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Loving Maddie from A to Z
Home is where the hearts are…
Award-winning photojournalist Zack Donovan is happy to be alive after being held captive by a band of rebels in Syria. He’s not so happy to be on his way back to Chicago to recuperate with his college friends Maddie and Aidan, who are now a couple. The fear while being held prisoner was nothing compared to how he feels about facing the two people who unknowingly broke his heart seven years ago.
Maddie and Aidan are deeply in love, but lately they feel something is missing for them. They’d do anything to make the other happy, but are struggling to figure out what that is. Those problems are set aside, however, when their best friend from college is taken hostage in Syria. After graduation, Maddie and Aidan were hurt by Zack’s refusal to ever come home to visit, but he’s still their friend and he has no family, so when he’s finally free they insist he come stay with them to recover.
Zack’s a different man now. He’s seen terrible things. He’s come to terms with his sexuality and embraced his need to dominate. Maddie and Aidan would be shocked to know the kinds of things he likes to do. A guy like him will never have a relationship like theirs. But when Zack realizes he might be able to show Maddie and Aidan what they’re missing, he faces a dilemma. Do something? Do nothing? Pretend everything’s fine? Help them if he can? But will showing them what they’re missing help save their relationship…or destroy it?
Award-winning photojournalist Zack Donovan is happy to be alive after being held captive by a band of rebels in Syria. He’s not so happy to be on his way back to Chicago to recuperate with his college friends Maddie and Aidan, who are now a couple. The fear while being held prisoner was nothing compared to how he feels about facing the two people who unknowingly broke his heart seven years ago.
Maddie and Aidan are deeply in love, but lately they feel something is missing for them. They’d do anything to make the other happy, but are struggling to figure out what that is. Those problems are set aside, however, when their best friend from college is taken hostage in Syria. After graduation, Maddie and Aidan were hurt by Zack’s refusal to ever come home to visit, but he’s still their friend and he has no family, so when he’s finally free they insist he come stay with them to recover.
Zack’s a different man now. He’s seen terrible things. He’s come to terms with his sexuality and embraced his need to dominate. Maddie and Aidan would be shocked to know the kinds of things he likes to do. A guy like him will never have a relationship like theirs. But when Zack realizes he might be able to show Maddie and Aidan what they’re missing, he faces a dilemma. Do something? Do nothing? Pretend everything’s fine? Help them if he can? But will showing them what they’re missing help save their relationship…or destroy it?
286 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 4, 2015
205 people are currently reading
510 people want to read
About the author
Kelly Jamieson
136 books2,643 followersKelly Jamieson is a USA Today bestselling author of over 70 romance novels and novellas. Her writing has been described as “emotionally complex,” “sweet and satisfying,” and “blisteringly sexy.” She likes black coffee, white wine and high heels…and of course cheering on her Winnipeg Jets during hockey season! She loves hearing from readers, so please visit her website at www.kellyjamieson.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
April 8, 2015
Slick's review posted on Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews
Some authors excel at writing different romance troupes and for Kelly Jamieson it is ménage, that's not to say the rest of her work isn't excellent, but when it comes to ménage Ms. Jamieson always delivers an emotional packed story along with beautifully written intimate scenes. Loving Maddie from A to Z is an poignant story of a couple and their best friend from college learning to own up to the desires, communicate them to each other and being brave enough to take a chance knowing it could change things between them forever. The character's journey was intense and difficult but it was also beautiful and I loved this book from start to finish.
Friends since college Zack, a Pulitzer Prize winning photojournalist, returns from a harrowing incident to recuperate with Aidan and Maddie. Zack is struggling after being in captivity and stripped of his basic human rights, he is suffering from some PTSD, he hasn't wanted to pick up a camera, and while he's happy for his friends, he can't help but be jealous that they have each other. I love that he sees so much and that he begins to realize that while Aidan and Maddie love one another they are struggling and he feels guilty for playing a part in it. I'll admit at first I wondered if Zack got involved because he really wanted each of them for himself but it became apparent that helping them satisfied his needs and helped him heal. There was so much I loved about this story; the fact that Aidan and Maddie communicated they needed more from their sex life even if they didn't communicate it as honestly as they needed to, that Maddie opened up to Zack when he asked, that they both trusted Zack as he guided them into accepting their needs, that they all remained open minded and discussed things fully and completely, and that both Aidan and Maddie came to realize that Zack was an important part of their lives without jealousy or accusations.
There are many revelations that come to these three throughout this book and I think the fact that they had this friendship from years ago helped them to easily communicate and accept what was happening in their lives. Yes, there are some tough moments and a lot of soul searching but in the end it comes down to acceptance, trust, and love and it is tough for me to describe the beauty of their relationship.
This is one of those reviews where I feel I'm not communicating how amazing this book it; so I'll just say this book is powerful, it is exquisite, and it is absolutely a book you should take the time to read.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
Some authors excel at writing different romance troupes and for Kelly Jamieson it is ménage, that's not to say the rest of her work isn't excellent, but when it comes to ménage Ms. Jamieson always delivers an emotional packed story along with beautifully written intimate scenes. Loving Maddie from A to Z is an poignant story of a couple and their best friend from college learning to own up to the desires, communicate them to each other and being brave enough to take a chance knowing it could change things between them forever. The character's journey was intense and difficult but it was also beautiful and I loved this book from start to finish.
Friends since college Zack, a Pulitzer Prize winning photojournalist, returns from a harrowing incident to recuperate with Aidan and Maddie. Zack is struggling after being in captivity and stripped of his basic human rights, he is suffering from some PTSD, he hasn't wanted to pick up a camera, and while he's happy for his friends, he can't help but be jealous that they have each other. I love that he sees so much and that he begins to realize that while Aidan and Maddie love one another they are struggling and he feels guilty for playing a part in it. I'll admit at first I wondered if Zack got involved because he really wanted each of them for himself but it became apparent that helping them satisfied his needs and helped him heal. There was so much I loved about this story; the fact that Aidan and Maddie communicated they needed more from their sex life even if they didn't communicate it as honestly as they needed to, that Maddie opened up to Zack when he asked, that they both trusted Zack as he guided them into accepting their needs, that they all remained open minded and discussed things fully and completely, and that both Aidan and Maddie came to realize that Zack was an important part of their lives without jealousy or accusations.
There are many revelations that come to these three throughout this book and I think the fact that they had this friendship from years ago helped them to easily communicate and accept what was happening in their lives. Yes, there are some tough moments and a lot of soul searching but in the end it comes down to acceptance, trust, and love and it is tough for me to describe the beauty of their relationship.
This is one of those reviews where I feel I'm not communicating how amazing this book it; so I'll just say this book is powerful, it is exquisite, and it is absolutely a book you should take the time to read.
Review copy provided for an honest review.
March 20, 2016
Holy shit, this was hot! 3 smut books in a day is just what the doctor ordered. Daaaamn!
Short review: 3 friends from college: Aidan, Zack and Maddie. They all had feelings for each other, but they were all afraid to admit them out loud. Several years later, Zack and Maddie hooked up and Zack was traveling around the world (he is a photojournalist). Now, Zack is back. He was super jealous about his friends being together, but he soon found out that there was something missing in theirsexual relationship, so he took charge of things. That being the point were your ovaries might explode.
I loved this book because it wasn't just extremely, off the charts, mega hot. Its characters are complex, "real" and smart. They talk about their jobs, Syria, war prisoners, architecture, PR, fund-raisers and stuff like that. Again, in my opinion, this is the idea of a perfect erotica: not just sex. When you see them talking and doing something else besides sex, it's like a huge anticipation (waiting to get to the smut stuff). For about 4 hours my eyes were glued to this book.
If you're into menage, M/F/M, M/M/F, M/F and a little M/M + soft BDSM, than this is your book. ;)
Follow me, if you want :)
It would be an absolute honor to have you as my guest on my blog too. Stop by anytime you want :)
Short review: 3 friends from college: Aidan, Zack and Maddie. They all had feelings for each other, but they were all afraid to admit them out loud. Several years later, Zack and Maddie hooked up and Zack was traveling around the world (he is a photojournalist). Now, Zack is back. He was super jealous about his friends being together, but he soon found out that there was something missing in their
I loved this book because it wasn't just extremely, off the charts, mega hot. Its characters are complex, "real" and smart. They talk about their jobs, Syria, war prisoners, architecture, PR, fund-raisers and stuff like that. Again, in my opinion, this is the idea of a perfect erotica: not just sex. When you see them talking and doing something else besides sex, it's like a huge anticipation (waiting to get to the smut stuff). For about 4 hours my eyes were glued to this book.
If you're into menage, M/F/M, M/M/F, M/F and a little M/M + soft BDSM, than this is your book. ;)
Follow me, if you want :)
It would be an absolute honor to have you as my guest on my blog too. Stop by anytime you want :)
September 24, 2015
I really liked this one. Especially Zach was an interesting character. Aiden was just great and Maddie developed really well
If you are looking for a good permanent menage story, this is it. A good time frame, great characters, real chemistry and sparks and real feelings
Loved reading it
If you are looking for a good permanent menage story, this is it. A good time frame, great characters, real chemistry and sparks and real feelings
Loved reading it
April 10, 2015
Received in exchange for a honest review.
For me the dynamic I loved isn't what the book is about. It isn't the missing pieces that help complete the relationship of Aiden and Maddie. It isn't Maddie and Zack's love for each other. It is the poly relationship that Zack, Aiden and Maddie have. It isn't even the need of Aiden's to be dominated. For me it is Zack's and Aiden's relationship dynamic that kept me in this book.
The story tells of a couple Aiden and Maddie who love each other deeply but feel something is missing intimately. Each fear losing the other so they try new things. Aiden will do anything to make Maddie happy. He will always protect and love her so when she wants to be flogged he does this. They are both successful and both love each other very much and this is seen in the little things they do for one another throughout the book. More so on Aiden's behalf than Maddie's.
One day they find out their long lost friend Zack is a hostage. Maddie decides to take action and do what she can to help him. Aiden does what he can as well. When Zack comes back he stays with them and the reason he walked out of their lives all those years ago will gut you.
Zack is a sweet guy underneath the fear. He tries not to get attached to others and feels he is unworthy of love and friendship. Always feeling like the outsider except for when he is with Maddie and Aiden. What he goes through when he gets back is so sad. He is confused and lost in how he feels and fears rejection.
Things turn around though when he sees what Aiden and Maddie need to help them and he tries to. Those scenes were off the charts in the sin o meter wowza. My favorite though are the intimate moments between Zack and Aiden. We aren't just talking intimate like bedroom intimate but intimate in loving kind tender moments as well. We see Aiden open up and confront his feelings and accept them. He loves Zack as Zack loves him. Zack though was always afraid of Aiden's reaction and being left out. It is their dynamic that is truly intriguing. Watching these two men discover one another again as friends. Discover each other as lovers and accept that they love each other and want to be in a committed relationship with one another is so amazingly beautiful.
Watching Aiden accept himself and his needs inside the bedroom is great. Seeing him transform and find his love for Zack and his romantic gesture to get Zack back is so so swoony.
This is a character driven book. their emotions and needs drive the book. This is the story of three finds finding one another again. Two of them trying to find what is missing in their lives and who love each other very much. The story of a girl what has always struggled with the fact she loves her two best friends and how she comes to accept and embrace this love and be loved back just as strongly by those two friends. The story of a man finally allowing himself to have love and a place to call home. The story of a man who finds out who he is and his love for his best friend who is a man. IT is the story of three friends finding love and support with each other as lovers and join together in a loving sexy relationship.
For me the dynamic I loved isn't what the book is about. It isn't the missing pieces that help complete the relationship of Aiden and Maddie. It isn't Maddie and Zack's love for each other. It is the poly relationship that Zack, Aiden and Maddie have. It isn't even the need of Aiden's to be dominated. For me it is Zack's and Aiden's relationship dynamic that kept me in this book.
The story tells of a couple Aiden and Maddie who love each other deeply but feel something is missing intimately. Each fear losing the other so they try new things. Aiden will do anything to make Maddie happy. He will always protect and love her so when she wants to be flogged he does this. They are both successful and both love each other very much and this is seen in the little things they do for one another throughout the book. More so on Aiden's behalf than Maddie's.
One day they find out their long lost friend Zack is a hostage. Maddie decides to take action and do what she can to help him. Aiden does what he can as well. When Zack comes back he stays with them and the reason he walked out of their lives all those years ago will gut you.
Zack is a sweet guy underneath the fear. He tries not to get attached to others and feels he is unworthy of love and friendship. Always feeling like the outsider except for when he is with Maddie and Aiden. What he goes through when he gets back is so sad. He is confused and lost in how he feels and fears rejection.
Things turn around though when he sees what Aiden and Maddie need to help them and he tries to. Those scenes were off the charts in the sin o meter wowza. My favorite though are the intimate moments between Zack and Aiden. We aren't just talking intimate like bedroom intimate but intimate in loving kind tender moments as well. We see Aiden open up and confront his feelings and accept them. He loves Zack as Zack loves him. Zack though was always afraid of Aiden's reaction and being left out. It is their dynamic that is truly intriguing. Watching these two men discover one another again as friends. Discover each other as lovers and accept that they love each other and want to be in a committed relationship with one another is so amazingly beautiful.
Watching Aiden accept himself and his needs inside the bedroom is great. Seeing him transform and find his love for Zack and his romantic gesture to get Zack back is so so swoony.
This is a character driven book. their emotions and needs drive the book. This is the story of three finds finding one another again. Two of them trying to find what is missing in their lives and who love each other very much. The story of a girl what has always struggled with the fact she loves her two best friends and how she comes to accept and embrace this love and be loved back just as strongly by those two friends. The story of a man finally allowing himself to have love and a place to call home. The story of a man who finds out who he is and his love for his best friend who is a man. IT is the story of three friends finding love and support with each other as lovers and join together in a loving sexy relationship.
April 3, 2016
This menage romance is the story of Zack, Maddie and Aiden. College friends, they were a tight knit group until Zack saw that Maddie and Aiden had feelings for each other and left Chicago and them behind to pursue a photojournalist career in war torn countries. After being held hostage and released, he ends up with his old friends, now married, to recuperate. But his feelings for his friends have never died and they in turn have discovered that something is missing from their sexual relationship, something Zack knows all about and is willing to pursue with them. But bedroom games and games of the heart don't always coincide - will they come clean with one another and give a future together a fighting chance?
I really enjoyed this story! Zack was an interesting character as a respected photojournalist who took one too many chances in dangerous countries and ended up kidnapped. Though we only hear about this part from his later conversations, it's clear that it has affected him deeply and made him think seriously about his future and what he wants in it. He's also a man who is comfortable with his bisexuality and his need for dominance in sexual play and being together with his old friends, ones he secretly was in love with in college makes for a new kind of tension when he is around them. There is a definite sexual attraction between all of them, making for some heated and scorching scenes as Zack takes charge and gives both Maddie and Aiden what they've been missing in their relationship. The dynamic between the three of them worked really well for me. I liked both Aiden and Maddie's characters and appreciated the honesty they had in their relationship. They love each other but they also know there is something more that they want and they communicate with each other really well to try to fulfill those needs. Aiden in particular was very interesting as a strong, dominant and confident business man who desires to be submissive in the bedroom, a rare quality and one he fears will demean his masculinity in Maddie's eyes. But Maddie is an understanding and real partner to Aiden, giving him what he wants to the best of her ability and encouraging Zack's attentions for them both.
With the serious background of the realities of journalists difficulties in foreign countries, and a sexy threesome, this story was an entertaining and interesting read. 5 stars!
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the author for review.
I really enjoyed this story! Zack was an interesting character as a respected photojournalist who took one too many chances in dangerous countries and ended up kidnapped. Though we only hear about this part from his later conversations, it's clear that it has affected him deeply and made him think seriously about his future and what he wants in it. He's also a man who is comfortable with his bisexuality and his need for dominance in sexual play and being together with his old friends, ones he secretly was in love with in college makes for a new kind of tension when he is around them. There is a definite sexual attraction between all of them, making for some heated and scorching scenes as Zack takes charge and gives both Maddie and Aiden what they've been missing in their relationship. The dynamic between the three of them worked really well for me. I liked both Aiden and Maddie's characters and appreciated the honesty they had in their relationship. They love each other but they also know there is something more that they want and they communicate with each other really well to try to fulfill those needs. Aiden in particular was very interesting as a strong, dominant and confident business man who desires to be submissive in the bedroom, a rare quality and one he fears will demean his masculinity in Maddie's eyes. But Maddie is an understanding and real partner to Aiden, giving him what he wants to the best of her ability and encouraging Zack's attentions for them both.
