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Going Off Grid
Clay and Elliott are working toward a dream—working sixty-hour weeks for one of the oil companies that recently sprung up in North Dakota. The pay is good, but is it a fair trade for never seeing each other? The point becomes moot when the company folds, like so many others, and the couple is left with a difficult choice.
Should they find comparable work somewhere else, or is it time to throw caution to the wind and go after their goal—years earlier than they intended?
What they’ve always wanted is to be together and have time to enjoy it, so they follow their hearts. They’re going off the grid and fixing up an old cabin so they can be self-sufficient. But when they go from all the conveniences of the modern world to outhouses, solar power, a shoestring budget, and more mosquitos than they ever thought possible, will they find there’s such a thing as too much time together?
States of Stories of romance that span every corner of the United States.
Should they find comparable work somewhere else, or is it time to throw caution to the wind and go after their goal—years earlier than they intended?
What they’ve always wanted is to be together and have time to enjoy it, so they follow their hearts. They’re going off the grid and fixing up an old cabin so they can be self-sufficient. But when they go from all the conveniences of the modern world to outhouses, solar power, a shoestring budget, and more mosquitos than they ever thought possible, will they find there’s such a thing as too much time together?
States of Stories of romance that span every corner of the United States.
78 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 23, 2018
2 people are currently reading
126 people want to read
About the author
S.J.D. Peterson
52 books1,016 followersIt's been an amazing journey since DSP first contracted Lorcan's Desire in January 2011. I've published 2 free reads with the M/M Romance group, my back list is growing, met some great people and have made some amazing friends.
I'm still in shock that I'm listed among the many talented authors at Dreamspinner Press! The little voice in the back of my head is screaming, "You are so out of your league."
Shhhhh I won't tell them if you don't :)
You can call me Jo, everyone does :)
I'm still in shock that I'm listed among the many talented authors at Dreamspinner Press! The little voice in the back of my head is screaming, "You are so out of your league."
Shhhhh I won't tell them if you don't :)
You can call me Jo, everyone does :)
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
July 1, 2018
3 Hearts
There’s not much to say about this simple story, but if you like established couples then this is probably the best thing to scratch that itch.
Like the blurb states, Elliot and Clay are in a long term relationship, hard at work for an oil company grabbing any extra shifts in order to save money to fix up their remote cabin for future use. However, when the oil economy tanks, their plans change and they decide to go off grid and retire. Do these two have what it takes to give up their luxuries, as well as basic amenities to live off the land??
To say the least, Elliot and Clay are both tested personally and within their relationship as they face the expected and unexpected trials of fixing up a dilapidated cabin and bringing it up to date so that they can live in comfort. Add in some run-ins with fickle Mother Nature and some understandable doubts about whether they can actually accomplish their goals in time, their forced prolonged proximity brings out the best and the worst in both men.
Despite the challenges Elliot and Clay face, this was relatively angst free with a nice dash of smexy. Again, I don’t mind reading about established couples and this nicely showcased two guys who are committed to their dream and to each other. Very easy reading.
Thank you to the author/publisher for a copy in exchange for an honest review
There’s not much to say about this simple story, but if you like established couples then this is probably the best thing to scratch that itch.
Like the blurb states, Elliot and Clay are in a long term relationship, hard at work for an oil company grabbing any extra shifts in order to save money to fix up their remote cabin for future use. However, when the oil economy tanks, their plans change and they decide to go off grid and retire. Do these two have what it takes to give up their luxuries, as well as basic amenities to live off the land??
To say the least, Elliot and Clay are both tested personally and within their relationship as they face the expected and unexpected trials of fixing up a dilapidated cabin and bringing it up to date so that they can live in comfort. Add in some run-ins with fickle Mother Nature and some understandable doubts about whether they can actually accomplish their goals in time, their forced prolonged proximity brings out the best and the worst in both men.
Despite the challenges Elliot and Clay face, this was relatively angst free with a nice dash of smexy. Again, I don’t mind reading about established couples and this nicely showcased two guys who are committed to their dream and to each other. Very easy reading.
Thank you to the author/publisher for a copy in exchange for an honest review
March 28, 2018
I’m really not picky when it comes to my love stories. I adore fresh and first love, second chance stories, and established couples navigating obstacles as they continue their journey together. The first is exciting, the next is full of hope and the last is warm and fuzzy. Life is full of twists and turns. I agree wholeheartedly with the sentiment that, “it’s not the load that breaks you down, it’s the way you carry it’. Going off Grid is a prime example that a couple striving and driving towards their dream can capture their happiness despite unexpected roadblocks.
What's to like: This novella kicks off with our lovely couple pushing hard towards their goal. Both Clay and Elliott are breaking their backs with long hard hours at the oil refinery in their small town. They work opposite shifts and have very little quality time together. They both realize the gravy train they are riding has borrowed time and they sacrifice building their relationship in the process. Trusting a solid foundation, they cherish the sparse moments they have together and focus on the end game. Early retirement. Work hard now, play hard later. That is until their grand plans are derailed when they both find themselves laid off. It wasn’t completely unexpected but it was premature and put a major kink in their plans. What will they do now? Can they hold on to each other and survive the life storm flipping them upside down? I really enjoyed the quick submerge into their new reality, the beautiful setting in North Dakota, and the steady pace to this short story.
