What do you think?
Rate this book
The Real Thing
2nd Edition
Bryan Mills has fantasized about cowboys all his life. Real cowboys, that is. He even dresses in what his roommate calls “cowboy drag” when he visits his favorite bar, in the hope of attracting the attentions of a genuine cowboy. But all he usually finds are posers and guys his own age.
Then one night, to his surprise, Curtis Hansen buys him a beer, and Bryan has no doubt this is the real thing. Curtis is a rugged, gorgeous man who is every bit a cowboy. He even owns his own ranch. What follows is about the most amazing night of Bryan’s young life.
But can they move beyond a night of incredible sex when Bryan admits to Curtis that the only horse he’s ever ridden was a birthday party pony? And that he’s nothing but a poser himself? Maybe, just maybe, Curtis can find the real cowboy inside Bryan, and they can ride off into the sunset together!
First Edition published as The Real Thing in Riding Double by Dreamspinner Press, 2011.
Bryan Mills has fantasized about cowboys all his life. Real cowboys, that is. He even dresses in what his roommate calls “cowboy drag” when he visits his favorite bar, in the hope of attracting the attentions of a genuine cowboy. But all he usually finds are posers and guys his own age.
Then one night, to his surprise, Curtis Hansen buys him a beer, and Bryan has no doubt this is the real thing. Curtis is a rugged, gorgeous man who is every bit a cowboy. He even owns his own ranch. What follows is about the most amazing night of Bryan’s young life.
But can they move beyond a night of incredible sex when Bryan admits to Curtis that the only horse he’s ever ridden was a birthday party pony? And that he’s nothing but a poser himself? Maybe, just maybe, Curtis can find the real cowboy inside Bryan, and they can ride off into the sunset together!
First Edition published as The Real Thing in Riding Double by Dreamspinner Press, 2011.
52 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 1, 2017
4 people are currently reading
57 people want to read
About the author
B.G. Thomas
77 books239 followersB.G. Thomas lives in Kansas City with his husband for nearly fifteen years and was legally married in 2014. Ehey have a fabulous little dog, Sarah Jane. He sees his wonderful daughter just often enough to miss her when she isn't there! He has a romantic soul and is extraordinarily lucky to have many friends.
He loves science fiction & fantasy, horror, romance and more, has gone to SF&F conventions his entire adult life, and been lucky enough to meet many of his favorite writers. He is a “Star Trek” and Joss Whedon fan from way back!
He has written all his life, it is where he finds his joy. In the 90’s, he wrote for gay magazines, but stopped because they wanted him to cut out story and romance, and write only sex.
Then through a few friends, he discovered the growing market of M/M Romance and was thrilled beyond words. FINALLY, a way to write the stories he always wanted to write. Adventure, romantic comedy, science fiction, and more, but with gay characters. And he wouldn't have to fade to black! People wanted to read the erotic as well. Plot and sex! HURRAY!
B.G. Thomas very much believes in The Law of Attraction and that "thoughts become things." A lot of things all started happening at once. He heard the words, "Leap, and the net will appear," and something re-kindled inside. He sent out a story and was thrilled when it was almost immediately accepted.
He believes that we are divine expressions of the Universe, each and everyone. "It is never too late!,” he states. “Pursue your dreams! They will come true!"
He loves science fiction & fantasy, horror, romance and more, has gone to SF&F conventions his entire adult life, and been lucky enough to meet many of his favorite writers. He is a “Star Trek” and Joss Whedon fan from way back!
He has written all his life, it is where he finds his joy. In the 90’s, he wrote for gay magazines, but stopped because they wanted him to cut out story and romance, and write only sex.
Then through a few friends, he discovered the growing market of M/M Romance and was thrilled beyond words. FINALLY, a way to write the stories he always wanted to write. Adventure, romantic comedy, science fiction, and more, but with gay characters. And he wouldn't have to fade to black! People wanted to read the erotic as well. Plot and sex! HURRAY!
B.G. Thomas very much believes in The Law of Attraction and that "thoughts become things." A lot of things all started happening at once. He heard the words, "Leap, and the net will appear," and something re-kindled inside. He sent out a story and was thrilled when it was almost immediately accepted.
He believes that we are divine expressions of the Universe, each and everyone. "It is never too late!,” he states. “Pursue your dreams! They will come true!"
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
March 8, 2017
Fantasies can be fun, but they can also get out of hand. Bryan is a case in point – he has always loved cowboys, wants nothing more than a cowboy of his own to love, but the way he goes about attracting them may not be ideal… By dressing up to seem like one himself, he ends up in trouble when he meets “the real thing” and has to admit that he was only pretending. I felt for Bryan –he is so honest and open and needy in what he is looking for, chasing after his dream, yet it seems as if he will never succeed.
When Bryan meets Curtis, they hit it off. But after having had a very good time, Bryan knows it is time for the truth – risks and all. He is courageous enough to tell Curtis that he was only pretending, and the risk – in Bryan’s mind – is considerable. His emotions jumped off the page and I was rooting for him to find what he hoped for.
Curtis is, from the sound of it, a lonely guy. He has been disappointed by a lover before, but he is interested enough in Bryan to give things a try. Curtis proves that you don’t always have to be cut from the same cloth to be a match – but it help if you have the same interests.
If you want to read about a dream come true for a really nice guy, if you enjoy stories full of emotion and with possible heartbreak around every corner, and if you’re looking for a read full of angst, warmth, and some beautiful loving, then you will probably like this short story as much as I do. My only regret is that it’s so short – yet again, they do say that good things come in small packages. And I think that this story is a great thing!
