What do you think?
Rate this book
Good Enough
The day Payton Grady returns home to Seattle after a few years away, he sees a gorgeous club kid who accidentally leaves an interesting scarf behind at the bus stop. In a silly attempt to locate the owner, Payton’s best friend places an ad on Craigslist. Two years later, Payton and his friend are shocked to receive a response from the erstwhile club kid. After balking, Payton’s stunned to find his missed opportunity was with someone from his past — his ex-boyfriend from college.Noah Di Cicco has been wracked with guilt since college when he crushed Payton. His insecurities and betrayal destroyed their relationship, and eventually Noah's whole life. Six years and the experience of a rock bottom have changed Noah.Now that Noah knows he’s good enough for love, both men remember what they had, while moving past the hurt they caused each other so long ago. Maybe they can be good enough together.2nd Edition. Revised, heavily re-edited, and expanded.
112 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 27, 2014
16 people are currently reading
246 people want to read
About the author
Kade Boehme
37 books1,044 followersKade Boehme is the epitome of dorkdom, only watching TV when Rachel Maddow or one of his sports teams is on. Most of his free time is spent dancing, arguing politics or with his nose in a book. He is also a hardcore Britney Spears fangirl and has an addiction to glitter.
It was after writing a short story about boys who loved each other for a less than reputable adult website that he found his true calling, and hopefully a bit more class. He hopes to write about all the romance that he personally finds himself allergic to but that others can fall in love with. He maintains that life is real and the stories should be, as well.
It was after writing a short story about boys who loved each other for a less than reputable adult website that he found his true calling, and hopefully a bit more class. He hopes to write about all the romance that he personally finds himself allergic to but that others can fall in love with. He maintains that life is real and the stories should be, as well.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
January 1, 2016
***2nd Edition re-read on 12/31/15***
After years of not having seen each other, Payton and Noah are reunited. Old hurts are once again brought to the surface but hope and underlining feelings hope and love do as well.
What I loved:
*It’s got a couple of my favorite tropes bundled in one package: friends to lovers and second chance romance.
*These two men, Noah and Payton- together and individually.
*The angst. Gah! My heart hurt for these two men- especially Noah. I wanted to hug them and take away their pain.
*CHARACTER GROWTH.
*Story flow.
*The dialogue.
*The story is told from a dual POV.
*Their intimate scenes. There were sweet and so full of hope and emotion.
*Also, major kudos to Kade Boehme for being able to pack a full story in a novella.
~I would like to point out that this review is for the re-released and re-edited version of this book. It is essentially the same story but does contain extended scenes and some content was removed. It was tweaked around and tightened up.~
I recommend this one, guys. I feel like when I read Kade’s stories we’re getting little pieces of him. They are always full of emotion. His characters are based on real people who have faltered and found the strength to get back up. 4.9 Stars ♥
*ARC kindly provided by the author for an honest review.*
*This reviews is cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
After years of not having seen each other, Payton and Noah are reunited. Old hurts are once again brought to the surface but hope and underlining feelings hope and love do as well.
What I loved:
*It’s got a couple of my favorite tropes bundled in one package: friends to lovers and second chance romance.
*These two men, Noah and Payton- together and individually.
*The angst. Gah! My heart hurt for these two men- especially Noah. I wanted to hug them and take away their pain.
*CHARACTER GROWTH.
*Story flow.
*The dialogue.
*The story is told from a dual POV.
*Their intimate scenes. There were sweet and so full of hope and emotion.
*Also, major kudos to Kade Boehme for being able to pack a full story in a novella.
~I would like to point out that this review is for the re-released and re-edited version of this book. It is essentially the same story but does contain extended scenes and some content was removed. It was tweaked around and tightened up.~
I recommend this one, guys. I feel like when I read Kade’s stories we’re getting little pieces of him. They are always full of emotion. His characters are based on real people who have faltered and found the strength to get back up. 4.9 Stars ♥
*ARC kindly provided by the author for an honest review.*
*This reviews is cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
July 26, 2016
This was a very readable novella about second chances and forgiving.
Payton and Noah were together in college until Noah betrayed Payton's trust. Several years later they meet again under unusual circumstances. Can Payton forgive Noah, and can they make it as a couple?
Noah had a rough time of it in college. We come to understand his actions more in the present, as he seeks out Payton to apologize. We also see that Payton wasn't the greatest boyfriend to Noah at the time; he was critical and condescending, and Noah already felt like he wasn't good enough for Payton.
That being said, this story should come with a warning tag (it's a fairly major spoiler, so don't click if you don't want to know):
There were quite a few typos that pulled me out of the story, but overall this wasn't a cookie-cutter M/M romance that had a nice epilogue (the MCs had to work for their HEA in this one, I tell you).
Payton and Noah were together in college until Noah betrayed Payton's trust. Several years later they meet again under unusual circumstances. Can Payton forgive Noah, and can they make it as a couple?
Noah had a rough time of it in college. We come to understand his actions more in the present, as he seeks out Payton to apologize. We also see that Payton wasn't the greatest boyfriend to Noah at the time; he was critical and condescending, and Noah already felt like he wasn't good enough for Payton.
That being said, this story should come with a warning tag (it's a fairly major spoiler, so don't click if you don't want to know):
There were quite a few typos that pulled me out of the story, but overall this wasn't a cookie-cutter M/M romance that had a nice epilogue (the MCs had to work for their HEA in this one, I tell you).
July 22, 2014
Another lovely story from Kade. A story of second chances, of Noah and Payton, of finding it within yourself to trust what your ex now tells you albeit several years later, although he maybe hasn't given you cause to believe him in the past, and to discover that perhaps the breakup wasn't all down to him after all. To accept what best friends tell you even though you may not like what they have to say and finally to listen to what your own heart is telling you. 5 stars.
35% of the proceeds from Kade's stories for the next 6 months go to the Wounded Warrior project. Kade, you're ALL heart and we love you for it!!
35% of the proceeds from Kade's stories for the next 6 months go to the Wounded Warrior project. Kade, you're ALL heart and we love you for it!!
no-or-probably-never
December 14, 2015So on page actual ?
Nope. Not my bag.
Nope. Not my bag.
June 7, 2015
*3.75 stars*
I was hesitant at first because...cheating. And this is pretty much how the story starts. Payton walks in on his college boyfriend having sex with another man.But I love stories about second chances and I thought I should give it a try.
Fast forward six years, Payton and Noah meet again. Actually, the universe conspires to make it happen. Payton is still pissed and hurt, as he should be but Noah swears he is a changed man who has been through hell these last years. And he needs to make amends, so maybe having some closure is not a bad thing.
At first, I called bullshit. Noah claims he was fucked up after his parents disowned him, addicted to pills and aways felt worthless. Say what? Payton was his partner and roommate for two years and never suspected any addiction issues? I felt sorry for all the shit he went through, but it happened after the cheating. But even if it had happened beforehand it wouldn't have made a difference. There is no excuse for cheating. Ever!
It wasn't until the last 10% of the book that I finally got it. At the same time Payton got it himself. It was not all hearts and flowers their relationship before. Payton was very judgemental and hurtful at times, always putting Noah down and berating him for studying Arts instead of a "real" profession. Again, there is no excuse for what he did, but I can at least understand it.
And there is redemption in the end. Noah is truly remorsful, the rebuilding of trust takes time and effort and counseling. And eventually we get our HEA.
In stories that involve cheating I find it hard to believe in a HEA but I believed in this one.
My friends who have read and loved Bareback know exactly what I mean.
I also loved the ending, where Noah narrates the first time he saw Payton all these years ago.
Overall, a very good story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 7, 2014
I'm getting a little disappointed in this author. Lots of the books read half-arsed and incredibly cheesy.
Payton and Noah meet in college and become fast friends then lovers. Payton has a jealous streak when Noah succeeds and Noah has severe self esteem issues. When Payton catches Noah cheating on him they break up.
Fast forward some time and I'll admit a cute way for the Noah and Payton to reconnect we get the closure. Look I get what the author was trying to say we make stupid mistakes, mistakes we can't take back and when we're young and stuck in our heads we don't see what we're doing. We also realise that whilst one person made the biggest of mistakes the other party also made mistakes. That was fine. The message was fine. However, I felt like Payton was the one who seen as the arse. Get over it Payton it was years ago. No, maybe he needed to move past it and not let Noah's actions dictate his life but I don't see how his anger wasn't justified. He didn't have the right to bring Noah down if he didn't care to be with with as a friend but ultimately no matter what Noah cheated on Payton multiple times and using his age or because he had self esteem issues is not an excuse.
The emotions here were just too big and I felt like it was rushed and the tacked on epilogue did not give me fuzzies. At the end of the day I felt I was told rather shown throughout this whole story.
Payton and Noah meet in college and become fast friends then lovers. Payton has a jealous streak when Noah succeeds and Noah has severe self esteem issues. When Payton catches Noah cheating on him they break up.
Fast forward some time and I'll admit a cute way for the Noah and Payton to reconnect we get the closure. Look I get what the author was trying to say we make stupid mistakes, mistakes we can't take back and when we're young and stuck in our heads we don't see what we're doing. We also realise that whilst one person made the biggest of mistakes the other party also made mistakes. That was fine. The message was fine. However, I felt like Payton was the one who seen as the arse. Get over it Payton it was years ago. No, maybe he needed to move past it and not let Noah's actions dictate his life but I don't see how his anger wasn't justified. He didn't have the right to bring Noah down if he didn't care to be with with as a friend but ultimately no matter what Noah cheated on Payton multiple times and using his age or because he had self esteem issues is not an excuse.
The emotions here were just too big and I felt like it was rushed and the tacked on epilogue did not give me fuzzies. At the end of the day I felt I was told rather shown throughout this whole story.
Read
December 31, 2015Loved this book. Short sweet read. I felt the connection. And it tugged at all my sentimental, romantic heart strings. I also think it takes balls and finesse to write a story with a past like these guys have. Kade pulled it off (duh, of course).
Great read. :)
Great read. :)
January 30, 2016
As my good friend Dani said in her (much more eloquent) review, Good Enough is anything but your typical cookie-cutter M/M romance novel. No, it's messy and bitchy, and painful. It's about making mistakes, making amends, asking for forgiveness, and forgiving enough to give things an honest shot at a second chance. And because it's so messy and unconventional, those moments of romance and flickers of hope sneak in under your guard and hit you in the feels when you're least expecting them.
That said, there were so many typos, missing words, characters being called by the wrong names, and poorly constructed sentences that it was off-putting. And then there was that awkward moment (or two) near the beginning of the book that felt like Payton was taking a Zach Morris Time Out and speaking directly to the readers. There's no excuse for it. Hire a proofreader or ask a trusted friend for a favour, but don't release a book with this many errors to the public and expect them to happily pay for it. It's downright disrespectful.
That said, there were so many typos, missing words, characters being called by the wrong names, and poorly constructed sentences that it was off-putting. And then there was that awkward moment (or two) near the beginning of the book that felt like Payton was taking a Zach Morris Time Out and speaking directly to the readers. There's no excuse for it. Hire a proofreader or ask a trusted friend for a favour, but don't release a book with this many errors to the public and expect them to happily pay for it. It's downright disrespectful.
July 3, 2014
4.5 STARS
Relationships. What is it about Kade Boehme that makes him take a relationship and hit all the highs and lows and then bring it together in a story that always makes me go through tissues? Is the writing perfect on this one? No. But the characters are beautiful. The feelings are overwhelming and the story is completely heart-warming. Envy. I always have so much envy for the relationships that Kade writes on a page. I want one JUST LIKE THAT! Highly Recommended Read? Thanks again, Kade!
Relationships. What is it about Kade Boehme that makes him take a relationship and hit all the highs and lows and then bring it together in a story that always makes me go through tissues? Is the writing perfect on this one? No. But the characters are beautiful. The feelings are overwhelming and the story is completely heart-warming. Envy. I always have so much envy for the relationships that Kade writes on a page. I want one JUST LIKE THAT! Highly Recommended Read? Thanks again, Kade!
October 8, 2014
"There was a day when I realized how solid we were, how untouchable we'd become and suddenly I could breathe."
Personally, I found this quite the perfect story about mistakes, growing up and true love wrapped in wonderful story telling with great, great characters and a lot of heartache *sniff*
I loved every page of it.
January 19, 2019
There were elements I liked to this story, but something was missing. I liked seeing Noah change and grow. I also enjoyed seeing all the moments of their relationship, ugly and all. However, I was not quite sold on Noah and Payton as a couple even at the end. I completely understood Payton was an arrogant ass who put down Noah unnecessarily. That is so not ok, and Noah and Adam etc should not have let Payton get away with that! However, I found it no excuse of the infidelity that happened. We are also told how Payton stood by Noah when his orients rejected him, and that he did so much good, so it was hard to get a gage on his actions. I did feel however, even though Noah cheated, Payton took far to much of the blame in the end. In the end everyone basically said Noah should give up on Payton and that he didn’t deserve him? Hold on a minute, Noah cheated not once, but twice, to the point he had sex with another person in his and Payton’s apartment, and got caught in the act! I know he was in a bad place but come on! He didn’t exactly fight for Payton! When he did come back into Paytons’s life he gave him no warning and surprised
Him at a cafe? Not exactly fair! I also felt people have gone on so much about how cruel Payton was to Noah and was punishing him. I did not see this! The first time he see’s Payton he feels betrayed as Noh knew it was Payton, but was not honest about his identity! So do course his reaction was not favourable! The next time, when he invited Noah over, his attitude was not great, buy hardly surprising, and no offence Noh did not help with his shitty ‘I am sorry for eveyhting’ how heartfelt. Then they end up having sex. The way it was phrased later it was as if Noah was basically conned into it and was abused as Payton took revenge? Noah was more than happy to have sex with Payton, and Payton was it cruel about it. I also didn’t understand this mentality that Payton had revenge sex as he shamed Noah? How, doesn’t Payton look as shamed for being weak and giving into the person who cheated on him? Anyway, so Noah does apologise. He and Payton never actually clear up all the issues they had, and instead embark on an unhealthy friends who fuck kind of pattern. Now, they were getting on ok, I saw no punishing by Oayton that kept getting mentioned. Then one time when they are together, Payton heard Noah talking to Ashton, the guy who he cheated with, and who he now works for. So he makes assumptions and gets angry, hardly inexcusable as anyone would be upset if someone cheated on you, said the massively regretted t, but failed to mention they actually are friends with and work with the person they betrayed you with! Also, once Noh explains everything to Payton he realised he was silly and calms down, he doesn’t exactly act out. It was as if Noah was this victim and Payton was not allowed to get annoyed at him ever. So basically then it’s Noah’s time to voice his hurts, which are justified. Her brings up Payton not being honest about an ex in college, fair enough. However, I found it a bit rich when Noah was all ‘I was honest with you’ about the guy in the club. Well, seeing as Adam told you he would tell Payton if you didn’t, you didn’t have much choice. I was not convinced he would have told Payton otherwise. Then, we got this all I won’t be your whipping boy so don’t bother coming back if it’s just to make me suffer? Payton made an assumption and I feel it will take more than a few weeks to get over all their issues and hurts, but apparently hat means Payton is punishing Noah? I kept getting told about Noh crawling and begging, none of which I saw, he applied properly in one big speech really, hardly begging. I also must have missed where Payton kept making Noah crawl? Especially as they only saw each other a few times and nothing was mentioned till the Ashton thing when it all kicked off! I just felt Noah felt he could just apologise and everyone that’s the end, no bitterness allowed. Yet he was allowed to be annoyed and snap about Payton’s arrogance, which he didn’t get over? Everyone seeemd to have it in for Payton, Chase, Noah’s sponsor also hated Payton (I felt he wanted Noah himself). He basically told Noh to give up on him. This confused me as Noah told Payton to leave him alone if he wants to continue punishing him. Payton basically said he didn’t want to punish him and needed time to think and he would come to him. He even said, if you meet someone else I understand, which hints he doesn’t want to hold Noah back, but it wouldn’t be an instant decision. But apparently ten days is an eternity. As Noah is annoyed about being left to stew. He was giving him four more days then he was done! Down I tell you. Because after years of pain, two weeks is too long to wait to move on or wait for someone you love to get themselves together, to be the best ther can for you? Ok then good to know. Payton was wrong when he stormed into the room when Noah was at the law firm, but he was not cruel. Also the writing was contradictory as we see that while Noah knows Payton is upset, he is more annoyed with him than anything, and makes a dig or two himself. But then we have to listen as Adam tells us how distraught he was that Payton was upset, yeah it doesn’t add up. Adam also gave me whiplash. When we first see him he is furious about how Noah treated Payton, that cheating was a massive thing, hey were 22 but it was old enough to know it was wrong etc. By the end Payton was not good enough for Boah, and he should forgive Noh as hey weee you g and it was a mistake? Talk about change of heart and mixed messages. Then it is Payton grovelling to Noh and voila happy ending? Yeah no, they worked out no real issues and their communication was still crap. I also felt that Payton’s character was made out to e monster, but his actions didn’t back this up. I also doubted Noah’s actually dedication to Payton. This is because it was revealed earlier in the boom he did not originally realise it was Payton behind the ad for the scarf which brought them back together. However, he held he as as hope for two years as a ray of light, the. Contacted the person looking to meet up and make a romantic connection. So that was important than making amends with Payton? He still loved Payton but was happy to move on with someone else? So if he had met this person and hit it off, he would have been in a relationship when he say Payton again, or he wouldn’t have bothered? Then would it have been a shitty love triangle?i just didn’t get his deep love or way of thinking? He waited years to apologise, than acted as if Payton didn’t really have the right to be angry or upset. I also felt they hadn’t changed together to not repeat mistakes, they worked better together in the epilogue, but I also was not convinced Noah wouldn’t cheat again when he and Payton got on tough times.
Him at a cafe? Not exactly fair! I also felt people have gone on so much about how cruel Payton was to Noah and was punishing him. I did not see this! The first time he see’s Payton he feels betrayed as Noh knew it was Payton, but was not honest about his identity! So do course his reaction was not favourable! The next time, when he invited Noah over, his attitude was not great, buy hardly surprising, and no offence Noh did not help with his shitty ‘I am sorry for eveyhting’ how heartfelt. Then they end up having sex. The way it was phrased later it was as if Noah was basically conned into it and was abused as Payton took revenge? Noah was more than happy to have sex with Payton, and Payton was it cruel about it. I also didn’t understand this mentality that Payton had revenge sex as he shamed Noah? How, doesn’t Payton look as shamed for being weak and giving into the person who cheated on him? Anyway, so Noah does apologise. He and Payton never actually clear up all the issues they had, and instead embark on an unhealthy friends who fuck kind of pattern. Now, they were getting on ok, I saw no punishing by Oayton that kept getting mentioned. Then one time when they are together, Payton heard Noah talking to Ashton, the guy who he cheated with, and who he now works for. So he makes assumptions and gets angry, hardly inexcusable as anyone would be upset if someone cheated on you, said the massively regretted t, but failed to mention they actually are friends with and work with the person they betrayed you with! Also, once Noh explains everything to Payton he realised he was silly and calms down, he doesn’t exactly act out. It was as if Noah was this victim and Payton was not allowed to get annoyed at him ever. So basically then it’s Noah’s time to voice his hurts, which are justified. Her brings up Payton not being honest about an ex in college, fair enough. However, I found it a bit rich when Noah was all ‘I was honest with you’ about the guy in the club. Well, seeing as Adam told you he would tell Payton if you didn’t, you didn’t have much choice. I was not convinced he would have told Payton otherwise. Then, we got this all I won’t be your whipping boy so don’t bother coming back if it’s just to make me suffer? Payton made an assumption and I feel it will take more than a few weeks to get over all their issues and hurts, but apparently hat means Payton is punishing Noah? I kept getting told about Noh crawling and begging, none of which I saw, he applied properly in one big speech really, hardly begging. I also must have missed where Payton kept making Noah crawl? Especially as they only saw each other a few times and nothing was mentioned till the Ashton thing when it all kicked off! I just felt Noah felt he could just apologise and everyone that’s the end, no bitterness allowed. Yet he was allowed to be annoyed and snap about Payton’s arrogance, which he didn’t get over? Everyone seeemd to have it in for Payton, Chase, Noah’s sponsor also hated Payton (I felt he wanted Noah himself). He basically told Noh to give up on him. This confused me as Noah told Payton to leave him alone if he wants to continue punishing him. Payton basically said he didn’t want to punish him and needed time to think and he would come to him. He even said, if you meet someone else I understand, which hints he doesn’t want to hold Noah back, but it wouldn’t be an instant decision. But apparently ten days is an eternity. As Noah is annoyed about being left to stew. He was giving him four more days then he was done! Down I tell you. Because after years of pain, two weeks is too long to wait to move on or wait for someone you love to get themselves together, to be the best ther can for you? Ok then good to know. Payton was wrong when he stormed into the room when Noah was at the law firm, but he was not cruel. Also the writing was contradictory as we see that while Noah knows Payton is upset, he is more annoyed with him than anything, and makes a dig or two himself. But then we have to listen as Adam tells us how distraught he was that Payton was upset, yeah it doesn’t add up. Adam also gave me whiplash. When we first see him he is furious about how Noah treated Payton, that cheating was a massive thing, hey were 22 but it was old enough to know it was wrong etc. By the end Payton was not good enough for Boah, and he should forgive Noh as hey weee you g and it was a mistake? Talk about change of heart and mixed messages. Then it is Payton grovelling to Noh and voila happy ending? Yeah no, they worked out no real issues and their communication was still crap. I also felt that Payton’s character was made out to e monster, but his actions didn’t back this up. I also doubted Noah’s actually dedication to Payton. This is because it was revealed earlier in the boom he did not originally realise it was Payton behind the ad for the scarf which brought them back together. However, he held he as as hope for two years as a ray of light, the. Contacted the person looking to meet up and make a romantic connection. So that was important than making amends with Payton? He still loved Payton but was happy to move on with someone else? So if he had met this person and hit it off, he would have been in a relationship when he say Payton again, or he wouldn’t have bothered? Then would it have been a shitty love triangle?i just didn’t get his deep love or way of thinking? He waited years to apologise, than acted as if Payton didn’t really have the right to be angry or upset. I also felt they hadn’t changed together to not repeat mistakes, they worked better together in the epilogue, but I also was not convinced Noah wouldn’t cheat again when he and Payton got on tough times.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 1, 2023
I liked how this ended, but getting there wore me out. Payton was down right unlikable. His friends said they loved him in spite of his being a bitch, but I never really liked him very much. Both of these characters were flawed. This is my second book by this author and I haven’t really loved either one of them. I’ll give him one more try, but if I don’t like the next one I’ll stop. He doesn’t need my bad reviews.
January 17, 2015
3.5 Stars
I really find this novella too angsty for my taste. I never like any form of cheating and couldn't get past the rebuilding the trust brouhaha. Not that I'm living under the creed once a cheater, always a cheater but I guess I just didn't want to blame the other MC's maturity towards his infidelity. He's a college guy after all. The whole thing about his insecurities isn't enough for me to pity him or to melt my "frozen heart" lols. But seriously, I still enjoyed this one and loved that they had atleast some sort of HEA but I'm one of those touchy readers of romantic story who gives tons of shit about infidelity. So there...
I really find this novella too angsty for my taste. I never like any form of cheating and couldn't get past the rebuilding the trust brouhaha. Not that I'm living under the creed once a cheater, always a cheater but I guess I just didn't want to blame the other MC's maturity towards his infidelity. He's a college guy after all. The whole thing about his insecurities isn't enough for me to pity him or to melt my "frozen heart" lols. But seriously, I still enjoyed this one and loved that they had atleast some sort of HEA but I'm one of those touchy readers of romantic story who gives tons of shit about infidelity. So there...
December 27, 2015
My Review:
Straight up...I loved this book. This story is a second chance at love trope (which is one of my favorites) and it's done really well. This is a story about two guys who were best friends for 2 years in college before they became more and then were exclusive boyfriends for 2 more years...until it all exploded.
The story is told in a series of flashbacks intermixed with the current day story, which make it all so much more emotional to read. There were moments when I felt physically sick about the pain happening on the pages of the book...for both Noah and Payton. Because these were two men that did love one another, but they were REALLY young when they got together. They also both had insecurities that came into play with their mistakes. Noah's mistakes are the ones that are most front and center in the story because he cheated...everyone knows that's bad, so it's easy to point the finger at him as the bad guy in this relationship. But I almost feel as if Payton's sins are worse because what he did systematically tore Noah down whether he meant to or not. Noah was an art student and Payton felt that was an inferior course of study. His comments were cutting and hurtful...and honestly, within the storyline, I personally wanted more retribution and realization for him. He got a glimpse of how hurtful he was, but I don't feel like he ever really fully appreciated just how deep those things he did and said went into Noah's psyche.
The book is deeply emotional as you would guess. These two guys have a lot of issues to work out and the last 6 years haven't been the kindest to Noah. Over and over my heart broke throughout this story. But I love that even with all the pain and hurt between them, there is still so much love there that shines through even during the worst moments. There is pain, but neither of them gets any enjoyment out of hurting the other...no matter how bitter things have become. When they lash out, it's purely out of self-defense. For that reason, their relationship and the validity of it in the long-term works for me even with all the absolutely horrible stuff behind them.
I loved this story, but there were a few minor timeline issues in the book that dropped this from a 5 star to a 4 star read for me...and honestly the issues probably just came from the re-edit on it. I'm pretty sure that there's a new sex scene into the book because later there's another and with the way things are stated in the later scene, it sounds like the first time they'd had penetrative sex with one another since their breakup...which wasn't the case. Also, there are two scenes with Chase, Noah's friend. In the second, he's supposedly just learning things that they'd already discussed in an earlier scene...so he already knew this information. Like I said...minor things in the overall story, but they jarred me out of the book and I began to second guess that I read things wrong (note: I did go back and check that I'd read them right before I wrote my review.)
So, while there were a couple of things that weren't quite right about the book, I still absolutely adored it. The emotional impact of the story is very high and even with the bad things each of the characters did, I loved them and felt so much empathy towards their situation and their pain. Also, I love the epilogue. I needed that to believe in the health of their future. Overall, it was just a really good, emotionally satisfying read.
Straight up...I loved this book. This story is a second chance at love trope (which is one of my favorites) and it's done really well. This is a story about two guys who were best friends for 2 years in college before they became more and then were exclusive boyfriends for 2 more years...until it all exploded.
The story is told in a series of flashbacks intermixed with the current day story, which make it all so much more emotional to read. There were moments when I felt physically sick about the pain happening on the pages of the book...for both Noah and Payton. Because these were two men that did love one another, but they were REALLY young when they got together. They also both had insecurities that came into play with their mistakes. Noah's mistakes are the ones that are most front and center in the story because he cheated...everyone knows that's bad, so it's easy to point the finger at him as the bad guy in this relationship. But I almost feel as if Payton's sins are worse because what he did systematically tore Noah down whether he meant to or not. Noah was an art student and Payton felt that was an inferior course of study. His comments were cutting and hurtful...and honestly, within the storyline, I personally wanted more retribution and realization for him. He got a glimpse of how hurtful he was, but I don't feel like he ever really fully appreciated just how deep those things he did and said went into Noah's psyche.
The book is deeply emotional as you would guess. These two guys have a lot of issues to work out and the last 6 years haven't been the kindest to Noah. Over and over my heart broke throughout this story. But I love that even with all the pain and hurt between them, there is still so much love there that shines through even during the worst moments. There is pain, but neither of them gets any enjoyment out of hurting the other...no matter how bitter things have become. When they lash out, it's purely out of self-defense. For that reason, their relationship and the validity of it in the long-term works for me even with all the absolutely horrible stuff behind them.
I loved this story, but there were a few minor timeline issues in the book that dropped this from a 5 star to a 4 star read for me...and honestly the issues probably just came from the re-edit on it. I'm pretty sure that there's a new sex scene into the book because later there's another and with the way things are stated in the later scene, it sounds like the first time they'd had penetrative sex with one another since their breakup...which wasn't the case. Also, there are two scenes with Chase, Noah's friend. In the second, he's supposedly just learning things that they'd already discussed in an earlier scene...so he already knew this information. Like I said...minor things in the overall story, but they jarred me out of the book and I began to second guess that I read things wrong (note: I did go back and check that I'd read them right before I wrote my review.)
So, while there were a couple of things that weren't quite right about the book, I still absolutely adored it. The emotional impact of the story is very high and even with the bad things each of the characters did, I loved them and felt so much empathy towards their situation and their pain. Also, I love the epilogue. I needed that to believe in the health of their future. Overall, it was just a really good, emotionally satisfying read.
July 3, 2014
I loved how this book started with "how it ended" and ended with "how it started" and in between you get a beautiful story of love lost, second chances and a HEA. I liked Payton but sometimes I wanted slap him for being an ass. But he redeemed himself by the end by realizing he was being an ass. And Noah - I loved him so much and I had more empathy for him even though he was the one who cheated (which was unexpected). I could so relate to the insecurities he had. I just wanted to hug him. How he kept the ad from Craigslist and why - ughh - tugged at all my heart strings.
March 20, 2015
Holy cow, so many feels for such a short book! I was a freaking mess...and I stayed up way to late because I just had to finish the damned thing. Latched onto me right from the beginning and just wouldn't let go! I think this trope is my all time fav. Past lovers who screwed up but still love each other reunited. This one was particularly painful but soooo good!
January 8, 2016
Yeah, so.. I was just not really feeling this if I'm honest. I felt that both their characters were under developed and just lacked any actual chemistry. The storyline felt like the author was just trying to make a mountain out of a mole hill. Unfortunately, for me this was a uber fail. I stuck out and finished reading it purely because I hate to have a DNF this soon in the year. Sorry
June 2, 2015
4.5 stars
A really sweet story about second chances, i loved it :)
A really sweet story about second chances, i loved it :)
December 27, 2015
Review to follow
Want to read
May 21, 2022🎁 FREE on Amazon today (5/21/2022)! 🎁
May 21, 2025
Great bones but poor execution
March 16, 2016
Aaw, I'm such a sucker for second chances and this novella was no exception.
I have to admit, I liked the first version, but it really was a bit of a mess. Now this revised edition? This one nailed it!
Noah and Payton fell in love in college, but when Noah broke Payton's trust - again - things were over and done with. Until they meet again years later.
Now, if you can't stand cheating in your books, if it's a hard limit for you? This story is not for you. Seriously, don't even try it. But for me it was a beatiful, sexy and heart-warming read about forgiveness and love. These boys aren't perfect, both made mistakes and hurt each other deeply. And yet... There is just something that draws them back in. Something they can't ignore.
Bite me, I was a goner from the start. Firstly, Kade Boehme. 'Nough said. Secondly, I loved Noah - yes, even if he was "the bad guy". Mostly because for me he really wasn't, or at least he definitely wasn't the only one. And Payton? Payton was a prime example for working through your shit, getting your act together and making peace with your past. When these two started to work through their shared history, I was done for.
I just loved it. All of it. This was my kind of novella from beginning to end. And if there were flaws or issues? I didn't see and/or didn't care.
I have to admit, I liked the first version, but it really was a bit of a mess. Now this revised edition? This one nailed it!
Noah and Payton fell in love in college, but when Noah broke Payton's trust - again - things were over and done with. Until they meet again years later.
Now, if you can't stand cheating in your books, if it's a hard limit for you? This story is not for you. Seriously, don't even try it. But for me it was a beatiful, sexy and heart-warming read about forgiveness and love. These boys aren't perfect, both made mistakes and hurt each other deeply. And yet... There is just something that draws them back in. Something they can't ignore.
Bite me, I was a goner from the start. Firstly, Kade Boehme. 'Nough said. Secondly, I loved Noah - yes, even if he was "the bad guy". Mostly because for me he really wasn't, or at least he definitely wasn't the only one. And Payton? Payton was a prime example for working through your shit, getting your act together and making peace with your past. When these two started to work through their shared history, I was done for.
I just loved it. All of it. This was my kind of novella from beginning to end. And if there were flaws or issues? I didn't see and/or didn't care.
January 7, 2016
Not my favorite of Boehme's but a good story. At the end I just didn't feel like Noah's actions on a certain night were explained enough for me to really understand him. I wanted to know more about what he was going through in that moment - especially since his bad decision-making was happening right under Payton's nose. I felt like the issue was skirted around and that his explanation of his problems in general were excusing a much larger explanation of why his problems led to that specific decision-making on that night.
I do appreciate that these characters had some gray areas and neither one was perfect. I would have given four stars if there had been a bit more character development with Noah and if Payton had made some progress and realizations about himself in his time apart from Noah.
It also bothered me that the scarf was some signal that Noah was finally good enough, and that Noah reached out to a stranger before trying to apologize and make amends with Payton. It seemed like he was putting himself out there before he should have.
Finally, there were some scenes - Noah's perspective from that night and the couple working on their issues after reuniting - that I think would have given the book greater depth.
I do appreciate that these characters had some gray areas and neither one was perfect. I would have given four stars if there had been a bit more character development with Noah and if Payton had made some progress and realizations about himself in his time apart from Noah.
It also bothered me that the scarf was some signal that Noah was finally good enough, and that Noah reached out to a stranger before trying to apologize and make amends with Payton. It seemed like he was putting himself out there before he should have.
Finally, there were some scenes - Noah's perspective from that night and the couple working on their issues after reuniting - that I think would have given the book greater depth.
December 27, 2015
I hadn't read the original of this so I can't compare...but I can say that I loved this version and everything it brought with it! The moments of sweetness, of people realising that they were just as much to blame as other, and seeing people working through hate and fear! Loved it all. At the bones of it, it seemed really clear cut what team I would be one...but I can honestly say I changed my mind! A story of true love overcoming the worst that can happen :)
December 27, 2015
I received this book in exchange for an honest review. I really enjoyed Payton and Noahs story. Both characters had their flaws and had to overcome a lot of issues to make it work. The characters have a lot of history together, some good some bad. Noah and Payton were college sweethearts and Noah destroys everything they have by cheating. Years pass before they meet again, and it takes time,but they build an even stronger bond. I really wish the author would have told exactly what Noah was thinking the night he cheated on Payton. I will definitely recommend this book to others. A SOLID 4 Stars. I will definitely read more from this author!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 10, 2016
I'm not a fan of cheating or let's revisit the past stories. That being said this book worked for me. I was drawn to it emotionally and I felt like all the characters in the story were important and relevant. I also liked the fact the both Mc's took responsibility for whatever parts they played in the break up. The part that didn't work for me was the way they reconnected I didn't find that aspect very believable. I don't know maybe it's just me but I didn't buy it. Anyway besides that it's a nice love story with some real life issues thrown in the mix with a great HEA. 3.99 ☆☆☆☆
December 29, 2015
Awwwww
This hit all the right buttons for me. Right balance of angst and satisfyingly sweet.... love sometimes takes a lot of work and sometimes good people hurt the people they love most. The serendipitous factor may be ever so slightly unrealistic, but the rest, the pain, the betrayal, the work... May be the most realistic portrayal I've read yet and is perfectly balanced for it. Great book. Glad the author revisited it and shares...
This hit all the right buttons for me. Right balance of angst and satisfyingly sweet.... love sometimes takes a lot of work and sometimes good people hurt the people they love most. The serendipitous factor may be ever so slightly unrealistic, but the rest, the pain, the betrayal, the work... May be the most realistic portrayal I've read yet and is perfectly balanced for it. Great book. Glad the author revisited it and shares...
December 28, 2015
I was ready for a lot of rehashing and rehashing of old wounds which there was some but not throughout the whole book. It was actually a sweet story where both parties Payton and Noah learned what went wrong in their previous relationship with eachother and vowed to try and not make the same mistakes. Totally enjoyed this book!
November 9, 2014
Not quite good enough.
It had the potential of being an engaging read, but I was bored and felt nothing for the characters. No, that's not quite right. I was impatient with them to get a move on so I could get to the end and rid myself of this book.
I decided enough was enough on the second paragraph of the Prologue.
It had the potential of being an engaging read, but I was bored and felt nothing for the characters. No, that's not quite right. I was impatient with them to get a move on so I could get to the end and rid myself of this book.
I decided enough was enough on the second paragraph of the Prologue.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews