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Teaching Ben
Learning to love means a study in patience.
Fresh out of the military, Ben Cooper is ready for a new start. He’s away from his domineering father, making his own choices… and out of the closet. On his first day of college, he meets David Powell, who’s just the kind of gorgeous man Ben’s dreamed of. Too bad he’s the teaching assistant—which makes him off-limits in Ben’s eyes.
David is Ben’s age, but his life has taken a different path. He’s close with his family, who helped him deal with personal struggles after he came out. And while he’s staying away from any hint of scandal, Ben’s a kind of temptation he hasn’t faced in years. If only they’d met on more equal footing.
As the semester progresses and their lives become more entwined, keeping their relationship platonic becomes more difficult. They just have to hold out until the end of the semester….
Listening Length: 5 hours and 40 minutes
Fresh out of the military, Ben Cooper is ready for a new start. He’s away from his domineering father, making his own choices… and out of the closet. On his first day of college, he meets David Powell, who’s just the kind of gorgeous man Ben’s dreamed of. Too bad he’s the teaching assistant—which makes him off-limits in Ben’s eyes.
David is Ben’s age, but his life has taken a different path. He’s close with his family, who helped him deal with personal struggles after he came out. And while he’s staying away from any hint of scandal, Ben’s a kind of temptation he hasn’t faced in years. If only they’d met on more equal footing.
As the semester progresses and their lives become more entwined, keeping their relationship platonic becomes more difficult. They just have to hold out until the end of the semester….
Listening Length: 5 hours and 40 minutes
Audible Audio
First published February 20, 2018
6 people are currently reading
58 people want to read
About the author
Shae Connor
45 books76 followersShae Connor lives in Atlanta, where she’s a lackadaisical government worker by day and writes sweet-hot romance under the cover of night. She’s been making things up for as long as she can remember, but it took her a while to figure out that maybe she should try writing them down.
Shae is part Jersey, part Irish, and all Southern, which explains why she never shuts up. When she’s not chained to her laptop, she enjoys cooking, traveling, watching baseball, reading voraciously, giving and receiving hugs, and wearing tiaras. In her copious spare time, she volunteers as director and editor of the Dragon Con on-site publication, the Daily Dragon.
Shae is part Jersey, part Irish, and all Southern, which explains why she never shuts up. When she’s not chained to her laptop, she enjoys cooking, traveling, watching baseball, reading voraciously, giving and receiving hugs, and wearing tiaras. In her copious spare time, she volunteers as director and editor of the Dragon Con on-site publication, the Daily Dragon.
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March 1, 2018 3 Hearts
This was cute but it didn’t really do much for me.
I’ll keep this short.
I liked the idea of student Ben falling for “teacher” David and the beginning with their flirting was super cute. It was even great seeing them become friends and David folding Ben into his family even if was just with his sister and roommate Hope for the time being.
But what bugged me was the reasons these two stayed away from each other for so long. I get that both men have had issues in their past but to keep beating the reader over the head with “But he’s my teacher” or “But he’s my student” was redundant and ridiculous because we are also beat over the head with the knowledge that Ben and David could be in a relationship and IT WASN’T AGAINST THE RULES.
I am all in for the slow burn but this was so slow, I got bored. The romance was pushed aside by a few characters that weren’t necessary and the Larry issues seemed to be a way to distract the reader and took me out of the story. David’s secrets weren’t as scandalous as we were lead to believe and the way he reveals his secret to Ben was told really weird and again took me out of the story when I should have been deeply engaged at that point.
There were parts I really liked and I did like Ben and David as characters, I even liked their chemistry but I wish something happened sooner than it did. The long drawn out wait for them to move forward romantically in any way made the sex or pay off for the wait feel obligatory and not organic. I didn’t care at that point if there was sex or not. But weirdly enough, I bought the “I love you’s” between them.
I don’t know. This wasn’t the book for me so we’ll leave it at that.
This was cute but it didn’t really do much for me.
I’ll keep this short.
I liked the idea of student Ben falling for “teacher” David and the beginning with their flirting was super cute. It was even great seeing them become friends and David folding Ben into his family even if was just with his sister and roommate Hope for the time being.
But what bugged me was the reasons these two stayed away from each other for so long. I get that both men have had issues in their past but to keep beating the reader over the head with “But he’s my teacher” or “But he’s my student” was redundant and ridiculous because we are also beat over the head with the knowledge that Ben and David could be in a relationship and IT WASN’T AGAINST THE RULES.
I am all in for the slow burn but this was so slow, I got bored. The romance was pushed aside by a few characters that weren’t necessary and the Larry issues seemed to be a way to distract the reader and took me out of the story. David’s secrets weren’t as scandalous as we were lead to believe and the way he reveals his secret to Ben was told really weird and again took me out of the story when I should have been deeply engaged at that point.
There were parts I really liked and I did like Ben and David as characters, I even liked their chemistry but I wish something happened sooner than it did. The long drawn out wait for them to move forward romantically in any way made the sex or pay off for the wait feel obligatory and not organic. I didn’t care at that point if there was sex or not. But weirdly enough, I bought the “I love you’s” between them.
