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Love Beyond Measure #2
Love in Slow Motion
“Maybe it didn’t end there. Maybe it started with a kiss…”
The only thing Ilan Nadav knows about relationships and marriage is that they ruin people. He’s committed himself to the bachelor life, and he’s never been happier—until his best friend had to go and fall in the sort of toe-curling, sonnet-writing kind of love. Witnessing that created a hunger in Ilan, and now all he can see is the people standing near him who deserved better than they got. And one of those people makes his heart beat a little bit harder and a little bit faster—but he’s the last man in the world Ilan is allowed to want.
After all, Fredric Pedalino is his best friend’s dad.
When Fredric comes to him for advice about dating men, Ilan is forced to re-write his own reality—and maybe his stance on love, because Fredric is the sort of man with the ability to sweep him off his feet. Even when he isn’t trying.
Ilan wants Fredric more than he’s ever wanted anyone before, but he’s not sure he’s willing to take the risk. After all, loving that man might cost him everything.
The only thing Ilan Nadav knows about relationships and marriage is that they ruin people. He’s committed himself to the bachelor life, and he’s never been happier—until his best friend had to go and fall in the sort of toe-curling, sonnet-writing kind of love. Witnessing that created a hunger in Ilan, and now all he can see is the people standing near him who deserved better than they got. And one of those people makes his heart beat a little bit harder and a little bit faster—but he’s the last man in the world Ilan is allowed to want.
After all, Fredric Pedalino is his best friend’s dad.
When Fredric comes to him for advice about dating men, Ilan is forced to re-write his own reality—and maybe his stance on love, because Fredric is the sort of man with the ability to sweep him off his feet. Even when he isn’t trying.
Ilan wants Fredric more than he’s ever wanted anyone before, but he’s not sure he’s willing to take the risk. After all, loving that man might cost him everything.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 16, 2020
181 people are currently reading
275 people want to read
About the author
E.M. Lindsey
142 books1,397 followersE.M. Lindsey is the author of MM contemporary romance. She presently lives and works in the southeastern United States.
EM Lindsey also writes MM Paranormal Romance under the pseudonym Ariel Millar.
EM Lindsey also writes MM Paranormal Romance under the pseudonym Ariel Millar.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
June 25, 2023
MC1 is an older man & blind - both characteristics that are rarely seen in romance & should be encouraged.
Not sure this is the book to trail-blaze, however, as, to a remarkable extent both aspects are sort of glossed over. Very occasionally the MC's specific challenges are discussed (e.g. putting toothpaste on his tongue, not on the brush), but the difficulties of moving to a new house and neighbourhood are largely waved off with "he got a dog & a nice neighbour". I'm being a little unfair, I guess, because this is a romance, not a Living with Blindness memoir.
The romance is "I'm in love with my best friend's dad" so although the characters end up OK with the fact that MC2 was MC1's de facto second son, I couldn't bring myself to quite buy it. I also missed the edge that MC1's bitchy ex-wife brought to the first book in the series. Too many nice people here!
A decent attempt, though.
Not sure this is the book to trail-blaze, however, as, to a remarkable extent both aspects are sort of glossed over. Very occasionally the MC's specific challenges are discussed (e.g. putting toothpaste on his tongue, not on the brush), but the difficulties of moving to a new house and neighbourhood are largely waved off with "he got a dog & a nice neighbour". I'm being a little unfair, I guess, because this is a romance, not a Living with Blindness memoir.
The romance is "I'm in love with my best friend's dad" so although the characters end up OK with the fact that MC2 was MC1's de facto second son, I couldn't bring myself to quite buy it. I also missed the edge that MC1's bitchy ex-wife brought to the first book in the series. Too many nice people here!
A decent attempt, though.
November 19, 2020
For Love in slow motion: 3,5 slow stars! ⭐⭐⭐
I wanted to read this one since I finished the last one of the series and well, didn't meet my expectations. Why? Well...
1. It was so fucking slow I was desperate, I understand that both of the main characters were in a tough situation, they were starting a new life in a new place (yes, both of them, because meant to be), and that made the story go too slow.
2. The transition between just the "father of your best friend", and my "son's best friend" to "oh my god I love you" wasn't a good one. You see, in all that time that nothing happened, well nothing happened, the author should have written more flirting, more in depth conversations, more pining for one another, but nope, they were actually trying to date other people... So figures.
3. Once the love started it was sooo cheesy sometimes it felt unreal, I cringed a lot. 😔
4. I would have loved more talk about the abuse issue that Fredrick suffered, it would have been an interesting subject to tackle... but nope.
5.The ending? Like wtf, it's a spoiler so I can't explain it but too much too soon. That's all I'm saying.
This author sometimes works for me perfectly and sometimes it doesn't. This one was not a good one. *sighs* On to the next. ❤🥰
I wanted to read this one since I finished the last one of the series and well, didn't meet my expectations. Why? Well...
1. It was so fucking slow I was desperate, I understand that both of the main characters were in a tough situation, they were starting a new life in a new place (yes, both of them, because meant to be), and that made the story go too slow.
2. The transition between just the "father of your best friend", and my "son's best friend" to "oh my god I love you" wasn't a good one. You see, in all that time that nothing happened, well nothing happened, the author should have written more flirting, more in depth conversations, more pining for one another, but nope, they were actually trying to date other people... So figures.
3. Once the love started it was sooo cheesy sometimes it felt unreal, I cringed a lot. 😔
4. I would have loved more talk about the abuse issue that Fredrick suffered, it would have been an interesting subject to tackle... but nope.
5.The ending? Like wtf, it's a spoiler so I can't explain it but too much too soon. That's all I'm saying.
This author sometimes works for me perfectly and sometimes it doesn't. This one was not a good one. *sighs* On to the next. ❤🥰
November 16, 2020
Look, I don’t know if I could’ve been more excited for a book, which is always slightly terrifying, but I should’ve known Lindsey wouldn’t let me down. They have a way of just writing these characters that others may have written off as damaged, but even when they are or they think they are, they’re so incredibly loveable, relatable, and just human. This book felt like both instalove and slow burn, and it’ll make sense when you read it how it can be both, but no matter what you classify it as, it was absolutely beautiful. Seeing Frederic and Ilan learn to love themselves and each other was just such a joy, even when you could literally feel their heartache. These two might just be my favorite Lindsey couple ever, and that’s saying something!
November 22, 2020
5 stars
It only occurred to me at the end of the book that the title of this book fit perfectly with all that happened between Ilan and Fredric ☺️
I loved this book. I loved Ilan and Fredric’s journey towards each other. I was expecting the typical fall-into-bed-first-then-figure-things-out plot line and wasn’t exactly looking forward to it but I thought heck, just give it a try and I’m so glad cos it wasn’t the typical trope!
And then I wanted to hit myself in the head because of course it isn’t, it’s EM Lindsey! She doesn’t do typical, eh? 😉 so yeah, the title is super apropos. It is definitely love in slow motion.
While we see the attraction, it took time for both men to kinda come to terms with it. Not only for what other people might feel about it but mostly for themselves. It was definitely a journey I enjoyed going on with them. And for me it’s definitely always the journey that’s lovely to watch, the end result is the icing on top of the cake 🥰
It only occurred to me at the end of the book that the title of this book fit perfectly with all that happened between Ilan and Fredric ☺️
I loved this book. I loved Ilan and Fredric’s journey towards each other. I was expecting the typical fall-into-bed-first-then-figure-things-out plot line and wasn’t exactly looking forward to it but I thought heck, just give it a try and I’m so glad cos it wasn’t the typical trope!
And then I wanted to hit myself in the head because of course it isn’t, it’s EM Lindsey! She doesn’t do typical, eh? 😉 so yeah, the title is super apropos. It is definitely love in slow motion.
While we see the attraction, it took time for both men to kinda come to terms with it. Not only for what other people might feel about it but mostly for themselves. It was definitely a journey I enjoyed going on with them. And for me it’s definitely always the journey that’s lovely to watch, the end result is the icing on top of the cake 🥰
January 29, 2021
The first book in this series was pretty okay, and I was curious enough to follow up with this one. Unfortunately, it was a disappointment.
1. Pacing
In the first book, the characters don't even meet until 25% of the way in. Here, Ilan and Fredric already know each other, so I expected that to smooth the path. But no, they don't really encounter each other for plot purposes for a long time either. It really started to drag after a while.
2. The romance or lack thereof
There was extremely little romance actually in this book. I didn't even feel the unrequited/pining/realization of feelings either, so it was more of a slow friendship thing than a romance. It took until close to halfway through the book to even introduce any romantic tension (and even then, it was a grain only), and then they don't even kiss until 68% of the way in. No real hookup either - this was very very low steam book. I wasn't expecting heavy steam but this was like YA levels of not-steam.
I did not feel the connection between Ilan and Fredric either, which made it extra unbearable. No physical encounters or chemistry, and no romantic/emotional tension? What's left? There wasn't much of a background plot either to support it, so the book just sort of...meandered.
Supposedly this was a slow build for the characters, over years, but we don't get to see that at all. With the lack of on-page chemistry, it feels instalovey (especially with that epilogue). It's also not a slow burn, because it takes too long to start and lacks the tension of a true slow burn. It's just slow.
3. misplaced time
Too much time was spent rehashing the same internal angst problems (but julian will be mad/i'm not good enough/blah) without resolving them or moving the plot forward. Additionally hampering the romance, there was an awful lot of page space spent on both Ilan and Fredric dating other people. It can work to have the MCs date other people, but in this case it felt like they both had more interaction with the dates than each other.
Overall, a slow read that was ultimately disappointing in the romance department.
1. Pacing
In the first book, the characters don't even meet until 25% of the way in. Here, Ilan and Fredric already know each other, so I expected that to smooth the path. But no, they don't really encounter each other for plot purposes for a long time either. It really started to drag after a while.
2. The romance or lack thereof
There was extremely little romance actually in this book. I didn't even feel the unrequited/pining/realization of feelings either, so it was more of a slow friendship thing than a romance. It took until close to halfway through the book to even introduce any romantic tension (and even then, it was a grain only), and then they don't even kiss until 68% of the way in. No real hookup either - this was very very low steam book. I wasn't expecting heavy steam but this was like YA levels of not-steam.
I did not feel the connection between Ilan and Fredric either, which made it extra unbearable. No physical encounters or chemistry, and no romantic/emotional tension? What's left? There wasn't much of a background plot either to support it, so the book just sort of...meandered.
Supposedly this was a slow build for the characters, over years, but we don't get to see that at all. With the lack of on-page chemistry, it feels instalovey (especially with that epilogue). It's also not a slow burn, because it takes too long to start and lacks the tension of a true slow burn. It's just slow.
3. misplaced time
Too much time was spent rehashing the same internal angst problems (but julian will be mad/i'm not good enough/blah) without resolving them or moving the plot forward. Additionally hampering the romance, there was an awful lot of page space spent on both Ilan and Fredric dating other people. It can work to have the MCs date other people, but in this case it felt like they both had more interaction with the dates than each other.
Overall, a slow read that was ultimately disappointing in the romance department.
November 19, 2020
I won't say that I was looking forward to this book, because neither Ilan or Fredric really grabbed my attention in the first book.
But I was enjoying it at first. I tend to find a lot of E.M. Lindsey's books seem to be more on the insta-love end of the spectrum than slow burn (or just have the passage of time so glossed over it seems like insta-love). So, I was glad that this appeared to be more of a slow burn. Only that slow burn started to feel really draggy. There's only so much a person can stand reading the same things over and over... "I want you but Julian would kill us", or Ilan saying he is broken and not made for love.
I read through the first 60% at a decent rate, but once I set it down, I wasn't really interested in picking it up again. I skimmed over a lot of the last 40%.
I think what really was the issue for me was that their romance was something that was simmering for years. Ilan has pretty much felt some form of love for Fredric since he was 8. Fredric notes that Ilan has been wooing him for years without either one noticing it. But these are things we are told. We are only told that through the plentiful reminiscing throughout the book, but being told and being shown does hold the same weight for me. It was an insidious romance, with much of it happening in the 25 years prior to the events of this book, so I missed the connection.
But I was enjoying it at first. I tend to find a lot of E.M. Lindsey's books seem to be more on the insta-love end of the spectrum than slow burn (or just have the passage of time so glossed over it seems like insta-love). So, I was glad that this appeared to be more of a slow burn. Only that slow burn started to feel really draggy. There's only so much a person can stand reading the same things over and over... "I want you but Julian would kill us", or Ilan saying he is broken and not made for love.
I read through the first 60% at a decent rate, but once I set it down, I wasn't really interested in picking it up again. I skimmed over a lot of the last 40%.
I think what really was the issue for me was that their romance was something that was simmering for years. Ilan has pretty much felt some form of love for Fredric since he was 8. Fredric notes that Ilan has been wooing him for years without either one noticing it. But these are things we are told. We are only told that through the plentiful reminiscing throughout the book, but being told and being shown does hold the same weight for me. It was an insidious romance, with much of it happening in the 25 years prior to the events of this book, so I missed the connection.
November 16, 2020
Good god, Love in Slow Motion is an extraordinary story. The second book in the Love Beyond Measure series, EM Lindsey has once again left me in awe.
We met Fredric and Ilan in The Edge of Heaven. If you haven't yet read it, do so now. It's an equally wonderful story on it's own. But it also helps to give the necessary background for these two.
There's a lot going on in this book. Ilan has always loved his best friend's father, Fredric. He knew he could never have him, but he wished for him to find happiness and love. Unknown to them both though, Ilan is the one who can do just that.
Their story is beautiful and all-consuming. They find such strength in one another, as they are both at a crossroads, wishing to discover what they want out of life.
Fredric's story is tough to read. A lot of it was explored in the first book, but now we discover more and get to see him searching for someone who understands his blindness and accepts him as is. He spent years being abused by his wife, years of letting his wife abuse his son, all because he felt trapped.
Now he's divorced and living on his own. He's learning to be independent, wanting to find a new career, and making new friends. You will simply adore Agatha, the best neighbor he could have ever had. Dear lord, I am still shocked by how wonderful she is.
As for Ilan, he's never had a relationship. After being bullied for years, and treated like dirt, even by Julian's mother, he never believed in his own self worth. His career isn't his passion anymore, and he just wants to find peace.
Both men have some major baggage they're dealing with, and they find complete solace in one another. The way they have developed their own friendship through the years is touching and wonderfully illustrated. And the way they grow even closer with encouragement, understanding, and plenty of time spent together is special.
I absolutely love the slow burn nature of this story. And with Fredric exploring his sexual side with a man for the first time, wow, it's just beautiful. The two men very slowly come together and find a heartfelt love in each other. It's truly the best of the best when it comes to slow burn. The reader is never left wondering if they will be together. Instead, we're taken on the long and winding road to their union.
I love everything about these men and their story. Written in alternating pov, the author gives us an intimate look in the emotions involved. The feelings are intense, with everything jumping off the pages. The longing. The peace. The passion. The love.
Love in Slow Motion is the perfect addition to EM Lindsey's Love Beyond Measures series. I couldn't have asked for a better love story for either of these men. This series is a must read the next time you're in the mood for a stellar hurt/comfort read. You will be elated to have met these men.
We met Fredric and Ilan in The Edge of Heaven. If you haven't yet read it, do so now. It's an equally wonderful story on it's own. But it also helps to give the necessary background for these two.
There's a lot going on in this book. Ilan has always loved his best friend's father, Fredric. He knew he could never have him, but he wished for him to find happiness and love. Unknown to them both though, Ilan is the one who can do just that.
Their story is beautiful and all-consuming. They find such strength in one another, as they are both at a crossroads, wishing to discover what they want out of life.
Fredric's story is tough to read. A lot of it was explored in the first book, but now we discover more and get to see him searching for someone who understands his blindness and accepts him as is. He spent years being abused by his wife, years of letting his wife abuse his son, all because he felt trapped.
Now he's divorced and living on his own. He's learning to be independent, wanting to find a new career, and making new friends. You will simply adore Agatha, the best neighbor he could have ever had. Dear lord, I am still shocked by how wonderful she is.
As for Ilan, he's never had a relationship. After being bullied for years, and treated like dirt, even by Julian's mother, he never believed in his own self worth. His career isn't his passion anymore, and he just wants to find peace.
Both men have some major baggage they're dealing with, and they find complete solace in one another. The way they have developed their own friendship through the years is touching and wonderfully illustrated. And the way they grow even closer with encouragement, understanding, and plenty of time spent together is special.
I absolutely love the slow burn nature of this story. And with Fredric exploring his sexual side with a man for the first time, wow, it's just beautiful. The two men very slowly come together and find a heartfelt love in each other. It's truly the best of the best when it comes to slow burn. The reader is never left wondering if they will be together. Instead, we're taken on the long and winding road to their union.
I love everything about these men and their story. Written in alternating pov, the author gives us an intimate look in the emotions involved. The feelings are intense, with everything jumping off the pages. The longing. The peace. The passion. The love.
Love in Slow Motion is the perfect addition to EM Lindsey's Love Beyond Measures series. I couldn't have asked for a better love story for either of these men. This series is a must read the next time you're in the mood for a stellar hurt/comfort read. You will be elated to have met these men.
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November 16, 2020A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
Love in Slow Motion is the second book in E.M. Lindsey’s Love Beyond Measure series, following the incredible Edge of Heaven. We met both Fredric and Ilan in that first book, and the chemistry between them was clear even then. I will admit that after finishing that story, I immediately messaged Lindsey and told them “I need a book for Fredric and Ilan like I need air.” So needless to say, I was hugely excited to hear that Lindsey was developing a series and giving us a book for these guys. As a note, while this story does largely stand alone in the relationship end of things, the seeds of Fredric and Ilan’s story begin in Edge of Heaven, so reading that will set the stage here. I also think understanding Fredric’s relationship with Julian, as well as the situation with his ex-wife, is really helpful in getting the most out of this story, so I would definitely recommend reading the first book before this one. But let me tell you, Edge of Heaven is easily one of my favorite books of the year, so it is no hardship for sure.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
Love in Slow Motion is the second book in E.M. Lindsey’s Love Beyond Measure series, following the incredible Edge of Heaven. We met both Fredric and Ilan in that first book, and the chemistry between them was clear even then. I will admit that after finishing that story, I immediately messaged Lindsey and told them “I need a book for Fredric and Ilan like I need air.” So needless to say, I was hugely excited to hear that Lindsey was developing a series and giving us a book for these guys. As a note, while this story does largely stand alone in the relationship end of things, the seeds of Fredric and Ilan’s story begin in Edge of Heaven, so reading that will set the stage here. I also think understanding Fredric’s relationship with Julian, as well as the situation with his ex-wife, is really helpful in getting the most out of this story, so I would definitely recommend reading the first book before this one. But let me tell you, Edge of Heaven is easily one of my favorite books of the year, so it is no hardship for sure.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
November 9, 2020
One thing I can say for Love in Slow Motion by E.M. Lindsey is “Give it time”. This is a definite Slow Burn story and the 2nd in the Love Beyond Measure Series. Frederic is a Blind Silver Fox who’s life is upended when he ends his 36 yr abusive marriage. As he is finding his way through his new normal,, he discovers his long-standing feelings for his son’s best Friend, Ilan. Ilan has his own emotional minefields he is trying to navigate as he truly feels that he is not worthy of romantic love. Let me say that I have read other series by the author, that I thoroughly enjoyed. I found this book a bit difficult to get into initially and I may have been more involved if I had read the first in the series “The Edge of Heaven” in which we first meet Frederic and Ilan. In this book the characters really don’t share a real-time chapter until about 30% into the book and do not start to work through their feelings for each other until about 50%. This was pushing the slow burn aspect a bit far for me and I had not noticed this trend in any of the author’s previous books. Once they started working together, their story soared and I do wish I had more time with them actually interacting. Their first time “together” was one of the most touching love scenes I have ever read. I’m now going to go back to read the first book and look forward to more with the secondary characters, I just hope the author gets into the story quicker the next time around.
June 15, 2022
This was really lovely, and I was so thrilled to read their story.
Tropes/warnings: Both MCs go on dates with other people
-Bi MC
-Fake dating (practice dates)
-Read first book beforehand, this starts partway through it and you won’t be able to appreciate the growth of either character as much
-Best friend’s dad
At the end I noticed it teases two more books in the series and nothing has come out, so I hope it continues (or that we at least get Rex’s story!).
Tropes/warnings: Both MCs go on dates with other people
-Bi MC
-Fake dating (practice dates)
-Read first book beforehand, this starts partway through it and you won’t be able to appreciate the growth of either character as much
-Best friend’s dad
At the end I noticed it teases two more books in the series and nothing has come out, so I hope it continues (or that we at least get Rex’s story!).
January 17, 2021
3.5 stars
June 17, 2021
Sigh. This book just didn't do it for me. I feel badly about the main reason why, which was I just could not get out of my head the image of Frederic as a kinda dumpy old guy. When he was introduced in book 1--I don't know if I missed something or misread something--but that was the way I envisioned him and try as I might, I just couldn't shake that image. The doddery way he spoke didn't help things. His choice of endearments--my darling, dear heart--IDK they just didn't fit a guy like Ilan. He and Ilan seemed completely mismatched and I felt zero chemistry between the two of them. Throw in super slow pacing and a shit ton of internal ruminating on the part of both characters and I just couldn't get on board.
November 12, 2020
This is a story 1000% faithful to its title: love here happens in slow motion. And in here, that’s not a bad thing, at all. Fredric and Ilan’s story is full of new beginnings, discoveries, new memories, and the author did a stellar job not only telling their path as friends to lovers, but telling also what they went through until their paths crossed and became one. Fredric is the father of Ilan’s best friend (that we met on The Edge of Heaven), so they’ve been around each other for quite some time, and without feelings in the middle. The story has the perfect balance between their lives as it is now and the flashback and memories recalling how the ups and downs of life forged their feelings, their personality, them as they are now. True to Elaine’s style, both have a lot of baggage to deal with, and a rocky and sometimes insatiable path to cross. But, again, 100% perfect here.
Read this expecting a beautiful friendship turning into something special and valuable, the most nosy and adorable neighbors I recall reading, some sweet and tender moments that will make you swoon all over, and, of course, a much deserved HEA.
5+++ stars <3
Read this expecting a beautiful friendship turning into something special and valuable, the most nosy and adorable neighbors I recall reading, some sweet and tender moments that will make you swoon all over, and, of course, a much deserved HEA.
5+++ stars <3
November 9, 2020
Fredric and Ilan's romance is one of the most beautiful things I've had the pleasure of reading in a long time. No, this isn't the steamiest, knock-your-socks-off sexy story out there. It's not wildly adventurous with thrills around every corner. It's a softer, quiet kind of love story that sank into my core and left me warm with happiness and contentment. Everything I might usually need to spice up a romance felt totally unnecessary here with these men. Fredric and Ilan didn't need a high-stakes adventure or relationship drama to prove their unwavering love to me--I could feel it in every quiet night in, every shared meal together, and every casual touch. Watching their story unfold, seeing their camaraderie grow and change into a soul-deep, utterly romantic connection brought happy tears to my eyes. These men were certainly not perfect--Ilan had some serious self-worth issues to work through and Fredric was coming out of a bad relationship with no idea how to move forward and date other people--but despite all that, they didn't give up on each other. Sure, maybe these men weren't as swoony and romantic as Julian and Archer, but their connection felt so special and precious to me that I know I'll be thinking about it for days.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
November 29, 2020
Better than the first. Low angst, good chemistry. Ok book.
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November 18, 2020
...loved, loved Frédéric and Ilan story...excellent portrayal of the long reaching effects of mental and psychological abuse.
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May 5, 2021DNF-stopping for now, just not holding my attention (16%)
November 12, 2020
Love in Slow motion, as you can probably guess from the title, is a slow burn romance between Ilan, a burned out doctor who doesn't believe in romance, and Frederic, blind, recently divorced attorney trying to find himself after years of being in an abusive relationship. I have been looking forward to reading Ilan and Frederic's story since I read Love Beyond Measure book 1 with Julian and Archer. While you don't have to read book one to enjoy this book, you will get a better understanding of their backstories as well as the catalyst (abuser) who has influenced all of their lives. From book one we know that Ilan is Julian's best friend, and oftentimes protector. Frederic is Julian's father, so what evolves in Love in Slow Motion is a beautiful, unexpected romantic connection that neither expected, but both needed.
I loved the complexity of the relationship between Frederic and Ilan. It is most definitely a slow burn romance, at times almost frustratingly so, but I felt like the characters needed that. The relationship is incredibly complex as both characters have been shaped by the abuse of Frederic's spouse and both characters responded differently to her abuse. For Frederic he buried himself in work and allowed himself to be whittled away over the years by her abuse. Ilan sees the abuse first hand throughout his life and it motivates him to love and protect both Julian as well as Frederic as best as he can. It also convinces him that he is not made for a relationship after seeing the pain and damage wrought by Frederic's marriage.
Frederic and Ilan's book starts with both of them starting fresh following Frederic's divorce and Julian's move away to live with Archer. Once they reconnect, they realize that they both chose to start over in a place of comfort, by the sea. From there they realize that the love they have had for each other for years has also evolved and turned into romantic love. They both also begin to understand that it's not a relationship or label that makes you happy, but the person.
I loved a lot of things about this book. The writing is beautiful and the complexity of the relationship takes the age-gap, Father/Best Friend's Son trope and puts a lot of emotion behind it. I appreciated that while the abusive relationship is at the root of many of Ilan and Frederic's issues, there was no actual interaction with the abuser in the story. I also really enjoyed the side characters in the story. Ted and Agatha were diverse, fun, and insightful and offered great advice for Frederic. The only criticism I have is that while the pacing was slow, I felt like the ending felt somewhat rushed and I wanted more. It felt a little bit unbalanced in that sense, but overall it is a very beautiful story.
I received an ARC in return for my review, and I'm very much looking forward to the next book in the series.
I loved the complexity of the relationship between Frederic and Ilan. It is most definitely a slow burn romance, at times almost frustratingly so, but I felt like the characters needed that. The relationship is incredibly complex as both characters have been shaped by the abuse of Frederic's spouse and both characters responded differently to her abuse. For Frederic he buried himself in work and allowed himself to be whittled away over the years by her abuse. Ilan sees the abuse first hand throughout his life and it motivates him to love and protect both Julian as well as Frederic as best as he can. It also convinces him that he is not made for a relationship after seeing the pain and damage wrought by Frederic's marriage.
Frederic and Ilan's book starts with both of them starting fresh following Frederic's divorce and Julian's move away to live with Archer. Once they reconnect, they realize that they both chose to start over in a place of comfort, by the sea. From there they realize that the love they have had for each other for years has also evolved and turned into romantic love. They both also begin to understand that it's not a relationship or label that makes you happy, but the person.
I loved a lot of things about this book. The writing is beautiful and the complexity of the relationship takes the age-gap, Father/Best Friend's Son trope and puts a lot of emotion behind it. I appreciated that while the abusive relationship is at the root of many of Ilan and Frederic's issues, there was no actual interaction with the abuser in the story. I also really enjoyed the side characters in the story. Ted and Agatha were diverse, fun, and insightful and offered great advice for Frederic. The only criticism I have is that while the pacing was slow, I felt like the ending felt somewhat rushed and I wanted more. It felt a little bit unbalanced in that sense, but overall it is a very beautiful story.
I received an ARC in return for my review, and I'm very much looking forward to the next book in the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 9, 2020
The anticipation for this book was well worth the wait.
Two words... SLOW BURN ... Oh my lord the anticipation I felt like I was going to explode. I absolutely adore Ilan and Fredric. Their dynamic is perfection.
Ilan the best friend of Fredric's son Julian. Who obviously had a close relationship with Fredric as time went on. Ilan isn't just Julian's friend but Fredric's as well. I love that they have a close friendship. They're so open with each other with their thoughts and feelings. The foundation for a beautiful love is well and truly in place for them to build on throughout the book.
The support they give each other as they both embark on huge life changes. Fredric with his divorce after a 36 year old mentally abusive relationship. Ilan with quitting his job uprooting his life and moving to start a new practice. As well as adjusting to his bestie moving across the ocean to be with his boyfriend.
The emotional support and understanding these two give each other is truly beautiful.
How they both fell in love with each other and never really seeing when it happened but just accepting it all in stride is perfection. Fredric is so amazingly sweet and kind. At the end of this book you'll want someone to speak to you the way he speaks Ilan.
I absolutely adored them and loved this book so much.
Two words... SLOW BURN ... Oh my lord the anticipation I felt like I was going to explode. I absolutely adore Ilan and Fredric. Their dynamic is perfection.
Ilan the best friend of Fredric's son Julian. Who obviously had a close relationship with Fredric as time went on. Ilan isn't just Julian's friend but Fredric's as well. I love that they have a close friendship. They're so open with each other with their thoughts and feelings. The foundation for a beautiful love is well and truly in place for them to build on throughout the book.
The support they give each other as they both embark on huge life changes. Fredric with his divorce after a 36 year old mentally abusive relationship. Ilan with quitting his job uprooting his life and moving to start a new practice. As well as adjusting to his bestie moving across the ocean to be with his boyfriend.
The emotional support and understanding these two give each other is truly beautiful.
How they both fell in love with each other and never really seeing when it happened but just accepting it all in stride is perfection. Fredric is so amazingly sweet and kind. At the end of this book you'll want someone to speak to you the way he speaks Ilan.
I absolutely adored them and loved this book so much.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 24, 2020
4.25 stars. I gave the first book in this series 3 stars, after some deliberation. This book feels like a return to form. Lindsey almost always features disabled characters, and does a great job, in my opinion. In this story, one of the MCs is blind and the way senses other than sight are used to describe his sections really enhanced the narrative. We also have an adorable neighbor couple who are autistic and trans, respectively, and both characters are given natural opportunities to converse about their experiences. I didn’t mind the slow burn (ehm, the title kiiiind of gives it away), because both of these characters had a lot to work through. Their hesitation and resistance make sense in the situation. I just really really liked this book. It’s on KU, but I will likely purchase it.
November 18, 2020
I read most of this with a lump in my throat, of the BEST type. Two grown men, acting like grownups, what a sweet journey.
April 4, 2022
It’s taken me a long time to get to this book, considering its been sitting on my bedside table for about six months. I loved The Edge of Heaven, so I think that although I was hoping to love this just as much, I was also a little bit hesitant. Sometimes a banger of a first book can be followed by a not so good second book, and I was hoping against hope that that wouldn’t be the case. Luckily for me, Love in Slow Motion was just as good, sweet and wonderful.
I’ve read a lot on my online book groups about how much people love a “slow burn romance”. And I can’t say that it’s something that I’ve ever noticed much in the romances that I’ve read. There are plenty that feature a couple in which one has always had a crush, or friends to lovers and such. But the slow burn? Wow, I finally get what people are actually talking about. It is a very different beast to the other romance tropes that I’ve been enjoying. I might not want it all the time – I found that the slow burn also meant that we were slow getting to the action, and I needed things to hurry up a little. There is still something so toe curling and butterfly inducing about it that makes me want to read another, similar slow burn. Although, admittedly, that could just be Lindsey’s writing…
Reading the blurb of Love in Slow Motion, I was expecting something both beautiful and a little cringe-worthy. After all, a man falls in love with his best mates dad… there may only be seventeen years difference, but I always find the age gap thing a bit uncomfortable. The fact that Frederic is the father of Ilan’s best friend… I was expecting some serious catastrophic damage and many, many cringe-worthy moments. Yet, somehow, Lindsey was able to make this one of my favourite literary couples of late. All those things that I thought would be seriously cringe-worthy and filled with second-hand embarrassment and discomfort… didn’t even happen.
For all of my reservations on starting this book, I completely adored it. It was fun and witty. Cute and heartfelt as needed. It’s a reminder that falling in love, no matter how we do it can be filled with many, many pitfalls. Many of them being our own insecurities… Lindsey is able to show amazing vulnerability in her characters without it being a painful read. Definitely one of those romances that made my heart beat faster and then skip a beat as I hoped for that happily ever after moment.
