Nolan Frederickson has watched everyone around him fall in love.
His younger siblings, his best friend; but love has always eluded him.
He thought he’d found the possibility of it once, experiencing a connection during secret encounters so intense, that years later, it still fuels his fantasies.
Content in every other aspect of his life, but tired of empty hook-ups and mediocre attraction, Nolan’s starting to think that maybe he’s just not meant to find ‘the one’.
However, as they say, timing is every thing. What happens when the one that got away comes back? Does he take his shot at the future he’s always imagined, or is it just too much to hope for.
With external pressures, internal fears and a meddling sister, one thing is certain; Nolan’s settled life is about to be turned upside down.
After all, things have never been dull in Plantain – why would now be any different?
If you're a Plantain fan, then you MUST read Nolan and his someone specials book. I honestly did not see his love interest coming! If you're looking for a quick M/M with equal parts heart and heat, then look no further, Almost Easy is it. Great writing from Amelia Oliver and her new partner in crime, Kate Hastings! Can't wait to see what this duo gives us next.
Arc provided by author for honest review. Thank thank thank Amelia for being the very first to break my MM cherry!! I knew Nolan was gonna be hot I mean come on he's Wyatt brother lol. But holy shit him and his love interest wow. They broke my MM is the best way down and dirty. Thank you again Amelia for opening up a new world for me lol.
A complimentary audio was provided via Audiobook Boom in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
First, I've not read the series this novella is part of, and I don't know if you need to since the story is really just about the MCs Nolan and Rupert, although the other series characters do show up (duh! lol).
Not only is this my first book by this author, but this is also my first book narrated by JJ Jenness. Which makes this novella a little hard to judge because overall this book was just okay for me. I decided to request a copy because I read so many great reviews about the series in general, and Almost Easy itself. I loved the excitement of other reviewers comments, but alas I can't say I felt the same. I feel the narration is what held me back from completely enjoying this story because the narrator didn't change his voice between the two MCs - they sounded exactly that same. I couldn't believe it. If ever a book could have benefited from dual narration, this would have been it. JJ didn't have a bad voice, and he did express emotion, etc, when the situation called for it. But I wanted the characters to be their own person, and unfortunately the narration didn't give me that. What I can say is he did bring extra sound effects to the story that I liked, such as when a character was talking on a cell phone, the tone (special techno mastery) came across in just the right way. I liked that it sounded completely different from a normal speaking voice. Well done with that!
As for the story itself, as I said earlier - it was okay for me. Had I been able to read this I think I could have bumped my rating up because then I could have brought out the characters voice that I wanted. It was hard to follow the storyline because I kept getting distracted by the voice speaking. But strictly speaking I think the story is good, if a little dramatic at the end. The whole thing with deliberate sabotage and the guy (Will?) who is really out to get Nolan and Rupert because they are gay and he doesn't like gay people (thinks they are deviants), that was a little much for me. Although it's a realistic standpoint of too many people in this world. I still hated him for what he did and didn't like that part of the story at all (it felt like it was there just to add extra drama).
Overall I rate this with 3 stars, with the narration at 2 stars.
won this in a giveaway Oh wow! this has got to be one of my favourite reads of 2017 I enjoyed every minute of it, no spoiler alert from me...apart from ... add it to your must read now! will not be disappointed #hemf!!! well done to authors, amazing story! I give this 5 awesomely amazing hot stars *****
As I headed back to Plantain my smile got bigger as the familiarity with these characters and this place took hold. This is Nolan's story and believe me when I say OMG what a story. This collaboration between Amelia Oliver and Kate Hastings works perfectly for Nolan, his story flows beautifully and has you hooked from the first line. Almost Easy is emotional on every level from external and internal burdens, a sister that just won't give up on what she sees as the end game and a love story like no other. Nolan is a strong character, one that knows who he is and what he wants. His book is hot, steamy and sexy so prepare yourself people because cold showers, racing hearts and hot damn moments will be plentiful when reading this Plantain novella. However I do have one negative aspect regarding this book, it is classed as 5.5 in the series and let me tell you Almost Easy is worth so much more than being classed as a half number because it is nothing less than a COMPLETE story forget the novella status because Nolan is going to rock your world.
Loved this mm novella addition to the Plaintain Series! Nolan and Rupert are hot! The story is engaging and the epilogue is amazing. Bravo! Can’t wait to read more Plaintain!!!!!
Wow. So let me start off by saying that this was my first M/M romance EVER and let’s just say I'm so happy it was a book by Amelia Oliver and Kate Hastings. You too, would want your first to be a book written by these two authors. It was sexy and so hot! The writing was addictive. If you are already a fan of the Plantain series then you would already know how FANTASTIC this series is and this is another fantastically written book that you won’t be able to put down either. This series is EVERYTHING! I honestly can’t recommend it enough. These characters and their love stories will stay with you. I’m talking book boyfriends galore! It’s impossible not to fall in love with them. So to sum up: LOVE this book, LOVE this series and it’s a MUST READ!
Great pacing. Well drawn characters. Didn't read any of the other books in the series and wasn't at all lost. This is what I call great use of my precious time. Oh and super hot ;) Brava, Oliver.
I just want to say, this might be the first book that I’ve picked up and read right away from a teaser alone. I’ve never read any books by these authors but when I saw that teaser I just knew I needed to dive into this story right away.
This is a novella but it completely lacks that “oh man, this was too short” feel. It was a fast read, but it was just perfect for their story to come across.
I loved that neither was beating around the bush with each other too much. They had both been previously attracted to each other and were finally at the right place, at the right time to make it happen.
I fell in love with them and with the town of Plantain. I’m definitely excited to dive into more of Nolan’s family and their stories.
5 Stars to Almost Easy: Plantain Series Novella 5.5 by Amelia Oliver, Kate Hastings.
This is by far one of the best M/M romances I have ever read! The authors did beyond an amazing job giving us continuous tension. Every aspect of this book was realistic. The connection between the two heroes was palpable and scorching. It was not just the physical attraction that was so pronounced. Nolan and Rupert's emotional connection was strong and believable. I could go on and on about how amazing this book was and how positively strong the writing talent is. That said, this book is an addition to the Plantain Series by Amelia Oliver. Almost Easy was the first book I read in the series. As soon as I get caught up with my reading, I'm going to back read this entire series. Where fans of the Plantain series will be thrilled to have revisits with previous characters, I was introduced to them. Intrigue and curiosity about the other stories has me excited to read about these likable characters. Luckily for me this is a big and extended family and I can't wait to dive in.
So....Nolan and Rupert are both gay. They first met when they were kids but their attraction came in later years. Nolan is a few years older. Of course nothing happened then due to a fear of sexuality. But the pull was there. Hidden, but there and strong. So when they see each other again after years, it's no surprise the attraction is still there and even stronger. The good thing is they are both "out." I don't want to say anything about how their relationship grew and the obstacles they faced because that was a large part of why I enjoyed this book so much and I won't spoil that for you. I will say there is angst, some suspense and a whole lot of hot loving. Wow is all I could articulate at his moment. ;)
The ending of this book was even more than I hoped for. It was perfect! If I had any complaints about this book it would be that I wished it were longer. I am not ready to say goodbye to these sexy, lovable and amazing men. I want more!
This is my heartfelt, honest and unbiased review. Thank you for taking the time to read it.
This is the first Amelia Oliver book I have read. And as soon as I have finished writing this, I am going to get the rest of the back series. I need to read them all now. Great story! Great characters, definately someone who was mentioned, daisy, sounds like an interesting character, so have to read that book! I look forward to those books, and hopefully many more. This book was recommended both by italbooks on Instagram and booksmacked .
Rupert and Nolan are the hot guys in this spicy story. From dating Nolan 's sister to dating Nolan. These guys end up working together. Eventually they become so much more than friends. We see their first date and a few hot weekends together. Some minimal drama at work. Some more hot times. Then they work out their drama. Liked the story. Narrator was well suited for this audiobook. A well done treat. (Given a copy for an honest review)(Thanks)
I chose my rating because I LOVED this story so much! Amelia Oliver writes such a compelling story of two guys who started to fall for each other in high school and then fell in love later when they worked together. Such an amazing read, for sure!
My MM kick isn't over and this little novella was just what I needed to feel the power of two men. Two men who fought their fight or flight response to become absolutely fantastic together.
I have not read the other Plantain series books. I'm sure I would have appreciated the appearances of the other characters. However, the other characters are fantastic and drive this story just as much as our main characters, Nolan and Rupert.
And Nolan and Rupert's history is one of confusion and questions and heartache. But the journey is half the battle for these two. Forces working against them will have them questioning what they really want and expect from life, but you will not be left hanging--or disappointed.
Go meet Rupert and Nolan. Love them because they are worthy of your love.
Wow this was a hot AF read in the Plantain series. I haven't been able to read all of the books in this series - but I saw naughty teasers and decided to see if this was really going to be as HOT as they said it would be. And it was all as advertised with heart eyes and epic mouth fuckfests and more. The new duo of Oliver and Hastings keep you hooked with the drama of work place interfering hate mongers and quirky family line transitions. Cant wait for more from these two...
M/M Romance is not an automatic go to for me but this short story was really good. Knowing the characters from the previous books helps. The acceptance from both families was really great. The way they addressed homophobia was done really well also. This is the last book in the series and overall as my ratings show it was a great series.
We've fallen in love with all that is Plantain. You'll fall in love with Nolan just the same.
We are taken back in time and we learn things we never even thought about in some of the other stories we've read. I call them the OMFG moments.
The authors capture our attention by taking us back in time when we'll have our first OMFG moment. As they bring us into the present, they transition us easily as we are introduced to the characters all grown up. The moments between the two are as steamy as the two are dreamy.
Their journey is one that is fated...I mean how can it not with the family creating opportunities for their relationship to be a happily ever after.
5 glorious #HEMF I have been hooked on the Plantain Series and when I heard that a M/M book was in the works I was thrilled. Nolan and Rupert are off the charts H-O-T with their connection and had me wiggling in my seat more often then not. The storyline flowed smoothly and at a great pace, it’s a non stop page turner. I would love to share a friendship with both Rupert and Nolan. Bill however is an absolute D and I felt such a loathing for him and his actions. The passion and love was clearly poured into this book you can feel it jumping off the pages and straight to your heart. I’m left with happy tears and a ear to ear smile on my face. This is without a doubt one of my top reads of the year to date and I can’t wait to see what these ladies have in store for us in the future. I’m not just highly recommending I’m flat out TELLING YOU to grab your copy and read it now! This is my unbiased and voluntary review.
*Audiobook Review* I’m consumed yet again with these men and listening to JJ Jenness narrate had me never wanting to hit pause. Reading the story I was hooked and now listening to Rupert and Nolan I feel their connection even more then before. The passion coming through my speakers pulls you in, grabs hold and doesn’t let go. JJ has done a great job with separating both men and their voices, you can easily distinguish who’s speaking in that moment. Highly recommended you not only read but listen to this book. This is my unbiased and voluntary review.
I have FINALLY gotten around to reading this series, and let me tell everyone, you HAVE to read it!!! OMG, I love it!! MC books are always one of my favorites, but this series took it to a whole other level! I'm also a huge music fanatic, and as you can guess from the titles of this entire series, music plays a big part in them and each one comes with an awesome playlist, so that definitely made me happy!
I will tell you a little secret, though...I had a friend suggest to me that I should read book 5, Free Bird (Sven and Missy's book, but also Owen, Shine, Jasper, Gwen, and Joseph's story) first, but ONLY part 1 and 2, and then go to beginning of series and read in order, including the novellas, which are 3.5, 4.5, and 5.5, then read part 3 of Free Bird when you get up to it! I am soooo glad I did this because although you don't have to, it definitely helped a lot to know the back story of the parents/grandparents and the MC so that you better understand everyone's relationships and how they all came to be a family!
With that said, this book is about Nolan (Sven and Missy's son) and Rupert. I was so beyond stoked for this novella to finally be in my hands! I love every couple in this series, but when I heard we were getting Nolan's book next and it was a M/M story, I was ecstatic!!! Nolan is so yummy and strong, but struggles a lot with relationships and his sexuality. He thought he had a great thing going with Rupert in high school, but that ended all too quickly and nothing has been the same since. When Rupert pops back into town and into Nolan's life, his world is turned upside down and shaken up big time! The anger and hurt Nolan feels wrestles with his memories and feelings in a tug of war. With a lot of really big insecurities, the pressure of worrying what family, friends, and coworkers will think when his sexuality is revealed after so many years of hiding it, and of course the ups and downs that come with all new relationships, Nolan shows us what it's like to struggle through those things and yet still rise above it and go for what makes you happy, regardless of anything else! These two strong, loving, sexy AF HEMF guys will take you on a ride you won't soon forget!!! Scorching hotness is all throughout this book and I loved every second of it!!!
Can't say enough how much I love this series and how much you need all of these amazing people in your life!!!
I did NOT expect this little novella but as always, I was blown away.
The explosive chemistry between Nolan and Rupert was so intoxicating right from the start. To follow these two as they find their way and find each other was just awesome. Yes the sexy scenes were hot but the story was amazing too and I thought added even more layers to the well layered Plantain world. I am always happy to go back and visit Plantain, especially when its this good.
Read this in one and a half sitting. I thought the writing flowed well, and the story kept my jaw open almost the entire time. Amelia, you always bring the sexy and the swoon and I thank you for this. Plantain will always be my fictional home and I’m ready to pack it up and meet my very own Nolan. Even though ... he may not be interested. Damn. Readers, if you dig some naughty and some, damn he put it there... read this novella and call me twice in the morning. Oliver, you do not disappoint. Ever.
Fantastic Author Duo Amelia & Kate you both done awesome with this story Almost Easy! Nolan’s story was beautiful, it will give you goosebumps, you will want to read and you will love this M/M romance! This has heart-eyes all over it! Hope we get more from this Author Duet!
It looks like I’m in the minority here when I say that this book didn’t work for me. The reasons why are plenty, but my two main ones being that there was just too much focus on sex and not enough research or knowledge about gay men. Now I'm the first one to admit that I'm not in any way shape or form an expert on gay men, nor do I claim to be. But even I know that lube is a thing and there are actually more brain cell function in men that are able to focus on other things than sex. And even more shocking - men actually can spend time together without having sex - there is this thing called talking.
Then you have statements like these and it becomes painfully obvious how little these authors understand about gay men:
A lover who made him comfortable enough sexually to be verse.
Or my personal favourite:
I'm the top. The more masculine partner.
Being a top or bottom has nothing to do with how masculine or dominant a person is! Now I could go on and rant about how untrue that quote is, but I’ll just let it speak for itself.
Sadly the book doesn't get any better as the minutes and hours ticks along. As I said earlier it was all just too much focus on sex. The plot itself was lacking, missing really, buried deep under all the sex crazed men. I don't know if there was a single minute of this audiobook where sex, dicks, erections, and whatnot weren’t mentioned in one form or another. It was just too much. I was bored out of my mind. I’m actually wondering whether teen boys just discovering what their dicks can do are this obsessed?
JJ Jenness did an okay job narrating this story. It looks like this might be his first attempt at narrating a book and it showed. It was a bit stilted at times and lacked that natural flow of the words. I also wish that his voice for Rupert was a bit less feminine, at times I did forget I was listening to a m/m story and not a m/f one. With that I don’t mean that all male voices need to be deep and growly, but I usually don't like these lighter voices for guys that aren't the flamboyant ones. But that Is just my own personal opinion. I also felt that he wasn't feeling what he was narrating, and only reading the words in front of him. I'm sad to say he sounded bored at times, and that doesn't draw the listener into the story and make them a part of it. So all in all, the narration wasn’t terrible, but there is definite potential for improvement.
I'm sorry to say that I just wouldn't recommend this book to anyone, there are so many better m/m romances out there.
A copy of this audiobook was generously provided by the narrator in exchange for an honest review
You know this book is going to be another great read if it's about Plantain, and it is! This time Nolan has his turn to find love, and his journey is "Hot" along the way!
I always enjoy a sexy and heartfelt MM romance and this one doesn't disappoint. Kudos to Amelia and her new partner in crime, Kate, for this super steamy, fun-to-read novella!
I will be starting this review by saying this book made me #HEMF. Oh my goodness , reading a MM romance cannot get better than this! Nolan and his partner are THE PERFECT COUPLE. Throughout the book sighed, cried and laughed! I have to admit that this is my first book in the Plantain series and meeting all the couples now makes me want to know all their stories. But deep down I am sure that this couple - Nolan and his partner will always hold couple goals for me. The story is the right mix of romance and fun. It almost felt like the story has been written by a male because hello, it's a male POV and both these authors have done a fantastic job of pulling off the characters thought pattern , their action and the way they behaved and carried themselves. This book cannot be written much better than it already is!
The sexiest M/M I've read so far! I fell in love from the very first pages.
I had two guesses for who Nolan would end up with and I'm so glad it turned out to be the one I was rooting for. They made perfect sense and the choice kept things even more interesting. Other than who Nolan's love interest is, everything else was so unexpected for me. Plantain fans will definitely not be disappointed. The dinner scene was one of my favourites and catching up with all the characters as well as different generations. And that epilogue, without a doubt my favourite epilogue yet of the series!