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Scientific Method Universe #3
Take Three Breaths
Hugh likes having a serious, committed relationship–maybe more than he ever imagined he would. But when a former student kills himself, Hugh shuts down, leaving Truman and Will to pull his ass out of the dark. Contains mentions of suicide and death, over-bearing friends-who-are-family, and a clumsy attempt at romance.
153 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 30, 2014
12 people are currently reading
141 people want to read
About the author
Kris Ripper
89 books406 followersKris Ripper lives in the great state of California and zir pronouns are ze/zir. Kris shares a converted garage with a kid, can do two pull-ups in a row, and can write backwards. (No, really.) Ze has been writing fiction since ze learned how to write, and boring zir stuffed animals with stories long before that.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
November 23, 2023
Re-read May 2022
This is the one where Kris Ripper is like, “ok my pretties, it’s been all fun and games so far, time to SUFFER!!!”
(Not really. Kris Ripper is a hugely empathetic, generous writer. Ze only wants the best for us. But ze doesn’t pull any punches either.)
Take Three Breaths is bookended by two crises. Hugh suffers a depressive episode triggered by the suicide death of a (gay but not-then-out) student he counseled several years before; as a result he goes cold, icing out Truman and shutting down any and all attempts to help him. And Truman’s father suffers a heart attack, prompting Truman – with Hugh in tow – to make an emergency trip to Iowa where he must deal with his passive-aggressively homophobic family of origin, stirring up feelings of shame, self-doubt, and hurt that live just below the surface.
What’s fascinating is that these two crises are narrated by the people not directly affected. We experience Hugh’s depression through first Truman, then Will’s POV; we experience Truman’s traumatic home visit through Hugh’s eyes. (This happens again in book 6, the wedding, which is dual POV switching between Will and Molly. Strange though it may seem to not use Hugh or Truman to narrate their own wedding, it’s actually hugely effective both emotionally and in terms of the story that needs to be told in order to take us to the next level, so to speak, of the series.)
Experiencing the crises indirectly means that the focus is not on the crises themselves, but on the relationship effects of the crises. Hugh’s depression is particularly challenging. Truman is very empathetic, but he’s also a shrink: he sees what Hugh is doing and knows that he cannot live with the uncertainty of a boyfriend/ partner who shuts down and shuts him out from one moment to the next. If our first inflection point in Hugh and Truman’s relationship was when Will was brought into the picture – or more precisely, the first times Truman observed and then actively participated in a scene – this is the next inflection point, where we see what high stakes they’re playing for and where they draw their lines in the sand. It is – what are the words I’m looking for here? Oh, yes. INCREDIBLY STRESSFUL!!!
But it’s this suffocating atmosphere of silent, stoic suffering that finally pushes Truman to reach out to Will and start developing … to say an “independent” relationship is too much. For one thing, Hugh is still very much the focal point of Truman’s contact with Will: their conversations circle around him and what’s going on with him and how they can deal with it. But certainly, this is the one where we see Truman and Will starting to develop their own dynamic within the larger relationship, where Hugh may still be a focus but is not actually in the conversations or the one initiating the contact.
And this is what is so amazing about this series. Because Truman recognizes that Will knows things about Hugh that he doesn’t know, and that Will can reach Hugh in a way he cannot. But instead of being insecure or responding with jealousy or possessiveness, Truman is so relieved and grateful. He has someone else to strategize and commiserate with, someone to share Hugh-moments with, someone to ease the burden when it feels unbearable. And Will, for his part, is neither jealous of the everyday, partnered intimacy of Truman’s relationship with Hugh, nor would it ever occur to him to withhold or lord his knowledge of Hugh over Truman. Because Will and Truman’s goals are perfectly aligned: they are both absolutely committed to the Truman-Hugh relationship not just surviving, but thriving. (This is, of course, a theme with Will. He would hurt himself a million times over if he thought it would spare Hugh and Truman an ounce of pain.)
Thus, for as much as Take Three Breaths is stress-testing Hugh and Truman’s relationship, it is also pushing us into a new phase of the Will-Truman-Hugh relationship, where Truman is more actively exploring his feelings and desires as relates to Will and Will’s role. Truman is the one who suggests they celebrate their three-year anniversary with Will; Truman confides to Hugh that his own “undefined feelings” about Will are growing and changing. Things are ever being re-calibrated and re-balanced, but this time it is Truman putting his hands on the scale.
But it is still Hugh who convinces Will to stay in the boyfriends’ bed after a scene, instead of sneaking out and seeking refuge in the guest room. Will, who desperately desires and fears the intimacy of the shared bed, who finally admits that his reluctance is not just about imposing on the boyfriends’ relationship but about his own overwhelming emotional connection to and love for Hugh and Truman, which he is convinced is inappropriate and ruinous. Will, who must be told over and over again that this, too, is real -- a message he can only believe when it comes from Hugh.
And it is still Will who sees with breathtaking clarity that Hugh is hell-bent on picking a relationship-ending fight with Truman and who derails it as only he can, through an act of submission that resonates through the rest of the series.
Even though this is only the third book in the series, it is my last SMU review to post after an unintentionally epic series re-read. (Sidebar and note to new readers: please do not take this as permission to read SMU out of order! The series MUST be read as written because it is essentially one long book. I only went chaotic in my review writing because I've read the series many times and I wanted to spend more time on the early books.)
Anyway, as I go to post this, I find I'm feeling uncharacteristically sentimental about how much I love this series and how much it's given me and how it's a book home that I will always want to go back to and will always get something out of. So I want to close this series re-read with an excerpt that, to me, pretty much encapsulates this amazing, generous, beautiful, funny, sexy, honest series as a reading experience. This moment takes place during a crucial scene where Will and Truman use sex in an attempt to force affection, intimacy, and feeling on Hugh. In the space of two short paragraphs, we get heart-piercing beauty, incredible vulnerability, breathtaking intimacy, and then laughter and lightness: the relief of a burden gently lifted and shared. Just masterful.
“I’m so sad,” he said, in the most broken-sounding voice Will had ever heard.
Will draped himself over Hugh, a human blanket, or maybe a shield. “You are light, in all my memories. For a long time, I knew every single time you ever smiled at me, every single time you ever touched me. For months. I would lie in my bed in that shithole on Durant and think about the way you’d look at me, like I was whole, like I was good, and that’s what brought me comfort. Still brings me comfort. Though maybe not as much as thinking about you fucking me.”
Thank you, Kris Ripper. 😭😭😭💔❤️❤️❤️❤️
(Overall series review here)
This is the one where Kris Ripper is like, “ok my pretties, it’s been all fun and games so far, time to SUFFER!!!”
(Not really. Kris Ripper is a hugely empathetic, generous writer. Ze only wants the best for us. But ze doesn’t pull any punches either.)
Take Three Breaths is bookended by two crises. Hugh suffers a depressive episode triggered by the suicide death of a (gay but not-then-out) student he counseled several years before; as a result he goes cold, icing out Truman and shutting down any and all attempts to help him. And Truman’s father suffers a heart attack, prompting Truman – with Hugh in tow – to make an emergency trip to Iowa where he must deal with his passive-aggressively homophobic family of origin, stirring up feelings of shame, self-doubt, and hurt that live just below the surface.
What’s fascinating is that these two crises are narrated by the people not directly affected. We experience Hugh’s depression through first Truman, then Will’s POV; we experience Truman’s traumatic home visit through Hugh’s eyes. (This happens again in book 6, the wedding, which is dual POV switching between Will and Molly. Strange though it may seem to not use Hugh or Truman to narrate their own wedding, it’s actually hugely effective both emotionally and in terms of the story that needs to be told in order to take us to the next level, so to speak, of the series.)
Experiencing the crises indirectly means that the focus is not on the crises themselves, but on the relationship effects of the crises. Hugh’s depression is particularly challenging. Truman is very empathetic, but he’s also a shrink: he sees what Hugh is doing and knows that he cannot live with the uncertainty of a boyfriend/ partner who shuts down and shuts him out from one moment to the next. If our first inflection point in Hugh and Truman’s relationship was when Will was brought into the picture – or more precisely, the first times Truman observed and then actively participated in a scene – this is the next inflection point, where we see what high stakes they’re playing for and where they draw their lines in the sand. It is – what are the words I’m looking for here? Oh, yes. INCREDIBLY STRESSFUL!!!
But it’s this suffocating atmosphere of silent, stoic suffering that finally pushes Truman to reach out to Will and start developing … to say an “independent” relationship is too much. For one thing, Hugh is still very much the focal point of Truman’s contact with Will: their conversations circle around him and what’s going on with him and how they can deal with it. But certainly, this is the one where we see Truman and Will starting to develop their own dynamic within the larger relationship, where Hugh may still be a focus but is not actually in the conversations or the one initiating the contact.
And this is what is so amazing about this series. Because Truman recognizes that Will knows things about Hugh that he doesn’t know, and that Will can reach Hugh in a way he cannot. But instead of being insecure or responding with jealousy or possessiveness, Truman is so relieved and grateful. He has someone else to strategize and commiserate with, someone to share Hugh-moments with, someone to ease the burden when it feels unbearable. And Will, for his part, is neither jealous of the everyday, partnered intimacy of Truman’s relationship with Hugh, nor would it ever occur to him to withhold or lord his knowledge of Hugh over Truman. Because Will and Truman’s goals are perfectly aligned: they are both absolutely committed to the Truman-Hugh relationship not just surviving, but thriving. (This is, of course, a theme with Will. He would hurt himself a million times over if he thought it would spare Hugh and Truman an ounce of pain.)