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
When Bryan meets Curtis, they hit it off. But after having had a very good time, Bryan knows it is time for the truth – risks and all. He is courageous enough to tell Curtis that he was only pretending, and the risk – in Bryan’s mind – is considerable. His emotions jumped off the page and I was rooting for him to find what he hoped for.
Curtis is, from the sound of it, a lonely guy. He has been disappointed by a lover before, but he is interested enough in Bryan to give things a try. Curtis proves that you don’t always have to be cut from the same cloth to be a match – but it help if you have the same interests.
If you want to read about a dream come true for a really nice guy, if you enjoy stories full of emotion and with possible heartbreak around every corner, and if you’re looking for a read full of angst, warmth, and some beautiful loving, then you will probably like this short story as much as I do. My only regret is that it’s so short – yet again, they do say that good things come in small packages. And I think that this story is a great thing!
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
March 16, 2017
3.75 stars
Large age gaps and cowboys aren't usually my thing, but there was something in the blurb that compelled me to read this. And, okay some of the dialogue was kinda cheesy, but there was also just something about this quick read that made me happy. Oddly sweet, I think.
Large age gaps and cowboys aren't usually my thing, but there was something in the blurb that compelled me to read this. And, okay some of the dialogue was kinda cheesy, but there was also just something about this quick read that made me happy. Oddly sweet, I think.
July 28, 2019
Jetzt beim Schreiben des Reviews fällt es mir echt schwer, diese Kurzgeschichte zu “bewerten”. Sie ist nett, schnell erzählt und trotzdem liebenswürdig.
Zu Beginn dachte ich erst, wie naiv Bryan doch ist. Ich war mir nicht sicher, ob er nur ein Träumer oder doch nur ein bisschen naiv ist. Als dann jedoch so “langsam” seine wilden Jugenderlebnisse hochkamen (hier musste ich erstmal richtig herzhaft lachen, habe mich aber gefreut, dass er vernünftiger geworden ist), wurde er für mich greifbarer und seine “Gedanken” für mich verständlicher. Er ist eine ehrliche Haut. Er hat aus der Vergangenheit gelernt, lebt aber dennoch seinen Traum und hofft auf seinen Mr. Right. Als er dann mit Curtis tatsächlich einen Cowboy kennenlernt, muss er für sich klären, ob er bei der Wahrheit bleibt oder in seinem Traum weiterlebt und vielleicht alles verspielt.
Gefühlt nimmt diese eine “erste” Nacht ein viertel des Buches ein. Sie ist heiß, ohne Frage. Wie B.G. Thomas es geschafft hat, in die 54 Seiten (abzüglich der heißen Nacht) all die Informationen, Gefühle und Geschehnisse zu packen, ist mir ein Rätsel, aber er hat es wirklich gut gemacht. Als ich die Geschichte beendet hatte, war mein erster Gedanke “und das war’s jetzt”? Jetzt hier beim Schreiben und Zusammenfassen überlege ich wirklich, ob bzw. was mir gefehlt hat.
Außer der Tiefe, die eine Novelle vielleicht hätte entwickeln können, fällt mir nicht viel ein. Es gibt witzige, aber auch liebevolle Dialoge. Die beiden Männer erleben so einiges miteinander, sie gehen aufeinander zu und erkennen, dass das, was sie haben mehr werden könnte. Bryan darf in einer netten Szene einen seiner Träume ausleben und Curtis lässt in Stück für Stück in sein Leben.
Mir hat dieses Buch die Mittagspause versüßt, auch wenn ich immer noch nicht weiß, wie glücklich ich damit bin, gut unterhalten war ich auf jeden Fall. Viel wichtiger ist allerdings, dass Bryan glücklich ist und das schafft Curtis :-)
Zu Beginn dachte ich erst, wie naiv Bryan doch ist. Ich war mir nicht sicher, ob er nur ein Träumer oder doch nur ein bisschen naiv ist. Als dann jedoch so “langsam” seine wilden Jugenderlebnisse hochkamen (hier musste ich erstmal richtig herzhaft lachen, habe mich aber gefreut, dass er vernünftiger geworden ist), wurde er für mich greifbarer und seine “Gedanken” für mich verständlicher. Er ist eine ehrliche Haut. Er hat aus der Vergangenheit gelernt, lebt aber dennoch seinen Traum und hofft auf seinen Mr. Right. Als er dann mit Curtis tatsächlich einen Cowboy kennenlernt, muss er für sich klären, ob er bei der Wahrheit bleibt oder in seinem Traum weiterlebt und vielleicht alles verspielt.
Gefühlt nimmt diese eine “erste” Nacht ein viertel des Buches ein. Sie ist heiß, ohne Frage. Wie B.G. Thomas es geschafft hat, in die 54 Seiten (abzüglich der heißen Nacht) all die Informationen, Gefühle und Geschehnisse zu packen, ist mir ein Rätsel, aber er hat es wirklich gut gemacht. Als ich die Geschichte beendet hatte, war mein erster Gedanke “und das war’s jetzt”? Jetzt hier beim Schreiben und Zusammenfassen überlege ich wirklich, ob bzw. was mir gefehlt hat.
Außer der Tiefe, die eine Novelle vielleicht hätte entwickeln können, fällt mir nicht viel ein. Es gibt witzige, aber auch liebevolle Dialoge. Die beiden Männer erleben so einiges miteinander, sie gehen aufeinander zu und erkennen, dass das, was sie haben mehr werden könnte. Bryan darf in einer netten Szene einen seiner Träume ausleben und Curtis lässt in Stück für Stück in sein Leben.
Mir hat dieses Buch die Mittagspause versüßt, auch wenn ich immer noch nicht weiß, wie glücklich ich damit bin, gut unterhalten war ich auf jeden Fall. Viel wichtiger ist allerdings, dass Bryan glücklich ist und das schafft Curtis :-)
August 29, 2017
Eine süße Kurzgeschichte, perfekt für zwischendurch geeignet, denn als sie sich endlich finden, sind Bryan und Curtis ein niedliches Pärchen.
Bryan mit seinem Faible für Cowboys, sorgte dabei vor allem anfangs für einige Lacher. Er ist so versessen darauf, sich einen älteren Cowboy zu angeln, weil er mit Männern in seinem Alter überhaupt nichts anfangen kann, dass es einfach nur lustig zu lesen ist. In seiner Naivität und Unsicherheit macht er dabei so einige Fehler, zumindest glaubt er das. Und als Curtis ihn dann schließlich anspricht, kann er sein Glück kaum fassen, dass dieser Traumkerl, der auch noch ein richtiger Rancher ist, sich wirklich für ihn interessiert.
Wer ruhige Romanzen mag, die ohne Drama auskommen, ist hier genau richtig. Ich vergebe zufriedene 4*, eine Leseempfehlung und bedanke mich recht herzlich bei Dreamspinner für das Rezensionsexemplar.
Bryan mit seinem Faible für Cowboys, sorgte dabei vor allem anfangs für einige Lacher. Er ist so versessen darauf, sich einen älteren Cowboy zu angeln, weil er mit Männern in seinem Alter überhaupt nichts anfangen kann, dass es einfach nur lustig zu lesen ist. In seiner Naivität und Unsicherheit macht er dabei so einige Fehler, zumindest glaubt er das. Und als Curtis ihn dann schließlich anspricht, kann er sein Glück kaum fassen, dass dieser Traumkerl, der auch noch ein richtiger Rancher ist, sich wirklich für ihn interessiert.
Wer ruhige Romanzen mag, die ohne Drama auskommen, ist hier genau richtig. Ich vergebe zufriedene 4*, eine Leseempfehlung und bedanke mich recht herzlich bei Dreamspinner für das Rezensionsexemplar.
August 29, 2017
Das Suchen und Finden des Traummannes ist gar nicht so einfach. Jedenfalls nicht für Bryan, denn er hat ein Faible für Cowboys. Deshalb wählt er auch immer ein Cowboy-Outfit, wenn er die einschlägigen Bars besucht. Immer in der Hoffnung, dass ihm sein Ideal eines Tages über den Weg läuft.
Curtis besitzt eine kleine Ranch. Nach seiner letzten gescheiterten Beziehung lebt er allein. Als er Bryan begegnet, hält er den jüngeren Mann zunächst auch für einen Cowboy. Ein Irrtum, wie er schnell feststellt. Das ändert aber nichts an seinem Interesse.
Ein waschechter Cowboy ist die Übersetzung einer Kurzgeschichte, die ursprünglich in einer Anthologie erschienen ist. Und kurz ist sie, geeignet für eine entspannte Lesepause.
Obwohl mir die Idee mit dem Cowboy-Faible gefallen hat, ist der Funke bei dem Paar Bryan und Curtis bei mir leider nicht übergesprungen. Dafür bleibt ihre Story meiner Meinung nach zu oberflächlich.
Die Story erhält von mir 4 Sterne und eine Leseempfehlung.
Mein Dank geht an Dreamspinner Press für das erhaltene Rezensionsexemplar.
Curtis besitzt eine kleine Ranch. Nach seiner letzten gescheiterten Beziehung lebt er allein. Als er Bryan begegnet, hält er den jüngeren Mann zunächst auch für einen Cowboy. Ein Irrtum, wie er schnell feststellt. Das ändert aber nichts an seinem Interesse.
Ein waschechter Cowboy ist die Übersetzung einer Kurzgeschichte, die ursprünglich in einer Anthologie erschienen ist. Und kurz ist sie, geeignet für eine entspannte Lesepause.
Obwohl mir die Idee mit dem Cowboy-Faible gefallen hat, ist der Funke bei dem Paar Bryan und Curtis bei mir leider nicht übergesprungen. Dafür bleibt ihre Story meiner Meinung nach zu oberflächlich.
Die Story erhält von mir 4 Sterne und eine Leseempfehlung.
Mein Dank geht an Dreamspinner Press für das erhaltene Rezensionsexemplar.
February 28, 2017
I read the 2nd edition of this book.
This was a little too short for my taste at only about 40 pages.
Bryan Mills has a thing for older men who are also cowboys. He likes to dress up as a cowboy too, thinking that looking the part might get him an in with the kind of man he desires.
So while he's out pretending to be a cowboy, he meets an actual, take-charge cowboy. Curtis Hansen is everything Bryan wants in a man, and they spend a hot night together.
Bryan is head over heels for Curtis, but also realizes that hemay have given gave the wrong impression with how he dressed and presented himself.
The rest of the book basically deals with Bryan trying to figure out how to set the record straight and keep his cowboy despite his misrepresentations, and waiting for his cowboy to call him again.
Unfortunately, the book is too short to really delve deeply enough into the developing relationship. I felt as if Bryan was glamorizing and almost fetishizing Curtis, who deserved better than that. I also had a hard time believing there was an actual spark between the two men, because Bryan misrepresented himself for a while and deceived Curtis, and while Bryan does come clean, the whole thing left me with a bad taste in my mouth. I felt too much insta-love and awe from Bryan versus a strong emotional connection.
The writing is typical B.G. Thomas - a little breathless, but descriptive without being flowery, and as always evoking specific emotions. I do adore this rather unique writing style, and it's something I tend to look for in his books.
I liked this book well enough - it just didn't bowl me over, and that was due to lack of length and depth. This author's strength lies in writing the longer books, the ones that take their time to develop the relationship and the characters.
** I received a free copy of this book from its publisher. A positive review was not promised in return. **
This was a little too short for my taste at only about 40 pages.
Bryan Mills has a thing for older men who are also cowboys. He likes to dress up as a cowboy too, thinking that looking the part might get him an in with the kind of man he desires.
So while he's out pretending to be a cowboy, he meets an actual, take-charge cowboy. Curtis Hansen is everything Bryan wants in a man, and they spend a hot night together.
Bryan is head over heels for Curtis, but also realizes that he
The rest of the book basically deals with Bryan trying to figure out how to set the record straight and keep his cowboy despite his misrepresentations, and waiting for his cowboy to call him again.
Unfortunately, the book is too short to really delve deeply enough into the developing relationship. I felt as if Bryan was glamorizing and almost fetishizing Curtis, who deserved better than that. I also had a hard time believing there was an actual spark between the two men, because Bryan misrepresented himself for a while and deceived Curtis, and while Bryan does come clean, the whole thing left me with a bad taste in my mouth. I felt too much insta-love and awe from Bryan versus a strong emotional connection.
The writing is typical B.G. Thomas - a little breathless, but descriptive without being flowery, and as always evoking specific emotions. I do adore this rather unique writing style, and it's something I tend to look for in his books.
I liked this book well enough - it just didn't bowl me over, and that was due to lack of length and depth. This author's strength lies in writing the longer books, the ones that take their time to develop the relationship and the characters.
** I received a free copy of this book from its publisher. A positive review was not promised in return. **
August 29, 2017
Darum geht's:
Bryan hat schon mitbekommen, dass die echten Cowboys nur Verachtung und Spott für Männer übrig haben, die sich mit Glitzerjeans und roten Stiefeln "kostümieren". Also perfektioniert Bryan sein Erscheinungsbild, um den - natürlich falschen - Eindruck zu erwecken, er würde wirklich auf einer Farm arbeiten. Und dann macht er sich auf in seine Lieblingsbar, um seinen Traum wahrzumachen und sich einen echten Cowboy zu angeln.
So fand ich's:
Bryan steht auf ältere Männer und am liebsten möchte er einen Cowboy haben. Dafür legt er sich eine Fassade zu, die seiner Meinung nach einen Cowboy anziehen müsste. Und tatsächlich klappt es, denn sein Traummann wird auf ihn aufmerksam. Curtis hat eine kleine Farm, die aber weniger romantische Ausflüge ins Heu bedeutet als viel harte Arbeit. Doch Bryan schreckt das nicht ab und so muss er irgendwann Farbe bekennen und gestehen, dass er eigentlich keine Ahnung von Farmarbeit hat.
Diese Kurzgeschichte hat nur etwas mehr als 50 Seiten und kann daher nie so in die Tiefe der Charaktere gehen wie ein Roman. Aber sowohl Bryan, aus dessen Sicht erzählt wird, als auch Curtis wirken wunderbar sympathisch und bodenständig und passen auch gut zusammen. Deshalb gibt es auch keine weltbewegenden Dramen, sondern eine Kennenlerngeschichte, die zielstrebig auf das Happy Ende hinarbeitet. Sie ist schön zu lesen und zaubert einem ein Lächeln ins Gesicht.
Bryan hat schon mitbekommen, dass die echten Cowboys nur Verachtung und Spott für Männer übrig haben, die sich mit Glitzerjeans und roten Stiefeln "kostümieren". Also perfektioniert Bryan sein Erscheinungsbild, um den - natürlich falschen - Eindruck zu erwecken, er würde wirklich auf einer Farm arbeiten. Und dann macht er sich auf in seine Lieblingsbar, um seinen Traum wahrzumachen und sich einen echten Cowboy zu angeln.
So fand ich's:
Bryan steht auf ältere Männer und am liebsten möchte er einen Cowboy haben. Dafür legt er sich eine Fassade zu, die seiner Meinung nach einen Cowboy anziehen müsste. Und tatsächlich klappt es, denn sein Traummann wird auf ihn aufmerksam. Curtis hat eine kleine Farm, die aber weniger romantische Ausflüge ins Heu bedeutet als viel harte Arbeit. Doch Bryan schreckt das nicht ab und so muss er irgendwann Farbe bekennen und gestehen, dass er eigentlich keine Ahnung von Farmarbeit hat.
Diese Kurzgeschichte hat nur etwas mehr als 50 Seiten und kann daher nie so in die Tiefe der Charaktere gehen wie ein Roman. Aber sowohl Bryan, aus dessen Sicht erzählt wird, als auch Curtis wirken wunderbar sympathisch und bodenständig und passen auch gut zusammen. Deshalb gibt es auch keine weltbewegenden Dramen, sondern eine Kennenlerngeschichte, die zielstrebig auf das Happy Ende hinarbeitet. Sie ist schön zu lesen und zaubert einem ein Lächeln ins Gesicht.
April 30, 2017
3.5 stars
December 5, 2017
LA RECENSIONE COMPLETA QUI: https://thereadingslove.blogspot.it/2...
Bryan ama il mondo western, lo trova molto affascinante e come sogno nel cassetto ha il desiderio di incontrare un vero cowboy con cui poter intraprendere una relazione. Infatti ogni volta che frequenta il suo locale preferito The Watering Hol, si veste da cowboy, nella speranza di incontrarne uno vero. Ed è proprio durante una di queste sere che incontra Curtis, cowboy e proprietario di un piccolo ranch appena fuori città. Bryan s'invaghisce quasi subito di Curtis, perché non solo è un vero cowboy, ma rispetta anche tutti i canoni che lui vorrebbe in un uomo. Dopo essere usciti dal locale, Bryan porta Curtis nel suo appartamento, dove trascorrono una folle e intensa notte di passione. Bryan è deciso a trattenere Curtis nella sua vita, ma il cowboy sarà d'accordo quando scoprirà che lui ha molti segreti da rivelare? Questa storia racconta l'inizio della relazione tra Bryan e Curtis, infatti il libro è molto corto ed è scritto molto bene in terza persona dal punto di vista di Bryan con uno stile pulito, dettagliato e diretto. La lettura è scorrevole, grazie anche agli spazi lasciati tra un paragrafo e l'altro per cambiare situazione o argomento. I due protagonisti mi sono piaciuti molto, anche se ho preferito Curtis per il suo modo di essere e per i suoi modi di fare, ma ci sono anche tante altre cose che avrei voluto sapere...
CONTINUA SUL NOSTRO BLOG. VENITE A TROVARCI
https://thereadingslove.blogspot.it/
Bryan ama il mondo western, lo trova molto affascinante e come sogno nel cassetto ha il desiderio di incontrare un vero cowboy con cui poter intraprendere una relazione. Infatti ogni volta che frequenta il suo locale preferito The Watering Hol, si veste da cowboy, nella speranza di incontrarne uno vero. Ed è proprio durante una di queste sere che incontra Curtis, cowboy e proprietario di un piccolo ranch appena fuori città. Bryan s'invaghisce quasi subito di Curtis, perché non solo è un vero cowboy, ma rispetta anche tutti i canoni che lui vorrebbe in un uomo. Dopo essere usciti dal locale, Bryan porta Curtis nel suo appartamento, dove trascorrono una folle e intensa notte di passione. Bryan è deciso a trattenere Curtis nella sua vita, ma il cowboy sarà d'accordo quando scoprirà che lui ha molti segreti da rivelare? Questa storia racconta l'inizio della relazione tra Bryan e Curtis, infatti il libro è molto corto ed è scritto molto bene in terza persona dal punto di vista di Bryan con uno stile pulito, dettagliato e diretto. La lettura è scorrevole, grazie anche agli spazi lasciati tra un paragrafo e l'altro per cambiare situazione o argomento. I due protagonisti mi sono piaciuti molto, anche se ho preferito Curtis per il suo modo di essere e per i suoi modi di fare, ma ci sono anche tante altre cose che avrei voluto sapere...
CONTINUA SUL NOSTRO BLOG. VENITE A TROVARCI
https://thereadingslove.blogspot.it/
July 23, 2017
This is the second edition of this book and very short, just a mere 60 pages or so, quick read. I enjoyed it, though I would have liked a bit more. The plot was good as I haven't read many cowboy books and I wanted to give it a try. The writing is good and I was just really starting to enjoy them and get attached to them, then it was over before I knew it. I do love me a good May/December romance that is M/M, my favorite genre.
Curtis is everything Bryan wants. A real life cowboy. He has loved cowboys and wanted to be one since he was a young child. Curtis is the real deal. Bryan has always had a thing for them. He dresses in his best-dressed clothes and snakeskin boots and heads to the Watering Hole. When he gets there he sees two distinguished men. Cowboys, however, he overhears a conversation and quickly changes his attire.
When they see each other a second time, there is no holding either one back from a great time. With that encouragement, they are supposed to see each other again. Much to Bryan’s happiness, he gets invited to Curtis ranch. Then a bit of drama and some miscommunication or lack of communication.
Like I said I liked it I just wanted to spend a little more time with them, though I did really like it. I would have rated this a 4-star book if it was just a little bit longer.
Curtis is everything Bryan wants. A real life cowboy. He has loved cowboys and wanted to be one since he was a young child. Curtis is the real deal. Bryan has always had a thing for them. He dresses in his best-dressed clothes and snakeskin boots and heads to the Watering Hole. When he gets there he sees two distinguished men. Cowboys, however, he overhears a conversation and quickly changes his attire.
When they see each other a second time, there is no holding either one back from a great time. With that encouragement, they are supposed to see each other again. Much to Bryan’s happiness, he gets invited to Curtis ranch. Then a bit of drama and some miscommunication or lack of communication.
Like I said I liked it I just wanted to spend a little more time with them, though I did really like it. I would have rated this a 4-star book if it was just a little bit longer.
May 14, 2022
Lettura carina e scorrevole ma un pò deludente sul finale che mi ha lasciato a bocca aperta.
February 20, 2017
Read an ARC, review to come
April 19, 2020
Recensione pubblicata su Cronache di Betelgeuse
Curtis e Bryan sono due persone completamente diverse. Il primo è molto concreto e deciso nella vita, il secondo invece adora sognare ad occhi aperti e spesso la realtà non coincide con quello che vuole.
Nessuno dei due mi ha colpito particolarmente come personalità, forse perché sono troppo stereotipati. Curtis è il classico cowboy deluso dagli altri, chiuso in sé stesso. Appena vede Bryan sembra che capisca subito che siano fatti l’uno per l’altro, ignorando le bugie su cui si basa l’inizio della loro relazione. Da un lato vorrebbe rimanere solo per non soffrire di nuovo, dall’altro invece desidera avere qualcuno con cui condividere la sua vita.
Peccato che Bryan non sembra proprio la persona giusta per lui, considerando che ha idealizzato così tanto la figura del cowboy che pur di stare al fianco di Curtis sarebbe disposto a qualunque cosa. Non trovo corretto da parte sua tutti i sotterfugi che crea pur di veder realizzata la sua fantasia. Così come il senso di colpa per aver mentito non deve stupirlo più di tanto, visto che è la premessa del primo capitolo.
La relazione tra i due non mi suscita niente di tenero e speciale. Sembrano solo due persone che si sono incontrate e che, siccome si sento molto sole e deluse dagli altri, si sentono confortate da aver accanto qualcuno di decente.
Curtis e Bryan sono due persone completamente diverse. Il primo è molto concreto e deciso nella vita, il secondo invece adora sognare ad occhi aperti e spesso la realtà non coincide con quello che vuole.
Nessuno dei due mi ha colpito particolarmente come personalità, forse perché sono troppo stereotipati. Curtis è il classico cowboy deluso dagli altri, chiuso in sé stesso. Appena vede Bryan sembra che capisca subito che siano fatti l’uno per l’altro, ignorando le bugie su cui si basa l’inizio della loro relazione. Da un lato vorrebbe rimanere solo per non soffrire di nuovo, dall’altro invece desidera avere qualcuno con cui condividere la sua vita.
Peccato che Bryan non sembra proprio la persona giusta per lui, considerando che ha idealizzato così tanto la figura del cowboy che pur di stare al fianco di Curtis sarebbe disposto a qualunque cosa. Non trovo corretto da parte sua tutti i sotterfugi che crea pur di veder realizzata la sua fantasia. Così come il senso di colpa per aver mentito non deve stupirlo più di tanto, visto che è la premessa del primo capitolo.
La relazione tra i due non mi suscita niente di tenero e speciale. Sembrano solo due persone che si sono incontrate e che, siccome si sento molto sole e deluse dagli altri, si sentono confortate da aver accanto qualcuno di decente.
January 26, 2018
buon romanzo,piacevole lettura ma troppo breve per un giudizio equo.
July 16, 2018
The Real Thing by author B.G. Thomas is a cute fast paced read. Bryan wants an older cowboy to notice him. Granted Bryan is 20 and not a cowboy. But at the bar this one older cowboy got his attention. He wants to be wanted by him. Taking some mental notes he sets off to make his fantasy come true.
Curtis picks up Bryan because he looks young. But the real deal as well. When he finds out Bryan isn’t a real cowboy Curtis has to decide if having a real cowboy is more important than the man he has in his arms.
I liked this one a lot. It is about having a dream going for it and trying to make it work. I like that Bryan knows who he is and what he wants. Curtis even learns a new trick or two from him.
This story is a cute romance that really was sweet to read.
Four Twinkling Stars
Curtis picks up Bryan because he looks young. But the real deal as well. When he finds out Bryan isn’t a real cowboy Curtis has to decide if having a real cowboy is more important than the man he has in his arms.
I liked this one a lot. It is about having a dream going for it and trying to make it work. I like that Bryan knows who he is and what he wants. Curtis even learns a new trick or two from him.
This story is a cute romance that really was sweet to read.
Four Twinkling Stars
Read
May 7, 2022Une petite chose qui rêve de trouver un daddy cowboy qui le chevauchera et l'emmènera dans son ranch...
Un cowboy fougueux qui aime s'envoyer des minets le week-end, après une semaine à travailler dans son ranch ou vivent ses parents (et à qui il n'est d'ailleurs pas fichu de faire son coming out).
Des fois, quand un auteur sait manier le quarante douzième degré, ça peut être amusant d'aller à fond dans la caricature ... sauf que là, on est dans le premier degré et donc dans le cliché, le summum étant atteint dans la grande scène où le minet chevauche un étalon (un cheval hein, pas le cowboy) tout nu, sous les yeux énamourés de son propriétaire (du cheval... quoique...).
Un titre de moins dans ma PAL. Next.
Un cowboy fougueux qui aime s'envoyer des minets le week-end, après une semaine à travailler dans son ranch ou vivent ses parents (et à qui il n'est d'ailleurs pas fichu de faire son coming out).
Des fois, quand un auteur sait manier le quarante douzième degré, ça peut être amusant d'aller à fond dans la caricature ... sauf que là, on est dans le premier degré et donc dans le cliché, le summum étant atteint dans la grande scène où le minet chevauche un étalon (un cheval hein, pas le cowboy) tout nu, sous les yeux énamourés de son propriétaire (du cheval... quoique...).
Un titre de moins dans ma PAL. Next.
March 20, 2019
I LOVE BG Thomas's books, and I like his writing style, and the authenticity of his books. That being said, I did not Love this book. It was OK, but I did not feel the connection. I think if the book was longer it would have been better, with more characterization, but the book was too short to pack a punch. Still, it was a nice read.
May 20, 2017
Aww, a cute short cowboy story, sweet with lots of 'little colt' and 'little cowboy' endearments. I even learned about Dexters!
August 4, 2017
1,5 stars
September 14, 2017
chouette histoire dommage que ce soit si court
Read
February 20, 2021read as part of anthology.
June 13, 2021
Raccontino senza nulla di interessante.
March 26, 2017
"The Real Thing" is a very satisfying short read with a wonderful cute meet and perfect scenes that pull then men apart and put them back together again working towards just the right ending.
You can read the entire review at http://www.jeffandwill.com/2017/03/26...
You can read the entire review at http://www.jeffandwill.com/2017/03/26...
March 2, 2017
Book & Author: The Real Thing by B.G. Thomas
Rating: 2.75 stars
As much as I wanted to have another cowboy story to add to the list of ones that I loved, this one did not hit the spot for me. Overall the writing was really good and the characters developed as much as expected for a short story. Curtis was sweet and Bryan young and a bit naive.
But there were things about it that bothered me. Although, we know going in that Bryan Mills has a thing for cowboys the way the author writes about it turns it into more of a fetish then a love of the look. Things like Bryan mentioning jobs that are “masculine” or the other “real” cowboys Bryan overheard talking said the group of young guys that were in the bar dressed as cowboys they “...look like a bunch of ballerinas, prancing around like that,” or when Bryan heard this he looked at those guys dancing and thought “...the way they were moving wasn’t the most masculine thing…” And this all because those guys were dressed in nice jeans and shiny boots. The author scripted this as though only real cowboys wear work rough jeans and scuffed boots and of course don’t own nice clothes.
The fetishizing and stereotyping was throughout the whole story and gave me this ick feeling no matter how much I tried to shake it off. And because there was so much of that feeling coming from Bryan any feelings he may have developed for Curtis seemed false. It’s all told from his POV so we don’t get to see any of Curtis’s motivations or how he feels when he found out he was deceived I had hoped that those things were being used to show an evolution of thought for Bryan; but unfortunately that was not the case.
This is a new to me author so maybe this wasn’t typical, which I hope is the case, since the writing as a whole was actually very good just the story fell flat for me and made me feel insulted on behalf of cowboys and the more effeminate gay men.
*I received a copy of this book through http://diversereader.blogspot.com/*
Rating: 2.75 stars
As much as I wanted to have another cowboy story to add to the list of ones that I loved, this one did not hit the spot for me. Overall the writing was really good and the characters developed as much as expected for a short story. Curtis was sweet and Bryan young and a bit naive.
But there were things about it that bothered me. Although, we know going in that Bryan Mills has a thing for cowboys the way the author writes about it turns it into more of a fetish then a love of the look. Things like Bryan mentioning jobs that are “masculine” or the other “real” cowboys Bryan overheard talking said the group of young guys that were in the bar dressed as cowboys they “...look like a bunch of ballerinas, prancing around like that,” or when Bryan heard this he looked at those guys dancing and thought “...the way they were moving wasn’t the most masculine thing…” And this all because those guys were dressed in nice jeans and shiny boots. The author scripted this as though only real cowboys wear work rough jeans and scuffed boots and of course don’t own nice clothes.
The fetishizing and stereotyping was throughout the whole story and gave me this ick feeling no matter how much I tried to shake it off. And because there was so much of that feeling coming from Bryan any feelings he may have developed for Curtis seemed false. It’s all told from his POV so we don’t get to see any of Curtis’s motivations or how he feels when he found out he was deceived I had hoped that those things were being used to show an evolution of thought for Bryan; but unfortunately that was not the case.
This is a new to me author so maybe this wasn’t typical, which I hope is the case, since the writing as a whole was actually very good just the story fell flat for me and made me feel insulted on behalf of cowboys and the more effeminate gay men.
*I received a copy of this book through http://diversereader.blogspot.com/*
March 19, 2017
3.5 stars
February 28, 2017
What a great short story about dreams coming true.
Bryan has dreams and hooes that one day the of meeting an older cowboy that is not fake and is truly a cowboy will come true.
Thus far that has not happened but he has not given up hope. After graduating high school Bryan went a little wild until an unfortunate incident that changed it all and made Bryan realize that he was not going to settle any longer for less then what he truly wants.
One night his dream of finding that perfect person for him just may come true when an older cowboy named Curtis takes an interest in Bryan. At first Bryan is overwhelmed but he was not going to pass up the chance to get to know and possibly even more with a man that he admired from afar in the past.
As the night continues and both Curtis and Bryan get to know one another better they decide to continue their night togther at Bryan's apartment.
The chemistry between these two men is off the charts and they truly enjoy one another's company. Bryan begins to think that his dreams are finally coming true when Curtis invites him to spend the the next weekend at his ranch with him. Bryan is both excited and terrified because he has yet to own up to Curtis that he is not a real cowboy but was only dressing as one. Even though Bryan dreams of one day being a real cowboy he may lose his chance with the real cowboy of his dreams when he tells the truth.
Will Curtis forgive Bryan's lie by omission or will he leave and never talk to him again?
This was a sweet story about having a dream and making that dream a reality. It is also a story about being true to yourself about who you are and to the one you want to spend your time with. This is a feel good read that I really enjoyed.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
Bryan has dreams and hooes that one day the of meeting an older cowboy that is not fake and is truly a cowboy will come true.
Thus far that has not happened but he has not given up hope. After graduating high school Bryan went a little wild until an unfortunate incident that changed it all and made Bryan realize that he was not going to settle any longer for less then what he truly wants.
One night his dream of finding that perfect person for him just may come true when an older cowboy named Curtis takes an interest in Bryan. At first Bryan is overwhelmed but he was not going to pass up the chance to get to know and possibly even more with a man that he admired from afar in the past.
As the night continues and both Curtis and Bryan get to know one another better they decide to continue their night togther at Bryan's apartment.
The chemistry between these two men is off the charts and they truly enjoy one another's company. Bryan begins to think that his dreams are finally coming true when Curtis invites him to spend the the next weekend at his ranch with him. Bryan is both excited and terrified because he has yet to own up to Curtis that he is not a real cowboy but was only dressing as one. Even though Bryan dreams of one day being a real cowboy he may lose his chance with the real cowboy of his dreams when he tells the truth.
Will Curtis forgive Bryan's lie by omission or will he leave and never talk to him again?
This was a sweet story about having a dream and making that dream a reality. It is also a story about being true to yourself about who you are and to the one you want to spend your time with. This is a feel good read that I really enjoyed.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
March 1, 2017
This was a super fast read. Bryan is a sweet ball of energy, a great contrast to his roommate Thomas. Also now I want to read Thomas' story!
Being in Bryan's mind is a bit exhausting, he wants to be with a real cowboy, but isn't sure he can handle it.
Once he meets Curtis- the real thing- he is sure he will be found out as a wannabe cowboy pretender. The more they get to know each other the more Bryan wants to be a cowboy. A real cowboy that would be a perfect match for Curtis.
I thought Bryan was adorable and brought a sweetness out in Curtis, one that gives them something to build upon. A very sexy romp.
Being in Bryan's mind is a bit exhausting, he wants to be with a real cowboy, but isn't sure he can handle it.
Once he meets Curtis- the real thing- he is sure he will be found out as a wannabe cowboy pretender. The more they get to know each other the more Bryan wants to be a cowboy. A real cowboy that would be a perfect match for Curtis.
I thought Bryan was adorable and brought a sweetness out in Curtis, one that gives them something to build upon. A very sexy romp.
March 2, 2017
Full Review at: https://optimummblog.wordpress.com/20...
The Real Thing by B.G. Thomas was an awesome short story. The way the author has of writing the story constantly had me laughing or fanning myself from the hot scenes. The characters have depth, and the storyline has been fleshed out. I loved the little details and explanations that the author has supplied like why Bryan goes commando and why Curtis has been breeding Dexter cattle and why they’re belted. This is a well-written story and nicely edited.
Bryan has always loved cowboys. Ever since he was little, he’s associated them with masculinity and has done his best to look just like a real cowboy in the hope of hooking up with the real thing. His favorite bar The Watering Hole is his best bet at getting what he wants. He’s looking for an older cowboy to show him the ropes. And he finally gets lucky when Curtis takes an interest in him. Curtis is the real thing and has a ranch and cattle to go with it. He’s looking for a young cowboy to hook up with and possibly more. And he thinks he’s found it in Bryan. After there one night, Bryan comes clean about not being a real cowboy, but he hopes that Curtis will still want to see him again.
The story had me rooting for Bryan and Curtis to get their HEA, and I was so happy that they did. This book has become one of my keepers, and I can’t wait to read more books by B.G. Thomas.
5 OptimuMM's
**** The ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press. My review is an honest opinion of the book ****
The Real Thing by B.G. Thomas was an awesome short story. The way the author has of writing the story constantly had me laughing or fanning myself from the hot scenes. The characters have depth, and the storyline has been fleshed out. I loved the little details and explanations that the author has supplied like why Bryan goes commando and why Curtis has been breeding Dexter cattle and why they’re belted. This is a well-written story and nicely edited.
Bryan has always loved cowboys. Ever since he was little, he’s associated them with masculinity and has done his best to look just like a real cowboy in the hope of hooking up with the real thing. His favorite bar The Watering Hole is his best bet at getting what he wants. He’s looking for an older cowboy to show him the ropes. And he finally gets lucky when Curtis takes an interest in him. Curtis is the real thing and has a ranch and cattle to go with it. He’s looking for a young cowboy to hook up with and possibly more. And he thinks he’s found it in Bryan. After there one night, Bryan comes clean about not being a real cowboy, but he hopes that Curtis will still want to see him again.
The story had me rooting for Bryan and Curtis to get their HEA, and I was so happy that they did. This book has become one of my keepers, and I can’t wait to read more books by B.G. Thomas.
5 OptimuMM's
**** The ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press. My review is an honest opinion of the book ****
February 25, 2017
Bryan likes older men and loves cowboys. He decides to dress the part to get one. He succeeds only to find that his cowboy wants the real thing too. Will his deceit cost him the perfect man for him?
I am a huge BG Thomas fan and I love cowboys. This story didn't let me down. It was short but also fun as in all B G books and also sweet and sexy.
To be so short I felt we really got into both characters and the plot is obvious. Both men looking for that perfect partner. I adored the use of the title in the book as well.
If you like short stories, cowboys, and some hot man-sex you will love this book.
I am a huge BG Thomas fan and I love cowboys. This story didn't let me down. It was short but also fun as in all B G books and also sweet and sexy.
To be so short I felt we really got into both characters and the plot is obvious. Both men looking for that perfect partner. I adored the use of the title in the book as well.
If you like short stories, cowboys, and some hot man-sex you will love this book.
Read
March 6, 2017Read and reviewed for Love Bytes reviews
I only wish it was longer and that some how there will be something more from their future somewhere !
I only wish it was longer and that some how there will be something more from their future somewhere !
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews