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Waited so Long
What happens when your best friend’s son comes home and he’s all grown up?
Devon Hoffman has a secret. He’s wanted a Daddy all his own, but when you’re pushing fifty, you’re completely over the hill. Newly divorced and trying to be single again after an almost thirty-year relationship, he’s lost and needs someone to ground him. Except he’s anxious and his depression intensifies until Bern returns after leaving the service and the younger man suddenly takes interest. Can he let his guard down and risk losing his best friend or should he do whatever is needed to keep his secret safe?
Devon Hoffman has a secret. He’s wanted a Daddy all his own, but when you’re pushing fifty, you’re completely over the hill. Newly divorced and trying to be single again after an almost thirty-year relationship, he’s lost and needs someone to ground him. Except he’s anxious and his depression intensifies until Bern returns after leaving the service and the younger man suddenly takes interest. Can he let his guard down and risk losing his best friend or should he do whatever is needed to keep his secret safe?
115 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 18, 2019
85 people are currently reading
339 people want to read
About the author
J.M. Dabney
58 books642 followersUSA Today Bestselling author J.M. Dabney is a multi-genre published writer of Body and Fat Positive Romance & Fiction. They live with a constant diverse cast of diverse characters in their head. They live for one purpose alone, and that’s to make sure everyone gets the happily ever after they deserve. There is nothing more they want from telling their stories than to show that no matter the package the characters come in or the damage their pasts have done, that love is love. That normal is never normal and sometimes the so-called broken can still be beautiful.
The author is Non-Binary and uses the pronouns They/Them.
The author is Non-Binary and uses the pronouns They/Them.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
June 30, 2019
I took a step out of my comfort zone on this one. I'm not much on a younger daddy/older little story but I was surprised how much I enjoyed it. Of course, there aren't many of JM Dabney's books I don't enjoy. I love how they write imperfect characters.
Devon's 30 year relationship with his husband has ended and Bern has just been biding his time waiting for who he knows will be his perfect boy. But see, Devon is 20 years older than Bern and Bern is his best friend's son. How's this going to work exactly? Well, perfectly for them of course!
This was a sweet if sometimes nasty (in a "whew get out the fan because it's fucking hot in here" way). But it was also a nice easy read. It actually turned out to be one of my favorites of Dabney's...go figure. I guess it's worth stepping out of your comfort zone once in a while 😉
Devon's 30 year relationship with his husband has ended and Bern has just been biding his time waiting for who he knows will be his perfect boy. But see, Devon is 20 years older than Bern and Bern is his best friend's son. How's this going to work exactly? Well, perfectly for them of course!
This was a sweet if sometimes nasty (in a "whew get out the fan because it's fucking hot in here" way). But it was also a nice easy read. It actually turned out to be one of my favorites of Dabney's...go figure. I guess it's worth stepping out of your comfort zone once in a while 😉
May 11, 2020
Re-read May, 11, 2020
**** Terrific story of a long awaited romance. ****
Young ginger bear, Bern,
wanted Devon since he was 15. Devon had gotten married, so Bern went to college and the Marine Corps, because he couldn't watch them together. Bern's Dad kept him informed about Devon,
so when they divorced, Bern came home.
The marriage had been crappy, and Devon, 47, is left depressed.
Bern, 28, begins his press for Devon, because Bern knows a lot of secrets about his man, and wasn't taking no for an answer.
The age difference didn't matter, they belonged together. It's a sweet romance, a need filled in each man for the Daddy/boy relationship they both relished. Hot sexy times, and deep love are present.
We learn more about that lifestyle, so it's interesting, and different. Good characters that we like right away, and a marvelous M/M love story.
ENJOY !
=====
**** Terrific story of a long awaited romance. ****
Young ginger bear, Bern,
wanted Devon since he was 15. Devon had gotten married, so Bern went to college and the Marine Corps, because he couldn't watch them together. Bern's Dad kept him informed about Devon,
so when they divorced, Bern came home.
The marriage had been crappy, and Devon, 47, is left depressed.
Bern, 28, begins his press for Devon, because Bern knows a lot of secrets about his man, and wasn't taking no for an answer.
The age difference didn't matter, they belonged together. It's a sweet romance, a need filled in each man for the Daddy/boy relationship they both relished. Hot sexy times, and deep love are present.
We learn more about that lifestyle, so it's interesting, and different. Good characters that we like right away, and a marvelous M/M love story.
ENJOY !
=====
July 20, 2020
RTC- Off to bed stayed up way late finishing this!
August 30, 2020
A book of many inconsistencies. The biggest for me was the timeline. Did Bern join the marines at eighteen? Or, if I read correctly after college? One minute he and Devon haven’t seen each other for ten years, then it’s six? Why six years? Unless Bern had gone to college until his early twenties making him older than the twenty eight years he was in the book. The gap in dates between the prologue and chapter one is ten years. I was confused about the rest. Granted it doesn’t take much these days but this is an intrinsic part of the story (I could waffle on about dates but I sense the boredom setting in). Then (after however long) Bern gets home sees Devon again and claims him. Just like that. No discussion, no wooing, no finding out if Devon is even interested in Bern romantically first. It turns into a full on this is how it’s going to be from now on Bern’s part. Given Devon’s relationship history why did Bern act so selfishly? where was Devon’s voice, his choices? Bern’s behaviour towards Devon was borderline stalkerish and controlling. He made the rules without discussing them first, rode roughshod over Devon at any opportunity, even deciding what Devon’s safe word should be. No! That was for Devon to decide for himself. Other aspects of this book didn’t make much sense either. There is a [dead] wife who leaves hundreds of recorded videos for Bern and his father. Supposedly to “make it all better” for them after her death. I’m sorry but I couldn’t help imagining the poor woman talking to a video camera for hours rather than living the life she had left. More importantly why was any of that detail included when none of it added anything helpful to the story? I thought Bern and his father’s relationship had an odd vibe to it. Bern acted more like his father’s Dom than his son and I found that really odd and a little creepy. Moving on, why have the ex pop up here and there but then not do much with his character- he certainly added nothing to the story. This was a missed opportunity where the author could have shown character growth for Devon, given him some of the closure that would allow him to move on and embrace his new life with Bern.
What I found strangest of all centred around Bern and Devon. Lots here I afraid **sigh** Example: Who goes out for dinner with a colleague/friend and her husband and proceeds to sit in a chair, in a restaurant with his legs over his boyfriends thighs? Apparently Devon does because he’s actually not a grownup. Unbelievable, uncomfortable and not conducive to the reality in the book. Especially when we’ve seen that Devon is shy about the details of his and Bern’s relationship in the first place. Please don’t get me started on a middle aged man giggling. I hate giggling adults, men in particular. Or the things that took me right to the brink of my comfort zone... like Devon rubbing off on a giant teddy bear, or Devon sitting watching cartoons with Bern’s cock in his arse. What finished me was Bern referring to Devon’s “little” cock **cringe**. Nope! I’m no prude but this was too much infantilising for me.
My lasting impression of this book centres around the relationship dynamics. I don’t think the author could decide if it was a daddy/little or daddy/boy book. My extremely limited understanding is that they are in essence very similar with a few important distinctions, ones that I don’t feel were properly realised here. I could be very wrong, what do I know? *shrugs* The premise of this book skated too close to uncomfortable territory for me more than once but I did finish it. Hey ho at least I can say it was over quickly. One thing I did like though was the younger daddy/ older boy trope. I would read more of that dynamic in the future.
In essence, bland exposition, lacklustre characterisation and world building, a story that went nowhere interesting, daddies/sort of littles, this book, this author, not for me.
Head down, hood up, I’m out of here....
*2 Stars*
What I found strangest of all centred around Bern and Devon. Lots here I afraid **sigh** Example: Who goes out for dinner with a colleague/friend and her husband and proceeds to sit in a chair, in a restaurant with his legs over his boyfriends thighs? Apparently Devon does because he’s actually not a grownup. Unbelievable, uncomfortable and not conducive to the reality in the book. Especially when we’ve seen that Devon is shy about the details of his and Bern’s relationship in the first place. Please don’t get me started on a middle aged man giggling. I hate giggling adults, men in particular. Or the things that took me right to the brink of my comfort zone... like Devon rubbing off on a giant teddy bear, or Devon sitting watching cartoons with Bern’s cock in his arse. What finished me was Bern referring to Devon’s “little” cock **cringe**. Nope! I’m no prude but this was too much infantilising for me.
My lasting impression of this book centres around the relationship dynamics. I don’t think the author could decide if it was a daddy/little or daddy/boy book. My extremely limited understanding is that they are in essence very similar with a few important distinctions, ones that I don’t feel were properly realised here. I could be very wrong, what do I know? *shrugs* The premise of this book skated too close to uncomfortable territory for me more than once but I did finish it. Hey ho at least I can say it was over quickly. One thing I did like though was the younger daddy/ older boy trope. I would read more of that dynamic in the future.
In essence, bland exposition, lacklustre characterisation and world building, a story that went nowhere interesting, daddies/sort of littles, this book, this author, not for me.
Head down, hood up, I’m out of here....
*2 Stars*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 22, 2019
This was a good Daddy Kink read. Devon Hoffman has been with his husband for almost 30 years never getting what he wants he wants a Daddy. Bern is his best friends son Bern has wanted Devon since he was 15 years old. When Devon's husband Lawrence serves him with divorce papers he is devastated. Bern who joined the Marines after college he has always taken care of Devon in small ways and after he heard Devon pleasure himself and call out Daddy he learns all he can to take over and be his daddy his mother who died when he was a baby was his fathers Domme. When his father tells him what happened he leaves the Marines and comes home to get his Boy. This was a good read Devon let his ex run all over him he also cheated on him he was so insecure that he couldn't believe that Bern wanted him. Bern who left as a chubby baby faced boy came back and a Dominate alpha male who knows what and who he wants. I liked both of these character's Bern waited 13 years to be with Devon. This was a good read that I wished was longer. This book was well written with no errors in grammar or spelling.
June 19, 2019
Halfway there for me ... I enjoy this author but this book just didn’t work for me. It wasn’t the genre - I don’t mind a Daddy/boy storyline but I found the characters somewhat frustrating and annoying. Maybe just a bit too over the top ...
July 8, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.5 stars
I love a good age gap story, and a Daddy/boy plot with reverse age gap is just up my alley. So I was really excited about Waited So Long and it definitely hits some nice notes along this theme. Bern is intense and all consuming as a younger Daddy who finally has a chance at the man he has wanted since his teens. It is clear he wants Devon to feel loved and special and he does everything he can to provide what Devon needs. I particularly liked how Bern is this gorgeous, hulking younger man who is totally hot for a much older, smaller, and not nearly as fit older man. It was nice to see his intense his desire for Devon and his effort to make Devon realize how attractive Bern found him. I also really liked the way we see Devon come to accept himself and his desires here. He had stifled so much of what he wanted and needed because he never felt comfortable sharing it with his ex-husband and so there is a lovely sense of Devon finally finding himself and getting the life he has always wanted, but never expected to have. At first, Devon feels shame for his desires, but Bern’s support and unconditional love give Devon the confidence to embrace his inner boy. The story is fairly sex heavy and these guys have nice chemistry together, so if you enjoy a Daddy/boy dynamic (plus a tiny bit of age play), this may be right up your alley.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
3.5 stars
I love a good age gap story, and a Daddy/boy plot with reverse age gap is just up my alley. So I was really excited about Waited So Long and it definitely hits some nice notes along this theme. Bern is intense and all consuming as a younger Daddy who finally has a chance at the man he has wanted since his teens. It is clear he wants Devon to feel loved and special and he does everything he can to provide what Devon needs. I particularly liked how Bern is this gorgeous, hulking younger man who is totally hot for a much older, smaller, and not nearly as fit older man. It was nice to see his intense his desire for Devon and his effort to make Devon realize how attractive Bern found him. I also really liked the way we see Devon come to accept himself and his desires here. He had stifled so much of what he wanted and needed because he never felt comfortable sharing it with his ex-husband and so there is a lovely sense of Devon finally finding himself and getting the life he has always wanted, but never expected to have. At first, Devon feels shame for his desires, but Bern’s support and unconditional love give Devon the confidence to embrace his inner boy. The story is fairly sex heavy and these guys have nice chemistry together, so if you enjoy a Daddy/boy dynamic (plus a tiny bit of age play), this may be right up your alley.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
April 6, 2020
3.5 stars for me.
I love me some daddy kink these days, and I'm loving the authors who are writing it where the daddy is younger than the boy. However, this one felt a bit...too much? Too over the top for me to make it believable.
Bern is super focused on getting his boy (almost to an obsessive degree), and things felt too easy at times (super understanding dad, falling right into daddy/boy dynamic right away) while also frustrating because I felt like they never really discussed things on equal footing - limits, goals, etc. when the relationship started. I also never felt like we got a lot of info outside of their physical relationship. Bern's job, his friends, Devon's wants and real life.
They had great chemistry when they were together, I think I just want more from a daddy/boy relationship, I want to see how they make it work and talk things out and give it that touch of realism for me.
I love me some daddy kink these days, and I'm loving the authors who are writing it where the daddy is younger than the boy. However, this one felt a bit...too much? Too over the top for me to make it believable.
Bern is super focused on getting his boy (almost to an obsessive degree), and things felt too easy at times (super understanding dad, falling right into daddy/boy dynamic right away) while also frustrating because I felt like they never really discussed things on equal footing - limits, goals, etc. when the relationship started. I also never felt like we got a lot of info outside of their physical relationship. Bern's job, his friends, Devon's wants and real life.
They had great chemistry when they were together, I think I just want more from a daddy/boy relationship, I want to see how they make it work and talk things out and give it that touch of realism for me.
June 14, 2019
Devon has never gotten what he wants from his marriage. Together for 30 years, his husbands betrayal hit him hard even though he wasn’t happy. His desire to be someone’s boy will never be fulfilled. He thinks he’s to old and he’s hardly a hard body kind of guy.
Bern fell in love with his fathers best friend when he was fifteen. Knowing his feelings were inappropriate because Devon was married, he joined the service as soon as he graduated. When he hears Devon was divorcing, he starts making plans to become Devon’s Daddy.
I really liked how Bern just took him over. Not even questioning the possibility that Devon wouldn’t want him to be his daddy.
Strong characters are this authors forte, and I’ve liked them all, but Devon and Bern might be my new favorites. Even though Devon was damaged he carried his sadness with such strength and although Bern was strong he used his softness to soothe Devon’s worries.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
Bern fell in love with his fathers best friend when he was fifteen. Knowing his feelings were inappropriate because Devon was married, he joined the service as soon as he graduated. When he hears Devon was divorcing, he starts making plans to become Devon’s Daddy.
I really liked how Bern just took him over. Not even questioning the possibility that Devon wouldn’t want him to be his daddy.
Strong characters are this authors forte, and I’ve liked them all, but Devon and Bern might be my new favorites. Even though Devon was damaged he carried his sadness with such strength and although Bern was strong he used his softness to soothe Devon’s worries.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
June 25, 2019
Devon and his Daddy.
What would it be like to love a married man and wait for him for over a decade? I couldn’t imagine it. Devon had been with his husband for almost thirty years and he treated him awful. There were things that Devon needed that he never put a voice too, but he also withheld the little things, like his love and affection. I’m not sure how everyone stayed quiet over the years, especially when they all saw how unhappy he was. I’m a big mouth, if my friend seems unhappy, I’ll be the first one to say it… especially if it’s so blatant that they’re unhappy and being cheated on. I didn’t understand why nobody said anything…
But, when Bern got wind that Devon’s husband up and filed for divorce, he knew he couldn’t stay away any longer. Having been in love with Devon since he was 15, every fantasy he’d ever had included Devon and the kind of relationship he wanted with him. An overheard experience opened up a whole new world for Bern, and he loved what he now knew Devon needed.
I loved the way Bern took care of Devon, because he’d spent so much of his life not getting what he needed from anyone else. He deserved all the happy. I feel like the age play, like cartoons and playtime was sprinkled in just for effect, because it wasn’t paid attention to much, but the way Bern took care of Devon and D/s aspect of their relationship wasn’t BDSM’y, which I’m really not a fan of, so I appreciated that… and it was just about being what the other needed and showing each other that they loved each other in the way that they both needed, and I loved that.
My heart broke for Bern’s dad, but I’m glad things started getting better for him at the end. I like when everybody gets their HEA, and though nothing could bring the love of his life back, he was doing what he could now to move on and keep living, all while remembering this big love that he’d have forever. I adored that.
Overall though, this is just yet another short and sweet read by an author that’s an instant one-click for me. I’m never disappointed….and hello…. Bern was hot when he got all growly and Daddy-like. I’d have read it for that alone…. Having all the love and feels was just a bonus!
I’m also glad the ex got to see Devon being treated the way he deserved. I’m glad it made him mad and I’m glad it got rubbed in his face a little bit. I’d be interested to see if Jeff could get a story, I’d be all about that !!! Hopefullly this is just the beginning of another great series. Would love to read more.
5 stars from me!
What would it be like to love a married man and wait for him for over a decade? I couldn’t imagine it. Devon had been with his husband for almost thirty years and he treated him awful. There were things that Devon needed that he never put a voice too, but he also withheld the little things, like his love and affection. I’m not sure how everyone stayed quiet over the years, especially when they all saw how unhappy he was. I’m a big mouth, if my friend seems unhappy, I’ll be the first one to say it… especially if it’s so blatant that they’re unhappy and being cheated on. I didn’t understand why nobody said anything…
But, when Bern got wind that Devon’s husband up and filed for divorce, he knew he couldn’t stay away any longer. Having been in love with Devon since he was 15, every fantasy he’d ever had included Devon and the kind of relationship he wanted with him. An overheard experience opened up a whole new world for Bern, and he loved what he now knew Devon needed.
I loved the way Bern took care of Devon, because he’d spent so much of his life not getting what he needed from anyone else. He deserved all the happy. I feel like the age play, like cartoons and playtime was sprinkled in just for effect, because it wasn’t paid attention to much, but the way Bern took care of Devon and D/s aspect of their relationship wasn’t BDSM’y, which I’m really not a fan of, so I appreciated that… and it was just about being what the other needed and showing each other that they loved each other in the way that they both needed, and I loved that.
My heart broke for Bern’s dad, but I’m glad things started getting better for him at the end. I like when everybody gets their HEA, and though nothing could bring the love of his life back, he was doing what he could now to move on and keep living, all while remembering this big love that he’d have forever. I adored that.
Overall though, this is just yet another short and sweet read by an author that’s an instant one-click for me. I’m never disappointed….and hello…. Bern was hot when he got all growly and Daddy-like. I’d have read it for that alone…. Having all the love and feels was just a bonus!
I’m also glad the ex got to see Devon being treated the way he deserved. I’m glad it made him mad and I’m glad it got rubbed in his face a little bit. I’d be interested to see if Jeff could get a story, I’d be all about that !!! Hopefullly this is just the beginning of another great series. Would love to read more.
5 stars from me!
June 15, 2019
The more I read, the more I loved it!
J.M. Dabney was, is and always will be a very special author because she doesn’t make her characters perfect whether it’s their personality or their appearance. I loved that about her the minute I picked up her first book a long time ago and “Waited so Long” wasn’t any different.
I was already sold when she posted the cover a while ago and it showed a ginger! A GINGER GUYS!!!! On top of it he is a big hairy bear, dominant, possessive and of course a VERY loving Daddy whose whole world revolves around his little boy. Seriously can that guy get any more perfect? I will answer for you because no he doesn’t! (Except if he wore a cowboy hat at some point but I guess my heart wouldn't have been able to take that in the end)
The way he treated his little boy was so sweet and there was more than one occasion when I cried on Devon’s behalf. Bern is younger than Devon but already knew that one day he will pick up his role to be Devon’s Daddy. He also didn’t hold back the second he decided to finally get what was his from the very beginning and I LOVED that! No unnecessary fights, misunderstandings, break up or angst. Bern literally broke down Devon’s walls with a bulldozer and Devon only benefited from that!
Because he on the other hand is shy, insecure, deems himself as damaged because of his former marriage and is ashamed by what he secretly wants. So with Bern he could finally let go and be himself. Be the little boy he always wanted to be. I only have one complaint here: why didn’t we get another scene with Devon and his big cuddly teddy bear??? XD
Their whole relationship isn’t just a kink but instead a whole dynamic which takes place 24/7 and is exactly what I always hope for when I pick up a book with the word “daddy-kink”. Sooo another brownie point here :P
All in all I can recommend that book to everyone who wants a sweet and adorable read, with literally no angst and a lot of romance and love between the pages!
5/5 from me :)
P.S. Oh and last but not least there is something which I’m endlessly grateful for:
J.M. Dabney was, is and always will be a very special author because she doesn’t make her characters perfect whether it’s their personality or their appearance. I loved that about her the minute I picked up her first book a long time ago and “Waited so Long” wasn’t any different.
I was already sold when she posted the cover a while ago and it showed a ginger! A GINGER GUYS!!!! On top of it he is a big hairy bear, dominant, possessive and of course a VERY loving Daddy whose whole world revolves around his little boy. Seriously can that guy get any more perfect? I will answer for you because no he doesn’t! (Except if he wore a cowboy hat at some point but I guess my heart wouldn't have been able to take that in the end)
The way he treated his little boy was so sweet and there was more than one occasion when I cried on Devon’s behalf. Bern is younger than Devon but already knew that one day he will pick up his role to be Devon’s Daddy. He also didn’t hold back the second he decided to finally get what was his from the very beginning and I LOVED that! No unnecessary fights, misunderstandings, break up or angst. Bern literally broke down Devon’s walls with a bulldozer and Devon only benefited from that!
Because he on the other hand is shy, insecure, deems himself as damaged because of his former marriage and is ashamed by what he secretly wants. So with Bern he could finally let go and be himself. Be the little boy he always wanted to be. I only have one complaint here: why didn’t we get another scene with Devon and his big cuddly teddy bear??? XD
Their whole relationship isn’t just a kink but instead a whole dynamic which takes place 24/7 and is exactly what I always hope for when I pick up a book with the word “daddy-kink”. Sooo another brownie point here :P
All in all I can recommend that book to everyone who wants a sweet and adorable read, with literally no angst and a lot of romance and love between the pages!
5/5 from me :)
P.S. Oh and last but not least there is something which I’m endlessly grateful for:
December 22, 2020
An entertaining, hot and steamy short story with plenty of daddy/boy kink.
Bern and Devon were incredible together, i just enjoyed this story a lot for a quick read. The adoration Bern has for Devon is rather intense, but i was here for it and Devon needed that so much.
Fast paced and full of great moments, the phone calls and rules. Also enjoyed Berns father and learning more about him is so sweet.
The ending is perfectly steamy and fitting to their relationship, great look towards the future together 💕
Bern and Devon were incredible together, i just enjoyed this story a lot for a quick read. The adoration Bern has for Devon is rather intense, but i was here for it and Devon needed that so much.
Fast paced and full of great moments, the phone calls and rules. Also enjoyed Berns father and learning more about him is so sweet.
The ending is perfectly steamy and fitting to their relationship, great look towards the future together 💕
November 28, 2019
Interesante porque el daddy es 20 años más joven que el little
Por lo demás, totalmente inverosímil
Por lo demás, totalmente inverosímil
February 26, 2021
3.75 HEARTS--It's established that SRAL enjoys reading Daddy kink!
After reading Waited So Long's blurb, I nearly screamed out Skittles into the air because the buzz words from the blurb are all of my kinda buzz words...
Daddy kink
Younger Daddy
Older MC who has baggage and is submissive
Father's Best Friend
Unrequited Crush/Love
Plus, the cover features a ginger BEAR main character:
It was like it was written just for me. (Pardon me as I coo.)
Told in dual 1st POV, Waited So Long jumps right into heat of matters, Bern is in his late twenties, a Marine, dominant and lusting after/in love with his father's best friend, architect Devon since he was fifteen years old.Devon's horrible marriage was the only thing keep Bern from admitting his feelings. As the blurb states, the marriage is no longer and the story starts as the divorce papers are signed.
It's my first time reading Dabney and I like that what was pretty much presented in the blurb is offered in the story. For readers who prefer to a quick and fairly easy read, Waited So Long shouldn't disappoint.
And though this is definitely a contemporary fantasy romance, there were some quibbles for me. Nothing major, because I demolished the book in like 2 hours.
For me, I wouldn't have minded if there was a little more delay into the Daddy-ing. I get the unrequited love angle demands payment in the form of the ginger Daddy bear Bern finally getting his man after over a decade of lusting/pining/loving his man. But Devon has only been with the one man prior to Bern. He's newly divorced and the book skips over any sort of healing/rebuilding himself on Devon's part.
Yes, Devon's marriage was shitty--it's told to the reader. But I wouldn't have minded some personal growth from Devon's chapters.Bern takes charge pretty much from the get of the book and I wouldn't have minded more internal struggle from Devon.
Another thing was the parallel to Bern and his mom... eh, it was little iffy on Bern being a 2.0 Dom version of his mother who he really never met. It was too perfect that it took me out of the story. Everything just fell too easily into place for Bern and Devon and was wrapped up in a neat bow.
I'm uncertain if it's just an ARC issue or maybe the way Dabney tells a story but I found myself having to reread certain parts to figure out what was going (like ages). It didn't happen a lot and overall all the main points were answered.
There's decent smut: light age play and domestic discipline, nothing too extreme. So if you're looking for those kinky tags, you won't be disappointed in that scope.
I'll check out Dabney's back list. I liked my first taste of their work-- quick, smutty romance with younger Daddy/older sub...just as promised.
A copy provided for an honest review.
After reading Waited So Long's blurb, I nearly screamed out Skittles into the air because the buzz words from the blurb are all of my kinda buzz words...
Daddy kink
Younger Daddy
Older MC who has baggage and is submissive
Father's Best Friend
Unrequited Crush/Love
Plus, the cover features a ginger BEAR main character:
It was like it was written just for me. (Pardon me as I coo.)
Told in dual 1st POV, Waited So Long jumps right into heat of matters, Bern is in his late twenties, a Marine, dominant and lusting after/in love with his father's best friend, architect Devon since he was fifteen years old.Devon's horrible marriage was the only thing keep Bern from admitting his feelings. As the blurb states, the marriage is no longer and the story starts as the divorce papers are signed.
It's my first time reading Dabney and I like that what was pretty much presented in the blurb is offered in the story. For readers who prefer to a quick and fairly easy read, Waited So Long shouldn't disappoint.
And though this is definitely a contemporary fantasy romance, there were some quibbles for me. Nothing major, because I demolished the book in like 2 hours.
For me, I wouldn't have minded if there was a little more delay into the Daddy-ing. I get the unrequited love angle demands payment in the form of the ginger Daddy bear Bern finally getting his man after over a decade of lusting/pining/loving his man. But Devon has only been with the one man prior to Bern. He's newly divorced and the book skips over any sort of healing/rebuilding himself on Devon's part.
Yes, Devon's marriage was shitty--it's told to the reader. But I wouldn't have minded some personal growth from Devon's chapters.Bern takes charge pretty much from the get of the book and I wouldn't have minded more internal struggle from Devon.
Another thing was the parallel to Bern and his mom... eh, it was little iffy on Bern being a 2.0 Dom version of his mother who he really never met. It was too perfect that it took me out of the story. Everything just fell too easily into place for Bern and Devon and was wrapped up in a neat bow.
I'm uncertain if it's just an ARC issue or maybe the way Dabney tells a story but I found myself having to reread certain parts to figure out what was going (like ages). It didn't happen a lot and overall all the main points were answered.
There's decent smut: light age play and domestic discipline, nothing too extreme. So if you're looking for those kinky tags, you won't be disappointed in that scope.
I'll check out Dabney's back list. I liked my first taste of their work-- quick, smutty romance with younger Daddy/older sub...just as promised.
A copy provided for an honest review.
March 31, 2020
4.25 stars
Great Daddy/boy kink, also age gap! Two of my favorite kinks. Enjoyed the dynamic between Devon and Bern.
Great Daddy/boy kink, also age gap! Two of my favorite kinks. Enjoyed the dynamic between Devon and Bern.
June 27, 2019
This one just really didn't work for me because I felt like Devon had no say whatsoever in the beginning of the relationship. It was all Bern deciding that he wanted to own Devon, be his Daddy because obv. he knows what's best for Devon.. but they never talked about it as equals; it was only in the Daddy/Boy role which feels inherently problematic to me. I wished they had talked more before entering into the relationship. As it was Bern gave Devon orders and called him "his boy" when they weren't even together yet. They hadn't seen each other in a couple of years and Bern shows up being all "my boy", "Do this." "Don't do that." When entering into a relationship you should talk; especially when one just divorced from his manipulative & abusive husband.
But not only didn't they talk about it when Devon had doubts Bern just shut them down by being all "I know what's best and you want this, trust me." and thendistracting manipulating Devon with intimacy until he agreed.
But not only didn't they talk about it when Devon had doubts Bern just shut them down by being all "I know what's best and you want this, trust me." and then
did-not-finish
July 9, 2025DNF at 38%.
I know this is fiction, but Bern is a walking red flag. It’s like he didn’t even consider that Devon might not want to be in a relationship with him. He just unilaterally decided he would be Devon’s Daddy no matter what, and instantly started treating him as such. This is not how kink works; it requires constant communication and consent.
I know this is fiction, but Bern is a walking red flag. It’s like he didn’t even consider that Devon might not want to be in a relationship with him. He just unilaterally decided he would be Devon’s Daddy no matter what, and instantly started treating him as such. This is not how kink works; it requires constant communication and consent.
July 14, 2019
A quick read
This was a cute easy story. No angst or build up. Bern has been waiting for Devon to be free and once he was he moved swiftly to claim him. There was no pretense he Bern was honest with Devon from the start. Devon found his one.
This was a cute easy story. No angst or build up. Bern has been waiting for Devon to be free and once he was he moved swiftly to claim him. There was no pretense he Bern was honest with Devon from the start. Devon found his one.
January 4, 2020
I’ve not always been a huge fan of the Daddy trope. Now don’t get me wrong, I love me a good silver fox, which is often associated with a Daddy. But in this instance, it’s going to be the reverse. And I love the Daddy in this one. He’s watched and paid attention for years, waiting for his moment to prove to his boy that he was worthy of love and so much more.
Bern has been in love with Devon for years. Since he was like 15. Maybe sooner. He hated the man’s husband, who treated Devon like dirt. Really bad. And Bern had the feeling that cheating was going on as well. But Bern had to get some time away before he put Devon in a bad situation and left for college and the marines. Biding his time and waiting. When it came time, Devon was no longer married and Bern swooped in to slowly claim his man. Devon has been wanting a Daddy for a long long time, but he felt too old for one. Especially when that Daddy was his best friend’s son. But Bern was everything Devon wanted for so long and it was too much. He couldn’t get past what his ex had done to him. But Bern wasn’t going to let the ex bring his boy down and hurt him any more. Even if it meant he had to punish his boy. But can Devon finally let go and see Bern as the man and Daddy he is and accept it or will he hide away in shame of what he really wants?
I was so glad to see Devon’s ex get put in his place by Bern in this book. I think that was one of my favorite scenes in this book. Not going to lie at all. Bern claimed his man and put that punk in his place where he belonged. Finally. Devon needed to see he was worthy and not just someone’s hole when it’s convenient. I loved that about Bern. From the minute he laid eyes on Devon again, he was going to be everything Devon needed in every way. He was going to show everyone he was proud of his boy, he was going to claim him and be what Bern didn’t even know he fully needed. Because Bern knew what Devon wanted and needed. He paid attention for years, waiting. I loved it. Devon couldn’t have put himself in better hands. But it’s not just Devon and Bern I loved. It was also Bern’s dad and his deceased mom. Bern’s dad knew his place in his wife’s life. He lost family over it, but he didn’t care. And because of it, he raised a son who knew how to be someone to somebody when it came time. Gay or straight or whatever. He just wanted his son happy.
It’s a beautiful story. J.M. has me so addicted to their books. I’m over the moon at getting to read another awesome piece of work.
http://lovebytesreviews.com/
Bern has been in love with Devon for years. Since he was like 15. Maybe sooner. He hated the man’s husband, who treated Devon like dirt. Really bad. And Bern had the feeling that cheating was going on as well. But Bern had to get some time away before he put Devon in a bad situation and left for college and the marines. Biding his time and waiting. When it came time, Devon was no longer married and Bern swooped in to slowly claim his man. Devon has been wanting a Daddy for a long long time, but he felt too old for one. Especially when that Daddy was his best friend’s son. But Bern was everything Devon wanted for so long and it was too much. He couldn’t get past what his ex had done to him. But Bern wasn’t going to let the ex bring his boy down and hurt him any more. Even if it meant he had to punish his boy. But can Devon finally let go and see Bern as the man and Daddy he is and accept it or will he hide away in shame of what he really wants?
I was so glad to see Devon’s ex get put in his place by Bern in this book. I think that was one of my favorite scenes in this book. Not going to lie at all. Bern claimed his man and put that punk in his place where he belonged. Finally. Devon needed to see he was worthy and not just someone’s hole when it’s convenient. I loved that about Bern. From the minute he laid eyes on Devon again, he was going to be everything Devon needed in every way. He was going to show everyone he was proud of his boy, he was going to claim him and be what Bern didn’t even know he fully needed. Because Bern knew what Devon wanted and needed. He paid attention for years, waiting. I loved it. Devon couldn’t have put himself in better hands. But it’s not just Devon and Bern I loved. It was also Bern’s dad and his deceased mom. Bern’s dad knew his place in his wife’s life. He lost family over it, but he didn’t care. And because of it, he raised a son who knew how to be someone to somebody when it came time. Gay or straight or whatever. He just wanted his son happy.
It’s a beautiful story. J.M. has me so addicted to their books. I’m over the moon at getting to read another awesome piece of work.
http://lovebytesreviews.com/
June 17, 2019
You'll fall in love with Bern and Devon and be clawing for their happiness. I felt every bit of Bern's unrequited love and his single-mindedness and patience; and for Devon's feelings of loss and despondency after the failure of his marriage. To watch these two men navigate a way forward was amazing and I just adored Bern's attitude, he'd been preparing for this since he was fifteen years old. I'll not tell you more as I'm not going to spoil this stunningly beautiful story.
One thing I love about this authors writing is the honesty, and out of that honesty all the emotions come to the fore, whether it be sweet and tender or brutal and heart-wrenching. It's just so goddamned real and relateable and told with such a clarity of words that the punch that they pack is so substantial and evident. The wanting, the longing, the hurt and the joy are all intensified to a degree that's almost palpable.
This is exactly what reading is all about: going on a true emotional journey.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMG Reads.
One thing I love about this authors writing is the honesty, and out of that honesty all the emotions come to the fore, whether it be sweet and tender or brutal and heart-wrenching. It's just so goddamned real and relateable and told with such a clarity of words that the punch that they pack is so substantial and evident. The wanting, the longing, the hurt and the joy are all intensified to a degree that's almost palpable.
This is exactly what reading is all about: going on a true emotional journey.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMG Reads.
July 5, 2019
5 stars. I never knew that I would be into Older Boy/Younger Daddy until this year. I've been loving that dynamic so much lately and I cannot get enough. I'm now determined to read every single one that I come across because I'm obsessed. I loved this one so much. It's very hot and yet emotional and the characters were lovable.
Devon was wonderful and you really felt for him. He's just gotten out of a thirty year relationship with his emotionally abusive husband and has desires that he's embarrassed of and because of all of that he's depressed and has terrible anxiety. Bern has loved Devon since he was 15 but went to the military to stay away because he wanted to be respectful of Devon's marriage. He comes back once he hears about the divorce and the story starts from there. I loved their relationship and how persistent Bern was. He's very self assured and take charge but also has a gentle side to him. Bern has a lot going on but he was so strong and kind hearted. They were absolutely perfect for each other.
Also, Bern's dad is the absolute best and I really hope Dabney writes a book about him. He is the sweetest, coolest dad ever and he deserves a HEA as well.
Overall, I'm looking forward to reading this book again, that's how much I loved it and I definitely plan on reading more by this author.
Devon was wonderful and you really felt for him. He's just gotten out of a thirty year relationship with his emotionally abusive husband and has desires that he's embarrassed of and because of all of that he's depressed and has terrible anxiety. Bern has loved Devon since he was 15 but went to the military to stay away because he wanted to be respectful of Devon's marriage. He comes back once he hears about the divorce and the story starts from there. I loved their relationship and how persistent Bern was. He's very self assured and take charge but also has a gentle side to him. Bern has a lot going on but he was so strong and kind hearted. They were absolutely perfect for each other.
Also, Bern's dad is the absolute best and I really hope Dabney writes a book about him. He is the sweetest, coolest dad ever and he deserves a HEA as well.
Overall, I'm looking forward to reading this book again, that's how much I loved it and I definitely plan on reading more by this author.
June 14, 2019
You never know when you will find THE ONE.
Bern found his PERSON at the age of 15; but as we all know - Life is never that easy.
Devon found his happy ever after and Life stepped in to show him MAYBE NOT.
This is a story of love in it's truest form: Love takes patience, trust and most importantly work - and when Bern comes home to claim HIS boy, Devon has to face his fears and doubts. But when you KNOW it is right - then the work needed to proceed and SUCCEED is worth it.
Loved how Bern kept his love bright and strong through the years and how even though Devon was afraid and thought things were going to be difficult; he still took that first step. This book is worthy of 5 stars because it was very well written and I believe any reader will be able to not only see parts of themselves in this story; but also find themselves cheering, laughing and finding a source of warmth and calm as they follow our two men on their journey.
Bern found his PERSON at the age of 15; but as we all know - Life is never that easy.
Devon found his happy ever after and Life stepped in to show him MAYBE NOT.
This is a story of love in it's truest form: Love takes patience, trust and most importantly work - and when Bern comes home to claim HIS boy, Devon has to face his fears and doubts. But when you KNOW it is right - then the work needed to proceed and SUCCEED is worth it.
Loved how Bern kept his love bright and strong through the years and how even though Devon was afraid and thought things were going to be difficult; he still took that first step. This book is worthy of 5 stars because it was very well written and I believe any reader will be able to not only see parts of themselves in this story; but also find themselves cheering, laughing and finding a source of warmth and calm as they follow our two men on their journey.
June 26, 2019
I absolutely loved Devon and Bern. Bern knew what he wanted from a young age, but couldn't do anything about it because of 1. his age and 2. Devon was married to an asshole. Bern had to leave so he didn't have to see it on a daily basis and he would because Devon is Murray's (Bern's dad) best friend. Devon and Murray have a very close relationship. They hold no secrets, so Devon told Murray that Devon would be his one day. He made Murray keep tabs on him and let him know what was going on. When Murray let Bern know that Devon was getting a divorce, he comes home to claim what's his.
Devon had a hard time with Bern because of his age and what Devon wanted from him. Devon needed a Daddy and Bern wanted to be his Daddy.
I LOVED the reverse roles. I loved their relationship. I loved Murray. I loved this book.
I received this ARC from the author.
Devon had a hard time with Bern because of his age and what Devon wanted from him. Devon needed a Daddy and Bern wanted to be his Daddy.
I LOVED the reverse roles. I loved their relationship. I loved Murray. I loved this book.
I received this ARC from the author.
June 15, 2019
First I'd like to say I loved this story. I satisfied so many of my wants in one book. I loved how the characters weren't perfect.That Devon had some extra weight that he wasn't happy with and that Bern was hairy. These are real bodies of real people and to me that makes for more relatable. Perfectly imperfect. No one is without insecurities. I loved how it gave you a bit of hope. That if you have to start over no matter your age it's possible. All you have to be is open to it. It was sexy and to me.......real. Oh and also I LOVED relationship between Murray and Bern. To be so open with each other. As a mother I want that with my child and it's nice to see in books. As always J.M. Dabney thank you for such a wonderful read.
June 18, 2019
Waited so long is a fitting title for this book. The story has May/December, Daddy kink, a touch of BDM and I truly enjoyed it. Bern has been in love with his father's best friend every since he was a teenager. Devon who has no clue have been in a verbal and emotional abusive marriage.
Bern comes home to get his man after he learns that Devon is divorcing his husband. He finally gives Devon what he wants emotionally and physically.
This book is hot and J.M. Dabney never disappoints. I love all her books because they touch on everything that a person feels about themselves, whether it's physically or emotionally. Looking forward to the next book from this author.
Bern comes home to get his man after he learns that Devon is divorcing his husband. He finally gives Devon what he wants emotionally and physically.
This book is hot and J.M. Dabney never disappoints. I love all her books because they touch on everything that a person feels about themselves, whether it's physically or emotionally. Looking forward to the next book from this author.
June 18, 2019
This is a beautiful love story that is many years in the making. Devon is married to a man that doesn't meet his needs whilst Bern is a teenager that realises at a very young age that Devon is the one for him.
🚫WARNING, SPOILER AHEAD🚫
Unable to watch how miserable Devon is in his life, Bern moves away for college and then joins the forces.
Roll on several years and Devon is now divorced and free for Bern to claim as his boy. It take a little bit of convincing for Devon to accept that his Daddy is young enough to be his son, but when he does, the love between these two is magical.
J. M. Danny has written another fabulous book and will definitely be one I re-read many times in the future.
🚫WARNING, SPOILER AHEAD🚫
Unable to watch how miserable Devon is in his life, Bern moves away for college and then joins the forces.
Roll on several years and Devon is now divorced and free for Bern to claim as his boy. It take a little bit of convincing for Devon to accept that his Daddy is young enough to be his son, but when he does, the love between these two is magical.
J. M. Danny has written another fabulous book and will definitely be one I re-read many times in the future.
June 18, 2019
It's a beautiful tale and the tenderness between Devon and Bern is much more on display than in any of the other novels that I've read by this author.
The anticipation of waiting for Pure is heightening and as we know it won't be a gentle or easy read but I'm sure there'll be moments of levity with the rest of the crews.
The anticipation of waiting for Pure is heightening and as we know it won't be a gentle or easy read but I'm sure there'll be moments of levity with the rest of the crews.
June 18, 2019
J.M.Dabney has done it again. I loved reading Devon and Bern's story. I have read plenty of books about Daddies and their younger boys, but this book was a breath of fresh air as the roles were reversed. If you have never read a book by J.M.Dabney I suggest you add her to your "must read" list, you will definitely not be disappointed.
June 18, 2019
This was a nice read - I think the older little/younger daddy angle lends this something different and shies away, rather than towards, the age as a source of ‘daddiness’ that can often happen. This author has written a lot of books using this trope so it’s nice to have a new angle to keep things fresh, and whilst the storyline is quite hot, it’s also filled with tender moments too.
3.5 stars
3.5 stars
June 18, 2019
Sweet Bern
This book was light and oh so refreshing! I had gotten in a rut of reading dark and twisted romances and this was the light sweet slowly burning book I needed. JM always amazes me with their books! And this one doesn’t disappoint. I have more non violent children (I refer to JMs characters as my child) and that makes me so happy!
This book was light and oh so refreshing! I had gotten in a rut of reading dark and twisted romances and this was the light sweet slowly burning book I needed. JM always amazes me with their books! And this one doesn’t disappoint. I have more non violent children (I refer to JMs characters as my child) and that makes me so happy!
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