What's to love: What I loved most about this book was the characters. When the pages are limited character connection is key. Clay and Elliott are similar yet vastly different and their relationship demonstrates how couples strengthen each individual when they become a pair. Clay pushes Elliott and in turn, Elliott pulls Clay. It’s clear they couldn’t conquer this dream without one another. They are both good men but become better when together. Simple gestures like bringing home favorite snacks or tending to aches and pains left a sweet smile on my face. I also loved witnessing them shave off the fat and focus on the necessities. This isn’t simply a new house but a total lifestyle change. They convert an old cabin in the wilderness into their home. Concessions must be made and unforeseen obstacles continue to land in their path. Sweat, blood and other bodily fluids are spilled during this project. I enjoyed the comfort levels and the tenderness. There was a relaxing vibe that was exactly what I needed on this particular day. Overall, it was a very satisfying story.
Beware of: No angst. The only conflict here lies in their doubt and risk of forging ahead early. There is sweet and sexy but not a lick of turmoil. Under a hundred pages limits the depth but Peterson does not deliver anything shallow.
This book is for: If you are looking for a quick and lighthearted read, this fits the bill.
Book UNfunk
What's to like: This novella kicks off with our lovely couple pushing hard towards their goal. Both Clay and Elliott are breaking their backs with long hard hours at the oil refinery in their small town. They work opposite shifts and have very little quality time together. They both realize the gravy train they are riding has borrowed time and they sacrifice building their relationship in the process. Trusting a solid foundation, they cherish the sparse moments they have together and focus on the end game. Early retirement. Work hard now, play hard later. That is until their grand plans are derailed when they both find themselves laid off. It wasn’t completely unexpected but it was premature and put a major kink in their plans. What will they do now? Can they hold on to each other and survive the life storm flipping them upside down? I really enjoyed the quick submerge into their new reality, the beautiful setting in North Dakota, and the steady pace to this short story.
What's to love: What I loved most about this book was the characters. When the pages are limited character connection is key. Clay and Elliott are similar yet vastly different and their relationship demonstrates how couples strengthen each individual when they become a pair. Clay pushes Elliott and in turn, Elliott pulls Clay. It’s clear they couldn’t conquer this dream without one another. They are both good men but become better when together. Simple gestures like bringing home favorite snacks or tending to aches and pains left a sweet smile on my face. I also loved witnessing them shave off the fat and focus on the necessities. This isn’t simply a new house but a total lifestyle change. They convert an old cabin in the wilderness into their home. Concessions must be made and unforeseen obstacles continue to land in their path. Sweat, blood and other bodily fluids are spilled during this project. I enjoyed the comfort levels and the tenderness. There was a relaxing vibe that was exactly what I needed on this particular day. Overall, it was a very satisfying story.
Beware of: No angst. The only conflict here lies in their doubt and risk of forging ahead early. There is sweet and sexy but not a lick of turmoil. Under a hundred pages limits the depth but Peterson does not deliver anything shallow.
This book is for: If you are looking for a quick and lighthearted read, this fits the bill.
Book UNfunk
February 27, 2018
Full review to come.
This is the first full length book I've read by SJD Peterson and I have to say, I really liked their style of writing and the whole narrative of this book.
It's part of Dreamspinner Press' States of Love series, each book set in an American state and with characteristics unique to that geographical location. This one is in the deep heart of rural North Dakota.
There's not, actually, a lot to the story, it's two men who've worked hard long hours, hardly seeing each other for more than a snatched day or so having a dream to go off grid and live out their early retirement in a cabin in the woods.
And that's it, but it's also more than that, it's a story about romance, about love, about compromise and hard work, about making sacrifices for the ones you love, about finding true peace and about working with nature to create your own perfect piece of paradise.
It's relatively low on steam but there's a couple of scenes which burn the pages for a short time and there is so much love between the two that the sex really is just a bonus. I loved Clay and Elliott and I like to picture them out on their porch, Little Man the obnoxious cat out chasing leaves, sipping their coffee and enjoying the life.
Grab your copy from Dreamspinner here: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/boo...
#ARC kindly provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest and unbiased review
This is the first full length book I've read by SJD Peterson and I have to say, I really liked their style of writing and the whole narrative of this book.
It's part of Dreamspinner Press' States of Love series, each book set in an American state and with characteristics unique to that geographical location. This one is in the deep heart of rural North Dakota.
There's not, actually, a lot to the story, it's two men who've worked hard long hours, hardly seeing each other for more than a snatched day or so having a dream to go off grid and live out their early retirement in a cabin in the woods.
And that's it, but it's also more than that, it's a story about romance, about love, about compromise and hard work, about making sacrifices for the ones you love, about finding true peace and about working with nature to create your own perfect piece of paradise.
It's relatively low on steam but there's a couple of scenes which burn the pages for a short time and there is so much love between the two that the sex really is just a bonus. I loved Clay and Elliott and I like to picture them out on their porch, Little Man the obnoxious cat out chasing leaves, sipping their coffee and enjoying the life.
Grab your copy from Dreamspinner here: https://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/boo...
#ARC kindly provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest and unbiased review
November 9, 2018
***2 Stars***
Unfortunately, I was bored almost the whole time reading this.
Basically what you get is a bunch of DIY fixer upper scenes between an established couple with very little chemistry. There isn't much here to sink your teeth into and there's nothing really pulling you forward in the story either.
March 30, 2018
The idea of going off grid, becoming self-sufficient and no longer being a part of modern society, may seem worthwhile and even somewhat heroic to many people, but as this story shows, there is a not-to-be ignored downside as well. Clay and Elliott are determined to get out of the “rat race” and even have a location in mind, but reality turns out to be a lot more difficult than either could have imagined. And these guys have some serious skills, so if they have a tough time, I can only imagine how close to impossible a situation like this would be for many others.
