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Last Stop #1
Last Stop
Everyone has a past, but some are darker than others.
All Sam Mayne wants is a life dull as dry toast, safe from his shadowy past. His hopes fly out the window when a young drifter walks into his diner, answering his help wanted ad. Jay makes Sam tingle with apprehension, but also with cravings he long thought buried. He caves to those cravings, safe in the knowledge that Jay will move on soon enough.
Indeed, Jay Colby plans on taking only a short stop on his way to bigger and better things, but there’s no reason he shouldn’t enjoy his stay while it lasts. He quickly learns that Sam is bossy in and out of bed as he’s introduced to a whole new world of kinks.
All the bedroom action helps them ignore the fact of their growing intimacy. At least, until Sam’s past catches up with them with the jolt of a speeding bullet. All at once they’re forced to face hard truths about themselves and each other, and an enemy without mercy. What comes next will test their fledgling bonds to their limits.
Light BDS, growly DOM, chatty sub, and a whole lotta bad guys.
All Sam Mayne wants is a life dull as dry toast, safe from his shadowy past. His hopes fly out the window when a young drifter walks into his diner, answering his help wanted ad. Jay makes Sam tingle with apprehension, but also with cravings he long thought buried. He caves to those cravings, safe in the knowledge that Jay will move on soon enough.
Indeed, Jay Colby plans on taking only a short stop on his way to bigger and better things, but there’s no reason he shouldn’t enjoy his stay while it lasts. He quickly learns that Sam is bossy in and out of bed as he’s introduced to a whole new world of kinks.
All the bedroom action helps them ignore the fact of their growing intimacy. At least, until Sam’s past catches up with them with the jolt of a speeding bullet. All at once they’re forced to face hard truths about themselves and each other, and an enemy without mercy. What comes next will test their fledgling bonds to their limits.
Light BDS, growly DOM, chatty sub, and a whole lotta bad guys.
176 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 12, 2012
About the author
Lou Harper
37 books340 followersUnder a prickly, cynical surface Lou Harper is an incorrigible romantic. Her love affair with the written word started at a tender age. There was never a time when stories weren't romping around in her head. She is currently embroiled in a ruinous romance with adjectives. In her free time Lou stalks deviant words and feral narratives.
Lou's favorite animal is the hedgehog. She likes nature, books, movies, photography, and good food. She has a temper and mood swings.
Lou has misspent most of her life in parts of Europe and the US, but is now firmly settled in Los Angeles and worships the sun. However, she thinks the ocean smells funny. Lou is a loner, a misfit, and a happy drunk.
Blog: http://louharper.blogspot.com
Book cove designs: http://lharper.deviantart.com/gallery
Lou's favorite animal is the hedgehog. She likes nature, books, movies, photography, and good food. She has a temper and mood swings.
Lou has misspent most of her life in parts of Europe and the US, but is now firmly settled in Los Angeles and worships the sun. However, she thinks the ocean smells funny. Lou is a loner, a misfit, and a happy drunk.
Blog: http://louharper.blogspot.com
Book cove designs: http://lharper.deviantart.com/gallery
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
June 15, 2012
Very enjoyable indeed.
Although it's squarely m/m and not gay erotica, I like the slight rawness of the sexual relationship between Sam and Jay. The sex is hard, in a good way, not a dark-fic way. It's not pretty sex.
For the next few hours all Jay was able to think of was the smarting of his ass, the lingering smell of sex in the car, and Sam’s jizz trickling out of him, soaking into his jeans (loc. 1612).
Sometimes I think it crossed the line into silly:
He freed Sam’s shaft from its denim prison and unceremoniously stuffed it into his mouth (loc. 1594). (EDIT: I realised this is from Season 1 of Friends when Rachael tries to write a romance, and so it is probably being self-consciously referential, like the Special Delivery reference noted below.)
Overall, great BDSM-lite sex, good plot, good writing, believable dialog: all-around a great read. Sam is very Dommy and growly-delicious: nicely possessive, which I enjoy a lot.
Is it just me, or is this riffing on Heidi Cullinan's fabulous Special Delivery? Jay tells amusing stories about his tricks and sugar-daddies before Sam. One of these was an older truck driver who gave him a lift from a truck stop for a blow job.
Mitch, Butch . . . whatever his name was, he said I could stick with him, and he was kinda hot, but all that riding around wasn’t my thing. It gets awful boring (loc. 1494).
This, along with Sam calling Jay "Sunshine" made me think it was playing with this well-known text.
Although it's squarely m/m and not gay erotica, I like the slight rawness of the sexual relationship between Sam and Jay. The sex is hard, in a good way, not a dark-fic way. It's not pretty sex.
For the next few hours all Jay was able to think of was the smarting of his ass, the lingering smell of sex in the car, and Sam’s jizz trickling out of him, soaking into his jeans (loc. 1612).
Sometimes I think it crossed the line into silly:
He freed Sam’s shaft from its denim prison and unceremoniously stuffed it into his mouth (loc. 1594). (EDIT: I realised this is from Season 1 of Friends when Rachael tries to write a romance, and so it is probably being self-consciously referential, like the Special Delivery reference noted below.)
Overall, great BDSM-lite sex, good plot, good writing, believable dialog: all-around a great read. Sam is very Dommy and growly-delicious: nicely possessive, which I enjoy a lot.
Is it just me, or is this riffing on Heidi Cullinan's fabulous Special Delivery? Jay tells amusing stories about his tricks and sugar-daddies before Sam. One of these was an older truck driver who gave him a lift from a truck stop for a blow job.
Mitch, Butch . . . whatever his name was, he said I could stick with him, and he was kinda hot, but all that riding around wasn’t my thing. It gets awful boring (loc. 1494).
This, along with Sam calling Jay "Sunshine" made me think it was playing with this well-known text.
August 23, 2014
This was a great book! I loved Sam and Jay!
I enjoyed how Sam was all possessive and protective of Jay while struggling with himself because he didn't feel that he deserved to be happy. I also loved how Jay wouldn't listen to Sam when it really mattered and he wouldn't let Sam push him aside like everyone else in his life.
This was a great weekend read and a special thanks to Amy and Mishyjo for reading it with me....although I was a little behind :)
Cat, great pick!
I enjoyed how Sam was all possessive and protective of Jay while struggling with himself because he didn't feel that he deserved to be happy. I also loved how Jay wouldn't listen to Sam when it really mattered and he wouldn't let Sam push him aside like everyone else in his life.
This was a great weekend read and a special thanks to Amy and Mishyjo for reading it with me....although I was a little behind :)
Cat, great pick!
August 23, 2014
4.5 stars from me! I really enjoyed this one! Sam is a definite alpha male, all growly and possessive. And Jay is adorable and twinky with a little bit of sass! I loved them together! Great pick, Cat!!
September 19, 2013
This was a fast, smooth read with main characters I enjoyed watching together. Sam has been hiding from his past in a dull Montana town for a couple of years, quietly working and avoiding relationships. He owns a diner, and his life is safe but boring.
Jay is young, but he's had a string of short and badly-ended relationships, that ended with him moving on. He walks away from his latest truck-driver-ride and on a whim, applies for a job at the diner instead of finding another ride out of town. Sam knows he probably shouldn't hire Jay, given that he's attracted to both Jay's looks, and his sparky attitude. But Jay clearly need the job, and brings out a protective side to Sam. When he finds out Jay has nowhere else to stay, Sam also offers his spare room, and it doesn't take long in close quarters for sex to be on the menu.
The beginning of their relationship is fun, driven by the very different characters of the two men, and quickly incorporating a little mild kink. But then Sam's past catches up with him, forcing him to leave town. Jay turns out to be harder to ditch than Sam expects, and they already care for each other enough not to try too hard to separate. They end up on a road trip, trying to find a safe place to have a life. But with Sam's past, nowhere is really far enough to be safe.
There was some hot sex, some suspense, and a nice building relationship. I might quibble with the plot at the end a little, but I definitely enjoyed it.
Jay is young, but he's had a string of short and badly-ended relationships, that ended with him moving on. He walks away from his latest truck-driver-ride and on a whim, applies for a job at the diner instead of finding another ride out of town. Sam knows he probably shouldn't hire Jay, given that he's attracted to both Jay's looks, and his sparky attitude. But Jay clearly need the job, and brings out a protective side to Sam. When he finds out Jay has nowhere else to stay, Sam also offers his spare room, and it doesn't take long in close quarters for sex to be on the menu.
The beginning of their relationship is fun, driven by the very different characters of the two men, and quickly incorporating a little mild kink. But then Sam's past catches up with him, forcing him to leave town. Jay turns out to be harder to ditch than Sam expects, and they already care for each other enough not to try too hard to separate. They end up on a road trip, trying to find a safe place to have a life. But with Sam's past, nowhere is really far enough to be safe.
There was some hot sex, some suspense, and a nice building relationship. I might quibble with the plot at the end a little, but I definitely enjoyed it.
August 8, 2015
BR with Elsbeth
DNF at 9%
I have never DNF-ed a book this fast before! But I just can’t do it anymore.
Let me tell you what happens.
The book starts with Jay getting a ride from a truck driver, he gets of the truck, walks into Sam’s diner, meets Sam, gets a job there, works his ass of on the first day, he goes home with Sam because he doesn’t have a place to stay, he walks into Sam’s bedroom at night because Jay is used to having a sugar daddy, and they have sex.
And guess what, this all happens before page 12! Because I only got that far. The writing is truly awful and I really don’t want to read on.
I’m even rating this book 2 stars even though I didn’t get far at all because I really cannot recommend this book to anyone.
DNF at 9%
I have never DNF-ed a book this fast before! But I just can’t do it anymore.
Let me tell you what happens.
The book starts with Jay getting a ride from a truck driver, he gets of the truck, walks into Sam’s diner, meets Sam, gets a job there, works his ass of on the first day, he goes home with Sam because he doesn’t have a place to stay, he walks into Sam’s bedroom at night because Jay is used to having a sugar daddy, and they have sex.
And guess what, this all happens before page 12! Because I only got that far. The writing is truly awful and I really don’t want to read on.
I’m even rating this book 2 stars even though I didn’t get far at all because I really cannot recommend this book to anyone.
March 12, 2012
I liked the suspense/action and road trip part of the story, I wasn't a fan of the kink in the MC's relationship, it was off putting and hard to imagine Jay acting his age. I thought he was immature at times and Sam acted older than he was. So every-time they "played" I wasn't feeling the emotion or connection. I did want to love them more than I did and the pet names, no! An interesting mix I'm sure it will appeal to lots of readers the ending was sweet.
March 11, 2012
Very good kinky m/m romantic suspense about a guy who's hitchhiking to Seattle, paying his way with sex or a friendly ear. When his latest ride dumps him at a truck stop in Montana, he sees a help wanted sign and decides to stick around for a bit after he meets the sexy, mysterious, older owner of the cafe. And then things start to get more and more complicated...
March 11, 2012
4.5 stars
This was an entertaining read, keeping me riveted throughout til the end. I liked both MCs and their interaction very much. Thankfully no evil woman present, no big misunderstanding and the bad guys weren't too bad. Give me more stories like this one any time:)
This was an entertaining read, keeping me riveted throughout til the end. I liked both MCs and their interaction very much. Thankfully no evil woman present, no big misunderstanding and the bad guys weren't too bad. Give me more stories like this one any time:)
March 7, 2012
3.5 stars
On one hand, this story has an element that I love. It has road trips (yay!), which is definitely my favorite part in the whole book. Oh, and the prologue is definitely intriguing. There is action too, near the end of the book, which results in a lovely "I love you" statement -- which you usually get after an 'intense/being-in-danger' scene.
On the other hand, I have issue with the writing. One of the reviewers here said it to be "staccato", which I think is a perfect way to describe it. It doesn't flow nicely or smoothly enough for me to care or being emotionally attached to both characters. It's a slight disappointment on that part, because both men have their interesting traits and life story. Also, a chunk of time seems to pass by and it is only written as so, which a little distracting for me, probably due to the writing style in the first place.
The D/s tone and BDSM kink is okay, I guess. Not my favorite trope, so I'm not sure how good this is compared to others that has this kind of theme. However, I think it's a nice balance for Sam and Jay as characters. It gives Sam a sense of being protective (a reason to stand up for the threats that has been following him) and at the same time, it gives Jay a sense of trusting others (a reason to finally put down roots).
On one hand, this story has an element that I love. It has road trips (yay!), which is definitely my favorite part in the whole book. Oh, and the prologue is definitely intriguing. There is action too, near the end of the book, which results in a lovely "I love you" statement -- which you usually get after an 'intense/being-in-danger' scene.
On the other hand, I have issue with the writing. One of the reviewers here said it to be "staccato", which I think is a perfect way to describe it. It doesn't flow nicely or smoothly enough for me to care or being emotionally attached to both characters. It's a slight disappointment on that part, because both men have their interesting traits and life story. Also, a chunk of time seems to pass by and it is only written as so, which a little distracting for me, probably due to the writing style in the first place.
The D/s tone and BDSM kink is okay, I guess. Not my favorite trope, so I'm not sure how good this is compared to others that has this kind of theme. However, I think it's a nice balance for Sam and Jay as characters. It gives Sam a sense of being protective (a reason to stand up for the threats that has been following him) and at the same time, it gives Jay a sense of trusting others (a reason to finally put down roots).
June 15, 2012
I'll say 4.25 stars.
The book starts out kind of slow (not in a bad way) with young Jay on the run in a sense who gets stranded in hick-town nowhere and takes a job at a local diner. It’s not long, like a few hours, when him and diner owner Sam start up a relationship of sorts. Jay knows it’s temporary, all the older men he’s been with get rid of him sooner or later, and Sam lets some hints out about some bad stuff in his past so it’s only for a short time, only is it? Sam let’s his kink out of the box and Jay takes to it like a duck to water. Things are going well, even if the small town and being in the closet is chafing at Jay, when Sam’s past rears up and they are on the run from the mob who found Sam despite witness protection.
Sam is 13 years older than Jay, but Jay’s no naive bunny. Well, not in the way of relationships, maybe in the ways of how really dangerous the world can be, but Sam goes about making sure Jay can take care of himself, without really explaining why, but it comes in handy later. Jay is young, typically young and impatient and gets bored easily. It was nice to see Sam as that stabilizing influence on him, someone who could calm him down and center him, not only because of his age, but because of the D/s relationship they had, but Jay was still spunky.
The road trip is fun, but that underlying anxiety of wondering who is coming after you and when they’d arrive was well done. I loved when they were most settled, buying furniture, being a “normal” couple. They complemented each other well. And then the ending, holy hell, I was reading with one eye shut because I just knew it was not going to go well, but I loved that despite how many times Sam pushed Jay away “for his own good”, Jay dug in his heels and fought to stay with Sam.
My only niggle, I couldn’t keep the bad guys straight. But then I’m not very good with Italian names, I was never sure which was which, but it didn’t really matter, so I didn’t bother going back to figure it out. The BDSM is hinted at more often than shown on-page, but I was good with that. I’m not a hardcore BDSM reader so I don’t really enjoy long drawn out scenes of flogging or whatnot, but I do enjoy the D/s shown which this was more of, so that really worked well for me, but others might enjoy more nitty gritty detail. *shrug* It’s a personal thing.
So I really enjoyed this because it had a bit of everything, slower relationship parts, road trip parts, bad guys and beatings and shootings parts, sexy parts, the whole package. A good choice when you’re not sure what you’re in the mood for, because you can get most of it here in one package.
The book starts out kind of slow (not in a bad way) with young Jay on the run in a sense who gets stranded in hick-town nowhere and takes a job at a local diner. It’s not long, like a few hours, when him and diner owner Sam start up a relationship of sorts. Jay knows it’s temporary, all the older men he’s been with get rid of him sooner or later, and Sam lets some hints out about some bad stuff in his past so it’s only for a short time, only is it? Sam let’s his kink out of the box and Jay takes to it like a duck to water. Things are going well, even if the small town and being in the closet is chafing at Jay, when Sam’s past rears up and they are on the run from the mob who found Sam despite witness protection.
Sam is 13 years older than Jay, but Jay’s no naive bunny. Well, not in the way of relationships, maybe in the ways of how really dangerous the world can be, but Sam goes about making sure Jay can take care of himself, without really explaining why, but it comes in handy later. Jay is young, typically young and impatient and gets bored easily. It was nice to see Sam as that stabilizing influence on him, someone who could calm him down and center him, not only because of his age, but because of the D/s relationship they had, but Jay was still spunky.
The road trip is fun, but that underlying anxiety of wondering who is coming after you and when they’d arrive was well done. I loved when they were most settled, buying furniture, being a “normal” couple. They complemented each other well. And then the ending, holy hell, I was reading with one eye shut because I just knew it was not going to go well, but I loved that despite how many times Sam pushed Jay away “for his own good”, Jay dug in his heels and fought to stay with Sam.
My only niggle, I couldn’t keep the bad guys straight. But then I’m not very good with Italian names, I was never sure which was which, but it didn’t really matter, so I didn’t bother going back to figure it out. The BDSM is hinted at more often than shown on-page, but I was good with that. I’m not a hardcore BDSM reader so I don’t really enjoy long drawn out scenes of flogging or whatnot, but I do enjoy the D/s shown which this was more of, so that really worked well for me, but others might enjoy more nitty gritty detail. *shrug* It’s a personal thing.
So I really enjoyed this because it had a bit of everything, slower relationship parts, road trip parts, bad guys and beatings and shootings parts, sexy parts, the whole package. A good choice when you’re not sure what you’re in the mood for, because you can get most of it here in one package.
May 21, 2013
I didn't pay too much attention to the blurb going into this one so the storyline ended up surprising me the further I read in, and what I thought was going be an okay read ended up being a book I had trouble putting down.
Jay is hitchhiking rides from truckers and ends up in Montana at a diner and gets hired by the owner, Sam, an older gruff guy. The two men start sleeping together and I wasn't expecting the turn that happened after that. I loved it.
I loved the reveal, the road trip, the new life in LA, and most especially I loved these men together. Snarky Jay and stoic Sam, kinks and all. These two were perfect for each other even when Sam persisted in trying to protect Jay.
I did find one open ended string that had me frustrated:
There was fabulous chemistry here and smart, tough characters who made no apologies for their choices in life or their pleasures. Refreshing.
Jay is hitchhiking rides from truckers and ends up in Montana at a diner and gets hired by the owner, Sam, an older gruff guy. The two men start sleeping together and I wasn't expecting the turn that happened after that. I loved it.
I loved the reveal, the road trip, the new life in LA, and most especially I loved these men together. Snarky Jay and stoic Sam, kinks and all. These two were perfect for each other even when Sam persisted in trying to protect Jay.
I did find one open ended string that had me frustrated:
There was fabulous chemistry here and smart, tough characters who made no apologies for their choices in life or their pleasures. Refreshing.
June 8, 2013
I loved this book. I read Seduction first not realizing it was a short featuring the same characters, so once I put that together I read Last Stop right away and then Seduction again. And, I'll read both of them again at some point I'm sure.
Aside from the plot and the premise which were totally engaging, the characters were both so distinct and strong. I wanted to give Jay a hug and smack him upside the head, I just loved him. Sam was a perfect counterpoint to him and the dialog between the them let you really see their relationship instead of just being told about it.
The light BDSM play was appropriate and sweetly done for their dynamics and fit both of them well.
Highly recommended!
Aside from the plot and the premise which were totally engaging, the characters were both so distinct and strong. I wanted to give Jay a hug and smack him upside the head, I just loved him. Sam was a perfect counterpoint to him and the dialog between the them let you really see their relationship instead of just being told about it.
The light BDSM play was appropriate and sweetly done for their dynamics and fit both of them well.
Highly recommended!
June 12, 2012
An interesting book. I sort of had a love hate affair with the writing and the characters.
Sam and Jay were interesting enough, but they weren't developed thoroughly for me to fully connect with them or feel them as a pair. The writing was staccato. Not bad in some ways but annoying in others -sometimes I wanted to jump to the next scene, sometimes I wanted a bit more information. There was no great twist in the plot, you knew where it was going but I went along willingly for the journey.
If you like two guys on the run, an older/younger guy combination, some BDSM (not my favourite portrayal of BDSM in this book), no-nonsense dialogue, then this may be the book for you.
Sam and Jay were interesting enough, but they weren't developed thoroughly for me to fully connect with them or feel them as a pair. The writing was staccato. Not bad in some ways but annoying in others -sometimes I wanted to jump to the next scene, sometimes I wanted a bit more information. There was no great twist in the plot, you knew where it was going but I went along willingly for the journey.
If you like two guys on the run, an older/younger guy combination, some BDSM (not my favourite portrayal of BDSM in this book), no-nonsense dialogue, then this may be the book for you.
July 5, 2013
Really enjoyed this. The romance was kinky greatness... But also loving. The thriller aspect ramped up nicely and there's something about a boy who constantly puts himself in danger to protect the one he loves... And when they both do it, well, that's double the goodness.
September 7, 2013
Hiding from criminals, running for your life, and finding your soul mate in the most unbelievable place are the hallmarks of this first book in a new series by Lou Harper. This is an author whom I have only recently begun to appreciate. Her writing style is very old school, well, except for the sex, and it reminds me of Mickey Spillane in a way. I really enjoy it. Her characters are always strong and very real, as if they are people you know personally. Sam and Jay are exactly that. They are real, with vulnerabilities, doubts, weaknesses, and strengths all bundled together to make them human.
Jay, at twenty-two, has a history of sugar daddies, mostly ones with money. They take care of him, financially, and he provides them with a young, good looking stud. Usually they either tire of him or he discovers what kind of person they're really like and Jay takes off. He isn't planning on staying in Coldwater, Montana, and he really isn't planning on working at Sam's diner. But, somehow, he ends up with Sam, after all. Sam confuses him, because Jay is sending out all the signals telling him he's available, but Sam isn't doing anything about it. Huh. So Jay takes matters into his own hands, so to speak, but little does Jay know that Sam being dominant with him will bring out an inner submissive Jay never knew he had. *grins*
Sam is thirty-five and a man with a whole lot of secrets. One look at Jay and he knows he should just send him on his way because Jay is trouble and Sam doesn't need any more trouble in his life. Sam is just marking time in Montana and he likes his quiet, very unobtrusive life. But, he discovers he likes having Jay in it, even more. Sam knows Jay is going to head down the road, eventually. Small town life isn't for Jay, but Sam does what he can to help Jay be more prepared for the seedy parts of life. He sets him up with a friend to get self-defense classes and he teaches him the basics of using a handgun, figuring these are all skills that Jay should be familiar with.
One day, out of the blue, Sam grabs Jay, takes him to the bus stop, puts Jay on the bus and says sayonara, basically. Jay is hurt thinking "not again", until he's watching the news and sees a story about murder and organized crime and showing a picture of the guy who waltzed into the diner a couple of weeks earlier. Jay heads straight back to Sam, and Sam ain't happy about that! Turns out Sam's past is hunting for him and he wanted to protect Jay, so instead they go on the run together. They end up in L.A. where Sam's Uncle Frank left him a place to live, new identities, and a bank account. Uncle Frank wasn't in the mob, but he was connected, if you know what I mean.
I absolutely adored this story. I completely fell in love with Sam and Jay. Sam, the ex-mob turned informant, with his tough outside and soft center. Jay who thinks he can take on the world but still has a lot of innocence to him. They were fabulous together and I can not wait for more! If you want to know the ending you're going to have to get the book. It's definitely worth it!
NOTE: This book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews
Jay, at twenty-two, has a history of sugar daddies, mostly ones with money. They take care of him, financially, and he provides them with a young, good looking stud. Usually they either tire of him or he discovers what kind of person they're really like and Jay takes off. He isn't planning on staying in Coldwater, Montana, and he really isn't planning on working at Sam's diner. But, somehow, he ends up with Sam, after all. Sam confuses him, because Jay is sending out all the signals telling him he's available, but Sam isn't doing anything about it. Huh. So Jay takes matters into his own hands, so to speak, but little does Jay know that Sam being dominant with him will bring out an inner submissive Jay never knew he had. *grins*
Sam is thirty-five and a man with a whole lot of secrets. One look at Jay and he knows he should just send him on his way because Jay is trouble and Sam doesn't need any more trouble in his life. Sam is just marking time in Montana and he likes his quiet, very unobtrusive life. But, he discovers he likes having Jay in it, even more. Sam knows Jay is going to head down the road, eventually. Small town life isn't for Jay, but Sam does what he can to help Jay be more prepared for the seedy parts of life. He sets him up with a friend to get self-defense classes and he teaches him the basics of using a handgun, figuring these are all skills that Jay should be familiar with.
One day, out of the blue, Sam grabs Jay, takes him to the bus stop, puts Jay on the bus and says sayonara, basically. Jay is hurt thinking "not again", until he's watching the news and sees a story about murder and organized crime and showing a picture of the guy who waltzed into the diner a couple of weeks earlier. Jay heads straight back to Sam, and Sam ain't happy about that! Turns out Sam's past is hunting for him and he wanted to protect Jay, so instead they go on the run together. They end up in L.A. where Sam's Uncle Frank left him a place to live, new identities, and a bank account. Uncle Frank wasn't in the mob, but he was connected, if you know what I mean.
I absolutely adored this story. I completely fell in love with Sam and Jay. Sam, the ex-mob turned informant, with his tough outside and soft center. Jay who thinks he can take on the world but still has a lot of innocence to him. They were fabulous together and I can not wait for more! If you want to know the ending you're going to have to get the book. It's definitely worth it!
NOTE: This book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews
September 3, 2012
Originally posted at: http://whippedcream2.blogspot.com/201...
If you ever wondered if a good mobster plot could mix with hot M/M, then here you go!
Jay is a young man on the wander, he’s cute, he’s alone and he’d like a guy to share his life with, someone different to the line of disastrous romances of his past. Sam on the other hand isn’t looking for anything other than a quiet life, so when Jay wanders into his diner and catches his eye, things get hot. But can they handle the heat?
Last Stop is a book that kept me going back for more, and was one of those reads that I just couldn’t guess what was going to happen next, even when I thought I could. The building relationship between the two lead characters is cleverly woven into a complex plot that holds intrigue, danger and a good sprinkle of bedroom action.
I enjoyed how the author switched between Jay and Sam’s point of view and how I got to hear both of their voices, which were quite different. Sam for all his gruffness, really was a bit of a softy and definitely a keeper. Jay was so likeable, I actually did want to hug him. And did I mention the sex? Phew, it’s hot and steamy and certainly a bit kinky. There’s plenty of it too, it’s spread out well through the book so you get a hit of steamy action just when you need it.
Last Stop is very well written, it has a plot with lots of threads that are all tied up nicely and two characters who come to life on the page. I certainly recommend it if you enjoy M/M, contemporary and a story that drops your heroes on the wrong side of danger.
If you ever wondered if a good mobster plot could mix with hot M/M, then here you go!
Jay is a young man on the wander, he’s cute, he’s alone and he’d like a guy to share his life with, someone different to the line of disastrous romances of his past. Sam on the other hand isn’t looking for anything other than a quiet life, so when Jay wanders into his diner and catches his eye, things get hot. But can they handle the heat?
Last Stop is a book that kept me going back for more, and was one of those reads that I just couldn’t guess what was going to happen next, even when I thought I could. The building relationship between the two lead characters is cleverly woven into a complex plot that holds intrigue, danger and a good sprinkle of bedroom action.
I enjoyed how the author switched between Jay and Sam’s point of view and how I got to hear both of their voices, which were quite different. Sam for all his gruffness, really was a bit of a softy and definitely a keeper. Jay was so likeable, I actually did want to hug him. And did I mention the sex? Phew, it’s hot and steamy and certainly a bit kinky. There’s plenty of it too, it’s spread out well through the book so you get a hit of steamy action just when you need it.
Last Stop is very well written, it has a plot with lots of threads that are all tied up nicely and two characters who come to life on the page. I certainly recommend it if you enjoy M/M, contemporary and a story that drops your heroes on the wrong side of danger.
February 16, 2014
A new friend recommended that I expand my MM horizons to include Lou Harper's books and I was NOT disappointed by my first exposure to this author. In fact, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and can't wait to read more by her!
I loved both characters; the contrast between Sam's bad-boy-makes-good and Jay's troubled-and-slutty-youth-with-a-vulnerable-core really worked for me. I completely bought into the development of their relationship and dug the May-December element to the story. I am such a slut for the age gap trope! *grins*
While I found the BDSM elements to the story hot and well-written, something about those scenes also made me want to giggle while reading them. I can't put my finger on exactly what incited my giggly response, but I think it might been that the style of writing was pretty sweet and light - perhaps too sweet and light for a story with this type of kink. There was no darker motivations, no working out of issues through kink. Sam and Jay just liked what they liked (and I liked reading about it!). But sometimes it felt like the literary equivalent of a kid playing dress up. I don't mean this in a derogatory way in the least - I really liked the style of this story and I know a LOT of friends that feel the same way. I just know that I also wouldn't hesitate to recommend Last Stop to friends of mine that don't particularly like hardcore BDSM stories.
Also... High five to Ms. Harper for the shout out to Heidi Cullinan's Special Delivery. #LongLiveMitch!
I loved both characters; the contrast between Sam's bad-boy-makes-good and Jay's troubled-and-slutty-youth-with-a-vulnerable-core really worked for me. I completely bought into the development of their relationship and dug the May-December element to the story. I am such a slut for the age gap trope! *grins*
While I found the BDSM elements to the story hot and well-written, something about those scenes also made me want to giggle while reading them. I can't put my finger on exactly what incited my giggly response, but I think it might been that the style of writing was pretty sweet and light - perhaps too sweet and light for a story with this type of kink. There was no darker motivations, no working out of issues through kink. Sam and Jay just liked what they liked (and I liked reading about it!). But sometimes it felt like the literary equivalent of a kid playing dress up. I don't mean this in a derogatory way in the least - I really liked the style of this story and I know a LOT of friends that feel the same way. I just know that I also wouldn't hesitate to recommend Last Stop to friends of mine that don't particularly like hardcore BDSM stories.
Also... High five to Ms. Harper for the shout out to Heidi Cullinan's Special Delivery. #LongLiveMitch!
June 29, 2012
I love books like this ... wonderfully vivid characters ... a meaty plot that doesn't have massive holes ... smexy kink ... it kept me on the edge of my seat & reading past my bed-time ... what more could you ask for?
May 3, 2013
I don't know how I feel about the story as a whole but I'll be the first to admit my weakness for slutty, bratty twinks and Jay won me over big time.
December 2, 2017
Nice dom/sub lite story. I like the way that Sam and Jay got to know one another. Good, likable characters with good sex.
August 5, 2013
A fun, lighthearted story with a dash of BDSM and sprinklings of mobster intrigue. Last Stop is amusing from start to finish.
The relationship between Sam and Jay is a sheer joy to read as I watch them grow closer throughout the story's progression. They are perfect for each other. Jay has been through a lot of hookups and relationships but this doesn't bother Sam at all. I loved this aspect of Sam who is able to separate the past from the present. It was cute, however, to see Sam display some jealousy at one point in the book.
Although Jay submits to Sam for many things, it was lovely to see that he's quite an independent person who is unafraid to do what he thinks is right. Despite his admittedly slutty past, Jay is a likeable personality and I wanted to see him happy with Sam.
The BDSM and suspense parts are not too heavy in this book which suits me just fine. There's just enough of both to spice up the romance.
The perfect book to read for a leisurely day.
The relationship between Sam and Jay is a sheer joy to read as I watch them grow closer throughout the story's progression. They are perfect for each other. Jay has been through a lot of hookups and relationships but this doesn't bother Sam at all. I loved this aspect of Sam who is able to separate the past from the present. It was cute, however, to see Sam display some jealousy at one point in the book.
Although Jay submits to Sam for many things, it was lovely to see that he's quite an independent person who is unafraid to do what he thinks is right. Despite his admittedly slutty past, Jay is a likeable personality and I wanted to see him happy with Sam.
The BDSM and suspense parts are not too heavy in this book which suits me just fine. There's just enough of both to spice up the romance.
The perfect book to read for a leisurely day.
September 26, 2013
Overall I enjoyed the book. But some things niggled at me.
Jay was 22, not 18, and not a child…although sometimes he talked like one!
In just a few lessons, Jay learned enough self defense to remain not only calm when faced with a killer mob guy, but he was also able to kick his ass!! Wow Jay, I am impressed!!
What are we doing here…are we running from bad guys…I keep forgetting…..
Sam doesn't get the reference to Matt Damon and the Bourne Identity…he says in his day the role model was Magnum PI….REALLY…Magnum Fucking PI…..No way…That would make him at least my age which is 46…yet I'm pretty sure he was only 33(or maybe 36).
I think I would have enjoyed the story more if the Author would have dropped the mob factor and focused on the relationship (sex) of Jay and Sam. They had some great sex!
Jay was 22, not 18, and not a child…although sometimes he talked like one!
In just a few lessons, Jay learned enough self defense to remain not only calm when faced with a killer mob guy, but he was also able to kick his ass!! Wow Jay, I am impressed!!
What are we doing here…are we running from bad guys…I keep forgetting…..
Sam doesn't get the reference to Matt Damon and the Bourne Identity…he says in his day the role model was Magnum PI….REALLY…Magnum Fucking PI…..No way…That would make him at least my age which is 46…yet I'm pretty sure he was only 33(or maybe 36).
I think I would have enjoyed the story more if the Author would have dropped the mob factor and focused on the relationship (sex) of Jay and Sam. They had some great sex!
April 16, 2012
4 1/2 stars!
Wow. Not what I was expecting at all. The first thing I noticed about Lou Harper’s LAST STOP is that it was written in the style of Mickey Spillane. And that was before Sam and Jay started running. The second thing I noticed was who they were running from. Why they are running comes out in bits and pieces.
While this is a plot-driven novel I can’t say much about that without getting into spoilers. Trust me, this is a book you don’t want to know what’s coming next until you get there.
I loved Sam and Jay. I loved the story. I loved the ending.
Please see my complete review April 17, 2012 at http://mrsconditreadsbooks.com/index....
Wow. Not what I was expecting at all. The first thing I noticed about Lou Harper’s LAST STOP is that it was written in the style of Mickey Spillane. And that was before Sam and Jay started running. The second thing I noticed was who they were running from. Why they are running comes out in bits and pieces.
While this is a plot-driven novel I can’t say much about that without getting into spoilers. Trust me, this is a book you don’t want to know what’s coming next until you get there.
I loved Sam and Jay. I loved the story. I loved the ending.
Please see my complete review April 17, 2012 at http://mrsconditreadsbooks.com/index....
September 17, 2013
3.5 stars
A good, if predictable, bad guy on the run who falls in love with a damaged boy and after overcoming their pasts live happy ever after story.
A good, if predictable, bad guy on the run who falls in love with a damaged boy and after overcoming their pasts live happy ever after story.
September 12, 2012
My Review:
I liked this book. It had just the perfect levels of sizzling sex, edge of your seat suspense, and a really gorgeous romance.
Jay is a wanderer. He's gay and has learned to use that to his advantage to help him get by. On his own since since he was a teenager, he uses his sexuality to help him find a somewhat stable place to sleep. Unfortunately, with that comes the fact that whatever situation he is in, there's no stability there. He's come to expect it no matter what his lover of the moment tells him...he's learned to not get attached.
Sam has also lived a nomadic life, but he's learned to address his sexual needs with one night stands. The few he's gotten attached to have been used against him and have usually died, so he's learned not to get attached.
When Jay wanders into Sam's Montana diner, they both know this situation is temporary. That's just the way that things work for both of them....they don't plan on getting attached, but...
And that's what makes this story so good. Neither of these guys EVER planned to get attached. They both know better and they've learned that lesson in very painful ways, but sometimes you just can't control your heart. And as a reader, there is nothing more gorgeous than watching feelings grow and the vulnerability that comes with that. I love stories where no matter how hard they fight it, they can't overcome the feelings for each other and that is definitely the case in this book. They're in danger and Sam especially keeps trying to shove Jay out of his life...for his own safety....but it's a losing battle.
I loved the relationship between these two. Sam is a big-time alpha and dominate and for the most part, Jay submits himself to that. Until it comes time for Sam to sacrifice himself and then there's no pushing Jay. I loved that he stood up for what he had to when he knew he needed to. He may be the submissive in this relationship, but Jay is no pushover. He will push right back...LOVED that! And both these guys are really smart. They're on the run for the second half of the book. Sam has all his plans...A, B, C, and D...and he's not telling Jay much about what is going on (yep, there's that controlling alpha). But Jay is smart and observant...he doesn't miss much and we've already established that he's not a push-over.
Like I said, I just thoroughly enjoyed this book and I fell in love with these two characters. I doubt there are any more books planned for them (the book just isn't written that way), but these are the style of characters that I would easily follow into another book to read more of their story. Just a great dynamic between the two of them. Recommend!!
I received a complementary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
I liked this book. It had just the perfect levels of sizzling sex, edge of your seat suspense, and a really gorgeous romance.
Jay is a wanderer. He's gay and has learned to use that to his advantage to help him get by. On his own since since he was a teenager, he uses his sexuality to help him find a somewhat stable place to sleep. Unfortunately, with that comes the fact that whatever situation he is in, there's no stability there. He's come to expect it no matter what his lover of the moment tells him...he's learned to not get attached.
Sam has also lived a nomadic life, but he's learned to address his sexual needs with one night stands. The few he's gotten attached to have been used against him and have usually died, so he's learned not to get attached.
When Jay wanders into Sam's Montana diner, they both know this situation is temporary. That's just the way that things work for both of them....they don't plan on getting attached, but...
And that's what makes this story so good. Neither of these guys EVER planned to get attached. They both know better and they've learned that lesson in very painful ways, but sometimes you just can't control your heart. And as a reader, there is nothing more gorgeous than watching feelings grow and the vulnerability that comes with that. I love stories where no matter how hard they fight it, they can't overcome the feelings for each other and that is definitely the case in this book. They're in danger and Sam especially keeps trying to shove Jay out of his life...for his own safety....but it's a losing battle.
I loved the relationship between these two. Sam is a big-time alpha and dominate and for the most part, Jay submits himself to that. Until it comes time for Sam to sacrifice himself and then there's no pushing Jay. I loved that he stood up for what he had to when he knew he needed to. He may be the submissive in this relationship, but Jay is no pushover. He will push right back...LOVED that! And both these guys are really smart. They're on the run for the second half of the book. Sam has all his plans...A, B, C, and D...and he's not telling Jay much about what is going on (yep, there's that controlling alpha). But Jay is smart and observant...he doesn't miss much and we've already established that he's not a push-over.
Like I said, I just thoroughly enjoyed this book and I fell in love with these two characters. I doubt there are any more books planned for them (the book just isn't written that way), but these are the style of characters that I would easily follow into another book to read more of their story. Just a great dynamic between the two of them. Recommend!!
I received a complementary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
April 6, 2012
Sam Mayne runs a diner in a small town, he’s the mysterious man who keeps to himself and doesn’t go flaunting his personal life to his customers. It’s work and a little bit a play on the side. He gets his play by leaving the town he lives in because he doesn’t want to flaunt his homosexuality and draw attention to himself. When his waitress skips town with a trucker, Sam is just looking for a little extra help in the kitchen. When Jay Colby knocks on his door, Sam knows the boy is trouble but he’s bloody tempting as sin.
Jay is young and has been hitchhiking his way across towns; he makes no apologies about giving up the love for a ride. Because sometimes you gotta bend over or get on your knees to get what you want. He get’s lucky by finding a job at Sam’s diner, and Sam giving him a place to stay. Jay is thinking he might have a bed partner while he’s passing through the small town Montana, but Sam isn’t making a move ‘what up with that!’.
Just when things are going well for Sam and Jay, something big shakes their foundation. Seems Sam’s mob past has caught up with him, and hiding in a small town no longer offers him protection. Sam is facing down the craziest of the mob bosses and Jay is caught in the crossfire, and Sam is willing to let him go to protect him.
I loved Sam and Jay, I’m a big fan of characters who make no apologies about their past. Jay was cute, and I just enjoyed his frankness when he spoke of his past, though somewhat of a crazy past I still liked it. I loved Sam, his moustache and his sideburns. Reminded of a just handsome everyday kinda guy, who can kick ass and take names. Together they complimented each other and had some hot man love.
Sometimes I was of thrown out of the story by the speed that it was moving, but then the author would throw me right back in and it was like I never missed a beat. It has action, a bit of suspense, humour, and serious sexy time.
Overall, I enjoyed it more for the characters than the actual plot. There is a BDSM theme that’s very tame and spiced up the love scenes. I look forward to more from Lou Harper and I hope she gives another little story about Jay and Sam. I would really love to read about their life after running.
Jay is young and has been hitchhiking his way across towns; he makes no apologies about giving up the love for a ride. Because sometimes you gotta bend over or get on your knees to get what you want. He get’s lucky by finding a job at Sam’s diner, and Sam giving him a place to stay. Jay is thinking he might have a bed partner while he’s passing through the small town Montana, but Sam isn’t making a move ‘what up with that!’.
Just when things are going well for Sam and Jay, something big shakes their foundation. Seems Sam’s mob past has caught up with him, and hiding in a small town no longer offers him protection. Sam is facing down the craziest of the mob bosses and Jay is caught in the crossfire, and Sam is willing to let him go to protect him.
I loved Sam and Jay, I’m a big fan of characters who make no apologies about their past. Jay was cute, and I just enjoyed his frankness when he spoke of his past, though somewhat of a crazy past I still liked it. I loved Sam, his moustache and his sideburns. Reminded of a just handsome everyday kinda guy, who can kick ass and take names. Together they complimented each other and had some hot man love.
Sometimes I was of thrown out of the story by the speed that it was moving, but then the author would throw me right back in and it was like I never missed a beat. It has action, a bit of suspense, humour, and serious sexy time.
Overall, I enjoyed it more for the characters than the actual plot. There is a BDSM theme that’s very tame and spiced up the love scenes. I look forward to more from Lou Harper and I hope she gives another little story about Jay and Sam. I would really love to read about their life after running.
May 11, 2012
There is so much about this book that I loved. It's different from what I normally read for one. No insta-love. While the sex happens pretty quickly, there are no declarations early on. Everything is allowed to play out. There is an actual story and plot line that does not focus solely on the two main characters, Sam and Jay. Sure, they are center, but they aren't the entire story.
I love books that have characters with a substantial age difference. Sam is 34 or 35 and Jay is 22 so that was perfect. I normally get turned off by reading a main character describing his past sexual exploits but Jay's stories were very entertaining and some were downright funny.
The suspense was nice even if I did realize early on what was going on (which I think was the point). I never got bored or felt the need to put my Kindle down because the book was dragging. The ending was perfect.
Definitely an enjoyable read. I look forward to reading more by this author.
I love books that have characters with a substantial age difference. Sam is 34 or 35 and Jay is 22 so that was perfect. I normally get turned off by reading a main character describing his past sexual exploits but Jay's stories were very entertaining and some were downright funny.
The suspense was nice even if I did realize early on what was going on (which I think was the point). I never got bored or felt the need to put my Kindle down because the book was dragging. The ending was perfect.
Definitely an enjoyable read. I look forward to reading more by this author.
July 9, 2012
This was one of those weird reading experiences where I read the book without reading the blurb first (although I must have read a review that make it sound like the book would be up my alley). So the book was not at all what I expected, but I still enjoyed it. It reads a little like two different stories: the first is Jay running away and landing in a tiny town in Montana, persuaded to stay by a gut feeling more than anything else, and the second is all the stuff Sam is tangled up in. So it starts off as kind of a sweet contemporary, and then we're pulled into a fairly well-done suspense plot, which I liked. Jay is a refreshing character as well because it would have been easy for Jay and Sam to fall into victim/protector roles, but Jay holds his own and even comes to Sam's rescue a few times. It creates a different dynamic than I've seen in a lot of other m/m books with similar premises, and I really liked that. So thumbs up for this book!
December 8, 2012
4.5 stars rounded up to 5
I think my favorite thing about this book were the characters. I liked the clashing personalities and the obvious totally unplanned caring on both sides.
It was really fast paced without a lot of sex, but what was there was extra spicy with glimpses of BDSM which was just a cherry on top for me.
The story itself had a lot to offer, and anyone who loves mobsters will appreciate this story despite it not being centered on the very world of crime but rather it's consequences.
Last stop proved to be another winner by this author and a great finish to my free weekend. I couldn't have wished for a better late night story.
I think my favorite thing about this book were the characters. I liked the clashing personalities and the obvious totally unplanned caring on both sides.
It was really fast paced without a lot of sex, but what was there was extra spicy with glimpses of BDSM which was just a cherry on top for me.
The story itself had a lot to offer, and anyone who loves mobsters will appreciate this story despite it not being centered on the very world of crime but rather it's consequences.
Last stop proved to be another winner by this author and a great finish to my free weekend. I couldn't have wished for a better late night story.
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