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Straight College Guys #2
Sophomore Secrets
Can something this new stand the test of time?
Hidden hopes...
Owen has been hiding his feelings for his roommate and best friend, Jordan, since the first day of freshman year. When Jordan breaks up with his girlfriend and starts spending more time with his roommate, it’s sweet torment. Now, even when Owen is around other guys, he finds himself wanting the one man he can’t have.
Private passions...
Jordan has a secret of his own: his growing attraction to Owen. He’s not sure what it all means--but he knows it bothers him when his roommate meets other guys. The more his jealousy grows, the harder it is to deny what’s behind it.
Romantic risk...
When the pair finally admit the chemistry between them, Owen’s afraid that Jordan is just experimenting. Can their exploration become something much more lasting...or will Owen be left with nothing but memories and a broken heart?
Sophomore Secrets is a 20000 word standalone novella with a happy ending and no cliffhangers.
Hidden hopes...
Owen has been hiding his feelings for his roommate and best friend, Jordan, since the first day of freshman year. When Jordan breaks up with his girlfriend and starts spending more time with his roommate, it’s sweet torment. Now, even when Owen is around other guys, he finds himself wanting the one man he can’t have.
Private passions...
Jordan has a secret of his own: his growing attraction to Owen. He’s not sure what it all means--but he knows it bothers him when his roommate meets other guys. The more his jealousy grows, the harder it is to deny what’s behind it.
Romantic risk...
When the pair finally admit the chemistry between them, Owen’s afraid that Jordan is just experimenting. Can their exploration become something much more lasting...or will Owen be left with nothing but memories and a broken heart?
Sophomore Secrets is a 20000 word standalone novella with a happy ending and no cliffhangers.
74 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 1, 2016
16 people are currently reading
86 people want to read
About the author
Elaine Ashford
22 books56 followersElaine Ashford has worked in customer service, graphic design, property management, and banking. When she's not writing, she can be found pursuing her interest in athletic young men and long walks on the beach.
All of Elaine’s books are free with KindleUnlimited.
She loves hearing from readers! She can be reached via:
Email: elaine@elaineashford.com
Website: http://elaineashford.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Elaine-Ashfor...
All of Elaine’s books are free with KindleUnlimited.
She loves hearing from readers! She can be reached via:
Email: elaine@elaineashford.com
Website: http://elaineashford.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Elaine-Ashfor...
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
February 16, 2021
"Hallowing my mouth, I suck on him harder..."
Ah, the Sacred Blowjob. All hail. If the ludicrous typo in that quote doesn't bother you -- or even catch your attention -- then you may enjoy this book. If, that is, you're okay with a one-dimensional paint-by-numbers storyline that serves up old familiar tropes and introduces nothing new. That's not meant as a dig -- well, not a major dig -- because sometimes easy & predictable is soothing & comforting, particularly if you've just finished a book that put you through the emotional wringer. (And yes, that's "wringer," not "ringer.")
I made it halfway through this and quit, because while I can sometimes tolerate one-dimensional, and can sometimes tolerate a text riddled with every conceivable variety of typo, I cannot tolerate both in the same book. If I'd paid for this, I would have returned it for a refund. This book is still in the stage where the author SHOULD BE PAYING MONEY to people to proofread it, not pretending it's worthy of people's hard-earned cash. I don't understand this attitude of disrespect to readers, of treating them like they're just not worth the effort necessary on the author's part to produce a quality product.
Reining in the rant now. (And yes, that's "reining," not "reigning.") But seriously, authors -- WTF? I don't like being treated like this.
Ah, the Sacred Blowjob. All hail. If the ludicrous typo in that quote doesn't bother you -- or even catch your attention -- then you may enjoy this book. If, that is, you're okay with a one-dimensional paint-by-numbers storyline that serves up old familiar tropes and introduces nothing new. That's not meant as a dig -- well, not a major dig -- because sometimes easy & predictable is soothing & comforting, particularly if you've just finished a book that put you through the emotional wringer. (And yes, that's "wringer," not "ringer.")
I made it halfway through this and quit, because while I can sometimes tolerate one-dimensional, and can sometimes tolerate a text riddled with every conceivable variety of typo, I cannot tolerate both in the same book. If I'd paid for this, I would have returned it for a refund. This book is still in the stage where the author SHOULD BE PAYING MONEY to people to proofread it, not pretending it's worthy of people's hard-earned cash. I don't understand this attitude of disrespect to readers, of treating them like they're just not worth the effort necessary on the author's part to produce a quality product.
Reining in the rant now. (And yes, that's "reining," not "reigning.") But seriously, authors -- WTF? I don't like being treated like this.
March 7, 2016
~1.5~
I have a public service announcement: Please don't use the word "bud" to refer to anyone over the age of 10, especially your lover. It's not okay. It's NEVER okay.
This novella has potential, but the editing sucked the big one. If I had a dollar for every error, I'd be riding my own pony, bud.
Also, if you're going for porn with no plot, you gotta write the porn.
Cause no plot +no porn = bullshit.
Throw in a ridiculous Big Misunderstanding, sprinkle with Lack of Communication, and top off with Ex-girlfriend Who Means Well Interference, and you got yourself (at least) one unhappy reader.
I have a public service announcement: Please don't use the word "bud" to refer to anyone over the age of 10, especially your lover. It's not okay. It's NEVER okay.
This novella has potential, but the editing sucked the big one. If I had a dollar for every error, I'd be riding my own pony, bud.
Also, if you're going for porn with no plot, you gotta write the porn.
Cause no plot +no porn = bullshit.
Throw in a ridiculous Big Misunderstanding, sprinkle with Lack of Communication, and top off with Ex-girlfriend Who Means Well Interference, and you got yourself (at least) one unhappy reader.
March 9, 2016
Elaine Ashford needs to be gooder at using words and stuff if she wants people to take her writing seriously. "I'm frozen in the spot", "Stop this on its tracks", and I believe something along the lines of, "I know he'll end things soon eventually." Not to mention all the regular typos that should have been (and could easily be) edited out...
February 28, 2016
It was so typical. But the sexy times certainly didn't hurt. :)
March 7, 2016
I recently discovered Elaine Ashford’s works and am very glad I did. Sophomore Secrets was a total win for me! Once again I find her writing engaging, love the easy flow. The story itself is quite simple but wonderfully executed, and all of her boys are incredibly lovely—sweet, funny and entertaining.
We’ve met Owen in Freshman Feint, the first installment of the series, and I’ve pretty much loved the guy right from the start. There, instead of hooking up with Liam, they became good friends, their easy chemistry a great addition to Liam and Nathan’s story. Ever since then I was excited to read more from Owen— I’m happy to say it was everything I wanted it to be.
Owen and Jordan play hokey together, share a few classes and an apartment—have been best friends for the past couple of years. Ever since they met, Owen has had a crush on his presumably straight friend. After fighting his growing attraction for a long time, Owen eventually gives in and simply enjoys their friendship and gobbles up all the attention and company he can get.
He’s sure it won’t go anywhere and knows it isn’t quite healthy daydreaming of Jordan seeing him, wanting them to closer and more than just friends, but Jordan is his great, great weakness…
When Jordan’s Girlfriend is off to Paris for an exchange semester, and they’re broken up for good, Jordan soon realizes how important and meaningful Owen’s friendship truly is. Besides hanging together at school and the rink, in their free time it’s almost always just the two of them: sharing home-made dinners (made my Jordan), studying and watching television.
It’s suddenly easy to see Owen in a different light—see him for who he never knew Owen could be and what he really means to Jordan.
----
I received a free copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Thank you. I'll be waiting patiently for the next installment :)
We’ve met Owen in Freshman Feint, the first installment of the series, and I’ve pretty much loved the guy right from the start. There, instead of hooking up with Liam, they became good friends, their easy chemistry a great addition to Liam and Nathan’s story. Ever since then I was excited to read more from Owen— I’m happy to say it was everything I wanted it to be.
Owen and Jordan play hokey together, share a few classes and an apartment—have been best friends for the past couple of years. Ever since they met, Owen has had a crush on his presumably straight friend. After fighting his growing attraction for a long time, Owen eventually gives in and simply enjoys their friendship and gobbles up all the attention and company he can get.
He’s sure it won’t go anywhere and knows it isn’t quite healthy daydreaming of Jordan seeing him, wanting them to closer and more than just friends, but Jordan is his great, great weakness…
When Jordan’s Girlfriend is off to Paris for an exchange semester, and they’re broken up for good, Jordan soon realizes how important and meaningful Owen’s friendship truly is. Besides hanging together at school and the rink, in their free time it’s almost always just the two of them: sharing home-made dinners (made my Jordan), studying and watching television.
It’s suddenly easy to see Owen in a different light—see him for who he never knew Owen could be and what he really means to Jordan.
----
I received a free copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Thank you. I'll be waiting patiently for the next installment :)
March 2, 2016
Very obvious and typical, but has some hot scenes in it with a sweet little HEA.
March 2, 2016
I received a free copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review. Like the first book in this series this is a beautiful friends to lovers, gay for you short story.
The Main Characters are Owen and Nathan and they have lived together since start of College and Play Hockey in the same wing.. Soo they spend a lot of time together.. When Nathan's Girlfriend leaves to Paris and they break up Owen realises that they are spending more and more time together. Always eating dinner together at home or watching Scifi series from TV together. He can't even remember when he has last gone out and gotten laid..
At the same time Nathan struggles with this growing attraction to Owen but just because your friend is gay it doesn't mean they are into you.. right? There is so much to lose but on the other hand he can't watch Owen with other guy anymore so he has to make a decision.
I really enjoy reading this deligthful feel good story. I'm not into angst so this worked beautifully for me. Of course I wouldn't have mind to have bit more to read but as a short story this one worked really well!
If you have liked the previous book by MS Ashford you will love this one!
The Main Characters are Owen and Nathan and they have lived together since start of College and Play Hockey in the same wing.. Soo they spend a lot of time together.. When Nathan's Girlfriend leaves to Paris and they break up Owen realises that they are spending more and more time together. Always eating dinner together at home or watching Scifi series from TV together. He can't even remember when he has last gone out and gotten laid..
At the same time Nathan struggles with this growing attraction to Owen but just because your friend is gay it doesn't mean they are into you.. right? There is so much to lose but on the other hand he can't watch Owen with other guy anymore so he has to make a decision.
I really enjoy reading this deligthful feel good story. I'm not into angst so this worked beautifully for me. Of course I wouldn't have mind to have bit more to read but as a short story this one worked really well!
If you have liked the previous book by MS Ashford you will love this one!
February 28, 2016
Friends to lovers/GFY novella read.
Owen and Jordan room together, play hockey together and they both have feelings for each other. Owen's has been unrequited for some time as Jordan had a girlfriend, who he has recently broken up with.
This was an easy read with the typical amount of angst and miscommunication.... still, it drives me mad!!!! I'm not sure why it irritated me that they never 'came' out as a couple. When the MC's eventually get their heads out their arses and *talk* it's all sorted.....sunshine and roses and HEA's.
Owen and Jordan room together, play hockey together and they both have feelings for each other. Owen's has been unrequited for some time as Jordan had a girlfriend, who he has recently broken up with.
This was an easy read with the typical amount of angst and miscommunication.... still, it drives me mad!!!! I'm not sure why it irritated me that they never 'came' out as a couple. When the MC's eventually get their heads out their arses and *talk* it's all sorted.....sunshine and roses and HEA's.
December 7, 2016
I loved the relationship between Owen and Jordan from the beginning. While Owen had loved Jordan since they met their freshman year, but he knew that Jordan was straight. He kept his feelings hidden, but he's finding it more and more difficult to do so. Jordan has confused his feelings for Owen, thinking that all they had was a close friendship, but when he feels jealous when Owen dances with another man, he can't take it and kisses Owen. I loved these two characters!!
October 6, 2017
This story may be the second book in this series but it's the third book I've read - I read them out of order - the one I enjoyed the most was Junior Jolt Book 3. I think that's because it's the first one I read. They are all very sweet and can be read as stand-a-lones but unfortunately except for the different MCs the stories were too much the same.
I still think they are worth the read just not back to back.
October 31, 2021
It was a quick, sweet, nice story.
March 9, 2017
Another best friends into lovers book, the dilemma here is that the friends do not communicate and only assume where the relationship is going once they become lovers. I liked that there was no confusion about sexuality when the friends ended up in bed like book 1. Of course they did not talk about the future for them until on helpful ex called them on it
February 29, 2016
3.3 Stars
Well, I wanted Owen's story. I got it.
I can't help but feel all of these would be so much more if there were more to the books. It's like it's right there. Almost. But always falls a little flat.
I've managed to read them all, but I'm not sure I'm going to keep up with any that might follow...simply because I've been spoiled. *shrug* I know, not everyone is (or even can be) Heidi Cullinan, Mercy Celeste, Marie Sexton, Jane Davitt - I could go on forever (no, really, I could) - authors that paint an entire, complete, whole, encompassing story that sucks you in and...changes you? Makes you think or see something that should be obvious but isn't?
The point it, I know it's a "novella." I know it's not intended to be anything but what it is. I just...I guess I wish it were. The idea is there and other than a few ridiculous grammar/spelling issues that make me question the Beta/Editor, I think it's basically a solid foundation; the whole series as well as the ones before could be really, really good. But...each feels like a promise that's never realized. And it's not just the length, because I've read equally long (or short) books by a shit-ton of authors that can make a 60 page story feel like a 300 page novel.
I don't know...Argh, THIS is why I don't even try to write anymore. I don't have the words.
Well, I wanted Owen's story. I got it.
I can't help but feel all of these would be so much more if there were more to the books. It's like it's right there. Almost. But always falls a little flat.
I've managed to read them all, but I'm not sure I'm going to keep up with any that might follow...simply because I've been spoiled. *shrug* I know, not everyone is (or even can be) Heidi Cullinan, Mercy Celeste, Marie Sexton, Jane Davitt - I could go on forever (no, really, I could) - authors that paint an entire, complete, whole, encompassing story that sucks you in and...changes you? Makes you think or see something that should be obvious but isn't?
The point it, I know it's a "novella." I know it's not intended to be anything but what it is. I just...I guess I wish it were. The idea is there and other than a few ridiculous grammar/spelling issues that make me question the Beta/Editor, I think it's basically a solid foundation; the whole series as well as the ones before could be really, really good. But...each feels like a promise that's never realized. And it's not just the length, because I've read equally long (or short) books by a shit-ton of authors that can make a 60 page story feel like a 300 page novel.
I don't know...Argh, THIS is why I don't even try to write anymore. I don't have the words.
March 24, 2016
Unrequited Undone #2
This will serve as a joint-review for both Books 1 & 2 of this series--I don't know if that's all there is, but the two are so close in plotline, character development, and major turning points that I cannot imagine another member of the Toronto University hockey team coming out as gay given these two books.
In any case, Liam the hockey player and Nathan the swimmer are lifelong best friends and now freshmen at Toronto U., where they are roommates which drives Liam up the wall because Nathan is straight. That's Book 1's premise. Liam turns to Owen, who is the hottest man on campus, apparently, and a sophomore teammate who is openly gay, and they commiserate.
Owen eventually helps Liam get to the point where Owen is--falling in love with a straight best friend is not easy, and even though Owen refuses to disclose whom his love interest is, we get the hint somewhere and it's confirmed forcefully in the prelude to Book 2 (no spoilers). The tables are turned as far as Liam and Owen are concerned, and the crisis for Owen is identical to that which Liam faced in the first book (no spoilers).
In any case, the stories are sweet and a bit rocky at times, the sex is off the charts when it happens. However, my main problem is the first chapter in each book (prologues, really), which are absolutely not necessary. Still, they're both worth reading.
This will serve as a joint-review for both Books 1 & 2 of this series--I don't know if that's all there is, but the two are so close in plotline, character development, and major turning points that I cannot imagine another member of the Toronto University hockey team coming out as gay given these two books.
In any case, Liam the hockey player and Nathan the swimmer are lifelong best friends and now freshmen at Toronto U., where they are roommates which drives Liam up the wall because Nathan is straight. That's Book 1's premise. Liam turns to Owen, who is the hottest man on campus, apparently, and a sophomore teammate who is openly gay, and they commiserate.
Owen eventually helps Liam get to the point where Owen is--falling in love with a straight best friend is not easy, and even though Owen refuses to disclose whom his love interest is, we get the hint somewhere and it's confirmed forcefully in the prelude to Book 2 (no spoilers). The tables are turned as far as Liam and Owen are concerned, and the crisis for Owen is identical to that which Liam faced in the first book (no spoilers).
In any case, the stories are sweet and a bit rocky at times, the sex is off the charts when it happens. However, my main problem is the first chapter in each book (prologues, really), which are absolutely not necessary. Still, they're both worth reading.
Read
October 22, 2021That's because you're terrible at life.
March 13, 2016
Owen is in love with his straight best friend Jordan…how is that going to work.
Lucky for Owen it works out pretty darn well, after a few bumps in the road so to speak. Unbeknownst to Owen, Jordan has feelings for him, beyond just being best friends, but he is too afraid of rejection and he is too confused as to what his feelings mean to verbalize it or define it. When faced with seeing Owen with another man Jordan reacts but lack of communication leaves Owen insecure with an undefined relationship, wondering if Jordan is going to leave him suddenly for a girl (his ex-girlfriend Hailey to be exact). Very sweet story with extremely likable characters and an engaging storyline. I definitely recommend it!
Lucky for Owen it works out pretty darn well, after a few bumps in the road so to speak. Unbeknownst to Owen, Jordan has feelings for him, beyond just being best friends, but he is too afraid of rejection and he is too confused as to what his feelings mean to verbalize it or define it. When faced with seeing Owen with another man Jordan reacts but lack of communication leaves Owen insecure with an undefined relationship, wondering if Jordan is going to leave him suddenly for a girl (his ex-girlfriend Hailey to be exact). Very sweet story with extremely likable characters and an engaging storyline. I definitely recommend it!
March 2, 2016
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. That being said, I honestly loved this sweet and too short story. Owen and Jordan (Jordy) are great together. Whether it's on the ice or at the "home" they share, they are in sync.
Soon, their relationship gets to a point where it changes.
Soon, they have to admit their feelings for one another. Boys being boys, can they actually talk about what their feelings? Also, what will happen once Hailey(Jordan's ex) returns from Paris?
I totally recommend this book to all.
Soon, their relationship gets to a point where it changes.
Soon, they have to admit their feelings for one another. Boys being boys, can they actually talk about what their feelings? Also, what will happen once Hailey(Jordan's ex) returns from Paris?
I totally recommend this book to all.
November 30, 2016
Another sweet college love story
Ahh young love, when the world is at your feet and you believe nothing will stop you from reaching your goals.
Jordan and Owen are such a cute pairing, one openly gay, the other just coming to realise he has more than just best friend feelings but unsure about what to do.
Nice to see also an ex girlfriend who is helpful and encouraging instead of being a horrible cow as they can often be portrayed.
Steam is on the low to moderate side but it's done with lots of feelings.
Ahh young love, when the world is at your feet and you believe nothing will stop you from reaching your goals.
Jordan and Owen are such a cute pairing, one openly gay, the other just coming to realise he has more than just best friend feelings but unsure about what to do.
Nice to see also an ex girlfriend who is helpful and encouraging instead of being a horrible cow as they can often be portrayed.
Steam is on the low to moderate side but it's done with lots of feelings.
March 7, 2016
It was so nice to read that Owen finally got his happily ever after. I hadn’t guessed it would be with Jordy (I considered it but nope, moved on from that quickly lol) But it was a delight. I loved Owen from “Freshman Feint” but we hardly got to know Jordy.
Turns out Jordy is a huge teddy bear of a person! Loved it!
Turns out Jordy is a huge teddy bear of a person! Loved it!
March 9, 2016
Great quick read
Owen and Jordan have been roommates for 2 years. Owen has always had a crush on Jordan - the only problem is, Jordan is straight... Or is he.
Owen and Jordan had great chemistry - being best friends, so when they evolved into a relationship it didn't feel force or fake. I really enjoyed this quick read and look forward to reading more in the series.
Owen and Jordan have been roommates for 2 years. Owen has always had a crush on Jordan - the only problem is, Jordan is straight... Or is he.
Owen and Jordan had great chemistry - being best friends, so when they evolved into a relationship it didn't feel force or fake. I really enjoyed this quick read and look forward to reading more in the series.
March 20, 2016
Yay! Owen got his story! Really enjoyed this, I love that the big misunderstanding wasn't long and they actually talked to each other! And the exgirlfriend was helpful!
Just a note to the author, please get some better proofreaders, as there were lots of little mistakes with wrong words, missing letters, etc. It was so distracting from the read.
Just a note to the author, please get some better proofreaders, as there were lots of little mistakes with wrong words, missing letters, etc. It was so distracting from the read.
March 2, 2016
3.5 stars
March 29, 2016
3.75 stars
June 6, 2016
Better than the first at least ~
2,5 *
2,5 *
July 19, 2016
You're it for Me
Friends to lovers.
Sweet and sexy.
An ex brings their feelings out in the open.
A few editing errors detract from the story.
Friends to lovers.
Sweet and sexy.
An ex brings their feelings out in the open.
A few editing errors detract from the story.
October 9, 2016
Same as the first, without surprise.
March 27, 2016
MM romance.
March 14, 2016
This is a really well written short, packed full of feeling. I'd happily read more of these guys.
March 26, 2017
Ok, am on a roll. I finished Freshman Feint, and I had to pick up Sophomore Secrets. I pretty much just devoured this book in one sitting! I couldn't put it down! This series has me putting everything aside because I need to read all the books that are out ASAP! Ugh, Owen and Jordan are just amazing together! It truly gets better with each book am reading! And I loved how we have both guys POV's in this book. I would have loved to hear Nathan's thoughts in the first book! Now on to Junior Jolt! (Book 3)
Again, I highly recommend picking these novellas up. They are short and fast reads but they pack a punch! You won't be able to put them down!
Again, I highly recommend picking these novellas up. They are short and fast reads but they pack a punch! You won't be able to put them down!
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews