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Timing
"If you love that pretty farm boy, fight for him!"
When it comes to love, is timing everything?
Tom doesn’t have time for a relationship – not now that his fingers are practically touching the promotion he’s spent years chasing. His weekdays are consumed by desperately fighting for his editor’s attention and his weekends are wasted alone with meals for one and his cat for company.
All Cole has ever wanted is to work on the farm he was raised on, but money is tighter than ever and he is forced to get a job in a bar to keep a roof over him and his auntie’s heads. Time is running out for the farm but he spends his days dreaming about a future he thinks he’ll never have.
After an unexpected collision at the village train station, their lives suddenly become connected when Cole clumsily spills his coffee on Tom and it sets into motion something greater. Tom is wary of listening to his heart and Cole is distracted by the threat of losing everything. Each possesses something the other desperately needs, but can they ignore bad timing to listen to their hearts?
When it comes to love, is timing everything?
Tom doesn’t have time for a relationship – not now that his fingers are practically touching the promotion he’s spent years chasing. His weekdays are consumed by desperately fighting for his editor’s attention and his weekends are wasted alone with meals for one and his cat for company.
All Cole has ever wanted is to work on the farm he was raised on, but money is tighter than ever and he is forced to get a job in a bar to keep a roof over him and his auntie’s heads. Time is running out for the farm but he spends his days dreaming about a future he thinks he’ll never have.
After an unexpected collision at the village train station, their lives suddenly become connected when Cole clumsily spills his coffee on Tom and it sets into motion something greater. Tom is wary of listening to his heart and Cole is distracted by the threat of losing everything. Each possesses something the other desperately needs, but can they ignore bad timing to listen to their hearts?
312 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 25, 2016
70 people are currently reading
337 people want to read
About the author
Ashley John
24 books801 followersAshley John is a gay author of gay/mm romance novels. Living in the north of England with his fiance and two cats, Ashley John spends his days writing down the voices he hears in his head. His books are primarily romance dramas with sprinklings of erotica and he has a knack for making you feel like you're living right beside the characters he creates. Ashley John is also a keen artist and he puts his artistic side to designing all of his own covers.
Find ashley john at ashleyjohn.co.uk
KEEP UP WITH ASHLEY JOHN ON SOCIAL MEDIA:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashleyjohnart
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/itsashleyjohn
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/ashleyjohn
Find ashley john at ashleyjohn.co.uk
KEEP UP WITH ASHLEY JOHN ON SOCIAL MEDIA:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashleyjohnart
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/itsashleyjohn
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/ashleyjohn
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
May 7, 2016
*** It's all about "timing" in life, isn't it ! ***
Tom, curly haired slave to his job is running late for work.
Cole, blonde, muscled, hard working farmer,
is job hunting to make more money for the farm.
When Tom and Cole collide at the train, little did they know their worlds would change. Magnificent characters, a smooth flowing plot, and erotic sex are all combined into this wonderful story. These two men inadvertently find someone who really fits each other's needs.
A lot is happening as these guys get closer. We see Tom's job issues, Cole's farm needs, plus the friends,
including flashy and flamboyant cross dresser, Ricky,
Cole's Auntie, a nasty real estate man, plus there's a fete, a storm, and much more unfolding. Amongst all the events in this we get a full-bodied story, we get real tenderness, emotion, and budding love. A screw up nearly costs them everything. Amazing epilogue !
This is SO worthwhile, SO engaging, SO marvelous !!
Highly recommended ! ENJOY !!!
================================
Free on KU !! I've read "Shelter" and "Cabin Nights" by Ashley John and loved those also. :)
==============================
Tom, curly haired slave to his job is running late for work.
Cole, blonde, muscled, hard working farmer,
is job hunting to make more money for the farm.
When Tom and Cole collide at the train, little did they know their worlds would change. Magnificent characters, a smooth flowing plot, and erotic sex are all combined into this wonderful story. These two men inadvertently find someone who really fits each other's needs.
A lot is happening as these guys get closer. We see Tom's job issues, Cole's farm needs, plus the friends,
including flashy and flamboyant cross dresser, Ricky,
Cole's Auntie, a nasty real estate man, plus there's a fete, a storm, and much more unfolding. Amongst all the events in this we get a full-bodied story, we get real tenderness, emotion, and budding love. A screw up nearly costs them everything. Amazing epilogue !
This is SO worthwhile, SO engaging, SO marvelous !!
Highly recommended ! ENJOY !!!
================================
Free on KU !! I've read "Shelter" and "Cabin Nights" by Ashley John and loved those also. :)
==============================
April 30, 2016
Cole and Tom. A sweet lovely story.
Great flow and so nice story.
No high standard of living just an average lovely couple with lovely personalities.
Cole and Tom collided on the station Cole crashed on Tom while having coffee.
At first they were just friendly and Cole was more into Tom than otherwise.
But Cole with his open heart and sweet smile made capture Tom's heart
Cole working and living on his farm and having a second job to held his head above and Tom a hard working but so undervalued. Tom loves the living on the farm and want to help Cole to keep the farm.
A clumsy move and some misunderstanding pulls them apart, but love overcomes all.
It was not a very fast or exciting story but a steady one. With a good flow.
A feeling good story, worthy to read.
Great flow and so nice story.
No high standard of living just an average lovely couple with lovely personalities.
Cole and Tom collided on the station Cole crashed on Tom while having coffee.
At first they were just friendly and Cole was more into Tom than otherwise.
But Cole with his open heart and sweet smile made capture Tom's heart
Cole working and living on his farm and having a second job to held his head above and Tom a hard working but so undervalued. Tom loves the living on the farm and want to help Cole to keep the farm.
A clumsy move and some misunderstanding pulls them apart, but love overcomes all.
It was not a very fast or exciting story but a steady one. With a good flow.
A feeling good story, worthy to read.
May 5, 2016
Review originally posted at Sinfully.
I’ve read two other Ashley John stories that were both pretty angsty, but this story was light and sweet. A city boy meets farm boy romance, where timing is everything, even if it’s all wrong. Tom and Cole are about to learn that love doesn’t care whether you’re ready for it or not.
Tom’s life is very neat and orderly and pretty boring. He is a journalist with a local weekly paper, a job he doesn’t particularly like with a boss who seems to hate him, and is toiling away for a promotion he desperately needs but is sure will never come. The rest of his time is spent in his apartment watching The X-Files with his cat, Mulder. It’s been three years since the horrible ending of his last relationship and since then he’s done nothing but work. The timing isn’t right for dating since he’s working on his career and he’s not interested in meaningless sex. His best friend Ricky aka drag queen Miss Kitty Litter is so exasperated with Tom that he bets him 100 quid (that Tom doesn’t have to lose) that he doesn’t have sex before Ricky’s birthday.
Cole has lived his whole life on the farm owned by the aunt and uncle who raised him and he can’t imagine working or living anywhere else. Circumstances have forced him to take a job in a gay bar in Manchester to help keep the farm and him and his aunt afloat. Cole’s sex life consists of occasional hook ups, but his main concern is making sure his aunt and the farm are taken care of.
Both Tom and Cole live in the same village but have never met until literally running into each other on the train platform. As both are rushing for the train Cole, nervous about his first day at work, spills his coffee all over a late and hungover Tom. Cole would like nothing more than to continue talking with Tom after their train ride, but Tom doesn’t seem interested. Luckily for Cole they run into each other later that day, but Cole isn’t very smooth and things don’t go much better. They do start up a friendship and agree to a date. Both are at a time of change in their lives and Tom wants things to move slowly, but it is clear early on that they are just so good together, he’s not too sure he can hold out.
Through some missteps, a growing friendship a little hot sex and a few X-Files marathons, the two men fall into an easy and loving relationship neither expected nor experienced before. Tom is still uncertain, hanging onto his job but feeling more and more at home on the farm and in the house Cole shares with Aunt Belinda. While Cole is more certain of what and who he wants out of life, Tom finds it hard to fully invest in what Cole is offering and trust in things. This leads to a bad decision that Tom immediately regrets, but hurts Cole deeply nonetheless, setting up a bit of drama at the end of an otherwise angst free story.
Tom shows real growth during the story and is the character with the most personal issues to get over. It took me longer to warm up to him than it did Cole, but the two have good chemistry and I was really pulling for Tom to grow a pair and do the right thing. Lucky for him he has not just Cole, but also Ricky who is a great secondary character. Sassy and supportive of Tom and later Cole, Ricky’s had his share of pain and loss and urges Tom to think about what’s really important to him. I wouldn’t mind seeing Ricky get his happily ever after in a book of his own.
Ashley John’s words paint a lovely picture throughout the story and I could easily picture the characters and the settings. The story flowed at a very good pace and I never felt things dragging. The big misunderstanding at the end wasn’t drawn out and the Epilogue guarantees us that the two men are sharing a very happy ending. With lots of love, a bit of humor and some engaging characters, this was a feel good love story that would be a perfect little weekend pick me up for anyone who loves a sweet romance.
I’ve read two other Ashley John stories that were both pretty angsty, but this story was light and sweet. A city boy meets farm boy romance, where timing is everything, even if it’s all wrong. Tom and Cole are about to learn that love doesn’t care whether you’re ready for it or not.
Tom’s life is very neat and orderly and pretty boring. He is a journalist with a local weekly paper, a job he doesn’t particularly like with a boss who seems to hate him, and is toiling away for a promotion he desperately needs but is sure will never come. The rest of his time is spent in his apartment watching The X-Files with his cat, Mulder. It’s been three years since the horrible ending of his last relationship and since then he’s done nothing but work. The timing isn’t right for dating since he’s working on his career and he’s not interested in meaningless sex. His best friend Ricky aka drag queen Miss Kitty Litter is so exasperated with Tom that he bets him 100 quid (that Tom doesn’t have to lose) that he doesn’t have sex before Ricky’s birthday.
Cole has lived his whole life on the farm owned by the aunt and uncle who raised him and he can’t imagine working or living anywhere else. Circumstances have forced him to take a job in a gay bar in Manchester to help keep the farm and him and his aunt afloat. Cole’s sex life consists of occasional hook ups, but his main concern is making sure his aunt and the farm are taken care of.
Both Tom and Cole live in the same village but have never met until literally running into each other on the train platform. As both are rushing for the train Cole, nervous about his first day at work, spills his coffee all over a late and hungover Tom. Cole would like nothing more than to continue talking with Tom after their train ride, but Tom doesn’t seem interested. Luckily for Cole they run into each other later that day, but Cole isn’t very smooth and things don’t go much better. They do start up a friendship and agree to a date. Both are at a time of change in their lives and Tom wants things to move slowly, but it is clear early on that they are just so good together, he’s not too sure he can hold out.
Through some missteps, a growing friendship a little hot sex and a few X-Files marathons, the two men fall into an easy and loving relationship neither expected nor experienced before. Tom is still uncertain, hanging onto his job but feeling more and more at home on the farm and in the house Cole shares with Aunt Belinda. While Cole is more certain of what and who he wants out of life, Tom finds it hard to fully invest in what Cole is offering and trust in things. This leads to a bad decision that Tom immediately regrets, but hurts Cole deeply nonetheless, setting up a bit of drama at the end of an otherwise angst free story.
Tom shows real growth during the story and is the character with the most personal issues to get over. It took me longer to warm up to him than it did Cole, but the two have good chemistry and I was really pulling for Tom to grow a pair and do the right thing. Lucky for him he has not just Cole, but also Ricky who is a great secondary character. Sassy and supportive of Tom and later Cole, Ricky’s had his share of pain and loss and urges Tom to think about what’s really important to him. I wouldn’t mind seeing Ricky get his happily ever after in a book of his own.
Ashley John’s words paint a lovely picture throughout the story and I could easily picture the characters and the settings. The story flowed at a very good pace and I never felt things dragging. The big misunderstanding at the end wasn’t drawn out and the Epilogue guarantees us that the two men are sharing a very happy ending. With lots of love, a bit of humor and some engaging characters, this was a feel good love story that would be a perfect little weekend pick me up for anyone who loves a sweet romance.
April 30, 2016
4 stars
This had a few ingredients I love to see: meet cute, low angst, ordinary guys (well, cute ordinary guys!), a great setting (Manchester and the quirky village of Hebden Bridge) and a lovely HEA. I really enjoyed most of this. What I didn't enjoy as much was the conflict in the last third of the book. The actions of the characters were frustrating and the drama seemed a little unnecessary. Other than that blip, this was a good read and I'll be on the lookout for Mr. John's books in future. I'm assuming he's going to write Ricky's story next ...
This had a few ingredients I love to see: meet cute, low angst, ordinary guys (well, cute ordinary guys!), a great setting (Manchester and the quirky village of Hebden Bridge) and a lovely HEA. I really enjoyed most of this. What I didn't enjoy as much was the conflict in the last third of the book. The actions of the characters were frustrating and the drama seemed a little unnecessary. Other than that blip, this was a good read and I'll be on the lookout for Mr. John's books in future. I'm assuming he's going to write Ricky's story next ...
May 8, 2016
Light and fluffy feel good story from Ashley, although there were times when I could've cheerfully smacked Tom upside the head cos he was so dense. There were minor niggles (think you'll find it's Todmorden, not Todermorden), and maybe a little poetic license was used in taking a taxi from Manchester to Hebden Bridge (yes, it exists)...would cost an absolute fortune I should think, but the characters were really believable and more than that, likeable. 4 stars from me.
April 27, 2016
"There were so many things he wanted to say but he forced himself not to say them.He knew it was too soon to be feeling the way he did but he didn't care.He had never felt so strongly about another man before and that's how he knew his feelings were real" (Cole)
"Cole looked at him as though he was the most beautiful man in the world and Tom wasn't going to question that.He felt worthy because Cole made him feel special." (Tom)
This is another book by this author,which I quickly got into,and enjoyed very much.I don't want to go into great detail as it would spoil it for anyone who hasn't read it yet,but I absolutely loved it and again it is all down to the quality of the writing,the main character's (Tom and Cole) and side character's who are as important in the flow of the story,often adding hilarious moments (Ricky) as with a previous book ('Shelter'-which is cleverly given a nod within this) the intimate scenes are tastefully done and are not the main detail.The story flows well,there is a wee bit of an angst moment,but all ends with a HEA and a great Epilogue.
Congratulations on another amazing story Ashley John...Thank You
Reviewed for Rock Hard Romance by Vicki RHR RATING 5/5
"Cole looked at him as though he was the most beautiful man in the world and Tom wasn't going to question that.He felt worthy because Cole made him feel special." (Tom)
This is another book by this author,which I quickly got into,and enjoyed very much.I don't want to go into great detail as it would spoil it for anyone who hasn't read it yet,but I absolutely loved it and again it is all down to the quality of the writing,the main character's (Tom and Cole) and side character's who are as important in the flow of the story,often adding hilarious moments (Ricky) as with a previous book ('Shelter'-which is cleverly given a nod within this) the intimate scenes are tastefully done and are not the main detail.The story flows well,there is a wee bit of an angst moment,but all ends with a HEA and a great Epilogue.
Congratulations on another amazing story Ashley John...Thank You
Reviewed for Rock Hard Romance by Vicki RHR RATING 5/5
Want to read
April 26, 2016OUT NOW! http://www.amazon.com/dp/B01ETKCW66
April 26, 2016
Another amazing book by the very talented Ashley John. Every story he writes is a five star read. Timing has everything you want in a great book, it's captivating & LOL funny, and it grabs hold and keeps your attention!
Cole and Tom's relationship starts with a few liquid mishaps, but blossoms into a beautiful story. Cole stumbles his way into your heart, with his nervous chatter and his adorable clumsiness you can't help but love him.
Tom had to let go of the past so he can have a future with Cole.
The secondary characters add life and humor to the book. Tom's friend Ricky is hilariously funny!
