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Thomas Elkin #1-3
The Thomas Elkin Series
Elements of Retrofit
Generation versus generation, traditional versus contemporary, these men are about to learn a lesson in architecture and love. Can they prove that the old and new can be the perfect design? A successful New York architect, Thomas Elkin almost has it all. Coming out as gay and ending his marriage before his fortieth birthday, he needed to start living his life. Now, four years later, with his relationship with his son back on track, and after a few short-lived romances, this esteemed traditional draftsman thinks he knows everything about architecture, about life. Cooper Jones, twenty-two years old, is about to take the architect world by storm. Talented, professional, driven and completely infuriating, Cooper is the definition of Generation Y. Starting an internship working with Thomas, Cooper is about to knock Tom's world off its axis. Tom can teach Cooper about the architecture industry, but Cooper is about to teach Tom what it means to live.
Clarity of Lines
When some lines blur, others become crystal clear. Absolutely smitten, Thomas Elkin and Cooper Jones have decided they're prepared to give a relationship a try. What they're not prepared for is the reaction from their families, who try to force them apart. Both men are about to learn that there are lines that define us. Sometimes the lines blur, sometimes the lines become crystal clear.
Sense of Place
Designing homes is easy. Finding home is something else entirely. Thomas Elkin and Cooper Jones finally have the support of their families, and their love grows stronger every day. Now living together, they think nothing can stand in their way. But there are outside influences trying to pull them apart. Cooper encounters a man, closer to his age and with connections high up the property development chain, who wants Cooper as his own. Tom encounters discrimination and a hidden agenda from a fellow senior partner who's trying to take him down. No matter what the world throws at them, Tom and Cooper are the real deal. Age differences aside, Tom has finally found his sense of place. His one true center, his home.
Generation versus generation, traditional versus contemporary, these men are about to learn a lesson in architecture and love. Can they prove that the old and new can be the perfect design? A successful New York architect, Thomas Elkin almost has it all. Coming out as gay and ending his marriage before his fortieth birthday, he needed to start living his life. Now, four years later, with his relationship with his son back on track, and after a few short-lived romances, this esteemed traditional draftsman thinks he knows everything about architecture, about life. Cooper Jones, twenty-two years old, is about to take the architect world by storm. Talented, professional, driven and completely infuriating, Cooper is the definition of Generation Y. Starting an internship working with Thomas, Cooper is about to knock Tom's world off its axis. Tom can teach Cooper about the architecture industry, but Cooper is about to teach Tom what it means to live.
Clarity of Lines
When some lines blur, others become crystal clear. Absolutely smitten, Thomas Elkin and Cooper Jones have decided they're prepared to give a relationship a try. What they're not prepared for is the reaction from their families, who try to force them apart. Both men are about to learn that there are lines that define us. Sometimes the lines blur, sometimes the lines become crystal clear.
Sense of Place
Designing homes is easy. Finding home is something else entirely. Thomas Elkin and Cooper Jones finally have the support of their families, and their love grows stronger every day. Now living together, they think nothing can stand in their way. But there are outside influences trying to pull them apart. Cooper encounters a man, closer to his age and with connections high up the property development chain, who wants Cooper as his own. Tom encounters discrimination and a hidden agenda from a fellow senior partner who's trying to take him down. No matter what the world throws at them, Tom and Cooper are the real deal. Age differences aside, Tom has finally found his sense of place. His one true center, his home.
420 pages, Paperback
First published August 19, 2015
47 people are currently reading
236 people want to read
About the author
N.R. Walker
133 books5,291 followersAuthor also writes as A. Voyeur
N.R. Walker is an Australian author, who loves her genre of gay romance. She loves writing and spends far too much time doing it, but wouldn't have it any other way.
She is many things; a mother, a wife, a sister, a writer. She has pretty, pretty boys who she gives them life with words.
She likes it when they do dirty, dirty things...but likes it even more when they fall in love. She used to think having people in her head talking to her was weird, until one day she happened across other writers who told her it was normal.
She’s been writing ever since...
https://www.facebook.com/N.R.WalkerAu...
N.R. Walker is an Australian author, who loves her genre of gay romance. She loves writing and spends far too much time doing it, but wouldn't have it any other way.
She is many things; a mother, a wife, a sister, a writer. She has pretty, pretty boys who she gives them life with words.
She likes it when they do dirty, dirty things...but likes it even more when they fall in love. She used to think having people in her head talking to her was weird, until one day she happened across other writers who told her it was normal.
She’s been writing ever since...
https://www.facebook.com/N.R.WalkerAu...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
February 16, 2020
The Thomas Elkin series is a wonderful romance, I loved it. Highly recommended!
#1 Elements of Retrofit
My review.
#2 Clarity of Lines
My review.
#3 Sense of Place
My review.
Goodnight, Tom. WYWH.
I had to Google what the acronym was, and before I could reply, another message came through. Did you just Google that?
Little smart ass. Shut up. You wouldn't have to wish I was there if you moved in with me. I sighed. Goodnight Cooper.
Goodnight Tom. ILY.
Just as I smiled at my phone another message came through. That means I love you.
