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Equals #1
Equals
Too busy to date while he worked to put himself through school, Russell Bishop's dedication finally pays off; he has a great job with Vantage Marketing. Stephen Parker, CFO of the marketing firm, has resigned himself to a life without a partner. For six months, they wanted each other but it isn’t until Russ slips on spilled coffee, and Stephen rushes to his rescue that they discover their attraction is mutual. However, the twenty year age gap between them proves difficult when they begin dating. Fiercely independent, Russ isn't sure he's ready for long-term commitment. Scarred from a previous relationship, Stephen is afraid history is repeating itself. Is there any way for them to meet in the middle and become equals?
---
As if he’d heard Stephen’s thoughts, Russ straightened and turned his head before hopping in a half circle to face him, smiling widely. “Hey. Didn’t hear you come in.”
Stephen realized he still hovered in the doorway and he stepped forward and let it shut behind him. “Hi. How was your day?”
Russ leaned back against the counter, all of his weight on his uninjured foot. “Once I got over being pissed at you, not bad.”
Stephen gave him a wry smile. “I am sorry; I didn’t mean to come off heavy-handed.” He set the bags in his hands on the counter and walked closer to Russ. “I was worried about you.”
Russ laid a hand on Stephen’s chest, fingers curling around his tie. “I’m a big boy; I can take care of myself.”
Stephen nodded, stepping closer so his feet were between Russ’ but careful not to bump the injured ankle. “I am sure you can,” Stephen said calmly. “But I feel at least somewhat responsible for your accident.”
“I don’t blame you for it.”
“I know you don’t.” For a few heartbeats, they looked at each other until Russ tugged at the tie. Stephen didn’t lean in, but it didn’t take a genius to decipher his intention. He looked up at Stephen and spoke quietly. “It feels strange to be wearing your clothes and sleeping in your bed when we haven’t so much as kissed.”
Stephen’s voice was husky. “Was that a hint?”
“No.” Russ wet his lips. “But this is a demand: I want you to kiss me.”
“I can do that.”
---
As if he’d heard Stephen’s thoughts, Russ straightened and turned his head before hopping in a half circle to face him, smiling widely. “Hey. Didn’t hear you come in.”
Stephen realized he still hovered in the doorway and he stepped forward and let it shut behind him. “Hi. How was your day?”
Russ leaned back against the counter, all of his weight on his uninjured foot. “Once I got over being pissed at you, not bad.”
Stephen gave him a wry smile. “I am sorry; I didn’t mean to come off heavy-handed.” He set the bags in his hands on the counter and walked closer to Russ. “I was worried about you.”
Russ laid a hand on Stephen’s chest, fingers curling around his tie. “I’m a big boy; I can take care of myself.”
Stephen nodded, stepping closer so his feet were between Russ’ but careful not to bump the injured ankle. “I am sure you can,” Stephen said calmly. “But I feel at least somewhat responsible for your accident.”
“I don’t blame you for it.”
“I know you don’t.” For a few heartbeats, they looked at each other until Russ tugged at the tie. Stephen didn’t lean in, but it didn’t take a genius to decipher his intention. He looked up at Stephen and spoke quietly. “It feels strange to be wearing your clothes and sleeping in your bed when we haven’t so much as kissed.”
Stephen’s voice was husky. “Was that a hint?”
“No.” Russ wet his lips. “But this is a demand: I want you to kiss me.”
“I can do that.”
138 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 10, 2014
23 people are currently reading
383 people want to read
About the author
Brigham Vaughn
82 books772 followersBrigham Vaughn is on the adventure of a lifetime as a full-time writer. She devours books at an alarming rate and hasn’t let her short arms and long torso stop her from doing yoga. She makes a killer key lime pie, hates green peppers, and loves wine tasting tours. A collector of vintage Nancy Drew books and green glassware, she enjoys poking around in antique shops and refinishing thrift store furniture. An avid photographer, she dreams of traveling the world and she can’t wait to discover everything else life has to offer her.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
June 30, 2015
The 20 year age gap between Russ and Stephen is the least of their problems. The attraction between the two is unquestionable. It is when they get down to the day-to-day of building a relationship and living together that trouble starts. Both men have past issues that shape their ways. Stephen looking to protect and help Russ if he can, even while he understands Russ's determination to make it on his own. Russ is almost unflinching in his desire to become his own man without relying on anything from any one. A little touch of angst and inability to communicate move the story along nicely on the way to HFN and a second book coming soon. This was my first book by Brigham Vaughn and I enjoyed her writing very much. I'm looking forward to the next part of the story.
April 23, 2015
Cover: I really love the cover. In a way, it highlights the initial inequality between the two main protagonists. At the top we see Stephen, all powerful in his expensive suit and with his posture and that power looks attractive and seductive. The Skyscrapers in the background underline this effect. He is the one at the top of the cover, strong and mighty. Russ is at the bottom and in shadows. He is the one with the most doubts, the one who is not only more fragile, because of his injury but obessed with their outwards appearance of inequality. I think this cover by the author herself, does a beautiful job at getting to the core of the story.
Title: Equals. The equality or perceived equality between the two maincharacters is at the heart of the book and thus I think it is a very fitting title. Though I could life without the tag line on the cover …
Story: When I read Brigham Vaughn’s ‘The French Toast Emergencies’, one of the characters was older than he was portayed on the pages of the short story in my mind. I couldn’t help but imagine him not as a young man trying to discover himself, but as a mature and experienced man in his prime. When I said so in my review, the author told me that she was working on a May/ December story and I was excited that I would get to read it when it was finished. I don’t lust after older guys, actually aage doesn’t play much of a role to me, though I rather look at guys my own age as potential mates, but the guy I fell in love with and have been with for more than 3 years is 9.5 years older than me. I find the dynamic between someone who is already well settled into his life, without need for games and a much younger guy who still needs to find and accept his place quite fascinating!