I’ve read a lot on my online book groups about how much people love a “slow burn romance”. And I can’t say that it’s something that I’ve ever noticed much in the romances that I’ve read. There are plenty that feature a couple in which one has always had a crush, or friends to lovers and such. But the slow burn? Wow, I finally get what people are actually talking about. It is a very different beast to the other romance tropes that I’ve been enjoying. I might not want it all the time – I found that the slow burn also meant that we were slow getting to the action, and I needed things to hurry up a little. There is still something so toe curling and butterfly inducing about it that makes me want to read another, similar slow burn. Although, admittedly, that could just be Lindsey’s writing…
Reading the blurb of Love in Slow Motion, I was expecting something both beautiful and a little cringe-worthy. After all, a man falls in love with his best mates dad… there may only be seventeen years difference, but I always find the age gap thing a bit uncomfortable. The fact that Frederic is the father of Ilan’s best friend… I was expecting some serious catastrophic damage and many, many cringe-worthy moments. Yet, somehow, Lindsey was able to make this one of my favourite literary couples of late. All those things that I thought would be seriously cringe-worthy and filled with second-hand embarrassment and discomfort… didn’t even happen.
For all of my reservations on starting this book, I completely adored it. It was fun and witty. Cute and heartfelt as needed. It’s a reminder that falling in love, no matter how we do it can be filled with many, many pitfalls. Many of them being our own insecurities… Lindsey is able to show amazing vulnerability in her characters without it being a painful read. Definitely one of those romances that made my heart beat faster and then skip a beat as I hoped for that happily ever after moment.
February 12, 2021
“Slow motion” is not a metaphor in this title—Lindsey has proven once again to be the master of the slow-burn romance. However, instead of dragging, this story entranced me on every page as Ilan and Fredric circle each other. The characters have known each other for some time, but their dynamic shifted only in the past year. In typical romance novel fashion, communication is the tripping point to their happily ever after (in this case, disclosing their relationship to Fredric’s son/Ilan’s best friend).
Half the joy in this book is watching Fredric and Ilan start new phases in their lives. That they start these phases in the same town is reasonably incidental, but it does lead to one of my favorite moments in the book as Ilan puts the fear of G-d into a jerk going on a date with Fredric. Ilan is, of course, terribly surprised that Fredric is attempting to date men, and as a stand-in for the son who now lives across the ocean, sets out to prove that Fredric deserves so much better than what he got from his abusive ex-wife for so many years. Sparks inevitably fly, but sparks may have been flying for years, and neither man was prepared to acknowledge them before now.
I usually want to smack romance leads until they recognize what they have in their potential partners, but I was more inclined to coddle these two men until they got their act together here. That’s part of Lindsey’s writing gift, in which even the quietest of moments are poignant and romantic. This is another book of hers worth savoring. I highly recommend this series to readers looking for the perfect slow-burn romances in which time, like everything else about love, is incredibly relative. I look forward to returning to this series when more books are available.
Half the joy in this book is watching Fredric and Ilan start new phases in their lives. That they start these phases in the same town is reasonably incidental, but it does lead to one of my favorite moments in the book as Ilan puts the fear of G-d into a jerk going on a date with Fredric. Ilan is, of course, terribly surprised that Fredric is attempting to date men, and as a stand-in for the son who now lives across the ocean, sets out to prove that Fredric deserves so much better than what he got from his abusive ex-wife for so many years. Sparks inevitably fly, but sparks may have been flying for years, and neither man was prepared to acknowledge them before now.
I usually want to smack romance leads until they recognize what they have in their potential partners, but I was more inclined to coddle these two men until they got their act together here. That’s part of Lindsey’s writing gift, in which even the quietest of moments are poignant and romantic. This is another book of hers worth savoring. I highly recommend this series to readers looking for the perfect slow-burn romances in which time, like everything else about love, is incredibly relative. I look forward to returning to this series when more books are available.
November 13, 2020
Love in Motion is a great read! I enjoy this book so many much, Frederic and Ilan are very complex characters both making drastic changes in their lives, Frederic is blind since his twenties and that has been a challenge for him, he is a lawyer and a dad of two children, time forward and now divorced at 50yrs Frederic wants a new start and moves to a new place, He wants to finally be happy and decided to start dating. He discover that he is Bi in college but he was married by then.
Ilan is Julian's best friend and Fredric's son, they grew up together as best friends and have witnessed all the abuse Frederic suffer from his ex-wife and he loathed her.... Ilan has always be protective of both Frederic and Julian. Ilan is a Doctor and he wants to live at the beach and have a quiet life.
Not knowing they both find places near each other and start spending more time together and at almost kiss change things for both of them. Both Frederic and Ilan start dating, they decided to start slow taking their time and getting to know each other in a different way, their journey is hard for both of them because they’ve known each other as dad and best friends son, they chemistry is of the charts but also I enjoy that they have so many sweet moments. Ilan is a romantic at heart, I love them together, they complement each other. This is a great book and I highly recommended!
I received a Blanket Fort Book ARC for an honest review.
Ilan is Julian's best friend and Fredric's son, they grew up together as best friends and have witnessed all the abuse Frederic suffer from his ex-wife and he loathed her.... Ilan has always be protective of both Frederic and Julian. Ilan is a Doctor and he wants to live at the beach and have a quiet life.
Not knowing they both find places near each other and start spending more time together and at almost kiss change things for both of them. Both Frederic and Ilan start dating, they decided to start slow taking their time and getting to know each other in a different way, their journey is hard for both of them because they’ve known each other as dad and best friends son, they chemistry is of the charts but also I enjoy that they have so many sweet moments. Ilan is a romantic at heart, I love them together, they complement each other. This is a great book and I highly recommended!
I received a Blanket Fort Book ARC for an honest review.
November 17, 2020
We met Fredric and Ilan as Julian's father and best friend in The Edge of Heaven, where they quietly demanded their own story. This is that story, and it is romantic, sexy, and very satisfying to my mushy heart. I love everything about these two.
Fredric is the older man, learning to be single for the first time since he was a teenager and unfortunately tied himself to an ice cold wife who battered his confidence for years. Fredric is now free and has to learn to believe in himself and his ability to make the most of the rest of his life.
Ilan is successful and beautiful, and he has had feelings for Fredric for ages, but he is terrified of losing the relationship he already has with Fredric and Julian. Ilan also cannot believe he is worthy of lasting love.
The two men have strong feelings for each other from the start, and it is wonderful watching them begin to trust in the love they share. They just get each other like no one else can. I adore them together, and I think everyone should read their romance. The supporting characters are warm and caring, and the conversations are heartfelt. This book is a new favorite of mine, and I'm adding it to my list of comfort re-reads. Love it!
Fredric is the older man, learning to be single for the first time since he was a teenager and unfortunately tied himself to an ice cold wife who battered his confidence for years. Fredric is now free and has to learn to believe in himself and his ability to make the most of the rest of his life.
Ilan is successful and beautiful, and he has had feelings for Fredric for ages, but he is terrified of losing the relationship he already has with Fredric and Julian. Ilan also cannot believe he is worthy of lasting love.
The two men have strong feelings for each other from the start, and it is wonderful watching them begin to trust in the love they share. They just get each other like no one else can. I adore them together, and I think everyone should read their romance. The supporting characters are warm and caring, and the conversations are heartfelt. This book is a new favorite of mine, and I'm adding it to my list of comfort re-reads. Love it!
December 2, 2020
I have waited for Papa and Ilan since they were first introduced in The Edge of Heaven!
E.M. Lindsey is absolutely a master of slow burns and this one is no different; however, it is more of a slow burn than typical. Both Fredric and Ilan have personal struggles that they must work through before they will be able to focus on their relationship. As they attempt to work through things, there is still the connection between the two of them and the off the charts chemistry they are having to keep at arms length.
Fredric is inspiring. Ilan teaches you how to have a hard shell, but keep the ones that you love close. Together, they are magic and their love is in constant slow motion; always moving but slowly gradually so that you fall for them as much as they fall for each other.
I can't wait for the next great book from them!
E.M. Lindsey is absolutely a master of slow burns and this one is no different; however, it is more of a slow burn than typical. Both Fredric and Ilan have personal struggles that they must work through before they will be able to focus on their relationship. As they attempt to work through things, there is still the connection between the two of them and the off the charts chemistry they are having to keep at arms length.
Fredric is inspiring. Ilan teaches you how to have a hard shell, but keep the ones that you love close. Together, they are magic and their love is in constant slow motion; always moving but slowly gradually so that you fall for them as much as they fall for each other.
I can't wait for the next great book from them!
November 12, 2020
❤ A great start as Ilan is protective over Fredric as he was blind that his wife moving chairs around. Soon divorced at 50 yrs Fredric had to start over in his life.
Ilan was Julian's best friend and Fredric's son who grew up together as friends. God I couldn't help feel for the boys when they where younger. Things change for IIan now a doctor at loose ends so to speak. And Fredric needing a change in life and location.
• 23 yrs age gap
• baggage from both their pasts
• finding love in front of them.
• taking second chances.
Both navigate the dating scenes which Fredric exploring his gay side for the first time. Scenes progresses and well this turns into a really great book. Told with both POVs, yah I'd read this one again.
*I received an Blanket Fort Book advanced readers copy and this is my honest review.
Ilan was Julian's best friend and Fredric's son who grew up together as friends. God I couldn't help feel for the boys when they where younger. Things change for IIan now a doctor at loose ends so to speak. And Fredric needing a change in life and location.
• 23 yrs age gap
• baggage from both their pasts
• finding love in front of them.
• taking second chances.
Both navigate the dating scenes which Fredric exploring his gay side for the first time. Scenes progresses and well this turns into a really great book. Told with both POVs, yah I'd read this one again.
*I received an Blanket Fort Book advanced readers copy and this is my honest review.
November 16, 2020
Outstanding! Fantastic! Phenomenal! It was a beautiful and romantic love story. We met Fredric and Ilan in the Edge of Heaven. Fredric is Julian’s father and Ilan’s best friend. Ilan has been in love with Fredric since he was young, but Fredric is married and straight. When Fredric decides he’s done with the abuse that his wife has been dishing out, he moves to the beach. Julian is tired and lonely. He sells his practice and house and moves to the same town that Fredric has just moved to. The love between these two was palpable! So many emotions!! This was such a beautiful, swoon worthy, romantic love story!! I am voluntarily leaving a review from an advanced copy that I was gifted from the author. Thank you so much for letting me read your art. My reviews are solely based on my thoughts and opinions.
January 18, 2023
***4.15***
Sigh. So I had high hopes for this book and it didn’t disappoint…horribly. Fredric is an amazing soul—I just love him. Ilan is so great as well—except for a couple things that really dragged this book out a bit too long. The slooooow burn didn’t bug me. The recurring overwhelming feelings he experienced irritated me. I understand that love can indeed be overwhelming at times. However, the story would have made more sense if Ilan could have found a happy medium between full steam ahead and freaking out like he so often did. Another thing that niggled at me was Ilan still missing Julian so much that he was miserable…which was weird and a bit insulting to Fredric, who was right there to keep Ilan happier than he would have been with his BFF and Bff’s boyfriend. 🙄
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