#1 Elements of Retrofit
My review.
#2 Clarity of Lines
My review.
#3 Sense of Place
My review.
November 22, 2024
Great trilogy, each book is very short like 3.5 hours so I thought it best to just review it once.
Tom and Cooper were both great MCs, it was particularly refreshing seeing that despite the Age gap and Cooper being Tom’s son friend and therefore half his age, there was no real drama when Tom’s son found out, just support.
There is a bit of angst in the 3rd book but is minimal.
Tom and Cooper were both great MCs, it was particularly refreshing seeing that despite the Age gap and Cooper being Tom’s son friend and therefore half his age, there was no real drama when Tom’s son found out, just support.
There is a bit of angst in the 3rd book but is minimal.
February 1, 2020
Lovely series about how close a couple can become when they stopped thinking about their ages all the time.
A great series written by one of the best writers I have read many of her books and they are all great and perfect for reading
more than once including this one.
Thomas is a successful businessman who one day meets a young man who changes his life what happens after that meeting
changes the way Thomas sees things
If you like your books to have a story as well as romance this could be a series you would enjoy.
A great series written by one of the best writers I have read many of her books and they are all great and perfect for reading
more than once including this one.
Thomas is a successful businessman who one day meets a young man who changes his life what happens after that meeting
changes the way Thomas sees things
If you like your books to have a story as well as romance this could be a series you would enjoy.
March 7, 2017
3.5 It’s-a-Gen-Y-thing Stars
Okay, this series contains three books:
1. Elements of Retrofit
2. Clarity of Lines
3. Sense of Place
In the first book we meet Thomas and Cooper. Thomas is a 44 years old man and Cooper is a 22 years old boy! At first I think maybe the age difference annoy me but in the whole story it wasn’t palpable for me, almost. Thomas is separated from his wife and he has a son, Ryan. He has decided that he can’t live a lie anymore. Yeah, he is gay. Cooper is his son’s friend and they’ve met each other through Ryan. A few days later, Cooper becomes an intern in Thomas’ office and this is beginning of their relationship. Until Thomas makes decisions that affect Cooper without asking him first!
In the second book,
The third book wasn’t anything special and so it was really slow.
But reading this series was funny and all in all, I really enjoyed it!
Okay, this series contains three books:
1. Elements of Retrofit
2. Clarity of Lines
3. Sense of Place
In the first book we meet Thomas and Cooper. Thomas is a 44 years old man and Cooper is a 22 years old boy! At first I think maybe the age difference annoy me but in the whole story it wasn’t palpable for me, almost. Thomas is separated from his wife and he has a son, Ryan. He has decided that he can’t live a lie anymore. Yeah, he is gay. Cooper is his son’s friend and they’ve met each other through Ryan. A few days later, Cooper becomes an intern in Thomas’ office and this is beginning of their relationship. Until Thomas makes decisions that affect Cooper without asking him first!
In the second book,
The third book wasn’t anything special and so it was really slow.
But reading this series was funny and all in all, I really enjoyed it!
October 23, 2022
Re-read x4- such a comfort read for me. I love it so much every time!
Cracked open my paperback :-D
This really is my favourite age-gap book. There's 22 years between Cooper and Thomas and Cooper is Tom's sons friend, soooo perfectly what I love about age-gap books. Oh and Tom starts out as Coopers boss.... So many buttons pushed...
So far I've read this book once a year since I first read it and I can see that becoming a necessity soon enough.
My original reviews for the individual stories here:
Elements of Retrofit
Clarity of Lines
Sense of Place
Cracked open my paperback :-D
This really is my favourite age-gap book. There's 22 years between Cooper and Thomas and Cooper is Tom's sons friend, soooo perfectly what I love about age-gap books. Oh and Tom starts out as Coopers boss.... So many buttons pushed...
So far I've read this book once a year since I first read it and I can see that becoming a necessity soon enough.
My original reviews for the individual stories here:
Elements of Retrofit
Clarity of Lines
Sense of Place
October 21, 2021
Reread October 2021
I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve read this series. It’s so effortless and heartwarming, genuine and funny. Tom and Cooper forever!!
I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve read this series. It’s so effortless and heartwarming, genuine and funny. Tom and Cooper forever!!
July 11, 2016
After an unknown number of readings, I still live this series just as much now as the first time.
October 31, 2016
Honestly, i need to go and rerate all of this books, because official an all time favorite series. I absolutely love this couple.
February 13, 2025
5 stars. Absolutely lovely. If you like seeing the couple together, this series is for you. We get lots of wonderful us-against-the-world, when the couple gets together, they are solid all the way through to the end. The small amount of angst and drama that happens is outside the relationship and just further cements how lovely they are as a couple. Three book series, each installment less than 200 pages.
Lovely light drama, light angst age-gap story of late in life coming-out, the mixed feelings of anxiety, worry, joy and satisfaction when reinventing yourself. A fair bit of fun personality and silly banter with pretty high spice.
