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Belonging #2
Maybe This Time
Alternate cover edition of ASIN #B00K4M3I94.
As a regular at gay hotspot Pot O Gold, Ezra Kelley avoids his tangled emotions with the simplicity of one-night stands and attachment-free hookups. Until the night bartender Donner Davis picks him up off the floor after a misunderstanding and too much tequila. Ezra can't remember the last time someone was…nice. It's more than he deserves.
Witnessing his lover's death two years ago has Donner trapped in a holding pattern—living in his sister's basement, working at the Pot and flirting with the customers. He's not above spending a night with the gorgeous Ezra, but love is not in the cards. That's more than he's ready for.
A passionate night leads to a connection neither man expects, and they take the first steps to something that looks like a real relationship. But Ezra's been running from himself so long he doesn't know how to live any other way. And Donner can't risk his heart just to lose everything again. They'll both need the strength to let go of the past if they want to get it right this time.
As a regular at gay hotspot Pot O Gold, Ezra Kelley avoids his tangled emotions with the simplicity of one-night stands and attachment-free hookups. Until the night bartender Donner Davis picks him up off the floor after a misunderstanding and too much tequila. Ezra can't remember the last time someone was…nice. It's more than he deserves.
Witnessing his lover's death two years ago has Donner trapped in a holding pattern—living in his sister's basement, working at the Pot and flirting with the customers. He's not above spending a night with the gorgeous Ezra, but love is not in the cards. That's more than he's ready for.
A passionate night leads to a connection neither man expects, and they take the first steps to something that looks like a real relationship. But Ezra's been running from himself so long he doesn't know how to live any other way. And Donner can't risk his heart just to lose everything again. They'll both need the strength to let go of the past if they want to get it right this time.
168 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 19, 2014
33 people are currently reading
529 people want to read
About the author
A.M. Arthur
87 books1,236 followersNo stranger to the writing world, A.M. Arthur has been creating stories in her head since she was a child and scribbling them down nearly as long. She credits an early fascination with male friendships (bromance wasn't a thing yet) with her later discovery of and subsequent affair with m/m romance stories. When not writing, she can be found in her kitchen, pretending she's an amateur chef and trying to not poison herself or others with her cuisine experiments. You can contact her at AM_Arthur(at)yahoo(dot)com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews
July 8, 2014
*4.5 stars*
A.M. Arthur killed it with this one!
I really liked No Such Thing, but this book? It was SO much better.
Ever since meeting Ezra in "No Such Thing," I've been intrigued. The guy who matches his colored contacts to his accessories and is Pot O Gold's resident hook-up king? Who didn't want to learn more about Ezra?! I was dyyying for his story and A.M. Arthur totally delivered the goods.
This book is sort of a mishmash of angsty hurt-comfort/finding oneself, consisting of family issues mixed with past abuse. Though it had the potential to get really dark and depressing, it didn't feel like a downer story. It stayed sexy and fun, though it certainly had serious themes.
I loved Ezra and Donner's chemistry together. I happen to adore the name Ezra (I have a thing for Jew-y, biblical names so he could pretty much have been a troll and I would have liked him), but to make him a hot, sort of twinky guy... hmm... I was in mental picture heaven. I liked that the romance was slow burn and nicely paced. The writing felt natural and polished. Though this book has characters from a previous book, I also think that it would work very nicely as a standalone, if anyone is interested in skipping the first.
My only gripe is this book has a minor case of the "psychological wounds healed by a magic penis." You know what I mean. It is when mind-blowing sex with a certain man cures all ailments.
*clears throat... tries to clear throat...*
Who am I to argue with science? Magic penis it is.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
A.M. Arthur killed it with this one!
I really liked No Such Thing, but this book? It was SO much better.
Ever since meeting Ezra in "No Such Thing," I've been intrigued. The guy who matches his colored contacts to his accessories and is Pot O Gold's resident hook-up king? Who didn't want to learn more about Ezra?! I was dyyying for his story and A.M. Arthur totally delivered the goods.
This book is sort of a mishmash of angsty hurt-comfort/finding oneself, consisting of family issues mixed with past abuse. Though it had the potential to get really dark and depressing, it didn't feel like a downer story. It stayed sexy and fun, though it certainly had serious themes.
I loved Ezra and Donner's chemistry together. I happen to adore the name Ezra (I have a thing for Jew-y, biblical names so he could pretty much have been a troll and I would have liked him), but to make him a hot, sort of twinky guy... hmm... I was in mental picture heaven. I liked that the romance was slow burn and nicely paced. The writing felt natural and polished. Though this book has characters from a previous book, I also think that it would work very nicely as a standalone, if anyone is interested in skipping the first.
My only gripe is this book has a minor case of the "psychological wounds healed by a magic penis." You know what I mean. It is when mind-blowing sex with a certain man cures all ailments.
*clears throat... tries to clear throat...*
Who am I to argue with science? Magic penis it is.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
August 13, 2014
Donner has a tragic past.. Living with an abusive father wasn’t easy, but everything shattered in his life when his partner is killed in front of his eyes. Now, two years later, he lives in his step-sister’s basement, working as a bartender in a gay club. At the club, he meets Ezra, a younger man who every time he comes to the club, he leaves with a different man.
Ezra works some hours in a used bookstore, but only to pay for his partying habit. His parents pay for his apartment and utilities, even if their relationship is not good and they didn’t see each other in six years.
Ezra has his problems too.
With a real baggage, betrayed and lied in the past, Ezra knows that getting attached means nothing good. He can’t let Donner in, physically or emotionally, but soon, he finds himself involved more than he wants. He doesn’t want to care, but he can't help himself. Donner makes him feel safe and needed, he makes him feel whole. Ezra managed to get under Donner skin very fast and Donner is intrigued by him from the start. They hook up, no feelings, just sex, but soon they become more to each other than a casual fuck.
Donner is a good man, always wants to help. He cares about his loved ones and he’s brave. He’s caring, loving, supporting, patient, protective and most of all he gives Ezra the most important thing for him, acceptance. I really like him!
Obviously, this book didn’t wow me. It’s not bad, but not great either. My main problem with this one was the lack of originality. Especially with the story line..Another problem for me was the abundance of themes, it was too much, but I will not go into details because I don’t want to give anything away. Also, sometimes the story felt a little rushed for me and I think that’s why I felt there’s a little insta-love here.
I enjoyed the characters and their relationship as a couple and of course the steamy moments between them. Also I liked the realness of the story.
Maybe this time was a sweet story, not depressing even with the characters ‘s past, good writing and good enough steam.
Ezra works some hours in a used bookstore, but only to pay for his partying habit. His parents pay for his apartment and utilities, even if their relationship is not good and they didn’t see each other in six years.
Ezra has his problems too.
He never remembered the nightmares, only the terror that followed him into wakefulness, along with a sense of being wrong. Of being broken and awful and unlovable things only reinforced by the distance he kept from his family, and the distance they kept from him.
With a real baggage, betrayed and lied in the past, Ezra knows that getting attached means nothing good. He can’t let Donner in, physically or emotionally, but soon, he finds himself involved more than he wants. He doesn’t want to care, but he can't help himself. Donner makes him feel safe and needed, he makes him feel whole. Ezra managed to get under Donner skin very fast and Donner is intrigued by him from the start. They hook up, no feelings, just sex, but soon they become more to each other than a casual fuck.
Donner is a good man, always wants to help. He cares about his loved ones and he’s brave. He’s caring, loving, supporting, patient, protective and most of all he gives Ezra the most important thing for him, acceptance. I really like him!
Obviously, this book didn’t wow me. It’s not bad, but not great either. My main problem with this one was the lack of originality. Especially with the story line..Another problem for me was the abundance of themes, it was too much, but I will not go into details because I don’t want to give anything away. Also, sometimes the story felt a little rushed for me and I think that’s why I felt there’s a little insta-love here.
I enjoyed the characters and their relationship as a couple and of course the steamy moments between them. Also I liked the realness of the story.
Maybe this time was a sweet story, not depressing even with the characters ‘s past, good writing and good enough steam.
Because nothing worth doing is ever completely easy. It’s like falling in love. You have to risk getting hurt in order to get the rewards, and usually the rewards are so fucking amazing and totally worth it.
July 3, 2014
Wow!
I enjoyed No Such Thing, which takes place before this book, but Maybe This Time was AWESOME. You probably don't have to read No Such Thing to enjoy this one, but it does add some extra depth to the story.
Donner is in his 30s and a career bartender at the Pot o' Gold. He has faced a tragic loss, but is beginning to move on with his life. Donner is hot. Honestly, he was my favorite. He had faced tragedy, had a terribly up-bringing, but he has good self-esteem, he's confident, and well put-together. He is the healthy one in this relationship, and an all-around good guy.
Ezra. Ezra is delicious. He's in No Such Thing, and he really caught my eye in that book. He's incredibly sexy and physically confident. However, Ezra is an emotional mess. He has walls so thick a tank couldn't get through. So, a lot of the story is him learning to trust Donner and his emotional journey.
Oh, yeah, and there was really hot sex. Let's not forget that!
The writing was much better in this book. Everything felt more polished, and I was really sucked into the story. The characters are very engrossing, not only does Donner get to know Ezra slowly, so do we. Ezra is a bit of a mystery, and as you read the book, he start to figure him out more. Questions about Ezra, how he was going to cope, how Donner was going to help or deal with him, kept me turning pages.
The other side of Ezra's growth is his own personal development. Being with Donner does help him achieve goals, but not directly. Ezra goes from wanting nothing from his life but a part-time job and partying, to having a vision for his professional future. He is able to develop this on his own, but if not for Donner helping him in other aspects of his life, I doubt he would have achieved this on his own.
So, in summary, Ezra kept me interested, and Donner stole my heart. Highly recommended.
PS I have a feeling the next one is Romy/Branden and ZOMG CAN'T WAIT!!!
I enjoyed No Such Thing, which takes place before this book, but Maybe This Time was AWESOME. You probably don't have to read No Such Thing to enjoy this one, but it does add some extra depth to the story.
Donner is in his 30s and a career bartender at the Pot o' Gold. He has faced a tragic loss, but is beginning to move on with his life. Donner is hot. Honestly, he was my favorite. He had faced tragedy, had a terribly up-bringing, but he has good self-esteem, he's confident, and well put-together. He is the healthy one in this relationship, and an all-around good guy.
Ezra. Ezra is delicious. He's in No Such Thing, and he really caught my eye in that book. He's incredibly sexy and physically confident. However, Ezra is an emotional mess. He has walls so thick a tank couldn't get through. So, a lot of the story is him learning to trust Donner and his emotional journey.
Oh, yeah, and there was really hot sex. Let's not forget that!
The writing was much better in this book. Everything felt more polished, and I was really sucked into the story. The characters are very engrossing, not only does Donner get to know Ezra slowly, so do we. Ezra is a bit of a mystery, and as you read the book, he start to figure him out more. Questions about Ezra, how he was going to cope, how Donner was going to help or deal with him, kept me turning pages.
The other side of Ezra's growth is his own personal development. Being with Donner does help him achieve goals, but not directly. Ezra goes from wanting nothing from his life but a part-time job and partying, to having a vision for his professional future. He is able to develop this on his own, but if not for Donner helping him in other aspects of his life, I doubt he would have achieved this on his own.
So, in summary, Ezra kept me interested, and Donner stole my heart. Highly recommended.
PS I have a feeling the next one is Romy/Branden and ZOMG CAN'T WAIT!!!
July 26, 2014
4.5*
"Flaws are only part of a person. Our pasts are another part. But the most important part is our present. It’s the guy you are now, and the guy you’re going to be down the road.”
I think that quote says it all. Both Ezra and Donner have flaws and troubled pasts. They both have pain and issues to deal with, but something about the other man seems to ease them and give them hope.
I adored this story. There was conflict but it was not an angst fest. There were problems but they were not insurmountable or immaturely handled. And there was a dog named Lex Luther.
Donner is wonderful and patient with Ezra, he is exactly what he needs and he doesn’t give up on him, even when he’s pushed away.
He wants Ezra to really start living.
“I need you to stop expecting the worst and start looking forward to the best.”
And Ezra for his part, really sees Donner and what a wonderful man he is.
I really don’t even want to say much more, because it needs to be enjoyed, just that this was a pleasure to read and I can happily recommend it, oh and I’d love to read Romy’s story.
"Flaws are only part of a person. Our pasts are another part. But the most important part is our present. It’s the guy you are now, and the guy you’re going to be down the road.”
I think that quote says it all. Both Ezra and Donner have flaws and troubled pasts. They both have pain and issues to deal with, but something about the other man seems to ease them and give them hope.
I adored this story. There was conflict but it was not an angst fest. There were problems but they were not insurmountable or immaturely handled. And there was a dog named Lex Luther.
Donner is wonderful and patient with Ezra, he is exactly what he needs and he doesn’t give up on him, even when he’s pushed away.
He wants Ezra to really start living.
“I need you to stop expecting the worst and start looking forward to the best.”
And Ezra for his part, really sees Donner and what a wonderful man he is.
I really don’t even want to say much more, because it needs to be enjoyed, just that this was a pleasure to read and I can happily recommend it, oh and I’d love to read Romy’s story.
August 14, 2014
I liked No Such Thing, but I LOVED this one! A reformed manwhore with a ton of emotional baggage and a sexy bartender with a big heart? I hope we get to see more of them in book #3!
July 23, 2014
3.5 stars
I'm starting to be convinced that when it comes to m/m contemporaries, there's not much new under the sun. I'm finding that most books I read have a story line I've read somewhere else. A character with a lost lover. A younger MC with low self-esteem. "I only top but I'll bottom for you once I decide I love you". "My parents hate me because I'm gay". And all these angles exist in "Maybe This Time". And yet...
I really enjoyed it!
No, it's not the most original book.
But the characters are so likable and the pace and storytelling so good for a quick summer read...I couldn't help but finish it in one sitting and end will a smile on my face! I actually didn't realize this was book 2 of a series. And other than a few tiny bits about some side characters, I would never have guessed it. It works completely as a standalone, especially for the highlighted couple. But, I liked this one so much, I'm excited to go back and read book 1!
Ezra is a young party boy who likes to fuck. :) He refuses to bottom, as it represents giving up control...and he has so little control over things in his life. He's estranged from his family (other than the money they send him to stay afloat), works part time at a book store, and spends most his hours...partying and hooking up and drinking margaritas on the rocks (my kinda guy!)
Donner is...a gem. He's older. Wiser. Street-hardened. Mourning. Patient. Supportive. Knows what he wants. And...what he wants is Ezra. Yes, there was a bit of insta-love going on. But, I just like Donner so much that I wanted him to end up with Ezra just so he'd be happy and in love! Ezra is a bit of a whiny brat, but I, like Donner, wanted to take care of him and see him find his way. See? Not much new here, but enough to get me emotionally invested.
There are some great side storylines: dumpster diving/feeding the homeless, family issues on both sides, losing a family pet, interesting friends...and a lot of juicy bits to sink a reader's teeth into. Sometimes when there's too much going on, I get irritated. But the author did a good job of making all these side bits relevant and interesting without overwhelming the main focus of the romance. I'm hoping more books will be released in this series so I can get to know more of these side characters.
But, all in all, this book was about Donner for me. I easily get behind the steadfast good guy, and Donner is definitely one. I was happy to sit down with this book and read his story unfold. *shrug*...it doesn't take much more than that for me... :)
July 21, 2014
**this book was provided to me by the author in exchange for an honest review**
Donner is a bartender at the Pot O Gold "the pot" a local gay friendly bar. He runs into Ezra coming out of the bathroom. Donner and Ezra have both had rough parts and are both guarded. They spend one steamy night together, and eventually start seeing each other. Can they each let down their guards and let themselves love one another.
This was a great book. After I read book one, I couldn't wait for this book, and it was well worth the wait! I loved Donner and Ezra. They fit and had good chemistry. I felt the love coming off the pages between these two. I couldn't wait to turn to the next page to see what would happen next. The story moved along at a good and steady pace. I was never bored or skimmed.
I loved getting to see Jamie and Ale. The only thing I would have wished for was an epilogue!
I have loved everything I have read by this author. I haven't been disappointed in a book yet! I can't wait for more in the future. :)
Donner is a bartender at the Pot O Gold "the pot" a local gay friendly bar. He runs into Ezra coming out of the bathroom. Donner and Ezra have both had rough parts and are both guarded. They spend one steamy night together, and eventually start seeing each other. Can they each let down their guards and let themselves love one another.
This was a great book. After I read book one, I couldn't wait for this book, and it was well worth the wait! I loved Donner and Ezra. They fit and had good chemistry. I felt the love coming off the pages between these two. I couldn't wait to turn to the next page to see what would happen next. The story moved along at a good and steady pace. I was never bored or skimmed.
I loved getting to see Jamie and Ale. The only thing I would have wished for was an epilogue!
I have loved everything I have read by this author. I haven't been disappointed in a book yet! I can't wait for more in the future. :)
June 29, 2014
Maybe This Time was a quick read for me and I was surprised upon finishing it to realize it’s a full length novel and not a novella. I just devoured it in one sitting, stuck in the angst-ridden tension of Ezra’s and Donner’s unfolding relationship.
To say Ezra and Donner have not had it easy in life is an understatement. Both men come from traumatizing backgrounds with horrible parents (to say the least). Both have loved and lost the person they thought was their forever (Ezra’s ex pretty much abandoned him after a move to a new city and Donner’s partner of six years was killed in a senseless act of violence). Now Ezra goes for no attachment fun and Donner hasn’t opened himself up to the possibility of anything long-term in a longtime. Ezra’s preferred hunting ground for willing partners happens to be Pot O Gold, where Donner works as a bartender. Despite the fact that neither man is looking for more at the time, when the two finally meet they just seem to click. Ezra’s never had someone show they care for him the way Donner does and there’s something about Ezra that makes Donner want to put himself out there and let someone in again. It’s not all smooth sailing, and some miscommunications lead to a rocky start, but they’ve stumbled upon something together worth fighting for and they both know it.
Actions speak louder than words in this book when it comes to how the characters perceive themselves and how others perceive them. Ezra thinks he has no real friends, but he cares deeply for his friend/occasional hook-up Romy and goes out of his way to help the other man when he finds himself in a bad situation. He also has good friends in couple Jamie and Alessandro (the main characters from the first book in this series, No Such Thing, that I can’t wait to get my hands on) who likewise go out of their way when Ezra needs them. Ezra knows how to use what he has – including extensive experience in the bedroom and eye-catching looks (white blonde hair and colored contacts he matches to his outfits), but while he oozes self-confidence he lacks real self-esteem. He just does’t think he’s good enough for someone like Donner, who actually seems to care about him as a person and who looks like a tough guy but whose big heart leads him to feed the hungry in his spare time and cry when his sister’s dog gets really sick.
Spoiler warning:
I enjoyed this book from beginning to end (barring the one incident mentioned above). It’s a page-turner for sure with great characters and emotional tension that never quite eases until the last page. It’s the first time I’ve read this author and I can tell you they know how to a hook a reader and not let go – I’ll for sure be on the lookout for more books by A.M. Arthur.
*I received an ARC of this book to review. You can find this review and others like it at BookAndCoffeeAddict.com, along with recommendations for a fantastic cup of coffee.
To say Ezra and Donner have not had it easy in life is an understatement. Both men come from traumatizing backgrounds with horrible parents (to say the least). Both have loved and lost the person they thought was their forever (Ezra’s ex pretty much abandoned him after a move to a new city and Donner’s partner of six years was killed in a senseless act of violence). Now Ezra goes for no attachment fun and Donner hasn’t opened himself up to the possibility of anything long-term in a longtime. Ezra’s preferred hunting ground for willing partners happens to be Pot O Gold, where Donner works as a bartender. Despite the fact that neither man is looking for more at the time, when the two finally meet they just seem to click. Ezra’s never had someone show they care for him the way Donner does and there’s something about Ezra that makes Donner want to put himself out there and let someone in again. It’s not all smooth sailing, and some miscommunications lead to a rocky start, but they’ve stumbled upon something together worth fighting for and they both know it.
Actions speak louder than words in this book when it comes to how the characters perceive themselves and how others perceive them. Ezra thinks he has no real friends, but he cares deeply for his friend/occasional hook-up Romy and goes out of his way to help the other man when he finds himself in a bad situation. He also has good friends in couple Jamie and Alessandro (the main characters from the first book in this series, No Such Thing, that I can’t wait to get my hands on) who likewise go out of their way when Ezra needs them. Ezra knows how to use what he has – including extensive experience in the bedroom and eye-catching looks (white blonde hair and colored contacts he matches to his outfits), but while he oozes self-confidence he lacks real self-esteem. He just does’t think he’s good enough for someone like Donner, who actually seems to care about him as a person and who looks like a tough guy but whose big heart leads him to feed the hungry in his spare time and cry when his sister’s dog gets really sick.
Spoiler warning:
I enjoyed this book from beginning to end (barring the one incident mentioned above). It’s a page-turner for sure with great characters and emotional tension that never quite eases until the last page. It’s the first time I’ve read this author and I can tell you they know how to a hook a reader and not let go – I’ll for sure be on the lookout for more books by A.M. Arthur.
*I received an ARC of this book to review. You can find this review and others like it at BookAndCoffeeAddict.com, along with recommendations for a fantastic cup of coffee.
February 19, 2020
Donner and Ezra are perfect for one another !! This is more than just an M/M romance, it is deeper than that. Wonderful characters we like right away, an interesting plot, and super hot sexiness make this worth reading. Loved these guys. The romance moves slowly, but with intensity. Ezra is alone except for his two friends, Alessandro and Jamie.
Donner is the bartender at their favorite bar/club. After a "close encounter" in the bathroom, Ezra needs help, and Donner provides it. The next day Donner delivers a ginger ale, and shows his caring side, which is evident when we learned Donner also has a side event of feeding the homeless, Street Feed and is a natural caretaker.
Ezra must open his heart and let his feelings flow. They each have traumatic pasts to put behind them, like Ezra's parent's abuse, and Donner seeing his last partner stabbed in front of him and dying. We have an apology from Tag, Romy in an abusive relationship whom they rescue, and much more.
Beautifully written as always by A. M. Arthur.
You won't be disappointed.
Highly recommend. ENJOY !!!
=====
Donner is the bartender at their favorite bar/club. After a "close encounter" in the bathroom, Ezra needs help, and Donner provides it. The next day Donner delivers a ginger ale, and shows his caring side, which is evident when we learned Donner also has a side event of feeding the homeless, Street Feed and is a natural caretaker.
Ezra must open his heart and let his feelings flow. They each have traumatic pasts to put behind them, like Ezra's parent's abuse, and Donner seeing his last partner stabbed in front of him and dying. We have an apology from Tag, Romy in an abusive relationship whom they rescue, and much more.
Beautifully written as always by A. M. Arthur.
You won't be disappointed.
Highly recommend. ENJOY !!!
=====
April 1, 2015
Loved Ezra and Donner's story. I actually wound up reading this series after having read Getting It Right which has a timeline that overlaps so I had already seen part of the story from Tag's POV. I thought this one had a good balance of angst without going too overboard and dark. I loved both Ezra and Donner's back stories and the two had great chemistry. I'm moving right on to Romy's story.
September 8, 2016
Ezra and Donner are bent, but not broken, by the painful experiences in their past. Both having built emotional walls to protect themselves from experiencing future pain, what starts as a sexy encounter in a bar quickly develops into mutual attraction.
Letting go of the lessons of their youth and learning to trust again may be an impossible task, but taking that leap of faith could potentially be the best decision either man ever makes.
A well written and developed story, Maybe This Time contains an emotional cast of characters and tackles challenging topics, including homelessness, abuse, discrimination and loss. The emotional impact is intense, the storytelling is believable, and I would recommend this to readers who are looking to be inspired by a story that is more about the journey than the ending. While it can be read as a stand alone novel, it does contain characters from Arthur's previously published work No Such Thing.
OFFICIAL REVIEW written for Carly's Book Reviews.
A copy was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for the purpose of review.
Letting go of the lessons of their youth and learning to trust again may be an impossible task, but taking that leap of faith could potentially be the best decision either man ever makes.
A well written and developed story, Maybe This Time contains an emotional cast of characters and tackles challenging topics, including homelessness, abuse, discrimination and loss. The emotional impact is intense, the storytelling is believable, and I would recommend this to readers who are looking to be inspired by a story that is more about the journey than the ending. While it can be read as a stand alone novel, it does contain characters from Arthur's previously published work No Such Thing.
OFFICIAL REVIEW written for Carly's Book Reviews.
A copy was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for the purpose of review.
August 30, 2014
One of the things I love about AM Arthur's writing is that she writes somewhat over-the-top, almost soap-operatic romances. To me, this is a good thing. I know what I'm getting, and when I'm in the mood for that kind of story, no one does it better than AM Arthur. Instead of rolling my eyes, I'm clutching my ereader to my chest and stifling tears. I KNOW it's over the top, and I LOVE it over the top. In lesser hands these storylines would falter, but somehow, she makes them work.
This story was great. I loved Ezra in No Such Thing, and I was so excited to learn he would have his own story. I loved how he and Donner fit together. I loved the kindness in both of them, and the sweetness of their relationship.
A sweet, sexy (very sexy, yay!) book that had me reaching for my kleenex and sighing with happiness when it was done.
This story was great. I loved Ezra in No Such Thing, and I was so excited to learn he would have his own story. I loved how he and Donner fit together. I loved the kindness in both of them, and the sweetness of their relationship.
A sweet, sexy (very sexy, yay!) book that had me reaching for my kleenex and sighing with happiness when it was done.
November 11, 2014
The author writes a scene where a bottom gets a blow job from his top then he bottoms for the guy. The author knows nothing about gay sex! Imagine, she writes a story about a couple where the bottom comes then gets his butt reamed "fast and hard" and "without any prep". The woman is an idiot. Authors if you are going to write anal-sex scenes perhaps you should learn about anal sex between gay men. As an aside unrelated to this book in particular, about one third of gay couples do not have anal sex but in M/M romances 100% of couples have anal sex.
The couple has sex without a condom. Well that certainly a great example to set for your gay male readers!
Then they start using condoms. Next they decide not to use condoms because they both tested negative for HIV. What about other STDs? More importantly it can take up to six months after being infected with HIV before it shows up on a test. That means unless they use condoms together (or abstain from sex) for six months from the last time they had been with a previous sex partner, they are still at risk of infecting each other. Some uniformed gay male readers may think it's okay to for a monogamous couple have sex without a condom simply on the basis of one HIV test taken less than six months since they had sex with other guys. Not only is it not okay it puts the men at risk for transmission of HIV.
It is unforgivable and I find it criminal that A.M. Arthur is spreading unsafe sex practices through her books. A gay male reader not familiar with safe sex could read this book and think it is okay to follow her dictums.
This frigging ignorant, butt for brains woman could be responsible for a person getting infected with HIV based on them following her book saying it's okay just to get an HIV test and immediately dispense with condoms.
FU lady! You could be killing young gay men who read this book and then think it's okay to follow your deadly advice because authors are so smart they must know what's right. Right? Wrong!
Even if the six month period had passed why stop using condoms? If going bareback is that important to the couple then they are trusting each other with their lives. I would never take a chance after only a few months or even a year. It could be longer before I could complete trust my lover not to cheat. He may seem to be trustworthy but is it worth risking your life before you've built up years of trust? Insta-love or not, this is an issue to be considered and discussed before going bareback if for some reason it's worth becoming HIV+ to go condomless.
The couple has sex without a condom. Well that certainly a great example to set for your gay male readers!
Then they start using condoms. Next they decide not to use condoms because they both tested negative for HIV. What about other STDs? More importantly it can take up to six months after being infected with HIV before it shows up on a test. That means unless they use condoms together (or abstain from sex) for six months from the last time they had been with a previous sex partner, they are still at risk of infecting each other. Some uniformed gay male readers may think it's okay to for a monogamous couple have sex without a condom simply on the basis of one HIV test taken less than six months since they had sex with other guys. Not only is it not okay it puts the men at risk for transmission of HIV.
It is unforgivable and I find it criminal that A.M. Arthur is spreading unsafe sex practices through her books. A gay male reader not familiar with safe sex could read this book and think it is okay to follow her dictums.
This frigging ignorant, butt for brains woman could be responsible for a person getting infected with HIV based on them following her book saying it's okay just to get an HIV test and immediately dispense with condoms.
FU lady! You could be killing young gay men who read this book and then think it's okay to follow your deadly advice because authors are so smart they must know what's right. Right? Wrong!
Even if the six month period had passed why stop using condoms? If going bareback is that important to the couple then they are trusting each other with their lives. I would never take a chance after only a few months or even a year. It could be longer before I could complete trust my lover not to cheat. He may seem to be trustworthy but is it worth risking your life before you've built up years of trust? Insta-love or not, this is an issue to be considered and discussed before going bareback if for some reason it's worth becoming HIV+ to go condomless.
October 5, 2015
Maybe This Time easily works as a stand-alone. Jaime and Alessandro from No Such Thing have small roles here as they are close friends with Ezra but nothing pertinent from their book carries over into Donner and Ezra’s story. If you’ve read Getting it Right you’ll see that some of that timeline overlaps with this one. This installment of A.M. Arthur’s Belonging series takes place in the same Wilmington Delaware as her Restoration books.
Donner and Ezra know who the other is thanks to Pot O Gold. Donner is one of the bartenders at Ezra’s favorite place to find a sexy hot hook up. Their paths are bound to cross at some point. Initially it seems like good no strings attached fun. That is what both Ezra and Donner look for when they seek out a hook up. They soon start trying to make their paths cross since they both see that they enjoy the others company more than just a one off. This is all fine and great until Donner wants the trusting openness that comes with a relationship and Ezra won’t allow himself to share like that ever again.
Donner and Ezra both have some stuff in their past that they would like to keep there. Ezra’s past is something that still haunts him and affects every hook up he has. The thing he wants to keep deeply buried forever is the thing that keeps him from having more when it comes to long term relationships. Donner knows all about keeping some secrets buried. He also knows that his baggage is something that significant other needs to know about. The whole of these secrets and pasts makes Ezra’s and Donner’s story so good. As a readers you want to see them get past these hurdles and have a happily ever after.
Arthur introduces Romy and Brendan of Stand by You. She also sets up the horrific circumstances they meet under. I’m looking forward to getting started on their book. It’s guaranteed to be amazing!
Donner and Ezra know who the other is thanks to Pot O Gold. Donner is one of the bartenders at Ezra’s favorite place to find a sexy hot hook up. Their paths are bound to cross at some point. Initially it seems like good no strings attached fun. That is what both Ezra and Donner look for when they seek out a hook up. They soon start trying to make their paths cross since they both see that they enjoy the others company more than just a one off. This is all fine and great until Donner wants the trusting openness that comes with a relationship and Ezra won’t allow himself to share like that ever again.
Donner and Ezra both have some stuff in their past that they would like to keep there. Ezra’s past is something that still haunts him and affects every hook up he has. The thing he wants to keep deeply buried forever is the thing that keeps him from having more when it comes to long term relationships. Donner knows all about keeping some secrets buried. He also knows that his baggage is something that significant other needs to know about. The whole of these secrets and pasts makes Ezra’s and Donner’s story so good. As a readers you want to see them get past these hurdles and have a happily ever after.
Arthur introduces Romy and Brendan of Stand by You. She also sets up the horrific circumstances they meet under. I’m looking forward to getting started on their book. It’s guaranteed to be amazing!
September 8, 2014
I've been waiting for this book since reading No Such Thing, because Ezra. Ezra, the sort of twink whose eyes always match his outfits, who's the Pot O'Gold go-to hook-up, who doesn't do relationships, who seems to be content to be single and sexing it up.
Who has a side to him that doesn't get revealed very often, the side that thinks he's unlovable, and doesn't deserve/won't ever find anyone to love him. He drifts through life, living off his parents' guilt money, without any goals beyond the next cheap thrill. He keeps his wounds hidden, because being open means being hurt.
So, yeah - Ezra.
But also Donner, who sneaks up on you quietly, who loves freely and openly, and whose heart is big enough to encapsulate Ezra and give him peace. With tragedy in his past, Donner is close to his remaining family, loyal and fiercely protective, and he sees something in Ezra that Ezra himself doesn't see. And Donner is afraid to love again, afraid that he will lose his second love much like he lost his first.
A.M. Arthur's sophomore novel in this series is far better than the first, with deft writing, that addresses serious topics but never becomes too bleak or depressing. Organic dialogue is followed by hot sexy times, though I applaud the author for the slow burn of the relationship between Ezra and Donner - it was a smoldering fire from the start.
This is a hurt/comfort story as much as a finding yourself story, a novel about standing up for your beliefs and a novel about finding that which has eluded you for so long by opening the doors to your heart and jumping feet first into the abyss.
Very well done.
** I received a free ARC from the publisher. A positive review was not promised in return. **
Who has a side to him that doesn't get revealed very often, the side that thinks he's unlovable, and doesn't deserve/won't ever find anyone to love him. He drifts through life, living off his parents' guilt money, without any goals beyond the next cheap thrill. He keeps his wounds hidden, because being open means being hurt.
So, yeah - Ezra.
But also Donner, who sneaks up on you quietly, who loves freely and openly, and whose heart is big enough to encapsulate Ezra and give him peace. With tragedy in his past, Donner is close to his remaining family, loyal and fiercely protective, and he sees something in Ezra that Ezra himself doesn't see. And Donner is afraid to love again, afraid that he will lose his second love much like he lost his first.
A.M. Arthur's sophomore novel in this series is far better than the first, with deft writing, that addresses serious topics but never becomes too bleak or depressing. Organic dialogue is followed by hot sexy times, though I applaud the author for the slow burn of the relationship between Ezra and Donner - it was a smoldering fire from the start.
This is a hurt/comfort story as much as a finding yourself story, a novel about standing up for your beliefs and a novel about finding that which has eluded you for so long by opening the doors to your heart and jumping feet first into the abyss.
Very well done.
** I received a free ARC from the publisher. A positive review was not promised in return. **
April 19, 2016
Anyone who has read my reviews will hopefully remember that one of my issues, albeit a small one, with the first book in this series was that I didn't get the connection between the book title and the story. Needless to say I get this one. It was in my opinion a very appropriate title for this book.
'No Such Thing' was the first book in this series and it was good. It laid a solid foundation for the books to come. But 'Maybe This Time' stepped up the game to a whole different level. I really liked Ezra just from the little peek that we were given of him in the first book. His life has not been good and he's built a fortress of steel around his heart to protect himself or at least he thought he had until he meets Donner.
Donner's life hasn't been pretty or easy either, but he's had people who have loved him and given him the acceptance and support that Ezra is still looking for. Donner sees Ezra and he likes what he sees a lot.
A.M. Arthur's story of how these two men come together and find a way to build a relationship that is loving, good and positive was a wonderful read. It was sweet & sexy with that little bit of angst that keeps me turning the pages and wanting to read more and while this part of Ezra and Donner's story was nicely wrapped up for me the icing on the cake was how beautifully she walked us into book #3 Stand By You, which is Romy's story and slated to be released on October 20th. I am so looking forward to this. Romy showed up briefly in book one and struck me as being a sweet guy but his story really started towards the end of 'Maybe This Time' and it broke my heart and left me in tears but I have faith that in 'Stand By You' I will get to see Romy find love. Just like his friends.
'No Such Thing' was the first book in this series and it was good. It laid a solid foundation for the books to come. But 'Maybe This Time' stepped up the game to a whole different level. I really liked Ezra just from the little peek that we were given of him in the first book. His life has not been good and he's built a fortress of steel around his heart to protect himself or at least he thought he had until he meets Donner.
Donner's life hasn't been pretty or easy either, but he's had people who have loved him and given him the acceptance and support that Ezra is still looking for. Donner sees Ezra and he likes what he sees a lot.
A.M. Arthur's story of how these two men come together and find a way to build a relationship that is loving, good and positive was a wonderful read. It was sweet & sexy with that little bit of angst that keeps me turning the pages and wanting to read more and while this part of Ezra and Donner's story was nicely wrapped up for me the icing on the cake was how beautifully she walked us into book #3 Stand By You, which is Romy's story and slated to be released on October 20th. I am so looking forward to this. Romy showed up briefly in book one and struck me as being a sweet guy but his story really started towards the end of 'Maybe This Time' and it broke my heart and left me in tears but I have faith that in 'Stand By You' I will get to see Romy find love. Just like his friends.
July 3, 2014
Okay, so back in February I read No Such Thing by this author and said there should be a sequel.
I love being right.
This is it. It's not a sequel persay, because it's about Ezra and not Jaime and Ale, but they do make appearances. And I'm SO HAPPY this one is about Ezra because I loved him.
This book was fantastic. I loved Ezra's character and getting to know what made him who he is today. I also loved Donner. Such a kind, caring person. And while the two men had their problems and their hangups, they TALKED. Again with this author and having the characters actually talk about their problems and issues instead of angsting forever about them! I mean yes, there were moments of misunderstanding, but nothing like other novels I've read. It's really refreshing.
I enjoyed Donner meeting Ezra's family because I love the stand he took. That was just so awesome I actually sighed to myself while reading it.
That said, this book DEFINITELY lends itself to a sequel. Romy is definitely going to star in it. And if he doesn't, I'll be really surprised and a little angry because I love Romy and he deserves a happy ending. My initial thought was that Tag would be the second in it, because Tag seems like a nice kind of guy and someone Romy would need. But then when Brendan meets him... I think there's something to that. I'd be happy with either of them ending up with Romy. Or both.
I love being right.
This is it. It's not a sequel persay, because it's about Ezra and not Jaime and Ale, but they do make appearances. And I'm SO HAPPY this one is about Ezra because I loved him.
This book was fantastic. I loved Ezra's character and getting to know what made him who he is today. I also loved Donner. Such a kind, caring person. And while the two men had their problems and their hangups, they TALKED. Again with this author and having the characters actually talk about their problems and issues instead of angsting forever about them! I mean yes, there were moments of misunderstanding, but nothing like other novels I've read. It's really refreshing.
I enjoyed Donner meeting Ezra's family because I love the stand he took. That was just so awesome I actually sighed to myself while reading it.
That said, this book DEFINITELY lends itself to a sequel. Romy is definitely going to star in it. And if he doesn't, I'll be really surprised and a little angry because I love Romy and he deserves a happy ending. My initial thought was that Tag would be the second in it, because Tag seems like a nice kind of guy and someone Romy would need. But then when Brendan meets him... I think there's something to that. I'd be happy with either of them ending up with Romy. Or both.
July 19, 2014
Companion novel to No Such Thing, Maybe this time shows us the developing loving relationship between Ezra and Donner. Neither appear to be looking for a long-time commitment. Well, that's what they keep telling themselves and us.
But what transpires is clear to all. They have formed connections and are stronger together than apart. Donner's grief over the loss of his boyfriend, and Ezra's loss of self-esteem by his family and his ex need to be overcome, and this makes up the basis of the narrative.
I love these simple but authentic stories. A M Arthur is one of my go-to favs and I think this story hits all the emotional points beautifully. There is sadness and bittersweetness, and the two boys together are hot and loving.
Really enjoyed this. Copy was provided by publisher via Netgalley and read with thanks. Due out Monday July 21st.
But what transpires is clear to all. They have formed connections and are stronger together than apart. Donner's grief over the loss of his boyfriend, and Ezra's loss of self-esteem by his family and his ex need to be overcome, and this makes up the basis of the narrative.
I love these simple but authentic stories. A M Arthur is one of my go-to favs and I think this story hits all the emotional points beautifully. There is sadness and bittersweetness, and the two boys together are hot and loving.
Really enjoyed this. Copy was provided by publisher via Netgalley and read with thanks. Due out Monday July 21st.
March 29, 2016
I really enjoyed this sequel to No Such Thing. This book focuses on Jaime and Alessandro's friend, Ezra, who seems to just be floating through life on sex and a dead-end job. That is until he meets Donner, a bartender at Ezra's favorite bar Pot O Gold, and things change for them both. I definitely fell in love with both Ezra and Donner. They each had their own baggage to deal with and, as a couple, worked through it together. I hope that A.M. Arthur continues writing in this world and I'm really hoping Ezra's friend Romy and Donner's friend Brendan are the next couple.
I received a free e-ARC of this book from Carina Press via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received a free e-ARC of this book from Carina Press via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 4, 2015
I love Ezra! Oh my word! Not only is he colorful in personality and fashion he's got one hell of a back story. He meets Donner, who has a lot of baggage himself, and they just click! I loved it. Seeing Jaime and Alessandro again was a nice addition to the story and I just love how this series is growing. We all have skeletons in our closet and when you find someone you trust they are easier to face! Great read.
July 26, 2014
**ARC kindly provided for an honest review**
January 1, 2019
Letting Go & Finding Love!
The Ezra & Donner romantic story is a bit of a soap opera with disfuncional families, an abused friend, a sexy couple making out and a nephew that a dog! Good writing, good characters development, good pacing. I give it 3 1/2 ⭐️’s
The Ezra & Donner romantic story is a bit of a soap opera with disfuncional families, an abused friend, a sexy couple making out and a nephew that a dog! Good writing, good characters development, good pacing. I give it 3 1/2 ⭐️’s
October 1, 2014
4.0 Stars
You know why I liked this book? Because I really didn't care for Ezra at the beginning. Does that make sense? For the first half of the book, Ezra seemed (IMO) so undeserving of Donner I, frankly, disliked him. But by the end, I was entrenched in the Ezra-Donner camp! I LOVE when that happens. A.M. Arthur hit a ... maybe not a homerun ... but a TRIPLE with this book. The characters were engaging and the storyline was compelling. I stayed up waaaaaay past my bedtime to finish and that counts for something in my book.
My one gripe: This book is not lendable. I hate when publishers disallow lending. That blows chunks.
Bottom line: Recommend!
You know why I liked this book? Because I really didn't care for Ezra at the beginning. Does that make sense? For the first half of the book, Ezra seemed (IMO) so undeserving of Donner I, frankly, disliked him. But by the end, I was entrenched in the Ezra-Donner camp! I LOVE when that happens. A.M. Arthur hit a ... maybe not a homerun ... but a TRIPLE with this book. The characters were engaging and the storyline was compelling. I stayed up waaaaaay past my bedtime to finish and that counts for something in my book.
My one gripe: This book is not lendable. I hate when publishers disallow lending. That blows chunks.
Bottom line: Recommend!
July 22, 2014
A sweet and sexy story. Two very likable characters who are both scared to trust and feel and get involved, slowly let each other in. The result is warm and sweet and oh so steamy. I did not read the first book but that didn't affect the story in this one, besides having a cameo of the previous couple in this one.
While i remember enjoying the book while I read it, writing this now a few days later and not remembering a lot of it, shows me that it did not have that much of an impact on me, thats why it gets 3 stars.
While i remember enjoying the book while I read it, writing this now a few days later and not remembering a lot of it, shows me that it did not have that much of an impact on me, thats why it gets 3 stars.
January 8, 2016
Okay but nothing to write home about. A nice read but nothing new. Both leads were developed but the rest of the secondary characters were paper thin and were there to move the plot along. I didn't read the first book in the series, so both Alessandro and Jayme didn't really register (book 1 is their story) like I think book 3 will be Brendan and the rescued young man story.
The structure of the series is not new the author did it with Cost of Repairs. It feels like a repetition of some sort.
The structure of the series is not new the author did it with Cost of Repairs. It feels like a repetition of some sort.
August 5, 2014
Very bland story. I didn't find anything particularly earth shattering about Donner, Ezra or their relationship. I couldn't pinpoint even one dramatic moment, not that I love drama, that made this story interesting.
As part of a series, this book serves as a tool for keeping in touch with the couple from the previous book and set up the background for the next book. That made this story feel very transitional and more like a bridge to go from one point to the next.
As part of a series, this book serves as a tool for keeping in touch with the couple from the previous book and set up the background for the next book. That made this story feel very transitional and more like a bridge to go from one point to the next.
July 26, 2014
3.5 Stars
I enjoyed this but not as much as the first one. I kept expecting something a little 'more' from Ezra's story since he was the center of the hot scenes in the first book and they kept making cameo appearances. I really liked Donner and his back story. Can see something happening with Romy and the big dude maybe for the next book?
Definitely worth reading.
I enjoyed this but not as much as the first one. I kept expecting something a little 'more' from Ezra's story since he was the center of the hot scenes in the first book and they kept making cameo appearances. I really liked Donner and his back story. Can see something happening with Romy and the big dude maybe for the next book?
Definitely worth reading.
November 30, 2015
Having read Getting it Right and experiencing Tag and Ezra at the beginning it was interesting to see Ezra's storey. I really enjoy how the books are all interlinked but not necessarily dependent on each other. The storey timeframe is often parallel which is very interesting to experience. Excited to move on to book three and then finish the Restoration series.
June 11, 2014
*ARC courtesy of Netgalley and Carina Press*
October 16, 2014
4.5 stars!
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