With the serious background of the realities of journalists difficulties in foreign countries, and a sexy threesome, this story was an entertaining and interesting read. 5 stars!
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the author for review.
April 30, 2015
http://amzn.to/1aOOqRV
** teaser**
“Maddie,” he said in a quiet but authoritative tone. “Kiss Aidan.”
She turned wide eyes on him. “Wh-what?”
Zack lifted his chin. “Kiss him.”
He glanced at Aidan. Aidan blinked.
“Do it,” he ordered, his tone harder. He reached blindly for the remote control for the TV and turned it off.
#sexymenage
I love Kelly Jamieson menage! Ms. Jamieson masterfully fits these three together like a puzzle. Ms. Jamieson does an amazing job at slowly putting the pieces together for these three and the reader.
Ms. Jamieson creatively managed to take a seemingly happy and in-love couple Aidan and Maddie and amped up their happy; almost taking their love to the next level as this couple sees that their true happy is with Zack; their best friend from college.
Zack is an award winning photojournalist who is returning to Chicago after being held captive. This story line was layered into the story so well. It helps the reader see the deep love Maddie buried for Zack and will likely make you want to hug Zack. Aidan’s love for Zack also adds a layer to this one. Oh and in the end the use of Zack’s photographic images in getting Maddie and Aidan to see why Zack left all those years ago and never returned home was outstanding; truly a heart pulling scene with an OMG moment.
Zack is dominate through and through:
“Maddie,” he said in a quiet but authoritative tone. “Kiss Aidan.”
She turned wide eyes on him. “Wh-what?”
Zack lifted his chin. “Kiss him.”
He glanced at Aidan. Aidan blinked.
“Do it,” he ordered, his tone harder. He reached blindly for the remote control for the TV and turned it off.
The sex scenes in this book were hot but also emotional and heartfelt as each gets just what they need from the other. Oh, and I love that not every sex scene was about penetration, the play, the trust and the connection built all added to the story.
I will not tell you how they all finally get to this happy but I will say bravo so well done; oh and the final scene was hot and emotional!
The title of the book fit so perfectly… Maddie with Aidan and Zack.. get it Loving Maddie from A to Z.
Ms. Jamieson proves again she rocks menage!
** teaser**
“Maddie,” he said in a quiet but authoritative tone. “Kiss Aidan.”
She turned wide eyes on him. “Wh-what?”
Zack lifted his chin. “Kiss him.”
He glanced at Aidan. Aidan blinked.
“Do it,” he ordered, his tone harder. He reached blindly for the remote control for the TV and turned it off.
#sexymenage
I love Kelly Jamieson menage! Ms. Jamieson masterfully fits these three together like a puzzle. Ms. Jamieson does an amazing job at slowly putting the pieces together for these three and the reader.
Ms. Jamieson creatively managed to take a seemingly happy and in-love couple Aidan and Maddie and amped up their happy; almost taking their love to the next level as this couple sees that their true happy is with Zack; their best friend from college.
Zack is an award winning photojournalist who is returning to Chicago after being held captive. This story line was layered into the story so well. It helps the reader see the deep love Maddie buried for Zack and will likely make you want to hug Zack. Aidan’s love for Zack also adds a layer to this one. Oh and in the end the use of Zack’s photographic images in getting Maddie and Aidan to see why Zack left all those years ago and never returned home was outstanding; truly a heart pulling scene with an OMG moment.
Zack is dominate through and through:
“Maddie,” he said in a quiet but authoritative tone. “Kiss Aidan.”
She turned wide eyes on him. “Wh-what?”
Zack lifted his chin. “Kiss him.”
He glanced at Aidan. Aidan blinked.
“Do it,” he ordered, his tone harder. He reached blindly for the remote control for the TV and turned it off.
The sex scenes in this book were hot but also emotional and heartfelt as each gets just what they need from the other. Oh, and I love that not every sex scene was about penetration, the play, the trust and the connection built all added to the story.
I will not tell you how they all finally get to this happy but I will say bravo so well done; oh and the final scene was hot and emotional!
The title of the book fit so perfectly… Maddie with Aidan and Zack.. get it Loving Maddie from A to Z.
Ms. Jamieson proves again she rocks menage!
June 13, 2015
I love reading Kelly's books. Award-winning photojournalist Zack Donovan is happy to be alive after being held captive by a band of rebels in Syria. He’s not so happy to be on his way back to Chicago to recuperate with his college friends Maddie and Aidan, who are now a couple. The fear while being held prisoner was nothing compared to how he feels about facing the two people who unknowingly broke his heart seven years ago. Maddie and Aidan are deeply in love, but lately they feel something is missing in their love life as the try to spice things up the realize that they want the same thing. Zack is not the same person that left seven years ago he is more confident he has more edge. Zack knows what they need, but he is reluctant to help them because he is in love with both of them and doesn't want to get his hopes up about Maddie and Aidan wanting him because he has been hurt by people that he loves his mother was an addict who pimped him out to a drug dealer. Can these three make it work? I loved reading this book it was well written like all of Kelly's books with no errors in spelling or grammar. I love reading about menage and poly couples this book was written no illusions that everything is going to be ok that other people want have a problem with this type of relationship. I loved how each of the character's got something from each other Zack is a Dom and by Dominating Maddie and Aiden he healed from his ordeal in Syria and he learned how to help others with Maddie's help it also broke my heart broke when he thought that no one was looking for him or cared that he was being held captive. I hope that Ms. Jamieson writes and second book about these three I would love to read more.
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April 11, 2015
Review copy courtesy of the publisher.
I have to admit, this is normally not a book I would choose for myself. The description didn't quite grab me, plus it seemed like a whole lotta drama. But it also sounded lie it would be super hot... and oh was it ever!
Maddie and Aiden and Zack were all pretty interesting characters. Maddie works in public relations, Aiden is in charge of some huge architecture company and Zack is a Pulitzer Prize winning photojournalist. I liked that, for the most part, they all had successful, fulfilling careers. It was easy to like all of them because they had been friends since college, they had a shared history, and they all cared deeply for each other. I definitely felt pulled in to their relationship - and that was a good thing! I wasn't sure if I would like the weird little love triangle that I thought was happening. I mean, I really dislike a romance where a woman has to choose one man over another, especially when she cares for/loves them both. I was so surprised and thrilled when that wasn't the case here.
So the characters were all likable and sufficiently complex. Zack is bisexual, Maddie and Aiden (already a couple) are wanting to spice things up in the bedroom since they've BOTH been feeling that something is lacking. And again, I was nervous that this would lead to some kind of sleazy love triangle but I think the author handled it wonderfully. I loved how open Aiden and Maddie were with each other, how they both kept open minds, and how deeply they loved and cared about each other. That lead to some seriously effing hot Sexy Time! I mean, the top of my head just about blew off a few times! Oh my gosh, so so hot! For anyone who has hangups, be aware that this book contains M/F, M/M/F, and M/M Sexy Times. Believe it or not, the M/M/F Sexy Time was NOT my favorite! Can you believe it?! Oh and there is a somewhat strong BDSM element as well. It wasn't heavy handed or over the top or intense though. A few scenes with some mild restraints and light Dominance. Totally okay for novice BDSM romance lovers!
What I didn't love was how damn wordy everything was. There was so much freaking inner monologuing that after around the 50% mark, I found myself skimming... A LOT. I can't say that it wasn't justified though. I mean, these people are going through a huge change in their relationship and it's damn sexy! So there was a lot of self doubt and self recriminations and things like that. Each of them was working through their own issues and also trying to see where they fit in this group relationship. It made total sense but I think it just bored the shit out of me.
I didn't love this book. It was super hot, which I DID like. Even the M/M stuff was really sexy. I think, actually, the M/M stuff might have been my favorite Sexy Times! But there was too much beating around the bush and mulling over issues inside the characters' heads. I don't think any of it could have been cut out though because it was probably important to each character's development. How the hell should I know though? I'm just not sure how to recommend this book. I guess readers who really like to get into the details of how and why characters act the way they do and do what they do will really dig this book. Anyone wanting a light, sexy read will probably not be so into it. There were parts that I loved and parts that I didn't like so this book ended up being just okay for me.
I have to admit, this is normally not a book I would choose for myself. The description didn't quite grab me, plus it seemed like a whole lotta drama. But it also sounded lie it would be super hot... and oh was it ever!
Maddie and Aiden and Zack were all pretty interesting characters. Maddie works in public relations, Aiden is in charge of some huge architecture company and Zack is a Pulitzer Prize winning photojournalist. I liked that, for the most part, they all had successful, fulfilling careers. It was easy to like all of them because they had been friends since college, they had a shared history, and they all cared deeply for each other. I definitely felt pulled in to their relationship - and that was a good thing! I wasn't sure if I would like the weird little love triangle that I thought was happening. I mean, I really dislike a romance where a woman has to choose one man over another, especially when she cares for/loves them both. I was so surprised and thrilled when that wasn't the case here.
So the characters were all likable and sufficiently complex. Zack is bisexual, Maddie and Aiden (already a couple) are wanting to spice things up in the bedroom since they've BOTH been feeling that something is lacking. And again, I was nervous that this would lead to some kind of sleazy love triangle but I think the author handled it wonderfully. I loved how open Aiden and Maddie were with each other, how they both kept open minds, and how deeply they loved and cared about each other. That lead to some seriously effing hot Sexy Time! I mean, the top of my head just about blew off a few times! Oh my gosh, so so hot! For anyone who has hangups, be aware that this book contains M/F, M/M/F, and M/M Sexy Times. Believe it or not, the M/M/F Sexy Time was NOT my favorite! Can you believe it?! Oh and there is a somewhat strong BDSM element as well. It wasn't heavy handed or over the top or intense though. A few scenes with some mild restraints and light Dominance. Totally okay for novice BDSM romance lovers!
What I didn't love was how damn wordy everything was. There was so much freaking inner monologuing that after around the 50% mark, I found myself skimming... A LOT. I can't say that it wasn't justified though. I mean, these people are going through a huge change in their relationship and it's damn sexy! So there was a lot of self doubt and self recriminations and things like that. Each of them was working through their own issues and also trying to see where they fit in this group relationship. It made total sense but I think it just bored the shit out of me.
I didn't love this book. It was super hot, which I DID like. Even the M/M stuff was really sexy. I think, actually, the M/M stuff might have been my favorite Sexy Times! But there was too much beating around the bush and mulling over issues inside the characters' heads. I don't think any of it could have been cut out though because it was probably important to each character's development. How the hell should I know though? I'm just not sure how to recommend this book. I guess readers who really like to get into the details of how and why characters act the way they do and do what they do will really dig this book. Anyone wanting a light, sexy read will probably not be so into it. There were parts that I loved and parts that I didn't like so this book ended up being just okay for me.
May 26, 2020
Despite a very silly title and the main couple of Maddie and Aidan being the most laughingly vanilla whitebread couple I’ve read in a long time, I really liked this one! Kelly Jamieson has a special skill for writing ménage.
I have to admit, the concept drew me in: Maddie, Aidan and Zack all knew each other in college (Aidan and Zack were roommates who rescued Maddie from a terrible, rape-y ex, EYEROLL to that overused trope - but at least Jamieson doesn’t waste pagetime showing it) and when Zack left to do war photojournalism, Aidan and Maddie ended up together. They never really forgot about their friend though - especially when he’s taken hostage in Syria. After he escapes, Zack’s got nowhere else to go, and Aidan and Maddie are happy to welcome him back into their home.
Well this is a FAR more dramatic setup for conflict than you’d normally see in a ménage book. And absolutely possible to overdo it, but Jamieson manages to keep Zack’s stress and struggles with PTSD on a believable and not soap opera level. Zack’s just a great character overall; I couldn’t help but love him. He’s got a troubled family history, and spent his college and post-college years coming to terms with his bisexuality and need to dominate sexually. Zack is guarded, but wanting...and *interesting.*
Which is good because I didn’t exactly identify with white, upper middle class, very heteronormative Aidan and Maddie, lol. At least Jamieson gives them a decent challenge as well: they love each other and don’t have to worry about money, but they just aren’t satisfying each other in bed. They both seem to want dominated - and Jamieson includes a couple very fun / funny / realistic scenes where they try to meet that need for each other at the start.
Overall I have to give very high marks to the realism in this one; it’s really why this book worked so well for me AND made all the sex scenes super hot. Jamieson even gives us an extended close past when normal romances would end, for that extra splash of realism.
Maddie, Aidan and Zack are just so gosh darn good-hearted. You really want to root for them. Good stuff.
I have to admit, the concept drew me in: Maddie, Aidan and Zack all knew each other in college (Aidan and Zack were roommates who rescued Maddie from a terrible, rape-y ex, EYEROLL to that overused trope - but at least Jamieson doesn’t waste pagetime showing it) and when Zack left to do war photojournalism, Aidan and Maddie ended up together. They never really forgot about their friend though - especially when he’s taken hostage in Syria. After he escapes, Zack’s got nowhere else to go, and Aidan and Maddie are happy to welcome him back into their home.
Well this is a FAR more dramatic setup for conflict than you’d normally see in a ménage book. And absolutely possible to overdo it, but Jamieson manages to keep Zack’s stress and struggles with PTSD on a believable and not soap opera level. Zack’s just a great character overall; I couldn’t help but love him. He’s got a troubled family history, and spent his college and post-college years coming to terms with his bisexuality and need to dominate sexually. Zack is guarded, but wanting...and *interesting.*
Which is good because I didn’t exactly identify with white, upper middle class, very heteronormative Aidan and Maddie, lol. At least Jamieson gives them a decent challenge as well: they love each other and don’t have to worry about money, but they just aren’t satisfying each other in bed. They both seem to want dominated - and Jamieson includes a couple very fun / funny / realistic scenes where they try to meet that need for each other at the start.
Overall I have to give very high marks to the realism in this one; it’s really why this book worked so well for me AND made all the sex scenes super hot. Jamieson even gives us an extended close past when normal romances would end, for that extra splash of realism.
Maddie, Aidan and Zack are just so gosh darn good-hearted. You really want to root for them. Good stuff.
April 9, 2015
4.5 Stars
Zack is recovering after being held captive in a foreign country. He has no where to go so he ends up with his former best friends Maddie and Aidan, who are now a couple. After not seeing them for 7 years because he couldn't handle his own emotions around them, it's not the ideal situation, but he has no where else to go.
I loved this book. It was touching to see the ways Maddie and Aidan tried to please each other but both realized it wasn't working, not that they didn't love each other, but that there was just something missing in the bedroom.
Zack finds that he still loves both of them and it hurts to see them together while he is the odd man out.
The slow progression of making the twosome a threesome is perfect and believable. He added what they needed while they pleased his dominant needs. As things got more intense, it really heated up and was sexy as hell.
I was happy that without even meaning to Aidan and Maddie were able to help Zack over not just his captivity, but all of his past.
Great book. The only thing I didn't like was that there was a lot of times that the 'I' was dropped from sentences making them seem unfinished and distracting. Instead of saying 'I want you' it'd simply be 'want you'... Used here and there it wouldn't have been so bad, but it was overdone and I didn't care for it as it seemed to stop the flow of speech and story.
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
Zack is recovering after being held captive in a foreign country. He has no where to go so he ends up with his former best friends Maddie and Aidan, who are now a couple. After not seeing them for 7 years because he couldn't handle his own emotions around them, it's not the ideal situation, but he has no where else to go.
I loved this book. It was touching to see the ways Maddie and Aidan tried to please each other but both realized it wasn't working, not that they didn't love each other, but that there was just something missing in the bedroom.
Zack finds that he still loves both of them and it hurts to see them together while he is the odd man out.
The slow progression of making the twosome a threesome is perfect and believable. He added what they needed while they pleased his dominant needs. As things got more intense, it really heated up and was sexy as hell.
I was happy that without even meaning to Aidan and Maddie were able to help Zack over not just his captivity, but all of his past.
Great book. The only thing I didn't like was that there was a lot of times that the 'I' was dropped from sentences making them seem unfinished and distracting. Instead of saying 'I want you' it'd simply be 'want you'... Used here and there it wouldn't have been so bad, but it was overdone and I didn't care for it as it seemed to stop the flow of speech and story.
