Counting on You

Counting #3

by Kelly Jensen

Henry and Marc can’t seem to catch a break. They’ve had two disastrous dates—the first trapped in a car during a blizzard and the second locked in a basement—followed by nearly two months apart. Even though they work for the same firm, their relationship is held together by flying visits, phone calls, and text messages. A joint assignment in Washington DC might be more togetherness than they can handle, however.

Henry is still battling insecurity, and this assignment is too important to his career to mess up. Marc is committed. He’s falling for Henry and looks forward to having him permanently on his team and at his side. But the real test isn’t the assignment. When Marc finally lays his heart on the line, can he count on Henry to be there for him, in every way that matters? And can he do the same for Henry when Henry needs it the most?

Genres: M M Romance, Contemporary, Romance, M M Contemporary, LGBT, Short Stories, Novella

104 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 22, 2017

About the author

If aliens ever do land on Earth, Kelly will not be prepared, despite having read over a hundred stories of the apocalypse. Still, she will pack her precious books into a box and carry them with her as she strives to survive. It’s what bibliophiles do.

Kelly is the author of twelve novels–including the Chaos Station series, co-written with Jenn Burke–and several novellas and short stories. Some of what she writes is speculative in nature, but mostly it’s just about a guy losing his socks and/or burning dinner. Because life isn’t all conquering aliens and mountain peaks. Sometimes finding a happy ever after is all the adventure we need.

Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/czGhYz

Reviews

[Meags · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars

My enjoyment of this series sort of snuck up on me. I liked the first two stories well enough, but they had me in no rush to read on. Then, yesterday, a nudge in the right direction from my dearest GR friend led me to apprehensively pick up this third story...and I loved it!!!

This third (and final!?!) instalment in the love story of co-workers Henry and Marc was an absolute delight to read, and most certainly provided all the moments of sweet friendship, tender and steamy sex, and heartwarming love that I was eager for, yet felt didn’t quite hit the spot in their earlier stories. Now that all is said and done, I can admit that everything has a time and a place, and I’m so glad Henry and Marc’s story unfolded the exact way it did, regardless of how I was initially left wanting (which is completely on me, because I’m a greedy and impatient bitch).

I really enjoyed this story. I love Jensen’s writing style and I particularly feel there is something remarkable in the way she creates significant conversation and riveting dialogue between her characters. I could literally read about Henry and Marc talking it out all day long and still be fascinated.

I’m unsure whether this is the end of their story or not - if it is, I’m left very satisfied, but if it isn’t, I’ll most gladly read on.

I highly recommend this series to anyone who is after a sweet, romantic and thoughtful love story between two really charming and loveable men.

Kelly Jensen, I have my eye on you. And I mean that in the most non-creepy way possible.

[* A Reader Obsessed * · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars!

A really great conclusion to Marc and Henry for this last entry truly solidifies their relationship as they still grapple with being an official couple and how they deal with letting others know about that.

I will say that this is unlike any romance I’ve read before because I think Jensen truly captures authentic fears, insecurities, and the burgeoning feelings of first love in all it’s scary intense consuming glory. This is not just some willy nilly contemporary romance. This is really a thoughtful look at all the nuances that bring two people together, perhaps the internal struggles that inhibit them from being all in, and ultimately, the big and small things that just makes one fall in love.

However, please don’t think that this is boring. These two light up the sheets and it was sexy and intimate, and I enjoyed myself quite nicely if I do say so myself.

Again, impressive in its powerful subtlety. I look forward to exploring more from this author!

[Jenn (not Lily) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Marc's horrible parents. There are no words. Just about lost it at chapter 7. Then again at chapter 8. Cried at chapter 9. And 10. This one is definitely the culmination of the previous stories, and worth every second I've spent reading! Sooooo good!

[Annie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve enjoyed the Counting series thus far, but Counting on You was definitely my favorite. This is a series of short stories involving one couple and really should be read in order to understand the background and references made in the third and final part to their story.

Marc and Henry have grown and developed significantly over the past two books, however it always felt like their feelings were balancing on the precipice. In Counting on You, that changed and the reader was treated to the full love experience. The emotional connection was incredibly palpable. I loved the myriad of ways the author described the depth of Marc and Henry’s feelings. Not only did it show they were both fully committed to the relationship, but it also called attention to Marc’s personal growth since coming out. Previously, Marc often came across as muddled but in the third part his confidence in his feelings for Henry was noteworthy and made me believe that much more in this couple. I was a little perplexed by the conflict that arose when Henry met Marc’s parents. It felt awkward and almost unnatural, which was odd considering how well the rest of the book flowed; but the reaction both men had to the situation fit their characters and I liked the way the resolution further cemented their feelings for each other. I thought the final chapters were very good and provided a nice closure for Marc and Henry’s story, tying up the few loose ends and delivering a solid happy ending.

When I began this gay-for-you/coming out series, I didn’t really know what to expect, but it’s gotten better with each book and I’ve really enjoyed getting to know these two characters. I certainly wouldn’t be sorry to see Marc and Henry pop up again in another series or simply starring in another part of their story. If you’re looking for a lighter read that still has a good amount of character depth, I definitely would recommend giving the Counting series a try.

Reviewed by Annie from Alpha Book Club

[Blackmermaid · Rating 4 out of 5]

After their first two disastrous dates, Marc and Henry haven't had a chance to see if they can date and work together. They get the chance when they are sent on a job together. Of course, there's a bump in the road, but not because of work. Henry learns firsthand how dysfunctional Marc's relationship is with his parents. However, once they admit their feelings out loud, everything is right on track. Since this is the last one in the series, it felt fitting to have the story told from both of their perspectives. I loved how Marc and Henry's story was wrapped up and the ending of the series was perfect.

[Ash · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh goodness, what an awesome continuation of Marc and Henry’s story. The guys show so much growth and love here. I hope there are more stories from their lives to come!

[Lelyana's Reviews · Rating 3 out of 5]

Don't count on Marc and Henry when it comes to keys, or attic or basement or car or anything with keys on it. I think they're cursed. LOL.
There's more story on this one, things with Marc's parents didn't go well and Henry's pissed at Marc.
I think that's their first fight. Good thing they talked. And sex, a lot of sex :)
It's a fun read. I liked this one better than the previous books.

[Ann · Rating 4 out of 5]

I fell for this series when I read the first story, Counting Fence Posts. The characters are memorable and unique and I’ve loved reading the evolution of Marcus and Henry’s relationship. The author has been able to cover a host of issues for these guys without losing focus on their growth and individuality. She got me invested in them, both separately and together.

The relationship with Henry is the first Marcus has had with another man, and he’s working his way through his coming out. He wants to do it for Henry but knows he needs to do it for himself. Henry is a shy sweetheart who’s been hurt in the past and is still a little surprised that his long time crush is as into him as he is. The two books leading up to Counting on You have had a mosh pit of obstacles for them that were overcomeable, but the situations afforded them plenty of time to communicate so they were able to move forward with the “getting to know you” stuff more quickly than if they went on traditional dates.

Counting on You has no real external shenanigans, this one is all about Henry and Marcus. This one also felt more angsty to me than the previous two, but it made sense since there were no distractions and the two of them were finally going to be able to spend some time together after traveling so much for work.

Marcus has a complicated non-relationship with his parents and Henry promised to stand by his side, no matter what. At what turned out to be the “ugliest lunch ever” shit got incredibly real and ugly things were said in the heat of the moment and promises were broken. Everyone was heartbroken, no one was intentionally wrong and no one was completely correct. It read realistically and while it was frustrating, it did make me love the MC’s all the more, faults and all.

Both guys were terribly hurt but neither were ready to give up. I really appreciated that they communicated like adults, working through their hurts and listening to one another. They understood more about each other after that lunch nightmare and the aftermath than they may have ever learned otherwise. The resolution was ideal for them and Henry’s family is the absolute best. When one partner’s family is such a terror, it’s heartwarming to read the other being so amazing.

I hope the author will revisit these two again. I totally bought into their HEA, but I so enjoy reading about Marcus and Henry and would love to be able to check in on them now and again.



**a copy of this story was provided for an honest review**

[Didi · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

I just started reading the “Counting” series last month and having quite a fun time with what Marc and Henry went through in the first two installments. This third entry had Marc and Henry in the most emotional situation ever as not only they juggle the relationship with busy work schedule but also come to terms with the depth of their feeling for each other.

The “Counting” series is a well-balanced story with characters development from first book to Counting on You. Instead of trying to get out of being stranded or locked out, the bigger portion of pages here spent with our MCs accustom themselves with the new connection, dealing with personal fear and insecurities.

After single POV on the previous two novellas (Henry’s in the first entry and Marc’s in the second), this last installment comes in dual POVs that express Marc’s and Henry’s insight and personality. Marc’s friendly manner versus Henry’s gloom-and-doom-tendency often cause much sniggering-cum-eye-rolled from me. There’s the rich people is asshat routine, the fact that help nudge our MCs along to deal with their issues faster, if nothing else.

As with the other novellas, the main cavil I have here is the length of the story as in: it’s short. These two men are such an enjoyable characters to read, even if Henry sometimes felt too emo for me. On the other hand, this compact story serves as comfort reading with the predictable HEA just when I need it.


Advanced copy of this book is kindly given by the author in exchange for an honest review.

[Christi Snow · Rating 4 out of 5]

My Review:
This has been an enjoyable series, but poor Henry and Mark have never had a chance to really find out who they are as a couple. Their first couple of encounters were a disaster and ever since then they're rarely even in town at the same time.

So, when they are sent out of town to work on the same project, this is their chance to connect, to see what life together really looks like. But...you know it's not going to be that simple. They haven't had normal. They truly haven't even had a relationship. And every new relationship has pains at the beginning of just how to make all this work. So, while they may actually be together...at last, that sure doesn't mean it's all smooth sailing from here.

At issue for these two guys is that they have extremely different personalities. Henry is very methodical and measured. The whole 'counting' aspect of the books come from him. Mark is more headstrong and act-before-he-thinks kind of guy. Mark has also just freshly admitted that he's gay so there are some lingering issues there. Then, add to that...the guys work together and there's the whole 'how do you work with someone who you're also in a relationship with'...aspect to deal with.

So, no...not all smooth sailing from here. But they are navigating their relationship. This time without getting trapped somewhere...although I have to admit I did love the whole ending and how Kelly Jensen wrapped it up. It truly was perfect for this series. I've enjoyed the whole series and definitely recommend it.

I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.

[The Novel Approach · Rating 4 out of 5]

Henry and Marcus have been trying to keep their budding relationship going while they’ve been on separate assignments. Since they’ve not been in the same city much, their communication has been mostly by phone and text. When they are finally in the same office together, well, things get a little heated. But things are looking up when they get assigned to the same important project in DC. Their boss is fine with their relationship—as long as it doesn’t interfere with the work.

Unfortunately, one of the things that is also in DC is Marcus’s family. This wasn’t something Marcus or Henry had counted on, and it completely throws both of them. When Marcus gets a bit carried away, leaving Henry feeling blindsided and used, it’s not clear that they can get past the issues they both seem to be carrying. There are histories and truths that have to be shared and resolved, or there is no way forward for them.

This is my favorite of the series! Yes, Ms. Jensen puts Henry and Marcus through the wringer, but it is all necessary for them to be able to get to the place where they can be honest about themselves and their relationship. We get to find out why Henry is so gun-shy. And why Marcus is so driven and not terribly attached to his emotions.

As usual, Henry’s parents are terrific. Henry and Marc’s boss is also pretty cool in this one. Really, though, this is about Henry and Marcus finally sharing their fears and risking their hearts. Lovely and well done!

Reviewed by Sadonna for The Novel Approach

[T.M. Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thus far Henry and Marc have been stranded on the side of the road during a blizzard and stuck in a basement on New Years Eve. Oddly, it's actually the most alone time they've really had to get to know one another. With Marc away on business more often than not, Henry is left to miss his company, and stress over whether or not their relationship will go the distance.

I have really enjoyed each story in this series, getting to know these men as a couple and as individuals. Their conversations when stranded and when stuck were honest and sincere and, in my opinion, solidified their relationship. Their personalities couldn't be more different, but that is exactly why they work. I love how Marc grounds Henry in a way and how Henry has shown Marc what it is to be truly loved and wanted.

Definitely a must read but you have to start with the first book as each book is a continuation of the last.

[Milly Molly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Henry and Marc have been pretty much kept apart due to work commitments since they discovered their feelings for each other during the blizzard.
Their long distance relationship has definitely brought them closer together but there's nothing like spending time together for them to truly realise the depth of commitment they have for each other. There are sad parts in the story that were alluded to in earlier books but there were also touching and humorous moments too. I grew really fond of the guys over the series and I think they are the perfect yin and yang and bring out the best in each other. Their HEA was well deserved with the growth they did individually and as a couple.

[Teresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think this book finished the series nicely. It’s taken a while, but Marc and Henry finally spend more time with each other. There are some really great moments together but there is also conflict.

I would have liked to know what happened to make Marc’s parents the way they were as there were some indications that they weren’t always that way.

Sexy times with these boys was hot and worth the wait. I felt they really connected emotionally.

I definitely recommend the series!

Thank you to Kelly Jensen for the ARC which was given in exchange for an honest review.

[Helena Stone · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful conclusion to a series featuring two men I've grown very fond of. Full review to follow.

[Ami · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

After being trapped in a car in a blizzard then in the basement, Henry and Marc finally get their happy end (though we still have them trapped in the attic in the last chapter).

I liked this one because it focused on the relationship too, rather than just a situation that forced them to be together. They needed to deal with long-time working hours, being separated, and later on Marc's situation with his parents. This is more solid in terms of romantic progress, and I'm happy with the ending.

[Mirjam · Rating 3 out of 5]

“Stuck together is good.”
“Yep. Stuck together is very, very good.”

The third and final instalment in this series, that I have enjoyed reading.

Henry and Mark keep striking out on making it as a couple. Having demanding jobs that required a lot of travelling making it difficult for them to spend time together Fate, however, who was obviously a bitch with a warped sense of humor, had seen fit to give them only four days and two nights together since New Year’s Eve—none consecutive.



When they are paired to do a job together in DC, Marc & Henry are thrilled with the possibilities of finally spending time together psychically instead of the many phone conversations.
But of course things would not go smoothly for them, even disastrous when Marc runs into his father and is summon to attend lunch at the house. Inviting Henry to come along, Marc lashes out towards his parents when years of frustrations surface.
He informs his parents that he and Henry are a pair “Henry is my boyfriend. We’re lovers. I had his cock in my mouth this morning, and guess what? I loved it. I was born to it. What do you think of that?”





Told in third person in dual POVs this series is entertaining and enjoyable. I loved reading about Henry and his counting quirks and Marc's take charge attitude often not knowing what he done wrong.

Part of the Counting series that is best enjoyed when read in order:

[Mari Cardenas · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars!

Counting on You is book 3 in the Counting series, it can't be read as a standalone as it follows an ongoing storyline that concludes in this book.

Henry and Marc have been apart for nearly two months due to work commitments, having to resort to phone calls and text messages. When they're both assigned to the same job in Washington DC, it's their chance to finally spend time together. However, juggling their growing feelings with the stress of their assignment and meeting Marc's parents might prove to be too much to handle for the couple.

I love Henry. He's such a sweet, kind and reliable man. While I like Marc, it's been more difficult for me to connect with him. And really, there was a scene in this book with his parents in which I wanted to strangle him for putting Henry in the position he did so carelessly and expecting Henry to just put up with it. However, it was nice to have a more in-depth view of Marc's thoughts and feelings than in the previous books. I think the author managed to recapture the sizzling chemistry between them and showed how their feelings had morphed from lust to love for the two of them, despite how difficult it'd been for them to get together.

Overall, this was my favorite book of the three. I think there was more balance in their relationship and I loved that we got a HEA this time around. I actually believe they have a shot at making it, which is very important to me. The writing was really good and the story was engaging, fun and a bit angsty. Just a wonderful ending to an enjoyable series. Highly recommendable!

*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by Dreamspinner Press for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***

[Diane · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had read the first two books in this series, so when Kelly asked me if I’d like an ARC to read and review I jumped at the opportunity. This book was the culmination of the romantic love story of Marc and Henry.

Henry and Marc had been previously thrown together in work related circumstances since they work for the same company. Once again they’re been sent on a trip that requires they complete an assignment. While in Washington D.C., Marc’s hometown, his father arranges to see him and tell him he is expected at dinner at their house. Unfortunately, for Marc and Henry, this sets off a chain of events that put a strain on their relationship.

Needing to communicate their desires and wants reaches a ‘make-or-break’ point. Hopes are crushed, anger flares and threats are made. Being able to voice what is the most important thing to each of them will determine the future. Phone calls definitely save the day!

I received an ARC from the author and voluntarily reviewed this advanced copy.

[Susan Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve enjoyed following Henry and Marc’s misadventures in the first two Counting stories by Kelly Jensen, and Counting On You takes the guys into new territory. They’ve been keeping their friendship simmering along until a joint work trip takes them to DC and they end up in boiling water. One of the things I like best about Henry and Marc is they are a great example of opposites attracting. Another is they are both driven professionals who manage to make their relationship work without either sacrificing his career. Needless to say, they survive DC and find their HEA in a very satisfying manner. I’m just sorry their adventures are over!

[Jenn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was the perfect way to close out Marc and Henry's story. There is no stranded car in this book or locked door in some off-the-path area of an apartment building (these poor guys have had enough of that, thanks!), but rather Marc and Henry trying to navigate, solidify and define their relationship. It's not easy for either of them, for various reasons that have been hinted at throughout the series, and Kelly does a great job of providing these two guys with a sweet happily ever after.

If this book sounds like it might be your thing, definitely check out the first two so you have Marc and Henry's complete story.

[Sadonna · Rating 4 out of 5]

My favorite of the series!

Yes, Kelly puts Henry and Marcus through the wringer, but it is all necessary for them to be able to get to the place where they can be honest about themselves and their relationship. We get to find out why Henry is so gun-shy. And why Marcus is so driven and not terribly attached to his emotions.

As usual, Henry's parents are terrific. Henry and Marc's boss is also pretty cool in this one. Really though this is about Henry and Marcus putting aside their fears and risking their hearts. Lovely and well done!

[Tena · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is so much packed into these 90 pages. I have to say that Marcus and Henry are one of my favorite couples. They've gone through so much already in their relatively new relationship, and it's only made them closer. They interact with humor and honesty, even if it's hard to achieve sometimes. Hopefully we will get to see more of thm in the future.

[Grace · Rating 3 out of 5]

Decent enough conclusion with the characters working through some of the issues that have cropped up in the previous novellas. But still not quite deep enough for what I wanted. Enjoyable enough for a quick read, but really just okay overall.

[Christina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Everything you thought could go wrong for Henry and Marc does in this book - even more than being trapped somewhere. As business mixes with please, mistakes begin to pile high and you wonder if their relationship will survive.

Marc was too pushy with Henry. He let his insecurities cloud his judgment. I don't think he truly grasped what it means to be in a same-sex relationship. Also, I don't think he considers Henry's feelings much in the decisions he makes in the first half of the story.

Henry lets his insecurities about himself and what could go wrong make his extremely paranoid. He is paranoid about if Marc is too good to be true.

It's peculiar/interesting that after so many deep conversations that there would still be such strong doubts between them.

But I love their relationship because it's so precious and true and real. Marc is confident and charismatic. Henry is laser-focused and funny. They fit together perfectly.

[Ro · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love Marc and Henry but this lost a bit for me with Marc's behavior at his parents. Hostile to them is fine but using your boyfriend as a "cum rag" in Henry's words, was not cool.

[Angela Goodrich · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.

Counting on You is the third book in the Counting series, and hopefully not the last. Why? Because I adore Marc and Henry and I was so happy to see how far their relationship had progressed since their last disastrous date. These two guys have not had an easy time of it, at all, and this installment is no different. As this is a continuation of their journey, Counting on You should NOT be read as a standalone because while you won’t be terribly lost, you also won’t understand the significance of some of the events that take place or the references to past events.

This time around, Marc and Henry get the chance to work together again. While this sounds perfect for two guys who’ve been unable to spend more than a few days together in the past two months, it also raises some interesting issues they haven’t had the chance to address. The out-of-town project is high priority and expected to take only a few days, and their first day goes swimmingly until Marc “runs into” his father at the business they’re working from. Henry finds the extremely formal interaction between Marc and his father to be disconcerting, but even that doesn’t prepare him for their lunch with Marc’s parents the following day. And HOLY COW! That was a meltdown and emotional lashing out of epic proportions on Marc’s part. My feelings were bouncing all over the place as my heart broke for Marc, while at the same time I was mortified and angry for Henry at the position Marc put him in. Like both men, I wondered if their fledgling relationship could survive that scene – it was that harsh. Fortunately, Jensen doesn’t let the guys (or the readers) down as she guides them to where they need to be so that a future together is still a possibility. Chapter 13 is the perfect epilogue to their story. In fact, when I got to the end of chapter 12, I actually expected that to be the end of the book. So I was delighted when I swiped the page and discovered there was more to their story, and it made for the perfect ending to Counting on You. And don’t worry, Jensen still manages to include the requisite disaster that has become Marc and Henry’s trademark.

On a side note, I finally figured out why I have a hard time keeping Marc and Henry separated in my head when I begin reading each installment, and it was because we finally met Marc’s parents that made me identify the issue I was having and why. Henry is out – at work, at home, with his friends, family, and colleagues – everyone of significance in his life knows he’s gay. Marc, on the other hand, had never been attracted to a man before Henry (although a memory in Counting on You suggests that it’s likely that he never acknowledged it before). With only a four-year age difference, I keep expecting Henry to be the more confident of the two in regard to his sexuality. However, Marc presents as someone much older than his 28 years and I am repeatedly surprised that he’s so comfortable with his budding relationship with Henry. However, upon meeting Marc’s parents and seeing just how cold, indifferent, and judgmental they were, I understood why Marc seemed so much older than Henry – because Marc has been an “adult” far longer than Henry (and more than the four years that separate them) due to the expectations placed on him at an early age, thus being forced to grow up faster. Or at least that’s how it seemed to me after the awful interactions with Marc’s parents. I’m just glad to finally understand why I’ve had to work so hard at not getting Marc and Henry confused while I read, and it was all on me and my expectations of the characters. Regardless, I thoroughly enjoyed Counting on You and hope that Jensen is inspired to bring us more stories of Marc and Henry.

Please note: My review is of an unedited, pre-release copy of this book and assumes that any errors were corrected prior to publication.

[Allison · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was wonderful to see them together for good. They really are such sweet characters. I love Henry's parents too, everyone deserves those kind of in-laws. I also loved that they both had their own issues, it's always preferable to see that because it's so much more realistic and meaningful. I'd have liked a little less focus on gender roles and the importance of penetrative sex but this was written a few years ago.

[Joseph C. Cappo Jr. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Worth the read.

I just finished the last book. The whole series is a real page turner. I couldn't put them down. The last book is a real tear jerker. Loved it.

[Kaetrin]

pre-order from DSP.