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When Was the Last Time
Paul Summerfield is stunned by the gentle reminder it has been over a year since he and his partner, Evan Akkerman, have made love. He vows to take Evan out for Valentine’s Day. Dinner and sex. Lots of sex. There’s only one catch—he’s supposed to be in San Francisco that week cataloging the art collection of an important new client. No problem, he’ll just change his schedule and cut his trip short by a day.
In San Francisco, Paul struggles with regrets and the fear his love is slipping away from him. Every call to Evan seems only to prove the distance between them is increasing. All this, and a key piece of his client’s catalog is caught up in customs. To keep their Valentine’s date, Paul will have to choose between the career he’s built over fifteen years and the man he’s loved for just as long.
49 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 12, 2016
4 people are currently reading
99 people want to read
About the author
Kelly Jensen
38 books237 followersIf 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
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
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
February 12, 2016
“Did you know it’s been a year since we last made love?”
Not exactly the words Paul expected to hear from his partner of fifteen years, Evan, while having breakfast. This serves as a wake up call. Paul and Evan have been drifting apart, and this is not acceptable. So Paul plans a romantic February 14th date to rekindle the flame. But plans don't always work out.
This is a real life story. More often than not, partners in a long time relationship find themselves wondering...
"When was the last time we made love?"
"When was the last time we took a trip?"
"When was the last time...?"
And isn't it true, that sometimes we don't appreciate our loved ones, until we realise there is a chance of losing them?
Paul is scared that he took too many things for granted. That he got so preoccupied with his job, that he let time fly by without showing Evan how much he loved him. Now he must fix things, but how can he do it right while being miles away from home?
The conclusion of the story is beautiful, romantic, sweet and very sexy. Although the way it happened was a little OTT for me.
"He’d missed this feeling. [...]
To be each other’s one and only. Now it reminded him of who they were together. Evan-and-Paul. One body, one soul."
Overall, this was a short, light and sexy story with a nice dose of reality.
This was my second read from this author, the first being Wrong Direction (which is free, in case you want to check it out), and I can safely say that I'll definately watch out for more of her work, in the future.
*Cross-posted on Gay Book Reviews*
June 16, 2019
Evan and Paul have been together for fifteen years and everything is settled and good between them. Until Evan’s question over breakfast one morning, “did you know it’s been a year since we last made love?”, makes Paul stop and take a good look at his relationship and the things he has started taking for granted.
Nothing earth-shattering, just a quiet and understated episode in the lives of two ordinary men, not so different from what has happened, happens, and will happen to millions of other couples.
As always, it’s not so much what happens that makes a good book for me or, even harder, a good short story, but how it happens, and I think Kelly Jensen really nailed it with this one. Without drama or saccharine sweetness, she made this ordinary couple come alive in a few pages, making me see their past, their present, and their future. More importantly, she made me believe in their relationship, just by letting me see how they handled an ordinary “crisis” in their ordinary life together.
Nothing earth-shattering, just a quiet and understated episode in the lives of two ordinary men, not so different from what has happened, happens, and will happen to millions of other couples.
As always, it’s not so much what happens that makes a good book for me or, even harder, a good short story, but how it happens, and I think Kelly Jensen really nailed it with this one. Without drama or saccharine sweetness, she made this ordinary couple come alive in a few pages, making me see their past, their present, and their future. More importantly, she made me believe in their relationship, just by letting me see how they handled an ordinary “crisis” in their ordinary life together.
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December 23, 2023When was " the last time " for you ? Last time for what ? you'II ask, for sure. Last time for whatever, it doesn't matter.
Of all things that repeat themselves, " last time " is the most frequent. Millions of people smoke every day, for " the last time ". Others love, " for the last time ". Others tell their wives it's " the last time " when.
Thousands of drivers turn right, without checking, and that's quite " for the last time ", for some of them.
All over the world, in this very second, something is " for last time ". Including for me, it's for the last time I write a review. I'm lying, obviously. We are all lying ourselves, nothing can be truly " for the last time ".
" The last time " - is the job from the work-book of Sisyphus.
" The last time " - is a cult, not an accident, it is a religion of nature.
" The last time " is at the same time a refuge, where we all go like on a picnic.
