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The Swap #1
The Swap
When their daughter goes off to college, Samuel and his wife Gayle begin to take stock of their lives. Realizing they’re best friends and not in love with one another, the two agree to an amicable split. Nervous about jumping back into the dating world, they accept a friend’s invitation to attend a swap party.
Tossing their keys into a bowl and leaving it up to fate to decide who they’re paired with is too tempting to resist. But when Samuel is faced with an audacious young man who strikes up a conversation, the attraction to men he’s kept buried for so long comes rushing back.
At twenty-two years old, Oliver Hughes is one of the most sought after male models in the world. Sassy and bold, with a penchant for wearing high heels and a touch of makeup, Oliver’s life is what he always dreamed it could be. Except for one thing…
Yearning to fall in love and settle down, Oliver’s grown bored of meaningless hookups with shallow, fame seeking guys. While attending a swap party, his last-ditch effort to find someone who doesn’t know who he is when they meet, Oliver finds himself drawn to a handsome, older man. One who’s endearingly unaware of his own appeal.
As their relationship grows, something sinister and dark threatens what they’ve managed to build. What will it take for Oliver and Samuel to survive, and is their happily ever after doomed from the start?
Tossing their keys into a bowl and leaving it up to fate to decide who they’re paired with is too tempting to resist. But when Samuel is faced with an audacious young man who strikes up a conversation, the attraction to men he’s kept buried for so long comes rushing back.
At twenty-two years old, Oliver Hughes is one of the most sought after male models in the world. Sassy and bold, with a penchant for wearing high heels and a touch of makeup, Oliver’s life is what he always dreamed it could be. Except for one thing…
Yearning to fall in love and settle down, Oliver’s grown bored of meaningless hookups with shallow, fame seeking guys. While attending a swap party, his last-ditch effort to find someone who doesn’t know who he is when they meet, Oliver finds himself drawn to a handsome, older man. One who’s endearingly unaware of his own appeal.
As their relationship grows, something sinister and dark threatens what they’ve managed to build. What will it take for Oliver and Samuel to survive, and is their happily ever after doomed from the start?
215 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 21, 2018
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 195 reviews
May 24, 2018
3.5
Well,a sassy male model who likes his heels,make-up,and had a bit of a twink vibe going on....I mean I couldn't not read this!
If you're into sugary sweet stories this might just be the thing you're looking for...
Samuel and Gayle married very young when she got pregnant in their first year of college.They had a perfectly nice life together.They most definitely love each other but have never been in love.When their daughter goes off to college they realize they both want more from life and being friends just isn't enough.They both agree to separate but remain very good friends so when Gayle suggests attending a swap party Samuel's all in.....New horizons and all that...
When Samuel sees a beautiful young man at the party feelings he's denied himself for years come crashing back.He had a bit of an interest in boys before college but throughout his marriage it never crossed his mind it seems.
Oliver is 22,a successful model but what he really craves is to find that special man to settle down with.He's attended these parties before but hadn't expected to meet the man of his dreams at one of them.Insta lust at it's best when these two first see each other...
What worked,
-Samuel finally acknowledging his bi sexuality somehow worked here.There was no lamenting or berating himself over it and he was totally up for new experiences with Oliver!
-Oliver...what can I say,my type of character...I adored him,
-Samuel's relationship with his daughter...so much feeling,
-the sex( and there's quite a lot of it) was super hot.
-and a purple lace thong makes an appearance...
What didn't work,
-there's a serial killer plot worked into the story which just seemed completely unnecessary and I worked out pretty early on who it was,
Overall,enjoyable enough.Available on KU.
"(...)Only I want something a little different next time,"I informed him seriously."Oh yeah?And what's that?"
"Wear your heels."
Well,a sassy male model who likes his heels,make-up,and had a bit of a twink vibe going on....I mean I couldn't not read this!
If you're into sugary sweet stories this might just be the thing you're looking for...
Samuel and Gayle married very young when she got pregnant in their first year of college.They had a perfectly nice life together.They most definitely love each other but have never been in love.When their daughter goes off to college they realize they both want more from life and being friends just isn't enough.They both agree to separate but remain very good friends so when Gayle suggests attending a swap party Samuel's all in.....New horizons and all that...
When Samuel sees a beautiful young man at the party feelings he's denied himself for years come crashing back.He had a bit of an interest in boys before college but throughout his marriage it never crossed his mind it seems.
Oliver is 22,a successful model but what he really craves is to find that special man to settle down with.He's attended these parties before but hadn't expected to meet the man of his dreams at one of them.Insta lust at it's best when these two first see each other...
What worked,
-Samuel finally acknowledging his bi sexuality somehow worked here.There was no lamenting or berating himself over it and he was totally up for new experiences with Oliver!
-Oliver...what can I say,my type of character...I adored him,
-Samuel's relationship with his daughter...so much feeling,
-the sex( and there's quite a lot of it) was super hot.
-and a purple lace thong makes an appearance...
I leaned back so I could admire the view, blinking to clear my vision as it grew hazy with lust. Kiss-swollen lips, creamy supple skin, long smooth legs, and the sexiest lacy, purple thong I’d ever seen in my life.
What didn't work,
-there's a serial killer plot worked into the story which just seemed completely unnecessary and I worked out pretty early on who it was,
Overall,enjoyable enough.Available on KU.
May 24, 2018
Few things turn my crank more than femme dudes/manties/cross-dressing/androgyny so the blurb alone had me hitting the BUY NOW button like I was possessed.
When said femme twink isn't opposed to being IN CHARGE during the sexy times... superlatives fail me.
THEN! the author went and threw in a 15 yr age gap. Annnndddd... I am deceased. Send cupcakes. They could revive me.
Or not.
Samuel is a fantastic father and person. He and his wife Gayle made a careless mistake when they were kids themselves and wound up in an unfortunate situation. Both of them stepped up when their parents cut them off. They embraced parenthood, became best friends and forged a solid bond but they were never in love with each other. All of which comes to the fore when their daughter Brooklyn moves away for college.
I cannot stress enough how much I appreciated how this aspect of the book was handled. Gayle isn't vilified like so often happens in these stories. The way Samuel feels about her, his responsibilities as a father, his love and devotion to his daughter and the love that he has for both of them was touching to read. He's genuinely a kind person who can be fierce if someone tries to hurt those he loves. I like em protective. And growly. And someone brings out the growls in Samuel.
Gayle suggests they go to the swap party where he meets the lovely and beguiling Oliver.
Oliver is a model on the rise to superstardom but there's more to him than meets the eye. He is sassy and beautiful with his penchant for heels, makeup, fashion including the MANTIES!!! and the occasional set of earrings. He even has some unicorn jim jams!!! Awwwwwww 😍 But he longs for his person. He's effervescent and bubbly, surrounded by people who fuss over him constantly but he's lonely and has grown tired of "the scene".
He also has needs so he ends up at the swap party and the immediate chemistry between he and Samuel took him aback a little bit. At least that was my interpretation. We were in Samuel's head at the time so... *shrugs*
The first swap party while they do not end up together per se... what does transpire caused me to break out in a light sweat. Helloooooo exhibitionism, my old friend.