Well done Ashley got another fantastic book! (review by: Kylee)
Cole and Tom's relationship starts with a few liquid mishaps, but blossoms into a beautiful story. Cole stumbles his way into your heart, with his nervous chatter and his adorable clumsiness you can't help but love him.
Tom had to let go of the past so he can have a future with Cole.
The secondary characters add life and humor to the book. Tom's friend Ricky is hilariously funny!
Well done Ashley got another fantastic book! (review by: Kylee)
April 29, 2016
Wow....I don't know where to start!! I loved everything about this book!!! Tom and Cole were great together. The secondary characters were just as enjoyable as the main characters. I love a good epilogue and this book had an amazing epilogue.
This is my 1st full book by this author and I will be reading more from him. One of favorite books so far this year!!!
On a side note I really hope Ricky gets his own book.
This is my 1st full book by this author and I will be reading more from him. One of favorite books so far this year!!!
On a side note I really hope Ricky gets his own book.
April 30, 2016
Sometimes in life timing is everything, not when it comes to love though.....
Tom has been working hard, trying to get the promotion he deserves. For some reason though, he is overlooked at every turn.
His life is filled with work, weekends alone and his cat.
Cole wants to stay on the farm he was raised on, his aunt however is having money troubles so he is forced to take a job in a bar to try and keep the bills paid.
When Tom is late for work one day, due to a night out with his best friend Ricky, also known as Miss Kitty Litter, he runs in to Cole at the train station who is off to his new job.
Now when i say run, I mean literally!!!!
The 2 men crash in to each other and Cole's coffee ends up all over Tom.
When they get on the train, Cole thinks that's the last they will see of each other until Tom walks in to his new place of work at lunchtime.
A sort of relationship begins but Tom keeps going on about timing, not realising that the man in front of him could be the very thing he needs.
Both men have their fair share of problems, Cole is trying to save the farm, Tom is trying to work his way up in a job he isn't sure he wants anymore.
Finding himself falling in love he sees his priorities start to change and his future seem brighter.
Will the timing be right for these 2 men to get what they want in life.
As always with this authors work, you are drawn in to the story from the very start.
Such fantastically written characters, you want them to get their happy ever after.
5 out of 5 stars.
Sue x
Tom has been working hard, trying to get the promotion he deserves. For some reason though, he is overlooked at every turn.
His life is filled with work, weekends alone and his cat.
Cole wants to stay on the farm he was raised on, his aunt however is having money troubles so he is forced to take a job in a bar to try and keep the bills paid.
When Tom is late for work one day, due to a night out with his best friend Ricky, also known as Miss Kitty Litter, he runs in to Cole at the train station who is off to his new job.
Now when i say run, I mean literally!!!!
The 2 men crash in to each other and Cole's coffee ends up all over Tom.
When they get on the train, Cole thinks that's the last they will see of each other until Tom walks in to his new place of work at lunchtime.
A sort of relationship begins but Tom keeps going on about timing, not realising that the man in front of him could be the very thing he needs.
Both men have their fair share of problems, Cole is trying to save the farm, Tom is trying to work his way up in a job he isn't sure he wants anymore.
Finding himself falling in love he sees his priorities start to change and his future seem brighter.
Will the timing be right for these 2 men to get what they want in life.
As always with this authors work, you are drawn in to the story from the very start.
Such fantastically written characters, you want them to get their happy ever after.
5 out of 5 stars.
Sue x
August 1, 2016
**********Wonderful love story**********
This is mostly a love story, but also a story about surviving and moving on.
I just loved Tom and Cole, they were so adorable together!
BUT....OMFG...! RICKY...! Seriously, I think i'm In love with you...! So fucking funny, I need A book for him NOW....! Please, tell me he gets his own book!
This is mostly a love story, but also a story about surviving and moving on.
I just loved Tom and Cole, they were so adorable together!
BUT....OMFG...! RICKY...! Seriously, I think i'm In love with you...! So fucking funny, I need A book for him NOW....! Please, tell me he gets his own book!
May 4, 2016
This is another winner for Ashley John! Timing is the perfect mix of drama, humor, angst, and love. With two amazing main characters and a fabulous ensemble this story was one to make you laugh, cry, and fist pump.
Tom and Cole (The MC’s) don’t live rich lives. They are like everyone else. Trying to get by while clinging to the dream. I really loved how I was able to relate to them both. We live in a paycheck to paycheck kind of world. We cheer for each other. When one of us gets a break it’s celebrated. So, it’s easy to love and be excited for Cole and Tom in this story.
Ricky, Tom’s best friend, is a colorful and perfect addition to this story. My heart broke for him a lot. He’s living half a life. He claims to be happy but I feel he’s missing out on so much. I REALLY hope he gets his own story and his own happily ever after.
Rox, Auntie Belinda, Mulder, Scully, Suzie… yeah some of those are people and some are animals… They all play important parts in this journey to an HEA!
Timing isn’t everything. Time isn’t always on your side. This story showed us that we need to live in seconds and cherish every breath and take more plunges.
This is a wonderful story and I highly recommend it.
Tom and Cole (The MC’s) don’t live rich lives. They are like everyone else. Trying to get by while clinging to the dream. I really loved how I was able to relate to them both. We live in a paycheck to paycheck kind of world. We cheer for each other. When one of us gets a break it’s celebrated. So, it’s easy to love and be excited for Cole and Tom in this story.
Ricky, Tom’s best friend, is a colorful and perfect addition to this story. My heart broke for him a lot. He’s living half a life. He claims to be happy but I feel he’s missing out on so much. I REALLY hope he gets his own story and his own happily ever after.
Rox, Auntie Belinda, Mulder, Scully, Suzie… yeah some of those are people and some are animals… They all play important parts in this journey to an HEA!
Timing isn’t everything. Time isn’t always on your side. This story showed us that we need to live in seconds and cherish every breath and take more plunges.
This is a wonderful story and I highly recommend it.
June 6, 2016
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
This is a wonderfully sweet love story without a lot of angst and with a HEA that will leave you smiling. Set in Manchester, England, this story takes two ordinary guys living ordinary lives who happen to have the worst timing ever and throws them together to realize that the worst time may be the best time to fall in love and give us the makings of a story that will put a smile on your face and warm your heart.
Tom has gotten himself into a rut when it comes to relationships after his long-term boyfriend left him for another man at the worst possible time. He’s slaved away at work in the hopes of getting a promotion only to find himself passed over time and again because he doesn’t have the right anatomy. When he isn’t working, he is usually found sitting at home watching an X-Files marathon with his cat Mulder. Now, with the promise of a promotion on the horizon, Tom knows that if he wants it, he has to earn it by going above and beyond in order to make his editor notice him. The last thing he needs is to find himself in a new relationship.
Read Wendy’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
This is a wonderfully sweet love story without a lot of angst and with a HEA that will leave you smiling. Set in Manchester, England, this story takes two ordinary guys living ordinary lives who happen to have the worst timing ever and throws them together to realize that the worst time may be the best time to fall in love and give us the makings of a story that will put a smile on your face and warm your heart.
Tom has gotten himself into a rut when it comes to relationships after his long-term boyfriend left him for another man at the worst possible time. He’s slaved away at work in the hopes of getting a promotion only to find himself passed over time and again because he doesn’t have the right anatomy. When he isn’t working, he is usually found sitting at home watching an X-Files marathon with his cat Mulder. Now, with the promise of a promotion on the horizon, Tom knows that if he wants it, he has to earn it by going above and beyond in order to make his editor notice him. The last thing he needs is to find himself in a new relationship.
Read Wendy’s review in its entirety here.
May 24, 2016
Ok.....This is my first Ashley John book and I don't think I could have picked a better one.....Some fb friends said It was a good one to start with.....I loved Cole from the very start, He was so sweet and clumsy and oh that stutter bless him when he was nervous.....Tom I also loved but he had to work on me for a bit....He made a few mistakes but the way he let his boss and workmates walk all over him annoyed me, I so wanted him to stand his ground and when he finally does that was so worth the wait....It's a fairly easy read and I loved the side characters...>Roz and Ricky...esp Ricky he was just amazing and can't wait for his book.....x
May 2, 2016
Tom and Cole are just amazing !!!
Yet again Ashley John has written an amazing story where the characters and story flow brilliantly.
The way Cole and Tom met made me chuckle, and you could tell from the start that things wouldn't happen easily for them. Reading about Cole, his aunt and the farm brought back childhood memories to me which i loved too.
I loved that Tom had such an eccentric best friend seeing as he was quite a shy reserved character.
I laughed on several occasions but also got a bit bleary eyed too.
Brilliantly written, absolutely loved it !!
Yet again Ashley John has written an amazing story where the characters and story flow brilliantly.
The way Cole and Tom met made me chuckle, and you could tell from the start that things wouldn't happen easily for them. Reading about Cole, his aunt and the farm brought back childhood memories to me which i loved too.
I loved that Tom had such an eccentric best friend seeing as he was quite a shy reserved character.
I laughed on several occasions but also got a bit bleary eyed too.
Brilliantly written, absolutely loved it !!
May 8, 2016
One From Column A, One From Column B: Sweet & Sour
This very surprising, sweetly structured, and sometimes annoying book hits the mark like an old Chinese restaurant menu: Take one from Column A, Cole (sweet), the adorably hunky blond farm boy who initiates this romance by accidentally spilling coffee all over the man from Column B, Tom (sour), the minor league journalist borderline loser who has no confidence in himself but is determined to make a go of it.
Problem is that Cole is an optimist and Tom is a pessimist by nature. However, they flip their personalities after multiple encounters that turn Tom into the optimist and Cole into the pessimist--and it's Tom's optimism which turns Cole's sudden pessimism around. Got that?
This all takes place is a suburb of Manchester, England, where Cole and his aunt Belinda live on a huge, debt-ridden and crumbling family farm, and where Tom rents a flat near his best friend Ricky (aka flamboyant transvestite Miss Kitty Litter) while commuting to Manchester where his dreadful boss at the local newspaper treats him like crap. When Cole takes a job at a gay pub in Manchester to make enough money to help straighten out the farm, he and Tom get into several encounters and situations which lead to a fairly torrid, if hesitant, romance.
What I liked about this book is that Cole and Tom came alive on every page, and even though I thought Tom was a jerk for most of the book, he has some redeeming values, though this book is carried by Cole. The sub characters are very sharply drawn--Cole's boss at the bar, Rox, is a hoot, and his aunt Belinda is the soul of the earth. I was not happy with Ricky, however, for several reasons, but he is important to the plot and does fit in when and where it counts.
Author Ashley John is new to me. I stumbled upon this one and was extremely happy I did because he is a wonderful writer with a sharp sense of personality and how life travels. In this book he has created unique characters, a unique setting, a unique plot, a unique denouement and epilogue which kept me interested from the first spilled coffee until the last kiss. Nicely done.
This very surprising, sweetly structured, and sometimes annoying book hits the mark like an old Chinese restaurant menu: Take one from Column A, Cole (sweet), the adorably hunky blond farm boy who initiates this romance by accidentally spilling coffee all over the man from Column B, Tom (sour), the minor league journalist borderline loser who has no confidence in himself but is determined to make a go of it.
Problem is that Cole is an optimist and Tom is a pessimist by nature. However, they flip their personalities after multiple encounters that turn Tom into the optimist and Cole into the pessimist--and it's Tom's optimism which turns Cole's sudden pessimism around. Got that?
This all takes place is a suburb of Manchester, England, where Cole and his aunt Belinda live on a huge, debt-ridden and crumbling family farm, and where Tom rents a flat near his best friend Ricky (aka flamboyant transvestite Miss Kitty Litter) while commuting to Manchester where his dreadful boss at the local newspaper treats him like crap. When Cole takes a job at a gay pub in Manchester to make enough money to help straighten out the farm, he and Tom get into several encounters and situations which lead to a fairly torrid, if hesitant, romance.
What I liked about this book is that Cole and Tom came alive on every page, and even though I thought Tom was a jerk for most of the book, he has some redeeming values, though this book is carried by Cole. The sub characters are very sharply drawn--Cole's boss at the bar, Rox, is a hoot, and his aunt Belinda is the soul of the earth. I was not happy with Ricky, however, for several reasons, but he is important to the plot and does fit in when and where it counts.
Author Ashley John is new to me. I stumbled upon this one and was extremely happy I did because he is a wonderful writer with a sharp sense of personality and how life travels. In this book he has created unique characters, a unique setting, a unique plot, a unique denouement and epilogue which kept me interested from the first spilled coffee until the last kiss. Nicely done.
August 8, 2016
Before I even start this review, can we take a moment to admire the cover. Isn't it gorgeous?? That smile...
This story made me grin. It was a warm hug of a book that I really enjoyed reading. I must admit, I do have a real soft spot for rural stories. The vibe is, necessarily, different to urban tales and they often become my comfort reads. They feel familiar and comforting, and the trials and tribulations of the characters just resonate with me for some reason. Timing straddles the divide and has both an urban and rural setting, I really liked this.
Ashley John puts a lot into his characters and each individual is just that - individual. Without being wacky or out there he manages to not just create and recreate the same personas time and again. This is appreciated as I like discovering the new characters each book; I don't skim because I've met that person before.
That being said, Ashley John does have his own writing style. Of course, all authors do! I kind of know, not the storyline, but the way the story will go - and again, for a comfort read, a Sunday read, this works really well for me. Timing was no exception. It has all the elements I expected to make up an Ashley John story, but was still unique enough to interesting and enjoyable.
I mean, the romance was just yummy. How often does Timing come into play with relationships? Chance encounters and bad timing written into a love story that was sweet and lovely. Any Ashley John fan will enjoy this book, I'm sure. Those looking for a comfort read would do worse than to check this author out, too.
This story made me grin. It was a warm hug of a book that I really enjoyed reading. I must admit, I do have a real soft spot for rural stories. The vibe is, necessarily, different to urban tales and they often become my comfort reads. They feel familiar and comforting, and the trials and tribulations of the characters just resonate with me for some reason. Timing straddles the divide and has both an urban and rural setting, I really liked this.
Ashley John puts a lot into his characters and each individual is just that - individual. Without being wacky or out there he manages to not just create and recreate the same personas time and again. This is appreciated as I like discovering the new characters each book; I don't skim because I've met that person before.
That being said, Ashley John does have his own writing style. Of course, all authors do! I kind of know, not the storyline, but the way the story will go - and again, for a comfort read, a Sunday read, this works really well for me. Timing was no exception. It has all the elements I expected to make up an Ashley John story, but was still unique enough to interesting and enjoyable.
I mean, the romance was just yummy. How often does Timing come into play with relationships? Chance encounters and bad timing written into a love story that was sweet and lovely. Any Ashley John fan will enjoy this book, I'm sure. Those looking for a comfort read would do worse than to check this author out, too.
May 18, 2016
What a sweet, sweet book full of awesome characters
At first I didn't know what to make of Tom, as he was very frigid. His friendship with Ricky aka Kitty Litter was an odd one as well. I can't tell if Ricky is a great friend to have, or a bad one. On a side note, i really hope he gets his own book. I bet his story is sad as hell and he NEEDS an HEA!
That all being said. The way Cole and Tom meet is a bunch of unfortunate, but funny circumstances. First with the coffee down the shirt, then the drink in the lap, Cole's clumsiness is really endearing. I think that's part of what draw Tom in. Cole’s sincere-ness and Innocence. Coles hot and buff but he doesn't flaunt it. He's an understated beauty and an all-around great package.
Tom is a workaholic who doesn't have time for anything or anyone, so it's rare that Ricky can get him out and he's kind of amazed that he wants to find time for Cole. When he finally finds something n other than work to focus on, things really start to even out for Tom. I also loved Tom's X-File fetish. It gives him some depth, other than being the guy who likes to work and seems kind of cold.
There is some minor drama in this book, but not overly so. I think this is such a nice sweet read, one that you need when you need to get away from all the drama and just want an awesome happy ending.
Tom and Cole are some of my new favorite characters and again, I reeeaaaallllly hope Ricky gets a book!!
4.325*
At first I didn't know what to make of Tom, as he was very frigid. His friendship with Ricky aka Kitty Litter was an odd one as well. I can't tell if Ricky is a great friend to have, or a bad one. On a side note, i really hope he gets his own book. I bet his story is sad as hell and he NEEDS an HEA!
That all being said. The way Cole and Tom meet is a bunch of unfortunate, but funny circumstances. First with the coffee down the shirt, then the drink in the lap, Cole's clumsiness is really endearing. I think that's part of what draw Tom in. Cole’s sincere-ness and Innocence. Coles hot and buff but he doesn't flaunt it. He's an understated beauty and an all-around great package.
Tom is a workaholic who doesn't have time for anything or anyone, so it's rare that Ricky can get him out and he's kind of amazed that he wants to find time for Cole. When he finally finds something n other than work to focus on, things really start to even out for Tom. I also loved Tom's X-File fetish. It gives him some depth, other than being the guy who likes to work and seems kind of cold.
There is some minor drama in this book, but not overly so. I think this is such a nice sweet read, one that you need when you need to get away from all the drama and just want an awesome happy ending.
Tom and Cole are some of my new favorite characters and again, I reeeaaaallllly hope Ricky gets a book!!
4.325*
April 27, 2016
What wasn't there to love about this book? It is nothing short of perfect. Needless to say I absolutely loved this book, every word of it.
The way that Ashley captured each character and their emotions was just so spot on that I was hooked right from the start and right until the end. One thing that I particularly loved was how much Tom grew and how strongly he was able to stand up for himself in the end and how you got to see all of his journey and nothing was rushed. The ending didn't disappoint what so ever, in fact it was even better than I could dream of. I of course loved Tom and Cole and was so happy that their HEA was so glorious, Rox's too but I am seriously just DYING for Ricky's story. He really did add so much fun to this book that he deserves nothing less than his own crazy and fantastic HEA.
I think this book is an amazing example of Ashley's true talent. Every single character in this book is engaging, even the douche bag characters and you're constantly "feeling" right along with them all.
Five brilliant stars from me, though I would give more if I could :)
The way that Ashley captured each character and their emotions was just so spot on that I was hooked right from the start and right until the end. One thing that I particularly loved was how much Tom grew and how strongly he was able to stand up for himself in the end and how you got to see all of his journey and nothing was rushed. The ending didn't disappoint what so ever, in fact it was even better than I could dream of. I of course loved Tom and Cole and was so happy that their HEA was so glorious, Rox's too but I am seriously just DYING for Ricky's story. He really did add so much fun to this book that he deserves nothing less than his own crazy and fantastic HEA.
I think this book is an amazing example of Ashley's true talent. Every single character in this book is engaging, even the douche bag characters and you're constantly "feeling" right along with them all.
Five brilliant stars from me, though I would give more if I could :)
April 24, 2016
Who would have thought a spilt cup of coffee would change two lives forever? Workaholic Tom, who's world pretty much runs on routine~ a neat, organized routine. Cole is a hard worker, growing up on the farm and handling horses since he was little is his entire world. Financial woes have Cole taking a part time job in town as a bartender~ completely out of his comfort zone. One cup of spilt coffee. Fate. It's all just perfect "timing". Such a magnificent story of how sometimes life doesn't go according to plan. Cole and Tom are just beyond adorable. Ricky and Rox, two very important and supporting characters, are the best!! I really hope they get their own stories someday :)
May 1, 2016
This one gave me all the feels it was a beautiful heartwarming romantic story that i could not stop reading! Keep giving us more books please Ashley John and everyone you need to read this one!
April 28, 2016
Five stars!
I think Timing is Ashley John's best book yet. I laughed and i cried. I hope Ricky gets his own book. What a character!
I think Timing is Ashley John's best book yet. I laughed and i cried. I hope Ricky gets his own book. What a character!
April 28, 2016
4.25 stars
April 28, 2016
Beautifully written, sweet romance that clenched my heart and made me want more of the characters. I will be looking for more by Ashley John.
May 1, 2016
Timing is everything
Tom and Coles journey into love was all about bad timing. But the ups and downs of life turned out to be the best timing of all.
Tom and Coles journey into love was all about bad timing. But the ups and downs of life turned out to be the best timing of all.
May 1, 2016
Another excellent book by Ashley, the artwork is amazing
February 1, 2017
Really enjoyed this book! The story was quick and inviting and not overly powered by the sex scenes! Real substance and an amazing ending! Great work!
April 30, 2019
like you want to do whatever it takes to make it work... if the timing isn’t right, it’s just not going to happen. The cool thing is, though, a red light or a yellow light doesn’t mean stop or yield forever. If you really like someone and are willing to wait it out, it can happen sometime in the future. And, if it’s meant to be, it will.” ~ Larin Skirvin, Elite Daily
Have you ever noticed that when you are late for something, everything that can go wrong often does? It can be quite frustrating. Tom Pond, of ‘Timing’ by Ashley John, can’t afford to be late for work; he really needs to impress his boss so he can get the promotion he is reaching for. However, running late is the exact predicament in which he finds himself. Tom tries to hurry as much as he can, but circumstances slow him down—missed trains and other nuisances try to thwart him, but he keeps going. The delay to end all others comes when a handsome, but clumsy young man, Cole, manages to trip and spill coffee all over Tom! Cole apologizes profusely, but Tom assures him that it’s not the end of the world. They talk for a while then part ways with a casual “see you soon”.
