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The Rebuilding Year #1
The Rebuilding Year
It took losing nearly everything, to discover what they can’t live without.
A few excruciating minutes pinned under a burning beam cost Ryan Ward his job as a firefighter, the easy camaraderie of his coworkers, his current girlfriend, and damn near cost him his left leg. Giving up, though, wasn’t an option. He fought and won the battle back to health, over a painful year. Now, choosing a new profession, going back to school, and renting a room from the college groundskeeper should be simple.
Until he realizes he’s falling in love with his housemate, and things take a turn for the complicated.
John Barrett knows about loss. After moving twice to stay in touch with his kids, he could only watch as his ex-wife whisked them away to California. Offering Ryan a room seems better than rattling around his empty house alone. But as casual friendship moves to something more, and emotions heat up, the big old house feels like tight quarters.
It’s nothing they can't learn to navigate, until life adds in unhappy teen kids, difficult family members, and mysterious deaths on campus. Rebuilding will be far from easy, even for two guys willing to open their minds, and hearts.
(This is a rerelease of the 2012 Samhain novel, with only minor editing.)
A few excruciating minutes pinned under a burning beam cost Ryan Ward his job as a firefighter, the easy camaraderie of his coworkers, his current girlfriend, and damn near cost him his left leg. Giving up, though, wasn’t an option. He fought and won the battle back to health, over a painful year. Now, choosing a new profession, going back to school, and renting a room from the college groundskeeper should be simple.
Until he realizes he’s falling in love with his housemate, and things take a turn for the complicated.
John Barrett knows about loss. After moving twice to stay in touch with his kids, he could only watch as his ex-wife whisked them away to California. Offering Ryan a room seems better than rattling around his empty house alone. But as casual friendship moves to something more, and emotions heat up, the big old house feels like tight quarters.
It’s nothing they can't learn to navigate, until life adds in unhappy teen kids, difficult family members, and mysterious deaths on campus. Rebuilding will be far from easy, even for two guys willing to open their minds, and hearts.
(This is a rerelease of the 2012 Samhain novel, with only minor editing.)
256 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 6, 2012
164 people are currently reading
4164 people want to read
About the author
Kaje Harper
91 books2,727 followersI get asked about my name a lot. It's not something exotic, though. “Kaje” is pronounced just like “cage” – it’s an old nickname, and my pronouns are she/her/hers.
I was born in Montreal but have lived for 30 years in Minnesota, where the two seasons are Snow-removal and Road-repair, where the mosquito is the state bird, and where winter can be breathtakingly beautiful. Minnesota’s a kind, quiet (if sometimes chilly) place and it’s home.
I’ve been writing far longer than I care to admit (*whispers – fifty years*), mostly for my own entertainment, usually M/M romance (with added mystery, fantasy, historical, SciFi…) I also have a few Young Adult stories (some released under the pen name Kira Harp.)
My husband finally convinced me that after all the years of writing for fun, I really should submit something, somewhere. My first professionally published book, Life Lessons, came out from MLR Press in May 2011. I have a weakness for closeted cops with honest hearts, and teachers who speak their minds, and I had fun writing four novels and three freebie short stories in that series. I was delighted and encouraged by the reception Mac and Tony received.
I now have a good-sized backlist in ebooks and print, both free and professionally published. A complete list with links can be found on my website "Books" page at https://kajeharper.com/.
You can find me and my book reviews on my author page here on Goodreads - I hang out on Goodreads a lot because I moderate the Goodreads YA LGBT Books group. I also post free short YA stories on that group, more than 50 of them so far.
You can also find me on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/KajeHarper
I was born in Montreal but have lived for 30 years in Minnesota, where the two seasons are Snow-removal and Road-repair, where the mosquito is the state bird, and where winter can be breathtakingly beautiful. Minnesota’s a kind, quiet (if sometimes chilly) place and it’s home.
I’ve been writing far longer than I care to admit (*whispers – fifty years*), mostly for my own entertainment, usually M/M romance (with added mystery, fantasy, historical, SciFi…) I also have a few Young Adult stories (some released under the pen name Kira Harp.)
My husband finally convinced me that after all the years of writing for fun, I really should submit something, somewhere. My first professionally published book, Life Lessons, came out from MLR Press in May 2011. I have a weakness for closeted cops with honest hearts, and teachers who speak their minds, and I had fun writing four novels and three freebie short stories in that series. I was delighted and encouraged by the reception Mac and Tony received.
I now have a good-sized backlist in ebooks and print, both free and professionally published. A complete list with links can be found on my website "Books" page at https://kajeharper.com/.
You can find me and my book reviews on my author page here on Goodreads - I hang out on Goodreads a lot because I moderate the Goodreads YA LGBT Books group. I also post free short YA stories on that group, more than 50 of them so far.
You can also find me on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/KajeHarper
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December 21, 2020
Free right now at Smashwords, 12/21/20!
**4.5 stars**
This was dangerously, dangerously close to being all time favorite read of mine. So close, Kaje!! I loved the first 60% or so of the book so much that I spend most of the night reading it. But the mystery that came to a head near the end just didn't work all that well for me.
Let me start with what I liked (which is pretty much everything!). This book is just... SQUEEL... just such an awesome sexuality discovery story. It was the holy grail of sexuality discovery story, a DOUBLE ONE. I mean, can I get an Halleluiah?!?! Lord, does this author know what I like! There is a reason that Kaje Harper is an auto-buy author for me! We get a deliciously slow burn romance with gay first-timers, and a love story that feels completely real. I loved this couple together and loved their realistic first time together. And the sex was just... a-ma-zing. Thanks, Kaje, for delivering on the goods!!! I even loved the family dynamic with John's kids, though I wish the ex-wife wasn't so predictably bitchy.
What I wish was missing from the book was the wack-a-doodle mystery. It was like an interloper in a near perfect study in how a relationship should unfold in a book. I wanted to kick the mystery in the butt and push it out a window! Granted, I'm not big fan of romantic suspense and mysteries in general, but I thought it was just one thing too much for this story. I get how it added some excitement to the storyline, but I would have been more than happy to have the romance be the sole focus.
Don't get me wrong, I still loved this (HARD), but it was achingly close to perfect, so much so that I have a little pout on, thinking of "what could have been".
**4.5 stars**
This was dangerously, dangerously close to being all time favorite read of mine. So close, Kaje!! I loved the first 60% or so of the book so much that I spend most of the night reading it. But the mystery that came to a head near the end just didn't work all that well for me.
Let me start with what I liked (which is pretty much everything!). This book is just... SQUEEL... just such an awesome sexuality discovery story. It was the holy grail of sexuality discovery story, a DOUBLE ONE. I mean, can I get an Halleluiah?!?! Lord, does this author know what I like! There is a reason that Kaje Harper is an auto-buy author for me! We get a deliciously slow burn romance with gay first-timers, and a love story that feels completely real. I loved this couple together and loved their realistic first time together. And the sex was just... a-ma-zing. Thanks, Kaje, for delivering on the goods!!! I even loved the family dynamic with John's kids, though I wish the ex-wife wasn't so predictably bitchy.
What I wish was missing from the book was the wack-a-doodle mystery. It was like an interloper in a near perfect study in how a relationship should unfold in a book. I wanted to kick the mystery in the butt and push it out a window! Granted, I'm not big fan of romantic suspense and mysteries in general, but I thought it was just one thing too much for this story. I get how it added some excitement to the storyline, but I would have been more than happy to have the romance be the sole focus.
Don't get me wrong, I still loved this (HARD), but it was achingly close to perfect, so much so that I have a little pout on, thinking of "what could have been".
December 18, 2012
Review completed December 18, 2012
After having endured a severe accident in a burning building, Ryan lost his job as a firefighter as well as his girlfriend. Ryan is not a quitter though. Hence, it’s time to evaluate his options--time for his rebuilding year, that is. He decides to go back to medical school. Due to his injury his knee never gained back its full strength. Isn’t it amazing what can happen when you’re falling down a couple of stone steps and a kind and gorgeous guy is there to help you back on your feet? Yeah, Ryan, what a great first impression! That’s how Ryan and John, the college’s groundskeeper, meet for the first time.
Since his accident Ryan has hardly ever dated. And more often than not, so many young women come off as shallow, and Ryan is convinced that he’s done with shallow after all. Therefore, Ryan is very happy to have found John because they get along very well. John is divorced and has to support his two kids. For a while now he is thinking about renting out a room in his house because he needs the money for Mark and Torey. It’s the perfect opportunity for Ryan due to the fact that he is not content with his current roommate, Jason, who is a notorious playboy. He gladly accepts John’s offer. Both men enjoy their easy camaraderie, however, as the story unfolds their friendship evolves into something deeper and more meaningful…they become lovers and fall in love.
Kaje Harper is a safe bet for me. It goes without saying that I really liked or even loved every single book that I've read by this author. With that said, The Rebuilding Year did not disappoint at all. Even though the MCs have to deal with a couple of conflicts, I’d go so far as to say that The Rebuilding Year is a feel-good story. But a really good one! It’s an easy read, the writing is very engaging and flows smoothly. As I see it John and Ryan are very likable characters and the kids made the story more interesting. Loved the interaction between Ryan and Mark. The guy's got a good hand with kids, I'll give him that. Besides, John and Ryan heated up the sheets very nicely!
From the beginning I was not sure how the suspense would pan out coz the two Don’t expect too much out of the police procedurals either. This is not Life Lessons after all. Although the suspense is just a minor subplot, there is a specific scene at 79 % that was incredibly intense and thrilling. Holy moly! Now that was one mighty fine scene and so very well-executed.
Minor quibbles
Granted, I was not a huge fan of their pumpkin-guts battle. As it was, I found it a bit silly. Once again, my standard issue is the ending. As a matter of fact I don’t like abrupt endings, and I would have loved to see way more interaction between Ryan and his father.
Overall, though, The Rebuilding Year is a very enjoyable read and a great place to start if you haven’t read an m-m story yet.
After having endured a severe accident in a burning building, Ryan lost his job as a firefighter as well as his girlfriend. Ryan is not a quitter though. Hence, it’s time to evaluate his options--time for his rebuilding year, that is. He decides to go back to medical school. Due to his injury his knee never gained back its full strength. Isn’t it amazing what can happen when you’re falling down a couple of stone steps and a kind and gorgeous guy is there to help you back on your feet? Yeah, Ryan, what a great first impression! That’s how Ryan and John, the college’s groundskeeper, meet for the first time.
“You’re older than me, John. Explain that to me. They say everything gets better with time. So why does it still hurt so bad to talk about him?”
“I’m not sure,” John said slowly. “I think, maybe, it’s partly because it does get better. You go along just fine, and you never think of them. You’re happy, life’s okay, and then when you do get reminded, it’s worse. Because you feel like you betrayed them. Like, how could you forget, how could you be okay, when they’re gone?”
Since his accident Ryan has hardly ever dated. And more often than not, so many young women come off as shallow, and Ryan is convinced that he’s done with shallow after all. Therefore, Ryan is very happy to have found John because they get along very well. John is divorced and has to support his two kids. For a while now he is thinking about renting out a room in his house because he needs the money for Mark and Torey. It’s the perfect opportunity for Ryan due to the fact that he is not content with his current roommate, Jason, who is a notorious playboy. He gladly accepts John’s offer. Both men enjoy their easy camaraderie, however, as the story unfolds their friendship evolves into something deeper and more meaningful…they become lovers and fall in love.
Having another man’s mouth on his, another man’s dick in his hand or in his ass was just plain right. Loving another man satisfied him at a level that loving a woman never had. It fit. He was gay. He just didn’t know how he was going to tell that to his fifteen-year-old son.
Kaje Harper is a safe bet for me. It goes without saying that I really liked or even loved every single book that I've read by this author. With that said, The Rebuilding Year did not disappoint at all. Even though the MCs have to deal with a couple of conflicts, I’d go so far as to say that The Rebuilding Year is a feel-good story. But a really good one! It’s an easy read, the writing is very engaging and flows smoothly. As I see it John and Ryan are very likable characters and the kids made the story more interesting. Loved the interaction between Ryan and Mark. The guy's got a good hand with kids, I'll give him that. Besides, John and Ryan heated up the sheets very nicely!
Holy shit," John whispered, minutes later. "When you decide to go for something, you don't hold back.
Ryan leaned back a little, enjoying the secure arms around him. "You get all the benefit of my years of experience."
"With girls."
"Well, yeah."
From the beginning I was not sure how the suspense would pan out coz the two Don’t expect too much out of the police procedurals either. This is not Life Lessons after all. Although the suspense is just a minor subplot, there is a specific scene at 79 % that was incredibly intense and thrilling. Holy moly! Now that was one mighty fine scene and so very well-executed.
Minor quibbles
Granted, I was not a huge fan of their pumpkin-guts battle. As it was, I found it a bit silly. Once again, my standard issue is the ending. As a matter of fact I don’t like abrupt endings, and I would have loved to see way more interaction between Ryan and his father.
Overall, though, The Rebuilding Year is a very enjoyable read and a great place to start if you haven’t read an m-m story yet.
We’re building a life.
March 25, 2015
"It was just like it had been. Except it wasn’t. There was that edge of tension that never went away. In the past, he might have bumped up against Ryan, if both of them were going for the fridge at the same time. Or he would have put out a hand to the man’s elbow, if some move shifted Ryan’s weight onto the bad leg wrong. Because the fool refused to use his cane around the house. Now, though, there was a careful few inches of space between them at all times. And yet he was always aware of exactly where Ryan was. And of wanting him."
This is my favorite quote from the book, just love it!!!
The book itself was really good, I loved it at some parts and really disliked some others, but overall it's a great read that I'd recommend to any new M/M reader :)
The story
John is a gardener at the college Ryan attends. They meet, form a friendship, and soon Ryan moves in with John who is looking for a tenant. After an emotional episode they share a kiss and it changes everything between them.
In the meantime, there is something strange going on with the college kids, some of them turning dead or suicidal.
The characters
Both MCs are straight (at the beginning of the book ehehehehe).
John is divorced with two kids, and Ryan is a former fireman with a knee injury.
So, how they hook up?
It's a slow build, we get to see their friendship and how they're relaxed around each other, living together and all.
Then the KISS happens! <3
Lovely scene, I think it's my fav from the book :D
And that's what changes their relationship (the quote above), it's all tense and awkward, with both men thinking about that kiss and wanting more (yay!).
The sex/relationship
This is why I'd rec this to any new M/M reader.
It's very slow with the relationship, you get to see them falling in love, and both of them getting used to having sex with a man (although, they picked up on that one pretty fast LOL!).
The sex is hot, but nothing pornish, pretty light, but still sexy :D
perfect combination :))))
I like how they dealt with everything, their families and living together and all :)
Very mature, without too much unnecessary drama :)
What I didn't like
The homophobia. It really took down my reading enjoyment. Yes I know, it's there and it's an important subject and all that yes, but gah, it just bothered me.
For one, since I'm obviously not a homophobe, I really couldn't understand the direction where the author went here.
Listen to this!
John's son finds out his dad is gay. The first thing that crosses his mind is that he will get
Ryan explains stuff and it's all cool after that, but still.
How does THAT come to mind with being gay? I just don't get it.
