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Moments in Time #1
Moment of Impact
Outside Collin Fitzpatrick’s dorm room is a dangerous place. Beyond his door the students of his small, conservative college think he’s straight, as does his Catholic family who'd disown him if they learned the truth. Inside, he’s safe with his incredibly sexy roommate Tanner D’Amico. Their room makes a perfect place to hide away and fall in love.
The moment they cross the line from roommates to lovers, Collin becomes caught between their heavenly passionate encounters and the hellish reality that someone might find out and destroy everything. Tanner's not used to being so confined, and wants to show the world how much he loves Collin. But Collin’s not sure he’s ready for the impact stepping outside will make.
The moment they cross the line from roommates to lovers, Collin becomes caught between their heavenly passionate encounters and the hellish reality that someone might find out and destroy everything. Tanner's not used to being so confined, and wants to show the world how much he loves Collin. But Collin’s not sure he’s ready for the impact stepping outside will make.
136 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 7, 2015
38 people are currently reading
784 people want to read
About the author
Karen Stivali
47 books359 followersKaren Stivali is a prolific writer, compulsive baker, and chocoholic with a penchant for books, movies, and fictional British men.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 191 reviews
January 6, 2015
3.25 stars
And BAM! Just like that I'm hooked after the first sentence.
Unfortunately, the story didn't fully live up to its opening potential.
Collin and Tanner are college roommates. They've been friends for a couple years, although we don't see much camaraderie or interaction between them.
Tanner is bi and madly crushing on Collin.
So how does Tanner woo Collin?
Every Monday night he fucks his female friend with benefits in the dorm room while Collin pretends to be asleep a foot away.
Clearly, Tanner did not write the book on how to win and influence people. But it doesn't matter because Collin, raised by a crazy religious mother who took locks off all the doors so there would be no masturbating in the house, wants Tanner.
The two start jacking each other off. The move from roomies to lovers is crazy fast, as is Collin's acceptance of his sexuality and eventual coming out. This was not at all realistic considering Collin's upbringing and how much he still wanted to please his mother.
This was a cute, well written, readable story, certainly sexy enough (the MCs go at it a lot, but they stick with hand and blow jobs) but lacking oomph and depth.
The relationship felt rushed, and the characters weren't fully developed. I wanted to see them struggle a bit more, beyond just a small, easily resolved fight at the end.
Overall, though, I enjoyed this story, and you will too if you don't expect more than a bit of juicy fun.
I didn't mean to see Tanner D'Amico's cock. I really didn't.
And BAM! Just like that I'm hooked after the first sentence.
Unfortunately, the story didn't fully live up to its opening potential.
Collin and Tanner are college roommates. They've been friends for a couple years, although we don't see much camaraderie or interaction between them.
Tanner is bi and madly crushing on Collin.
So how does Tanner woo Collin?
Every Monday night he fucks his female friend with benefits in the dorm room while Collin pretends to be asleep a foot away.
Clearly, Tanner did not write the book on how to win and influence people. But it doesn't matter because Collin, raised by a crazy religious mother who took locks off all the doors so there would be no masturbating in the house, wants Tanner.
The two start jacking each other off. The move from roomies to lovers is crazy fast, as is Collin's acceptance of his sexuality and eventual coming out. This was not at all realistic considering Collin's upbringing and how much he still wanted to please his mother.
This was a cute, well written, readable story, certainly sexy enough (the MCs go at it a lot, but they stick with hand and blow jobs) but lacking oomph and depth.
The relationship felt rushed, and the characters weren't fully developed. I wanted to see them struggle a bit more, beyond just a small, easily resolved fight at the end.
Overall, though, I enjoyed this story, and you will too if you don't expect more than a bit of juicy fun.
February 21, 2015
FOUR HEARTS--I can speak for only myself, but I'm wary of MF writers who suddenly start writing MM Romance. I'm not saying it can't be done. I'm nobody's gatekeeper. But I am a frustrated reader when I see bad, telly MF writing that gets refurbished into a MM package. They are popular (good for you if you love them) but they can't fool me. I'm like a bloodhound when it comes to this type of writing after reading however many books in the romance genre (of the MM and MF variety).
This book passes my test.
A MF writer who has the chops to write a decent New Adult, MM Romance.
Not without a few issues (that last 15% or so - I'll get to that) but the main characters read like...boys! With penises!
It read like a typical MM romance which made me happy to read. And I plan on reading the next in the series. Probably will check out the author's other stuff, I liked her writing style that much.
Collin Fitzpatrick is 20, tightly inside the closet. He was raised by a strict Catholic who instilled fear and guilt for thinking about anything remotely sexual in him and his other two brothers. He lusts for his hot roommate, Tanner D'Amico, who is 100% straight in Collin's eyes, since he's watched him hook up with a girlfriend every Monday night. But the last Monday night, Tanner showed up girlfriend-less to their dorm room. And whipped his dick out to masturbate in front of Collin. This was the stroke to change everything.
This novella has a lot of sex packed in it, mostly of the frottage, blowjobs and handjobs variety. But it was a nice change to not read about butt sex. Collin's too repressed and guilty for that. I liked the pace of how the two boys progress in their relationship. I loved the guilt Collin felt. I loved that he felt wrong for masturbating, he had hang ups and questioned himself and the things he did with Tanner. Maybe the whole masturbation thing can be argued but I get where Collin was coming from. Being raised in a religious household isn't easy. Not having a few hang ups is closer to a miracle than not.
Tanner is bisexual, more of a free thinking spirit since he grew up way differently that Collin. He was like Collin's friend and guide into finally exploring that side of himself he's been dying to explore. The main characters are in their early 20's and they read age appropriate. The plot was believable enough.
Was it overly deep or prolific? No. I was a little nervous this was going to end up being a drawn out PWP in the beginning (I think the first sex scene was a smidge long - just a bit) but as I read I got to learn more about Collin's background. I hope in book 2, there is more of Tanner's background introduced. We get enough of the backbones that make Tanner tick, but I'd like to read his parents. See him in his stomping grounds maybe.
The last 15% or so got a little dramatic, I don't see Collin's first big step being done as soon as it was. For a kid who is super repressed...that was a major step. I guess it can be argued he was kind of forced to take that step, but something about it read too fast, too soon.
Liked this story a lot. Want more of this series. I need resolution. The story ends with a HFN-ish/ probable HEA in the future ending. Thankfully, I won't have to wait too long for book #2. I do hope this isn't going to be one of those dragged out series but I'm along for the ride for now.
A copy provided for an honest review.
This book passes my test.
A MF writer who has the chops to write a decent New Adult, MM Romance.
Not without a few issues (that last 15% or so - I'll get to that) but the main characters read like...boys! With penises!
It read like a typical MM romance which made me happy to read. And I plan on reading the next in the series. Probably will check out the author's other stuff, I liked her writing style that much.
Collin Fitzpatrick is 20, tightly inside the closet. He was raised by a strict Catholic who instilled fear and guilt for thinking about anything remotely sexual in him and his other two brothers. He lusts for his hot roommate, Tanner D'Amico, who is 100% straight in Collin's eyes, since he's watched him hook up with a girlfriend every Monday night. But the last Monday night, Tanner showed up girlfriend-less to their dorm room. And whipped his dick out to masturbate in front of Collin. This was the stroke to change everything.
This novella has a lot of sex packed in it, mostly of the frottage, blowjobs and handjobs variety. But it was a nice change to not read about butt sex. Collin's too repressed and guilty for that. I liked the pace of how the two boys progress in their relationship. I loved the guilt Collin felt. I loved that he felt wrong for masturbating, he had hang ups and questioned himself and the things he did with Tanner. Maybe the whole masturbation thing can be argued but I get where Collin was coming from. Being raised in a religious household isn't easy. Not having a few hang ups is closer to a miracle than not.
Tanner is bisexual, more of a free thinking spirit since he grew up way differently that Collin. He was like Collin's friend and guide into finally exploring that side of himself he's been dying to explore. The main characters are in their early 20's and they read age appropriate. The plot was believable enough.
Was it overly deep or prolific? No. I was a little nervous this was going to end up being a drawn out PWP in the beginning (I think the first sex scene was a smidge long - just a bit) but as I read I got to learn more about Collin's background. I hope in book 2, there is more of Tanner's background introduced. We get enough of the backbones that make Tanner tick, but I'd like to read his parents. See him in his stomping grounds maybe.
The last 15% or so got a little dramatic, I don't see Collin's first big step being done as soon as it was. For a kid who is super repressed...that was a major step. I guess it can be argued he was kind of forced to take that step, but something about it read too fast, too soon.
Liked this story a lot. Want more of this series. I need resolution. The story ends with a HFN-ish/ probable HEA in the future ending. Thankfully, I won't have to wait too long for book #2. I do hope this isn't going to be one of those dragged out series but I'm along for the ride for now.
A copy provided for an honest review.
January 13, 2015
4 stars!
I must say, I quite enjoyed this one.
Yes, it was a novella so there wasn't a lot of character and story development. But I thought it was fun.
Tanner and Collin are roommates. Because every Monday Tanner brings Wendy home to have sex with her in their room, Collin assumes Tanner is straight.
This particular Monday, Tanner shows up alone. But while he may be alone, he still gives Collin quite the show!
And so the story begins...
Tanner and Collin have both been crushing on each other, they just both assumed the other was straight.
Neither one being out, and Collin coming from a super religious family. Like SUPER religious. Taking all of the locks off doors so you can't ever be "alone" religious.
But hey, whatever floats your boat.
By day Tanner and Collin pretend to be straight and by night they explore their feelings for each other.
I really liked the banter between Tanner and Collin. And of course all of that exploration was HAWT!
But Collin was paranoid with a capital P!
He was so afraid someone could see the gay. That they would figure out his secret.
I thought I would be bothered by the whole sleeping with the girl in front of Collin thing, but I really wasn't. None of it was on page so maybe that helped.
IDK, I liked it. I liked Tanner and Collin. There was very little drama, which is always a plus.
And what can I say..I'm a sucker for college roommate stories!
Glad to see the next book continues their story, just hope it isn't drama filled.
I must say, I quite enjoyed this one.
Yes, it was a novella so there wasn't a lot of character and story development. But I thought it was fun.
Tanner and Collin are roommates. Because every Monday Tanner brings Wendy home to have sex with her in their room, Collin assumes Tanner is straight.
This particular Monday, Tanner shows up alone. But while he may be alone, he still gives Collin quite the show!
"I didn't mean to see Tanner D'Amico's cock. I really didn't."
And so the story begins...
Tanner and Collin have both been crushing on each other, they just both assumed the other was straight.
Neither one being out, and Collin coming from a super religious family. Like SUPER religious. Taking all of the locks off doors so you can't ever be "alone" religious.
But hey, whatever floats your boat.
By day Tanner and Collin pretend to be straight and by night they explore their feelings for each other.
I really liked the banter between Tanner and Collin. And of course all of that exploration was HAWT!
But Collin was paranoid with a capital P!
He was so afraid someone could see the gay. That they would figure out his secret.
I thought I would be bothered by the whole sleeping with the girl in front of Collin thing, but I really wasn't. None of it was on page so maybe that helped.
IDK, I liked it. I liked Tanner and Collin. There was very little drama, which is always a plus.
And what can I say..I'm a sucker for college roommate stories!
Glad to see the next book continues their story, just hope it isn't drama filled.
November 7, 2017
3.5 stars
New Adult college romances are a favourite sub-category of mine within the M/M genre and this particular story was one of the more enjoyable ones I’ve read recently.
I enjoy the idea of two roommates falling in love and sharing their sexual awakenings together behind closed doors. Collin and Tanner were in equal parts sweet and hot together, with their intimate scenes reading as tender and sensual, as opposed to the more steamier (kinkier) levels of similar books, like His Roommate's Pleasure (also worth a read).
Sadly, I’m finding it harder and harder to read about LGBTQ+ characters with family that are intolerant due to their extreme religious views, so reading about Collin’s struggles and his experiences growing up with his semi-psycho mother really took a bit of the enjoyment out of the story for me. Although Collin’s stand at the end won him some points in my eyes, I still fear the future stories will only further frustrate me if they feature more of the religious persecution bullshit.
Overall, I enjoyed this one. It was well written and started off with a bang, and I’m endeared by Collin and Tanner enough to want to read more about their new relationship.
New Adult college romances are a favourite sub-category of mine within the M/M genre and this particular story was one of the more enjoyable ones I’ve read recently.
I enjoy the idea of two roommates falling in love and sharing their sexual awakenings together behind closed doors. Collin and Tanner were in equal parts sweet and hot together, with their intimate scenes reading as tender and sensual, as opposed to the more steamier (kinkier) levels of similar books, like His Roommate's Pleasure (also worth a read).
Sadly, I’m finding it harder and harder to read about LGBTQ+ characters with family that are intolerant due to their extreme religious views, so reading about Collin’s struggles and his experiences growing up with his semi-psycho mother really took a bit of the enjoyment out of the story for me. Although Collin’s stand at the end won him some points in my eyes, I still fear the future stories will only further frustrate me if they feature more of the religious persecution bullshit.
Overall, I enjoyed this one. It was well written and started off with a bang, and I’m endeared by Collin and Tanner enough to want to read more about their new relationship.
July 27, 2016
It all began with the first sentence:
You just CAN'T do that to a girl! Lucky for me, estrogens protected my heart. Thank you, estrogens. Never leave me, please.
I knew I wanted the book just by the looks. It's just that, I fell in love with the cover. And call me crazy, but I always thought this was a story in the 50s. Maybe that vintage sort of picture, maybe the James Dean looks, maybe the John Travolta's toupee. I just, plain and simple, assumed this was a Grease kind of movie, without the musical part. Even more, the position in which the model is reminds me of that of an American football player. These little details are messing with my mind.
You see it, right? RIGHT? Don't tell me he is not James Dean!
Weird as it is, I continue picturing this as a Grease movie, even with all the laptops, tablets and mobile phones. I just can't get rid of that image. And it doesn't matter, as this story has that reminiscence of antiquity. For starters, Collin is a closet case and has a 100% certainty that his mother would disown him if she found out her younger son is gay. Collin's family is Catholic and a very religious one. But it's not only Catholic, but intolerant with demonstrations of sex and even masturbations in the house.
It's here when I stop and laugh a little. Why, aren't there any devoted Protestant families who disown their children? How come that every religious parent who despises his gay son is Catholic? Isn't there any Islamic person who does the same? Or Jewish? Or Protestant? Or Orthodox? It's very easy and well-used the plot of intolerance due to religious matters, and it sounds like too much of a coincidence that, if the person is pious and intolerant, he or she usually practices the Catholicism. Are these books written by Protestant people? I want to look further for the reasons of this fashion. I also can say I'm a little disappointed that the author fell for that cheap excuse to create a drama.
We only have Collin's POV, so Tanner remains a mystery. Sometimes too much of one. Tanner's role is less explored but the sense of dissatisfaction is not only due to the lack of his perspective. Tanner should have been more than the confident, cocky and teasing guy. He deserves more development and depth, as he was portrayed in a mostly superficial fashion. I hope that this shallow feeling I have about him is fixed during the following books.
The story is sexy and there is chemistry in their interactions. It's a insta-lust and almost a insta-love, if not for the fact that their friendship began two years before page one and they became roommates shortly afterwards, until they finally decided to risk it to get more. And yes, they do get it indeed! Collin is unexperienced in gay sex and shy at his participation in it. I liked the part when Tanner suggests he uses his to see if Collin would ask to do any of the creative ways two boys can have . I think it's very original and funny.
I thought the title of the book was one of those names you use to baptize something because they sound cool. But in fact it holds a particular meaning. I liked the final twists of the story, when Collin which results in their first real . And of course, when Tanner decides to so of course Collin more and realizes he can . Then the was the icing on the cake. I'm fond of angst and although here there was a light version of it I liked it and it had an aim: it served to consolidate their feelings and to give name to what they are to each other... at last.
I didn't mean to see Tanner D'Amico's cock. I really didn't.
You just CAN'T do that to a girl! Lucky for me, estrogens protected my heart. Thank you, estrogens. Never leave me, please.
I knew I wanted the book just by the looks. It's just that, I fell in love with the cover. And call me crazy, but I always thought this was a story in the 50s. Maybe that vintage sort of picture, maybe the James Dean looks, maybe the John Travolta's toupee. I just, plain and simple, assumed this was a Grease kind of movie, without the musical part. Even more, the position in which the model is reminds me of that of an American football player. These little details are messing with my mind.
You see it, right? RIGHT? Don't tell me he is not James Dean!
Weird as it is, I continue picturing this as a Grease movie, even with all the laptops, tablets and mobile phones. I just can't get rid of that image. And it doesn't matter, as this story has that reminiscence of antiquity. For starters, Collin is a closet case and has a 100% certainty that his mother would disown him if she found out her younger son is gay. Collin's family is Catholic and a very religious one. But it's not only Catholic, but intolerant with demonstrations of sex and even masturbations in the house.
It's here when I stop and laugh a little. Why, aren't there any devoted Protestant families who disown their children? How come that every religious parent who despises his gay son is Catholic? Isn't there any Islamic person who does the same? Or Jewish? Or Protestant? Or Orthodox? It's very easy and well-used the plot of intolerance due to religious matters, and it sounds like too much of a coincidence that, if the person is pious and intolerant, he or she usually practices the Catholicism. Are these books written by Protestant people? I want to look further for the reasons of this fashion. I also can say I'm a little disappointed that the author fell for that cheap excuse to create a drama.
We only have Collin's POV, so Tanner remains a mystery. Sometimes too much of one. Tanner's role is less explored but the sense of dissatisfaction is not only due to the lack of his perspective. Tanner should have been more than the confident, cocky and teasing guy. He deserves more development and depth, as he was portrayed in a mostly superficial fashion. I hope that this shallow feeling I have about him is fixed during the following books.
The story is sexy and there is chemistry in their interactions. It's a insta-lust and almost a insta-love, if not for the fact that their friendship began two years before page one and they became roommates shortly afterwards, until they finally decided to risk it to get more. And yes, they do get it indeed! Collin is unexperienced in gay sex and shy at his participation in it. I liked the part when Tanner suggests he uses his to see if Collin would ask to do any of the creative ways two boys can have . I think it's very original and funny.
I thought the title of the book was one of those names you use to baptize something because they sound cool. But in fact it holds a particular meaning. I liked the final twists of the story, when Collin which results in their first real . And of course, when Tanner decides to so of course Collin more and realizes he can . Then the was the icing on the cake. I'm fond of angst and although here there was a light version of it I liked it and it had an aim: it served to consolidate their feelings and to give name to what they are to each other... at last.
April 13, 2018
***3 Stars***
This was an enjoyable, quick, roommates to lovers read that sucked me in from the first sentence...
I didn't mean to see Tanner D'Amico's cock. I really didn't.
With this being novella length, there wasn't much development in the history of Tanner and Collin's friendship, so I'm not sold on the depth of their connection yet, but it's clear that the two really care about each other.
I'm really interested in seeing where Tanner and Collin's relationship goes.
Read
March 11, 2018Review and rating removed
July 22, 2024
Huh? I found that pretty enjoyable actually. I could tell you what was missing or what was needed or a million other things, but really, I liked it a lot and I'll leave it at that.
I do have to do a better job at reading blurbs, this wasn't at all what I thought it would be but today, it worked.
March looks like it brings the angst. God how I hate angst.
I do have to do a better job at reading blurbs, this wasn't at all what I thought it would be but today, it worked.
March looks like it brings the angst. God how I hate angst.
March 1, 2015
I loved this, and I can't wait to read book #2. (Note: this book does NOT end on a cliffhanger, though!)
This was so well written, and the dialogue is fresh and believable. (I'm kind of a dialogue nut, so that's important to me.) It's a cute college story, and I was hooked from page one.
And? It's hottttttt.
This was so well written, and the dialogue is fresh and believable. (I'm kind of a dialogue nut, so that's important to me.) It's a cute college story, and I was hooked from page one.
And? It's hottttttt.
September 8, 2020
Story: 3 Stars
Narration: 5 Stars
As as far as the story went, it was fine. It had a lot of heat and since it was short, it seemed like the sex scenes overpowered the actual story. I do plan to continue because it was enjoyable.
What I REALLY liked was the narrator, Robert Nieman! I mean this was the first book that I had heard from him and I thought his voice was perfect for a younger character. I looked him up and was disappointed to see that he hasn't done that many books, which is too bad because I am definitely picky about narrators.
Narration: 5 Stars
As as far as the story went, it was fine. It had a lot of heat and since it was short, it seemed like the sex scenes overpowered the actual story. I do plan to continue because it was enjoyable.
What I REALLY liked was the narrator, Robert Nieman! I mean this was the first book that I had heard from him and I thought his voice was perfect for a younger character. I looked him up and was disappointed to see that he hasn't done that many books, which is too bad because I am definitely picky about narrators.
October 23, 2018
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
Tanner D'Amico is a messy dude.
There I said It.
Before I go in on Tanner, let's meet the boys.
Collin Fitzpatrick is very much in the closet. He was raised by overbearing mother who believes the Bible is law. She guilts her children to live by her standards of morality. Collin has a crush "straight" roommate Tanner and precedes to pretend to be asleep on the nights his roommate brings his "girlfriend" to their room for sex. Collin lives knowing loving Tanner and opening being with him could very much cost him his family.
Tanner D' Amico is living semi-open bi life. He lived in a household that seemed not to have too many or any restriction. He has a crush on his roommate Collin and believes that his roommate is straight. Every Monday night he has sex with his friend with bennies, Wendy knowing full well that Collin is awake. He is sexually open and encourages Collin discovers his sexual needs/wants. I appreciate his understanding of Collin's position till halfway through he decided not to be.
Those two were hot together but got repetitive after a while. I could have done with a few less sex scene. I wanted to see how they function without involving sex. I felt like I walk into the middle of their story, to begin with. I just didn't feel the connection. The thing that made Tanner a messy dude, in my opinion, is his consciously outing Collin to people even though those people were his friends without Collin's permission. It just wasn't his place to say anything or put Collin on the spot knowing where he came from. I just didn't understand why he stops being understanding. He went in knowing that Collin wasn't prepared to step out of the closet any time soon. Him leaving Collin after Collin's freakout just felt like a power play to manipulate Collin.
Before I spill my final thoughts I want to take the time to say that I did not like the character, Wendy. She was too involved in Tanner's relationship with Collin. Especially that phone call scene between her and Colin. That wasn't her place and I just felt like phone call was meant for me as a reader to be on Tanner's side with that exit and I wasn't. I honestly felt the person that got the short end of the stick in the story is Collin.
Overall I feel like I'm in a club by myself. I just wasn't feeling this book in its entirety. But it was well written enough that I will continue on to the next book. If I knew for sure that this series will continue with the same couple then I think my rating would have been higher.
Tanner D'Amico is a messy dude.
There I said It.
Before I go in on Tanner, let's meet the boys.
Collin Fitzpatrick is very much in the closet. He was raised by overbearing mother who believes the Bible is law. She guilts her children to live by her standards of morality. Collin has a crush "straight" roommate Tanner and precedes to pretend to be asleep on the nights his roommate brings his "girlfriend" to their room for sex. Collin lives knowing loving Tanner and opening being with him could very much cost him his family.
Tanner D' Amico is living semi-open bi life. He lived in a household that seemed not to have too many or any restriction. He has a crush on his roommate Collin and believes that his roommate is straight. Every Monday night he has sex with his friend with bennies, Wendy knowing full well that Collin is awake. He is sexually open and encourages Collin discovers his sexual needs/wants. I appreciate his understanding of Collin's position till halfway through he decided not to be.
Those two were hot together but got repetitive after a while. I could have done with a few less sex scene. I wanted to see how they function without involving sex. I felt like I walk into the middle of their story, to begin with. I just didn't feel the connection. The thing that made Tanner a messy dude, in my opinion, is his consciously outing Collin to people even though those people were his friends without Collin's permission. It just wasn't his place to say anything or put Collin on the spot knowing where he came from. I just didn't understand why he stops being understanding. He went in knowing that Collin wasn't prepared to step out of the closet any time soon. Him leaving Collin after Collin's freakout just felt like a power play to manipulate Collin.
Before I spill my final thoughts I want to take the time to say that I did not like the character, Wendy. She was too involved in Tanner's relationship with Collin. Especially that phone call scene between her and Colin. That wasn't her place and I just felt like phone call was meant for me as a reader to be on Tanner's side with that exit and I wasn't. I honestly felt the person that got the short end of the stick in the story is Collin.
Overall I feel like I'm in a club by myself. I just wasn't feeling this book in its entirety. But it was well written enough that I will continue on to the next book. If I knew for sure that this series will continue with the same couple then I think my rating would have been higher.
April 27, 2015
I was hooked from page 1. That was a pleasant surprize start.
I did start getting a little nervous that it was gonna end up strait PWP (with no butt sex ahhhhh). There didn't seem to be a lot going on story wise...but then it switched gears.
The story portion got a little bit rushed, but I still liked it. I'll be reading book 2 for sure.
I really did enjoy it.
I did start getting a little nervous that it was gonna end up strait PWP (with no butt sex ahhhhh). There didn't seem to be a lot going on story wise...but then it switched gears.
The story portion got a little bit rushed, but I still liked it. I'll be reading book 2 for sure.
I really did enjoy it.
November 9, 2015
I absolutely loved Collin and Tanner! College roommates (one of whom is very inexperienced) secretly crushing on each other, finally getting their feelings out in the open. There is some minor angst and some major family drama, but it all worked for me. Can't wait to read the next one!
January 5, 2015
Collin Fitzpatrick was raised by a devoutly Catholic mother with some odd rules on how to keep her kids on the straight and narrow. Even away from his mom, his family and the church, Collin still feels strange expressing himself in certain ways. He never really thought about another guy in that way until he watches his roommate and best friend Tanner one night, alone in their dorm room, in the dark.
In just one night, everything changes, and while Collin knows how he feels about Tanner, he doesn’t want to share it with anyone outside the confines of their safe space in their room. Collin’s fear of what their friends and his family will think and unwillingness to acknowledge what Tanner is to him causes strife between them, and just when Collin figures out Tanner is worth it, worth whatever the outcome may be, an accident forces his hand.
I was quickly engrossed in this story, the characters were thankfully flawed and relatable. There was a lot of content, just the right balance of tension and angst, and a whole lot of passion. I especially enjoyed the awkwardness Collin displayed in the beginning. Between his upbringing and his inexperience you would expect him to fumble his way through early on, and that is exactly what he did. Stivali is a new Author for me but I was really amazed with her writing chops. She has this ability to draw you into the story and the lives of these characters, get you rooting for Collin and Tanner, hoping they learn to navigate their new found romance.
Definitely a must read… short, sexy and steamy, too short! But thankfully, the next two books are teased at the end so I know there is more to come, just not soon enough.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
In just one night, everything changes, and while Collin knows how he feels about Tanner, he doesn’t want to share it with anyone outside the confines of their safe space in their room. Collin’s fear of what their friends and his family will think and unwillingness to acknowledge what Tanner is to him causes strife between them, and just when Collin figures out Tanner is worth it, worth whatever the outcome may be, an accident forces his hand.
I was quickly engrossed in this story, the characters were thankfully flawed and relatable. There was a lot of content, just the right balance of tension and angst, and a whole lot of passion. I especially enjoyed the awkwardness Collin displayed in the beginning. Between his upbringing and his inexperience you would expect him to fumble his way through early on, and that is exactly what he did. Stivali is a new Author for me but I was really amazed with her writing chops. She has this ability to draw you into the story and the lives of these characters, get you rooting for Collin and Tanner, hoping they learn to navigate their new found romance.
Definitely a must read… short, sexy and steamy, too short! But thankfully, the next two books are teased at the end so I know there is more to come, just not soon enough.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
February 28, 2016
This was cute, but seeing that there are three short novellas making up one couple's story, I really wish the author had just published it that way- as one complete novel. Now I have to track down the other two in the series, just to get a complete story.
This was sex heavy, but it was meaningful, with a Catholic boy dealing with not only a major case of general Catholic guilt over sex and masturbation (he doesn't even get nude until he's totally ready to shower!), he's also dealing with guilt over being gay, and KNOWING his mom won't understand.
Tanner was really great, although I did get upset the one time he did lose his patience with Collin and walked out. He KNEW how hard this was for Collin, and I thought he could have dealt with that moment a bit better. But all in all, he was great.
This was sex heavy, but it was meaningful, with a Catholic boy dealing with not only a major case of general Catholic guilt over sex and masturbation (he doesn't even get nude until he's totally ready to shower!), he's also dealing with guilt over being gay, and KNOWING his mom won't understand.
Tanner was really great, although I did get upset the one time he did lose his patience with Collin and walked out. He KNEW how hard this was for Collin, and I thought he could have dealt with that moment a bit better. But all in all, he was great.
March 29, 2015
I liked this story... I liked Tanner and Collin.
Loved the "roommates becoming lovers"!
Not much going on in this story other than Collin coming to grip with his sexuality.
Coming from a Catholic home, it was difficult for Collin to be comfortable with his own body.
Tanner was good for him and showed him it was okay to have these desires.
"There's nothing to fix. I'm gay, not broken. And I am in love with Tanner"
Although I've been warned for the sequel that "There's gray-area cheating here" , I'll probaby will read it because I sure want to know more about Tanner and Colin.
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dropped
April 5, 2015Dropped at 49%
Really hot sex and a mostly PWP college boys story. I definitely was enjoying this and I'm not dropping because it's bad but religion is not a theme I enjoy in my stories, not something I want to deal with unless I absolutely have to. Religion isn't (at least so far) a major theme in this book, but there's more focus on it than I want and care to read about, which is to say it's more prevalent than a passing comment here and there. I get that it's something to give the book more plot, I'm just not interested. But if you're ok with religion as a subtheme to sex then I do recommend this book.
Really hot sex and a mostly PWP college boys story. I definitely was enjoying this and I'm not dropping because it's bad but religion is not a theme I enjoy in my stories, not something I want to deal with unless I absolutely have to. Religion isn't (at least so far) a major theme in this book, but there's more focus on it than I want and care to read about, which is to say it's more prevalent than a passing comment here and there. I get that it's something to give the book more plot, I'm just not interested. But if you're ok with religion as a subtheme to sex then I do recommend this book.
March 10, 2017
3.5 stars
I enjoyed reading this, Collin and Tanner have really great chemistry and the book was short and hot, Collin was sooo paranoid it was hilarious sometimes and annoying at the same time. Overall It was an easy read with really hot make out sessions.
I enjoyed reading this, Collin and Tanner have really great chemistry and the book was short and hot, Collin was sooo paranoid it was hilarious sometimes and annoying at the same time. Overall It was an easy read with really hot make out sessions.
December 21, 2014
“I didn’t mean to see Tanner D’Amico’s cock. I really didn’t.”
The quote above has to be one of the best opening lines in a book I’ve ever come across. It certainly made sure the story had my attention from the very first moment. And the rest of the story kept me captivated. It would be hard, if not impossible, to not get sucked into Collin’s turmoil as he comes out of his shell and learns to admit to the feelings he’s been hiding from the world for years.
This is a story-line all of us have read before. What makes it special is Karen Stivali’s wonderful gift for storytelling. She injects exactly the right balance of sweetness, angst and humour into her stories to keep me hooked and turning the pages.
It is impossible to read to read this book and not find yourself totally caught up in Collin’s struggle. Caught between his attraction to and growing feelings for Tanner and his fear of what coming out as gay will be mean for his life and his relationships with his family and friends, Collin finds himself torn between bliss and panic most of the time.
Tanner is a wonderful breath of fresh air. His interactions with Collin are just the right balance between understanding patience for Collin’s fears and frustration at having to keep his feelings a secret. The way Tanner is presented on these pages make it perfectly understandable why Collin is smitten and had me falling for the young man too.
Because Collin has little or no experience with intimacy – never mind sex – the reader gets to join him on a very sensual and – it has to be said – hot voyage of discovery. Tanner being a more experienced and very sexy guide did the story, and my reading enjoyment, no harm at all.
This is the first book in a trilogy about Collin and Tanner and I can’t wait to see how their story will continue and what hurdles they’ll have to overcome before Collin can fully commit to what I trust will be a happy ending.
I think it’s safe to say Karen Stivali very successfully made the transition from M/F to M/M. I guess I shouldn’t be surprised; she tells a wonderful story regardless of who her main characters are.
The quote above has to be one of the best opening lines in a book I’ve ever come across. It certainly made sure the story had my attention from the very first moment. And the rest of the story kept me captivated. It would be hard, if not impossible, to not get sucked into Collin’s turmoil as he comes out of his shell and learns to admit to the feelings he’s been hiding from the world for years.
This is a story-line all of us have read before. What makes it special is Karen Stivali’s wonderful gift for storytelling. She injects exactly the right balance of sweetness, angst and humour into her stories to keep me hooked and turning the pages.
It is impossible to read to read this book and not find yourself totally caught up in Collin’s struggle. Caught between his attraction to and growing feelings for Tanner and his fear of what coming out as gay will be mean for his life and his relationships with his family and friends, Collin finds himself torn between bliss and panic most of the time.
Tanner is a wonderful breath of fresh air. His interactions with Collin are just the right balance between understanding patience for Collin’s fears and frustration at having to keep his feelings a secret. The way Tanner is presented on these pages make it perfectly understandable why Collin is smitten and had me falling for the young man too.
Because Collin has little or no experience with intimacy – never mind sex – the reader gets to join him on a very sensual and – it has to be said – hot voyage of discovery. Tanner being a more experienced and very sexy guide did the story, and my reading enjoyment, no harm at all.
This is the first book in a trilogy about Collin and Tanner and I can’t wait to see how their story will continue and what hurdles they’ll have to overcome before Collin can fully commit to what I trust will be a happy ending.
I think it’s safe to say Karen Stivali very successfully made the transition from M/F to M/M. I guess I shouldn’t be surprised; she tells a wonderful story regardless of who her main characters are.
January 5, 2015
Collin is a closeted gay man who has a secret crush on his roommate, Tanner. They are both juniors in college and have been friends for two years. Collin feels really awful about his sexual attraction, not only because he doesn't believe Tanner would welcome his interest; Collin was raised by his uber-conservative, uber-Catholic mother to believe all sex (even self-love) was bad, unless it was sanctioned by marriage. And homosexual marriage does not qualify.
Tanner has a regular Monday night hook-up with a female friend, Wendy, and Collin usually pretends he's asleep so he can hear Tanner have sex. One Monday night Tanner comes home alone and Collin watches him pleasure himself--with unexpected--but wonderful--results. Turns out Tanner is bisexual, and has a crush on Collin.
This confession opens a new, scary chapter in Collin's life--one where he has all the best of love...which he must hide from everyone around him. Tanner isn't out at school, but he's open to the possibility. Colin knows what will happen if he comes out--his mother will disown him. As Collin and Tanner become closer, however, it becomes more and more difficult to keep their secret--and doing so may just cost Collin the man he truly loves.
This book is equal parts hot man lovin' and delicious feels. The pace is brisk, and the sex is copious. And scorching. Collin is a complete novice, and enthralled by Tanner's openness and experience. They are a good match for each other, and conscientious of each other. Their main conflict, remaining closeted, is a big hurdle which is well managed.
I truly enjoyed, and had my heart engaged from page one.
Tanner has a regular Monday night hook-up with a female friend, Wendy, and Collin usually pretends he's asleep so he can hear Tanner have sex. One Monday night Tanner comes home alone and Collin watches him pleasure himself--with unexpected--but wonderful--results. Turns out Tanner is bisexual, and has a crush on Collin.
This confession opens a new, scary chapter in Collin's life--one where he has all the best of love...which he must hide from everyone around him. Tanner isn't out at school, but he's open to the possibility. Colin knows what will happen if he comes out--his mother will disown him. As Collin and Tanner become closer, however, it becomes more and more difficult to keep their secret--and doing so may just cost Collin the man he truly loves.
This book is equal parts hot man lovin' and delicious feels. The pace is brisk, and the sex is copious. And scorching. Collin is a complete novice, and enthralled by Tanner's openness and experience. They are a good match for each other, and conscientious of each other. Their main conflict, remaining closeted, is a big hurdle which is well managed.
I truly enjoyed, and had my heart engaged from page one.
January 8, 2015
I was lucky enough to have a chance to read this story in its beta process. First off, MOI will go down on my list of favorite opening lines. From its conception, that first sentence had me. Hook, line and coc....um, I mean, sinker.
These characters are colorful, original and textured perfectly in Karen's unique style of utterly believable individual voices. Collin and Tanner could be your brother, cousin, or friend instantly. Once in the story, you'll feel as if you know them while at the same time, this author brings something very fresh to a new genre.
The story is one any lover of m/m can slip into, but once you are there, don't expect to be able to put it down. The tension in the story is excellent and the sex spectacular! That part gets one of the highest ratings I can give in addition to to 5 stars, two hands.
Run, do not walk, those fingers to the pre-order button!
These characters are colorful, original and textured perfectly in Karen's unique style of utterly believable individual voices. Collin and Tanner could be your brother, cousin, or friend instantly. Once in the story, you'll feel as if you know them while at the same time, this author brings something very fresh to a new genre.
The story is one any lover of m/m can slip into, but once you are there, don't expect to be able to put it down. The tension in the story is excellent and the sex spectacular! That part gets one of the highest ratings I can give in addition to to 5 stars, two hands.
Run, do not walk, those fingers to the pre-order button!
October 1, 2015
** 4.25 stars
From other reviews, I was initially worried this was simply going to be a story of two college roommates having sex all of the time. It was more than that as it was also Collin's coming out story and, of course, the story of Collin and Tanner falling in love. As to the physical parts, it wasn't that they rushed into things since they had been friends and roommates for some time. The story just starts at the point when they first act on the attraction. I liked that everything Collin and Tanner did together physically was a natural progression. My only wish would have been to see some of Collin and Tanner's development as friends and their growing attraction to each other before the first page.
From other reviews, I was initially worried this was simply going to be a story of two college roommates having sex all of the time. It was more than that as it was also Collin's coming out story and, of course, the story of Collin and Tanner falling in love. As to the physical parts, it wasn't that they rushed into things since they had been friends and roommates for some time. The story just starts at the point when they first act on the attraction. I liked that everything Collin and Tanner did together physically was a natural progression. My only wish would have been to see some of Collin and Tanner's development as friends and their growing attraction to each other before the first page.
January 29, 2015
What a great book, I absolutely loved it from the very start, it is well written, and draws you into the very likeable lead characters straight away.
The story has a good pace to it, allowing the characters to develop, but not dragging on with endless unnecessary padding. The sex scenes are well written and believable, which is often not the case. The "moment of impact" towards the end of the story was unexpected and gave a nice twist to the story and lead to its eventual conclusion, which was very satisfying.
I'm really looking forward to reading the follow up story.
Please note, I was given a copy of this book by the author in return for an honest review.
The story has a good pace to it, allowing the characters to develop, but not dragging on with endless unnecessary padding. The sex scenes are well written and believable, which is often not the case. The "moment of impact" towards the end of the story was unexpected and gave a nice twist to the story and lead to its eventual conclusion, which was very satisfying.
I'm really looking forward to reading the follow up story.
Please note, I was given a copy of this book by the author in return for an honest review.
September 19, 2016
Overall book review: 3.5
Audio book: Robert Nieman (Narrator) - 4
Book cover: 3.5
Nice inbtween read. Short and sweet with lots of hooking-up. I think this one could have had potential has a full noval, but all and all I still enjoyed it.
Audio book: Robert Nieman (Narrator) - 4
Book cover: 3.5
Nice inbtween read. Short and sweet with lots of hooking-up. I think this one could have had potential has a full noval, but all and all I still enjoyed it.
March 29, 2015
Totally what I needed right now
Hot, not too deep. Sweet.
Will read more from this author
Total momo book
Hot, not too deep. Sweet.
Will read more from this author
Total momo book
May 14, 2015
This guys were HOT! College roommates to lovers is a trope I can read over and over again. I'm glad to see that Collin and Tanner's story will continue into a novella series...
April 8, 2018
3.5
This is a steamy New Adult romance set in a shared dorm room. What makes it interesting is wading through the an Irish Catholic background and the likeability of both heroes.
I wish all the sections of this romance were in one book as it feels a bit like a serial but we end up in a good place.
This is a steamy New Adult romance set in a shared dorm room. What makes it interesting is wading through the an Irish Catholic background and the likeability of both heroes.
I wish all the sections of this romance were in one book as it feels a bit like a serial but we end up in a good place.
January 24, 2015
I was given Moment of Impact by the author through the Goodreads M/M Romance Group’s Don’t Buy My Love program for an honest review. This story is told in first person through the eyes of Collin Fitzpatrick a college student.
January 7, 2016
Outside is scary, inside is terrifying.
Collin Fitzpatrick did NOT have an easy life. Controlled by a fanatically religious mother, the missing locks on his bathroom and bedroom doors were just some of the small things that had a lasting effect on him. Being gay wasn't remotely up for discussion in his family. Even the thought of being intimate with a guy was completely out of the question. Consequently, Collin is living his life with an unhealthy amount of guilt, shame and anxiety mixed in, and the big crush he has on his straight college roommate, Tanner, doesn't help one bit. Quite the opposite, because after listening to Tannner banging his friend with benefits the whole semester, the one night he gets caught staring? Turns out Tanner isn't as straight as Collin thought he was, and his undesirable thoughts aren't as impossible as he was hoping.
This book surprised me a little. The writing was good, even though some of the dialogue and inner musings seemed a bit forced at times. But it didn't bother me too much. I had more problems with the fact that Tanner slept with his roommate while Collin was right there. I don't care if he thought his roommate was asleep or not. You just don't DO stuff like that. Especially not when you allegedly have a huge crush on the other person sleeping in the bed right beside your own. Just no.
Other than that I enjoyed the story. Collin never had it easy with his family, therefore never really accepted himself or at least got comfortable with his own body. His anxiety and shame burden him in almost every situation, his fear of discovery is almost all-consuming. No wonder that this kind of angst influences the bloossoming relationship with Tanner greatly, and not exactly in a good way.
This was a good, short gfy-ofy story, even though I got a tiny bit annoyed with the "near-death/severe-situation-changed-everything" plotline. It's not a bad formula, but it's been done more times than anyone can count, which si why more often than not it lost its' shine. I can understand it, I can read it and somewhat enjoy it, but in the end, I wish the characters could grow, change and make decisions without life-altering events forcing their hand. But I know that's me, so other readers might not be bothered by it.
All in all a good start of a series and I picked up the second installment out of pure curiosity right after I finished this one.
Collin Fitzpatrick did NOT have an easy life. Controlled by a fanatically religious mother, the missing locks on his bathroom and bedroom doors were just some of the small things that had a lasting effect on him. Being gay wasn't remotely up for discussion in his family. Even the thought of being intimate with a guy was completely out of the question. Consequently, Collin is living his life with an unhealthy amount of guilt, shame and anxiety mixed in, and the big crush he has on his straight college roommate, Tanner, doesn't help one bit. Quite the opposite, because after listening to Tannner banging his friend with benefits the whole semester, the one night he gets caught staring? Turns out Tanner isn't as straight as Collin thought he was, and his undesirable thoughts aren't as impossible as he was hoping.
This book surprised me a little. The writing was good, even though some of the dialogue and inner musings seemed a bit forced at times. But it didn't bother me too much. I had more problems with the fact that Tanner slept with his roommate while Collin was right there. I don't care if he thought his roommate was asleep or not. You just don't DO stuff like that. Especially not when you allegedly have a huge crush on the other person sleeping in the bed right beside your own. Just no.
Other than that I enjoyed the story. Collin never had it easy with his family, therefore never really accepted himself or at least got comfortable with his own body. His anxiety and shame burden him in almost every situation, his fear of discovery is almost all-consuming. No wonder that this kind of angst influences the bloossoming relationship with Tanner greatly, and not exactly in a good way.
This was a good, short gfy-ofy story, even though I got a tiny bit annoyed with the "near-death/severe-situation-changed-everything" plotline. It's not a bad formula, but it's been done more times than anyone can count, which si why more often than not it lost its' shine. I can understand it, I can read it and somewhat enjoy it, but in the end, I wish the characters could grow, change and make decisions without life-altering events forcing their hand. But I know that's me, so other readers might not be bothered by it.
All in all a good start of a series and I picked up the second installment out of pure curiosity right after I finished this one.
January 26, 2015
3.5 STARS
This was a very nice book to read. The first two sentences of chapter 1 got my attention. Collin and Tanner were roommates and Collin had a thing with Tanner. Tanner fucks her best friends with benefits once a month and Collin got jealous and horny at the same time. One night where the routine was changed and things got revealed.
I thought their relationship was really cute. It was kind of really fast because it was like the story started somewhere around 30% of a book but it was fine. I did wish we had more backstory between Tanner and Collin and the situation. Their sex was really hoy and steamy.
I really like Tanner because he was caring and thoughtful of Collin and his situation. But Tanner was determined to take things slow just to be with Collin. It was pretty short though. Thank God there's a book 2 because some things needed to happen.
Overall, a very nice treat and read.
This was a very nice book to read. The first two sentences of chapter 1 got my attention. Collin and Tanner were roommates and Collin had a thing with Tanner. Tanner fucks her best friends with benefits once a month and Collin got jealous and horny at the same time. One night where the routine was changed and things got revealed.
I thought their relationship was really cute. It was kind of really fast because it was like the story started somewhere around 30% of a book but it was fine. I did wish we had more backstory between Tanner and Collin and the situation. Their sex was really hoy and steamy.
I really like Tanner because he was caring and thoughtful of Collin and his situation. But Tanner was determined to take things slow just to be with Collin. It was pretty short though. Thank God there's a book 2 because some things needed to happen.
Overall, a very nice treat and read.
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