Thus, for as much as Take Three Breaths is stress-testing Hugh and Truman’s relationship, it is also pushing us into a new phase of the Will-Truman-Hugh relationship, where Truman is more actively exploring his feelings and desires as relates to Will and Will’s role. Truman is the one who suggests they celebrate their three-year anniversary with Will; Truman confides to Hugh that his own “undefined feelings” about Will are growing and changing. Things are ever being re-calibrated and re-balanced, but this time it is Truman putting his hands on the scale.
But it is still Hugh who convinces Will to stay in the boyfriends’ bed after a scene, instead of sneaking out and seeking refuge in the guest room. Will, who desperately desires and fears the intimacy of the shared bed, who finally admits that his reluctance is not just about imposing on the boyfriends’ relationship but about his own overwhelming emotional connection to and love for Hugh and Truman, which he is convinced is inappropriate and ruinous. Will, who must be told over and over again that this, too, is real -- a message he can only believe when it comes from Hugh.
And it is still Will who sees with breathtaking clarity that Hugh is hell-bent on picking a relationship-ending fight with Truman and who derails it as only he can, through an act of submission that resonates through the rest of the series.
Even though this is only the third book in the series, it is my last SMU review to post after an unintentionally epic series re-read. (Sidebar and note to new readers: please do not take this as permission to read SMU out of order! The series MUST be read as written because it is essentially one long book. I only went chaotic in my review writing because I've read the series many times and I wanted to spend more time on the early books.)
Anyway, as I go to post this, I find I'm feeling uncharacteristically sentimental about how much I love this series and how much it's given me and how it's a book home that I will always want to go back to and will always get something out of. So I want to close this series re-read with an excerpt that, to me, pretty much encapsulates this amazing, generous, beautiful, funny, sexy, honest series as a reading experience. This moment takes place during a crucial scene where Will and Truman use sex in an attempt to force affection, intimacy, and feeling on Hugh. In the space of two short paragraphs, we get heart-piercing beauty, incredible vulnerability, breathtaking intimacy, and then laughter and lightness: the relief of a burden gently lifted and shared. Just masterful.
“I’m so sad,” he said, in the most broken-sounding voice Will had ever heard.
Will draped himself over Hugh, a human blanket, or maybe a shield. “You are light, in all my memories. For a long time, I knew every single time you ever smiled at me, every single time you ever touched me. For months. I would lie in my bed in that shithole on Durant and think about the way you’d look at me, like I was whole, like I was good, and that’s what brought me comfort. Still brings me comfort. Though maybe not as much as thinking about you fucking me.”
Thank you, Kris Ripper. 😭😭😭💔❤️❤️❤️❤️
(Overall series review here)
January 13, 2023
What a wonderful, deeply personal episode for all three of the guys.
Will is growing... well, I don't want to say he's growing up because I don't ever want that to happen. But he's gaining more perspective, and it's coming out in his confidence. And it's so much fun to be a fly on the wall.
Hooray for Truman - well done!
And for Hugh, hey he's a work in progress, and watching him thaw is a beautiful thing.
Will is growing... well, I don't want to say he's growing up because I don't ever want that to happen. But he's gaining more perspective, and it's coming out in his confidence. And it's so much fun to be a fly on the wall.
Hooray for Truman - well done!
And for Hugh, hey he's a work in progress, and watching him thaw is a beautiful thing.
September 23, 2020
I really love these characters <3 but I'm pacing myself with this series 'cause I know some pretty heavy stuff is coming up.
The whole dynamic netween Hugh, Will and Truman is so special and real.
Hats off Mx. Ripper.
The whole dynamic netween Hugh, Will and Truman is so special and real.
Hats off Mx. Ripper.
February 27, 2022
I'm trying to overcome my sense of embarrassment that I like this series so much, or rather, that I post about it on the internet.
Look. It's ... Oftentimes, when books are about kinky, poly stuff they feel... Unhealthy to me (probably like most of romance literature feels unhealthy to me). So after reading the love study series by Chris Ripper I ended up here.. zir stories feel good to me? Healthy? Wholesome? I mean there is this guy who likes getting flogged and/or humiliated and these other three people who make him feel all right about it? And everyone genuinely loves each other? And they help each other through crises without question? Yeah well sign me up I'm gonna read the other 6 or so installments of this as well, and I'm probably gonna post about it too.
Look. It's ... Oftentimes, when books are about kinky, poly stuff they feel... Unhealthy to me (probably like most of romance literature feels unhealthy to me). So after reading the love study series by Chris Ripper I ended up here.. zir stories feel good to me? Healthy? Wholesome? I mean there is this guy who likes getting flogged and/or humiliated and these other three people who make him feel all right about it? And everyone genuinely loves each other? And they help each other through crises without question? Yeah well sign me up I'm gonna read the other 6 or so installments of this as well, and I'm probably gonna post about it too.
February 5, 2023
4**** stars
I am so f*cking impatient with this series I can't really enjoy their story right now. I want them together for real so desperately I keep skipping the pages.
It's really not the book, it's me and I am so annoyed with myself because of it. I don't even know how to rate this honestly.
This story is deep and emotional and also confusing at times. I love that they talk to each other so much, that they check in on each other, that they are honest about their feelings for each other when asked about it.
But Will keeps being a third wheel intentionally - not being part of the relationship between Hugh and Truman while having his own relationship with Molly. But the boyfriends love him and he loves them. He feels save, whole and at home with them. So it's so damn frustrating for me right now that they don't just say "Fuck it. And fuck everyone else." and just BE TOGETHER!!!!
Really, it's me. Not the book. The story is great! And they're just not ready yet. None of them. So I need to be patient, keep my frustration in check and follow their fascinating and beautiful story to the point where they actually will be ready to be together.
*************
Scientific Method Universe Series:
Book 1 - Catalyst - 4.5 stars
Book 2 - Unexpected Gifts - 3.25 stars
Book 3 - Take Three Breaths - 4 stars
Book 4 - Breaking Down - 4.5 stars
Book 5 - Roller Coasters - 3.25 stars
Book 6 - The Boyfriends Tie the Knot - currently reading
Book 7 - The Honeymoon
Book 8 - Extremes
Book 9 - Untrue
I am so f*cking impatient with this series I can't really enjoy their story right now. I want them together for real so desperately I keep skipping the pages.
It's really not the book, it's me and I am so annoyed with myself because of it. I don't even know how to rate this honestly.
This story is deep and emotional and also confusing at times. I love that they talk to each other so much, that they check in on each other, that they are honest about their feelings for each other when asked about it.
But Will keeps being a third wheel intentionally - not being part of the relationship between Hugh and Truman while having his own relationship with Molly. But the boyfriends love him and he loves them. He feels save, whole and at home with them. So it's so damn frustrating for me right now that they don't just say "Fuck it. And fuck everyone else." and just BE TOGETHER!!!!
Really, it's me. Not the book. The story is great! And they're just not ready yet. None of them. So I need to be patient, keep my frustration in check and follow their fascinating and beautiful story to the point where they actually will be ready to be together.
*************
Scientific Method Universe Series:
Book 1 - Catalyst - 4.5 stars
Book 2 - Unexpected Gifts - 3.25 stars
Book 3 - Take Three Breaths - 4 stars
Book 4 - Breaking Down - 4.5 stars
Book 5 - Roller Coasters - 3.25 stars
Book 6 - The Boyfriends Tie the Knot - currently reading
Book 7 - The Honeymoon
Book 8 - Extremes
Book 9 - Untrue
May 9, 2023
My god, this series is so good.
This one dealt with pretty heavy topics, where a student that Hugh used to counsel committed suicide and how that effected him. Even though it was heavier and really dealt with Hugh's shut down/depression I loved how it was handled. Truman didn't know what to do, so he reached out to those closest to Hugh and through all of them working together they were able to help Hugh get to a better place
I have to say that I am so enjoying reading a romance series that focuses on a very non-traditional relationship. And I like that they don't try to define it, either. It's not an open relationship, it's not poly (though that's probably what it would be considered?), it just is and it works for everyone involved. I like how in this one especially it really examines how Hugh's relationship with Truman is different from his relationship with Will, and how each is important in different ways.
We also got to see a bit more about Truman's toxic family, which wasn't pleasant, but it is nice to have that information.
On to the next!
This one dealt with pretty heavy topics, where a student that Hugh used to counsel committed suicide and how that effected him. Even though it was heavier and really dealt with Hugh's shut down/depression I loved how it was handled. Truman didn't know what to do, so he reached out to those closest to Hugh and through all of them working together they were able to help Hugh get to a better place
I have to say that I am so enjoying reading a romance series that focuses on a very non-traditional relationship. And I like that they don't try to define it, either. It's not an open relationship, it's not poly (though that's probably what it would be considered?), it just is and it works for everyone involved. I like how in this one especially it really examines how Hugh's relationship with Truman is different from his relationship with Will, and how each is important in different ways.
We also got to see a bit more about Truman's toxic family, which wasn't pleasant, but it is nice to have that information.
On to the next!
May 5, 2022
So good and now onto book 4
August 29, 2023
I continue to be enamored with how this series is developing with each installment. Poor sweet Hugh. I feel a lot of kinship with him. It can be very hard to learn how to open up to people during times of need instead of going cold and isolating. It’s a wonderful thing to watch his people come around him. Truman and Will, sure, but even Lucy and Nick. I have to give massive props to Will though for figuring out what Hugh would need and how that scene, directed by Truman, led to the realization that Hugh is actually a switch. Also Will as Truman’s surrogate? Talk about layers of meaning there! Then there was the way Truman and Hugh’s anniversary went awry but still led to them feeling more settled in their relationship and what they mean to each other. I can’t wait to see what happens next.
Characters: Will is a 23 year old white submissive who works at a radio station and a pub. Hugh is a 32 year old gay white therapist, switch, and former escort who wears glasses. Truman is a 36 year old gay white therapist. Hugh and Truman celebrate their third anniversary. Will’s not-girlfriend is Molly, a Black woman in her early 20s and a Domme. This is set in Oakland, CA and Iowa.
Content notes: former student died by suicide (student was gay), depression, anxiety, insomnia, Truman’s father has a heart attack (recovering), family estrangement, familial homophobia, past death of Hugh’s mother, recounted racial slur, past homophobic slur, possible disordered eating (Truman), fatphobia, diet culture (somewhat countered), possible confidentiality breach (Hugh reveals former student’s name and sexuality), on page sex, D/s, service kink, MMM menage, rimming, alcohol, gendered pejoratives, ableist language, slave BDSM terminology
Characters: Will is a 23 year old white submissive who works at a radio station and a pub. Hugh is a 32 year old gay white therapist, switch, and former escort who wears glasses. Truman is a 36 year old gay white therapist. Hugh and Truman celebrate their third anniversary. Will’s not-girlfriend is Molly, a Black woman in her early 20s and a Domme. This is set in Oakland, CA and Iowa.
Content notes: former student died by suicide (student was gay), depression, anxiety, insomnia, Truman’s father has a heart attack (recovering), family estrangement, familial homophobia, past death of Hugh’s mother, recounted racial slur, past homophobic slur, possible disordered eating (Truman), fatphobia, diet culture (somewhat countered), possible confidentiality breach (Hugh reveals former student’s name and sexuality), on page sex, D/s, service kink, MMM menage, rimming, alcohol, gendered pejoratives, ableist language, slave BDSM terminology
October 12, 2014
I love this whole cast of characters - the dynamics are so complex and yet real. Can't wait for more!
March 26, 2023
I will not lie. I didn't feel the beginning. Time jump of 1/2 years, Hugh being depressed with not build-up and Jason. Sorry I didn't like him and even if I see what the author try to do with him and the story, I think it didn't really work for me.
I felt like the book starts with no link with the 2 previous book. It was 2 years of relationship and bam Hugh is being cold depressed. It lacks of the depht I was used to in this series.
But then, the magics happened. And I have to admit it's when Will finally enters the scene.
What I really like in this book and what the author did was brilliant, is that when a character is at the heart of the intrigue the POV was with an another character.
- Hugh being depressed and how can it be helped : Truman POV
- Hugh and Truman relationship are in a deep turning point : Will POV
- Truman is having a family crisis : Hugh POV
I really like how we see the characters struggled by the eyes of the others. It adds so much depth and characterizations.
When I was reading, and Will enters the scene to help Truman and the Truman/Hugh couple. I remember saying that I really loved the Hugh/Will dynamics and that they were really a great couple because book 1 gave us many great moments between them. And that 3 books in, I still didn't have the same with Hugh/Truman (without Will). And OMG It finally happened. The last third of the book is chef kiss.
I felt like the book starts with no link with the 2 previous book. It was 2 years of relationship and bam Hugh is being cold depressed. It lacks of the depht I was used to in this series.
But then, the magics happened. And I have to admit it's when Will finally enters the scene.
What I really like in this book and what the author did was brilliant, is that when a character is at the heart of the intrigue the POV was with an another character.
- Hugh being depressed and how can it be helped : Truman POV
- Hugh and Truman relationship are in a deep turning point : Will POV
- Truman is having a family crisis : Hugh POV
I really like how we see the characters struggled by the eyes of the others. It adds so much depth and characterizations.
When I was reading, and Will enters the scene to help Truman and the Truman/Hugh couple. I remember saying that I really loved the Hugh/Will dynamics and that they were really a great couple because book 1 gave us many great moments between them. And that 3 books in, I still didn't have the same with Hugh/Truman (without Will). And OMG It finally happened. The last third of the book is chef kiss.
July 20, 2023
Apparently I'm loving this series because I'm binging all 9 books! I really like the therapy and analysis aspect alongside the kink and steam and all the relationship stuff. It's really well written and insightful. Will is the best.
November 19, 2017
I am still adoring this series. This one's very premise was more angsty than the previous ones, with Hugh reacting poorly to the news of a suicide of a former student and basically shutting everyone else out. Will and Truman have to team up to coax Hugh to open back up and accept comfort and love (with sexy times and BDSM, because yeah, it's still the same series!). The emotions were strong and the characters felt authentic - nothing was an easy or fast fix - but it was heavier and not as fun of a read for me as the previous ones.
Will, though. I ADORE Will.
"Will felt out of place in the bed. He should be in Cordelia's room, beating off to them fucking. He shouldn't be here, inside it. Then Hugh's mouth was on him, and hey, never mind."
The dynamics between the three of them (and Molly, I guess, but she's more in the background, really) continue to grow and shift. It's now been three years that Hugh and Truman have been dating, which I suppose makes it closer to four that Hugh and Will have known each other, so OF COURSE things will change. I'm really looking forward to seeing how things continue in the series.
Will, though. I ADORE Will.
"Will felt out of place in the bed. He should be in Cordelia's room, beating off to them fucking. He shouldn't be here, inside it. Then Hugh's mouth was on him, and hey, never mind."
The dynamics between the three of them (and Molly, I guess, but she's more in the background, really) continue to grow and shift. It's now been three years that Hugh and Truman have been dating, which I suppose makes it closer to four that Hugh and Will have known each other, so OF COURSE things will change. I'm really looking forward to seeing how things continue in the series.
April 8, 2022
These boys make me laugh. Fall in love on the second date but can't admit they're committed even after 3 years 😂. This was a great exploration of an angsty period in their lives.
January 5, 2022
I considered giving this a 3.5, but I rounded up because I am still really enjoying exploring the dynamics of the relationship between Will, Hugh and Truman, even if I did notice a structural issue or two in the writing of this particular entry.
"This is the Hugh and Truman book" I wrote in my notes - and it's true. We open about two years after the two of them have gotten together, and it's a moment that Hugh is not at his best. He's in a funk over a former student's suicide (not seen on page nor are specifics of the death discussed). The story is broadly from Truman's perspective, as he tries various methods to try to get Hugh out of his funk (yes, one includes sex, lol). But Truman actually ends up reaching out to Lucy, and then finally Will, before they are all collectively able to bring Hugh back to level. Of course that's when Truman is called home to deal with his toxic family, and suddenly Hugh is trying to figure out how to support him.
About 75% of the novella is focused on Hugh's melancholy, and while I liked that since we got to explore his support system via Lucy (yay for more backstory on her) and deepen the Truman/Will relationship (yay!) and have Will take a more active role in the triad (yay!), it did feel like Truman and his family emergency got shortchanged. It was a great opportunity for conflict for Hugh and I would have liked to see him struggle a bit more before the resolution! And while there's still a good number of sex scenes, this entry was quite talk-y, and on some really tough stuff. I'm into this in my romances, but YMMV. I think Ripper really nailed some deep emotional moments on this one.
"This is the Hugh and Truman book" I wrote in my notes - and it's true. We open about two years after the two of them have gotten together, and it's a moment that Hugh is not at his best. He's in a funk over a former student's suicide (not seen on page nor are specifics of the death discussed). The story is broadly from Truman's perspective, as he tries various methods to try to get Hugh out of his funk (yes, one includes sex, lol). But Truman actually ends up reaching out to Lucy, and then finally Will, before they are all collectively able to bring Hugh back to level. Of course that's when Truman is called home to deal with his toxic family, and suddenly Hugh is trying to figure out how to support him.
About 75% of the novella is focused on Hugh's melancholy, and while I liked that since we got to explore his support system via Lucy (yay for more backstory on her) and deepen the Truman/Will relationship (yay!) and have Will take a more active role in the triad (yay!), it did feel like Truman and his family emergency got shortchanged. It was a great opportunity for conflict for Hugh and I would have liked to see him struggle a bit more before the resolution! And while there's still a good number of sex scenes, this entry was quite talk-y, and on some really tough stuff. I'm into this in my romances, but YMMV. I think Ripper really nailed some deep emotional moments on this one.
March 8, 2024
When I forget to breathe while reading a book and develop some kind of blurry, hazy tunnel vision it’s always my sign that I’m completely and totally emotionally invested in the things going on. Take Three Breaths has left me breathless. Ha. No pun intended, I’m just I’m just realizing the title now. Kris Ripper is smarter than we all me it seems.
This installment was the best for me so far. It is SO emotionally intense (while not depressing at all). The middle part when Will showed up to help was one of the best things ever for me.
I love the nuances of this series, the totally convincing portrayal of loving more than one person in more than one way and that’s what it’s all about for me. And the series EXCELS at it! Though I gotta say, I kinda want Molly out of the picture at this point *hides*. Im sorry, I love the concept of it all, I’m just not a fan of her specifically. I don’t know what it is, but she rubs me the wrong way. Give Will a hunky new guy and I'm all for it, but her... and I’m rambling now, like I always get, when I’m invested in a new series.
Can’t wait to see what’s next for the boys. At this part the characters feel like my new best friends, I LOVE to live in this universe right now and hope it’ll never end. Awesome series!!!
This installment was the best for me so far. It is SO emotionally intense (while not depressing at all). The middle part when Will showed up to help was one of the best things ever for me.
I love the nuances of this series, the totally convincing portrayal of loving more than one person in more than one way and that’s what it’s all about for me. And the series EXCELS at it! Though I gotta say, I kinda want Molly out of the picture at this point *hides*. Im sorry, I love the concept of it all, I’m just not a fan of her specifically. I don’t know what it is, but she rubs me the wrong way. Give Will a hunky new guy and I'm all for it, but her... and I’m rambling now, like I always get, when I’m invested in a new series.
Can’t wait to see what’s next for the boys. At this part the characters feel like my new best friends, I LOVE to live in this universe right now and hope it’ll never end. Awesome series!!!
February 2, 2018
Such an interesting diversion.
Kris Ripper did something amazing for book three of a series by placing this one firmly in the boyfriends’ POV and succeeding in keeping my interest engaged. For most of the book, Truman’s pov reigned and it was hard to see his heartbreak happening. However, I loved how his understanding of their relationship and support system evolved. This isn’t a standalone; don’t even try it. Go get book 1 and I dare say you’ll get to book three happily, emotionally, and ravaged.
Kris Ripper did something amazing for book three of a series by placing this one firmly in the boyfriends’ POV and succeeding in keeping my interest engaged. For most of the book, Truman’s pov reigned and it was hard to see his heartbreak happening. However, I loved how his understanding of their relationship and support system evolved. This isn’t a standalone; don’t even try it. Go get book 1 and I dare say you’ll get to book three happily, emotionally, and ravaged.
July 28, 2017
This one's a rough read, but entirely worth it.
The plot is set off by the off-screen suicide of someone Hugh used to work with as a counsellor.
The focus here is one of the plot-threads that I've been fascinated by since the first book: Hugh's unwillingness to ask for help and tendency to shut people out when he's vulnerable.
I really appreciate that Truman outright says, first to Will then directly to Hugh, that as much as he loves Hugh he can't be in a relationship with someone he can't trust
not to suddenly shut him out and turn cold.
Boundaries are good! Saying "we need to work through this or this relationship won't work" is good boundary enforcement.
The plot is set off by the off-screen suicide of someone Hugh used to work with as a counsellor.
The focus here is one of the plot-threads that I've been fascinated by since the first book: Hugh's unwillingness to ask for help and tendency to shut people out when he's vulnerable.
I really appreciate that Truman outright says, first to Will then directly to Hugh, that as much as he loves Hugh he can't be in a relationship with someone he can't trust
not to suddenly shut him out and turn cold.
Boundaries are good! Saying "we need to work through this or this relationship won't work" is good boundary enforcement.
March 9, 2023
I didn't find this as enjoyable as the previous books. I don't think it was entirely because for *most* of the book one of the main characters is depressed and withdrawn and almost all of the rest of the characters and plot points revolve around that... but it certainly played a major role. It didn't turn me off the series or anything though, so probably I'll happily pick back up with it in the next book.
July 25, 2023
I love these three men, but there is a lot of drama and angst going on in their lives in this story. Truman tries everything to get Hugh out of the dark place he's gone after a former student's suicide, even going to Lucy for advice. But it's finally Will, together with Truman, who get through to Hugh. Very hot and sexy times.
However, just when things are looking better for the three men, family troubles arise for Truman.
However, just when things are looking better for the three men, family troubles arise for Truman.
January 25, 2022
3.5 stars
I knew this one would be heavy going in (so glad it's in the jacket copy) but it's not misery for the sake of misery - it broke my heart in a good way.
Content notes:
I knew this one would be heavy going in (so glad it's in the jacket copy) but it's not misery for the sake of misery - it broke my heart in a good way.
Content notes:
March 10, 2024
I would have loved this one a lot more if I hadn't been sick. I kinda wanted straight kink and mindless things and this involved more thinking. I loved seeing Truman care for Hugh. Seeing Hugh struggling and needing someone to put his oar in was fun. Again, I love Will most of all so I liked the role he played and wished he had a bigger part.
October 10, 2017
God, every time I finish one of these books I am helplessly grateful that there are more. They seem short - my fault. I read both Hugh and Truman too fast. I'm more a Will-speed reader. I own the next one. The real question is, how long can I resist starting it? (teetering virtual TBR pile)
April 20, 2020
It just gets better
The waves of grief, the layers, the unexpected were all handled beautifully in this book. The development of these characters is utterly intoxicating. I cannot wait to read more
The waves of grief, the layers, the unexpected were all handled beautifully in this book. The development of these characters is utterly intoxicating. I cannot wait to read more
June 25, 2018
My only problem with this series is the books end really suddenly.
June 20, 2019
Very enjoyable!
Read
June 29, 2024**Re-read June 2024** Some difficult stuff in this one, but ultimately I find it to be so hopeful and honest about what it means, and requires, to stay in relationships.
Read
May 16, 2021IF YOU LIKED?! No, I don't think I did. I just keep thinking that some people need to be closer and some needed to be rid of altogether.
I get it that sometimes, you have to "grow" or "mature" into something. Like, sure, being sixteen and in the closet in some hick town? Not the best idea, maybe you wait until they both have jobs and some self-respect and confidence and stability and control.
This? Not the case. Not from where I am standing. It's like showing Will they can be happy and then shoving him off the bed AFTER they show him how perfect it can be.
Also, I can't stress this enough, away with the M-person. Just, nope. She has no right to Will, just having it suggested gives me creeps.
And yes, some scenes could really have been perfect but they were ruined by the everything around it. Gosh, I don't know why I am doing this to myself, normally, I either suffer in silence and blame it on not being compatible but I guess here, I feel like the whole gay + shrink kink (thanks for labeling that for me!) + poly + style is just right down my lane so to realize it's also so completely wrong for me is double the loss.
Okay, shutting up, but my points do stand and I am totally reaching for the 5th one. No more M. Fudging Hallalujah!
I get it that sometimes, you have to "grow" or "mature" into something. Like, sure, being sixteen and in the closet in some hick town? Not the best idea, maybe you wait until they both have jobs and some self-respect and confidence and stability and control.
This? Not the case. Not from where I am standing. It's like showing Will they can be happy and then shoving him off the bed AFTER they show him how perfect it can be.
Also, I can't stress this enough, away with the M-person. Just, nope. She has no right to Will, just having it suggested gives me creeps.
And yes, some scenes could really have been perfect but they were ruined by the everything around it. Gosh, I don't know why I am doing this to myself, normally, I either suffer in silence and blame it on not being compatible but I guess here, I feel like the whole gay + shrink kink (thanks for labeling that for me!) + poly + style is just right down my lane so to realize it's also so completely wrong for me is double the loss.
Okay, shutting up, but my points do stand and I am totally reaching for the 5th one. No more M. Fudging Hallalujah!
January 8, 2016
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Take Three Breaths is the fourth book in the Scientific Method series, featuring partners Hugh and Truman, and their close friend and sexual partner, Will. While it is part of the larger series, this story is pretty timeless in the sense that there isn’t a strong series connection, and I think if you are familiar with the series you could jump into this one out of order.
One of the things I love most about this series is the way Ripper really gets into the nuances of their characters and their relationship. The characters joke that Hugh has a “shrink kink” in that he likes to analyze and assess everything, and that theme often carries over to the books themselves. So this story really looks at the nuances of these guys, focusing on Hugh and how he deals with pain and conflict. In this case we see him totally withdrawal and get Truman’s POV as he desperately tries to figure out what he can do to help Hugh. At the same time, Truman knows he is not getting what he needs from Hugh, that he needs someone to talk to him and lean on him and share his burdens. Most of the story is told from Truman’s POV (we get Will’s here as well), and I did wish for some time in Hugh’s head. Although we get a little more explanation toward the end, I would have like to better understand the situation from his viewpoint. But I do think it was also interesting to see things mostly from the outside, and how the people who love Hugh react to what is happening with him.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Take Three Breaths is the fourth book in the Scientific Method series, featuring partners Hugh and Truman, and their close friend and sexual partner, Will. While it is part of the larger series, this story is pretty timeless in the sense that there isn’t a strong series connection, and I think if you are familiar with the series you could jump into this one out of order.
One of the things I love most about this series is the way Ripper really gets into the nuances of their characters and their relationship. The characters joke that Hugh has a “shrink kink” in that he likes to analyze and assess everything, and that theme often carries over to the books themselves. So this story really looks at the nuances of these guys, focusing on Hugh and how he deals with pain and conflict. In this case we see him totally withdrawal and get Truman’s POV as he desperately tries to figure out what he can do to help Hugh. At the same time, Truman knows he is not getting what he needs from Hugh, that he needs someone to talk to him and lean on him and share his burdens. Most of the story is told from Truman’s POV (we get Will’s here as well), and I did wish for some time in Hugh’s head. Although we get a little more explanation toward the end, I would have like to better understand the situation from his viewpoint. But I do think it was also interesting to see things mostly from the outside, and how the people who love Hugh react to what is happening with him.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
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