Yes there was conflict but that's it? There was also little chemistry between the two MCs, I found myself just wanting it to end.
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