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Faith, Love & Devotion #5.5
Forever & Ever: A Collection of Stories
A Faith, Love, & Devotion Anthology
What happens after the story ends?
Join Matt, Evan, Jim, Griffin, and their friends and families for a glimpse of what happens after happily ever after. Between growing up and growing pains, weddings and retirement, changing careers and changing diapers, life is never boring. Changes, decisions, tears, and joy await as the years march on.
What happens after the story ends?
Join Matt, Evan, Jim, Griffin, and their friends and families for a glimpse of what happens after happily ever after. Between growing up and growing pains, weddings and retirement, changing careers and changing diapers, life is never boring. Changes, decisions, tears, and joy await as the years march on.
252 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 25, 2018
42 people are currently reading
319 people want to read
About the author
Tere Michaels
40 books1,024 followersTere Michaels unofficially began her writing career at the age of four when she learned that people got paid to write stories. It seemed the most perfect and logical job in the world and after that, her path was never in question. (The romance writer part was written in the stars—she was born on Valentine’s Day.)
It took thirty-six years of “research” and “life experience” and well… life… before her first book was published but there are no regrets (she doesn’t believe in them). Along the way, she had some interesting jobs in television, animation, arts education, PR, and a national magazine—but she never stopped believing she would eventually earn her living writing stories about love.
Her home base is a small town in New Jersey, very near NYC, a city she dearly loves. She shares her life with her husband, her son—who is also her personal trainer—and an exceedingly spoiled cat. Her spare time is spent watching way too much sports programming, going to the movies and for long walks/runs in the park, reading, and doing yoga.
Nothing makes her happier than knowing she made a reader laugh or smile or cry. It’s the purpose of sharing her work with people. She loves hearing from fans and fellow writers and is always available for speaking engagements, visits, and workshops. Send her a message through her contact page or connect with her on Instagram (@TereMichaels) and Facebook.
She teaches regularly at SavvyAuthors, as well as running a private consulting and developmental editing business.
It took thirty-six years of “research” and “life experience” and well… life… before her first book was published but there are no regrets (she doesn’t believe in them). Along the way, she had some interesting jobs in television, animation, arts education, PR, and a national magazine—but she never stopped believing she would eventually earn her living writing stories about love.
Her home base is a small town in New Jersey, very near NYC, a city she dearly loves. She shares her life with her husband, her son—who is also her personal trainer—and an exceedingly spoiled cat. Her spare time is spent watching way too much sports programming, going to the movies and for long walks/runs in the park, reading, and doing yoga.
Nothing makes her happier than knowing she made a reader laugh or smile or cry. It’s the purpose of sharing her work with people. She loves hearing from fans and fellow writers and is always available for speaking engagements, visits, and workshops. Send her a message through her contact page or connect with her on Instagram (@TereMichaels) and Facebook.
She teaches regularly at SavvyAuthors, as well as running a private consulting and developmental editing business.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
January 22, 2019
***4.5 Stars***
...we do this because we love each other, and we cherish each other. For no one else but the two of them. When they met, at the bottom of that metaphorical well, the climb out built on their mutual dependence and support. They stood on each other's shoulders until fresh air and light found them again - and this moment felt like putting a flag atop Mount Everest.
This was such a great peek into the extended HEA's of my favorite family and their chosen family. I laughed and cried with them at every milestone.
I'm sad to say goodbye, but I know I'll be revisiting them in plenty of rereads.
I've included below a list of the story titles in the novella.
"The reason you stay is a higher reason for being there. You make a commitment for more than just responsibility. You make a...a vow. That even when the responsibility is too damn much, you take a breath and you keep going. Because you cherish it. Because you can't think of another place you'd rather be or another person you'd rather be doing it with."
1. Matt and Evan Get Married. Secretly.
2. A Christmas Wedding: Matt's Favorite Child Gets Married
3. Felicitous (Sounds Like a Holiday Word)
4. Here's to You, Mrs. Robinson
5. It's Always the Quiet Ones
6. Decisions, Decisions
7. The Showering
8. Don't Answer the Phone
9. Red Alert
10. Welcome, Shelia. And Mavan.
11. Fatherhood 101
12. Tony
13. A Big Bow on It
"I ask you to pass through life at my side - to be my second self, and best earthly companion."
**My only one bummer, because I'm a selfish romance reader, is I wish there were more moments of JUST Evan and Matt. I wanted more of just the two of them. Yes, they were the heads of their family and part of an amazing friend circle....but I wanted to see more of the intimacy between them. Their quiet moments where it was just them.
----------------------------------------------
Before Reading:
OMG, OMG, OMG I HAVE ZERO CHILL!!!!!! This is one of my favorite series EVER!! I cannot wait for this!!!!!!!!!!
January 1, 2019
Happiness is spending the holidays with friends...
and that's what it felt like reading these stories. Even though it's been 4 years since this series wrapped up and 3 years since i read the final book it was so effortless to slip back into the lives of Evan, Matt, Jim and Griffin along with all their families and friends.
For the most part I'm not a fan of anthologies or collected stories...usually. But I will always makes an exception and happily so when it's something that leaves me smiling and just simply delighted with every word that I've read.
I'm not going to bother with rating each story or going into the details of each story but what I will say is if you haven't read the series than probably best to skip this book until you do. Most of these stories are set around the Christmas season There's not messing with anyone's HEA and there's no big storyline. This is more a case of the author sharing their HEA with us.
Everyone has a different vision of what happily ever after holds and for Evan, Matt, Jim and Griffin happily ever after isn't about fame and fortune but family and love and in 'Forever & Ever' the author takes us through the lives of these men sharing with the reader the good times and yes the bad...but often it's the bad that defines the good and reminds us that we need to appreciate and treasure them and during the worst of times it's their memory that give us the strength to get through the bad. But this time we are treated to the best of the good times...family time, births, weddings, love at it's sweetest and the bad thankfully is the kind of bad that happens to people and often times at the end of it all we realize that rather than the bad it's more of life's way of reminding is to treasure, love and appreciate all the good that we've been given.
There were far more times that made me laugh and smile with delight while shedding tears of happiness than there were moments of tension and truthfully I had no tearful, sad moments.
I think my only regret about this one was that I didn't have the time to re-read the original series and I know that when time permits I'd love to curl up and re-read the original series before once again enjoying the collected stories contained in 'Forever & Ever'.
In 'Truth & Tenderness', book #6 of Tere Michaels' 'Faith, Love & Devotion' series, we said good-bye to this series but here in 'Forever & Ever' it feels more like the characters of 'Faith, Love & Devotion' have come to say good-bye to us and share with us a bit of the 'happy ever after' that they fought so hard to get and for me it was simply perfect and so comforting to know that while the series may have ended these men didn't they lived on and got to enjoy their happily ever after.
************************
An ARC of 'Forever & Ever': A Collection of Stories'. was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
and that's what it felt like reading these stories. Even though it's been 4 years since this series wrapped up and 3 years since i read the final book it was so effortless to slip back into the lives of Evan, Matt, Jim and Griffin along with all their families and friends.
For the most part I'm not a fan of anthologies or collected stories...usually. But I will always makes an exception and happily so when it's something that leaves me smiling and just simply delighted with every word that I've read.
I'm not going to bother with rating each story or going into the details of each story but what I will say is if you haven't read the series than probably best to skip this book until you do. Most of these stories are set around the Christmas season There's not messing with anyone's HEA and there's no big storyline. This is more a case of the author sharing their HEA with us.
Everyone has a different vision of what happily ever after holds and for Evan, Matt, Jim and Griffin happily ever after isn't about fame and fortune but family and love and in 'Forever & Ever' the author takes us through the lives of these men sharing with the reader the good times and yes the bad...but often it's the bad that defines the good and reminds us that we need to appreciate and treasure them and during the worst of times it's their memory that give us the strength to get through the bad. But this time we are treated to the best of the good times...family time, births, weddings, love at it's sweetest and the bad thankfully is the kind of bad that happens to people and often times at the end of it all we realize that rather than the bad it's more of life's way of reminding is to treasure, love and appreciate all the good that we've been given.
There were far more times that made me laugh and smile with delight while shedding tears of happiness than there were moments of tension and truthfully I had no tearful, sad moments.
I think my only regret about this one was that I didn't have the time to re-read the original series and I know that when time permits I'd love to curl up and re-read the original series before once again enjoying the collected stories contained in 'Forever & Ever'.
In 'Truth & Tenderness', book #6 of Tere Michaels' 'Faith, Love & Devotion' series, we said good-bye to this series but here in 'Forever & Ever' it feels more like the characters of 'Faith, Love & Devotion' have come to say good-bye to us and share with us a bit of the 'happy ever after' that they fought so hard to get and for me it was simply perfect and so comforting to know that while the series may have ended these men didn't they lived on and got to enjoy their happily ever after.
************************
An ARC of 'Forever & Ever': A Collection of Stories'. was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
August 8, 2024
This was the perfect book. I've been waiting so long to finally read it and God I wish I wouldn't have waited so long. This book had me laughing but man had it had me in tears so much.
I absolutely love Matt and Evan. These two are so perfect for each other. They had such a ride getting to where they are, but it was perfect. Matt has such a great relationship with the kids. And I love his special bond with Katie. God those two had me bawling a couple different times.
This series is definitely on my reread list so that I can experience all the ups and downs again. This was the best way to end this series.
I absolutely love Matt and Evan. These two are so perfect for each other. They had such a ride getting to where they are, but it was perfect. Matt has such a great relationship with the kids. And I love his special bond with Katie. God those two had me bawling a couple different times.
This series is definitely on my reread list so that I can experience all the ups and downs again. This was the best way to end this series.
December 31, 2018
Wow, it’s been a very, very long time since I have read anything by Tere Michaels and an even longer time since I read about Matt and Evan and all the others. Matt and Evan were one of the very first M/M stories I read and I really think they contributed to my love of the genre very early on.
It was nice to return to them and see the growth and development in the world and their relationship. I’ll be honest, since it has been years since I read the series, it took me a while to get back into these characters, but there’s just something so soft and serene about these stories that I really find comfort in them.
In these stories you’ll get updates on all the couples and their happily-ever-afters. I think it’s a nice treat for readers who have been fans of the series and its definitely worth the read if you enjoyed the original series like I did.
July 19, 2019
Awww, this look into the future of the Haight-Cerelli family was fun! I'm still not the biggest fan of Griffin and Jim, but I enjoyed the peaks into their lives too. Everyone is a little too happy and everything is a little too perfect, but I guess that is to be expected in a happily ever after book. Matt remains in the top 3 of my favorite MM characters and Evan has definitely come a long way. A nice, satisfying wrap up to one of my favorite series!
February 23, 2019
Matt and Evan’s marriage was everything ❤️
A great epilogue to this beloved series as everyone is all grown up now
A great epilogue to this beloved series as everyone is all grown up now
September 16, 2019
As the title of the last book suggests, it's actually a collection of CODAs and short stories which takes place after book 5 of the series. Interestingly, the length of this book is LONGER than any other book published in the series.
In the previous book, it was hinted that Matt and Evan
There were numerous chapters in this book, and each one could act as a short standalone story. Even in this case, the stories could segue into the next seamlessly. The final chapter concluded nicely, even though I would have preferred the story to conclude a little sooner. There was just too many characters introduced at the end and it was really confusing as there was a lack of proper introduction. I thought the ending of the story could do without the last sentence because it felt a little cheesy to me.
This has been a wonderful conclusion to the lovely series, and it was what we all needed because the previous one did not do the fans of the series justice. Thank you to Tere Michaels for gracing us with all these awesome characters and their stories.
4.5 Stars!
In the previous book, it was hinted that Matt and Evan
There were numerous chapters in this book, and each one could act as a short standalone story. Even in this case, the stories could segue into the next seamlessly. The final chapter concluded nicely, even though I would have preferred the story to conclude a little sooner. There was just too many characters introduced at the end and it was really confusing as there was a lack of proper introduction. I thought the ending of the story could do without the last sentence because it felt a little cheesy to me.
This has been a wonderful conclusion to the lovely series, and it was what we all needed because the previous one did not do the fans of the series justice. Thank you to Tere Michaels for gracing us with all these awesome characters and their stories.
4.5 Stars!
February 2, 2019
"You okay?" Evan asked, close to Matt's ear.
Turning to face him, Matt didn't hold back the smile budding inside him. A moment that seemed a thousand years ago flashed back to him. He and Evan sitting in a seedy bar, the intense energy between them so confusing and so intoxicating he couldn't stay away. Everything in Matt's past had told him to run away from what he was feeling back then.
God, it had been complicated. Life-changing. Like everything he thought he knew got set on fire and remade. What was left, after all the upheaval? Matt with a family, with a purpose.
The only thing Matt could think of to say, here in the lobby of Mt. Sinai, was "Thank you."
I really enjoyed this glimpse into Evan and Matt's future. This is a bunch of short stories/chapters about different points in their lives. Getting married, the kids growing up and going to college, them getting married, the guys becoming grandparents etc. This is really just for fans of the series. It's not a standalone.
Turning to face him, Matt didn't hold back the smile budding inside him. A moment that seemed a thousand years ago flashed back to him. He and Evan sitting in a seedy bar, the intense energy between them so confusing and so intoxicating he couldn't stay away. Everything in Matt's past had told him to run away from what he was feeling back then.
God, it had been complicated. Life-changing. Like everything he thought he knew got set on fire and remade. What was left, after all the upheaval? Matt with a family, with a purpose.
The only thing Matt could think of to say, here in the lobby of Mt. Sinai, was "Thank you."
I really enjoyed this glimpse into Evan and Matt's future. This is a bunch of short stories/chapters about different points in their lives. Getting married, the kids growing up and going to college, them getting married, the guys becoming grandparents etc. This is really just for fans of the series. It's not a standalone.
September 26, 2019
4.5 Stars
It's been a couple years since I read this series I believe. I think it's a testament to the strength of the stories that I actually remember these characters and how they all inter-related. This was a really fun, emotional, connected series of vignettes that showed how happily ever after really works. I love Evan and Matt's relationship. Matt especially. He's just so wonderful and seeing his relationship growth with all of his step-kids was so sweet. This really just gave me a warm hearted loving feeling. So happy I read this.
It's been a couple years since I read this series I believe. I think it's a testament to the strength of the stories that I actually remember these characters and how they all inter-related. This was a really fun, emotional, connected series of vignettes that showed how happily ever after really works. I love Evan and Matt's relationship. Matt especially. He's just so wonderful and seeing his relationship growth with all of his step-kids was so sweet. This really just gave me a warm hearted loving feeling. So happy I read this.
December 28, 2018
I was so excited when I heard this book was coming out. For anyone that has read Tere’s Faith & Fidelity series, this is a must!!
This story revisits Evan, Matt and the kids. Griffin, Jim, Daisy and all of the characters we have seen in the series. Really best to read the previous books, if you haven’t already.
This books ties up all loose ends & transports us through milestones in the adults and their kids lives. It’s funny, it’s sentimental, it’s absolutely everything you think you want to read about this close knit friends/family. I am so happy Tere decided to write it and I will cherish it forever xo
This story revisits Evan, Matt and the kids. Griffin, Jim, Daisy and all of the characters we have seen in the series. Really best to read the previous books, if you haven’t already.
This books ties up all loose ends & transports us through milestones in the adults and their kids lives. It’s funny, it’s sentimental, it’s absolutely everything you think you want to read about this close knit friends/family. I am so happy Tere decided to write it and I will cherish it forever xo
December 27, 2018
reviewed by Jenn
+++++++++++++++++++++++++
I have read this series since the beginning and it’s a big part of what cemented my love of this genre. Evan, Matt, and the entire Cerelli/Haight family and friends that became family are so special to me. This book that is comprised of short stories following this family through the years reads like a love letter to the fans of this series. It is filled with so much heart and love, I read this whole book with a bit of tears in my eyes.
If you haven’t read this series, it starts out with Matt and Evan. Both men are straight and both have seemingly hit rock bottom. As they grow as friends, a spark begins to ignite. Both are shocked and not sure what to do about these new found feelings. They both mess up...a lot at times. Evan has four kids who have lost their mother and now he wants to bring Matt into their lives. He’s so afraid of hurting his family and Matt has no experience with children. This is where it all begins. This journey takes us on to meet friends of the guy’s and to get their stories. As I said above, these friendships develop into a huge extended family. We get to see everyone up to about 20 years from where Matt and Evan began and it is amazing!
There is a line in the book that I can’t directly quote because of language. It’s basically “Thank you for this amazing family” and I feel that so much. Thank you, Tere Michaels for this amazing family. Thank you for giving us this glimpse into the lives of this family. You have made me laugh and cry with this series. With each book, I fell more in love with the Cerelli/Haight family. You created something beyond special with this series, you didn’t just show us two people falling in love. You showed us a new family being built before our eyes. It wasn’t always pretty, but it was always real. I’ll miss this family, this series, but I know they’ll live on in rereads and in my heart.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++
I have read this series since the beginning and it’s a big part of what cemented my love of this genre. Evan, Matt, and the entire Cerelli/Haight family and friends that became family are so special to me. This book that is comprised of short stories following this family through the years reads like a love letter to the fans of this series. It is filled with so much heart and love, I read this whole book with a bit of tears in my eyes.
If you haven’t read this series, it starts out with Matt and Evan. Both men are straight and both have seemingly hit rock bottom. As they grow as friends, a spark begins to ignite. Both are shocked and not sure what to do about these new found feelings. They both mess up...a lot at times. Evan has four kids who have lost their mother and now he wants to bring Matt into their lives. He’s so afraid of hurting his family and Matt has no experience with children. This is where it all begins. This journey takes us on to meet friends of the guy’s and to get their stories. As I said above, these friendships develop into a huge extended family. We get to see everyone up to about 20 years from where Matt and Evan began and it is amazing!
There is a line in the book that I can’t directly quote because of language. It’s basically “Thank you for this amazing family” and I feel that so much. Thank you, Tere Michaels for this amazing family. Thank you for giving us this glimpse into the lives of this family. You have made me laugh and cry with this series. With each book, I fell more in love with the Cerelli/Haight family. You created something beyond special with this series, you didn’t just show us two people falling in love. You showed us a new family being built before our eyes. It wasn’t always pretty, but it was always real. I’ll miss this family, this series, but I know they’ll live on in rereads and in my heart.
February 4, 2021
Great
I feel like this was the perfect ending to the series. I laughed so much reading this. It just tied it all up sooo nicely. This series has definitely made it into my favourite reads.
I feel like this was the perfect ending to the series. I laughed so much reading this. It just tied it all up sooo nicely. This series has definitely made it into my favourite reads.
February 14, 2019
This is an extended epilogue of the lives of Evan & Matt and their extensive family.
Returning to the Cerelli-Haight family was amazing and wonderful to read about the development of the children becoming adults and growing into their own lives together with their Dads and their extended family.
Part of the Faith, Love & Devotion Series that is best enjoyed when read in order:
April 23, 2019
The perfect end to an all-time favorite series. Tere Michaels sets the bar high with this collection of story vignettes that together take us into the future to be with Grandpa Evan and Pop Pop Matt.
I can't even find words to describe how incredibly delicious this was.
Very, very highly recommended to all who've read the series. And to those who haven't, start now with the classic, Faith & Fidelity.
I can't even find words to describe how incredibly delicious this was.
Very, very highly recommended to all who've read the series. And to those who haven't, start now with the classic, Faith & Fidelity.
January 4, 2019
The 7th and final update from the wonderful Cirelli-Haight world. Some books you read and forget and some live with you forever. This is a forever book/story. Evan and Matt were my first MM read. I have loved the updates over the years. I’m going to miss this family but they will be a re read always. Thank you Tere Michaels, for bringing this wonderful family to life.
December 31, 2018
A perfect ending
This is one of my fave series ever. As I reunited with Evan , Matt, their family and friends I basked in the warmth of their perfect imperfections. I couldn’t wipe the smile off my face throughout the book. My chuckles and tears of joy were a constant, I’m worn out with happiness. Is that even possible? I’m proof that it is. The final book in this series rates 5 stars for a perfect ending.
This is one of my fave series ever. As I reunited with Evan , Matt, their family and friends I basked in the warmth of their perfect imperfections. I couldn’t wipe the smile off my face throughout the book. My chuckles and tears of joy were a constant, I’m worn out with happiness. Is that even possible? I’m proof that it is. The final book in this series rates 5 stars for a perfect ending.
December 8, 2018
3.5 Stars
This isn't a full book, it's a lengthy collection of stories to round off the series Faith, Love & Devotion with a serious HEA and some fun memories. This is definitely NOT a stand alone title and characters and situations from all 6 books are referred to.
This collection is segmented into stories that follow up with Evan and Matt, their children, Jim and Griffin, Bennett, Daisy and the entire clan of friends, siblings, in-laws, etc. There are weddings, emergencies, babies, sickness, girlfriends, boyfriends, retirement, surgery, and lots of Christmas traditions.
On the whole, this was a good wrap up of everything that could possibly happen to Evan and Matt in the next few years of their lives, how they handled the situations together, and how big their extended family had really become. It's still the same nervous, anxiety filled Evan and the charismatic, witty, fun-loving Matt. And it's a pleasure to know that they fair well.
What I didn't care for much was this didn't read like a story. I was kind of disappointed in that regard. It was just snippet stories with years in between. They detailed any and every possible thing that could happen, including clogged toilets and ordering pizza.
Each of their four children had their future spelled out, as well as family and friends. It was a nice wrap up, but it seemed to go on and on. I would have been happy with a single time period story, including the ultimate HEA as this just got a but long for me.
If you are a fan of the series, you'll need to read this to answer all of your questions about the future of Evan and Matt. It's written in Tere Michaels wonderful writing style that takes you on a roller coaster of emotions, and leaving you with that feeling of all is right in the world.
*Galley copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. To be cross posted on http://gaybook.reviews/ *
This isn't a full book, it's a lengthy collection of stories to round off the series Faith, Love & Devotion with a serious HEA and some fun memories. This is definitely NOT a stand alone title and characters and situations from all 6 books are referred to.
This collection is segmented into stories that follow up with Evan and Matt, their children, Jim and Griffin, Bennett, Daisy and the entire clan of friends, siblings, in-laws, etc. There are weddings, emergencies, babies, sickness, girlfriends, boyfriends, retirement, surgery, and lots of Christmas traditions.
On the whole, this was a good wrap up of everything that could possibly happen to Evan and Matt in the next few years of their lives, how they handled the situations together, and how big their extended family had really become. It's still the same nervous, anxiety filled Evan and the charismatic, witty, fun-loving Matt. And it's a pleasure to know that they fair well.
What I didn't care for much was this didn't read like a story. I was kind of disappointed in that regard. It was just snippet stories with years in between. They detailed any and every possible thing that could happen, including clogged toilets and ordering pizza.
Each of their four children had their future spelled out, as well as family and friends. It was a nice wrap up, but it seemed to go on and on. I would have been happy with a single time period story, including the ultimate HEA as this just got a but long for me.
If you are a fan of the series, you'll need to read this to answer all of your questions about the future of Evan and Matt. It's written in Tere Michaels wonderful writing style that takes you on a roller coaster of emotions, and leaving you with that feeling of all is right in the world.
*Galley copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. To be cross posted on http://gaybook.reviews/ *
October 16, 2020
¸.•´¸★*´¨) ¸.•*¨)
(¸.★¨*.¸¸.•`★¤Faith, Love & Devotion¤★¨*.¸¸.*ˑ˞★
Heart warming, amazing and just what I needed to reminisce with one of my favorite families.
It's been almost eight years [February 18, 2011] to be exact when I discovered Tere Michaels and her ability to churn out realistic, human feelings in a book that introduced Evan, a recently widowed, straight cop, and disgraced, ousted cop Matt. It was an attraction that grew into love with all the trials and tribulations of outing, blending lives and making a family. These two men overcame so much over six books; introducing friends who became family and proving that with hard work, love and devotion, what seemed impossible was possible.
For this book, Forever & Ever, I think I needed it to stave my appetite at how book six was wrapped up. Though happy ever after, pieces were missing and in this book, the reader got to travel beyond the happy ever after to see the friends and family as they move on with life. Illnesses, marriages, even a secret one, babies, and more babies. There was talk of retirement and moving on from what was to what will be. Through it all, the gang held each other's hands, were there through thick, thin and triumphs. I will forever hold this one near and dear as finality rang out with "The End." Yes, there is more stories that can be had, but why mess with brilliance?
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from Dreamspinner Press
Reviewed by Cee from Alpha Book Club
(¸.★¨*.¸¸.•`★¤Faith, Love & Devotion¤★¨*.¸¸.*ˑ˞★
Heart warming, amazing and just what I needed to reminisce with one of my favorite families.
It's been almost eight years [February 18, 2011] to be exact when I discovered Tere Michaels and her ability to churn out realistic, human feelings in a book that introduced Evan, a recently widowed, straight cop, and disgraced, ousted cop Matt. It was an attraction that grew into love with all the trials and tribulations of outing, blending lives and making a family. These two men overcame so much over six books; introducing friends who became family and proving that with hard work, love and devotion, what seemed impossible was possible.
For this book, Forever & Ever, I think I needed it to stave my appetite at how book six was wrapped up. Though happy ever after, pieces were missing and in this book, the reader got to travel beyond the happy ever after to see the friends and family as they move on with life. Illnesses, marriages, even a secret one, babies, and more babies. There was talk of retirement and moving on from what was to what will be. Through it all, the gang held each other's hands, were there through thick, thin and triumphs. I will forever hold this one near and dear as finality rang out with "The End." Yes, there is more stories that can be had, but why mess with brilliance?
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from Dreamspinner Press
Reviewed by Cee from Alpha Book Club
December 7, 2019
Perfect just Perfect
Love this series so much, Hated to see it end but what a wonderful perfect ending. I love Evan and Matt along with all the wonderful collection of family, friends,kids and co-workers. These short slices of life that made up the book were happy, sad, funny and tender. A very enjoyable read. And oh how I wish I had Matt, because every family needs a Matt. Highly recommended series, but start from the beginning, these are not stand alone books.
Love this series so much, Hated to see it end but what a wonderful perfect ending. I love Evan and Matt along with all the wonderful collection of family, friends,kids and co-workers. These short slices of life that made up the book were happy, sad, funny and tender. A very enjoyable read. And oh how I wish I had Matt, because every family needs a Matt. Highly recommended series, but start from the beginning, these are not stand alone books.
January 3, 2019
FR- Alors alors… alors si vous ne le saviez pas déjà, je suis complètement fan de cette série. Matt et Evan font parti des premiers couples M/M que j’ai découvert et ils auront toujours une place particulière dans mon coeur. Milady n’a malheureusement traduit qu’un seul tome de cette superbe série et à l’époque de ma première lecture j’avais aimé sans plus car je trouvais qu’il n’y avait pas assez de sexe . Depuis, j’ai lu les autres tomes en VO et j’ai complètement revu ma copie. Parce que ce tome 1 est tout simplement parfait, logique et réaliste. Parce que Matt et Evan sont super attachants et forts et que je les aimes d’amour. Parce que l’auteure ne leur épargne aucune épreuve, aucun obstacle et que même s’ils font des erreurs, Matt et Evan sont toujours aussi profondément amoureux l’un de l’autre et leur couple franchira toutes les épreuves.
Ce recueil de nouvelles, c’est un cadeau que nous fait l’auteure. A nous les fans de Matt et Evan ou de Jim et Griffin. A nous les fans de cette série, de ces personnages, de cet univers. Et ces nouvelles sont toutes meilleures les unes que les autres. Elles sont un point final parfait à cette série et c’était juste magnifique. Parce que oui on a enfin droit au récit du mariage de Matt et Evan et que ce mariage est juste parfait. Parce que chaque nouvelle est un cadeau , une petite incursion de plus au milieu de ces personnages qu’on adore, une tranche de vie supplémentaire. Un aperçu de leur vie à venir et que c’était tout simplement une merveilleuse surprise de noël. Je ne peux pas trop vous en dire sur chaque nouvelle, certaines ne font que quelques pages, d’autres sont un peu plus longues. Je peux simplement vous dire qu’une fois de plus, l’auteure ne nous épargne rien. Que ce soit les rires comme les larmes, la joie comme la tristesse mais ce recueil de nouvelles est tout simplement parfait. Merci merci merci à Tere Michaels pour ces derniers moments dans la vie de Matt et Evan et de tous les personnages de cette série, merci pour cette fin parfaite. Merci pour ces personnages qui resteront éternellement dans mon top 3 des couples MM que j’adore. Merci.
ENG- So well well well…well if you did not already know, I’m a big fan of this series. Matt and Evan are part of the first M / M couples I discovered and they will always have a special place in my heart. Milady (the french publisher) has unfortunately translated only one volume of this beautiful series and at the time of my first reading I didn’t really liked it because I found that there was not enough sex. Since then, I read the other volumes in english and I completely reviewed my copy. Because this volume 1 is just perfect, logical and realistic. Because Matt and Evan are super endearing and strong and I love them. Because the author saves them no trial, no obstacles and even if they make mistakes, Matt and Evan are still deeply in love with each other and their couple will go through all the trials.
This collection of novella is a gift that the author gives us. To us fans of Matt and Evan or Jim and Griffin. To us fans of this series, these characters, this universe. And every novella is better than the other. They are a perfect ending to this series and it was just beautiful. Because yes we finally have the story of Matt and Evan’s wedding and that this wedding is just perfect.
Because each novella is a gift, a small foray into the midst of these characters we love, an extra slice of life. A glimpse of their life to come and it was just a wonderful Christmas surprise.
I can not tell you too much about each news, some are just a few pages, others are a little longer. I can only tell you that once again, the author saves us nothing. Whether it’s laughs like tears, joy like sadness but this collection of news is just perfect. Thank you thank you thank you to Tere Michaels for these last moments in the life of Matt and Evan and all the characters of this series, thank you for this perfect ending. Thank you for these characters who will stay forever in my top 3 MM couples that I love. Thank you
Ce recueil de nouvelles, c’est un cadeau que nous fait l’auteure. A nous les fans de Matt et Evan ou de Jim et Griffin. A nous les fans de cette série, de ces personnages, de cet univers. Et ces nouvelles sont toutes meilleures les unes que les autres. Elles sont un point final parfait à cette série et c’était juste magnifique. Parce que oui on a enfin droit au récit du mariage de Matt et Evan et que ce mariage est juste parfait. Parce que chaque nouvelle est un cadeau , une petite incursion de plus au milieu de ces personnages qu’on adore, une tranche de vie supplémentaire. Un aperçu de leur vie à venir et que c’était tout simplement une merveilleuse surprise de noël. Je ne peux pas trop vous en dire sur chaque nouvelle, certaines ne font que quelques pages, d’autres sont un peu plus longues. Je peux simplement vous dire qu’une fois de plus, l’auteure ne nous épargne rien. Que ce soit les rires comme les larmes, la joie comme la tristesse mais ce recueil de nouvelles est tout simplement parfait. Merci merci merci à Tere Michaels pour ces derniers moments dans la vie de Matt et Evan et de tous les personnages de cette série, merci pour cette fin parfaite. Merci pour ces personnages qui resteront éternellement dans mon top 3 des couples MM que j’adore. Merci.
ENG- So well well well…well if you did not already know, I’m a big fan of this series. Matt and Evan are part of the first M / M couples I discovered and they will always have a special place in my heart. Milady (the french publisher) has unfortunately translated only one volume of this beautiful series and at the time of my first reading I didn’t really liked it because I found that there was not enough sex. Since then, I read the other volumes in english and I completely reviewed my copy. Because this volume 1 is just perfect, logical and realistic. Because Matt and Evan are super endearing and strong and I love them. Because the author saves them no trial, no obstacles and even if they make mistakes, Matt and Evan are still deeply in love with each other and their couple will go through all the trials.
This collection of novella is a gift that the author gives us. To us fans of Matt and Evan or Jim and Griffin. To us fans of this series, these characters, this universe. And every novella is better than the other. They are a perfect ending to this series and it was just beautiful. Because yes we finally have the story of Matt and Evan’s wedding and that this wedding is just perfect.
Because each novella is a gift, a small foray into the midst of these characters we love, an extra slice of life. A glimpse of their life to come and it was just a wonderful Christmas surprise.
I can not tell you too much about each news, some are just a few pages, others are a little longer. I can only tell you that once again, the author saves us nothing. Whether it’s laughs like tears, joy like sadness but this collection of news is just perfect. Thank you thank you thank you to Tere Michaels for these last moments in the life of Matt and Evan and all the characters of this series, thank you for this perfect ending. Thank you for these characters who will stay forever in my top 3 MM couples that I love. Thank you
December 27, 2018
I received this book for free from Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Wow, it’s been a very, very long time since I have read anything by Tere Michaels and an even longer time since I read about Matt and Evan and all the others. Matt and Evan were one of the very first M/M stories I read and I really think they contributed to my love of the genre very early on.
It was nice to return to them and see the growth and development in the world and their relationship. I’ll be honest, since it has been years since I read the series, it took me a while to get back into these characters, but there’s just something so soft and serene about these stories that I really find comfort in them.
In these stories you’ll get updates on all the couples and their happily-ever-afters. I think it’s a nice treat for readers who have been fans of the series and its definitely worth the read if you enjoyed the original series like I did.
*ARC provided by publisher
Reviewed by Ann❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
January 2, 2019
A Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words Review
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
For the full review, visit https://wp.me/p220KL-fFO on 1/3/19
From that review: "Luckily, Michaels decided to give all her readers a love letter. Forever & Ever: A Collection of Stories (Faith, Love & Devotion #7) by Tere Michaels is exactly that. A collection of short stories that flow one to the other a year of several after that last book. It shows the natural progression in the lives of these characters. Mostly hilarious, some warmhearted and loving, it continues to tighten the bonds between all the people you've grown to over over all six novels and pulls it together in one last story to gladden your heart.
It's a series finale you will be happy with. Not something I have said every time. No I can go back and read this one again and again as I do many of the books here and be delighted. I think all lovers of this series and these couples will be too.
So yes I'm highly recommended this collection and this series. New to Faith, Love, and Devotion? I've listed the entire series for you below. Read them in the order they were written, What a wonderful journey awaits you! It's one I intend on taking again and again."
For all our reviews, check out http://scatteredthoughtsandroguewords...
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
For the full review, visit https://wp.me/p220KL-fFO on 1/3/19
From that review: "Luckily, Michaels decided to give all her readers a love letter. Forever & Ever: A Collection of Stories (Faith, Love & Devotion #7) by Tere Michaels is exactly that. A collection of short stories that flow one to the other a year of several after that last book. It shows the natural progression in the lives of these characters. Mostly hilarious, some warmhearted and loving, it continues to tighten the bonds between all the people you've grown to over over all six novels and pulls it together in one last story to gladden your heart.
It's a series finale you will be happy with. Not something I have said every time. No I can go back and read this one again and again as I do many of the books here and be delighted. I think all lovers of this series and these couples will be too.
So yes I'm highly recommended this collection and this series. New to Faith, Love, and Devotion? I've listed the entire series for you below. Read them in the order they were written, What a wonderful journey awaits you! It's one I intend on taking again and again."
For all our reviews, check out http://scatteredthoughtsandroguewords...
April 29, 2019
Getting back to this series, after 4 (!) years away was a bit of a struggle to remember all the details and yet I surprised myself with how much I DID remember. Though I still wish I listened to the whole thing from the start before reading this one. It was SUCH a beautiful series and this book gave us the PERFECT ending. I'm usually satisfied with the general "HFN but can IMAGINE the HEA" but getting the WHOLE thing, for real, seeing them together for 10+ years was beautiful and heartfelt.
This book, as the title promises, is a sort of collection of stories. The chapters are mile stones in the couples' lives, from marriage to childbirth as well as life in general, health, raising kids, changing jobs, retirement and most importantly ALWAYS staying the big happy family even if not all members are related. Looking back at each of the 4 men - Evan and Matt - Jim and Griffin - and who they were before and who they are now, the people who surround them, the happiness they brought into each others' lives and the happiness they got from this amazing family made the whole ride, from book one till this very final one simply EPIC. I LOVE books who give us a realistic sense of the couple and the family for more than a few months, and this kind of following the couples for YEARS is my favorite for sure.
I applaud Tere for giving us the WHOLE series and ask, if I may, she find it in herself to make us another epic series like this one with more wonderful and genuine couples to follow.
If you haven't read this series you have no reason to read this one but it's also a great opportunity to pick up the first one and immerse yourself in them from the start. I'm still not giving up on my idea of listening to the series from the start.
Naturally, if you've read this series this book is a MUST read (You might need Kleenex..)
More Reviews HERE
This book, as the title promises, is a sort of collection of stories. The chapters are mile stones in the couples' lives, from marriage to childbirth as well as life in general, health, raising kids, changing jobs, retirement and most importantly ALWAYS staying the big happy family even if not all members are related. Looking back at each of the 4 men - Evan and Matt - Jim and Griffin - and who they were before and who they are now, the people who surround them, the happiness they brought into each others' lives and the happiness they got from this amazing family made the whole ride, from book one till this very final one simply EPIC. I LOVE books who give us a realistic sense of the couple and the family for more than a few months, and this kind of following the couples for YEARS is my favorite for sure.
I applaud Tere for giving us the WHOLE series and ask, if I may, she find it in herself to make us another epic series like this one with more wonderful and genuine couples to follow.
If you haven't read this series you have no reason to read this one but it's also a great opportunity to pick up the first one and immerse yourself in them from the start. I'm still not giving up on my idea of listening to the series from the start.
Naturally, if you've read this series this book is a MUST read (You might need Kleenex..)
More Reviews HERE
December 26, 2018
When Tere announced this book was coming out, I did the biggest happy dance in my living room. Matt and Evan are one of my all-time favorite couples and FLD is one of my all-time favorite series. To find out we were going to get one more book to look in on this entire crew and see where their lives are now and where they end up was probably the best Christmas present I could have asked for.
And the book did not disappoint. I read the entire thing from cover to cover with the biggest grin on my face. It was perfect. We get to see what happens with everyone and my heart is just so full it could burst right now. And while I didn't think it was possible, I love Matt and Evan even more now, and see a re-read in my very near future.
Thank you, Tere, for sharing these boys with us. These books have brought me countless hours of joy and entertainment and I love them so. And thank you Tere, for this amazing Christmas gift you gave us. I'm sad it's over, but I love how everything ended.
And the book did not disappoint. I read the entire thing from cover to cover with the biggest grin on my face. It was perfect. We get to see what happens with everyone and my heart is just so full it could burst right now. And while I didn't think it was possible, I love Matt and Evan even more now, and see a re-read in my very near future.
Thank you, Tere, for sharing these boys with us. These books have brought me countless hours of joy and entertainment and I love them so. And thank you Tere, for this amazing Christmas gift you gave us. I'm sad it's over, but I love how everything ended.
December 30, 2018
I 100% needed this conclusion to the Faith, Love, and Devotion series. Every little piece of HEA contained in this collection touched my heart, and although I know that the Height-Cerelli family is set, I'm sad to know that this is truly the end of a touching story. I saved this book to read until I knew I had time to read it in one sitting, as it deserved this attention. I'm pleased to have picked up the Faith, Love, and Devotion series over the years (8 years since I picked up Love and Loyalty for the first time!) as it represents such a loving, normal family.
January 4, 2019
A nice wrap-up of one of my all-time favorite series, but with "A Collection of Stories" in the title, I would've expected something less linear. A few connecting words here and there, and this could've just been a novel.
March 26, 2019
Sweet and funny and everything you’d want in a wrap-up collection. I loved all of it.
May 7, 2024
It’s giving addicted/calloway sisters series but make it gay couple 😭 and I would definitely take second gen books!! 😭
Sigh I love it here.. I don’t think I’ll recover from this binge read for a while. These characters… ALL OF THEM! I’m so freaking obsessed and honestly grateful to the fans that begged for more books in 2018😂
Sigh I love it here.. I don’t think I’ll recover from this binge read for a while. These characters… ALL OF THEM! I’m so freaking obsessed and honestly grateful to the fans that begged for more books in 2018😂
December 28, 2018
EXPLETIVE DELETED, THE FEELS!
As a series fan, I read this immediately upon release...and then started it right over. I thought the series was perfect before this release but this release...I CAN'T EVEN, people!
Seriously, don't read this without reading the other 6 books but when you get to this one, I'll be waiting with a tissue, a tumbler of booze, and ready for our long discussion.
As a series fan, I read this immediately upon release...and then started it right over. I thought the series was perfect before this release but this release...I CAN'T EVEN, people!
Seriously, don't read this without reading the other 6 books but when you get to this one, I'll be waiting with a tissue, a tumbler of booze, and ready for our long discussion.
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