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Nothing Ventured
Mud, sweat, and reluctant romance. Can Aiden and Matt sort out their feelings before race day?
When Aiden agrees to run the Mad Mucker--a twelve-mile muddy slog over an obstacle course--he's expecting it to be a bit of a laugh. The training will be tough, but Aiden could use the motivation to regain some fitness.
Matt is the sexy cousin of one of Aiden's coworkers and a last-minute addition to the team. When he agrees to train with Aiden, Aiden suddenly finds the prospect of regular workouts a lot more appealing.
Soon attraction flares, and they embark on an intense physical relationship. Matt doesn't want to fall in love with a man, and Aiden doesn't want to fall in love at all, but despite their insistence on no strings, they grow closer. As the day of the race approaches, time is running out for them to work out how they feel about each other.
This book is a standalone story with a satisfying happy ending.
Please note that this is a re-release, and although it has been re-edited with British spellings it has no new content.
When Aiden agrees to run the Mad Mucker--a twelve-mile muddy slog over an obstacle course--he's expecting it to be a bit of a laugh. The training will be tough, but Aiden could use the motivation to regain some fitness.
Matt is the sexy cousin of one of Aiden's coworkers and a last-minute addition to the team. When he agrees to train with Aiden, Aiden suddenly finds the prospect of regular workouts a lot more appealing.
Soon attraction flares, and they embark on an intense physical relationship. Matt doesn't want to fall in love with a man, and Aiden doesn't want to fall in love at all, but despite their insistence on no strings, they grow closer. As the day of the race approaches, time is running out for them to work out how they feel about each other.
This book is a standalone story with a satisfying happy ending.
Please note that this is a re-release, and although it has been re-edited with British spellings it has no new content.
173 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 12, 2014
28 people are currently reading
574 people want to read
About the author
Jay Northcote
54 books1,652 followersI don't hang out on Goodreads much, so if you'd like to connect with me then Twitter, Facebook or an email is usually best :) All my contact details are on my website.
Jay lives just outside Bristol in the West of England. He comes from a family of writers, but always used to believe that the gene for fiction writing had passed him by. He spent years only ever writing emails, articles, or website content.
One day, Jay decided to try and write a short story—just to see if he could—and found it rather addictive. He hasn’t stopped writing since.
Jay writes contemporary romance about men who fall in love with other men. Jay has five books published by Dreamspinner Press, and he also self-publishes under the imprint Jaybird Press. Many of his books are now available as audiobooks.
Jay is transgender and was formerly known as she/her.
Jay lives just outside Bristol in the West of England. He comes from a family of writers, but always used to believe that the gene for fiction writing had passed him by. He spent years only ever writing emails, articles, or website content.
One day, Jay decided to try and write a short story—just to see if he could—and found it rather addictive. He hasn’t stopped writing since.
Jay writes contemporary romance about men who fall in love with other men. Jay has five books published by Dreamspinner Press, and he also self-publishes under the imprint Jaybird Press. Many of his books are now available as audiobooks.
Jay is transgender and was formerly known as she/her.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 184 reviews
January 30, 2015
~4.5 stars~
Warning: May cause immediate desire to get off one's arse and go for a run.
What? That's a good thing, intit?
Includes:
Men gettin' dirty.
And men gettin' clean.
This book contains two of my favorite things: sexy (British!) blokes getting it on and fitness!
When the slightly out-of-shape Aiden is manipulated into doing the Mud Macker by his bestie Liv, the silver lining is her gorgeous cousin, Matt, back from Australia, who becomes Aiden's training partner. Reluctant and whiny, Aiden nevertheless wants to please and impress Matt, the "Lycra-clad god."
The two become good mates...who mud wrestle and suck each other off. You know, the USUAL.
I loved all the training/exercise talk. Aiden becomes quite the endorphin junky, and Matt's drive and commitment are all kinds of hot.
The men have explosive chemistry, and Northcote's books, while sweet and romantic, never skimp on the steam. Hallelujah!
Plus, there's something about sweaty, panting men. SO LICKABLE. But I digress...
Aiden is long out of the closet but not looking for a relationship, now or ever. Matt is bi, but keeps his gay side firmly hidden. The friends-to-lovers slow burn was delicious, and the lovin' was RED-HAWT.
I'm not gonna lie: I wanted to throttle Matt once. Or twice. The man was so engulfed in trying to please a ghost, he couldn't see what was right in front of him. And Aiden (our narrator), with his "I don't do relationships," was only marginally better.
*coughs, stubborn fools, coughs*
It's no secret that I j'adore Jay Northcote's books. They are ALWAYS the right blend of SMEXY and TENDER. The writing is flawless, the banter endearing. The MCs feel REAL.
And they're British. Have I mentioned they're British?
Smart man.
Warning: May cause immediate desire to get off one's arse and go for a run.
What? That's a good thing, intit?
Includes:
Men gettin' dirty.
And men gettin' clean.
This book contains two of my favorite things: sexy (British!) blokes getting it on and fitness!
When the slightly out-of-shape Aiden is manipulated into doing the Mud Macker by his bestie Liv, the silver lining is her gorgeous cousin, Matt, back from Australia, who becomes Aiden's training partner. Reluctant and whiny, Aiden nevertheless wants to please and impress Matt, the "Lycra-clad god."
The two become good mates...who mud wrestle and suck each other off. You know, the USUAL.
I loved all the training/exercise talk. Aiden becomes quite the endorphin junky, and Matt's drive and commitment are all kinds of hot.
The men have explosive chemistry, and Northcote's books, while sweet and romantic, never skimp on the steam. Hallelujah!
Plus, there's something about sweaty, panting men. SO LICKABLE. But I digress...
"I'm too old for this," Aiden complained..."Running eight miles followed by fucking twice in as many hours."
"Poor old man." Matt grinned down at him.
Aiden is long out of the closet but not looking for a relationship, now or ever. Matt is bi, but keeps his gay side firmly hidden. The friends-to-lovers slow burn was delicious, and the lovin' was RED-HAWT.
I'm not gonna lie: I wanted to throttle Matt once. Or twice. The man was so engulfed in trying to please a ghost, he couldn't see what was right in front of him. And Aiden (our narrator), with his "I don't do relationships," was only marginally better.
*coughs, stubborn fools, coughs*
It's no secret that I j'adore Jay Northcote's books. They are ALWAYS the right blend of SMEXY and TENDER. The writing is flawless, the banter endearing. The MCs feel REAL.
And they're British. Have I mentioned they're British?
"It's too early," Aiden grumbled into his pillow. "I'm not interested in being woken up at this time of the morning unless it's by a blow job."
Smart man.
November 21, 2014
4--Running--Stars!!
I must say, I quite enjoyed this one. I don't always like the whole "I don't do relationships" and "let's keep it casual" premise but this one worked for me.
A drunken night leads to Aiden agreeing to run the Mud Mucker. Sounds pretty hot right?
Yes, yes it does.
Aiden's out of shape though so he starts training with Matt. Matt is bi and not out. But with all the running and getting hot and sweaty, Matt and Aiden start flirting and one thing leads to another. Now their workouts have happy endings.
But they are both adamant about keeping it casual. Matt isn't ready to come out and Aiden doesn't want a relationship. Which does that ever work out?
Despite the premise, this one was pretty low drama which was fine with me! The sex was hot and I enjoyed the back and forth banter between Matt and Aiden.
Two Thumbs Up!
I must say, I quite enjoyed this one. I don't always like the whole "I don't do relationships" and "let's keep it casual" premise but this one worked for me.
A drunken night leads to Aiden agreeing to run the Mud Mucker. Sounds pretty hot right?
Yes, yes it does.
Aiden's out of shape though so he starts training with Matt. Matt is bi and not out. But with all the running and getting hot and sweaty, Matt and Aiden start flirting and one thing leads to another. Now their workouts have happy endings.
But they are both adamant about keeping it casual. Matt isn't ready to come out and Aiden doesn't want a relationship. Which does that ever work out?
Despite the premise, this one was pretty low drama which was fine with me! The sex was hot and I enjoyed the back and forth banter between Matt and Aiden.
Two Thumbs Up!
September 30, 2015
One night, Aiden drinks a little too much and he's manipulated by his co-worker and friend, Liv, to run the Mud Mucker. Matt is Liv’s cousin. He moved recently from Australia and works at a private health club. To say that Matt is in an excellent shape will be an understatement, but Aiden is out of shape, hating running on anything other than a treadmill. When Liv suggests that Aiden and Matt train together for the big event and both accept. Aiden is gay, out and proud and he’s attracted to Matt from the beginning. At first, he thinks Matt is straight, but soon he finds out that hie training partner is bi, but not out. He only has relationships with women, hooking up occasionally with men.
Soon after they start training, they hook up, agreeing to have a casual relationship. Aiden is more than happy to have a training partner-with-benefits type of thing, especially since he doesn’t do relationships. What was supposed to be a casual thing obviously becomes more. Aiden starts to want Matt too much and soon he falls for him. Aiden can say for sure, Matt feels something more than friendship for him, so things are changing slowly between them. Both of them realize that, but is Matt ready to be out in order to be with Aiden?
I really liked this one. It was easy to read, light, sexy and with an interesting plot.
Loved Aiden and Matt's chemistry and the sex scenes were pretty hot! The banter between them was fantastic and I enjoyed how their relationship progressed. I loved both of them! Aiden was great. I liked that he’s not a drama queen when he figured out that he’s falling for his training partner. Matt was a little frustrating, yes, but I totally understood him. I also liked the fact they communicated with each other and how they shared their fears.
The angst is low and there’s no stupid drama, which I really liked.
Overall, a good read!
November 21, 2014
Reading with Eva and Isabel - Monday 17 November!
5 Nothing ventured, nothing gained, and all that… Stars
A training partner-with-benefits type of book, everything went fairly smoothly, light, sweet, easy to read that has some messy-muddy-fun that requires a lot of bathing…
A good dose of hot/comfort read, which floats perfectly my boat …
December 17, 2014
4.5 running head over heels stars
Mud
Run
All sorts of fun
For me it was a wonderful romance, totally hot and smutty too, and I just loved, loved, loved every single page. The balance between story, plot, steam, tenderness and MC's development was spot on.
Aiden and Matt were so perfect together! They were kind of stubborn and a little when they didn't realize they totally fall for each other.
The development of their relationship all from first meeting right until the very last page felt so real and was fantastically written.
I really liked the writer’s style and thoroughly enjoyed the story. Low angst, easy sexy read.
Will read more of Jay Northcote starting with Nothing Serious and Nothing Special
BR with Isabel and Barbara here
Loved... Recommended.
"Nothing Ventured ... Nothing Gained"
Mud
Run
All sorts of fun
For me it was a wonderful romance, totally hot and smutty too, and I just loved, loved, loved every single page. The balance between story, plot, steam, tenderness and MC's development was spot on.
Aiden and Matt were so perfect together! They were kind of stubborn and a little when they didn't realize they totally fall for each other.
"Once Matt gave up the control, everything was different. It stopped being a power struggle, and the gentle humor of before was gone, replaced by intensity and passion.”
The development of their relationship all from first meeting right until the very last page felt so real and was fantastically written.
I really liked the writer’s style and thoroughly enjoyed the story. Low angst, easy sexy read.
Will read more of Jay Northcote starting with Nothing Serious and Nothing Special
BR with Isabel and Barbara here
Loved... Recommended.
Read
November 3, 2019DNF at 3 %
"Bloody hell, it should be illegal to be that attractive."
I don’t want to read about another perfect specimen who – let me make some guesses from here – will change our flimsy main character’s life and attitude and they are going to be all healthy and fit and perfect together, cultivating a perfect relationship.
3% so no rating, but I'm done with it.
"Bloody hell, it should be illegal to be that attractive."
I don’t want to read about another perfect specimen who – let me make some guesses from here – will change our flimsy main character’s life and attitude and they are going to be all healthy and fit and perfect together, cultivating a perfect relationship.
3% so no rating, but I'm done with it.
June 6, 2015
Written June 1, 2015
3 1/2 Stars - Pretty nice!
A M/M audiobook novella (4:40 hrs) written by Jay Northcote (new for me) and narrated by Matthew Lloyd Davies (new for me). ~ I enjoyed.
*********************************************************
Bristol, U.K.
Aiden agrees to run the Mad Mucker, a twelve-mile muddy slog over an obstacle course. The training will be very tough but when Matt, the sexy cousin of one of Aiden’s coworkers agrees to train with him, Aiden suddenly finds the prospect of running and visit the gym a lot more appealing.
Matt isn't out of the closet and call himself "bi" (a ex girlfriend etc in mind). Nevertheless, sweaty running with a goodlooking man makes attraction and steamy feelings raise for them both.
I liked the start when Aiden had to fight with tired legs and 'wheezy' breathing. No attempt to be lazy worked either. Matt was a taskmaster when it came to training. And it paid off. (I need a Matt here right now)
Nothing Ventured was sweet, witty and quick "read".
You get that light goodfeel feeling, a lot of funny moments and just adorable (believable) characters. I always likes stories set in the U.K too.
Smex? Some yummy parts but more steamy in a nice way than erotic. Best of all; you had to wait for that grand finale with those touching words. Overall a good one. —I didn't love this narrator (to much of an actor?) but I don't have that much to complain about either.— I'm sure I'll try more audiobooks by this writer (with this narrator or not).
*********************************************************
I LIKE - lighthearted happy feeling stories
3 1/2 Stars - Pretty nice!
A M/M audiobook novella (4:40 hrs) written by Jay Northcote (new for me) and narrated by Matthew Lloyd Davies (new for me). ~ I enjoyed.
*********************************************************
Bristol, U.K.
Aiden agrees to run the Mad Mucker, a twelve-mile muddy slog over an obstacle course. The training will be very tough but when Matt, the sexy cousin of one of Aiden’s coworkers agrees to train with him, Aiden suddenly finds the prospect of running and visit the gym a lot more appealing.
Matt isn't out of the closet and call himself "bi" (a ex girlfriend etc in mind). Nevertheless, sweaty running with a goodlooking man makes attraction and steamy feelings raise for them both.
I liked the start when Aiden had to fight with tired legs and 'wheezy' breathing. No attempt to be lazy worked either. Matt was a taskmaster when it came to training. And it paid off. (I need a Matt here right now)
Nothing Ventured was sweet, witty and quick "read".
You get that light goodfeel feeling, a lot of funny moments and just adorable (believable) characters. I always likes stories set in the U.K too.
Smex? Some yummy parts but more steamy in a nice way than erotic. Best of all; you had to wait for that grand finale with those touching words. Overall a good one. —I didn't love this narrator (to much of an actor?) but I don't have that much to complain about either.— I'm sure I'll try more audiobooks by this writer (with this narrator or not).
*********************************************************
I LIKE - lighthearted happy feeling stories
August 3, 2019
I always enjoy Jay Northcote's books, and Nothing Ventured was no different, but I wanted so much more romance!
I know Jay can bring the emotions and the heat, but he didn't quite deliver with this story. The plot was really fun (I liked the Tough Mudder-style competition), and there was a good helping of angst, but I felt like most of the story was... well, just training and hanging out. Sure, these two guys hooked up (a lot), but I kept looking at my Kindle and wondering when the emotions were going to come into play.
Even over the halfway mark, one of the MCs was still hooking up with a friend on the side. I don't particularly hate that in a romance, but at some point the romance has to kick it into high gear. I thought the first kiss took forever to come, and the feelings barely made it into the story before the end.
It was a short, easy read, but I wanted a bit more.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
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I know Jay can bring the emotions and the heat, but he didn't quite deliver with this story. The plot was really fun (I liked the Tough Mudder-style competition), and there was a good helping of angst, but I felt like most of the story was... well, just training and hanging out. Sure, these two guys hooked up (a lot), but I kept looking at my Kindle and wondering when the emotions were going to come into play.
Even over the halfway mark, one of the MCs was still hooking up with a friend on the side. I don't particularly hate that in a romance, but at some point the romance has to kick it into high gear. I thought the first kiss took forever to come, and the feelings barely made it into the story before the end.
It was a short, easy read, but I wanted a bit more.
*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review*
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August 21, 2016
Hell yeah, this one was by far my favorite Jay Northcote book so far.
The setup is that Aiden, who is only a little out of shape (despite the blurb making him sound a bit rotund), gets roped into participating in a 12 mile mud run during "Tequila-gate" by his drunken co-worker/bestie Liv.
Liv has also tagged her (hot, muscley fitness trainer) cousin, Matt, to be on their team for the race. She then enlists Mat's help to whip Aiden's wee-bit flabby ass back into shape. And the race is in 12 short weeks.
So the training begins and Aiden slowly begins to chip away at Matt's stoic personality and the two become mates. And training partners *with benefits* -- after putting a very strict "no strings attached" boundary in place.
The book, for me at least, was about overcoming parental issues and learning that their shit is just that. *Their* shit, not yours.
For Aiden, coming from a broken home and witnessing his parents' multiple remarriages and divorces has left him unable to believe in lasting love, so he stringently limits himself to hookups and is unwilling to even consider ANY type of actual relationship.
For Matt, his continual pursuit of his homophobic, military father's approval (even 9 years after the man's death) limit his potential life partners to only those *without* genitalia matching his own. So he will sleep with men (on the down low), but only date women. Ever.
However, as hardly anything in life ever goes according to initial plans, the 'sex only' hookups turn into something much more for both Aiden and Matt, as they develop true feelings for one another.
But commitment-phobic men tend to do what commitment-phobic men do best. They don't face their fears and then run from situations that make them uncomfortable. So when Aiden confesses that he would break his 'no relationship' rule for him, what does Matt do?
Run away, run away!!!
They're both miserable alone and come back together again for good during the race when some Shrek-like twat puts Aiden in danger and Matt comes to the rescue.
I loved the chemistry between the two MC's and the sexy parts were FLAT OUT HOT! (Flip-flop, yay!) : )
4.5 stars for this one.
-----------------------------------
My copy of this book was provided by the publisher for a fair, unbiased review.
The setup is that Aiden, who is only a little out of shape (despite the blurb making him sound a bit rotund), gets roped into participating in a 12 mile mud run during "Tequila-gate" by his drunken co-worker/bestie Liv.
Liv has also tagged her (hot, muscley fitness trainer) cousin, Matt, to be on their team for the race. She then enlists Mat's help to whip Aiden's wee-bit flabby ass back into shape. And the race is in 12 short weeks.
So the training begins and Aiden slowly begins to chip away at Matt's stoic personality and the two become mates. And training partners *with benefits* -- after putting a very strict "no strings attached" boundary in place.
The book, for me at least, was about overcoming parental issues and learning that their shit is just that. *Their* shit, not yours.
For Aiden, coming from a broken home and witnessing his parents' multiple remarriages and divorces has left him unable to believe in lasting love, so he stringently limits himself to hookups and is unwilling to even consider ANY type of actual relationship.
For Matt, his continual pursuit of his homophobic, military father's approval (even 9 years after the man's death) limit his potential life partners to only those *without* genitalia matching his own. So he will sleep with men (on the down low), but only date women. Ever.
However, as hardly anything in life ever goes according to initial plans, the 'sex only' hookups turn into something much more for both Aiden and Matt, as they develop true feelings for one another.
But commitment-phobic men tend to do what commitment-phobic men do best. They don't face their fears and then run from situations that make them uncomfortable. So when Aiden confesses that he would break his 'no relationship' rule for him, what does Matt do?
Run away, run away!!!
They're both miserable alone and come back together again for good during the race when some Shrek-like twat puts Aiden in danger and Matt comes to the rescue.
I loved the chemistry between the two MC's and the sexy parts were FLAT OUT HOT! (Flip-flop, yay!) : )
4.5 stars for this one.
-----------------------------------
My copy of this book was provided by the publisher for a fair, unbiased review.
November 23, 2017
2.5 Stars
I've read close to twenty of Northcote's stories over the past few years and I must admit this was my least favourite of my reading experiences. Obviously we can't win them all - nor should we - but I'll admit I was kind of surprised and disappointed by my reactions to this one.
Firstly, all the constant talk of fitness and health started to grate on my nerves and make me feel kind of shitty about myself, which obviously wasn't the intended outcome, but nonetheless was the reaction I had. Matt's character in particular came across as preachy and kind of rude regarding Aiden's exercise habits at the beginning, making it hard for me to connect significantly with his character later on.
I also struggled with the friends-with-benefits plot and the way the characters expressed themselves, . I started to feel like a prude - which I definitely don't consider myself. Interestingly, none of my many GR friends even commented on any of this, which just made me feel even worse about my personal reactions to the whole thing.
Gawd, I sound like such a sad sack after reading this one, but I promise it wasn't all bad for me. I clearly rated up, because (as usual) Northcote's writing quality was smooth and enjoyable, and I couldn't in good conscious rate down just because I struggled with some of the plot points. And even though I didn't warm to the characters or the general storyline, I appreciated the lovely blend of sweet, tender and sexy that Northcote always seems to effortlessly produce.
Oh well, better luck next time!
I've read close to twenty of Northcote's stories over the past few years and I must admit this was my least favourite of my reading experiences. Obviously we can't win them all - nor should we - but I'll admit I was kind of surprised and disappointed by my reactions to this one.
Firstly, all the constant talk of fitness and health started to grate on my nerves and make me feel kind of shitty about myself, which obviously wasn't the intended outcome, but nonetheless was the reaction I had. Matt's character in particular came across as preachy and kind of rude regarding Aiden's exercise habits at the beginning, making it hard for me to connect significantly with his character later on.
I also struggled with the friends-with-benefits plot and the way the characters expressed themselves, . I started to feel like a prude - which I definitely don't consider myself. Interestingly, none of my many GR friends even commented on any of this, which just made me feel even worse about my personal reactions to the whole thing.
Gawd, I sound like such a sad sack after reading this one, but I promise it wasn't all bad for me. I clearly rated up, because (as usual) Northcote's writing quality was smooth and enjoyable, and I couldn't in good conscious rate down just because I struggled with some of the plot points. And even though I didn't warm to the characters or the general storyline, I appreciated the lovely blend of sweet, tender and sexy that Northcote always seems to effortlessly produce.
Oh well, better luck next time!
August 2, 2019
*** 3.5 stars ***
A low-key, low-angst story that kept getting better and better as it went along, until by the end it was flirting with 4 stars.
This is the best thing I've read from Jay Northcote. A couple of everyday blokes, gay Aiden and bi Matt, gradually get to know each other, and fall for each other, as they train for an amateur athletic event. I thought the story had two significant strengths:
1. The lack of melodrama. Neither guy wants a relationship. There's no anguishing over it; it's just a practical preference on each side. They become fuck buddies, but it's not exclusive. It's just hooking up. I liked the realism of that. And when feelings emerge, and it's time for the characters to talk about that, guess what -- they talk about that! Yes! I kid you not!
2. The sheer blokey-ness of the characters. Okay, so that's not actually a word, but I loved how Aiden, the narrator, was just a regular guy. He wasn't particularly introspective. He didn't wallow in his emotions. He didn't weep and wail and gnash his teeth, he didn't turn into a drama queen when dealing with feelings. He seemed real to me, and for that reason I enjoyed spending time with him.
So, while this was a relatively simple story, I liked it -- enough so that I'm adding it to my "Want to Reread" shelf.
A low-key, low-angst story that kept getting better and better as it went along, until by the end it was flirting with 4 stars.
This is the best thing I've read from Jay Northcote. A couple of everyday blokes, gay Aiden and bi Matt, gradually get to know each other, and fall for each other, as they train for an amateur athletic event. I thought the story had two significant strengths:
1. The lack of melodrama. Neither guy wants a relationship. There's no anguishing over it; it's just a practical preference on each side. They become fuck buddies, but it's not exclusive. It's just hooking up. I liked the realism of that. And when feelings emerge, and it's time for the characters to talk about that, guess what -- they talk about that! Yes! I kid you not!
2. The sheer blokey-ness of the characters. Okay, so that's not actually a word, but I loved how Aiden, the narrator, was just a regular guy. He wasn't particularly introspective. He didn't wallow in his emotions. He didn't weep and wail and gnash his teeth, he didn't turn into a drama queen when dealing with feelings. He seemed real to me, and for that reason I enjoyed spending time with him.
So, while this was a relatively simple story, I liked it -- enough so that I'm adding it to my "Want to Reread" shelf.
Read
November 9, 2014I don't usually write anything here for my own books - but I often get asked the question: Are the 'Nothing' books a series?
So here's the short answer: No, they're not :)
And here's the longer version.
I see them as more of a set than a series because they're a similar type of novella. I'd describe all of them as sweet, light, sexy reads.
I was never intending to link them at all, but the title 'Nothing Special' was perfect for the second one, so my publisher and I decided to link them by cover design as well. I already had an outline for a story that worked perfectly with the title Nothing Ventured, so we stuck with the cover theme and I ended up with another gorgeous design from Anna Sikorska.
So, if you decide to buy this, or any other of my 'Nothing' books you can expect an easy read that's light on the angst and high on the sexy times. But as there is no connection between the characters, you can dip in and read them in any order.
So here's the short answer: No, they're not :)
And here's the longer version.
I see them as more of a set than a series because they're a similar type of novella. I'd describe all of them as sweet, light, sexy reads.
I was never intending to link them at all, but the title 'Nothing Special' was perfect for the second one, so my publisher and I decided to link them by cover design as well. I already had an outline for a story that worked perfectly with the title Nothing Ventured, so we stuck with the cover theme and I ended up with another gorgeous design from Anna Sikorska.
So, if you decide to buy this, or any other of my 'Nothing' books you can expect an easy read that's light on the angst and high on the sexy times. But as there is no connection between the characters, you can dip in and read them in any order.
July 30, 2019
I love Jay.
I did not love this book
Ugh. Whyyy?!?!
Well, let's see...
First big thorn in my side was the whole fu*k buddy, Pete.
Here's an example...
Pete undid his zip, and there was a rustle of fabric as he got his cock out.
'Do you think he'd want to fuck?'"
Pete is talking about Matt, the guy Aiden is crushing on/screwing...while getting ready to have sex with Aiden! Go away Pete. For all the possible romance of this book, I'm begging you to leave. Please!
Disappointment in full force.
By 66% (I don't care if you think about Matt while we do it) I was ready to push Pete out of the book myself.
Second was the 'flippant' attitude that Aiden had towards Matt's sexuality.
"'I'm not gay. I'm bi.'
'Isn't that what all gays in denial like to tell themselves?' Aiden meant it as a joke, but Matt scowled."
Yeah, Matt wasn't the only one scowling. Seriously Aiden, you know he's timid. You know he's struggling and...well, you disappointed me. Again.
Lastly, I didn't mesh with the pacing.
At all.
The first kiss took forever and by the time we got to it, I was so annoyed, it lost any luster it might have had several chapters earlier.
Although the ending was sweet I was far too worked up to enjoy it.
*sigh*
Sheri has a sad.
*2.5 sadly-nothing-gained-for-me stars*
I did not love this book
Ugh. Whyyy?!?!
Well, let's see...
First big thorn in my side was the whole fu*k buddy, Pete.
Here's an example...
Pete undid his zip, and there was a rustle of fabric as he got his cock out.
'Do you think he'd want to fuck?'"
Pete is talking about Matt, the guy Aiden is crushing on/screwing...while getting ready to have sex with Aiden! Go away Pete. For all the possible romance of this book, I'm begging you to leave. Please!
Disappointment in full force.
By 66% (I don't care if you think about Matt while we do it) I was ready to push Pete out of the book myself.
Second was the 'flippant' attitude that Aiden had towards Matt's sexuality.
"'I'm not gay. I'm bi.'
'Isn't that what all gays in denial like to tell themselves?' Aiden meant it as a joke, but Matt scowled."
Yeah, Matt wasn't the only one scowling. Seriously Aiden, you know he's timid. You know he's struggling and...well, you disappointed me. Again.
Lastly, I didn't mesh with the pacing.
At all.
The first kiss took forever and by the time we got to it, I was so annoyed, it lost any luster it might have had several chapters earlier.
Although the ending was sweet I was far too worked up to enjoy it.
*sigh*
Sheri has a sad.
*2.5 sadly-nothing-gained-for-me stars*
August 14, 2019
Casual to serious!
I'm a big fan of this trope when it's done right, and in this case it was perfect. Matt and Aiden had an arrangement and they stuck to it. They were training buddies with benefits that eventually and inadvertently became friends with benefits.
As characters, Matt and Aiden had enough differences between them that there was no way to mix them up. Aiden was the more sarcastic one, the one who spoke up more easily, whereas Matt was more quiet, kind of an introvert and focused on healthy living.
Aiden was an open book from the start where Matt had many layers that he revealed once he started feeling comfortable with the other person.
We only get Aiden's point of view in the story but it didn't bother me and it worked well here. Matt had his issues but he was pretty open about them with Aiden.
And this brings me to another trope: coming out. Matt was bisexual but he was hiding that part of himself from his friends and family, choosing to only pursue relationships with women. When things with Aiden began to get serious that became a problem for them.
This story became even better by the presence of many secondary characters. There was just the right balance, they were included so the story felt more real but they never stole the lights from the main couple. Plus, including them meant that we got to see Matt and Aiden interacting with other people too, instead of it just being the two of them for the whole story.
From the blurb it's obvious that this book deals with training, fitness, setting goals and achieving them. A big part of it was about Matt and Aiden getting ready for the Mud Mucker but along the way the relationship between them changed. The two were intertwined and one wouldn't exist without the other.
The day of the race was interesting with little events happening here and there and the author smartly choosing to skip the miles where nothing really happened except from them running. Instead, we got to see them struggling and overcoming the difficulties as a team. I liked the whole idea behind the race and how it was more about each person setting a goal and meeting it and less about the competition.
Another "oldie but goodie" by Jay Northcote!
*An ARC of this book was kindly provided to me in exchange for an honest review. *
I'm a big fan of this trope when it's done right, and in this case it was perfect. Matt and Aiden had an arrangement and they stuck to it. They were training buddies with benefits that eventually and inadvertently became friends with benefits.
As characters, Matt and Aiden had enough differences between them that there was no way to mix them up. Aiden was the more sarcastic one, the one who spoke up more easily, whereas Matt was more quiet, kind of an introvert and focused on healthy living.
Aiden was an open book from the start where Matt had many layers that he revealed once he started feeling comfortable with the other person.
We only get Aiden's point of view in the story but it didn't bother me and it worked well here. Matt had his issues but he was pretty open about them with Aiden.
And this brings me to another trope: coming out. Matt was bisexual but he was hiding that part of himself from his friends and family, choosing to only pursue relationships with women. When things with Aiden began to get serious that became a problem for them.
This story became even better by the presence of many secondary characters. There was just the right balance, they were included so the story felt more real but they never stole the lights from the main couple. Plus, including them meant that we got to see Matt and Aiden interacting with other people too, instead of it just being the two of them for the whole story.
From the blurb it's obvious that this book deals with training, fitness, setting goals and achieving them. A big part of it was about Matt and Aiden getting ready for the Mud Mucker but along the way the relationship between them changed. The two were intertwined and one wouldn't exist without the other.
The day of the race was interesting with little events happening here and there and the author smartly choosing to skip the miles where nothing really happened except from them running. Instead, we got to see them struggling and overcoming the difficulties as a team. I liked the whole idea behind the race and how it was more about each person setting a goal and meeting it and less about the competition.
Another "oldie but goodie" by Jay Northcote!
*An ARC of this book was kindly provided to me in exchange for an honest review. *
July 25, 2019
Re-reading as it is being re-released with a new cover.
Second reading: I'd forgotten how much I liked this very British romance from Jay.
Centred around a team of work colleagues taking part in the insanity of the Mad Mucker, it had all the hallmarks of this author - a Bristol setting, a sense of humour, two characters with real human frailties and strengths.
I loved that Aiden wasn't perfect, although Matt was approaching that with his personal trainer lifestyle.
I loved that they started out as teammates, then friends before moving into a friends with benefits status and developing 'feelings'.
The outcome was one which felt totally worked for and I totally believed in their HEA.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
Second reading: I'd forgotten how much I liked this very British romance from Jay.
Centred around a team of work colleagues taking part in the insanity of the Mad Mucker, it had all the hallmarks of this author - a Bristol setting, a sense of humour, two characters with real human frailties and strengths.
I loved that Aiden wasn't perfect, although Matt was approaching that with his personal trainer lifestyle.
I loved that they started out as teammates, then friends before moving into a friends with benefits status and developing 'feelings'.
The outcome was one which felt totally worked for and I totally believed in their HEA.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
January 31, 2016
There are so many reviews for this one, so I'm gonna skip writing one. Lovely, steamy short story...I really enjoyed reading it ;)
November 22, 2014
Aiden and Matt are training partners for a mud race! Who would say that that training would be so fun, so dirty... so hot?! They are strongly attracted for each other but both of them don't want commitments, so they are friends with benefits:
They train together:
They shower together:
And they just couldn't help it... they fall in love:
This is an excellent story, with an original plot, low angst and good characters! Jay Northcote has a fabulous writing style and I will keep her books in my mind!
Read with Barbara and Eva!
They train together:
They shower together:
And they just couldn't help it... they fall in love:
This is an excellent story, with an original plot, low angst and good characters! Jay Northcote has a fabulous writing style and I will keep her books in my mind!
Read with Barbara and Eva!
June 14, 2017
3.5 Stars
Aiden agrees to run a crazy, grueling obstacle course and his best friend's cousin is ready to whip him into shape. What starts off as a grudging trainer/trainee relationship morphs into an excellent friends with benefits scenario.
Aiden doesn't do emotions or relationships.
Matt is firmly in the closet - he's bi but why go through the lengthy process of explaining that to anyone?
Not surprisingly, feelings and attachments develop. Since both stated they wanted sex only with no strings attached, how do they move beyond that?
Like the other books in this series, this was simple, quick, and easy with what I thought was some decent angst. The hotness factor only added to my enjoyment!
Aiden agrees to run a crazy, grueling obstacle course and his best friend's cousin is ready to whip him into shape. What starts off as a grudging trainer/trainee relationship morphs into an excellent friends with benefits scenario.
Aiden doesn't do emotions or relationships.
Matt is firmly in the closet - he's bi but why go through the lengthy process of explaining that to anyone?
Not surprisingly, feelings and attachments develop. Since both stated they wanted sex only with no strings attached, how do they move beyond that?
Like the other books in this series, this was simple, quick, and easy with what I thought was some decent angst. The hotness factor only added to my enjoyment!
November 20, 2014
Jay Northcote is an auto buy/auto read author for me. I love how I know what I am getting when I start one of her books; great meet-cutes, adorable/sexy boys, low angst and hot physical scenes. It’s a comfort to me and this story was another fantastic read.
There are times you read a book at exactly the right time; where everything just fits and this was the perfect time for me. Nothing Ventured centers around Aiden and Matt as they train for the Mad Mucker and while I am not training for the same event, I am training to run a half marathon so the fitness aspect of this book, had me nodding along as they trained.
I had a thought when I started this book, as Aiden realizes he agreed to run the Mad Mucker with Liv and team, was that Aiden was not aware of the first rule of life; Tequila is Diablo. That devil of a spirit can talk you into the most deranged and debauched situations you would normally never get into. Lesson learned, Aiden? Okay.
Aiden, I loved this boy. From his thoughts on not wanting to get up early and exercise (I don’t do mornings, I get my runs in after a 9hr day at work) to his crush on his possibly straight training partner, being in his head was comfortable. It was comfortable and hot and I would have totally ogled Matt’s ass *ahem* arse - right along with him and any other part that boy was working out because, Matt is total eye candy.
Matt, our “straight” boy who gets a bit hands on with Aiden than necessary during training. I know he wants to help Aiden, to get things hard and he does a fine job of that as well as helping Aiden get fit. Bad Pun Penalty? Ha! Matt was fun and smart and… well.
These two, they were fun and frustrating. I think this is the most frustrating couple I have read from the author. I really liked that Matt was bisexual, not gay in the closet or pretending, he makes it clear he fancies both sexes but good lord, I wanted to beat Matt over the head a few times with a pair of muddy trainers. I know Aiden and Matt are our MC’s and that they will end up at some point with hopefully and HEA or at least an HFN but Matt fighting to be what a memory thought he should be, was frustrating. I get it, I do but the angst it caused hurt me and it hurt Aiden, as well as Matt hurting himself. Is Ms. Norhtcote delving into the side of angst as she produces more books? I am not sure but the few times I grunted with “Come the fuck on, Matt!” makes me wonder and really curious to see her go full angst on readers.
So back to the story, the boys start out as training partners – getting dirty on their runs and after a wrestle in the mud, they of course have to get clean. Right? Good Lord. Who would have thought a simple gesture of asking to borrow clothes after a separate shower with your mate/training partner would turn out so hot. I LOVED Aiden’s response to Matt and how they went from there – training partners with benefits and no strings. Oh the no strings situation… does that ever go as planned?
The pace of the story was perfect, the balance between the training for the race and the budding relationship between Matt and Aiden was told well. With both men fighting their own demons on commitment and what they thought was the right thing to do along with the sexy times they had together, in and out of Aiden’s shower was just wonderful. I fell hard and fast and couldn’t wait for that first kiss. Oh. My. Gawd. That first kiss! *swoon*
Nothing Ventured is another great read from the author. I absolutely adored these two along with the “Questers” as they overcame their own obstacles to become a team of acceptance. I loved Aiden and Matt and was right there with Liv at the end cheering Matt on and was nice sized puddle of goo with the epilogue.
Oh, one last thing. I will issue a warning to any perspective readers of this book… it will likely encourage you to lace up a pair of shoes and hit the pavement, trails, track or wherever your feet can make contact in good weather or bad. The fitness aspect will make you high as you catch the adrenaline rush with the boys as they train and you'll want to join them, instantly. Speaking of hitting the pavement, it’s my time for a run. Where’s Matt and his arse to lead the way?
There are times you read a book at exactly the right time; where everything just fits and this was the perfect time for me. Nothing Ventured centers around Aiden and Matt as they train for the Mad Mucker and while I am not training for the same event, I am training to run a half marathon so the fitness aspect of this book, had me nodding along as they trained.
I had a thought when I started this book, as Aiden realizes he agreed to run the Mad Mucker with Liv and team, was that Aiden was not aware of the first rule of life; Tequila is Diablo. That devil of a spirit can talk you into the most deranged and debauched situations you would normally never get into. Lesson learned, Aiden? Okay.
Nothing ventured, nothing gained, and all that.
Aiden, I loved this boy. From his thoughts on not wanting to get up early and exercise (I don’t do mornings, I get my runs in after a 9hr day at work) to his crush on his possibly straight training partner, being in his head was comfortable. It was comfortable and hot and I would have totally ogled Matt’s ass *ahem* arse - right along with him and any other part that boy was working out because, Matt is total eye candy.
It seemed he’d acquired a training partner. An annoying, bossy, sexy but tragically straight training partner. But at least the view of Matt’s arse would be nice while Aiden was trying to keep up with him.
Matt, our “straight” boy who gets a bit hands on with Aiden than necessary during training. I know he wants to help Aiden, to get things hard and he does a fine job of that as well as helping Aiden get fit. Bad Pun Penalty? Ha! Matt was fun and smart and… well.
These two, they were fun and frustrating. I think this is the most frustrating couple I have read from the author. I really liked that Matt was bisexual, not gay in the closet or pretending, he makes it clear he fancies both sexes but good lord, I wanted to beat Matt over the head a few times with a pair of muddy trainers. I know Aiden and Matt are our MC’s and that they will end up at some point with hopefully and HEA or at least an HFN but Matt fighting to be what a memory thought he should be, was frustrating. I get it, I do but the angst it caused hurt me and it hurt Aiden, as well as Matt hurting himself. Is Ms. Norhtcote delving into the side of angst as she produces more books? I am not sure but the few times I grunted with “Come the fuck on, Matt!” makes me wonder and really curious to see her go full angst on readers.
So back to the story, the boys start out as training partners – getting dirty on their runs and after a wrestle in the mud, they of course have to get clean. Right? Good Lord. Who would have thought a simple gesture of asking to borrow clothes after a separate shower with your mate/training partner would turn out so hot. I LOVED Aiden’s response to Matt and how they went from there – training partners with benefits and no strings. Oh the no strings situation… does that ever go as planned?
He was getting what he’d said he wanted, after all: no-strings sex and lots of it. He just needed to make sure they had better boundaries. The damn touchy-feely snuggle hormones were messing with his head. If they could get back to getting off and keep the intimacy at bay, he’d be fine. They’d be fine.
The pace of the story was perfect, the balance between the training for the race and the budding relationship between Matt and Aiden was told well. With both men fighting their own demons on commitment and what they thought was the right thing to do along with the sexy times they had together, in and out of Aiden’s shower was just wonderful. I fell hard and fast and couldn’t wait for that first kiss. Oh. My. Gawd. That first kiss! *swoon*
Two people who had feelings for each other, but both fighting against them for different reasons.
Nothing Ventured is another great read from the author. I absolutely adored these two along with the “Questers” as they overcame their own obstacles to become a team of acceptance. I loved Aiden and Matt and was right there with Liv at the end cheering Matt on and was nice sized puddle of goo with the epilogue.
Oh, one last thing. I will issue a warning to any perspective readers of this book… it will likely encourage you to lace up a pair of shoes and hit the pavement, trails, track or wherever your feet can make contact in good weather or bad. The fitness aspect will make you high as you catch the adrenaline rush with the boys as they train and you'll want to join them, instantly. Speaking of hitting the pavement, it’s my time for a run. Where’s Matt and his arse to lead the way?
March 2, 2015
This book and I started off as besties and then ventured into lukewarm territory. This is going to sound super weird but it was the lack of communication surrounding the kissing that annoyed me. If someone is up for putting your dick in their mouth and vice versa I think you should be adult enough to talk about whether kissing is on the table or not. There was miscommunication in this book primarily because there was NO communication. When they did communicate it was through a “so I know you’re not into relationships so I won’t bother talking to you about wanting to be in a relationship”. By the time it all got sorted I wanted them to get with other people.
January 21, 2015
4.5 Stars
November 29, 2014
3 to 3.5 rating (not sure which) It was a good, likable story, but it didn't wow me.
August 25, 2016
Here you go…. Eight. Seven. Six….
My second read by Jay Northcote . I chose this one at the moment that my needs required some light read. As a sports( fitness) person, I like when something of this is included.
The story is pretty much trivial. “Out” met“Closeted-bi” trough his friend “ Girl”and her cousin, in order to participate in a ongoing race, as a team. “Out” is out of shape and will be trained by“Closeted-bi”, who is a fitness freak.
The existential questions are: Is he gay?; Top or bottom?; Where and how do you want me?;Just a training partner-with-benefits?; Will their relationship be just about training and sex or something more meaningful, something more permanent?.
You will not miss some iconic words for that category. Such as: hard-on; fuck buddy; bulge; boner; shot, hot and sticky and so on.
Actually, my favorite parts are the begging and the the end, which included some funny bits. The writing is easygoing, cheerful and anatomically oriented.
Overall, and apparently, I'm not on side of 4th July Fireworks reviews, but I received exactly what I'd expected and it's “okay".
My second read by Jay Northcote . I chose this one at the moment that my needs required some light read. As a sports( fitness) person, I like when something of this is included.
The story is pretty much trivial. “Out” met“Closeted-bi” trough his friend “ Girl”and her cousin, in order to participate in a ongoing race, as a team. “Out” is out of shape and will be trained by“Closeted-bi”, who is a fitness freak.
The existential questions are: Is he gay?; Top or bottom?; Where and how do you want me?;Just a training partner-with-benefits?; Will their relationship be just about training and sex or something more meaningful, something more permanent?.
You will not miss some iconic words for that category. Such as: hard-on; fuck buddy; bulge; boner; shot, hot and sticky and so on.
Actually, my favorite parts are the begging and the the end, which included some funny bits. The writing is easygoing, cheerful and anatomically oriented.
Overall, and apparently, I'm not on side of 4th July Fireworks reviews, but I received exactly what I'd expected and it's “okay".
November 29, 2014
It was interesting to watch Aiden and Matt train for the Mad Mucker, a 12 mile muddy course with brutal obstacles.
I fell for Aiden easily, Matt was another story, it took me forever to warm up to him, I’m still not his greatest fan. His long-drawn-out hesitation to finally come out and the main reason behind it didn’t really convince me.
I have to admit the story of the training itself dragged on. After finishing I felt exhausted… I guess I lost a few pounds while reading about all the running. :)
A bit more romance and a bit less training would have been more my cup of tea.
As for Pete, Aiden’s friend and fuck-buddy, he didn’t bother me because Matt and Aiden weren’t together, their relationship was rather casual for a long time, so Aiden didn't cheat on Matt.
All in all, Nothing Ventured was an entertaining, decent read, recommended to readers who love their M/M romance with lots of sports. :)
November 17, 2014
Like all of Jay Northcote's books, this was sweet, light and satisfying. Im a fan. :)
November 29, 2014
The four stars that I am giving this book are being given grudgingly. Let me explain...
I know that in the blurb it says that the MCs enter into an intense physical relationship. I just did not realize how much the author took that phrase to heart. At the beginning, that was all these boys had. it was just about the sex and blowing off some steam. There was nothing warm about, nothing heartfelt or passionate or fuzzy, or sexy...it was purely mechanical. And it. was. a. big. fucking. turn. off. I have read many stories where the MCs claim they are only entering a no-strings affair and that it is only purely physical, but the authors still always manage to infuse some deeper feelings than that, some passion. These two had nothing. And it bored the shit out of me.
And since the MCs did take their oh-so-lovely (<- are you sensing the sarcasm there?) no-strings-attached relationship so seriously, they did hook up with other people. Matt only mentioned another date in passing where nothing happened. But, Aiden, bless his little soul (<- once again, are you sensing the sarcasm?) slept with one of his fuck buddies a few times. Granted, it was glossed over, and I knew the MCs had not made any sort of commitment to each other, but I barely was able to stomach it.
But, somehow I was compelled to keep reading, and the ending just seemed to melt most of my ire away. It was just so cheesy, sappy, and fuzzy-feels inducing that I was smiling like a loon and just could not find myself able to give a rating lower than a 4.
I know that in the blurb it says that the MCs enter into an intense physical relationship. I just did not realize how much the author took that phrase to heart. At the beginning, that was all these boys had. it was just about the sex and blowing off some steam. There was nothing warm about, nothing heartfelt or passionate or fuzzy, or sexy...it was purely mechanical. And it. was. a. big. fucking. turn. off. I have read many stories where the MCs claim they are only entering a no-strings affair and that it is only purely physical, but the authors still always manage to infuse some deeper feelings than that, some passion. These two had nothing. And it bored the shit out of me.
And since the MCs did take their oh-so-lovely (<- are you sensing the sarcasm there?) no-strings-attached relationship so seriously, they did hook up with other people. Matt only mentioned another date in passing where nothing happened. But, Aiden, bless his little soul (<- once again, are you sensing the sarcasm?) slept with one of his fuck buddies a few times. Granted, it was glossed over, and I knew the MCs had not made any sort of commitment to each other, but I barely was able to stomach it.
But, somehow I was compelled to keep reading, and the ending just seemed to melt most of my ire away. It was just so cheesy, sappy, and fuzzy-feels inducing that I was smiling like a loon and just could not find myself able to give a rating lower than a 4.
November 28, 2014
3.5
This had an interesting set-up. The men, Aiden and Matt, are pushed into being training partners for an upcoming obstacle race. Aiden was persuaded through a friend at work to sign up on the office team and Matt, who works at a gym, is that same friend’s cousin. This got off to a rough start for me. I found Matt cold and Aiden a bit douchey. It takes a while for the guys to warm up to each other and as they did I found myself enjoying the story more but with reservations. There was a tenseness to their interactions which fell firmly on the workout buddies with benefits. Aiden also has a similar relationship going with a old boyfriend from school, Pete, for part of the read as well.
It’s all very casual, casual until it isn’t anymore. Things start to move into a more intense zone and that scares off Matt which upsets Aiden. It’s all very Alpha male bristling to the point where I wanted to knock their heads together. Any hint of vulnerability had them both shying at the gate.
After all the intense backing off the men engaged in I found that things wrapped up a bit too easily during the race, still it was nice to see it all work out so handily. The epilogue was both fun and pushed the relationship forward to a point where I could see it working out well into the future. All in all this was a decent read with an interesting premise. I found the characters and their relationship a bit too stiff and awkward at first but I grew to enjoy their slightly tense interactions which were balanced out with a few light-hearted and sweet moments.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
This had an interesting set-up. The men, Aiden and Matt, are pushed into being training partners for an upcoming obstacle race. Aiden was persuaded through a friend at work to sign up on the office team and Matt, who works at a gym, is that same friend’s cousin. This got off to a rough start for me. I found Matt cold and Aiden a bit douchey. It takes a while for the guys to warm up to each other and as they did I found myself enjoying the story more but with reservations. There was a tenseness to their interactions which fell firmly on the workout buddies with benefits. Aiden also has a similar relationship going with a old boyfriend from school, Pete, for part of the read as well.
It’s all very casual, casual until it isn’t anymore. Things start to move into a more intense zone and that scares off Matt which upsets Aiden. It’s all very Alpha male bristling to the point where I wanted to knock their heads together. Any hint of vulnerability had them both shying at the gate.
After all the intense backing off the men engaged in I found that things wrapped up a bit too easily during the race, still it was nice to see it all work out so handily. The epilogue was both fun and pushed the relationship forward to a point where I could see it working out well into the future. All in all this was a decent read with an interesting premise. I found the characters and their relationship a bit too stiff and awkward at first but I grew to enjoy their slightly tense interactions which were balanced out with a few light-hearted and sweet moments.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
November 12, 2014
4.5 stars, rounding up
For my honest and true view of this book, please read …MORE
Goodreads TOS-compliant review (I think, let me know when they tell us what the rules are):
"The book I just read is about two (or three) lovely people, written in beautiful language, by a very good and prolific author. I liked it very, very much.
It is for sale on Amazon.”
DISCLAIMER: My reviews now all have this pretty face, so that all and everyone on Goodreads can stay happy and beatific. I’ll let you know if I change my mind. See the real review above for my thoughts on this book.
For my honest and true view of this book, please read …MORE
Goodreads TOS-compliant review (I think, let me know when they tell us what the rules are):
"The book I just read is about two (or three) lovely people, written in beautiful language, by a very good and prolific author. I liked it very, very much.
It is for sale on Amazon.”
DISCLAIMER: My reviews now all have this pretty face, so that all and everyone on Goodreads can stay happy and beatific. I’ll let you know if I change my mind. See the real review above for my thoughts on this book.
August 4, 2016
Yeah. No. I want to read about the romance between the two main characters. Not read a hero fuck an old fuck buddy 20% in, and well after meeting the other hero. Fuck off.
July 24, 2019
3.5 stars
I liked this one but, as stated in my update, some things bothered me. Still, it's a Jay Northcote book and I always enjoy them.
I liked this one but, as stated in my update, some things bothered me. Still, it's a Jay Northcote book and I always enjoy them.
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