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In Step #1
Jaywalking
Emile leads a quiet but contented life as a university professor, with a perfect dog, comfortable home, and loyal friends. Maybe there’s something—or someone, missing. But dating is hard enough for vanilla people. Emile doesn’t just have to find someone he wants to date—he has to find someone he wants to kneel for.
Jay likes playing soccer, reading poetry, and handsome men in tweed vests. Men like Emile, who Jay can’t forget after they connected on a rainy July night. Their encounter awoke a powerful urge in Jay to take, command, and control that has haunted him ever since. Jay had hoped that starting college would distract him, but that hope died when he showed up for the first day of his literature class and discovered Emile was his professor.
When Emile tells Jay they can’t be together, Jay is still determined to figure out a way for the two of them to explore what they share. And Emile craves Jay’s gentle dominance too much to resist him.
Jaywalking includes an age gap, a professor-student relationship, BDSM, a very polite dog, explicit sex, and a happy ending.
Jay likes playing soccer, reading poetry, and handsome men in tweed vests. Men like Emile, who Jay can’t forget after they connected on a rainy July night. Their encounter awoke a powerful urge in Jay to take, command, and control that has haunted him ever since. Jay had hoped that starting college would distract him, but that hope died when he showed up for the first day of his literature class and discovered Emile was his professor.
When Emile tells Jay they can’t be together, Jay is still determined to figure out a way for the two of them to explore what they share. And Emile craves Jay’s gentle dominance too much to resist him.
Jaywalking includes an age gap, a professor-student relationship, BDSM, a very polite dog, explicit sex, and a happy ending.
244 pages, Paperback
First published August 11, 2020
57 people are currently reading
1589 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Ember
28 books202 followersRachel was born and raised in the midwest USA, and now lives there voluntarily, a life choice she only sometimes questions. On the small farm her menagerie calls home, she happily juggles her voracious reading and writing habits with caring for her kids and pets.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
Read
August 26, 2021The second edition of Jaywalking is now available wherever you buy ebooks! The original novella was approximately 30,000 words, and the second edition is about twice as long. I am so glad I decided to revisit this story and expand in the original novella.
August 30, 2025
A charming and sweet light BDSM professor/student novella. I smiled so many times while reading this, from the grammar quips to the dog's name to the way the couple found their way to each other over and over again. Romantic and lovely, with a steamy end!
January 11, 2022
Did I read the blurb for this? No.
Did I decide to read it based solely on the cover and who the author was? Yes.
As per usual, Rachel Ember’s writing was great. But, if I had read the blurb, I don’t think I would have reached for this.
I’m not overly fond of D/s themes. And I straight up just do not enjoy the student/teacher trope.
So, in the end, while I enjoyed the writing, I didn’t particularly enjoy the story. I don’t see myself continuing with this particular series
Did I decide to read it based solely on the cover and who the author was? Yes.
As per usual, Rachel Ember’s writing was great. But, if I had read the blurb, I don’t think I would have reached for this.
I’m not overly fond of D/s themes. And I straight up just do not enjoy the student/teacher trope.
So, in the end, while I enjoyed the writing, I didn’t particularly enjoy the story. I don’t see myself continuing with this particular series
Read
January 31, 2022DNF at 30%. I don’t know, this just isn’t working for me. The story is well written, but I just didn’t care for the dynamic between the two main characters. I won’t rate it because I don’t think it’s fair to give a low rating to a well written book just because of my personal preferences in relationships.
June 24, 2023
Why write a gang bang
behind closed doors? Specious kink,
facile romance. Meh.
behind closed doors? Specious kink,
facile romance. Meh.
July 18, 2021
Where do I even start with this one?
The first edition of Jaywalking was a novella I rated at 2-stars. My biggest gripe? That the story ended abruptly, and LONG before it should have. The second edition of Jaywalking is a full-length novel that’s nearly twice the length of the original, and is everything I could have asked for and so many things I never knew I wanted.
