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Derek
The end of his marriage leaves Derek Newton hurt and confused, but it also grants him the opportunity to embrace who he really a gay man. While navigating his new life with the help of friends in the local GLBT community, Derek meets Marshall Kenworthy, a man who embodies all his fantasies.
To Derek’s surprise, Marshall is as interested as he is, and they make a date. But a failure to communicate leads to a misunderstanding. The party they attend is not what Derek expected—at all—but Marshall, ever the gentleman, makes sure Derek feels comfortable. As they get to know each other, they see how much they have in common. Derek begins to heal and soon realizes he might thrive in this new chapter of his life—and it just might be with Marshall by his side.
To Derek’s surprise, Marshall is as interested as he is, and they make a date. But a failure to communicate leads to a misunderstanding. The party they attend is not what Derek expected—at all—but Marshall, ever the gentleman, makes sure Derek feels comfortable. As they get to know each other, they see how much they have in common. Derek begins to heal and soon realizes he might thrive in this new chapter of his life—and it just might be with Marshall by his side.
70 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 26, 2014
108 people are currently reading
227 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
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
January 1, 2015
3.5 stars
This was my first B.G. Thomas book, and there was much to like: the writing was quite beautiful, almost ethereal; the men were hairy, buff bears; the ending was a shiny HEA.
This is a novella, so there was not as much character development as I would have liked, but I absolutely adored Marshall. He was a philosopher at heart, and he really brought out the best in Derek, who was newly divorced, out as a gay man for the first time, and thinking the last decade of his life had been a waste.
This story is about moving on, falling in love, embracing life.
Marshall and Derek fall in love at first sight, but I didn't mind that; it felt right. What I did mind was the complete and utter lack of steam.
Thomas states in the author bio that "the sex is never as important as the characters." And I agree. I don't care for porn without plot.
But I think physical love deepens the connection. I felt teased with hairy chest and pink holes and ample cocks, with none of the sex on page.
If you like sweet love stories and don't mind low steam, I do recommend this one. It's a very easy, very engaging read.
This was my first B.G. Thomas book, and there was much to like: the writing was quite beautiful, almost ethereal; the men were hairy, buff bears; the ending was a shiny HEA.
This is a novella, so there was not as much character development as I would have liked, but I absolutely adored Marshall. He was a philosopher at heart, and he really brought out the best in Derek, who was newly divorced, out as a gay man for the first time, and thinking the last decade of his life had been a waste.
This story is about moving on, falling in love, embracing life.
Marshall and Derek fall in love at first sight, but I didn't mind that; it felt right. What I did mind was the complete and utter lack of steam.
Thomas states in the author bio that "the sex is never as important as the characters." And I agree. I don't care for porn without plot.
But I think physical love deepens the connection. I felt teased with hairy chest and pink holes and ample cocks, with none of the sex on page.
If you like sweet love stories and don't mind low steam, I do recommend this one. It's a very easy, very engaging read.
June 26, 2022
This short was a nice expedition into the works of BG Thomas with many characters from different series showing up. It's very sweet and fairy tale like. I definitely enjoyed it!
Read
January 12, 2015A very pretty story...which is the problem. Everything happens a little too easily and everyone is a little too perfect. They're even perfect in their imperfections.
And yet if it weren't for my present mood () I probably would've enjoyed Derek for the exact same reasons.
Whaddya gonna do?
Btw, last time I checked (about 3 minutes ago) this book was still free at Dreamspinner Press.
December 29, 2014
Insta-love with a bit to much angst. This does make me curious about the seasons series.
January 11, 2015
3.75
This is a freebie on the Dreamspinner site. Thanks to the author and to the pub for that because this was a gem.
Thomas has created his only little corner of the world in Kansas City where he tells his stories and I’ve gotten to know a few of his characters and locations over many of his books that I’ve read. This story touches base with quite a few of these characters and while we got to see where they’re at they’re firmly in the background, and I didn’t feel that they overwhelmed the main characters who had a lovely story of their own to tell.
The concept talked about here between Derek and Marshall I really found to be a beautiful one. Simple and it seems obvious but it’s really not. I really enjoyed these two men and their developing relationship. I found it funny and sexy but with a sharply emotional undertone. Just a great little read.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
This is a freebie on the Dreamspinner site. Thanks to the author and to the pub for that because this was a gem.
Thomas has created his only little corner of the world in Kansas City where he tells his stories and I’ve gotten to know a few of his characters and locations over many of his books that I’ve read. This story touches base with quite a few of these characters and while we got to see where they’re at they’re firmly in the background, and I didn’t feel that they overwhelmed the main characters who had a lovely story of their own to tell.
The concept talked about here between Derek and Marshall I really found to be a beautiful one. Simple and it seems obvious but it’s really not. I really enjoyed these two men and their developing relationship. I found it funny and sexy but with a sharply emotional undertone. Just a great little read.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
January 20, 2015
3.25 stars
I really enjoyed this novella. I loved the author's writing style it was really beautiful his descriptions of certain things. Both mc's were amazing. I didn't really like the fairy tale magical place. I just don't see it in Kansas City. I know it seems trivial with what else I could have been writing but it's my review. I wish it was longer, I would have loved to see Derek & Marshall first year together.