Brigham Vaughn is very good at creating moments outside the normal rhytmus of life, where characters are in a kind of bubble that allows their relationship to progress faster than normal. Whether a snowstorm, campingtrip or in this case an injury that thrusts the two characters together, it is fascinating to see the characters interact in the safety of this alternate reality away from their everyday life. In this case, I thought it was an added bonus that the injury made sex be off-the-table and the guys got to know each other intimately in their little bubble, before sex could muddy the waters. There is a lot os sexual tension and sizzling chemistry and even as readers will wish for that ankle injury to finally heal up to get to the hot stuff, the delayed gratification is well worth it.
Stephen and Russ fit well together, in a very real way that any disney princess with her cardboard prince can only dream about. They are characters that are easy to relate to and I loved the honesty between them and the way they both tried to balance their lives, trying to become ‘equals’. Of course they are human, they make mistakes, keep back things that need to be talked about, overreact, let their pride get the best of them, … but it doesn’t feel forced just to create tension between them. There are reasons why they act the way they do and not just one, but the author allows for many reasons that could add to the reactions of real, complex characters and I had a much easier time understanding the actions.
There is some nice angst set against sweet and sexy moments. The real moments like using a condom after both say they are negative or showering before sex actually made the story feel more authentic, instead of taking away from the sexyness. Sure, it’s a fantasy, but I like my fantasies to feel real; that way they can touch me even more on an emotional level, without loosing any of their physical effect.
While the story ends at a very nice place in the relationship, an equilibrium point, I am very glad that the author is planing two sequels to the story. I think we need more real guys, struggling with real issues in a believable way.
You won’t regret reading this story! Strongly recommended
Title: Equals. The equality or perceived equality between the two maincharacters is at the heart of the book and thus I think it is a very fitting title. Though I could life without the tag line on the cover …
Story: When I read Brigham Vaughn’s ‘The French Toast Emergencies’, one of the characters was older than he was portayed on the pages of the short story in my mind. I couldn’t help but imagine him not as a young man trying to discover himself, but as a mature and experienced man in his prime. When I said so in my review, the author told me that she was working on a May/ December story and I was excited that I would get to read it when it was finished. I don’t lust after older guys, actually aage doesn’t play much of a role to me, though I rather look at guys my own age as potential mates, but the guy I fell in love with and have been with for more than 3 years is 9.5 years older than me. I find the dynamic between someone who is already well settled into his life, without need for games and a much younger guy who still needs to find and accept his place quite fascinating!
Brigham Vaughn is very good at creating moments outside the normal rhytmus of life, where characters are in a kind of bubble that allows their relationship to progress faster than normal. Whether a snowstorm, campingtrip or in this case an injury that thrusts the two characters together, it is fascinating to see the characters interact in the safety of this alternate reality away from their everyday life. In this case, I thought it was an added bonus that the injury made sex be off-the-table and the guys got to know each other intimately in their little bubble, before sex could muddy the waters. There is a lot os sexual tension and sizzling chemistry and even as readers will wish for that ankle injury to finally heal up to get to the hot stuff, the delayed gratification is well worth it.
Stephen and Russ fit well together, in a very real way that any disney princess with her cardboard prince can only dream about. They are characters that are easy to relate to and I loved the honesty between them and the way they both tried to balance their lives, trying to become ‘equals’. Of course they are human, they make mistakes, keep back things that need to be talked about, overreact, let their pride get the best of them, … but it doesn’t feel forced just to create tension between them. There are reasons why they act the way they do and not just one, but the author allows for many reasons that could add to the reactions of real, complex characters and I had a much easier time understanding the actions.
There is some nice angst set against sweet and sexy moments. The real moments like using a condom after both say they are negative or showering before sex actually made the story feel more authentic, instead of taking away from the sexyness. Sure, it’s a fantasy, but I like my fantasies to feel real; that way they can touch me even more on an emotional level, without loosing any of their physical effect.
While the story ends at a very nice place in the relationship, an equilibrium point, I am very glad that the author is planing two sequels to the story. I think we need more real guys, struggling with real issues in a believable way.
You won’t regret reading this story! Strongly recommended
January 8, 2015
All about the relationship.
Two guys trying to make it work with all their various issues. No drama llamas, just straight up everyday issues that divide people when they don't talk. While I liked the exploration of how we all approach problems from our own experiences, it was a bit heavy handed at times in the telling me. Great guys who almost lose because of fear--fear of the past replaying again.
Two guys trying to make it work with all their various issues. No drama llamas, just straight up everyday issues that divide people when they don't talk. While I liked the exploration of how we all approach problems from our own experiences, it was a bit heavy handed at times in the telling me. Great guys who almost lose because of fear--fear of the past replaying again.
August 25, 2014
3.5 Stars rounded up for the sexytimes.
It was nice to read a story about just the relationship for a change. No shifter, assassins, mysteries or murders to be found. Just a story about two lonely men who get together because they need and want each other. Stephen was more warm and loving than Russ seemed to be. Not that it didn't seem that Russ was in love with Stephen, he definitely was. He was stubborn though and the parts of him that drove me (and Stephen) nutters were actually part of what made the story more realistic and believable. The miscommunication wasn't over the top, but it was there and the issues fit with what a relationship between two ambitious men with 20 years between them would face.
Favorite scene: the first time they get together without actually getting "together". Wowskis.
It was nice to read a story about just the relationship for a change. No shifter, assassins, mysteries or murders to be found. Just a story about two lonely men who get together because they need and want each other. Stephen was more warm and loving than Russ seemed to be. Not that it didn't seem that Russ was in love with Stephen, he definitely was. He was stubborn though and the parts of him that drove me (and Stephen) nutters were actually part of what made the story more realistic and believable. The miscommunication wasn't over the top, but it was there and the issues fit with what a relationship between two ambitious men with 20 years between them would face.
Favorite scene: the first time they get together without actually getting "together". Wowskis.
January 2, 2015
A rather good character study of two men, who despite their 20 year age difference and disparate socio-economic status, begin a relationship after meeting at their work.
I had a really difficult time liking Russ, the younger of the two. Though their upbringing was somewhat similar, both in rather poor conditions, there were some differences in their male role models, but Russ was very hung up on being equal to Stephen, the older man, and made some very poor choices because of that.
I could appreciate that he didn't want to be a gold-digger, or using Stephen for his money, but his refusal to let Stephen help him in any way, even if it meant his own safety, was rather off-putting and caused a bunch of issues in their relationship. Pride comes before the fall, as the saying goes, though I suppose Russ' behavior could possibly be explained by his immaturity and failure to see the big picture.
I felt that Stephen bent over backwards to accommodate Russ' hangups, though I wished that he'd come clean sooner about Jeremy and the pain he had experienced from that relationship. He was extremely patient with Russ, denying himself time and again to make sure the younger man didn't feel controlled or put upon, but failed to explain himself in a way that Russ could understand which also led to issues in their relationship.
There were some moments where the two had honest discussions about things that bothered them in the relationship, and the plot progression allowed Russ and Stephen both to grow and change.
There was a side character (Russ' room mate) who had some great insights despite coming across as a bum for most of the time. Monty was an unknowing catalyst for Russ to pull his head out of his ass.
The author created a nicely crafted story line, with lots of UST and well done steamy scenes that didn't overwhelm or distract from the plot. The writing was descriptive and well-suited for this story.
Nicely done! My first read of 2015.
I had a really difficult time liking Russ, the younger of the two. Though their upbringing was somewhat similar, both in rather poor conditions, there were some differences in their male role models, but Russ was very hung up on being equal to Stephen, the older man, and made some very poor choices because of that.
I could appreciate that he didn't want to be a gold-digger, or using Stephen for his money, but his refusal to let Stephen help him in any way, even if it meant his own safety, was rather off-putting and caused a bunch of issues in their relationship. Pride comes before the fall, as the saying goes, though I suppose Russ' behavior could possibly be explained by his immaturity and failure to see the big picture.
I felt that Stephen bent over backwards to accommodate Russ' hangups, though I wished that he'd come clean sooner about Jeremy and the pain he had experienced from that relationship. He was extremely patient with Russ, denying himself time and again to make sure the younger man didn't feel controlled or put upon, but failed to explain himself in a way that Russ could understand which also led to issues in their relationship.
There were some moments where the two had honest discussions about things that bothered them in the relationship, and the plot progression allowed Russ and Stephen both to grow and change.
There was a side character (Russ' room mate) who had some great insights despite coming across as a bum for most of the time. Monty was an unknowing catalyst for Russ to pull his head out of his ass.
The author created a nicely crafted story line, with lots of UST and well done steamy scenes that didn't overwhelm or distract from the plot. The writing was descriptive and well-suited for this story.
Nicely done! My first read of 2015.
January 13, 2015
I love a good written age gap romance (I hate the term May-December). Seriously, how can a man in his forties live in December of his life???
Anyway, Equals was an enjoyable, entertaining read, a great book packed full of emotional moments.
Russell and Stephen are a lovely couple and being 20 years apart they have to deal with some unpleasant stuff…. and most of all with their own stubbornness. :)
The story was really well written and I can’t wait to read Partners, the sequel. Recommended!
July 13, 2014
I received my copy from the author and rated it 4.5 stars.
About two and a half months ago I read ‘The French Toast Emergencies’ by Brigham Vaughn and fell not only for the story and the characters in it, but also for the author and her writing style. Less than a month later ‘Sunburns and Sunsets’ secured this author’s place on my ‘must read’ list. So when I discovered she had a new book coming out I was rather excited.
And my excitement was more than justified. Once again this author has brought me captivating characters in a well timed and smoothly written story. Stephen and Russ seemed to jump off the page and into my head the moment I was introduced to them. I enjoyed getting to know them better as the story went on even if I wanted to knock their heads together on several occasions. I guess my violent tendencies prove how invested I got in their developing relationship and the issues they were facing.
The relationship between these two men and the difficulties they face as a result of the twenty year age gap felt natural. While there was quite a bit of conflict between them, none of it seemed contrived. In fact, most if not all of the issues between Stephen and Russ were a result of both of them being typical men. Their failure to communicate with each other, combined with Russ’s pride and Stephen’s insecurities, was as frustrating as it was recognisable and kept me firmly glued to the story.
This story was well paced. Everything is built up gradually, giving the reader a chance to get to know the characters without feeling overwhelmed by information. The fact that it was the similarities between Russ and Stephen causing most of their problems made this story fascinating. I liked that the age difference was really addressed in this book. The characters are aware of it and, eventually, discuss and tackle it. While the issues between Russ and Stephen were there from the start they didn’t really cause problems until they were together for a little while, which made them all the more painful when they did surface.
This book is hot and I don’t necessarily mean the sex scenes, although I’m not complaining about those. The sexual tension between Russ and Stephen during the two weeks they more or less abstain from acting on their attraction, and the way it grew, was scorching. I found myself getting frustrated for and with them. Which of course only made the release, when it did come, all the more powerful both for the characters and the reader.
I’m delighted there will be a sequel to this book. I’ve gotten quite invested in these two men and their relationship and look forward to the opportunity to see how they grow together in the not too distant future.
About two and a half months ago I read ‘The French Toast Emergencies’ by Brigham Vaughn and fell not only for the story and the characters in it, but also for the author and her writing style. Less than a month later ‘Sunburns and Sunsets’ secured this author’s place on my ‘must read’ list. So when I discovered she had a new book coming out I was rather excited.
And my excitement was more than justified. Once again this author has brought me captivating characters in a well timed and smoothly written story. Stephen and Russ seemed to jump off the page and into my head the moment I was introduced to them. I enjoyed getting to know them better as the story went on even if I wanted to knock their heads together on several occasions. I guess my violent tendencies prove how invested I got in their developing relationship and the issues they were facing.
The relationship between these two men and the difficulties they face as a result of the twenty year age gap felt natural. While there was quite a bit of conflict between them, none of it seemed contrived. In fact, most if not all of the issues between Stephen and Russ were a result of both of them being typical men. Their failure to communicate with each other, combined with Russ’s pride and Stephen’s insecurities, was as frustrating as it was recognisable and kept me firmly glued to the story.
This story was well paced. Everything is built up gradually, giving the reader a chance to get to know the characters without feeling overwhelmed by information. The fact that it was the similarities between Russ and Stephen causing most of their problems made this story fascinating. I liked that the age difference was really addressed in this book. The characters are aware of it and, eventually, discuss and tackle it. While the issues between Russ and Stephen were there from the start they didn’t really cause problems until they were together for a little while, which made them all the more painful when they did surface.
This book is hot and I don’t necessarily mean the sex scenes, although I’m not complaining about those. The sexual tension between Russ and Stephen during the two weeks they more or less abstain from acting on their attraction, and the way it grew, was scorching. I found myself getting frustrated for and with them. Which of course only made the release, when it did come, all the more powerful both for the characters and the reader.
I’m delighted there will be a sequel to this book. I’ve gotten quite invested in these two men and their relationship and look forward to the opportunity to see how they grow together in the not too distant future.
June 9, 2016
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I compromessi del titolo sono quelli che Russ deve accettare per poter stare con il suo uomo: un uomo di vent'anni più vecchio e molto facoltoso. Ma sono anche i compromessi con cui deve venire a patti un uomo come Stephen, dominante ed abituato a far valere le sue ragioni, per non "prevaricare" il suo giovane amante. Ho trovato particolarmente riuscito l'equilibrio con il quale l'autice gestisce questi due uomini: è riuscita a non cadere nel tranello di trasformare il giovane Russ in un ragazzino petulante e il maturo Stephen in un riccone viziato ed insensibile. La storia è ben bilanciata tra sentimenti, drammi e scene hot, e la scrittura scorre liscia come l'olio fino ad un finale che mi ha pienamente soddisfatta ma che ci fa anche intravedere possibilità future per i due.
I compromessi del titolo sono quelli che Russ deve accettare per poter stare con il suo uomo: un uomo di vent'anni più vecchio e molto facoltoso. Ma sono anche i compromessi con cui deve venire a patti un uomo come Stephen, dominante ed abituato a far valere le sue ragioni, per non "prevaricare" il suo giovane amante. Ho trovato particolarmente riuscito l'equilibrio con il quale l'autice gestisce questi due uomini: è riuscita a non cadere nel tranello di trasformare il giovane Russ in un ragazzino petulante e il maturo Stephen in un riccone viziato ed insensibile. La storia è ben bilanciata tra sentimenti, drammi e scene hot, e la scrittura scorre liscia come l'olio fino ad un finale che mi ha pienamente soddisfatta ma che ci fa anche intravedere possibilità future per i due.
August 24, 2016
Una storia piacevole, con una buona trama, che affronta due temi generalmente poco usati: una consistente differenza d'età e di disparità economica come ostacoli.
Se Russ e Stephen vogliono darsi una possibilità di essere felici insieme, devono scendere a compromessi su tutto, ma non è affatto semplice cambiare opinioni radicate, stili di vita, superare paure e accantonare pazientemente i propri bisogni e desideri per rispettare quelli del partner.
Benché siano due buone caratterizzazioni, devo dire che mi sono trovata molto più in linea coi pensieri di Stephen e ho ammirato la sua pazienza nel sopportare alcuni 'capricci' di Russ.
Beh, la fatica lo ha ripagato e questo primo libro mi è piaciuto. Ora sono curiosa di leggere i prossimi!
Se Russ e Stephen vogliono darsi una possibilità di essere felici insieme, devono scendere a compromessi su tutto, ma non è affatto semplice cambiare opinioni radicate, stili di vita, superare paure e accantonare pazientemente i propri bisogni e desideri per rispettare quelli del partner.
Benché siano due buone caratterizzazioni, devo dire che mi sono trovata molto più in linea coi pensieri di Stephen e ho ammirato la sua pazienza nel sopportare alcuni 'capricci' di Russ.
Beh, la fatica lo ha ripagato e questo primo libro mi è piaciuto. Ora sono curiosa di leggere i prossimi!
July 20, 2014
Very nice, liked it a lot. I'm a fan of May/Dec stories and this was a very good one. The only thing getting on my nerves:
Other than that, yes I liked it a lot.
Other than that, yes I liked it a lot.
March 1, 2017
I really wanted to like this more. It hit all my buttons with an age gap office romance. Unfortunately it then becomes bogged down by relationship angst. I understand the need for that to some degree. Certainly it'd be way too convenient if they didn't have any issues and just had a HEA after a meet cute. However, Stephen (the older MC) becomes insecure in his looks and age. And Russ (the younger MC) wants financial independence even potentially to his own detriment. This plot issue gets drawn out almost to the end of the book, so it started to get annoying to me. For those who really like a character/relationship driven book, this may be for you.
January 13, 2018
I enjoyed this book. It was great to watch the heroes work through the conflicts of an office romance and an age difference as well as their own backstories.
However, the focus was too narrow for me, not that the book is character driven I love that, but that these men are so isolated in their connections to others.
And then it turns out this book is really a serial stretched out over several books so I don't get the full HEA. Sigh.
Good writing though.
However, the focus was too narrow for me, not that the book is character driven I love that, but that these men are so isolated in their connections to others.
And then it turns out this book is really a serial stretched out over several books so I don't get the full HEA. Sigh.
Good writing though.
July 14, 2014
When Brigham Vaughn asked if I would be willing to beta read Equals, I jumped at the chance. I have read a few of her short stories and I adore her writing style. It’s clean and precise and a joy to read. This book is no different. I marveled more than once how smoothly the story flows and how easily Brigham describes simple little things in a very meaningful way. Here is one example:
“Stephen had carried both of their suit jackets over his arm, so as not wrinkle them, and when he carefully laid them on the tan leather backseat of his Mercedes, Russ felt a funny lurch in his stomach he couldn’t quite identify.”
Nice twist on the “I saw my toothbrush next to his..” analogy that has been done a thousand times too many, huh? I loved the visual I had of Stephen being so careful and Russ seeing their jackets lying together and having it trigger something inside him.
I personally love May/December romances because my husband is quite a bit older than I am. It’s not always an easy dynamic, either in real life or on the written page. I have truly only read one other book (Years by Lavyrle Spencer, a M/F story) that did it well - without the older man coming off as a father figure, which totally turns me off. I’ve never read a M/M story with more than a ten-year age difference. There are twenty-some years between Russ and Stephen and Brigham not only pulled it off, she nailed it.
It’s not love at first sight, but the chemistry between Russ and Stephen is instant and believable. When Russ is injured in a fall caused by Stephen’s spilled coffee, Russ’s annoyance and Stephen’s guilt and eagerness to help in every way possible is completely realistic. Russ really has no choice but to accept Stephen’s offers of assistance and before long, things begin to sizzle. Because of Russ’s injuries they are kept from acting on their attraction physically. This forced abstinence is as sexually charged for the reader as it is for Stephen and Russ. One scene in particular, that begins with a race in the rooftop pool, threatened to melt my Kindle into a shiny, black, plastic puddle.
The angst whore in me was also well satisfied. Without any spoilers, there were a couple of parts that just made my heart hurt, but Russ and Stephen are both smart men and they got things worked out to my satisfaction.
I appreciated that Ms. Vaughn showed how annoying “outside opinions” of a May/December relationship can be. The exception to this is Russ’s roommate, Monty, who has a special knack for saying totally inappropriate things, but I give him a pass because he cracked me up every time he appeared.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story from beginning to end. My only complaint was I wanted more – much more – of Russ and Stephen. Imagine my giant smile when I saw the cover sporting the words “book one”.
“Stephen had carried both of their suit jackets over his arm, so as not wrinkle them, and when he carefully laid them on the tan leather backseat of his Mercedes, Russ felt a funny lurch in his stomach he couldn’t quite identify.”
Nice twist on the “I saw my toothbrush next to his..” analogy that has been done a thousand times too many, huh? I loved the visual I had of Stephen being so careful and Russ seeing their jackets lying together and having it trigger something inside him.
I personally love May/December romances because my husband is quite a bit older than I am. It’s not always an easy dynamic, either in real life or on the written page. I have truly only read one other book (Years by Lavyrle Spencer, a M/F story) that did it well - without the older man coming off as a father figure, which totally turns me off. I’ve never read a M/M story with more than a ten-year age difference. There are twenty-some years between Russ and Stephen and Brigham not only pulled it off, she nailed it.
It’s not love at first sight, but the chemistry between Russ and Stephen is instant and believable. When Russ is injured in a fall caused by Stephen’s spilled coffee, Russ’s annoyance and Stephen’s guilt and eagerness to help in every way possible is completely realistic. Russ really has no choice but to accept Stephen’s offers of assistance and before long, things begin to sizzle. Because of Russ’s injuries they are kept from acting on their attraction physically. This forced abstinence is as sexually charged for the reader as it is for Stephen and Russ. One scene in particular, that begins with a race in the rooftop pool, threatened to melt my Kindle into a shiny, black, plastic puddle.
The angst whore in me was also well satisfied. Without any spoilers, there were a couple of parts that just made my heart hurt, but Russ and Stephen are both smart men and they got things worked out to my satisfaction.
I appreciated that Ms. Vaughn showed how annoying “outside opinions” of a May/December relationship can be. The exception to this is Russ’s roommate, Monty, who has a special knack for saying totally inappropriate things, but I give him a pass because he cracked me up every time he appeared.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story from beginning to end. My only complaint was I wanted more – much more – of Russ and Stephen. Imagine my giant smile when I saw the cover sporting the words “book one”.
August 22, 2014
I love a good May/December love story, one which contains both age and economic disparity that need to be overcome in order for the main characters to find true happiness. With Russell Bishop and Stephen Parker, Brigham Vaughn gives us just that. In spades. Ms. Vaughn created two men who, on paper, have no possibility of ever being equals and then shows us exactly how they are Equals.
Russell and Stephen have admired and desired each other from afar for the six months that Russell has worked at Vantage Marketing. Two problems: Stephen is at least 20 years older than Russell (well, that’s only a problem for Stephen. It’s a turn on for Russell), and Stephen is in management while Russell is an entry level drone. They are in different departments, though…
Two workaholics and one spilled cup of coffee later, we find our guys in Stephen’s apartment, while he nurses Russell back to health after a nasty slip and fall. The attraction is (as usual) fast and strong. But Stephen thinks he is too old for Russell, and Russell thinks he is too poor for Stephen. If ever there were a time I truly wanted to bang heads together, it was with these guys.
I just freaking loved them both from the beginning, though. They each had valid reasons for holding back from entering into a capital R relationship. Stephen had a really good reason for wanting to take care of Russell and keep him safe, and Russell had a rational excuse for wanting to maintain his independence and not let his life be taken over and controlled by a lover.
The way the two didn’t communicate with one another really made me tear up with sadness for them, as well as frustration. Once they started to let each other in and really talk about their pasts and what they felt the issues were that kept them apart, things began to go much more smoothly for them. They both had to learn that in order to be Equals, they’d have to completely trust each other and have full disclosure.
Just because one of you makes more money than the other doesn’t mean he (or she) has a more significant role in the relationship. This is a struggle heterosexual couples have been having for decades. Can two people really be complete equals in any relationship? Yes. If they both treat each other, and themselves, like they deserve to be equal to the other, they can do it.
One of my favorite things about reading M/M romance is that the men in the romantic relationships more often have true equality than in hetero romances. In Equals, Ms. Vaughn proves that sometimes it’s hard work to get to that point, but it’s worth it.
Russell and Stephen have admired and desired each other from afar for the six months that Russell has worked at Vantage Marketing. Two problems: Stephen is at least 20 years older than Russell (well, that’s only a problem for Stephen. It’s a turn on for Russell), and Stephen is in management while Russell is an entry level drone. They are in different departments, though…
Two workaholics and one spilled cup of coffee later, we find our guys in Stephen’s apartment, while he nurses Russell back to health after a nasty slip and fall. The attraction is (as usual) fast and strong. But Stephen thinks he is too old for Russell, and Russell thinks he is too poor for Stephen. If ever there were a time I truly wanted to bang heads together, it was with these guys.
I just freaking loved them both from the beginning, though. They each had valid reasons for holding back from entering into a capital R relationship. Stephen had a really good reason for wanting to take care of Russell and keep him safe, and Russell had a rational excuse for wanting to maintain his independence and not let his life be taken over and controlled by a lover.
The way the two didn’t communicate with one another really made me tear up with sadness for them, as well as frustration. Once they started to let each other in and really talk about their pasts and what they felt the issues were that kept them apart, things began to go much more smoothly for them. They both had to learn that in order to be Equals, they’d have to completely trust each other and have full disclosure.
Just because one of you makes more money than the other doesn’t mean he (or she) has a more significant role in the relationship. This is a struggle heterosexual couples have been having for decades. Can two people really be complete equals in any relationship? Yes. If they both treat each other, and themselves, like they deserve to be equal to the other, they can do it.
One of my favorite things about reading M/M romance is that the men in the romantic relationships more often have true equality than in hetero romances. In Equals, Ms. Vaughn proves that sometimes it’s hard work to get to that point, but it’s worth it.
February 9, 2016
i wanted to dnf it at more than one point. it was so boring and far from my interest i had to convince myself to finish it. all the time.
first of all, the age difference. in theory i knew about 20 years age gap but since there are some books and movies like this i can enjoy i was quite sure i can stand it. i hoped i'd be able to just forget about it. well, i couldn't. there was reminder of this in every chapter, everything seemed to be about how much older Stephen was, how he had silver hair everywhere and i was more than a little bit uncomfortable. even the sex scenes didn't feel right (seriously, silver hair around Stephen 's cock was such a major turn off i skipped most of sex).
second, the whole plot or tbh lack of thereof. i get it. it was a book about a relationship, about struggling with being togetherand fighting theur issues, but it was annoying, silly and childish.
third, i have no words to describe how ridiculous it was! buying new phone, new suit, new tires, paying for everything, taking a stranger to hus house - yes, Stephen is a DESPERATED middle aged man who is tired of loneliness and can't get over his lost lover.sorry, but i don't feel sorry for him. he irritated me more than Russ.
first of all, the age difference. in theory i knew about 20 years age gap but since there are some books and movies like this i can enjoy i was quite sure i can stand it. i hoped i'd be able to just forget about it. well, i couldn't. there was reminder of this in every chapter, everything seemed to be about how much older Stephen was, how he had silver hair everywhere and i was more than a little bit uncomfortable. even the sex scenes didn't feel right (seriously, silver hair around Stephen 's cock was such a major turn off i skipped most of sex).
second, the whole plot or tbh lack of thereof. i get it. it was a book about a relationship, about struggling with being togetherand fighting theur issues, but it was annoying, silly and childish.
third, i have no words to describe how ridiculous it was! buying new phone, new suit, new tires, paying for everything, taking a stranger to hus house - yes, Stephen is a DESPERATED middle aged man who is tired of loneliness and can't get over his lost lover.sorry, but i don't feel sorry for him. he irritated me more than Russ.
February 12, 2015
3.5 Stars
Equals was certainly a departure of the action and sci-fi that has been a staple in my reading diet, as of late. Not much really happens in the story, itself; it's a very relationship driven book. The event that brings our two MC's together felt a bit contrived, but that's a minor complaint and it did serve its purpose in making sure that Russ and Stephen were thrown together for several days, cementing their attraction to one another.
Russ and Stephen have obstacles to overcome before their relationship will really work. The twenty year age difference is really only part of what they need to overcome. Their communication skills outside the bedroom really need work. Russ is a very stubborn young man, feeling like he has to do everything on his own. He does not like feeling like he can't do everything himself. He resents that Stephen wants to take care of him, even a little bit. ANd Stephen, whose last experience with a much younger man left him feeling like he'd failed at life.
Both Russ and Stephen work to overcome their fears and issues, but not before they almost lose sight of what they really want -- each other.
Equals was certainly a departure of the action and sci-fi that has been a staple in my reading diet, as of late. Not much really happens in the story, itself; it's a very relationship driven book. The event that brings our two MC's together felt a bit contrived, but that's a minor complaint and it did serve its purpose in making sure that Russ and Stephen were thrown together for several days, cementing their attraction to one another.
Russ and Stephen have obstacles to overcome before their relationship will really work. The twenty year age difference is really only part of what they need to overcome. Their communication skills outside the bedroom really need work. Russ is a very stubborn young man, feeling like he has to do everything on his own. He does not like feeling like he can't do everything himself. He resents that Stephen wants to take care of him, even a little bit. ANd Stephen, whose last experience with a much younger man left him feeling like he'd failed at life.
Both Russ and Stephen work to overcome their fears and issues, but not before they almost lose sight of what they really want -- each other.
May 31, 2016
Sono incappata in questa serie l’anno scorso, avevo notato che aveva ottimi giudizi e, nonostante questo non sia un mio criterio di scelta, ero rimasta incuriosita dalla trama.
Leggerlo in inglese mi era piaciuto, ma sono stata molto contenta di potermelo finalmente gustare in italiano.
Lo stile dell’autrice mi piace molto, la storia è piacevole e scorre fluida. Russ e Stephen sono colleghi, si sono notati ma non hanno mai tentato un approccio, poi uno stupido incidente finalmente li fa letteralmente scontrare.
Mi piace il fatto che ci sia una differenza di età fra i due protagonisti, e l’autrice riesce benissimo a rendere i due punti di vista. L’immaturo, per certi versi Russ, e il più pratico Stephen, che dovranno accettare dei compromessi per poter far funzionare il loro rapporto.
Contrasti e fraintendimenti danno movimento alla storia. Si arriva alla fine del libro e si vuole di più. Speriamo di non dover aspettare molto.
Raccomando caldamente questo libro e tutta la serie in generale.
Leggerlo in inglese mi era piaciuto, ma sono stata molto contenta di potermelo finalmente gustare in italiano.
Lo stile dell’autrice mi piace molto, la storia è piacevole e scorre fluida. Russ e Stephen sono colleghi, si sono notati ma non hanno mai tentato un approccio, poi uno stupido incidente finalmente li fa letteralmente scontrare.
Mi piace il fatto che ci sia una differenza di età fra i due protagonisti, e l’autrice riesce benissimo a rendere i due punti di vista. L’immaturo, per certi versi Russ, e il più pratico Stephen, che dovranno accettare dei compromessi per poter far funzionare il loro rapporto.
Contrasti e fraintendimenti danno movimento alla storia. Si arriva alla fine del libro e si vuole di più. Speriamo di non dover aspettare molto.
Raccomando caldamente questo libro e tutta la serie in generale.
March 17, 2016
Solid 3.5 stars from me!
Equals is the story of the young Russ who meets Stephen at work. Not only is Stephen the CFO of the company but also 20 years older and besides their attraction both men are not sure if a relatonship could work.
If this short description sounds boring to you, probably Equals will not be your book.
For me it was really refreshing to read a story about a relationship developing and the small problems occuring when 2 people start living together.
No shifters here, no vampires, no big surprises or stupid misunderstandings. Quite an ordinary book with really ordinary issues.
However this is exactly what I liked about it, sometimes all that drama and exaggeration just gets too much and if you feel the same and just want a plain simple believable story, it might be right for you!
Even if it was rather short I enjoyed reading it and even needed some tissues towards the end.
Equals is the story of the young Russ who meets Stephen at work. Not only is Stephen the CFO of the company but also 20 years older and besides their attraction both men are not sure if a relatonship could work.
If this short description sounds boring to you, probably Equals will not be your book.
For me it was really refreshing to read a story about a relationship developing and the small problems occuring when 2 people start living together.
No shifters here, no vampires, no big surprises or stupid misunderstandings. Quite an ordinary book with really ordinary issues.
However this is exactly what I liked about it, sometimes all that drama and exaggeration just gets too much and if you feel the same and just want a plain simple believable story, it might be right for you!
Even if it was rather short I enjoyed reading it and even needed some tissues towards the end.
October 10, 2014
This book had many things that I liked…may/december romance, office/workplace romance, decent conflict but some actual communication, and flawed characters that are so perfect for each other. I really enjoyed this one, I liked the characters and the progression of their relationship and I liked that the conflict was over workplace jealousy or that the age difference wasn't the big deal breaker. Really liked this, I'm starting the second one now!
July 13, 2014
Well. This was another great read from Brigham. It's different. And amazing. So much depth here. Exactly what we have all been waiting for from this author. Deep writing. Deep subjects. And, she nailed it. If you want a story that goes beyond the surface to the feelings of these characters, feelings they don't even realize exist, then pick this book up. You won't be sorry.
September 9, 2016
3.5 stars. Nice to read a story that focuses on a relationship rather than corporate espionage, assassins, kidnapping, etc. Edited: 9/8/16 ... although when looking back on this story, I cannot even recall the plot.
August 22, 2014
I love a good May-December love story. One with contains both age and economic disparity which need to be overcome in order for the main characters to find true happiness. With Russell Bishop and Stephen Parker, Brigham Vaughn gives us just that. In spades. Ms Vaughn created two men who, on paper have no possibility of ever being equals and then shows us exactly how they are Equals.
Russell and Stephen have admired and desired each other from afar for the six months that Russell has worked at Vantage Marketing. Two problems: Stephen is at least 20 years older than Russell (well, that's only a problem for Stephen, it's a turn on for Russell) and Stephen is in management while Russell is an entry level drone. They are in different departments though...