I really enjoyed these books, seeing Tom bloom under the love and care of his much younger boyfriend was wonderful. The first book is all about meeting and getting to know each other, second and third books give us lots of solid together-time as a couple. Watching them navigate friends and family with their sizable age gap adds a nice level of drama with a dollop of sweetness as they support and comfort each other.
Excellent writing, N.R. Walker is just one of the BEST for sweet, likable characters without all the heavy drama and angst.
Contemporary, architect, age gap 20+, vers, m/m, NYC, late bi-awakening.
Lovely light drama, light angst age-gap story of late in life coming-out, the mixed feelings of anxiety, worry, joy and satisfaction when reinventing yourself. A fair bit of fun personality and silly banter with pretty high spice.
I really enjoyed these books, seeing Tom bloom under the love and care of his much younger boyfriend was wonderful. The first book is all about meeting and getting to know each other, second and third books give us lots of solid together-time as a couple. Watching them navigate friends and family with their sizable age gap adds a nice level of drama with a dollop of sweetness as they support and comfort each other.
Excellent writing, N.R. Walker is just one of the BEST for sweet, likable characters without all the heavy drama and angst.
Contemporary, architect, age gap 20+, vers, m/m, NYC, late bi-awakening.
January 20, 2018
Reviews about this one were good and I am a sucker for a good age-cap story.
because I could not buy the ebook,For the first in a long time.I bought the paperback
off an unknown author for me at least.
first part I was not happy,too much job talk and too much,off a bossy Cooper
and a boring Tom.but never say die.and I kept on reading.
I became charmed by Cooper and his,witt,banter and sass.
But most off al his crush on Tom.
And poor Tom dit not stand a chance.
Thank god He remained a good/strong man and just what Cooper
needed.
I loved how mature they stayed.I am good with angst and drama.
but not for the sake off it.
Loved the guys,wished a touch more time together.
And more from Coopers p.o.v.
Butt a great,fun read.and no regrets ,it will be a reread
because I could not buy the ebook,For the first in a long time.I bought the paperback
off an unknown author for me at least.
first part I was not happy,too much job talk and too much,off a bossy Cooper
and a boring Tom.but never say die.and I kept on reading.
I became charmed by Cooper and his,witt,banter and sass.
But most off al his crush on Tom.
And poor Tom dit not stand a chance.
Thank god He remained a good/strong man and just what Cooper
needed.
I loved how mature they stayed.I am good with angst and drama.
but not for the sake off it.
Loved the guys,wished a touch more time together.
And more from Coopers p.o.v.
Butt a great,fun read.and no regrets ,it will be a reread
October 31, 2022
5 stars
“You know what a sense of place is?”
Cooper nodded. “It’s when the place you’re in feels like home. Where you’re at peace.”
I nodded. “That’s exactly right.”
Cooper looked around. “This place?”
I shook my head. “No.”
His voice kind of squeaked. “Me?”
I nodded and grinned. “You’re my sense of place, Cooper.” 💓
This story was perfection. I'm literally speechless.
“You know what a sense of place is?”
Cooper nodded. “It’s when the place you’re in feels like home. Where you’re at peace.”
I nodded. “That’s exactly right.”
Cooper looked around. “This place?”
I shook my head. “No.”
His voice kind of squeaked. “Me?”
I nodded and grinned. “You’re my sense of place, Cooper.” 💓
This story was perfection. I'm literally speechless.
September 9, 2025
Tom❤️Cooper
N.R. Walker books are my fav and this book was perfect in my way about how they fall in love even though having a large gap between them, common things they have, emotional connection, maturity, supporting each other and family. It was best and the flow was also good.
Great Read ❤️
N.R. Walker books are my fav and this book was perfect in my way about how they fall in love even though having a large gap between them, common things they have, emotional connection, maturity, supporting each other and family. It was best and the flow was also good.
Great Read ❤️
November 25, 2021
The Thomas Elkin Series was recently released as a collection of the three original books. I love this fantastic series – another of my favorites – and simply adore the dynamic between Thomas and Cooper. I can’t get enough of these guys; this is my third reading of the books.
There’s something about what I consider some of N.R. Walker's classics – like this series and the Red Dirt Heart series which I recently reviewed – that have quietly understated, almost lyrical love stories. They’re not flashy because the love and central relationship speak for themselves with copious feels. Tom and Cooper are complex characters who are perfectly suited for each other despite their twenty-two year age difference. Tom says Cooper innately sees him.
Ms. Walker cleverly bases their bond upon the underlying tenets of architecture, as the individual book titles indicate: Elements of Retrofit – where new and old meet, complement, and enhance each other. Clarity of Lines – lines that bind and define, where some blur and others become crystal clear. Sense of Place – where the place you’re in, or person you’re with, feels like home and provides an emotional and spiritual connection. These concepts are incorporated to represent the evolving relationship from Tom and Cooper's perspectives.
Thomas Elkin is a highly regarded architect in New York City, known for his traditionalism and retrofit designs. Four years ago, he came out as gay to his wife, Sofia, and then eighteen-year-old son, Ryan. He had married Sofia because it was the expected thing to do – college, marriage, house, and kids – and since he was in denial about his sexuality, he went along with his parents’ and society’s conventions. Tom thought his interest in men was just a phase, but after twenty-five years of self-denial, he could no longer suppress his true self. Now at forty-four, he never expected to be attracted to Ryan's friend, Copper Jones, who is exactly half his age. He meets Cooper once, and then even though he’s attracted to him, he can’t resist hiring Cooper as his intern because of his brilliant mind. And so begins their illicit romance.
Tom is polished, confident, and predictable. Cooper is self-assured, sassy, inquisitive, and smug. Although young in some regards, he’s beyond his years intellectually. Together they are passionate about architecture and it’s not long before they’re passionate about each other, too.
In Book One, the men meet, flirt, and discover their mutual attraction. They’re always professional at work, but after hours there are plenty of heated looks, blushes, and licking lips. There’s any irresistible pull between them. They decide to kiss – just once – to get it out of their systems and move on. How do you think that worked out?
It’s because of how wholly they share a reverence for architecture that they have an inherent familiarity and understanding of each other. It’s that deep commonality that renders their age difference a non-issue, with a few minor exceptions. I appreciated reading an age gap story where the central theme was NOT the number of years between the men and their differences because of it. It’s the similarities – no, more than that, it’s their ideals and approaches to life – that bond Tom and Cooper.
Ryan and Sofia discover the relationship and they become public. I liked that coming out as a couple was not a long, drawn out, angsty process.
Cooper shows Tom how to live life more fully and authentically.
Book Two contains Meet the Parents x 2. Also, Cooper's maturity is showcased when Tom is grieving and needs him the most. Cooper takes charge and eases his burden. Tom struggles with his own mortality.
In Book Three, Tom and Cooper continue to grow closer. Tom must contend with repercussions at his place of enjoyment, and Cooper has another man vying for his attention.
Of course, there’s a sub plot of how those close to the couple respond to the age difference with a variety of reactions. Most importantly are Ryan and Sofia, who not only need to deal with the age gap but also the fact that Cooper is Ryan's friend. Then there are Tom and Cooper's parents, Cooper's brother Max, and their friends and coworkers. For some it’s of little consideration; for others, it has the potential to destroy relationships.
A definite highlight of the series is Cooper’s sense of humor and the amusing banter between him and Tom. Cooper is incorrigible and irrepressible, according to Tom, and its adorable. There’s a continual back and forth when Cooper acts cheeky and kids Tim about being elderly.
Cooper's relationship with Lionel, the doorman, is utterly endearing and shows not only his silly side, but his underlying kindness and thoughtfulness, as well.
The body of each book is told in Tom's first person POV, with the last chapter or epilogue of each from Cooper's perspective, which offers a nice change. The overall ending is wonderful and the final epilogue – stretching four years from the end – makes it all the more complete – perfect, really. I couldn’t have improved upon it. If you’re a fan of N.R. Walker and haven’t yet read Thomas Elkin, you must treat yourself to this series collection. Personally, I’m so sad I’ve reached the end of the series. Have I mentioned how much I loved it?
ARC kindly provided to Love Bytes Reviews in exchange for an honest review.
There’s something about what I consider some of N.R. Walker's classics – like this series and the Red Dirt Heart series which I recently reviewed – that have quietly understated, almost lyrical love stories. They’re not flashy because the love and central relationship speak for themselves with copious feels. Tom and Cooper are complex characters who are perfectly suited for each other despite their twenty-two year age difference. Tom says Cooper innately sees him.
Ms. Walker cleverly bases their bond upon the underlying tenets of architecture, as the individual book titles indicate: Elements of Retrofit – where new and old meet, complement, and enhance each other. Clarity of Lines – lines that bind and define, where some blur and others become crystal clear. Sense of Place – where the place you’re in, or person you’re with, feels like home and provides an emotional and spiritual connection. These concepts are incorporated to represent the evolving relationship from Tom and Cooper's perspectives.
Thomas Elkin is a highly regarded architect in New York City, known for his traditionalism and retrofit designs. Four years ago, he came out as gay to his wife, Sofia, and then eighteen-year-old son, Ryan. He had married Sofia because it was the expected thing to do – college, marriage, house, and kids – and since he was in denial about his sexuality, he went along with his parents’ and society’s conventions. Tom thought his interest in men was just a phase, but after twenty-five years of self-denial, he could no longer suppress his true self. Now at forty-four, he never expected to be attracted to Ryan's friend, Copper Jones, who is exactly half his age. He meets Cooper once, and then even though he’s attracted to him, he can’t resist hiring Cooper as his intern because of his brilliant mind. And so begins their illicit romance.
Tom is polished, confident, and predictable. Cooper is self-assured, sassy, inquisitive, and smug. Although young in some regards, he’s beyond his years intellectually. Together they are passionate about architecture and it’s not long before they’re passionate about each other, too.
In Book One, the men meet, flirt, and discover their mutual attraction. They’re always professional at work, but after hours there are plenty of heated looks, blushes, and licking lips. There’s any irresistible pull between them. They decide to kiss – just once – to get it out of their systems and move on. How do you think that worked out?
