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Sky High Scaffolders #1
Our Secret Wedding
A friends-to-lovers, feel-good gay romance. Contains a whole lot of man-on-man love action, and an elopement to Gretna Green for a secret wedding.
Impulsive and romantic, Connor is set to take over the family business, Sky High Scaffolds, with his siblings. But he might be ruled out as possible CEO, because even though he's almost thirty, he's still single.
Connor makes a life-changing chance discovery about a member of his construction team. Lee is gay, but no one at work knows. The macho scaffolding crew aren’t known for their gay-friendliness.
At twenty-nine years of age, sexy scaffolder Lee is looking for love and commitment. He’s not about to hook up with any straight guy who’s going through a gay experimental phase. Especially not his work colleague, Connor.
Lee fears rejection if and when Connor wakes up and realizes he’s not bisexual and not into guys.
Connor fears losing the love of his life if he can’t prove he’s serious about him and win Lee’s heart.
Standalone novel, there is no cliffhanger, no cheating, and there is a happy ending.
Book 1 in the Sky High Scaffolders series.
55,000 words of gay construction workers friends to lovers romance.
Impulsive and romantic, Connor is set to take over the family business, Sky High Scaffolds, with his siblings. But he might be ruled out as possible CEO, because even though he's almost thirty, he's still single.
Connor makes a life-changing chance discovery about a member of his construction team. Lee is gay, but no one at work knows. The macho scaffolding crew aren’t known for their gay-friendliness.
At twenty-nine years of age, sexy scaffolder Lee is looking for love and commitment. He’s not about to hook up with any straight guy who’s going through a gay experimental phase. Especially not his work colleague, Connor.
Lee fears rejection if and when Connor wakes up and realizes he’s not bisexual and not into guys.
Connor fears losing the love of his life if he can’t prove he’s serious about him and win Lee’s heart.
Standalone novel, there is no cliffhanger, no cheating, and there is a happy ending.
Book 1 in the Sky High Scaffolders series.
55,000 words of gay construction workers friends to lovers romance.
236 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 14, 2016
402 people are currently reading
423 people want to read
About the author
H.J. Perry
33 books103 followersApproaching my mid-50s, and I'm not sure if which will get there first: my age or my stomach circumference.
I live in England.
I'm an avid wide-ranging reader. Mostly reads:
* YA
* SF
* M/M romance.
* Books with LGBT themes and characters.
Latest book ~ is a Poddlington Village Romance ~ published 2021.
I live in England.
I'm an avid wide-ranging reader. Mostly reads:
* YA
* SF
* M/M romance.
* Books with LGBT themes and characters.
Latest book ~ is a Poddlington Village Romance ~ published 2021.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 149 reviews
i-think-the-fuck-not
December 14, 2018👇🏽👇🏽👇🏽👇🏽👇🏽👇🏽👇🏽
November 3, 2016
I wasn't feeling this one and almost DNF. The dialogue was awkward and the writing choppy; there was zero character development.
Kudos to the author for writing a bi MC, but I wish that aspect of the story had been explored. It was just so sudden and easy. The relationship fell flat; low on the steam, too.
Closer to 1.5, rounding up because I'm feeling generous.
Kudos to the author for writing a bi MC, but I wish that aspect of the story had been explored. It was just so sudden and easy. The relationship fell flat; low on the steam, too.
Closer to 1.5, rounding up because I'm feeling generous.
December 21, 2016
Lee and Connor are construction guys in the scaffolding business. Connor's family runs the company and Lee works there until he completes his IT degree. Both guys have known each other since elementary school and have been friends all their life.
One day, Connor realizes that Lee is gay and he notices that he has gay feelings too and talks Lee into trying a same-sex relationship with him. Yeah, no further comment necessary...
Of course, from day one on, Connor is the perfect boyfriend, offering amazing, spectacular sex, male-model good looks and home-made lunches for Lee...
Lee doesn't take Connor seriously at the beginning, thinking it was just a phase for him.
But, and I quote, after 'eight weeks of almost nonstop lovemaking in their spare time, Connor had become the lover Lee always hoped to find.'
So they elope and marry, but they don't tell anyone, thinking that their scaffolding mates and Connor's family are raging homophobes. They're not. Everything turns out to be smooth and perfect and absolutely conflict-free, with lots and lots and lots of amazing sex.
Yeah.
A story with absolutely perfect characters leading a perfect life with perfect and understanding friends, family and colleagues is just plain boring!!!
I can't believe that I was actually waiting for Connor's dad to disinherit him or something to stir up things a little bit. But his dad's only response to the 'secret wedding' was adding Lee to the company's private health insurance plan and congratulating him on the wedding...
This story *totally* lacked drama...
2 stars!
One day, Connor realizes that Lee is gay and he notices that he has gay feelings too and talks Lee into trying a same-sex relationship with him. Yeah, no further comment necessary...
Of course, from day one on, Connor is the perfect boyfriend, offering amazing, spectacular sex, male-model good looks and home-made lunches for Lee...
Lee doesn't take Connor seriously at the beginning, thinking it was just a phase for him.
But, and I quote, after 'eight weeks of almost nonstop lovemaking in their spare time, Connor had become the lover Lee always hoped to find.'
So they elope and marry, but they don't tell anyone, thinking that their scaffolding mates and Connor's family are raging homophobes. They're not. Everything turns out to be smooth and perfect and absolutely conflict-free, with lots and lots and lots of amazing sex.
Yeah.
A story with absolutely perfect characters leading a perfect life with perfect and understanding friends, family and colleagues is just plain boring!!!
I can't believe that I was actually waiting for Connor's dad to disinherit him or something to stir up things a little bit. But his dad's only response to the 'secret wedding' was adding Lee to the company's private health insurance plan and congratulating him on the wedding...
This story *totally* lacked drama...
2 stars!
September 19, 2016
I don't know what to say about this one.
I enjoyed the plot and the friends to lovers theme. I like both Mc's and the sexy times were nice but there was something missing for me. There is a lot of potential here but I felt like there was more opportunity here to make us feel a little more connected with the story had we had more background on the friendship. That's another thing for lifelong friends they didn't seem to know much about each other or at least it wasn't revealed. Overall it's a nice story and I would like to see what happens to them next.
I enjoyed the plot and the friends to lovers theme. I like both Mc's and the sexy times were nice but there was something missing for me. There is a lot of potential here but I felt like there was more opportunity here to make us feel a little more connected with the story had we had more background on the friendship. That's another thing for lifelong friends they didn't seem to know much about each other or at least it wasn't revealed. Overall it's a nice story and I would like to see what happens to them next.
December 22, 2016
*** This is a marvelous English tale of two muscled construction workers who realize they are meant for each other. Connor and Lee have known each other since they were 4 yrs. old. Now, at 29, Connor accidentally sees Lee holding a man's ass while they kiss in an alley. For Connor, his hidden feelings bubble up -- he wants Lee. So, he goes to Lee and puts it out on the table for discussion. Lee is ready for his "one", and doesn't want a fling or experiment.
So, they agree to hang out and get to know each other as adults. There's a hot kiss and some first times for Connor, and he's on board all the way. He feels strong, deep emotions because it's Lee, not just some other man. They are perfect for each other. They progress, and I loved how they spoke up and really talked to each other with honesty and excitement. We get magnificent characters, lively and vivid. The story is steady and grips your heart. Their sexy times are super sizzling, and we want more. There are surprises along the way, an injury, a coming out, and a holiday getaway.
This is an amazing story with a bright epilogue.
Highly recommended. ENJOY !
=============================
no cheating, low angst, hot M/M sex, HEA
( The next novella, Our Secret Christmas, fills in some of the blanks from this one, as the men move ahead. Lovely ! ) Free on KU...Kindle Unlimited
=============================
So, they agree to hang out and get to know each other as adults. There's a hot kiss and some first times for Connor, and he's on board all the way. He feels strong, deep emotions because it's Lee, not just some other man. They are perfect for each other. They progress, and I loved how they spoke up and really talked to each other with honesty and excitement. We get magnificent characters, lively and vivid. The story is steady and grips your heart. Their sexy times are super sizzling, and we want more. There are surprises along the way, an injury, a coming out, and a holiday getaway.
This is an amazing story with a bright epilogue.
Highly recommended. ENJOY !
=============================
no cheating, low angst, hot M/M sex, HEA
( The next novella, Our Secret Christmas, fills in some of the blanks from this one, as the men move ahead. Lovely ! ) Free on KU...Kindle Unlimited
=============================
October 2, 2016
Our Secret Wedding is a sweet and sexy friends-to-lovers story about Connor and Lee.
Connor works for the family scaffolding business. He is possibly in line to take over as CEO when his dad retires, but might be ruled out because he is almost thirty and still single.
When out with some friends one night, Connor see's Lee with another man and realizes that he is gay- but no one knows at work. Construction workers are not gay. Period.
Lee is looking for love and commitment. At twenty-nine, he is not looking to fool around or be some straight guys gay experiment - especially not his bosses son. He also fears rejection if Connor suddenly decides he is no longer into men.
Connor fears loosing the love of his life if he can't convince Lee that he is truly serious and committed to him. He will do whatever it takes, including a secret wedding at Gretna Green, to win Lee's heart.
This story is sweet and romantic, with lots of emotion and just a little angst. The sexy times are hot, hot, hot and plenty.
Once again, HJ Perry deliverers a feel good story that will leave you with a smile on your face.
Connor works for the family scaffolding business. He is possibly in line to take over as CEO when his dad retires, but might be ruled out because he is almost thirty and still single.
When out with some friends one night, Connor see's Lee with another man and realizes that he is gay- but no one knows at work. Construction workers are not gay. Period.
Lee is looking for love and commitment. At twenty-nine, he is not looking to fool around or be some straight guys gay experiment - especially not his bosses son. He also fears rejection if Connor suddenly decides he is no longer into men.
Connor fears loosing the love of his life if he can't convince Lee that he is truly serious and committed to him. He will do whatever it takes, including a secret wedding at Gretna Green, to win Lee's heart.
This story is sweet and romantic, with lots of emotion and just a little angst. The sexy times are hot, hot, hot and plenty.
Once again, HJ Perry deliverers a feel good story that will leave you with a smile on your face.
not-deserve-my-time-my-money
July 5, 2018
May 2, 2022
Well, the story was ok. It was just so much telling and inner monologue that it wore me out. I’m one of those readers who doesn’t like to scan. This book had me scanning.
dnf-for-now
October 12, 2016I'm putting this aside for now. The story just isn't grabbing my attention.
One MC thinks he and the other MC are BFFs, the other MC considers him a casual work friend. It's awkward and I'm not feeling it.
One MC thinks he and the other MC are BFFs, the other MC considers him a casual work friend. It's awkward and I'm not feeling it.
December 19, 2016
An okay romance with a few niggles
When I read a book which is set in the UK, I expect it to read like that, I don't expect to see someone's bottom referred to as a butt or ass instead of bum or arse, I don't expect someone to drive on the highway rather than on a motorway, I don't expect someone to get a check rather than a cheque. Oh, and when I need clean clothes, I do my washing, not the laundry. That only happens if I actually go to a laundrette and there's not many of them around the UK outside of EastEnders!
All little niggles perhaps but enough to take me out of the supposed British-ness of the setting. And driving up the M6, Liverpool's turning comes before Manchester's and its only the longest single route motorway in the UK since earlier this year in 2016 if you include the A14 bit at the beginning and the A74 bit at the end.
Anyways, minor irritants, this book was okay, I liked Connor and Lee, but the dialogue was a little teenage at times and they didn't read like two men almost 30.
There was also very little drama or conflict to add to the story so it all just muddled along. Unfortunately it felt a little bit beige throughout.
When I read a book which is set in the UK, I expect it to read like that, I don't expect to see someone's bottom referred to as a butt or ass instead of bum or arse, I don't expect someone to drive on the highway rather than on a motorway, I don't expect someone to get a check rather than a cheque. Oh, and when I need clean clothes, I do my washing, not the laundry. That only happens if I actually go to a laundrette and there's not many of them around the UK outside of EastEnders!
All little niggles perhaps but enough to take me out of the supposed British-ness of the setting. And driving up the M6, Liverpool's turning comes before Manchester's and its only the longest single route motorway in the UK since earlier this year in 2016 if you include the A14 bit at the beginning and the A74 bit at the end.
Anyways, minor irritants, this book was okay, I liked Connor and Lee, but the dialogue was a little teenage at times and they didn't read like two men almost 30.
There was also very little drama or conflict to add to the story so it all just muddled along. Unfortunately it felt a little bit beige throughout.
September 29, 2016
2.5 stars
There were parts I enjoyed but more that I did not.
If Conner asked one more time if he had a chance I was going to throw my tablet through a window. It got old real fast. I did not like how Conner thought they were bf's but Lee just thought they were casual sometimes work friends. The time jumps were strange as we missed all the good parts. Conner first time bottoming, their whole asking their friends to stand up with them and the whole wedding and honeymoon. We did not get to see what happened after Conner parents found out they were married.
I did like the way they talked, flirted and trusted each other. I thought they were adorable together.
I just feel this could have been an awesome book but fell flat.
There were parts I enjoyed but more that I did not.
If Conner asked one more time if he had a chance I was going to throw my tablet through a window. It got old real fast. I did not like how Conner thought they were bf's but Lee just thought they were casual sometimes work friends. The time jumps were strange as we missed all the good parts. Conner first time bottoming, their whole asking their friends to stand up with them and the whole wedding and honeymoon. We did not get to see what happened after Conner parents found out they were married.
I did like the way they talked, flirted and trusted each other. I thought they were adorable together.
I just feel this could have been an awesome book but fell flat.
February 1, 2019
**grm**
At start, I wasn't so sure about my rating, because they talked really too much, but in the end they grew on me and my rating went to 4 stars. Simple but nice story, about two friends, one gay and the other bisexual(also if never dated a man yet), that understand they don't need to search anymore for the perfect lover, but find out that person was always near them, since they were 4 and for the first time met at school. The fact that they were 29, hot and always horny was a bonus XD ..call me a perv.
At start, I wasn't so sure about my rating, because they talked really too much, but in the end they grew on me and my rating went to 4 stars. Simple but nice story, about two friends, one gay and the other bisexual(also if never dated a man yet), that understand they don't need to search anymore for the perfect lover, but find out that person was always near them, since they were 4 and for the first time met at school. The fact that they were 29, hot and always horny was a bonus XD ..call me a perv.
July 11, 2017
Construction workers!
This is my first book of this author and even I LOVE low angst books , this one is too much xD
All is so perfect that is so unbelievable!!
The plot is about Connor that one night found out that one of his coworker is gay and since he has been always attracted to him in silence, decided to go and ask him out. BUT Connor has never been with a man before and I don´t know why he is like a super obssesed with Lee now... At least Lee tell him to SHOW that actual love slowly with diferent dates and don´t agree to date him from the beggining! (I liked that)
BUT I must add that the part
I´m between 2 and 3* :) I´m going to try more works from this author!
September 20, 2020
This book was utterly hilarious... for all the wrong reasons.
I honestly have no idea what to say.
It was almost too perfect, with all the conflict coming from a made believe issue that turned out being a non issue. The characters was kind of flat. Both Mc's and secondary characters. I kept mixing them up.
I'm speechless.
I honestly have no idea what to say.
It was almost too perfect, with all the conflict coming from a made believe issue that turned out being a non issue. The characters was kind of flat. Both Mc's and secondary characters. I kept mixing them up.
I'm speechless.
April 26, 2017
One and a half stars. This reads like a story between two robots having a romance. On second thought, I'm being unfair to the current state of artificial intelligence which generally does a much better job at humanizing the speech patterns of AI computer voices than the author does with this pair. The writing is stilted, repetitive and superficial. Characters are given to reciting as dialogue the kind of things that would just be interior thoughts, leaving pretty much nothing for them to think about. There is just this weird emotionless quality to everything, like characters are talking about things that they don't actually feel. Even the sex scenes are mechanical at best.
There is zero conflict, either externally or internally. It it just a continues description of one perfect scene after another in which both parties are completely and utterly satisfied with absolutely everything. I started skimming about a third in as it was really boring. The ending was a dud and I can't imagine wanting to read anything further about this idyllic couple and their absolutely perfect lives.
There is zero conflict, either externally or internally. It it just a continues description of one perfect scene after another in which both parties are completely and utterly satisfied with absolutely everything. I started skimming about a third in as it was really boring. The ending was a dud and I can't imagine wanting to read anything further about this idyllic couple and their absolutely perfect lives.
February 27, 2021
Buddy Read
While i enjoyed this book, the pacing was very frustrating and took me out of story often as switch between fast to slow then back. Some chapters short and others long, it just didn't have a nice flow to it.
Although has two lovely characters at the heart of the story. Each with their own insecurities and flaws, as trying to figure out where they fit together and developing relationship rather slow burn that i adored.
Lee and Connors povs were interesting, as really allowed to see how they each saw the situation. While they fell in love it was beautiful to see them discussing more and getting past their fears together.
I love all the romance here from the dinners, dates, movies and just the pure intimacy was lovely. The proposal and realisations throughout were awesome.
Has a great happy ending! Felt rather sudden with a bunch happening in last couple chapters, so fell a little flat. Still overall enjoyed as i fell in love with Connor and Lee. So will give the rest of series a try some time xx
While i enjoyed this book, the pacing was very frustrating and took me out of story often as switch between fast to slow then back. Some chapters short and others long, it just didn't have a nice flow to it.
Although has two lovely characters at the heart of the story. Each with their own insecurities and flaws, as trying to figure out where they fit together and developing relationship rather slow burn that i adored.
Lee and Connors povs were interesting, as really allowed to see how they each saw the situation. While they fell in love it was beautiful to see them discussing more and getting past their fears together.
I love all the romance here from the dinners, dates, movies and just the pure intimacy was lovely. The proposal and realisations throughout were awesome.
Has a great happy ending! Felt rather sudden with a bunch happening in last couple chapters, so fell a little flat. Still overall enjoyed as i fell in love with Connor and Lee. So will give the rest of series a try some time xx
September 17, 2016
I really wanted to like this, since it is one of my favorite tropes. But, something about the sentence structure and pacing really made this one difficult for me to get through. There were some struggles with using names vs 'he', particularly when a character is thinking to himself and keeps referring to himself by name. Also, there is a lot of telling/thinking vs showing. Things are really spelled out, and often more than once.
On the other hand, I was confused about their friendship. At times, it seems like they are close friends, but then at other times, not so much. Early on, Connor refers to Lee as his best friend, but Lee thinks of Connor as more of an acquaintance. Yet Connor has been to Lee's place enough times to feel comfortable there. Not to mention that Connor's thoughts and behavior are a bit odd at the beginning.
I was trying to power through, but gave up after the first sex scene, about 38% in. Sorry, but this was a DNF for me.
On the other hand, I was confused about their friendship. At times, it seems like they are close friends, but then at other times, not so much. Early on, Connor refers to Lee as his best friend, but Lee thinks of Connor as more of an acquaintance. Yet Connor has been to Lee's place enough times to feel comfortable there. Not to mention that Connor's thoughts and behavior are a bit odd at the beginning.
I was trying to power through, but gave up after the first sex scene, about 38% in. Sorry, but this was a DNF for me.
September 26, 2016
I got this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I Immensely enjoyed this Friend to Lover GFY/OFY Story. The Characters seemed like people I could meet in real life. Lee and Connor have been best friend since primary school (elementary school for the USA). Connor is out at the pubs on Friday night and when hopping between pubs take a piss in an alley. He spots two men kissing in the alley. He realizes one is Lee. He goes to Lee's place next morning acts like an ass. Lee takes him to task. Connor begs for another chance. They go on some non-date dates. Connor's charm wins Lee over. They Date, fall in love get secretly married and act like best buddies until Connor has an accident at the work site and it all comes out. Now everybody know they are gay and married. and it is no big deal. All the reason they had for maintaining the secret turned out to be non-issues. I really want to read more about Connor and Lee.
I Immensely enjoyed this Friend to Lover GFY/OFY Story. The Characters seemed like people I could meet in real life. Lee and Connor have been best friend since primary school (elementary school for the USA). Connor is out at the pubs on Friday night and when hopping between pubs take a piss in an alley. He spots two men kissing in the alley. He realizes one is Lee. He goes to Lee's place next morning acts like an ass. Lee takes him to task. Connor begs for another chance. They go on some non-date dates. Connor's charm wins Lee over. They Date, fall in love get secretly married and act like best buddies until Connor has an accident at the work site and it all comes out. Now everybody know they are gay and married. and it is no big deal. All the reason they had for maintaining the secret turned out to be non-issues. I really want to read more about Connor and Lee.
December 19, 2017
Friends to Lovers
Well written. It captured my attention from the beginning. This two MCs made me root for them from the beginning. No communication problems. Just two hot men who knew what they wanted and tried to work through any problems and make it work.
Yes, the ending was a little bit of a fantasy, but one we all wish was the norm.
Well written. It captured my attention from the beginning. This two MCs made me root for them from the beginning. No communication problems. Just two hot men who knew what they wanted and tried to work through any problems and make it work.
Yes, the ending was a little bit of a fantasy, but one we all wish was the norm.
September 12, 2020
I was invested in the beginning, because of Lee and Connor. They are two different personalities with so much goodness in them. Layered with insecurities, naiveness, sad and happy times, I enjoyed knowing about them.
Steamy scenes were written well, and it had fit the story with their character growth.
It is the plot that fell very flat and I would have appreciated more if there was something gripping in the story. Most of the time, the writing was rushed and jumpy with varying lengths of chapters that soon started becoming so annoying at times.
Steamy scenes were written well, and it had fit the story with their character growth.
It is the plot that fell very flat and I would have appreciated more if there was something gripping in the story. Most of the time, the writing was rushed and jumpy with varying lengths of chapters that soon started becoming so annoying at times.
January 17, 2020
Simple, straightforward dual POV m/m romance. It was sweet. Connor had a one track mind and Lee was wary. Since the blurb and title give away the wedding, it was more about the journey than the destination. I did get impatient because I wanted to know what happened after the wedding instead. The reaction all around was heartwarming but I’m curious about what would’ve happened if they hadn’t been married.
September 26, 2016
3 1/2 stars
The good:
*Sexy book, with two hot, likeable hunks who work construction.
*Nice steam level with great sexy scenes.
*Friends to lovers trope, which is one of my favorites.
*HEA ending full of acceptance, glitter and unicorns.
The bad:
*I didn't get Connor's first time bottoming, which is kind of of unforgivable. If you've read any of my reviews, I love me some first timers and I HATE not to read about how they get their cherry-popped.
*The idea behind the story is good and has potential. Notwithstanding that, there are some things that were kind of awkward... Like Connor thinking of Lee as his bff and Lee regarding him basically as an acquaintance. Lee has a whole gay life on the side that Connor knew nothing about.
*Also awkward was Connor's showing up at Lee's after finding out he's gay and basically taking his shirt off expecting to get some... Ridiculously immature for a 29 year-old. He read like a 17 year-old in the first few chapters and the story flow was not the best there. Luckily, after that he and the story get better.
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The good:
*Sexy book, with two hot, likeable hunks who work construction.
*Nice steam level with great sexy scenes.
*Friends to lovers trope, which is one of my favorites.
*HEA ending full of acceptance, glitter and unicorns.
The bad:
*I didn't get Connor's first time bottoming, which is kind of of unforgivable. If you've read any of my reviews, I love me some first timers and I HATE not to read about how they get their cherry-popped.
*The idea behind the story is good and has potential. Notwithstanding that, there are some things that were kind of awkward... Like Connor thinking of Lee as his bff and Lee regarding him basically as an acquaintance. Lee has a whole gay life on the side that Connor knew nothing about.
*Also awkward was Connor's showing up at Lee's after finding out he's gay and basically taking his shirt off expecting to get some... Ridiculously immature for a 29 year-old. He read like a 17 year-old in the first few chapters and the story flow was not the best there. Luckily, after that he and the story get better.
[image error]
September 24, 2016
***4.5 Stars for These Two Adorable Men!***
Enemies to lovers is far and away my favorite trope, so I approached this friends to lovers with some skepticism. I am so glad that I took the chance, because I loved this book from start to finish!
With Connor being groomed to take over the family company, though, his father is pressuring him to find a nice girl and settle down. However, one night Connor drunkenly stumbles across something he never expected to see, and it forever alters his perceptions of his best friend, Lee.
Lee has always been extremely careful to keep his day job and his nightlife contained in two very distinct boxes, so when Connor showed up at his front door and revealed what he saw, Lee was initially horrified. When Connor then proceeded to make a complete fool of himself, Lee shifted horror to anger, firmly putting Connor in his place.
As they walk through the shifting dynamics of their friendship, and as Connor becomes more and more sure that Lee is exactly what he wants for his forever, Lee finally breaks down and agrees to formally see Connor, all the while holding his heart carefully captive against the hurt he knows is coming when Connor is done experimenting.
The plot to this is lovely, by turns amusing, then sad, then blazing hot, followed by shock and, in the end, happiness. With a lot of character growth on both sides, it is an in-depth look into each man’s mind and heart. Told from each of their points of view, you really get to experience all of their happiness, grief, and anguish. The pacing is pretty good. I can’t say I noticed any place where it bogged down at all.
I would like to have learned more about their friendship’s history, as that is the one aspect not really discussed. They’ve known one another since they were children, but it feels more like they were new friends moving into a lovers’ category. That said, their chemistry is blazing! There is never a single doubt how much they want each other, and it’s fun to see how hard it is to maintain equanimity in the workplace and keep their hands to themselves, but this story moves very far from just the romantic aspect. It is the building of a foundation to a lifetime, and while both men are hard-headed, it is abundantly clear that they are also just plain good people.
I was a touch disappointed that Connor’s father’s attitude was cleaned up with no drama at all. It felt like cheating. His original statements were vitriol, yet his casual attitude after finding out about the wedding belies those earlier vehement words. Other than that and the lack of background of the men, however, I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of this book. I can definitively state that I recommend this wonderful novel! I’ll certainly be checking out more of this author’s work!
A review copy of Our Secret Wedding was provided by the author, HJ Perry, in exchange for an honest review.
Enemies to lovers is far and away my favorite trope, so I approached this friends to lovers with some skepticism. I am so glad that I took the chance, because I loved this book from start to finish!
With Connor being groomed to take over the family company, though, his father is pressuring him to find a nice girl and settle down. However, one night Connor drunkenly stumbles across something he never expected to see, and it forever alters his perceptions of his best friend, Lee.
Lee has always been extremely careful to keep his day job and his nightlife contained in two very distinct boxes, so when Connor showed up at his front door and revealed what he saw, Lee was initially horrified. When Connor then proceeded to make a complete fool of himself, Lee shifted horror to anger, firmly putting Connor in his place.
As they walk through the shifting dynamics of their friendship, and as Connor becomes more and more sure that Lee is exactly what he wants for his forever, Lee finally breaks down and agrees to formally see Connor, all the while holding his heart carefully captive against the hurt he knows is coming when Connor is done experimenting.
The plot to this is lovely, by turns amusing, then sad, then blazing hot, followed by shock and, in the end, happiness. With a lot of character growth on both sides, it is an in-depth look into each man’s mind and heart. Told from each of their points of view, you really get to experience all of their happiness, grief, and anguish. The pacing is pretty good. I can’t say I noticed any place where it bogged down at all.
I would like to have learned more about their friendship’s history, as that is the one aspect not really discussed. They’ve known one another since they were children, but it feels more like they were new friends moving into a lovers’ category. That said, their chemistry is blazing! There is never a single doubt how much they want each other, and it’s fun to see how hard it is to maintain equanimity in the workplace and keep their hands to themselves, but this story moves very far from just the romantic aspect. It is the building of a foundation to a lifetime, and while both men are hard-headed, it is abundantly clear that they are also just plain good people.
I was a touch disappointed that Connor’s father’s attitude was cleaned up with no drama at all. It felt like cheating. His original statements were vitriol, yet his casual attitude after finding out about the wedding belies those earlier vehement words. Other than that and the lack of background of the men, however, I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of this book. I can definitively state that I recommend this wonderful novel! I’ll certainly be checking out more of this author’s work!
A review copy of Our Secret Wedding was provided by the author, HJ Perry, in exchange for an honest review.
September 18, 2016
A solid 4-star read for me.
Connor is the son of the owner of a scaffolding company where he works in a supervisory role. Lee is his best friend that also works for the company while he attends college. Drunk one night, Connor makes a discovery about Lee that turns his world upside down, but at the same time, righting it in the way that it is meant to be. He discovers that Lee is gay. Connor, who is bi-sexual himself but has only been with women, is suddenly presented with the opportunity he has always wanted, to be with a man that he has secretly crushed on for years.
Connor's initial proposition to Lee is outlandish, preposterous and a little goofy. His second one goes much better, that he can "not-date" Lee for a while to see how things go. Connor considers himself Lee's boyfriend-in-waiting while Lee figures out if this is just all Connor's gay experiment or something more.
And it was right there that I started to really like the two of them. Connor initially comes off as impulsive, but he was a guy that finally found what he was missing and now wanted. His needs and wants were simple - he needed and wanted Lee. He was straightforward, telling Lee precisely that, even if initially Lee didn't always trust it.
And Lee, even in the face of his doubts and Connor's preposterous inital proposition, thought of Connor and how he needed support with his change in perspective of his sexuality. He didn't reject Connor. He didn't push him away, ruining their years long friendship. Eventually, Lee comes to terms that Connor is being sincere and the two of them advance their relationship to those of boyfriends.
That's where the book focuses mostly on their sexual exploration, where Lee introduces Connor to all the things two men can do together. Connor is definitely enthusiastic on all fronts.
I had only a couple of niggles with this story, one little one and another not as little. A couple of times information that we had received before - was repeated more than I thought needed to be. The larger niggle was
Overall, I enjoyed this book and getting to know these two guys. The fact that there will be another story about them makes me quite happy.
***An ARC of the book was provided to me for my honest review.***
Connor is the son of the owner of a scaffolding company where he works in a supervisory role. Lee is his best friend that also works for the company while he attends college. Drunk one night, Connor makes a discovery about Lee that turns his world upside down, but at the same time, righting it in the way that it is meant to be. He discovers that Lee is gay. Connor, who is bi-sexual himself but has only been with women, is suddenly presented with the opportunity he has always wanted, to be with a man that he has secretly crushed on for years.
Connor's initial proposition to Lee is outlandish, preposterous and a little goofy. His second one goes much better, that he can "not-date" Lee for a while to see how things go. Connor considers himself Lee's boyfriend-in-waiting while Lee figures out if this is just all Connor's gay experiment or something more.
And it was right there that I started to really like the two of them. Connor initially comes off as impulsive, but he was a guy that finally found what he was missing and now wanted. His needs and wants were simple - he needed and wanted Lee. He was straightforward, telling Lee precisely that, even if initially Lee didn't always trust it.
And Lee, even in the face of his doubts and Connor's preposterous inital proposition, thought of Connor and how he needed support with his change in perspective of his sexuality. He didn't reject Connor. He didn't push him away, ruining their years long friendship. Eventually, Lee comes to terms that Connor is being sincere and the two of them advance their relationship to those of boyfriends.
That's where the book focuses mostly on their sexual exploration, where Lee introduces Connor to all the things two men can do together. Connor is definitely enthusiastic on all fronts.
I had only a couple of niggles with this story, one little one and another not as little. A couple of times information that we had received before - was repeated more than I thought needed to be. The larger niggle was
Overall, I enjoyed this book and getting to know these two guys. The fact that there will be another story about them makes me quite happy.
***An ARC of the book was provided to me for my honest review.***
September 20, 2016
I enjoyed this one a lot - sexy and romantic.
I’ve read a couple of other books by H J Perry and this one is my favorite by far. The friends-to-lovers trope is one of my favorites whether it be M/M, M/F or any other combination.
Connor and Lee were friends in school and now Lee works for the company owned by Connor’s father. One night Connor sees Lee kissing another man and that changed everything for him. He’s had feelings for Lee for a long time that go beyond friendship but he always thought that Lee is straight. He’s also been perfectly happy dating women but considers himself bi-sexual.
After Connor sees “the kiss” everything changes for him and he knows that he wants to pursue Lee as more than a friend. He doesn’t go about it in quite the right way, though and it puts Lee off. Connor begs for the chance to start over and thus begins his courtship of Lee.
The romance between Connor and Lee is slow to build – Lee can’t believe that Connor is doing anything other than experimenting – but once things take off there is a lot of heat and hot, sexy time! Connor is such a romantic man! He plans a big surprise for Lee and it turns out wonderful.
I really enjoyed reading this. I felt like there was a real connection between Connor and Lee and I loved following the development of their feelings for each other.
The only small negative comment I have is that the book ended a bit abruptly for me but the author mentions the possibility of another story about Connor and Lee and I can’t wait to read it.
Note: I saw one less than positive review that commented on sentence structure and wording. Ms. Perry is an English lady and while the book uses mostly American English the story is set in England and some terms and phrases are different from what we use in the U.S. I recently learned from another author I met (who was raised in England) that sentence structure in England is quite a bit different from here in the U.S. I didn’t have a problem with any of the phrasing as I’ve read a lot of stories by English authors. It’s not really fair to criticize an author for writing the way it’s done in the country where she lives.
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.
I’ve read a couple of other books by H J Perry and this one is my favorite by far. The friends-to-lovers trope is one of my favorites whether it be M/M, M/F or any other combination.
Connor and Lee were friends in school and now Lee works for the company owned by Connor’s father. One night Connor sees Lee kissing another man and that changed everything for him. He’s had feelings for Lee for a long time that go beyond friendship but he always thought that Lee is straight. He’s also been perfectly happy dating women but considers himself bi-sexual.
After Connor sees “the kiss” everything changes for him and he knows that he wants to pursue Lee as more than a friend. He doesn’t go about it in quite the right way, though and it puts Lee off. Connor begs for the chance to start over and thus begins his courtship of Lee.
The romance between Connor and Lee is slow to build – Lee can’t believe that Connor is doing anything other than experimenting – but once things take off there is a lot of heat and hot, sexy time! Connor is such a romantic man! He plans a big surprise for Lee and it turns out wonderful.
I really enjoyed reading this. I felt like there was a real connection between Connor and Lee and I loved following the development of their feelings for each other.
The only small negative comment I have is that the book ended a bit abruptly for me but the author mentions the possibility of another story about Connor and Lee and I can’t wait to read it.
Note: I saw one less than positive review that commented on sentence structure and wording. Ms. Perry is an English lady and while the book uses mostly American English the story is set in England and some terms and phrases are different from what we use in the U.S. I recently learned from another author I met (who was raised in England) that sentence structure in England is quite a bit different from here in the U.S. I didn’t have a problem with any of the phrasing as I’ve read a lot of stories by English authors. It’s not really fair to criticize an author for writing the way it’s done in the country where she lives.
I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.
September 16, 2016
I was given this novel in exchange for a honest review so here it is... I loved this book. Awesome story. The story line was strong and intense. The characters were well developed and amazing. Connor was a macho man who was
In charge in his family's scaffolding business. He has always been attracted to men especially Lee who he has known since his school days. Lee worked for him in the business which is full of macho, straight men. Lee is gay. Connor decides to go after Lee and Lee is leery that Connor would decide he really isn't into men, but Connor convinces him to give him a shot. Connor realizes he is bi. The
Journey they have together is amazing and heartwarming!!! HOT, Sexy, with the component of self discovery!!! Highly recommend this one. DO NOT MISS THIS ONE❤️❤️
In charge in his family's scaffolding business. He has always been attracted to men especially Lee who he has known since his school days. Lee worked for him in the business which is full of macho, straight men. Lee is gay. Connor decides to go after Lee and Lee is leery that Connor would decide he really isn't into men, but Connor convinces him to give him a shot. Connor realizes he is bi. The
Journey they have together is amazing and heartwarming!!! HOT, Sexy, with the component of self discovery!!! Highly recommend this one. DO NOT MISS THIS ONE❤️❤️
September 19, 2016
Connor and Lee, childhood friends and adult co-workers, have a great friendly relationship until Connor sees Lee kissing another man. Turns out Connor has had a secret crush on Lee for some time but always thought he was straight, which is exactly what Lee wanted. Lee has always taken great pains to keep his work life (construction was not known to be gay friendly) and his personal life away from each other. However, when Connor shows up and propositions him Lee realizes both parts have just irretrievably crashed and the possible fall out scares the hell out of him. Connor though off to a bad start really wants to get Lee to date him and persistence pays off only they agree to hide their relationship from everyone, both men having doubts, insecurities and fears. Realization hits hard about keeping it secret when something happens and no one knows there is a spouse that needs to be notified. Remarkably, when everything is outed in the worst possible way, Connor and Lee find had they trusted those that loved and cared about them with the happiness they had found it never needed to be a secret. Great story with charming characters. I would love to see more on Connor and Lee
**this book received in exchange for an honest opinion**
**this book received in exchange for an honest opinion**
March 21, 2021
Connor is walking one night and sees his best friend Lee with another guy. it throws him for a complete loop for 2 reasons: Lee is with a guy, and "straight" Connor is jealous. Connor decides to talk to Lee about it and see if the two of them have chemistry. He is a daft fool in his approach, and Lee thinks he isn't serious. Connor sets out to show Lee that is is serious, and that he wants to be together. The wooing commences. They keep their relationship quiet because of the work they do. Of course, they work things out, secretly get married, and get an HEA. The one thing that really bothered me was that Connor kept calling Lee his best friend, yet Lee seemed to think of him more as an acquaintance. They really didn't know anything about each other, and they never really demonstrated anything that resembled best friendship. Beyond that, however, they were great together, and had great chemistry. I enjoyed this book.
July 8, 2017
While Our Secret Wedding was not a bad read and didn't not enjoy it but I'm afraid this one wasn't for me.
I felt there were too many tropes here and it would have been a better read if one was focused on and developed more. First time gay, GFY/out for you, friends-to-lovers and bosses son all featured and the secret wedding in the title happened very late in the book and only a small part of the book.
I did feel at times that parts were rushed and would have read better if they'd been developed more.
I found some of the language used a little bit jarring and affected the flow of the story.
I felt there were too many tropes here and it would have been a better read if one was focused on and developed more. First time gay, GFY/out for you, friends-to-lovers and bosses son all featured and the secret wedding in the title happened very late in the book and only a small part of the book.
I did feel at times that parts were rushed and would have read better if they'd been developed more.
I found some of the language used a little bit jarring and affected the flow of the story.
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October 22, 2016I'm dnf'ing this one at 18%. Just can't get into it.
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