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The Assistant
Burned out ex-soldier Nick Kurosawa has drifted from job to job since he lost his family in a car crash. Lately, he’s been working on and off as a bouncer, barely managing to cover his bills; an opportunity for steady, well-paying work is just what he needs to get his life back in order.
Jacob Umber, a secretive philanthropist, gives him that opportunity. Umber has fibromyalgia and needs a personal assistant to help him with the tasks of daily living—someone strong, adaptable, and, most of all, willing to let Umber take the lead.
It seems a perfect opportunity for Nick. More than anything, he craves guidance and a purpose, and Umber gives him that in spades. When Nick starts craving more, it seems an impossible complication, but even the reserved Umber can’t deny Nick’s talent—and need—for following his orders. But Umber’s shadowy past holds secrets that could undo their fragile new relationship and any hope Nick has of a normal life.
Pairing: MM
Orientation: Gay
Identity: Cisgender, Trans.
Warning: discussion of depression, dealing with a chronic illness/disability, depiction of a D/s relationship between boss and employee, and a heavy caning scene.
Jacob Umber, a secretive philanthropist, gives him that opportunity. Umber has fibromyalgia and needs a personal assistant to help him with the tasks of daily living—someone strong, adaptable, and, most of all, willing to let Umber take the lead.
It seems a perfect opportunity for Nick. More than anything, he craves guidance and a purpose, and Umber gives him that in spades. When Nick starts craving more, it seems an impossible complication, but even the reserved Umber can’t deny Nick’s talent—and need—for following his orders. But Umber’s shadowy past holds secrets that could undo their fragile new relationship and any hope Nick has of a normal life.
Pairing: MM
Orientation: Gay
Identity: Cisgender, Trans.
Warning: discussion of depression, dealing with a chronic illness/disability, depiction of a D/s relationship between boss and employee, and a heavy caning scene.
178 pages, ebook
First published August 24, 2020
6 people are currently reading
80 people want to read
About the author
John Tristan
7 books91 followersI'm John, and I write gay romance, usually with a SF/F twist.
As for reading, I will read pretty much everything you put in front of me, but I will always have a special love for all genre fiction. I'm of the firm belief no story can't be improved by an elf, dragon and/or spaceship or two!
As for reading, I will read pretty much everything you put in front of me, but I will always have a special love for all genre fiction. I'm of the firm belief no story can't be improved by an elf, dragon and/or spaceship or two!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
May 2, 2024
I picked this up during the most recent Smashwords sale, and it remained parked in my SW library but not downloaded until, swamped by a miserable editing project and quailing at my ARC backlog, I went looking for a satisfying distraction. I'd read this author's The Adorned and found it imaginative, sexy, but a mixed bag, subject to longueurs and ending with less unalloyed happiness than I would've preferred, so I wasn't expecting to be swept off my feet, but here we are.
Half a star dinged for insufficient attention to the suspense plot that drives the lovers' temporary separation, and because I wasn't sold on how an early hookup attempt by Nick is handled, but:
- It's always such a relief to read technically polished prose, because then I can read for plot and characterization instead of wanting to bash my head against the wall every five sentences. (Having said which: Please stop with "off of," Mr. Tristan, kthx.)
- The reviewers who didn't feel chemistry between the MCs, or who thought that Mr. Umber was insufficiently developed, are simply wrong. I have spoken. I was immediately fascinated by him, and I thought Nick made an excellent slightly unreliable narrator, in that I could perceive Mr. Umber's feelings despite the screen of Nick's insecurities. I liked his care with Nick, and I was touched by his caution about his naked body (he's trans, which mightn't on its own account for that, but he's also in his 40s, besides which he has history -- nothing explicit, but we learn that things were, shall we say, suboptimal), as well as Nick's sensitivity to that caution. [And bless Nick's prior trans hookup telling him that if he doesn't want to fuck a man with a {word I'm eliding because although the character uses it and I quite like it, I know many people find it offensive and I'm being nice} he knows where the door is.] Also, at a certain point it becomes clear how Mr. U. passes his work time, and aw, man, if you don't love that I will fight you.
- Have I mentioned how much I liked Nick? I really, really liked Nick, who's got good reason for being adrift, as he is when the book opens. Here's a nice bit of characterization: He habitually answers the phone by saying "How can I help?" That's his kink coming out, but it's also his basic courtesy.
- The heat, lord have mercy the heat. Mind you, there's barely any "sex" in this book -- Mr. U. beats Nick with a belt early on in their relationship, after which you're at 60% before anything more directly sexual happens between them, but I. felt. every. minute. of Nick's desire and Mr. U's restraint. (Nick's a service sub and a masochist, and, because this is a romance, Mr. U wants service and is a dab hand with belt and cane.)
Why yes, I do mean to investigate the rest of John Tristan's work, why do you ask?
Half a star dinged for insufficient attention to the suspense plot that drives the lovers' temporary separation, and because I wasn't sold on how an early hookup attempt by Nick is handled, but:
- It's always such a relief to read technically polished prose, because then I can read for plot and characterization instead of wanting to bash my head against the wall every five sentences. (Having said which: Please stop with "off of," Mr. Tristan, kthx.)
- The reviewers who didn't feel chemistry between the MCs, or who thought that Mr. Umber was insufficiently developed, are simply wrong. I have spoken. I was immediately fascinated by him, and I thought Nick made an excellent slightly unreliable narrator, in that I could perceive Mr. Umber's feelings despite the screen of Nick's insecurities. I liked his care with Nick, and I was touched by his caution about his naked body (he's trans, which mightn't on its own account for that, but he's also in his 40s, besides which he has history -- nothing explicit, but we learn that things were, shall we say, suboptimal), as well as Nick's sensitivity to that caution. [And bless Nick's prior trans hookup telling him that if he doesn't want to fuck a man with a {word I'm eliding because although the character uses it and I quite like it, I know many people find it offensive and I'm being nice} he knows where the door is.] Also, at a certain point it becomes clear how Mr. U. passes his work time, and aw, man, if you don't love that I will fight you.
- Have I mentioned how much I liked Nick? I really, really liked Nick, who's got good reason for being adrift, as he is when the book opens. Here's a nice bit of characterization: He habitually answers the phone by saying "How can I help?" That's his kink coming out, but it's also his basic courtesy.
- The heat, lord have mercy the heat. Mind you, there's barely any "sex" in this book -- Mr. U. beats Nick with a belt early on in their relationship, after which you're at 60% before anything more directly sexual happens between them, but I. felt. every. minute. of Nick's desire and Mr. U's restraint. (Nick's a service sub and a masochist, and, because this is a romance, Mr. U wants service and is a dab hand with belt and cane.)
Why yes, I do mean to investigate the rest of John Tristan's work, why do you ask?
August 10, 2020
ARC provided via netgalley
Pairing: MM
Orientation: Gay
Identity: Cisgender, Trans.
Warning: discussion of depression, dealing with a chronic illness/disability, depiction of a D/s relationship between boss and employee, and a heavy caning scene.
This was a very different book than what I usually read. Or maybe not.
This was my first time reading this author and John Tristan is a wonderful writer.
I loved our main character, Nick. He was in the military and because of traumatic pasts, he has been on and off in a few jobs. One of his friends recommends him to apply for Jacob Umbers. The job is to be a PA for Mr. Umbers. Mr. Umbers is a trans man suffering from fibromyalgia. And boy, what an intriguing character Mr. Umbers was. Like Wow.
This book was sort of a slow burn. But the fact is that since the first half covers several weeks, there is more of telling how Nick feels about Mr. Umbers on a day to day basis rather than showing. So, yes, even though they get into a relationship a little later in the book, it seemed sudden to me given the interactions between the main characters and the kind of conversations between them.
I also loved how the author explores the sexual dynamic between the characters. And it totally worked and made sense for the characters. I've read MM BDSM books before, so this wasn't new to me. However, I really enjoyed their scenes/moments together. However, I wish there was more "romance" in the book.
As much as the characters talked, and did for each other, there seemed to be a certain lack of depth and connection, that feeling of the characters being meant for each other.
Lastly, the book took a very interesting turn after about 60% that I did not expect. I also loved how everything played out. I did not expect the book to go about this way. I thought this was just a simple D/s boss employee romance but it turned out to be much more.
I also loved the representation. It's not often you come across trans main character who is a dominant in relationship with an ex milirary gay man, SO points for that. Also, the book was addictive. Once I started, I finished it in an afternoon.
Pairing: MM
Orientation: Gay
Identity: Cisgender, Trans.
Warning: discussion of depression, dealing with a chronic illness/disability, depiction of a D/s relationship between boss and employee, and a heavy caning scene.
This was a very different book than what I usually read. Or maybe not.
This was my first time reading this author and John Tristan is a wonderful writer.
I loved our main character, Nick. He was in the military and because of traumatic pasts, he has been on and off in a few jobs. One of his friends recommends him to apply for Jacob Umbers. The job is to be a PA for Mr. Umbers. Mr. Umbers is a trans man suffering from fibromyalgia. And boy, what an intriguing character Mr. Umbers was. Like Wow.
This book was sort of a slow burn. But the fact is that since the first half covers several weeks, there is more of telling how Nick feels about Mr. Umbers on a day to day basis rather than showing. So, yes, even though they get into a relationship a little later in the book, it seemed sudden to me given the interactions between the main characters and the kind of conversations between them.
I also loved how the author explores the sexual dynamic between the characters. And it totally worked and made sense for the characters. I've read MM BDSM books before, so this wasn't new to me. However, I really enjoyed their scenes/moments together. However, I wish there was more "romance" in the book.
As much as the characters talked, and did for each other, there seemed to be a certain lack of depth and connection, that feeling of the characters being meant for each other.
Lastly, the book took a very interesting turn after about 60% that I did not expect. I also loved how everything played out. I did not expect the book to go about this way. I thought this was just a simple D/s boss employee romance but it turned out to be much more.
I also loved the representation. It's not often you come across trans main character who is a dominant in relationship with an ex milirary gay man, SO points for that. Also, the book was addictive. Once I started, I finished it in an afternoon.
August 12, 2020
3.5 Stars
I wish this had been longer. I think some of the plot suffers from not being panned out enough - the ending in particular seemed rushed. I like our MCs together, but I wanted to see more of their relationship to be entirely on board.
A strange thing is that the kink (which never gets too crazy) is quite present, but the steam was next to nothing. I was a little bummed about that. 😅
Also, it’s not mentioned in the description, but one of the MCs is transgender, and I loved seeing that representation.
Overall it was a cute story, and I don’t regret reading it, but would’ve liked more development between Nick and Jacob.
*ARC kindly provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for a honest review.*
I wish this had been longer. I think some of the plot suffers from not being panned out enough - the ending in particular seemed rushed. I like our MCs together, but I wanted to see more of their relationship to be entirely on board.
A strange thing is that the kink (which never gets too crazy) is quite present, but the steam was next to nothing. I was a little bummed about that. 😅
Also, it’s not mentioned in the description, but one of the MCs is transgender, and I loved seeing that representation.
Overall it was a cute story, and I don’t regret reading it, but would’ve liked more development between Nick and Jacob.
*ARC kindly provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for a honest review.*
August 21, 2020
I loved this book. It took a few chapters to get into it, but once Nick met Mr. Umber it just flowed. This is a really different kind of love story. Nick is a big man who works as a bouncer at a gay bar called Hellhole. A friend tells him about a job working as a PA for Mr. Umber. Nick is a submissive and Mr. Umber a Dom. Nick is immediately attracted to Mr. Umber , but their relationship grows very slowly. It’s hard to review this book without giving too much away. I’ll just say I highly recommend it, and than you John Tristan and NetGalley for sharing it with me.
August 20, 2024
So I'm one of the ones who didn't really feel the connection between Nick and Jacob and thus had a hard time staying invested, despite the interesting way their shared kinks are (and are not!) communicated and negotiated. I'm sorry, ancientreader!
September 18, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
I have to say that while the writing was a little lyrical at times, the narrative was compelling and engaging, the characters well developed, and I’d definitely see what this author has to offer in the future.
This book is told solely through Nick’s third person POV, and since it really is his journey, that made sense. He’s had a tough time of it. Depression has been part of his life since he was young, and he lost his family in a car accident.
Though we don’t get Jacob’s perspective, the author does a decent job of letting us know him through his words and actions. I was intrigued by his control, his clipped and polite way of speaking, and the utter perfection he portrays.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
I have to say that while the writing was a little lyrical at times, the narrative was compelling and engaging, the characters well developed, and I’d definitely see what this author has to offer in the future.
This book is told solely through Nick’s third person POV, and since it really is his journey, that made sense. He’s had a tough time of it. Depression has been part of his life since he was young, and he lost his family in a car accident.
Though we don’t get Jacob’s perspective, the author does a decent job of letting us know him through his words and actions. I was intrigued by his control, his clipped and polite way of speaking, and the utter perfection he portrays.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
August 9, 2020
I'm not sure what I expected when I began this book, but it wasn't something as powerful as what I got. I'm new to John Tristan's writing but I would definitely pick up another of his books.
The Assistant is quite short but there is a ton of characterization packed into it. Most intriguing, Nick is an ex-soldier who is working as a bouncer at the opening of the novel. Although he's suffered some trauma in his life, including the death of both his mother and sister in a car accident, he's clearly lived with depression for his entire life. There's been something "missing" from his life... and Nick isn't sure what that is.
A friend refers Nick to Jacob Umber. Umber is a man living with a disability who is in need of a personal assistant. In spite of the fact that he's not clear on what the job may entail, Nick goes for an interview because he can't realize that being a bouncer is putting him at risk of acting on some of his darker impulses when he chooses a physical brawl over de-escalating the situation.
As Nick and Mr. Umber begin working together something is unlocked within Nick. He finds that he wants to give over power and control to Umber... and develops a "crush" of sorts. But it's not until he and Umber end up at the same D/s house party... that Nick realizes there's even the remotest possibility that he might be able to pursue more with his employer.
Umber is very guarded about his life and doesn't really discuss the workings of his business with Nick. That doesn't really bother Nick, but he's aware that he doesn't really know much about the man he has come to need in his life. Umber is an interesting character. He's quite a bit older than Nick, and has a quietness about him that commands attention. I really enjoyed the way he revealed some of the facts about his medical status, by simply handing Nick a file about himself.
I thought it was refreshing that the fact that Jacob is a transgender man was simply a fact that he told Nick in case he had to act as a medical advocate. It's Jacob's fibromyalgia that is much more of an ongoing concern, and no doubt affects his mood and emotions. It was a pleasure to read a book with a main character who deals with a chronic condition. It was just something that was part of his everyday life.
Even in such a short work, the author manages to do a bit of exploration regarding control and power. It's much more than controlling someone physically; it can be completely psychological. The D/s scening and relationship read as very authentic to me and I found that very enjoyable.
This is a great book... if you like authentic D/s and wonderfully emotional relationship, then you'll enjoy this one.
The Assistant is quite short but there is a ton of characterization packed into it. Most intriguing, Nick is an ex-soldier who is working as a bouncer at the opening of the novel. Although he's suffered some trauma in his life, including the death of both his mother and sister in a car accident, he's clearly lived with depression for his entire life. There's been something "missing" from his life... and Nick isn't sure what that is.
A friend refers Nick to Jacob Umber. Umber is a man living with a disability who is in need of a personal assistant. In spite of the fact that he's not clear on what the job may entail, Nick goes for an interview because he can't realize that being a bouncer is putting him at risk of acting on some of his darker impulses when he chooses a physical brawl over de-escalating the situation.
As Nick and Mr. Umber begin working together something is unlocked within Nick. He finds that he wants to give over power and control to Umber... and develops a "crush" of sorts. But it's not until he and Umber end up at the same D/s house party... that Nick realizes there's even the remotest possibility that he might be able to pursue more with his employer.
Umber is very guarded about his life and doesn't really discuss the workings of his business with Nick. That doesn't really bother Nick, but he's aware that he doesn't really know much about the man he has come to need in his life. Umber is an interesting character. He's quite a bit older than Nick, and has a quietness about him that commands attention. I really enjoyed the way he revealed some of the facts about his medical status, by simply handing Nick a file about himself.
I thought it was refreshing that the fact that Jacob is a transgender man was simply a fact that he told Nick in case he had to act as a medical advocate. It's Jacob's fibromyalgia that is much more of an ongoing concern, and no doubt affects his mood and emotions. It was a pleasure to read a book with a main character who deals with a chronic condition. It was just something that was part of his everyday life.
Even in such a short work, the author manages to do a bit of exploration regarding control and power. It's much more than controlling someone physically; it can be completely psychological. The D/s scening and relationship read as very authentic to me and I found that very enjoyable.
This is a great book... if you like authentic D/s and wonderfully emotional relationship, then you'll enjoy this one.
July 15, 2024
Intriguing, hot, and really well-written read. An directionless and grieving ex-soldier gets a job as a personal assistant to an enigmatic, wealthy client with a chronic illness. There's a touch of underlying mystery here but chiefly this is about the development of the men's relationship which we see through Nick's POV. Really satisfying 4+star read - bumping to 5* due to the relatively low number of reviews on a book that is worth your time. It's half price in the Smashwords sale and thanks to @ancientreader for the recommendation.
September 5, 2024
More lust and yearning
than kink, sex, or crime. Brilliant.
Deep character sketch.
than kink, sex, or crime. Brilliant.
Deep character sketch.
August 15, 2020
I liked the premise of the book. Nick was an assistant to a disabled transgendered man. I thought it would be interesting. The romance was a bit off. There wasn’t the chemistry I was looking for. I would have liked more interaction between them. I think the subplot threw me for a loop. I didn’t understand it. The ending was a bit odd. Overall it was an okay book.
I received this book from the publisher and Netgalley for my honest review.
I received this book from the publisher and Netgalley for my honest review.
August 27, 2020
Every once in a while, you are thrown sideways by a book you didn’t expect. The Assistant by John Tristan is one such book.
This slightly quirky, deeply compelling and fascinating read drew me in immediately – with strong characters and descriptive text that made it extremely difficult for me to tear my eyes from the page. The novel landed on my Kindle and within four hours, I had barely engaged with real life while I absorbed this masterful tale.
Nick has needs. He can’t define them, but he knows when he’s not getting them met – which is most of the time. He knows he likes pain and service, but beyond that, it’s tricky to articulate. He is barely making ends meet and jumps at the chance for a possible well-paying job, even if it is outside his normal skill set.
Mr. Umber is an intriguing man – full of mystery and secrets. His illness requires specialised care, both during the day at work and also while finishing the day at home. He is looking for an assistant who can take direction, doesn’t mind a wide spectrum of tasks and also someone who doesn’t ask many questions. Nick seems like the perfect fit – especially when they accidentally find out more about each other than they intended.
This is not your typical romance. It’s sometimes brittle, edgy and more than a little remarkable. I could not pull away from the pages, and identified strongly with Nick and his journey of acceptance and belonging. What John Tristan has created here, with The Assistant, is a piece of literature that will linger in my memory for years to come. I would recommend this book to readers looking for something with a bit of bite – not dark, per-se, but be prepared for some sad and gut-wrenching moments along with some tender ones.
This slightly quirky, deeply compelling and fascinating read drew me in immediately – with strong characters and descriptive text that made it extremely difficult for me to tear my eyes from the page. The novel landed on my Kindle and within four hours, I had barely engaged with real life while I absorbed this masterful tale.
Nick has needs. He can’t define them, but he knows when he’s not getting them met – which is most of the time. He knows he likes pain and service, but beyond that, it’s tricky to articulate. He is barely making ends meet and jumps at the chance for a possible well-paying job, even if it is outside his normal skill set.
Mr. Umber is an intriguing man – full of mystery and secrets. His illness requires specialised care, both during the day at work and also while finishing the day at home. He is looking for an assistant who can take direction, doesn’t mind a wide spectrum of tasks and also someone who doesn’t ask many questions. Nick seems like the perfect fit – especially when they accidentally find out more about each other than they intended.
This is not your typical romance. It’s sometimes brittle, edgy and more than a little remarkable. I could not pull away from the pages, and identified strongly with Nick and his journey of acceptance and belonging. What John Tristan has created here, with The Assistant, is a piece of literature that will linger in my memory for years to come. I would recommend this book to readers looking for something with a bit of bite – not dark, per-se, but be prepared for some sad and gut-wrenching moments along with some tender ones.
November 15, 2020
So, I'm in two minds about this. What drew me to the story was a main character with Fibro, not something found often in stories, but I was disappointed that we didn't get Jacob's POV in the book.
It felt a little flat and monotone for me, at least for the first half of the book. Once the characters started interacting more, getting closer and pushing their boundaries, it picked up in emotion.
It was interesting reading as Nick got his needs met for domination through serving another, pain and a sense of belonging but not necessarily with physical intimacy. I like that it showed that possibility for that. It's not something that everyone wants, needs or can provided but they are still able to be in a happy and fulfilling relationship. I love the power dynamic that has the larger, physically fit man giving his submission to a man who lives with and often debilitating illness.
I enjoyed the twist as we slowly come to learn Jacob's history and the outcome of that, it really adds a bit of drama and intrigue to the story.
Overall, it's a good story but I think I would have enjoyed it more with a dual POV to add more to the story, flesh out the character and their relationship.
I received an ARC via NetGalley and am happily giving a review.
It felt a little flat and monotone for me, at least for the first half of the book. Once the characters started interacting more, getting closer and pushing their boundaries, it picked up in emotion.
It was interesting reading as Nick got his needs met for domination through serving another, pain and a sense of belonging but not necessarily with physical intimacy. I like that it showed that possibility for that. It's not something that everyone wants, needs or can provided but they are still able to be in a happy and fulfilling relationship. I love the power dynamic that has the larger, physically fit man giving his submission to a man who lives with and often debilitating illness.
I enjoyed the twist as we slowly come to learn Jacob's history and the outcome of that, it really adds a bit of drama and intrigue to the story.
Overall, it's a good story but I think I would have enjoyed it more with a dual POV to add more to the story, flesh out the character and their relationship.
I received an ARC via NetGalley and am happily giving a review.
September 15, 2020
Put John Tristan on your author reading list because if The Assistant is anything to go by, Tristan writes intriguing characters that stay with you long after you have flipped the final page.
I loved this story. Tristan includes everything from intrigue to someone living with a disability and then adds for fun some BDSM. Can you say, “Yes, Sir, I want some more.”? Tristan creates a very complicated character with Mr. Jacob Umber. All of the mystery and matter-of-factness is such a contradiction and makes Umber all the more intriguing.
Then there is the chemistry between Umber and Nick. Steam. Whew. I love the foreplay that Tristan has written. Writers often forget about delayed gratification and how good foreplay can be and Tristan drowns us in foreplay. I love Jake and Nick and I think you will too.
I do not want to say much more because I will end up giving away the important parts of the story. There is mystery, intense emotion, and the reality of living with a disease while still being a strong person. Plus we also get a romance. Don’t miss The Assistant or you will miss out on reading an awesome boss/employee romance.
I received an ARC of this book and I am writing a review without prejudice and voluntarily.
I loved this story. Tristan includes everything from intrigue to someone living with a disability and then adds for fun some BDSM. Can you say, “Yes, Sir, I want some more.”? Tristan creates a very complicated character with Mr. Jacob Umber. All of the mystery and matter-of-factness is such a contradiction and makes Umber all the more intriguing.
Then there is the chemistry between Umber and Nick. Steam. Whew. I love the foreplay that Tristan has written. Writers often forget about delayed gratification and how good foreplay can be and Tristan drowns us in foreplay. I love Jake and Nick and I think you will too.
I do not want to say much more because I will end up giving away the important parts of the story. There is mystery, intense emotion, and the reality of living with a disease while still being a strong person. Plus we also get a romance. Don’t miss The Assistant or you will miss out on reading an awesome boss/employee romance.
I received an ARC of this book and I am writing a review without prejudice and voluntarily.
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August 10, 2020Thanks to Netgalley for a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
I found this story well written and quite intriguing, so much so that I will choose to read more by this author.
Nick is drifting after a military career and the loss of his family. He drifts into working as a PA for a Mr. Umber, a wealthy, slightly mysterious older man with a chronic health condition. Developing a crush on the older guy, their relationship slowly becomes a sexual one. Mr. Umber isn't all he seems.
Great prose and an unusual story. I like the fact that the sexual relationship isn't conventional M/M, I like the fact the two MC's aren't perfectly handsome and are both deeply flawed. The ending is possibly a little hurried and I'm not convinced re the FBI agent spotting them at the airport, but it certainly didn't spoil my enjoyment of the story.
I found this story well written and quite intriguing, so much so that I will choose to read more by this author.
Nick is drifting after a military career and the loss of his family. He drifts into working as a PA for a Mr. Umber, a wealthy, slightly mysterious older man with a chronic health condition. Developing a crush on the older guy, their relationship slowly becomes a sexual one. Mr. Umber isn't all he seems.
Great prose and an unusual story. I like the fact that the sexual relationship isn't conventional M/M, I like the fact the two MC's aren't perfectly handsome and are both deeply flawed. The ending is possibly a little hurried and I'm not convinced re the FBI agent spotting them at the airport, but it certainly didn't spoil my enjoyment of the story.
August 26, 2020
Nick Kurosawa is a former army man, trying to maintain his cool despite his inner trauma. He still suffers the loss of his family, even though it's been several years. He is working as a bouncer at a gay bar, and is bored to tears--and also struggling to make sure he doesn't get too physical with the troublemakers he encounters.
Nick's friend and some-time sexual partner Alex recommends making contact with Mr. Jacob Umber, a wealthy curiosity shop owner who needs a personal assistant. Mr. Umber is older, but not elderly. Fastidious and formal, it's the fibromyalgia that's slowing this feisty transman down. Nick, who hasn't had any real spark with a sexual partner in a while, is slowly finding an inordinate attraction to Mr. Umber's commanding nature and uncanny sense of knowing. It's clear early on that Mr. Umber has secrets buried in his past, and astute Nick isn't even surprised when an FBI agent comes a-knocking.
The mystery of Mr. Umber is tantalizing, and his commanding presence moves easily from the workspace to the bedroom--once these lonely men find their way through some difficult but frank discussions. Nick is reticent to ask for his needs to be met, and Jacob needs to pry these stipulations from Nick before he will engage. Their affair might be short-lived, however, if the FBI won't back down.
This story is quiet, yet enthralling. It had the hallmarks of a good suspense thriller, without all the gore. I really enjoyed how things unfolded, with Nick being the faithful attendant and Jacob his one true connection to fading humanity, for a bit. There is some conflict, naturally, but it is the kind that really pushes the MC--Nick--to grow in new and exciting ways. It was good to see Nick's life change for the better when he learns to live without the hangups of depression by seeking proper treatment for perhaps the first time in his life. Though he's unsettled by the situation with Jacob, he's one hundred percent invested in sticking by his man. The end has a nice little twist, and it's a definite HEA situation, but again in a quiet way. There are some sexytimes in the story but they are mild and mostly more about the domination that Nick craves than hot and heavy moments.
Nick's friend and some-time sexual partner Alex recommends making contact with Mr. Jacob Umber, a wealthy curiosity shop owner who needs a personal assistant. Mr. Umber is older, but not elderly. Fastidious and formal, it's the fibromyalgia that's slowing this feisty transman down. Nick, who hasn't had any real spark with a sexual partner in a while, is slowly finding an inordinate attraction to Mr. Umber's commanding nature and uncanny sense of knowing. It's clear early on that Mr. Umber has secrets buried in his past, and astute Nick isn't even surprised when an FBI agent comes a-knocking.
The mystery of Mr. Umber is tantalizing, and his commanding presence moves easily from the workspace to the bedroom--once these lonely men find their way through some difficult but frank discussions. Nick is reticent to ask for his needs to be met, and Jacob needs to pry these stipulations from Nick before he will engage. Their affair might be short-lived, however, if the FBI won't back down.
This story is quiet, yet enthralling. It had the hallmarks of a good suspense thriller, without all the gore. I really enjoyed how things unfolded, with Nick being the faithful attendant and Jacob his one true connection to fading humanity, for a bit. There is some conflict, naturally, but it is the kind that really pushes the MC--Nick--to grow in new and exciting ways. It was good to see Nick's life change for the better when he learns to live without the hangups of depression by seeking proper treatment for perhaps the first time in his life. Though he's unsettled by the situation with Jacob, he's one hundred percent invested in sticking by his man. The end has a nice little twist, and it's a definite HEA situation, but again in a quiet way. There are some sexytimes in the story but they are mild and mostly more about the domination that Nick craves than hot and heavy moments.
August 12, 2020
Nick Kurosawa is an ex-soldier who lost his family in an unfortunate car accident. Since then, he has been living as a drifter, taking on temporary jobs to make ends meet. A chance at a steady job and getting his life back in order is what leads him to the doorstep of Jacob Umber.
Jacob Umber has been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, a chronic and variable illness. Some days he is fine and some days he can barely manage to get out off bed.
Jacob wants a personal assistant, someone adaptable, without pre-conceived notions and who can take instructions easily.
Nick is everything that Jacob needs, and Jacob is everything that Nick craves.
Can Jacob resist Nick and his talent for following orders?
Will their budding relationship be destroyed by secrets from Jacob's past?
“𝙈𝙧. 𝙐𝙢𝙗𝙚𝙧", 𝙉𝙤𝙬 𝙉𝙞𝙘𝙠 𝙩𝙤𝙤𝙠 𝙖 𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙥 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙬𝙖𝙧𝙙, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙖𝙣𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧. “𝙔𝙤𝙪’𝙧𝙚 𝙖𝙣 𝙞𝙙𝙞𝙤𝙩.”
𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙠𝙣𝙚𝙚𝙨.
𝙄𝙩 𝙨𝙖𝙞𝙙 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙙𝙨 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙗𝙚 𝙩𝙤𝙤 𝙘𝙡𝙪𝙢𝙨𝙮 𝙛𝙤𝙧. 𝙄𝙩 𝙨𝙖𝙞𝙙 𝙄 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙜𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪. 𝙄𝙩 𝙨𝙖𝙞𝙙 𝙄 𝙖𝙢 𝙘𝙝𝙤𝙤𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙮𝙤𝙪. 𝙄𝙩 𝙨𝙖𝙞𝙙 𝙡𝙚𝙩 𝙢𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤 𝙮𝙤𝙪.
𝙐𝙢𝙗𝙚𝙧 𝙢𝙖𝙙𝙚 𝙖𝙣 𝙞𝙣𝙘𝙤𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙨𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙. 𝙃𝙚 𝙨𝙡𝙞𝙙 𝙙𝙤𝙬𝙣 𝙗𝙚𝙨𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙝𝙞𝙢 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙤𝙤𝙠 𝙉𝙞𝙘𝙠’𝙨 𝙛𝙖𝙘𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙧𝙚𝙢𝙗𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙨. “𝙄 𝙙𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙚𝙧𝙫𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨,” 𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙖𝙞𝙙, 𝙝𝙤𝙡𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙤 𝙉𝙞𝙘𝙠, 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙢𝙤𝙪𝙩𝙝 𝙮𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤𝙬𝙖𝙧𝙙 𝙝𝙞𝙢.
“𝙋𝙧𝙤𝙗𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙮 𝙣𝙤𝙩,” 𝙉𝙞𝙘𝙠 𝙖𝙜𝙧𝙚𝙚𝙙, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙮 𝙗𝙤𝙩𝙝 𝙡𝙖𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙚𝙙. 𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙣, 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙮 𝙠𝙞𝙨𝙨𝙚𝙙.
Jacob was such an intriguing character, with so many layers to his personality. I loved the dynamics between Jacob and Nick. Their personalities contrasted eachother but they worked well together.
I loved how the author explored Jacob's disability. This was extremely well written.
This was a slowburn romance, with hurt/comfort and a boss/employee relationship.
This might not work for everyone, so please read the triggers/warnings before venturing into this one.
𝘛𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘨𝘦𝘳𝘴:
𝘥𝘪𝘴𝘤𝘶𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘰𝘧 𝘥𝘦𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯, 𝘥𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘢 𝘤𝘩𝘳𝘰𝘯𝘪𝘤 𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴/𝘥𝘪𝘴𝘢𝘣𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘺, 𝘥𝘦𝘱𝘪𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘰𝘧 𝘢 𝘋/𝘴 𝘳𝘦𝘭𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘱 𝘣𝘦𝘵𝘸𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘣𝘰𝘴𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘦𝘮𝘱𝘭𝘰𝘺𝘦𝘦, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘷𝘺 𝘤𝘢𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘤𝘦𝘯𝘦.
Jacob Umber has been diagnosed with fibromyalgia, a chronic and variable illness. Some days he is fine and some days he can barely manage to get out off bed.
Jacob wants a personal assistant, someone adaptable, without pre-conceived notions and who can take instructions easily.
Nick is everything that Jacob needs, and Jacob is everything that Nick craves.
Can Jacob resist Nick and his talent for following orders?
Will their budding relationship be destroyed by secrets from Jacob's past?
“𝙈𝙧. 𝙐𝙢𝙗𝙚𝙧", 𝙉𝙤𝙬 𝙉𝙞𝙘𝙠 𝙩𝙤𝙤𝙠 𝙖 𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙥 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙬𝙖𝙧𝙙, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙖𝙣𝙤𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧. “𝙔𝙤𝙪’𝙧𝙚 𝙖𝙣 𝙞𝙙𝙞𝙤𝙩.”
𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙠𝙣𝙚𝙚𝙨.
𝙄𝙩 𝙨𝙖𝙞𝙙 𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙙𝙨 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙗𝙚 𝙩𝙤𝙤 𝙘𝙡𝙪𝙢𝙨𝙮 𝙛𝙤𝙧. 𝙄𝙩 𝙨𝙖𝙞𝙙 𝙄 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙜𝙞𝙫𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪. 𝙄𝙩 𝙨𝙖𝙞𝙙 𝙄 𝙖𝙢 𝙘𝙝𝙤𝙤𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙮𝙤𝙪. 𝙄𝙩 𝙨𝙖𝙞𝙙 𝙡𝙚𝙩 𝙢𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤 𝙮𝙤𝙪.
𝙐𝙢𝙗𝙚𝙧 𝙢𝙖𝙙𝙚 𝙖𝙣 𝙞𝙣𝙘𝙤𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙨𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙. 𝙃𝙚 𝙨𝙡𝙞𝙙 𝙙𝙤𝙬𝙣 𝙗𝙚𝙨𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙝𝙞𝙢 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙤𝙤𝙠 𝙉𝙞𝙘𝙠’𝙨 𝙛𝙖𝙘𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙧𝙚𝙢𝙗𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙨. “𝙄 𝙙𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙚𝙧𝙫𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨,” 𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙖𝙞𝙙, 𝙝𝙤𝙡𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙤 𝙉𝙞𝙘𝙠, 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙢𝙤𝙪𝙩𝙝 𝙮𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤𝙬𝙖𝙧𝙙 𝙝𝙞𝙢.
“𝙋𝙧𝙤𝙗𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙮 𝙣𝙤𝙩,” 𝙉𝙞𝙘𝙠 𝙖𝙜𝙧𝙚𝙚𝙙, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙮 𝙗𝙤𝙩𝙝 𝙡𝙖𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙚𝙙. 𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙣, 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙮 𝙠𝙞𝙨𝙨𝙚𝙙.
Jacob was such an intriguing character, with so many layers to his personality. I loved the dynamics between Jacob and Nick. Their personalities contrasted eachother but they worked well together.
I loved how the author explored Jacob's disability. This was extremely well written.
This was a slowburn romance, with hurt/comfort and a boss/employee relationship.
This might not work for everyone, so please read the triggers/warnings before venturing into this one.
𝘛𝘳𝘪𝘨𝘨𝘦𝘳𝘴:
𝘥𝘪𝘴𝘤𝘶𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘰𝘧 𝘥𝘦𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯, 𝘥𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘢 𝘤𝘩𝘳𝘰𝘯𝘪𝘤 𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴/𝘥𝘪𝘴𝘢𝘣𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘺, 𝘥𝘦𝘱𝘪𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘰𝘧 𝘢 𝘋/𝘴 𝘳𝘦𝘭𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘱 𝘣𝘦𝘵𝘸𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘣𝘰𝘴𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘦𝘮𝘱𝘭𝘰𝘺𝘦𝘦, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘷𝘺 𝘤𝘢𝘯𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘤𝘦𝘯𝘦.
August 19, 2020
The Assistant is Nick Kurosawa who is a former soldier battling with depression as he drifts from job to job and from one meaningless back alley encounter after another. Nick has found himself in a place where he doesn’t know how to move forward, but understands that he can’t stay stagnant. His one and only friend, Alex, gets him an interview for a position as a personal assistant to the secretive Jacob Umber.
The book is about the relationship that develops between the two men. The way they move from boss and employee to a more emotional and at times physical relationship. If the book had been longer, I would call it a slow burn, but since it isn’t I felt a bit stilted. We get almost fifty percent into the book before the relationship between the men begins to develop, during which time we get to know our main character Nick, but not much else. The book is almost three quarters done before the”mystery” of Jacob Umber begins to unravel and honestly it didn’t add much to the book or the relationship.
I felt the “romance” in this book was very one sided and forced. I’m not a newbie to D/s books and I felt that even though the very few mature scenes we got were very well done they weren’t anything that couldn’t have been in a scene between two strangers playing for the night.
I really enjoyed John Tristan’s writing. I just wish he would have written more. I think this book could have been a five star read if it were longer. If we had more time to explore the relationship between Nick and Jacob. If we had more time to figure out who Jacob was. After the the first half of the book, the rest of it felt rushed.
The eARC of the book was provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange of an honest review.
The book is about the relationship that develops between the two men. The way they move from boss and employee to a more emotional and at times physical relationship. If the book had been longer, I would call it a slow burn, but since it isn’t I felt a bit stilted. We get almost fifty percent into the book before the relationship between the men begins to develop, during which time we get to know our main character Nick, but not much else. The book is almost three quarters done before the”mystery” of Jacob Umber begins to unravel and honestly it didn’t add much to the book or the relationship.
I felt the “romance” in this book was very one sided and forced. I’m not a newbie to D/s books and I felt that even though the very few mature scenes we got were very well done they weren’t anything that couldn’t have been in a scene between two strangers playing for the night.
I really enjoyed John Tristan’s writing. I just wish he would have written more. I think this book could have been a five star read if it were longer. If we had more time to explore the relationship between Nick and Jacob. If we had more time to figure out who Jacob was. After the the first half of the book, the rest of it felt rushed.
The eARC of the book was provided by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange of an honest review.
August 13, 2020
Sometimes it is fascinating to read about a type of relationship that is so far out of your comfort zone it really pushes your boundaries. That was this book for me. The relationship between Mr. Umber and Nick is fascinating. Nick is ex-military whose entire family was killed in a tragic car accident while he was deployed. His parents and baby sister were gone and his extended family didn't even wait for him to get home to have a service for them. In that moment he really lost everything. Since that time he's been adrift and very depressed. He is gay and also on the BDSM spectrum (is that even a term?). He's very much focused on being a submissive and desires pain as part of his submission. In a lot of ways it is sexual for him - but it is really more than that. He wants someone to take care of him and truly belong to them.
Mr. Umber is a transsexual man who is older than Nick and has a fairly mysterious background and job. He has fibromyalgia and needs assistance with certain daily living tasks. Nick becomes his personal assistant and their relationship blossoms from there. Ultimately while there are sexual situations in this book - there isn't a lot of sex. There is a S&M - but it is much more about domination than sex.
Their relationship and love is fascinating and very different from most other books I have read.
I enjoyed it - but some part of the story felt very disjointed. I also felt like we only just scratched the surface when the book ended. I'd also like to read more about Nick's friend Alex!
I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley, but these opinions are all my own.
Mr. Umber is a transsexual man who is older than Nick and has a fairly mysterious background and job. He has fibromyalgia and needs assistance with certain daily living tasks. Nick becomes his personal assistant and their relationship blossoms from there. Ultimately while there are sexual situations in this book - there isn't a lot of sex. There is a S&M - but it is much more about domination than sex.
Their relationship and love is fascinating and very different from most other books I have read.
I enjoyed it - but some part of the story felt very disjointed. I also felt like we only just scratched the surface when the book ended. I'd also like to read more about Nick's friend Alex!
I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley, but these opinions are all my own.
August 30, 2020
Thank you Netgalley for letting me read this book in return for an honest review.
"WARNING: discussion of depression, dealing with a chronic illness/disability, depiction of a D/s relationship between boss and employee, and a heavy caning scene - - TAGS: LGBTQIA, age gap, BDSM, contemporary, D/s, depression, disability/ chronic illness, gay, interracial, Japanese-American, personal assistant, power play, slow burn, trans"- The publisher's note.
All warnings are also on the inside of the book at the front.
Nick is a burnt-out ex-soldier who is struggling to pay his bills with his bouncer work. When he is met with the opportunity to become Jacob Umber's assistant, it seems like the perfect opportunity. Jacob is secretive and has a past that won't really talk about- could this be the end of the beginning for this new relationship that blossomed?
Nick craves orders and guidance which Umber can give a lot of so Umber becomes a safe space for Nick. The relationship doesn't start off sexual and the BDSM aspect is also not very sexual and I like the relationship between the two but I wish that there was a little more discussion about safewords and general safety between the two.
I thought this was a very interesting read and would definitely read it again. I must say, the cover originally made me think it was going to be some sort of CEO/Boss of a huge corporate building but it isn't, Umber owns an antique shop and Nick just helps Umber at the shop and other assistive needs which felt much more intimate to me.
Rating
3⭐
Would I recommend it:
Yes, especially to those who like to read LGBT+ books
"WARNING: discussion of depression, dealing with a chronic illness/disability, depiction of a D/s relationship between boss and employee, and a heavy caning scene - - TAGS: LGBTQIA, age gap, BDSM, contemporary, D/s, depression, disability/ chronic illness, gay, interracial, Japanese-American, personal assistant, power play, slow burn, trans"- The publisher's note.
All warnings are also on the inside of the book at the front.
Nick is a burnt-out ex-soldier who is struggling to pay his bills with his bouncer work. When he is met with the opportunity to become Jacob Umber's assistant, it seems like the perfect opportunity. Jacob is secretive and has a past that won't really talk about- could this be the end of the beginning for this new relationship that blossomed?
Nick craves orders and guidance which Umber can give a lot of so Umber becomes a safe space for Nick. The relationship doesn't start off sexual and the BDSM aspect is also not very sexual and I like the relationship between the two but I wish that there was a little more discussion about safewords and general safety between the two.
I thought this was a very interesting read and would definitely read it again. I must say, the cover originally made me think it was going to be some sort of CEO/Boss of a huge corporate building but it isn't, Umber owns an antique shop and Nick just helps Umber at the shop and other assistive needs which felt much more intimate to me.
Rating
3⭐
Would I recommend it:
Yes, especially to those who like to read LGBT+ books
August 16, 2020
3.5 Stars
Intriguing. Intellectual MM story of two men who are finding themselves in certain times. Both different, yet unpredicted times. A underlying mystery of sorts unfolds and a small current of lust takes place between the characters that dusts the words and storyline to want you to flip the page for more.
I had a whole other vision for how this story was going to unfold; I did not see or predict the ending nor the romance between Nick and Jacob. I guess I was eager for more sex appeal, more ending between the two. The epilogue was great and the way the author ended it in that context was perfect in my opinion.
The mystery was a great icing on the cake to add to the element to this romance. I did like the element of fibromyalgia issue, as I suffer from the health issue as well, not to the extent of Jacob, but to some degree I could relate to his pain and needs. The author did his due diligence on research and I appreciate that.
I think to make it more 'top-notch' I would suggest adding more sex appeal, a longer-better ending to round it out. The emotional connections were on point, so don't touch that, but to get it to a 4.5-5 Star... Add more!
*ARC provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest and trustworthy review and all opinions are my own.
Intriguing. Intellectual MM story of two men who are finding themselves in certain times. Both different, yet unpredicted times. A underlying mystery of sorts unfolds and a small current of lust takes place between the characters that dusts the words and storyline to want you to flip the page for more.
I had a whole other vision for how this story was going to unfold; I did not see or predict the ending nor the romance between Nick and Jacob. I guess I was eager for more sex appeal, more ending between the two. The epilogue was great and the way the author ended it in that context was perfect in my opinion.
The mystery was a great icing on the cake to add to the element to this romance. I did like the element of fibromyalgia issue, as I suffer from the health issue as well, not to the extent of Jacob, but to some degree I could relate to his pain and needs. The author did his due diligence on research and I appreciate that.
I think to make it more 'top-notch' I would suggest adding more sex appeal, a longer-better ending to round it out. The emotional connections were on point, so don't touch that, but to get it to a 4.5-5 Star... Add more!
*ARC provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest and trustworthy review and all opinions are my own.
August 21, 2020
A well written, slow burn romance.
'The assistant' follows the story of Nick, a worn down ex soldier who has a tough time finding stable ground or even someone to trust and talk to about his fears and thoughts. When he takes up the job of working as a personal assistant to the enigmatic and mysterious Mr Umber, he's captivated by the latter's sense of order and stability.
Helping and serving Mr Umber brings about so much joy to Nick and he soon gives into the simmering attraction he feels for his employer. But is Mr Umber all that he claims to be, makes the rest of the story.
I loved the slow burn nature of their romance. The conversations and the seemingly innocent suggestions bordering on flirting. The author has done a great job working out the dynamics of the d/s relationship in a quite unconventional but very refreshing manner.
I personally loved Umber's character--the mystery, his persona and the way he handled Nick's trust in him. The author's writing makes a fine job of balancing the intrigue, romance and suspense in the plotline.
Recommend to those looking for a short, slow burn romance with some kink thrown in.
'The assistant' follows the story of Nick, a worn down ex soldier who has a tough time finding stable ground or even someone to trust and talk to about his fears and thoughts. When he takes up the job of working as a personal assistant to the enigmatic and mysterious Mr Umber, he's captivated by the latter's sense of order and stability.
Helping and serving Mr Umber brings about so much joy to Nick and he soon gives into the simmering attraction he feels for his employer. But is Mr Umber all that he claims to be, makes the rest of the story.
I loved the slow burn nature of their romance. The conversations and the seemingly innocent suggestions bordering on flirting. The author has done a great job working out the dynamics of the d/s relationship in a quite unconventional but very refreshing manner.
|"The truth was that something about Jacob Umber didn’t just appeal to him, it haunted him."|
I personally loved Umber's character--the mystery, his persona and the way he handled Nick's trust in him. The author's writing makes a fine job of balancing the intrigue, romance and suspense in the plotline.
Recommend to those looking for a short, slow burn romance with some kink thrown in.
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August 19, 2020I'm not adding a star rating to this book because it doesn't fit into the rating system for me. I find this book a solid 3.5 stars - normally I can decide to rank it as 3 or 4 depending on a few things in my heart but this time I can't, it's 3.5 and I refuse to make it higher or lower.
There is a lot of good here. It is well written, and it definitely kept me reading. There is a great lot to like. The depiction of someone living with fibro. The fact that a main character is a trans man living life with acceptance and that the other half of the relationship never once blinks at it, or questions them being attracted to him. The fact that kink boundaries and safe words are treated as a normal thing and actually talked about.
I just felt though, that there was something lacking. And while there isn't any real smut here, it wasn't that. I guess I just didn't get what it was that made Nick fall. But that's me.
Also, I've seen a lot of reviews confused by the ending. I'm not sure where their confusion comes from since it was clear as day for me. Please if you're reading reviews to decide if you want to read, give it a chance and see if it's clear for you too.
There is a lot of good here. It is well written, and it definitely kept me reading. There is a great lot to like. The depiction of someone living with fibro. The fact that a main character is a trans man living life with acceptance and that the other half of the relationship never once blinks at it, or questions them being attracted to him. The fact that kink boundaries and safe words are treated as a normal thing and actually talked about.
I just felt though, that there was something lacking. And while there isn't any real smut here, it wasn't that. I guess I just didn't get what it was that made Nick fall. But that's me.
Also, I've seen a lot of reviews confused by the ending. I'm not sure where their confusion comes from since it was clear as day for me. Please if you're reading reviews to decide if you want to read, give it a chance and see if it's clear for you too.
August 23, 2020
3.5 Stars
I thought this was an engaging story. I don't read many D/s or BDSM stories but the author is one of my favorites and so I decided to give this a go. The author usually writes sci fi or fantasy and I was curious about how this contemporary story would feel.
It is a good story. It is quite simple in the way it portrays the two men, haunting almost. Their relationship develops slowly. Nick is a kind of wounded warrior trying to find his place in the world. Jacob is a quiet man, living in the shadows. The relationship between the two men involves them journeying towards each other.
There are none of the familiar tropes such as the 'big misunderstanding' neither is there any angst and I enjoyed that. Instead the story flows gently over the reader. I enjoyed the mystery that surrounds Jacob and it would be great to read a prequel about him or even a sequel. It is story that comforts in a very subtle way. I do wish it had some elements of fantasy in it because I think Jacob would have been an excellent mage but it was overall still a nice story even without the 'special effects'.
Copy provided by Ninestar Press via Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
I thought this was an engaging story. I don't read many D/s or BDSM stories but the author is one of my favorites and so I decided to give this a go. The author usually writes sci fi or fantasy and I was curious about how this contemporary story would feel.
It is a good story. It is quite simple in the way it portrays the two men, haunting almost. Their relationship develops slowly. Nick is a kind of wounded warrior trying to find his place in the world. Jacob is a quiet man, living in the shadows. The relationship between the two men involves them journeying towards each other.
There are none of the familiar tropes such as the 'big misunderstanding' neither is there any angst and I enjoyed that. Instead the story flows gently over the reader. I enjoyed the mystery that surrounds Jacob and it would be great to read a prequel about him or even a sequel. It is story that comforts in a very subtle way. I do wish it had some elements of fantasy in it because I think Jacob would have been an excellent mage but it was overall still a nice story even without the 'special effects'.
Copy provided by Ninestar Press via Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
August 19, 2020
3.5 stars. Okay, I really needed this book to have been longer. Nick, who I absolutely adored, is having trouble holding down a job suffering from past traumas. When his friend recommends applying for a personal assistant position for Mr. Umbers, he thinks his friend has lost his mind. But he does, and Jacob hires him on the spot. Jacob is a trans-gendered man suffering from debilitating fibromyalgia and who at times can barely move. He absolutely broke my heart. I enjoyed watching Nick come into his own as a submissive. This was a slow burn romance, though I felt that the "romance" portion was a bit lacking. It was about 50% into the book before they get together and their scenes were hot, but I had a hard time feeling the romance portion. I really needed more time to explore their relationship. The twist that the book took I didn't say I figured out before we find it out, but I felt that something close to that was going to happen. Sorry don't want to spoil it for you so you will need to read it for yourself.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 20, 2020
I didn’t much care for this story. It was an unusual story that lacked cohesiveness. Nick is a listless ex-soldier existing on the fringes of society. He moves from job to job with no real connection to anyone. Jacob Umber is mysterious, secretive, and reclusive. He is living with fibromyalgia and needs a personal assistant. On a friend’s recommendation, Nick scored an interview with Jacob. The interview went well and Nick is hired on with Jacob on a temporary basis. Over time, Nick began having feelings for Jacob but is unsure if Jacob would see him more as a partner than an employee.
Nick’s inability to define his sexuality combined with his attraction to Jacob was sometimes confusing. There was never a sense of how Jacob felt about Nick. Whether he genuinely liked him or just liked the way he took care of him. Their relationship was more one-sided than anything. Not a recommended read for me. I was given a free ARC of this book and I am voluntarily writing a review.
Nick’s inability to define his sexuality combined with his attraction to Jacob was sometimes confusing. There was never a sense of how Jacob felt about Nick. Whether he genuinely liked him or just liked the way he took care of him. Their relationship was more one-sided than anything. Not a recommended read for me. I was given a free ARC of this book and I am voluntarily writing a review.
May 17, 2021
3.5/4*
Two damaged MCs, written in first person pov - which normally I don’t like but I didn’t notice whilst reading - interesting story.
Nick suffers from depression which has led to his army discharge and a lethargy in life. And to him seeking out extreme BDSM to quieten his head.
Jacob has fibromyalgia although this only becomes clear as to being his issue later in book. He is also trans and I liked that this was a fact and not his definition as it was rarely alluded to.
Jacob and Nick’s BDSM relationship is more about the mind control, especially at first, though Nick does sink into space very quickly.
The story is about them getting together but then the FBI come asking questions and we do see another side to Mr Umber! This is where the details are a little sketched over - maybe a longer treatment would allow mire depth into thus area.
Overall I really liked this one and will certainly look at more by this author
Two damaged MCs, written in first person pov - which normally I don’t like but I didn’t notice whilst reading - interesting story.
Nick suffers from depression which has led to his army discharge and a lethargy in life. And to him seeking out extreme BDSM to quieten his head.
Jacob has fibromyalgia although this only becomes clear as to being his issue later in book. He is also trans and I liked that this was a fact and not his definition as it was rarely alluded to.
Jacob and Nick’s BDSM relationship is more about the mind control, especially at first, though Nick does sink into space very quickly.
The story is about them getting together but then the FBI come asking questions and we do see another side to Mr Umber! This is where the details are a little sketched over - maybe a longer treatment would allow mire depth into thus area.
Overall I really liked this one and will certainly look at more by this author
August 23, 2020
This book was provided by the author via IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review.
This is a well written and intriguing story with a lot of interesting twists and turns, amazingly complex characters, an engaging storyline and a great ending. Nick knows he needs something more in his life and he hopes that he has finally found what he is looking for in his mysterious new employer. Mr. Umber is everything Nick wants but even after their relationship changes he really does not know anything about him and he still has trouble asking for what he wants. I wish that there was more chemistry between them but they do have a strong connection and are exactly what the other needs. The best parts of this story for me are the characters and the unexpected events that take place near the end and I can't wait to read more of this author's books.
This is a well written and intriguing story with a lot of interesting twists and turns, amazingly complex characters, an engaging storyline and a great ending. Nick knows he needs something more in his life and he hopes that he has finally found what he is looking for in his mysterious new employer. Mr. Umber is everything Nick wants but even after their relationship changes he really does not know anything about him and he still has trouble asking for what he wants. I wish that there was more chemistry between them but they do have a strong connection and are exactly what the other needs. The best parts of this story for me are the characters and the unexpected events that take place near the end and I can't wait to read more of this author's books.
November 19, 2020
I was gifted an ebook via Netgalley. I voluntarily read and reviewed it. All thoughts are my own.
I requested this book because the cover drew me in. I expected it to be a steamy good ole time. I'm honestly quite disappointed. I was looking forward to the rep in it of both LGBT and chronic illness but the chronic illness...eh. I have a family member with fibro so I can't exactly say I'm an expert and know what it's like, but I feel I'm pretty familiar with the ins and outs. I didn't really feel connected with any of the characters and the plot was way too rushed. I didn't really feel the chemistry between Nick and Umber and the instalove was a bit much too. I expected more steaminess and there was really very little of that.
I requested this book because the cover drew me in. I expected it to be a steamy good ole time. I'm honestly quite disappointed. I was looking forward to the rep in it of both LGBT and chronic illness but the chronic illness...eh. I have a family member with fibro so I can't exactly say I'm an expert and know what it's like, but I feel I'm pretty familiar with the ins and outs. I didn't really feel connected with any of the characters and the plot was way too rushed. I didn't really feel the chemistry between Nick and Umber and the instalove was a bit much too. I expected more steaminess and there was really very little of that.
August 8, 2020
Thanks to Netgalley for a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
This was an interesting story that took an surprising turn, plot-wise. I liked how the relationship was more of a slow-burn. The reasons that Jacob wanted them to ease into it, even more than the type of relationship, made sense with that plot twist. The beginning of the story was very character-based, and the plot was almost non-existent until the twist. I found this to be a good thing as there was no insta-love and the characters had time to get to know each other.
This was an interesting story that took an surprising turn, plot-wise. I liked how the relationship was more of a slow-burn. The reasons that Jacob wanted them to ease into it, even more than the type of relationship, made sense with that plot twist. The beginning of the story was very character-based, and the plot was almost non-existent until the twist. I found this to be a good thing as there was no insta-love and the characters had time to get to know each other.
December 12, 2024
I read it from beginning to end, so that's an automatic 3 star rating for me, but I really wanted to put it down quite a few times while reading...
I didn't mind Nick but really never got an handle on Jacob. And when Nick decides it might be love (rather than the crush he later refers to it as) it just felt too sudden and too much.
The sexual tension was good, the service element worked, but I just didn't engage with the characters or the situations. And I felt Jacob was a cipher who didn't really make sense to me. I was annoyed by the end and would not recommend it.
I didn't mind Nick but really never got an handle on Jacob. And when Nick decides it might be love (rather than the crush he later refers to it as) it just felt too sudden and too much.
The sexual tension was good, the service element worked, but I just didn't engage with the characters or the situations. And I felt Jacob was a cipher who didn't really make sense to me. I was annoyed by the end and would not recommend it.
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