I want to thank the author for sending me an advanced reader copy!
Jaywalking by Rachel Ember follows Jay, a young college student who likes to play soccer, read poetry, and make moon eyes at handsome men in tweed vests, and Emile, a university professor with a perfect job, a comfortable home, and loyal friends.
And while Emile might be lonely, he can’t just find someone he wants to date—he has to find someone he wants to kneel for. Jay may never have felt this way before, but a chance encounter with a hot, older man awakens a powerful urge to take, command, and control—and he wants to do all of that to the man who awoke it: his literature professor.
Emile might think they can’t be together, but Jay is determined to figure out a way for the two of them to explore the electric connection that’s been growing and growing between them.
What will happen when Emile craves Jay’s gentle dominance too much to resist him?
So. Many. Good. Things.
Let’s start off with the things I liked the first time around that I still like: the characterization of Jay and Emile, their easy give and take between them, and their immediate, electric connection.
Jay, from the very beginning when he starts the book, is a bright and engaging character. He’s kind-hearted and enthusiastic, and I found myself wanting to read more about his life. He’s a soccer jock, a simple boy, and he’s a poetry nerd. I love all of these things about him, and I love the way he navigates through this story, with a sort of youthful naivety, yes, but with absolute care and consideration for those in his life.
Actually, his caring nature is something that is threaded through the entire story, and is possibly what I love the most about him. He may not get everything right, but damn does he put every bit of himself into everything he does.
Emile, in a way that compliments Jay’s often brash nature, is reserved and contemplative. He’s older, sometimes wise, and definitely warier. Not as quick to act as Jay, I found that reading Emile’s point of view was always a nice reprieve to study what was really going on. As a poet, he navigates through life very differently than Jay, but there was still a lot I liked about him!
More mature, I found that Emile was a bit pragmatic at times. It was all deserved, especially seeing as he was recovering from his relationship with a much older staff member who, at once, had been in a similar position of authority over Emile as Emile is over Jay.
While those dynamics aren’t the same, I enjoyed the contrast between the two relationships and the way that it was threaded throughout the story.
I don’t even have the words to describe HOW HAPPY I am with what Ember decided to do with this book. The build up to Jay and Emile getting together is so good, and it’s just as sweet this time around because it’s nearly the same. While there are a few small additions added to the plot and a smoother overall read to the second edition, the first 40% is nearly the same.
And that’s why it’s so perfect.
In the novella, the way these two met, their instant connection, and the warm arousal that was so clearly threaded between them was fantastic. It is JUST as fantastic this second time around, and it’s made even better by the way the novel keeps going where the novella had ended.
This second edition does exactly what I was yearning for after reading the first; it gives us more of Jay and Emile, who have to navigate being together when they, perhaps, shouldn’t be.
The challenges that arise after the two of them decide to be together are further explored in the second edition of Jaywalking, and so is the relationship between Jay and Emile. Let me first start RAVING about how lovely the additional plot is, and then I’ll talk about how very soft Jay and Emile make my heart feel.
The way that Ember decided to continue this novel was excellent. Jay and Emile deserved more screen time, and they got it here. Watching the two of them work out their relationship and find out how they, specifically, fit together as a romantic couple was beautiful. Watching their relationship grow and flourish was… it was so good. I loved every single second of it.
These two come together as beautifully as you would expect during the beginning of this novel. Jay seems to fit into Emile’s personal life like he’s always been meant to be there, and while their relationship has to be kept private, the affection and care between them only grows and grows.
I love getting to see them be together. I love Jay getting the house, the dog, AND the man of his dreams.
I also love Jay’s exploration into BDSM and domming, which was a nice inclusion. It’s very clear from the beginning that Jay is following a gut instinct that propels him to take on a dominant role with Emile, but he has no idea what he’s doing or where these instincts are coming from. Ember does a fantastic job at broadening Jay’s awareness of the lifestyle he’s stumbled upon, and he makes sure that he educates himself as he continues his relationship with Emile.
The sex isn’t the focus of this book, and I enjoyed that about it. While there are steamy scenes, they are a device for growth. Everything that happens between Jay and Emile happens to bring the two of the closer together, which I adored.
There is… absolutely nothing more I could have wanted from this story. It flowed perfectly, working up towards a climax that kept me reading far past my bedtime just to make sure everything worked out. It gave me highs and lows, and I definitely laughed more than a few times.
If it wasn’t already clear, I LOVE the second edition of Jaywalking. Easily a 5-star read, this is a novel that I already see myself rereading every fall to give myself a bit of fluff. While I may not be going back to school anytime soon, if ever, I think this novel will be the perfect read for the back-to-school season for years to come.
If gentle dominance and service-based submission are your thing, I think this could be the novel for you. While the dom/sub dynamic is present, it’s not overpowering. Jay is Jay and also a dom, and Emile is Emile and also a sub, and the two of them fit together perfectly.
It’s perfect, they’re perfect, and the care and affection between them is twined through every page of this novel.
If you want to read a well-written gay romance that features a subversive dom/sub dynamic, an age gap, and a professor/student relationship that will leave your heart feeling full (especially after one of the best epilogues I’ve ever read), this book is a must-have.
Plus, the new cover is cute as shit, so pick it up!
The first edition of Jaywalking was a novella I rated at 2-stars. My biggest gripe? That the story ended abruptly, and LONG before it should have. The second edition of Jaywalking is a full-length novel that’s nearly twice the length of the original, and is everything I could have asked for and so many things I never knew I wanted.
I want to thank the author for sending me an advanced reader copy!
Jaywalking by Rachel Ember follows Jay, a young college student who likes to play soccer, read poetry, and make moon eyes at handsome men in tweed vests, and Emile, a university professor with a perfect job, a comfortable home, and loyal friends.
And while Emile might be lonely, he can’t just find someone he wants to date—he has to find someone he wants to kneel for. Jay may never have felt this way before, but a chance encounter with a hot, older man awakens a powerful urge to take, command, and control—and he wants to do all of that to the man who awoke it: his literature professor.
Emile might think they can’t be together, but Jay is determined to figure out a way for the two of them to explore the electric connection that’s been growing and growing between them.
What will happen when Emile craves Jay’s gentle dominance too much to resist him?
So. Many. Good. Things.
Let’s start off with the things I liked the first time around that I still like: the characterization of Jay and Emile, their easy give and take between them, and their immediate, electric connection.
Jay, from the very beginning when he starts the book, is a bright and engaging character. He’s kind-hearted and enthusiastic, and I found myself wanting to read more about his life. He’s a soccer jock, a simple boy, and he’s a poetry nerd. I love all of these things about him, and I love the way he navigates through this story, with a sort of youthful naivety, yes, but with absolute care and consideration for those in his life.
Actually, his caring nature is something that is threaded through the entire story, and is possibly what I love the most about him. He may not get everything right, but damn does he put every bit of himself into everything he does.
Emile, in a way that compliments Jay’s often brash nature, is reserved and contemplative. He’s older, sometimes wise, and definitely warier. Not as quick to act as Jay, I found that reading Emile’s point of view was always a nice reprieve to study what was really going on. As a poet, he navigates through life very differently than Jay, but there was still a lot I liked about him!
More mature, I found that Emile was a bit pragmatic at times. It was all deserved, especially seeing as he was recovering from his relationship with a much older staff member who, at once, had been in a similar position of authority over Emile as Emile is over Jay.
While those dynamics aren’t the same, I enjoyed the contrast between the two relationships and the way that it was threaded throughout the story.
I don’t even have the words to describe HOW HAPPY I am with what Ember decided to do with this book. The build up to Jay and Emile getting together is so good, and it’s just as sweet this time around because it’s nearly the same. While there are a few small additions added to the plot and a smoother overall read to the second edition, the first 40% is nearly the same.
And that’s why it’s so perfect.
In the novella, the way these two met, their instant connection, and the warm arousal that was so clearly threaded between them was fantastic. It is JUST as fantastic this second time around, and it’s made even better by the way the novel keeps going where the novella had ended.
This second edition does exactly what I was yearning for after reading the first; it gives us more of Jay and Emile, who have to navigate being together when they, perhaps, shouldn’t be.
The challenges that arise after the two of them decide to be together are further explored in the second edition of Jaywalking, and so is the relationship between Jay and Emile. Let me first start RAVING about how lovely the additional plot is, and then I’ll talk about how very soft Jay and Emile make my heart feel.
The way that Ember decided to continue this novel was excellent. Jay and Emile deserved more screen time, and they got it here. Watching the two of them work out their relationship and find out how they, specifically, fit together as a romantic couple was beautiful. Watching their relationship grow and flourish was… it was so good. I loved every single second of it.
These two come together as beautifully as you would expect during the beginning of this novel. Jay seems to fit into Emile’s personal life like he’s always been meant to be there, and while their relationship has to be kept private, the affection and care between them only grows and grows.
I love getting to see them be together. I love Jay getting the house, the dog, AND the man of his dreams.
I also love Jay’s exploration into BDSM and domming, which was a nice inclusion. It’s very clear from the beginning that Jay is following a gut instinct that propels him to take on a dominant role with Emile, but he has no idea what he’s doing or where these instincts are coming from. Ember does a fantastic job at broadening Jay’s awareness of the lifestyle he’s stumbled upon, and he makes sure that he educates himself as he continues his relationship with Emile.
The sex isn’t the focus of this book, and I enjoyed that about it. While there are steamy scenes, they are a device for growth. Everything that happens between Jay and Emile happens to bring the two of the closer together, which I adored.
There is… absolutely nothing more I could have wanted from this story. It flowed perfectly, working up towards a climax that kept me reading far past my bedtime just to make sure everything worked out. It gave me highs and lows, and I definitely laughed more than a few times.
If it wasn’t already clear, I LOVE the second edition of Jaywalking. Easily a 5-star read, this is a novel that I already see myself rereading every fall to give myself a bit of fluff. While I may not be going back to school anytime soon, if ever, I think this novel will be the perfect read for the back-to-school season for years to come.
If gentle dominance and service-based submission are your thing, I think this could be the novel for you. While the dom/sub dynamic is present, it’s not overpowering. Jay is Jay and also a dom, and Emile is Emile and also a sub, and the two of them fit together perfectly.
It’s perfect, they’re perfect, and the care and affection between them is twined through every page of this novel.
If you want to read a well-written gay romance that features a subversive dom/sub dynamic, an age gap, and a professor/student relationship that will leave your heart feeling full (especially after one of the best epilogues I’ve ever read), this book is a must-have.
Plus, the new cover is cute as shit, so pick it up!
July 20, 2021
Fantastic read. MM ,forbidden ,age gap romance with some sub/dom themes. The sub/dom theme doesn’t overpower the story and fits perfectly! Emile and Jay are so perfect together and Godot is such a good boy! There are some steamy scenes and a little bit of angst. Perfectly written!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 15, 2021
Really enjoyed this, it's adorable, sexy and smart. It's a heartwarming and refreshing story, that proves one thing: who in the world can predict what will make you tick. It's very light BDSM, and a story of self discovery for both MCs. I enjoyed both Emile and Jay, together, they just fit. It's also a fairly low angst read. Love the May/December trope, and the fact that it's just a bit different..
Such a fun read...
Such a fun read...
December 25, 2021
I was lucky enough to be given an ARC for this book and I do mean lucky.
Jaywalking is easily one of the best debuts into the m/m genre I've seen in a while. Jaywalking is utterly compelling and gripping.