As it turns out, survival in the wilderness takes more than an ability to deal with ramshackle cabins, an outhouse instead of indoor plumbing, and unreliable solar power. Entertainment no longer includes TV or the movies. Food is basic and pretty much only what they can grow (once they harvest it) and meager supplies bought on a limited budget. Stuff breaks down, tempers flare, and things get tricky. They have nobody for company other than each other. The list goes on. So how do they cope?
The one things that stands out while they go through all the issues you’d expect is the depth of their love. Yes, it is tested by temper and annoyance, but between their determination to make things work and their dedication to each other and their relationship, it turns out that there is no such thing as too much time together.
If you like romances where two lovers choose a situation that becomes a real test of their dedication, if you want to watch two men learn how to deal with a life outside the modern conveniences we mostly take for granted, and if you’re looking for a read that is informative, entertaining, and hopeful, then you will probably like this novella set in the wilds of North Dakota.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review.
As it turns out, survival in the wilderness takes more than an ability to deal with ramshackle cabins, an outhouse instead of indoor plumbing, and unreliable solar power. Entertainment no longer includes TV or the movies. Food is basic and pretty much only what they can grow (once they harvest it) and meager supplies bought on a limited budget. Stuff breaks down, tempers flare, and things get tricky. They have nobody for company other than each other. The list goes on. So how do they cope?
The one things that stands out while they go through all the issues you’d expect is the depth of their love. Yes, it is tested by temper and annoyance, but between their determination to make things work and their dedication to each other and their relationship, it turns out that there is no such thing as too much time together.
If you like romances where two lovers choose a situation that becomes a real test of their dedication, if you want to watch two men learn how to deal with a life outside the modern conveniences we mostly take for granted, and if you’re looking for a read that is informative, entertaining, and hopeful, then you will probably like this novella set in the wilds of North Dakota.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review.
March 16, 2018
3.5 Stars. Well, this was short, cute and pretty sexy. The blurb pretty much describes the entire book, aside from answering the question of being together 24/7. The process of repairing and modifying a remote cabin occupies almost the entire narrative. There's a lot of fun activity and dialogue though! There’s almost no conflict or personal tension, instead Clay and Elliott are discovering their relationship is even more solid than they realized. In the States of Love series, it’s often a way to discover something unique about a place you’ve never been. I did think that was a bit of a fail here. Other than the dying oil boom, centered in North Dakota, the location wasn’t distinguishable from any snowy, cold, forested area.
Some of the scenes were sweet and some kind of hot, as they found moments between tasks and chores to spend time together, along with some brief internal monologues for each. Some of the problems and obstacles made their solutions into interesting interludes. I did have trouble distinguishing “voices” at times, having to check who was speaking in the alternating POV’s. It was very nice as a mental palate cleanser, angst free with a happy ending, a quick enough read for a lazy afternoon.
*An ARC was provided by the author, publisher or promotional service and I have chosen to publish a fair and honest review for Jessie G Books Reviews blog*
Some of the scenes were sweet and some kind of hot, as they found moments between tasks and chores to spend time together, along with some brief internal monologues for each. Some of the problems and obstacles made their solutions into interesting interludes. I did have trouble distinguishing “voices” at times, having to check who was speaking in the alternating POV’s. It was very nice as a mental palate cleanser, angst free with a happy ending, a quick enough read for a lazy afternoon.
*An ARC was provided by the author, publisher or promotional service and I have chosen to publish a fair and honest review for Jessie G Books Reviews blog*
April 25, 2018
Clay and Elliott have been together seven years, most of the time while employed in the oil fields of North Dakota working overtime and double overtime with little time to spare for each other. They realize something had to give and when the drilling company folds, they decide to go for the future they've planned for - moving to Clay's grandfather's little cabin and living off the grid.
This short novella focuses around the various seasons of the year as the two fix up the cabin - fighting heat and mosquitoes in the summer and blizzards in the winter. I like how there isn't a lot of angst between Clay and Elliott and how the project brings them even closer together. We get both POVs, but honestly, the two voices were so similar I often had to go back to determine who was saying what. Most of the action focuses around fixing up the cabin, but there a few sexy scenes between the two and it's easy to sense the chemistry between this established couple.
This book in the Dreamspinner "States of Love" series is set in North Dakota, but doesn't really share much about the state other than a very brief glimpse of the oil fields in Dickinson, ND. I give "Going Off the Grid" 3.5 stars and recommend it as a light, entertaining read.
I received an ARC from Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Review also posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!
This short novella focuses around the various seasons of the year as the two fix up the cabin - fighting heat and mosquitoes in the summer and blizzards in the winter. I like how there isn't a lot of angst between Clay and Elliott and how the project brings them even closer together. We get both POVs, but honestly, the two voices were so similar I often had to go back to determine who was saying what. Most of the action focuses around fixing up the cabin, but there a few sexy scenes between the two and it's easy to sense the chemistry between this established couple.
This book in the Dreamspinner "States of Love" series is set in North Dakota, but doesn't really share much about the state other than a very brief glimpse of the oil fields in Dickinson, ND. I give "Going Off the Grid" 3.5 stars and recommend it as a light, entertaining read.
I received an ARC from Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Review also posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!
March 24, 2018
“Living off the grid requires time and dedication, but many find that the benefits are worth the extra effort. If you’re looking to escape the confines of the urban sprawl, make the switch to renewable living today.” ~ Alyssa Baker (The Pros and Cons of Living Off the Grid)
Clay and Elliott, of 'Going off Grid' by SDJ Peterson, have a problem that a lot of modern couples have. They work hard and long to make money for what they want, only they don't have time to be together. They are saving for their dream, to find a house and go off grid, being as independent as possible from the rest of the world. While they are trying to make a decision as to whether to continue working or to go for it, Fate takes the choice out of their hands. The oil company where they work goes under.
Even though it's sooner than expected, Clay and Elliott make the decision not to go find another job, but to go for their dream. Clay owns ten acres of land and an old fishing cabin that used to belong to his grandfather. Instead of moving, Clay and Elliott decide to renovate the cabin and live there. As much as they are prepared to work hard, when they see the cabin, they realize that getting it ready for year-round use is going to be even more difficult than they originally thought. Still, they are determined to do whatever is necessary to make the cabin their new home.
As they begin to replace and fix things, the work gets to be overwhelming at times. They have so much to do and so little time to do it in. Things become complicated and tempers flare. The constant work and not having downtime becomes a problem, but they face each challenge as it comes, because they love each other so deeply and desperately want this arrangement to work. Clay and Elliott have a lot in common, but being together all the time, especially after not being able to spend much time with each other, takes its toll; the small things like enjoying different styles of music, using all the hot water, or leaving socks on the floor grow out of proportion and cause friction between them; it's not like they can go down to the corner bar to get away for a little while. Regardless, they are stuck with each other. When winter comes, the isolation is overwhelming, especially for Clay. Even more irritating is that Elliott seems perfectly content to sit by the fire and whittle. Clay is going stir crazy and he and Elliott have a huge fight. When Clay has had it, he puts on his coat and boots and runs outside, not knowing where he is going. Elliott knows he needs to find a solution – and fast.
This is an educational and endearing love story. Clay and Elliott are inspiring. Even with all their “lemons”, they always find a way to make lemonade, whether it's making love for hours or building snowmen, they solve their problems and continue loving each other more all the time. I appreciate the “education” on going off grid. I was aware of some of the issues, but this story brought them sharply into focus; I am certain it is something that I wouldn't want to do. I have no desire to “rough it”. Heck – I don't even like to go camping! There is a lot of useful information in this story and inspiration as well. Thanks, SJD, for the enjoyable and informative tale. If you like being one with nature, being independent, sexy men having steamy moments, along with an instance of love conquering all, you may enjoy this story.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Clay and Elliott, of 'Going off Grid' by SDJ Peterson, have a problem that a lot of modern couples have. They work hard and long to make money for what they want, only they don't have time to be together. They are saving for their dream, to find a house and go off grid, being as independent as possible from the rest of the world. While they are trying to make a decision as to whether to continue working or to go for it, Fate takes the choice out of their hands. The oil company where they work goes under.
Even though it's sooner than expected, Clay and Elliott make the decision not to go find another job, but to go for their dream. Clay owns ten acres of land and an old fishing cabin that used to belong to his grandfather. Instead of moving, Clay and Elliott decide to renovate the cabin and live there. As much as they are prepared to work hard, when they see the cabin, they realize that getting it ready for year-round use is going to be even more difficult than they originally thought. Still, they are determined to do whatever is necessary to make the cabin their new home.
As they begin to replace and fix things, the work gets to be overwhelming at times. They have so much to do and so little time to do it in. Things become complicated and tempers flare. The constant work and not having downtime becomes a problem, but they face each challenge as it comes, because they love each other so deeply and desperately want this arrangement to work. Clay and Elliott have a lot in common, but being together all the time, especially after not being able to spend much time with each other, takes its toll; the small things like enjoying different styles of music, using all the hot water, or leaving socks on the floor grow out of proportion and cause friction between them; it's not like they can go down to the corner bar to get away for a little while. Regardless, they are stuck with each other. When winter comes, the isolation is overwhelming, especially for Clay. Even more irritating is that Elliott seems perfectly content to sit by the fire and whittle. Clay is going stir crazy and he and Elliott have a huge fight. When Clay has had it, he puts on his coat and boots and runs outside, not knowing where he is going. Elliott knows he needs to find a solution – and fast.
This is an educational and endearing love story. Clay and Elliott are inspiring. Even with all their “lemons”, they always find a way to make lemonade, whether it's making love for hours or building snowmen, they solve their problems and continue loving each other more all the time. I appreciate the “education” on going off grid. I was aware of some of the issues, but this story brought them sharply into focus; I am certain it is something that I wouldn't want to do. I have no desire to “rough it”. Heck – I don't even like to go camping! There is a lot of useful information in this story and inspiration as well. Thanks, SJD, for the enjoyable and informative tale. If you like being one with nature, being independent, sexy men having steamy moments, along with an instance of love conquering all, you may enjoy this story.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
March 25, 2018
Reviewed by Louisa
S.J.D. Peterson is a wonderful writer. I have always enjoyed how her stories flow and weave a tale. This is a fairly short story, a novella, but that doesn’t detract for me from the story. Though the storyline isn’t complicated it is still good. The blurb clues you in on what happening as Clay and Elliott change their lives and start to go off grid.
I like the dynamic between the two men. It is hard to have all your dreams start to happen and then need to reconcile it with the reality of life. And to be self-sufficient and isolated is always rather hard, add to that the fact these two men haven’t spent this much time in each other’s company and good reading occurs.
I also like the setting. The story has a lot of focus on the repair of the cabin. It is a good backdrop and timeline for the book. And being a big fan of renovations and construction in general I enjoyed this aspect of the story.
Not being very long didn’t worry me. It was the perfect length book to read in an evening. And I have always enjoyed Ms. Peterson’s way with words. Overall this was a great read from a good series that I have enjoyed many of.
This book was provided for free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
S.J.D. Peterson is a wonderful writer. I have always enjoyed how her stories flow and weave a tale. This is a fairly short story, a novella, but that doesn’t detract for me from the story. Though the storyline isn’t complicated it is still good. The blurb clues you in on what happening as Clay and Elliott change their lives and start to go off grid.
I like the dynamic between the two men. It is hard to have all your dreams start to happen and then need to reconcile it with the reality of life. And to be self-sufficient and isolated is always rather hard, add to that the fact these two men haven’t spent this much time in each other’s company and good reading occurs.
I also like the setting. The story has a lot of focus on the repair of the cabin. It is a good backdrop and timeline for the book. And being a big fan of renovations and construction in general I enjoyed this aspect of the story.
Not being very long didn’t worry me. It was the perfect length book to read in an evening. And I have always enjoyed Ms. Peterson’s way with words. Overall this was a great read from a good series that I have enjoyed many of.
This book was provided for free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
July 14, 2019
Enjoyable
4 ⭐️
I really enjoyed this one. I’ve been thinking lately how great it would be to live away from everyone. I’m not sure I could do completely off the grid like the guys did, but I enjoyed the work they put into getting the cabin ready and that everything didn’t miraculously work out fine first time.
4 ⭐️
I really enjoyed this one. I’ve been thinking lately how great it would be to live away from everyone. I’m not sure I could do completely off the grid like the guys did, but I enjoyed the work they put into getting the cabin ready and that everything didn’t miraculously work out fine first time.
April 9, 2018
SJD Peterson’s Going Off Grid is part of Dreamspinner Press’s States of Love series, which I have enjoyed very much overall. Peterson’s addition to the line features North Dakota as the state where our MCs are in love, but it wasn’t featured as heavily as some of the other states have been, which was sort of a bummer. Part of the enjoyment of the series for me has been learning about areas of the country I haven’t visited, or connecting on a fun level with places I have. I would have loved to have more of a sense of where the cabin was, or some other fun knowledge about North Dakota.
I did like the premise of the book a lot; I loved the idea of Elliott and Clay turning the misfortune of their job loss into an opportunity to go after their dream early. And all the stuff about them working on making the cabin livable and homey was great. The author did a good job of bringing the renovation project to life. And, I really loved Clay’s backstory of his close relationship with his Papa, and his special ties to the cabin. Those background details gave the story so much heart. Clay’s memories of growing up going to the cabin were lovely.
Overall, I thought this was a cute read. I enjoyed it while I was in the moment, but it lacked that oomph I was hoping for that would make it stand out. For me, this was one of those books that was good but not great, and where the MCs were both likeable but there was no stand out favorite, and I didn’t really feel the connection between them. Again, it was good, it just wasn’t great.
Reviewed by Jules for The Novel Approach
I did like the premise of the book a lot; I loved the idea of Elliott and Clay turning the misfortune of their job loss into an opportunity to go after their dream early. And all the stuff about them working on making the cabin livable and homey was great. The author did a good job of bringing the renovation project to life. And, I really loved Clay’s backstory of his close relationship with his Papa, and his special ties to the cabin. Those background details gave the story so much heart. Clay’s memories of growing up going to the cabin were lovely.
Overall, I thought this was a cute read. I enjoyed it while I was in the moment, but it lacked that oomph I was hoping for that would make it stand out. For me, this was one of those books that was good but not great, and where the MCs were both likeable but there was no stand out favorite, and I didn’t really feel the connection between them. Again, it was good, it just wasn’t great.
Reviewed by Jules for The Novel Approach
March 19, 2018
SJD Peterson is an author that I usually enjoy so I try to keep up with the authors work when they release something new. With that being said, surprisingly I've not read any of the other books in this series, so this one is able to be read as a standalone. This was good, not great but it was a good, quick, easy read.
Clay and Elliott are working crazy amount of hours to save money to be able to live the life that they have always dreamed of. With the hours the two of them are keeping and how hard they are working, it doesn't leave them much time for each other and it is beginning to affect their relationship. When the company that the two men work for goes under they decide to grab the opportunity by the hand and take the chance to live their dream which is to live completely off the grid in a cabin. Just the two of them at last.
I don't often read book that begin with an already developed relationship because I sometimes find it hard to connect the same with the characters individually. Usually my favourite part of a book is the build up to a relationship so I took a chance in reading this one considering Clay and Elliott were already committed to each other when the book began. This didn't bother me in this book, I enjoyed the relationship between the two men and I liked them individually too.
The story was a little slow for me though considering the number of pages was so small.
Clay and Elliott are working crazy amount of hours to save money to be able to live the life that they have always dreamed of. With the hours the two of them are keeping and how hard they are working, it doesn't leave them much time for each other and it is beginning to affect their relationship. When the company that the two men work for goes under they decide to grab the opportunity by the hand and take the chance to live their dream which is to live completely off the grid in a cabin. Just the two of them at last.
I don't often read book that begin with an already developed relationship because I sometimes find it hard to connect the same with the characters individually. Usually my favourite part of a book is the build up to a relationship so I took a chance in reading this one considering Clay and Elliott were already committed to each other when the book began. This didn't bother me in this book, I enjoyed the relationship between the two men and I liked them individually too.
The story was a little slow for me though considering the number of pages was so small.
March 30, 2018
What a fun story! Two men who love each other so much are working opposite shifts, making boatloads of money, but know an end to all that money is approaching in the boom and bust business of oil drilling in North Dakota. Fortunately, they’ve squirreled away most of their earnings in savings, so when the bust hits sooner rather than later, they are prepared to fulfill a lifelong dream to retire early.
Clay inherited his grandfather’s remote cabin but it’s meant for summer fishing expeditions, not year round permanent living. Elliott and Clay tackle the difficult chores of making the cabin sound and weather proof, to say nothing of adding solar panels and a water system. But both are worried about having to be in each other’s pockets 24/7. Will their love allow this much proximity? The answer is revealed when winter sets in and tests their limits.
A very sweet, sexy, and angst-free story. I can only say I loved it!
Clay inherited his grandfather’s remote cabin but it’s meant for summer fishing expeditions, not year round permanent living. Elliott and Clay tackle the difficult chores of making the cabin sound and weather proof, to say nothing of adding solar panels and a water system. But both are worried about having to be in each other’s pockets 24/7. Will their love allow this much proximity? The answer is revealed when winter sets in and tests their limits.
A very sweet, sexy, and angst-free story. I can only say I loved it!
March 23, 2018
**Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by DreamSpinner Press for my reading pleasure in hopes of an unbiased opinion, a review was not a requirement.**
Going Off Grid by S.J.D. Peterson is a novella in DSP’s States of Love line. Each of these books explores a different area, with the area and environment being a large part of the story. In this story, existing couple Clay and Elliott are making good money working for an oil company, when it comes to an end and they need to figure out what their future should be. The men go from not spending very much time together, to spending all their time together renovating a cabin in the woods.
Both men were likable and their relationship seemed really easy. They were able to communicate what they wanted and able to compromise with each other. They worked together well and it showed their history of being partners. This story really showed the day to day life of a couple in the midst of change, and how that changed made their relationship stronger.
This was a quick read with no angst and gave an interesting glimpse of North Dakota, not a place I’ve ever given much thought to. I’m not sure if the descriptions of the area are true, but they felt like it to me. I think this whole line of books in the series is a great way to explore the world from the comfort of your home, while reading about men in love.
Rating: 4 stars
Going Off Grid by S.J.D. Peterson is a novella in DSP’s States of Love line. Each of these books explores a different area, with the area and environment being a large part of the story. In this story, existing couple Clay and Elliott are making good money working for an oil company, when it comes to an end and they need to figure out what their future should be. The men go from not spending very much time together, to spending all their time together renovating a cabin in the woods.
Both men were likable and their relationship seemed really easy. They were able to communicate what they wanted and able to compromise with each other. They worked together well and it showed their history of being partners. This story really showed the day to day life of a couple in the midst of change, and how that changed made their relationship stronger.
This was a quick read with no angst and gave an interesting glimpse of North Dakota, not a place I’ve ever given much thought to. I’m not sure if the descriptions of the area are true, but they felt like it to me. I think this whole line of books in the series is a great way to explore the world from the comfort of your home, while reading about men in love.
Rating: 4 stars
March 22, 2018
Going off Grid is a short but sexy story of two longtime lovers working to fulfill a dream so they can retire early and live in a cabin.
Circumstances arise forcing them to decide to move away and find other jobs or to retire early and go off-grid in the cabin they have.
They have lots of work and the story is fun following them through the process. I loved both Clay and Elliott. They are different but enough alike to get along well. The story is interesting and also sexy.
I do wish it showed us through the entire year instead of going to the epilogue after their winter. I would have loved reading how they prepared for the next winter and all that was told about in the epilogue. In other words, I would have loved seeing this in a full story.
Circumstances arise forcing them to decide to move away and find other jobs or to retire early and go off-grid in the cabin they have.
They have lots of work and the story is fun following them through the process. I loved both Clay and Elliott. They are different but enough alike to get along well. The story is interesting and also sexy.
I do wish it showed us through the entire year instead of going to the epilogue after their winter. I would have loved reading how they prepared for the next winter and all that was told about in the epilogue. In other words, I would have loved seeing this in a full story.
June 7, 2018
Easy reading, low angst story - the blurb covers it.
It is a fairly short story and certainly kept me engaged. Other than the weather and the fixing up elements it is a character based story - not normally my thing but enjoyed this one.
Now a paradox - I would have liked more of the fixing up, more about the guys themselves, the working through that first tough winter, finding out about the errors they had to learn from.....but that would have made it longer and without another hook, I probably wouldn’t be happy reading so much character based story!
So for me, I guess this is a perfect length!
It is a fairly short story and certainly kept me engaged. Other than the weather and the fixing up elements it is a character based story - not normally my thing but enjoyed this one.
Now a paradox - I would have liked more of the fixing up, more about the guys themselves, the working through that first tough winter, finding out about the errors they had to learn from.....but that would have made it longer and without another hook, I probably wouldn’t be happy reading so much character based story!
So for me, I guess this is a perfect length!
March 26, 2018
3 stars
March 29, 2018
3.5 stars
May 9, 2018
reviewed at Slitsread.
July 2, 2018
Sweet, easy read. Great when you need a break from a heavy book.
March 27, 2018
Check out our
Going Off Grid
post on Wicked Reads.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Angela – ☆☆☆
Nope. No way. No how. Not me. Never gonna happen. Nooooooooo. There is absolutely no way I would ever consider going off grid to live in a cabin in the woods, with no electricity, no modern plumbing, and no internet. I’m the girl who will die early in the post-apocalyptic world because I am spoiled by modern conveniences. The idea of living off the grid only appeals to me after multiple bottles of wine and in my entertainment, hence my signing up to review Going Off Grid for our blog. Now that I’ve got all that out of my system, on to the review…
I actually enjoyed Going Off Grid quite a bit. I liked seeing Clay and Elliott work together to get the cabin ready for full-time habitation. Also entertaining were Elliott’s efforts to distract Clay from their long to-do list from time to time. The men certainly had their fair share of obstacles to overcome, some of which tested the strength of their commitment to living off grid and to each other. Despite that, I never felt like I actually got to know either of the men. Peterson relies upon a seven-year relationship and history to forge the bond between the men, and this kind of built-in history is an approach that I like in novellas because it makes it easier for me to believe in their love. In this case, however, it was as if there was too much reliance on their shared history, with the author not sharing much about the men outside of their present-day interactions and inner musings. I never doubted that Clay and Elliott loved each other, but I didn’t feel as fully invested in them or their story as much as I expected to be.
I’m a novella lover. I love full-length novels as well, but there are times when I want to read but don’t have more than a couple hours of reading time available and this is when I tend to look for a novella. Keeping that in mind, this is one of those rare times that I wish a novella had been fleshed out more and expanded into a full-length book so that I could have seen more character development, gotten to know the characters better, and been more invested in their outcome. Don’t get me wrong, Peterson has penned an entertaining novella and one I’m certainly glad I had the opportunity to read, making Going Off Grid a solid three-star read for me. It’s just that I needed a bit more from the characters to connect with them.
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Angela – ☆☆☆
Nope. No way. No how. Not me. Never gonna happen. Nooooooooo. There is absolutely no way I would ever consider going off grid to live in a cabin in the woods, with no electricity, no modern plumbing, and no internet. I’m the girl who will die early in the post-apocalyptic world because I am spoiled by modern conveniences. The idea of living off the grid only appeals to me after multiple bottles of wine and in my entertainment, hence my signing up to review Going Off Grid for our blog. Now that I’ve got all that out of my system, on to the review…
I actually enjoyed Going Off Grid quite a bit. I liked seeing Clay and Elliott work together to get the cabin ready for full-time habitation. Also entertaining were Elliott’s efforts to distract Clay from their long to-do list from time to time. The men certainly had their fair share of obstacles to overcome, some of which tested the strength of their commitment to living off grid and to each other. Despite that, I never felt like I actually got to know either of the men. Peterson relies upon a seven-year relationship and history to forge the bond between the men, and this kind of built-in history is an approach that I like in novellas because it makes it easier for me to believe in their love. In this case, however, it was as if there was too much reliance on their shared history, with the author not sharing much about the men outside of their present-day interactions and inner musings. I never doubted that Clay and Elliott loved each other, but I didn’t feel as fully invested in them or their story as much as I expected to be.
I’m a novella lover. I love full-length novels as well, but there are times when I want to read but don’t have more than a couple hours of reading time available and this is when I tend to look for a novella. Keeping that in mind, this is one of those rare times that I wish a novella had been fleshed out more and expanded into a full-length book so that I could have seen more character development, gotten to know the characters better, and been more invested in their outcome. Don’t get me wrong, Peterson has penned an entertaining novella and one I’m certainly glad I had the opportunity to read, making Going Off Grid a solid three-star read for me. It’s just that I needed a bit more from the characters to connect with them.
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
March 24, 2018
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
Nope. No way. No how. Not me. Never gonna happen. Nooooooooo. There is absolutely no way I would ever consider going off grid to live in a cabin in the woods, with no electricity, no modern plumbing, and no internet. I’m the girl who will die early in the post-apocalyptic world because I am spoiled by modern conveniences. The idea of living off the grid only appeals to me after multiple bottles of wine and in my entertainment, hence my signing up to review Going Off Grid for our blog. Now that I’ve got all that out of my system, on to the review…
I actually enjoyed Going Off Grid quite a bit. I liked seeing Clay and Elliott work together to get the cabin ready for full-time habitation. Also entertaining were Elliott’s efforts to distract Clay from their long to-do list from time to time. The men certainly had their fair share of obstacles to overcome, some of which tested the strength of their commitment to living off grid and to each other. Despite that, I never felt like I actually got to know either of the men. Peterson relies upon a seven-year relationship and history to forge the bond between the men, and this kind of built-in history is an approach that I like in novellas because it makes it easier for me to believe in their love. In this case, however, it was as if there was too much reliance on their shared history, with the author not sharing much about the men outside of their present-day interactions and inner musings. I never doubted that Clay and Elliott loved each other, but I didn’t feel as fully invested in them or their story as much as I expected to be.
I’m a novella lover. I love full-length novels as well, but there are times when I want to read but don’t have more than a couple hours of reading time available and this is when I tend to look for a novella. Keeping that in mind, this is one of those rare times that I wish a novella had been fleshed out more and expanded into a full-length book so that I could have seen more character development, gotten to know the characters better, and been more invested in their outcome. Don’t get me wrong, Peterson has penned an entertaining novella and one I’m certainly glad I had the opportunity to read, making Going Off Grid a solid three-star read for me. It’s just that I needed a bit more from the characters to connect with them.
Please note: My review is of an unedited, pre-release copy of this book and assumes that any errors were corrected prior to publication.
Nope. No way. No how. Not me. Never gonna happen. Nooooooooo. There is absolutely no way I would ever consider going off grid to live in a cabin in the woods, with no electricity, no modern plumbing, and no internet. I’m the girl who will die early in the post-apocalyptic world because I am spoiled by modern conveniences. The idea of living off the grid only appeals to me after multiple bottles of wine and in my entertainment, hence my signing up to review Going Off Grid for our blog. Now that I’ve got all that out of my system, on to the review…
I actually enjoyed Going Off Grid quite a bit. I liked seeing Clay and Elliott work together to get the cabin ready for full-time habitation. Also entertaining were Elliott’s efforts to distract Clay from their long to-do list from time to time. The men certainly had their fair share of obstacles to overcome, some of which tested the strength of their commitment to living off grid and to each other. Despite that, I never felt like I actually got to know either of the men. Peterson relies upon a seven-year relationship and history to forge the bond between the men, and this kind of built-in history is an approach that I like in novellas because it makes it easier for me to believe in their love. In this case, however, it was as if there was too much reliance on their shared history, with the author not sharing much about the men outside of their present-day interactions and inner musings. I never doubted that Clay and Elliott loved each other, but I didn’t feel as fully invested in them or their story as much as I expected to be.
I’m a novella lover. I love full-length novels as well, but there are times when I want to read but don’t have more than a couple hours of reading time available and this is when I tend to look for a novella. Keeping that in mind, this is one of those rare times that I wish a novella had been fleshed out more and expanded into a full-length book so that I could have seen more character development, gotten to know the characters better, and been more invested in their outcome. Don’t get me wrong, Peterson has penned an entertaining novella and one I’m certainly glad I had the opportunity to read, making Going Off Grid a solid three-star read for me. It’s just that I needed a bit more from the characters to connect with them.
Please note: My review is of an unedited, pre-release copy of this book and assumes that any errors were corrected prior to publication.
May 8, 2018
This author never disappoints. I liked this story and can relate to stress of losing the job or working insane hours to keep the job you have and can't afford to lose.
This entire off living off grid concept is alien to me but it sure works for others.
And I liked how people in love were able to build and straighten their relationship when stress and financial circumstances could have killed their romance.
This entire off living off grid concept is alien to me but it sure works for others.
And I liked how people in love were able to build and straighten their relationship when stress and financial circumstances could have killed their romance.
April 8, 2018
Totally Off The Grid
I did not know what to expect from this one. You have Clay and Elliott, 30-something lovers who work on the oil rigs of North Dakota, stressing over the sudden decline in oil prices and the fact that their work schedules for most of their seven-year relationship have given them little opportunity for quality booty time.
So when they decide to quit, take their considerable savings and plow some of it into renovating Clay's gramps' cabin in the desolate woods, you wonder how boring it's going to be and what is likely to come along to create interminable crises out in the middle of nowhere.
Well, what happens is that the crises are mostly weather-made, and the journey they take from starting with a shambles of a house and trying to turn it into the comforts of a home are quietly and lovingly described.
The narrative of how Clay and Elliott rediscover their love keeps this one going until the very end which will put a smile on your face. Nice short "palate cleanser" of a story between other books of angst and evil.
I did not know what to expect from this one. You have Clay and Elliott, 30-something lovers who work on the oil rigs of North Dakota, stressing over the sudden decline in oil prices and the fact that their work schedules for most of their seven-year relationship have given them little opportunity for quality booty time.
So when they decide to quit, take their considerable savings and plow some of it into renovating Clay's gramps' cabin in the desolate woods, you wonder how boring it's going to be and what is likely to come along to create interminable crises out in the middle of nowhere.
Well, what happens is that the crises are mostly weather-made, and the journey they take from starting with a shambles of a house and trying to turn it into the comforts of a home are quietly and lovingly described.
The narrative of how Clay and Elliott rediscover their love keeps this one going until the very end which will put a smile on your face. Nice short "palate cleanser" of a story between other books of angst and evil.
December 28, 2024
Such a great story. Loved how descriptive it was...down to the stench of the possum and the pine needle in the beard.
December 7, 2022
3.5 stars
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March 1, 2018Rating: 3.5 stars
No GR rating since I can't decide between three or four stars.
Review to follow at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words.
ARC provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
No GR rating since I can't decide between three or four stars.
Review to follow at Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words.
ARC provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
March 13, 2018
I am a fan of SJD's writing. This new story from her is part of the States of Love series through Dreamspinner press. I have not read any other of the books in this series but I feel you do not have to enjoy this one.
We have Clay and Elliott who are a couple working really hard to save up enough money to make their dreams come true. They both work very long hours in order to save money and it does take a toll on their relationship. They never really get to spend time together.
Their dream is to live off the grid in a cabin and live off the land. When their company goes under they decide to take the money they have and go for the dream. Clay and Elliott know it will be hard work to achieve but will spending so much time together pull them together or tear them apart.
The story SJD gives us is really a love story about how to work through difficult times and come out the other side happier. Both men have to compromise in order to reach their goal.
The story did move a little slow for me but we do get to see how their relationship struggles and grows.
It is a quick read but you do get a lot of life lived on those pages.
*ARC provided by Dreamspinner in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Jodi from Alpha Book Club
We have Clay and Elliott who are a couple working really hard to save up enough money to make their dreams come true. They both work very long hours in order to save money and it does take a toll on their relationship. They never really get to spend time together.
Their dream is to live off the grid in a cabin and live off the land. When their company goes under they decide to take the money they have and go for the dream. Clay and Elliott know it will be hard work to achieve but will spending so much time together pull them together or tear them apart.
The story SJD gives us is really a love story about how to work through difficult times and come out the other side happier. Both men have to compromise in order to reach their goal.
The story did move a little slow for me but we do get to see how their relationship struggles and grows.
It is a quick read but you do get a lot of life lived on those pages.
*ARC provided by Dreamspinner in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Jodi from Alpha Book Club
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews