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Mixed Messages
Short Stack
What happens after the happy ending?
Drawn together for the first time, this is a collection of Lily’s short stories about the much-loved men from her Mixed Messages and Finding Home series. Follow them through awkward marriage proposals, birthdays, a fraught babysitting job, and a very drunken Eurovision Song Contest party.
It includes stories previously written for her website and readers’ group, along with deleted scenes and four brand new and exclusive short stories - Bad Valentine, Marrying Jude, Babysitting Billy, and House Hunting.
Drawn together for the first time, this is a collection of Lily’s short stories about the much-loved men from her Mixed Messages and Finding Home series. Follow them through awkward marriage proposals, birthdays, a fraught babysitting job, and a very drunken Eurovision Song Contest party.
It includes stories previously written for her website and readers’ group, along with deleted scenes and four brand new and exclusive short stories - Bad Valentine, Marrying Jude, Babysitting Billy, and House Hunting.
328 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 2, 2020
313 people are currently reading
508 people want to read
About the author
Lily Morton
77 books3,290 followersLily is a bestselling gay romance author.
She lives in sunny England with her husband and two children, all of whom claim that they haven't had a proper conversation with her since she got her Kindle.
She has spent her life with her head full of daydreams, and decided one day to just sit down and start writing about them. In the process she discovered that she actually loved writing because how else would she get to spend her time with hot and funny men?
Her latest release is Pretty Mess - a contemporary romance about an escort who falls for his first client. .
Lily is a bestselling gay romance author.
She lives in sunny England with her husband and two children, all of whom claim that they haven't had a proper conversation with her since she got her Kindle.
She has spent her life with her head full of daydreams, and decided one day to just sit down and start writing about them. In the process she discovered that she actually loved writing because how else would she get to spend her time with hot and funny men?
Her latest release is Pretty Mess - a contemporary romance about an escort who falls for his first client.
https://getbook.at/PaperRoses
You can keep up with Lily's latest releases and read the exclusive short stories '3 Dates' and ‘Best Love’ by subscribing to her newsletter: https://bit.ly/LilyMorton-Newsletter
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/SnarkSquad
Facebook: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=10000...
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@lilymortonauthor
Instagram: www.instagram.com/lilymortonauthor
Pinterest: www.pinterest.co.uk/LilyAuthor
Bookbub: www.bookbub.com/profile/lily-morton
She lives in sunny England with her husband and two children, all of whom claim that they haven't had a proper conversation with her since she got her Kindle.
She has spent her life with her head full of daydreams, and decided one day to just sit down and start writing about them. In the process she discovered that she actually loved writing because how else would she get to spend her time with hot and funny men?
Her latest release is Pretty Mess - a contemporary romance about an escort who falls for his first client. .
Lily is a bestselling gay romance author.
She lives in sunny England with her husband and two children, all of whom claim that they haven't had a proper conversation with her since she got her Kindle.
She has spent her life with her head full of daydreams, and decided one day to just sit down and start writing about them. In the process she discovered that she actually loved writing because how else would she get to spend her time with hot and funny men?
Her latest release is Pretty Mess - a contemporary romance about an escort who falls for his first client.
https://getbook.at/PaperRoses
You can keep up with Lily's latest releases and read the exclusive short stories '3 Dates' and ‘Best Love’ by subscribing to her newsletter: https://bit.ly/LilyMorton-Newsletter
Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/SnarkSquad
Facebook: www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=10000...
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@lilymortonauthor
Instagram: www.instagram.com/lilymortonauthor
Pinterest: www.pinterest.co.uk/LilyAuthor
Bookbub: www.bookbub.com/profile/lily-morton
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 179 reviews
November 17, 2022
Update 11/17: I read the rest of the stories. I really liked Henry and Ivo's story A Change is as Good as a Rest. It's funny and Gabe is in the story, too.
Gideon wasn't my favourite book by this author, but I actually really liked all Gideon and Eli's shorts in this collection. I liked that they were more serious and realistic.
Original review:
I had read some of the short stories in this collection when they were available on the author's website. This time I only wanted to read/reread the stories about Gabe and Dylan.
I really like the ones that are set at the same timeline as Rule Breaker - Goodbye Fletcher, Bad Valentine and Jude's Intervention, because they give additional information about the events that take place in the book.
Scrambled Eggs and Lemsip is still my favourite. I love that story, it's so Gabe and Dylan and so perfect.
The last three stories were new to me and I enjoyed Babysitting Billy the most. It's so funny and sweet. And Billy is adorable. Love him.
5 stars for Gabe and Dylan's collection.
I'll probably read the other stories at some point.
Gideon wasn't my favourite book by this author, but I actually really liked all Gideon and Eli's shorts in this collection. I liked that they were more serious and realistic.
Original review:
I had read some of the short stories in this collection when they were available on the author's website. This time I only wanted to read/reread the stories about Gabe and Dylan.
I really like the ones that are set at the same timeline as Rule Breaker - Goodbye Fletcher, Bad Valentine and Jude's Intervention, because they give additional information about the events that take place in the book.
Scrambled Eggs and Lemsip is still my favourite. I love that story, it's so Gabe and Dylan and so perfect.
The last three stories were new to me and I enjoyed Babysitting Billy the most. It's so funny and sweet. And Billy is adorable. Love him.
5 stars for Gabe and Dylan's collection.
I'll probably read the other stories at some point.
March 25, 2021
What a treat!
Even though I had read most of these, I still enjoyed them just as much this time around.
Small snippets and bonus extras with most of Lily's guys. I mean, how can you go wrong with that?!?
*4.5 yay-yipppeee-moar stars*
Even though I had read most of these, I still enjoyed them just as much this time around.
Small snippets and bonus extras with most of Lily's guys. I mean, how can you go wrong with that?!?
*4.5 yay-yipppeee-moar stars*
October 17, 2020
I forgot just how bloody brilliant this author is till I caught up with some of my favourite characters again.
Loved it!
Loved it!
November 14, 2022
4.5 Stars
I’m not sure if I’ll read the other stories in this collection but it was so much fun catching up with Gabe, Dylan, Jude, Asa and last but not least, my beloved Billy 🥰 These five characters are without a doubt my favourite by Lily, so all of their deleted scenes/extended HEA’s were very much appreciated!!!
