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It's Just Us Here #2
The Companion
An asexual man has met a male model... and they became fast friends.
The summer has been magical so far for both Mark and Chris. Their friendship has grown naturally and quickly, but now it will be tested in ways that go beyond casual friendship.
Both men are generally tight-lipped about their internal struggles. Can they be trusting enough to evolve from mere friends to something deeper?
Mark, the globe-trotting man who usually treats friends as accessories to be changed with the seasons... finds Chris to be a steadying, consistent companion. Mark sees something in Chris that is so tantalizing... and starts to dream of a settled future he used to mock.
Chris, the often reserved writer who always seeks to avoid confrontations... enjoys Mark's youthful, untroubled personality and is unable, or unwilling, to guard his heart around the straight-acting model. Chris has always felt most comfortable in friendships with straight men and lesbians... because then there's no chance of sexual pressure.
[ADVISORY: This 100,000 word installment is the continuation of my self-portrait, It's Just Us Here. You should read Book 1: The Friend before reading this, but I don't think you'll be completely lost if you start here. I have written this series as a romance so some of you will be expecting a HEA... this installment doesn't have that.]
The summer has been magical so far for both Mark and Chris. Their friendship has grown naturally and quickly, but now it will be tested in ways that go beyond casual friendship.
Both men are generally tight-lipped about their internal struggles. Can they be trusting enough to evolve from mere friends to something deeper?
Mark, the globe-trotting man who usually treats friends as accessories to be changed with the seasons... finds Chris to be a steadying, consistent companion. Mark sees something in Chris that is so tantalizing... and starts to dream of a settled future he used to mock.
Chris, the often reserved writer who always seeks to avoid confrontations... enjoys Mark's youthful, untroubled personality and is unable, or unwilling, to guard his heart around the straight-acting model. Chris has always felt most comfortable in friendships with straight men and lesbians... because then there's no chance of sexual pressure.
[ADVISORY: This 100,000 word installment is the continuation of my self-portrait, It's Just Us Here. You should read Book 1: The Friend before reading this, but I don't think you'll be completely lost if you start here. I have written this series as a romance so some of you will be expecting a HEA... this installment doesn't have that.]
344 pages, ebook
First published February 12, 2019
11 people are currently reading
193 people want to read
About the author
Christopher X. Sullivan
18 books142 followersHello,
I write all kinds of books. This pen name will mostly be MM focused.
In 2018 I started publishing my self-portrait, It's Just Us Here. Then I took a little break. Then covid break.
Now I'm back! I'll be more active on my newsletter (through substack) or on Patreon (for super readers and pre-orders!) or eventually I hope to set up a website.
Best,
Chris
I write all kinds of books. This pen name will mostly be MM focused.
In 2018 I started publishing my self-portrait, It's Just Us Here. Then I took a little break. Then covid break.
Now I'm back! I'll be more active on my newsletter (through substack) or on Patreon (for super readers and pre-orders!) or eventually I hope to set up a website.
Best,
Chris
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
March 27, 2020
4 Stars
Still smart and just as funny as the first but with higher stakes and more emotional development, one goes into this second chapter with the known caveat of showcasing an asexual MC which brings a new dynamic and a different conflict to contemporary MM romance.
Part two continues the longest slowest one sided burn ever. Chris, being asexual, longs for the ultimate in companionship and his BFF Mark, would be the perfect candidate except he knows Mark wants more because the “norm” typically does right? Hence, the struggle at wanting to maintain their perceived platonic friendship by ignoring the obvious of contemplating moving forward despite the expectations that will ultimately end the relationship when Chris knows he can’t deliver. Chris agonizes over breaking it off to save them both the eventual heartache that’s sure to come...
However, Mark is one remarkable stubborn person filled with his own neuroses, and he’s still determined to win Chris over with his forceful personality, his insightful empathy, and really, just being in tune with Chris in ways that no one ever has before. Their back and forth and Mark’s efforts were both amusing and painful to watch as Chris slowly comes to the realization that they’re in too deep and on the cusp of a huge decision that will prevent a HEA for what looks like the foreseeable future. Rest assured though - not a spoiler alert - love prevails.
Overall, still an engaging story that’s based on real life people which for me, makes it all the more compelling and interesting! Off to the next chapter!
Still smart and just as funny as the first but with higher stakes and more emotional development, one goes into this second chapter with the known caveat of showcasing an asexual MC which brings a new dynamic and a different conflict to contemporary MM romance.
Part two continues the longest slowest one sided burn ever. Chris, being asexual, longs for the ultimate in companionship and his BFF Mark, would be the perfect candidate except he knows Mark wants more because the “norm” typically does right? Hence, the struggle at wanting to maintain their perceived platonic friendship by ignoring the obvious of contemplating moving forward despite the expectations that will ultimately end the relationship when Chris knows he can’t deliver. Chris agonizes over breaking it off to save them both the eventual heartache that’s sure to come...
However, Mark is one remarkable stubborn person filled with his own neuroses, and he’s still determined to win Chris over with his forceful personality, his insightful empathy, and really, just being in tune with Chris in ways that no one ever has before. Their back and forth and Mark’s efforts were both amusing and painful to watch as Chris slowly comes to the realization that they’re in too deep and on the cusp of a huge decision that will prevent a HEA for what looks like the foreseeable future. Rest assured though - not a spoiler alert - love prevails.
Overall, still an engaging story that’s based on real life people which for me, makes it all the more compelling and interesting! Off to the next chapter!
February 12, 2019
Available as of TODAY on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Companion-Its-...
***********************************************
And I'm dead.
Review to come after I re-spawn or something.
Later edit: 22/06/2018
Finally managed to respawn. It only took me a full month.
I wonder what I’ll do with my life after I have read the last Mark and Chris book.
This is the 2nd book from the It's just Us Here series Christopher X. Sullivan will publish next year. It’s a memoir about an asexual one day meeting in a park the man who will later become his husband.
It’s a romance story, but don’t be fooled by the promise of rainbows and sunshine because your heart will be twisted in a vice-like grip by the brooding soulstorms roiling Chris and Mark’s inner peace.
As we know from the first book Mark, the slutty model, falls for Chris who is an asexual. Careful not to scare Chris away, Mark builds a net of security, warmth and friendship around Chris, introducing him to his friends, convincing him to get out of his shell and spend as much time together as possible.
This is a book about the evolution that comes with change. It’s ugly, it’s hard and it’s mind numbing, but when it needs to happen, you either let it happen, or you lose your mind. While Mark turns into a better person trying to be close to Chris while Chris slowly, so very slowly (seriously as slow as it would take a sloth to swim from one side to the other of the Pacific Ocean with one hand tied behind its back), becomes less rigid and gets out of his comfort zone.
This book deserves a LAMBDA nomination. Believe me when I tell you something like this does not exist today, neither in the MM genre, nor I think in the entire romance genre. It can’t exist, because that isn't fake, this isn't fiction, this is the life story of Mark and Chris, two very real people.
I may or may not admit that tears were shed during those chapters. I'm not usually usually very emotional, but this book gobbled me up and spat me out a snotty mess.
As a beta reader I received this free copy from the author in return for an honest review.
https://www.amazon.com/Companion-Its-...
***********************************************
“Hey, dude. I’m not scared. I know you are. But you don’t have to be. I’ll be so good to you. You already are so good to me. Dude, I love you.”
And I'm dead.
Review to come after I re-spawn or something.
Later edit: 22/06/2018
Finally managed to respawn. It only took me a full month.
I wonder what I’ll do with my life after I have read the last Mark and Chris book.
This is the 2nd book from the It's just Us Here series Christopher X. Sullivan will publish next year. It’s a memoir about an asexual one day meeting in a park the man who will later become his husband.
It’s a romance story, but don’t be fooled by the promise of rainbows and sunshine because your heart will be twisted in a vice-like grip by the brooding soulstorms roiling Chris and Mark’s inner peace.
As we know from the first book Mark, the slutty model, falls for Chris who is an asexual. Careful not to scare Chris away, Mark builds a net of security, warmth and friendship around Chris, introducing him to his friends, convincing him to get out of his shell and spend as much time together as possible.
This is a book about the evolution that comes with change. It’s ugly, it’s hard and it’s mind numbing, but when it needs to happen, you either let it happen, or you lose your mind. While Mark turns into a better person trying to be close to Chris while Chris slowly, so very slowly (seriously as slow as it would take a sloth to swim from one side to the other of the Pacific Ocean with one hand tied behind its back), becomes less rigid and gets out of his comfort zone.
This book deserves a LAMBDA nomination. Believe me when I tell you something like this does not exist today, neither in the MM genre, nor I think in the entire romance genre. It can’t exist, because that isn't fake, this isn't fiction, this is the life story of Mark and Chris, two very real people.
I may or may not admit that tears were shed during those chapters. I'm not usually usually very emotional, but this book gobbled me up and spat me out a snotty mess.
As a beta reader I received this free copy from the author in return for an honest review.
March 23, 2019
4.5 stars
I don’t know if I’ll ever be able to give another book in this series 5 stars. Not because they won’t deserve it, just because I’ll always compare them and my reaction to them to the first book and that’s a tough act to follow. Probably for the best, I don’t think I'd survive an entire series of that.
Which doesn’t mean that this book wasn’t good or that I didn’t highlight more passages here than in all the last ten books I read combined.
And I’m sorry, but I can’t review this, just like I couldn’t really review The Friend and I’ll probably never manage to really review any other book of this self-portrait. It just hits too close to home and I’ve no idea how to talk about it without making it all about what it means to me.
If you’re asexual, or you think you could identify as such, you might want to take a look at this series. If you find yourself thinking that Chris looked inside your head and then wrote about what’s there, welcome to the club.
If you’re not asexual and you want to see one of the many ways being ace can play out in real life, give this series a chance.
Just get ready to be patient, I know Chris’s behavior can be frustrating looking at it from a non-ace perspective, but try and remember that society told you since you were born that being sexual is the 'normal' and right way to be and that you could expect everyone else to want sex in some way, while it told us that we don’t even exist or that something is wrong with us. We had to, mostly still have to, learn how to fit in without any guidelines and that means that most of us have learned to expect to be found lacking in some fundamental way when it comes to romantic relationships.
That said, if you find yourself feeling frustrated while reading this, I get it. I’ve always thought that I must be very frustrating seen from the outside, so it doesn’t surprise me that Chris would be too.
But these books will always have a special place in my heart because this is the first time I feel seen (about this specific part of myself, at least) while reading a book and sometimes it doesn't even have anything to do with asexuality. Or maybe it does, who knows? Maybe being ace has made me and Chris develop those similar traits, even though we differ in so many other ways.
In any case, I’m enjoying the ride and this time I even managed to tear up now and then without turning into a sobbing mess. That’s progress.
And to celebrate, I’m going to share one of my favorite quotes from this book:
Like I said, I feel seen. Get out of my head, Chris.
I don’t know if I’ll ever be able to give another book in this series 5 stars. Not because they won’t deserve it, just because I’ll always compare them and my reaction to them to the first book and that’s a tough act to follow. Probably for the best, I don’t think I'd survive an entire series of that.
Which doesn’t mean that this book wasn’t good or that I didn’t highlight more passages here than in all the last ten books I read combined.
And I’m sorry, but I can’t review this, just like I couldn’t really review The Friend and I’ll probably never manage to really review any other book of this self-portrait. It just hits too close to home and I’ve no idea how to talk about it without making it all about what it means to me.
If you’re asexual, or you think you could identify as such, you might want to take a look at this series. If you find yourself thinking that Chris looked inside your head and then wrote about what’s there, welcome to the club.
If you’re not asexual and you want to see one of the many ways being ace can play out in real life, give this series a chance.
Just get ready to be patient, I know Chris’s behavior can be frustrating looking at it from a non-ace perspective, but try and remember that society told you since you were born that being sexual is the 'normal' and right way to be and that you could expect everyone else to want sex in some way, while it told us that we don’t even exist or that something is wrong with us. We had to, mostly still have to, learn how to fit in without any guidelines and that means that most of us have learned to expect to be found lacking in some fundamental way when it comes to romantic relationships.
That said, if you find yourself feeling frustrated while reading this, I get it. I’ve always thought that I must be very frustrating seen from the outside, so it doesn’t surprise me that Chris would be too.
But these books will always have a special place in my heart because this is the first time I feel seen (about this specific part of myself, at least) while reading a book and sometimes it doesn't even have anything to do with asexuality. Or maybe it does, who knows? Maybe being ace has made me and Chris develop those similar traits, even though we differ in so many other ways.
In any case, I’m enjoying the ride and this time I even managed to tear up now and then without turning into a sobbing mess. That’s progress.
And to celebrate, I’m going to share one of my favorite quotes from this book:
Like I said, I feel seen. Get out of my head, Chris.
February 15, 2019
Now LIVE on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07...
------------------
This is the second book in the self-portrait It's Just Us Here.
Naturally it was more emotional than the first book, The Friend: It's Just Us Here. Don't worry, you will still laugh your ass off. :D
Mark and Chris continued building their friendship.
Mark was his usual self...
...so was Chris.
Even though we only saw the events from Chris' point of view, he was able to convey Mark's feelings perfectly and I felt all the heartache on Mark's part as well as Chris'.
Both men tried to hide their feelings from each other, they did not talk about it openly, and maybe for Chris it took a while to realize what's been happening, but they both knew their friendship has started to become more. Hell, it was already more.
There were feelings of longing and want in some of the chapters, as they were trying tentatively and subtly to test the boundaries, feel each other out and explore not just sexually but emotionally too.
I truly felt for Mark, the poor guy was miserable. He was chasing Chris as much as he could without being too obvious...
...but Chris was running in the other direction.
And he had a difficult decision to make. is one of the hardest decision one has to make. Occasionally that decision seems to be wrong, because how can you know what the other one is feeling, what he'd willingly give. "Relationships are all about compromise and communication is key." ...yeah yeah... blahblahblah. Reality is so much more difficult. It seems it doesn't matter if you're a nerd, or a handsome model, everyone's dealing with their own insecurities.
There are also little nuggets in the book that help us understand even more what Chris is going through. How he struggles to decide what he truly wants.
and that little game - among other things - led to the what-ifs. Chris wondered what would it be like to be partnered with Mark, what if they could be together? They could have a family if they wanted. Mark is good with kids, and recalling Mark's expressions and meaningful glances he thought the same about Chris. What if? What if? What if? It always comes down to that.
Will Chris run from Mark in the end? Or embrace happiness with open arms?
I recommend this book - and the whole series really - to those who're still questioning and trying to find themselves; and even to those who're struggling with their partners. These two men are different in a lot of ways.
And still they made it work. For them it works. <3
No matter who you love or how you love, you’re allowed to live your life by your own normal. Yes, it would be easier if you could be like everyone else, but there are things you can't change, you can only pretend, or accept who you are, and find the one person who will not only accept you, but love you for being different, for being you.
***A free copy of this book was provided by the author for beta-reading purposes.***
------------------
This is the second book in the self-portrait It's Just Us Here.
Naturally it was more emotional than the first book, The Friend: It's Just Us Here. Don't worry, you will still laugh your ass off. :D
Mark and Chris continued building their friendship.
Mark was his usual self...
...so was Chris.
Even though we only saw the events from Chris' point of view, he was able to convey Mark's feelings perfectly and I felt all the heartache on Mark's part as well as Chris'.
Both men tried to hide their feelings from each other, they did not talk about it openly, and maybe for Chris it took a while to realize what's been happening, but they both knew their friendship has started to become more. Hell, it was already more.
There were feelings of longing and want in some of the chapters, as they were trying tentatively and subtly to test the boundaries, feel each other out and explore not just sexually but emotionally too.
I truly felt for Mark, the poor guy was miserable. He was chasing Chris as much as he could without being too obvious...
...but Chris was running in the other direction.
And he had a difficult decision to make. is one of the hardest decision one has to make. Occasionally that decision seems to be wrong, because how can you know what the other one is feeling, what he'd willingly give. "Relationships are all about compromise and communication is key." ...yeah yeah... blahblahblah. Reality is so much more difficult. It seems it doesn't matter if you're a nerd, or a handsome model, everyone's dealing with their own insecurities.
There are also little nuggets in the book that help us understand even more what Chris is going through. How he struggles to decide what he truly wants.
and that little game - among other things - led to the what-ifs. Chris wondered what would it be like to be partnered with Mark, what if they could be together? They could have a family if they wanted. Mark is good with kids, and recalling Mark's expressions and meaningful glances he thought the same about Chris. What if? What if? What if? It always comes down to that.
Will Chris run from Mark in the end? Or embrace happiness with open arms?
I recommend this book - and the whole series really - to those who're still questioning and trying to find themselves; and even to those who're struggling with their partners. These two men are different in a lot of ways.
And still they made it work. For them it works. <3
No matter who you love or how you love, you’re allowed to live your life by your own normal. Yes, it would be easier if you could be like everyone else, but there are things you can't change, you can only pretend, or accept who you are, and find the one person who will not only accept you, but love you for being different, for being you.
***A free copy of this book was provided by the author for beta-reading purposes.***
![Profile Image for annob [on hiatus].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1674812294i%2F68231680._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
March 9, 2019
So, this book starts out somewhere in the middle of the oblivious romancing stage of Chris and Mark's love story. (First part is in 'The Friend'.) Wonderful, warm, humorous, and it brought me something most romance novels only cover briefly; the having fun and growing closer stage of a friends-to-lovers relationship. And fun it is!
The reader is invited along with the two guys as they experience all kinds of entertaining episodes, from dudes only poker nights to sneaky pranks and play fights. And interlaced with the fun, there are moments where they open up, let the other one in, and get to know each other's quirks and mannerism more deeply. Vulnerable moments aplenty too, men who cry in front of other men. Refreshing, heartbreaking, beautiful.
The closer they get, the more Chris is torn. He wants more, almost desperately so, but certain he can't meet Mark's wants and needs. He pushes Mark away, only to be pulled back in again. The unspoken more-than-friends feelings between them turns into an emotional pressure cooker... and unavoidably reaches critical levels.
This book, I just want to hug it, hughughug and never let go. The storyline is captivating. The narration a brilliant blend of easy-going humour and more serious tone. There are so many passages within these pages that I want to quote because they resonate with me, I can relate to the feelings penned onto the page.
I'm simply in love with this story. Highly recommended.
(This book was provided for free by the author for the purpose to beta-read prior to publication.)
February 17, 2019
Mark and Chris - It’s raw. It’s real. It’s complicated.
There’s an honesty in Christopher X. Sullivan’s writing that is enticing - it’s not always comfortable, but it’s a story laid bare to its most deep-seated components. Sullivan doesn’t shy away from showing the messiness - and the humor - in two people who should have nothing in common finding their way together.
In this second book of the series, Mark and Chris are close. They’re more than friends and even Chris is starting to realize this. But keeping this intense friendship at a level he is comfortable with seems impossible.
At the start of the book, we see an easiness to their relationship, a camaraderie that is a romantic relationship in all but name. There are drunken, hilarious (and gross!) poker night shenanigans. There’s sensual massage and embarrassing jerking-off mishaps. There’s unconditional support when things are bad.
But when the emotional connection gets all the more close and encompassing - Mark wants more and Chris pulls away.
Chris is a person conflicted - he longs for family, children, love and comfort, but doesn’t know if he can ever have those things, because he sees his asexuality as an insurmountable hurdle. Mark’s sex drive seems overwhelming - and Chris’s discomfort is colored not only by past experiences but also his own confounding emotions.
It wouldn’t be It’s Just Us Here, though, if those issues didn’t come to a head on a nudity-filled trip to the wilderness where escape attempts are futile and the only way out is on a raft down the river.
And it wouldn’t be It’s Just Us Here if it didn't leave us with a poignant, heart-wrenching finale - though we know that for Mark and Chris, this is really just the beginning.
There’s an honesty in Christopher X. Sullivan’s writing that is enticing - it’s not always comfortable, but it’s a story laid bare to its most deep-seated components. Sullivan doesn’t shy away from showing the messiness - and the humor - in two people who should have nothing in common finding their way together.
In this second book of the series, Mark and Chris are close. They’re more than friends and even Chris is starting to realize this. But keeping this intense friendship at a level he is comfortable with seems impossible.
At the start of the book, we see an easiness to their relationship, a camaraderie that is a romantic relationship in all but name. There are drunken, hilarious (and gross!) poker night shenanigans. There’s sensual massage and embarrassing jerking-off mishaps. There’s unconditional support when things are bad.
But when the emotional connection gets all the more close and encompassing - Mark wants more and Chris pulls away.
Chris is a person conflicted - he longs for family, children, love and comfort, but doesn’t know if he can ever have those things, because he sees his asexuality as an insurmountable hurdle. Mark’s sex drive seems overwhelming - and Chris’s discomfort is colored not only by past experiences but also his own confounding emotions.
It wouldn’t be It’s Just Us Here, though, if those issues didn’t come to a head on a nudity-filled trip to the wilderness where escape attempts are futile and the only way out is on a raft down the river.
And it wouldn’t be It’s Just Us Here if it didn't leave us with a poignant, heart-wrenching finale - though we know that for Mark and Chris, this is really just the beginning.
May 22, 2019
I can't really separate this book from book 1, because it literally starts where the previous one ends. And so far, I'm still loving it. Mostly because I really love Chris and Mark and by this point it feels like reading about people I know really well.
Another thing that I like is the writing style. It's very easy to read and follow. I like it when the author addresses the reader or Mark, and I like the little time jumps. They usually occur at the right time to remind me that everything will be all right in the end.
Another thing that I like is the writing style. It's very easy to read and follow. I like it when the author addresses the reader or Mark, and I like the little time jumps. They usually occur at the right time to remind me that everything will be all right in the end.
April 1, 2019
*4,5 stars*
Chris said that we might find his story irritating and frustrating, and that he was utterly oblivious.
He was right.
His behaviour towards Mark IS all that, but he makes us understand why he acts so hot and cold, so confused, with such a yes/no attitude, and it all simply boils down to this:
I both wanted and didn’t want what he offered.
Chris‘s situation is more than complex. He is in love, and it is pretty clear that Mark loves him back, but Chris fears that he can’t give Mark what he needs in the long run and that not being able to have a sexual relationship will destroy what they have with each other.
Tbh, reading about Chris‘s dilemma is painful enough, living through it, like he did, is a mind blowing thought.
I adore Chris, and I adore Mark. His perseverance and patience are of epic proportions.
I understand why Chris decides at the end of this book he can’t go on living in that kind of purgatory any longer. And I was desperate for him and Mark to talk openly about what both of them need to make their relationship work. But I think/hope this will be coming.
I also sincerely hope that Chris will talk to Mark about what happened the night after Mark got roofied.
And one thing that made me seriously panic:
Chris said that we might find his story irritating and frustrating, and that he was utterly oblivious.
He was right.
His behaviour towards Mark IS all that, but he makes us understand why he acts so hot and cold, so confused, with such a yes/no attitude, and it all simply boils down to this:
I both wanted and didn’t want what he offered.
Chris‘s situation is more than complex. He is in love, and it is pretty clear that Mark loves him back, but Chris fears that he can’t give Mark what he needs in the long run and that not being able to have a sexual relationship will destroy what they have with each other.
Tbh, reading about Chris‘s dilemma is painful enough, living through it, like he did, is a mind blowing thought.
I adore Chris, and I adore Mark. His perseverance and patience are of epic proportions.
I understand why Chris decides at the end of this book he can’t go on living in that kind of purgatory any longer. And I was desperate for him and Mark to talk openly about what both of them need to make their relationship work. But I think/hope this will be coming.
I also sincerely hope that Chris will talk to Mark about what happened the night after Mark got roofied.
And one thing that made me seriously panic:
March 2, 2019
I’m still liking this.
The writer is my sort of asexual, so it was interesting to read my own experiences reflected back at me.
He depicts wonderfully the permanent inchoate unspoken unrelenting social pressure to be a sexual being with a sexual identity doing sexual things/wanting to do sexual things, when you are just not. And you just don’t.
And other people doing sex stuff/wanting to do sex stuff is an attack/feels like an attack. This is depicted really well.
So for these books do a wonderful job of showing what it’s like to be asexual. (Well my sort anyway).
The writer is my sort of asexual, so it was interesting to read my own experiences reflected back at me.
He depicts wonderfully the permanent inchoate unspoken unrelenting social pressure to be a sexual being with a sexual identity doing sexual things/wanting to do sexual things, when you are just not. And you just don’t.
And other people doing sex stuff/wanting to do sex stuff is an attack/feels like an attack. This is depicted really well.
So for these books do a wonderful job of showing what it’s like to be asexual. (Well my sort anyway).
February 14, 2019
4.25 stars
Again, I enjoyed this continuation of Chris' and Mark's story (although there were a few tears shed).
Honestly, it jolted me sometimes maybe because I'm used to reading romance and mm stories where the usual progression is sex or the confession/declaration of returned feelings. This story...not. And I have to remind myself that Chris is asexual. My bad.
It's not your usual romance or mm story but I found it refreshing and enlightening. And it's a true story. A love story between two real people.
If you want HEA NOW, I'd understand if you're frustrated after reading this but I say, stick with it, read the next one and the next one and the next and learn about the journey of Chris and Mark. I'm sure it will give us lots of joy and the same amount (or more?) of heartache but that's what life is all about, isn't it?
I wish I can have the entire series so I can devour them but monthly release is way better than waiting for years for the next installment. Is it March already?
Again, I enjoyed this continuation of Chris' and Mark's story (although there were a few tears shed).
Honestly, it jolted me sometimes maybe because I'm used to reading romance and mm stories where the usual progression is sex or the confession/declaration of returned feelings. This story...not. And I have to remind myself that Chris is asexual. My bad.
It's not your usual romance or mm story but I found it refreshing and enlightening. And it's a true story. A love story between two real people.
If you want HEA NOW, I'd understand if you're frustrated after reading this but I say, stick with it, read the next one and the next one and the next and learn about the journey of Chris and Mark. I'm sure it will give us lots of joy and the same amount (or more?) of heartache but that's what life is all about, isn't it?
I wish I can have the entire series so I can devour them but monthly release is way better than waiting for years for the next installment. Is it March already?
April 5, 2019
You can do it, too. You can find someone to support you and love you just the way you are. Yes, I still feel like I wasn’t made for this world. But I’ve taken my life and made it into something really beautiful.
Disclaimer: I'm rating this books as work of fiction for now, but as I'm not that comfortable rating books that are based on real lives of real people, I may take off my rating at some point.
I started this one the second I finished the first one on Sunday, and I finished it on Monday's morning at 2:00 am, I think? (with my Monday classes + afternoon work) I was HOOKED
The story is good, I'm enjoying the pace it's going and how detail it is. I'm gonna be honest, I struggle with some scenes from time to time because I just want the characters to be happy and together but I know like is not as easy as that.
As I'm writing this review with the third one already finished by now, I'm not gonna write more about it since I'm worried I'll mix them up.
Disclaimer: I'm rating this books as work of fiction for now, but as I'm not that comfortable rating books that are based on real lives of real people, I may take off my rating at some point.
I started this one the second I finished the first one on Sunday, and I finished it on Monday's morning at 2:00 am, I think? (with my Monday classes + afternoon work) I was HOOKED
The story is good, I'm enjoying the pace it's going and how detail it is. I'm gonna be honest, I struggle with some scenes from time to time because I just want the characters to be happy and together but I know like is not as easy as that.
As I'm writing this review with the third one already finished by now, I'm not gonna write more about it since I'm worried I'll mix them up.
February 12, 2019
I'm heartbroken. I need The Lover now.
I was lucky enough to be selected as a beta reader. Merry early Christmas to me!
It's difficult to talk about this book because it's just a part of a whole story. There's no HEA, little romance but lots and lots of self discovery. We're on a journey and the relationship between Chris and Mark is on the verge to change. The cards are on the table and we're going all in on them!
I was lucky enough to be selected as a beta reader. Merry early Christmas to me!
It's difficult to talk about this book because it's just a part of a whole story. There's no HEA, little romance but lots and lots of self discovery. We're on a journey and the relationship between Chris and Mark is on the verge to change. The cards are on the table and we're going all in on them!
February 14, 2019
I love Chris and Mark's story, but I really, really don't like Chris sometimes. He frustrates me so much! I feel like he is so stubborn, to the point of ridiculous. Not about the sex either, I get that he is asexual, and there is NOTHING wrong with that. But little things he refuses to do (not the sexual things), and always leaves when he gets the tiniest bit uncomfortable, doesn't talk things through or explain.
Chris mentioned at the end how Mark always just takes, takes, takes. I felt like Mark has been more giving than Chris a lot of the time! Yes, he knows Chris doesn't want sex, but he also is getting some SUPER mixed up signals with all the cuddling, and Chris being obviously in love with him, yet in denial. But I felt like Mark was trying really hard to make Chris happy, and not always getting anything back in return. And that ending!!! He's done nothing but push Mark away throughout the whole book, and then at the end when Mark doesn't follow him, he's like "make me stay, make me stay." You always refused to stay before! He's only doing what you wanted because you made it super obvious you were "breaking up" with him. I feel bad for Mark, a little bit.
Now I know that review sounds a little harsh, but I really do love these books. And I do like Chris! I can definitely see why Mark is in love with him, and vice versa. They are really good together. I just wish they would actually TALK things through, and Chris would stop being so freaking dramatic about every little thing, and also tell Mark how he feels. I can't wait for the third book!
Chris mentioned at the end how Mark always just takes, takes, takes. I felt like Mark has been more giving than Chris a lot of the time! Yes, he knows Chris doesn't want sex, but he also is getting some SUPER mixed up signals with all the cuddling, and Chris being obviously in love with him, yet in denial. But I felt like Mark was trying really hard to make Chris happy, and not always getting anything back in return. And that ending!!! He's done nothing but push Mark away throughout the whole book, and then at the end when Mark doesn't follow him, he's like "make me stay, make me stay." You always refused to stay before! He's only doing what you wanted because you made it super obvious you were "breaking up" with him. I feel bad for Mark, a little bit.
Now I know that review sounds a little harsh, but I really do love these books. And I do like Chris! I can definitely see why Mark is in love with him, and vice versa. They are really good together. I just wish they would actually TALK things through, and Chris would stop being so freaking dramatic about every little thing, and also tell Mark how he feels. I can't wait for the third book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 24, 2019
I'm still not crazy about how this story is told (the tangents.... often of events that have yet to transpire, and the asides). But, I am really enjoying reading this.
Also, I do know that it's been said that these can be read as standalone but are better appreciated when read in order...
But by making it so it can be read alone, there are a lot of things reiterated in this book that having just finished the first book, I found a bit annoying.
The stunt at the poker game was a but much and I don't think I would ever talk to someone ever again if they did that to me, and it was an odd thing for someone so particular about germs and who has self described himself as a people pleaser multiple times.
I didn't really like when he referred to someone selling their body as disgusting, but I suppose he does seem rather sex-repulsed on top of just being nonsexual. Like, this from coming from someone who pulled the stunt he did at the poker game.
Now, excuse me while I jump right into the 3rd book.
Also, I do know that it's been said that these can be read as standalone but are better appreciated when read in order...
But by making it so it can be read alone, there are a lot of things reiterated in this book that having just finished the first book, I found a bit annoying.
The stunt at the poker game was a but much and I don't think I would ever talk to someone ever again if they did that to me, and it was an odd thing for someone so particular about germs and who has self described himself as a people pleaser multiple times.
I didn't really like when he referred to someone selling their body as disgusting, but I suppose he does seem rather sex-repulsed on top of just being nonsexual. Like, this from coming from someone who pulled the stunt he did at the poker game.
Now, excuse me while I jump right into the 3rd book.
June 29, 2019
This was a pretty reasonable book. I didn't like it as much as the previous book, but it was still fine. I guess, for me, a lot of it was that I wanted Chris to actually talk to Mark about what was going on honestly and let Mark both talk back and make his own decisions. Chris trying to make decisions for Mark just went on and on and on, and I don't like it when people do that.
I did, however, continue to enjoy seeing the work that went into their relationship with each other than their relationships with others. That gets glossed over a lot in books, if for no other reason than space. This book spent a chunk of time on that, and I appreciated it.
I'd like to continue the series to see if my enjoyment goes back up, but the next book isn't KU and this series doesn't seem to be available for purchase for libraries. If I can get it via lending, I'll do that, but if not, this is probably going to go on hold.
I did, however, continue to enjoy seeing the work that went into their relationship with each other than their relationships with others. That gets glossed over a lot in books, if for no other reason than space. This book spent a chunk of time on that, and I appreciated it.
I'd like to continue the series to see if my enjoyment goes back up, but the next book isn't KU and this series doesn't seem to be available for purchase for libraries. If I can get it via lending, I'll do that, but if not, this is probably going to go on hold.
March 17, 2020
Book 2 of the 9 in this series and OMG! the ending is so heartbreaking, I’m crushed. In book 1 I struggled to like Mark, in book 2 he was much more bearable but still a little obnoxious at times, but at the end? I cried for him. This author continued to write a beautiful story of the intense friendship between Mark and Chris. Excuse me now, I’m off to read book 3.
November 7, 2020
I was hoping this one would be better than the first, but no such luck. It badly needs an editor to trim out the fat. There are way too many details that are unnecessary, and the author again gets sidetracked with what happens in the future and it really disrupts the flow. As for the story itself, all I could think was that these guys had a really toxic relationship. Apparently it ends up working out, but it's just not enjoyable to read.
July 15, 2019
Can I just say what a rollercoaster ride this was? Ugh! Can’t wait to get to the third book.
This must be one of the few books I read that I really “felt” - for the MCs, for how simple it was written yet it evoked a lot in me. Ugh!
5 stars!
This must be one of the few books I read that I really “felt” - for the MCs, for how simple it was written yet it evoked a lot in me. Ugh!
5 stars!
June 30, 2019
Goddamnit Christopher Sullivan, now I’m crying.
November 30, 2019
I really loved the first book. This book, not so much. I absolutely don’t mind all of the craziness or inner dialogue of the author...but I was plenty upset / unnerved by him linking his selfish and ocd behavior to his Asexuality. I have a brother who is asexual...about the same age as this author...and yes he has struggled with how to live in a world where everything is black and white or this and that. I never saw him though, be as passive aggressive as this author was with his friend Mark. If the author had carried out his passive aggressiveness as a teenager - that would be perfectly understandable. At the age of 29/30...there’s something much bigger going on with him then his Asexuality.
I will continue on with the series hoping that he does end up getting counseling...and understanding how self-destructive and hurtful is behavior is to others.
I will continue on with the series hoping that he does end up getting counseling...and understanding how self-destructive and hurtful is behavior is to others.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 5, 2020
So after finishing this one, I went and brought all the rest of the books to come. I’m so excited.
June 27, 2023
This book was a bit of a letdown.
After the highs of the first book, it was very clear that we were headed for a turning point and we were already there at the end of the first book but when that peak doesn't crash anywhere near the beginning of the book, it became a little tiresome to read.
Of course, there are some important moments that solidify the relationship between our main characters but as they do nothing to change the status quo, it became a little less exciting to read about. With the way the book ends, I realise that the author planned this book with that ending in sight and that's probably another reason that this book doesn't work as well as the first book. Because the author probably already knew where he wanted the book to end and the rest was making sure there was enough content to make sure that that ending could be the ending of a reasonably sized book.
One of the things that has become very apparent with this book is that the author has been really truthful regarding his own character because there are multiple times when it's clear that the words on page are more stream of consciousness then a well thought out narrative. It means that the author feels real because you don't really agree with every one of his thoughts but I also realise that it took courage to not polish away all of his shortcomings.
But, despite my initial disappointment with the book, I really liked where this book headed in its ending chapters. The wave has finally crashed so it can only be up from here and I can't wait. I'm ridiculously excited to be reading these books.
After the highs of the first book, it was very clear that we were headed for a turning point and we were already there at the end of the first book but when that peak doesn't crash anywhere near the beginning of the book, it became a little tiresome to read.
Of course, there are some important moments that solidify the relationship between our main characters but as they do nothing to change the status quo, it became a little less exciting to read about. With the way the book ends, I realise that the author planned this book with that ending in sight and that's probably another reason that this book doesn't work as well as the first book. Because the author probably already knew where he wanted the book to end and the rest was making sure there was enough content to make sure that that ending could be the ending of a reasonably sized book.
One of the things that has become very apparent with this book is that the author has been really truthful regarding his own character because there are multiple times when it's clear that the words on page are more stream of consciousness then a well thought out narrative. It means that the author feels real because you don't really agree with every one of his thoughts but I also realise that it took courage to not polish away all of his shortcomings.
But, despite my initial disappointment with the book, I really liked where this book headed in its ending chapters. The wave has finally crashed so it can only be up from here and I can't wait. I'm ridiculously excited to be reading these books.
December 12, 2023
I loved it, and can't get enough of how different it is from most romances I've ever read, in a realistically good way that is much needed for me right now. There were some parts that would definitely make me deeply uncomfortable in any other story (especially M/F - I don't know what it is about it that makes it so different for me) - but here I found myself relating to both MCs at different parts, wishing they could talk properly about what's bothering them, but also understanding why they can't at this point. It was mostly uncomfortable and sometimes heartbreaking, but life sometimes is like that. It still felt very real and understandable to me, even with all the sudden ups and downs. Spent half the night reading, and immediately slipped into the next book without even noticing.
December 10, 2021
When I was reading the lines, I kind of understood why came these thoughts of Chris. But after reading, I felt frustrated of his way of thinking and behaving. Maybe I did not understand completely how an asexsual person functions.
But I still like the book.
But I still like the book.
October 12, 2022
A relationship between an asexual man with OCD type personality and a narcissistic gay model. This is the second book in series and I am enjoying it; especially the slow pace of their relationship. The writing style is fresh and funny. Looking forward to the next book.
Want to read
August 25, 2020🎁 Books 1 & 2 in the Series are FREE on Amazon today (8/25/2020)! 🎁
August 4, 2021
I don't think I really needed this much insight into the hijinks men get up to when left to their own devices.
November 15, 2021
3,5 stars because of the end. I was really frustrated how Chris was in the end.
December 26, 2022
I would have loved to be someone’s Cuddle Bunny. That was my heart’s deepest desire.” (P. 338)
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