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Family #4
La metà di noi
Se l’irascibile Jason riuscisse ad aprire il suo cuore e la sua vita all’ottimista Abe, potrebbe finalmente trovare la famiglia che desidera.
Jason Garcia, un irascibile e arrogante chirurgo cardiotoracico, è cresciuto desiderando una famiglia unita, ma pensa di aver rovinato il suo sogno dato che ha distrutto il suo matrimonio. Grazie al divorzio, però, può fare tutto il sesso occasionale che vuole, ed è un vantaggio di cui sta approfittando quando incontra un uomo timido e dolce in un bar e lo convince a trascorrere insieme una notte di divertimento senza impegno.
Otto anni di vita a Las Vegas non hanno affievolito l’ottimismo, la sincerità e il desiderio di trovare la persona giusta in Abe. Quando un uomo sexy dagli occhi tristi gli fa delle avances, decide di farsi un regalo di compleanno: una notte di divertimento spontaneo senza pensieri sul futuro. Ma, quando quella notte si trasforma in due e poi in tre, Abe capisce che il suo cuore è coinvolto.
Per la prima volta, si sente al sicuro con qualcuno che rispetta e adora così tanto da permettersi di lasciar andare le proprie inibizioni in camera da letto.
Se Jason riuscirà a superare le sue remore e aprire il suo cuore e la sua vita ad Abe, potrà finalmente trovare la famiglia che desidera.
Jason Garcia, un irascibile e arrogante chirurgo cardiotoracico, è cresciuto desiderando una famiglia unita, ma pensa di aver rovinato il suo sogno dato che ha distrutto il suo matrimonio. Grazie al divorzio, però, può fare tutto il sesso occasionale che vuole, ed è un vantaggio di cui sta approfittando quando incontra un uomo timido e dolce in un bar e lo convince a trascorrere insieme una notte di divertimento senza impegno.
Otto anni di vita a Las Vegas non hanno affievolito l’ottimismo, la sincerità e il desiderio di trovare la persona giusta in Abe. Quando un uomo sexy dagli occhi tristi gli fa delle avances, decide di farsi un regalo di compleanno: una notte di divertimento spontaneo senza pensieri sul futuro. Ma, quando quella notte si trasforma in due e poi in tre, Abe capisce che il suo cuore è coinvolto.
Per la prima volta, si sente al sicuro con qualcuno che rispetta e adora così tanto da permettersi di lasciar andare le proprie inibizioni in camera da letto.
Se Jason riuscirà a superare le sue remore e aprire il suo cuore e la sua vita ad Abe, potrà finalmente trovare la famiglia che desidera.
226 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 10, 2014
148 people are currently reading
1391 people want to read
About the author
Cardeno C.
70 books2,382 followersCardeno C. - CC to friends - is a hopeless romantic who wants to add a lot of happiness and a few "awwws" into a reader's day. Writing is a nice break from real life as a corporate type and volunteer work with gay rights organizations. Cardeno's stories range from sweet to intense, contemporary to paranormal, long to short, but they always include strong relationships and walks into the happily-ever-after sunset.
Heartwarming Stories. Strong Relationships. Forever Love.
Website: www.cardenoc.com
Blog: (Shared Blog) https://gayromanceauthors.blogspot.com/
Twitter: @CardenoC
FB Profile: http://www.facebook.com/CardenoC
FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carde...
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCX6M...
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/cardenoC/
Heartwarming Stories. Strong Relationships. Forever Love.
Website: www.cardenoc.com
Blog: (Shared Blog) https://gayromanceauthors.blogspot.com/
Twitter: @CardenoC
FB Profile: http://www.facebook.com/CardenoC
FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carde...
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCX6M...
Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/cardenoC/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 447 reviews
August 13, 2019
4.25 stars
This is a perfectly lovely story with a seriously dirty edge.
Jason is a self-proclaimed fuck-em-and-leave-em kind of guy. He's been married, couldn't stay faithful, and now does only one-night stands as a matter of principle. Jason is looking for a quick fuck when he hears Abe laugh. That laugh: Jason can't let it go.
That's how Jason, a 36-year-old surgeon, and Abe, a 26-year-old math teacher, find themselves coming back for more. Soon, Abe is falling for Jason, and Jason is thinking of no man but Abe.
Jason has two teenage kids and an ex-wife with whom he's still friends. Normally, I don't like the ex being in the picture, but I really liked Angela. She was a realistic and endearing character. Jason's kids also felt like real teenagers: Kristen with her math ambitions and good nature, and Donny with his ever-present sullenness and temper.
The relationship between Jason and Abe develops slowly. I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop, but to my joyous surprise, there was no crazy self-inflicted angst with Jason pushing Abe away. There are family issues with Jason's son Donny, but Jason lets Abe in, and the two make a great team.
I giggled often at Jason's cluelessness and Abe's subtle manipulations. The fancy coffee machine? Classic. The way Abe moved in? Even better!
The alternating POVs helped me understand both guys, and the sweetness and steam between them were wonderful. And the dirty talk?
God, the DIRTY TALK.
Jason has a filthy mouth on him, and the plentiful sex scenes were explosive.
Naughty and nice, and highly recommended!
This is a perfectly lovely story with a seriously dirty edge.
Jason is a self-proclaimed fuck-em-and-leave-em kind of guy. He's been married, couldn't stay faithful, and now does only one-night stands as a matter of principle. Jason is looking for a quick fuck when he hears Abe laugh. That laugh: Jason can't let it go.
That's how Jason, a 36-year-old surgeon, and Abe, a 26-year-old math teacher, find themselves coming back for more. Soon, Abe is falling for Jason, and Jason is thinking of no man but Abe.
Jason has two teenage kids and an ex-wife with whom he's still friends. Normally, I don't like the ex being in the picture, but I really liked Angela. She was a realistic and endearing character. Jason's kids also felt like real teenagers: Kristen with her math ambitions and good nature, and Donny with his ever-present sullenness and temper.
The relationship between Jason and Abe develops slowly. I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop, but to my joyous surprise, there was no crazy self-inflicted angst with Jason pushing Abe away. There are family issues with Jason's son Donny, but Jason lets Abe in, and the two make a great team.
I giggled often at Jason's cluelessness and Abe's subtle manipulations. The fancy coffee machine? Classic. The way Abe moved in? Even better!
The alternating POVs helped me understand both guys, and the sweetness and steam between them were wonderful. And the dirty talk?
God, the DIRTY TALK.
Jason has a filthy mouth on him, and the plentiful sex scenes were explosive.
Naughty and nice, and highly recommended!
February 13, 2018
*Price drop to $0.99 at Amazon US, 2/12/18*
Cardeno C. nirvana.
The angle was different, which made Abe gag, but Jason didn't slow down. "Take it," he growled as he slid over Abe's tongue, "Fucking choke on it."
Cardeno C. in all of C.C.'s fluffy, sexy, dirty-talking glory. I'll take a well done, smexy as hell C.C. book any day of the week.
There is nothing new or outrageously inventive about this story, but that is just fine with me. This book featured scorching hot chemistry between the two MCs, a size/age difference that worked for me, and a filthy-mouthed doctor. Me likey.
Though the lust is there from the start, the relationship develops slowly over time, and I appreciated how that aspect wasn't rushed. This book was also pretty angst free, with only a tiny misunderstanding that is resolved quickly. Low drama is how I like to roll.
Kids and an ex-wife can derail a book in a hot second, but C.C. made the side characters interesting, important to the plot, and, most importantly, NOT annoying.
A fab easy, dirty read with zero missteps, this going in my mental "Cardeno C. for the win" file.
*Copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
Cardeno C. nirvana.
The angle was different, which made Abe gag, but Jason didn't slow down. "Take it," he growled as he slid over Abe's tongue, "Fucking choke on it."
Cardeno C. in all of C.C.'s fluffy, sexy, dirty-talking glory. I'll take a well done, smexy as hell C.C. book any day of the week.
There is nothing new or outrageously inventive about this story, but that is just fine with me. This book featured scorching hot chemistry between the two MCs, a size/age difference that worked for me, and a filthy-mouthed doctor. Me likey.
Though the lust is there from the start, the relationship develops slowly over time, and I appreciated how that aspect wasn't rushed. This book was also pretty angst free, with only a tiny misunderstanding that is resolved quickly. Low drama is how I like to roll.
Kids and an ex-wife can derail a book in a hot second, but C.C. made the side characters interesting, important to the plot, and, most importantly, NOT annoying.
A fab easy, dirty read with zero missteps, this going in my mental "Cardeno C. for the win" file.
*Copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
October 10, 2014
Stand back, people, I’m about to cuddle the shit out of this FLUFF.
And then I'm going to write a long, meandering review about it.
And then I'm going to pointlessly apologize for my long, meandering review.
Okay. Now that that's out of the way.
I gotta tell you (for perhaps the 217th time), I love Cardeno C.’s books. They’re my fluff nuggets, my corn syrup baths--my only expectation is to feel like I’m high on book-love. Giggly and flushed and happy. And slightly aroused because she writes some of the absolute hottest sex scenes in MM Romance. It’s just like her bio says—her books make my day a little better.
That’s a wonderful thing but I don’t expect to get much more from a Cardeno book. It probably, definitely, maybe, makes me a bit of a snob but I don’t have high expectations of romance novels--I expect them to be repetitive. I don’t want to learn or grow as a person, I want to be soothed. I want to feel like the world is a simpler place.
Having said that, it dawned on me while reading The Half of Us that Cardeno C. manages to surprise me in almost all of her books. In most MM, it’s the bigger, more dominant partner who tops, but I find I can’t predict who’s going to top in her books. In Until Forever Comes, Miguel (the more dominant appearing MC) and Ethan switch it up a lot. And really, it would be a shame if Ethan didn’t top as for a small guy he’s hiding quite the dongadoodle in his cut-off jean shorts. In Perfect Imperfections, Cardeno not only waits till practically the end of the book to start the sexy times (something that would normally bug me in an author I expect to whip out the lube and buckets o' come within the first 20%), but she added a fleshlight . Two fucking fleshlights! I don’t know why that surprised me--I can only guess that I don’t expect any type of sex toy beyond the very occasional dildo or a vibrator when reading this type of sweet romance. But my reaction was WELL DONE YOU. And then I proceeded to read that scene 8 times in a row.
Okay, both those examples are of the sexual variety--I can’t help it, that’s just where my mind goes. But in The Half of Us it isn’t the sex that surprises me, it’s the plot and the romance. Frankly I was expecting a bit of a rehash of the first book in this series, Something in the Way He Needs. Which basically went something like this:
Mr. Alpha Asshole Who Just Wants to Get Off & Get Lost, who's super successful and a workaholic, meets Mr. Super Hawt Guy Who Doesn’t Quite Recognize His Own Hotness, they do it and then do it A LOT and Mr. Alpha Asshole discovers that he just can't let Mr. Super Hawt go, he's never felt like this before and everything he found annoying in other men he doesn't find annoying in this guy and why is that?--but who cares the sex is fucking awesome and they do it some more and then Mr Alpha Asshole develops FEELINGS OMG and has a major freakout which leads to MAJOR ASSHOLE ACTIONS which leads to a breakup, but then the Asshole realizes that every dickhead thought he had about relationships and love was WRONG and that love is worth it even if it is scary and then the Asshole and the Hawt Guy get together and live happily ever after. The end.Yes, there is some of that in this book. MC Jason is very successful and a workaholic. When he’s not working he just wants to find a man to fuck and that’s it. He doesn’t believe in relationships between men. Then he meets math teacher Abe, who’s everything Jason normally avoids in a hook-up--a little too shy, a little too interested in actual conversation—and quelle horreur—relationship-oriented. But their one-night stand turns into more. At this point I kept waiting for the misunderstandings, for Jason to freakout over OMG FEELINGS, for him to act like Abe is pressuring him just by acknowledging they’re in a relationship. For there to be a major blow-up followed by epiphanies and assurances of eternal love and devotion.
That doesn’t happen. Okay, love, devotion, yes. A bumpy road to love and happiness, yes. Yes, Jason has the Alpha Asshole role in this book, but there’s no major epiphany followed by a sudden turnaround in personality. He’s always going to be the guy who’s more comfortable making demands then requests, but as he falls in love with Abe he gradually makes small changes in himself and in his personal life. It leads to a better life for not just himself and Abe, but for his ex-wife and children. It’s not just the story of two men falling in love, but the story of how falling in love helps Jason realize that families don’t have to be heteronormative. He can love Abe and still have a family, with Abe, his ex-wife and their two children.
Which is yet another reason this book surprised me--I don’t really like books about families. I’d rather not read about ex-wives or children. So many ex-wives in these books are one dimensional bitches who seem to have nothing better to do than “get their man back”--and use their children to do it. Ugh. Just...ugh. Please don’t write about women if that’s the only shit you can come up with. Also, children. Do they all have to be little geniuses who practically raise themselves? Precocious little brats who know more than the adults? Do none of them crash after a sugar-high, refuse to eat their vegetables and have a meltdown when they can’t find their favorite toy? And yes, in real life meltdowns are followed by adorable kid stuff--by why do books have to show the adorable kid stuff ALL THE TIME? Kids are just like the rest of us--and we all have our moments (or weeks) of unmitigated assholery.
Fortunately, Cardeno doesn't go that route. Jason’s ex-wife is a more complex character, she accepted he was gay way before Jason ever did and she doesn’t use his orientation against him. Her greatest fault might be that she’s too forgiving--if my ex pulled the shit Jason did, especially if we had children together, it would take me a lot longer than 5 years to feel like I could be his loving best bud. As for the children, yes, there is one that’s rather on the perfect side, but the other definitely is not. He’s a fairly typical teenage boy with some issues that need to be dealt with. It’s not a major part of the book, but it’s there and I appreciated that little bit of realism.
So I came for the sex, for the fluffy romance, and I got that, but what I’ll take with me is the formation of a family. This isn’t a book about overwrought declarations of love , but a quieter book about showing that love, feeling it in the small everyday events of life. Is that going to lead to any major changes in my own life? Well, no, it seems unlikely. But I did learn one lesson--don’t underestimate fluff nugget romance novels or authors like Cardeno C.
*Copy was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.*
March 9, 2022
I'm in love and his name is Ezekiel Robison. This new (to me) narrator blew me out of the water. HE IS AWESOME. Robison takes all of the awesome hot dirty talk and the smoking' hot sexy times and turns it all up to eleven!
Jason, a 36-year-old surgeon, is looking for a one-off to help him forget his bad day. He walks into a bar and immediately hears 26-year-old math teacher Abe laugh and is instantly drawn to him. Even though Abe never does one night stands he decides there’s something about Jason and takes him home for a night of explosively hot sex. A couple of months later Jason goes to another bar for a hook-up and hears Abe laugh and, again, he’s immediately drawn again to Abe.
“Wow.” Abe coughed and then cleared his throat. “I’ve heard the phrase ‘undressing someone with your eyes’ but I don’t think I’ve ever actually seen it happen until just now.”
I absolutely love that Jason and Abe's relationship develops naturally over time and how perfectly Robison narrates every stage of their relationship. Not to mention how fantastically hot he makes the sex scenes.
“Why would I want you to leave?” Jason said after several moments of silence. “Nobody would want that.” He straightened his posture and ran his gaze up and down Abe’s body. “You’re a wet dream come to life. The sweetest, most patient man on earth, like a damn angel. Until the clothes come off, and then you’re filthy and sexy and so damn horny you make my balls ache.”
Stories like this are why Cardeno is my crack. I cannot get enough!
Bottom Line: Lightly sprinkled with just a soupçon of angst this story has it all: humor, romance, amazing characters, character growth, and then you also get hot sex and dirty talk!
This audio is perfection. 5+ Stars!! It is immediately going on my favorites shelf, and, more importantly, going immediately into my monthly rotation. Robison is also going on my favorite narrator list.
Highly Recommended!
Audio review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
E-Book Review Copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
E-book review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
June 4, 2015
3.5 Stars!
This was only my second Cardeno book. The first was cheese-city, so I was a little hesitant to try another one.
I'm pleased to report, that while at times cheesy...this one was in no way as cheesy as the last one.
A girl can only handle so much cheese.
I haven't read the other books in the series, but found this one to be a very easy and low angst read.
High steam factor. Seemed like there was sex nearly every chapter. And it was definitely hot.
I kind of thought Jason was a bit of a douche.
But I only wanted to punch him a time or ten.
I loved Abe. He was super sweet and really stole the show.
Overall, a decent read but not necessarily wowing read!
This was only my second Cardeno book. The first was cheese-city, so I was a little hesitant to try another one.
I'm pleased to report, that while at times cheesy...this one was in no way as cheesy as the last one.
A girl can only handle so much cheese.
I haven't read the other books in the series, but found this one to be a very easy and low angst read.
High steam factor. Seemed like there was sex nearly every chapter. And it was definitely hot.
I kind of thought Jason was a bit of a douche.
But I only wanted to punch him a time or ten.
I loved Abe. He was super sweet and really stole the show.
Overall, a decent read but not necessarily wowing read!
April 3, 2016
Overall, a pretty adorable story.
Abe should teach a freaking master class in "how to get what you want without the other guy even realizing it." Or maybe in spite of his dark hair, it was really Jason that was the true 'blond'. ;- )
The book basically is the tale of a self-professed man whore, Jason, who could never keep it in his pants -- until he meets the one that he never saw coming.
Jason meets Abe in a bar and Abe breaks his rule of never doing a hookup. Then as the book progresses, Jason breaks his own rule of no repeats, then no threepeats and so on.
They're dating before Jason even realizes, then living together before he realizes, then building a life, home and family together. Again, before Jason realizes. Lord, to be a doctor, that one should really go in for a brain scan or something.
But it's all, as I mentioned, adorable, with Abe turning into the proverbial catnip to soothe Jason's normal short-tempered, (whoring,) savage beast nature.
My only real complaint about the book would be the sheer number of sex scenes, which were back-to-back in a few places. It got a bit tiresome and caused me to page-flip my eReader until I no longer saw cock, ass, "God, yeah" or cum on the page. (Eww. No pun intended, but you get my gist.)
A highly-recommended 4 1/2 stars, rounding up because I'm a big fan of Cardeno's collective work.
August 11, 2023
Re-read August 2023
I was glad to see this still held up after all these years.
The audio is great btw.
-----------------------------------
Cardeno C is a master in low-angst stories.
This story is about two people who were not expecting to fall in love with each other. Jason, a surgeon, was expecting to have an amazing hot one night stand with the sweet guy he picked up from the bar. Jason is used to relieving his tension with a bunch of random hookups, but he never expected this particular hookup to become something more.
Abe is taking a chance for once in his life by bringing home the sexy guy he meets in the bar. Abe is a relationship kind of guy, but for once he promises himself to be spontaneous, a birthday present to himself.
When their one night stand turns into two when they accidentally meet again a few weeks later, they still tell themselves it is just sex.. But somehow it doesn't feel like just sex for both of them.
And somehow Jason finds himself frequenting the coffee shop Abe mentioned to see the beautiful man again...
Abe and Jason were incredible together! Their interactions with each other were so intense from the start, just how I like it.
And Jason had such a dirty mouth on him. The sex scenes were deliciously dirty.
I loved how Jason's children (13 and 15) also played a big role, but were never front center. The relationship between Jason and Abe was the main focus, and it stayed that way throughout the entire book.
I just loved how these two slowly went from a hookup to a loving relationship. It all happened slowly and before Jason knew it, Abe had moved in and they were in a steady monogamous relationship.
I loved how there was no relationship angst. Jason was struggling with his feelings for Abe at first, but Abe just gave him time to figure things out without pushing. And Jason never wanted Abe to be far from his side. So they figured it out as they went along. But the strong attraction, the friendship, the love, it was all so very obvious from the start (well, they grew into the love, no insta-love here).
I absolutely loved this book and I have to say the audiobook is pretty amazing too!
I was glad to see this still held up after all these years.
The audio is great btw.
-----------------------------------
Cardeno C is a master in low-angst stories.
This story is about two people who were not expecting to fall in love with each other. Jason, a surgeon, was expecting to have an amazing hot one night stand with the sweet guy he picked up from the bar. Jason is used to relieving his tension with a bunch of random hookups, but he never expected this particular hookup to become something more.
Abe is taking a chance for once in his life by bringing home the sexy guy he meets in the bar. Abe is a relationship kind of guy, but for once he promises himself to be spontaneous, a birthday present to himself.
When their one night stand turns into two when they accidentally meet again a few weeks later, they still tell themselves it is just sex.. But somehow it doesn't feel like just sex for both of them.
And somehow Jason finds himself frequenting the coffee shop Abe mentioned to see the beautiful man again...
Abe and Jason were incredible together! Their interactions with each other were so intense from the start, just how I like it.
And Jason had such a dirty mouth on him. The sex scenes were deliciously dirty.
I loved how Jason's children (13 and 15) also played a big role, but were never front center. The relationship between Jason and Abe was the main focus, and it stayed that way throughout the entire book.
I just loved how these two slowly went from a hookup to a loving relationship. It all happened slowly and before Jason knew it, Abe had moved in and they were in a steady monogamous relationship.
I loved how there was no relationship angst. Jason was struggling with his feelings for Abe at first, but Abe just gave him time to figure things out without pushing. And Jason never wanted Abe to be far from his side. So they figured it out as they went along. But the strong attraction, the friendship, the love, it was all so very obvious from the start (well, they grew into the love, no insta-love here).
I absolutely loved this book and I have to say the audiobook is pretty amazing too!
November 1, 2014
Jason is a 36 years old successful surgeon. He’s a hardworking guy, divorced with two kids and for some time out as gay. He share the custody with his wife, remaining friends with her after divorce and having a very good, mature relationship. Jason doesn’t do relationships. From time to time he has one night stands and that’s it.
One night he meets Abraham (Abe) in a bar. He immediately is captivated by the blonde gorgeous man with big blue eyes. Abe is 26 years old. He’s a teacher and he liked to talk...a lot.
What was supposed to be a one night stand becomes two, then three and so on. They fall for each other, even if Jason doesn’t believe in a “home” when two men are involved. What comes next in a slow build relationship, some great steam and a little drama.
I really liked this one! I didn’t have any expectations since this was my first book by this author, but I’m really glad I decided to try this one. I liked how Jason and Abe's relationship progressed and the fact that’s no stupid drama.
Abe is a great character. He’s sweet and caring, not only with Jason, but with his two kids too. He accepts Jason is a father and he has responsibilities. He’s not pushy, he is patient, he knows when and how to talk with Jason and with the two kids. I really liked him. Jason was a great guy too. I liked how he grew up and how Abe changed him. With Abe he becomes a better man and a better father.
Angela, Jason’s ex-wife was fantastic. She was very mature with all the situations. She is supporting with Jason and very accepting with Abe.
The are many sex scenes between these two - hot, and sometimes a little emotional, because Abe is a little sensitive at times and they all are pretty great.
I also enjoyed the sweet moments between Jason and Abe and how they communicate with each other. I really liked how in the end all learn to be a big family. The insta-love at the beginning between them didn’t bother me at all. At least it wasn’t insta-love!
Overall, it was a really good read! If you are looking for a sweet comfort read, with two endearing main characters, little drama, great supportive characters and great stem this is definitely the book for you.
One night he meets Abraham (Abe) in a bar. He immediately is captivated by the blonde gorgeous man with big blue eyes. Abe is 26 years old. He’s a teacher and he liked to talk...a lot.
What was supposed to be a one night stand becomes two, then three and so on. They fall for each other, even if Jason doesn’t believe in a “home” when two men are involved. What comes next in a slow build relationship, some great steam and a little drama.
I really liked this one! I didn’t have any expectations since this was my first book by this author, but I’m really glad I decided to try this one. I liked how Jason and Abe's relationship progressed and the fact that’s no stupid drama.
Abe is a great character. He’s sweet and caring, not only with Jason, but with his two kids too. He accepts Jason is a father and he has responsibilities. He’s not pushy, he is patient, he knows when and how to talk with Jason and with the two kids. I really liked him. Jason was a great guy too. I liked how he grew up and how Abe changed him. With Abe he becomes a better man and a better father.
Angela, Jason’s ex-wife was fantastic. She was very mature with all the situations. She is supporting with Jason and very accepting with Abe.
The are many sex scenes between these two - hot, and sometimes a little emotional, because Abe is a little sensitive at times and they all are pretty great.
I also enjoyed the sweet moments between Jason and Abe and how they communicate with each other. I really liked how in the end all learn to be a big family. The insta-love at the beginning between them didn’t bother me at all. At least it wasn’t insta-love!
Overall, it was a really good read! If you are looking for a sweet comfort read, with two endearing main characters, little drama, great supportive characters and great stem this is definitely the book for you.
October 26, 2014
Conflicted reader ALERT.
To not like this is like kicking puppies. Nothing upsetting or offensive at all, and that's the problem. Conflict is hinted at and then voila! Disappears. All problems swept under the rug or fast-forwarded past. Time is kept via Jason and Abe boink sessions.
Overall, totally enjoyable, but don't look for anything toothy.
To not like this is like kicking puppies. Nothing upsetting or offensive at all, and that's the problem. Conflict is hinted at and then voila! Disappears. All problems swept under the rug or fast-forwarded past. Time is kept via Jason and Abe boink sessions.
Overall, totally enjoyable, but don't look for anything toothy.
November 7, 2015
3.75 Enjoyable Stars!
The Half of Us was a cute, low on angst, medium on steam MM romance. Jason is a successful heart surgeon when he meets a younger Abe in a local bar. Divorced father of two, Jason finds quick hook-ups are his best bet for his insatiable sex drive. He cheated on his ex-wife all the while denying his homosexuality. So in order to avoid history repeating itself, he decides no-commitment relationships are the best bet. What he didn't bank on was that Abe he wanted a repeat with...a three-peat.
Abe is a high school Math teacher when he meets Jason in the bar. Not having sex for almost three years following his last relationship, he throws caution to the wind and decides this one night hookup will be his birthday present to himself. Jason is everything he wants in a man but it's also clear he's not a relationship guy. He woke to an empty bed and damn if he has an empty heart in the end. One-and-done...until he sees Jason again at the same bar. Self control be damned, two-and-done it'll be.
I enjoyed the gradual progression of the relationship in this book. It wasn't insta-love and the author did a great job of building their feelings in a believable pace. It's clear Jason fears repeating himself and does not fully comprehend his feelings of commitment to Abe until it's too late...and he's fully committed.
Secondary characters were fantastic. From the understanding ex-wife with whom Jason seemed to have a great friendship with, to the two kids they share, The Half of Us provided a realistic view of life with a blended family- drama with teens and organizing of "who gets the kids this week" all being a part of their daily grind.
An all-around enjoyable read with a fantastic HEA. I look forward to more from this author in the near future.
Advanced copy received by The Romance Authors via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
The Half of Us was a cute, low on angst, medium on steam MM romance. Jason is a successful heart surgeon when he meets a younger Abe in a local bar. Divorced father of two, Jason finds quick hook-ups are his best bet for his insatiable sex drive. He cheated on his ex-wife all the while denying his homosexuality. So in order to avoid history repeating itself, he decides no-commitment relationships are the best bet. What he didn't bank on was that Abe he wanted a repeat with...a three-peat.
Abe is a high school Math teacher when he meets Jason in the bar. Not having sex for almost three years following his last relationship, he throws caution to the wind and decides this one night hookup will be his birthday present to himself. Jason is everything he wants in a man but it's also clear he's not a relationship guy. He woke to an empty bed and damn if he has an empty heart in the end. One-and-done...until he sees Jason again at the same bar. Self control be damned, two-and-done it'll be.
I enjoyed the gradual progression of the relationship in this book. It wasn't insta-love and the author did a great job of building their feelings in a believable pace. It's clear Jason fears repeating himself and does not fully comprehend his feelings of commitment to Abe until it's too late...and he's fully committed.
Secondary characters were fantastic. From the understanding ex-wife with whom Jason seemed to have a great friendship with, to the two kids they share, The Half of Us provided a realistic view of life with a blended family- drama with teens and organizing of "who gets the kids this week" all being a part of their daily grind.
An all-around enjoyable read with a fantastic HEA. I look forward to more from this author in the near future.
Advanced copy received by The Romance Authors via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
October 19, 2014
3.5 stars
See...Cardeno C is my guilty pleasure. So there's not much else I can say after reading a CC book other than, "I liked it!". Because I typically do. And I typically give every CC book 3.5 - 4 stars. And I find myself almost always happy at the end of each book.
And that's what happened with "The Half of Us". The Family series is one of my go-to's when I need something to read that will be sweet, hot, and make me smile. Low angst, high readability (= easy). The books work as standalones and this is true for "The Half of Us".
We have hard-working, successful, divorced father, commitment-phobe Jason. He meets younger, less-experienced Abe at a bar on Abe's birthday. He's immediately drawn to Abe's laugh first and foremost (yup, this made me gawwwwww), and talks him into a hookup. And then another. And soon Jason finds himself pursuing more from the sweet-on-the-outside, kinky-minx-on-the-inside Abe.
It's an insta-lust to quick-love storyline which I'm totally fine with. It's a generic bigger man / smaller man combo but made more complex with an age difference (I like how CC writes older MC's in this Family series), and 2 pre-teen kids added to the mix. There is a LOT of sex in this book, which sometimes actually turns me off. But it played a role into their storyline and what they find attractive in one another.
The story progresses quickly, the relationship has pretty much zero tension, and I just liked the 2 MC's so much that I was happy to go along for the smooth ride...like taking a drive through a quiet countryside on a newly paved road in a brand new car...while watching porn. Yup...that's what this book felt like. :)
Want an easy read that will make you both smile and blush?
This is it.
March 8, 2017
***Mini audio review. Quite liked Ezekiel Robinson as a narrator, but even he must have been rolling his eyes at the sheer amount of sex. ;)***
Well, this was a sex fest!! 4 stars from me and a medal for Abe and Jase for their invention, endurance and just all-round hotness, hehe!!
Talk about opposites attract!! Jase, a 30's something divorced cardiothoracic surgeon with 2 teenagers. A bossy, domineering, arrogant slut of a man, King of the hook up who only does one night stands with absolutely NO repeats...until he meets Abe, who is out celebrating his birthday with some of his friends. Abe is a 20's something teacher, quiet and reserved who dreams of meeting Mr Right and falling in love. He's had enough of the noise at the club, and is on his way out when Jase gets in his way after hearing Abe laugh, and a hook up is on the cards. One hook up turns into 2, 2 into 3 and suddenly things are getting very interesting indeed. Has Jase finally lost his marbles??
I liked this one a lot. Great supporting characters in Angela, the ex wife and the kids Kirsten and Donny. In fact, towards the end I was kind of thinking of Jase as a little boy lost figure, seeking approval from the ex wife who'd had a lot to put up with from him...including some fairly obvious Male Chauvinist Pig behaviour when he insisted that her career was in some way less than his (she was a gynaecologist for goodness sake AND looked after 2 teenagers). I tell you if I'd have been her, he'd have had a frying pan around the head then!!
Well, this was a sex fest!! 4 stars from me and a medal for Abe and Jase for their invention, endurance and just all-round hotness, hehe!!
Talk about opposites attract!! Jase, a 30's something divorced cardiothoracic surgeon with 2 teenagers. A bossy, domineering, arrogant slut of a man, King of the hook up who only does one night stands with absolutely NO repeats...until he meets Abe, who is out celebrating his birthday with some of his friends. Abe is a 20's something teacher, quiet and reserved who dreams of meeting Mr Right and falling in love. He's had enough of the noise at the club, and is on his way out when Jase gets in his way after hearing Abe laugh, and a hook up is on the cards. One hook up turns into 2, 2 into 3 and suddenly things are getting very interesting indeed. Has Jase finally lost his marbles??
I liked this one a lot. Great supporting characters in Angela, the ex wife and the kids Kirsten and Donny. In fact, towards the end I was kind of thinking of Jase as a little boy lost figure, seeking approval from the ex wife who'd had a lot to put up with from him...including some fairly obvious Male Chauvinist Pig behaviour when he insisted that her career was in some way less than his (she was a gynaecologist for goodness sake AND looked after 2 teenagers). I tell you if I'd have been her, he'd have had a frying pan around the head then!!
October 12, 2014
Not what I expected. Review tomorrow.
October 13, 2014
4.75
I loved this story.
Jason never sleeps with a man more than once but he’s drawn to Abe over and over again. After his divorce he’s been playing the field and he never thought he could have a stable relationship with a man but he’s willing to try because he wants Abe in his life. Abe is patience personified. He’s not one for casual sex but there was something about Jason that caused him to break that rule. The more time the men spend together the more Abe is seeing a future with Jason and he can’t help but feel he’s setting himself up for a big fall.
This is a sexually and emotionally charged story about two men who have what they think is a one time encounter and then they have another and then another. They’re drawn to each other time and again and while the sex is off the charts there’s an attraction that exists beyond the physical.
Reading about these two men falling in love was so enjoyable for me. On the surface they’re very opposites attract but at their core the men are so similar in their desires and in what they want out of a relationship. It was just such a moving and passionate read that I know I’ll go back to it again and again.
**Copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review**
I loved this story.
Jason never sleeps with a man more than once but he’s drawn to Abe over and over again. After his divorce he’s been playing the field and he never thought he could have a stable relationship with a man but he’s willing to try because he wants Abe in his life. Abe is patience personified. He’s not one for casual sex but there was something about Jason that caused him to break that rule. The more time the men spend together the more Abe is seeing a future with Jason and he can’t help but feel he’s setting himself up for a big fall.
This is a sexually and emotionally charged story about two men who have what they think is a one time encounter and then they have another and then another. They’re drawn to each other time and again and while the sex is off the charts there’s an attraction that exists beyond the physical.
Reading about these two men falling in love was so enjoyable for me. On the surface they’re very opposites attract but at their core the men are so similar in their desires and in what they want out of a relationship. It was just such a moving and passionate read that I know I’ll go back to it again and again.
**Copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review**
November 3, 2014
Loved it! This is one of those books that I won't get tired to read. It's light, funny, has amazing characters and it made me create another shelve: "sex-fest". Hot and steamy sex, dirty talk..."baby"... perfection!
Jason only wants one night stands... Abe don't, he wants a steady relationship!
Jason never imagined that that "one" night would become the most safe and perfect relationship! He never thought that he would find his perfect match... and trust me, they are really perfect together!!!
Jason only wants one night stands... Abe don't, he wants a steady relationship!
Jason never imagined that that "one" night would become the most safe and perfect relationship! He never thought that he would find his perfect match... and trust me, they are really perfect together!!!
Read
October 21, 2015DNF at 40%
Recently I've decided not to rate books I couldn't finish.
This one started Cardeno's-like, and I SWEAR, I was in the mood for a Cardeno's book.
We have Christmas soon, right? It's why I wanted romantic, easy, sexy.
But this one was not my cuppa. I tried, I really tried.
Then I had a look at my TBR and thought: "Why SHOULD I struggle?! The life is too short."
Too much sex with a too little content.
(I am not against too much sex, but it has to complement a storyline, and not just fills the pages).
Boring MCs.
A shallow romance.
All in all- BORING.
**Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
Recently I've decided not to rate books I couldn't finish.
This one started Cardeno's-like, and I SWEAR, I was in the mood for a Cardeno's book.
We have Christmas soon, right? It's why I wanted romantic, easy, sexy.
But this one was not my cuppa. I tried, I really tried.
Then I had a look at my TBR and thought: "Why SHOULD I struggle?! The life is too short."
Too much sex with a too little content.
(I am not against too much sex, but it has to complement a storyline, and not just fills the pages).
Boring MCs.
A shallow romance.
All in all- BORING.
**Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
October 10, 2014
Originally posted on The Book Nympho
Quick summary
Heart surgeon Jason Garcia doesn't believe in relationships. After his divorce (when he finally had to acknowledge he was gay), he's only subscribed to sexual hookups, one-nighters as a means to reduce stress. That is until he connects with Abe Green, a sensitive man whose values and ideals are almost polar opposite of Jason's.
What I really liked
Abe! I just adored him. He was the perfect opposite of Jason, who at least had enough sense to recognize his special qualities and sweet nature. I also loved the strong family themes that were pervasive in this story...Abe's relationship with his family, Jason's with his ex-wife and children, and the new relationships formed when they became a couple. Jason wasn't all that likable for quite a bit of the story and I loved having my opinion of him evolve as he did. It was one of the strengths of the writing.
The bottom line
This transitions from steamy (off the charts) encounters to a relationship of substance that works on so many levels. Abe helps Jason find his way in the most unobtrusive manner. If there was any downside it's that some of the sex scenes almost eclipsed the story at times. No matter, though, as it is pretty hard to ever forget Abe.
(I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review)
Quick summary
Heart surgeon Jason Garcia doesn't believe in relationships. After his divorce (when he finally had to acknowledge he was gay), he's only subscribed to sexual hookups, one-nighters as a means to reduce stress. That is until he connects with Abe Green, a sensitive man whose values and ideals are almost polar opposite of Jason's.
What I really liked
Abe! I just adored him. He was the perfect opposite of Jason, who at least had enough sense to recognize his special qualities and sweet nature. I also loved the strong family themes that were pervasive in this story...Abe's relationship with his family, Jason's with his ex-wife and children, and the new relationships formed when they became a couple. Jason wasn't all that likable for quite a bit of the story and I loved having my opinion of him evolve as he did. It was one of the strengths of the writing.
The bottom line
This transitions from steamy (off the charts) encounters to a relationship of substance that works on so many levels. Abe helps Jason find his way in the most unobtrusive manner. If there was any downside it's that some of the sex scenes almost eclipsed the story at times. No matter, though, as it is pretty hard to ever forget Abe.
(I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review)
February 8, 2016
~Arc provided via Netgalley in exchange for honest review. ~
This review is posted on Way Too Hot Books.
My first book by Cardeno C. was Strange Bedfellows which I read last year and liked enough to try smth else by this author and to be honest- the breathtaking cover played a big part in it. Just like SB, The Half of Us was a hot, fast-pacing, drama-free doctor vs. teacher romance which I read in one sitting.
~ Why 3 stars?
Reason no. 1: I prefer slow-building and slow-burning romances. Abe & Jase hooked up right in the beginning and not until the 2nd half of the story did they start to open up and connect outside the bedroom, at least not enough for me to make their connection and chemistry belivable.
Reason no. 2: How much sex is too much sex?
Who am I to say no to lots of dirty talk and sexy times, but at some point the story turned into sex scenes overload making me count how many pages I had left and that's never a good thing. In my opinion the story was too much focused on the sexy time and less on Jase's and Abe's bonding outside the bedroom and the emotional family time parts didn't make up for that.
Reason no. 3: It took me some time to warm up to one of the MCs- the arrogant, dominant and at times overbearing doctor Jason, a man in his late 30ies who from time to time behaved as a horny, immature teenager.
Reason no. 4: My previous read was Cam Girl By L. Raeder which finds itself right now on my ultimate favorite books shelf. No offense, but this book didn't stand a chance.
This review is posted on Way Too Hot Books.
My first book by Cardeno C. was Strange Bedfellows which I read last year and liked enough to try smth else by this author and to be honest- the breathtaking cover played a big part in it. Just like SB, The Half of Us was a hot, fast-pacing, drama-free doctor vs. teacher romance which I read in one sitting.
~ Why 3 stars?
Reason no. 1: I prefer slow-building and slow-burning romances. Abe & Jase hooked up right in the beginning and not until the 2nd half of the story did they start to open up and connect outside the bedroom, at least not enough for me to make their connection and chemistry belivable.
Reason no. 2: How much sex is too much sex?
Who am I to say no to lots of dirty talk and sexy times, but at some point the story turned into sex scenes overload making me count how many pages I had left and that's never a good thing. In my opinion the story was too much focused on the sexy time and less on Jase's and Abe's bonding outside the bedroom and the emotional family time parts didn't make up for that.
Reason no. 3: It took me some time to warm up to one of the MCs- the arrogant, dominant and at times overbearing doctor Jason, a man in his late 30ies who from time to time behaved as a horny, immature teenager.
Reason no. 4: My previous read was Cam Girl By L. Raeder which finds itself right now on my ultimate favorite books shelf. No offense, but this book didn't stand a chance.
June 5, 2015
3.5 Stars
June 7, 2015
Cor! This was a hot tamale of a read. Really. I am going to have some fun on the blog. Jason and Abe scorch up the sheets together in The Half of Us and then go back for seconds...and thirds.... But there is more, there is the family aspect of the series. Jason was married to (the wonderful) Angela and has two children, fifteen year old Kristen and thirteen year old Donny. Kristen is the perfect teenager, Donny has some issues. Jason is a heart specialist in Vegas, he is grumpy, a one night stand kind of guy. Marriage, to a woman, then having a family, is the right life. But hey, fucking is fucking, you can do that with men to blow off steam and stress, especially when you are gay - but you don't think about it. And you don't go fuck the same guy more than once. However, the sexy Abe grabbed Jason by his (other) head and balls and worked his way up into Jason's walled-off heart and gave him no choice.
Nice reading. I grumbled at Jason on a few occasion but it's all good. That man can certainly talk dirty in bed. I loved sweet 'n' sexy Abe and I swear I was going to run off myself with Angela. Cardeno C, can she please get (laid)a partner some time? She deserves it.
NSFW 18+ review (told you it was sexy) at -
October 8, 2014
4.5 stars
The Half Of Us, CC's latest installment in the Family series, took me by surprise. After the first few pages, I wasn't sure whether I would like Jason's cocky attitude, his love 'em and leave 'em MO, but I should have trusted CC to make me care about the character, like I usually do.
Jason and Abe start out as a one-night stand, meeting in a bar, with Jason attracted to Abe's laugh, going home to Abe's apartment, something Abe decides is his birthday gift to himself, and then falling under each other's spell.
For all his intelligence, Jason is clueless when it comes to matters of the heart, but I could explain that away based on his cheating past, his marriage to a fine woman (I really liked her portrayal in this book), and the fact that he doesn't know himself well at all.
But Abe sees behind the mask, sees the man Jason can be, and quietly, with clever sort-of-manipulations, finds his way into Jason's heart, without Jason noticing.
I loved this book because there were no huge conflicts, no contrived miscommunication between the characters, no break-ups for some stupid reason, no fights. What we are given here are two things - a sweet love affair that may start out with sexy times but becomes so much more, and sexy times that nearly torched my e-reader with their heat. Jason's dirty talk? *fans self*
Yeah, it's fluffy, sure. I expected that. What I didn't expect was that these characters, including Jason's two kids, who are portrayed much like kids are, would get so under my skin, that I found myself rooting for their HEA.
And yes, we get that too.
A wonderful addition to this series, I highly recommend you get your copy when it's available.
** I received a free copy of this book from its author. A positive review was not promised in return. **
The Half Of Us, CC's latest installment in the Family series, took me by surprise. After the first few pages, I wasn't sure whether I would like Jason's cocky attitude, his love 'em and leave 'em MO, but I should have trusted CC to make me care about the character, like I usually do.
Jason and Abe start out as a one-night stand, meeting in a bar, with Jason attracted to Abe's laugh, going home to Abe's apartment, something Abe decides is his birthday gift to himself, and then falling under each other's spell.
For all his intelligence, Jason is clueless when it comes to matters of the heart, but I could explain that away based on his cheating past, his marriage to a fine woman (I really liked her portrayal in this book), and the fact that he doesn't know himself well at all.
But Abe sees behind the mask, sees the man Jason can be, and quietly, with clever sort-of-manipulations, finds his way into Jason's heart, without Jason noticing.
I loved this book because there were no huge conflicts, no contrived miscommunication between the characters, no break-ups for some stupid reason, no fights. What we are given here are two things - a sweet love affair that may start out with sexy times but becomes so much more, and sexy times that nearly torched my e-reader with their heat. Jason's dirty talk? *fans self*
Yeah, it's fluffy, sure. I expected that. What I didn't expect was that these characters, including Jason's two kids, who are portrayed much like kids are, would get so under my skin, that I found myself rooting for their HEA.
And yes, we get that too.
A wonderful addition to this series, I highly recommend you get your copy when it's available.
** I received a free copy of this book from its author. A positive review was not promised in return. **
October 19, 2021
Dnf at 50%.
Very amateurish, for an author who wrote several novels already. Shallow characters. Weird, unattractive sex talk. No plot. All tell and no show.
I don't know the narrator's influence on my detachment and the repellent sex scenes
Very amateurish, for an author who wrote several novels already. Shallow characters. Weird, unattractive sex talk. No plot. All tell and no show.
I don't know the narrator's influence on my detachment and the repellent sex scenes
November 20, 2014
BR, November 4th with Susan ♥♥♥
I could easily just let my preview gif stand in this review cause I just felt like this… Eating popcorn with my bestest friend and watching a great movie!!!
This was fabulous!!
Our MC Jason Garcia, a 36 year old heart surgeon is divorced for 5 years. He has always dreamed about having a family. Though he has his children, he feels an intimate relationship with a man is out of the question.
“Look, I know it’s not popular to say it with everyone shouting about equality this and marriage that, but the reality is, you and Daniel aren’t going to have kids, you aren’t going to limit your sex life to just each other, and you’ll be lucky if you’re together for five years, let alone fifty. There’s no woman pushing for a ring.” He shrugged. “Why bother?”
So, he has random sex with various men and thinks this is it for him the rest of his life. One day he picks up this beautiful and shy man, Abe Green. Abe is a 26 year old math teacher. Although Abe is not quite the man for one-night stands, he decides to give himself a birthday present and have this encounter with Jason.
Being used to always having sex with a man one time, Jason is surprised he feels he must see Abe again…
Man, I loved Jason… Loved his dirty, filthy mouth… He was so passionate ♥♥♥
“I love your mouth and your hand, baby, but tonight I want to be inside,” Jason said as he moved his hand beyond Abe’s balls and tickled his fingertips over the wrinkled flesh around his hole. “Are you into that?
And Abe, sigh… He was just perfect for Jason. Being brought up as “a wanting to live a white-picket-fence life with a forever guy”. He fell real hard for Jason.
I loved that the story was without any angst. I was waiting for it….
Sometimes one just needs a good, sexy story with a HEA…
Highly recommended!!
March 13, 2025
This story has a very unlikeable main character, but you have to make it to about 40% of the book - and then the guy really starts growing on you.
Honestly, for me personally it was at times too hard to read about certain aspects of this story, especially because it's very realistic, you'll get real, lifelike dialogues and situations, but the main love story turns out really great.
Besides, I love this cover.
🟣 A high school math teacher / a surgeon
🔵 Both gay
🟡 Age gap 26/36
🟢 One serial monogamist / other married to a woman and divorced, a serial cheater
🟠 Kids involved
🟢 No cheating between the MMCs, no break up
🔵 A good love story, emotional
🌶️ Abundant sex, well written; oral, penetrative; t/b --> vers near the end
So, first of all we're getting another Hispanic main character (one of my favourite in books, but so scarce), he's a surgeon, a 36-year old divorced father who's been married for a decade while knowing he's gay, didn't want to divorce the wife, had kid after kid to make it better while constantly cheating with guys.
At present, Jason is living alone, sees his kids only every other weekend despite the joint custody and for the first 30% of the book you'll think this guy is single, then all of a sudden two teenage kids pop up.
All Jason does is work and hook-up, that's it - if he doesn't get it, he's snappy, he's in a bad mood, plus he's got quite the temper, so not really your perfect choice of a partner.
That's why I was initially pissed because he got Abe, the 26-year old guy who's had 2 relationships in his life, he wants something long-term, doesn't ever hook up, he's sweet, serious, a math teacher and simply an amazing person.
Abe hooked up with Jason only because it was his birthday and he wanted to do something spontaneous with a guy once and never again, but as weeks and months passed, Jason and Abe ran into each other again - well, Jason seeked Abe out - and then they kept seeing each other quite frequently.
Jason was a tough character to like, but his story gets more explained in the second half of the book - a lot of things should've been said beforehand. His marriage was just on paper, he's pretty serious about not wanting to have a monogamous relationship and not to mention he's not taking care of his kids. He put it all on his wife, who's a doctor too, but he just dumped everything on her while he's out there enjoying his freedom. We also find out he did that while they were married, so yeah, Jason was an ass and Abe got thrown into that mess.
I wasn't on Jason's side at all and thankfully Abe didn't get hurt. Jason is the type of guy who could've (and in real life would've) hurt him profoundly, but he didn't.
Jason's a flawed character for sure, but his growth throughout the book is substantial. He's held back, a bit superficial, arrogant, selfish and goes to being someone who loves and matures.
Jason's also in love for the first time in his life and even though it hurt to read about how he always divided family (his house was for a family, not another guy) and his private life, he was actually denying himself and at the same time completely negating a big part of his life, which was being gay.
I kept thinking, why doesn't he want Abe in his house? Just because he's a man? Because he can't seem to put Abe and a serious romantic relationship in the same basket? Because he doesn't want Abe around his kids? Why? Because Jason's in a serious gay relationship and he doesn't see that as compatible with the traditional idea of a family in his mind.
The author touched quite a few interesting and important topics. The book really makes you think.
Jason and Abe's romantic part of the relationship, however, was splendid. They were fantastic together. Heaps of crazy chemistry, passion, great sex and eventually deep emotions. The progression was believable, they expressed their love at just the right time and in the end I simply loved Jason.
Well, Jason and Abe together.
"Jason’s lips curled up. “No way am I telling anyone what my hot little teacher’s like in bed.” He flung his arm over Abe and drew him near. “Don’t want anyone to take you from me.”
“Not going to happen.” Abe snuggled close.
“You bet your ass it won’t.” Jason brushed his mouth over Abe’s. “And to make sure of it, nobody gets to know about this side of you except for me.” He bit Abe’s lower lip and husked, “You’re mine.”
I'd rate it higher but the ending begged for more.
A few short paragraphs about them spending the holidays with Jason's and Abe's parents off-page, also the incident with Donny needed a different outcome. I was hoping Jason would be a bit more rough as a father, but he eventually decided on family therapy. Yeah, I expected harsher consequences for Donny.
Other than that, the book is really good, at least for me. I loved the main couple. I'd recommend this book. But be prepared to possibly not like Jason.
Honestly, for me personally it was at times too hard to read about certain aspects of this story, especially because it's very realistic, you'll get real, lifelike dialogues and situations, but the main love story turns out really great.
Besides, I love this cover.
🟣 A high school math teacher / a surgeon
🔵 Both gay
🟡 Age gap 26/36
🟢 One serial monogamist / other married to a woman and divorced, a serial cheater
🟠 Kids involved
🟢 No cheating between the MMCs, no break up
🔵 A good love story, emotional
🌶️ Abundant sex, well written; oral, penetrative; t/b --> vers near the end
So, first of all we're getting another Hispanic main character (one of my favourite in books, but so scarce), he's a surgeon, a 36-year old divorced father who's been married for a decade while knowing he's gay, didn't want to divorce the wife, had kid after kid to make it better while constantly cheating with guys.
At present, Jason is living alone, sees his kids only every other weekend despite the joint custody and for the first 30% of the book you'll think this guy is single, then all of a sudden two teenage kids pop up.
All Jason does is work and hook-up, that's it - if he doesn't get it, he's snappy, he's in a bad mood, plus he's got quite the temper, so not really your perfect choice of a partner.
That's why I was initially pissed because he got Abe, the 26-year old guy who's had 2 relationships in his life, he wants something long-term, doesn't ever hook up, he's sweet, serious, a math teacher and simply an amazing person.
Abe hooked up with Jason only because it was his birthday and he wanted to do something spontaneous with a guy once and never again, but as weeks and months passed, Jason and Abe ran into each other again - well, Jason seeked Abe out - and then they kept seeing each other quite frequently.
Jason was a tough character to like, but his story gets more explained in the second half of the book - a lot of things should've been said beforehand. His marriage was just on paper, he's pretty serious about not wanting to have a monogamous relationship and not to mention he's not taking care of his kids. He put it all on his wife, who's a doctor too, but he just dumped everything on her while he's out there enjoying his freedom. We also find out he did that while they were married, so yeah, Jason was an ass and Abe got thrown into that mess.
I wasn't on Jason's side at all and thankfully Abe didn't get hurt. Jason is the type of guy who could've (and in real life would've) hurt him profoundly, but he didn't.
Jason's a flawed character for sure, but his growth throughout the book is substantial. He's held back, a bit superficial, arrogant, selfish and goes to being someone who loves and matures.
Jason's also in love for the first time in his life and even though it hurt to read about how he always divided family (his house was for a family, not another guy) and his private life, he was actually denying himself and at the same time completely negating a big part of his life, which was being gay.
I kept thinking, why doesn't he want Abe in his house? Just because he's a man? Because he can't seem to put Abe and a serious romantic relationship in the same basket? Because he doesn't want Abe around his kids? Why? Because Jason's in a serious gay relationship and he doesn't see that as compatible with the traditional idea of a family in his mind.
The author touched quite a few interesting and important topics. The book really makes you think.
Jason and Abe's romantic part of the relationship, however, was splendid. They were fantastic together. Heaps of crazy chemistry, passion, great sex and eventually deep emotions. The progression was believable, they expressed their love at just the right time and in the end I simply loved Jason.
Well, Jason and Abe together.
"Jason’s lips curled up. “No way am I telling anyone what my hot little teacher’s like in bed.” He flung his arm over Abe and drew him near. “Don’t want anyone to take you from me.”
“Not going to happen.” Abe snuggled close.
“You bet your ass it won’t.” Jason brushed his mouth over Abe’s. “And to make sure of it, nobody gets to know about this side of you except for me.” He bit Abe’s lower lip and husked, “You’re mine.”
I'd rate it higher but the ending begged for more.
A few short paragraphs about them spending the holidays with Jason's and Abe's parents off-page, also the incident with Donny needed a different outcome. I was hoping Jason would be a bit more rough as a father, but he eventually decided on family therapy. Yeah, I expected harsher consequences for Donny.
Other than that, the book is really good, at least for me. I loved the main couple. I'd recommend this book. But be prepared to possibly not like Jason.
October 19, 2014
I love Cardno stories, they simply tug at my heart. this one was no different!
*sigh*
*sigh*
October 10, 2014
The Half of Us by Cardeno C http://amzn.to/1tGo3ji
stand alone read
4.5 stars
This book can absolutely be read stand alone; the Family series is about the story’s theme not the characters; if you love gay romance where the men are meant to be together; where you can feel the attraction through the pages then I highly recommend you 1-click The Half of Us now!
The Half of Us is the story of heart surgeon Dr Jason Garcia; yes think ego and Abe Green; I will not tell you Abe’s profession because the how this ties into the story was too much fun experiencing while reading it; so I don’t want ruin it for the reader.
I loved that I got to know these men while they got to know each other; CC bonded these men with rich dialogue, dialogue that came as Jason slowly opened up to Abe.
Witnessing Abe opening up in the bedroom, feeling so comfortable with Jason was hot and endearing. You think Abe is the shy one to Jason big personality but was they come together Abe’s opening up makes him even more desirable to Jason (and the reader).
I adored how the changes in Jason were because of Jason, Abe never pushed. Jason wanted Abe, he wanted to be more for Abe; he wanted to be with Abe and he slowly made more and more room for Abe in his live.
The use of Jason’s cousin Asher and ex-wife to get Jason to embrace what was happening between he and Abe was really well done.
And Jason’s children played pivotal roles in this story a story about a Dad, a man who was so alone, alone until Jason opens his heart to Abe. Jason’s opening up allows him to see all he was missing in his life.
Jason’s journey was so powerful, in the end he knows he wants Abe in his life and he starts to fear what if Abe does not want this; this is such growth for Jason!
Jason’s children play another pivotal role toward the end of the book, it was so well done. And in the end the way Jason folds Abe into his family, the family Jason wasn’t sure he would ever have was powerfully poignant.
Jason learned that family is about love; the kind of love the grabs your heart, makes your toes tingle, and is all encompassing.
Thank you CC; this story it warmed my heart, touched my soul and made me believe in love!
stand alone read
4.5 stars
This book can absolutely be read stand alone; the Family series is about the story’s theme not the characters; if you love gay romance where the men are meant to be together; where you can feel the attraction through the pages then I highly recommend you 1-click The Half of Us now!
The Half of Us is the story of heart surgeon Dr Jason Garcia; yes think ego and Abe Green; I will not tell you Abe’s profession because the how this ties into the story was too much fun experiencing while reading it; so I don’t want ruin it for the reader.
I loved that I got to know these men while they got to know each other; CC bonded these men with rich dialogue, dialogue that came as Jason slowly opened up to Abe.
Witnessing Abe opening up in the bedroom, feeling so comfortable with Jason was hot and endearing. You think Abe is the shy one to Jason big personality but was they come together Abe’s opening up makes him even more desirable to Jason (and the reader).
I adored how the changes in Jason were because of Jason, Abe never pushed. Jason wanted Abe, he wanted to be more for Abe; he wanted to be with Abe and he slowly made more and more room for Abe in his live.
The use of Jason’s cousin Asher and ex-wife to get Jason to embrace what was happening between he and Abe was really well done.
And Jason’s children played pivotal roles in this story a story about a Dad, a man who was so alone, alone until Jason opens his heart to Abe. Jason’s opening up allows him to see all he was missing in his life.
Jason’s journey was so powerful, in the end he knows he wants Abe in his life and he starts to fear what if Abe does not want this; this is such growth for Jason!
Jason’s children play another pivotal role toward the end of the book, it was so well done. And in the end the way Jason folds Abe into his family, the family Jason wasn’t sure he would ever have was powerfully poignant.
Jason learned that family is about love; the kind of love the grabs your heart, makes your toes tingle, and is all encompassing.
Thank you CC; this story it warmed my heart, touched my soul and made me believe in love!
August 16, 2020
I looooved this one! This is a one night stand done right ladies and gentlemen! 🤩
The story is simple, two guys meet at a bar, they exchange some words and go to one of the guy's house to sleep together. Then they do the whole thing again, and again, and again.
I loved Abe and Jason, I think they were an amazing match from the beginning. Jason as a surgeon didn't have time for romance nor did he want to, but Abe took down his walls from the first hello. The relationship is based on sex because thats how Jason is comfortable and then loves comes and is beautiful.
I was a little disappointed with Jason and how he treated his family and ex wife, if I were Angela I would have been bitter as fuck, she fulfilled his dreams, his, because she didn't wsnt children yet and then he left. I know he grew out of it and became a better person in that sense, but that part of the story was annoying to read for me.
Still it was lovely, heartwarming and well developed. I really enjoyed it. 🥰❤
The story is simple, two guys meet at a bar, they exchange some words and go to one of the guy's house to sleep together. Then they do the whole thing again, and again, and again.
I loved Abe and Jason, I think they were an amazing match from the beginning. Jason as a surgeon didn't have time for romance nor did he want to, but Abe took down his walls from the first hello. The relationship is based on sex because thats how Jason is comfortable and then loves comes and is beautiful.
I was a little disappointed with Jason and how he treated his family and ex wife, if I were Angela I would have been bitter as fuck, she fulfilled his dreams, his, because she didn't wsnt children yet and then he left. I know he grew out of it and became a better person in that sense, but that part of the story was annoying to read for me.
Still it was lovely, heartwarming and well developed. I really enjoyed it. 🥰❤
January 14, 2015
This had everything I want when I go to a Cardeno C. book. Watching Jason and Abe go from one night stand to can't live without you was funny, sweet and hot.
I loved the way Abe accepts Jason's gruff sometimes obnoxious behavior for what it is rather than having it become unnecessary drama and the fact that Jason owns up to it. Jason's ex-wife and children play a big part in the story and the relationships felt realistic. The story progresses nicely and the sex and dirty talk was plentiful and hot. Another well done story from Cardeno C.
I loved the way Abe accepts Jason's gruff sometimes obnoxious behavior for what it is rather than having it become unnecessary drama and the fact that Jason owns up to it. Jason's ex-wife and children play a big part in the story and the relationships felt realistic. The story progresses nicely and the sex and dirty talk was plentiful and hot. Another well done story from Cardeno C.
October 25, 2014
4.5 stars! I don't think I could love this author any more. Sexy, sweet, loving - - this book has it all.
Cardeno C. has become my go-to author when I want to read a sexy, beautiful m/m story that I know will be filled with heart, well-written characters and tons of emotion. The Half of Us is no exception. This is a hot, sweet and gorgeous story that I absolutely loved from beginning to end. Jason is hiding his loneliness behind a tough exterior and thinks he only deserves quick, one-night stands with nameless and faceless strangers. He feels guilty for breaking up his family when his wife divorced him, and has closed off his personal life from his kids. Even though his ex-wife told their kids long ago that their father was gay, Jase still feels uncomfortable forming any kind of lasting relationship with another man.
Abe thinks his hot night with Jase is just a one time thing, which is something he normally doesn't do. Abe is a traditional relationship guy. But when they get together again, Abe thinks that maybe Jase will recognize that they are really meant for each other. These two have some SCORCHING hot sex scenes together and I absolutely loved watching Jase's love for Abe slowly unfold throughout the story. Seeing Abe really care for Jase's children also brought tears to my eyes. These two really made a family together, and that is the real heart of this story. Treat yourself to a fantastic, beautifully written and sexy story and read The Half of Us. You will love it!
(*ARC provided by the author in return for an honest review.)
Cardeno C. has become my go-to author when I want to read a sexy, beautiful m/m story that I know will be filled with heart, well-written characters and tons of emotion. The Half of Us is no exception. This is a hot, sweet and gorgeous story that I absolutely loved from beginning to end. Jason is hiding his loneliness behind a tough exterior and thinks he only deserves quick, one-night stands with nameless and faceless strangers. He feels guilty for breaking up his family when his wife divorced him, and has closed off his personal life from his kids. Even though his ex-wife told their kids long ago that their father was gay, Jase still feels uncomfortable forming any kind of lasting relationship with another man.
Abe thinks his hot night with Jase is just a one time thing, which is something he normally doesn't do. Abe is a traditional relationship guy. But when they get together again, Abe thinks that maybe Jase will recognize that they are really meant for each other. These two have some SCORCHING hot sex scenes together and I absolutely loved watching Jase's love for Abe slowly unfold throughout the story. Seeing Abe really care for Jase's children also brought tears to my eyes. These two really made a family together, and that is the real heart of this story. Treat yourself to a fantastic, beautifully written and sexy story and read The Half of Us. You will love it!
(*ARC provided by the author in return for an honest review.)
February 17, 2018
Usually when I leave a review, I try to make it useful in some way. So I kind of want to talk about how whoever wrote this has a tin ear for dialogue and how every conversation sounded like a neural network built it, or how one of the MCs is a verbally abusive dillhole and a terrible father and this is somehow supposed to be charming, or how weirdly frequent and also dull the sex scenes were, but really, the only litmus test for "can I read and enjoy this" should be your ability to tolerate the following lines of dialogue (NSFW):
What do you even say to that tbh
What do you even say to that tbh
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