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UNQUENCHABLE
Gabe Mason is a fifth-generation firefighter unable to move forward with his life after a devastating betrayal two years earlier. Graphic designer Johnny Jeffrey relocated to Brighton, Texas, to flee persecution and fear, and to begin living again on his own terms. The two meet amidst fire and smoke, and soon Johnny is in Gabe’s arms, right where he should be. The connection is palpable, undeniable, and hot, and healing from the past is within reach of both men. And yet, the office-building blaze that brought them together is only the beginning of their struggles. Not family, not faith, not a lunatic’s rage. It took a fire to bring Gabe and Johnny together. Nothing will tear them apart.
Gabe Mason is a fifth-generation firefighter unable to move forward with his life after a devastating betrayal two years earlier. Graphic designer Johnny Jeffrey relocated to Brighton, Texas, to flee persecution and fear, and to begin living again on his own terms. The two meet amidst fire and smoke, and soon Johnny is in Gabe’s arms, right where he should be. The connection is palpable, undeniable, and hot, and healing from the past is within reach of both men. And yet, the office-building blaze that brought them together is only the beginning of their struggles. Not family, not faith, not a lunatic’s rage. It took a fire to bring Gabe and Johnny together. Nothing will tear them apart.
114 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 1, 2016
60 people are currently reading
279 people want to read
About the author
M. Tasia
35 books377 followersM. Tasia is an mm romance author who lives in Ontario, Canada. Michelle is a dedicated people watcher, lover of romance novels, 80’s rock, and happily ever afters (once the MCs are put through their paces), who grew up with a love of reading. She’s a firm believer that everyone deserves to have love, excitement, and crazy hot romance in their lives. Love should be celebrated and shared.
To all my readers: Thank you. There’s no escaping the truth – without all of you, there wouldn’t be me, the author. Your support and kind words have taken me from being a new author who was unsure and panicked to an author with over twenty books under her belt. Okay, I’m still unsure and panicked, but I’m a work in progress. (Takes a sip of wine.)
I love sharing my stories with you and hearing how my characters have touched you and how you’ve cheered them on, cried with them, and even wanted to knock some sense into a few. Your encouragement has inspired me to continue on my writing journey. All the late nights, missed events, and looming deadlines have been worth it, knowing these stories have entertained and
stayed with you long after the book was finished.
Michelle XO
To all my readers: Thank you. There’s no escaping the truth – without all of you, there wouldn’t be me, the author. Your support and kind words have taken me from being a new author who was unsure and panicked to an author with over twenty books under her belt. Okay, I’m still unsure and panicked, but I’m a work in progress. (Takes a sip of wine.)
I love sharing my stories with you and hearing how my characters have touched you and how you’ve cheered them on, cried with them, and even wanted to knock some sense into a few. Your encouragement has inspired me to continue on my writing journey. All the late nights, missed events, and looming deadlines have been worth it, knowing these stories have entertained and
stayed with you long after the book was finished.
Michelle XO
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
September 18, 2016
Spoiler tag for plot points.
This wasn't bad, it was SO bad that it managed to hit every gay romance cliche dead-center.
Stay away. Far away. No firefighter fetish is worth this shit show. Great cover though.
This wasn't bad, it was SO bad that it managed to hit every gay romance cliche dead-center.
Stay away. Far away. No firefighter fetish is worth this shit show. Great cover though.
April 4, 2017
Total OTT instalove which is perfect for me. It was cute with some lol moments with a bit of suspense thrown in. I will definitely read more by this author.
March 1, 2017
I wanted to read something sweet and ridiculous. This absolutely fit that bill.
Instant love at first sight to the nth degree. Calling someone else's parents "mom" and "dad" within minutes of meeting them. Huge, glaring, enormous plot holes. Blatantly ridiculous plot points.
Even with all of that...I enjoyed it.
And you know what I liked most? Johnny is seriously injured several times, and he never gets miraculously better. He has scars and lasting damage.
Nothing else in this approached reality, but that did. And it offset a lot I would have nitpicked otherwise.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
Instant love at first sight to the nth degree. Calling someone else's parents "mom" and "dad" within minutes of meeting them. Huge, glaring, enormous plot holes. Blatantly ridiculous plot points.
Even with all of that...I enjoyed it.
And you know what I liked most? Johnny is seriously injured several times, and he never gets miraculously better. He has scars and lasting damage.
Nothing else in this approached reality, but that did. And it offset a lot I would have nitpicked otherwise.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
October 8, 2016
I actually really liked this. But of course I love insta-love/lust. So if you don't like it, this book isn't going to be for you. Because it happens really fast. I get it. I met my husband, from the day we met we were inseparable and married 4 1/2 months later and have been married 29 years. Sometimes you just know. I loved the family. I read to escape and this worked for me. I enjoyed the writing.
December 11, 2019
I was a little worried right from the start when the first three characters were Johnny Jeffrey, his intern Josie and assistant Janice. I'm horrible with names, so if you give me two female characters in the span of a few paragraphs with similar names, I'm not going to know who is who. And from there, it only got worse. Gabe is related to pretty much half of Brighton, and a lot of them make appearances. And then there are the co-workers and friends. I honestly couldn't keep track of who anyone was. And there was even an Aunt Flo, which I wasn't sure if that was supposed to be an attempt at humour or if the author was just not aware that Aunt Flo is a euphemism for menstruation.
And of the many, many, many characters, there was far too much time spent on building romances for the subsequent books - Jesse & Royce, Clem & Rick, Sam & Dante & Spider. It pretty much killed any interest in reading their books.
I really don't like how crazy fast (emphasis on the crazy) Gabe & Johnny's relationship progressed. Like, Gabe just plows his way into Johnny's life, Johnny is calling Gabe's parents Mom & Dad pretty much immediately, patient confidentially and hospital visiting rules/hours are thrown to the wind in the face of insta-love in a small town, Johnny lets Gabe move him into his house, and they are full out in love in like 3 weeks.
And a lot of that time is glossed over. A lot of the time in the hospital that is on page either has Johnny with other people or Johnny unconscious, so there isn't a whole lot of bonding going on with Gabe. And the 3 weeks he spends in the hospital recovering happen off page, so then all of the sudden Johnny is living with Gabe. And it feels sudden, because Johnny and Gabe may have had 3 conversations on page at this point.
And then there is the whole crazy-ex, Chris, plot. This book could have done without that. There was enough drama with the fire, the insta-love, the million family members, setting up couples for the next book, etc, etc to have a crazy ex trying to kill Johnny thrown in the mix.
I also thought that setting up a meet & greet with your surrogate and your friend so that the surrogate can determine if she wants to carry a baby for said friend and his new man of a few weeks who is in the middle of recovering from burns, lacerations and damage to his throat and lungs from smoke & chemical inhalation. So, that seemed kinda creepy, imo.
And speaking of Johnny's recovery, he does an awful lot of talking for someone who isn't supposed to be talking. Feeding chicken casserole to someone with a throat that has been traumatized by smoke inhalation seems like a bad idea. Giving him a jug of water to drink out of also seems like a bad idea, as did giving him a glass of water when he first woke up... don't they typically use those little sponges to suck on at first? Especially since they may not have known how capable Johnny was of swallowing. And instead of worrying about an accessible computer for Johnny once he is able to go back to work, maybe focus on parts of the recovery, like compression garments for the burns.
The idea of the book isn't bad, but I just didn't like the way it was executed.
And of the many, many, many characters, there was far too much time spent on building romances for the subsequent books - Jesse & Royce, Clem & Rick, Sam & Dante & Spider. It pretty much killed any interest in reading their books.
I really don't like how crazy fast (emphasis on the crazy) Gabe & Johnny's relationship progressed. Like, Gabe just plows his way into Johnny's life, Johnny is calling Gabe's parents Mom & Dad pretty much immediately, patient confidentially and hospital visiting rules/hours are thrown to the wind in the face of insta-love in a small town, Johnny lets Gabe move him into his house, and they are full out in love in like 3 weeks.
