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Committed
Hoping to make some extra money, high school teacher Corey Elliot takes a summer job teaching a GED prep course at Indiana State Prison. He knows he will meet the notorious Dustin Sutton, a man who has almost completed serving a ten-year sentence for a crime he didn't commit.
“From the moment I saw him within those prison walls, I knew he was off-limits, but there was a spark in his eyes that made me wonder…”
To save his mother's beloved home, Dustin courageously agreed to take the fall for his ex-boyfriend’s drugs in exchange for a large quantity of cash. Behind bars from the tender age of eighteen, Dustin hopes to quietly transition back into a regular life but quickly realizes it may not be that simple with the label of ex-con weighing him down.
“It’s a risky move, but it might get us out of this place. It might give us a new life.”
Together, Corey and Dustin work to find a way to not only repair Dustin's reputation but strengthen the fire that's beginning to burn between them. But when Dustin's ex appears with a tempting offer for Dustin to make some serious cash, Corey is forced to choose between walking the straight and narrow or crossing a dangerous line that could secure a future for him and the man he has grown to love.
“From the moment I saw him within those prison walls, I knew he was off-limits, but there was a spark in his eyes that made me wonder…”
To save his mother's beloved home, Dustin courageously agreed to take the fall for his ex-boyfriend’s drugs in exchange for a large quantity of cash. Behind bars from the tender age of eighteen, Dustin hopes to quietly transition back into a regular life but quickly realizes it may not be that simple with the label of ex-con weighing him down.
“It’s a risky move, but it might get us out of this place. It might give us a new life.”
Together, Corey and Dustin work to find a way to not only repair Dustin's reputation but strengthen the fire that's beginning to burn between them. But when Dustin's ex appears with a tempting offer for Dustin to make some serious cash, Corey is forced to choose between walking the straight and narrow or crossing a dangerous line that could secure a future for him and the man he has grown to love.
- GenresM M RomanceContemporary
217 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 8, 2017
32 people are currently reading
89 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
January 9, 2017
3.5 Stars
*Copy provided by the author/publisher for my reading pleasure in hopes of an unbiased opinion, a review was not a requirement.*
After being locked away for 10 years for a crime he never committed, Dustin is on the verge of being released. Corey, a high school teacher takes a summer position teaching GED prep at Indiana State Prison. Before he heads there for his first day he sees a picture of Dustin and after looking further into his story is intrigued and somewhat infatuated with him. Once he arrives at the prison it becomes clear that perhaps the attraction is mutual.
I liked the storyline, although I had some serious issues with how unethical some of the activities in the story were, and I guess as someone who works in the field of law it's just natural. Another thing I struggled to get past is Jason's wording. It's too proper. He uses words that we as layman wouldn't use. It made the characters feel less relatable and I found myself replacing words with something an everyday person would use. For me, this distracted from the flow of the story.
Both Dustin and Corey were likable characters and they had a good chemistry. All in all, this was an enjoyable read that consisted of mystery, suspense and a little romance. Recommended.
*Copy provided by the author/publisher for my reading pleasure in hopes of an unbiased opinion, a review was not a requirement.*
After being locked away for 10 years for a crime he never committed, Dustin is on the verge of being released. Corey, a high school teacher takes a summer position teaching GED prep at Indiana State Prison. Before he heads there for his first day he sees a picture of Dustin and after looking further into his story is intrigued and somewhat infatuated with him. Once he arrives at the prison it becomes clear that perhaps the attraction is mutual.
I liked the storyline, although I had some serious issues with how unethical some of the activities in the story were, and I guess as someone who works in the field of law it's just natural. Another thing I struggled to get past is Jason's wording. It's too proper. He uses words that we as layman wouldn't use. It made the characters feel less relatable and I found myself replacing words with something an everyday person would use. For me, this distracted from the flow of the story.
Both Dustin and Corey were likable characters and they had a good chemistry. All in all, this was an enjoyable read that consisted of mystery, suspense and a little romance. Recommended.
January 9, 2017
Another great one by Jason Collins... An attraction turned into friendship and much more. The storyline was strong and very well written. The main characters are well developed and intriguing. Corey Elliott is a high school teacher on his summer break when he decides to teach a GED Prep class at the local prison. He knows that he will be teaching Dustin Sutton, an inmate who is scheduled for release that had served 10 years for a crime he didn't commit. The community knows he took the fall for his ex-boyfriend in order to save his mother's house and he has become a hero to most. After Corey arrives in the class he meets Dustin's gaze and feels that undeniable attraction.. But when the class ends he knows he will never see him again. To Corey's surprise Dustin calls Corey to set up a meeting together to ask Corey more questions. Evidently Dustin is smitten with Corey. Dustin invites Corey to lunch at his home with his mom that same day. This is only a start...Dustin's ex-boyfriend comes by to talk with him to offer him a proposition of a one time job running drugs. This is what put Dustin behind bars the first time. The ex is determined to convince him by setting the lake house on fire that Dustin and Corey are staying at that weekend. But being without money and Corey losing his job just because he is with Dustin convinces Dustin he has to do it, regardless of what Corey wants. This takes the two on them on the journey of their lives. A very satisfying result as Corey steps up to deal with the ex to get their money that was promised. Loved this story❤️
February 6, 2017
An entertaining quick read. Some mystery/suspense, lust.....
February 17, 2017
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.5 stars
I am so torn over the review of Jason Collins’ release, Committed. To say that I had issues with a major twist in this novel is underplaying my distaste for how the two very likeable main characters chose to change the course of their lives. I found it particularly hard to fathom and agree with given that one of our guys was already imprisoned for ten years for a crime he didn’t commit. However, to say much more on this issue would be to give away way too much of the story and I would prefer that you read this novel and draw your own conclusion as to how it ended. So let me begin again. Jason Collins is a new author for me and I can safely say that the characters he writes are likely to both peak your interest and draw you in to their story emotionally. While his style and language choices were a bit stilted and, at times, way too proper for young men like Corey and Dustin, there is no denying that there was palpable chemistry between the two and their relationship was endearing and sweet.
The story begins with Corey (a high school teacher on summer break) taking on the teaching of a GED course to prison inmates. It just so happens that one of the convicts is Dustin Sutton, a well known and rather tragic figure in their small South Bend community who took the fall for a drug bust so that his then boyfriend would pay off his mother’s mortgage. Dustin was carrying drugs in his car, but had no idea they were there until the police found them in a routine speeding violation pull over. Dustin’s ex made a deal with him that he would make sure Dustin’s mother’s mortgage was paid off if Dustin refused to give him up to the police. That deal meant Dustin spent ten years in prison for a crime he didn’t commit.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
3.5 stars
I am so torn over the review of Jason Collins’ release, Committed. To say that I had issues with a major twist in this novel is underplaying my distaste for how the two very likeable main characters chose to change the course of their lives. I found it particularly hard to fathom and agree with given that one of our guys was already imprisoned for ten years for a crime he didn’t commit. However, to say much more on this issue would be to give away way too much of the story and I would prefer that you read this novel and draw your own conclusion as to how it ended. So let me begin again. Jason Collins is a new author for me and I can safely say that the characters he writes are likely to both peak your interest and draw you in to their story emotionally. While his style and language choices were a bit stilted and, at times, way too proper for young men like Corey and Dustin, there is no denying that there was palpable chemistry between the two and their relationship was endearing and sweet.
The story begins with Corey (a high school teacher on summer break) taking on the teaching of a GED course to prison inmates. It just so happens that one of the convicts is Dustin Sutton, a well known and rather tragic figure in their small South Bend community who took the fall for a drug bust so that his then boyfriend would pay off his mother’s mortgage. Dustin was carrying drugs in his car, but had no idea they were there until the police found them in a routine speeding violation pull over. Dustin’s ex made a deal with him that he would make sure Dustin’s mother’s mortgage was paid off if Dustin refused to give him up to the police. That deal meant Dustin spent ten years in prison for a crime he didn’t commit.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
July 9, 2017
I am so torn over the review of Jason Collins’ Committed. To say that I had issues with a major twist in this novel is underplaying my distaste for how the two very likeable main characters chose to change the course of their lives. I found it particularly hard to fathom and agree with given that one of our guys was already imprisoned for ten years for a crime he didn’t commit. However, to say much more on this issue would be to give away way too much of the story and I would prefer that you read this novel and draw your own conclusion as to how it ended. So let me begin again. Jason Collins is a new author for me and I can safely say that the characters he writes are likely to both peak your interest and draw you in to their story emotionally. While his style and language choices were a bit stilted and, at times, way too proper for young men such as Corey and Dustin were, there is no denying that there was palpable chemistry between the two and their relationship was endearing and sweet.
The story begins with Corey (a high school teacher on summer break) taking on the teaching of a GED course to prison inmates. It just so happens that one of the convicts is Dustin Sutton—a well known and rather tragic figure of their small South Bend community who took the fall for a drug bust so that his then boyfriend would pay off his mother’s mortgage. The idea was that Dustin was carrying drugs in his car but had no idea they were there until the police found them in a routine speeding violation pull over. Dustin’s ex made a deal with him that he would make sure his mother’s mortgage was paid off if Dustin refused to give him up to the police. That deal meant Dustin spent ten years in prison for a crime he didn’t commit.
Right off the bat let me say that this was the first problem I found in this plot. I have been pulled over for speeding—yes, I shamefully admit it—but my car was not searched and I certainly would not have allowed it given I am fairly sure the police have to have some pretty hefty probable cause to do so. Given that Dustin was so well liked in his community and only seventeen at the time, I was surprised that the police would search his car. But my unease with the story overall only deepened after that.
In the story line we now learn that Corey knew that Dustin was set to be paroled in a matter of a few days and was hoping he would be in his GED class. In fact, he asks pointed questions to this class of convicts to see who is indeed getting free soon and there Dustin is, raising his hand. From there we go forward a few days and Dustin contacts Corey to see if he will meet to help him with the final prep for his GED. Here is where you had to stretch your disbelief cause these guys instantly were attracted to each other—so much so that Dustin invites Corey for lunch at his mother’s house where he is staying and in the course of that meal the two plan to go away that weekend to a neighbor’s cabin on the lake. Yes, it was fast—very fast and had the two men in question not been so appealing personality wise I would have been shaking my head in disbelief, especially since Dustin’s mother was practically throwing the two of them at each other. Here also was the first of a few times when the author really projected what was going to happen in the story. In this case it was mentioned repeatedly that there was no insurance on the cabin ad the two men had to be very careful. At the same time this is happening and they are trying to have lunch, Dustin’s ex shows up like he owns the place and offers Dustin a job—while he doesn’t say what it is, it’s fairly obvious it’s going to be illegal and drug related. Dustin turns him down and then foolishly mentions that he is going away to the lake for the weekend. I am leaving that right here---suffice it to say that the cabin does not come out of the weekend unscathed.
In a matter of mere days several catastrophes occur including the fire damage to the cabin that Dustin feels he must pay back, Corey losing his job over supposed parent complaints that he is seeing an ex-con and little next to no prospects for Dustin work wise in the near future. As you can see it is a perfect set-up for the ex-boyfriend to step in and offer to save the day. Now the only question that remains is just how far are Dustin and Corey willing to go to have a future life together that is not mired in debt and uncertainty.
There was so much to like about these two young men. Despite ten years in prison, Dustin manages to retain his own humanity and a gentle spirit that really draws Corey to him. Corey, himself, has a family for once in both Dustin and his mom. They are warm and inviting and think the world of him—even though they barely know him. These aspects of the novel were just right—well crafted and beautifully written even though the delivery was sometimes stilted. It was the trajectory of the plot and the small things that derailed this story for me. For instance, at one point in the story Corey discovers that Dustin has not one but two guns in his possession. Now I realize that is a definite no-no given his probation but when you read the story and realize why he has them it makes perfect sense—at least for one gun to be in existence. But two? It turns out that was just way too convenient and not at all plausible since the situation Dustin finds himself in when he reveals the first gun was meant to find him to be alone—Corey was not supposed to be with him so the need for a second gun simply wasn’t justified. I can’t explain that any further without giving away a major plot point but again suffice it to say that it just didn’t ring true.
Then there was the entire last third of this novel, which just had me shaking my head. I could not buy it—I could not be okay with the decisions that both Corey and Dustin decided to make—especially since the ex-boyfriend was painted as vindictive and dangerous. If that were the case, these two, particularly given what Corey does at the end of the novel, got away with a major thing that had absolutely no repercussions. Again, it was just so farfetched that I could not stomach it.
In the end, there were far too many times I had to stretch my disbelief to the breaking point in order to enjoy this novel. Committed by Jason Collins had some great characters and a sweet romance element but so many other glitches that I had a truly difficult time enjoying the novel.
The story begins with Corey (a high school teacher on summer break) taking on the teaching of a GED course to prison inmates. It just so happens that one of the convicts is Dustin Sutton—a well known and rather tragic figure of their small South Bend community who took the fall for a drug bust so that his then boyfriend would pay off his mother’s mortgage. The idea was that Dustin was carrying drugs in his car but had no idea they were there until the police found them in a routine speeding violation pull over. Dustin’s ex made a deal with him that he would make sure his mother’s mortgage was paid off if Dustin refused to give him up to the police. That deal meant Dustin spent ten years in prison for a crime he didn’t commit.
Right off the bat let me say that this was the first problem I found in this plot. I have been pulled over for speeding—yes, I shamefully admit it—but my car was not searched and I certainly would not have allowed it given I am fairly sure the police have to have some pretty hefty probable cause to do so. Given that Dustin was so well liked in his community and only seventeen at the time, I was surprised that the police would search his car. But my unease with the story overall only deepened after that.
In the story line we now learn that Corey knew that Dustin was set to be paroled in a matter of a few days and was hoping he would be in his GED class. In fact, he asks pointed questions to this class of convicts to see who is indeed getting free soon and there Dustin is, raising his hand. From there we go forward a few days and Dustin contacts Corey to see if he will meet to help him with the final prep for his GED. Here is where you had to stretch your disbelief cause these guys instantly were attracted to each other—so much so that Dustin invites Corey for lunch at his mother’s house where he is staying and in the course of that meal the two plan to go away that weekend to a neighbor’s cabin on the lake. Yes, it was fast—very fast and had the two men in question not been so appealing personality wise I would have been shaking my head in disbelief, especially since Dustin’s mother was practically throwing the two of them at each other. Here also was the first of a few times when the author really projected what was going to happen in the story. In this case it was mentioned repeatedly that there was no insurance on the cabin ad the two men had to be very careful. At the same time this is happening and they are trying to have lunch, Dustin’s ex shows up like he owns the place and offers Dustin a job—while he doesn’t say what it is, it’s fairly obvious it’s going to be illegal and drug related. Dustin turns him down and then foolishly mentions that he is going away to the lake for the weekend. I am leaving that right here---suffice it to say that the cabin does not come out of the weekend unscathed.
In a matter of mere days several catastrophes occur including the fire damage to the cabin that Dustin feels he must pay back, Corey losing his job over supposed parent complaints that he is seeing an ex-con and little next to no prospects for Dustin work wise in the near future. As you can see it is a perfect set-up for the ex-boyfriend to step in and offer to save the day. Now the only question that remains is just how far are Dustin and Corey willing to go to have a future life together that is not mired in debt and uncertainty.
There was so much to like about these two young men. Despite ten years in prison, Dustin manages to retain his own humanity and a gentle spirit that really draws Corey to him. Corey, himself, has a family for once in both Dustin and his mom. They are warm and inviting and think the world of him—even though they barely know him. These aspects of the novel were just right—well crafted and beautifully written even though the delivery was sometimes stilted. It was the trajectory of the plot and the small things that derailed this story for me. For instance, at one point in the story Corey discovers that Dustin has not one but two guns in his possession. Now I realize that is a definite no-no given his probation but when you read the story and realize why he has them it makes perfect sense—at least for one gun to be in existence. But two? It turns out that was just way too convenient and not at all plausible since the situation Dustin finds himself in when he reveals the first gun was meant to find him to be alone—Corey was not supposed to be with him so the need for a second gun simply wasn’t justified. I can’t explain that any further without giving away a major plot point but again suffice it to say that it just didn’t ring true.
Then there was the entire last third of this novel, which just had me shaking my head. I could not buy it—I could not be okay with the decisions that both Corey and Dustin decided to make—especially since the ex-boyfriend was painted as vindictive and dangerous. If that were the case, these two, particularly given what Corey does at the end of the novel, got away with a major thing that had absolutely no repercussions. Again, it was just so farfetched that I could not stomach it.
In the end, there were far too many times I had to stretch my disbelief to the breaking point in order to enjoy this novel. Committed by Jason Collins had some great characters and a sweet romance element but so many other glitches that I had a truly difficult time enjoying the novel.
January 13, 2017
Why do I always feel guilty leaving a 3 star review on here? I hate the rating system sometimes. But, simply put, 3 to GoodReads standards means I liked the book. Which I did...like the book.
In Committed you see high school teacher Corey taking summer job teaching a GED prep course at a prison and Dustin, who is coming close to release from serving a 10 year sentence for a crime he did not commit. Corey somewhat stalked Dustin prior to meeting him and was intrigued by both his story AND his looks.... and Dustin, upon his release, somewhat stalked Corey online, in order to make contact with him to see if the initial connection they had in class transferred out into the real world.
So, these two boys get together. Honestly, with very little fanfare or angst. Dustin's ex-douche canoe makes an appearance and if you don't want to beat that asshole at the first word out of his mouth, well, then I don't know what to tell you. Dustin's mom was quite the character, with her verbal diarrhea when it came to letting is all out about how her son was infatuated with Corey.
So overall, I liked this story. It was quick and easy read.
In Committed you see high school teacher Corey taking summer job teaching a GED prep course at a prison and Dustin, who is coming close to release from serving a 10 year sentence for a crime he did not commit. Corey somewhat stalked Dustin prior to meeting him and was intrigued by both his story AND his looks.... and Dustin, upon his release, somewhat stalked Corey online, in order to make contact with him to see if the initial connection they had in class transferred out into the real world.
So, these two boys get together. Honestly, with very little fanfare or angst. Dustin's ex-douche canoe makes an appearance and if you don't want to beat that asshole at the first word out of his mouth, well, then I don't know what to tell you. Dustin's mom was quite the character, with her verbal diarrhea when it came to letting is all out about how her son was infatuated with Corey.
So overall, I liked this story. It was quick and easy read.
January 9, 2017
This is a really notable book about an ex-convict - Dustin - who meets a teacher called Corey when he goes into prison to teach a GED preparation course to the prisoners. Something about Dustin calls to Corey and the attraction is mutual.
When Dustin is released to his mum's house, they meet up again and begin to get to know each other, the blight on their lives is Clark, the guy who set Dustin up, when he went to prison.
This takes quite a story for Dustin and Corey to settle and find the lives they want and I must admit, I struggled with some of the ethical points in the plot, but the book totally caught my imagination and I couldn't put it down, until I knew how it resolved.
I received an ARC in exchange for a balanced and honest review.
When Dustin is released to his mum's house, they meet up again and begin to get to know each other, the blight on their lives is Clark, the guy who set Dustin up, when he went to prison.
This takes quite a story for Dustin and Corey to settle and find the lives they want and I must admit, I struggled with some of the ethical points in the plot, but the book totally caught my imagination and I couldn't put it down, until I knew how it resolved.
I received an ARC in exchange for a balanced and honest review.
February 1, 2017
I really liked the characters in this book Dustin who has served 10 years for a crime he took the fall for, To save his Mum losing her house. Then you have Corey a teacher who is struggling on his teacher's wage and stuck with a principle that wants to get rid of Corey.
They meet at the prison a few days before Dustin's release. Where Corey is doing a summer job of teaching. There is an instant attraction but neither knows what the other one thinks of him.
They get together but Distin's EX who paid Corey to take the fall for a drugs trafficking offence. Lets just say history repeats itself only this time Karma comes around.
And you have to love Dustin's Mum.
I Have given a honest review of this book in return for a free Arc copy.
They meet at the prison a few days before Dustin's release. Where Corey is doing a summer job of teaching. There is an instant attraction but neither knows what the other one thinks of him.
They get together but Distin's EX who paid Corey to take the fall for a drugs trafficking offence. Lets just say history repeats itself only this time Karma comes around.
And you have to love Dustin's Mum.
I Have given a honest review of this book in return for a free Arc copy.
January 11, 2017
Cute, likable characters
Corey and Dustin are two very likable characters from different walks of life. Circumstances put them in each others path when Corey takes a job teaching Dustin's GED class. Utimately, they work well together on order to overcome obstacles like cabin fires, exes, bigoted principles, and thieves in order to be together.
I could have done without the drug angle. Corey's involment in Dustin's plan seemed questionable given his profession, and I could have done without some of the repetition involving Dustin's circumstances prior to his involvement with Corey. But I also think that some of this was needed in order to advance the story. And I liked Dustin's mom Carla, who never stopped trying to keep these two together.
Corey and Dustin are two very likable characters from different walks of life. Circumstances put them in each others path when Corey takes a job teaching Dustin's GED class. Utimately, they work well together on order to overcome obstacles like cabin fires, exes, bigoted principles, and thieves in order to be together.
I could have done without the drug angle. Corey's involment in Dustin's plan seemed questionable given his profession, and I could have done without some of the repetition involving Dustin's circumstances prior to his involvement with Corey. But I also think that some of this was needed in order to advance the story. And I liked Dustin's mom Carla, who never stopped trying to keep these two together.
January 11, 2017
New Beginnings
The adventure begins as Dustin and Cory meet when Cory is teaching a GED course at the prison where Dustin is coming to the end of a 10 year sentence for a crime he admitted to to save his family home. Enter Dustin's ex who makes Dustin an offer of even more money. Read as the story unfolds. Will Dustin take a chance that could send him back to prison for life or will Cory talk him out of it?
The adventure begins as Dustin and Cory meet when Cory is teaching a GED course at the prison where Dustin is coming to the end of a 10 year sentence for a crime he admitted to to save his family home. Enter Dustin's ex who makes Dustin an offer of even more money. Read as the story unfolds. Will Dustin take a chance that could send him back to prison for life or will Cory talk him out of it?
January 9, 2017
Jason Collins has quickly become one of my favorite authors. He creates characters that draw you in and make you care. I read this book in one sitting....and wanted to start over again after finishing it.
I loved reading about Corey and Dustin and highly recommend this book!
I loved reading about Corey and Dustin and highly recommend this book!
February 13, 2017
No. Just no.
January 13, 2017
What would you do for those you love? Would you forfeit 10 years of your life?
Dustin Sutton makes that choice for the only person who matters.
What adversity would you fight to live your life and be happy?
Dustin and Corey Elliot have to make the decision about what it is they're willing to fight for and how hard they're willing to fight for it. All they know is they're willing to fight for their love.
Mr. Collins once again gives us characters that are easy to love. There are times that I wanted to slap Dustin for his choices, but I totally get why he was thinking the way he was. The emotions this story brought out in me had me laughing, crying, had me ready to toss my Kindle and in absolute awe of Mr. Collins' talent. His way with words not only tells us a story, but he brings us a story that will remain with us for a very long time. I would recommend this book for anyone who loves a good romance story with a twist. With plot twists woven into the story with such ease you don't see them coming until you're all of a sudden thinking "Oh My God!", this book doesn't disappoint, I will be reading it again and again. I can't wait for more from Mr. Collins.
Dustin Sutton makes that choice for the only person who matters.
What adversity would you fight to live your life and be happy?
Dustin and Corey Elliot have to make the decision about what it is they're willing to fight for and how hard they're willing to fight for it. All they know is they're willing to fight for their love.
Mr. Collins once again gives us characters that are easy to love. There are times that I wanted to slap Dustin for his choices, but I totally get why he was thinking the way he was. The emotions this story brought out in me had me laughing, crying, had me ready to toss my Kindle and in absolute awe of Mr. Collins' talent. His way with words not only tells us a story, but he brings us a story that will remain with us for a very long time. I would recommend this book for anyone who loves a good romance story with a twist. With plot twists woven into the story with such ease you don't see them coming until you're all of a sudden thinking "Oh My God!", this book doesn't disappoint, I will be reading it again and again. I can't wait for more from Mr. Collins.
December 15, 2017
I really liked the characters in this book Dustin who has served 10 years for a crime he took the fall for, To save his Mum losing her house. Then you have Corey a teacher who is struggling on his teacher's wage and stuck with a principle that wants to get rid of Corey.
They meet at the prison a few days before Dustin's release. Where Corey is doing a summer job of teaching. There is an instant attraction but neither knows what the other one thinks of him.
They get together but Distin's EX who paid Corey to take the fall for a drugs trafficking offence. Lets just say history repeats itself only this time Karma comes around.
And you have to love Dustin's Mum.
I Have given a honest review of this book in return for a free Arc copy.
They meet at the prison a few days before Dustin's release. Where Corey is doing a summer job of teaching. There is an instant attraction but neither knows what the other one thinks of him.
They get together but Distin's EX who paid Corey to take the fall for a drugs trafficking offence. Lets just say history repeats itself only this time Karma comes around.
And you have to love Dustin's Mum.
I Have given a honest review of this book in return for a free Arc copy.
Read
January 13, 20173 Stars
As soon as Corey pulls up to the prison to teach the GED course he becomes a nervous wreck. He signed up to teach the course before he knew anything about Dustin. Now, he’s done nothing but fantasize about Dustin ever since he saw his picture in a newspaper article. Dustin seems to be the local hero. He went to prison for his ex-boyfriend to save his Mother’s house from foreclosure.
I had a difficult time getting through this story. The wording seemed forced, at times. I felt like I was reading about the lives of two men from the deep south. Very poised. Very proper. The wording just doesn’t fit for two men in their late twenties. Especially, one who just spent ten years in prison. And the other being a high school teacher. I think the outline of the story could have been handled better. It would have been easier to believe if the reader was given Dustin’s POV. Instead, we hear only from Corey. What he perceives to be going through the minds of the other character’s in the book. That is what makes the wording seem so forced. I would have loved to get my hands on this book and edit it for the author. I’ve read other stories by Jason Collins and didn’t have as many of the same issues I had with this story. The plot for this story is great, it just wasn’t handled to its full potential. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book for the author in exchange for an honest review.
Corey is fired from his teaching position for associating with Dustin. The underlying reasons for this weren’t handled to their full extent. I didn’t care for that. In today’s society, a man or woman isn’t going to allow this type of discrimination to happen without a fight. Corey just seems to sweep this whole situation under the rug, just like a quiet southern gentleman.
Next, we’re reading that Corey has become a drug smuggler along with Dustin, for the ex-boyfriend, who promises them a bunch of money. When Clark, the ex, doesn’t follow through with the deal Dustin has a great plan for revenge. It never happens. So, we see Corey become a thief, just to get the money for Dustin. All of this happens within a two-week span. The whole story seems rushed. It’s very unfortunate.
As soon as Corey pulls up to the prison to teach the GED course he becomes a nervous wreck. He signed up to teach the course before he knew anything about Dustin. Now, he’s done nothing but fantasize about Dustin ever since he saw his picture in a newspaper article. Dustin seems to be the local hero. He went to prison for his ex-boyfriend to save his Mother’s house from foreclosure.
I had a difficult time getting through this story. The wording seemed forced, at times. I felt like I was reading about the lives of two men from the deep south. Very poised. Very proper. The wording just doesn’t fit for two men in their late twenties. Especially, one who just spent ten years in prison. And the other being a high school teacher. I think the outline of the story could have been handled better. It would have been easier to believe if the reader was given Dustin’s POV. Instead, we hear only from Corey. What he perceives to be going through the minds of the other character’s in the book. That is what makes the wording seem so forced. I would have loved to get my hands on this book and edit it for the author. I’ve read other stories by Jason Collins and didn’t have as many of the same issues I had with this story. The plot for this story is great, it just wasn’t handled to its full potential. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book for the author in exchange for an honest review.
Corey is fired from his teaching position for associating with Dustin. The underlying reasons for this weren’t handled to their full extent. I didn’t care for that. In today’s society, a man or woman isn’t going to allow this type of discrimination to happen without a fight. Corey just seems to sweep this whole situation under the rug, just like a quiet southern gentleman.
Next, we’re reading that Corey has become a drug smuggler along with Dustin, for the ex-boyfriend, who promises them a bunch of money. When Clark, the ex, doesn’t follow through with the deal Dustin has a great plan for revenge. It never happens. So, we see Corey become a thief, just to get the money for Dustin. All of this happens within a two-week span. The whole story seems rushed. It’s very unfortunate.
December 6, 2017
I love this story = 5 stars.
I hate the choices, especially with one being a teacher and the other having served 10 years for a crime he did not commit = 2 stars.
I read this author before and it was a clear 5 stars.
Maybe this makes a good story when the reader still is in the story, going back and forth about the lives of two fictional characters 5 stars.
So frustrated that I could scream = 1 star or should that be 5 stars.
Cover did not do the story justice but was okay = 3 stars.
I will definitely keep reading books by Jason Collins.
I hate the choices, especially with one being a teacher and the other having served 10 years for a crime he did not commit = 2 stars.
I read this author before and it was a clear 5 stars.
Maybe this makes a good story when the reader still is in the story, going back and forth about the lives of two fictional characters 5 stars.
So frustrated that I could scream = 1 star or should that be 5 stars.
Cover did not do the story justice but was okay = 3 stars.
I will definitely keep reading books by Jason Collins.
January 11, 2017
This was a very interesting story, so far my favourite book by Jason Collins. I wouldn’t make the choices by the characters, but I still liked both MCs. The story was fast-paced and easy to read. I would recommend this book.
March 20, 2017
This didn't work for me - it went too quickly, with little to no relationship or even character development.
February 11, 2017
Dustin has just finished serving 10 years in prison for a crime he didn’t commit – his ex-boyfriend Clark planted drugs in his car and he ended up getting arrested when his car was searched after being pulled over for speeding. Dustin agreed to take the blame when Clark agreed to pay off his mom’s mortgage to save her from having her house foreclosed in return. This decade in prison took place during a formative time in Dustin’s life, from ages 17 to 27.
Committed is not a high drama story. The recipe for romance is pre-scripted into Corey’s DNA and psyche before he even sees/meets Dustin in the GED class he’s teaching at the prison to earn some extra money over his summer break from teaching school. Corey isn’t prepared for how smitten he becomes at first glance, and when Dustin reaches out to him shortly after being released from prison under the guise that he wants some extra help studying for his GED exam the following week, Corey tries to keep his fantasies of the ex-con in check. After all, Dustin’s intentions are likely exactly what he said they were: he wants help studying and he misinterpreted the heated looks the two shared in the prison classroom.
Dustin’s mom, a transparent, comical, and protectively maternal character, quickly dispels that notion from Corey’s head by confessing that her son is attracted to the teacher. The story seems to fall quickly into place – friendship, emotional and physical attraction and longing, acceptance, trust – over dinner, followed up by a rapid series of events that includes receiving an invitation – and keys – to spend a weekend together at a lakeside cabin, the ill-timed reappearance and cryptic offer from Clark, and packing up and heading off for the cabin together. The reader picks up clues on clues that all will not go as planned, especially since Dustin happened to mention his plans for the weekend to Clark and the cabin where they’re going to just happens to no longer be covered under property insurance.
This is, though, one of those books that you can pick up and read through easily: not a lot of deep-down, driven angst; likable characters in Dustin, his mom Carla, and Corey; easy to dislike antagonists in Principal Harper and Clark; and a smooth-flowing and easy to follow storyline. Some parts seem a bit unrealistic – the dollar amount for the fire damage, for instance, and how Principal Harper can get away with his bias, and then there are the repetitive thoughts, comments, and actions, and Dustin’s easygoing demeanor after 10 years in the pen. But heck, all stories don’t have to be angst-ridden or over-the-top realistic, do they? Corey and Dustin make each other happy, seem to bring out the best in one another, and found a way to solve their respective problems. Oh, and Clark got what he had coming to him. And for readers who want love but are timid about too many PDAs, this book would suit that audience well.
Committed is not a high drama story. The recipe for romance is pre-scripted into Corey’s DNA and psyche before he even sees/meets Dustin in the GED class he’s teaching at the prison to earn some extra money over his summer break from teaching school. Corey isn’t prepared for how smitten he becomes at first glance, and when Dustin reaches out to him shortly after being released from prison under the guise that he wants some extra help studying for his GED exam the following week, Corey tries to keep his fantasies of the ex-con in check. After all, Dustin’s intentions are likely exactly what he said they were: he wants help studying and he misinterpreted the heated looks the two shared in the prison classroom.
Dustin’s mom, a transparent, comical, and protectively maternal character, quickly dispels that notion from Corey’s head by confessing that her son is attracted to the teacher. The story seems to fall quickly into place – friendship, emotional and physical attraction and longing, acceptance, trust – over dinner, followed up by a rapid series of events that includes receiving an invitation – and keys – to spend a weekend together at a lakeside cabin, the ill-timed reappearance and cryptic offer from Clark, and packing up and heading off for the cabin together. The reader picks up clues on clues that all will not go as planned, especially since Dustin happened to mention his plans for the weekend to Clark and the cabin where they’re going to just happens to no longer be covered under property insurance.
This is, though, one of those books that you can pick up and read through easily: not a lot of deep-down, driven angst; likable characters in Dustin, his mom Carla, and Corey; easy to dislike antagonists in Principal Harper and Clark; and a smooth-flowing and easy to follow storyline. Some parts seem a bit unrealistic – the dollar amount for the fire damage, for instance, and how Principal Harper can get away with his bias, and then there are the repetitive thoughts, comments, and actions, and Dustin’s easygoing demeanor after 10 years in the pen. But heck, all stories don’t have to be angst-ridden or over-the-top realistic, do they? Corey and Dustin make each other happy, seem to bring out the best in one another, and found a way to solve their respective problems. Oh, and Clark got what he had coming to him. And for readers who want love but are timid about too many PDAs, this book would suit that audience well.
January 29, 2017
*~~*ARC kindly provided by the author to me in exchange for an honest review *~~*
The book contains a lot of unexected behaviour of the character, not sure yet if I'm happy with. The first thing I am a bit confused is the fact that Corey is teaching in a prison. The plot is built on this but it is only the beginning of the book which takes place there. Also the accusation of Corey's boss are a bit exaggerated... I am not sure what to do with this character.
Sometimes the main character had a lack of action, they endure things a bit passive and other things are described in a really detailed way, so there is the danger of boring the reader a bit. I didn't find it boring but it was sometimes hard to follow the character's motivs..
Also did the book contains a low steam according the sexual tension. There is a spark between the two, Corey and Dustin, but it could be better displayed. All in all it could have been more tension between the character. I am also a bit disappointed we saw more about the whole issue with Dustin's exboyfriend than to focus on the relationship between Corey and Dustin. A lot of potential was wasted a bit... A pity...
All in all though I was entertained and it was a good book with a solid way of writing and Jason Colins is really good in creating a story you can follow. If he avoid a few of the named things the books improve, I'm for sure and I realy hope the next books will show this. :)
I give it 4 out of 5 stars because of a solid writing and a thrilling plot.
Review originally posted on my blog with added content Mikku-chan / A world full of words
The book contains a lot of unexected behaviour of the character, not sure yet if I'm happy with. The first thing I am a bit confused is the fact that Corey is teaching in a prison. The plot is built on this but it is only the beginning of the book which takes place there. Also the accusation of Corey's boss are a bit exaggerated... I am not sure what to do with this character.
Sometimes the main character had a lack of action, they endure things a bit passive and other things are described in a really detailed way, so there is the danger of boring the reader a bit. I didn't find it boring but it was sometimes hard to follow the character's motivs..
Also did the book contains a low steam according the sexual tension. There is a spark between the two, Corey and Dustin, but it could be better displayed. All in all it could have been more tension between the character. I am also a bit disappointed we saw more about the whole issue with Dustin's exboyfriend than to focus on the relationship between Corey and Dustin. A lot of potential was wasted a bit... A pity...
All in all though I was entertained and it was a good book with a solid way of writing and Jason Colins is really good in creating a story you can follow. If he avoid a few of the named things the books improve, I'm for sure and I realy hope the next books will show this. :)
I give it 4 out of 5 stars because of a solid writing and a thrilling plot.
Review originally posted on my blog with added content Mikku-chan / A world full of words
February 7, 2017
Wow..okay so I like Mr Collins books and this is another great one. Corey is offered a summer job at the prison to teach GED classes for parolees for a little extra money. The though of actually walking into a prison scares him. But as he knows there is one inmate who's due to do released in two days for a crime he didn't commit. Corey sees pictures of him from news reports but nothing prepares him for actual meeting him.
Dustin has just spent 10 years behind bars and was getting out in two days. Once out he makes contact with his teacher I'm hope to further his studies or that's the reason he tells Corey. Getting to know him might be on the agenda but things get dicey when Dustin's ex turns up and things are set in turn putting them in danger. What will happen.. This is a fantastic book, lol I loved Dustin's mum she's a cool mum. I loved the ending of this. A awesome story for your library..
Dustin has just spent 10 years behind bars and was getting out in two days. Once out he makes contact with his teacher I'm hope to further his studies or that's the reason he tells Corey. Getting to know him might be on the agenda but things get dicey when Dustin's ex turns up and things are set in turn putting them in danger. What will happen.. This is a fantastic book, lol I loved Dustin's mum she's a cool mum. I loved the ending of this. A awesome story for your library..
January 21, 2017
Okay, let's see if I can explain how I felt about this book. I started out really liking it - the characters were great, the chemistry between them was hot, the storyline was good (if at times a little unbelievable - to think that a convict could go ten years in prison without anything sexual happening is just....yeah, not realistic) but then it took a turn that put a bad taste in my mouth. I don't want to give too much away but the MCs were good decent people and crime is crime no matter who you're committing it against or for what reason. It just didn't sit well with me. But other than that I liked the book
January 15, 2017
Good but...
The writting style was good and the story had some great surprises. It was a little light on the romance. If you like your m/m more of a thriller than erotic this would be your book. The cover and 1st chapter give the impression of sex but the book stays pretty pg. With that in mind the story is sound and enjoyable.
The writting style was good and the story had some great surprises. It was a little light on the romance. If you like your m/m more of a thriller than erotic this would be your book. The cover and 1st chapter give the impression of sex but the book stays pretty pg. With that in mind the story is sound and enjoyable.
January 31, 2017
I really enjoyed this book. This was my first book by Jason and won't be my last. I loved reading Corey and Dustin's story. I read this book in one sitting, I was hooked from the very first chapter. This book is a must read!
May 14, 2017
3.5/5 - this book had that staged feeling, but all in all, it was an okay read.
There were so many points in this book that made me want to pull my hair out. Not because of the writing, but because of one or both of the MC's being stupid. The plot was a little far fetched, but I've been in such a book funk that I think I was just past the point of caring. The characters make it worth holding back the eyeroll anyway.
Corey Elliot, not my favorite of the two, but he was still a good character. Despite it not really being his responsibility, he decided to go the extra mile to help Dustin out with his GED prep. I loved that Corey was unapolagetically himself. He didn't take crap from anyone, including his boss or Dustin's famous ex-boyfriend. He didn't judge Dustin for his past or the decisions he chose to make and instead puts his pride aside and takes a leap of faith.
Dustin, now there's a man after my heart. I have a real soft spot for momma's boys, especially when they're willing to go through the hardships to help their family. Dustin kinda takes that to a whole new level, though. Going to jail to save your momma's house isn't really what I think about when I say that. Besides being a complete sweetheart to his mom, Dustin was literal marshmallow goo on the inside. Instead of telling Corey that he likes him and would like to go on a date with him, he asks for extra help with GED studying and invites him over for dinner. He was shy in the cutest way possible. And Dustin's mom, yep, best mom of the year award right there. Can I just join this family?
All in all, the book wasn't particularly suspenseful. It had that kind of plot that you know is going to end with an HEA, so despite the attempt at making it suspenseful it just doesn't really read that way. Nevertheless, it was worth the read. I'd recommend it solely for Dustin's marshmallow-ey cuteness.
Reviewed by Jordan at Alpha Book Club.
Disclaimer: This book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed herein are my own and not influenced by the author or the publisher in any way.
There were so many points in this book that made me want to pull my hair out. Not because of the writing, but because of one or both of the MC's being stupid. The plot was a little far fetched, but I've been in such a book funk that I think I was just past the point of caring. The characters make it worth holding back the eyeroll anyway.
Corey Elliot, not my favorite of the two, but he was still a good character. Despite it not really being his responsibility, he decided to go the extra mile to help Dustin out with his GED prep. I loved that Corey was unapolagetically himself. He didn't take crap from anyone, including his boss or Dustin's famous ex-boyfriend. He didn't judge Dustin for his past or the decisions he chose to make and instead puts his pride aside and takes a leap of faith.
Dustin, now there's a man after my heart. I have a real soft spot for momma's boys, especially when they're willing to go through the hardships to help their family. Dustin kinda takes that to a whole new level, though. Going to jail to save your momma's house isn't really what I think about when I say that. Besides being a complete sweetheart to his mom, Dustin was literal marshmallow goo on the inside. Instead of telling Corey that he likes him and would like to go on a date with him, he asks for extra help with GED studying and invites him over for dinner. He was shy in the cutest way possible. And Dustin's mom, yep, best mom of the year award right there. Can I just join this family?
All in all, the book wasn't particularly suspenseful. It had that kind of plot that you know is going to end with an HEA, so despite the attempt at making it suspenseful it just doesn't really read that way. Nevertheless, it was worth the read. I'd recommend it solely for Dustin's marshmallow-ey cuteness.
Reviewed by Jordan at Alpha Book Club.
Disclaimer: This book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed herein are my own and not influenced by the author or the publisher in any way.
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June 9, 2017hope to pick back up later
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