I really enjoyed this novella. I loved the author's writing style it was really beautiful his descriptions of certain things. Both mc's were amazing. I didn't really like the fairy tale magical place. I just don't see it in Kansas City. I know it seems trivial with what else I could have been writing but it's my review. I wish it was longer, I would have loved to see Derek & Marshall first year together.
October 26, 2024
3 and 1/2 stars rounded up. This was such a sweet story about Derek coming to terms with not only being gay, but embracing his new life. He meets Marshall at a party and he helps him realize that his life so far hasn’t been wasted because he spent eight years married to Jen. It’s short, but very touching.
January 25, 2015
I really enjoyed this. It is a short story, beautifully romantic and free from the publisher. I now want to read some of the other books from this author. I just loved the way the author made the emotions come alive: the disappointment from past love that didn't work out, the fear and caution when new love begins, the hope that springs as new love takes root and begins to flourish. This was simply lovely. And thanks to the author for such a lovely freebie.
August 29, 2017
B.G. Thomas writes straight from his heart and this wonderful sort is no exception. Derek is looking at his life and asking What If. Most all of us have played that head game. I loved Poindexter and Marshall for the way they opened new doors for Dexter. The writing was a little choppy but Thomas's message came through beautifully.
February 21, 2016
Everyone you meet helps you become who you are. There is no wasted time. Love that message.
It was good to revisit the Sanctuary again.
It was good to revisit the Sanctuary again.
December 27, 2014
A very sweet story about realizing that even though previous relationships have failed, they were not a waste. Also about letting go of the past so that you can find your future.
Derek knew he was gay when he married Jen. She knew he was gay, too. But they were what each other needed at the time and they were happy enough for about 10 years. But, knowing that happy enough wasn't really enough, Jen files for divorce. Even under the best of circumstances, divorce sucks. And on the day his divorce is made final, Derek meets Marshall.
There's not really any heat in this story, but there is romance. It's sweet and there's an HEA.
Derek knew he was gay when he married Jen. She knew he was gay, too. But they were what each other needed at the time and they were happy enough for about 10 years. But, knowing that happy enough wasn't really enough, Jen files for divorce. Even under the best of circumstances, divorce sucks. And on the day his divorce is made final, Derek meets Marshall.
There's not really any heat in this story, but there is romance. It's sweet and there's an HEA.
January 2, 2015
Lovely book. Very likable characters.
I really enjoyed this and to see and hear about familliar characters
I cannot wait to read the next book in the seasons of love series
Great author a must read for me
I love his unique and different view on things
I really enjoyed this and to see and hear about familliar characters
I cannot wait to read the next book in the seasons of love series
Great author a must read for me
I love his unique and different view on things
August 29, 2018
Regrets
Book is about Derek but Poindexter is the rock star of the book. Past loves are not a waste but help prepare us for the life waiting for us.
Book is about Derek but Poindexter is the rock star of the book. Past loves are not a waste but help prepare us for the life waiting for us.
March 21, 2025
It’s fine I guess but feels awfully padded. I won’t bother with this author again.
January 24, 2015
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
Derek is a beautifully crafted story of a man coming out a bit later in life, and it was a touching and emotional story for me. I was thrilled that H.D., Bean, and Poindexter from Hound Dog and Bean were included as secondary characters because it added so much depth to Derek’s world without requiring any additional words, provided you have read that book.
I must say that even with Marshall’s stories, I still felt like I was missing something, like he was just lacking a little something extra. Derek, on the other hand, was as fully formed as I was hoping for and I felt such empathy for him.
I highly recommend Derek and think that you too will fall in love with him just like I did.
Read Jason’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
Derek is a beautifully crafted story of a man coming out a bit later in life, and it was a touching and emotional story for me. I was thrilled that H.D., Bean, and Poindexter from Hound Dog and Bean were included as secondary characters because it added so much depth to Derek’s world without requiring any additional words, provided you have read that book.
I must say that even with Marshall’s stories, I still felt like I was missing something, like he was just lacking a little something extra. Derek, on the other hand, was as fully formed as I was hoping for and I felt such empathy for him.
I highly recommend Derek and think that you too will fall in love with him just like I did.
Read Jason’s review in its entirety here.
December 27, 2014
I picked up Derek during a free-book promo a few days ago, and read a few pages. Even though it was the holidays and I had so much to do, I found myself sneaking in a few more pages here, another page there... whenever there was a slight lull in the madness, I reached for my Kindle.
What kept me coming back was Derek's humanity. From the start, he was introduced as a kind man who questioned and regretted his past. All of us should be able at least, in part, to identify with that. I didn't need to be a gay man to know how Derek felt.
I just finished the last page, and find myself smiling at a very satisfying outcome. And I felt I made new friends. B.G. Thomas writes characters that are easy to get to know. I very much enjoyed Derek's story.
What kept me coming back was Derek's humanity. From the start, he was introduced as a kind man who questioned and regretted his past. All of us should be able at least, in part, to identify with that. I didn't need to be a gay man to know how Derek felt.
I just finished the last page, and find myself smiling at a very satisfying outcome. And I felt I made new friends. B.G. Thomas writes characters that are easy to get to know. I very much enjoyed Derek's story.
June 6, 2017
Short m/m story that was less about the schmexy and more about finding your way as a gay man. There was insta-love, but I didn't have a problem with that. Overall there was a very positive and personal message shared by the author through this story that I enjoyed very much. It also provided story feeders from other books by this author that I will likely look into as well. Short, but good m/m read.
December 27, 2014
incredibly sweet & romantic...with a heap of wisdom!
August 4, 2018
A heartwarming well written story
i like my stories crisp, well written and tight. And this is one of the good ones that i would recommend. probably also as it touched me at a point in my life where i am undergoing treatment for cancer too, this excellent story has many gems worth uncovering. i love this quote “‘We must be willing to let go of the life we have planned, so as to have the life that is waiting for us.’” which is extremely encouraging for me.
thanks to the author BJ for the insight.
i like my stories crisp, well written and tight. And this is one of the good ones that i would recommend. probably also as it touched me at a point in my life where i am undergoing treatment for cancer too, this excellent story has many gems worth uncovering. i love this quote “‘We must be willing to let go of the life we have planned, so as to have the life that is waiting for us.’” which is extremely encouraging for me.
thanks to the author BJ for the insight.
October 21, 2018
Wonderful book that I wish went on for hundreds more pages
Wow - it’s rare for a book to make me cry but when Marshall started talking at the alter, the tears just started flowing, just as Derek’s had and haven’t stopped yet. I found myself actually upset by the year time skip. I wanted to know more, I wanted to share their relationship and what had brought them to that point. I’m grateful for this book, and while I wish there was more to read of this couple, thank you for what you did write.
Wow - it’s rare for a book to make me cry but when Marshall started talking at the alter, the tears just started flowing, just as Derek’s had and haven’t stopped yet. I found myself actually upset by the year time skip. I wanted to know more, I wanted to share their relationship and what had brought them to that point. I’m grateful for this book, and while I wish there was more to read of this couple, thank you for what you did write.
May 27, 2017
A story of re-discovering yourself
This is my first book by BG. And I really like it, the pace was a little too fast but it is after all, a short story.
This is short and sweet but with such a rich content and a life learning lesson.
This is Derek's story where his going to need to learn to rediscover himself and let go to find true love and his true self.
This is my first book by BG. And I really like it, the pace was a little too fast but it is after all, a short story.
This is short and sweet but with such a rich content and a life learning lesson.
This is Derek's story where his going to need to learn to rediscover himself and let go to find true love and his true self.
April 6, 2018
Loved it!
Such a beautiful and inspirational story of closure, acceptance, hope, love and new beginnings. This story is well written and satisfying too. I found the MCs to be loveable characters and a great fit. It was sensual. I wish the story was longer but not for lack of substance or depth. This was a goodread
Such a beautiful and inspirational story of closure, acceptance, hope, love and new beginnings. This story is well written and satisfying too. I found the MCs to be loveable characters and a great fit. It was sensual. I wish the story was longer but not for lack of substance or depth. This was a goodread
March 12, 2018
Paths
Well done, story of heart and soul. Derek explores, like many of us that every experience brings us to where we are and who we are. Change one thing of the past and we might lose ourselves or worse someone we love.
Well done, story of heart and soul. Derek explores, like many of us that every experience brings us to where we are and who we are. Change one thing of the past and we might lose ourselves or worse someone we love.
May 25, 2018
Disappointed
I waited a few days to read this. Based off the rating on Amazon I thought this would be an amazing story! Boy was I thoroughly disappointed!! 1 Star is being generous!
I waited a few days to read this. Based off the rating on Amazon I thought this would be an amazing story! Boy was I thoroughly disappointed!! 1 Star is being generous!
June 12, 2019
Amazing story
I will recommend this book to anyone struggling with their sexuality and or break ups. I love the story that there is someone out there for everyone and never give up!
I will recommend this book to anyone struggling with their sexuality and or break ups. I love the story that there is someone out there for everyone and never give up!
July 28, 2018
great book love the HEA
October 4, 2018
As far as this genre goes, this is one of the better ones.
June 9, 2020
Boss
This book remind me of the love I had for Boss 20 some years till he passed away one late morning he was my teddy bear
This book remind me of the love I had for Boss 20 some years till he passed away one late morning he was my teddy bear
June 12, 2020
Sometimes life take an unexpected turn and what we thought we new has to be learned all over again.
November 16, 2020
Sweetness
Short story with an endearingly wounded primary character. A stunningly intricate plot with a wise beyond his few years sage who repairs him.
A free download from Amazon.
Short story with an endearingly wounded primary character. A stunningly intricate plot with a wise beyond his few years sage who repairs him.
A free download from Amazon.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews