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Will & Patrick #1
A Casual Thing
Two weeks alone with the guy he’s had a crush on for years? Patrick can handle that. Easy.
Spending the summer with his brother was Patrick Mason’s only plan for his uni break. What he hadn’t counted on was sharing space with his brother’s best friend—and Patrick’s long-time crush—Will Adams. It’s only for two weeks, though. He can handle that without embarrassing himself. Right?
It’s been a while since Will’s seen his best mate’s little brother, Patrick, and he wasn’t prepared for the change in him. The attractive young man who turns up for the summer break is far from the scrawny teen Will remembers.
Against Will’s better judgment, Patrick convinces him that a little no-strings fun is just what they need. But Patrick’s never been good at separating sex from feelings, and this time is no exception. As their time together draws to a close, he needs to work out if they have something worth pursuing or if it’s really just a casual thing.
Previously published through Dreamspinner Press. The free Christmas short story, A Serious Thing, is now included in this edition.
Spending the summer with his brother was Patrick Mason’s only plan for his uni break. What he hadn’t counted on was sharing space with his brother’s best friend—and Patrick’s long-time crush—Will Adams. It’s only for two weeks, though. He can handle that without embarrassing himself. Right?
It’s been a while since Will’s seen his best mate’s little brother, Patrick, and he wasn’t prepared for the change in him. The attractive young man who turns up for the summer break is far from the scrawny teen Will remembers.
Against Will’s better judgment, Patrick convinces him that a little no-strings fun is just what they need. But Patrick’s never been good at separating sex from feelings, and this time is no exception. As their time together draws to a close, he needs to work out if they have something worth pursuing or if it’s really just a casual thing.
Previously published through Dreamspinner Press. The free Christmas short story, A Serious Thing, is now included in this edition.
138 pages, ebook
First published July 1, 2015
14 people are currently reading
314 people want to read
About the author
Annabelle Jacobs
52 books402 followersAnnabelle Jacobs lives in the South West of England with her three rowdy children, and two cats.
An avid reader of fantasy herself for many years, Annabelle now spends her days writing her own stories. They're usually either fantasy or paranormal fiction, because she loves building worlds filled with magical creatures, and creating stories full of action and adventure. Her characters may have a tough time of it—fighting enemies and adversity—but they always find love in the end.
An avid reader of fantasy herself for many years, Annabelle now spends her days writing her own stories. They're usually either fantasy or paranormal fiction, because she loves building worlds filled with magical creatures, and creating stories full of action and adventure. Her characters may have a tough time of it—fighting enemies and adversity—but they always find love in the end.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
June 27, 2015
~3.5~
If you like light, low angst stories with a sprinkle of smexy and a side of British boys, look no further.
Annabelle Jacobs' writing is addictive. It's like licking an ice cream cone. Before you know it, you're done and sticky.
Patrick has had an unrequited crush on his older brother's best friend Will for ages. When Pat finds out he'll be sharing a flat with Will for two weeks, he doesn't know whether to be excited or terrified.
Cue towel drop scene in the kitchen, and suddenly Will is seeing Patrick not as a boy but a MAN.
But Will doesn't want to do a long-distance relationship, much less with a student. Will's ex traveled a lot and cheated on him, and Will doesn't want a repeat.
So the two men become fuckbuddies. No strings. No hurt feelings. No problem.
Riiight.
Cause that always works out.
While I liked the premise and the snappy dialogue, I thought the story could have done with more passion and tenderness. Some of the interactions between Will and Patrick were a little awkward.
This is a solid HFN, but I was disappointed that the L word was never mentioned. Maybe that's realistic, but it's not warm and fuzzy.
And you know me: it's not a HEA unless there are sparkly unicorns prancing under rainbows.
If you like light, low angst stories with a sprinkle of smexy and a side of British boys, look no further.
Annabelle Jacobs' writing is addictive. It's like licking an ice cream cone. Before you know it, you're done and sticky.
Patrick has had an unrequited crush on his older brother's best friend Will for ages. When Pat finds out he'll be sharing a flat with Will for two weeks, he doesn't know whether to be excited or terrified.
Cue towel drop scene in the kitchen, and suddenly Will is seeing Patrick not as a boy but a MAN.
But Will doesn't want to do a long-distance relationship, much less with a student. Will's ex traveled a lot and cheated on him, and Will doesn't want a repeat.
So the two men become fuckbuddies. No strings. No hurt feelings. No problem.
Riiight.
Cause that always works out.
While I liked the premise and the snappy dialogue, I thought the story could have done with more passion and tenderness. Some of the interactions between Will and Patrick were a little awkward.
This is a solid HFN, but I was disappointed that the L word was never mentioned. Maybe that's realistic, but it's not warm and fuzzy.
And you know me: it's not a HEA unless there are sparkly unicorns prancing under rainbows.
July 5, 2015
3.5 Stars!
This was a very easy, light, low angst read with a good bit of sexy!
Nothing wowing, but no complaints either!
This was a very easy, light, low angst read with a good bit of sexy!
Nothing wowing, but no complaints either!
February 4, 2020
3.5 Stars
A Casual Thing is a sweet and sexy British M/M romance, featuring a small age-gap between our MCs, Patrick and Will, and a naturally progressing best-friends-brother/brother’s best friend trope that will no doubt give you the warm and fuzzies.
When 22-year-old Patrick comes to stay at his older brother Ben’s place for the summer before his final year of university, he’s taken by surprise to find Ben’s friend Will also staying there while he waits for his new place to be ready after a recent breakup.
Patrick has crushed on 28-year-old Will for years, but Will has always been taken and Patrick has always been under the assumption that Will only sees him as Ben’s goofy little brother. But when Ben heads off on a short holiday, leaving Patrick and Will alone for two-weeks, things quickly start to shift between the two men, starting with an accidental towel dropping incident that leads Patrick to wonder if Will may be more interested than he’s ever let on before.
What begins as a casual summer fling, soon turns complicated, with Patrick and Will getting more attached than they ever expected to. With summer’s end closing in and with Patrick’s final year of school approaching, it takes some serious thought and honest communication for these two to decide if it’s worth fighting for one another in order to build on a relationship that might just be worthwhile.
This was really easy reading. I enjoyed the British setting and I liked how natural Will and Patrick’s relationship developed. Their growing attraction and their easy friendship felt genuine to me, making their eventual transition from casual-to-serious all the more believable to me.
I’ll be honest though and admit that I liked this story, but I didn’t love it. Usually I’m a super-fan of the best-friends-brother/brother’s best friend trope, and although this one was quite lovely, I felt the connection between Will and Patrick was missing a certain spark that would have taken my enjoyment from like to love. But it is what it is – and for what it is, I had a nice time reading it.
NOTE: This 2019 edition contains both the original story and the short sequel that made up the Will & Patrick series.
A Casual Thing is a sweet and sexy British M/M romance, featuring a small age-gap between our MCs, Patrick and Will, and a naturally progressing best-friends-brother/brother’s best friend trope that will no doubt give you the warm and fuzzies.
When 22-year-old Patrick comes to stay at his older brother Ben’s place for the summer before his final year of university, he’s taken by surprise to find Ben’s friend Will also staying there while he waits for his new place to be ready after a recent breakup.
Patrick has crushed on 28-year-old Will for years, but Will has always been taken and Patrick has always been under the assumption that Will only sees him as Ben’s goofy little brother. But when Ben heads off on a short holiday, leaving Patrick and Will alone for two-weeks, things quickly start to shift between the two men, starting with an accidental towel dropping incident that leads Patrick to wonder if Will may be more interested than he’s ever let on before.
What begins as a casual summer fling, soon turns complicated, with Patrick and Will getting more attached than they ever expected to. With summer’s end closing in and with Patrick’s final year of school approaching, it takes some serious thought and honest communication for these two to decide if it’s worth fighting for one another in order to build on a relationship that might just be worthwhile.
This was really easy reading. I enjoyed the British setting and I liked how natural Will and Patrick’s relationship developed. Their growing attraction and their easy friendship felt genuine to me, making their eventual transition from casual-to-serious all the more believable to me.
I’ll be honest though and admit that I liked this story, but I didn’t love it. Usually I’m a super-fan of the best-friends-brother/brother’s best friend trope, and although this one was quite lovely, I felt the connection between Will and Patrick was missing a certain spark that would have taken my enjoyment from like to love. But it is what it is – and for what it is, I had a nice time reading it.
NOTE: This 2019 edition contains both the original story and the short sequel that made up the Will & Patrick series.
November 8, 2015
2.5 stars
Having a crush on your older brother’s best friend, this could have been so good! But it wasn’t.
Patrick is house sitting for his brother while he is on holiday. But it turns out he has to share the flat with his brother’s best friend, Will, who he had a crush on for ages. When it turns out Will is not that averse to having sex with Patrick they strike a friends-with-benefits deal.
There were several things that bothered me while reading this.
Will was an ass. I didn’t like him at all. He seemed stuck up, stiff and I have no idea what Patrick saw in him. I never felt the supposedly good time they were having. It was mentioned, but I didn’t feel it. And the way Will treated Patrick, I didn’t like it. He was so worried he would give Patrick the wrong idea that he often acted like a jerk and I would have given him the finger long ago.
And what the heck was with Will working all the time. They couldn’t find the time to play hide the dick because Will had to get up early for work or he was working late? Please don’t be so correct, people. You can function just fine with 3 hours of sleep when there is hanky panky involved.
And some things that could have been so hot was just very awkward here.
Patrick walks in on Will jacking off. That could have been so hot! But it was just awkward… Same with most of the sex scenes. Coming on each other’s face was gross for them instead of sexy. And Patrick actually complained that Will was too heavy when he was lying on top of him.
Way to get the sexy out of the sex, Annabelle Jacobs.
Having a crush on your older brother’s best friend, this could have been so good! But it wasn’t.
Patrick is house sitting for his brother while he is on holiday. But it turns out he has to share the flat with his brother’s best friend, Will, who he had a crush on for ages. When it turns out Will is not that averse to having sex with Patrick they strike a friends-with-benefits deal.
There were several things that bothered me while reading this.
Will was an ass. I didn’t like him at all. He seemed stuck up, stiff and I have no idea what Patrick saw in him. I never felt the supposedly good time they were having. It was mentioned, but I didn’t feel it. And the way Will treated Patrick, I didn’t like it. He was so worried he would give Patrick the wrong idea that he often acted like a jerk and I would have given him the finger long ago.
And what the heck was with Will working all the time. They couldn’t find the time to play hide the dick because Will had to get up early for work or he was working late? Please don’t be so correct, people. You can function just fine with 3 hours of sleep when there is hanky panky involved.
And some things that could have been so hot was just very awkward here.
Patrick walks in on Will jacking off. That could have been so hot! But it was just awkward… Same with most of the sex scenes. Coming on each other’s face was gross for them instead of sexy. And Patrick actually complained that Will was too heavy when he was lying on top of him.
Way to get the sexy out of the sex, Annabelle Jacobs.
July 2, 2015
Patrick is looking forward to housesitting for his older brother Ben while he is away for two weeks and then spending the summer with him before returning to university for his final years of studies. It’s all perfect until Patrick arrives and Ben drops the bomb that his friend Will, who Patrick has a not so secret, “huge unrequited and frankly, embarrassing crush on”, has broken up with his boyfriend and will be sharing the house with Patrick for the next two weeks until he can move into his new home. The two get along great, despite Patrick’s crush, but now that Will is single, Patrick sees a chance of something happening between them. Knowing about the crush, Will figures he’ll just set some boundaries and things will be just fine. That idea is great until he gets an accidental eyeful of a naked Patrick. One thing leads to another and Patrick offers a deal of a little casual, no strings attached sex for the next two weeks. What could possibly go wrong with that?
Both Will and Patrick go into the situation knowing it’s a bad idea, but for different reasons. Patrick knows there’s no way his feelings won’t be involved since he’s crushed so long and tends to get attached to men quickly. Will doesn’t generally do casual, but has no interest in pursuing any relationship, no less a long distance one when Patrick leaves. The one issue they both have is Ben, but he’s fine as long as they don’t hurt each other, have sex in his bed or make things weird for him. It’s almost immediately clear to both that feelings are definitely involved and the line between casual and “something more” is quickly blurred. Patrick is holding out hope that he can change Will’s mind over the short time they have alone together, but when he approaches Will about it things go bad fast.
This was my first book by Annabelle Jacobs and I enjoyed the dialogue, and the pace of the writing. I really fell for Patrick and his ability to awkwardly go for what he wants. Told in dual point of view, the majority of the story takes place in the apartment over a ten day period with just the two men, but I feel like I got to know Patrick a lot better than Will, who really doesn’t open up until the end.
Since the story revolves around casual sex, there are enough sex scenes to keep it in the forefront, but I didn’t think they overtook the story. I adored their first kiss and the rest of the scenes went from quick and dirty to tender and sweet. There are not many secondary characters, but Ben was an entertaining and supportive presence throughout the story along with Patrick’s co-worker and admirer, Christian.
Mostly a light read, it did manage to grab me and tug at my heart enough for me to be really angry at Will for his inability to communicate honestly with Patrick or think before he acts. There is a realistic, happy and hopeful ending, though some may see it as more HFN than HEA. I’ll be looking forward to reading more of Annabelle Jacobs’ contemporary stories in the future.
Release day review with excerpt posted at Sinfully ... Addicted to All Male Romance
Both Will and Patrick go into the situation knowing it’s a bad idea, but for different reasons. Patrick knows there’s no way his feelings won’t be involved since he’s crushed so long and tends to get attached to men quickly. Will doesn’t generally do casual, but has no interest in pursuing any relationship, no less a long distance one when Patrick leaves. The one issue they both have is Ben, but he’s fine as long as they don’t hurt each other, have sex in his bed or make things weird for him. It’s almost immediately clear to both that feelings are definitely involved and the line between casual and “something more” is quickly blurred. Patrick is holding out hope that he can change Will’s mind over the short time they have alone together, but when he approaches Will about it things go bad fast.
This was my first book by Annabelle Jacobs and I enjoyed the dialogue, and the pace of the writing. I really fell for Patrick and his ability to awkwardly go for what he wants. Told in dual point of view, the majority of the story takes place in the apartment over a ten day period with just the two men, but I feel like I got to know Patrick a lot better than Will, who really doesn’t open up until the end.
Since the story revolves around casual sex, there are enough sex scenes to keep it in the forefront, but I didn’t think they overtook the story. I adored their first kiss and the rest of the scenes went from quick and dirty to tender and sweet. There are not many secondary characters, but Ben was an entertaining and supportive presence throughout the story along with Patrick’s co-worker and admirer, Christian.
Mostly a light read, it did manage to grab me and tug at my heart enough for me to be really angry at Will for his inability to communicate honestly with Patrick or think before he acts. There is a realistic, happy and hopeful ending, though some may see it as more HFN than HEA. I’ll be looking forward to reading more of Annabelle Jacobs’ contemporary stories in the future.
Release day review with excerpt posted at Sinfully ... Addicted to All Male Romance
Read
June 9, 2015I pre-read this one because Annabelle is a friend of mine, so this is not a review as such - but a recommendation. This is Annabelle's first foray into contemporary m/m and she's done a great job with it. It's a fun, sexy, lighthearted read. I suggest you check it out if you like that sort of thing :)
July 9, 2015
*3.5 stars*
This was a nice story. The "best friend's brother" trope is always a favorite.
I did feel that the story dragged on a little bit, though. . It could have been shorter.
Overall, a sexy and light story with a strong HFN.
P.S. My favorite character of this book is Ben, Patrick's brother. Thw guy was super cool and hilarious.
This was a nice story. The "best friend's brother" trope is always a favorite.
I did feel that the story dragged on a little bit, though. . It could have been shorter.
Overall, a sexy and light story with a strong HFN.
P.S. My favorite character of this book is Ben, Patrick's brother. Thw guy was super cool and hilarious.
July 5, 2015
3.5 Stars
July 7, 2015
So I read
and enjoyed it tremendously. I wanted to know who this author was. Annabelle Jacobs, writes low-angst, romance, and sexy books from just the two I've read. This one was no different. It very much younger brother has crush on older brother's best friend. Wow it took no time for Patrick and Will to get together. I would have thought with their past history that Will would have seen certain signs for what they were. Patrick definitely was a sweet character, I liked him as well. Can't forget big brother Ben, I think he was amazing, supportive and loving to both guys.
I really liked the pacing of the story, it was really sweet between the two guys. I love her writing style. I liked how the author decided to showcase the two guys after the friends with benefits feelings. I can't believe I'm saying this, but I wanted a HEA instead of HFN, I just felt like all the things that Patrick and Ben went through should have been showcased in an epilogue of some sorts. I'd recommend this book to lovers of romance, low-angst lovers, and friends to lovers fanatics.
and enjoyed it tremendously. I wanted to know who this author was. Annabelle Jacobs, writes low-angst, romance, and sexy books from just the two I've read. This one was no different. It very much younger brother has crush on older brother's best friend. Wow it took no time for Patrick and Will to get together. I would have thought with their past history that Will would have seen certain signs for what they were. Patrick definitely was a sweet character, I liked him as well. Can't forget big brother Ben, I think he was amazing, supportive and loving to both guys.I really liked the pacing of the story, it was really sweet between the two guys. I love her writing style. I liked how the author decided to showcase the two guys after the friends with benefits feelings. I can't believe I'm saying this, but I wanted a HEA instead of HFN, I just felt like all the things that Patrick and Ben went through should have been showcased in an epilogue of some sorts. I'd recommend this book to lovers of romance, low-angst lovers, and friends to lovers fanatics.
August 6, 2015
ETA: link to my review Gay.Guy.Reading and Friends
I'm writing a review for Gay.Guy.Reading and Friends. I'll add a link when it's available.
3.5 charming stars
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I'm writing a review for Gay.Guy.Reading and Friends. I'll add a link when it's available.
3.5 charming stars
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
June 5, 2017
Wie locker kann eine Sache sein, wenn man in den betreffenden Mann schon seit einer gefühlten Ewigkeit verknallt ist? Ich war schon sehr gespannt auf die Antwort der Autorin.
Zur Handlung. Patrick fährt in den Semesterferien zu seinem Bruder Ben nach Bristol, damit der für ein Paar Tage mit seinen Kumpels Urlaub machen kann und er in der Zeit seine Katze versorgt. Doch anstelle einer erwarteten leeren Wohnung, sieht er sich mit einem Mitbewohner konfrontiert. Ausgerechnet Will, der beste Freund Bens, wurde im Gästezimmer einquartiert. Den Schreck muss Patrick erst einmal verdauen, denn schließlich ist er in ihn schon lange heimlich verliebt.
Will hat sich nach seiner Trennung von seinem Ex-Freund vorübergehend von Ben einladen lassen, um die Zeit zu überbrücken, bis er in sein neues Heim einziehen kann. Überraschend muss er sich jetzt dessen Wohnung mit Bens kleinem Bruder teilen. Nur dass dieser nicht mehr klein ist, sondern mittlerweile erwachsen und genau Wills Typ. Aber der Bruder seines besten Freundes ist für ihn zunächst tabu. Doch obwohl er weiß, dass dieser Gefühle für ihn hat, lässt er sich von Patrick zu zwanglosem Sex überreden.
Beiden ist klar, dass ihre Übereinkunft eigentlich eine schlechte Idee ist, doch die körperliche Anziehung siegt. Sie landen miteinander im Bett, wenn auch aus unterschiedlichen Gründen. Denn während Will die Sache wirklich locker angehen will, macht sich Patrick zunehmend Hoffnung auf ein Happy-End. Als Will das endlich begreift, muss er sich entscheiden.
Mir hat die Story um das ungleiche Paar sehr gut gefallen. Besonders als klar wurde, dass Patrick seine Gefühle für den besten Freund seines Bruders nicht länger verleugnen konnte. Ich freue mich schon sehr auf den zweiten Teil der Übersetzung, um zu erfahren, wie es mit Patrick und Will weitergeht.
Die Story erhält von mir 5 Sterne und eine Leseempfehlung.
Ein lieber Dank geht an Dreamspinner Press für das erhaltene Rezensionsexemplar.
Zur Handlung. Patrick fährt in den Semesterferien zu seinem Bruder Ben nach Bristol, damit der für ein Paar Tage mit seinen Kumpels Urlaub machen kann und er in der Zeit seine Katze versorgt. Doch anstelle einer erwarteten leeren Wohnung, sieht er sich mit einem Mitbewohner konfrontiert. Ausgerechnet Will, der beste Freund Bens, wurde im Gästezimmer einquartiert. Den Schreck muss Patrick erst einmal verdauen, denn schließlich ist er in ihn schon lange heimlich verliebt.
Will hat sich nach seiner Trennung von seinem Ex-Freund vorübergehend von Ben einladen lassen, um die Zeit zu überbrücken, bis er in sein neues Heim einziehen kann. Überraschend muss er sich jetzt dessen Wohnung mit Bens kleinem Bruder teilen. Nur dass dieser nicht mehr klein ist, sondern mittlerweile erwachsen und genau Wills Typ. Aber der Bruder seines besten Freundes ist für ihn zunächst tabu. Doch obwohl er weiß, dass dieser Gefühle für ihn hat, lässt er sich von Patrick zu zwanglosem Sex überreden.
Beiden ist klar, dass ihre Übereinkunft eigentlich eine schlechte Idee ist, doch die körperliche Anziehung siegt. Sie landen miteinander im Bett, wenn auch aus unterschiedlichen Gründen. Denn während Will die Sache wirklich locker angehen will, macht sich Patrick zunehmend Hoffnung auf ein Happy-End. Als Will das endlich begreift, muss er sich entscheiden.
Mir hat die Story um das ungleiche Paar sehr gut gefallen. Besonders als klar wurde, dass Patrick seine Gefühle für den besten Freund seines Bruders nicht länger verleugnen konnte. Ich freue mich schon sehr auf den zweiten Teil der Übersetzung, um zu erfahren, wie es mit Patrick und Will weitergeht.
Die Story erhält von mir 5 Sterne und eine Leseempfehlung.
Ein lieber Dank geht an Dreamspinner Press für das erhaltene Rezensionsexemplar.
June 6, 2017
Patrick, der den Sommer bei seinem Bruder in Bristol verbringen will, hat eine Schwäche für dessen Freund Will. Leider ist Will nicht interessiert und hat einen Freund. Doch inzwischen hat sich bei Will einiges geändert und plötzlich muss Patrick sich mit Will als Mitbewohner auseinanderzusetzen, während Bruder Ben für zwei Wochen in den Urlaub fliegt.
Die Zeit als Mitbewohner von Ben und anschließend von Patrick ist für Will nur begrenzt. Sein neues Haus ist bald bezugsfertig und er brauchte kurzfristig einen Unterschlupf. Auch er sieht der Zeit mit Patrick mit gemischten Gefühlen entgegen. Eigentlich mag er den Bruder seines besten Freundes, doch Patrick ist zu jung, zu naiv und lebt zudem viel zu weit weg. Also will er den höchst interessierten Patrick eigentlich auf Distanz halten. Eigentlich. Doch es kommt dann doch anders, denn das Fleisch ist schwach!
Eine lockere Sache ist eine sehr lockere und teilweise amüsante Geschichte. Da sich die Helden ja bereits kennen, fällt das typische ‚Vorspiel‘ aus. Leider verabsäumt es die Autorin ihren Helden Tiefe zu geben. Sie bleiben blass, vage beschrieben und scheinen so überhaupt keine Vergangenheit zu haben. Es gibt keine Rückblenden oder Erklärungen. Das finde ich sehr schade, denn das hätten sich die Helden schon verdient.
Während Patrick sehr sympathisch ist, konnte Will mich nicht mitnehmen. Er ist älter, reifer und erfahrener. Er müsste es besser wissen und lässt sich dann doch auf Patrick ein. Allerdings reagiert er immer wieder mehr als kalt, unüberlegt und verletzend. Das hätte echt nicht sein müssen und es zeigt nicht gerade von emotionaler Reife, wie er mit Patrick verfahren ist. Es ist natürlich seiner Vergangenheit mit dem Ex geschuldet, aber seine Entschuldigungen waren dann doch etwas lahm.
Nebenfiguren sind Patricks Bruder Ben, der diese aufkeimende Beziehung sehr kritisch sieht und Christian, ein Arbeitskollege von Patrick. Der wirkt total nett, freundlich und hat eine Schwäche für Patrick. Aber er kennt seine Grenzen und erweist sich als echter Freund für Patrick.
Die intimen Szenen waren gut beschrieben, der Plot leider etwas schwach und die Hintergründe der Helden sehr vage beschrieben. Da wäre trotz der Kürze mehr drinnen gewesen und von der Autorin bin ich eigentlich Besseres gewöhnt. Dennoch freundliche 3 Sterne, weil ich Patrick mochte und eben die Sexszenen ganz in Ordnung waren.
Die Zeit als Mitbewohner von Ben und anschließend von Patrick ist für Will nur begrenzt. Sein neues Haus ist bald bezugsfertig und er brauchte kurzfristig einen Unterschlupf. Auch er sieht der Zeit mit Patrick mit gemischten Gefühlen entgegen. Eigentlich mag er den Bruder seines besten Freundes, doch Patrick ist zu jung, zu naiv und lebt zudem viel zu weit weg. Also will er den höchst interessierten Patrick eigentlich auf Distanz halten. Eigentlich. Doch es kommt dann doch anders, denn das Fleisch ist schwach!
Eine lockere Sache ist eine sehr lockere und teilweise amüsante Geschichte. Da sich die Helden ja bereits kennen, fällt das typische ‚Vorspiel‘ aus. Leider verabsäumt es die Autorin ihren Helden Tiefe zu geben. Sie bleiben blass, vage beschrieben und scheinen so überhaupt keine Vergangenheit zu haben. Es gibt keine Rückblenden oder Erklärungen. Das finde ich sehr schade, denn das hätten sich die Helden schon verdient.
Während Patrick sehr sympathisch ist, konnte Will mich nicht mitnehmen. Er ist älter, reifer und erfahrener. Er müsste es besser wissen und lässt sich dann doch auf Patrick ein. Allerdings reagiert er immer wieder mehr als kalt, unüberlegt und verletzend. Das hätte echt nicht sein müssen und es zeigt nicht gerade von emotionaler Reife, wie er mit Patrick verfahren ist. Es ist natürlich seiner Vergangenheit mit dem Ex geschuldet, aber seine Entschuldigungen waren dann doch etwas lahm.
Nebenfiguren sind Patricks Bruder Ben, der diese aufkeimende Beziehung sehr kritisch sieht und Christian, ein Arbeitskollege von Patrick. Der wirkt total nett, freundlich und hat eine Schwäche für Patrick. Aber er kennt seine Grenzen und erweist sich als echter Freund für Patrick.
Die intimen Szenen waren gut beschrieben, der Plot leider etwas schwach und die Hintergründe der Helden sehr vage beschrieben. Da wäre trotz der Kürze mehr drinnen gewesen und von der Autorin bin ich eigentlich Besseres gewöhnt. Dennoch freundliche 3 Sterne, weil ich Patrick mochte und eben die Sexszenen ganz in Ordnung waren.
June 6, 2017
Ich weiß ehrlich gesagt nicht, wo ich die Geschichte zwischen Will und Patrick einordnen soll. Eine Story um das Thema »Freunde mit gewissen Vorzügen« kann richtig gut sein, aber bei dieser hier ist der Funke einfach nicht übergesprungen.
Will und Patrick sind nette Jungs, aber eben auch nicht mehr. Sie bleiben die ganze Geschichte über eher blass und das machte es schwierig beim Lesen dabeizubleiben, weil sie mich, trotz einiger Lacher und lustiger Szenen, auf keiner Seite wirklich fesseln konnten. Dazu kommt die Story ohne großes Drama daher, mal abgesehen von dem beziehungstechnischen Durcheinander am Ende, das ich reichlich überspitzt fand, aber solche Dinge sind bekanntlich Geschmackssache.
Beide bekommen ihr Happy End und wer gerne Sex liest, wird hier ebenfalls ausreichend fündig. Ich vergebe 2*, für eine Leseempfehlung reicht es allerdings nicht.
Ein ganz liebes Dankeschön geht an den Dreamspinner Verlag für das Rezensionsexemplar.
Will und Patrick sind nette Jungs, aber eben auch nicht mehr. Sie bleiben die ganze Geschichte über eher blass und das machte es schwierig beim Lesen dabeizubleiben, weil sie mich, trotz einiger Lacher und lustiger Szenen, auf keiner Seite wirklich fesseln konnten. Dazu kommt die Story ohne großes Drama daher, mal abgesehen von dem beziehungstechnischen Durcheinander am Ende, das ich reichlich überspitzt fand, aber solche Dinge sind bekanntlich Geschmackssache.
Beide bekommen ihr Happy End und wer gerne Sex liest, wird hier ebenfalls ausreichend fündig. Ich vergebe 2*, für eine Leseempfehlung reicht es allerdings nicht.
Ein ganz liebes Dankeschön geht an den Dreamspinner Verlag für das Rezensionsexemplar.
July 22, 2015
This review was originally written for Joyfully Jay Reviews and can be accessed here: http://joyfullyjay.com/2015/07/review...
Pat is 22 years old and on his summer holiday before his final year at uni. He’s planned to spend the time at his brother Ben’s flat in Bristol where he will house sit/cat sit for the first two weeks while Ben is on a vacation. Pat is stunned to learn that he will have a roommate; Ben’s best friend Will has taken the guest room until his own flat is ready in ten days. Pat has had a mad crush on Will for the past several years, even having had a silly drunken confession while seated on Will’s lap the year prior. Pat longed from afar, because Will has always had a boyfriend, but Will is now incontrovertibly single and Pat is losing his mind trying to hold back his exuberance.
Will and Pat agree that they won’t do anything together; Will doesn’t want to upset Ben by breaking Pat’s heart. Plus Will is 28 years old and Pat has always seemed so…young. Then Will catches Pat in his, well, in nothing actually, and immediately recognizes his misapprehension. Pat is all grown up and 100% desirable man.
Will struggles against his attraction until Pat insists that they can have a no-strings, casual affair while Pat is in for the summer. This suits Will as he is still struggling with his last lover’s infidelity, and can’t commit to what might turn into a long-distance relationship once Pat returns to school. Will is very honest about this, and Pat thinks he’s honest, but it was clear right away that Pat was way more invested emotionally. Will, for his part, is conflicted with his own deepening affection. His questioning of the possibilities developing between him and Pat felt so real, and I connected with his confusion. Will is unsettled by Pat’s youth—Pat’s still a student who (Will thinks) should be out experimenting and sowing his oats, while Will is more settled. Pat and Will enjoy the time they spend together, both in and out of bed. There are some really nice, tender scenes between them, and each man had increasing misgivings over their ability to remain casual.
I really liked Pat and Will. Pat more, naturally, because he’s just a young lovely breath of fresh air than Will, who’s a bit jaded on relationships. I always connect with an incurable romantic, and Pat is one. It was tough witnessing Pat’s broken-hearted episodes for that reason. Will doesn’t fare much better, and I was glad that Ben was able to intercede. He’s quite the excellent brother and best mate—even if he never wants “the details.”
The writing is accessible and humorous with plenty of “prat-fall” scenarios that cement Pat and Will’s attraction. Those slippery towels! Those unlocked doors! I was thoroughly entertained and closed the book with a super feel-good swelling my chest.
Pat is 22 years old and on his summer holiday before his final year at uni. He’s planned to spend the time at his brother Ben’s flat in Bristol where he will house sit/cat sit for the first two weeks while Ben is on a vacation. Pat is stunned to learn that he will have a roommate; Ben’s best friend Will has taken the guest room until his own flat is ready in ten days. Pat has had a mad crush on Will for the past several years, even having had a silly drunken confession while seated on Will’s lap the year prior. Pat longed from afar, because Will has always had a boyfriend, but Will is now incontrovertibly single and Pat is losing his mind trying to hold back his exuberance.
Will and Pat agree that they won’t do anything together; Will doesn’t want to upset Ben by breaking Pat’s heart. Plus Will is 28 years old and Pat has always seemed so…young. Then Will catches Pat in his, well, in nothing actually, and immediately recognizes his misapprehension. Pat is all grown up and 100% desirable man.
Will struggles against his attraction until Pat insists that they can have a no-strings, casual affair while Pat is in for the summer. This suits Will as he is still struggling with his last lover’s infidelity, and can’t commit to what might turn into a long-distance relationship once Pat returns to school. Will is very honest about this, and Pat thinks he’s honest, but it was clear right away that Pat was way more invested emotionally. Will, for his part, is conflicted with his own deepening affection. His questioning of the possibilities developing between him and Pat felt so real, and I connected with his confusion. Will is unsettled by Pat’s youth—Pat’s still a student who (Will thinks) should be out experimenting and sowing his oats, while Will is more settled. Pat and Will enjoy the time they spend together, both in and out of bed. There are some really nice, tender scenes between them, and each man had increasing misgivings over their ability to remain casual.
I really liked Pat and Will. Pat more, naturally, because he’s just a young lovely breath of fresh air than Will, who’s a bit jaded on relationships. I always connect with an incurable romantic, and Pat is one. It was tough witnessing Pat’s broken-hearted episodes for that reason. Will doesn’t fare much better, and I was glad that Ben was able to intercede. He’s quite the excellent brother and best mate—even if he never wants “the details.”
The writing is accessible and humorous with plenty of “prat-fall” scenarios that cement Pat and Will’s attraction. Those slippery towels! Those unlocked doors! I was thoroughly entertained and closed the book with a super feel-good swelling my chest.
July 1, 2015
Well….that was…anti-climactic. Overall this was a pretty good read. I liked the premise of the story BUT thought it ended up being a bit slow and kind of boring overall. Initially I was amped about Patrick having had a long term crush on his brother’s best friend who was 7 years older. He’d embarrassingly let the secret crush out on a previous visit so it was out in the open and everyone was aware of it. Patrick was spending the summer at his brothers and as luck would have it his crush having recently broken up with his boyfriend & was staying there too. For two weeks it would just be the two of them. A mere 24 hours in & naked bodies/each other’s penises had accidentally been seen…what else could they do besides agree to be fuck buddies for a few weeks.
So the thing is….this book was way too realistic. For the first week we barely got any interaction between the two. They should have been fucking like a countdown was happening (cause it was…remember JUST two weeks) yet I kept getting to read about work and missed connections and damn did these two eat a lot of breakfast. Finally they get down and dirty and the morning after Patrick has to get all emo on Will and fuck it all up. Drama, miscommunication, brother returns (why does this dude always book incredibly early flights), no one talks for two weeks, shit hits the fan and BOOM boyfriends.
Overall I liked it as in 2.5 but rounded up to 3 (now remember I tend to like a more erotic (read slutty) book so keep that in mind).
So the thing is….this book was way too realistic. For the first week we barely got any interaction between the two. They should have been fucking like a countdown was happening (cause it was…remember JUST two weeks) yet I kept getting to read about work and missed connections and damn did these two eat a lot of breakfast. Finally they get down and dirty and the morning after Patrick has to get all emo on Will and fuck it all up. Drama, miscommunication, brother returns (why does this dude always book incredibly early flights), no one talks for two weeks, shit hits the fan and BOOM boyfriends.
Overall I liked it as in 2.5 but rounded up to 3 (now remember I tend to like a more erotic (read slutty) book so keep that in mind).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 13, 2015
This is a very low angst love story between a slightly older and wiser Will and the still in university Patrick. Will has been burned in the past and is leery of younger men and long-distance relationships, especially with the brother of a friend, so he resists Patrick’s obvious adoration until it becomes apparent that he can’t anymore. When he gives in, it’s with the (this never works out) idea that they can somehow be fuck buddies and no strings.
Of course Patrick is already having feelings before they begin, so Will’s already set up to fail. When Patrick does ask for more – even vaguely – and is summarily rejected – everyone is heartbroken, including Patrick’s brother for having been caught in the middle.
Ultimately the story ends with a solid HFN and a happy enough ending and certainly Patrick deserves it, though Will… I’m not so sure. He was mostly a jerk throughout the entire book and he didn’t do much to redeem himself even by the end.
I really liked Patrick’s character, he was earnest and sweet and besides the obvious chemistry didn’t see how Will deserved his goodness. I wish that we got to see them a little later down the road, maybe a year or more, so that I could feel good about their HEA.
All in all this was a nicely written, relatively light hearted romance with some nicely developed characters. 3.5 of 5 stars
Of course Patrick is already having feelings before they begin, so Will’s already set up to fail. When Patrick does ask for more – even vaguely – and is summarily rejected – everyone is heartbroken, including Patrick’s brother for having been caught in the middle.
Ultimately the story ends with a solid HFN and a happy enough ending and certainly Patrick deserves it, though Will… I’m not so sure. He was mostly a jerk throughout the entire book and he didn’t do much to redeem himself even by the end.
I really liked Patrick’s character, he was earnest and sweet and besides the obvious chemistry didn’t see how Will deserved his goodness. I wish that we got to see them a little later down the road, maybe a year or more, so that I could feel good about their HEA.
All in all this was a nicely written, relatively light hearted romance with some nicely developed characters. 3.5 of 5 stars
July 14, 2015
A really cute story, with angst that had me frustrated... still, it was a fun read. My review is up at Boys In Our Books.
January 5, 2016
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.
I really enjoyed this book. Patrick and Ben end up staying together in the same house for a few weeks in summer. Neither knows they’ll be sharing the house, but Patrick doesn’t complain since he’s had a crush on Will for some time. Will knows about Patrick’s crush, and is a little uncomfortable with the arrangement. However, when Will accidentally sees Patrick naked, he changes his mind. The two admit they are attracted to one another, and agree to be together just for sex. The agreement starts off with a lot of sexual tension and slowly progresses from touching to intercourse. Although they are both trying to keep emotional distance, it is almost impossible to do so when they are so affected by the intimacy of being together. By the end of the book, it becomes clear they are more than friends with benefits, but making the jump to a relationship is harder than what either expects.
I think this book was pretty hot. I was on the edge of my chair, forgetting to breathe during their first time together. After this first time, I was anxious for them to be together more, but Will seems to be avoiding Patrick, and I started to wonder where their whole arrangement was going. They agreed to have sex, but it seemed like Will was afraid of becoming attached at every step. Since this ends up being the case, the chasing and running away seemed warranted. I liked the premise of this book, and was glad there was no cheating, even though they weren’t technically dating. Though I wasn’t particularly moved by the relationship that develops between them, I was happy with how the story ended. Overall, this was an enjoyable book, and I look forward to reading more from this author.
I really enjoyed this book. Patrick and Ben end up staying together in the same house for a few weeks in summer. Neither knows they’ll be sharing the house, but Patrick doesn’t complain since he’s had a crush on Will for some time. Will knows about Patrick’s crush, and is a little uncomfortable with the arrangement. However, when Will accidentally sees Patrick naked, he changes his mind. The two admit they are attracted to one another, and agree to be together just for sex. The agreement starts off with a lot of sexual tension and slowly progresses from touching to intercourse. Although they are both trying to keep emotional distance, it is almost impossible to do so when they are so affected by the intimacy of being together. By the end of the book, it becomes clear they are more than friends with benefits, but making the jump to a relationship is harder than what either expects.
I think this book was pretty hot. I was on the edge of my chair, forgetting to breathe during their first time together. After this first time, I was anxious for them to be together more, but Will seems to be avoiding Patrick, and I started to wonder where their whole arrangement was going. They agreed to have sex, but it seemed like Will was afraid of becoming attached at every step. Since this ends up being the case, the chasing and running away seemed warranted. I liked the premise of this book, and was glad there was no cheating, even though they weren’t technically dating. Though I wasn’t particularly moved by the relationship that develops between them, I was happy with how the story ended. Overall, this was an enjoyable book, and I look forward to reading more from this author.
February 22, 2019
3,5*
OK…
… nur damit keine Unklarheiten aufkommen, das Buch ist nett. Die Geschichte der beiden Männer hat nicht wirklich viel Drama, wird aber gut erzählt, so dass man sie in einem Stück wunderbar lesen kann.
Manchmal hätte ich Will wirklich mit leichten Schlägen auf den Hinterkopf unterstützen wollen. Denn so verbohrt, wie er auf die Situation reagiert, hatte ich immer das Gefühl, ihn in die richtige Richtung schubsen zu müssen.
Patrick ist einfach liebenswert und schwärmt seit vielen Jahren von Will. So jung wie er ist, lässt er sich im Gegensatz zu Will von Herz und Bauch leiten und ist felsenfest davon überzeugt, dass er alles im Griff hat. Tja, und dann kommt das Leben dazwischen … *g*
Und hier nun zu meinem OK …
Der Schluss war für mich nicht wirklich befriedigend, hier hätte ich mir einen (richtigen) Epilog gewünscht, so ist es eher ein “für den Moment”-Ende.