I'd understand it if he thought it was gross or icky or I don't know what else, but THAT? Nope, I really don't get it.
Then his ex-wife's new husband arrives, and both him and the ex-wife come to the conclusion that he must be a
Seriously?????? It's just too much that even the second homophobic reaction would be about the same thing that for me has no sense at all.
Maybe I don't get it or I'm not around some extremely homophobic people, I don't know. But it got on my nerves, and this is the reason I'm giving it 4 stars.
The ending
It was full of action, and it wasn't too sweet, love that :D
I like how it was resolved, the thing with his kids, and even though the bad guy/evil plot thingy was pretty obvious, it was still interesting to read how it all played out :))))
And so, even with the thing I didn't like, this was a great book overall, and I definitely recommend it to any M/M fan, and to those of you who are starting :DDDDDD
October 6, 2017
Re-read June, 2015:
Loved this even more the second time! The secondary plot about the crimes on campus made a lot more sense to me now. I guess the first time I was just so anxious to hear about the men's budding romance that I saw that storyline as bothersome. But in hindsight, it was interesting and was able to facilitate that awesome rescue by Ryan. Now on to the sequel!!
This GFY tale was frustratingly close to perfection! MC John Barrett is living a mostly solitary life as a University grounds keeper, mourning the end of his marriage and the fact that his teenaged children live across the country and his overbearing ex-wife is making excuses for not letting the kids visit him. He meets MC Ryan Ward, ex-firefighter and first year med student, relocated from California after being injured and permanently maimed in a work related accident. The two develop a fast friendship and eventually move in together to share expenses. Both heterosexual, they are confused when they become attracted to one another and it is a delight to watch these two navigate the GFY waters together and fall in love. They are wonderful together and, for the most part, in sync with their new relationship for most of the book. No real angst there. And the story about John's teenage children trying to fit into their mom's new family and wanting to come and live with their dad was heart warming, especially watching John and Ryan work together as a parenting team. It just strengthened their bond and made me love them more.
The reason I can't go hog-wild with glee and put this book on the fuck yeah shelf is because of the weird murder/druggie sub plot. It didn't make a whole lot of sense to me, it jumped around in the book quite a bit and I really wasn't prepared for it to be a major plot point at the end. But it did give us a great firefighter scene, so I am grateful for that. :)
I can absolutely, 100% highly recommend The Rebuilding Year. It is a M/M romance and GFY lover's dream book.
Loved this even more the second time! The secondary plot about the crimes on campus made a lot more sense to me now. I guess the first time I was just so anxious to hear about the men's budding romance that I saw that storyline as bothersome. But in hindsight, it was interesting and was able to facilitate that awesome rescue by Ryan. Now on to the sequel!!
This GFY tale was frustratingly close to perfection! MC John Barrett is living a mostly solitary life as a University grounds keeper, mourning the end of his marriage and the fact that his teenaged children live across the country and his overbearing ex-wife is making excuses for not letting the kids visit him. He meets MC Ryan Ward, ex-firefighter and first year med student, relocated from California after being injured and permanently maimed in a work related accident. The two develop a fast friendship and eventually move in together to share expenses. Both heterosexual, they are confused when they become attracted to one another and it is a delight to watch these two navigate the GFY waters together and fall in love. They are wonderful together and, for the most part, in sync with their new relationship for most of the book. No real angst there. And the story about John's teenage children trying to fit into their mom's new family and wanting to come and live with their dad was heart warming, especially watching John and Ryan work together as a parenting team. It just strengthened their bond and made me love them more.
The reason I can't go hog-wild with glee and put this book on the fuck yeah shelf is because of the weird murder/druggie sub plot. It didn't make a whole lot of sense to me, it jumped around in the book quite a bit and I really wasn't prepared for it to be a major plot point at the end. But it did give us a great firefighter scene, so I am grateful for that. :)
I can absolutely, 100% highly recommend The Rebuilding Year. It is a M/M romance and GFY lover's dream book.
Read
May 7, 2019ETA - both this book and the sequel are now available again in ebook as indie publications, with a wrap-up novella now also available. Book 1 and 2 are in print. And Gomez Pugh has brought all 3 books of The Rebuilding Year into audio with great skill. (Thanks for giving voices to my characters, Gomez <3 )
dnf
February 9, 2022My bad, for buying yet another 99-cent sale book without sufficiently understanding its contents. This story is about parents and kids, and if there's anything I don't want to see in a romance — other than torture, slavery, rape, prostitution, imprisonment, abuse, addiction, yadda yadda yadda — okay, so obviously there's LOTS of stuff I don't want to see in a romance — it's parenting. I'd rather sit alone in an empty room and stare at the walls than finish this book. At least then I'd log some quality meditation time. But fortunately for me there's a third option, and I'm taking it: DNF @ 45%.
July 5, 2017
***4.25 Let It Happen Stars***
Ryan and John,
Let's start with my ramblings, shall we?
Ryan is a 30 year-old ex firefighter who sustained a serious leg injury in the line of duty. He's decided to finally pursue his dream of being a doctor and has moved to the Midwest to attend medical school.
John is a 37 year-old divorced, father of two who works as the groundskeeper at the university. He used to be a suit working at a large landscaping architectural firm, but moved to the Midwest to be closer to his ex-wife and kids......even though said ex-wife eventually remarried and hauled ass to California with the kids.
Ryan and John meet when Ryan's bad leg gives out and he eats concrete on the first day of school. From there, the two happen to run into each other at one of the local watering holes and strike up a friendship.
Ryan's roommate is living out his Hugh Hefner fantasies and using their apartment as his very own Playboy Mansion. Since Ryan is older, clearly this lifestyle doesn't appeal to him. And would you look at that, John happens to have this big ol' house all to himself...
So the premise we have here is two seemingly straight men who eventually fall for each other.
The building of their relationship is smooth and simple. No big dramatic realizations, no second guessing or drawn out insecurities and fears. It's just two men living day to day who happen to immensely enjoy each others company and suddenly find themselves attracted to a man for the first time in their life.
Ryan and John's transition felt natural and right. It was sweet and endearing watching them just go with the flow...at times fumbling, but letting their attraction and passion lead the way.
In the midst of them navigating this new relationship, John's kids begin having troubles at home, especially his teenage son Mark. Now the duo must figure out how to build on their relationship, while also handling the issue with his kids and bitch ass ex-wife and douchebag new husband. I won't even waste breath or space addressing these two. I simply say to them
And there you have it. Oh wait, there's also this out of place murder/suicide thing happening in the background at the university.
Yeah, I don't get that one either? Had nothing to do with anything. And the wrapping up and explanation of the investigation didn't help any. Could have completely been left out.
So, now let me explain my feelings. Did I really like the book? Absolutely. Did I like the characters? Hell yes! Ryan and John were great! Ryan with John's kids was perfect. I have a little crush on Ryan actually LOL Was the story believable and enjoyable? You bet. I couldn't put the book down.
BUUUUUUUT, I feel like it was lacking that certain something. A real spark. That butterfly in your belly feeling when two characters are about to embark on something great, or share a kiss, or mutter sweet endearments, or dirty innuendos, or....well you get the point. I got that a few times, but not enough to feel completely satisfied. If I would have had a little more of that, this would have easily made it to 5 stars. Does this even make sense?
Overall, would I recommend the book? Yes. This is definitely for that time when you're looking for low drama, low angst, a sweet and endearing love story that just is.
Oh, and that ending....WTF?!?! How you going to just drop the mic in the middle of a scene. Fade to black. What is that? I mean, no cliffhanger or anything just abrupt ending. UGH!
UPDATE: A release date has been set for the sequel! Life, Some Assembly Required will be released June 9, 2015!
October 4, 2014
3.5 stars
There was a quiet intensity to this book: two lonely men in crisis meet and fall in love.
John is a divorced father of two whose bitchy ex-wife won’t let him see his two teenage kids. He is also the head landscaper at a local college campus where he meets Ryan, a former firefighter and current medical student, whose badly damaged leg forces to walk with a cane. Ryan falls, and John is there to catch him (literally and symbolically).
This was a double GFY/OFY, as neither man had been with another man before, which could have been a giant mess in the hands of a less experienced author, but was done well here.
There was a strong current of emotion, friendship, and passion that connected these two men. John was quicker to accept his new feelings than Ryan, but Ryan came around.
There wasn’t an excess of steam, but the few scenes we did get were plenty hot. I loved that we had a first-time butt-sex virgin, and there was smoldering tension aplenty.
The men had to deal with murder and suicide on campus; John’s demanding and selfish ex; and John’s son, who no longer wanted to live with his mother and her overbearing, snobby new husband.
The mystery itself was somewhat interesting, if not entirely believable, but I was pleased that it didn’t overwhelm the plot. I could have done with John not being such a pushover with his ex. Even though she had full custody of the kids, the father has visitation rights, and legally she couldn’t get away with doing what she was doing. That whole scenario was very frustrating, and I wanted John to put his foot down.
Thankfully, Ryan was patient and really good with the kids, although if John’s son used the word “fag” one more time without being reprimanded, I was going to scream.
Despite these issues, this would have been a solid 4 star book if it had an epilogue or a short follow-up. Indeed, when I finished the last chapter I immediately searched around for a (nonexistent) sequel. The book felt that unfinished.
The mystery of the murder and suicide was (rather clumsily) explained in the last chapter but not fully tied up. Likewise, we have no idea if John’s son would be allowed to live with John and Ryan permanently, and Ryan never discusses his relationship with John with his own family. At one point in the book, Ryan met with his brother, who was uncomfortable around Ryan due to Ryan’s injury, but nothing more was said about this relationship, so I have no idea why that scene was even in the book.
The story literally ended in the middle of a conversation, and I found this lack of resolution quite unsatisfying.
There was a quiet intensity to this book: two lonely men in crisis meet and fall in love.
John is a divorced father of two whose bitchy ex-wife won’t let him see his two teenage kids. He is also the head landscaper at a local college campus where he meets Ryan, a former firefighter and current medical student, whose badly damaged leg forces to walk with a cane. Ryan falls, and John is there to catch him (literally and symbolically).
This was a double GFY/OFY, as neither man had been with another man before, which could have been a giant mess in the hands of a less experienced author, but was done well here.
There was a strong current of emotion, friendship, and passion that connected these two men. John was quicker to accept his new feelings than Ryan, but Ryan came around.
There wasn’t an excess of steam, but the few scenes we did get were plenty hot. I loved that we had a first-time butt-sex virgin, and there was smoldering tension aplenty.
The men had to deal with murder and suicide on campus; John’s demanding and selfish ex; and John’s son, who no longer wanted to live with his mother and her overbearing, snobby new husband.
The mystery itself was somewhat interesting, if not entirely believable, but I was pleased that it didn’t overwhelm the plot. I could have done with John not being such a pushover with his ex. Even though she had full custody of the kids, the father has visitation rights, and legally she couldn’t get away with doing what she was doing. That whole scenario was very frustrating, and I wanted John to put his foot down.
Thankfully, Ryan was patient and really good with the kids, although if John’s son used the word “fag” one more time without being reprimanded, I was going to scream.
Despite these issues, this would have been a solid 4 star book if it had an epilogue or a short follow-up. Indeed, when I finished the last chapter I immediately searched around for a (nonexistent) sequel. The book felt that unfinished.
The mystery of the murder and suicide was (rather clumsily) explained in the last chapter but not fully tied up. Likewise, we have no idea if John’s son would be allowed to live with John and Ryan permanently, and Ryan never discusses his relationship with John with his own family. At one point in the book, Ryan met with his brother, who was uncomfortable around Ryan due to Ryan’s injury, but nothing more was said about this relationship, so I have no idea why that scene was even in the book.
The story literally ended in the middle of a conversation, and I found this lack of resolution quite unsatisfying.
February 17, 2013
Wow. A TRUE double GFY book…one where neither man had ever even considered or been attracted to or had an inkling of other men before… a rarity.
I am a big fan of Kaje Harper. This, however, was not my favorite. I think the GFY angle was hard for me to embrace. Taking two very broken, very lonely men and having them find companionship and eventually love with one another…ok, I can see it happening. But, having them totally embrace the change (f’ing like rabbits, I tell ya!) and barely blinking twice about now being with a man…that was harder to wrap my head around.
If I can get myself past that, the story itself was ok. It did feel like there was maybe one too many story arcs in the book…injured firefighter, custody battle, teenaged son, campus murder, death in the family, ALL on top of the GFY. But the strength, and where the enjoyment of the book comes from, is the relationship between the two MCs, John and Ryan. Good, good men that you find yourself completely rooting for.
If you’re looking for a book with strong characters and the kitchen sink thrown in, this would work for you.
March 9, 2025
4 Stars
Although this was my first time reading this story, the entire experience felt incredibly nostalgic, wrapping me up in all those feelings and thoughts I had during my initial forays into the M/M romance genre well-over a decade ago now.
If I’d read this back then, closer to its release, I have no doubt this would have been an absolute favourite of mine. Even now, 14 years after its initial release, I still thoroughly enjoyed this story—the characters, the writing, the romance; it was all very lovely and sentimental in its telling (both meant in the most positive of ways).
There are some themes in here that haven’t aged as well, but only in the same way that is felt when NOW reading/re-reading many of (what I consider) staples in the M/M genre.
Here, the possibility of bisexuality is hardly touched on, and instead, the straight MCs simply decide they must be gay once they fall for each other (i.e. it’s a classic GFY story—of the likes we don’t tend to see anymore, and for good reason). There’s a lot of slurs and homophobic bigotry from most of the side characters and the one female character is an irrational, raging bitch.
All of this proved entertaining enough, but it made me realise how much the M/M landscape has changed/grown in the past decade and it made for an interesting time of reflection on my part.
But, some outdated themes aside, I really enjoyed this story. It was romantic and tender and it made me feel all warm and content, reminding me why I love this sub-genre of romance so damn much, and why I fell in love with it so fully in the first place.
I’ve enjoyed many reads by Kaje Harper over the past decade (plus), and although I’m still not fully well-read in her illustrious, varied backlog, I knew early on reading this that it would become one of my favourites of her works.
It certainly won’t be for everybody, but OG M/M readers who, like me, somehow missed this contemporary hurt-comfort gem along the way, may also find a new favourite to add to their ever-growing list of M/M classics.
Although this was my first time reading this story, the entire experience felt incredibly nostalgic, wrapping me up in all those feelings and thoughts I had during my initial forays into the M/M romance genre well-over a decade ago now.
If I’d read this back then, closer to its release, I have no doubt this would have been an absolute favourite of mine. Even now, 14 years after its initial release, I still thoroughly enjoyed this story—the characters, the writing, the romance; it was all very lovely and sentimental in its telling (both meant in the most positive of ways).
There are some themes in here that haven’t aged as well, but only in the same way that is felt when NOW reading/re-reading many of (what I consider) staples in the M/M genre.
Here, the possibility of bisexuality is hardly touched on, and instead, the straight MCs simply decide they must be gay once they fall for each other (i.e. it’s a classic GFY story—of the likes we don’t tend to see anymore, and for good reason). There’s a lot of slurs and homophobic bigotry from most of the side characters and the one female character is an irrational, raging bitch.
All of this proved entertaining enough, but it made me realise how much the M/M landscape has changed/grown in the past decade and it made for an interesting time of reflection on my part.