Given their reaction to one another and the events of the first swap party I figured they would punch their ticket to Pound Town with a quickness but they did not. They date, end up talking until dawn, texting and calling each other and staying on the phone until one of them falls asleep which allowed the UST to build. I was surprised to be sure, but given that Samuel is a virgin I liked that they didn't sprint into anal. The sexy is still pretty potent, though, with oral, BIG GUY BOTTOMING 🤩🤩🤩🤩, frottage, and rimming. There were some references made *cough*wearing heels during*cough*using a tie for non-business related activities*cough*spanking*cough* that I sincerely wish had made it on to the page. Maybe a follow up? *begging face*
I kind of want to call their relationship instalove but I also feel like I got a front row seat to watching them fall in love too so... It happens fast to be sure but I don't feel comfortable categorizing it as instalove. Both of them are free with their emotions, aren't afraid to cry in front of the other and the way they rely on each other equally, need the comfort of the other when stressors occur made me a lil gooey in my feels. So if you're averse to sweet, almost cloyingly sweet love stories this may not be your cuppa.
The only weak spot for me was the serial killer thing which is more of a blip in the narrative and mostly happens in the background but it... wasn't great. Mostly unnecessary IMO.
This is a new to me author but I will be on the lookout for her future releases.
Recommend to... you know who you are. 😉
Pre-read squealing below.
When said femme twink isn't opposed to being IN CHARGE during the sexy times... superlatives fail me.
THEN! the author went and threw in a 15 yr age gap. Annnndddd... I am deceased. Send cupcakes. They could revive me.
Or not.
Samuel is a fantastic father and person. He and his wife Gayle made a careless mistake when they were kids themselves and wound up in an unfortunate situation. Both of them stepped up when their parents cut them off. They embraced parenthood, became best friends and forged a solid bond but they were never in love with each other. All of which comes to the fore when their daughter Brooklyn moves away for college.
I cannot stress enough how much I appreciated how this aspect of the book was handled. Gayle isn't vilified like so often happens in these stories. The way Samuel feels about her, his responsibilities as a father, his love and devotion to his daughter and the love that he has for both of them was touching to read. He's genuinely a kind person who can be fierce if someone tries to hurt those he loves. I like em protective. And growly. And someone brings out the growls in Samuel.
Gayle suggests they go to the swap party where he meets the lovely and beguiling Oliver.
Oliver is a model on the rise to superstardom but there's more to him than meets the eye. He is sassy and beautiful with his penchant for heels, makeup, fashion including the MANTIES!!! and the occasional set of earrings. He even has some unicorn jim jams!!! Awwwwwww 😍 But he longs for his person. He's effervescent and bubbly, surrounded by people who fuss over him constantly but he's lonely and has grown tired of "the scene".
He also has needs so he ends up at the swap party and the immediate chemistry between he and Samuel took him aback a little bit. At least that was my interpretation. We were in Samuel's head at the time so... *shrugs*
The first swap party while they do not end up together per se... what does transpire caused me to break out in a light sweat. Helloooooo exhibitionism, my old friend.
Given their reaction to one another and the events of the first swap party I figured they would punch their ticket to Pound Town with a quickness but they did not. They date, end up talking until dawn, texting and calling each other and staying on the phone until one of them falls asleep which allowed the UST to build. I was surprised to be sure, but given that Samuel is a virgin I liked that they didn't sprint into anal. The sexy is still pretty potent, though, with oral, BIG GUY BOTTOMING 🤩🤩🤩🤩, frottage, and rimming. There were some references made *cough*wearing heels during*cough*using a tie for non-business related activities*cough*spanking*cough* that I sincerely wish had made it on to the page. Maybe a follow up? *begging face*
I kind of want to call their relationship instalove but I also feel like I got a front row seat to watching them fall in love too so... It happens fast to be sure but I don't feel comfortable categorizing it as instalove. Both of them are free with their emotions, aren't afraid to cry in front of the other and the way they rely on each other equally, need the comfort of the other when stressors occur made me a lil gooey in my feels. So if you're averse to sweet, almost cloyingly sweet love stories this may not be your cuppa.
The only weak spot for me was the serial killer thing which is more of a blip in the narrative and mostly happens in the background but it... wasn't great. Mostly unnecessary IMO.
This is a new to me author but I will be on the lookout for her future releases.
Recommend to... you know who you are. 😉
Pre-read squealing below.
May 29, 2018
So much eye-rolling. I barely finished.
dnf
August 31, 2018DNF.
After 15+ years of reading romance I know what I like and what I don't. That doesn't mean that I won't ever challenge myself, or that I won't ever find a pleasant surprise in a story that falls outside of my zone. Unfortunately, this wasn't one of them. But your mileage may vary.
After 15+ years of reading romance I know what I like and what I don't. That doesn't mean that I won't ever challenge myself, or that I won't ever find a pleasant surprise in a story that falls outside of my zone. Unfortunately, this wasn't one of them. But your mileage may vary.
May 29, 2018
Eh, this one was just okay.
I found it all a bit cheesy, if I'm being completely honest.
It started off alright, but then I don't know, it just sort of went downhill. The blurb really lured me in, unfortunately the execution just wasn't there.
I found it all a bit cheesy, if I'm being completely honest.
It started off alright, but then I don't know, it just sort of went downhill. The blurb really lured me in, unfortunately the execution just wasn't there.
May 24, 2018
Well, this was definitely different. Evenly spaced out with the good and the bad I think.
I think the book wanted to be two, maybe three things but wasn't enough of any of them.
There was the mystery, there was the family and then there was the romance. I had such high hopes for the sinister but it wasn't really and I had that figured out immediately. Bummer.
Too much time was spent with the wife and daughter. Even just the airport scene at the beginning seemed to take forever to get through. I guess this was the set up, this was meant to have us feeling a lot and have depth, I just think there was too much of it for this book. It took me way out of the story.
The romance seemed to happen off page more than on. There was the missing each other and the inner thoughts but I don't feel like we really spent all that much time with the two of them. There was a lot of descriptions and telling but not a lot of seeing.
So, a lot of different story lines for one book. Personally, I wanted more mystery and more time with the guys.
I liked them both and I liked what they found in each other. It was believable to me and sweet. I loved all the acceptance too.
So, overall, I liked it. The beginning was hot but still odd. It worked I guess.
-------
Hmmm...I have not read this author and I am slightly skeeved out by the setup but this part of the blurb "as their relationship grows, something sinister and dark threatens what they’ve managed to build" sounds less skeevy and very, very intriguing! Fingers crossed and all the jazz.
I think the book wanted to be two, maybe three things but wasn't enough of any of them.
There was the mystery, there was the family and then there was the romance. I had such high hopes for the sinister but it wasn't really and I had that figured out immediately. Bummer.
Too much time was spent with the wife and daughter. Even just the airport scene at the beginning seemed to take forever to get through. I guess this was the set up, this was meant to have us feeling a lot and have depth, I just think there was too much of it for this book. It took me way out of the story.
The romance seemed to happen off page more than on. There was the missing each other and the inner thoughts but I don't feel like we really spent all that much time with the two of them. There was a lot of descriptions and telling but not a lot of seeing.
So, a lot of different story lines for one book. Personally, I wanted more mystery and more time with the guys.
I liked them both and I liked what they found in each other. It was believable to me and sweet. I loved all the acceptance too.
So, overall, I liked it. The beginning was hot but still odd. It worked I guess.
-------
Hmmm...I have not read this author and I am slightly skeeved out by the setup but this part of the blurb "as their relationship grows, something sinister and dark threatens what they’ve managed to build" sounds less skeevy and very, very intriguing! Fingers crossed and all the jazz.
May 28, 2018
**3.5 stars**
I can't say that I liked this book much at the beginning. In fact I was ready to DNF it a couple times but pushed myself to read anyway because I had this feeling that there will be something in this book for me to like and I was right. So, the first part of the book I didn't like much if at all. For about 40% I was disappointed. First, there was too much family history for me to read through, it should have been less for me to enjoy it. Second, the first swap party was a bust for me. Maybe I am not as adventurous as others but the whole scene there was very uncomfortable for me. I simply could not enjoy it although I really tried. Third, I was wondering when they were actually going to meet and I had to wait for that to happen but it dragged for almost half the book. I understand slow and steady wins the race but this was SLOW-SLOW for me.
But after they finally got to talk the book picked up pace and I actually enjoyed it. I really liked how Oliver and Sam were together and how hot S*E*X was between them. Sam surprised me in how he gave the lead to Oliver and Oliver didn't disappoint! It was sexy, steamy, romantic and full of feelings! I loved it all.
Then there was part where the relationship with his family took center stage again. I guess at this point it was necessary in the book and it actually made sense and added to the richness of the second part of the book. It made me like both Oliver and Sam more for how they handled the issues and how they held each other through difficult times literally and figuratively. I am glad that Sam's wife was so friendly and accepting. It made the world of difference for the overall feel of the novel.
The serial killer angle was actually a bonus for me although when he was revealed I was surprised. I first thought it was someone else. The whole issue with fashion industry and Oliver's agent added another layer to the story to make it more engaging for me. The ending was sweet and adorable. I loved how it was written and was sad for the book to end. I know, I know that I liked only the second part of the book and I am ever so happy that I didn't stop reading. So this book was not a loss for me, just a little bit of frustration in the beginning.
I can't say that I liked this book much at the beginning. In fact I was ready to DNF it a couple times but pushed myself to read anyway because I had this feeling that there will be something in this book for me to like and I was right. So, the first part of the book I didn't like much if at all. For about 40% I was disappointed. First, there was too much family history for me to read through, it should have been less for me to enjoy it. Second, the first swap party was a bust for me. Maybe I am not as adventurous as others but the whole scene there was very uncomfortable for me. I simply could not enjoy it although I really tried. Third, I was wondering when they were actually going to meet and I had to wait for that to happen but it dragged for almost half the book. I understand slow and steady wins the race but this was SLOW-SLOW for me.
But after they finally got to talk the book picked up pace and I actually enjoyed it. I really liked how Oliver and Sam were together and how hot S*E*X was between them. Sam surprised me in how he gave the lead to Oliver and Oliver didn't disappoint! It was sexy, steamy, romantic and full of feelings! I loved it all.
Then there was part where the relationship with his family took center stage again. I guess at this point it was necessary in the book and it actually made sense and added to the richness of the second part of the book. It made me like both Oliver and Sam more for how they handled the issues and how they held each other through difficult times literally and figuratively. I am glad that Sam's wife was so friendly and accepting. It made the world of difference for the overall feel of the novel.
The serial killer angle was actually a bonus for me although when he was revealed I was surprised. I first thought it was someone else. The whole issue with fashion industry and Oliver's agent added another layer to the story to make it more engaging for me. The ending was sweet and adorable. I loved how it was written and was sad for the book to end. I know, I know that I liked only the second part of the book and I am ever so happy that I didn't stop reading. So this book was not a loss for me, just a little bit of frustration in the beginning.
May 25, 2018
Romance with a twist from Annabella Michaels
This has a great premise. I loved the idea of someone meeting their soul mate at a swap party!
When I was a teenager in the 80s, wife swapping parties were things whispered about in the corridors at school with a sort of part horrified fascination as to whether they really did happen in suburbia.
The other thing I loved about this was that there was no real angsting about Samuel and Gayle's separation or Sam realising he was bisexual.
They remained good friends and, after an initial shock at finding out her parents were divorcing, even daughter Brooklyn settled into what was shaping up to be a lovely romance.
Oliver was a sweetie, kind and considerate and passionate with plans beyond just his modelling career. Him and Samuel together were just wonderful, and super hot.
Oh, and heels and lace ;) Plus May to December age gap - these guys were hot, especially as Sam explored his bisexuality.
So it was a bit of a shocker when we suddenly ended up in a bit of a suspense thriller involving a serial killer towards the last quarter of the book.
But, I have to say, I think that Annabella did pull it off. Although I did guess before the big reveal who it was going to be, it still worked well enough to have the tension if not necessarily the depth of a full on romantic suspense.
It has a super sweet epilogue too :)
This has a great premise. I loved the idea of someone meeting their soul mate at a swap party!
When I was a teenager in the 80s, wife swapping parties were things whispered about in the corridors at school with a sort of part horrified fascination as to whether they really did happen in suburbia.
The other thing I loved about this was that there was no real angsting about Samuel and Gayle's separation or Sam realising he was bisexual.
They remained good friends and, after an initial shock at finding out her parents were divorcing, even daughter Brooklyn settled into what was shaping up to be a lovely romance.
Oliver was a sweetie, kind and considerate and passionate with plans beyond just his modelling career. Him and Samuel together were just wonderful, and super hot.
Oh, and heels and lace ;) Plus May to December age gap - these guys were hot, especially as Sam explored his bisexuality.
So it was a bit of a shocker when we suddenly ended up in a bit of a suspense thriller involving a serial killer towards the last quarter of the book.
But, I have to say, I think that Annabella did pull it off. Although I did guess before the big reveal who it was going to be, it still worked well enough to have the tension if not necessarily the depth of a full on romantic suspense.
It has a super sweet epilogue too :)
May 23, 2018
I really liked this story. The relationship dynamic between Oliver and Samuel was entertaining to read. They were so flippin' adorable together. So you may ask why not 5 stars? Well I had to minus a star for the whole serial killer business that went on. I don't think it was necessary nor do I think it contributed anything to the story. It was a great story without the added extra.
*Also, don't let the fact that Samuel has a wife and daughter throw you off on this one. It is all done very well and it is not as off-putting as it may seem.*
*Also, don't let the fact that Samuel has a wife and daughter throw you off on this one. It is all done very well and it is not as off-putting as it may seem.*
May 25, 2018
3.4 Stars
This book is not going to be everyone's cuppa; not only do the MCs meet at a "swap" party (a misnomer given that some couples don't "swap" and/or don't attend already coupled up...which is why every one I've everbeen to *oops* heard of has been called a "key" party) and as such this "extracurricular sex" will be seen as "cheating" to many readers - even though the married couples agree to participate, some together, and their actions shouldn't be judged as infidelity. But mostly because I think a lot of MM readers will dislike that the first sex scene is MF.
Explicit MF.
Hot AF explicit MF. (And I don't read much MF so that should tell you something.)
For me it wasn't so much the "who was doing who" aspect as it was how the two MCs were connecting, watching, enjoying these sex shows starring each other that made it steamy. (So hot. JFC.) But I think had I not already been spoiled of this encounter by someone else's update it might have thrown me off more; as I was forewarned it wasn't a shock (and it shouldn't really be a surprise given it's a swap party and that the blurb mentions one of the MCs is possibly bisexual).
Speaking of the blurb: I have to admit that not only did the prospect of a first-time gay story hook me like a wide-mouth bass, but so did the description of Oliver. Sexy, Sassy...wearing make-up and heels? Yeah, sign me up for some of that! I couldn't wait to get to the scenes depicting what he wore...like purple lace manties. *fans self* More please!
I loved that Sam was open and honest about his attraction to men; I ADORED the communication between Sam & his wife; I wanted to highlight every supportive passage Gayle ever starred in - because OMFG how refreshing was it to NOT have a bitch/psycho/jealous ex? She was amazing...and I desperately want more of the women in MM romance titles to be treated with such respect. I loved their connection, their discussions, their united front and their dedication to each other & their daughter...and I especially loved that they were mature adults about what wasn't working in their marriage and sought to change things.
Now let's move on to what didn't work in this story.
Those great discussions & interactions between Sam & Gayle took up too much of the book. I felt like the growing relationship between Sam & Oliver took a back seat to proving how wonderful Sam was as a man, as a father, as a (potential) husband. I don't think any of the couple's scenes should have been cut back, I just wish there had been more for Sam & Oliver to balance it out...more showing and less telling about what was between them, and less time apart. (I'm not sure those overseas flights were even necessary given that the US has a Fashion Week, and lots of other fashion events...and a ton of fashion campaigns are photographed here. I also found it odd that Oliver was going to the same photographer, in the same studio, so often. Like it was an office he had to do work at, regularly. That's not usually how it works.)
Sassy and Bold Oliver didn't really act that way most of the time. He was agonizingly complacent when it came to his manager (putting his foot down on only one occassion to free up some time for Sam), sweet to his fans (even those who were a bit invasive) and wonderfully, naively excited by the prospect of finding his "forever guy" in Samuel. I'm not sure where he was supposed to be acting sassy...other than maybe in the bedroom? But even there we're only tempted with the possibilities of sassiness (like Sam wanting Oliver to fuck him while Oliver wore his high heels) (UNF, where the HELL is that scene???) or even dirty talk that was referenced but not detailed. (I WANT THE FILTHY WORDS!)
And OMFG I just can't with that serial killer sub-plot. Given the mess that Oliver's agent created, the author could have just gone with expanding on that to make the drama a little more exciting, the climax less cray and more applicable to the already unfolding story. Despite the ridiculously telegraphed red-herring, it was easy to guess who was behind the murders anyway. Completely unnecessary and distracting...I think I'd have given the book 3.6-3.8 stars without it.
So, a few things that contributed to a little bit of a miss in an otherwise really good story with some interesting characters; characters that could have been fleshed out a wee bit more but on the whole was enjoyable.
This book is not going to be everyone's cuppa; not only do the MCs meet at a "swap" party (a misnomer given that some couples don't "swap" and/or don't attend already coupled up...which is why every one I've ever
Explicit MF.
Hot AF explicit MF. (And I don't read much MF so that should tell you something.)
For me it wasn't so much the "who was doing who" aspect as it was how the two MCs were connecting, watching, enjoying these sex shows starring each other that made it steamy. (So hot. JFC.) But I think had I not already been spoiled of this encounter by someone else's update it might have thrown me off more; as I was forewarned it wasn't a shock (and it shouldn't really be a surprise given it's a swap party and that the blurb mentions one of the MCs is possibly bisexual).
Speaking of the blurb: I have to admit that not only did the prospect of a first-time gay story hook me like a wide-mouth bass, but so did the description of Oliver. Sexy, Sassy...wearing make-up and heels? Yeah, sign me up for some of that! I couldn't wait to get to the scenes depicting what he wore...like purple lace manties. *fans self* More please!
I loved that Sam was open and honest about his attraction to men; I ADORED the communication between Sam & his wife; I wanted to highlight every supportive passage Gayle ever starred in - because OMFG how refreshing was it to NOT have a bitch/psycho/jealous ex? She was amazing...and I desperately want more of the women in MM romance titles to be treated with such respect. I loved their connection, their discussions, their united front and their dedication to each other & their daughter...and I especially loved that they were mature adults about what wasn't working in their marriage and sought to change things.
Now let's move on to what didn't work in this story.
Those great discussions & interactions between Sam & Gayle took up too much of the book. I felt like the growing relationship between Sam & Oliver took a back seat to proving how wonderful Sam was as a man, as a father, as a (potential) husband. I don't think any of the couple's scenes should have been cut back, I just wish there had been more for Sam & Oliver to balance it out...more showing and less telling about what was between them, and less time apart. (I'm not sure those overseas flights were even necessary given that the US has a Fashion Week, and lots of other fashion events...and a ton of fashion campaigns are photographed here. I also found it odd that Oliver was going to the same photographer, in the same studio, so often. Like it was an office he had to do work at, regularly. That's not usually how it works.)
Sassy and Bold Oliver didn't really act that way most of the time. He was agonizingly complacent when it came to his manager (putting his foot down on only one occassion to free up some time for Sam), sweet to his fans (even those who were a bit invasive) and wonderfully, naively excited by the prospect of finding his "forever guy" in Samuel. I'm not sure where he was supposed to be acting sassy...other than maybe in the bedroom? But even there we're only tempted with the possibilities of sassiness (like Sam wanting Oliver to fuck him while Oliver wore his high heels) (UNF, where the HELL is that scene???) or even dirty talk that was referenced but not detailed. (I WANT THE FILTHY WORDS!)
And OMFG I just can't with that serial killer sub-plot. Given the mess that Oliver's agent created, the author could have just gone with expanding on that to make the drama a little more exciting, the climax less cray and more applicable to the already unfolding story. Despite the ridiculously telegraphed red-herring, it was easy to guess who was behind the murders anyway. Completely unnecessary and distracting...I think I'd have given the book 3.6-3.8 stars without it.
So, a few things that contributed to a little bit of a miss in an otherwise really good story with some interesting characters; characters that could have been fleshed out a wee bit more but on the whole was enjoyable.
April 15, 2019
the trifecta of terrible: bad writing, insta-love, and predictability.
i knew there would be insta-lust of course, but did it really have to turn into love so early? and the writing was intensely annoying - sometimes far too much descriptions of mundanity such as taking a jog, sometimes info-dumps that fit in like a square block in a round hole, and so much tell-not-showing. at one point, the author mentioned the butterfly effect and then proceeded to tell us what it was as if the world and her wife don't know what the butterfly effect is.
all of that and there's this rando killer who just seems to be there For The Drama because the author's just realised her book is boring af, and of course the killer has ~Voices~ in his head that tell him to kill people because everything was cliche as hell up until this point so the overused tropes weren't going to stop anytime soon.
skip this.
i knew there would be insta-lust of course, but did it really have to turn into love so early? and the writing was intensely annoying - sometimes far too much descriptions of mundanity such as taking a jog, sometimes info-dumps that fit in like a square block in a round hole, and so much tell-not-showing. at one point, the author mentioned the butterfly effect and then proceeded to tell us what it was as if the world and her wife don't know what the butterfly effect is.
all of that and there's this rando killer who just seems to be there For The Drama because the author's just realised her book is boring af, and of course the killer has ~Voices~ in his head that tell him to kill people because everything was cliche as hell up until this point so the overused tropes weren't going to stop anytime soon.
skip this.
May 29, 2018
2.5-3 stars
This started out pretty good. It's not often you read a story where the ex-wife is portrayed as nice and normal and supportive. I liked Samuel, and I liked Gayle. I understood how they came to be at this point in their lives and how supporting one another through to the next phase was important to them.
And the romance between Samuel and Oliver is totally sweet. They really are good together and the age difference wasn't an issue. There was a little bit of cheesy dialogue, crying, and so forth but I could deal with that.
But the wheels began to fall off for me when the serial killer plot was introduced. The best I can say about the ending was that I finished it. But there was a lot of skimming. I honestly think the story would have been better without it.
This started out pretty good. It's not often you read a story where the ex-wife is portrayed as nice and normal and supportive. I liked Samuel, and I liked Gayle. I understood how they came to be at this point in their lives and how supporting one another through to the next phase was important to them.
And the romance between Samuel and Oliver is totally sweet. They really are good together and the age difference wasn't an issue. There was a little bit of cheesy dialogue, crying, and so forth but I could deal with that.
But the wheels began to fall off for me when the serial killer plot was introduced. The best I can say about the ending was that I finished it. But there was a lot of skimming. I honestly think the story would have been better without it.
May 25, 2018
4 stars.
As soon as I saw the blurb for The Swap I knew I had to read it. It looked super unique and I'm glad I gave it a chance. I ended up loving Oliver and his sass and how amazing Sam was. Their chemistry was scorching hot and there was plenty of steamy moments.
The relationship Sam had with his daughter was precious. That made my heart melt. What I didn't end up loving that changed my rating was the twist that the author ended up including. I felt like it wasn't necessary to have.
Overall, this was definitely an enjoyable read.
As soon as I saw the blurb for The Swap I knew I had to read it. It looked super unique and I'm glad I gave it a chance. I ended up loving Oliver and his sass and how amazing Sam was. Their chemistry was scorching hot and there was plenty of steamy moments.
The relationship Sam had with his daughter was precious. That made my heart melt. What I didn't end up loving that changed my rating was the twist that the author ended up including. I felt like it wasn't necessary to have.
Overall, this was definitely an enjoyable read.
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March 17, 2020
I thought I was in the mood for fluff, but apparently not as I ended up finding this story ridiculous.
What are the odds a mid 30s couple getting a divorce, have never dated in their lifetime, chooses to go to a swap party as their first step in finding someone new? Hmm, at least I didn't find it very credible. But ok, it made for a good steamy start at least.
The first half of the story was ok, about 3 star level of fluffy porny plot. It delivered what the blurb promised, so I was fairly happy aside from small niggles** in the storyline. But when the MCs started dating each other the story completely tanked for me. Their actions were eyebrow raising illogical and shallowly portrayed to the point where I couldn't even read the rest of the steamy scenes. In hindsight I should have dnf:ed at the 40% mark.
(** )
What are the odds a mid 30s couple getting a divorce, have never dated in their lifetime, chooses to go to a swap party as their first step in finding someone new? Hmm, at least I didn't find it very credible. But ok, it made for a good steamy start at least.
The first half of the story was ok, about 3 star level of fluffy porny plot. It delivered what the blurb promised, so I was fairly happy aside from small niggles** in the storyline. But when the MCs started dating each other the story completely tanked for me. Their actions were eyebrow raising illogical and shallowly portrayed to the point where I couldn't even read the rest of the steamy scenes. In hindsight I should have dnf:ed at the 40% mark.
(** )
June 16, 2018
2.5 stars - sadly this was pretty much a surface story. There wasn’t much depth or opportunity to really feel the angst that should have come out of this storyline. Just a little too fluffy for me
March 29, 2020
Older Samuel meets gorgeous Oliver, and they are a match !
A lively, sentimental romance with extra thrills of a serial murderer, and a thief, too. No dull moments here.
Oliver is 22, a famous model, is stylish, wears eyeliner
and light makeup, a beautiful/pretty man. His agent Korey keeps his schedule jam packed.
Advertising Executive, Samuel’s terrific daughter Brooklyn, is going away to college, and then he and Gayle can go their own ways. Samuel...
Gayle’s friend runs a “key party” and Gayle and Samuel go to find a safe way to meet people. There, Samuel finds a beauty, Oliver, and each man cannot forget the other. The next party, they meet again, and leave to get to know each other.
Oliver understands that Samuel is finally ready to give in to his feelings for a man, but it’s only Oliver that excites Samuel. Their slow moving beginning is sexy and super hot. Emotions got deep and our men were deliriously happy.
So, we have Samuel’s coming out, Oliver’s empty account, a serial killer loose, and then more shocking news.
Samuel and Oliver are attacked....
This is tender and sweet, thrilling and scary, and we love every moment.
Younger/older, GFY, embezzlement, kidnapping, and more.
Highly recommended.
Enjoy !
=====
A lively, sentimental romance with extra thrills of a serial murderer, and a thief, too. No dull moments here.
Oliver is 22, a famous model, is stylish, wears eyeliner
and light makeup, a beautiful/pretty man. His agent Korey keeps his schedule jam packed.
Advertising Executive, Samuel’s terrific daughter Brooklyn, is going away to college, and then he and Gayle can go their own ways. Samuel...
Gayle’s friend runs a “key party” and Gayle and Samuel go to find a safe way to meet people. There, Samuel finds a beauty, Oliver, and each man cannot forget the other. The next party, they meet again, and leave to get to know each other.
Oliver understands that Samuel is finally ready to give in to his feelings for a man, but it’s only Oliver that excites Samuel. Their slow moving beginning is sexy and super hot. Emotions got deep and our men were deliriously happy.
So, we have Samuel’s coming out, Oliver’s empty account, a serial killer loose, and then more shocking news.
Samuel and Oliver are attacked....
This is tender and sweet, thrilling and scary, and we love every moment.
Younger/older, GFY, embezzlement, kidnapping, and more.
Highly recommended.
Enjoy !
=====
May 25, 2018
I liked the story until I didn't :( so 2.5 disappointed stars, rounded up.
What I liked:
- both MCs, Samuel and Oliver
- Samuel's ex-wife - finally not a whiny, vindictive bitch
- Samuel not making a big fuss about his bisexuality
What I didn't like:
- serial killer thread to make a story more dramatic - this ruined my pleasure of this book
What I liked:
- both MCs, Samuel and Oliver
- Samuel's ex-wife - finally not a whiny, vindictive bitch
- Samuel not making a big fuss about his bisexuality
What I didn't like:
- serial killer thread to make a story more dramatic - this ruined my pleasure of this book
May 22, 2018
I'm a fan of Annabella Michaels. I've read all her books and each is unique and always gives me perfect closure and happiness. There's a signature an author puts on a book that makes it their own and Annabella does that.
The Swap is different from any of her other books in my honest opinion. There's mystery, suspense, romance, and humor. It's a great balance and it's all the qualities I look for in any book.
Oliver and Samuel are absolutely adorable and every time they were on page together I simply melted. I adored the ensemble in this book and the amazing support Oliver and Samuel had throughout.
But, within this gorgeous romance is a sinister darkness, one that for a lot of this book simply floats there. It pokes at you in a few spots and then bam, it's in your face and you're dealing with it. It was that moment I admittedly gasped and was so pleasantly surprised how Annabella Michaels was able to keep me on my toes.
I love when an author surprises me in the most delicious way and I love when I walk away from a book thinking they really did it perfectly.
I very much recommend this book to the romance lovers but also to those who like a little mystery suspense to their stories.
The Swap is different from any of her other books in my honest opinion. There's mystery, suspense, romance, and humor. It's a great balance and it's all the qualities I look for in any book.
Oliver and Samuel are absolutely adorable and every time they were on page together I simply melted. I adored the ensemble in this book and the amazing support Oliver and Samuel had throughout.
But, within this gorgeous romance is a sinister darkness, one that for a lot of this book simply floats there. It pokes at you in a few spots and then bam, it's in your face and you're dealing with it. It was that moment I admittedly gasped and was so pleasantly surprised how Annabella Michaels was able to keep me on my toes.
I love when an author surprises me in the most delicious way and I love when I walk away from a book thinking they really did it perfectly.
I very much recommend this book to the romance lovers but also to those who like a little mystery suspense to their stories.
May 26, 2018
Really? That totally unnecessary serial-killer thingie.... Even I was able to figure out who dunnit.
* Story - 2 stars*
*Oliver & Samual - 1 star*
~~~~
*Total - 3 stars* because Oliver & Samual were cute..
May 28, 2018
Love the concept - fresh! And there really wasn't any bi-bashing in here. The sexual tension was so thick - it was palpable and the first voyeurism scene was uber (UBER) hot. In spite of the fact these two had nothing in common they just work. Recommended. I wanted it to be longer!
May 14, 2021
Wow! Ok so I'm going to be upfront here. I did not expect to love this book. I figured it was just going to ok but I was pleasantly surprised. I couldn't put this thing down. I mean everything about it just hit me hard. Oliver and Samuel are nothing like you expect them to be, based on assumptions you make when you hear what someone does for a living etc. They are both small town boys from different generations who share one important thing in common, they just want to fall in love and be happy.
How they meet was an interesting twist you don't often see and the development of their relationship was also well done considering there was so much going on in their lives. The obstacles in their personal lives were real ones and they were woven in nicely into the romance. Honestly I didn't even mind the whole big disastrous event/mystery. I just really enjoyed them as a couple so I think I was willing to overlook things I usually don't like in books. This book probably won't be for everyone but my love for it revolves around the two men. This was an unexpected 4 stars for me.
How they meet was an interesting twist you don't often see and the development of their relationship was also well done considering there was so much going on in their lives. The obstacles in their personal lives were real ones and they were woven in nicely into the romance. Honestly I didn't even mind the whole big disastrous event/mystery. I just really enjoyed them as a couple so I think I was willing to overlook things I usually don't like in books. This book probably won't be for everyone but my love for it revolves around the two men. This was an unexpected 4 stars for me.
May 24, 2018
** 2.5 stars **
September 7, 2018
The List
Swinger-ish (swapping) ✔
M/F couple not-in-love ✔
M/F couple not-in-love w/a kid ✔
Empty nesters ✔
Latent bisexuality (though arguably it's more like soft bi for fems in Sam's case) ✔
Fem/masc ideas challenged but not explored ✔
Insta-luuuuuurve ✔
Insta-lust ✔✔✔
Age difference ✔
Big Bad x 2! ✔
Serial killer ✔
Cops ✔
Don't get me started on procedural details and/or HIPAA laws.
Loved the MCs, but this was a plot-reality trainwreck for a contemporary title. The feels were there, character development would have been decent if it were consistent, and...yeah. That's it
It desperately needs some research to boost realism. Too much flush-it trope fictionality for me, here.
TP anyone? Get a roll. You'll need one.
Swinger-ish (swapping) ✔
M/F couple not-in-love ✔
M/F couple not-in-love w/a kid ✔
Empty nesters ✔
Latent bisexuality (though arguably it's more like soft bi for fems in Sam's case) ✔
Fem/masc ideas challenged but not explored ✔
Insta-luuuuuurve ✔
Insta-lust ✔✔✔
Age difference ✔
Big Bad x 2! ✔
Serial killer ✔
Cops ✔
Don't get me started on procedural details and/or HIPAA laws.
Loved the MCs, but this was a plot-reality trainwreck for a contemporary title. The feels were there, character development would have been decent if it were consistent, and...yeah. That's it
It desperately needs some research to boost realism. Too much flush-it trope fictionality for me, here.
TP anyone? Get a roll. You'll need one.
November 14, 2020
2.5 stars
June 1, 2021
3.75
Oh well this was a nice surprise 😍
I love Annabella Michaels' style and when i found out she was about to release The Swap- Masquerade, i thought it was time to read this one, that's been on my kindle for more than a year i guess...
[Just to be clear the two books are stand alones]
The beginning of the story was a bit slow for me, so it took me a bit to connect with it...
However the moment Oliver and Samuel met, the chemestry, the sweetness between the two of them caught my attention and made me swoon and grin like an idiot.
What surprise me the most and hocked me to the book was the thriller part: i didn’t expect it at all but it made the story more interesting, and gave me that rush of adrenaline and "dread" i'm getting addicted to.
Oh well this was a nice surprise 😍
I love Annabella Michaels' style and when i found out she was about to release The Swap- Masquerade, i thought it was time to read this one, that's been on my kindle for more than a year i guess...
[Just to be clear the two books are stand alones]
The beginning of the story was a bit slow for me, so it took me a bit to connect with it...
However the moment Oliver and Samuel met, the chemestry, the sweetness between the two of them caught my attention and made me swoon and grin like an idiot.
What surprise me the most and hocked me to the book was the thriller part: i didn’t expect it at all but it made the story more interesting, and gave me that rush of adrenaline and "dread" i'm getting addicted to.
May 25, 2018
DNF @ 51% ... I just could not continue, for quite a few VERY legitimate reasons ...
Update #1: // There is a ridiculous amount of TELL in this book and nowhere close to enough SHOW!! Samuel refers back to us in terms of telling us about his connection with Oliver, and basically, everything about their relationship reads as a retelling of what has happened or what's about to happen, and I am displeased!!
I don't want to take anyone's word for it, I don't want the author's, Oliver's, or Samuel's word for it!! I want to WITNESS/GO THROUGH the progression of things as they happen, WITH the MCs!!
So far, mmmmm I am not THAT impressed with the execution here :-/!
I am really bummed by the way, because I was WAAAAAY ready to adore this book!! The blurb sounds awesome, the premise sounds great, and I had a lot of faith in this author's ability to REALLY BRING IT with this one!! BUT the overall execution here so far leaves a lot to be desired in that again, WAY too much tell and BARELY ANY SHOW!!!!
Once again, I want to experience everything with and through the MCs as they happen, I want to feel like I am a part of it; like I'm privy to the inner workings and happenings of their relationship! I DON'T want a retelling/recount a few days or weeks after something supposedly happened between Oliver and Samuel :-/!! All this tell and totally bombing on the SHOW, really destroys a reading experience for me, because - aside from the obvious reasons - I have never been one to rely on someone else's word! I need to SEE it in this circumstance and it just makes what I'm reading feel a tad unreliable!! I'm bummed!!
Update #2: // You know what? I've had enough!! Also, what on earth is the point of this whole serial killer side-plot?!!?
This author is seemingly barely paying much attention to the ACTUAL plot in terms of giving us proper QUALITY time with the MCs, that I think it's overreaching and incredibly unnecessary to give us some half-baked, slipshod serial killer plot!! Let me SEE your characters, let me experience their relationship, let me witness the organic progression of what's happening between them?!!? I feel very cheated out of what COULD have been a great story, and it's a MASSIVE BUMMER to have to give this book the rating I have, because I think Annabella Michaels is really great!!
But I HAVE to be honest here!!
So I reached 51% and I'm done, I've had enough!! This is my DNF point!! If something amazing happened after this point, then in my mind it's too little too late, because I cannot continue with this book!!
There ARE updates as well, as always!!
SPOILER ALERT!!! SPOILER ALERT!!! SPOILER ALERT!!!
*** The below is NOT a review ... just musings and thought-dumping as I continue ... ***
BTW - This had ABSOLUTELY ZERO impact on my rating ... this [the below] was NOT EVEN A FACTOR!!
I REALLY would have appreciated a warning about an M/F scene here!! As completely focused as Samuel and Oliver are on one another [they’re not together in this scene but are definitely watching one another, and imagining it was that person they were with], I would have appreciated a solid heads up and not have had to read about Samuel fucking a really aggressive woman [he was so focused on Oliver, I don't think he would have noticed that he himself was fucking ANYONE else in that moment; the woman was the aggressor and enjoyed the fruits of Samuel's laser focus on Oliver]!! So yeah, I would have appreciated a heads up because I WOULD have liked to know - though fairly enough, there wasn't much emphasis on it and that M/F moment seemed entirely marginal [Samuel was turned on by Oliver and someone else just made the most of that attracting, but in Samuel's mind, he was fucking Oliver], and there weren't many details AT ALL!! There were minute mechanical details to let us know what was happening, but they were SOOOO minuscule and entirely outside the realm of being the focal point [like it had to be said, but the author tried to spare us as much as possible, and gave as little detail as possible - something I am VERY glad about], that it didn't BOTHER me to the point where I said "Okay, I don't want to continue at all"! I skimmed through that part ... seriously, I do NOT want women sexually/romantically connected with the men in my M/M books, and it was all good in the end; I am glad it's over and I anticipate neither one of them being with ANYONE else again (once they get together)!!
Oliver was also totally focused on Samuel too by the way :-)!!
I WILL SAY THIS THOUGH, EVERYTHING IN THE SWAP PARTY WAS DONE/EXPLAINED VERY TASTEFULLY AND ELOQUENTLY THE AUTHOR DID A GREAT JOB HERE!! SHE BROUGHT ATTENTION TO WHAT NEEDED ATTENTION [TO SET UP THE REST OF THE BOOK IN TERMS OF OLIVER AND SAMUEL], AND SPARED US THE GORY DETAILS [SO TO SPEAK] OF WHAT WAS NOT IMPORTANT, NOT DIRECTLY RELATED, AND NOT THE POINT OF THE BOOK [IN TERMS OF ANYONE OUTSIDE OF THE MCS]!! The two are not together yet [I am only at 30%] and I anticipate this is where they DO get together and this is the absolute last time they're with anyone else [it only happened ONCE when these two meet and it WAS absolutely necessary and important in terms of setting the scene and vibe and plot of the book]!! So yeah, it's definitely ALL GOOD but now I want THEIR story to begin and I want them TOGETHER [with these types of get togethers a very definite thing of the past, which is very obviously something they're both terrific with]!!! THOUGH they aren't together YET, it's VERY clear they are VERY interested in one another and that all they want is the opportunity to be with EACH OTHER!! So I am thinking if there IS another party, they ONLY go because they need the opportunity in order to be TOGETHER [which of course is where the party ends and THEIR love-story begins] :-D!!
********************************************
This is @ around 34% ...
Favorite moment in this book ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️!!
YAYYYYYYYYYYY!! SEEEEEEE :-)?!? I HAD to copy this whole moment because I ABSOLUTELY ADORED IT ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️!!
“He made a sound in the back of his throat, somewhere between a whimper and a purr and I felt something inside me fall into place.
Everything I’d ever imagined this moment would be, everything I’d ever dreamed of, fell short of the reality of kissing Oliver. He wrapped his arms around my shoulders, pulling me in closer. His tight little body wasn’t at all what I was used to, but it fit against mine like it was always meant to be. His lips were soft and warm, and my legs began to shake as his tongue swiped over my bottom lip, urging me to open to him.
My arms went around his waist and my hands slid up and down his spine, feeling the taut muscles in his back and the warmth of his skin seeping through the thin layer of his shirt. I felt the first sweep of his tongue against my own and my body felt like it was going to burst into flames. Someone moaned. It might have been me, but I couldn’t be sure because my head felt dizzy and my skin felt too tight.
Neither of us were in a hurry to end the kiss, but an unexpected rumbling had me pulling back. The look on Oliver’s face was pure mortification and his head landed on my chest.
“I’m sorry. That’s so embarrassing. I didn’t have time to eat today,” he said, his voice sounding muffled as he spoke into my shirt. I pulled away from him, so I could see his face. His lips were wet and swollen and it took everything in me not to haul him back in for another kiss.
“Why didn’t you eat today?”
“I just got back from a business trip this morning. I was so tired, I fell asleep right away. When I woke up, it was getting late, and I didn’t want to miss…” His eyes widened, and his words trailed off as if he hadn’t meant to say that much.
“You didn’t want to miss what?” I urged.
“You,” he answered. I felt like my smile was going to split my face in two, so I leaned in and gave him another kiss instead.
“I would’ve waited for you,” I whispered in his ear. He shivered against me and started to pull me in for another kiss, but his stomach made another noisy plea just then.
“Alright, get your shoes on,” I told him. “I’m taking you to get something to eat. That is, if you’re comfortable with that.” Oliver nodded his head without any hesitation then he brushed past me as he walked over, sat down and began sliding his boots on.
“I can drive us, if you want. I never bothered to drop my keys in the bowl,” he admitted shyly.
“That’s okay. Neither did I.” I held mine up, so he could see them, and we exchanged grins. No one paid us any attention as we slipped out of the pool house and around the side of the house to where the cars were parked.”
Update #1: // There is a ridiculous amount of TELL in this book and nowhere close to enough SHOW!! Samuel refers back to us in terms of telling us about his connection with Oliver, and basically, everything about their relationship reads as a retelling of what has happened or what's about to happen, and I am displeased!!
I don't want to take anyone's word for it, I don't want the author's, Oliver's, or Samuel's word for it!! I want to WITNESS/GO THROUGH the progression of things as they happen, WITH the MCs!!
So far, mmmmm I am not THAT impressed with the execution here :-/!
I am really bummed by the way, because I was WAAAAAY ready to adore this book!! The blurb sounds awesome, the premise sounds great, and I had a lot of faith in this author's ability to REALLY BRING IT with this one!! BUT the overall execution here so far leaves a lot to be desired in that again, WAY too much tell and BARELY ANY SHOW!!!!
Once again, I want to experience everything with and through the MCs as they happen, I want to feel like I am a part of it; like I'm privy to the inner workings and happenings of their relationship! I DON'T want a retelling/recount a few days or weeks after something supposedly happened between Oliver and Samuel :-/!! All this tell and totally bombing on the SHOW, really destroys a reading experience for me, because - aside from the obvious reasons - I have never been one to rely on someone else's word! I need to SEE it in this circumstance and it just makes what I'm reading feel a tad unreliable!! I'm bummed!!
Update #2: // You know what? I've had enough!! Also, what on earth is the point of this whole serial killer side-plot?!!?
This author is seemingly barely paying much attention to the ACTUAL plot in terms of giving us proper QUALITY time with the MCs, that I think it's overreaching and incredibly unnecessary to give us some half-baked, slipshod serial killer plot!! Let me SEE your characters, let me experience their relationship, let me witness the organic progression of what's happening between them?!!? I feel very cheated out of what COULD have been a great story, and it's a MASSIVE BUMMER to have to give this book the rating I have, because I think Annabella Michaels is really great!!
But I HAVE to be honest here!!
So I reached 51% and I'm done, I've had enough!! This is my DNF point!! If something amazing happened after this point, then in my mind it's too little too late, because I cannot continue with this book!!
There ARE updates as well, as always!!
SPOILER ALERT!!! SPOILER ALERT!!! SPOILER ALERT!!!
*** The below is NOT a review ... just musings and thought-dumping as I continue ... ***
BTW - This had ABSOLUTELY ZERO impact on my rating ... this [the below] was NOT EVEN A FACTOR!!
I REALLY would have appreciated a warning about an M/F scene here!! As completely focused as Samuel and Oliver are on one another [they’re not together in this scene but are definitely watching one another, and imagining it was that person they were with], I would have appreciated a solid heads up and not have had to read about Samuel fucking a really aggressive woman [he was so focused on Oliver, I don't think he would have noticed that he himself was fucking ANYONE else in that moment; the woman was the aggressor and enjoyed the fruits of Samuel's laser focus on Oliver]!! So yeah, I would have appreciated a heads up because I WOULD have liked to know - though fairly enough, there wasn't much emphasis on it and that M/F moment seemed entirely marginal [Samuel was turned on by Oliver and someone else just made the most of that attracting, but in Samuel's mind, he was fucking Oliver], and there weren't many details AT ALL!! There were minute mechanical details to let us know what was happening, but they were SOOOO minuscule and entirely outside the realm of being the focal point [like it had to be said, but the author tried to spare us as much as possible, and gave as little detail as possible - something I am VERY glad about], that it didn't BOTHER me to the point where I said "Okay, I don't want to continue at all"! I skimmed through that part ... seriously, I do NOT want women sexually/romantically connected with the men in my M/M books, and it was all good in the end; I am glad it's over and I anticipate neither one of them being with ANYONE else again (once they get together)!!
Oliver was also totally focused on Samuel too by the way :-)!!
I WILL SAY THIS THOUGH, EVERYTHING IN THE SWAP PARTY WAS DONE/EXPLAINED VERY TASTEFULLY AND ELOQUENTLY THE AUTHOR DID A GREAT JOB HERE!! SHE BROUGHT ATTENTION TO WHAT NEEDED ATTENTION [TO SET UP THE REST OF THE BOOK IN TERMS OF OLIVER AND SAMUEL], AND SPARED US THE GORY DETAILS [SO TO SPEAK] OF WHAT WAS NOT IMPORTANT, NOT DIRECTLY RELATED, AND NOT THE POINT OF THE BOOK [IN TERMS OF ANYONE OUTSIDE OF THE MCS]!! The two are not together yet [I am only at 30%] and I anticipate this is where they DO get together and this is the absolute last time they're with anyone else [it only happened ONCE when these two meet and it WAS absolutely necessary and important in terms of setting the scene and vibe and plot of the book]!! So yeah, it's definitely ALL GOOD but now I want THEIR story to begin and I want them TOGETHER [with these types of get togethers a very definite thing of the past, which is very obviously something they're both terrific with]!!! THOUGH they aren't together YET, it's VERY clear they are VERY interested in one another and that all they want is the opportunity to be with EACH OTHER!! So I am thinking if there IS another party, they ONLY go because they need the opportunity in order to be TOGETHER [which of course is where the party ends and THEIR love-story begins] :-D!!
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This is @ around 34% ...
Favorite moment in this book ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️!!
YAYYYYYYYYYYY!! SEEEEEEE :-)?!? I HAD to copy this whole moment because I ABSOLUTELY ADORED IT ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️!!
“He made a sound in the back of his throat, somewhere between a whimper and a purr and I felt something inside me fall into place.
Everything I’d ever imagined this moment would be, everything I’d ever dreamed of, fell short of the reality of kissing Oliver. He wrapped his arms around my shoulders, pulling me in closer. His tight little body wasn’t at all what I was used to, but it fit against mine like it was always meant to be. His lips were soft and warm, and my legs began to shake as his tongue swiped over my bottom lip, urging me to open to him.
My arms went around his waist and my hands slid up and down his spine, feeling the taut muscles in his back and the warmth of his skin seeping through the thin layer of his shirt. I felt the first sweep of his tongue against my own and my body felt like it was going to burst into flames. Someone moaned. It might have been me, but I couldn’t be sure because my head felt dizzy and my skin felt too tight.
Neither of us were in a hurry to end the kiss, but an unexpected rumbling had me pulling back. The look on Oliver’s face was pure mortification and his head landed on my chest.
“I’m sorry. That’s so embarrassing. I didn’t have time to eat today,” he said, his voice sounding muffled as he spoke into my shirt. I pulled away from him, so I could see his face. His lips were wet and swollen and it took everything in me not to haul him back in for another kiss.
“Why didn’t you eat today?”
“I just got back from a business trip this morning. I was so tired, I fell asleep right away. When I woke up, it was getting late, and I didn’t want to miss…” His eyes widened, and his words trailed off as if he hadn’t meant to say that much.
“You didn’t want to miss what?” I urged.
“You,” he answered. I felt like my smile was going to split my face in two, so I leaned in and gave him another kiss instead.
“I would’ve waited for you,” I whispered in his ear. He shivered against me and started to pull me in for another kiss, but his stomach made another noisy plea just then.
“Alright, get your shoes on,” I told him. “I’m taking you to get something to eat. That is, if you’re comfortable with that.” Oliver nodded his head without any hesitation then he brushed past me as he walked over, sat down and began sliding his boots on.
“I can drive us, if you want. I never bothered to drop my keys in the bowl,” he admitted shyly.
“That’s okay. Neither did I.” I held mine up, so he could see them, and we exchanged grins. No one paid us any attention as we slipped out of the pool house and around the side of the house to where the cars were parked.”
June 4, 2018
3.75 Stars
May 25, 2018
This is my first book by this author. It was good but I did guess the killer early in the book. But unfortunately, my mind always goes to who the killer is..hehe. I thought they both were sweet together.
May 31, 2018
Ehhh... It was ok. It started with promising steam than then decreased as the story went on.
Not sure about the killer part of the plot. It didn’t add much to the story, I saw it coming from miles away and I could have done without it. In my opinion, the author could have done more for the book by developing more the two main characters and their relationship.
Free with Kindle Unlimited
Not sure about the killer part of the plot. It didn’t add much to the story, I saw it coming from miles away and I could have done without it. In my opinion, the author could have done more for the book by developing more the two main characters and their relationship.
Free with Kindle Unlimited
May 21, 2020
3.5*
I enjoyed The Swap. I thought the premise was a fun way for the 2 characters to meet- especially considering Samuel was apparently straight. At least he's presented himself that way since he's been married. We do learn a little more about that part of his life as the story goes along, and it helped to put into perspective his feelings upon meeting Oliver.
He and Oliver are definite opposites, as well as having a bit of an age gap between them, but I liked how they fit together. They complemented each other well.
I really liked Sam's wife and daughter- they were very supportive when he told them about Oliver. It was nice to see a couple able to acknowledge their differences and move on like adults, the way he and Gayle did.
The "sinister and dark" thing that threatened Oliver and Sam was a little too underdeveloped for me. It could have been a great addition to the storyline, if it had been given more "face time". But it just felt kind of thrown in there as filler, never really living up to its potential.
Overall, this was an easy read, a nice story about finding yourself and falling in love in the process.
I enjoyed The Swap. I thought the premise was a fun way for the 2 characters to meet- especially considering Samuel was apparently straight. At least he's presented himself that way since he's been married. We do learn a little more about that part of his life as the story goes along, and it helped to put into perspective his feelings upon meeting Oliver.
He and Oliver are definite opposites, as well as having a bit of an age gap between them, but I liked how they fit together. They complemented each other well.
I really liked Sam's wife and daughter- they were very supportive when he told them about Oliver. It was nice to see a couple able to acknowledge their differences and move on like adults, the way he and Gayle did.
The "sinister and dark" thing that threatened Oliver and Sam was a little too underdeveloped for me. It could have been a great addition to the storyline, if it had been given more "face time". But it just felt kind of thrown in there as filler, never really living up to its potential.
Overall, this was an easy read, a nice story about finding yourself and falling in love in the process.
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