Da ich, was solche Abschlüsse betrifft, manchmal etwas pikiert reagiere, machte ich mich auch hier auf die Suche nach einem “ob da noch was kommen könnte” aka ob die Autorin noch Bücher “danach” geschrieben hat. Und ja, ich habe noch eine Kurzgeschichte (Buch 2) über die beiden gefunden, die kurz nach dem Ende des ersten Buches ansetzt. Da Bücher, die nummeriert auf den Markt kommen, ja meist zu einer Serie gehören, hoffe ich jetzt einfach mal, dass nicht nach 2 Bänden Schluss ist und da noch mehr kommt, denn die Jungs sind wirklich liebenswert. Da ja auch Chris eine nicht ganz unwichtige Aufgabe in der Geschichte hat, wäre er für mich der perfekte Protagonist für ein 3. Buch, denn er hätte sich auf jeden Fall einen tollen Mann an seiner Seite verdient :-) und man würde dabei vielleicht noch ein bisschen mehr von/über Will & Patrick erfahren.
Wer mit einem “Happy for now”-Ende leben kann, wird mit diesem Buch einen netten Lesenachmittag verbringen können. Wer sich eine KG in englisch zutraut, kann sich auch den 2. Band (derzeit) u.a. bei *a* kostenlos dazu holen, dieser macht das Ganze dann etwas runder.
OK…
… nur damit keine Unklarheiten aufkommen, das Buch ist nett. Die Geschichte der beiden Männer hat nicht wirklich viel Drama, wird aber gut erzählt, so dass man sie in einem Stück wunderbar lesen kann.
Manchmal hätte ich Will wirklich mit leichten Schlägen auf den Hinterkopf unterstützen wollen. Denn so verbohrt, wie er auf die Situation reagiert, hatte ich immer das Gefühl, ihn in die richtige Richtung schubsen zu müssen.
Patrick ist einfach liebenswert und schwärmt seit vielen Jahren von Will. So jung wie er ist, lässt er sich im Gegensatz zu Will von Herz und Bauch leiten und ist felsenfest davon überzeugt, dass er alles im Griff hat. Tja, und dann kommt das Leben dazwischen … *g*
Und hier nun zu meinem OK …
Der Schluss war für mich nicht wirklich befriedigend, hier hätte ich mir einen (richtigen) Epilog gewünscht, so ist es eher ein “für den Moment”-Ende.
Da ich, was solche Abschlüsse betrifft, manchmal etwas pikiert reagiere, machte ich mich auch hier auf die Suche nach einem “ob da noch was kommen könnte” aka ob die Autorin noch Bücher “danach” geschrieben hat. Und ja, ich habe noch eine Kurzgeschichte (Buch 2) über die beiden gefunden, die kurz nach dem Ende des ersten Buches ansetzt. Da Bücher, die nummeriert auf den Markt kommen, ja meist zu einer Serie gehören, hoffe ich jetzt einfach mal, dass nicht nach 2 Bänden Schluss ist und da noch mehr kommt, denn die Jungs sind wirklich liebenswert. Da ja auch Chris eine nicht ganz unwichtige Aufgabe in der Geschichte hat, wäre er für mich der perfekte Protagonist für ein 3. Buch, denn er hätte sich auf jeden Fall einen tollen Mann an seiner Seite verdient :-) und man würde dabei vielleicht noch ein bisschen mehr von/über Will & Patrick erfahren.
Wer mit einem “Happy for now”-Ende leben kann, wird mit diesem Buch einen netten Lesenachmittag verbringen können. Wer sich eine KG in englisch zutraut, kann sich auch den 2. Band (derzeit) u.a. bei *a* kostenlos dazu holen, dieser macht das Ganze dann etwas runder.
July 1, 2015
I really liked this one and will probably be rereading it in the future.
Patrick decides to spend the summer with his older brother before his last year in college. It's not until he arrives that he realizes that someone else is staying with his brother, Ben, as well. At first, he was okay with it until he realizes it's the one friend of Ben's that he's had a long, unrequited crush on and once made a fool of himself with while drunk. Will.
Patrick decides he can suck it up and keep himself in check, until he realizes that Will is now single as well and Ben's leaving on a vacation for the next two weeks. Things are going well until Will sees Patrick in a towel and realizes that Patrick has grown up. There were some high jinx thrown into that scene, which leads to embarrassment on both their parts. When they try to hash things out so that things don't get uncomfortable, they end up making a deal of casual sex as friends.
Neither really is too sure this is a good idea, but neither can resist each other. They have two weeks, but things get complicated as they usually do; they are both feeling more than they wanted. Will because he doesn't want a long distance relationship, and Patrick because he knows he's falling more for Will with every moment they spend together.
Patrick was more than Will ever expected. It was wonderful to see them work things out. My only question is...are we going to see them again?
Patrick decides to spend the summer with his older brother before his last year in college. It's not until he arrives that he realizes that someone else is staying with his brother, Ben, as well. At first, he was okay with it until he realizes it's the one friend of Ben's that he's had a long, unrequited crush on and once made a fool of himself with while drunk. Will.
Patrick decides he can suck it up and keep himself in check, until he realizes that Will is now single as well and Ben's leaving on a vacation for the next two weeks. Things are going well until Will sees Patrick in a towel and realizes that Patrick has grown up. There were some high jinx thrown into that scene, which leads to embarrassment on both their parts. When they try to hash things out so that things don't get uncomfortable, they end up making a deal of casual sex as friends.
Neither really is too sure this is a good idea, but neither can resist each other. They have two weeks, but things get complicated as they usually do; they are both feeling more than they wanted. Will because he doesn't want a long distance relationship, and Patrick because he knows he's falling more for Will with every moment they spend together.
Patrick was more than Will ever expected. It was wonderful to see them work things out. My only question is...are we going to see them again?
July 20, 2015
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
I really liked Pat and Will. Pat more, naturally, because he’s just a young lovely breath of fresh air than Will, who’s a bit jaded on relationships. I always connect with an incurable romantic, and Pat is one. It was tough witnessing Pat’s broken-hearted episodes for that reason. Will doesn’t fare much better, and I was glad that Ben was able to intercede. He’s quite the excellent brother and best mate—even if he never wants “the details.”
The writing is accessible and humorous with plenty of “prat-fall” scenarios that cement Pat and Will’s attraction. Those slippery towels! Those unlocked doors! I was thoroughly entertained and closed the book with a super feel-good swelling my chest.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
I really liked Pat and Will. Pat more, naturally, because he’s just a young lovely breath of fresh air than Will, who’s a bit jaded on relationships. I always connect with an incurable romantic, and Pat is one. It was tough witnessing Pat’s broken-hearted episodes for that reason. Will doesn’t fare much better, and I was glad that Ben was able to intercede. He’s quite the excellent brother and best mate—even if he never wants “the details.”
The writing is accessible and humorous with plenty of “prat-fall” scenarios that cement Pat and Will’s attraction. Those slippery towels! Those unlocked doors! I was thoroughly entertained and closed the book with a super feel-good swelling my chest.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
July 4, 2015
Delightful! This book made me smile.
January 24, 2016
*** 3.5 Stars ***
Cute, but utterly predictable.
Cute, but utterly predictable.
April 20, 2019
***3.5 stars***
I've never read this author before, and was surprised at how much her writing style reminded me of Jay Northcote (a favorite mm author of mine).
When I chose this book to read, I was looking for a short (novella length), fun, entertaining and light book to read. As it happens, that is now exactly how I would describe this story.
There is a teeny, tiny bit of angst toward the end of the book, but that just helped add a little extra interest to the story.
NO- there were no deep issues tackled...the author didn't delve into any profound philosophical questions of our existence. BUT sometimes I don't want to think too much and just want to be entertained by a book. And that is exactly what this story did for me. I enjoyed it and will definitely check out more books from this author.
I've never read this author before, and was surprised at how much her writing style reminded me of Jay Northcote (a favorite mm author of mine).
When I chose this book to read, I was looking for a short (novella length), fun, entertaining and light book to read. As it happens, that is now exactly how I would describe this story.
There is a teeny, tiny bit of angst toward the end of the book, but that just helped add a little extra interest to the story.
NO- there were no deep issues tackled...the author didn't delve into any profound philosophical questions of our existence. BUT sometimes I don't want to think too much and just want to be entertained by a book. And that is exactly what this story did for me. I enjoyed it and will definitely check out more books from this author.
December 12, 2021
Love this sort of stories- low angst, easy going with awesome friends or relatives to support you. This author delivers all that and more. Feel good stories with authentic characters, no big drama or elaborate schemes; just something easy to enjoy!
September 18, 2022
3.75⭐️
September 1, 2015
FiveStars
This is pretty standard light romance, but I think it's an excellent example of the genre—well-written, smart, funny, and with plenty of heat. The emotions never feel overdone or heavy, and there aren't a lot of tired plot devices in the way of good storytelling. Both Will and Patrick are decent guys. They're not perfect, but they're likable and easy to connect with.
One thing I found interesting was that despite how much I loved both Patrick and Will, and despite their chemistry, I didn't want them together at first. But by the end, I was rooting for them. I think that's the mark of excellent writing. My feelings followed the path of their relationship smoothly.
This is a sweet, sexy romance rather than an emotional, angst-riddled one, and it was well worth spending a relaxing afternoon reading. In truth, I just plain enjoyed it.
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Inked Rainbow Reads.
Amy
FourandHalfStars
I was in need a light but good read after some heavy, serious books and this book hit it right on the spot.
A no strings attached relationship that even going in both men know is going to be nearly impossible to not get attached in because of the situation.
It's a sweet book that is quite realistic without becoming dull or boring.
There was a few times I wanted to slap Will because he was letting unimportant things get in the way of what he wanted, but in the end, he found a way for me to love him just as much as Patrick.
LOVE Ms Jacobs books and can't wait for more!
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Inked Rainbow Reads.
Renee
ThreeStar
This is a pretty simple story. Patrick shares his older brother’s flat with his brother’s best friend Will. The two men agree to no-strings sex, but emotions inevitably get in the way.
While I might moan about the unreal situations in most m/m stories, this one is a bit too real for me. Patrick is studying computers at Uni and Will has a non-descript office job. The flat is on a Bristol housing estate and Patrick works at a non-descript coffee shop. For entertainment, the men play video games and watch telly. I struggled to find anything appealing or distinctive about either man. Bristol is an amazing, beautiful city on the ocean. Couldn’t they find anything more interesting to do together?
I kept wanting to shout at Will for his poor treatment of the younger, puppy-like Patrick. He was sweet in a few scenes, but apologies came too late and forgiveness too easily for me.
I loved the modern feel to this story. Patrick and Will’s social groups are diverse and Patrick can confide his relationship woes to his straight best friend and his straight brother. Again, this is realistic and I like the way the author refuses to add drama with unnecessary homophobia.
For an erotic short novella, even the sex was non-descript and very vanilla. This was Patrick’s story and no-strings sex really didn’t work for him. So most of the sexual encounters were tainted by his disappointment and feelings of rejection. Again - I know this is far more realistic than most m/m stories, but I just wasn’t taken by either the sex or the romance.
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Inked Rainbow Reads.
Sarah
This is pretty standard light romance, but I think it's an excellent example of the genre—well-written, smart, funny, and with plenty of heat. The emotions never feel overdone or heavy, and there aren't a lot of tired plot devices in the way of good storytelling. Both Will and Patrick are decent guys. They're not perfect, but they're likable and easy to connect with.
One thing I found interesting was that despite how much I loved both Patrick and Will, and despite their chemistry, I didn't want them together at first. But by the end, I was rooting for them. I think that's the mark of excellent writing. My feelings followed the path of their relationship smoothly.
This is a sweet, sexy romance rather than an emotional, angst-riddled one, and it was well worth spending a relaxing afternoon reading. In truth, I just plain enjoyed it.
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Inked Rainbow Reads.
Amy
FourandHalfStars
I was in need a light but good read after some heavy, serious books and this book hit it right on the spot.
A no strings attached relationship that even going in both men know is going to be nearly impossible to not get attached in because of the situation.
It's a sweet book that is quite realistic without becoming dull or boring.
There was a few times I wanted to slap Will because he was letting unimportant things get in the way of what he wanted, but in the end, he found a way for me to love him just as much as Patrick.
LOVE Ms Jacobs books and can't wait for more!
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Inked Rainbow Reads.
Renee
ThreeStar
This is a pretty simple story. Patrick shares his older brother’s flat with his brother’s best friend Will. The two men agree to no-strings sex, but emotions inevitably get in the way.
While I might moan about the unreal situations in most m/m stories, this one is a bit too real for me. Patrick is studying computers at Uni and Will has a non-descript office job. The flat is on a Bristol housing estate and Patrick works at a non-descript coffee shop. For entertainment, the men play video games and watch telly. I struggled to find anything appealing or distinctive about either man. Bristol is an amazing, beautiful city on the ocean. Couldn’t they find anything more interesting to do together?
I kept wanting to shout at Will for his poor treatment of the younger, puppy-like Patrick. He was sweet in a few scenes, but apologies came too late and forgiveness too easily for me.
I loved the modern feel to this story. Patrick and Will’s social groups are diverse and Patrick can confide his relationship woes to his straight best friend and his straight brother. Again, this is realistic and I like the way the author refuses to add drama with unnecessary homophobia.
For an erotic short novella, even the sex was non-descript and very vanilla. This was Patrick’s story and no-strings sex really didn’t work for him. So most of the sexual encounters were tainted by his disappointment and feelings of rejection. Again - I know this is far more realistic than most m/m stories, but I just wasn’t taken by either the sex or the romance.
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Inked Rainbow Reads.
Sarah
May 6, 2016
Two acquaintances—one with a massive crush on the other, and the other just out of a relationship—in a house for two weeks together. What could possibly happen?
Patrick is heading to Bristol to house-sit for his brother Ben, only to find out he won’t be alone. His longtime (not so secret) crush, Will, is also going to be there. And guess what? Will is single now.
Will is not looking for anything serious. Not to mention he definitely isn’t interested in his best friend’s little brother. He hadn’t really looked at Patrick as anything more than a kid. But then—after a revelation, which Will has after there is a slight malfunction with a towel—he realizes Patrick really isn’t a kid anymore, and more than that, he is quite an attractive man. Queue sexual tension and an agreement between both Pat and Will to keep it casual and just sex. They give themselves two weeks, until Ben returns from holiday, and they drop the benefits. They both care about Ben and how Ben would react if they got too attached, knowing it would put him in an awful position. But is two weeks really enough after they get to know each other, after they talk and learn more about each other and their personalities and quirks?
This is a fairly light story, with only a smidgen of angst. I enjoyed listening to Michael Lloyd Davies. The British accent does get me, I won’t lie.
Patrick was continually trying to keep his hopes in check and go with Will’s flow. Even sometimes becoming the one to put the distance back between the two because he believes that is what Will wants. Will was continually allowing more emotional attachment only to realize what was happening and pulling back, giving Patrick mixed signals.
The pacing was well-done, and I liked that Patrick and Will weren’t wrapped up in each other in a bed for two weeks straight. Don’t get me wrong, there are several sex scenes, but not so much that it overpowers the rest of the story. There were other things happening: Patrick trying to and finding a job, Will going to work and visiting his parents, Patrick making friends and going out to have a few pints. They (after all) were only friends-with-benefits. In between life and sexy times in the bedroom they spend time as friends.
The narration was great; Michael’s voice kept me involved. The dialogue flowed and each character had a different tone and way of speaking that seemed to fit just right. Michael Lloyd Davies did a wonderful job with this one.
I see this is book one, and it ends with more of a HFN than a HEA. But it is done well. This is the beginning of their story and I will definitely be listening to the rest of the books as they come out, as I can’t wait to see how Will and Patrick’s relationship progresses and unfolds, and hopefully I will get to see more of Ben.
Reviewed by Lindsey for The Novel Approach Reviews
http://www.thenovelapproachreviews.co...
Patrick is heading to Bristol to house-sit for his brother Ben, only to find out he won’t be alone. His longtime (not so secret) crush, Will, is also going to be there. And guess what? Will is single now.
Will is not looking for anything serious. Not to mention he definitely isn’t interested in his best friend’s little brother. He hadn’t really looked at Patrick as anything more than a kid. But then—after a revelation, which Will has after there is a slight malfunction with a towel—he realizes Patrick really isn’t a kid anymore, and more than that, he is quite an attractive man. Queue sexual tension and an agreement between both Pat and Will to keep it casual and just sex. They give themselves two weeks, until Ben returns from holiday, and they drop the benefits. They both care about Ben and how Ben would react if they got too attached, knowing it would put him in an awful position. But is two weeks really enough after they get to know each other, after they talk and learn more about each other and their personalities and quirks?
This is a fairly light story, with only a smidgen of angst. I enjoyed listening to Michael Lloyd Davies. The British accent does get me, I won’t lie.
Patrick was continually trying to keep his hopes in check and go with Will’s flow. Even sometimes becoming the one to put the distance back between the two because he believes that is what Will wants. Will was continually allowing more emotional attachment only to realize what was happening and pulling back, giving Patrick mixed signals.
The pacing was well-done, and I liked that Patrick and Will weren’t wrapped up in each other in a bed for two weeks straight. Don’t get me wrong, there are several sex scenes, but not so much that it overpowers the rest of the story. There were other things happening: Patrick trying to and finding a job, Will going to work and visiting his parents, Patrick making friends and going out to have a few pints. They (after all) were only friends-with-benefits. In between life and sexy times in the bedroom they spend time as friends.
The narration was great; Michael’s voice kept me involved. The dialogue flowed and each character had a different tone and way of speaking that seemed to fit just right. Michael Lloyd Davies did a wonderful job with this one.
I see this is book one, and it ends with more of a HFN than a HEA. But it is done well. This is the beginning of their story and I will definitely be listening to the rest of the books as they come out, as I can’t wait to see how Will and Patrick’s relationship progresses and unfolds, and hopefully I will get to see more of Ben.
Reviewed by Lindsey for The Novel Approach Reviews
http://www.thenovelapproachreviews.co...
July 1, 2015
4.5 stars
This is truly delightful book that you should devour in one read. If you read the short story “Toy with me”, released a few weeks ago, you will know Ms Jacobs style of writing and if you liked that one, you are going to love this one!
Patrick moved to his brother’s Ben for the holidays and he is forced to share the house with Ben’s best friend, for the two weeks whilst on holiday.
There’s only one small problem: Patrick has had a crush for Will for a long time and now that Will is already single… However, Will is older than Patrick and has no intention of starting a new relationship, especially in late summer because Patrick will return to university.
They start a no strings attached sex relationship, but soon things change between them, there are misunderstandings, separations and reconciliations it develops a really nice story.
I like to suffer a bit when I read a book and love reading the problems facing the protagonists… I want to feel the emotions of the book, rather than just read it.
At times, you will want to choke Will, he is stubborn, without really having a good reason. To me, he seemed to be the younger and most immature of the couple.
Though Patrick is the youngest by six years, he is the brave guy that is not afraid to face his feelings, perhaps because he has not been recently burned as Will has or perhaps it’s only because he is 22 and he sees everything coming up roses, but he is a very positive guy.
Fortunately Will is redeemed at the end, he realizes that the age difference is not such a big deal, that Patrick is not at all immature and after one year he will be finishing college. He realizes that there are no insurmountable obstacles. I should admit that I would not condemn him. We’ve all been in situations similar to his one, most of the time things happen and we do not feel ready – he got scared of having his heart broken again and also, he didn’t want to ruin to his friendship with Ben.
This novel is sparkling, sweet, nice and friendly. I would recommend it to all the romantic souls out there.
Even though the storyline concluded, it left me happy and satisfied, but I’d love to know what happens in their future, who knows …
***I would like to thank the author for the privilege and opportunity of reviewing this ARC. My review was an honest opinion of the book***
https://threebooksovertherainbow.word...
This is truly delightful book that you should devour in one read. If you read the short story “Toy with me”, released a few weeks ago, you will know Ms Jacobs style of writing and if you liked that one, you are going to love this one!
Patrick moved to his brother’s Ben for the holidays and he is forced to share the house with Ben’s best friend, for the two weeks whilst on holiday.
There’s only one small problem: Patrick has had a crush for Will for a long time and now that Will is already single… However, Will is older than Patrick and has no intention of starting a new relationship, especially in late summer because Patrick will return to university.
They start a no strings attached sex relationship, but soon things change between them, there are misunderstandings, separations and reconciliations it develops a really nice story.
I like to suffer a bit when I read a book and love reading the problems facing the protagonists… I want to feel the emotions of the book, rather than just read it.
At times, you will want to choke Will, he is stubborn, without really having a good reason. To me, he seemed to be the younger and most immature of the couple.
Though Patrick is the youngest by six years, he is the brave guy that is not afraid to face his feelings, perhaps because he has not been recently burned as Will has or perhaps it’s only because he is 22 and he sees everything coming up roses, but he is a very positive guy.
Fortunately Will is redeemed at the end, he realizes that the age difference is not such a big deal, that Patrick is not at all immature and after one year he will be finishing college. He realizes that there are no insurmountable obstacles. I should admit that I would not condemn him. We’ve all been in situations similar to his one, most of the time things happen and we do not feel ready – he got scared of having his heart broken again and also, he didn’t want to ruin to his friendship with Ben.
This novel is sparkling, sweet, nice and friendly. I would recommend it to all the romantic souls out there.
Even though the storyline concluded, it left me happy and satisfied, but I’d love to know what happens in their future, who knows …
***I would like to thank the author for the privilege and opportunity of reviewing this ARC. My review was an honest opinion of the book***
https://threebooksovertherainbow.word...
July 17, 2015
Patrick is going to house sit and then spend summer with his brother, Ben, and he’s excited about it. Until he finds out that his brother’s best friend, who is also Patrick’s long time crush, is going to be there in the spare room. Uh oh. Despite the fact that Patrick really does have feelings for Will and the fact that Will is just out of a relationship, the idea of a casual affair for the next two weeks seems like a good idea.
Of course, you know it’s never that easy to control your feelings. And to that end, the more time they spend together and the more sex they have, the more those feelings start to make themselves known. It’s interesting that Patrick’s friend, Sean, knows almost right away, Patrick doesn’t really do casual. He’s right but Patrick tries.
Will, now. Hmmm. He really approaches it as a casual thing, wanting to kick Patrick out of his room right after sex and just acting like a general jerk. He claims he pushes Patrick away because he doesn’t want to upset Ben or anything but really, the guy is just hurtful sometimes. They act like a couple but then Will treats that as a bad thing. I admit to losing a lot of respect for him at one point and sort of hoped Patrick would give Christian a chance. I liked Christian! And when Will pulls a really stupid move with his ex, well, I can only be happy he’s fictional because I really wanted to slap him. He really needs to work on his treatment of people, because he just doesn’t think.
Despite the problem with those pesky feelings interrupting what was supposed to be a no-strings affair, this story has a light, fluffy feel to it. I might have rated it a bit lower because of Will, who sometimes was such a tool I wanted to smack him, but I’d have to up it again for Patrick, who is adorable and for Patrick’s brother, Ben, who is amazing. I don’t have a brother and I feel deprived I don’t have Ben.
This ends more with a HFN but it’s cute and quick, worth it for Patrick and Ben, even if Will doesn’t grow on you!
Of course, you know it’s never that easy to control your feelings. And to that end, the more time they spend together and the more sex they have, the more those feelings start to make themselves known. It’s interesting that Patrick’s friend, Sean, knows almost right away, Patrick doesn’t really do casual. He’s right but Patrick tries.
Will, now. Hmmm. He really approaches it as a casual thing, wanting to kick Patrick out of his room right after sex and just acting like a general jerk. He claims he pushes Patrick away because he doesn’t want to upset Ben or anything but really, the guy is just hurtful sometimes. They act like a couple but then Will treats that as a bad thing. I admit to losing a lot of respect for him at one point and sort of hoped Patrick would give Christian a chance. I liked Christian! And when Will pulls a really stupid move with his ex, well, I can only be happy he’s fictional because I really wanted to slap him. He really needs to work on his treatment of people, because he just doesn’t think.
Despite the problem with those pesky feelings interrupting what was supposed to be a no-strings affair, this story has a light, fluffy feel to it. I might have rated it a bit lower because of Will, who sometimes was such a tool I wanted to smack him, but I’d have to up it again for Patrick, who is adorable and for Patrick’s brother, Ben, who is amazing. I don’t have a brother and I feel deprived I don’t have Ben.
This ends more with a HFN but it’s cute and quick, worth it for Patrick and Ben, even if Will doesn’t grow on you!
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