I don’t know. This wasn’t the book for me so we’ll leave it at that.
January 11, 2020
“A study in patience” is the perfect way to describe this slow-burn romance between two men in their midtwenties. Caught in a situation where they want to avoid even the appearance of being more than friends, even though there are no “rules” that tell them to do so, Ben and David have to figure out how to deal with their feelings. An attack from another student, David’s turbulent past, and Ben’s inexperience with having any sort of relationship, never mind an open one, are all obstacles they face as the semester progresses and their friendship deepens. Just over three months to wait may not sound like a long time, but when you’re falling for someone and have to wait – it can feel like an eternity! The author did an excellent job describing the feelings, angst, and increasing attraction both Ben and David have to deal with. There may not have been nonstop action in this novel, but I was enthralled all the same.
Please find my full review of the second edition on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review of the second edition on Rainbow Book Reviews.
June 11, 2018
3.5 stars rounded down because still no 1/2 stars here on GR and this one didn't quite make it to rounding up territory...but still a worthwhile story.
The romance begins when the semester ends...
Ben Miller and David Powell may be the same age but they've lead very different lives... ironically, Ben's spent the past few years in the military as a way to escape his overbearing father and earn his freedom to discover and be the person he wants to be.
David comes from a life of privilege and ultimately excess leading to his ultimate downfall. But thankfully David's grandfather refused to turn him back on him and after some tough love David's turned himself around and now he's back in school with a plan for his life.
Though they've led very different lives Ben and David quickly discover that they share a mutual attraction and respect for each other and a friendship quickly begins. David is the TA in one of Ben’s college classes and while they’re attracted to each other neither man wants to complicate their life with a relationship while they’re student and TA so they’re determined to keep things strictly platonic until the semester is done even though there is no actual rule against them dating or having a more personal relationship. David’s got things in his past that have him wanting to ere on the side of caution and Ben’s just stepping out of the closet, so he simply wants to proceed with caution and he’s not looking to complicate the life of someone that he’s pretty sure he wants to have a life with.
I really enjoyed this one it was sweet and at just under 6 hours of listening time things were kept moving at a good pace without becoming boring or repetitious. There were some interesting secondary characters David’s sister and Ben’s laundry friend who took him underwear shopping…yeah, that was a fun time and if you want to know more you’ll need to check out the story.
The focus of this one is on the relationship and not the sex…sorry, but facts is facts. Now be that as it may I still found David and Ben to be an adorably sexy pair and their interactions were delightful and it was nice to have both David and Ben’s perspective on things as the story alternated between them. As with any interesting and entertaining story we are given at least one obstacle for our MCs to overcome and I liked how Ben and David came together to resolve their obstacle and I loved David’s family they were truly delightful…especially his mother. I got more than one chuckle from her.
‘Teaching Ben’ is only the second book that I’ve listened to that was narrated by Kenneth Obi but I have to say I’ve enjoyed them both and I certainly wouldn’t hesitate to listen to more of this narrators works. I liked the voices that each of the characters were given and they definitely meshed with any ideas that I might have had regarding how a character sounded and I also enjoyed that the voices were expressive and conveyed emotion and feelings within what felt like an appropriate range…in other words things never felt so extreme that I wanted to roll my eyes in exasperation. The conversations had a natural feel and sound to them and for me that’s a good thing.
So for me Shae Connor and Kenneth Obi are each 2 for 2 and I’m looking forward to whatever comes next from this author and/or this narrator.
*************************
An audio book of 'Teaching Ben' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
The romance begins when the semester ends...
Ben Miller and David Powell may be the same age but they've lead very different lives... ironically, Ben's spent the past few years in the military as a way to escape his overbearing father and earn his freedom to discover and be the person he wants to be.
David comes from a life of privilege and ultimately excess leading to his ultimate downfall. But thankfully David's grandfather refused to turn him back on him and after some tough love David's turned himself around and now he's back in school with a plan for his life.
Though they've led very different lives Ben and David quickly discover that they share a mutual attraction and respect for each other and a friendship quickly begins. David is the TA in one of Ben’s college classes and while they’re attracted to each other neither man wants to complicate their life with a relationship while they’re student and TA so they’re determined to keep things strictly platonic until the semester is done even though there is no actual rule against them dating or having a more personal relationship. David’s got things in his past that have him wanting to ere on the side of caution and Ben’s just stepping out of the closet, so he simply wants to proceed with caution and he’s not looking to complicate the life of someone that he’s pretty sure he wants to have a life with.
I really enjoyed this one it was sweet and at just under 6 hours of listening time things were kept moving at a good pace without becoming boring or repetitious. There were some interesting secondary characters David’s sister and Ben’s laundry friend who took him underwear shopping…yeah, that was a fun time and if you want to know more you’ll need to check out the story.