Cole is on his way to his new job at a local gay bar. He doesn’t want to work there, but his aunt’s farm is failing and he is doing so to help keep it afloat. He loves the farm and can’t bear the thought of losing it. When he arrives, his before-employment job training session turns out to be an on the job one. Rox, his boss, is a real slave driver who is not easily pleased, but appreciates the way Cole jumps right in and does his best to learn the ropes. She likes him. Cole isn’t sure how well he is doing, but takes her word for it and continues on.
Tom tells his friend Ricky, an over the top drag queen named Miss Kitty Litter, about how he met Cole. Ricky thinks it’s hilarious and wants to meet him. After work, Ricky and Tom go to the bar where Cole works. Cole is pleasantly surprised to see Tom and is a bit overwhelmed by flamboyant Ricky. Naturally, Ricky tries to hit on him, but Cole resists his charms. On the way home, they jokingly make a bet as to whether or not Tom, who has had a sexual dry spell after his fiancé left him, can get laid before Ricky’s birthday.
Tom and Cole are attracted to each other and begin spending time together. As they share their life circumstances, they try to help each other be happier. Cole doesn’t understand why Tom is insistent about keeping a job he hates, while Tom doesn’t quite understand why Cole would want to work on a farm instead of being in the city. As time goes on, Tom falls in love with Cole and his aunt, begins to see the benefits of farm life, and understands why Cole would like to see it become viable again. Tom comes up with an idea for a fete to help raise money to pay off the farm debts and enable them to get the farm back to what it used to be. On the day of the event, Tom’s boss demands that he attend a business meeting. Tom tries to get out of it, but instead tries to sneak out of the event without telling Cole. When tragedy strikes, Cole looks everywhere for Tom, but he is not there. By the time Tom gets back, Cole is furious because Tom has put his job before Cole’s needs and orders him to leave and never come back.
This is a very sincere, endearing story about two young men who work very hard to make it in life. With so much on their plates, a successful relationship seems out of the question. However, because love always finds a way, they are able to make the timing right. Thanks, Ashley, for the delightful read.
Have you ever noticed that when you are late for something, everything that can go wrong often does? It can be quite frustrating. Tom Pond, of ‘Timing’ by Ashley John, can’t afford to be late for work; he really needs to impress his boss so he can get the promotion he is reaching for. However, running late is the exact predicament in which he finds himself. Tom tries to hurry as much as he can, but circumstances slow him down—missed trains and other nuisances try to thwart him, but he keeps going. The delay to end all others comes when a handsome, but clumsy young man, Cole, manages to trip and spill coffee all over Tom! Cole apologizes profusely, but Tom assures him that it’s not the end of the world. They talk for a while then part ways with a casual “see you soon”.
Cole is on his way to his new job at a local gay bar. He doesn’t want to work there, but his aunt’s farm is failing and he is doing so to help keep it afloat. He loves the farm and can’t bear the thought of losing it. When he arrives, his before-employment job training session turns out to be an on the job one. Rox, his boss, is a real slave driver who is not easily pleased, but appreciates the way Cole jumps right in and does his best to learn the ropes. She likes him. Cole isn’t sure how well he is doing, but takes her word for it and continues on.
Tom tells his friend Ricky, an over the top drag queen named Miss Kitty Litter, about how he met Cole. Ricky thinks it’s hilarious and wants to meet him. After work, Ricky and Tom go to the bar where Cole works. Cole is pleasantly surprised to see Tom and is a bit overwhelmed by flamboyant Ricky. Naturally, Ricky tries to hit on him, but Cole resists his charms. On the way home, they jokingly make a bet as to whether or not Tom, who has had a sexual dry spell after his fiancé left him, can get laid before Ricky’s birthday.
Tom and Cole are attracted to each other and begin spending time together. As they share their life circumstances, they try to help each other be happier. Cole doesn’t understand why Tom is insistent about keeping a job he hates, while Tom doesn’t quite understand why Cole would want to work on a farm instead of being in the city. As time goes on, Tom falls in love with Cole and his aunt, begins to see the benefits of farm life, and understands why Cole would like to see it become viable again. Tom comes up with an idea for a fete to help raise money to pay off the farm debts and enable them to get the farm back to what it used to be. On the day of the event, Tom’s boss demands that he attend a business meeting. Tom tries to get out of it, but instead tries to sneak out of the event without telling Cole. When tragedy strikes, Cole looks everywhere for Tom, but he is not there. By the time Tom gets back, Cole is furious because Tom has put his job before Cole’s needs and orders him to leave and never come back.
This is a very sincere, endearing story about two young men who work very hard to make it in life. With so much on their plates, a successful relationship seems out of the question. However, because love always finds a way, they are able to make the timing right. Thanks, Ashley, for the delightful read.
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July 3, 20187/3/18 Currently 99c via Amazon US: https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B01ETKCW6...
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April 27, 2025DNF at 29%, it just couldn’t connect with the characters. They acted like teenagers in my opinion
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