It's for the first time I had the futile revelation of " the last time ".
I would like it to be for the last time. I enjoy " Last Christmas ", though, every year.
Of all things that repeat themselves, " last time " is the most frequent. Millions of people smoke every day, for " the last time ". Others love, " for the last time ". Others tell their wives it's " the last time " when.
Thousands of drivers turn right, without checking, and that's quite " for the last time ", for some of them.
All over the world, in this very second, something is " for last time ". Including for me, it's for the last time I write a review. I'm lying, obviously. We are all lying ourselves, nothing can be truly " for the last time ".
" The last time " - is the job from the work-book of Sisyphus.
" The last time " - is a cult, not an accident, it is a religion of nature.
" The last time " is at the same time a refuge, where we all go like on a picnic.
It's for the first time I had the futile revelation of " the last time ".
I would like it to be for the last time. I enjoy " Last Christmas ", though, every year.
February 15, 2016
3.5 stars
This was like a slice of real life which I always enjoy. However, some of the things that happened kinda frustrated me. Like if Paul was going to be really busy in San Francisco but then had a clear schedule after, why not book a special weekend away for the two of them after Valentine's Day? Wouldn't that be a better way of re-energizing their relationship? Of course, I'm not a fan of Valentine's Day - at all - so I don't really understand the obsessive need to make the big gesture on Valentine's Day. Also, I do like the fact that this was about an established couple and I wish more writers would write about couples further into their relationships like this.
This was like a slice of real life which I always enjoy. However, some of the things that happened kinda frustrated me. Like if Paul was going to be really busy in San Francisco but then had a clear schedule after, why not book a special weekend away for the two of them after Valentine's Day? Wouldn't that be a better way of re-energizing their relationship? Of course, I'm not a fan of Valentine's Day - at all - so I don't really understand the obsessive need to make the big gesture on Valentine's Day. Also, I do like the fact that this was about an established couple and I wish more writers would write about couples further into their relationships like this.
March 22, 2017
Why aren't there more established couple stories out there? This shows that they can be just as fun and sexy as a new romance.
February 1, 2016
When his partner of fifteen years gently reminds Paul that it's been a year since they've made love - it's the wake-up call Paul needs to make sure Evan knows how much he really does love him.
I thought this was a sweet, realistic romance that shows us just how easy it is to forget the most important things in our life, even when they sleep next to us at night.
This is a sexy, short novella with a sweet HEA. Recommended.
Advanced Review Galley copy of When Was the Last Time provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
“Has it really been that long?”
Evan reached for the hand Paul had resting on the table. Tracking the movement, Paul saw hesitancy in the gesture. Sadness welled up from his gut to wrap around his heart. When had Evan become afraid to touch him? No, that wasn’t the right question. When had they stopped backing each other into walls, through doors, and onto beds, taking what they wanted? Romance be damned, when had they stopped fucking?
I thought this was a sweet, realistic romance that shows us just how easy it is to forget the most important things in our life, even when they sleep next to us at night.
"...I take you for granted. I know I do. I live in this dream world where all I have to do is chase down the next collection, live in the history of each piece, and then walk out of my den to find my dinner cooked and my laundry folded, the lawn mowed and, God, Evan, I don’t know what I’d do without you.”
This is a sexy, short novella with a sweet HEA. Recommended.
Advanced Review Galley copy of When Was the Last Time provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
November 6, 2016
This Valentine themed novella isn’t about new love, but about rekindling the love you already share. In this case, Evan and Paul have been together for fifteen years, but truth be told they’ve fallen into a rut (as many committed couples do). Paul works long hours and travels a lot with his job and Evan is the backbone of his support, taking care of the house and all the domestic chores. The more Paul has worked to build his reputation, the less time he’s had to invest in keeping his relationship with Evan from becoming one of complacency. When Evan brings up their lack of intimacy in conversation one day, it’s a wakeup call to Paul as to how long he’s been taking Evan for granted. Making plans for a big Valentine’s splash to show Evan how important he is sounds great, but when work intrudes once again, will Paul make the right choice?
This is a lovely read, a short novella told all from Paul’s point of view. He’s the one with the full time job, travelling around the world and it’s quite a fascinating job too, inspecting art collections and cataloguing them for clients. It’s never an issue of whether he and Evan love each other – it’s just that he’s been taking Evan for granted and realizing this, he also sees that if he doesn’t change things, he could lose him. We get a good look at his thoughts and feelings as he struggles with how to make Evan feel appreciated while at the same time dealing with the challenges of his current assignment. We do get a sexy scene with the couple as they make their way to a new and better relationship, and a sweet happy ending for the couple. It’s low angst, but with lots of emotion. When was the Last Time is a reminder that all relationships take work to flourish.
This review also appears at All About Romance: http://allaboutromance.com/book-revie...
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the author for review.
This is a lovely read, a short novella told all from Paul’s point of view. He’s the one with the full time job, travelling around the world and it’s quite a fascinating job too, inspecting art collections and cataloguing them for clients. It’s never an issue of whether he and Evan love each other – it’s just that he’s been taking Evan for granted and realizing this, he also sees that if he doesn’t change things, he could lose him. We get a good look at his thoughts and feelings as he struggles with how to make Evan feel appreciated while at the same time dealing with the challenges of his current assignment. We do get a sexy scene with the couple as they make their way to a new and better relationship, and a sweet happy ending for the couple. It’s low angst, but with lots of emotion. When was the Last Time is a reminder that all relationships take work to flourish.
This review also appears at All About Romance: http://allaboutromance.com/book-revie...
Note: a copy of this story was provided by the author for review.
February 12, 2016
This was an okay read for me. I liked the concept of the story, but would have preferred a different outcome. I liked that this is able to be categorized with any couple. Not just gay, or straight. I think this is definitely common with people being together for a very long time. Paul got complacent in his relationship with Evan. He zoned out on life. You kinda could say the same for Evan. I personally would not have gone 1 month with this between my husband and I. It happens and I understand work, and social life is a lot to balance sometimes. By doing all of that you kinda forget the small things that matter. Waking up one day to your partner of 10+ years telling you that you guys haven’t been intimate in a very long time is bothersome. I liked the vulnerability that Paul showed when he was trying to remember if that way true.
With Paul knowing those things, I just wish he would have handled this Valentine’s Day better. I understand being your own boss, and work being important. But I feel like he could have tried harder to change a lot of things. Cutting it close by even doing the job to me was like ” Where does Evan stand in your priorities?”. I don’t want to blame Paul for everything, because two people are together. I would say that Evan wasn’t happy but what changed from 6 months ago to now for him to say something. I would have liked way more passion and emotions with what this trope represented. Also I think the emotions, and connections probably could have got there if the story was longer, and the author was able to build on the emotions of both guys. It was an okay start for me by this author. I did like the writing style, and look forward to more from this author.
Review @
With Paul knowing those things, I just wish he would have handled this Valentine’s Day better. I understand being your own boss, and work being important. But I feel like he could have tried harder to change a lot of things. Cutting it close by even doing the job to me was like ” Where does Evan stand in your priorities?”. I don’t want to blame Paul for everything, because two people are together. I would say that Evan wasn’t happy but what changed from 6 months ago to now for him to say something. I would have liked way more passion and emotions with what this trope represented. Also I think the emotions, and connections probably could have got there if the story was longer, and the author was able to build on the emotions of both guys. It was an okay start for me by this author. I did like the writing style, and look forward to more from this author.
Review @
February 13, 2016
4.5 stars
This short story was great, I liked it a lot and would have loved to read more. There was a lot of humor:)
Our couple lived in a solid relationship that somehow over time moved into the comfy and cozy territory, they still loved each other, but everyday life just was exhausting and sitting on the couch and just relaxing became the norm.
After - with a little help - realizing this our MC Paul decided to do something to show Evan that he still loves him very much and will change his behavior in the future. What happened then, how he worked on reaching his goal, was very endearing and lovable.
I especially liked the fact that not everything went smoothly for him:)
This short story was great, I liked it a lot and would have loved to read more. There was a lot of humor:)
Our couple lived in a solid relationship that somehow over time moved into the comfy and cozy territory, they still loved each other, but everyday life just was exhausting and sitting on the couch and just relaxing became the norm.
After - with a little help - realizing this our MC Paul decided to do something to show Evan that he still loves him very much and will change his behavior in the future. What happened then, how he worked on reaching his goal, was very endearing and lovable.
I especially liked the fact that not everything went smoothly for him:)
February 20, 2016
3.5 stars
Paul and Evans have been together fifteen years but Paul's career has been taking off really well and he is busy establishing himself in the business. Evans has been supportive> However, this year, Paul realizes that he might have been missing a lot of things lately with his long-term partner, Evans (as in "when was the last time, we..."). There is a touch of angst to the story but in overall it is a really sweet one.
Sometimes you take the people in your life for granted and this might remind you to pick up the phone and just tell them how much you love them.
Paul and Evans have been together fifteen years but Paul's career has been taking off really well and he is busy establishing himself in the business. Evans has been supportive> However, this year, Paul realizes that he might have been missing a lot of things lately with his long-term partner, Evans (as in "when was the last time, we..."). There is a touch of angst to the story but in overall it is a really sweet one.
Sometimes you take the people in your life for granted and this might remind you to pick up the phone and just tell them how much you love them.
February 12, 2016
4.25
First off, this story is about an established, long-time couple. I love this because so often we get to see their beginning but then we don’t know where it goes from there. Keeping a relationship going takes time and effort and maybe it’s not as exciting as reading about “how they met” but for me, at least, it’s an integral part of the character’s story.
Paul and Evan have been together for fifteen years. Evan is very supportive of Paul and his career and his life, but maybe Paul’s taking things for granted a little. He doesn’t realize it until Evan very gently asks, “Did you know it’s been a year since we last made love?” Paul hasn’t been completely hands off, they’ve had quickie hand jobs and such but they haven’t made love. Paul now starts to notice the little things that are different. “Evan reached for the hand Paul had resting on the table. Tracking the movement, Paul saw hesitancy in the gesture…. When had Evan become afraid to touch him?”
There’s no person to hate here. It’s a case of growing apart without meaning too, without realizing it. We all know how life gets in the way of the little things and suddenly, they are big things. “Evan had unwittingly pointed out the fault that let their relationship burn down to a banked ember: His distraction. His preoccupation.” Something I loved was that Paul and Evan didn’t throw accusations at each other or toss blame. But once the words were out there, “Did you know it’s been a year since we last made love?” Paul starts noticing things and is desperate to make things right. Is it too late?
So often we get caught up in the day to day things and we do take things for granted. Sometimes we have to make a choice between what we have to do and what we want to do. It’s just that we have to remember, sometimes those things are the same. This is a sweet story of two people trying to find their way back to each other and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Recommended.
First off, this story is about an established, long-time couple. I love this because so often we get to see their beginning but then we don’t know where it goes from there. Keeping a relationship going takes time and effort and maybe it’s not as exciting as reading about “how they met” but for me, at least, it’s an integral part of the character’s story.
Paul and Evan have been together for fifteen years. Evan is very supportive of Paul and his career and his life, but maybe Paul’s taking things for granted a little. He doesn’t realize it until Evan very gently asks, “Did you know it’s been a year since we last made love?” Paul hasn’t been completely hands off, they’ve had quickie hand jobs and such but they haven’t made love. Paul now starts to notice the little things that are different. “Evan reached for the hand Paul had resting on the table. Tracking the movement, Paul saw hesitancy in the gesture…. When had Evan become afraid to touch him?”
There’s no person to hate here. It’s a case of growing apart without meaning too, without realizing it. We all know how life gets in the way of the little things and suddenly, they are big things. “Evan had unwittingly pointed out the fault that let their relationship burn down to a banked ember: His distraction. His preoccupation.” Something I loved was that Paul and Evan didn’t throw accusations at each other or toss blame. But once the words were out there, “Did you know it’s been a year since we last made love?” Paul starts noticing things and is desperate to make things right. Is it too late?
So often we get caught up in the day to day things and we do take things for granted. Sometimes we have to make a choice between what we have to do and what we want to do. It’s just that we have to remember, sometimes those things are the same. This is a sweet story of two people trying to find their way back to each other and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Recommended.
February 11, 2016
As many of you know, I’m Kelly’s co-author on the Chaos Station series. I’m a little biased in the sense that of course I love her writing. So let me tell you a little bit about why I love this story.
Paul and Evan have been together for fifteen years. They’re not married but they don’t have to be—it’s clear that they’re together. Paul (who tells the story) is shocked when one morning over breakfast, Evan challenges him to remember the last time they made love. Not just a quickie in the shower, but full-on, shake the bed lovemaking. Turns out, it was more than a year before, and that knowledge sends Paul into something of a tailspin. He starts to realize that he’d let the maintenance of his relationship slide—because he was happy, Evan was happy, things were good, his business needed attention, etc. A bit frantic, he makes plans to spend Valentine’s Day with Evan, despite a new, important job that’s come his way, and he ends up having to juggle the relationship and his job all at once. Something’s gotta fall.
What I loved (LOVED) about this story was how real it is. Everyone who’s been in a long-term relationship knows how easy it is to fall into a rut without even truly recognizing it. And then when Paul does recognize it, all the bad stuff and the worries seem to float to the top, putting him on the edge of panic. You can feel his fear that he’s going to lose Evan; you can feel how real that fear is, now that he knows he’s let things slip. The fact that Paul doesn’t want to lose Evan and takes action so he doesn’t makes him a very likeable and sympathetic character.
When Was the Last Time is not a long read—you can finish it in about an hour. But it’s a sweet, emotional story that’s a perfect romantic snack for Valentine’s Day. I highly recommend it.
Paul and Evan have been together for fifteen years. They’re not married but they don’t have to be—it’s clear that they’re together. Paul (who tells the story) is shocked when one morning over breakfast, Evan challenges him to remember the last time they made love. Not just a quickie in the shower, but full-on, shake the bed lovemaking. Turns out, it was more than a year before, and that knowledge sends Paul into something of a tailspin. He starts to realize that he’d let the maintenance of his relationship slide—because he was happy, Evan was happy, things were good, his business needed attention, etc. A bit frantic, he makes plans to spend Valentine’s Day with Evan, despite a new, important job that’s come his way, and he ends up having to juggle the relationship and his job all at once. Something’s gotta fall.
What I loved (LOVED) about this story was how real it is. Everyone who’s been in a long-term relationship knows how easy it is to fall into a rut without even truly recognizing it. And then when Paul does recognize it, all the bad stuff and the worries seem to float to the top, putting him on the edge of panic. You can feel his fear that he’s going to lose Evan; you can feel how real that fear is, now that he knows he’s let things slip. The fact that Paul doesn’t want to lose Evan and takes action so he doesn’t makes him a very likeable and sympathetic character.
When Was the Last Time is not a long read—you can finish it in about an hour. But it’s a sweet, emotional story that’s a perfect romantic snack for Valentine’s Day. I highly recommend it.
February 13, 2016
I loved this story so much! Jensen presents a story that so many of us can identify with: Letting life get out of control to the point where you forget what (who) is really important. Instead of insta-love or carnal attraction, this story simply reminds us all to show those we love that we do in fact love them and need them. Highly recommend it for anyone who likes a feel-good, love story :)
February 12, 2016
My Review:
Romance novels are amazing for reminding the reader about that excitement and thrill that comes from first falling in love, but this isn't that book. No, this book has a much better reminder. This book is for the person who's been in love for years...as a reminder to appreciate what you have, who you have in your life. When was the last time...you kissed passionately? ...said I love you? ...appreciated the touch of a hand?
This book is all about the love that's there in your life, year after year, and how easy it is to take that for granted. That's what's happened for Paul. He has a fairly new business that's kept him crazy busy for the last few years as he's built it and traveled non-stop to make it a success. That's worked for him, but it's been at the cost of his long-term boyfriend, Evan. Paul doesn't even realize it's been over a year since they had sex since Evan mentioned it. But ever since that moment, Paul's been taking the time to realize just what a lousy partner he's been. He's taken Evan for granted and now with the threat that Evan might be unhappy with that, Paul begins to truly appreciate what he has.
I'll admit this book really spoke to me. I've been married for 23+ years, and so much of what Paul is thinking felt SO familiar. This is an amazing book...just to remind the reader to stop, enjoy the romance in YOUR life. I thought it was phenomenal and truly enjoyed reading it. Then I went and had a nice cuddle with my hubby...because it's so easy to lose that appreciation.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Romance novels are amazing for reminding the reader about that excitement and thrill that comes from first falling in love, but this isn't that book. No, this book has a much better reminder. This book is for the person who's been in love for years...as a reminder to appreciate what you have, who you have in your life. When was the last time...you kissed passionately? ...said I love you? ...appreciated the touch of a hand?
This book is all about the love that's there in your life, year after year, and how easy it is to take that for granted. That's what's happened for Paul. He has a fairly new business that's kept him crazy busy for the last few years as he's built it and traveled non-stop to make it a success. That's worked for him, but it's been at the cost of his long-term boyfriend, Evan. Paul doesn't even realize it's been over a year since they had sex since Evan mentioned it. But ever since that moment, Paul's been taking the time to realize just what a lousy partner he's been. He's taken Evan for granted and now with the threat that Evan might be unhappy with that, Paul begins to truly appreciate what he has.
I'll admit this book really spoke to me. I've been married for 23+ years, and so much of what Paul is thinking felt SO familiar. This is an amazing book...just to remind the reader to stop, enjoy the romance in YOUR life. I thought it was phenomenal and truly enjoyed reading it. Then I went and had a nice cuddle with my hubby...because it's so easy to lose that appreciation.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
February 24, 2016
Paul and Evan have been lovers for over 15 years, yet in the last year they’ve lost touch. Evan asks Paul to consider the last time they’ve made love and it’s been over a year and this makes Paul feel horrible.
In order to make amends he decides on a special Valentine’s Day Date but business keeps him in San Francisco. He’s forced to decide between keeping his date or his business commitment.
**
In a move reminiscent of “The Gift of the Magi” both Paul and Evan make a sacrifice to be together for Valentine’s Day and it’s very sweet. Most of the story is Paul remembering how they met and feeling bad about the current state of their relationship.
In the end they have a wonderful date and all’s well.
I wish we’d had a bit more of Evan’s POV – I couldn’t quite get a feel for his side of the story – but it was a lovely holiday story reminding us to keep love alive takes work.
3.5 of 5 stars
In order to make amends he decides on a special Valentine’s Day Date but business keeps him in San Francisco. He’s forced to decide between keeping his date or his business commitment.
**
In a move reminiscent of “The Gift of the Magi” both Paul and Evan make a sacrifice to be together for Valentine’s Day and it’s very sweet. Most of the story is Paul remembering how they met and feeling bad about the current state of their relationship.
In the end they have a wonderful date and all’s well.
I wish we’d had a bit more of Evan’s POV – I couldn’t quite get a feel for his side of the story – but it was a lovely holiday story reminding us to keep love alive takes work.
3.5 of 5 stars
February 14, 2016
Nice little Valentine story featuring an older, established couple whose love life seems to have been put on hold for their careers...until they finally decide something must be done. 4 stars.
August 11, 2018
Ich mag Geschichten, in denen es um Paare geht, die schon eine Weile zusammen sind. "When was the last time" ist eine kleine Momentaufnahme. Wenn sich der Alltag einschleicht und man vergisst, wann man zuletzt etwas getan hat. Wann hat man das letzte Mal miteinander geschlafen, wann sich gesagt, dass man sich liebt, wann war das letzte Date...? Nicht sehr spektakulär, aber wirklich schön zu lesen.
September 1, 2020
I liked this, but could help but feel frustrated by Paul, but more so Evan.
March 31, 2016
Book – When Was The Last Time
Author – Kelly Jensen
Star rating - ★★★★★
No. of Pages - 42
Movie Potential - ★★★★★
Ease of reading – very easy to read
Would I read it again – Definitely
** I WAS GIVEN THIS BOOK, BY THE AUTHOR, IN RETURN FOR AN HONEST REVIEW **
Reviewed for Divine Magazine
This is my first story by this author and it wasn't a disappointment.
From the minute I read the blurb, I'll admit that I had an expectation in mind, of how the story might progress or what emotions I might feel. I was right, but there was also so much more to it than that.
For a short story, it packed a punch. It had everything I wanted, after reading the blurb: angst, confusion, doubt, jealousy, uncertainty and more. From the first page, when Evan brought up the subject of their 'last time', I could feel the tension between them and the comfortable expectation that everything was pretty much normal and as it had been for a while.
As the story progressed and Paul went on this journey of self-discovery, realising things about their relationship that had passed him by, I developed an intense connection to both characters. I felt sad, when Paul felt sad, nervous and scared about what he'd discover, when he felt the same. I was completely in tune with Paul's emotions the entire way through the story; I felt his confusion and his need to understand, the worry that things might never be the same again. I could also see the distance between him and Evan, growing before his eyes, the way Paul saw it.
~
This story was a real gem. I'll admit – I was hesitant about agreeing to review this, because I had no prior experience of the author. While I love finding new authors, my reviewing list was already long. But, I can't resist myself. The cover kept drawing my attention and I couldn't ignore that. It's a beautiful piece of art and craftsmanship, just like the story.
I love the style, the characters, the story and how it was executed. It's such a sweet, cute story about how it's never too late to change, to adapt, to open your eyes and see the truth. That love can grow stale and comfortable, without meaning the end of a relationship or that there was no love any more.
I'm not going to go into detail about the plot or the characters or the author's writing. I don't have to. Pick this up, spare an hour of your day to sit down and read it uninterrupted and you'll see why. The story speaks for itself.
Author – Kelly Jensen
Star rating - ★★★★★
No. of Pages - 42
Movie Potential - ★★★★★
Ease of reading – very easy to read
Would I read it again – Definitely
** I WAS GIVEN THIS BOOK, BY THE AUTHOR, IN RETURN FOR AN HONEST REVIEW **
Reviewed for Divine Magazine
This is my first story by this author and it wasn't a disappointment.
From the minute I read the blurb, I'll admit that I had an expectation in mind, of how the story might progress or what emotions I might feel. I was right, but there was also so much more to it than that.
For a short story, it packed a punch. It had everything I wanted, after reading the blurb: angst, confusion, doubt, jealousy, uncertainty and more. From the first page, when Evan brought up the subject of their 'last time', I could feel the tension between them and the comfortable expectation that everything was pretty much normal and as it had been for a while.
As the story progressed and Paul went on this journey of self-discovery, realising things about their relationship that had passed him by, I developed an intense connection to both characters. I felt sad, when Paul felt sad, nervous and scared about what he'd discover, when he felt the same. I was completely in tune with Paul's emotions the entire way through the story; I felt his confusion and his need to understand, the worry that things might never be the same again. I could also see the distance between him and Evan, growing before his eyes, the way Paul saw it.
~
This story was a real gem. I'll admit – I was hesitant about agreeing to review this, because I had no prior experience of the author. While I love finding new authors, my reviewing list was already long. But, I can't resist myself. The cover kept drawing my attention and I couldn't ignore that. It's a beautiful piece of art and craftsmanship, just like the story.
I love the style, the characters, the story and how it was executed. It's such a sweet, cute story about how it's never too late to change, to adapt, to open your eyes and see the truth. That love can grow stale and comfortable, without meaning the end of a relationship or that there was no love any more.
I'm not going to go into detail about the plot or the characters or the author's writing. I don't have to. Pick this up, spare an hour of your day to sit down and read it uninterrupted and you'll see why. The story speaks for itself.
February 15, 2016
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
A really lovely novella about two grown men who have fallen away from each other, but who are desperate to reconnect.
I don't normally like shorter stories, but I think Kelly did a great job showing a brief moment in the life of Paul and Evan. They're both in their forties, and Paul is so focused on his job that he doesn't even realize that it's been over a year since he and Evan had sex... until Evan himself points it out.
"I love you, Evan."
Evan looked back down from the ceiling, surprise making his eyes wide. Then he smiled. "I know you do."
So why didn't he say it back?
With Valentine's Day around the corner, this is a great story to remind us to focus on the ones we love, and that nothing is more important than maintaining those relationships.
Read the full review on Just Love Romance!
March 21, 2016
I don't read a lot of short stories - prefer novels. But, When Was the Last Time is an example of a short story that worked for me. I became invested in the characters quickly and the plot was detailed yet self-contained. There were tears and smiles and a bit of anxiety. I think anyone who has been in a long-term relationship (or maybe even a short-term one) will connect with this story.
February 16, 2016
Gorgeous story. Highly recommend this one.
March 13, 2020
Kelly Jensen writes about how important it is to keep your relationship front and center in When Was the Last Time (Dreamspinner Press, 9781634770446, 2016). In between flashbacks and present time we see from Paul’s view how his relationship has gotten to this place.
I do not want to give anything away as this is a short story, but it packs the appropriate punch reminder. There are no bad guys in this story. No cheating. Just life getting busy as it does. Jensen just gives us a reminder through Paul and Evan to not take each other for granted in a non-preaching way. A great Valentine reminder that love is just not one day a year.
I do not want to give anything away as this is a short story, but it packs the appropriate punch reminder. There are no bad guys in this story. No cheating. Just life getting busy as it does. Jensen just gives us a reminder through Paul and Evan to not take each other for granted in a non-preaching way. A great Valentine reminder that love is just not one day a year.
June 9, 2022
we need more stories about established couples asap. this was short but packed a lot of emotions. i don’t know why, but these types of stories just punch me in the gut like a freight train. the way i cried because i just wanted paul and evan to work it out and be happy. although it did feel like evan got the short end of the stick, but at least by the end, we can see that their relationship was moving in the right direction.
April 17, 2024
Very good short about a couple in a long-established relationship going through what many couples in long-established relationships do. I wasn't totally sold on it in the beginning, but by the end I was.
June 22, 2017
Sweet.
June 7, 2018
Beautiful
This is a short story but it completely grabbed my emotions and tugged my heart. I have no words <3
This is a short story but it completely grabbed my emotions and tugged my heart. I have no words <3
October 15, 2018
Paul & Evan
It was nice to read about longstanding relationship for once. This is not as thrilling and satisfying as the building of feelings but still necessary and heartwarming...
☕️❤️🌈❤️☕️
It was nice to read about longstanding relationship for once. This is not as thrilling and satisfying as the building of feelings but still necessary and heartwarming...
☕️❤️🌈❤️☕️
April 7, 2019
It is sometimes easy to let things slide while your busy. But this story is reminder to make taking care of your love the most important thing.
June 11, 2017
3.5 stars, rounded up.
This short story (it’s about 40 pages) is a relationship-in-trouble story. Paul and Evan have been together for 15 years but in the past 12 months, their sex life has gone stale. Evan raises it one morning and Paul realises he needs to reprioritise. He’s worried he might lose Evan if he doesn’t change. He plans a romantic Valentine’s Day date but interstate work runs late and he’s faced with a decision to potentially damage his career or potentially damage his relationship.
My impression was the Evan wasn’t anywhere near the stage of walking out but Paul’s wake-up is nevertheless a welcome one. It’s sweet and romantic without a ton of detail. I was curious as to why Evan chose that particular day to raise the issue with Paul – but as there was only Paul’s POV, it remained a mystery.
I enjoy short stories about existing couples dealing with something and reinvigorating their HEA. When Was the Last Time was sweet and hit the spot when I was between reads and wanted something of a palate-cleanser.
This short story (it’s about 40 pages) is a relationship-in-trouble story. Paul and Evan have been together for 15 years but in the past 12 months, their sex life has gone stale. Evan raises it one morning and Paul realises he needs to reprioritise. He’s worried he might lose Evan if he doesn’t change. He plans a romantic Valentine’s Day date but interstate work runs late and he’s faced with a decision to potentially damage his career or potentially damage his relationship.
My impression was the Evan wasn’t anywhere near the stage of walking out but Paul’s wake-up is nevertheless a welcome one. It’s sweet and romantic without a ton of detail. I was curious as to why Evan chose that particular day to raise the issue with Paul – but as there was only Paul’s POV, it remained a mystery.
I enjoy short stories about existing couples dealing with something and reinvigorating their HEA. When Was the Last Time was sweet and hit the spot when I was between reads and wanted something of a palate-cleanser.
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