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Maybe This Time
Moving into a new home starts with a bang when Ryan Blackwell celebrates turning thirty. Being hungover means he’s bleary-eyed and clumsy the next day, but even in that state, he can appreciate how sexy and fit his neighbour is.
Matt Thomas isn’t looking for anything long-term—one and done is usually his life rule. Why settle down early, like his sister, when casual relationships are so easy? With Ryan living in the same building, chance encounters are inevitable. When one night together becomes two, a friends-with-benefits deal seems a natural progression.
There’s only one problem: sex with no strings relies on matching expectations, so Ryan can’t help worrying. His huge heart always wants more, but Matt’s been clear about his limits. As passion leads to caring, they’ll have to make some tough decisions—maybe this time, breaking some rules will be worth it if that means they’ll get to share a future.
Matt Thomas isn’t looking for anything long-term—one and done is usually his life rule. Why settle down early, like his sister, when casual relationships are so easy? With Ryan living in the same building, chance encounters are inevitable. When one night together becomes two, a friends-with-benefits deal seems a natural progression.
There’s only one problem: sex with no strings relies on matching expectations, so Ryan can’t help worrying. His huge heart always wants more, but Matt’s been clear about his limits. As passion leads to caring, they’ll have to make some tough decisions—maybe this time, breaking some rules will be worth it if that means they’ll get to share a future.
147 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 30, 2017
About the author
Annabelle Jacobs
52 books404 followersAnnabelle Jacobs lives in the South West of England with her three rowdy children, and two cats.
An avid reader of fantasy herself for many years, Annabelle now spends her days writing her own stories. They're usually either fantasy or paranormal fiction, because she loves building worlds filled with magical creatures, and creating stories full of action and adventure. Her characters may have a tough time of it—fighting enemies and adversity—but they always find love in the end.
An avid reader of fantasy herself for many years, Annabelle now spends her days writing her own stories. They're usually either fantasy or paranormal fiction, because she loves building worlds filled with magical creatures, and creating stories full of action and adventure. Her characters may have a tough time of it—fighting enemies and adversity—but they always find love in the end.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
August 23, 2017
Annabelle Jacobs has become one of my go-to authors for lower angst, steamy romance with a British flair.
Maybe This Time is a fun story about two ordinary guys who live in the same building and become embroiled in a friends-with-benefits situation.
Matt isn't interested in a long-term relationship. He's so used to defending himself against well-meaning relatives wanting to set him up with a nice boy, he doesn't even consider the possibility that the right man might come along someday.
Ryan doesn't make a good first impression. He spills coffee all over Matt's shirt and later buys his mother's washing machine. It's like all of a sudden Ryan is everywhere.
Ryan, who's 30 to Matt's 38, decides that he'd rather have sex with Matt than not have Matt at all. Matt is a little prickly and makes it perfectly clear he's not looking for a boyfriend, and Ryan is fine with that. Because FEELINGS; who needs them?
But when Matt's dad takes a bad fall, Ryan proves to be a supportive and caring (boy)friend. All of a sudden, it's Matt who wants more.
There's some seriously hot lovin' in this book. Matt is a premature silver fox, which always turns my crank (and Ryan's too apparently).
I liked the great cast of secondary characters, including Matt's friend Sam and Ryan's friend Josh, who really need stories of their own.
I get exhausted reading about homophobic families, so I was really grateful that Matt and Josh's families were encouraging and kind. I adored both moms!
This is not an angsty story; it's easy, a little fluffy around the edges, and sexy. The epilogue is all about love, kittens, and surprises! You can't go wrong with that.
Maybe This Time is a fun story about two ordinary guys who live in the same building and become embroiled in a friends-with-benefits situation.
Matt isn't interested in a long-term relationship. He's so used to defending himself against well-meaning relatives wanting to set him up with a nice boy, he doesn't even consider the possibility that the right man might come along someday.
Ryan doesn't make a good first impression. He spills coffee all over Matt's shirt and later buys his mother's washing machine. It's like all of a sudden Ryan is everywhere.
Ryan, who's 30 to Matt's 38, decides that he'd rather have sex with Matt than not have Matt at all. Matt is a little prickly and makes it perfectly clear he's not looking for a boyfriend, and Ryan is fine with that. Because FEELINGS; who needs them?
But when Matt's dad takes a bad fall, Ryan proves to be a supportive and caring (boy)friend. All of a sudden, it's Matt who wants more.
There's some seriously hot lovin' in this book. Matt is a premature silver fox, which always turns my crank (and Ryan's too apparently).
I liked the great cast of secondary characters, including Matt's friend Sam and Ryan's friend Josh, who really need stories of their own.
I get exhausted reading about homophobic families, so I was really grateful that Matt and Josh's families were encouraging and kind. I adored both moms!
This is not an angsty story; it's easy, a little fluffy around the edges, and sexy. The epilogue is all about love, kittens, and surprises! You can't go wrong with that.
September 2, 2017
I don't know what to tell you. This just didn't work for me. I was so put off by the friends-with-benefits part that I never really trusted Matt. The only part of this book I really enjoyed was the sweet, fluffy epilogue.
Probably just me, so silver-fox fans, give this one a try!
Probably just me, so silver-fox fans, give this one a try!
September 6, 2017
3/4 partes del tiempo los protagonistas están bebiendo o con resaca.
Meh, no hay de donde rascar.
Meh, no hay de donde rascar.
September 5, 2017
*2.5 stars*
Honestly, I don't know what to say. I just didn't like it. Ryan grated on my nerves for some reason. He also spent the majority of the book in a pub getting drunk, or hungovered.
And Matt's sudden change of heart to go from friends with benefits to an actual relationship...I just didn't buy it.
Too much page time spent with family or secondary characters. I'd like more time with just the MCs.
But the writing was good and the epilogue very nice. Could be just me.
Honestly, I don't know what to say. I just didn't like it. Ryan grated on my nerves for some reason. He also spent the majority of the book in a pub getting drunk, or hungovered.
And Matt's sudden change of heart to go from friends with benefits to an actual relationship...I just didn't buy it.
Too much page time spent with family or secondary characters. I'd like more time with just the MCs.
But the writing was good and the epilogue very nice. Could be just me.
September 6, 2017
A light and fluffy read, with two guys that start off as friends with benefits but develop feelings for each other. I took a while to warm to Ryan, he seemed to spend a lot of the story tiddly or drunk, and seemed a lot younger than 30, but when he helped Matt with his parents, I knew things would progress from there. 3.5 stars rounded up.
September 2, 2017
Simple and enjoyable.
Recommended!
Recommended!
August 30, 2017
4.5 Stars! How many synonyms for adorable can I come up with?! This was a lovely book to read, about two ordinary men; Ryan, sort of clumsy and dorky but cute, and Matt, a little older, a bit cynical and aloof but still a nice guy. Plus, getting both their pov’s is always a great bonus for me. I'd call it a meet-cute, when Ryan bumps Matt’s coffee all over him when moving into their building, then meeting Matt at his mother's house when Ryan buys a washer. After a couple of alcohol fueled hookups, they attempt to stay just friends with bennies.We all know how that goes!
I enjoyed the secondary characters as well, Ryan's mother and BFF Josh, and Matt’s parents and close friend Sam. The depictions for everyone were strong and complete. The scenes with their respective parents were lovely, because they felt like the parents each man would have. So well done. It's a relatively simple plot where two men navigate their way to couplehood. Of course, Matt had to be the difficult one. I liked the fact that it wasn't some great tragedy that made him resist falling for Ryan and we didn't get silly misunderstandings or secrets.
This strikes me as a comfort read, a tale that's not too complex, a little humorous, provides some warm and fuzzy, and reminds us of the ordinary yet unexpected ways that love can appear in someone’s life.
*An ARC was provided to me by the author via Jessie G Books Reviews in return for an honest opinion*
I enjoyed the secondary characters as well, Ryan's mother and BFF Josh, and Matt’s parents and close friend Sam. The depictions for everyone were strong and complete. The scenes with their respective parents were lovely, because they felt like the parents each man would have. So well done. It's a relatively simple plot where two men navigate their way to couplehood. Of course, Matt had to be the difficult one. I liked the fact that it wasn't some great tragedy that made him resist falling for Ryan and we didn't get silly misunderstandings or secrets.
This strikes me as a comfort read, a tale that's not too complex, a little humorous, provides some warm and fuzzy, and reminds us of the ordinary yet unexpected ways that love can appear in someone’s life.
*An ARC was provided to me by the author via Jessie G Books Reviews in return for an honest opinion*
September 1, 2017
Almost perfect.
This was very British in a way that I love. The friends to friends-with-benefits to proper-relationship was amazing to read. Also, Sam and Josh, the two best friends, were very well developed as side characters. I did want a bit more emotion towards the end though. I am still not 100% convinced these two have something epic going on. They get on well and have sexual chemistry. Great but not quite extraordinary. Still, I would have read it in one sitting if I hadn't gone to bed when I first started it.
Recommend!
This was very British in a way that I love. The friends to friends-with-benefits to proper-relationship was amazing to read. Also, Sam and Josh, the two best friends, were very well developed as side characters. I did want a bit more emotion towards the end though. I am still not 100% convinced these two have something epic going on. They get on well and have sexual chemistry. Great but not quite extraordinary. Still, I would have read it in one sitting if I hadn't gone to bed when I first started it.
Recommend!
February 7, 2018
I'll round this up to 2.5, because it WAS sweet (in spite of it being a little messed up) and I am feeling quite generous!! BUT, this was: "I guess it was just okay for me" :-/!! I have a few reasons as to why that is. Let's review those reasons shall we ...
1. Ryan was drunk almost all the time ... ummm what?!!? ... what was up with that?!!? There is social drinking and then there is drinking until you're so hung over, you're practically constantly incapacitated!!! I mean jeez, everyone is always drunk all the time; I feel like this book was having an identity crisis!! Either that or it needs to go to AA!
2. Dominic ... what purpose did this character serve?!!? This was just WEIRD!! This trivializes sexual harassment in the workplace ... so, ummm, what?!!? Also, if the inclusion of this storyline wasn't bad enough, we get more in the epilogue o__O!! Seriously, enough with the Dominic already. Either have a point or leave it alone. This seemed pointless and contrived, and while it didn't add anything, it definitely significantly detracted from the book!!
3. Matt wanted "more" with Ryan ... based on WHAT?!!? We don't really get to the crux of the matter, not really! THEN when Ryan was there for him when his dad was in the hospital (which is something any DECENT friend would have done), BAM (!!) this somehow translates into fated relationship material?!!? Ummm, what?!!?
4. All this talk about great sex ... NOTHING HAPPENED for most of the book ... I mean, hand jobs and blow jobs do NOT equate phenomenal sexual chemistry or "great sex"! Maybe in THIS BOOK, but not in MY book!! I mean YES, I'm sure it felt fantastic for both these characters but holy shit, are they virgins getting off for the first time or something?!!? What transpired here was not "rock your world" material! I mean really ... all this talk (and promise!) of fucking and there's no ACTUAL fucking (not until the very end, at which point I didn't care anymore) ... and up until that point, all I could think was -->> GET ON WITH IT ALREADY!!! Holy shit, I felt like the proverbial horse with the proverbial carrot dangling in front of me!! Not fun!
5. NO character development whatsoever, not even in the slightest!! Oddly enough, the only characters who seemed to have interesting personalities were the MCs' best friends, Sam and Josh, and I felt like the story I WASN'T getting was taunting me >:-o!!
6. Again, because this bears repeating, what the fuck was up with Ryan being hungover all the time?!!? What are you, a 30 year old in a stupid college kid's body?!!? I mean dude, either find out what your issues are and learn to deal with them, OR start fucking your love interest way earlier in the book in order to work off some of that pent up frustration!!
More to come (I think), though I believe I've covered it all ... :-) ...
1. Ryan was drunk almost all the time ... ummm what?!!? ... what was up with that?!!? There is social drinking and then there is drinking until you're so hung over, you're practically constantly incapacitated!!! I mean jeez, everyone is always drunk all the time; I feel like this book was having an identity crisis!! Either that or it needs to go to AA!
2. Dominic ... what purpose did this character serve?!!? This was just WEIRD!! This trivializes sexual harassment in the workplace ... so, ummm, what?!!? Also, if the inclusion of this storyline wasn't bad enough, we get more in the epilogue o__O!! Seriously, enough with the Dominic already. Either have a point or leave it alone. This seemed pointless and contrived, and while it didn't add anything, it definitely significantly detracted from the book!!
3. Matt wanted "more" with Ryan ... based on WHAT?!!? We don't really get to the crux of the matter, not really! THEN when Ryan was there for him when his dad was in the hospital (which is something any DECENT friend would have done), BAM (!!) this somehow translates into fated relationship material?!!? Ummm, what?!!?
4. All this talk about great sex ... NOTHING HAPPENED for most of the book ... I mean, hand jobs and blow jobs do NOT equate phenomenal sexual chemistry or "great sex"! Maybe in THIS BOOK, but not in MY book!! I mean YES, I'm sure it felt fantastic for both these characters but holy shit, are they virgins getting off for the first time or something?!!? What transpired here was not "rock your world" material! I mean really ... all this talk (and promise!) of fucking and there's no ACTUAL fucking (not until the very end, at which point I didn't care anymore) ... and up until that point, all I could think was -->> GET ON WITH IT ALREADY!!! Holy shit, I felt like the proverbial horse with the proverbial carrot dangling in front of me!! Not fun!
5. NO character development whatsoever, not even in the slightest!! Oddly enough, the only characters who seemed to have interesting personalities were the MCs' best friends, Sam and Josh, and I felt like the story I WASN'T getting was taunting me >:-o!!
6. Again, because this bears repeating, what the fuck was up with Ryan being hungover all the time?!!? What are you, a 30 year old in a stupid college kid's body?!!? I mean dude, either find out what your issues are and learn to deal with them, OR start fucking your love interest way earlier in the book in order to work off some of that pent up frustration!!
More to come (I think), though I believe I've covered it all ... :-) ...
September 13, 2017
Gentle pacing and lacking in angst equals a sweet romance
Just like her fellow West Country author Jay Northcote, there's something about Annabelle Jacobs' writing which speaks to me and I always enjoy her romances.
This one is no exception with two older MCs, one 30 and one 38, who almost accidentally fall into a friends with benefits relationship that slowly develops into more.
I loved both Matt and Ryan, neither of them were dramatically angsty, the majority of tension and conflict coming from Matt's father's frailties and his stubbornness over wanting a 'proper' relationship.
Ryan, having been burnt before with an FWB relationship, is keeping his feelings guarded but the way they slip I'll not something more felt organic.
This book is also unashamedly British, another thing I love this author's work for. We have bacon butties and brown sauce, copious cups of tea, drunken Friday nights with curry afterwards, fry ups for breakfast and Tesco Express (a supermarket mini-store for the non Brits).
Loved it. It only loses a star for being perhaps a bit too sweet and easy, not that I'd expect dramady just for the sake of it. But Matt's turnaround was possibly a little quick.
Just like her fellow West Country author Jay Northcote, there's something about Annabelle Jacobs' writing which speaks to me and I always enjoy her romances.
This one is no exception with two older MCs, one 30 and one 38, who almost accidentally fall into a friends with benefits relationship that slowly develops into more.
I loved both Matt and Ryan, neither of them were dramatically angsty, the majority of tension and conflict coming from Matt's father's frailties and his stubbornness over wanting a 'proper' relationship.
Ryan, having been burnt before with an FWB relationship, is keeping his feelings guarded but the way they slip I'll not something more felt organic.
This book is also unashamedly British, another thing I love this author's work for. We have bacon butties and brown sauce, copious cups of tea, drunken Friday nights with curry afterwards, fry ups for breakfast and Tesco Express (a supermarket mini-store for the non Brits).
Loved it. It only loses a star for being perhaps a bit too sweet and easy, not that I'd expect dramady just for the sake of it. But Matt's turnaround was possibly a little quick.
September 17, 2017
The more I read Annabelle Jacobs the more naturally I slip into her ebb and flow. Her rhythm is smooth, her tone is gentle and I find myself leisurely gliding through the pages. This sweet story revolves around two men that become neighbors, then casual sex suddenly shifts into something more…well, maybe. Ryan and Matt are both in their thirties but on opposite ends of the decade. Ryan celebrates his thirtieth birthday the weekend he moves into his new place. He’s teetering between the freedom of his twenty-something party-on days and the responsibilities of maturity and settling down. At this point in his life, he’s still single and hitting the pubs every weekend with his mates. But moving out of his parent’s place and leaving his recently widowed mom is the first step in claiming his new future. He would love to have a serious relationship because he’s not a one-night stand kind of guy; but when an opportunity presents itself for a hot night with his new silver fox neighbor, there’s no way he’s turning him down. After they survive the not so awkward morning after, they discover they are quite compatible and agree to embrace friendship. But what happens when you can’t reign in your desires for your new friend? Well, maybe you’d like to find out?
What's to like: As I mentioned, Jacob’s free and easy style paves the way for this low angst, tender romance with a lovely HEA. Her signature British lilt always brings a smile to my face. This meet-cute begins with an embarrassing collision between a sexy silver fox and an adorable klutz. When their circles connect again and again they acknowledge what fate is trying to tell them. They are good together. Sadly Matt has no interest in repeat occurrences with the same man. He’s destined to be alone. He likes it that way. It’s for the best. Clean cut, no strings, one-and-done is his motto. Maybe if he continues to repeat this over and over, it will remain true. Sometimes the perfect person must come along to rattle any stubborn beliefs and only a fool would deny themselves a chance at happiness. *clears throat* Are you listening to me Matt?!
What's to love: The slow evolution of their relationship lured me in and held my attention all the way through. Ryan is a little lost. He has one foot stuck in his youth and the other is taking him into the next chapter of his life. He’s still grieving the recent loss of his father and he hasn’t had the best of luck with his personal relationships so far. One thing he does have is solid mates. And an awesome mom. When his attraction to his new neighbor ignites into a passionate “friends with benefits” status, he’s determined to convince himself he’s content with that. Ryan has his imperfections but he’s honest and when he cares, he does wholeheartedly. I appreciated their ability to communicate. They are upfront with each other, even if they are still coming to grips with reality in their own heads. I enjoyed the family involvement. And they both have top-notch best friends. Their journey is sweet, funny and full of heart. Oh, and let’s not forget sexy!
Beware of: A declared eternal bachelor initially presents hard edges. A delightful wayward lush strives to move forward in his life. A wanker coworker toes the line of harassment. And a finale that will melt your heart.
This book is for: This warmhearted story is filled with everything I consider classic Annabelle Jacobs and a lovely place to start if you’re not familiar with her work.
Book UNfunk
What's to like: As I mentioned, Jacob’s free and easy style paves the way for this low angst, tender romance with a lovely HEA. Her signature British lilt always brings a smile to my face. This meet-cute begins with an embarrassing collision between a sexy silver fox and an adorable klutz. When their circles connect again and again they acknowledge what fate is trying to tell them. They are good together. Sadly Matt has no interest in repeat occurrences with the same man. He’s destined to be alone. He likes it that way. It’s for the best. Clean cut, no strings, one-and-done is his motto. Maybe if he continues to repeat this over and over, it will remain true. Sometimes the perfect person must come along to rattle any stubborn beliefs and only a fool would deny themselves a chance at happiness. *clears throat* Are you listening to me Matt?!
What's to love: The slow evolution of their relationship lured me in and held my attention all the way through. Ryan is a little lost. He has one foot stuck in his youth and the other is taking him into the next chapter of his life. He’s still grieving the recent loss of his father and he hasn’t had the best of luck with his personal relationships so far. One thing he does have is solid mates. And an awesome mom. When his attraction to his new neighbor ignites into a passionate “friends with benefits” status, he’s determined to convince himself he’s content with that. Ryan has his imperfections but he’s honest and when he cares, he does wholeheartedly. I appreciated their ability to communicate. They are upfront with each other, even if they are still coming to grips with reality in their own heads. I enjoyed the family involvement. And they both have top-notch best friends. Their journey is sweet, funny and full of heart. Oh, and let’s not forget sexy!
Beware of: A declared eternal bachelor initially presents hard edges. A delightful wayward lush strives to move forward in his life. A wanker coworker toes the line of harassment. And a finale that will melt your heart.
This book is for: This warmhearted story is filled with everything I consider classic Annabelle Jacobs and a lovely place to start if you’re not familiar with her work.
Book UNfunk
September 1, 2017
This was a cutesy and fun book that had no drama - score! I loved that there was no miscommunication at all and that the two men were up front with each other and honest. They worked out any issues by -gasp- talking to each other.
These types of books are nice to read after reading a darker book, or one with lots of angst. Maybe This Time was just....easy. It had a nice flow and was a pretty quick read.
There were plenty of steamy scenes as well as family time which was heartwarming. The epilogue was just as satisfying! All in all this one was a winner!
October 8, 2017
I can appreciate that Jacobs is offering a competently written, slow-paced book, with no dramatic incidents, closer to real-life than many others. But if that's the case, there needs to be some compensating depth of observation, characterisation or motivation.
Unfortunately, MTT is just flabby. Too much filler material - in some hands, a discussion about washing-machines could be illuminating. Here? Not so much.
Unfortunately, MTT is just flabby. Too much filler material - in some hands, a discussion about washing-machines could be illuminating. Here? Not so much.
September 27, 2017
ARC provided by the publisher through Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words in exchange for an impartial review.
This was a delightful story! As thirty-year-old Ryan is moving into his new apartment building on his birthday, he’s very pleased to see the tall, gorgeous silver-haired man who comes jogging up the road and heads into his building. Though he at first thought he was an older guy in great shape, when he gets a closer look, it’s easy to see the man is not much older than he is, even though prematurely gray.
Matt Thomas doesn’t stop to acknowledge his hot new neighbor but he gets a good look, nonetheless. At thirty-eight, he keeps in top physical condition so it’s easy to pull new guys into his bed whenever he’s horny. Never one to spend more than one night with a guy, his best friend and hair stylist, Sam, will testify that Matt is firmly committed to two things: leaving his hair silver and never having a relationship. Never more than one night—that’s Matt’s motto.
So when he finds himself lusting after Ryan one night, he justifies his thoughts about having a one-nighter with a neighbor by thinking that maybe they can be friends. Ryan agrees and then next thing he knows, Matt wants to be friends with benefits because one night is not enough, after all. Okay, Ryan can do that, although as his best friend, Josh, reminds him he hasn’t been successful at this in the past.
The two go along as friends with benefits, while jogging together, eating meals afterward, and becoming friends, until one day when Matt’s dad is hurt and Ryan goes with him to the hospital. He realizes afterward that Ryan means more to him than simple friendship but now he’s afraid to admit it and is afraid that maybe this time he’s willing but Ryan might not be.
There’s more to the story than this surface summary of the romance, but on the whole, it’s a basically a sweet and simple love story, filled with some very heated moments as well as some tender times between the two engaging MCs.
If you’re looking for a light read that will make you feel good, by all means, consider this one.
This was a delightful story! As thirty-year-old Ryan is moving into his new apartment building on his birthday, he’s very pleased to see the tall, gorgeous silver-haired man who comes jogging up the road and heads into his building. Though he at first thought he was an older guy in great shape, when he gets a closer look, it’s easy to see the man is not much older than he is, even though prematurely gray.
Matt Thomas doesn’t stop to acknowledge his hot new neighbor but he gets a good look, nonetheless. At thirty-eight, he keeps in top physical condition so it’s easy to pull new guys into his bed whenever he’s horny. Never one to spend more than one night with a guy, his best friend and hair stylist, Sam, will testify that Matt is firmly committed to two things: leaving his hair silver and never having a relationship. Never more than one night—that’s Matt’s motto.
So when he finds himself lusting after Ryan one night, he justifies his thoughts about having a one-nighter with a neighbor by thinking that maybe they can be friends. Ryan agrees and then next thing he knows, Matt wants to be friends with benefits because one night is not enough, after all. Okay, Ryan can do that, although as his best friend, Josh, reminds him he hasn’t been successful at this in the past.
The two go along as friends with benefits, while jogging together, eating meals afterward, and becoming friends, until one day when Matt’s dad is hurt and Ryan goes with him to the hospital. He realizes afterward that Ryan means more to him than simple friendship but now he’s afraid to admit it and is afraid that maybe this time he’s willing but Ryan might not be.
There’s more to the story than this surface summary of the romance, but on the whole, it’s a basically a sweet and simple love story, filled with some very heated moments as well as some tender times between the two engaging MCs.
If you’re looking for a light read that will make you feel good, by all means, consider this one.
September 15, 2017
4 Stars
After living with his mum for the last year and a half to help her deal with his father's illness and subsequent death, Ryan is finally moving into his own place again. Things are looking up when he catches sight of Matt, his new neighbor, all hot and sweaty from his run, as Ryan and his buddies unpack the moving truck, but he is discouraged later when he literally runs into Matt again and the man is completely unreceptive to the conversation Ryan tries to spark up.
Matt wants no part of his sexy new neighbor. He's not about relationships and even a one off with the new neighbor world be awkward after and just a terrible idea all around. His resolve doesn't last long and the two tentatively become friends with sort of benefits.
This was a delightful read. It had very little angst and was rather lighthearted and funny. I absolutely adored Ryan, but it took me a lot longer to warm up to Matt. Frankly, he was rude and a complete ass, but by the end of the story he had captured my heart, as well.
The story is well-written and paced well. I loved Ryan and Matt's friends as well as their parents. They were fun and entertaining to get to know. Ryan and Matt had great chemistry and they fit well together. The sexual tension between them was electric and the sex was nice and steamy and the ending was sweet and swoon-worthy. This is my first read by Annabelle Jacobs, but it won't be my last. I'll definitely be checking out her backlist and looking for more in the future. Very enjoyable and recommendable!
*copy provided by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review*
September 7, 2017
Now this is a story I can recommend to any M/M romance fan who doesn’t need a lot of relationship angst, but still likes to have a bit of tension in their stories. While I admit at first I wasn’t quite feeling a strong connection between Matt and Ryan, that slowly changed as their arrangement changed. I liked watching as their one-night-only developed into friends-with-benefits, and finally progressed into something more, because you get to see their relationship from inception forward.
Nothing is ever rushed between the two men, and though I didn’t feel that spark at first it certainly made itself known as the story went on. I thought it was funny how their best friends (Sam and Josh) both basically knew what would wind up happening and kept trying to tell Matt and Ryan what they were seeing…though of course neither would admit to anything. Sam and Josh were both great supporting characters that I’d love to see get stories of their own.
I’d classify this as a sweet and spicy read, low angst but with enough spots of tension to add extra interest. It was a relatively quick read for me, and the epilogue scored bonus points with me for making things feel more settled and complete between Matt and Ryan.
Maybe This Time gets 4 stars from me, primarily due to its wonderful, well developed and rounded characters. This book is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
Nothing is ever rushed between the two men, and though I didn’t feel that spark at first it certainly made itself known as the story went on. I thought it was funny how their best friends (Sam and Josh) both basically knew what would wind up happening and kept trying to tell Matt and Ryan what they were seeing…though of course neither would admit to anything. Sam and Josh were both great supporting characters that I’d love to see get stories of their own.
I’d classify this as a sweet and spicy read, low angst but with enough spots of tension to add extra interest. It was a relatively quick read for me, and the epilogue scored bonus points with me for making things feel more settled and complete between Matt and Ryan.
Maybe This Time gets 4 stars from me, primarily due to its wonderful, well developed and rounded characters. This book is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
September 3, 2017
It's a sweet story about a supposedly one night stand that develops into two, then friends with benefits, and then much more. The characters are quite likable though Matt struck me as a bit too smug early in the story. The attraction between Ryan and him feels like mostly based on physicality and appearance, which is not very convincing to last long.
Having said that, I do love Matt and Ryan's love and devotion to their parents. In fact, their great relationship with their parents is the one of the main reason I enjoy this book, on top of the guys' camaraderie with their close-knit friends. Too bad - after such a hoot of an intro of the feline - the pet doesn't get many spot in the book to grace the story with more cuteness.
Not a total fail for me, but not exactly an unforgettable tale either. ;-)
Advanced copy of this book is kindly provided by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Having said that, I do love Matt and Ryan's love and devotion to their parents. In fact, their great relationship with their parents is the one of the main reason I enjoy this book, on top of the guys' camaraderie with their close-knit friends. Too bad - after such a hoot of an intro of the feline - the pet doesn't get many spot in the book to grace the story with more cuteness.
Not a total fail for me, but not exactly an unforgettable tale either. ;-)
Advanced copy of this book is kindly provided by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
September 5, 2017
Maybe This Time by Annabelle Jacobs
4 Stars – review by Dawn Honeycutt
Ryan Blackwell is moving into his own apartment and turning thirty. While moving his stuff in, he and his friends cannot help but notice the gorgeous, sweaty, man running by them and then into Ryan’s building. The next morning Ryan attempts to strike up a conversation and is shut down.
Matt Thomas enjoys his bachelor life. He enjoys sex with no strings and has no desire to settle down like everyone else in his life. The only problem is agreeing to be friends with benefits only with Ryan, Matt begins to question why he’s so opposed to a relationship. Ryan knows that Matt doesn’t want anything but casual sex and a friendship so he works hard to keep his emotions out of the picture, but it’s not easy for him as he’s not a casual hookup kind of man.
I liked this book. Ryan is sweet and his friends are great. Matt comes off as a pompous jerk through the first half of the book, but does redeem himself. At first I didn’t like that Matt was so adamant about staying single without there being any great reason written into the book, but the more I thought about it, the more I realized that sometimes we all just get something stuck in our heads and we often don’t have a great reason why except that’s just how we are. I think I still would have like to have known a little more about Matt’s reasons, maybe a little more depth to his personality. He really is quite a jerk for the first half or so of the book so giving him a reason for such behavior would have been good and maybe make the storyline of friends to lovers flow a little more smoothly.
4 Stars – review by Dawn Honeycutt
Ryan Blackwell is moving into his own apartment and turning thirty. While moving his stuff in, he and his friends cannot help but notice the gorgeous, sweaty, man running by them and then into Ryan’s building. The next morning Ryan attempts to strike up a conversation and is shut down.
Matt Thomas enjoys his bachelor life. He enjoys sex with no strings and has no desire to settle down like everyone else in his life. The only problem is agreeing to be friends with benefits only with Ryan, Matt begins to question why he’s so opposed to a relationship. Ryan knows that Matt doesn’t want anything but casual sex and a friendship so he works hard to keep his emotions out of the picture, but it’s not easy for him as he’s not a casual hookup kind of man.
I liked this book. Ryan is sweet and his friends are great. Matt comes off as a pompous jerk through the first half of the book, but does redeem himself. At first I didn’t like that Matt was so adamant about staying single without there being any great reason written into the book, but the more I thought about it, the more I realized that sometimes we all just get something stuck in our heads and we often don’t have a great reason why except that’s just how we are. I think I still would have like to have known a little more about Matt’s reasons, maybe a little more depth to his personality. He really is quite a jerk for the first half or so of the book so giving him a reason for such behavior would have been good and maybe make the storyline of friends to lovers flow a little more smoothly.
August 26, 2017
What a lovely story this was! Annabelle Jacobs has written a truly wonderful, low angst but incredibly sexy romance, and it has been added straight to my list of 'comfort reads' that I return to again and again when I want a sweet story to put a smile on my face.
Maybe This Time is the perfect story if you're looking for cute main characters with low drama but lots of sweetness and "aww" moments. Matt and Ryan's budding relationship from neighbours to running partners/friends to something more was really wonderful because it just flowed so well and the banter and interactions between them felt so wonderful and real. I adored them together and was really rooting for their happily ever after from pretty much the first page. Let's be honest, despite Matt's whole "I don't do relationships" thing, we all knew that he'd never be able to resist Ryan's charms and cute ways in the end ;)
I liked that their friends and family were both involved in the story, and how close Ryan was with his Mum and Matt with his parents. It was sweet, it showed a more real side to them both, and I just love a story with a good family dynamic and supportive secondary characters.
The ending was WONDERFUL. Absolutely stole my heart and turned me into a pile of mush... So sweet and lovely and I cannot recommend this enough if cute and sweet is your thing.
***I was provided with an ARC of Maybe This Time by Signal Boost Promotions in exchange for an honest review.
Maybe This Time is the perfect story if you're looking for cute main characters with low drama but lots of sweetness and "aww" moments. Matt and Ryan's budding relationship from neighbours to running partners/friends to something more was really wonderful because it just flowed so well and the banter and interactions between them felt so wonderful and real. I adored them together and was really rooting for their happily ever after from pretty much the first page. Let's be honest, despite Matt's whole "I don't do relationships" thing, we all knew that he'd never be able to resist Ryan's charms and cute ways in the end ;)
I liked that their friends and family were both involved in the story, and how close Ryan was with his Mum and Matt with his parents. It was sweet, it showed a more real side to them both, and I just love a story with a good family dynamic and supportive secondary characters.
The ending was WONDERFUL. Absolutely stole my heart and turned me into a pile of mush... So sweet and lovely and I cannot recommend this enough if cute and sweet is your thing.
***I was provided with an ARC of Maybe This Time by Signal Boost Promotions in exchange for an honest review.
September 11, 2017
Maybe This Time by Annabelle Jacobs is a super sweet romance. No angst just love. There’s a small amount of romantic suspense but this is a light read that will leave you with a lot of good feelings and a smile.
Matt doesn’t want romance. He is thirty-eight and happy with the uncommitted life. He wants hot bodies in his bed and no strings attached.
Ryan just moves into his building and the attraction is instant. Which you wouldn’t know if it wasn’t duel POV. What starts as a minor irritation turns into a friends with benefits situation.
I have to say that Matt and Ryan’s friends and family are relentless. Oh wow I’m surprised these guys didn’t scream at them to hush! At times to the point they were nagging. But Matt and Ryan took it all well and kept their composure.
This story builds pleasantly and when you think there is conflict it’s wiped away fast. They were very adult about it. Ryan is thirty, eight years younger, and aside from his need to drink quite often you couldn’t really tell. Very mature and they actually communicate! What a concept.
All in all I liked this book and the warm and fuzzies it left me with.
Matt doesn’t want romance. He is thirty-eight and happy with the uncommitted life. He wants hot bodies in his bed and no strings attached.
Ryan just moves into his building and the attraction is instant. Which you wouldn’t know if it wasn’t duel POV. What starts as a minor irritation turns into a friends with benefits situation.
I have to say that Matt and Ryan’s friends and family are relentless. Oh wow I’m surprised these guys didn’t scream at them to hush! At times to the point they were nagging. But Matt and Ryan took it all well and kept their composure.
This story builds pleasantly and when you think there is conflict it’s wiped away fast. They were very adult about it. Ryan is thirty, eight years younger, and aside from his need to drink quite often you couldn’t really tell. Very mature and they actually communicate! What a concept.
All in all I liked this book and the warm and fuzzies it left me with.
February 7, 2018
2.5 stars
I thought Matt was being a jerk in the beginning. I thought Ryan had too much drink and being hangover.
I thought, if I wanted to read about silver foxes, I want them to at least 45+ and not MY age...
I thought Matt and Ryan were spending WAY TOO MUCH TIME with their friends (on page) rather than with each other.
I thought Matt and Ryan's relationship was pretty much based on physical attraction only, as in too much sex not enough relationship substance for me. Let's just say a LOT of skimming happened in this book for me (especially during those sex scenes *hmph*)
At least the relationship with the parents was good; but that was it. And what was that DRAMA introduced in EPILOGUE, ffs?!
I thought Matt was being a jerk in the beginning. I thought Ryan had too much drink and being hangover.
I thought, if I wanted to read about silver foxes, I want them to at least 45+ and not MY age...
I thought Matt and Ryan were spending WAY TOO MUCH TIME with their friends (on page) rather than with each other.
I thought Matt and Ryan's relationship was pretty much based on physical attraction only, as in too much sex not enough relationship substance for me. Let's just say a LOT of skimming happened in this book for me (especially during those sex scenes *hmph*)
At least the relationship with the parents was good; but that was it. And what was that DRAMA introduced in EPILOGUE, ffs?!
Read
October 7, 2017No rating. I hadn't read anything by this author, so I shamelessly skipped to the end to see if I would like this book and this author. There was nothing wrong with the ending per say, but I could just tell that this author's writing style wasn't for me. I checked out a few more sections to be sure, but in the end, I decided to put this book down and not finish it.
August 30, 2017
Review soon at BMBR.
A copy of this book was given in exchange for an honest review.
A copy of this book was given in exchange for an honest review.
September 1, 2017
Matt Thomas has a rule when it comes to bedding other men. One, and then done. He is not looking for anything long-term. He never has and he thinks he never will.
Ryan had his heart broken before, when he had a friends-with-benefits arrangement with Neal. He knew that going on, but feelings got involved and then he didn't see Neal for dust.
At his new apartment block, Ryan bumps into his upstairs neigbour, Matt, and Matt's coffee spills all over Matt's t-shirt. Ryan is mortfied at how clumsy he was, but he can't help but notice Matt's well-toned pyshique and is soon thinking about him a lot.
Matt can't really avoid Ryan with them living so close together and they have a one-night stand. A one-night stand that turns into two and a few more. But Matt has always been clear that they are friends who have sex. Nothing more.
Ryan knew that going in, but he can't help eventually falling for Matt and they seem to get on so well together. Would it really hurt them to try something more? But maybe even mentioning it will have Matt running for the hills.
This was a sweet, easy read, light on the angst, but high on the fun quotient. And the heat quotient. I was sure my Kindle was going to set fire to itself after a few of the love scenes. Ms Jacobs knows how to write those very well.
I loved the fact that we get to see into both character's heads, always a bonus in a romance story. We also got to see their families and friends which I think made them sound more like real people.
From their friends' teasing about their 'no, we're not in a relationship', to banter about their jobs, to how each of them care for their parents and siblings. It rounded them off very nicely.
The pace of the writing is fast, it flows well and the love scenes seem to flow within the story, rather than just added at random points. In one scene, Matt sees someone kissing Ryan in the pub, but they don't spend whole chapters not speaking about it. It's resolved there and then, which was a refreshing change.
The fluff-o-meter is off the scale here, but I've been reading a lot of angsty stories lately, so this was a welcome change of page. It's about love and lust, friends and lovers, families and their place in the world and with each other. The epilogue is pure fluff for more than one reason and I was giggling in parts.
Two men very deserving of their happily ever after and a real treat to read.
Ryan had his heart broken before, when he had a friends-with-benefits arrangement with Neal. He knew that going on, but feelings got involved and then he didn't see Neal for dust.
At his new apartment block, Ryan bumps into his upstairs neigbour, Matt, and Matt's coffee spills all over Matt's t-shirt. Ryan is mortfied at how clumsy he was, but he can't help but notice Matt's well-toned pyshique and is soon thinking about him a lot.
Matt can't really avoid Ryan with them living so close together and they have a one-night stand. A one-night stand that turns into two and a few more. But Matt has always been clear that they are friends who have sex. Nothing more.
Ryan knew that going in, but he can't help eventually falling for Matt and they seem to get on so well together. Would it really hurt them to try something more? But maybe even mentioning it will have Matt running for the hills.
This was a sweet, easy read, light on the angst, but high on the fun quotient. And the heat quotient. I was sure my Kindle was going to set fire to itself after a few of the love scenes. Ms Jacobs knows how to write those very well.
I loved the fact that we get to see into both character's heads, always a bonus in a romance story. We also got to see their families and friends which I think made them sound more like real people.
From their friends' teasing about their 'no, we're not in a relationship', to banter about their jobs, to how each of them care for their parents and siblings. It rounded them off very nicely.
The pace of the writing is fast, it flows well and the love scenes seem to flow within the story, rather than just added at random points. In one scene, Matt sees someone kissing Ryan in the pub, but they don't spend whole chapters not speaking about it. It's resolved there and then, which was a refreshing change.
The fluff-o-meter is off the scale here, but I've been reading a lot of angsty stories lately, so this was a welcome change of page. It's about love and lust, friends and lovers, families and their place in the world and with each other. The epilogue is pure fluff for more than one reason and I was giggling in parts.
Two men very deserving of their happily ever after and a real treat to read.
September 2, 2017
Once again Annabelle Jacobs has given us such an amazing, heart-warming story. Just like the rest of her stories you get sucked in from the start.
Ryan has just moved into his new flat. He's trying to get on with his life after helping his mom out. He is such a sweet guy. A heart of golden with the best friends anyone could ask for. But what he never expected was his neighbor.
Matt has been living his life one day at a time it seems. He has his family, friends and hook up when the time comes. He's. ever wanted to settle down. But now there's the new neighbor that he just can't get out of his head.
So they go through the journey of being a one-off. Then try out friends with benefits. Then feeling get involved and their not sure if a relationship is going to work. But they know they have to try. Sometimes love comes from friendships and sometimes they are the best relationships.
I really hope that Josh and Sam get their owns stories.
Oh and Oscar that little guy had me laughing so hard. I could really picture everything in my head.
Ryan has just moved into his new flat. He's trying to get on with his life after helping his mom out. He is such a sweet guy. A heart of golden with the best friends anyone could ask for. But what he never expected was his neighbor.
Matt has been living his life one day at a time it seems. He has his family, friends and hook up when the time comes. He's. ever wanted to settle down. But now there's the new neighbor that he just can't get out of his head.
So they go through the journey of being a one-off. Then try out friends with benefits. Then feeling get involved and their not sure if a relationship is going to work. But they know they have to try. Sometimes love comes from friendships and sometimes they are the best relationships.
I really hope that Josh and Sam get their owns stories.
Oh and Oscar that little guy had me laughing so hard. I could really picture everything in my head.
September 5, 2017
Such a cute story. Their first meeting is a classic meet-cute; Ryan bumps into his hot new neighbour Matt and spills his coffee on him, definitely catching Matt's attention. Then they're both a bit drunk and have sex, supposedly just that once but then it happens again...and things get a bit muddled from there.
I liked how Matt's commitment-phobia wasn't because of any major breakup issues but simply being set in his ways and not having considered settling down before. Also how adorable is Ryan, trying not to fall in too deep but really failing at that from the start.
Such a wonderful, fluffy story that makes you feel good about life :)
I liked how Matt's commitment-phobia wasn't because of any major breakup issues but simply being set in his ways and not having considered settling down before. Also how adorable is Ryan, trying not to fall in too deep but really failing at that from the start.
Such a wonderful, fluffy story that makes you feel good about life :)
September 15, 2017
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~
This is a sweet, easy read, which had some slightly dopey moments, and I wasn't a fan of the whole Ryan being permanently three sheets to the wind situation.
It was nice not to have any great dramas, just two guys who somehow work out what is really important to them and take a risk. There were definitely some interesting side characters and some really annoying ones!
This is a sweet, easy read, which had some slightly dopey moments, and I wasn't a fan of the whole Ryan being permanently three sheets to the wind situation.
It was nice not to have any great dramas, just two guys who somehow work out what is really important to them and take a risk. There were definitely some interesting side characters and some really annoying ones!
September 5, 2017
I love Annabelle Jacobs writing. Her characters are likeable and her storytelling is simple, easy and comfortable.
At 80% my heart sunk because I thought we were getting 'The Great Misunderstanding' but I should have kept the faith because all was we'll and no body flew off the handle after making a stupid assumption. Phew!
Simply put; I loved it.
At 80% my heart sunk because I thought we were getting 'The Great Misunderstanding' but I should have kept the faith because all was we'll and no body flew off the handle after making a stupid assumption. Phew!
Simply put; I loved it.
December 7, 2017
it was pleasant but lacked something = 2.5 stars (rounded up)
A sweet tale of two men who are neighbours and decide to start a friends with benefits relationship. And naturally they fall in love. The end. No really that is about all that happens. It was an easy read and made my evening pass. But that was about it.
A sweet tale of two men who are neighbours and decide to start a friends with benefits relationship. And naturally they fall in love. The end. No really that is about all that happens. It was an easy read and made my evening pass. But that was about it.
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