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
March 25, 2016
So this was a pleasant surprise. I have a habit of buying books that sit in my TBR for a while, then I'll read them without reading the blurb, and I have no idea what I'm getting into. Nothing about the cover tells me this is MMF, but it was a pleasant surprise. This was definitely an interesting story. Maddie and Aidan have been a couple for years and are solidly in love. They were close friends back in college along with Zack, but right after college, Zack took off to photograph the world's conflicts and has never returned home. Maddie has kept in touch, though Zack only responds every once in a while. Maddie and Aidan appear to be the perfect couple, but they're both submissives and crave a dominant touch. Each tries to give that to the other, but it doesn't work well. When Zack (who is bisexual) comes to stay with them after having been kidnapped in Syria, it slowly becomes clear that Zack can give them something they need. He can even show Aidan what he needs but never would have considered with anyone but Zack. But Zack has a hard time receiving what they have to give him as well. Sexy times commence, sad times commence, and then there's an HEA permanent menage. I loved the meeting with the agenda at the end. Cracked me up.
April 10, 2015
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads
I am a huge fan of menage books, but they have to be done right - and this one certainly is. It concentrates on the whole relationship, and throws in plenty of suitably angst laden moments. It is told from all three POVs, which is also a great way of ensuring that the reader gets to believe the whole, and not that there is an imbalance. Adding to the quality of the plot is the cast - one hot trio of intelligent, sexy, fit and well rounded characters - this is a book best read in a private place, unless you want people asking why you are looking very warm, and breathing erratically!
Always guaranteed a good read from Ms Jamieson - this one is great, thank you!
I am a huge fan of menage books, but they have to be done right - and this one certainly is. It concentrates on the whole relationship, and throws in plenty of suitably angst laden moments. It is told from all three POVs, which is also a great way of ensuring that the reader gets to believe the whole, and not that there is an imbalance. Adding to the quality of the plot is the cast - one hot trio of intelligent, sexy, fit and well rounded characters - this is a book best read in a private place, unless you want people asking why you are looking very warm, and breathing erratically!
Always guaranteed a good read from Ms Jamieson - this one is great, thank you!
March 25, 2015
I'm a huge fan of Kelly's books, and just when I think there's no way she's going to be able to top one, she goes and proves me wrong. What I loved about this book, and all of her books, is that she isn't afraid to roll up her sleeves and get her hands dirty. Hard issues, no problem. Complicated relationships, she's got it covered. Kelly doesn't skirt issues, and it's refreshing to read.
Loving Maddie was an amazing story about friendship, love, and finding your way in a world where your life doesn't always make sense. I loved the way that Maddie, Aidan, and Zack all found each other again, worked through their relationship, and made a life for themselves. If you're a fan of Kelly or if you've ever wanted to try something of hers, this one won't disappoint.
Loving Maddie was an amazing story about friendship, love, and finding your way in a world where your life doesn't always make sense. I loved the way that Maddie, Aidan, and Zack all found each other again, worked through their relationship, and made a life for themselves. If you're a fan of Kelly or if you've ever wanted to try something of hers, this one won't disappoint.
June 7, 2015
Every time I read a book by Kelly, I end with a book hangover. I start one of her books, and never put it down until it's done. I loved this book, and the connection between Zack, Maddie, and Aidan. Reading all that Zack endured in Syria, and trying to understand how he will deal with each emotion is sad, and powerful. We always worry about what others will think or feel about what choices we make. But in the end, the only people that matter are Zack, Maddie, and Aidan, and what they want, who cares what others will think. They have a bond that can't be broken, and they each need one another. I love Kelly's books, and adored this book!
June 10, 2015
Reviewed at Dear Author: http://dearauthor.com/book-reviews/ov...
September 10, 2020
I came across this book on Amazon and thought I would give it a try since I like the author's other books. Though this book is a ménage. It does not open up that way. What you have is a story of three people who were friends in college. Aidan, Maddie, and Zack. Aidan and Maddie are a couple and when they became a couple in college Zack upped his photojournalism to where he was traveling out of the country most of the time. He also has lost contact with the two of them because he had always been attracted to Maddie.
Now after Zack has been captured in a war-torn country and has been released, Aidan and Maddie make contact with him so he can stay with them in order to heal and recover both physically and mentally. This turns out to be a plus for he is able to not only work out his issues from being captured but also what he has felt since leaving college and never telling Maddie that he liked her as well.
This is a wonderful story and the sex scenes are done in good taste but are still very hot. The relationship between the three of them gets worked out slowly and is done with what you feel a story should be. I found this to be a wonderful story with good characters.
Now after Zack has been captured in a war-torn country and has been released, Aidan and Maddie make contact with him so he can stay with them in order to heal and recover both physically and mentally. This turns out to be a plus for he is able to not only work out his issues from being captured but also what he has felt since leaving college and never telling Maddie that he liked her as well.
This is a wonderful story and the sex scenes are done in good taste but are still very hot. The relationship between the three of them gets worked out slowly and is done with what you feel a story should be. I found this to be a wonderful story with good characters.
April 20, 2021
Aiden, Maddie and Zack were best friends through college after Aiden and Zack had rescued her from an ex boyfriend. They were all very close, so when Zack up and left for work, he left her heartbroken. Maddie tried her best to keep in touch with him, but his responses were few and far between. Maddie and Aiden knew that Zack travelled a lot and put it down to that.
Everything comes to a head when Zack is taken hostage in Syria. Maddie does everything she can to find out what has happened so when Zack makes it back to the US, Maddie and Aiden insist that he stays with them to recover. They know Zack doesn't really have a base of his own.
The story is of how they discover a lot about why Zack left and how all three of them thought different ideas of what each other were thinking! Too many assumptions, not enough discussions. Can they sort out their feelings and how their relationship is going forward. Very emotional and explicit three way relationship.
Everything comes to a head when Zack is taken hostage in Syria. Maddie does everything she can to find out what has happened so when Zack makes it back to the US, Maddie and Aiden insist that he stays with them to recover. They know Zack doesn't really have a base of his own.
The story is of how they discover a lot about why Zack left and how all three of them thought different ideas of what each other were thinking! Too many assumptions, not enough discussions. Can they sort out their feelings and how their relationship is going forward. Very emotional and explicit three way relationship.
May 28, 2020
Wow
Maddie and Aiden have been in a relationship for years. They met in college and were friends first. Everyone thinks their relationship is perfect but something is missing. Zack a photojournalist, was captured and held hostage. When finally released, he goes to his friends Maddie and Aiden to recover. He left seven years ago without a word and hasn’t been back since. Zack has finally come to terms with being bisexual and a Dom. Zack sees what’s missing in their relationship but if he gives in, will it destroy their relationship or make it stronger?
BDSM, ménage, and hurt feelings. You’ll need a cold shower after this story. Second chance at love for three people. M/F, M/M, M/F/M, and M/M/F.
Maddie and Aiden have been in a relationship for years. They met in college and were friends first. Everyone thinks their relationship is perfect but something is missing. Zack a photojournalist, was captured and held hostage. When finally released, he goes to his friends Maddie and Aiden to recover. He left seven years ago without a word and hasn’t been back since. Zack has finally come to terms with being bisexual and a Dom. Zack sees what’s missing in their relationship but if he gives in, will it destroy their relationship or make it stronger?
BDSM, ménage, and hurt feelings. You’ll need a cold shower after this story. Second chance at love for three people. M/F, M/M, M/F/M, and M/M/F.
May 14, 2020
Good story
This was told in 3rd person, which is not my preference, but did come from the perspective of all 3 - which I appreciated. No real offensive substance here, all was expected. MF/MFM/MM/MMF was represented tastefully. I disagree with a previous reviewer that Z was a sadist. He's a Dom, the only reason sadism came into it was because it was mentioned several times in his internal thoughts.
This was told in 3rd person, which is not my preference, but did come from the perspective of all 3 - which I appreciated. No real offensive substance here, all was expected. MF/MFM/MM/MMF was represented tastefully. I disagree with a previous reviewer that Z was a sadist. He's a Dom, the only reason sadism came into it was because it was mentioned several times in his internal thoughts.
May 12, 2020
Perfect triad
This is one of the few books with 3 loving partners that didn’t shy away from the m/m experience. I found the characters compelling, their emotions comprehensive and their solution enviable. A great read.
This is one of the few books with 3 loving partners that didn’t shy away from the m/m experience. I found the characters compelling, their emotions comprehensive and their solution enviable. A great read.
June 6, 2020
Have to read
AAwwww I want more, I couldn’t stop reading until I was done. I love the characters and how they came to life in the book and the sex scenes were intense and phenomenal .all raw emotions all displayed in the scenes.just great script and writing
AAwwww I want more, I couldn’t stop reading until I was done. I love the characters and how they came to life in the book and the sex scenes were intense and phenomenal .all raw emotions all displayed in the scenes.just great script and writing
June 27, 2020
SHOCKED BUT WOW, OMG SO HOT
Was so pulled into this storyline. That even when it got uncomfortable with my readings. I could not stop reading the pages until the very last page. The shock it gave me but wow so freaking hot all @ the same time. Very Good Reading!
Was so pulled into this storyline. That even when it got uncomfortable with my readings. I could not stop reading the pages until the very last page. The shock it gave me but wow so freaking hot all @ the same time. Very Good Reading!
July 11, 2020
Loving Maddie from A to Z
Great w.Loved how Maddie and Aiden worried about Zack when he was missing. Friends from college that were so close for all those years. Zack finally feels wanted. Highly recommend reading.
Great w.Loved how Maddie and Aiden worried about Zack when he was missing. Friends from college that were so close for all those years. Zack finally feels wanted. Highly recommend reading.
May 12, 2020
Not sure what I expected, but this story was excellent (and very spicy). I loved seeing inside each character and watching them work out their growing and changing relationships.
May 12, 2020
Kinky and loving it
I really enjoy stories where everyone is open and honest about what they want. This was fabulous! I would love to have a relationship like theirs.
I really enjoy stories where everyone is open and honest about what they want. This was fabulous! I would love to have a relationship like theirs.
May 13, 2020
Great Story
This story kept my attention. Very well written. Some angst, but not too much. I enjoyed the HEA for a change too.
This story kept my attention. Very well written. Some angst, but not too much. I enjoyed the HEA for a change too.
May 16, 2020
A fun read
This is a fun, steamy romance with a good plot and some believable characters. Recommended for fans of the genre.
This is a fun, steamy romance with a good plot and some believable characters. Recommended for fans of the genre.
June 9, 2020
Best bi-sexual, mmf I've read in a very long time!!
Add some bondage & a little bdsm for good measure & you've got a book well worth reading. More than once!
Add some bondage & a little bdsm for good measure & you've got a book well worth reading. More than once!
July 4, 2020
Good read.
Great story and characters complement each other well. Each one has been missing that special something. True love wins out.
Great story and characters complement each other well. Each one has been missing that special something. True love wins out.
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