It’s because of how wholly they share a reverence for architecture that they have an inherent familiarity and understanding of each other. It’s that deep commonality that renders their age difference a non-issue, with a few minor exceptions. I appreciated reading an age gap story where the central theme was NOT the number of years between the men and their differences because of it. It’s the similarities – no, more than that, it’s their ideals and approaches to life – that bond Tom and Cooper.
Ryan and Sofia discover the relationship and they become public. I liked that coming out as a couple was not a long, drawn out, angsty process.
Cooper shows Tom how to live life more fully and authentically.
Book Two contains Meet the Parents x 2. Also, Cooper's maturity is showcased when Tom is grieving and needs him the most. Cooper takes charge and eases his burden. Tom struggles with his own mortality.
In Book Three, Tom and Cooper continue to grow closer. Tom must contend with repercussions at his place of enjoyment, and Cooper has another man vying for his attention.
Of course, there’s a sub plot of how those close to the couple respond to the age difference with a variety of reactions. Most importantly are Ryan and Sofia, who not only need to deal with the age gap but also the fact that Cooper is Ryan's friend. Then there are Tom and Cooper's parents, Cooper's brother Max, and their friends and coworkers. For some it’s of little consideration; for others, it has the potential to destroy relationships.
A definite highlight of the series is Cooper’s sense of humor and the amusing banter between him and Tom. Cooper is incorrigible and irrepressible, according to Tom, and its adorable. There’s a continual back and forth when Cooper acts cheeky and kids Tim about being elderly.
Cooper's relationship with Lionel, the doorman, is utterly endearing and shows not only his silly side, but his underlying kindness and thoughtfulness, as well.
The body of each book is told in Tom's first person POV, with the last chapter or epilogue of each from Cooper's perspective, which offers a nice change. The overall ending is wonderful and the final epilogue – stretching four years from the end – makes it all the more complete – perfect, really. I couldn’t have improved upon it. If you’re a fan of N.R. Walker and haven’t yet read Thomas Elkin, you must treat yourself to this series collection. Personally, I’m so sad I’ve reached the end of the series. Have I mentioned how much I loved it?
ARC kindly provided to Love Bytes Reviews in exchange for an honest review.
July 31, 2022
Introduction:
The Thomas Elkin Series by N.R. Walker is about forty-four-year-old seasoned architect, Thomas Elkin and twenty-two-year-old up-and-coming architect, Cooper Jones’ discovery of love, merging the old and new into its ultimate design. Tom and Cooper learn about life and their careers by looking at the world from different perspectives, from the views of different generations, through the eyes of a 22-year age gap.
Elements of Retrofit:
Elements of Retrofit is a fitting title for the beginning of Tom and Coopers journey. Boundaries are set and perceived obstacles are removed to clear a path enabling Tom and Cooper to explore their intense connection.
Tom ended his marriage four year ago, just before his fortieth birthday. Coming out and accepting his true self, Tom is ready to live his life. He loves his son, Ryan, is content and happy with his job, and maintains an amicable relationship with his ex-wife. Tom projects a quiet confidence that is extremely attractive.
Cooper is your typical Gen Y with an in-your-face attitude that isn’t abrasive, but more witty and charming. The things that come out of his mouth are awesome and simultaneously humorous. His take-charge-of-my-destiny attitude with Tom, Ryan, Jennifer (the ex), and Lionel (the doorman) had me rolling with laughter and awe at the same time.
The fact that Cooper is also Ryan’s friend could have been uncomfortable, but it wasn’t. Other than an unfortunate communication gap near the end of Elements of Retrofit, the drama settles with relative ease and understanding about the actions taken, paving the way for a future.
Clarity of Lines:
To continue, Clarity of Lines is also fitting title for Tom and Cooper’s journey, as they have decided there is merit in pursuing a relationship. However, some of the lines are murky and together they must navigate their familial reactions to make the lines clear.
One aspect of Clarity of Lines I thoroughly enjoyed is the easy banter between Tom and Cooper making lite of their age difference. “You’re such a little shit” versus “Old-Man” with the “It’s a Gen Y thing.” No “It’s a Cooper Jones thing.”
There is a bit of tragedy that hits near the end and Cooper supports his man during his time of need. Be damned if there are residual family tensions. Tragedy is poor timing for revelations, but yields further acceptance from the doubters.
Clarity of Lines is a bit more angsty with introduction of external influences than Elements of Retrofit was. Ryan’s influence and support are impressive and paramount to bringing others around. In the end, love and rational thinking closes most of the gaps bringing a clarity to lines that were once murky.
Sense of Place:
Yep, Sense of Place perfectly titles this step in Tom and Cooper’s journey. Here Tom and Cooper find a sense of home, have the support of their family and friends, but must face trumped up accusations based in homophobia.
In light of events, we learn more about Tom and Cooper. Tom reveals his jealous side, and it is not a pretty picture. Meanwhile, Cooper demonstrates his ability to become angry and displays his surprisingly hot temper. However, there is only admiration for both men. Tom still seems to struggle with the age difference but is crystal clear with his love for Cooper. Cooper is navigating his youth displaying a high degree of confidence, which complements his unique charisma.
The passion between Tom and Cooper continues to grow as we witness their intimate moments, ranging from slow and sensual, to raw need for each other. They connect on numerous levels beside their interaction between the sheets. Their unique styles of architectural design combine with their ability to create a brand of their own, just one of many ways they strengthen their connection.
Conclusion:
Tom and Cooper have been through a lot over the past several months. They’ve set boundaries, faced family disapproval and suffered tragedy. Through it all, they have grown as a couple and in the face of their final blow, are now blazing their own path into the future. The marriage proposal Tom makes is just… so them… it was perfect.
The Thomas Elkin Series shows us once again, that age is only a number, one where the heart rules between consenting adults. It continues to prove that no matter what age you accept your true self, there is love and happiness around the corner.
As you can see, each story builds on the previous one. Given that, I highly recommend reading/listening to Tom and Copper journey in order. In my opinion, the Thomas Elkin Series is more of a trilogy than a series, with each installment continuing the moment the previous one left off.
Nick J. Russo’s Narration:
Nick does a superb job, giving life to Tom and Cooper. The pacing, emotions and characters were all spot on. Listening was like being transported into their world, witnessing the events from the periphery. My impression of Nick’s personality is of one who sees life as the glass half full and this shows through his portrayal of Tom and Cooper. Yet, I sense there is a serious side to Nick as well, because, when the situation calls for it, he effortlessly brings it forward.
The Thomas Elkin Series by N.R. Walker is about forty-four-year-old seasoned architect, Thomas Elkin and twenty-two-year-old up-and-coming architect, Cooper Jones’ discovery of love, merging the old and new into its ultimate design. Tom and Cooper learn about life and their careers by looking at the world from different perspectives, from the views of different generations, through the eyes of a 22-year age gap.
Elements of Retrofit:
Elements of Retrofit is a fitting title for the beginning of Tom and Coopers journey. Boundaries are set and perceived obstacles are removed to clear a path enabling Tom and Cooper to explore their intense connection.
Tom ended his marriage four year ago, just before his fortieth birthday. Coming out and accepting his true self, Tom is ready to live his life. He loves his son, Ryan, is content and happy with his job, and maintains an amicable relationship with his ex-wife. Tom projects a quiet confidence that is extremely attractive.
Cooper is your typical Gen Y with an in-your-face attitude that isn’t abrasive, but more witty and charming. The things that come out of his mouth are awesome and simultaneously humorous. His take-charge-of-my-destiny attitude with Tom, Ryan, Jennifer (the ex), and Lionel (the doorman) had me rolling with laughter and awe at the same time.
The fact that Cooper is also Ryan’s friend could have been uncomfortable, but it wasn’t. Other than an unfortunate communication gap near the end of Elements of Retrofit, the drama settles with relative ease and understanding about the actions taken, paving the way for a future.
Clarity of Lines:
To continue, Clarity of Lines is also fitting title for Tom and Cooper’s journey, as they have decided there is merit in pursuing a relationship. However, some of the lines are murky and together they must navigate their familial reactions to make the lines clear.
One aspect of Clarity of Lines I thoroughly enjoyed is the easy banter between Tom and Cooper making lite of their age difference. “You’re such a little shit” versus “Old-Man” with the “It’s a Gen Y thing.” No “It’s a Cooper Jones thing.”
There is a bit of tragedy that hits near the end and Cooper supports his man during his time of need. Be damned if there are residual family tensions. Tragedy is poor timing for revelations, but yields further acceptance from the doubters.
Clarity of Lines is a bit more angsty with introduction of external influences than Elements of Retrofit was. Ryan’s influence and support are impressive and paramount to bringing others around. In the end, love and rational thinking closes most of the gaps bringing a clarity to lines that were once murky.
Sense of Place:
Yep, Sense of Place perfectly titles this step in Tom and Cooper’s journey. Here Tom and Cooper find a sense of home, have the support of their family and friends, but must face trumped up accusations based in homophobia.
In light of events, we learn more about Tom and Cooper. Tom reveals his jealous side, and it is not a pretty picture. Meanwhile, Cooper demonstrates his ability to become angry and displays his surprisingly hot temper. However, there is only admiration for both men. Tom still seems to struggle with the age difference but is crystal clear with his love for Cooper. Cooper is navigating his youth displaying a high degree of confidence, which complements his unique charisma.
The passion between Tom and Cooper continues to grow as we witness their intimate moments, ranging from slow and sensual, to raw need for each other. They connect on numerous levels beside their interaction between the sheets. Their unique styles of architectural design combine with their ability to create a brand of their own, just one of many ways they strengthen their connection.
Conclusion:
Tom and Cooper have been through a lot over the past several months. They’ve set boundaries, faced family disapproval and suffered tragedy. Through it all, they have grown as a couple and in the face of their final blow, are now blazing their own path into the future. The marriage proposal Tom makes is just… so them… it was perfect.
The Thomas Elkin Series shows us once again, that age is only a number, one where the heart rules between consenting adults. It continues to prove that no matter what age you accept your true self, there is love and happiness around the corner.
As you can see, each story builds on the previous one. Given that, I highly recommend reading/listening to Tom and Copper journey in order. In my opinion, the Thomas Elkin Series is more of a trilogy than a series, with each installment continuing the moment the previous one left off.
Nick J. Russo’s Narration:
Nick does a superb job, giving life to Tom and Cooper. The pacing, emotions and characters were all spot on. Listening was like being transported into their world, witnessing the events from the periphery. My impression of Nick’s personality is of one who sees life as the glass half full and this shows through his portrayal of Tom and Cooper. Yet, I sense there is a serious side to Nick as well, because, when the situation calls for it, he effortlessly brings it forward.
August 9, 2019
Quite lovely series about Thomas Elkin, a mid-fourties established architect, and his relationship with the much younger Cooper, who is up-and-coming in the architecture field.
Content warnings include: sex on-page, age difference (22/44yo), sexual harrassment (by a side character), homophobia, death of a parent, both main characters deal with family members who are reluctant to respect their relationships, relationship between boss and intern for a while.
They first meet via Tom's son who is friends with Cooper, but only really get to know each other later when Cooper interns at Tom's company. The boss/intern relationship should be uncomfortable but actually works well here - it helps that they already knew each other before, and that Cooper is very sure of what he wants and very direct about it. There never is any sort of power imbalance on a personal level, though the problematic aspect on the professional level is never ignored.
They do not remain as boss/employee for long - Elements of Retrofit deals with how their relationships develops and by extension also with how they solve the problem of them working at the same company with one being the other's direct boss.
Clarity of Lines handles Tom and Cooper taking the next step after committing to their relationship and introduces their families, and Sense of Place advances to them finding their place in each other lives, be it on an intrapersonal level, with their families and friends, or professionally.
I liked Tom and Cooper's relationship. They share a mutual passion for architecture which is what draws them together at first, as well as an easy banter that remains with running jokes throughout the entire series. Their age difference is not an issue, though it is frequently alluded to.
A very enjoyable read about two people very comfortable with each other despite their differences, who are honest with each other and work on communication the entire way through.
Content warnings include: sex on-page, age difference (22/44yo), sexual harrassment (by a side character), homophobia, death of a parent, both main characters deal with family members who are reluctant to respect their relationships, relationship between boss and intern for a while.
They first meet via Tom's son who is friends with Cooper, but only really get to know each other later when Cooper interns at Tom's company. The boss/intern relationship should be uncomfortable but actually works well here - it helps that they already knew each other before, and that Cooper is very sure of what he wants and very direct about it. There never is any sort of power imbalance on a personal level, though the problematic aspect on the professional level is never ignored.
They do not remain as boss/employee for long - Elements of Retrofit deals with how their relationships develops and by extension also with how they solve the problem of them working at the same company with one being the other's direct boss.
Clarity of Lines handles Tom and Cooper taking the next step after committing to their relationship and introduces their families, and Sense of Place advances to them finding their place in each other lives, be it on an intrapersonal level, with their families and friends, or professionally.
I liked Tom and Cooper's relationship. They share a mutual passion for architecture which is what draws them together at first, as well as an easy banter that remains with running jokes throughout the entire series. Their age difference is not an issue, though it is frequently alluded to.
A very enjoyable read about two people very comfortable with each other despite their differences, who are honest with each other and work on communication the entire way through.
July 10, 2025
3.25 stars. Not my favorite series by N.R. Walker. Bratty characters like Cooper just aren't my favorite. It was good that he was a bit bossy, because of the age gap (that's better than a meek lamb in a boss-employee situation, so there's no icky power dynamic), but there's self-assured and mature and there's cocky and, like I said, bratty and Cooper was the latter. He was there for Tom when he really needed him though, so points for that.
What I liked most about these novellas was the architecture theme. The descriptions of buildings, the blueprints, the drawing table, it was great. In fact, I wouldn't have minded if it had played a bigger role on page, but I guess the author is no architect and therefore left it a bit vague sometimes, which is totally understandable. Better do it like that than write nonsense.
I do wonder why these three short novellas weren't published as one story? They're almost 400 pages together, which is not that much and it's not like there are different main characters in every novella. It's really just one story about Cooper and Tom. I guess it brings more money in this way, but it doesn't make sense from a reader point of view.
What I liked most about these novellas was the architecture theme. The descriptions of buildings, the blueprints, the drawing table, it was great. In fact, I wouldn't have minded if it had played a bigger role on page, but I guess the author is no architect and therefore left it a bit vague sometimes, which is totally understandable. Better do it like that than write nonsense.
I do wonder why these three short novellas weren't published as one story? They're almost 400 pages together, which is not that much and it's not like there are different main characters in every novella. It's really just one story about Cooper and Tom. I guess it brings more money in this way, but it doesn't make sense from a reader point of view.
September 20, 2025
Gosh some NR walker books are just perfection. This series was that.
She creates such relatable characters.. joyful, sweet, serious & complicated. The real life events, losses of parents, job growth, career changes- no craziness or prolonged suffering through miscommunication..
Ugh I feel bereft. A true loss now that I will get no more of the lives of Tom & Cooper.
I this felt way at the end of Red Dirt Heart, and Bossy .. so if you’re reading this, - enjoyed this series & haven’t tried those books yet- run and do so!
I could start this series over right now and enjoy it just the same.
One thing I will say, as an American reading Walkers work- it does make me chuckle and the Australian lingo used in place of American lingo - such as “I called in to see..” vs “I went to visit” or “I stopped in to see” lol
Wahhh now I have to find a book to compete with this.
She creates such relatable characters.. joyful, sweet, serious & complicated. The real life events, losses of parents, job growth, career changes- no craziness or prolonged suffering through miscommunication..
Ugh I feel bereft. A true loss now that I will get no more of the lives of Tom & Cooper.
I this felt way at the end of Red Dirt Heart, and Bossy .. so if you’re reading this, - enjoyed this series & haven’t tried those books yet- run and do so!
I could start this series over right now and enjoy it just the same.
One thing I will say, as an American reading Walkers work- it does make me chuckle and the Australian lingo used in place of American lingo - such as “I called in to see..” vs “I went to visit” or “I stopped in to see” lol
Wahhh now I have to find a book to compete with this.
August 1, 2023
I…
I have no words.
For the absolute LONGEST time, all I’ve wanted is a book like this series. I wanted the couple to have all of THIS. I wanted the angst to be just like this, with the focus on the relationship building and the characters growing together. Without all of the relationship turmoil, a book/series CAN thrive and be great.
All of the swooning.
The only thing I didn’t like was the joking about Alzheimer’s. That ish is serious to me, and it’s not fun to see it as something to laugh about. It’s probably one of the most awful ways imaginable to lose a loved one. Ask me how I know.
ANYWAY..
The mechanics were fair, *almost* everything was perfect, and I don’t know why I hadn’t read this before now.
4.5/5.
I have no words.
For the absolute LONGEST time, all I’ve wanted is a book like this series. I wanted the couple to have all of THIS. I wanted the angst to be just like this, with the focus on the relationship building and the characters growing together. Without all of the relationship turmoil, a book/series CAN thrive and be great.
All of the swooning.
The only thing I didn’t like was the joking about Alzheimer’s. That ish is serious to me, and it’s not fun to see it as something to laugh about. It’s probably one of the most awful ways imaginable to lose a loved one. Ask me how I know.
ANYWAY..
The mechanics were fair, *almost* everything was perfect, and I don’t know why I hadn’t read this before now.
4.5/5.
June 7, 2022
N. R. Walker tutira kicsinál. Annyira betalál nálam az esendően emberi történeteivel és a fantasztikusan humoros szereplőivel, hogy rohadt nehéz másra koncentrálni, amikor csak olvasnám, hogy alakul a sorsuk. Ennél a történetnél is ez volt. Egyszerűen imádtam ahogy a folyton a kora miatt aggodalmaskodó Tom és a (hozzá képest) szemtelenül fiatal Cooper a három rész alatt egy párrá lesz, miközben megküzdenek az élet, a család és a munkahely keltette nehézségekkel és feszültségekkel.
November 23, 2017
Maybe even 4.5? This was such a sweet, beautiful love story that goes through all the stages and aspects of a relationship. Sad, frustrating, touching, and hilarious, but most of all, it is ultimately a feel-good kind-of read I would recommend for when you need something to pick you up. (Also, an excellent holiday read for the upcoming season.) I loved it.
January 14, 2021
This series is a comfort re-read of mine. It's one of the ones I think about constantly, the characters are so real and genuine, their story is strong. There is a significant age-gap between them, but as much as it becomes a thing for others, it's not really for them. I love everything about this series.
November 21, 2024
4 1/2 *
I loved the entire series and laughed a lot through these 3 books .It was so easy to become attached to Tom & Cooper , a very awesome, unusual couple but nevertheless completely believable .
An excellent series!!!
I loved the entire series and laughed a lot through these 3 books .It was so easy to become attached to Tom & Cooper , a very awesome, unusual couple but nevertheless completely believable .
An excellent series!!!
January 6, 2020
4.5/5 stars
August 3, 2020
I bought a physical copy of this books after reading it on my kindle. It’s so perfect and in my top 2 of all time fav books
October 16, 2021
I freaking loved this series at the same time hate it because it made me feel all sad and alone!!😭
October 24, 2021
Great Romance
I absolutely loved Tom and Cooper's story; real drama, real passion and real hot sexy time. I'm always amazed by characters NR Walker creates...she's another wonderful word wizard..
I absolutely loved Tom and Cooper's story; real drama, real passion and real hot sexy time. I'm always amazed by characters NR Walker creates...she's another wonderful word wizard..
November 20, 2021
Large age gap romance (22 year old with 44.) Normally not something I would go for but I find NR makes pretty much anything readable.
April 27, 2022
The finale
I really enjoyed Thomas and Cooper’s story. It’s a low angst age-gap full,of love. So glad they got their HEA.
I really enjoyed Thomas and Cooper’s story. It’s a low angst age-gap full,of love. So glad they got their HEA.
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