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Hearts and Health #2
Bedside Manner
Dr. Paul Johnston can't get a set of dark, somber eyes out of his head, and the timing couldn't be worse.
The last thing he needs is to fall for a patient. Not now, when he's been put on paid leave pending review of a formal complaint. One that accuses him of sexual impropriety of some kind. It's possible he let his newfound freedom as a divorced, out-of-the-closet gay man go to his head, but he's certain -- mostly -- he didn't do anything wrong. Now, he's struggling to handle the reality that his job is in danger and the only guy he wants should be off-limits.
Zane Kavanaugh is floundering, and there's only one man who soothes the storm inside him.
Reeling from an assault that landed him in the hospital and the painful estrangement from his family since coming out, Zane is trying to get his feet under him. He moves in with a roommate and searches for a job, all while recovering from a fractured arm and cracked ribs. None of that hurts as much as the emotional damage he's suffered. When he connects with Dr. Paul Johnston outside of the ER, he's drawn to the man's calm, collected manner. It doesn't hurt that Paul's lack of experience with men is sexy as hell, and so are his over-the-top responses when Zane gets his lips on him.
There's no right time to fall in love.
Paul is afraid to start a relationship, and Zane can only handle so much more rejection. Will these two find their perfect moment, or will they realize you can't choose when and how you fall in love? If Paul can't take a risk, he may have to choose: the career he loves or the first man to capture his heart.
The last thing he needs is to fall for a patient. Not now, when he's been put on paid leave pending review of a formal complaint. One that accuses him of sexual impropriety of some kind. It's possible he let his newfound freedom as a divorced, out-of-the-closet gay man go to his head, but he's certain -- mostly -- he didn't do anything wrong. Now, he's struggling to handle the reality that his job is in danger and the only guy he wants should be off-limits.
Zane Kavanaugh is floundering, and there's only one man who soothes the storm inside him.
Reeling from an assault that landed him in the hospital and the painful estrangement from his family since coming out, Zane is trying to get his feet under him. He moves in with a roommate and searches for a job, all while recovering from a fractured arm and cracked ribs. None of that hurts as much as the emotional damage he's suffered. When he connects with Dr. Paul Johnston outside of the ER, he's drawn to the man's calm, collected manner. It doesn't hurt that Paul's lack of experience with men is sexy as hell, and so are his over-the-top responses when Zane gets his lips on him.
There's no right time to fall in love.
Paul is afraid to start a relationship, and Zane can only handle so much more rejection. Will these two find their perfect moment, or will they realize you can't choose when and how you fall in love? If Paul can't take a risk, he may have to choose: the career he loves or the first man to capture his heart.
238 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 7, 2017
197 people are currently reading
408 people want to read
About the author
D.J. Jamison
83 books995 followersDJ Jamison writes a variety of queer men finding extraordinary love through M/M Romance! She is a lifelong reader and has always loved writing and editing, with a ten-year journalism career before she began publishing romance. She has books in ebook, print, and audio, as well as German, French, and Italian translations.
DJ lives in Kansas with her husband, two sons, and a sadistic cat named Birdie.
Join DJ's mailing list at http://tinyurl.com/DJandCompany
Join her FB group at www.facebook.com/groups/DJandCompany
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DJ lives in Kansas with her husband, two sons, and a sadistic cat named Birdie.
Join DJ's mailing list at http://tinyurl.com/DJandCompany
Join her FB group at www.facebook.com/groups/DJandCompany
Follow her on Ko-Fi for bonus content: www.ko-fi.com/ReadingDJ
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 137 reviews
March 14, 2017
Supposedly, this book can be read as a standalone, but I felt like I was missing something.
Paul and Zane's story begins in the last book of another series. Paul, who comes out of the closet and gets a divorce at age 39, is an ER doctor who hits on a nurse, Ben, at work.
The backstory is summarized here, but the consequences of Paul's behavior (he's put on paid leave while a sexual harassment suit against him is investigated) are the main plot point.
Zane, a college student, is violently attacked by his stepfather after coming out to his mother. I should have felt more sympathy for Zane, but he was kind of a flat character.
I liked Paul much more. He made a mistake with Ben, but he was a genuinely sweet and caring guy.
I appreciated the dual POV, but I never felt that spark between Paul and Zane, although their flirting was cute. The ending is HFN; I needed more to believe the relationship would last.
Paul and Zane's story begins in the last book of another series. Paul, who comes out of the closet and gets a divorce at age 39, is an ER doctor who hits on a nurse, Ben, at work.
The backstory is summarized here, but the consequences of Paul's behavior (he's put on paid leave while a sexual harassment suit against him is investigated) are the main plot point.
Zane, a college student, is violently attacked by his stepfather after coming out to his mother. I should have felt more sympathy for Zane, but he was kind of a flat character.
I liked Paul much more. He made a mistake with Ben, but he was a genuinely sweet and caring guy.
I appreciated the dual POV, but I never felt that spark between Paul and Zane, although their flirting was cute. The ending is HFN; I needed more to believe the relationship would last.
March 8, 2017
Everyone is talking about the huge age gap between the characters in this book, but while I was reading it, I don't feel it at all. I think it might be due to Dr. Paul Johnston inexperience with men and only just came out of the closet. I wish I actually read the previous book Heart Trouble to know about what he did there that make the nurses in the hospital hate him and resulting in a sexual harassment complaint. I thought Paul is very endearing with his nurturing nature and his protectiveness towards Zane, a patient he hardly knows.
Zane recently got assaulted by his stepfather that landed him in the ER under the care of Paul. When Paul turned up again in his life via their common friend, Zane just sorta hit on him. I find their attraction believable, but there isn't a decent build up before they start jumping each other bones. I did enjoyed reading their friendly and flirty interaction, especially their bedroom shenanigans and their new dog Polka Dot. The only serious issue we dealt with is mainly Paul's career that is hanging by the rope. The last thing he needs while on paid vacation is to hook up with an ex-patient. Zane doesn't expect much from Paul due to his low self worth, but Paul might just prove he is worth fighting for.
Zane recently got assaulted by his stepfather that landed him in the ER under the care of Paul. When Paul turned up again in his life via their common friend, Zane just sorta hit on him. I find their attraction believable, but there isn't a decent build up before they start jumping each other bones. I did enjoyed reading their friendly and flirty interaction, especially their bedroom shenanigans and their new dog Polka Dot. The only serious issue we dealt with is mainly Paul's career that is hanging by the rope. The last thing he needs while on paid vacation is to hook up with an ex-patient. Zane doesn't expect much from Paul due to his low self worth, but Paul might just prove he is worth fighting for.
March 3, 2018
Very Nice Surprise
I was very surprised that I liked this so much. We were introduced to Paul in book 1, and he came off as a pervy creep to me. I really didn't know how he would redeem himself. It turns out, he is just lonely and scared. He is going through a divorce after denying his sexuality for his whole life. He has almost no experience, and is overwhelmed by his freedom to try dating. He ended up being a stand up guy. Zane has aged overnight after coming out and being rejected by his family. They are almost 20 years apart, but connect on many levels. Paul admires Zane's bravery, and Paul offers a stability to Zane's anguish and severe anger. They matched quite nicely. I will be continuing the series for sure.
I was very surprised that I liked this so much. We were introduced to Paul in book 1, and he came off as a pervy creep to me. I really didn't know how he would redeem himself. It turns out, he is just lonely and scared. He is going through a divorce after denying his sexuality for his whole life. He has almost no experience, and is overwhelmed by his freedom to try dating. He ended up being a stand up guy. Zane has aged overnight after coming out and being rejected by his family. They are almost 20 years apart, but connect on many levels. Paul admires Zane's bravery, and Paul offers a stability to Zane's anguish and severe anger. They matched quite nicely. I will be continuing the series for sure.
November 6, 2017
Well that was different. I honestly can't decide if I kinda liked it or really did not. The author's writing style was actually very good, but the characters were decidedly unlikable. I definitely didn't really care if they got their HEA or not, and I wasn't 100% sure that wasn't actually the author's intention all along..? A part of me has a morbid curiosity to read the story of Gage and Ben - but I probably won't. There are too many great books out there to waste my time.
April 10, 2021
This book was not for me. I was annoyed of the characters the whole time, especially Paul. I quit several times but then convinced myself to finish the book, but I was happy when it finally was over.
I did not like Zane nor Paul. Zane was a pushy teenager and Paul behaved like a creepy old man.
I did not like Zane nor Paul. Zane was a pushy teenager and Paul behaved like a creepy old man.
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March 9, 2017
*~~*ARC kindly provided by the author to me in exchange for an honest review *~~*
I was really happy when I got the info that Zane got his own book.
We get to know him in Heart Trouble, the 6th book in the Ashe Sentinel series.
Zane is a really interesting figure, I was wondering how he is displayed and we knew he didn't have it easy.
This fact is taken in the book and it's the first thing we get to know when we start the book as reader.
It is really great, how D.J. Jamison developes the book, how she gives an insight so you can read this book totally as a stand alone but I would - to get all the features of the character - suggest to read at least Heart Trouble first or after.
I really liked the chemistry right from the start between Paul, Zane's temporary doctor in the ER, when he was hurt - physically as well as emotional.
Despite his behaviour in Heart Trouble I could relate to Paul very soon, he is a guy who has his own problems and it's a pity that he is not well treaten by other people because of his own actions in the past. He had my sympathy and especially Gabe gave Paul hard times but also Xavier, Zane's friend and roommate.
The age gap is a constant conflict in the book, next to the "I lived a life in the closed"-statement by Paul. Zane isn't bothered by Paul's age, he sees behind the stoic facade Paul often shows. And both connect on a deep level.
It is charming how fast but how slow on the other hand the relationship blossomed. Especially that both character really show vulnerability, which is touching and really honest.
I could go further but the charme is to read it by yourself. I can recommend this book to everybody who loves coming-out stories and - as an icing on the cake - with an older gay virgin. This aspect is very sensitive displayed and I loved the scenes between Zane and Paul.
I am really looking forward to read the book about Xavier, he seems also to have a lot to carry.
I enjoyed this story so much, therefore I can totally give 5 out of 5 stars.
Review originally posted on my blog with added content Mikku-chan / A world full of words
I was really happy when I got the info that Zane got his own book.
We get to know him in Heart Trouble, the 6th book in the Ashe Sentinel series.
Zane is a really interesting figure, I was wondering how he is displayed and we knew he didn't have it easy.
This fact is taken in the book and it's the first thing we get to know when we start the book as reader.
It is really great, how D.J. Jamison developes the book, how she gives an insight so you can read this book totally as a stand alone but I would - to get all the features of the character - suggest to read at least Heart Trouble first or after.
I really liked the chemistry right from the start between Paul, Zane's temporary doctor in the ER, when he was hurt - physically as well as emotional.
Despite his behaviour in Heart Trouble I could relate to Paul very soon, he is a guy who has his own problems and it's a pity that he is not well treaten by other people because of his own actions in the past. He had my sympathy and especially Gabe gave Paul hard times but also Xavier, Zane's friend and roommate.
The age gap is a constant conflict in the book, next to the "I lived a life in the closed"-statement by Paul. Zane isn't bothered by Paul's age, he sees behind the stoic facade Paul often shows. And both connect on a deep level.
It is charming how fast but how slow on the other hand the relationship blossomed. Especially that both character really show vulnerability, which is touching and really honest.
I could go further but the charme is to read it by yourself. I can recommend this book to everybody who loves coming-out stories and - as an icing on the cake - with an older gay virgin. This aspect is very sensitive displayed and I loved the scenes between Zane and Paul.
I am really looking forward to read the book about Xavier, he seems also to have a lot to carry.
I enjoyed this story so much, therefore I can totally give 5 out of 5 stars.
Review originally posted on my blog with added content Mikku-chan / A world full of words
March 27, 2017
Bedside Manner takes an age gap romance and gives it a bit of a twist. Zane is a young college student, but after coming out to his family, then being assaulted, he’s been through a hell of a lot more than most guys his age-giving him an unexpected level of maturity at his age. Paul is a successful ER doctor, but he is pretty new to his out-of-the-closet status-so even though he is almost twenty years older than Zane, he is inexperienced in this new aspect of his life.
This setup gives the characters a chance to not only work through the expected age-gap issues (he’s too young for you, you still have your whole life ahead of you; he’s too old for you, you should stick with guys your own age—of course these things being brought up by people other than Paul and Zane themselves), but to also have a bit of role reversal thanks to their individual experiences. They both help guide each other on their individual journeys, while in the end sharing the journey together as a couple.
Paul and Zane are a bit awkward together at first, and the review Paul is under at work puts quite a bit of strain on both of them and their new relationship. When they are together, the chemistry sizzles—but the issues they face keep cropping up to leave doubts and interfere, even more so than their friends and family. Gage and Ben’s characters added quite a lot to the story, from their unconditional support of Zane to their disapproval of Zane and Paul’s relationship, to their eventual acceptance. Zane’s father was more difficult to deal with, not so much in regards to Zane and Paul being together, but just with the fact that Zane is gay. All of these things lent drama to the story—balanced out by the sweet, fun way Paul and Zane are when they are together.
I really enjoyed this story, and would recommend it to any M/M romance fan, especially if you like age gap romances. Bedside Manner gets a 4-star rating from me, and I look forward to reading more in this series. This story is for readers 18+ for adult language, M/M sexual content, and touching on some serious subject matter regarding coming out and Zane’s assault-which was handled quite well within the story.
This setup gives the characters a chance to not only work through the expected age-gap issues (he’s too young for you, you still have your whole life ahead of you; he’s too old for you, you should stick with guys your own age—of course these things being brought up by people other than Paul and Zane themselves), but to also have a bit of role reversal thanks to their individual experiences. They both help guide each other on their individual journeys, while in the end sharing the journey together as a couple.
Paul and Zane are a bit awkward together at first, and the review Paul is under at work puts quite a bit of strain on both of them and their new relationship. When they are together, the chemistry sizzles—but the issues they face keep cropping up to leave doubts and interfere, even more so than their friends and family. Gage and Ben’s characters added quite a lot to the story, from their unconditional support of Zane to their disapproval of Zane and Paul’s relationship, to their eventual acceptance. Zane’s father was more difficult to deal with, not so much in regards to Zane and Paul being together, but just with the fact that Zane is gay. All of these things lent drama to the story—balanced out by the sweet, fun way Paul and Zane are when they are together.
I really enjoyed this story, and would recommend it to any M/M romance fan, especially if you like age gap romances. Bedside Manner gets a 4-star rating from me, and I look forward to reading more in this series. This story is for readers 18+ for adult language, M/M sexual content, and touching on some serious subject matter regarding coming out and Zane’s assault-which was handled quite well within the story.
February 19, 2018
3.5 Stars reviewed as part of 3 volume set.
I struggled with this one a bit because the author included some great, very thoughtful topics, from both Zane and Paul’s viewpoints. It was about coming out in the midst of homophobia and fear, Zane’s experience as a young man, and Paul as an older, once married, closeted man, and the way other people judge and make assumptions. I disliked some of the plot’s execution, such as too many scenes of Paul pushing Zane away, but really liked the portrayals of particular topic points in the narrative. Ben and Gage were awful in this story, well-meaning perhaps, but judgy and interfering. I didn’t care for the portrayal of the shrewish ex-wife either; it’s a stereotype used too often with this trope. More personal was the adoption of a highly active dog by an ER doctor with an uncertain work schedule. Who’s going to care for the dog?! Just sayin’. Because it’s a mix of personal bias and what I saw as legitimate faults, I’m going to go with 3.5 Stars.
* ARC was provided by the author, publisher or promotional service and I have chosen to publish a fair and honest review for Hearts On Fire Reviews blog*
I struggled with this one a bit because the author included some great, very thoughtful topics, from both Zane and Paul’s viewpoints. It was about coming out in the midst of homophobia and fear, Zane’s experience as a young man, and Paul as an older, once married, closeted man, and the way other people judge and make assumptions. I disliked some of the plot’s execution, such as too many scenes of Paul pushing Zane away, but really liked the portrayals of particular topic points in the narrative. Ben and Gage were awful in this story, well-meaning perhaps, but judgy and interfering. I didn’t care for the portrayal of the shrewish ex-wife either; it’s a stereotype used too often with this trope. More personal was the adoption of a highly active dog by an ER doctor with an uncertain work schedule. Who’s going to care for the dog?! Just sayin’. Because it’s a mix of personal bias and what I saw as legitimate faults, I’m going to go with 3.5 Stars.
* ARC was provided by the author, publisher or promotional service and I have chosen to publish a fair and honest review for Hearts On Fire Reviews blog*
May 5, 2017
Jamison successfully redeems her jerk doctor from book one
3.5*
I loved how DJ successfully managed to transform book one's slightly creepy and somewhat jerkish Dr Paul into a truly kind and caring man.
Misunderstandings, fear and inexperience had led him to act like an idiot but meeting Zane after he'd been assaulted by his step-dad gave Paul a jolt and watching this unlikely pairing fall in love was lovely.
There's also double virgin sex in this one which was handled with care, emotionally rewarding and fully of passion.
Another beautiful cover helps to add to the attractiveness of this series.
3.5*
I loved how DJ successfully managed to transform book one's slightly creepy and somewhat jerkish Dr Paul into a truly kind and caring man.
Misunderstandings, fear and inexperience had led him to act like an idiot but meeting Zane after he'd been assaulted by his step-dad gave Paul a jolt and watching this unlikely pairing fall in love was lovely.
There's also double virgin sex in this one which was handled with care, emotionally rewarding and fully of passion.
Another beautiful cover helps to add to the attractiveness of this series.
February 9, 2019
There is likely more going on in this book than there needs to be even though the topics here are interesting.
The central romance between Zane and Paul is engaging. With the other plot lines of the sexual harassment accusation and the family drama, those characters and moments needed more depth to fulling engaging and Zane's friends did not always act consistently.
So, this book ended up just being okay.
The central romance between Zane and Paul is engaging. With the other plot lines of the sexual harassment accusation and the family drama, those characters and moments needed more depth to fulling engaging and Zane's friends did not always act consistently.
So, this book ended up just being okay.
May 16, 2022
This is my second book in this series. I was really looking forward to Zane’s story, but I’m afraid it wasn’t what I was hoping for. I really wanted to root for Zane and Paul, but most of the time they just seemed to be pushing each other away. Oh, well, I didn’t hate it.
November 21, 2017
What a great book.
I appreciated this story for its sense of realism right from the start. Both MCs are both frustratingly lovable and terribly flawed, each with detailed and justifiable backstories that shed light on the development of these juxtapositions within their personalities. They are also perfectly mismatched, if that makes any sense. With an 18 year age discrepancy, they are in glaringly different stages in life, a sobering reality both are all too aware of. To complicate things further, their romance is just this side of inappropriate, as they formally shared a doctor/patient relationship (for about 5 minutes in the E.R.) In other words, it shouldn't have worked. Their relationship should have been destined for heartbreak or disaster.
However, the troubled men connected where it was important. Their hearts and minds were in sync. Both reeling from disastrous and painful severed relationships, both were lonely & lost and suffering from battered self esteem. Even as they questioned their own self-worth and deservability of a loving romantic relationship, they inadvertently became each other's path to healing and intimacy. Through they questioned the wisdom of their partnership from day one, as they say, the heart wants what the heart wants.
I encourage fans of M/M Romance to explore the world of the quietly handsome and restrained Dr. Paul Johnston and the sexy, raw and impulsive college student, Zane Kavanaugh. I hope you enjoy getting to know these engaging MCs as they struggle to defy all odds in their quest to find happiness together.
*Available on Kindle Unlimited*
I appreciated this story for its sense of realism right from the start. Both MCs are both frustratingly lovable and terribly flawed, each with detailed and justifiable backstories that shed light on the development of these juxtapositions within their personalities. They are also perfectly mismatched, if that makes any sense. With an 18 year age discrepancy, they are in glaringly different stages in life, a sobering reality both are all too aware of. To complicate things further, their romance is just this side of inappropriate, as they formally shared a doctor/patient relationship (for about 5 minutes in the E.R.) In other words, it shouldn't have worked. Their relationship should have been destined for heartbreak or disaster.
However, the troubled men connected where it was important. Their hearts and minds were in sync. Both reeling from disastrous and painful severed relationships, both were lonely & lost and suffering from battered self esteem. Even as they questioned their own self-worth and deservability of a loving romantic relationship, they inadvertently became each other's path to healing and intimacy. Through they questioned the wisdom of their partnership from day one, as they say, the heart wants what the heart wants.
I encourage fans of M/M Romance to explore the world of the quietly handsome and restrained Dr. Paul Johnston and the sexy, raw and impulsive college student, Zane Kavanaugh. I hope you enjoy getting to know these engaging MCs as they struggle to defy all odds in their quest to find happiness together.
*Available on Kindle Unlimited*
November 7, 2018
Sometimes, Priorities can be the Key to Love!
Trauma, involuntary paid leave, dysfunctional family dynamics all play a part in the Zane & Paul love story. I liked the MCs, although Paul was a bit passive-aggression and a bit immature. The pacing was a slow wind. I didn’t quite feel the I loves were authentic. However, this was a readable, somewhat sweet tale.
Trauma, involuntary paid leave, dysfunctional family dynamics all play a part in the Zane & Paul love story. I liked the MCs, although Paul was a bit passive-aggression and a bit immature. The pacing was a slow wind. I didn’t quite feel the I loves were authentic. However, this was a readable, somewhat sweet tale.
November 24, 2024
Voto: 2.5
Non ce la faccio a dargli la sufficienza, non vedevo l'ora che finisse. Da una parte ho trovato degli ottimi punti di partenza, dall'altra ho visto uno svolgimento atroce e dall'altra parte ancora ho visto alcuni bei messaggi, ma tirando le somme è stata una sofferenza leggerlo, quindi nope.
Come rovinare il pg più interessante del primo libro? L'autore ci è riuscito alla grande. Zane aveva tutte le potenzialità per trattare il coming out in una famiglia che ti disprezza. Insomma, è stato picchiato dal patrigno e allontanato di casa dal padre. Invece se ne parla soltanto nell'epilogo, ed è comunque solo un accenno. Anche se l'epilogo devo dire che mi è piaciuto. Per tutto il libro Zane non fa che essere un ragazzino testardo, arrabbiato e impulsivo, che avrebbe anche senso, considerate le vicende, ma non c'è alcuna evoluzione, nessun passo avanti o indietro. E la relazione con Paul non aiuta. Perché lui si intestardisce a caso che gli piace Paul, ma da dove esce sta cosa non si sa.
In realtà trovo che abbia senso che per mettere da parte le cose brutte che gli sono successe lui si butti su altro. E sarebbe stato ottimo se non fosse che si impunta su Paul come se ne valesse della sua vita, quando si sono visti 3 volte e hanno scambiato 5 messaggi in croce molto vuoti di contenuto. E le volte che si sono visti è sempre stato un "voglio saltarti addosso" "anche io ma non posso". Quindi di cosa stiamo parlando? Non si sa. Zane stesso dice che loro due sono quei due che si sono quasi saltati addosso, giochini di bocca sul divano ma non sanno NULLA l'uno dell'altro. E lo dice tipo oltre il 60%, facciamoci due domande.
Anche per Paul aveva molto senso l'attaccamento a Zane come nuovo punto di partenza dopo aver finalmente gettato via la maschera del finto etero. Peccato che ne sia rimasto folgorato mentre Zane era finito in pronto soccorso pestato come non so cosa. E la prima scena è Paul che pensa che non ha ancora avuto modo di constatare se ha un bel sedere dato che lo ha visto solo sdraiato. Viscido a dir poco. Anche il fatto che dica che gli piacciono solo giovani. Un conto avere una specie di kink ma che li vuoi solo giovani... E stiamo parlando di 20 contro 39 anni. Io che gli age gap mal li sopporto... Trovo che darmi una spiegazione del genere sia ancora più viscida.
Tra parentesi, age gap che non si percepisce. Ma in negativo. Perché Paul è smaritto per gran parte del libro, Zane è un ragazzino invece in tutto e per tutto. Tra l'altro Zane mai fatto s3ss0 con qualcuno e qui è super intraprendente, da uomo vissuto. Ok, va bene.
Comunque, Paul si ritrova attaccato a Zane per il nulla. È solo una fissa, ma ehi, dopo due settimane ne è già innamorato perso da rinunciare al suo lavoro! Ooookay... Lavoro che per tutto il libro è stato il motivo per cui non cedere alle sue attenzioni. Decidi, Paul.
L'unica cosa intelligente che fa è proprio sul finale, con quella clausola del contratto che non ha assolutamente senso e la penso come lui. Una robina a caso che ha voluto mettere l'autore per aggiungere l'ostacolo prima dell'happy ending.
Al contrario, Xavier mi ispira come personaggio, speriamo non rovini anche lui. Mi sa di persona un po' autodistruttiva. Ben e Gage invece sempre cuccioli come nel primo libro.
Che altro dire? Non molto. Sapevo che non mi sarebbe piaciuto, ma non perché il libro stesso è stato trattato così male. Alla fine ha gettato all'aria tutti i buoni intenti e le buone tematiche che avrebbe dovuto trattare. E ancora mi chiedo come faccia il quarto a essere tra i miei libri preferiti del 2024. Forse non è capace a usare personaggi adulti.
Non ce la faccio a dargli la sufficienza, non vedevo l'ora che finisse. Da una parte ho trovato degli ottimi punti di partenza, dall'altra ho visto uno svolgimento atroce e dall'altra parte ancora ho visto alcuni bei messaggi, ma tirando le somme è stata una sofferenza leggerlo, quindi nope.
Come rovinare il pg più interessante del primo libro? L'autore ci è riuscito alla grande. Zane aveva tutte le potenzialità per trattare il coming out in una famiglia che ti disprezza. Insomma, è stato picchiato dal patrigno e allontanato di casa dal padre. Invece se ne parla soltanto nell'epilogo, ed è comunque solo un accenno. Anche se l'epilogo devo dire che mi è piaciuto. Per tutto il libro Zane non fa che essere un ragazzino testardo, arrabbiato e impulsivo, che avrebbe anche senso, considerate le vicende, ma non c'è alcuna evoluzione, nessun passo avanti o indietro. E la relazione con Paul non aiuta. Perché lui si intestardisce a caso che gli piace Paul, ma da dove esce sta cosa non si sa.
In realtà trovo che abbia senso che per mettere da parte le cose brutte che gli sono successe lui si butti su altro. E sarebbe stato ottimo se non fosse che si impunta su Paul come se ne valesse della sua vita, quando si sono visti 3 volte e hanno scambiato 5 messaggi in croce molto vuoti di contenuto. E le volte che si sono visti è sempre stato un "voglio saltarti addosso" "anche io ma non posso". Quindi di cosa stiamo parlando? Non si sa. Zane stesso dice che loro due sono quei due che si sono quasi saltati addosso, giochini di bocca sul divano ma non sanno NULLA l'uno dell'altro. E lo dice tipo oltre il 60%, facciamoci due domande.
Anche per Paul aveva molto senso l'attaccamento a Zane come nuovo punto di partenza dopo aver finalmente gettato via la maschera del finto etero. Peccato che ne sia rimasto folgorato mentre Zane era finito in pronto soccorso pestato come non so cosa. E la prima scena è Paul che pensa che non ha ancora avuto modo di constatare se ha un bel sedere dato che lo ha visto solo sdraiato. Viscido a dir poco. Anche il fatto che dica che gli piacciono solo giovani. Un conto avere una specie di kink ma che li vuoi solo giovani... E stiamo parlando di 20 contro 39 anni. Io che gli age gap mal li sopporto... Trovo che darmi una spiegazione del genere sia ancora più viscida.
Tra parentesi, age gap che non si percepisce. Ma in negativo. Perché Paul è smaritto per gran parte del libro, Zane è un ragazzino invece in tutto e per tutto. Tra l'altro Zane mai fatto s3ss0 con qualcuno e qui è super intraprendente, da uomo vissuto. Ok, va bene.
Comunque, Paul si ritrova attaccato a Zane per il nulla. È solo una fissa, ma ehi, dopo due settimane ne è già innamorato perso da rinunciare al suo lavoro! Ooookay... Lavoro che per tutto il libro è stato il motivo per cui non cedere alle sue attenzioni. Decidi, Paul.
L'unica cosa intelligente che fa è proprio sul finale, con quella clausola del contratto che non ha assolutamente senso e la penso come lui. Una robina a caso che ha voluto mettere l'autore per aggiungere l'ostacolo prima dell'happy ending.
Al contrario, Xavier mi ispira come personaggio, speriamo non rovini anche lui. Mi sa di persona un po' autodistruttiva. Ben e Gage invece sempre cuccioli come nel primo libro.
Che altro dire? Non molto. Sapevo che non mi sarebbe piaciuto, ma non perché il libro stesso è stato trattato così male. Alla fine ha gettato all'aria tutti i buoni intenti e le buone tematiche che avrebbe dovuto trattare. E ancora mi chiedo come faccia il quarto a essere tra i miei libri preferiti del 2024. Forse non è capace a usare personaggi adulti.
October 18, 2020
Romance and Fantasy for Cosmopolitan Girls
Il primo libro di questa serie, Heart trouble, non mi aveva emozionata positivamente perché avevo trovato davvero insopportabile uno dei protagonisti. Volendo dare una nuova possibilità a questa autrice, mi sono subito fiondata su questo seguito perché, dalle premesse, la storia di Zane e Paul aveva davvero del gran potenziale. Ammetto di non esserne rimasta delusa anche se non pienamente soddisfatta. Ho adorato sia Zane che Paul che, nonostante i diciotto anni di differenza, sono dolci ed ingenui allo stesso modo. Paul mi ha fatto una grande tenerezza, il suo meravigliarsi ancora per un bacio a trentanove anni e la sua costante mancanza di autostima. Zane è stato altrettanto dolce con la sua rabbia per nascondere le insicurezze, il suo temere di venir respinto sempre e comunque, la paura di non essere abbastanza. Due uomini davvero feriti dalla vita anche se per motivi completamente diversi. Infatti, ciò che attrae inizialmente Paul è la forza dimostrata da Zane, il suo mettere tutto a rischio per poter essere sé stesso alla luce del sole, l’esatto opposto di ciò che ha fatto lo stesso Paul per quasi tutta la vita.
Il pov alternato permette di approfondire entrambi i protagonisti anche se, in alcuni casi, certe situazioni vengono trattate troppo superficialmente, almeno a mio parere. Comunque, il personaggio di Paul, con la sua fragilità, mi ha colpita sicuramente più di Ben e la crociata dell’ospedale contro di lui l’ho trovata davvero meschina; sicuramente è una situazione che ha saputo emozionarmi vista la rabbia che mi ha suscitato, avrei voluto poter difendere Paul e schierarmi dalla sua parte.
Ricompaiono in scena anche Ben e Gage, i protagonisti del capitolo precedente della serie e Ben non mi è magicamente diventato più simpatico. Sono sicuramente di grande aiuto e supporto a Ben, ma decisamente soffocanti con le loro buone intenzioni.
Sicuramente si tratta di un libro ben scritto e scorrevole, ricco di emozioni in un susseguirsi di alti e bassi per poter arrivare al meritato lieto fine. Una lettura da portare sotto l’ombrellone per godersi la fine della stagione estiva o per evadere un po’ dallo stress durante la pausa pranzo al lavoro.
Il primo libro di questa serie, Heart trouble, non mi aveva emozionata positivamente perché avevo trovato davvero insopportabile uno dei protagonisti. Volendo dare una nuova possibilità a questa autrice, mi sono subito fiondata su questo seguito perché, dalle premesse, la storia di Zane e Paul aveva davvero del gran potenziale. Ammetto di non esserne rimasta delusa anche se non pienamente soddisfatta. Ho adorato sia Zane che Paul che, nonostante i diciotto anni di differenza, sono dolci ed ingenui allo stesso modo. Paul mi ha fatto una grande tenerezza, il suo meravigliarsi ancora per un bacio a trentanove anni e la sua costante mancanza di autostima. Zane è stato altrettanto dolce con la sua rabbia per nascondere le insicurezze, il suo temere di venir respinto sempre e comunque, la paura di non essere abbastanza. Due uomini davvero feriti dalla vita anche se per motivi completamente diversi. Infatti, ciò che attrae inizialmente Paul è la forza dimostrata da Zane, il suo mettere tutto a rischio per poter essere sé stesso alla luce del sole, l’esatto opposto di ciò che ha fatto lo stesso Paul per quasi tutta la vita.
Il pov alternato permette di approfondire entrambi i protagonisti anche se, in alcuni casi, certe situazioni vengono trattate troppo superficialmente, almeno a mio parere. Comunque, il personaggio di Paul, con la sua fragilità, mi ha colpita sicuramente più di Ben e la crociata dell’ospedale contro di lui l’ho trovata davvero meschina; sicuramente è una situazione che ha saputo emozionarmi vista la rabbia che mi ha suscitato, avrei voluto poter difendere Paul e schierarmi dalla sua parte.
Ricompaiono in scena anche Ben e Gage, i protagonisti del capitolo precedente della serie e Ben non mi è magicamente diventato più simpatico. Sono sicuramente di grande aiuto e supporto a Ben, ma decisamente soffocanti con le loro buone intenzioni.
Sicuramente si tratta di un libro ben scritto e scorrevole, ricco di emozioni in un susseguirsi di alti e bassi per poter arrivare al meritato lieto fine. Una lettura da portare sotto l’ombrellone per godersi la fine della stagione estiva o per evadere un po’ dallo stress durante la pausa pranzo al lavoro.
December 5, 2025
Penso che “Bedside Manner – Edizione italiana” di DJ Jamison, secondo volume della serie “Hearts and Health”, vada letto subito dopo il libro precedente per essere apprezzato fino in fondo.
La storia continua in maniera sensata, va a sviluppare gli elementi appassionanti e intriganti lasciati in sospeso: cosa succede dopo il primo periodo dal coming out in contesti di accettazione e non? E quali sono i suoi significati? Questo l’ho percepito come interessante perché non viene fatto con troppo sentimentalismo, ma con la testa e non con il cuore. Non mi ha però emozionato perché trovo che la vicenda sia resa in modo troppo delicato attraverso la sua descrizione semplice e lo stile di scrittura non l’ha arricchicchito.
Infine Paul mi sembra dica troppo spesso a Zane che non possono stare insieme.
Non mi è piaciuto molto, forse se l’avessi letto vicinissimo all’altro testo mi sarei sentita ancora coinvolta dalla narrazione.
Mony
La storia continua in maniera sensata, va a sviluppare gli elementi appassionanti e intriganti lasciati in sospeso: cosa succede dopo il primo periodo dal coming out in contesti di accettazione e non? E quali sono i suoi significati? Questo l’ho percepito come interessante perché non viene fatto con troppo sentimentalismo, ma con la testa e non con il cuore. Non mi ha però emozionato perché trovo che la vicenda sia resa in modo troppo delicato attraverso la sua descrizione semplice e lo stile di scrittura non l’ha arricchicchito.
Infine Paul mi sembra dica troppo spesso a Zane che non possono stare insieme.
Non mi è piaciuto molto, forse se l’avessi letto vicinissimo all’altro testo mi sarei sentita ancora coinvolta dalla narrazione.
Mony
November 1, 2021
RILETTURA 2021
***
Voto 4+/5
“Bedside Manner” è il rapporto tra medico e paziente ed è il tema centrale, oltre che il titolo, del secondo volume di questa serie.
Zane Kavanaugh è stato un personaggio importante nel primo volume: studente intelligente, sfrontato e malizioso, era stata una pedina essenziale nell’evoluzione della relazione tra Ben e Gage. I due uomini, a loro volta, lo avevano aiutato ad affrontare i suoi difficili problemi familiari: rifiutato dal padre, picchiato selvaggiamente dal patrigno, deluso dall’atteggiamento indifferente della madre, tutto per essersi dichiarato omosessuale.
“Bedside Manner” è, dunque, la storia di questo ventenne deluso e arrabbiato, appena dimesso dall’ospedale dopo essere stato ricoverato a seguito del pestaggio del patrigno. Le ferite esterne sono in via di guarigione, ma quelle interne faticano a cicatrizzarsi, soprattutto per il dolore di aver visto tutta la sua famiglia voltargli le spalle.
Zane può sempre contare sull’aiuto dei suoi amici Ben e Gage, che lo sommergono di affetto (a volte anche eccessivo) e somigliano sempre di più a due figure genitoriali. Il romanzo prende, infatti, avvio con i due uomini che accompagnano il ragazzo a casa del padre per poter recuperare mobili ed effetti personali e trasferirsi a casa del suo miglior amico Xavier. La relazione con i genitori è ormai compromessa sebbene il padre stia cercando in tutti i modi di recuperare un dialogo con il figlio. A Zane non rimane, dunque, che cercare di andare avanti.
Il dott. Paul Johnston ha sempre represso la propria omosessualità per timore delle reazioni dei propri parenti bigotti, si è sposato con una donna realizzando un matrimonio infelice, a trentanove anni ha finalmente compreso di aver sprecato parte della propria vita e ha deciso di divorziare facendo coming out: «Andò fino al camino di proposito, con la rabbia che sobbolliva dentro di lui per aver ridotto la sua vita in quello stato. Per aver tenuto nascosta la sua omosessualità e aver perso, a un certo punto della sua vita, ben più della sua identità sessuale. Aveva sovvertito i propri sentimenti, le speranze e i sogni a favore di un'apparenza pacata, quella di un dottore sposato con una moglie carina, ma superficiale»
Il ritrovato entusiasmo nei confronti della propria sessualità lo induce a tenere comportamenti sul luogo di lavoro considerati da qualcuno inopportuni, sebbene del tutto innocui, e questo inizia a procurargli qualche problema. Ma quando i suoi occhi incrociano lo sguardo profondo e triste di Zane, appena ricoverato al pronto soccorso, non riesce più a togliersi dalla testa quel bellissimo ragazzo.
Zane e Paul si incontrano nuovamente durante il trasloco a casa di Xavier e il ragazzo con la consueta sfrontatezza gli dà il suo numero di telefono dando vita a un rapporto di amicizia fatto di scambi di messaggi e confidenze. Paul vorrebbe evitare di intraprendere una relazione con un ex paziente, soprattutto in un momento in cui è in corso un’indagine su una sua eventuale condotta lavorativa inappropriata che lo ha portato a un periodo di congedo retribuito, ma gli risulta sempre più difficile stare lontano da Zane e mantenere il loro rapporto su un piano puramente platonico, considerata l’attrazione reciproca sempre più forte.
Questo secondo volume è sicuramente più intenso, introspettivo e sofferto rispetto al primo: Paul e Zane sono due protagonisti con una situazione difficile che condiziona i loro comportamenti e rende difficile poter essere felici insieme. Eppure il loro rapporto diventa sempre più intenso proprio perché ciascuno dei due riesce a trovare nell’altro un porto sicuro, in cui può sentirsi speciale e amato e non più rifiutato e disprezzato per la propria natura.
Paul riesce finalmente ad abbattere quel muro di solitudine interiore che si era costruito attorno durante gli anni in cui aveva negato il proprio essere, il confronto con Zane lo porta sempre di più ad accettarsi, a considerale normale una relazione con un altro uomo, a sentirsi meno solo: «Paul appoggiò il telefono e sbadigliò. Era la prima volta che si sentiva così rilassato da quando era stato messo in congedo retribuito. Forse ora anche lui sarebbe riuscito a dormire. Era bello sapere che, mentre appoggiava la testa sul cuscino e chiudeva gli occhi, Zane stava facendo lo stesso. Lo faceva sentire meno solo»
Zane, a sua volta, con la sua natura vulcanica ed esuberante, con la rabbia e il desiderio di non essere compatito, riesce a trovare in Paul qualcuno che sappia davvero come venirgli incontro nel modo giusto, un’ancora di salvezza cui aggrapparsi per affrontare con più serenità la propria esistenza: «Paul lo tranquillizzava e in quei giorni Zane era una tempesta di emozioni confuse. Passava dallo star bene all'essere furioso, per poi essere così triste da domandarsi se valesse la pena alzarsi dal letto. Paul era come la crema emolliente per le pelli bruciate e desquamate».
“Bedside Manner” è un romanzo che mi ha davvero coinvolto ed emozionato, un gap generazionale che affronta diverse tematiche importanti, tra cui l’omofobia e l’accettazione di sé, e mostra il rafforzarsi reciproco dei sentimenti dei due protagonisti, il loro migliorarsi a vicenda, l’acquisita consapevolezza che quando si ama una persona vale la pena correre qualsiasi rischio: «Paul avrebbe voluto dirgli che per lui valeva la pena correre il rischio. Che ogni giorno che passavano assieme capiva sempre di più che se mai avesse dovuto scegliere non ci sarebbe stata scelta. Voleva Zane nella sua vita e non avrebbe mai potuto abbandonare quel senso di completezza che stava scoprendo»
***
Voto 4+/5
“Bedside Manner” è il rapporto tra medico e paziente ed è il tema centrale, oltre che il titolo, del secondo volume di questa serie.
Zane Kavanaugh è stato un personaggio importante nel primo volume: studente intelligente, sfrontato e malizioso, era stata una pedina essenziale nell’evoluzione della relazione tra Ben e Gage. I due uomini, a loro volta, lo avevano aiutato ad affrontare i suoi difficili problemi familiari: rifiutato dal padre, picchiato selvaggiamente dal patrigno, deluso dall’atteggiamento indifferente della madre, tutto per essersi dichiarato omosessuale.
“Bedside Manner” è, dunque, la storia di questo ventenne deluso e arrabbiato, appena dimesso dall’ospedale dopo essere stato ricoverato a seguito del pestaggio del patrigno. Le ferite esterne sono in via di guarigione, ma quelle interne faticano a cicatrizzarsi, soprattutto per il dolore di aver visto tutta la sua famiglia voltargli le spalle.
Zane può sempre contare sull’aiuto dei suoi amici Ben e Gage, che lo sommergono di affetto (a volte anche eccessivo) e somigliano sempre di più a due figure genitoriali. Il romanzo prende, infatti, avvio con i due uomini che accompagnano il ragazzo a casa del padre per poter recuperare mobili ed effetti personali e trasferirsi a casa del suo miglior amico Xavier. La relazione con i genitori è ormai compromessa sebbene il padre stia cercando in tutti i modi di recuperare un dialogo con il figlio. A Zane non rimane, dunque, che cercare di andare avanti.
Il dott. Paul Johnston ha sempre represso la propria omosessualità per timore delle reazioni dei propri parenti bigotti, si è sposato con una donna realizzando un matrimonio infelice, a trentanove anni ha finalmente compreso di aver sprecato parte della propria vita e ha deciso di divorziare facendo coming out: «Andò fino al camino di proposito, con la rabbia che sobbolliva dentro di lui per aver ridotto la sua vita in quello stato. Per aver tenuto nascosta la sua omosessualità e aver perso, a un certo punto della sua vita, ben più della sua identità sessuale. Aveva sovvertito i propri sentimenti, le speranze e i sogni a favore di un'apparenza pacata, quella di un dottore sposato con una moglie carina, ma superficiale»
Il ritrovato entusiasmo nei confronti della propria sessualità lo induce a tenere comportamenti sul luogo di lavoro considerati da qualcuno inopportuni, sebbene del tutto innocui, e questo inizia a procurargli qualche problema. Ma quando i suoi occhi incrociano lo sguardo profondo e triste di Zane, appena ricoverato al pronto soccorso, non riesce più a togliersi dalla testa quel bellissimo ragazzo.
Zane e Paul si incontrano nuovamente durante il trasloco a casa di Xavier e il ragazzo con la consueta sfrontatezza gli dà il suo numero di telefono dando vita a un rapporto di amicizia fatto di scambi di messaggi e confidenze. Paul vorrebbe evitare di intraprendere una relazione con un ex paziente, soprattutto in un momento in cui è in corso un’indagine su una sua eventuale condotta lavorativa inappropriata che lo ha portato a un periodo di congedo retribuito, ma gli risulta sempre più difficile stare lontano da Zane e mantenere il loro rapporto su un piano puramente platonico, considerata l’attrazione reciproca sempre più forte.
Questo secondo volume è sicuramente più intenso, introspettivo e sofferto rispetto al primo: Paul e Zane sono due protagonisti con una situazione difficile che condiziona i loro comportamenti e rende difficile poter essere felici insieme. Eppure il loro rapporto diventa sempre più intenso proprio perché ciascuno dei due riesce a trovare nell’altro un porto sicuro, in cui può sentirsi speciale e amato e non più rifiutato e disprezzato per la propria natura.
Paul riesce finalmente ad abbattere quel muro di solitudine interiore che si era costruito attorno durante gli anni in cui aveva negato il proprio essere, il confronto con Zane lo porta sempre di più ad accettarsi, a considerale normale una relazione con un altro uomo, a sentirsi meno solo: «Paul appoggiò il telefono e sbadigliò. Era la prima volta che si sentiva così rilassato da quando era stato messo in congedo retribuito. Forse ora anche lui sarebbe riuscito a dormire. Era bello sapere che, mentre appoggiava la testa sul cuscino e chiudeva gli occhi, Zane stava facendo lo stesso. Lo faceva sentire meno solo»
Zane, a sua volta, con la sua natura vulcanica ed esuberante, con la rabbia e il desiderio di non essere compatito, riesce a trovare in Paul qualcuno che sappia davvero come venirgli incontro nel modo giusto, un’ancora di salvezza cui aggrapparsi per affrontare con più serenità la propria esistenza: «Paul lo tranquillizzava e in quei giorni Zane era una tempesta di emozioni confuse. Passava dallo star bene all'essere furioso, per poi essere così triste da domandarsi se valesse la pena alzarsi dal letto. Paul era come la crema emolliente per le pelli bruciate e desquamate».
“Bedside Manner” è un romanzo che mi ha davvero coinvolto ed emozionato, un gap generazionale che affronta diverse tematiche importanti, tra cui l’omofobia e l’accettazione di sé, e mostra il rafforzarsi reciproco dei sentimenti dei due protagonisti, il loro migliorarsi a vicenda, l’acquisita consapevolezza che quando si ama una persona vale la pena correre qualsiasi rischio: «Paul avrebbe voluto dirgli che per lui valeva la pena correre il rischio. Che ogni giorno che passavano assieme capiva sempre di più che se mai avesse dovuto scegliere non ci sarebbe stata scelta. Voleva Zane nella sua vita e non avrebbe mai potuto abbandonare quel senso di completezza che stava scoprendo»
September 22, 2019
Fun age gap story between newly-divorced ER doctor Paul and Zane, a victim of a violent anti-LGBT assault by his stepfather. Paul initially resists the advances of the young man who was briefly his patient in the ER, but Zane is persistent... Ben and Gage (from Heart Trouble - HH#1) are here to offer support to Zane, who turns up the heat on Paul. The prescription written is for a love potion that must be filled... despite an obstacle or two. The audiobook narrated by Kenneth Obi, who gets all the voices right, is a blast.
Read
July 10, 2024I'm not a huge fan of big age gap books, and this one was particularly uncomfortable since one of the MCs was painted as kind of a creep. 19 years is a lot, especially when we're talking about a 20-year-old kid with a 39-year-old man. I mean... the brain isn't even fully matured until you're 25.
August 3, 2019
Poor story, poor plot, poor reading too.
that's it.
that's it.
October 28, 2021
Dnf at 72 % I have 50 pages left to read and I don't want to read anymore. It is probably a 3,5 stars because one of the MC is a doormat 😅
August 21, 2022
RECENSIONE A CURA DI LADY MARMELADE
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December 25, 2017
If you’re not into younger/older romances – this one revolves around 21-year-old Zane and 39-year-old Paul – then this one isn’t for you. I frankly have no issues with it – in fiction as in life, you don’t pick who you fall in love with or why – and Zane is wise beyond his chronological years, even if he still harbors some youthful relationship insecurity. Paul is just learning how to love – really, also learning how to freely live his life as the gay man he is, instead of hiding beyond others’ expectations and misplaced feelings of inferiority. Together, through bumps, dips, vulnerabilities, fear, and simply not knowing what to do, they eventually figure things out. One thing remains constant: their evolving – and genuine – feelings for one another. There are certainly times when Zane takes the initiative – thank goodness – even though Paul remains vigilant about not rushing things because of the hospital’s ongoing investigation into potential misconduct and impropriety.
Zane and Paul complement one another, and once they give in, they’re a comfortable and endearing couple. Zane is brave and strong – not afraid to go after Paul – though he has his understandable insecurities. Paul is his calm, but also the match that lights his fire. Paul, though, is a troubled man – gradually awakening to his true self when he’s handed a shocking and potentially career-ending situation at the hospital. His attraction to Zane – and Zane’s mutual feelings towards him – may not matter if he’s forced to choose between his job and being together. He’ll pick his career, right?
Then there is the secondary character, Zane’s roommate Xavier. Anyone else hoping he gets his story? (My fingers are crossed that he reunites with Trent, his former boyfriend, an older man similar to Paul.)
Bedside Manner was well written, the characters were realistic – as were the issues, emotions, and subsequent soul searching/decision making each had to do. The dialogue and humor were well scripted (random text message from Paul after he decides to adopt a dog from the animal shelter: “So what do you know about dogs?” reply from a confused Zane: “They have four legs, fur, and bark.”). I’m so glad Paul and Zane got the HEA they both deserved.
I voluntarily read an Advanced Reader Copy and provided a review.
Zane and Paul complement one another, and once they give in, they’re a comfortable and endearing couple. Zane is brave and strong – not afraid to go after Paul – though he has his understandable insecurities. Paul is his calm, but also the match that lights his fire. Paul, though, is a troubled man – gradually awakening to his true self when he’s handed a shocking and potentially career-ending situation at the hospital. His attraction to Zane – and Zane’s mutual feelings towards him – may not matter if he’s forced to choose between his job and being together. He’ll pick his career, right?
Then there is the secondary character, Zane’s roommate Xavier. Anyone else hoping he gets his story? (My fingers are crossed that he reunites with Trent, his former boyfriend, an older man similar to Paul.)
Bedside Manner was well written, the characters were realistic – as were the issues, emotions, and subsequent soul searching/decision making each had to do. The dialogue and humor were well scripted (random text message from Paul after he decides to adopt a dog from the animal shelter: “So what do you know about dogs?” reply from a confused Zane: “They have four legs, fur, and bark.”). I’m so glad Paul and Zane got the HEA they both deserved.
I voluntarily read an Advanced Reader Copy and provided a review.
March 10, 2017
♥.•*¨)☆♡¸.•*´¨)☆♡¸.•♥*´¨)☆♡♥
♡☆(¸.•♥´4.5 bedside stars
I have a special place in my heart for this book, especially as I got a chance to hold it close and be a part of it. That being said, onto the review.
Out of left field, author DJ Jamison left the newsroom of Ashe Sentinel and rolled into the city's hospital. We are reintroduced to Zane, who had been Physically attacked in by his stepfather in Heart Trouble (Ashe Sentinel Connections #6) and treated by the infalliable Hot Doc, Paul Johnston.
From the instant these two met, I wanted more of them, age be damned. Paul, now divorced and trying to live life as an out man had lost his crush to another man, but he found something in the young man who presented in his ER. Zane was his second chance, and though Paul knew that doctor/patient relationship was forbidden, he could not help the way that he felt.
Weeks later, Zane was on the road to recovery and finding home with his best friend. Paul found this the best time to make his presence known. However, outside forces were determined to keep these two from one another, along with a professional disturbance that can destroy Paul's career and whatever spark is happening between the men.
Paul frustrated me at times. I understood his plight. Saving the job he loves or moving on with Zane. It would be hard for me also, giving my love for Nursing. Would I give it up for love? Would I sacrifice all that I had struggled and craved for someone I may not get in the end? In order to understand, you have to one click and get the full story. But I can say this, DJ Jamison always comes through in the end.
***Disclaimer***
Being a part of this team is a highlight and though many may feel I should recuse myself from rating it, or even reviewing, I am an individual outside of what I do and can honestly say I am stoked and really enjoyed this book.
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book WITHOUT bias or persuasion from the author.
♡☆(¸.•♥´4.5 bedside stars
I have a special place in my heart for this book, especially as I got a chance to hold it close and be a part of it. That being said, onto the review.
Out of left field, author DJ Jamison left the newsroom of Ashe Sentinel and rolled into the city's hospital. We are reintroduced to Zane, who had been Physically attacked in by his stepfather in Heart Trouble (Ashe Sentinel Connections #6) and treated by the infalliable Hot Doc, Paul Johnston.
From the instant these two met, I wanted more of them, age be damned. Paul, now divorced and trying to live life as an out man had lost his crush to another man, but he found something in the young man who presented in his ER. Zane was his second chance, and though Paul knew that doctor/patient relationship was forbidden, he could not help the way that he felt.
Weeks later, Zane was on the road to recovery and finding home with his best friend. Paul found this the best time to make his presence known. However, outside forces were determined to keep these two from one another, along with a professional disturbance that can destroy Paul's career and whatever spark is happening between the men.
Paul frustrated me at times. I understood his plight. Saving the job he loves or moving on with Zane. It would be hard for me also, giving my love for Nursing. Would I give it up for love? Would I sacrifice all that I had struggled and craved for someone I may not get in the end? In order to understand, you have to one click and get the full story. But I can say this, DJ Jamison always comes through in the end.
***Disclaimer***
Being a part of this team is a highlight and though many may feel I should recuse myself from rating it, or even reviewing, I am an individual outside of what I do and can honestly say I am stoked and really enjoyed this book.
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book WITHOUT bias or persuasion from the author.
July 6, 2020
Bedside Manner (Hearts and Health #2) by D.J. Jamison
This is a very shallow book with one-dimensional characters. At first, it seems like it's going to be a love triangle: Dr. Paul Johnston., a 39 y/o divorcé who recently came out as gay, and who in book one had a swing for a nurse, Ben. Paul feels very attracted to Zane Kavanaugh, a college student who just came out to his family and ends up been rejected by his real father and beaten to a pulp by his stepfather. Zane had a crush on Ben and they are still friends.
Ben, who gets back with his old boyfriend, Gage, helps Zane move to his new apartment where he will start a new life with a roommate, Xavier. Sparks fly between Paul and Zane, but Paul has been reported by Ben for sexual harassment. Paul is afraid to start a relationship, and Zane can only handle so much more rejection. Will their relationship be able to thrive?
Narrated from a very ill-conceived third-person point of view, this book leaves much to be desired. The point of view changes so often that it makes the characters very one dimensional. I never cared for them. I thought the sex scenes were poorly written and I did not care for them. The narrative depends too much on cliches, catchy phrases, and tiresome idioms; it was quite boring. I found myself skipping to get to the end because it's not an easy read. The plot is poorly written, with an illogical timeline. Even though it's supposed to be a stand-alone book, I believe you should read book number one first, if you're into these light, fluffy romance books. There were some holes in it that might be resolved by reading the first book.
Being gay, and rejected by my family, I applaud the writer's task of educating people on the basic stress of coming out of the closet while coming of age. Forty percent of homeless children are LGBT, and any help to understand and help these kids is welcomed. I just wish Ms. Jamison would get help in her writing.
Not recommended, I would stay away from the series.
This is a very shallow book with one-dimensional characters. At first, it seems like it's going to be a love triangle: Dr. Paul Johnston., a 39 y/o divorcé who recently came out as gay, and who in book one had a swing for a nurse, Ben. Paul feels very attracted to Zane Kavanaugh, a college student who just came out to his family and ends up been rejected by his real father and beaten to a pulp by his stepfather. Zane had a crush on Ben and they are still friends.
Ben, who gets back with his old boyfriend, Gage, helps Zane move to his new apartment where he will start a new life with a roommate, Xavier. Sparks fly between Paul and Zane, but Paul has been reported by Ben for sexual harassment. Paul is afraid to start a relationship, and Zane can only handle so much more rejection. Will their relationship be able to thrive?
Narrated from a very ill-conceived third-person point of view, this book leaves much to be desired. The point of view changes so often that it makes the characters very one dimensional. I never cared for them. I thought the sex scenes were poorly written and I did not care for them. The narrative depends too much on cliches, catchy phrases, and tiresome idioms; it was quite boring. I found myself skipping to get to the end because it's not an easy read. The plot is poorly written, with an illogical timeline. Even though it's supposed to be a stand-alone book, I believe you should read book number one first, if you're into these light, fluffy romance books. There were some holes in it that might be resolved by reading the first book.
Being gay, and rejected by my family, I applaud the writer's task of educating people on the basic stress of coming out of the closet while coming of age. Forty percent of homeless children are LGBT, and any help to understand and help these kids is welcomed. I just wish Ms. Jamison would get help in her writing.
Not recommended, I would stay away from the series.
February 27, 2017
I have been waiting for this book!! After reading Heart Trouble, an I recommended reading Heart Trouble first. I have been wanting Zane's story.
Zane has had a lot of life altering things happen to him. He's a college student trying to make it in the world. He just wants to be who he is and not hide. He thought coming out to his parents would be a good thing. He was so so so wrong. After his dad kicks him out he goes to his mom. His step-father beats him near to death for telling them he's gay. This just broke my heart. I mean how can a parent do that? It really pissed me off. Zane is a strong man, he try's to move on, he's an adult and he can take care of himself. He has great friends to support him but there's a sexy Dr that he has his eye on.
Paul is a great ER Dr. He also hides who he really is. Some of his colleagues look at him like he is disgusting. They really don't know him. He keep everything private and he wants to keep it that way. He's been hiding for so long he isn't sure how to be free. But a patients eyes he just can't get out of his head. He knows it wrong to thing about a patient that way but he just can't help it. He's having feeling that he's hidden about himself for so long that he's tried of it. He wants to be free. He wants to be loved. He wants to be himself for the world to see.
These two men have had so much to overcome. They have to learn how to deal with their past and move forward. But maybe having each other can help heal old wounds and bring everything they have ever wanted into their life.
Zane has had a lot of life altering things happen to him. He's a college student trying to make it in the world. He just wants to be who he is and not hide. He thought coming out to his parents would be a good thing. He was so so so wrong. After his dad kicks him out he goes to his mom. His step-father beats him near to death for telling them he's gay. This just broke my heart. I mean how can a parent do that? It really pissed me off. Zane is a strong man, he try's to move on, he's an adult and he can take care of himself. He has great friends to support him but there's a sexy Dr that he has his eye on.
Paul is a great ER Dr. He also hides who he really is. Some of his colleagues look at him like he is disgusting. They really don't know him. He keep everything private and he wants to keep it that way. He's been hiding for so long he isn't sure how to be free. But a patients eyes he just can't get out of his head. He knows it wrong to thing about a patient that way but he just can't help it. He's having feeling that he's hidden about himself for so long that he's tried of it. He wants to be free. He wants to be loved. He wants to be himself for the world to see.
These two men have had so much to overcome. They have to learn how to deal with their past and move forward. But maybe having each other can help heal old wounds and bring everything they have ever wanted into their life.
February 22, 2017
*I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book*
The story we have been waiting for since Heart Trouble. The story of the obsessive doctor and the lonely student. They seem like an odd couple yet fit perfectly with each other. In this book we explore the past of Paul and get an understanding of his actions in the previous novel. We learn that he is new to being free and his feelings of inferiority when it comes to being with Zane. Zane on the other hand is dealing with being rejected his by loved ones and is surprised that someone like Paul likes him. They seem on the outside like from different worlds but when they come together they show that they have similarities in feeling of being alone and wanting someone to hold in their arms every night. But the age is a slight issue and Paul's future of being a doctor is influenced by this coupling. Paul must decide what's important his work or his new found happiness. Zane also must learn about forgiveness for those who have made a mistake and decide if he can have Paul choose him over his career.
*I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book*
The story we have been waiting for since Heart Trouble. The story of the obsessive doctor and the lonely student. They seem like an odd couple yet fit perfectly with each other. In this book we explore the past of Paul and get an understanding of his actions in the previous novel. We learn that he is new to being free and his feelings of inferiority when it comes to being with Zane. Zane on the other hand is dealing with being rejected his by loved ones and is surprised that someone like Paul likes him. They seem on the outside like from different worlds but when they come together they show that they have similarities in feeling of being alone and wanting someone to hold in their arms every night. But the age is a slight issue and Paul's future of being a doctor is influenced by this coupling. Paul must decide what's important his work or his new found happiness. Zane also must learn about forgiveness for those who have made a mistake and decide if he can have Paul choose him over his career.
*I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book*
April 29, 2017
4.5 stars.
Second book in the Hearts and Health series, this is a book about Zane - the young man we met in Heart Trouble and a Paul, the ER doctor who treated him. Zane is twenty and Paul thirty-nine when we meet them but this isn't a typical May-December romance. Paul is coming off a failed marriage and is only newly out as gay, Zane has been rejected by his family and beaten for coming out - both have their issues but I definitely felt that Paul was the more emotionally immature of the two, despite his age.
Again, not a lot of drama or relationship angst in this book - although the road to happiness is far from smooth for the pair and they do break up, it's not...soul-destroying?
I really enjoyed this story, more than the first book actually. Ben and Gage do make an appearance here as sort of pseudo-father figures for Zane, I felt they were better written as side characters than in their own book.
Second book in the Hearts and Health series, this is a book about Zane - the young man we met in Heart Trouble and a Paul, the ER doctor who treated him. Zane is twenty and Paul thirty-nine when we meet them but this isn't a typical May-December romance. Paul is coming off a failed marriage and is only newly out as gay, Zane has been rejected by his family and beaten for coming out - both have their issues but I definitely felt that Paul was the more emotionally immature of the two, despite his age.
Again, not a lot of drama or relationship angst in this book - although the road to happiness is far from smooth for the pair and they do break up, it's not...soul-destroying?
I really enjoyed this story, more than the first book actually. Ben and Gage do make an appearance here as sort of pseudo-father figures for Zane, I felt they were better written as side characters than in their own book.
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