And a lot of that time is glossed over. A lot of the time in the hospital that is on page either has Johnny with other people or Johnny unconscious, so there isn't a whole lot of bonding going on with Gabe. And the 3 weeks he spends in the hospital recovering happen off page, so then all of the sudden Johnny is living with Gabe. And it feels sudden, because Johnny and Gabe may have had 3 conversations on page at this point.
And then there is the whole crazy-ex, Chris, plot. This book could have done without that. There was enough drama with the fire, the insta-love, the million family members, setting up couples for the next book, etc, etc to have a crazy ex trying to kill Johnny thrown in the mix.
I also thought that setting up a meet & greet with your surrogate and your friend so that the surrogate can determine if she wants to carry a baby for said friend and his new man of a few weeks who is in the middle of recovering from burns, lacerations and damage to his throat and lungs from smoke & chemical inhalation. So, that seemed kinda creepy, imo.
And speaking of Johnny's recovery, he does an awful lot of talking for someone who isn't supposed to be talking. Feeding chicken casserole to someone with a throat that has been traumatized by smoke inhalation seems like a bad idea. Giving him a jug of water to drink out of also seems like a bad idea, as did giving him a glass of water when he first woke up... don't they typically use those little sponges to suck on at first? Especially since they may not have known how capable Johnny was of swallowing. And instead of worrying about an accessible computer for Johnny once he is able to go back to work, maybe focus on parts of the recovery, like compression garments for the burns.
The idea of the book isn't bad, but I just didn't like the way it was executed.
September 22, 2017
For all the fans of insta-love out there, this story was meant for you. The story starts off with a bit of suspense and drama, and amongst it all Gabe sees Johnny and feels an instant connection...one that he immediately latches on to and refuses to let go. Gabe is very alpha, extremely protective and needs to be in control so he knows Johnny is taken care of.
Now, I have to admit--if I was Johnny, I personally would have been more than a bit unnerved with the immediate attention and acceptance of inevitability Gabe exhibited, not to mention Gabe's family's overbearing intrusion into his life. But Johnny seems fine with it all, his own feelings of attachment pretty clear as well.
While this story is a bit heavy on the insta-love aspect for my taste, I did like the way Gabe's family all came together to support him and Johnny. The additional drama brought in thanks to Gabe's ex felt a bit much; between the fire at Johnny's work building, his recovery, and Gabe's ex poor Johnny never seems to be able to catch a break.
Insta-love fans and those who like having that strong alpha-male presence will enjoy this book. It is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
Now, I have to admit--if I was Johnny, I personally would have been more than a bit unnerved with the immediate attention and acceptance of inevitability Gabe exhibited, not to mention Gabe's family's overbearing intrusion into his life. But Johnny seems fine with it all, his own feelings of attachment pretty clear as well.
While this story is a bit heavy on the insta-love aspect for my taste, I did like the way Gabe's family all came together to support him and Johnny. The additional drama brought in thanks to Gabe's ex felt a bit much; between the fire at Johnny's work building, his recovery, and Gabe's ex poor Johnny never seems to be able to catch a break.
Insta-love fans and those who like having that strong alpha-male presence will enjoy this book. It is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
August 15, 2024
"I thought you were asleep, baby. That wasn't for you. I was thinking fate for bringing you to me. "
Before I read more in The Gates series, I wanted to start at the very beginning.
Their romance was extra mushy. I really liked them together..
I felt so bad for Johnny. The dude almost died 4+ times in such a short book. He spent 80% of that time in the hospital. Give him a break!
Their family was fun. Love the banter. I'm looking forward to a few of their books.
Off to the next one.
Before I read more in The Gates series, I wanted to start at the very beginning.
Their romance was extra mushy. I really liked them together..
I felt so bad for Johnny. The dude almost died 4+ times in such a short book. He spent 80% of that time in the hospital. Give him a break!
Their family was fun. Love the banter. I'm looking forward to a few of their books.
Off to the next one.
January 17, 2020
Not a bad start to this series. I like it. Characters with good personalities, sexiness, and a family that never backs down, no matter the cost. I love this family.
Johnny is doing his best to hang on. He just moved to this town, working a new job and seemed to love being there. But the fire destroying the building is not his idea of fun. Especially when one of the girls he’s trying to help goes flying out the window and he’s trying to hang on to her for all his worth, no matter the damage to himself. He’s also having to rescue another of his girls who got caught under falling debris, causing major injuries to himself. But as soon as firefighter Gabe sees him and what he’s doing, he rushes in to help and can’t help but fall for this hero. Gabe just hopes Johnny will like him back when he discovers Gabe is a bit of a dominant personality. But Johnny seems to love that Gabe is taking over. He wants to be able to let go for a bit. And being as hurt as he is, he doesn’t mind the pampering either. But being with Gabe and having an instant family who seem to really love him, comes at a price. In the form of Gabe’s ex, who is trying to kill Johnny. But Gabe and his family will protect what is their’s, no matter the cost. And Johnny is just finally happy to have a family who loves him so much and for who he is. Now if they can all just survive.
I love the characters in this story. Gabe’s mom and aunts had me cracking up so bad. Even the males of the family are funny, but they all know who really rules the roost. And it’s a hoot. But what I love too, is that it didn’t matter about Johnny’s past or anything. They just took him under their wing and loved him for who he is and for being the hero they needed when things got bad. And because of it, they are now his heroes. Being there for him round the clock. Making sure he knows he’s not alone and that he’s loved and appreciated. Especially with the psycho ex running around.
But there’s more chemistry in the air, which I’m assuming are going to be the next books. There’s a lot of heat and chemistry in this one too. It’s a good start. Little angst, little action, and a good hearted family.
http://lovebytesreviews.com/
Johnny is doing his best to hang on. He just moved to this town, working a new job and seemed to love being there. But the fire destroying the building is not his idea of fun. Especially when one of the girls he’s trying to help goes flying out the window and he’s trying to hang on to her for all his worth, no matter the damage to himself. He’s also having to rescue another of his girls who got caught under falling debris, causing major injuries to himself. But as soon as firefighter Gabe sees him and what he’s doing, he rushes in to help and can’t help but fall for this hero. Gabe just hopes Johnny will like him back when he discovers Gabe is a bit of a dominant personality. But Johnny seems to love that Gabe is taking over. He wants to be able to let go for a bit. And being as hurt as he is, he doesn’t mind the pampering either. But being with Gabe and having an instant family who seem to really love him, comes at a price. In the form of Gabe’s ex, who is trying to kill Johnny. But Gabe and his family will protect what is their’s, no matter the cost. And Johnny is just finally happy to have a family who loves him so much and for who he is. Now if they can all just survive.
I love the characters in this story. Gabe’s mom and aunts had me cracking up so bad. Even the males of the family are funny, but they all know who really rules the roost. And it’s a hoot. But what I love too, is that it didn’t matter about Johnny’s past or anything. They just took him under their wing and loved him for who he is and for being the hero they needed when things got bad. And because of it, they are now his heroes. Being there for him round the clock. Making sure he knows he’s not alone and that he’s loved and appreciated. Especially with the psycho ex running around.
But there’s more chemistry in the air, which I’m assuming are going to be the next books. There’s a lot of heat and chemistry in this one too. It’s a good start. Little angst, little action, and a good hearted family.
http://lovebytesreviews.com/
September 6, 2017
Yes this was way over the top and instalove, but I don't care! I liked it and it sucked me in. I guess this sugary goodness was exactly what I needed and there is no shame in my reading game.
March 10, 2017
Honestly? I really shouldn't have liked this book. It was cliché, dramatic, and sometimes completely over the top. It was also the most epic instant love ever. But I did. Like it that is.
Maybe it is the mood I'm in that I didn't want a deep, profound love. I wanted the soap opera. A cleanse. And this book was definitely the soap opera.
Johnny is trapped in a burning building and helps save the three women he is stuck with before getting pulled out also by a fireman. Gabe is that fireman. Gabe falls for Johnny IMMEDIATELY. He keeps telling everyone that he is the alpha. The dominant in all aspects of a relationship. He comes in and dictates what will happen and where.
Gabe takes Johnny home to heal. Enter soap opera drama here. Gabe's ex becomes a major issue. He is mentally unstable, an addict and a thief (yep, all rolled into one). He left Gabe two years prior and stole anything that he could get his hands on when he left. Now he's back! And stating Gabe and him are meant to be.
Honestly, I am totally going to read Sam's book because I guess I'm a glutton for the drama right now.
Maybe it is the mood I'm in that I didn't want a deep, profound love. I wanted the soap opera. A cleanse. And this book was definitely the soap opera.
Johnny is trapped in a burning building and helps save the three women he is stuck with before getting pulled out also by a fireman. Gabe is that fireman. Gabe falls for Johnny IMMEDIATELY. He keeps telling everyone that he is the alpha. The dominant in all aspects of a relationship. He comes in and dictates what will happen and where.
Gabe takes Johnny home to heal. Enter soap opera drama here. Gabe's ex becomes a major issue. He is mentally unstable, an addict and a thief (yep, all rolled into one). He left Gabe two years prior and stole anything that he could get his hands on when he left. Now he's back! And stating Gabe and him are meant to be.
Honestly, I am totally going to read Sam's book because I guess I'm a glutton for the drama right now.
November 27, 2017
I didn't love this, but I didn't hate it either.
Only because I liked all the side characters and am hoping for the best for them.
The beginning of this book was very intense and sucked you in, but all the events after seemed overly dramatic. Poor Johnny couldn't catch a break.
All that aside, the one thing that most bothered me was Johnny kept getting lumped in with the women. Just because he is the smaller more submissive one, doesn't mean he's weak or "feminine" As if the men were too manly for him to be compared to or something? It just rubbed me wrong.
The Mason woman though are strong and close-knit and you can't not love them.
I will continue on with the series because I'm super curious about Sam, Spider and I'm not sure who else at the moment.... We'll see how the poly goes.
Only because I liked all the side characters and am hoping for the best for them.
The beginning of this book was very intense and sucked you in, but all the events after seemed overly dramatic. Poor Johnny couldn't catch a break.
All that aside, the one thing that most bothered me was Johnny kept getting lumped in with the women. Just because he is the smaller more submissive one, doesn't mean he's weak or "feminine" As if the men were too manly for him to be compared to or something? It just rubbed me wrong.
The Mason woman though are strong and close-knit and you can't not love them.
I will continue on with the series because I'm super curious about Sam, Spider and I'm not sure who else at the moment.... We'll see how the poly goes.
September 18, 2016
What we have here is a sweet light instant-love romance, between firefighter Gabe Mason and shy graphic desiner Johnny, who is new in Brighton. Relationship between Gabe and Johnny developed to fast and was unrealistic. And that side-story with Chris was simply idiotic.
May 10, 2020
omg this was amazing.. it was sexy and fun.. it was interesting and fast paced.. it held my attention and i love love love fireman.. i also love how gabe's family is.. and i love johnny was amazing and sweet.. it was wonderful and i cannot wait to see who is next in this series. it is def an instalove type of story but i liked it
September 19, 2017
I enjoyed getting meet some of the men of the Boys of Brighton series. I found Gabe's bromance to be quick, drama filled, dangerous, and entertaining. It was a fast paced romance that gave and gave and of course sometimes that means insta-love. This was a good read that kept me entertained.
September 10, 2017
3.5 stars
June 15, 2020
When Johnny's office is on fire, he heroically saves his colleagues' lives while risking his own. At the same time he himself is saved by a charming firefighter, Gabe. Unfortunately, because of his wounds, Johnny needs constant care and there is no one he can rely on. That's when Gabe and his crazy family, who immediately takes care of Johnny as if he has always been one of them, come to the rescue. Love is definitely in the air, but unfortunately the fire and its consequences are not the only problems Johnny and Gabe have to face. Gabe's ex-fiancé comes back to town, and it's not a good sign.
"Gabe" is the first volume of the series of novellas entitled "Boys of Brighton" written by M. Tasia, and thus it has quite a difficult task as it must arouse the readers' interest in the series, outline the universe, tell us Gabe and Johnny's story, introduce the characters. So it is obvious that a few elements that undoubtedly constitute a characteristic feature of this series immediately catches our eye. One of such things is instant love, so a theme that I like and at the same time hate in literature. In "Gabe", fast love undoubtedly plays a quite important role, because it gives the presented story a fairytale, largely unreal vibe, which really permeates the universe of the series. And believe me, after reading this novella we are sure that "Boys of Brighton" is filled with that vibe. In "Gabe" love at first sight may be a bit surprising if we take into consideration Gabe's story, which makes it difficult to assess this theme. We do understand the reason Gabe falls in love with Johnny, but how can he be sure that giving his heart to a stranger he doesn't make the next big mistake of his life? But if we look at the whole situation from a fairytale point of view, nothing can surprise us.
Gabe's family is another fairytale-like and largely unreal motif we can find in this novella. In fact, looking at "Gabe" from the perspective of this theme, the story presented in this book is quite disturbing. Well, as for me, I don't want to be in Johnny's shoes. Think about it. You are new in the city. You have an accident and suddenly you are saved by a dream guy who immediately behaves like your lover. But that's not all, because his whole family behaves exactly as if you were part of it, and your relationship with your savior was a certain thing. From a psychological point of view, they put pressure on you, because can you, without feeling guilty, say them "no" at some point, as everyone takes such a good care of you? And if you dare to reject your savior who treats you like his lover, won't you be afraid that all his family will suddenly turn against you? Yes, in my opinion the story presented in "Gabe" is disturbing and at the same time very fairytale-like.
I think in this novella a con artist ex-boyfriend is just another really interesting motif. We often hear about this problem in the real world, but in the literature this issue is rarely addressed. So I am very happy that "Gabe" refers to this topic. The only thing I missed in this case were the details concerning Gabe's relationship with his ex, who turned out to be a con artist. After all, we see how quickly the firefighter falls in love with a stranger, so obviously we are curious if that was the case with his ex. The same applies to the Mason family. Were they just as devoted to Gabe's ex-boyfriend, even if only for a moment, as they are to Johnny? I would really like to know more about the past in order to better understand the present. After all, Gabe and his family are not ordinary people, but a really unique group. So how did Gabe's past affect his loved ones? Well, yes, as you can see I am a very curious person.
To sum up, "Gabe" is not a perfect novella, but it introduces us in an undoubtedly pretty good way to this almost fairytale-like, although at the same time real, world of the series that it begins. The characters are likable, there's a lot of action, love is in the air all the time, and the reader is constantly interested in the story. That's why I think it's worth giving this novella and the whole series a chance.
____________________________
W czasie pożaru budynku, w którym przebywają, Johnny bohatersko i z narażeniem życia ratuje swoje koleżanki z pracy, a jednocześnie sam zostaje uratowany przez czarującego strażaka, Gabe’a. Niestety z powodu odniesionych ran, Johnny wymaga stałej opieki, a nie ma nikogo na kim mógłby polegać. Z pomocą i tym razem przychodzi mu Gabe oraz jego szalona rodzinka, która od razu przygarnia Johnny’ego jakby od zawsze był jednym z nich. Między mężczyznami od razu pojawiają się płomienne uczucia, niestety pożar i jego konsekwencje to nie jedyne problemy, z jakimi Johnny i Gabe muszą się zmagać. W życiu strażaka ponownie pojawia się jego były narzeczony, a to nie jest dobry znak.
„Gabe” jest pierwszy tomem serii nowelek „Boys of Brighton” autorstwa M. Tasia, a tym samym dziełem, które ma przed sobą niełatwe zadanie zainteresowania czytelnika serią, nakreślenia obrazu uniwersum, opowiedzenia nam konkretnej historii, zapoznania z bohaterami. Nic więc dziwnego, że kilka elementów, które bez wątpienia stanowią charakterystyczną cechę tej serii od razu rzuca nam się w oczy. Jedną z takich rzeczy jest natychmiastowa miłość, a więc motyw, który lubię i którego jednocześnie nie znoszę w literaturze. W „Gabe” szybka miłość niewątpliwie odgrywa dosyć istotną rolę, ponieważ nadaje przedstawionej historii baśniowego, w dużym stopniu nierealnego klimatu, który tak naprawdę przenika uniwersum serii, czego już po przeczytaniu tej nowelki możemy być pewni. W „Gabe” miłość od pierwszego wejrzenia może trochę dziwić jeśli weźmiemy pod uwagę historię tytułowego bohatera, co sprawia trudność w ocenie tego motywu. Rozumiemy bowiem, co kieruje Gabe’em, gdy zakochuje się w Johnnym, ale skąd ma on pewność, że nie popełnia kolejnego wielkiego błędu oddając swoje serce nieznajomemu? Jeśli jednak spojrzymy na całą sytuację z punktu widzenia baśni nic nas nie zdziwi.