Two workaholics and one spilled cup of coffee later, we find our guys in Stephen's apartment while he nurses Russell back to health after a nasty slip and fall. The attraction is (as usual) fast and strong. But Stephen thinks he is too old for Russell and Russell thinks he is too poor for Stephen. If ever there were a time I truly wanted to bang heads together it was these guys.
I just freaking loved them both from the beginning though. They each had valid reasons for holding back from entering into a capital R relationship. Stephen had a really good reason for wanting to take care of Russell and keep him safe and Russell had a rational excuse for wanting to maintain his independence and not let his life be taken over and controlled by a lover.
The way the two didn't communicate with one another really made me tear up with sadness for them as well as frustration. Once they started to let each other in and really talk about their pasts and what they felt the issues were that kept them apart, things began to go much more smoothly for them. They both had to learn that in order to be Equals, you have to completely trust each other and have full disclosure.
Just because one of you makes more money than the other doesn't mean he or she has a more significant role in the relationship. This is a struggle heterosexual couples have been having for decades. Can two people really be complete Equals in any relationship? Yes. If they both treat each other and themselves like they deserve to be equal to the other, they can do it.
One of my favorite things about reading M/M romance is that the men in the romantic relationships more often have true equality than in hetero romances. In Equals, Ms. Vaughn proves that sometimes it's hard work to get to that point but it's worth it.
Russell and Stephen have admired and desired each other from afar for the six months that Russell has worked at Vantage Marketing. Two problems: Stephen is at least 20 years older than Russell (well, that's only a problem for Stephen, it's a turn on for Russell) and Stephen is in management while Russell is an entry level drone. They are in different departments though...
Two workaholics and one spilled cup of coffee later, we find our guys in Stephen's apartment while he nurses Russell back to health after a nasty slip and fall. The attraction is (as usual) fast and strong. But Stephen thinks he is too old for Russell and Russell thinks he is too poor for Stephen. If ever there were a time I truly wanted to bang heads together it was these guys.
I just freaking loved them both from the beginning though. They each had valid reasons for holding back from entering into a capital R relationship. Stephen had a really good reason for wanting to take care of Russell and keep him safe and Russell had a rational excuse for wanting to maintain his independence and not let his life be taken over and controlled by a lover.
The way the two didn't communicate with one another really made me tear up with sadness for them as well as frustration. Once they started to let each other in and really talk about their pasts and what they felt the issues were that kept them apart, things began to go much more smoothly for them. They both had to learn that in order to be Equals, you have to completely trust each other and have full disclosure.
Just because one of you makes more money than the other doesn't mean he or she has a more significant role in the relationship. This is a struggle heterosexual couples have been having for decades. Can two people really be complete Equals in any relationship? Yes. If they both treat each other and themselves like they deserve to be equal to the other, they can do it.
One of my favorite things about reading M/M romance is that the men in the romantic relationships more often have true equality than in hetero romances. In Equals, Ms. Vaughn proves that sometimes it's hard work to get to that point but it's worth it.
April 24, 2015
This is a very enjoyable story of two beautiful men brought together by an unfortunate accident. They work in the same building on the same floor and they both had noticed each other over a period of months but never did anything about it. Stephen is the CFO, 47 years old, beautiful and lonely. He liked men much younger than himself, but because of a relationship years ago which scarred him, he thought he would never find someone to love or would love him. Russ is in the marketing department, beautiful, but 20 years younger than Stephen. The two get together when the accident happens since Russ slipped on the coffee than Stephen had spilled. The attraction was palpable and Stephen felt responsible for it, but Stephen is one who has money and has no problem wanting to help financially without even thinking about it. That is where the problem lies....Russ doesn't take handouts and wants to take care of himself in that regard. The two fall in love, but Stephen's past of a love lost brings up his insecurities of losing Russ either to a younger man or in an accident. Stephen is all about safety when it comes to Russ. The process of love as it evolves through the ghosts of the past and the honesty that must be understood. Loved this story and the characters. Its hard enough to navigate this life through the struggles and how we were brought up, but its even harder to take the chance on a deep love that brings the much needed Happiness that will change a lifetime... If you like MM Love and Hot Sex, you will love this. This is the first of the Equals Series. Will definitely be there with both Stephen and Russ as they navigate through their life
January 18, 2015
GAH! Russ pissed me off SO much. I think it was to the point where I couldn't even enjoy the book because he was such a childish dick. He wants to be an equal with someone 20+ his senior? Well start acting like a forking adult! There's a 2nd book to this, but there's no way I can read it right now.
I will say one more thing though: It's a flippin' SPRAINED ankle! ARGH!
1 extra star for Stephen! Really liked that man.
I will say one more thing though: It's a flippin' SPRAINED ankle! ARGH!
1 extra star for Stephen! Really liked that man.
August 28, 2015
This averaged out to about 3.5 stars and I rounded up because the flow was very good, not to mention quick and easy to read. It is a basic story with the same conflict carrying through the whole book, which made it a little drawn out and unrealistic at times. But if you want a sweet read, this one will fit the bill.
April 6, 2016
No lo he disfrutado nada, el personaje de Russ terco como un burro, problemas por falta de comunicación, en fin, no me ha gustado nada el tema, y lo de ser Equals, por favor, todo a nivel monetario, qué aburrimiento.
November 8, 2018
Awesome book. Check out my review at Padme's Library http://padmeslibrary.blogspot.com/201...
June 5, 2016
Loved the story.
December 1, 2018
It took a while to get into the story but it was worth persevering to get to the end.
December 27, 2018
I enjoy a good age gap story where the characters have various differences to overcome – in this case, economic status also factored into the equation. Russ was a little overly stubborn and Stephen was a little underwhelming in his communication about prior experiences driving some of his actions. Relatively low angst and some smexy scenes made this an enjoyable read.
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