The focus of this one is on the relationship and not the sex…sorry, but facts is facts. Now be that as it may I still found David and Ben to be an adorably sexy pair and their interactions were delightful and it was nice to have both David and Ben’s perspective on things as the story alternated between them. As with any interesting and entertaining story we are given at least one obstacle for our MCs to overcome and I liked how Ben and David came together to resolve their obstacle and I loved David’s family they were truly delightful…especially his mother. I got more than one chuckle from her.
‘Teaching Ben’ is only the second book that I’ve listened to that was narrated by Kenneth Obi but I have to say I’ve enjoyed them both and I certainly wouldn’t hesitate to listen to more of this narrators works. I liked the voices that each of the characters were given and they definitely meshed with any ideas that I might have had regarding how a character sounded and I also enjoyed that the voices were expressive and conveyed emotion and feelings within what felt like an appropriate range…in other words things never felt so extreme that I wanted to roll my eyes in exasperation. The conversations had a natural feel and sound to them and for me that’s a good thing.
So for me Shae Connor and Kenneth Obi are each 2 for 2 and I’m looking forward to whatever comes next from this author and/or this narrator.
*************************
An audio book of 'Teaching Ben' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
February 20, 2018
3.5 stars.
Ben Cooper put in his time with the military, but at 24 is now looking for a fresh start, using his GI bill to attend college in Savannah, GA. And finally step out of the closet.
David Powell is a TA in Ben's class, same age as Ben, but obviously off-limits due to his status. David also had some struggles in his past, but has tried hard to stay away from temptation and stay the course.
The attraction is immediate, but neither can act on it, thus there is lots of UST in this book, and the romance is super slow burn. David and Ben become friends, and as they learn more about each other, and secrets are revealed, their friendship, while platonic becomes even stronger.
I liked how the author gave Ben room to expand his horizons, how she let him spread his wings, away from his commandeering father, away from the rigors and structure of the Air Force, building the life he wants to live.
David made a huge mistake once and it cost him dearly. He's making up for it, but he also knows that he cannot step a single foot out of line, no matter how attracted he is to Ben. The author did a fine job fleshing out his character and giving him a background story that felt realistic and believable in how much it still impacted his life.
Told alternatively from Ben's and David's point-of-view, we get a well-rounded story with a believable plot that even had a bit of suspense, though the villain of the story was rather clear from the get-go and the suspense was more in how this particular piece of the plot would unfold and impact their budding relationship.
As with all the books in this series, there is little explicit steam on page, which is fine as far as I'm concerned. I much rather read about the relationship development, and how the two MCs get to their HEA than about what they do in the bedroom. I much rather see an emotional connection develop more so that a romp in the sheets, and I got that here. Ben and David really clicked, like they were meant to find each other, with both of them having had to struggle to get to this point in their lives, which meant that they were more aware of what they found and thus more protective of it.
I enjoyed reading this.
** I received a free copy of this book from its publisher in exchange for an honest review. **
Ben Cooper put in his time with the military, but at 24 is now looking for a fresh start, using his GI bill to attend college in Savannah, GA. And finally step out of the closet.
David Powell is a TA in Ben's class, same age as Ben, but obviously off-limits due to his status. David also had some struggles in his past, but has tried hard to stay away from temptation and stay the course.
The attraction is immediate, but neither can act on it, thus there is lots of UST in this book, and the romance is super slow burn. David and Ben become friends, and as they learn more about each other, and secrets are revealed, their friendship, while platonic becomes even stronger.
I liked how the author gave Ben room to expand his horizons, how she let him spread his wings, away from his commandeering father, away from the rigors and structure of the Air Force, building the life he wants to live.
David made a huge mistake once and it cost him dearly. He's making up for it, but he also knows that he cannot step a single foot out of line, no matter how attracted he is to Ben. The author did a fine job fleshing out his character and giving him a background story that felt realistic and believable in how much it still impacted his life.
Told alternatively from Ben's and David's point-of-view, we get a well-rounded story with a believable plot that even had a bit of suspense, though the villain of the story was rather clear from the get-go and the suspense was more in how this particular piece of the plot would unfold and impact their budding relationship.
As with all the books in this series, there is little explicit steam on page, which is fine as far as I'm concerned. I much rather read about the relationship development, and how the two MCs get to their HEA than about what they do in the bedroom. I much rather see an emotional connection develop more so that a romp in the sheets, and I got that here. Ben and David really clicked, like they were meant to find each other, with both of them having had to struggle to get to this point in their lives, which meant that they were more aware of what they found and thus more protective of it.
I enjoyed reading this.
** I received a free copy of this book from its publisher in exchange for an honest review. **
June 15, 2018
Updated for audiobook review:
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
A Joyfully Jay review.
2.5 stars
Shae Connor offers up a slow burn of a romance in her latest release, Teaching Ben. While both David and Ben have great appeal and their burgeoning relationship was sweet and tantalizing, there were some decided problems with this story that left me more than a bit befuddled. I am unsure as to why the author chose to introduce a rather smarmy character named Larry who apparently had interest in both David and Ben and a rather strange way of showing it. Coming on strong is a misnomer when it came to this part stalker/part scorned lover figure who appeared to wreak havoc and then disappeared just as quickly a few times in the story. I never really understood who this guy Larry was or where he came from other than to have him appear suddenly in the story to hit on Ben or David and then angrily threaten them with repercussions for spurning his advances. It was just a weird plot thread that randomly surfaced a few times and never really went anywhere, but was used to throw both Ben and David into a panic over somehow being caught together when they weren’t together anyway.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
A Joyfully Jay review.
2.5 stars
Shae Connor offers up a slow burn of a romance in her latest release, Teaching Ben. While both David and Ben have great appeal and their burgeoning relationship was sweet and tantalizing, there were some decided problems with this story that left me more than a bit befuddled. I am unsure as to why the author chose to introduce a rather smarmy character named Larry who apparently had interest in both David and Ben and a rather strange way of showing it. Coming on strong is a misnomer when it came to this part stalker/part scorned lover figure who appeared to wreak havoc and then disappeared just as quickly a few times in the story. I never really understood who this guy Larry was or where he came from other than to have him appear suddenly in the story to hit on Ben or David and then angrily threaten them with repercussions for spurning his advances. It was just a weird plot thread that randomly surfaced a few times and never really went anywhere, but was used to throw both Ben and David into a panic over somehow being caught together when they weren’t together anyway.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
February 21, 2018
3.5 stars
Ben Cooper is out of the military after six years of service, also out of the clutch of his domineering father. Now, Ben’s pursuing his education at Savannah University. But on the first day of his Introduction to Mass Communications class, he held eyes with David Powell, the teaching assistant. Starting any romantic relationship with David is a bad, BAD idea right? Well, nobody says that they cannot be friends first…
What I liked about this is that despite their mutual attraction, neither David nor Ben are willing to ‘risk’ their TA/student position. While there’s no explicit rules about TA and student relationship, they decide that they want to wait until the semester is over when David is no longer Ben’s TA. So, Ben and David indeed build a friendship first.
And I enjoyed that. We have a LOT of cute friendship moments between Ben, David, David’s sister, Hope, as well as a couple of other students. There’s home cooking, cooking lesson, watching movies, and such. They even once banded together to catch a THIEF … yes, a thief, uhm, you have to read it to understand the context *haha*.
There’s also a little surprising information about David’s background that adds something to his character.
All in all, this is a nice contemporary romance coming from Dreamspun Desires imprint …
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
Ben Cooper is out of the military after six years of service, also out of the clutch of his domineering father. Now, Ben’s pursuing his education at Savannah University. But on the first day of his Introduction to Mass Communications class, he held eyes with David Powell, the teaching assistant. Starting any romantic relationship with David is a bad, BAD idea right? Well, nobody says that they cannot be friends first…
What I liked about this is that despite their mutual attraction, neither David nor Ben are willing to ‘risk’ their TA/student position. While there’s no explicit rules about TA and student relationship, they decide that they want to wait until the semester is over when David is no longer Ben’s TA. So, Ben and David indeed build a friendship first.
And I enjoyed that. We have a LOT of cute friendship moments between Ben, David, David’s sister, Hope, as well as a couple of other students. There’s home cooking, cooking lesson, watching movies, and such. They even once banded together to catch a THIEF … yes, a thief, uhm, you have to read it to understand the context *haha*.
There’s also a little surprising information about David’s background that adds something to his character.
All in all, this is a nice contemporary romance coming from Dreamspun Desires imprint …
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
February 21, 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.**
Ben has finally come to the point in his life where he gets to find out who he is. He grew up in a military household, was forced to join the military and stayed in the closet through his six years of service. Now at 24 he’s attending college and living life for himself. The TA for his class, David, catches his attention but Ben doesn’t want to take any chances. David can’t help but notice the guy sitting in the front row, and though it’s not against school policy, he’s conscious of his past and won’t risk dating a fellow student in a class he’s a teaching assistant.
This book is a very, very slow burn that doesn’t really lead to a burn. Two men who are attracted to each other but doesn’t become more than friends. This story shows the growing friendship between the two men, Ben becoming comfortable with the life he’s living, and some college drama.
I really wondered how the author was going to end this because I was pretty far into the book and they were still friends. This story happens over the semester that David is Ben’s TA. Then at 80% their relationship goes from friends to I love you. And a few chapters later they’re in a relationship. We get a very short time of the two men in a relationship since most of the book focuses on their friendship.
This story was easy to read and enjoyable. It was not a typical romance with the focus more on friendship. And though I don’t enjoy books with young characters, or college students, the two MC’s were mid-20’s which made it easier. If you like a friends to lovers, slooooow burn story, check this one out.
Rating: 4 stars
Ben has finally come to the point in his life where he gets to find out who he is. He grew up in a military household, was forced to join the military and stayed in the closet through his six years of service. Now at 24 he’s attending college and living life for himself. The TA for his class, David, catches his attention but Ben doesn’t want to take any chances. David can’t help but notice the guy sitting in the front row, and though it’s not against school policy, he’s conscious of his past and won’t risk dating a fellow student in a class he’s a teaching assistant.
This book is a very, very slow burn that doesn’t really lead to a burn. Two men who are attracted to each other but doesn’t become more than friends. This story shows the growing friendship between the two men, Ben becoming comfortable with the life he’s living, and some college drama.
I really wondered how the author was going to end this because I was pretty far into the book and they were still friends. This story happens over the semester that David is Ben’s TA. Then at 80% their relationship goes from friends to I love you. And a few chapters later they’re in a relationship. We get a very short time of the two men in a relationship since most of the book focuses on their friendship.
This story was easy to read and enjoyable. It was not a typical romance with the focus more on friendship. And though I don’t enjoy books with young characters, or college students, the two MC’s were mid-20’s which made it easier. If you like a friends to lovers, slooooow burn story, check this one out.
Rating: 4 stars
January 11, 2020
“A study in patience” is the perfect way to describe this slow-burn romance between two men in their midtwenties. Caught in a situation where they want to avoid even the appearance of being more than friends, even though there are no “rules” that tell them to do so, Ben and David have to figure out how to deal with their feelings. An attack from another student, David’s turbulent past, and Ben’s inexperience with having any sort of relationship, never mind an open one, are all obstacles they face as the semester progresses and their friendship deepens. Just over three months to wait may not sound like a long time, but when you’re falling for someone and have to wait – it can feel like an eternity! The author did an excellent job describing the feelings, angst, and increasing attraction both Ben and David have to deal with. There may not have been nonstop action in this novel, but I was enthralled all the same.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
February 23, 2018
A Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words Review An Alisa Review:
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
I enjoyed the nice slow burn of this story. Ben and David are attracted to each other from the start but know that they need to keep their building emotions to themselves until after the semester is over.
David made some mistakes in the past and he is continuing to accept that he doesn’t need to be punished for those forever. Ben is finally away from his father and the military, getting to live his life on his own terms. They both become an integral part of each other’s lives as their friendship grows.
I loved watching David and Ben grow a strong friendship as the semester goes on. Without even realizing it David gives Ben just what he needs, a family. David and his sister quickly envelope Ben into their fold and bring him home. I loved seeing the emotions of these characters and connected with them easily. I just think this was wonderfully sweet with little bits of conflict thrown in to not make it too sweet.
The cover art by Bree Archer is nice and gives a great visual of Ben.
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
I enjoyed the nice slow burn of this story. Ben and David are attracted to each other from the start but know that they need to keep their building emotions to themselves until after the semester is over.
David made some mistakes in the past and he is continuing to accept that he doesn’t need to be punished for those forever. Ben is finally away from his father and the military, getting to live his life on his own terms. They both become an integral part of each other’s lives as their friendship grows.
I loved watching David and Ben grow a strong friendship as the semester goes on. Without even realizing it David gives Ben just what he needs, a family. David and his sister quickly envelope Ben into their fold and bring him home. I loved seeing the emotions of these characters and connected with them easily. I just think this was wonderfully sweet with little bits of conflict thrown in to not make it too sweet.
The cover art by Bree Archer is nice and gives a great visual of Ben.
July 27, 2018
This wasn't bad, just not the best I've read from this author.
I really liked the chemistry between these two guys, and how holding back for the whole semester made the tension ramp up over the course of the book. And I really like that they stuck to their guns about the whole no-relationship thing. A lot of the time when characters say that in stories they last like two weeks. I find it really annoying.
I do think the whole Larry thing was a bit over the top. It also seemed to be building up to some kind of climax...but then it really goes nowhere in the end. It left that thread hanging in a rather odd feeling way.
Other than that...one of the better books in this Dreamspinner series I have have read. Might not get a reread any time soon, but I don't regret buying it either.
3.75 stars
I really liked the chemistry between these two guys, and how holding back for the whole semester made the tension ramp up over the course of the book. And I really like that they stuck to their guns about the whole no-relationship thing. A lot of the time when characters say that in stories they last like two weeks. I find it really annoying.
I do think the whole Larry thing was a bit over the top. It also seemed to be building up to some kind of climax...but then it really goes nowhere in the end. It left that thread hanging in a rather odd feeling way.
Other than that...one of the better books in this Dreamspinner series I have have read. Might not get a reread any time soon, but I don't regret buying it either.
3.75 stars
February 21, 2018
Full review at: https://optimumm.blog/2018/02/21/revi...
I don’t quite know what to say about this book except that it was a really lovely, feel-good story, which was an incredibly enjoyable read. I loved the plot and characters from the first chapter of reading and found myself thinking about the story long after I had finished the book. I’ve never read anything by this author before, so wasn’t really sure what to expect, but I can happily say that this definitely won’t be the last book I read from her.
The blurb says more than enough about the story, so I won’t go into any further details as this would be spoiling the experience of reading the book for you. What I will say, is that the supporting characters (except one) are just as amazing and loveable as the main characters, and add a real depth and authenticity to the story. If you’re anything like me, then you’ll be left wanting more.
The romance between Ben and David is a slow-burn, so it isn’t going to appeal to everyone. But I found that it was the reason that I enjoyed the book as much as I did. They started out as friends, and the relationship grew from there. From the first glimpse of each other in the lecture hall, the first conversation, the mutual attraction and compatibility, and then the joint self-imposed abstinence, it all added to the build-up and anticipation of them finally getting together. There was no rushing into anything, no matter how much they both wanted more. So when it finally did happen, it was a much more intimate and emotional experience for them. And as a reader, this was a nice change from characters jumping into bed together just days/hours after meeting. It felt like I was right there with them on their journey, experiencing their feelings and desires. And also to have a romance with a HEA that had basically no drama or angst, was like a breath of fresh air.
The story is written in the third person, from both Ben and David’s POV, so you get a real feel for what each character is thinking and going through as everything progresses. I’m a big fan of dual POV, and think that seeing things from both sides adds a lot to a book. In this case, it was again true, because it worked so perfectly for how the plot/story developed and flowed.
I genuinely don’t have anything negative to say about this book or how it’s written. All I know is that I smiled a lot while reading. And at the end, I felt happy…real, tangible, glowing happiness. I wish it was a feeling I could take away from every book I read.
Do I recommend this book? Of course, without a doubt, I just hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
***The ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press. My review is an honest opinion of the book ***
I don’t quite know what to say about this book except that it was a really lovely, feel-good story, which was an incredibly enjoyable read. I loved the plot and characters from the first chapter of reading and found myself thinking about the story long after I had finished the book. I’ve never read anything by this author before, so wasn’t really sure what to expect, but I can happily say that this definitely won’t be the last book I read from her.
The blurb says more than enough about the story, so I won’t go into any further details as this would be spoiling the experience of reading the book for you. What I will say, is that the supporting characters (except one) are just as amazing and loveable as the main characters, and add a real depth and authenticity to the story. If you’re anything like me, then you’ll be left wanting more.
The romance between Ben and David is a slow-burn, so it isn’t going to appeal to everyone. But I found that it was the reason that I enjoyed the book as much as I did. They started out as friends, and the relationship grew from there. From the first glimpse of each other in the lecture hall, the first conversation, the mutual attraction and compatibility, and then the joint self-imposed abstinence, it all added to the build-up and anticipation of them finally getting together. There was no rushing into anything, no matter how much they both wanted more. So when it finally did happen, it was a much more intimate and emotional experience for them. And as a reader, this was a nice change from characters jumping into bed together just days/hours after meeting. It felt like I was right there with them on their journey, experiencing their feelings and desires. And also to have a romance with a HEA that had basically no drama or angst, was like a breath of fresh air.
The story is written in the third person, from both Ben and David’s POV, so you get a real feel for what each character is thinking and going through as everything progresses. I’m a big fan of dual POV, and think that seeing things from both sides adds a lot to a book. In this case, it was again true, because it worked so perfectly for how the plot/story developed and flowed.
I genuinely don’t have anything negative to say about this book or how it’s written. All I know is that I smiled a lot while reading. And at the end, I felt happy…real, tangible, glowing happiness. I wish it was a feeling I could take away from every book I read.
Do I recommend this book? Of course, without a doubt, I just hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
***The ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press. My review is an honest opinion of the book ***
February 11, 2018
Sometimes finding the right person and hen having to wait to be with them is so much better then jumping into something right away. Becoming friends first and getting to know one another can be better gen learning to who your with while trying to navigate a relationship.
Ben is fresh out of the military and starting fresh without having to hide who he is. Finally after having a father that was former military and against him being gay and six years in the Air Force and not being true to who he really is, Ben has the opportunity to really start living his life for him and not anyone else. Ben has enrolled in college and ready to truly experience all the things that he has had to hide from.
When Ben walks into one of his classes the first person he notices is the TA, David. Though Ben is extremely attracted to him he knows that David is off limits since he is a teacher of sorts.
When David met Ben he knows that their is something different about him. Something that David wants to get to know better. But David knows that anything more then. Friendship for now is going to cause a scandal of sorts and that is the last thing that David wants or needs.
So David and Ben decide to stick with a friendship until Ben is no longer a student and David is no longer a TA. But when one student and fellow classmate gets jealous of the two of them getting so close he will stop at nothing to break them apart or get them in trouble.
Can David and Ben not only survive someone else's jealousy but also survive "just friends" until the end of the semester? Can they really become more once classes are over after being nothing more then just friends?
I really enjoyed his read. It is a sweet romance that is slow burning. Becoming friends first is what makes them so much better together in the end. I am glad that I read it.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
Ben is fresh out of the military and starting fresh without having to hide who he is. Finally after having a father that was former military and against him being gay and six years in the Air Force and not being true to who he really is, Ben has the opportunity to really start living his life for him and not anyone else. Ben has enrolled in college and ready to truly experience all the things that he has had to hide from.
When Ben walks into one of his classes the first person he notices is the TA, David. Though Ben is extremely attracted to him he knows that David is off limits since he is a teacher of sorts.
When David met Ben he knows that their is something different about him. Something that David wants to get to know better. But David knows that anything more then. Friendship for now is going to cause a scandal of sorts and that is the last thing that David wants or needs.
So David and Ben decide to stick with a friendship until Ben is no longer a student and David is no longer a TA. But when one student and fellow classmate gets jealous of the two of them getting so close he will stop at nothing to break them apart or get them in trouble.
Can David and Ben not only survive someone else's jealousy but also survive "just friends" until the end of the semester? Can they really become more once classes are over after being nothing more then just friends?
I really enjoyed his read. It is a sweet romance that is slow burning. Becoming friends first is what makes them so much better together in the end. I am glad that I read it.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
August 16, 2018
My Review:
This book is exactly what I would expect from this line of romance. It was sweet and pretty light on depth of story, but it was very well written. It was entertaining and held my interest.
In this story, David is a TA. After a rough start to his college career, he's pulled his life back together and is managing it. That is until Ben hits his class and for the first time, David finds himself tempting to get a little wild again.
Ben has had a rough life all the way around. He joined the military when he was basically given no choice by his homophobic father. He's spent his life hiding his true self and is excited to be at college where he can be who he was meant to be...he just has to figure out exactly who that is.
Like I said, the story was entertaining and definitely caught my attention. There's a subplot with a character named Larry that I wish had been written either a little bit better, or not there at all. As it was in the story, it seemed to jolt the story a bit because it seemed almost contrived and maybe inserted into the story after the fact. If that had been smoothed just a bit more, I think I could have really loved this book. But as it is, it provided a nice day's worth of reading diversion.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher as a gift.
This book is exactly what I would expect from this line of romance. It was sweet and pretty light on depth of story, but it was very well written. It was entertaining and held my interest.
In this story, David is a TA. After a rough start to his college career, he's pulled his life back together and is managing it. That is until Ben hits his class and for the first time, David finds himself tempting to get a little wild again.
Ben has had a rough life all the way around. He joined the military when he was basically given no choice by his homophobic father. He's spent his life hiding his true self and is excited to be at college where he can be who he was meant to be...he just has to figure out exactly who that is.
Like I said, the story was entertaining and definitely caught my attention. There's a subplot with a character named Larry that I wish had been written either a little bit better, or not there at all. As it was in the story, it seemed to jolt the story a bit because it seemed almost contrived and maybe inserted into the story after the fact. If that had been smoothed just a bit more, I think I could have really loved this book. But as it is, it provided a nice day's worth of reading diversion.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher as a gift.
August 9, 2018
I just couldn’t get into this book. (The narrator didn't do much to change this opinion, unfortunately. Sometimes a great narrator can really pull you into a book... but not this time.)
I wasn’t every really captured by the “romance” though the set up seemed “ripe” for a perfect hidden romance or slow burn. I guess I didn’t want everyone to make such “good choices” and “do the right thing”. (I admit this could totally be influenced by current mood - so be warned.)
In any case, it’s not a bad story and the writing is good, it just wasn’t something that pinged on my radar. Maybe too tame? Anyhow…
Audio
Kenneth Obi does a nice enough job with this. He’s easy to listen to and does a fair job with the timing and emotions. He’s not great at giving unique voices and he didn’t do much to elevate this for me.
Overall still 3 of 5 stars
I wasn’t every really captured by the “romance” though the set up seemed “ripe” for a perfect hidden romance or slow burn. I guess I didn’t want everyone to make such “good choices” and “do the right thing”. (I admit this could totally be influenced by current mood - so be warned.)
In any case, it’s not a bad story and the writing is good, it just wasn’t something that pinged on my radar. Maybe too tame? Anyhow…
Audio
Kenneth Obi does a nice enough job with this. He’s easy to listen to and does a fair job with the timing and emotions. He’s not great at giving unique voices and he didn’t do much to elevate this for me.
Overall still 3 of 5 stars
March 4, 2018
I suspect many readers will give this one four stars, and it's not unwarranted. I did love the slow burn romance, and the characters. It was refreshing to read a veteran who didn't exit the service damaged, and a man who needs AA but isn't sorely tempted to relapse. And I always enjoy the need family/got nosy family dynamic! That was awesome. But for me, some parts were boring.
I read at least eight books at a time. There is always in-progress competition for my reading attention. I kept reading because I've read Conner's shorter works, and she's earned my trust. Sure enough, I loved the end. But this would've made a better novella. Just one reader's opinion. :)
I read at least eight books at a time. There is always in-progress competition for my reading attention. I kept reading because I've read Conner's shorter works, and she's earned my trust. Sure enough, I loved the end. But this would've made a better novella. Just one reader's opinion. :)
April 10, 2019
Not sure what purpose Larry served in the story. He seemed to pop up occasionally for interest then disappear. His inclusion did not add to the story at all which is disappointing (particularly when the stealing storyline emerged then fizzled out).
Otherwise, it was a very sweet love story. MCs had great chemistry and the secondary characters were nicely written. I liked that the MCs waited until they felt ethically able to change their relationship from friendship to more. And that they actually communicated when an issue arose rather than allowing it to blow up into drama. It was a refreshing change to see the potential couple use common sense and restraint. :)
Otherwise, it was a very sweet love story. MCs had great chemistry and the secondary characters were nicely written. I liked that the MCs waited until they felt ethically able to change their relationship from friendship to more. And that they actually communicated when an issue arose rather than allowing it to blow up into drama. It was a refreshing change to see the potential couple use common sense and restraint. :)
March 28, 2018
I just couldn’t get into this book.
I wasn’t every really captured by the “romance” though the set up seemed “ripe” for a perfect hidden romance or slow burn. I guess I didn’t want everyone to make such “good choices” and “do the right thing”. (I admit this could totally be influenced by current mood - so be warned.)
In any case, it’s not a bad story and the writing is good, it just wasn’t something that pinged on my radar. Maybe too tame? Anyhow…
3 of 5 stars
I wasn’t every really captured by the “romance” though the set up seemed “ripe” for a perfect hidden romance or slow burn. I guess I didn’t want everyone to make such “good choices” and “do the right thing”. (I admit this could totally be influenced by current mood - so be warned.)
In any case, it’s not a bad story and the writing is good, it just wasn’t something that pinged on my radar. Maybe too tame? Anyhow…
3 of 5 stars
February 25, 2018
Ben and David have both had to reinvent themselves and move their lives forward. They hit it off right away. But both are cautious for their own reasons. David has a wonderful family. Ben is learning to make family. They are on their way to something special.
November 7, 2018
Maybe I'll try again at some point, but this was just so dull. The author is in love with 'banter' between David and his sister, but just... no. sigh. Just no. Not bad or offensive, but just incredibly boring.
Read
March 7, 20184,5 heart reviewed by Cindy
I’ve been a big fan of Shae Connor for a long time, right from the beginning of her career, so of course I jumped at the chance to review this story and I’m so glad I did.
Ben Cooper is a man who’s moving on to the next part of his life after leaving the military and going to school is a part of that. Ben is a man whose spent most of his life having someone else make all his decisions for him but now it’s all up to him.
He’s a good man who’s finally becoming comfortable with who he is and I love how much of his growth we get to see throughout this story.
David Powell is starting over in his own way, and escaping from his own past. Like most of us he’s made some pretty terrible choices, but he’s finally to the point where he can forgive himself and start to build something good with the support of his awesome family.
I loved seeing these two guys come together. They found what they needed in each other and it was a beautiful thing to see.
David’s sister Hope is a fun addition to this story. She’s a shining light in David’s life and you can’t help but adore her as much as her brother does.
This is a slow burn story, as David and Ben are trying to do the right thing, for themselves and for each other, but the anticipation makes them coming together all the sweeter. It took me a few chapters to really get into it, but once I did, I couldn’t put it down.
There’s not a lot of angst and for once I’m okay with that. The ups and downs they experience are the kind of things that life tends to bring all of us from time to time. I’ve always believed that the big crisis’ are easier to deal with than the constant daily issues we sometimes suffer from. You deal with a crisis and it’s over and you can move on. But when things are poking at you day after day, the tension just seems to grow and grow.
I love this author’s style. Her characters are honest and very real and I had no problems connecting with either of them. I happily went on the journey they took me on.
I’d give this an 9 out of 10 on the steamy scale and I love that she made me giggle a few times during the sex scenes.
All in all, I loved this story and have no problem recommending it to everyone.
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.
I’ve been a big fan of Shae Connor for a long time, right from the beginning of her career, so of course I jumped at the chance to review this story and I’m so glad I did.
Ben Cooper is a man who’s moving on to the next part of his life after leaving the military and going to school is a part of that. Ben is a man whose spent most of his life having someone else make all his decisions for him but now it’s all up to him.
He’s a good man who’s finally becoming comfortable with who he is and I love how much of his growth we get to see throughout this story.
David Powell is starting over in his own way, and escaping from his own past. Like most of us he’s made some pretty terrible choices, but he’s finally to the point where he can forgive himself and start to build something good with the support of his awesome family.
I loved seeing these two guys come together. They found what they needed in each other and it was a beautiful thing to see.
David’s sister Hope is a fun addition to this story. She’s a shining light in David’s life and you can’t help but adore her as much as her brother does.
This is a slow burn story, as David and Ben are trying to do the right thing, for themselves and for each other, but the anticipation makes them coming together all the sweeter. It took me a few chapters to really get into it, but once I did, I couldn’t put it down.
There’s not a lot of angst and for once I’m okay with that. The ups and downs they experience are the kind of things that life tends to bring all of us from time to time. I’ve always believed that the big crisis’ are easier to deal with than the constant daily issues we sometimes suffer from. You deal with a crisis and it’s over and you can move on. But when things are poking at you day after day, the tension just seems to grow and grow.
I love this author’s style. Her characters are honest and very real and I had no problems connecting with either of them. I happily went on the journey they took me on.
I’d give this an 9 out of 10 on the steamy scale and I love that she made me giggle a few times during the sex scenes.
All in all, I loved this story and have no problem recommending it to everyone.
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.
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