Innym baśniowym i w dużym stopniu nierealnym motywem jest rodzina Gabe’a. Prawdę mówiąc, patrząc na „Gabe” z perspektywy właśnie tego motywu, przedstawiona w tej nowelce historia jest dosyć niepokojąca. Cóż, nie chciałabym chyba znaleźć się w skórze Johnny’ego. Wyobraź sobie, jesteś nowy w mieście, ulegasz wypadkowi i nagle z opresji ratuje Cię super facet, który od razu zachowuje się jak Twój kochanek. Mało tego, cała jego rodzina zachowuje się dokładnie tak jakbyś był jej częścią, a Twój związek z Twoim nieznajomym wybawcą był rzeczą pewną. Z psychologicznego punktu widzenia wywierają na Ciebie nacisk, bo czy możesz bez poczucia winy powiedzieć w pewnym momencie „nie”, gdy wszyscy tak się o Ciebie troszczą? A jeśli odważysz się odmówić swojemu wybawcy, który traktuje Cię jak swojego kochanka to czy nie będziesz bał się tego, że nagle cała jego rodzina obróci się przeciwko Tobie? Tak, moim zdaniem historia przedstawiona w „Gabe” jest niepokojąca i jednocześnie bardzo baśniowa.
Uważam, że motywem naprawdę interesującym w tej nowelce jest eks-chłopak oszust. O czymś podobnym słyszy się bardzo często w realu, chociaż o wiele rzadziej problem ten pojawia się w literaturze. Cieszę się więc niezmiernie, że „Gabe” odnosi się do tego tematu. Jedynym czego w tym wypadku mi jednak brakowało było ukazanie większej ilości szczegółów odnoszących się do związku Gabe’a z jego byłym, który okazał się oszustem. W końcu widzimy jak szybko strażak oddał serce nieznajomemu, toteż jesteśmy ciekawi, jak to było z byłym. To samo tyczy się rodziny Masonów. Czy, chociażby przez pewien czas, byli równie oddani byłemu chłopakowi Gabe’a, tak jak są zakochani w Johnnym? Naprawdę chciałabym wiedzieć więcej o tym, co było, aby lepiej pojąć to co jest. W końcu Gabe i jego rodzina nie są zwykłymi ludźmi, a naprawdę wyjątkową grupą. Jak więc oszustwo, którego ofiarą padł w przeszłości Gabe odbiło się na jego bliskich? Tak, jak widać jestem osobą bardzo ciekawską.
Podsumowując, „Gabe” nie jest nowelką idealną, ale niewątpliwie wprowadza nas w całkiem niezły sposób w niemal baśniowy, chociaż jednocześnie realny świat serii, którą rozpoczyna. Bohaterowie dają się lubić, akcji nie brakuje, miłość unosi się w powietrzu przez cały czas, a zainteresowanie czytelnika nie gaśnie. Myślę więc, że warto dać tej nowelce oraz całej serii szansę.
"Gabe" is the first volume of the series of novellas entitled "Boys of Brighton" written by M. Tasia, and thus it has quite a difficult task as it must arouse the readers' interest in the series, outline the universe, tell us Gabe and Johnny's story, introduce the characters. So it is obvious that a few elements that undoubtedly constitute a characteristic feature of this series immediately catches our eye. One of such things is instant love, so a theme that I like and at the same time hate in literature. In "Gabe", fast love undoubtedly plays a quite important role, because it gives the presented story a fairytale, largely unreal vibe, which really permeates the universe of the series. And believe me, after reading this novella we are sure that "Boys of Brighton" is filled with that vibe. In "Gabe" love at first sight may be a bit surprising if we take into consideration Gabe's story, which makes it difficult to assess this theme. We do understand the reason Gabe falls in love with Johnny, but how can he be sure that giving his heart to a stranger he doesn't make the next big mistake of his life? But if we look at the whole situation from a fairytale point of view, nothing can surprise us.
Gabe's family is another fairytale-like and largely unreal motif we can find in this novella. In fact, looking at "Gabe" from the perspective of this theme, the story presented in this book is quite disturbing. Well, as for me, I don't want to be in Johnny's shoes. Think about it. You are new in the city. You have an accident and suddenly you are saved by a dream guy who immediately behaves like your lover. But that's not all, because his whole family behaves exactly as if you were part of it, and your relationship with your savior was a certain thing. From a psychological point of view, they put pressure on you, because can you, without feeling guilty, say them "no" at some point, as everyone takes such a good care of you? And if you dare to reject your savior who treats you like his lover, won't you be afraid that all his family will suddenly turn against you? Yes, in my opinion the story presented in "Gabe" is disturbing and at the same time very fairytale-like.
I think in this novella a con artist ex-boyfriend is just another really interesting motif. We often hear about this problem in the real world, but in the literature this issue is rarely addressed. So I am very happy that "Gabe" refers to this topic. The only thing I missed in this case were the details concerning Gabe's relationship with his ex, who turned out to be a con artist. After all, we see how quickly the firefighter falls in love with a stranger, so obviously we are curious if that was the case with his ex. The same applies to the Mason family. Were they just as devoted to Gabe's ex-boyfriend, even if only for a moment, as they are to Johnny? I would really like to know more about the past in order to better understand the present. After all, Gabe and his family are not ordinary people, but a really unique group. So how did Gabe's past affect his loved ones? Well, yes, as you can see I am a very curious person.
To sum up, "Gabe" is not a perfect novella, but it introduces us in an undoubtedly pretty good way to this almost fairytale-like, although at the same time real, world of the series that it begins. The characters are likable, there's a lot of action, love is in the air all the time, and the reader is constantly interested in the story. That's why I think it's worth giving this novella and the whole series a chance.
____________________________
W czasie pożaru budynku, w którym przebywają, Johnny bohatersko i z narażeniem życia ratuje swoje koleżanki z pracy, a jednocześnie sam zostaje uratowany przez czarującego strażaka, Gabe’a. Niestety z powodu odniesionych ran, Johnny wymaga stałej opieki, a nie ma nikogo na kim mógłby polegać. Z pomocą i tym razem przychodzi mu Gabe oraz jego szalona rodzinka, która od razu przygarnia Johnny’ego jakby od zawsze był jednym z nich. Między mężczyznami od razu pojawiają się płomienne uczucia, niestety pożar i jego konsekwencje to nie jedyne problemy, z jakimi Johnny i Gabe muszą się zmagać. W życiu strażaka ponownie pojawia się jego były narzeczony, a to nie jest dobry znak.
„Gabe” jest pierwszy tomem serii nowelek „Boys of Brighton” autorstwa M. Tasia, a tym samym dziełem, które ma przed sobą niełatwe zadanie zainteresowania czytelnika serią, nakreślenia obrazu uniwersum, opowiedzenia nam konkretnej historii, zapoznania z bohaterami. Nic więc dziwnego, że kilka elementów, które bez wątpienia stanowią charakterystyczną cechę tej serii od razu rzuca nam się w oczy. Jedną z takich rzeczy jest natychmiastowa miłość, a więc motyw, który lubię i którego jednocześnie nie znoszę w literaturze. W „Gabe” szybka miłość niewątpliwie odgrywa dosyć istotną rolę, ponieważ nadaje przedstawionej historii baśniowego, w dużym stopniu nierealnego klimatu, który tak naprawdę przenika uniwersum serii, czego już po przeczytaniu tej nowelki możemy być pewni. W „Gabe” miłość od pierwszego wejrzenia może trochę dziwić jeśli weźmiemy pod uwagę historię tytułowego bohatera, co sprawia trudność w ocenie tego motywu. Rozumiemy bowiem, co kieruje Gabe’em, gdy zakochuje się w Johnnym, ale skąd ma on pewność, że nie popełnia kolejnego wielkiego błędu oddając swoje serce nieznajomemu? Jeśli jednak spojrzymy na całą sytuację z punktu widzenia baśni nic nas nie zdziwi.
Innym baśniowym i w dużym stopniu nierealnym motywem jest rodzina Gabe’a. Prawdę mówiąc, patrząc na „Gabe” z perspektywy właśnie tego motywu, przedstawiona w tej nowelce historia jest dosyć niepokojąca. Cóż, nie chciałabym chyba znaleźć się w skórze Johnny’ego. Wyobraź sobie, jesteś nowy w mieście, ulegasz wypadkowi i nagle z opresji ratuje Cię super facet, który od razu zachowuje się jak Twój kochanek. Mało tego, cała jego rodzina zachowuje się dokładnie tak jakbyś był jej częścią, a Twój związek z Twoim nieznajomym wybawcą był rzeczą pewną. Z psychologicznego punktu widzenia wywierają na Ciebie nacisk, bo czy możesz bez poczucia winy powiedzieć w pewnym momencie „nie”, gdy wszyscy tak się o Ciebie troszczą? A jeśli odważysz się odmówić swojemu wybawcy, który traktuje Cię jak swojego kochanka to czy nie będziesz bał się tego, że nagle cała jego rodzina obróci się przeciwko Tobie? Tak, moim zdaniem historia przedstawiona w „Gabe” jest niepokojąca i jednocześnie bardzo baśniowa.
Uważam, że motywem naprawdę interesującym w tej nowelce jest eks-chłopak oszust. O czymś podobnym słyszy się bardzo często w realu, chociaż o wiele rzadziej problem ten pojawia się w literaturze. Cieszę się więc niezmiernie, że „Gabe” odnosi się do tego tematu. Jedynym czego w tym wypadku mi jednak brakowało było ukazanie większej ilości szczegółów odnoszących się do związku Gabe’a z jego byłym, który okazał się oszustem. W końcu widzimy jak szybko strażak oddał serce nieznajomemu, toteż jesteśmy ciekawi, jak to było z byłym. To samo tyczy się rodziny Masonów. Czy, chociażby przez pewien czas, byli równie oddani byłemu chłopakowi Gabe’a, tak jak są zakochani w Johnnym? Naprawdę chciałabym wiedzieć więcej o tym, co było, aby lepiej pojąć to co jest. W końcu Gabe i jego rodzina nie są zwykłymi ludźmi, a naprawdę wyjątkową grupą. Jak więc oszustwo, którego ofiarą padł w przeszłości Gabe odbiło się na jego bliskich? Tak, jak widać jestem osobą bardzo ciekawską.
Podsumowując, „Gabe” nie jest nowelką idealną, ale niewątpliwie wprowadza nas w całkiem niezły sposób w niemal baśniowy, chociaż jednocześnie realny świat serii, którą rozpoczyna. Bohaterowie dają się lubić, akcji nie brakuje, miłość unosi się w powietrzu przez cały czas, a zainteresowanie czytelnika nie gaśnie. Myślę więc, że warto dać tej nowelce oraz całej serii szansę.
September 1, 2021
I want to start with the positives. This is a solidly written book. The dialogue is solid if in places still a little clunky. There’s a big cast of characters adding some richness to the back drop.
But.
BUT.
What the hell? Gabe, your resident alpha Dom fireman, saves Johnny, your typical slim boy sub from a burning building, where Johnny’s bravery also saves other women from the town connected to Gabe and his family. This all sounds great. Right?
But Gabe falls instantly in love with Johnny who is badly burned in the fire, and, well he just takes over. He gets his cuz, or someone, to spy on Johnny and give him updates? Um, nurse? I think you dropped your patient confidentiality over there. He then takes over his care arrangements. So far, so nice, so entirely presumptuous.
Then he starts mooning over the barely conscious Johnny, expressing his feelings while inviting over his WHOLE MASSIVE family who think nothing at all strange is going on and insist Johnny calls them MOM and POP.
At this point, I’m screaming. It’s like Stepford. What is wrong? Why is everyone okay with this? Why are mom and pop not sending Gabe for some major therapy? Why is Johnny not repeatedly jabbing the emergency button with the remains of his burned hands and applying for a restraining order? Why is it okay that all Gabe’s aunts and cousins and nephews and brothers and sisters and grannies are traipsing in and out of his hospital room? This isn’t sweet; it’s just plain stupid and I very nearly threw this one. Why is he okay with sitting in Gabe’s lap being cradled like a tired 9 year old on the trip back from the fair? Why?
I can cope with saccharine romance but the sheer unhinged unreality of this was hard to take. This was all the more apparent as with Johnny all burned up, there is virtually no erotic distraction to take your mind off the screaming OTT weirdness of the romance.
There’s ex-troubles of course, and a far too swift but suitably ridiculous HEA.
But I’m a glutton for punishment, I guess, so persevered to the end. I’m a little surprised to see that this is a boat that launched a good number of further ships. Having a quick glance at the summaries, these might prove more interesting than this one.
But.
BUT.
What the hell? Gabe, your resident alpha Dom fireman, saves Johnny, your typical slim boy sub from a burning building, where Johnny’s bravery also saves other women from the town connected to Gabe and his family. This all sounds great. Right?
But Gabe falls instantly in love with Johnny who is badly burned in the fire, and, well he just takes over. He gets his cuz, or someone, to spy on Johnny and give him updates? Um, nurse? I think you dropped your patient confidentiality over there. He then takes over his care arrangements. So far, so nice, so entirely presumptuous.
Then he starts mooning over the barely conscious Johnny, expressing his feelings while inviting over his WHOLE MASSIVE family who think nothing at all strange is going on and insist Johnny calls them MOM and POP.
At this point, I’m screaming. It’s like Stepford. What is wrong? Why is everyone okay with this? Why are mom and pop not sending Gabe for some major therapy? Why is Johnny not repeatedly jabbing the emergency button with the remains of his burned hands and applying for a restraining order? Why is it okay that all Gabe’s aunts and cousins and nephews and brothers and sisters and grannies are traipsing in and out of his hospital room? This isn’t sweet; it’s just plain stupid and I very nearly threw this one. Why is he okay with sitting in Gabe’s lap being cradled like a tired 9 year old on the trip back from the fair? Why?
I can cope with saccharine romance but the sheer unhinged unreality of this was hard to take. This was all the more apparent as with Johnny all burned up, there is virtually no erotic distraction to take your mind off the screaming OTT weirdness of the romance.
There’s ex-troubles of course, and a far too swift but suitably ridiculous HEA.
But I’m a glutton for punishment, I guess, so persevered to the end. I’m a little surprised to see that this is a boat that launched a good number of further ships. Having a quick glance at the summaries, these might prove more interesting than this one.
November 29, 2017
So...after reading a quite harsh review I decided to take a chance on this....That's me...I never avoid a book because of the review...Yes this is insta-love...all of the books mainly are in the series.....But....This is also fiction and I loved Gabe and Johnny...Poor Johnny never got a break from Gabe's ex..But Gabe was always there for him...A great short story x
February 26, 2017
Sorry to say that but really too easy.Not credible, too marshmallow and the characters are too cliche. Everything is predictable, it was like an «ebauche» of another novel. Keep trying and I will come back.
July 5, 2017
This was instalove to the tenth power. I found it a little creepy and borderline stalkerish that Gabe was already moving this guy in and thinking about building a family with him in the first week. It was way too much and way too fast.
April 13, 2017
I can't even begin to describe how ridiculous this was...
September 22, 2017
wtf?? did I just read??!
June 29, 2020
A little fast and easy...
M. Tasia is an author who’s been on my ‘to be read’ list for quite some time now. I’m glad to finally have the opportunity to sit down and start the Boys of Brighton series. I’ve been eyeing it for a while but didn’t really have the time to read the books even though they’re not that long. But, with the way things are going in the world now, and because of the Gay Book Promotions group, I was able to not only find the time but also get my hands on the series.
Gabe is the first book of the Boys of Brighton series. It tells the story of how Gabe Mason, a fifth-generation firefighter, finds his perfect partner in Johnny Jefferies. Gabe meets Johnny for the first time when he’s called to the scene of a fire where Johnny and three other people are trapped in a burning building. Gabe carries Johnny to safety when he’s injured trying to save his coworkers. The poor guy sustains gashes on his lower abdomen, smoke inhalation, and severe burns on his hands, chest, and shoulder.
It’s strange, but Gabe feels an instant pull to Johnny even though he initially thinks Johnny is married to the woman he was struggling to rescue when Gabe found him. Johnny quickly corrects that assumption though. Before the EMTs can load him up to head for the hospital, Johnny tells Gabe he’s gay and then leaves the man behind with nothing more than his name.
It’s pretty obvious that both men are equally taken with each other right away. That in and of itself wasn’t a problem for me. I believe love, at first sight, can happen. What I did have a problem with was how quickly things developed. The plot pretty much goes, ‘Hey I just met you and this is crazy, but my name is Gabe and you’re my baby.’ This sexy Alpha firefighter just shows up at the hospital, to visit a guy he doesn’t know and takes charge of everything. It almost seems like Gabe forced his way into Johnny’s life and Johnny was like, ‘Yeah, okay. No problem, gorgeous.’
To top off how quickly things moved with the MCs, Gabe’s family pretty much brings Johnny into the family without knowing a single thing about the man. Yes, it was sweet that the Mason gang was happy to take Johnny in. I find it heartwarming when families are so accepting. But in this book, I felt like things just happened too quickly. Not only that, but there doesn’t seem to be much prying into Johnny’s personality or past to find out who he is before everyone lays a claim on him. The Mason’s just marched in and were like, ‘Hey, you’re ours now, deal with it.’
I suppose things needed to happen quickly in this book because there was a lot of plot packed into a hundred and twenty pages. I mean, we have the sudden relationship between the MCs. Then there’s the Mason family taking Johnny on as their own. To top that off, we have Johnny healing from the injuries he acquired during the fire. Oh, and let’s not forget about Gabe’s crazy ex-fiance, Chris, who's determined to take Johnny out of the picture so he can reclaim his man. It’s a lot of story for a novella, so things had to happen in a hurry.
I’m not saying the story was bad. I thought it was great for being such a short read. Despite the fast pace, there was a lot of love and acceptance that made this a wonderful little gem. The characters were all pretty great. I could tell M. Tasia tried to put different personalities into her characters. Both Johnny and Gabe had good and bad qualities that made them relatable. Gabe came across as domineering as hell, always needing to take control of the situation. Meanwhile, Johnny was a pretty serious push over when it came to that overbearing protectiveness.
If you take into consideration that this is a fast-paced novella before you jump into it, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed in it. Yes, it would have been nice if the author had given the relationship development a little more page time. It would have been nice seeing Gabe and Johnny getting to know one another. But, it is what it is. The plot wasn’t terrible, it was just rushed.
I would recommend this book to people looking for a fast read that moves at an even faster pace. It is pretty much an ‘instalove’ sort of story. It’s also a book with instant acceptance to the point that it’s unbelievable. But, this is fiction and it’s the author’s take on the love story between Johnny and Gabe. If you take it for what it is, it’s a nice read. I’m very much looking forward to the next book which happens to be Sam’s story.
M. Tasia is an author who’s been on my ‘to be read’ list for quite some time now. I’m glad to finally have the opportunity to sit down and start the Boys of Brighton series. I’ve been eyeing it for a while but didn’t really have the time to read the books even though they’re not that long. But, with the way things are going in the world now, and because of the Gay Book Promotions group, I was able to not only find the time but also get my hands on the series.
Gabe is the first book of the Boys of Brighton series. It tells the story of how Gabe Mason, a fifth-generation firefighter, finds his perfect partner in Johnny Jefferies. Gabe meets Johnny for the first time when he’s called to the scene of a fire where Johnny and three other people are trapped in a burning building. Gabe carries Johnny to safety when he’s injured trying to save his coworkers. The poor guy sustains gashes on his lower abdomen, smoke inhalation, and severe burns on his hands, chest, and shoulder.
It’s strange, but Gabe feels an instant pull to Johnny even though he initially thinks Johnny is married to the woman he was struggling to rescue when Gabe found him. Johnny quickly corrects that assumption though. Before the EMTs can load him up to head for the hospital, Johnny tells Gabe he’s gay and then leaves the man behind with nothing more than his name.
It’s pretty obvious that both men are equally taken with each other right away. That in and of itself wasn’t a problem for me. I believe love, at first sight, can happen. What I did have a problem with was how quickly things developed. The plot pretty much goes, ‘Hey I just met you and this is crazy, but my name is Gabe and you’re my baby.’ This sexy Alpha firefighter just shows up at the hospital, to visit a guy he doesn’t know and takes charge of everything. It almost seems like Gabe forced his way into Johnny’s life and Johnny was like, ‘Yeah, okay. No problem, gorgeous.’
To top off how quickly things moved with the MCs, Gabe’s family pretty much brings Johnny into the family without knowing a single thing about the man. Yes, it was sweet that the Mason gang was happy to take Johnny in. I find it heartwarming when families are so accepting. But in this book, I felt like things just happened too quickly. Not only that, but there doesn’t seem to be much prying into Johnny’s personality or past to find out who he is before everyone lays a claim on him. The Mason’s just marched in and were like, ‘Hey, you’re ours now, deal with it.’
I suppose things needed to happen quickly in this book because there was a lot of plot packed into a hundred and twenty pages. I mean, we have the sudden relationship between the MCs. Then there’s the Mason family taking Johnny on as their own. To top that off, we have Johnny healing from the injuries he acquired during the fire. Oh, and let’s not forget about Gabe’s crazy ex-fiance, Chris, who's determined to take Johnny out of the picture so he can reclaim his man. It’s a lot of story for a novella, so things had to happen in a hurry.
I’m not saying the story was bad. I thought it was great for being such a short read. Despite the fast pace, there was a lot of love and acceptance that made this a wonderful little gem. The characters were all pretty great. I could tell M. Tasia tried to put different personalities into her characters. Both Johnny and Gabe had good and bad qualities that made them relatable. Gabe came across as domineering as hell, always needing to take control of the situation. Meanwhile, Johnny was a pretty serious push over when it came to that overbearing protectiveness.
If you take into consideration that this is a fast-paced novella before you jump into it, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed in it. Yes, it would have been nice if the author had given the relationship development a little more page time. It would have been nice seeing Gabe and Johnny getting to know one another. But, it is what it is. The plot wasn’t terrible, it was just rushed.
I would recommend this book to people looking for a fast read that moves at an even faster pace. It is pretty much an ‘instalove’ sort of story. It’s also a book with instant acceptance to the point that it’s unbelievable. But, this is fiction and it’s the author’s take on the love story between Johnny and Gabe. If you take it for what it is, it’s a nice read. I’m very much looking forward to the next book which happens to be Sam’s story.
May 9, 2020
DNF @37%
Automatic 3 stars.
The entire time I thought of how a rational person would react... and not a single word of this novella was it.
Do I believe many readers will lap it up? Sure. But that reader isn't me.
Injured in a fire, woke up to have the hospital staff/random stranger/random stranger's mom tell you how you were moving in with a random stranger, treated like you just married into a family of 50+ members. Keeping track of them would be the opposite of healing, draining & stressful, not comforting.
No lucid, rational person wouldn't tell the staff to call the police when said random stranger & family are making medical decisions on their behalf, when they're at their most vulnerable, when they know literally nothing about each other, especially allergies & medical history & next of kin.
There is romance. There is Insta-love. Then there is the book known as Gabe. Whole 'nother level of another dimension of reality.
Don't get me started on eating & drinking & talking with a toasted throat.
The odd physical descriptors they gave themselves during their own narration, or the adjectives as a descriptor during a time of major crisis. Hot. Sexy. Hunk. Who thinks of himself as a sexy fireman? Your lungs are on fire... Now is not the time to feel lusty. That wouldn't happen. Ever. You'd worry about surviving & breathing. Panic. Fear. Not long inner monologues about loneliness & romance.
This is on me, but when I read Hunk, I hear my boomer aunt saying it inside my head. No offense to boomers. It's uncomfortable when a guy is burnt to a crisp, then my aunt suddenly joins the narration, describing a Hunky fireman for me, while the guy is being loaded into an ambulance. It's such a dated descriptor. Only time I want to read Hunk is followed by cheese or cake. Even my all-time favorite author uses the word, & I cringe every time. I won't describe the visual inside my head when I read it.
Not my cup of tea. Writing style not for me. As I said, there is Insta-love & warm & fuzzy, but this is a whole new realm, where you're essentially married after brief eye contact. Nope, it's not paranormal. I need something realistic to anchor the fluffy, not feel as if the characters need some time in therapy.
Automatic 3 stars.
The entire time I thought of how a rational person would react... and not a single word of this novella was it.
Do I believe many readers will lap it up? Sure. But that reader isn't me.
Injured in a fire, woke up to have the hospital staff/random stranger/random stranger's mom tell you how you were moving in with a random stranger, treated like you just married into a family of 50+ members. Keeping track of them would be the opposite of healing, draining & stressful, not comforting.
No lucid, rational person wouldn't tell the staff to call the police when said random stranger & family are making medical decisions on their behalf, when they're at their most vulnerable, when they know literally nothing about each other, especially allergies & medical history & next of kin.
There is romance. There is Insta-love. Then there is the book known as Gabe. Whole 'nother level of another dimension of reality.
Don't get me started on eating & drinking & talking with a toasted throat.
The odd physical descriptors they gave themselves during their own narration, or the adjectives as a descriptor during a time of major crisis. Hot. Sexy. Hunk. Who thinks of himself as a sexy fireman? Your lungs are on fire... Now is not the time to feel lusty. That wouldn't happen. Ever. You'd worry about surviving & breathing. Panic. Fear. Not long inner monologues about loneliness & romance.
This is on me, but when I read Hunk, I hear my boomer aunt saying it inside my head. No offense to boomers. It's uncomfortable when a guy is burnt to a crisp, then my aunt suddenly joins the narration, describing a Hunky fireman for me, while the guy is being loaded into an ambulance. It's such a dated descriptor. Only time I want to read Hunk is followed by cheese or cake. Even my all-time favorite author uses the word, & I cringe every time. I won't describe the visual inside my head when I read it.
Not my cup of tea. Writing style not for me. As I said, there is Insta-love & warm & fuzzy, but this is a whole new realm, where you're essentially married after brief eye contact. Nope, it's not paranormal. I need something realistic to anchor the fluffy, not feel as if the characters need some time in therapy.
January 6, 2019
3.25 Stars!
This series is probably best read in order, but since most of what happens with each couple is contained in their book, you could read those that appeal to you as standalone stories. That being said, the series is set in a town with lots of accepting people, a set of grandmas who help everyone out, plots with some danger, alpha men, and in some cases, insta-love.
Gabe Mason is a firefighter and hasn't moved on since his ex betrayed him. When he and his team respond to a fire, he sees a man save his cousin and is intrigued by him. Johnny is new in town and tried his best to save the women trapped with him in the fire. He was severely injured, but refused to quit. When he awakens in the hospital, he finds his life will never be the same.
I liked Johnny a lot. Gabe is a good guy, but I felt he contradicted himself sometimes when it came to his supposed need for control. The speed at which he decides that Johnny is the guy for him was a bit quick for me. The insta-love is strong in this one. Johnny, at least, takes a while to catch up with Gabe on the emotions front, probably because he ends up in a whirlwind of new family and friends. I loved that the Mason family was so close and accepting of Johnny, but I really couldn't see how Johnny could feel comfortable with calling Gabe's parents ‘mom’ and ‘dad’ within minutes of meeting them. I did like seeing Johnny get more confident and stand up for himself, though. It was fun watching Johnny fit in and become one of the family.
If you like plots that get a bit over the top, containing insta-love with alpha men, this story is for you.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
This series is probably best read in order, but since most of what happens with each couple is contained in their book, you could read those that appeal to you as standalone stories. That being said, the series is set in a town with lots of accepting people, a set of grandmas who help everyone out, plots with some danger, alpha men, and in some cases, insta-love.
Gabe Mason is a firefighter and hasn't moved on since his ex betrayed him. When he and his team respond to a fire, he sees a man save his cousin and is intrigued by him. Johnny is new in town and tried his best to save the women trapped with him in the fire. He was severely injured, but refused to quit. When he awakens in the hospital, he finds his life will never be the same.
I liked Johnny a lot. Gabe is a good guy, but I felt he contradicted himself sometimes when it came to his supposed need for control. The speed at which he decides that Johnny is the guy for him was a bit quick for me. The insta-love is strong in this one. Johnny, at least, takes a while to catch up with Gabe on the emotions front, probably because he ends up in a whirlwind of new family and friends. I loved that the Mason family was so close and accepting of Johnny, but I really couldn't see how Johnny could feel comfortable with calling Gabe's parents ‘mom’ and ‘dad’ within minutes of meeting them. I did like seeing Johnny get more confident and stand up for himself, though. It was fun watching Johnny fit in and become one of the family.
If you like plots that get a bit over the top, containing insta-love with alpha men, this story is for you.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
June 29, 2020
GABE
MMy Thoughts and Review
Nothing says **SWOON** like, being rescued by a hotter than the flames licking the building around you fireman. This is after all the stuff dreams and the multi-million dollar romance genre in film and books based around. Goddess bless the swoony moments, right? Even if they were ninety percent caused by adrenaline, smoke inhalation, rushing to save his work colleagues before himself causing burns to cover his hands and other parts of his body. The sexy fireman carrying him to safety? Well, that was just his reward for being the real hero. Not that he thought that. No, he was just being the sweet guy he was throughout the book.
This was a nice intro into a family and community of people who love and care for each other in so many big and small ways it makes your heart smile with happiness. I don't want to give anything away so I am going to stick with, this was a new to me author, and I found myself wondering more than once if they wrote shifter novels. The sense of self and community was quite reminiscent of pack life. However, while Gabe was protective of Johnny while he healed, he only acted like an Alpha-hole once...okay, maybe twice. *giggle...
A cute roMMance that promises to bring more fun in the books that follow
3.50 love-you-to-the-moon-stars 🌟🌟🌟🔹✨
I received a complimentary copy of this book from GBP in exchange for my review.🌈
MMy Thoughts and Review
Nothing says **SWOON** like, being rescued by a hotter than the flames licking the building around you fireman. This is after all the stuff dreams and the multi-million dollar romance genre in film and books based around. Goddess bless the swoony moments, right? Even if they were ninety percent caused by adrenaline, smoke inhalation, rushing to save his work colleagues before himself causing burns to cover his hands and other parts of his body. The sexy fireman carrying him to safety? Well, that was just his reward for being the real hero. Not that he thought that. No, he was just being the sweet guy he was throughout the book.
This was a nice intro into a family and community of people who love and care for each other in so many big and small ways it makes your heart smile with happiness. I don't want to give anything away so I am going to stick with, this was a new to me author, and I found myself wondering more than once if they wrote shifter novels. The sense of self and community was quite reminiscent of pack life. However, while Gabe was protective of Johnny while he healed, he only acted like an Alpha-hole once...okay, maybe twice. *giggle...
A cute roMMance that promises to bring more fun in the books that follow
3.50 love-you-to-the-moon-stars 🌟🌟🌟🔹✨
I received a complimentary copy of this book from GBP in exchange for my review.🌈
May 26, 2021
I was given a free arc copy from the author for review.
M/M
Love at first sight
Hurt/comfort
Instalove
Super short
Johnny moved to Texas where he is starting over after escaping his homophobic controlling abusive family. He's off to a rough start when he is in the middle of a fire at his work trapped with 3 others. Gabe is the firefighter who comes to his rescue telling him they need to go leaving the last person behind but Johnny refuses and together they get everyone out. When Gabe realizes Johnny saved his cousins life he goes to visit him in the hospital and it's love at first sight. Despite being heartbroken 2 years prior and not wanting a relationship Gabe can't resist Johnny.
This was a super quick read though it felt complete and didn't feel rushed. While it was totally OTT and lots of things weren't realistic I didn't even care. It was just so darn sweet. I liked the added drama and suspense mixed in to break up all the cavity inducing sweetness. I won't lie when it first started the instalove made me want to roll my eyes but then after getting to know the 2 MCs backgrounds, it just totally worked and they were such a cute couple. Gabe was giving off major protective Daddy vibes that I love even though it wasn't that kind of book. That was totally hot even though this was a very low heat read full of angst. I thought it was well written with great world building. I'm looking forward to reading Jesse, Sam, Bear and the other guys.
M/M
Love at first sight
Hurt/comfort
Instalove
Super short
Johnny moved to Texas where he is starting over after escaping his homophobic controlling abusive family. He's off to a rough start when he is in the middle of a fire at his work trapped with 3 others. Gabe is the firefighter who comes to his rescue telling him they need to go leaving the last person behind but Johnny refuses and together they get everyone out. When Gabe realizes Johnny saved his cousins life he goes to visit him in the hospital and it's love at first sight. Despite being heartbroken 2 years prior and not wanting a relationship Gabe can't resist Johnny.
This was a super quick read though it felt complete and didn't feel rushed. While it was totally OTT and lots of things weren't realistic I didn't even care. It was just so darn sweet. I liked the added drama and suspense mixed in to break up all the cavity inducing sweetness. I won't lie when it first started the instalove made me want to roll my eyes but then after getting to know the 2 MCs backgrounds, it just totally worked and they were such a cute couple. Gabe was giving off major protective Daddy vibes that I love even though it wasn't that kind of book. That was totally hot even though this was a very low heat read full of angst. I thought it was well written with great world building. I'm looking forward to reading Jesse, Sam, Bear and the other guys.
May 28, 2021
This was a nice introduction to the series. If you like instalove stories this is for you. The relationship between Gabe and Johnny develops NASCAR fast, so you will need to suspend belief, tuck in, and enjoy the ride. The instalove is not limited to the MCs, Gabe’s entire family falls in love with Johnny and vice versa.
Johnny recent transplant to town is escaping his self involved father end brother (you never meet them-all interactions appear off the page). The story begins when his office is on fire and he tries (successfully) to save the three women with whom he is stuck. This is the thing that allows him to cross paths with Gabe, sexy firefighter with a tragic romantic past.
Suspense-yes
Heat-kinda (hint of dom/sub dynamic) but not until the end due to the extensive nature of Johnny’s injuries.
HEA- yes
Sweetness level is very high (like cavity high) but it works with this couple.
This story was well written, a great escape, and a nice easy read. My only problem is the heteronormative way in which Johnny and Gabe’s relationship is portrayed. The author makes constant parallels between Gabe and Johnny and the relationship of Gab’s mom and dad. There are lots of “leave Johnny with the ladies” moments. I am not sure if the author wrote a heterosexual story and changed the genders or if it was subconscious. I will reserve judgment until I read the rest of the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Johnny recent transplant to town is escaping his self involved father end brother (you never meet them-all interactions appear off the page). The story begins when his office is on fire and he tries (successfully) to save the three women with whom he is stuck. This is the thing that allows him to cross paths with Gabe, sexy firefighter with a tragic romantic past.
Suspense-yes
Heat-kinda (hint of dom/sub dynamic) but not until the end due to the extensive nature of Johnny’s injuries.
HEA- yes
Sweetness level is very high (like cavity high) but it works with this couple.
This story was well written, a great escape, and a nice easy read. My only problem is the heteronormative way in which Johnny and Gabe’s relationship is portrayed. The author makes constant parallels between Gabe and Johnny and the relationship of Gab’s mom and dad. There are lots of “leave Johnny with the ladies” moments. I am not sure if the author wrote a heterosexual story and changed the genders or if it was subconscious. I will reserve judgment until I read the rest of the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 19, 2017
This is a series that is best read in order, but you can hop around if certain aspects draw/repel you from one story or another.
In general each book is fairly similar: One very “alpha” male (or 2!) finds himself attracted to a more submissive male and the desire to protect and love and care for him drives him to be super adorable, mushy and overprotective!
Of course there is a life threatening danger putting our guys on the line and usually something horrible in the past making them seem even more vulnerable.
There are plenty of hot smexy times but I won’t say that is the focus of the story. There isn’t a lot of humiliation that you sometimes see in uber alpha males and the more submissive guys in these stories all have strong backbones!
I really loved finding this series and hope to see more from this author as well as to continue to enjoy this series in it’s entirety!
I think I loved book one the best (so far) because Gabe just takes over Johnny’s life in this whirlwind and it’s pretty hysterical! There are also some great grannies and really lovable extended family members to keep us all entertained.
Highly recommended for fans of very sappy and sweet Alpha/Omega type romance (nothing paranormal here!) and for fans of romance with humor as well as that hurt/comfort feel.
4.5 of 5 stars for the series
In general each book is fairly similar: One very “alpha” male (or 2!) finds himself attracted to a more submissive male and the desire to protect and love and care for him drives him to be super adorable, mushy and overprotective!
Of course there is a life threatening danger putting our guys on the line and usually something horrible in the past making them seem even more vulnerable.
There are plenty of hot smexy times but I won’t say that is the focus of the story. There isn’t a lot of humiliation that you sometimes see in uber alpha males and the more submissive guys in these stories all have strong backbones!
I really loved finding this series and hope to see more from this author as well as to continue to enjoy this series in it’s entirety!
I think I loved book one the best (so far) because Gabe just takes over Johnny’s life in this whirlwind and it’s pretty hysterical! There are also some great grannies and really lovable extended family members to keep us all entertained.
Highly recommended for fans of very sappy and sweet Alpha/Omega type romance (nothing paranormal here!) and for fans of romance with humor as well as that hurt/comfort feel.
4.5 of 5 stars for the series
May 31, 2021
Gabe and Johnny's Story . . .
I don’t object to insta-love, but this was absolutely too fast. Johnny Jeffrey, a shy graphic designer new to town, is trapped in a burning building, saving the lives of three women despite his own injuries. A fireman, Gabe Mason, sees what he is doing and rushes to save him -- and then Gabe falls for Johnny right then and there. He goes alpha, take-charge, dominant, obsessive, and I guess he inherited that from his family who meets and instantly adores Johnny. But they did give him another perspective of supportive family life as opposed to the horrible home life he had endured until he left 6 months previously. But it felt like there was not enough time to develop the deep relationship being shown to the reader and it felt too aggressive for me.
The relationship between Gabe and Johnny, while it seemed to work for them, developed too fast and was unrealistic with the intensity invoked so quickly. But there is no doubting the characters were good people and definitely worthy of a happy ending. With Johnny having saved the woman whom he grabbed by the belt and held when she fell out the window, he hadn’t realized he saved Gabe’s cousin and that meant a great deal to him. We will also encounter a dangerous ex who will try to harm Johnny to get Gabe back, so there is never a dull moment here!
I don’t object to insta-love, but this was absolutely too fast. Johnny Jeffrey, a shy graphic designer new to town, is trapped in a burning building, saving the lives of three women despite his own injuries. A fireman, Gabe Mason, sees what he is doing and rushes to save him -- and then Gabe falls for Johnny right then and there. He goes alpha, take-charge, dominant, obsessive, and I guess he inherited that from his family who meets and instantly adores Johnny. But they did give him another perspective of supportive family life as opposed to the horrible home life he had endured until he left 6 months previously. But it felt like there was not enough time to develop the deep relationship being shown to the reader and it felt too aggressive for me.
The relationship between Gabe and Johnny, while it seemed to work for them, developed too fast and was unrealistic with the intensity invoked so quickly. But there is no doubting the characters were good people and definitely worthy of a happy ending. With Johnny having saved the woman whom he grabbed by the belt and held when she fell out the window, he hadn’t realized he saved Gabe’s cousin and that meant a great deal to him. We will also encounter a dangerous ex who will try to harm Johnny to get Gabe back, so there is never a dull moment here!
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