I loved all of the extra content, and it’s impossible to pick a favourite. One that I really enjoyed though is Green Eyed Monster. I realise that makes me a total hypocrite, as it does in fact, include an evil ex, which has largely put me off Lily’s most recent offerings 😂 What can I say? I love a bit of jealousy, in moderation, and liked how it was handled. I guess I also enjoyed the added tension because Deal Maker (Jude’s/Asa’s story) was relatively low angst. However, there’s one small discrepancy I wanted to highlight - Asa refers to Jude’s ex, Simon when actually it’s, Sam (Simon is Dylan’s brother). I probably wouldn’t have even noticed had I not just re-read Deal Maker but wanted to point out in case anyone like me was a bit confused 😉
Anyway, so excited and literally counting the days for Vow Maker. Gabe’s/Dylan’s nuptials are long overdue!!!
I’m not sure if I’ll read the other stories in this collection but it was so much fun catching up with Gabe, Dylan, Jude, Asa and last but not least, my beloved Billy 🥰 These five characters are without a doubt my favourite by Lily, so all of their deleted scenes/extended HEA’s were very much appreciated!!!
I loved all of the extra content, and it’s impossible to pick a favourite. One that I really enjoyed though is Green Eyed Monster. I realise that makes me a total hypocrite, as it does in fact, include an evil ex, which has largely put me off Lily’s most recent offerings 😂 What can I say? I love a bit of jealousy, in moderation, and liked how it was handled. I guess I also enjoyed the added tension because Deal Maker (Jude’s/Asa’s story) was relatively low angst. However, there’s one small discrepancy I wanted to highlight - Asa refers to Jude’s ex, Simon when actually it’s, Sam (Simon is Dylan’s brother). I probably wouldn’t have even noticed had I not just re-read Deal Maker but wanted to point out in case anyone like me was a bit confused 😉
Anyway, so excited and literally counting the days for Vow Maker. Gabe’s/Dylan’s nuptials are long overdue!!!
September 30, 2020
Lily, Lily, Lily. I love you and I love your guys! I would happily read little stories like this forever. I want to check in on these men for life and would never tire of hearing about them.
The aptly titled, “Short Stack,” is a collection of short stories featuring the men from her, “Mixed Messages,” and, “Finding Home,” series. Many have already been released through her newsletter and are on her website as well. But there are a few new ones and some deleted scenes.
Most of you that read my reviews know that I’m a Lily-aholic. Please don’t try and cure me. It’s not possible and I enjoy the addiction. I have read and reread most of her books. She’s a big comfort writer for me. When I need to be soothed, I pick up one of her books. Sure, her books tend to stick to a few formats. There’s often a grumpy vs sunshine theme or a brooding vs snarky one. I don’t care. I even love how each of her guys smell a certain way. 😂
“Short Stack,” is one big soothing balm of snarky love. It’s fairly angst free. Although some of the deleted scenes take place before the happily ever afters so I won’t say it’s completely free of conflict and pining. I enjoyed the deleted scenes but can see why they were removed.
Out of the new stories, “Babysitting Billy,” was my favorite of the bunch. Reading about stern Gabe becoming so flustered was a treat. He also showed his rare softie side. I was a puddle of goo and laughter. “Marrying Jude,” was a close second. (One word: Dean 🤣)
Steam wise this was fairly low but what was there was electric. I can’t say that I minded as I love the humorous and tender moments just as much. 😍
I hope she does one of these at some point for the, “Close Proximity,” characters.
If you love Lily Morton, this is a must read. 🥰
**ARC provided by GRR in exchange for an honest review. All opinions and gushing are entirely my own.
***I’ll come back and add some gifs later. 😉
The aptly titled, “Short Stack,” is a collection of short stories featuring the men from her, “Mixed Messages,” and, “Finding Home,” series. Many have already been released through her newsletter and are on her website as well. But there are a few new ones and some deleted scenes.
Most of you that read my reviews know that I’m a Lily-aholic. Please don’t try and cure me. It’s not possible and I enjoy the addiction. I have read and reread most of her books. She’s a big comfort writer for me. When I need to be soothed, I pick up one of her books. Sure, her books tend to stick to a few formats. There’s often a grumpy vs sunshine theme or a brooding vs snarky one. I don’t care. I even love how each of her guys smell a certain way. 😂
“Short Stack,” is one big soothing balm of snarky love. It’s fairly angst free. Although some of the deleted scenes take place before the happily ever afters so I won’t say it’s completely free of conflict and pining. I enjoyed the deleted scenes but can see why they were removed.
Out of the new stories, “Babysitting Billy,” was my favorite of the bunch. Reading about stern Gabe becoming so flustered was a treat. He also showed his rare softie side. I was a puddle of goo and laughter. “Marrying Jude,” was a close second. (One word: Dean 🤣)
Steam wise this was fairly low but what was there was electric. I can’t say that I minded as I love the humorous and tender moments just as much. 😍
I hope she does one of these at some point for the, “Close Proximity,” characters.
If you love Lily Morton, this is a must read. 🥰
**ARC provided by GRR in exchange for an honest review. All opinions and gushing are entirely my own.
***I’ll come back and add some gifs later. 😉
June 9, 2024
✰ 3.25 stars ✰
“John Donne said that no man is an island. It’s true because I think you’re more like a coral atoll to me.
Harsh and unforgiving on someone trying to visit, but beautiful and vivid and teeming with life underneath.”
It is a Short Stack of small snippets at various stages in the lives of the couples from Lily Morton's Mixed Messages and Finding Home series, where she addressed the burning question in fun romps and ridiculous antics, but always fueled with the unwavering love that stems deeply from the heart - what happens after the happy ending? While I did feel the Finding Home pairs ended up with slightly lesser coverage than the couples of Mixed Messages, I was pleasantly warmed and happy with how much love and happiness was radiating in all of their lives and in their hearts. 🫶🏻🫶🏻
♡ Dylan & Gabe ♡
“How the fuck did you get so wise?”
“I had a good teacher.”
“That’s me, isn’t it?” I say, lifting my head and finding him smiling at me. “Admit it,” I say, nudging him.
He chuckles, and it’s such a warm, comforting sound. “It’s always you,” he says solemnly.”
Dylan and Gabe will always hold a special place in my heart, so it was a delight revisiting them during various parts of their story already lived, while also getting to see them in their living space afterwards. Gabe baby-sitting Billy was the highlight of amusement along with the ever-whelming pleasantness of their banter and rapport that is enriched by how deeply and truly in love they are now with each other - but never once not losing their snark and flair. 🥰 It's the promise of forever - the desire to be at each other's side - always - through the good and the bad - the 'want to look after you and love you and protect you' that goes beyond what they started off as, and what they finally end up meaning so very much to each other.
“Any fool can make a rule, and any fool will mind it. Inside mine are the words, Rules are made to be broken.”
♡ Jude & Asa ♡
“I don’t know why you think I have all the words, Jude, because you always, without fail, manage to level me with just a few of your own.”
“I promise I’ll love you until the second I die,” I say fiercely, and his smile is replaced by a joyous grin.”
Billy is the show-stealer of their time together, hands down. Christmas with the happy family was too adorable and precious for words. The family is abuzz with so much tender affection and this warmth that melts my heart with jealousy at how lucky Jude lucked out! 😅 Haha, no, to be fair, he deserves it, and Asa and Billy lighten up his life as much as he does theirs. Although, it's tough being the plus one of a highly sought after actor, one where Jude has his fair share of jealousy of warding off those insistent predators who think they still have a shot with Asa.
I'm glad, though, that through mutual understanding and comprehension do they both realize that they are it for each other. And it ends on such a blessed high note - one topped - in more ways than one 😌 - with a beautiful and wholesome moment that makes their commitment and union an ever-lasting one. LM pulled out all the romantic cheesiness - Gabe revving up the ante with his quips and comebacks - for this outtake, and I relished in it. And an honorable mention to Dean's ridiculous comedic timing that has my curiosity piqued for his own sunny-side modeling days, too! 😄
“It is just you. It always will be. I wanted you and Billy over my heart because it’s full of both of you.”
I feel tears in my eyes. My Asa. The eternal romantic.”
♡ Henry & Ivo ♡
“I don’t need anything to do that,” I say hoarsely. “I think of you anyway.”
He looks up, and I’m caught and held by the golden depths of his eyes. “I know that I said I didn’t want marriage, and you said you were fine with it. But I do want eternity, and that’s what the circle means. It means forever.”
Uff, can I say annoying friend from the past who comes to challenge the stance of best friends to lovers - spurning Ivo into admitting that he misses the thrill of threesomes and action by deciding to settle down with Henry? I thank you, NOT! 😮💨😤 Anger and fuming silently aside, Ivo doesn't let Henry wallow in self-pity or self-doubt any more than he had to, for which - I was grateful. 🥲 That as much as Ivo is repeatedly reminded of his daredevil days - 'the life of everything', there is nowhere else he would rather be in a life that is not boring, but 'beautiful. It’s quiet joy and laughter and happiness that warms your belly.' - that he wouldn't replace for anything. And how lucky and fortunate he is that he was able to find his home and heart with his best friend, Henry. The gift he gave him - the heartfelt words they exchanged - *sighs wistfully* - I'm not jealous, I really am not! 😭🩷🙂↕
“And I love you, and you haven’t got anything.”
He shrugs. “I got what I wanted when I got you. In all my life I’ve never really wanted anything. Only you. There’s no need for anything else.”
♥ Oz & Silas ♥
“I am maybe the master of romance,” I say smugly.
He chuckles. “I actually think you are.” He traces the words and reads them aloud. “‘Wherever you are is my home – my only home.’”
A really amusing and hilarious encounter - one where there really is never a moment's peace at their house - one teeming with the hopeful one day of children's laughter and voices echoing. 🥹🥹 But, for now, Oz and Silas are content in making every moment matter - every stolen kiss and frisky risk worth it. These couples are special, for how these three best friends found their happiness late in their lives - with men significantly younger than them - but who are perfectly content and at home with them. That they can't imagine their futures with anyone but them, and how they each brought out the very best in themselves. Romantic endeavors and overtures are second nature to them, and if Oz didn't swoon enough, then I certainly did for how overpowering the love confessions were overwhelming everyone present. 💟
♥ Milo & Niall ♥
“Well, Milo,” he says, pushing a strand of my wavy hair behind my ear. “I wished that I would always feel this intense love for you.”
I put the cake down and throw myself into his arms. “It’s not my birthday, but I’ll wish it too. Wishes are funny things. They have a way of coming true,” I say earnestly.”
It's time to celebrate Niall's big birthday 4-0, but with the two of them apart, how can Chi an Mor still be as warm and welcoming as it makes Milo feel? Well, fortunately, he is busy with a job, so there's not much he can do about it; but is that going to stop Niall? Guess, you'll just have to read to find out. 🥺 With some sneaky shenanigans, which really don't do justice to his age, but a man only gets to live once, right? And what better way for Milo to give the love of his life, the best and most beautiful gift of all? A bit too short, but still sentimental with Disney-vibes that they both will treasure as a cherished memory - where they both can have their cake, and eat it, too. 💛🥰
“Only if you’d been with me, Rapunzel. That’s the way we roll in our fairy tale.”
♥ Gideon & Eli ♥
“My heart sometimes hurts when I’m with you,” he says almost casually.
I sit up. “What?”
He nods, smiling calmly. “At first I thought it was a heart attack, but now I just know that it’s love.”
I stroke his face. “And is that a bad thing?”
“God, no,” he says earnestly. “It’s the best.”
Possibly the most necessary inclusions for how much these various outtakes offered more depth and insight into their dynamic - at how it grew and matured and where they are in the future. LOVED seeing Billy meet Gideon - loved seeing Jude and Asa settled and still very much in love with the chaos of their love, sorry, I meant, life. 😆 I liked the jibes and banter they had before their status quo changed - clearly showing how the walls were slowly being peeled off. The email exchange was a nice touch, and I never thought Eli would be the one who wanted children, and Gideon's response to that was so heartwarming and sincere, that when we do jump into time - it was such a sweet moment between the three of them - oops, sorry, I meant to say, two. 😊💕
“You give me a home,” he says softly. “And that means everything to me, Eli.”
***
All in all - love lives on with all of them - the future is theirs for the taking, their romance forever in the making, and I could not be happier - if not slightly envious - of how the messages may have been mixed at first, but the chance of finding home in each other's hearts - made it entirely worth it. 🫶🏻🤍
“John Donne said that no man is an island. It’s true because I think you’re more like a coral atoll to me.
Harsh and unforgiving on someone trying to visit, but beautiful and vivid and teeming with life underneath.”
It is a Short Stack of small snippets at various stages in the lives of the couples from Lily Morton's Mixed Messages and Finding Home series, where she addressed the burning question in fun romps and ridiculous antics, but always fueled with the unwavering love that stems deeply from the heart - what happens after the happy ending? While I did feel the Finding Home pairs ended up with slightly lesser coverage than the couples of Mixed Messages, I was pleasantly warmed and happy with how much love and happiness was radiating in all of their lives and in their hearts. 🫶🏻🫶🏻
♡ Dylan & Gabe ♡
“How the fuck did you get so wise?”
“I had a good teacher.”
“That’s me, isn’t it?” I say, lifting my head and finding him smiling at me. “Admit it,” I say, nudging him.
He chuckles, and it’s such a warm, comforting sound. “It’s always you,” he says solemnly.”
Dylan and Gabe will always hold a special place in my heart, so it was a delight revisiting them during various parts of their story already lived, while also getting to see them in their living space afterwards. Gabe baby-sitting Billy was the highlight of amusement along with the ever-whelming pleasantness of their banter and rapport that is enriched by how deeply and truly in love they are now with each other - but never once not losing their snark and flair. 🥰 It's the promise of forever - the desire to be at each other's side - always - through the good and the bad - the 'want to look after you and love you and protect you' that goes beyond what they started off as, and what they finally end up meaning so very much to each other.
“Any fool can make a rule, and any fool will mind it. Inside mine are the words, Rules are made to be broken.”
♡ Jude & Asa ♡
“I don’t know why you think I have all the words, Jude, because you always, without fail, manage to level me with just a few of your own.”
“I promise I’ll love you until the second I die,” I say fiercely, and his smile is replaced by a joyous grin.”
Billy is the show-stealer of their time together, hands down. Christmas with the happy family was too adorable and precious for words. The family is abuzz with so much tender affection and this warmth that melts my heart with jealousy at how lucky Jude lucked out! 😅 Haha, no, to be fair, he deserves it, and Asa and Billy lighten up his life as much as he does theirs. Although, it's tough being the plus one of a highly sought after actor, one where Jude has his fair share of jealousy of warding off those insistent predators who think they still have a shot with Asa.
I'm glad, though, that through mutual understanding and comprehension do they both realize that they are it for each other. And it ends on such a blessed high note - one topped - in more ways than one 😌 - with a beautiful and wholesome moment that makes their commitment and union an ever-lasting one. LM pulled out all the romantic cheesiness - Gabe revving up the ante with his quips and comebacks - for this outtake, and I relished in it. And an honorable mention to Dean's ridiculous comedic timing that has my curiosity piqued for his own sunny-side modeling days, too! 😄
“It is just you. It always will be. I wanted you and Billy over my heart because it’s full of both of you.”
I feel tears in my eyes. My Asa. The eternal romantic.”
♡ Henry & Ivo ♡
“I don’t need anything to do that,” I say hoarsely. “I think of you anyway.”
He looks up, and I’m caught and held by the golden depths of his eyes. “I know that I said I didn’t want marriage, and you said you were fine with it. But I do want eternity, and that’s what the circle means. It means forever.”
Uff, can I say annoying friend from the past who comes to challenge the stance of best friends to lovers - spurning Ivo into admitting that he misses the thrill of threesomes and action by deciding to settle down with Henry? I thank you, NOT! 😮💨😤 Anger and fuming silently aside, Ivo doesn't let Henry wallow in self-pity or self-doubt any more than he had to, for which - I was grateful. 🥲 That as much as Ivo is repeatedly reminded of his daredevil days - 'the life of everything', there is nowhere else he would rather be in a life that is not boring, but 'beautiful. It’s quiet joy and laughter and happiness that warms your belly.' - that he wouldn't replace for anything. And how lucky and fortunate he is that he was able to find his home and heart with his best friend, Henry. The gift he gave him - the heartfelt words they exchanged - *sighs wistfully* - I'm not jealous, I really am not! 😭🩷🙂↕
“And I love you, and you haven’t got anything.”
He shrugs. “I got what I wanted when I got you. In all my life I’ve never really wanted anything. Only you. There’s no need for anything else.”
♥ Oz & Silas ♥
“I am maybe the master of romance,” I say smugly.
He chuckles. “I actually think you are.” He traces the words and reads them aloud. “‘Wherever you are is my home – my only home.’”
A really amusing and hilarious encounter - one where there really is never a moment's peace at their house - one teeming with the hopeful one day of children's laughter and voices echoing. 🥹🥹 But, for now, Oz and Silas are content in making every moment matter - every stolen kiss and frisky risk worth it. These couples are special, for how these three best friends found their happiness late in their lives - with men significantly younger than them - but who are perfectly content and at home with them. That they can't imagine their futures with anyone but them, and how they each brought out the very best in themselves. Romantic endeavors and overtures are second nature to them, and if Oz didn't swoon enough, then I certainly did for how overpowering the love confessions were overwhelming everyone present. 💟
♥ Milo & Niall ♥
“Well, Milo,” he says, pushing a strand of my wavy hair behind my ear. “I wished that I would always feel this intense love for you.”
I put the cake down and throw myself into his arms. “It’s not my birthday, but I’ll wish it too. Wishes are funny things. They have a way of coming true,” I say earnestly.”
It's time to celebrate Niall's big birthday 4-0, but with the two of them apart, how can Chi an Mor still be as warm and welcoming as it makes Milo feel? Well, fortunately, he is busy with a job, so there's not much he can do about it; but is that going to stop Niall? Guess, you'll just have to read to find out. 🥺 With some sneaky shenanigans, which really don't do justice to his age, but a man only gets to live once, right? And what better way for Milo to give the love of his life, the best and most beautiful gift of all? A bit too short, but still sentimental with Disney-vibes that they both will treasure as a cherished memory - where they both can have their cake, and eat it, too. 💛🥰
“Only if you’d been with me, Rapunzel. That’s the way we roll in our fairy tale.”
♥ Gideon & Eli ♥
“My heart sometimes hurts when I’m with you,” he says almost casually.
I sit up. “What?”
He nods, smiling calmly. “At first I thought it was a heart attack, but now I just know that it’s love.”
I stroke his face. “And is that a bad thing?”
“God, no,” he says earnestly. “It’s the best.”
Possibly the most necessary inclusions for how much these various outtakes offered more depth and insight into their dynamic - at how it grew and matured and where they are in the future. LOVED seeing Billy meet Gideon - loved seeing Jude and Asa settled and still very much in love with the chaos of their love, sorry, I meant, life. 😆 I liked the jibes and banter they had before their status quo changed - clearly showing how the walls were slowly being peeled off. The email exchange was a nice touch, and I never thought Eli would be the one who wanted children, and Gideon's response to that was so heartwarming and sincere, that when we do jump into time - it was such a sweet moment between the three of them - oops, sorry, I meant to say, two. 😊💕
“You give me a home,” he says softly. “And that means everything to me, Eli.”
***
All in all - love lives on with all of them - the future is theirs for the taking, their romance forever in the making, and I could not be happier - if not slightly envious - of how the messages may have been mixed at first, but the chance of finding home in each other's hearts - made it entirely worth it. 🫶🏻🤍
May 14, 2021
4.5 stars
Well this book wraps up the finding home series in a nice way. More funny sarcasm from each of the MCs in all the books.
I enjoyed reading more of their lives together. A great way to end this series. 😊
Well this book wraps up the finding home series in a nice way. More funny sarcasm from each of the MCs in all the books.
I enjoyed reading more of their lives together. A great way to end this series. 😊
September 30, 2020
Four new stories add to this wealth of extras from the pen of the fabulous Lily Morton and bring more insight into her thoroughly British world of snarky men and those who are smitten by them.
From Gabe's hilarious experience babysitting Billy, to Gideon and Eli's fears and fights while house hunting, each of these extra short stories or snippets has brought joy to this reader.
While Caden and Malachi will always hold first place in my heart because of the friendship they mean to me personally, this collection has reminded me why I fell for Lily's writing the first time I read Rule Breaker and met Gabe and Dylan.
Snark and sass hold hands with hurt and fear and they're all wrapped up with comfort and love to create a perfect blanket of contemporary romance with a definite sense of identity.
They're sexy and sweet, about blood families who should have done better and found families who make it all right.
And throughout them all, there's love, without boundaries or expectations, just hearts and souls finding their home and living happily ever after.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
From Gabe's hilarious experience babysitting Billy, to Gideon and Eli's fears and fights while house hunting, each of these extra short stories or snippets has brought joy to this reader.
While Caden and Malachi will always hold first place in my heart because of the friendship they mean to me personally, this collection has reminded me why I fell for Lily's writing the first time I read Rule Breaker and met Gabe and Dylan.
Snark and sass hold hands with hurt and fear and they're all wrapped up with comfort and love to create a perfect blanket of contemporary romance with a definite sense of identity.
They're sexy and sweet, about blood families who should have done better and found families who make it all right.
And throughout them all, there's love, without boundaries or expectations, just hearts and souls finding their home and living happily ever after.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
April 20, 2024
I loved this! I always want more of characters I love, and these shorts were so good!
August 14, 2021
My rating excludes the stories from Milo & Niall and Gabe & Dylan as I have not read Milo and Rule Breaker…Yet
December 31, 2022
4 Stars! ❤️I had read a few of these chapters on the web, but it was nice to read the in-between chapters and a few of the After the HEA chapters . I skipped Milo & Niall's story, but others were quite sweet and enjoyable. Highly recommended to all fans of LM who have read the both the series! 👍👍
October 4, 2020
If you are ready for some serious love and laughter, please read this set!! This is a collection of short stories from Lily Morton’s Mixed Messages and Finding Home combined worlds. I LOVE all of these guys but my favorite couple is Silas and Oz. It could be because I discovered them first by accident but there is something about these two that just resonates with me. I love them both so much! In this set are two stories around them, one during their first Christmas and then one where Silas tries to pull off the “perfect” proposal for Oz and everything just keeps going wrong. I think one of the things I love about these characters is their ability to just keep on loving and laughing despite everything going on around them. They just be themselves and don’t care what others think. Now all of these stories feature couples established in those mentioned series so don’t read this if you haven’t ready any of the other books! You will get some serious spoilers. But if that doesn’t bother you, go right ahead and read these first. You had just better get out there and read them soon after!
October 8, 2020
I had forgotten when I first started reading this that I had read most of these shorts before, but it didn't matter because they made me laugh as hard or harder than when I read them before and the new ones were great as well.
I am very pleased that Lily can do the humor that resonates with my soul but she also does hurt/comfort well too and the two together can be a dynamic combination.
I was musing with some other readers how subjective stories are especially with humor. Because whereas I adore Lily's humor while others don't for whatever reason, I can understand that because there's another popular mm author whose humor doesn't work for me at all but many, many others love them. I am just grateful there's something that works for many of us!
I am very pleased that Lily can do the humor that resonates with my soul but she also does hurt/comfort well too and the two together can be a dynamic combination.
I was musing with some other readers how subjective stories are especially with humor. Because whereas I adore Lily's humor while others don't for whatever reason, I can understand that because there's another popular mm author whose humor doesn't work for me at all but many, many others love them. I am just grateful there's something that works for many of us!
October 11, 2020
Laughter and Love
It was a joy reading all these fun , sexy and entertaining vignettes of some of my favorite characters by Lily Morton.
It was a real treat revisiting and catching up with Dylan and Gabe , Jude and Asa , Oz and Silas , lives .
Short Stack is not a standalone .
It was a joy reading all these fun , sexy and entertaining vignettes of some of my favorite characters by Lily Morton.
It was a real treat revisiting and catching up with Dylan and Gabe , Jude and Asa , Oz and Silas , lives .
Short Stack is not a standalone .
October 13, 2020
A nice read...
This book has shorts from the mixed messages series and finding home series. It really did make me want to go back and reread their stories. Some of these shorts are new to me and some I've already read. In the end, it was a nice revisit with all of the men. 💜
This book has shorts from the mixed messages series and finding home series. It really did make me want to go back and reread their stories. Some of these shorts are new to me and some I've already read. In the end, it was a nice revisit with all of the men. 💜
March 5, 2021
Historias cortas de los personajes que ya conocemos de dos series. Soy fan de las series, así que me han encantado estas historias.
October 9, 2020
Wonderful book with all the shorts from Morton's wonderful books, with 4 new ones to add to the wonderfulness of seeing our guys so together and happy in their HEA.
I won't go over much of the short stories that have already been around forever, although I did forget one or two, so it was nice to read those again and remember them once more. There were also one or two in Dylan and Gabe's stories that I don't believe I've ever read, or else I truly forgot those. But they were all delightful. And if you have never read any and have only read the full length books, well get excited, because you get to read all these wonderful, amazing stories of all these wonderful couples being happy and in love together.
So I'll just touch briefly on the four new stories we got.
Bad Valentine - This is Dylan and Gabe, and we see Gabe's POV after that night between him and Dylan on Valentine's day that fucked things up for a bit in their book, and we see him turn to Henry to talk it out and get his head out of his ass. A good addition just to see what was going through Gabe's head when he did that crap.
Marrying Jude - Pure fluffy goodness. We get to see Jude and Asa's wedding and it is wonderful and perfectly them. Also a quick, hot little sexy scene between the two doesn't hurt ;).
Babysitting Billy - Just so delightful, all of it. When Asa is away filming and Jude takes a modeling job for reasons we see in another short focused on Jude and Asa, and then Dylan breaks his took while eating and needs to go to the dentist, Gabe is the only one around to look after Billy, and it was as adorable and wonderful as you'd expect.
Gabe may be scared shitless of doing the wrong thing the whole time, but he's actually pretty wonderful with Billy, and Billy is just constantly adorable and sweet. This was a great short.
House Hunting - One of the only slightly angsty new shorts, this is focused on Gideon and Eli, although it's not too bad on the angst front. But it shows the growing pains that happen in a relationship so early on, and these two working through their first real hurdle as a couple and overcoming it and becoming better for it. I hate seeing them fight, but boy did I love them talking it out and making up :D
So overall, wonderful stories. And getting reacquainted with some I've forgotten was fun too. Definitely worth a read, if not just for the new stories, but reading old ones you have forgotten. Two thumbs up from me :D
I won't go over much of the short stories that have already been around forever, although I did forget one or two, so it was nice to read those again and remember them once more. There were also one or two in Dylan and Gabe's stories that I don't believe I've ever read, or else I truly forgot those. But they were all delightful. And if you have never read any and have only read the full length books, well get excited, because you get to read all these wonderful, amazing stories of all these wonderful couples being happy and in love together.
So I'll just touch briefly on the four new stories we got.
Bad Valentine - This is Dylan and Gabe, and we see Gabe's POV after that night between him and Dylan on Valentine's day that fucked things up for a bit in their book, and we see him turn to Henry to talk it out and get his head out of his ass. A good addition just to see what was going through Gabe's head when he did that crap.
Marrying Jude - Pure fluffy goodness. We get to see Jude and Asa's wedding and it is wonderful and perfectly them. Also a quick, hot little sexy scene between the two doesn't hurt ;).
Babysitting Billy - Just so delightful, all of it. When Asa is away filming and Jude takes a modeling job for reasons we see in another short focused on Jude and Asa, and then Dylan breaks his took while eating and needs to go to the dentist, Gabe is the only one around to look after Billy, and it was as adorable and wonderful as you'd expect.
Gabe may be scared shitless of doing the wrong thing the whole time, but he's actually pretty wonderful with Billy, and Billy is just constantly adorable and sweet. This was a great short.
House Hunting - One of the only slightly angsty new shorts, this is focused on Gideon and Eli, although it's not too bad on the angst front. But it shows the growing pains that happen in a relationship so early on, and these two working through their first real hurdle as a couple and overcoming it and becoming better for it. I hate seeing them fight, but boy did I love them talking it out and making up :D
So overall, wonderful stories. And getting reacquainted with some I've forgotten was fun too. Definitely worth a read, if not just for the new stories, but reading old ones you have forgotten. Two thumbs up from me :D
September 29, 2020
**** Highly Recommended Men****
There's a reason why lily Morton is a one-click author for me. She delivers the perfect balance of snark, angst, sweetness, and sexiness in her stories, and she didn't disappoint in this collection of shorts of our favorite men from the Mixed Messages series and the Finding Home series.
These Marvelous Morsels of shorts had it all. You get to see our couples... (yes ours because they are public property at this point).... in different stages of their relationships.
Everyone gets a turn! Grumpy Gabe, Outspoken Oz, and Jolly Jude, with everyone else. Some stories were already out there in her Readers Group on FB, and others are either deleted scenes or brand new.
With Gabe and Dylan, you see the dreaded Valentine's Day fiasco and its aftermath, Gabe being all mother-hen with a sick Dylan, and him babysitting Billy. This one was favorite, as Gabe embraces a fatherly side no one knew existed. #YouveChangedMe
With Jude and Asa, you get to see them both jealous of former fuckbuddies with a big old green-eyed monster rearing its head. Jude's first Christmas is also there, and the day Asa and Jude get married. This was my favorite by far. It was equal parts romantic, sexy, and funny as hell. So funny in fact, that Ivo's "War Photographer" status comes in handy. #BestDayOfMyLife
With Henry and Ivo. you get small snippets of Henry suffering from some golf mishaps, and Ivo showing Henry exactly what he means to him. #EveryoneNeedsAHenry
With Oz and Silas, Oz is his usual self, and Silas is just going along with the ride. Oz gets his hand dirty and delivers a foal and then gets proposed to in a rather.... unconventional place.
PS... NO stationary closets were harmed in the making of this short. #PerfectForMe
Milo and Niall roleplay Rupenzal for Niall's 40th birthday..... #nuffsaid
Gideon and Eli bring out all the feels. Their short was by far the angstiest and for good reason. Their vulnerabilities are laid out in the open and resolved, but not without shedding few tears.
I received an ARC from GRR, in exchange for an honest review.
There's a reason why lily Morton is a one-click author for me. She delivers the perfect balance of snark, angst, sweetness, and sexiness in her stories, and she didn't disappoint in this collection of shorts of our favorite men from the Mixed Messages series and the Finding Home series.
These Marvelous Morsels of shorts had it all. You get to see our couples... (yes ours because they are public property at this point).... in different stages of their relationships.
Everyone gets a turn! Grumpy Gabe, Outspoken Oz, and Jolly Jude, with everyone else. Some stories were already out there in her Readers Group on FB, and others are either deleted scenes or brand new.
With Gabe and Dylan, you see the dreaded Valentine's Day fiasco and its aftermath, Gabe being all mother-hen with a sick Dylan, and him babysitting Billy. This one was favorite, as Gabe embraces a fatherly side no one knew existed. #YouveChangedMe
With Jude and Asa, you get to see them both jealous of former fuckbuddies with a big old green-eyed monster rearing its head. Jude's first Christmas is also there, and the day Asa and Jude get married. This was my favorite by far. It was equal parts romantic, sexy, and funny as hell. So funny in fact, that Ivo's "War Photographer" status comes in handy. #BestDayOfMyLife
With Henry and Ivo. you get small snippets of Henry suffering from some golf mishaps, and Ivo showing Henry exactly what he means to him. #EveryoneNeedsAHenry
With Oz and Silas, Oz is his usual self, and Silas is just going along with the ride. Oz gets his hand dirty and delivers a foal and then gets proposed to in a rather.... unconventional place.
PS... NO stationary closets were harmed in the making of this short. #PerfectForMe
Milo and Niall roleplay Rupenzal for Niall's 40th birthday..... #nuffsaid
Gideon and Eli bring out all the feels. Their short was by far the angstiest and for good reason. Their vulnerabilities are laid out in the open and resolved, but not without shedding few tears.
I received an ARC from GRR, in exchange for an honest review.
November 14, 2022
Admittedly, I am not the biggest fan of the shorties released after a book. It’s not that I don’t like to revisit a favorite couple and see what they are up to or get that missing piece for an upcoming book. No, it’s just that I can’t keep up. Between newsletters, FB Groups and all the various other ways these stories are released, most of the time they fall through the cracks for me. And yes, that would be ok normally, but sometimes they include something that moves a series or a story forward. So, not the biggest fan.
This though, this I can get behind. All of them together, in one place, in book form.
Once I got going, I realized I actually had read a few of these but the rest were brand new. It was a great walk down memory lane and I had a really good time. Even better, I wasn't lost. I had no problem picking back up with each couple.
There is for sure a reason that Lily is one of my favorites.
This though, this I can get behind. All of them together, in one place, in book form.
Once I got going, I realized I actually had read a few of these but the rest were brand new. It was a great walk down memory lane and I had a really good time. Even better, I wasn't lost. I had no problem picking back up with each couple.
There is for sure a reason that Lily is one of my favorites.
October 8, 2020
I would have given this 5 stars just for the Gabe chapters alone. The rest is just the sweet, delicious cherry on top. I'll happily gobble up anything Lily Morton has to offer!
July 31, 2023
Saccharine AF,
but these extra HEAs
make me smile and sigh.
but these extra HEAs
make me smile and sigh.
November 30, 2020
I only got halfway. Only because I didn’t read the later books 🤭😅 most of this is free on the author’s website but it was nice to reread them all in one place 😊
October 22, 2020
Short Stack may be short on title but it’s long on reading pleasure—especially to those of us who clearly remember and still want to visit our favorite couples from both the Mixed Messages and the Finding Home series.
Here’s what’s important to know: There are nineteen stories, some short, some long. We get Lily Morton’s writing skill, sense of humor, and clean editing. And, most important, we get poignant moments—some tear-filled, some with laughter—from our favorite couples.
I considered giving a brief synopsis of each story until I got into the book and realized I was zooming through this “short stack” as fast as I would a stack of pancakes. I decided not to take the time to summarize each story, because they were all good and unique and, as my Brit friends would say, brilliant. But there were a few that I loved best:
“Bad Valentine” features Gabe and Dylan and takes place after Gabe breaks Dylan’s heart on Valentine’s Day by showing up late. If you’ve read the book, you recall who was with him. I don’t want to give a spoiler to those who haven’t read this outstanding series. But in this vignette we learn that Gabe went to visit his best friend, Henry, who helps him see how much he loves Dylan and how hard he is now going to have to work on himself before he’s worthy enough to win Dylan back. Of everything I may have thought Gabe did that night, it wasn’t this, and yet this is the perfect scenario and fits so well with what ultimately happened by the end of their book, Rule Breaker.
My second favorite was equally difficult to pick, but I chose “Jude’s Christmas” due to the humor infused throughout nearly every page. This is the first Christmas after he and Asa became a couple and before the Deal Maker epilogue. In this story, Jude attempts to hide Billy’s Father Christmas stocking, and Billy, typical of a young child, stays awake, nearly always catching Jude in the act. Jude’s commentary is hilarious, as usual, but the funniest moment of the story—and of the whole book—occurs when Billy bursts in on Jude and Asa on Christmas morning when Jude is under the duvet having fun with Asa in their bed. Billy can’t understand why Jude would be under the duvet, and Asa quickly shouts out that he’s looking for the remote. There’s much more to the scene and the joke, but honestly, this was a laugh-out-loud moment—or shout-out-loud is more like it—and should come with a warning that spontaneous laughter may occur at any time.
Another one of the funniest stories was “Babysitting Billy” in which Gabe and Dylan babysit Billy for a while. And one of the sweetest was “Merry Ozzy Christmas” in which Oz and Silas spend Christmas helping a colt be born in a barn. All the shorts in this stack are well-written, character-driven, and have some level of humor because that’s what we get when we read Lily Morton.
I highly recommend this book to those who have read the series. Each story beautifully complements the original book and each is infused with the essence of the couple it features. And to those who haven’t read the original series, please consider reading them now. They are all outstanding.
NOTE: This book was provided by the author via GRRT for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
October 3, 2020
Short Stack is the kind of book I will treasure for a very long time, it means re-reading in on board.
This book has so many memories of (almost) all the guys from Lily Morton that I love, especially Billy. Asa and Jude's son took a special place in my heart. I adore Billy so much, he's a breath of a fresh air, and freaking funny. Did I mentioned adorable? Yeah, that's my Billy.
Though this book 'only' some short stories, deleted scenes and some new shorts, I enjoyed it so much visiting some memories of the guys, still crying over some heartbreaking stories, laugh with them.
Short Stack is like coming home after I've been away for a long time.
Lily, thank you!
October 13, 2022
Fun snippets from our favorite characters from the Lily Morton stories.
They are all in the UK.
Dylan and Gabe : from Rule Breaker
Jude and Asa: fun and forever.
Henry and Ivo: sassy and sweet.
OZ and Silas: a ring and a birth.
Milo and Niall: scaling the wall.
Gideon and Eli: Hot lovin' and fun.
We are given a chance to get reacquainted with these beautiful characters, from tales we already like.
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Read
October 12, 2020I didn’t know the other couples so I didn’t read theirs yet, eventually I’ll get to them
October 6, 2020
A perfect mix of short stories from our favourite couples! I love these men and I'm so grateful for every little snippet of their lives.
Short Stack is a collection of short stories and deleted scenes from her Mixed Messages and Finding Home series. Excerpt for the four new stories, all of them have been previously released through her newsletter or on her Facebook group.
I love Lily's books. Her brand of humour and banter is something else entirely. This book is pretty low angst as quite a few stories take place after the books. But a dash of pining, a bit of jealousy, some steam and lots of snark makes this a must read for any Lily Morton fan.
My favourite new story would be Babysitting Billy. I've wanted to read that ever since she mentioned it in the Jude and Asa extra and it didn't disappoint in the least.
“I have a war photographer taking my wedding pictures. Why is this not surprising?”
If you love these men, you're going to gobble this up!
*ARC provided by the author via Gay Romance Review Tours in exchange for an honest and unbiased review
Short Stack is a collection of short stories and deleted scenes from her Mixed Messages and Finding Home series. Excerpt for the four new stories, all of them have been previously released through her newsletter or on her Facebook group.
I love Lily's books. Her brand of humour and banter is something else entirely. This book is pretty low angst as quite a few stories take place after the books. But a dash of pining, a bit of jealousy, some steam and lots of snark makes this a must read for any Lily Morton fan.
My favourite new story would be Babysitting Billy. I've wanted to read that ever since she mentioned it in the Jude and Asa extra and it didn't disappoint in the least.
“I have a war photographer taking my wedding pictures. Why is this not surprising?”
If you love these men, you're going to gobble this up!
*ARC provided by the author via Gay Romance Review Tours in exchange for an honest and unbiased review
November 18, 2021
Fantastic!
I loved being able to revisit all of Lily Morton's men. The short stories were lovely and made me want to re-read all of the original books, even though I'd just finished them. I'd definitely recommend everyone read Lily Morton. Her characters are so lovable and hilarious.
I loved being able to revisit all of Lily Morton's men. The short stories were lovely and made me want to re-read all of the original books, even though I'd just finished them. I'd definitely recommend everyone read Lily Morton. Her characters are so lovable and hilarious.
October 22, 2020
I love Lily's book-world and I was happy to read these short stories with her characters. Although I haven't read all of the books yet, I really enjoyed this book.
First I thought I only read those stories where I know the characters, but after I started it, I thought fck it and read it all!
But be aware before you start it, it's really addicting and the next thing you know is you're sitting in front of your shelf and in a need of reading all the full length book. I was tempted many, many times to open the books and read them again, so be sure you have enough time before you start it!
My favorites:
Gabe & Dylan
♦Scrambled Eggs and Lemsip
♦The Valentine Do-Over
♦Babysitting Billy (OMG THE BEST♥)
Jude & Asa
ALL OF THEM - and I'm so so sad that I love them the most and their story is one of I haven't read YET! Jude and Asa are so adorable and awesome, can't wait to read their book♥
Henry & Ivo
I loved both stories
Oz & Silas
♦Merry Ozzy Christmas - Oz and Silas are the other couple whom book I haven't read YET, and I'm really looking forward to that too ;)
Milo & Niall
♦The Big Four-Oh' - since it's their only short, I'm a bit sad, but I really enjoed it!♥
Gideon & Eli
♦When Gideon Met Asa - hilarious! I LOVED it!
♦House Hunting - it was so cute. Like really, really cute♥
First I thought I only read those stories where I know the characters, but after I started it, I thought fck it and read it all!
But be aware before you start it, it's really addicting and the next thing you know is you're sitting in front of your shelf and in a need of reading all the full length book. I was tempted many, many times to open the books and read them again, so be sure you have enough time before you start it!
My favorites:
Gabe & Dylan
♦Scrambled Eggs and Lemsip
♦The Valentine Do-Over
♦Babysitting Billy (OMG THE BEST♥)
Jude & Asa
ALL OF THEM - and I'm so so sad that I love them the most and their story is one of I haven't read YET! Jude and Asa are so adorable and awesome, can't wait to read their book♥
Henry & Ivo
I loved both stories
Oz & Silas
♦Merry Ozzy Christmas - Oz and Silas are the other couple whom book I haven't read YET, and I'm really looking forward to that too ;)
Milo & Niall
♦The Big Four-Oh' - since it's their only short, I'm a bit sad, but I really enjoed it!♥
Gideon & Eli
♦When Gideon Met Asa - hilarious! I LOVED it!
♦House Hunting - it was so cute. Like really, really cute♥
October 10, 2020
Este libro me hizo muy feliz. Historias de libre acceso en el blog de la autora, escenas inéditas y algunos momentos después del 'feliz para siempre' completan esta antología que nos entrega un poquito más de los personajes que ya amábamos. Me reí a carcajadas, me morí de ternura e incluso, haciendo un poquito de trampa, leí las historias de Gideon y Eli (libro que no leí pero después de esto creo que le voy a dar una oportunidad, aunque hasta hace poco pensé que no me interesaba en absoluto leerlo).
En pocas palabras, adoro los libros de Lily Morton y este no fue la excepción. Espero que su serie "Close proximity" tenga su propia recopilación de historias. 🙏
En pocas palabras, adoro los libros de Lily Morton y este no fue la excepción. Espero que su serie "Close proximity" tenga su propia recopilación de historias. 🙏
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