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Dancing Days
The day Glen Carson loses his wallet is the day that changes his life. The wallet is returned by Aston Walsh, a man he hasn't seen for twenty years. He and Aston had a passionate and intense romance when they were in their late twenties, and Glen thought their love would last forever. But his dreams were horribly shattered by a shocking confession from Aston, and they parted for good—or so Glen assumed. Now, two decades later, they’ve lived many years apart, created new histories, and built successful lives. Yet the spark between them is still there. Aston wants a second chance with Glen, but Glen is more cautious this time around. He has to decide if Aston's regret is genuine, and if surrendering his heart to Aston again is worth the risk.
A story from the Dreamspinner Press 2015 Daily Dose package "Never Too Late."
A story from the Dreamspinner Press 2015 Daily Dose package "Never Too Late."
60 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 31, 2015
5 people are currently reading
100 people want to read
About the author
Clare London
147 books434 followersClare took the pen name London from the city where she lives, loves, and writes. A lone, brave female in a frenetic, testosterone-fuelled family home, she juggles her writing with her other day job as an accountant. She’s written in many genres and across many settings, with award-winning novels and short stories published both online and in print. She says she likes variety in her writing while friends say she’s just fickle, but as long as both theories spawn good fiction, she’s happy. Most of her work features male/male romance and drama with a healthy serving of physical passion, as she enjoys both reading and writing about strong, sympathetic and sexy characters.
Clare currently has several novels sulking at that tricky chapter 3 stage and plenty of other projects in mind . . . she just has to find out where she left them in that frenetic, testosterone-fuelled family home.
All the details and free fiction are available at her website. Visit her today and say hello!
Clare also writes as Stella Shaw and launched a new series of rent boy romances in 2021.
Clare currently has several novels sulking at that tricky chapter 3 stage and plenty of other projects in mind . . . she just has to find out where she left them in that frenetic, testosterone-fuelled family home.
All the details and free fiction are available at her website. Visit her today and say hello!
Clare also writes as Stella Shaw and launched a new series of rent boy romances in 2021.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
June 2, 2015
*3.5 stars*
A really nice, British humor story about a couple of middle aged men getting their second chance at love.
At first, I was feeling a little "meh" about this one, but then the feels started rolling in. I have a soft spot for second chance stories, especially if one of the guys was closeted for some time. There is always a high level of tension and emotion there, and I sort of just tap into that.
For a novella, this one packs an emotional punch, but at the same time it is a light, low drama story. I really liked reading about these two men finding their footing with each other after years of being apart and overcoming their issues. There isn't much in terms of on page sex, but there are some endearing details about them getting older and being less fit and robust than they had been 20 years ago.
This story, like all Clare London stories, felt very British, which I enjoyed. It is a little quirky and probably too short for what I really wanted, but I think it was a success.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
A really nice, British humor story about a couple of middle aged men getting their second chance at love.
At first, I was feeling a little "meh" about this one, but then the feels started rolling in. I have a soft spot for second chance stories, especially if one of the guys was closeted for some time. There is always a high level of tension and emotion there, and I sort of just tap into that.
For a novella, this one packs an emotional punch, but at the same time it is a light, low drama story. I really liked reading about these two men finding their footing with each other after years of being apart and overcoming their issues. There isn't much in terms of on page sex, but there are some endearing details about them getting older and being less fit and robust than they had been 20 years ago.
This story, like all Clare London stories, felt very British, which I enjoyed. It is a little quirky and probably too short for what I really wanted, but I think it was a success.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
October 23, 2017
Agradable sorpresa, cortísimo pero consigue contar una buena historia de segundas oportunidades, me encanta que sean británicos, no sé porqué lo encuentro muy refrescante entre tanta novela de US. Dulce y entretenido. El título es un misterio pero por lo demás muy recomendable.
June 9, 2015
Glen and Aston was such a perfection reunion story, and you all know how much I love Clare's writing. I've not really read a book where the two main characters met up again after such a long time had passed. At first, finding out they weren't in that first flush of love in their twenties was disquieting. I normally gravitate to stories of young strapping men and first love, and this was different and completely charming. There was a bittersweet sadness to hear what drove them apart the first time and a perfect 'rightness' in them finding each other again.
A gorgeous love story that should be read with a nice cuppa and no interuptions.
A gorgeous love story that should be read with a nice cuppa and no interuptions.
June 18, 2015
*sigh* Looks like I'm the only one having problems with this and that although I totally love this author's writing - mostly her books are 5* for me. This time the writing still was very good, sadly I couldn't feel the love between both MCs.
Perhaps more like 2.5 stars
Perhaps more like 2.5 stars
June 22, 2015
This is a very touching reunion story (and I love those!) about two men who haven't seen each other for twenty years. They had a passionate love affair back then, but Aston wasn't ready to come out. Glen got fed up with being the "dirty little secret" on the side, but he is still bitter when Aston suddenly reappears. The emotional journey both men face are not easy, and I was glued to the pages to find out if they'd be able to overcome their differences.
The problem Aston faces is that, even though he has seen the error of his ways, so to speak, Glen is not necessarily ready to forgive and forget. The emotions are still there, but the fear of being hurt again holds him back. As understanding as Aston is, he has some work left too, and even though he has had some time to think things through, some of Glen's comments make him realize there is more to it than he expected.
Glen is facing the immediate issue of needing to decide if he even wants to try again. And once he has, nothing is truly easy either. I was fascinated to see him and Aston work things out and to see that despite how much they still wanted each other and never mind how much older and more experienced they were, it was still not as easy as it first seemed.
If you like reunion stories featuring mature men trying to decide if they have a second chance at love, and if you're looking for a read that is emotional and very touching, then you will probably enjoy this novella.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review.
The problem Aston faces is that, even though he has seen the error of his ways, so to speak, Glen is not necessarily ready to forgive and forget. The emotions are still there, but the fear of being hurt again holds him back. As understanding as Aston is, he has some work left too, and even though he has had some time to think things through, some of Glen's comments make him realize there is more to it than he expected.
Glen is facing the immediate issue of needing to decide if he even wants to try again. And once he has, nothing is truly easy either. I was fascinated to see him and Aston work things out and to see that despite how much they still wanted each other and never mind how much older and more experienced they were, it was still not as easy as it first seemed.
If you like reunion stories featuring mature men trying to decide if they have a second chance at love, and if you're looking for a read that is emotional and very touching, then you will probably enjoy this novella.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review.
January 29, 2018
While it's a nice second-chance romance, featuring mature characters (one is in their early forties, the other is fifty year old) ... but I couldn't help not completely liking the fact that the 'background' of their love stories two decades ago started with Aston cheating on his wife (repeatedly) to be with Glen. Not exactly my favorite kind of romance *shrugs*.
November 16, 2016
This was one of those books that nearly made me throw my Kindle at the wall! The level of assholery on Aston's part was way beyond what I am usually prepared to accept.
He is a complete bastard to just about everyone for years;
And when he and Glen got together twenty years later and the past was brought up - a past which had hurt Glen deeply - Aston's reaction was: "It's been twenty years, Glen. Bloody long time to hold a grudge."
It took ages for Aston to even apologize and then Glen jumped right in eager to take some of the blame for their relationship failing in the past. I hated that! Let the man grovel. He was the jerk, not you.
The ending was predictable; there was really only one kind of gesture Aston could make to fix things, and he did. But to me a typical too little too late.
He is a complete bastard to just about everyone for years;
And when he and Glen got together twenty years later and the past was brought up - a past which had hurt Glen deeply - Aston's reaction was: "It's been twenty years, Glen. Bloody long time to hold a grudge."
It took ages for Aston to even apologize and then Glen jumped right in eager to take some of the blame for their relationship failing in the past. I hated that! Let the man grovel. He was the jerk, not you.
The ending was predictable; there was really only one kind of gesture Aston could make to fix things, and he did. But to me a typical too little too late.
October 24, 2016
A quite lovely story of bitter recriminations, time lost, reconnection, and renewed love.
Great to see a mature couple making a go of things.
Charming.
Great to see a mature couple making a go of things.
Charming.
June 3, 2015
“Dancing Days” was a story right after my heart. I liked almost everything about it: The light and yet never trivial tone of the writing, the hint of sheer “British-ness” in the narrative, the sprinkles of dry humor, the gentle pace so fitting for the course of events.
Even though it’s told solely from Glen’s third person POV, I found both Aston and Glen well-drawn. They were mature men, both shaped by their respective life experiences, both somewhat set in their ways and yet young enough at heart to hope, to venture a chance on each other and on loving again. They’re both burnt children when it comes to that, and past hurts have left their marks, so I found their conflicts and the obstacles they had to overcome very comprehensible. And it made the romance of their reconnection all the sweeter.
Talk about “awwww-factor”—that particular scene was all rainbows and puppies to me, and yet saved from being saccharine by a healthy dose of tongue-in-cheek.
The only thing, basically, I didn’t quite adore about the story was how Aston and Glen sometimes turned into old farts regarding their subject of conversation. Yes, minor ailments are a fact of life and of getting older too, but I didn’t need the gory details rubbed in quite as much. For one, Glen and Aston aren’t that old, and for another, I am, so thank you very much. Sigh.
All in all, this sweet little masterpiece of a story had a wealth of detail, a fullness of plot and a depth worthy of a much longer work. A fully satisfying reading experience that I can only warmly recommend.
reviewed for http://www.prismbookalliance.com/2015...
Even though it’s told solely from Glen’s third person POV, I found both Aston and Glen well-drawn. They were mature men, both shaped by their respective life experiences, both somewhat set in their ways and yet young enough at heart to hope, to venture a chance on each other and on loving again. They’re both burnt children when it comes to that, and past hurts have left their marks, so I found their conflicts and the obstacles they had to overcome very comprehensible. And it made the romance of their reconnection all the sweeter.
Talk about “awwww-factor”—that particular scene was all rainbows and puppies to me, and yet saved from being saccharine by a healthy dose of tongue-in-cheek.
The only thing, basically, I didn’t quite adore about the story was how Aston and Glen sometimes turned into old farts regarding their subject of conversation. Yes, minor ailments are a fact of life and of getting older too, but I didn’t need the gory details rubbed in quite as much. For one, Glen and Aston aren’t that old, and for another, I am, so thank you very much. Sigh.
All in all, this sweet little masterpiece of a story had a wealth of detail, a fullness of plot and a depth worthy of a much longer work. A fully satisfying reading experience that I can only warmly recommend.
reviewed for http://www.prismbookalliance.com/2015...
February 17, 2023
Ok, forgive me, I've already started the review before I've finished the story, but, oh my, it's so sweet. Two men accidentally meet again twenty years later and I'm melting.
A rather poignant story, Glen and Aston were lovers twenty years ago, it ended disastrously. Now, years later, Aston reappears and reopens Glens old wounds. Can Glen trust him this time? Or will he get badly hurt again? A touching novella, emotions abound here.
Feb. 2023.
So, a re-read of sorts. This was a .99c deal I downloaded and when I opened it in my Kindle it opened at the end, we all know what that means don't we? I read it again today, it's a novella length, none of it rang a bell, at all! I checked on my Goodreads page and it IS marked as read just over a year ago and by my review I really liked it, which I did this time around as well. Either I've read too many stories or my brain is getting old and rusty but I cannot figure how I cannot recall a story of only one year ago, go figure.
A rather poignant story, Glen and Aston were lovers twenty years ago, it ended disastrously. Now, years later, Aston reappears and reopens Glens old wounds. Can Glen trust him this time? Or will he get badly hurt again? A touching novella, emotions abound here.
Feb. 2023.
So, a re-read of sorts. This was a .99c deal I downloaded and when I opened it in my Kindle it opened at the end, we all know what that means don't we? I read it again today, it's a novella length, none of it rang a bell, at all! I checked on my Goodreads page and it IS marked as read just over a year ago and by my review I really liked it, which I did this time around as well. Either I've read too many stories or my brain is getting old and rusty but I cannot figure how I cannot recall a story of only one year ago, go figure.
September 16, 2017
2,5 stars
My problem with this book is that the MCs seemed 10 or 15 years older to me than the supposed ages. I was stuck in that feel so I didn't can enjoyed thoroughly the story.
My problem with this book is that the MCs seemed 10 or 15 years older to me than the supposed ages. I was stuck in that feel so I didn't can enjoyed thoroughly the story.
July 9, 2017
Glen Carson, the master of DIY and fix it shop manager lives a rather quiet life now in his forties. Once upon a time though there had been great passion in Glen’s life that ended badly when he discovered his lover was telling less than the truth about himself and his commitments. Despite the fact that Glen had since moved on and had long term relationships beyond that first love, there was still certain wariness about him when it came to emotionally investing in another person.
Imagine his shock when he opens his door one evening and the very person who shattered his heart some thirty years earlier was standing there, heart in hand? Could Glen move beyond his bitterness and open his heart one more time to Aston Walsh? Or were their dancing days over for good?
Clocking in at a mere sixty pages, Clare London gives us more emotional bang for our buck in this short story than most full-length novels are able to do. Aston was the epitome of a broken man, one whose life choices had reaped some benefits for sure but they had also come at a great price—hiding who he was and losing the one man whom he loved more than anything else. Glen was lonely and fearing that he was past the age when any one would be willing to take a chance on him. Having just ended a 10-year relationship amicably, he was never expecting for the past to rear it’s ugly head and confront him one more time. But old feelings die hard and when he begins to let Aston back into his life, I found myself holding my breath and hoping that this time the two would make it.
Relationships are never easy and author Clare London does not shy away from throwing up roadblocks—realistic ones at that—for her men to hurdle. But the subtle nuances in her novels, the lingering glances, the wounded expressions and the intimate moments all combine to make a rich and beautiful love story.
Imagine his shock when he opens his door one evening and the very person who shattered his heart some thirty years earlier was standing there, heart in hand? Could Glen move beyond his bitterness and open his heart one more time to Aston Walsh? Or were their dancing days over for good?
Clocking in at a mere sixty pages, Clare London gives us more emotional bang for our buck in this short story than most full-length novels are able to do. Aston was the epitome of a broken man, one whose life choices had reaped some benefits for sure but they had also come at a great price—hiding who he was and losing the one man whom he loved more than anything else. Glen was lonely and fearing that he was past the age when any one would be willing to take a chance on him. Having just ended a 10-year relationship amicably, he was never expecting for the past to rear it’s ugly head and confront him one more time. But old feelings die hard and when he begins to let Aston back into his life, I found myself holding my breath and hoping that this time the two would make it.
Relationships are never easy and author Clare London does not shy away from throwing up roadblocks—realistic ones at that—for her men to hurdle. But the subtle nuances in her novels, the lingering glances, the wounded expressions and the intimate moments all combine to make a rich and beautiful love story.
March 5, 2022
To say that Glen and Aston have history is to badly understate the impact they’ve had on each other: I think it’s fair to say that they’re been both the best and worst things in each other’s lives. So yes, they have history, and twenty years is a long time, but not long enough to forget, and maybe, not long enough to forgive. This is, unsurprisingly, an emotional story– it’s about a reconnection and a reckoning. While there are some great lighthearted moments and the chemistry between them is crystal clear, it’s not an easy or painless process: mistakes are made and the happily-ever-after almost isn’t. That, of course, just makes it all the sweeter, and I think this might be one of my favorite ever second-chance romances.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
*I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 26, 2022
3.5 stars rounded up.
DANCING DAYS by Clare London
A sweet, short and quite charming little tale of second chances.
Two fifty ish guys have a chance meeting again after twenty years apart.
Not an easy or comfy reunion, but in their maturity, they come to a better understanding of their past mistakes.
Lovely story by a lovely author.
Well placed side players with Clare's trademark British flavour.
Low steam romance; I'd almost say suitable for all ages except for one moderately described scene and some naughty words here and there.
No explicit intimacy on page.
Recommended for readers looking for a quick afternoon read.
Single POV third person past tense.
Heat rating 1 🔥
Standalone story.
* Disclaimer: I was given a complementary copy of this book and have voluntarily read and reviewed.
DANCING DAYS by Clare London
A sweet, short and quite charming little tale of second chances.
Two fifty ish guys have a chance meeting again after twenty years apart.
Not an easy or comfy reunion, but in their maturity, they come to a better understanding of their past mistakes.
Lovely story by a lovely author.
Well placed side players with Clare's trademark British flavour.
Low steam romance; I'd almost say suitable for all ages except for one moderately described scene and some naughty words here and there.
No explicit intimacy on page.
Recommended for readers looking for a quick afternoon read.
Single POV third person past tense.
Heat rating 1 🔥
Standalone story.
* Disclaimer: I was given a complementary copy of this book and have voluntarily read and reviewed.
April 6, 2022
A sweet romantic novella about second chance love. Glen and Aston met and fell in love but Aston was hiding a huge secret and when he shared it with Glen it was the end of their relationship.
Twenty years later Glen leaves his wallet in the hairdressing salon and fate brings Aston to his door. They are older, wiser, have lived entirely different lives and their dancing days are over but the spark is still there. Can they put the past hurts behind them and hold on to a future together.
I loved the very Britishness about this story. The very fact that they were ordinary middle age men living ordinary lives, sharing a love of gardening and garden centres was refreshing.
Twenty years later Glen leaves his wallet in the hairdressing salon and fate brings Aston to his door. They are older, wiser, have lived entirely different lives and their dancing days are over but the spark is still there. Can they put the past hurts behind them and hold on to a future together.
I loved the very Britishness about this story. The very fact that they were ordinary middle age men living ordinary lives, sharing a love of gardening and garden centres was refreshing.
May 5, 2017
Clare London is one of my favourite authors, this books is short but it has a lot of feelings inside, the protagonists are very well developed and the story is easy to understand. Glen is very likeable it is a shame I can't say the same about Aston. He is selfish, a coward and with no backbone. But somehow, he comes out very pitiful at the end, I think Glen is selling himself short but like in real life, the heart does not listen to logic and we end up loving people that maybe does not deserve us but makes us happy because they are trying so hard. I loved this book.
March 7, 2022
Short novella and a roller coaster ride of emotions. I love second chance romances, what made this special was the ages of Glen and Aston. Had all the feels from Aston in the closet and Glen anger, confusion, wary of being hurt again 20 years on but also learning that mistakes were on both sides. I loved the humour and witty remarks and of course love.
I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book for my honest opinions of which I’m under no obligation to do so. I definitely recommend this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book for my honest opinions of which I’m under no obligation to do so. I definitely recommend this book.
March 14, 2022
This is a sweet second chance story that I found especially delightful because it’s about an older couple for a change.
The MCs, Glen and Aston, are both lovely men who had a love affair 20 years ago and by chance, meet again and I found the story of their reconnection hard to put down.
It was a wonderful, short story that felt real, was well-paced with little to no angst and just the right amount of heat. It left me feeling happy that we can find love at all ages.
I was given a copy of this story to read and this is my honest and voluntary opinion.
The MCs, Glen and Aston, are both lovely men who had a love affair 20 years ago and by chance, meet again and I found the story of their reconnection hard to put down.
It was a wonderful, short story that felt real, was well-paced with little to no angst and just the right amount of heat. It left me feeling happy that we can find love at all ages.
I was given a copy of this story to read and this is my honest and voluntary opinion.
March 13, 2023
Kobo (2022 Jocular Press reprint of 2015 Smashwords original); 9781005361327 (76 pages, this cover)
Two former lovers meet after 20 years, following a tumultuous break-up... A cautious foray into friendship eventually turns into something more.
One or two elements stretch credulity but this is an engagingly short read.
Two former lovers meet after 20 years, following a tumultuous break-up... A cautious foray into friendship eventually turns into something more.
One or two elements stretch credulity but this is an engagingly short read.
April 7, 2019
3,5 stars
March 22, 2022
I love second chance stories and this was a great example that I really enjoyed.
June 7, 2015
“The older you get, the more you realize that it isn't about the material things, or pride or ego. It's about our hearts and who they beat for.” ~ R.A.
The last person Glen, of 'Dancing Days' by Clare London, expects to be knocking on his door is Ashton, his ex-lover from twenty years ago. At first all the anger and pain he felt when they broke up comes rushing back and he doesn't even want to talk to Ashton. Glen is perturbed at himself for noticing attractive things about him and begins to remember some of the good feelings they had for each other. After catching up, they go out to dinner together. Part of Glen still loves Ashton and always will, but is it worth opening that door again? Did they have the right love at the wrong time? Is now the right time? Only a huge leap of faith will give Glen the opportunity to see if their love can be rekindled and trust rebuilt.
Glen has had other men in his life since he broke up with Ashton years ago, but they never even came close to the love he felt for Ashton. It totally devastated him when he realized that Ashton had lied, cheated, and taken advantage of him. He tried to ignore the pain and keep going with the relationship wanting to keep him regardless, but when the pain got to be too much, he had to end it or end himself. He's quite angry at Ashton's audacity, just showing up after twenty years, even if it is to return his wallet. Glen doesn’t want him to stay, but soon realizes that he doesn’t want him to leave either. He wants to stay angry at Ashton, but soon finds himself falling into old, familiar habits. Surprisingly, the banter between them starts up just as if they’d never been apart. They start sympathizing about how age has changed their lives and Glen can feel the bricks in his heart start to crumble.
Ashton is hesitant to see Glen again but he's gone through a lot to earn his freedom and live life as a gay man. In doing so, Ashton knows that he made a lot of mistakes in the way he handled his marriage, his coming out, and his relationship with Glen; but he has always loved Glen. Things are different now; Ashton is different. He hopes that Glen will be able to see that and give him another chance.
This is a wonderful story about two men who are brave enough to put aside the pain and give each other a second chance. Clare has done a marvelous job putting a lot of emotion into a relatively short story. Clare's words put me through a whole range of emotions as I empathized with Glen's feelings. Since the main characters were mature men, it added depth not possible in a story about a young couple. It was quite thought provoking; and had me wondering if it truly is possible to regain trust and be able to love someone after experiencing so much anguish at their hands. If you enjoy a book with intense emotion, handsome older gentlemen, second chances, hope, and redemption, you may like this story. Thanks, Clare, for giving Glen and Ashton a chance to put their past behind them and create new happy memories.
NOTE: This book was provided by Draemspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
The last person Glen, of 'Dancing Days' by Clare London, expects to be knocking on his door is Ashton, his ex-lover from twenty years ago. At first all the anger and pain he felt when they broke up comes rushing back and he doesn't even want to talk to Ashton. Glen is perturbed at himself for noticing attractive things about him and begins to remember some of the good feelings they had for each other. After catching up, they go out to dinner together. Part of Glen still loves Ashton and always will, but is it worth opening that door again? Did they have the right love at the wrong time? Is now the right time? Only a huge leap of faith will give Glen the opportunity to see if their love can be rekindled and trust rebuilt.
Glen has had other men in his life since he broke up with Ashton years ago, but they never even came close to the love he felt for Ashton. It totally devastated him when he realized that Ashton had lied, cheated, and taken advantage of him. He tried to ignore the pain and keep going with the relationship wanting to keep him regardless, but when the pain got to be too much, he had to end it or end himself. He's quite angry at Ashton's audacity, just showing up after twenty years, even if it is to return his wallet. Glen doesn’t want him to stay, but soon realizes that he doesn’t want him to leave either. He wants to stay angry at Ashton, but soon finds himself falling into old, familiar habits. Surprisingly, the banter between them starts up just as if they’d never been apart. They start sympathizing about how age has changed their lives and Glen can feel the bricks in his heart start to crumble.
Ashton is hesitant to see Glen again but he's gone through a lot to earn his freedom and live life as a gay man. In doing so, Ashton knows that he made a lot of mistakes in the way he handled his marriage, his coming out, and his relationship with Glen; but he has always loved Glen. Things are different now; Ashton is different. He hopes that Glen will be able to see that and give him another chance.
This is a wonderful story about two men who are brave enough to put aside the pain and give each other a second chance. Clare has done a marvelous job putting a lot of emotion into a relatively short story. Clare's words put me through a whole range of emotions as I empathized with Glen's feelings. Since the main characters were mature men, it added depth not possible in a story about a young couple. It was quite thought provoking; and had me wondering if it truly is possible to regain trust and be able to love someone after experiencing so much anguish at their hands. If you enjoy a book with intense emotion, handsome older gentlemen, second chances, hope, and redemption, you may like this story. Thanks, Clare, for giving Glen and Ashton a chance to put their past behind them and create new happy memories.
NOTE: This book was provided by Draemspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
June 27, 2015
4 Heart Review by Tidal
Glen and Aston were lovers over 20 years ago. The break up hurt but Glen discovered the secrets were more than he could live with. Time moved on and so did both men. Both men found lovers and solace along the way but Glen never forgot Aston. He even recognizes him immediately 20 years later when he sees him from behind. However, Aston is the last person he wants to see, so he walks away.
Glen has a great hairdresser and, after getting caught up in conversation, he leaves his wallet behind. Finding Aston parked at his front door, returning his wallet, is the last thing he expects. All the things that Glen wanted to say but never had the chance flood his brain. To be courteous he invites Aston in. It is such a frosty reception that Aston should have brought a parka, or at least a sweater.
Aston wears him down to go out for a meal with him. I love the relationship between the men because it is realistic. Glen does not fall immediately into his arms. Aston must work hard to gain any access into Glen’s life.
What I like about the book is that the decades that have passed reflect Glen’s growth and maturity. Glen is more of an equal to Aston. He is no longer enamoured of the older, worldlier man. Glen has opinions of his own, and challenges what he does not believe to be true.
The story is bittersweet. Secrets come out and I love how the story ends. It amazes me the amount of story that is packed into this book. I love books about mature people finding second chances. The book has a happy ending but it is NOT based on desperation but on honesty and mutual respect. The road is not pretty, or an easily travelled one either.
This is a great book and it is worth every moment of the reader’s time. Lastly what makes this story wonderful on a personal note is this, Glen represents all of us who did not get the chance to have the last word in a relationship that went wrong, whether we got the happy ending or not.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
Glen and Aston were lovers over 20 years ago. The break up hurt but Glen discovered the secrets were more than he could live with. Time moved on and so did both men. Both men found lovers and solace along the way but Glen never forgot Aston. He even recognizes him immediately 20 years later when he sees him from behind. However, Aston is the last person he wants to see, so he walks away.
Glen has a great hairdresser and, after getting caught up in conversation, he leaves his wallet behind. Finding Aston parked at his front door, returning his wallet, is the last thing he expects. All the things that Glen wanted to say but never had the chance flood his brain. To be courteous he invites Aston in. It is such a frosty reception that Aston should have brought a parka, or at least a sweater.
Aston wears him down to go out for a meal with him. I love the relationship between the men because it is realistic. Glen does not fall immediately into his arms. Aston must work hard to gain any access into Glen’s life.
What I like about the book is that the decades that have passed reflect Glen’s growth and maturity. Glen is more of an equal to Aston. He is no longer enamoured of the older, worldlier man. Glen has opinions of his own, and challenges what he does not believe to be true.
The story is bittersweet. Secrets come out and I love how the story ends. It amazes me the amount of story that is packed into this book. I love books about mature people finding second chances. The book has a happy ending but it is NOT based on desperation but on honesty and mutual respect. The road is not pretty, or an easily travelled one either.
This is a great book and it is worth every moment of the reader’s time. Lastly what makes this story wonderful on a personal note is this, Glen represents all of us who did not get the chance to have the last word in a relationship that went wrong, whether we got the happy ending or not.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
June 26, 2015
A Joyfully Jay review.
5 stars
Clocking in at a mere sixty pages, Clare London gives us more emotional bang for our buck in this short story than most full-length novels are able to do. Aston was the epitome of a broken man, one whose life choices had reaped some benefits for sure, but they had also come at a great price—hiding who he was and losing the one man whom he loved more than anything else. Glen was lonely and fearing that he was past the age when any one would be willing to take a chance on him. Having just ended a 10-year relationship amicably, he was never expecting for the past to rear it’s ugly head and confront him one more time. But old feelings die hard and when he begins to let Aston back into his life, I found myself holding my breath and hoping that this time the two would make it.
Relationships are never easy and London does not shy away from throwing up roadblocks—realistic ones at that—for her men to hurdle. But the subtle nuances in her novels, the lingering glances, the wounded expressions, and the intimate moments all combine to make a rich and beautiful love story.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
5 stars
Clocking in at a mere sixty pages, Clare London gives us more emotional bang for our buck in this short story than most full-length novels are able to do. Aston was the epitome of a broken man, one whose life choices had reaped some benefits for sure, but they had also come at a great price—hiding who he was and losing the one man whom he loved more than anything else. Glen was lonely and fearing that he was past the age when any one would be willing to take a chance on him. Having just ended a 10-year relationship amicably, he was never expecting for the past to rear it’s ugly head and confront him one more time. But old feelings die hard and when he begins to let Aston back into his life, I found myself holding my breath and hoping that this time the two would make it.
Relationships are never easy and London does not shy away from throwing up roadblocks—realistic ones at that—for her men to hurdle. But the subtle nuances in her novels, the lingering glances, the wounded expressions, and the intimate moments all combine to make a rich and beautiful love story.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
June 8, 2015
This wonderful feel-good novella shows it’s never too late for a second chance at love. It made a refreshing change to read a story with characters of an older age (40/50), albeit still attractive men. I liked that their bodies showed the ravages of time and age, including in the bedroom, plus their hobbies and interests have also moved on and matured.
My heart went out to Glen as his past feelings were dredged up again after a gap of twenty years in this powerful tale of love and trust. His heart had been broken once and he is understandably reluctant to risk renewing his connection with his past lover. Their backstory is blended artfully into the narrative. I loved how the two men get to know each other as friends first after meeting again by chance. I could understand Glen’s hesitation over giving their relationship another go and this conflict seemed realistic and not forced.
Overall, a superb and well-written story, packed with emotion and depth. The British setting and Clare’s delightful humour only adds to the appeal of the story for me. The resolution is slightly corny, but suits the plot, the characters and their experiences.
Highly recommended.
**Copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review**
My heart went out to Glen as his past feelings were dredged up again after a gap of twenty years in this powerful tale of love and trust. His heart had been broken once and he is understandably reluctant to risk renewing his connection with his past lover. Their backstory is blended artfully into the narrative. I loved how the two men get to know each other as friends first after meeting again by chance. I could understand Glen’s hesitation over giving their relationship another go and this conflict seemed realistic and not forced.
Overall, a superb and well-written story, packed with emotion and depth. The British setting and Clare’s delightful humour only adds to the appeal of the story for me. The resolution is slightly corny, but suits the plot, the characters and their experiences.
Highly recommended.
**Copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review**
June 3, 2015
I received my copy from the author and rated it 4.5 stars.
This was a wonderful short read; a feel-good story with just the right amount of angst. It is wonderful to read about characters who are not in the first flush of youth. Glen is in his forties and Aston is fifty, both men have histories – both with each other and separately – and they are still attracted to each other when they meet again twenty years after Glen ended the affair they had at the time.
This is a short read but it’s a complete story. There’s enough back story to define the characters and place the reader in the middle of events. The conflict between the two men is realistic and the resolution very satisfying – if maybe a bit cheesy (but hey, even Glen and Alton agree with me on that).
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. If you’re in the mood for a well written, well told charming and satisfying short read you are probably in the mood for Dancing Days.
This was a wonderful short read; a feel-good story with just the right amount of angst. It is wonderful to read about characters who are not in the first flush of youth. Glen is in his forties and Aston is fifty, both men have histories – both with each other and separately – and they are still attracted to each other when they meet again twenty years after Glen ended the affair they had at the time.
This is a short read but it’s a complete story. There’s enough back story to define the characters and place the reader in the middle of events. The conflict between the two men is realistic and the resolution very satisfying – if maybe a bit cheesy (but hey, even Glen and Alton agree with me on that).
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. If you’re in the mood for a well written, well told charming and satisfying short read you are probably in the mood for Dancing Days.
June 21, 2015
Okay, so I both loved and hated this story. It was well written with Glen dealing with a past lover popping into his life out of nowhere. Unfortunately, this past lover broke his heart twenty years ago in the most heart-rending way, through lies and duplicity and then even worse, dragged their love affair out for a year longer. Maybe if we had had both POVs, I might not feel antagonistic toward Aston, but quite honestly, I didn’t like him. I adored Glen, but wanted to punch Aston in the groin.
However, the part that rattled me the most is something Glen’s sister said. It bothered me because it was as if she expected Glen to just overlook everything when I personally thought Glen was in the right. However, the characters never listen to me, the reader
However, the part that rattled me the most is something Glen’s sister said. It bothered me because it was as if she expected Glen to just overlook everything when I personally thought Glen was in the right. However, the characters never listen to me, the reader
June 6, 2015
This is a wonderful story about long ago lovers who meet again twenty years after the end of their relationship. Unfortunately, Glen's heart was broken by Aston, and he is very reluctant to trust Aston a second time. The attraction is still there, and Aston knows they can rekindle the relationship they lost, if he can only convince Glen to trust him again. I really enjoy that these are two middle-aged men who've been given a second chance at true and lasting love. The ending made me smile and sigh. I like that.
July 6, 2016
A very short 60 page read which seemed so full of things happening. There's just this writing style British authors have of subtly showing you things instead of telling you that make the stories flow so well. I love the little details, it makes the characters seem more alive than just words on a page.
This is my first exposure to Clare London and I am honestly very impressed, although I have to say, I didn't care much for Aston. But maybe that's because the story was narrated in Glen's POV, even though it's written in the third person.
This is my first exposure to Clare London and I am honestly very impressed, although I have to say, I didn't care much for Aston. But maybe that's because the story was narrated in Glen's POV, even though it's written in the third person.
June 1, 2016
One day Ashton turns up to glen door step returning his wallet. This brings up so much memory and 20 years has past. They were together for more then a year but it was with based on lies on Ashton part. Glen fall in love with him but that ended their love affair. now they have so much to catch up on and Ashton wants another chance. Will glen give him another chance and will things be differnet then before.
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