But, some outdated themes aside, I really enjoyed this story. It was romantic and tender and it made me feel all warm and content, reminding me why I love this sub-genre of romance so damn much, and why I fell in love with it so fully in the first place.
I’ve enjoyed many reads by Kaje Harper over the past decade (plus), and although I’m still not fully well-read in her illustrious, varied backlog, I knew early on reading this that it would become one of my favourites of her works.
It certainly won’t be for everybody, but OG M/M readers who, like me, somehow missed this contemporary hurt-comfort gem along the way, may also find a new favourite to add to their ever-growing list of M/M classics.
October 1, 2018
It was nice.
The story was nice.
The characters were nice.
Nothing mindblowing.
Fairly mundane ... No way was it more than 2.75 stars for me!!!
Have no interest in continuing the series, really!!!
January 21, 2023
This was beautiful and real. The sexual discovery, the ex wife, the struggling teenagers, the homophobia. It’s not a pretty picture full of perfect characters, and I loved that. Except Ryan, he is almost perfect but in a good way. I loved John too, not trying to play favourites here.
I love that it’s not easy and Instalove. It takes a while for them to realize they are building a new life together, but once they do they are all in. Not that it makes it easy.
“I’m sorry. I guess I’m greedy. I want it all. I want to have your picture on my phone, and call you for no reason, and kiss you when I see you.”
I don’t normally like children in romances, but I loved Mark. I wanted to hug him. Probably because I have my own hurting struggling teenagers at home, and it was all so relatable.
I love that it’s not easy and Instalove. It takes a while for them to realize they are building a new life together, but once they do they are all in. Not that it makes it easy.
“I’m sorry. I guess I’m greedy. I want it all. I want to have your picture on my phone, and call you for no reason, and kiss you when I see you.”
I don’t normally like children in romances, but I loved Mark. I wanted to hug him. Probably because I have my own hurting struggling teenagers at home, and it was all so relatable.
February 6, 2012
Excellent m/m romantic suspense about a firefighter who was seriously injured in a fire a year ago and is now going to med school. When he falls down some stairs on campus, the head groundskeeper comes to his rescue and they slowly become friends. What made this book so amazing was how it felt organic to me - the story slowly built and grew and developed... and that worked really, really well. Recommended.
September 23, 2019
4 ⭐️ s for both the story and narration.
August 14, 2025
The Rebuilding Year was a really interesting concept. As a GFY/ friends to lover story it’s one that really works. The growing attraction between the two straight mc’s - John and Ryan- is nicely handled. John is divorced and the college gardener and Ryan an ex fireman, now med student after being injured on the job. Ryan’s not happy at his shared apartment and John needs a lodger to help with the cost of the big house bought before his divorce, and over a few weeks of meeting every now and again, it becomes pretty obvious that the solution to both their problems is staring them in the face. The friendship comes first but after they make the decision to house share, the close proximity and easiness of their relationship gradually morphs into feelings that neither of them would ever had expected and they become tentative lovers. The story then shifts into a really good contemporary drama as Johns decision to accept that he is now falling for another man conflicts with his estranged ex wife, her new husband and more importantly his two teenage children. Especially his son. There's enough discord to keep you glued as to how this all this will play out but thankfully never dissolves into overblown kitchen sink drama as it’s handled sensitively. Also, more or less from the beginning of the story, there’s a mystery concerning suspicious deaths and a possible murder at the college which is cleverly woven into the plot. Starting fairly innocuously, it slowly builds in the background until it reaches a pretty nail biting finish at the end of the book. The love scenes are pitched perfectly. Not too many but sizzling and sensual when they occur.
So, this is definitely going into my keepers and I'm off to search out more of Kaje Harpers books because if they're all as great as this then I want to read them. I loved it!
So, this is definitely going into my keepers and I'm off to search out more of Kaje Harpers books because if they're all as great as this then I want to read them. I loved it!
July 14, 2012
This was my very first Kaje Harper book and I enjoyed it immensely. I think she's a master at "two guys, working shit out!" without being overly angsty or overly analytical, and I think these two guys were engaging protagonists. John was just... sweet. He was a family man, in his heart, a quiet artist, a good samaritan. Ryan was a little more extroverted, but also intense and dedicated to setting his life on the path he had planned originally--with one little wrinkle. Both these guys were interesting and accessible, and I loved reading about their "rebuilding year"-- and the way they changed their expectations to accommodate real life.
April 20, 2018
3.5 stars!
I listened to the Audible versionsand enjoyed the narration.
I really liked this story. It was so sweet and tender. The double GFY was hard to believe, but aside from that it really was straight up romance.
I was sad to see book 2 isn't available in audio.
I listened to the Audible versionsand enjoyed the narration.
I really liked this story. It was so sweet and tender. The double GFY was hard to believe, but aside from that it really was straight up romance.
I was sad to see book 2 isn't available in audio.
May 2, 2015
3.5 stars
While I still finish this in practically one sitting, I have to admit that this is not one of the 'better' stories from Kaje Harper, in my humble opinion. Let me explain this on the "what works for me" and "what doesn't".
What works
I don't mind the rather slow pacing, to be honest. Some of the books I like has that regular day-to-day vibe, and so is this one. We have our two MCs, Ryan (he's a 30 year old ex-fire fighter, who was injured in a job, and now going back to College as med student) and John (he's the head groundskeeper at the College) meet for the first time, then build a friendship, until Ryan moves in to John's house. It has a feeling of camaraderie first before they move into the relationship status. I also like the quite prominent secondary character, Mark, who is John's teenage son.
What doesn't work
Gay-For-You is personally not a favorite theme of mine. Although, if the process is quite believable, I might end up loving it. Here, they are two completely straight men, who haven't even considered of being with other man, then find that they're in lust (and then love) with one another ... and there's practically no hesitation in it. Sure, there's part where Ryan seems to take a step back, and contemplates, but I don't see any deep exploration on the fact that they're now attracted to same sex. After they decide that they can go with is, they are pretty much taking it stride, and since Ryan "has done anal sex with girls before", it seems to be easy breazy. Like Edina said in her review, the conflict seems to be more about how to tell the world about it, which is more on the "coming out" issue rather than GFY issue.
Again, like Edina, I do think that the mystery part and the parenting issue with John's children balance it out. ALTHOUGH, I must point out, the fact that John's wife is a b*tch and her new husband is a jerk, seems to be making it easy to tip our favor to both MCs. No contest there.
While I still finish this in practically one sitting, I have to admit that this is not one of the 'better' stories from Kaje Harper, in my humble opinion. Let me explain this on the "what works for me" and "what doesn't".
What works
I don't mind the rather slow pacing, to be honest. Some of the books I like has that regular day-to-day vibe, and so is this one. We have our two MCs, Ryan (he's a 30 year old ex-fire fighter, who was injured in a job, and now going back to College as med student) and John (he's the head groundskeeper at the College) meet for the first time, then build a friendship, until Ryan moves in to John's house. It has a feeling of camaraderie first before they move into the relationship status. I also like the quite prominent secondary character, Mark, who is John's teenage son.
What doesn't work
Gay-For-You is personally not a favorite theme of mine. Although, if the process is quite believable, I might end up loving it. Here, they are two completely straight men, who haven't even considered of being with other man, then find that they're in lust (and then love) with one another ... and there's practically no hesitation in it. Sure, there's part where Ryan seems to take a step back, and contemplates, but I don't see any deep exploration on the fact that they're now attracted to same sex. After they decide that they can go with is, they are pretty much taking it stride, and since Ryan "has done anal sex with girls before", it seems to be easy breazy. Like Edina said in her review, the conflict seems to be more about how to tell the world about it, which is more on the "coming out" issue rather than GFY issue.
Again, like Edina, I do think that the mystery part and the parenting issue with John's children balance it out. ALTHOUGH, I must point out, the fact that John's wife is a b*tch and her new husband is a jerk, seems to be making it easy to tip our favor to both MCs. No contest there.
April 25, 2013
3,5 stars for an entertaining but not perfect GFY book.
It's about medical student Ryan and college groundskeeper John, who become housemates and grow to love each other. Ryan is an ex-firefighter who left his job after terrible injuries. John is divorced and is struggling with his ex-wife and the lack of access to his two children.
They share more and more time with each other and realise that they feel more than friendship for each other. A romance begins and two men who have never contemplated this kind of relationship are struggling to find a balance.
The GFY thing was quite a stretch for me. Two straight guys (both in their thirties) who have never even been bi-curious are all of a sudden gay and in love with another man and for the most part okay with it?
The story wasn't as enjoyable as Life Lessons. I prefer the murder mystery to have at least equal parts to the romance and this isn't the case here. Overall it was still a solid and good read.
June 24, 2015
I found that this is a wonderful story. I loved Ryan & John. I also love Mark and Torey. Let the haters fuck off! lol!
My issue was I felt disconnected on some important scenes, like their first kiss and sex. And I wanted more struggle in their feelings for each other. I don't think the whodunit was needed here.
But I really like this! And as you know, I'm off to Book 2! More of them!!! :D
3.5 STARS.
My issue was I felt disconnected on some important scenes, like their first kiss and sex. And I wanted more struggle in their feelings for each other. I don't think the whodunit was needed here.
But I really like this! And as you know, I'm off to Book 2! More of them!!! :D
3.5 STARS.
August 9, 2012
This author is amazing. She writes so flawlessly that I feel like I am watching a movie. I get so caught up in the story, so invested in her characters, just perfect!
March 13, 2012
I really liked this story! Ryan and John were really sweet together. I've seen that a lot of people had issues with the gfy in this book, but not me. I really, really liked that part. (Yeah, I'm weird I guess). I liked the friends-to-lovers and all the sexual tension. Plus, all the sex was HOT! But, yeah, they were both totally straight and then all of the sudden they were perfectly ok with being gay for each other.
I thought it was a little slow in the beginning, but understandable because John and Ryan were becoming friends and falling in love. So sweet! Then the second half is mostly family drama with John's children; I liked that though. And then there was the mystery plot that I wasn't interested in at all! So I think thats why the last 25% or so seemed to drag from me. But I really did like the very ending and I love Kaje's writing...so still 4 stars from me!
I recommend it to anyone who doesn't have issues with gay-for-you stories. If you don't like gfy, then I recommend you skipping this one.
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March 7, 2024
A very enjoyable story and characters to spend time with. I loved almost everything about the story, including the side character children involved.
I love Kaje Harper's immersive worldbuilding, with slow-burn romances almost on the side of too slow. But this one was just right, especially when the romance got going.
I love Kaje Harper's immersive worldbuilding, with slow-burn romances almost on the side of too slow. But this one was just right, especially when the romance got going.
March 7, 2012
Redefining sexual identity was a big theme in this book. Both main characters found themselves suddenly falling in love with another man, while previously same-sex attraction had never even remotely been part of their reality. Now, this might sound off-putting for readers who don’t think highly of the so-called “gay-for-you” plot, but I’d strongly advise against letting that fact keep you off reading this book – you’d miss out on a really well-done story.
For once, the falling in love worked hand-in-glove with the falling in lust. There was no such thing like a sudden switch from straight to gay through a night of passionate sex, but a gradual getting-to-know-each-other that slowly, yet almost inevitably drew Ryan and John closer together. And it was something that gave both men a tough bit to chew on. I also liked it very much that they didn’t simply jump into bed with each other for a round of hot monkey sex perfectly equipped with condoms and lube. They hesitated, held back, doubted, and they fumbled their way through their first sexual encounter in an endearingly clumsy way which nevertheless didn’t take away from the eroticism. (just to make it clear, they’re both quick studies ;-) )
Ryan had a harder time coming to terms with his altered view of John; he doubted himself for a long time, even “tested” himself to the point of chatting up a woman. After all, he’d had a busy (hetero)sexual life before his accident, a long row of one-night-stands and short flings, and it wasn’t as if he found women suddenly repulsing.
Except for his ex-wife, Cynthia, John never had any sexual relationships before Ryan. Perhaps it was this, aside from the fact that he was the older and generally more serene of the two, which made it easier for him to cope with his feelings for Ryan. Their different pace of handling their mutual attraction made for some interesting tension between them, sexual and otherwise. However, after a very realistic initial awkwardness, they worked this tension out between them like adult people. As they both had come to regard the possibilities between them highly, they talked things through and worked to make their relationship work.
And then, their bit-by -bit coming-out once they realized they were committed to each other. I found it very authentic how they, each on his own and both together, mulled over the how to tell what when to whom – and it was equally authentic that life sometimes took the decision right out of their hands and forced them just to play it by ear. Beautiful to watch, like a view from the outside on a process I as the reader was also privy to on the inside. I really liked this part of the plot, the character development John and Ryan went through, and some of the minor characters alongside them.
The definition and meaning of family was another big theme here, as both John and Ryan come with baggage, so to speak. John has his children, Torey and Marcus, who are very important to him. He’s afraid that a homosexual relationship might jeopardize his connection to them, even more so since his ex wife already tries to keep them apart. Ryan’s family is drifting apart as it is from some severe losses in the past, and Ryan fears that his being gay might alienate them from him once and for all. These are profound fears, and an additional source of conflict in their budding relationship; and again, I found it realistic that those problems weren’t solved with a wave of some magic wand, and neither without pain on either party involved. In fact, there were still a few loose threads in regard to the family issues, just like in real life you can’t make everybody happy no matter what you do.
What didn’t work quite as well for me this time was the actual mystery plot, a fact that I, at least in part, would blame to the blurb, as I found it slightly misleading. Don’t get me wrong, there were some casualties, and the mystery was well-done and realistic down to its somewhat incomplete solution, but it clearly took a backseat to the romance in this book. Then again, the action scenes that sprang from the mystery towards the end had me glued to the pages with tension, and all was well in my thrill-reader’s mind again :-D
Another thing I liked very much was the balance between Ryan’s heroics and the matter-of-fact way he expected everybody to take them. It was another little puzzle piece in his characterization, and also another answer to the question what made John and Ryan so perfect for each other. There was this acceptance between them that gave each room to breathe and closeness if and when needed, a nice foundation for a working long-term relationship and a solid base for the HEA I’d come to wish for them at that point.
This was a well-written, enjoyable and gripping romance seasoned with an interesting if plot-wise secondary mystery and two colorful heroes who grew all the more dear to me for the fact that they were just this side of larger-than-life. Warmly recommended.
Review originally written for reviewsbyjessewave.com
For once, the falling in love worked hand-in-glove with the falling in lust. There was no such thing like a sudden switch from straight to gay through a night of passionate sex, but a gradual getting-to-know-each-other that slowly, yet almost inevitably drew Ryan and John closer together. And it was something that gave both men a tough bit to chew on. I also liked it very much that they didn’t simply jump into bed with each other for a round of hot monkey sex perfectly equipped with condoms and lube. They hesitated, held back, doubted, and they fumbled their way through their first sexual encounter in an endearingly clumsy way which nevertheless didn’t take away from the eroticism. (just to make it clear, they’re both quick studies ;-) )
Ryan had a harder time coming to terms with his altered view of John; he doubted himself for a long time, even “tested” himself to the point of chatting up a woman. After all, he’d had a busy (hetero)sexual life before his accident, a long row of one-night-stands and short flings, and it wasn’t as if he found women suddenly repulsing.
Except for his ex-wife, Cynthia, John never had any sexual relationships before Ryan. Perhaps it was this, aside from the fact that he was the older and generally more serene of the two, which made it easier for him to cope with his feelings for Ryan. Their different pace of handling their mutual attraction made for some interesting tension between them, sexual and otherwise. However, after a very realistic initial awkwardness, they worked this tension out between them like adult people. As they both had come to regard the possibilities between them highly, they talked things through and worked to make their relationship work.
And then, their bit-by -bit coming-out once they realized they were committed to each other. I found it very authentic how they, each on his own and both together, mulled over the how to tell what when to whom – and it was equally authentic that life sometimes took the decision right out of their hands and forced them just to play it by ear. Beautiful to watch, like a view from the outside on a process I as the reader was also privy to on the inside. I really liked this part of the plot, the character development John and Ryan went through, and some of the minor characters alongside them.
The definition and meaning of family was another big theme here, as both John and Ryan come with baggage, so to speak. John has his children, Torey and Marcus, who are very important to him. He’s afraid that a homosexual relationship might jeopardize his connection to them, even more so since his ex wife already tries to keep them apart. Ryan’s family is drifting apart as it is from some severe losses in the past, and Ryan fears that his being gay might alienate them from him once and for all. These are profound fears, and an additional source of conflict in their budding relationship; and again, I found it realistic that those problems weren’t solved with a wave of some magic wand, and neither without pain on either party involved. In fact, there were still a few loose threads in regard to the family issues, just like in real life you can’t make everybody happy no matter what you do.
What didn’t work quite as well for me this time was the actual mystery plot, a fact that I, at least in part, would blame to the blurb, as I found it slightly misleading. Don’t get me wrong, there were some casualties, and the mystery was well-done and realistic down to its somewhat incomplete solution, but it clearly took a backseat to the romance in this book. Then again, the action scenes that sprang from the mystery towards the end had me glued to the pages with tension, and all was well in my thrill-reader’s mind again :-D
Another thing I liked very much was the balance between Ryan’s heroics and the matter-of-fact way he expected everybody to take them. It was another little puzzle piece in his characterization, and also another answer to the question what made John and Ryan so perfect for each other. There was this acceptance between them that gave each room to breathe and closeness if and when needed, a nice foundation for a working long-term relationship and a solid base for the HEA I’d come to wish for them at that point.
This was a well-written, enjoyable and gripping romance seasoned with an interesting if plot-wise secondary mystery and two colorful heroes who grew all the more dear to me for the fact that they were just this side of larger-than-life. Warmly recommended.
Review originally written for reviewsbyjessewave.com
April 14, 2013
enjoyed this story a lot, very well written and my first book by this author. Ryan is starting his life over after a bad accident while he was a firefighter. He has gone back to college to me a doctor and trying to share apartment with a much younger and party animal guy. John is the gardener at the college and also trying to get his life together after a divorce and missing his kids.
I love how their friendship grew gradually into more, both men starting trying to rebuild their lives and supporting each. And while I have a only a few “Gay for You” stories, i liked this version. I liked that these men were friends first and their attraction to each other grew from there.
And while I don’t particularly like kids in stories (sorry i don’t), I really think they work and are necessary in this story. As these two come together they have to deal with homophobia and fear and I felt it was dealt with in a good way. And while society is getting better, homophobia and fear are something that still exists in the world and this added realism to the story for me.
Once again, I have run into a book that totally sucked me in. These characters felt like real live people in my life and I was glued to the book to find out what happened.
I will definitely be reading more from the talented author...
February 15, 2013
Dear Ms Harper,
Thank you for writing this wonderful book. I loved both of your characters very much. I adored how the relationship built slowly, and how these two lovely men found happiness together.
Now for my review:
John was a groundskeeper at a university. Ryan was a med student at the university, trying to start his life over after being injured at work when he was a firefighter.
This book didn't bring me to tears, but parts were very emotional. These men were a little older, they had lived through some very tough times.
Teh Rebuilding Year kept me up way to late, so I could finish it in one day, as I simply could not stop reading. The suspense plot was only a minor part of the book, but was done well. I loved how Ryan fit in with John's children. His conversations with Marcus, John's son, was one of my favourite parts.
My only disappointment was the ending. I wanted to hear more about how Ryan's family dealt with him going from a bit of a player to being completely in love with another man. If Ms Harper would like to write another book about these wonderful characters, I would really love to read it.
Thank you for writing this wonderful book. I loved both of your characters very much. I adored how the relationship built slowly, and how these two lovely men found happiness together.
Now for my review:
John was a groundskeeper at a university. Ryan was a med student at the university, trying to start his life over after being injured at work when he was a firefighter.
This book didn't bring me to tears, but parts were very emotional. These men were a little older, they had lived through some very tough times.
Teh Rebuilding Year kept me up way to late, so I could finish it in one day, as I simply could not stop reading. The suspense plot was only a minor part of the book, but was done well. I loved how Ryan fit in with John's children. His conversations with Marcus, John's son, was one of my favourite parts.
My only disappointment was the ending. I wanted to hear more about how Ryan's family dealt with him going from a bit of a player to being completely in love with another man. If Ms Harper would like to write another book about these wonderful characters, I would really love to read it.
March 22, 2018
Audiobook reviewCan you say perfection? I loved this book to bits and had a very hard time putting it down. This is what a great slow burn romance should be like.
Ryan, battle scarred from a building collapsing on him is changing direction from being a firefighter to med student. Only, being vain and leaving his cane at home has him landing on his back in the middle of school, helping him from his tumble is the college groundskeeper John. A few weeks later, they run into each other again a solid friendship forms. Not long after that Ryan rents a room in order to get some peace and quiet from his partying former roommate.
I loved the relationship between John and Ryan. There were no hidden agendas, no miscommunication or any of the other clichéd plot points we’ve read so many times before. The two were solid from the start and that never wavered, not when they slowly realized that they had feelings for each other and not when John’s surly teenage son showed up on the doorstep. Sure they had their issues, they wouldn’t be human otherwise, but there was no huge drama for drama’s sake.
There was also a secondary plot to this book, where young college girls seemed to end up dead for various reasons. , it was the one thing in this book that isn’t entirely believable – but I certainly didn’t care. I’m a huge fan of mysteries and romantic suspense so I gobbled all this up with a grin on my face and kept wishing for more.
Gomez Pugh was a fantastic narrator, I think this might be the first book I listen to that he’s narrated, but it will for sure not be my last. He did everything right, the different voices for the characters but more importantly, he narrated with feeling. He took you to the world Harper created with her words and kept you there until the very end of the book. I would gladly listen to much more, but it seems like all good things must come to an end.
I believed in this story and the people in it, it was credible. Normally I read books to get away from reality and everyday life and escape for a while, but with The Rebuilding Year you escape to another reality, someone else’s everyday life and I for one couldn’t have been happier. These were everyday people and events you could relate to, with flaws, scars, fears and hopes and dreams. For me, books with “real” people are the best kind of books.
It was a true pleasure to listen to this book, and I can only hope that there are plans for the second book to be made into an audiobook, I for one will be first in line!
A copy of this book was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
July 30, 2012
This was so good. The pacing of these two straight men becoming friends and then roommates and then lovers and then loved ones and co-parent was really well done. The pacing made this relationship believable and one in which I was invested. It was executed brilliantly and rendered the relationship beautiful. The writing, in successfully managing the pacing, is really strong and a wonderful testament to Romance over bare-bones Erotica where two random people are rutting away at each other before the reader properly knows who they are.
As a result of the pacing, the building this author undertakes, the romantic aspect of the book is thankfully strong. The relationship nor the writing was just about sex. This, in turn, made what erotic content there was even richer. No gratuitous sensationalism. Real sensualism.
There is also some suspense that is part of this story. But it is interwoven in just the way I like. This story line is subtle. It raises some hackles and causes a bit of tension but the focus remains primarily on the relationship and on reality. No HBO shoot-em-up, kill-em-dead, bang-bang, stalkers and pimps and other weird plot devices that divert too far from veracity and credibility.
On the subject of veracity, the fact that the two main characters are real people with real-life issues really sells this book. No billionaires, but a landscaper who's divorced and separated from his children and a med student who's battling a bum leg, having been severely injured when he was a fireman. Real people finding love. And not rejecting it! Oh, the loveliness of a GFY story where there isn't an overly lengthy coming to terms period. I relish story lines like this. No contrivances, no immaturity. Just some introspection, realisation, acceptance and let's get on with our lives decisions. Gotta love it.
Yet, what I love the most about this work is that it is essentially character-driven/focussed. I am drawn to writing and authors such as Cara McKenna, Sarah Mayberry and Charlotte Stein who write works where I, the reader, am posited in the protagonists' minds and in their normal lives. The excitement to me is the witness of growth via experiences that come to many of us. Rebuilding one's life is one such experience. That's the other reason this book works so well. It is a faithful reproduction of what is real...including finding and allowing love whatever the gender.
This work is aptly named. It builds steadily: the tension, the drama, the romance, the suspense and the writing. If you enjoy writing where there is a foundation built first you'll enjoy this book.
As a result of the pacing, the building this author undertakes, the romantic aspect of the book is thankfully strong. The relationship nor the writing was just about sex. This, in turn, made what erotic content there was even richer. No gratuitous sensationalism. Real sensualism.
There is also some suspense that is part of this story. But it is interwoven in just the way I like. This story line is subtle. It raises some hackles and causes a bit of tension but the focus remains primarily on the relationship and on reality. No HBO shoot-em-up, kill-em-dead, bang-bang, stalkers and pimps and other weird plot devices that divert too far from veracity and credibility.
On the subject of veracity, the fact that the two main characters are real people with real-life issues really sells this book. No billionaires, but a landscaper who's divorced and separated from his children and a med student who's battling a bum leg, having been severely injured when he was a fireman. Real people finding love. And not rejecting it! Oh, the loveliness of a GFY story where there isn't an overly lengthy coming to terms period. I relish story lines like this. No contrivances, no immaturity. Just some introspection, realisation, acceptance and let's get on with our lives decisions. Gotta love it.
Yet, what I love the most about this work is that it is essentially character-driven/focussed. I am drawn to writing and authors such as Cara McKenna, Sarah Mayberry and Charlotte Stein who write works where I, the reader, am posited in the protagonists' minds and in their normal lives. The excitement to me is the witness of growth via experiences that come to many of us. Rebuilding one's life is one such experience. That's the other reason this book works so well. It is a faithful reproduction of what is real...including finding and allowing love whatever the gender.
This work is aptly named. It builds steadily: the tension, the drama, the romance, the suspense and the writing. If you enjoy writing where there is a foundation built first you'll enjoy this book.
February 16, 2024
Dammit, I really wanted to like this. I ate up the Hidden Wolves series as fast as I could (any reference to Little Red Riding Hood is purely intentional) and this was well recommended, so when it showed up as a Valentine's Day freebie I grabbed it. Now I'm just glad it was free.
There's an awful ex-wife, who keeps the kiddies away from MC2.
MC1 has a roommate who sleeps around, which you can understand why he finds the parade of strangers annoying, but there's a certain air of "What a bunch of bimbos." Okay, powering past the vague unease, until ...
The awful ex-wife has remarried. Living with her and her husband are the two children, one of whom is an adolescent and the other of whom is on the cusp. MC2 says, "She's a great mom. Her new husband's a lawyer and she talks about all the stuff she does to help his career."
MC1 hears this and thinks, "And how old are the kids now? Sounds more like a great parasite."
The narrative continues: "His own mother had held down a job, even with mothering four kids. She hadn't needed to define herself by his dad's career."
Wow, so the standard for a woman is apparently that she should never get any sleep, and also teenagers don't need much parenting, and a spouse whose career eats a lot of time and energy doesn't benefit from having someone at home to support them, and a woman who's doing that is defining herself by her husband's career, never mind that the only things you know about her are that she has custody of two teenagers and she doesn't do paid work.
WTF, Kaje Harper. You could so easily have written a contentious divorce with plenty of mutual hostility but without making the ex a misogynistic cliche, so again: WTF.
There's an awful ex-wife, who keeps the kiddies away from MC2.
MC1 has a roommate who sleeps around, which you can understand why he finds the parade of strangers annoying, but there's a certain air of "What a bunch of bimbos." Okay, powering past the vague unease, until ...
The awful ex-wife has remarried. Living with her and her husband are the two children, one of whom is an adolescent and the other of whom is on the cusp. MC2 says, "She's a great mom. Her new husband's a lawyer and she talks about all the stuff she does to help his career."
MC1 hears this and thinks, "And how old are the kids now? Sounds more like a great parasite."
The narrative continues: "His own mother had held down a job, even with mothering four kids. She hadn't needed to define herself by his dad's career."
Wow, so the standard for a woman is apparently that she should never get any sleep, and also teenagers don't need much parenting, and a spouse whose career eats a lot of time and energy doesn't benefit from having someone at home to support them, and a woman who's doing that is defining herself by her husband's career, never mind that the only things you know about her are that she has custody of two teenagers and she doesn't do paid work.
WTF, Kaje Harper. You could so easily have written a contentious divorce with plenty of mutual hostility but without making the ex a misogynistic cliche, so again: WTF.
October 8, 2017
I enjoyed that one. It is not often you get a double GFY.
John and Ryan are extremely likeable characters. Neither has ever been with a man, so finding themselves developing feelings for each other is quite a shock..
Facing this novelty of emotions, their openness and honesty are awesome, the way both acknowledge their feelings astonishing (even if Ryan is not as sure as John to start with). I felt their connection, the heat and chemistry between them. Most of all they are communicating like the adults they are.
However, I had expected some crisis, some soul searching worry connected to the fact they are falling in love with a guy. But it all goes very (maybe too) smoothly. So does the sex. Both men take to it like ducks to water. (And yes, they are hot and cute, but ... )
Drama is mainly supplied via the problems with John's son, Mark, and the 'drug' subplot which felt vaguely misplaced (that detective really annoyed me, btw). What bothered me more was that the exploration of what's supposedly the core of the plot -John and Ryan and their developing relationship, their new 'gayness'- seemed to be finished quite quickly, too quickly for me anyway.
Still, I loved these two individually and as a couple and would happily recommend the book.
John and Ryan are extremely likeable characters. Neither has ever been with a man, so finding themselves developing feelings for each other is quite a shock..
Facing this novelty of emotions, their openness and honesty are awesome, the way both acknowledge their feelings astonishing (even if Ryan is not as sure as John to start with). I felt their connection, the heat and chemistry between them. Most of all they are communicating like the adults they are.
However, I had expected some crisis, some soul searching worry connected to the fact they are falling in love with a guy. But it all goes very (maybe too) smoothly. So does the sex. Both men take to it like ducks to water. (And yes, they are hot and cute, but ... )
Drama is mainly supplied via the problems with John's son, Mark, and the 'drug' subplot which felt vaguely misplaced (that detective really annoyed me, btw). What bothered me more was that the exploration of what's supposedly the core of the plot -John and Ryan and their developing relationship, their new 'gayness'- seemed to be finished quite quickly, too quickly for me anyway.
Still, I loved these two individually and as a couple and would happily recommend the book.
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