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Cock & Bull #1
Scout
**Previously published under the pen name Dallas James. Now published under Samantha Cole.
The last thing Alex Shepherd expects is to be attracted to his new boss, hotel-mogul Scout Turner. Being the man’s personal assistant means spending long hours with him in both public and private settings. The public side of things Alex can deal with. The private? Not so much. Knowing Scout had fired his last PA for being a jealous stalker, Alex does his best to hide his growing feelings for the man and maintain his professionalism. That is until Scout makes an unexpected confession that changes everything. Will Alex lose the job of his dreams or gain the love of his life?
The last thing Alex Shepherd expects is to be attracted to his new boss, hotel-mogul Scout Turner. Being the man’s personal assistant means spending long hours with him in both public and private settings. The public side of things Alex can deal with. The private? Not so much. Knowing Scout had fired his last PA for being a jealous stalker, Alex does his best to hide his growing feelings for the man and maintain his professionalism. That is until Scout makes an unexpected confession that changes everything. Will Alex lose the job of his dreams or gain the love of his life?
110 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 1, 2024
33 people are currently reading
166 people want to read
About the author
Dallas James
4 books74 followersDallas James was the pen name of author Samantha Cole. The books previously published under this pen name are now published under Samantha Cole.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 149 reviews
August 17, 2020
Dallas James is a brand new author that I started following on the recommendation of another author. I love MM stories but they have to be written just right for me to get into the story. This one is written just right. Two guys who will be working together and both are trying to keep their feelings about each other to themselves. The more closely they work together, the more intense the feelings are but who is going to cave first? I love the build up in this story. Yeah, it's a novella so you don't get the indepth character development like you would in a larger story but Dallas James gives you enough that you "know" the characters and you know the emotions coming out of the story. I love that Scout takes his time with Alex and that Alex gives him the chance. When they go on their motorcycle ride, the descriptions of where they are going make you feel like you are there riding along. It may be a shorter story but it will give you all the feels and all the emotions.There is a tiny bit of drama with Scout's ex PA, but it's taken care of quickly and will make you cheer. If you love a well written, easy to follow MM story, be sure to check Dallas James out. I think Dallas will be come one of my "favorite" authors in the MM genre.
January 2, 2021
Scout Turner, CEO of hotel chain Turner Continental is looking for a new PA and the one who looked qualified didn’t show up.
Alex arrived way too late to his interview as PA of Scout Turner, He had good reasons and now Alex is begging for a second chance.
Scout is smitten by Alex and Alex by Scout, they both tried to stay professional.
Until Scout had enough and wants to date Alex.
It was a sweet, kind, considerate story, only... nothing really happened here, except they start a relationship.
There are thoughts about dirty mind-blowing sex, but there wasn’t any, except for one sweet encounter.
I could read how desperate in love they were only I didn’t feel it.
I would have loved it when there were more and layered emotions and activity.
Still, it was an entertaining narrative, the writing was really well, clear, and engaging.
So in a way, it's too bad the story didn't show much and didn't do it for me.
The third star is for the writing itself.
Alex arrived way too late to his interview as PA of Scout Turner, He had good reasons and now Alex is begging for a second chance.
Scout is smitten by Alex and Alex by Scout, they both tried to stay professional.
Until Scout had enough and wants to date Alex.
It was a sweet, kind, considerate story, only... nothing really happened here, except they start a relationship.
There are thoughts about dirty mind-blowing sex, but there wasn’t any, except for one sweet encounter.
I could read how desperate in love they were only I didn’t feel it.
I would have loved it when there were more and layered emotions and activity.
Still, it was an entertaining narrative, the writing was really well, clear, and engaging.
So in a way, it's too bad the story didn't show much and didn't do it for me.
The third star is for the writing itself.
January 5, 2021
Omg if you are into M/M romance this book is for you. Wowsa once you start reading this book you will be hooked until the end. Scout is a hotel mogul and needs a new pa after firing his last pa who ended up being jealous and ended up being a little jealous and wanted scout for himself and ruining dates for scout.when he comes across Alex Sheppards resume he is interested seeing if its possibly a good fit for him. Alex Sheppard had moved back home after his mother had a stroke and applied for a pa job ,but when he is late for his interview due to certain circumstances he doesn't get a second chance or will he? This book was absolutely phenomenal and the chemistry is off the hook between them and lord between the sheets but one thing about this book is absolutely learning about each other and not rushing into the sex but just taking the time to get to know each other and building a true relationship from the start. I can't wait for more from them and absolutely fell inlove with both men even though I'm not their type lol seriously Dallas James rocked this book and im a new fan of hers now. She Is a new author as well and well on her way to bigger things.
August 18, 2020
This book is a romance in the truest sense of that word – two people that meet and fall in love. There’s no drama or anguish; there are two adults that know how they feel about each other, what they want from a relationship, and how to achieve that. Even their meet-cute was just that – cute! The fact that Scout was not recognizable was plausible, and Alex behaves in character, even though he’s disappointed at having missed his chance at the interview. And who could resist Scout paying the vet bills and sending the gift voucher? Dallas James is a new author, and if this is representative of her work, I cannot wait for more.
I received a free copy of this book. This review was posted voluntarily.
I received a free copy of this book. This review was posted voluntarily.
October 14, 2020
If only the author didn't explain everything in this short story. I think it's gonna be okay.
And I didn't feel any strong chemistry between Alex and Scout. Because instead them talking, author was busy explaining.
Like this, and many more.
About forty-five minutes into the ride, he exited the highway. As he made rights and lefts he’d memorized years ago, the streets became smaller and less crowded until there were no houses, business, or other vehicles to be seen . He easily found the turnoff for the dirt path that would take them to his favorite spot. Trees and brush bracketed them as he slowed the bike down to almost a crawl. While he’d never run into anyone whenever he’d been there, others had to know about the place and driven motorcycles or ATVs on it because the path had never been impassable.
.....
Alex sat on the boulder and found a comfortable position, while Scout opened the bags and produced their lunches. The subs were turkey, Gouda cheese, tomato, avocado and chipotle mayo on whole grain rolls, one of the most popular options on the bistro’s menu. They were accompanied by small, covered cups of macaroni salad, two bottles of ginger ale, chips, and oranges. Napkins and forks had also been provided. It was a perfect little picnic. Alex tried to remember the last time he’d been on a picnic and couldn’t recall when. Evidently, it hadn’t been memorable. However, he was pretty sure he’d remember this one.
....
and many more, or maybe it's just me who felt dizzy reading this.
Sorry.
And I didn't feel any strong chemistry between Alex and Scout. Because instead them talking, author was busy explaining.
Like this, and many more.
About forty-five minutes into the ride, he exited the highway. As he made rights and lefts he’d memorized years ago, the streets became smaller and less crowded until there were no houses, business, or other vehicles to be seen . He easily found the turnoff for the dirt path that would take them to his favorite spot. Trees and brush bracketed them as he slowed the bike down to almost a crawl. While he’d never run into anyone whenever he’d been there, others had to know about the place and driven motorcycles or ATVs on it because the path had never been impassable.
.....
Alex sat on the boulder and found a comfortable position, while Scout opened the bags and produced their lunches. The subs were turkey, Gouda cheese, tomato, avocado and chipotle mayo on whole grain rolls, one of the most popular options on the bistro’s menu. They were accompanied by small, covered cups of macaroni salad, two bottles of ginger ale, chips, and oranges. Napkins and forks had also been provided. It was a perfect little picnic. Alex tried to remember the last time he’d been on a picnic and couldn’t recall when. Evidently, it hadn’t been memorable. However, he was pretty sure he’d remember this one.
....
and many more, or maybe it's just me who felt dizzy reading this.
Sorry.
August 17, 2020
Loved Scout.
No angst or real drama - just two people meeting, being attracted and it working out. My only complaint - I wanted more. Not because the story needed it, but because I WANTED it. The story, while short (it is a novella) gave us enough to get to know Scout and Alex on the surface and the way the story was written we did get enough background to understand they were both at a point in their lives they were ready for forever when it happened.
I very much look forward to reading more from Dallas James and really hope other books are longer - because I don't want them to end.
No angst or real drama - just two people meeting, being attracted and it working out. My only complaint - I wanted more. Not because the story needed it, but because I WANTED it. The story, while short (it is a novella) gave us enough to get to know Scout and Alex on the surface and the way the story was written we did get enough background to understand they were both at a point in their lives they were ready for forever when it happened.
I very much look forward to reading more from Dallas James and really hope other books are longer - because I don't want them to end.
November 3, 2024
I love this book so hard. The chemistry between Scout and Alex is fire. I love both men. They are so sweet together. The sparks were flying. The romance is there the characters are wonderful writing is quite detailed and the paste is fast.
But if you love M/M romance this is the book to buy.
But if you love M/M romance this is the book to buy.
December 19, 2022
Short, sweet and low angst.
September 13, 2020
I had never read this author before. I was more than pleased about the story I read. It was very good! An M/M story that rang true. It was a sweet sexy read that was filled with fun and a little bit of doubt of the flame that was raging between them.
I loved the HEA and that these men Scout and Alex, were portrayed as Intelligent, competent Professional Business men. Looking forward to more from Dallas James💕
I reviewed a complementary copy of this book.
I loved the HEA and that these men Scout and Alex, were portrayed as Intelligent, competent Professional Business men. Looking forward to more from Dallas James💕
I reviewed a complementary copy of this book.
August 20, 2020
Wow, you would never know that this is the authors very first book (novella), the only thing I would want is more, because I seriously didn’t want the book to end. Scout and Alex’s romance is sweet, sexy, and so very hot. I loved the slowish burn and the mature romance of this book. I can not wait to see what else Dallas James has in store for us readers.
April 9, 2021
An office romance novella with zero angst and all the feels. Scout and Alex fell in love in the midst of working together in their roles as boss and PA. Finding each other irresistible and fascinating they decided to give dating and having a relationship a try. This was a short read with just 10 chapters, paced just right for a satisfying Hea.
August 17, 2020
Amazing debut novella by Dallas James, so good I can’t wait for the series to start.
MM isn’t always an automatic read for me but the synopsis had me intrigued and the author kept me engaged throughout.
Great flow, engaging characters and storyline look forward to more from this author.
MM isn’t always an automatic read for me but the synopsis had me intrigued and the author kept me engaged throughout.
Great flow, engaging characters and storyline look forward to more from this author.
August 17, 2020
Scout is the first book in the Cock and Bull series. A novella that will warm your heart. I really enjoyed this book. It was a quick, engaging read.
August 20, 2020
A sweet M/M romance with little to no drama and very little angst. A quick fast read from a new to me author who I am sure will have more to offer in the future.
September 17, 2020
Short, sizzling office romance.
The book follows hot, enigmatic and handsome business tycoon-Scout and his personal assistant- the intelligent and kind-at-heart -Alex.
The story takes off from their first encounter, the instant chemistry, the way the two are perfect for each other-both work and personal relationship wise.
I particularly liked the way the author wrote the casual work banter scenes, highlighting the simmering attraction beneath the surface, that the duo try their best to ignore. It was really sweet and adorable to read.
The author's writing style and diction helps accentuate the emotions of the story. Considering this is the author's debut novel, very well done!
Recommend to those looking for a good, short but sweet office romance. Shall be looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
ARC received in exchange of a honest review
The book follows hot, enigmatic and handsome business tycoon-Scout and his personal assistant- the intelligent and kind-at-heart -Alex.
The story takes off from their first encounter, the instant chemistry, the way the two are perfect for each other-both work and personal relationship wise.
I particularly liked the way the author wrote the casual work banter scenes, highlighting the simmering attraction beneath the surface, that the duo try their best to ignore. It was really sweet and adorable to read.
|"Alex had thought he’d been in love before, but now he knew those times had been imitations of the real thing. What he felt for Scout was more than he’d ever expected to feel for anyone in his life."|
The author's writing style and diction helps accentuate the emotions of the story. Considering this is the author's debut novel, very well done!
Recommend to those looking for a good, short but sweet office romance. Shall be looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
ARC received in exchange of a honest review
August 24, 2020
Never mix business with pleasure. A rule Scout Turner, President and CEO of Turner Continental had always had and never broken. That was until he laid eyes on Alex Shepherd. Arriving late for a job interview with none other than Scout Turner, Alex was surprised to get a second chance considering the man never gave second chances. Being lucky enough to land the job, Alex and Scout settle into a good working relationship. Little does Alex know, Scout has been seriously trying his best to not divulge the fact he has been dying to break his own rule and move this to more than a working relationship. A night of a little more than normal drinking spurs Scout to confess his feelings. A slow and steady relationship develops between them and soon they are falling hopelessly in love. The proposal is romantic and I cannot wait to see what more is in store for these two. For a first book this author grabbed my attention from the first page!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 24, 2020
The last thing hotel-mogul Scout Turner allows is for appointments to be late, so when Alex Shepard is late to his interview for the administrative assistant position, his chance of the job offer is rescinded. But a chance meeting at the hotel's bar not only gives Alex a second chance but also gives Scout feeling for the man sitting next to him. Will they be able to mix business with pleasure? Or will it be a disaster waiting to happen? This was my first book by Dallas James and I can guarantee that it will not be the last. This series is only going to get better and better. Scout and Alex are just the beginning.
May 12, 2021
2,5
I knew what I would get when I started reading it. I wanted a cute love story and smut. What I actually didn't know was that this is even for a novella super short. But even a short story can entertain me, I thought. Sadly it didn't hit with me. Everything was washed over: the story, the characters, the backround stories... You really can tell that Dallas James is knew in this buisness because story was quite butchered. I liked the writing style but I would like to read a novel with 200< pages then it would have clicked with me because we would get time to know each other.
I knew what I would get when I started reading it. I wanted a cute love story and smut. What I actually didn't know was that this is even for a novella super short. But even a short story can entertain me, I thought. Sadly it didn't hit with me. Everything was washed over: the story, the characters, the backround stories... You really can tell that Dallas James is knew in this buisness because story was quite butchered. I liked the writing style but I would like to read a novel with 200< pages then it would have clicked with me because we would get time to know each other.
August 19, 2020
So good, but ended way too soon! Definitely a must read and an easy read. Would have liked to have read more in the between stages of the relationship as there was a big jump. But still love it and can’t wait for the next book and to read more about Scout and Alex.
August 19, 2020
Not always a fan of Novellas as you don't get to know the characters as well but I really enjoyed this one. Well told story that didn't feel rushed despite the shorter story. Really looking forward to more from this author
August 19, 2020
This is the first book I have read from this author and I Liked it. I’m new to reading m/m stories and was surprised how much I liked it and was able to connect with the characters, looking forward to reading the next book.
August 20, 2020
I wasn't sure what to expect from this author as this is her 1st book. WOW! The story of Scout and Alex is sweet, funny and real. It's a beautiful love story without a lot of angst and heartache. I'll be eagerly awaiting the next book from this author.
February 1, 2021
Overall book rating: 3.5
Audio Book: N/A
Book Cover: 4
Short and feel good. Guys who don't beat around the bush.
When Scout wants something he doesn't let the grass grow
under his feet.
Audio Book: N/A
Book Cover: 4
Short and feel good. Guys who don't beat around the bush.
When Scout wants something he doesn't let the grass grow
under his feet.
December 23, 2020
Fantastically well written, the world building and description make me feel as if I am there. Alex is a good guy he misses his one shot at his interview with Scout to help out an injured dog, a second chance to redo it proves fruitful. Undeniably the attraction is instantaneous but after suffering with his ex employee making a play for him, Scout doesn't mix business with pleasure. All this tension makes for some interesting moments but that restraint snaps when a merry Alex and Scout make out after a couple of drinks. The action between the sheets is straight fire. So much story packed into a novella but enough to give you a delicious taste of future works.
December 28, 2020
I’d been eagerly anticipating the book for a while now and I wasn’t disappointed! Now I can’t wait for the next book!
**spoilers ahead**
This was a bit of an insta-love story, which I don’t always like, but it wasn’t completely insta-love. The book moved quick, but did take place over a longer time span than it seemed. I think this made it a bit more believable than most insta-loves than I’ve seen.
Scout and Alex were great characters! I’m glad there was little to no outside angst, the two had enough going on In Their heads, they didn’t need more outside angst too!
I love that Scout woo-ed Alex, even if we didn’t see all of the woo-ing, it was great to hear.
**spoilers ahead**
This was a bit of an insta-love story, which I don’t always like, but it wasn’t completely insta-love. The book moved quick, but did take place over a longer time span than it seemed. I think this made it a bit more believable than most insta-loves than I’ve seen.
Scout and Alex were great characters! I’m glad there was little to no outside angst, the two had enough going on In Their heads, they didn’t need more outside angst too!
I love that Scout woo-ed Alex, even if we didn’t see all of the woo-ing, it was great to hear.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2021
I enjoyed this quite a bit. Although this is a short story, it packs a lovely image of Scout and Alex. It was lust at first sight for both of them, with the months of working together increasing their attraction but also building a strong emotional connection. I adored them together, especially when they decided to give themselves a chance to explore their feelings.
Scout is an office romance with two incredible men that fit amazingly well together and reading it gave me all the warm fuzzies. Recommended.
Scout is an office romance with two incredible men that fit amazingly well together and reading it gave me all the warm fuzzies. Recommended.
September 6, 2020
Loved this romantic work place story. When the boss Scout finally takes a chance on love. It effects his employees and his friends.
When you have a crush on your boss and can't let him know. How do you say yes to a chance at romance when you could loose everything.
Can't wait for more by this author, I love her style and integrity that comes across in her character's. These are people with depth.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When you have a crush on your boss and can't let him know. How do you say yes to a chance at romance when you could loose everything.
Can't wait for more by this author, I love her style and integrity that comes across in her character's. These are people with depth.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 4, 2020
Scout runs many hotels. He had to let his last PA go due to the fact the guy was obsessed with him and try to get his attention by messing with his personal life.
Alex has worked his way up with his last job but had to leave to be closer to his family. He messed up his first interview due to being late.
Scout and Alex have taken their relationship slow. Will they have a happy ending?
Alex has worked his way up with his last job but had to leave to be closer to his family. He messed up his first interview due to being late.
Scout and Alex have taken their relationship slow. Will they have a happy ending?
December 24, 2020
A great read by a new author for me. A Scout needs a new personal assistant and he hires Alex after he finds out why he was late for his interview. There's romance, instant attraction and love, and once I started reading the book I couldn't put down. The book is a fast paced short read, but it's also sweet.
January 4, 2021
I enjoyed this story. Scout and Alex click right away when they start working together but both try hard to push down their attraction. I liked how this played out and how Scout wouldn't let him being Alex's boss affect their relationship.
I received a copy of this book and am giving an honest review
I received a copy of this book and am giving an honest review
Displaying 1 - 30 of 149 reviews