I was sucked into the story from the opening chapter. Rachel has an incredible way with words and I am simply in awe of her skill and talent.
I highly encourage everyone to read this book if you can. This is one writer who has an exciting career ahead of her.
Jaywalking is easily one of the best debuts into the m/m genre I've seen in a while. Jaywalking is utterly compelling and gripping.
I was sucked into the story from the opening chapter. Rachel has an incredible way with words and I am simply in awe of her skill and talent.
I highly encourage everyone to read this book if you can. This is one writer who has an exciting career ahead of her.
August 17, 2020
I'm not together enough to write a thoughtful review right now so all I can say is that it is super adorable and excellent and you are missing out if you don't read it! Emilie and Jay both captured my heart. Gave me a book hangover; I love it so much!!
May 24, 2022
Where do I even start with this one?
The first edition of Jaywalking was a novella I rated at 2-stars. My biggest gripe? That the story ended abruptly, and LONG before it should have. The second edition of Jaywalking is a full-length novel that’s nearly twice the length of the original, and is everything I could have asked for and so many things I never knew I wanted.
I want to thank the author for sending me an advanced reader copy!
Jaywalking by Rachel Ember follows Jay, a young college student who likes to play soccer, read poetry, and make moon eyes at handsome men in tweed vests, and Emile, a university professor with a perfect job, a comfortable home, and loyal friends.
And while Emile might be lonely, he can’t just find someone he wants to date—he has to find someone he wants to kneel for. Jay may never have felt this way before, but a chance encounter with a hot, older man awakens a powerful urge to take, command, and control—and he wants to do all of that to the man who awoke it: his literature professor.
Emile might think they can’t be together, but Jay is determined to figure out a way for the two of them to explore the electric connection that’s been growing and growing between them.
What will happen when Emile craves Jay’s gentle dominance too much to resist him?
So. Many. Good. Things.
Let’s start off with the things I liked the first time around that I still like: the characterization of Jay and Emile, their easy give and take between them, and their immediate, electric connection.
Jay, from the very beginning when he starts the book, is a bright and engaging character. He’s kind-hearted and enthusiastic, and I found myself wanting to read more about his life. He’s a soccer jock, a simple boy, and he’s a poetry nerd. I love all of these things about him, and I love the way he navigates through this story, with a sort of youthful naivety, yes, but with absolute care and consideration for those in his life.
Actually, his caring nature is something that is threaded through the entire story, and is possibly what I love the most about him. He may not get everything right, but damn does he put every bit of himself into everything he does.
Emile, in a way that compliments Jay’s often brash nature, is reserved and contemplative. He’s older, sometimes wise, and definitely warier. Not as quick to act as Jay, I found that reading Emile’s point of view was always a nice reprieve to study what was really going on. As a poet, he navigates through life very differently than Jay, but there was still a lot I liked about him!
More mature, I found that Emile was a bit pragmatic at times. It was all deserved, especially seeing as he was recovering from his relationship with a much older staff member who, at once, had been in a similar position of authority over Emile as Emile is over Jay.
While those dynamics aren’t the same, I enjoyed the contrast between the two relationships and the way that it was threaded throughout the story.
I don’t even have the words to describe HOW HAPPY I am with what Ember decided to do with this book. The build up to Jay and Emile getting together is so good, and it’s just as sweet this time around because it’s nearly the same. While there are a few small additions added to the plot and a smoother overall read to the second edition, the first 40% is nearly the same.
And that’s why it’s so perfect.
In the novella, the way these two met, their instant connection, and the warm arousal that was so clearly threaded between them was fantastic. It is JUST as fantastic this second time around, and it’s made even better by the way the novel keeps going where the novella had ended.
This second edition does exactly what I was yearning for after reading the first; it gives us more of Jay and Emile, who have to navigate being together when they, perhaps, shouldn’t be.
The challenges that arise after the two of them decide to be together are further explored in the second edition of Jaywalking, and so is the relationship between Jay and Emile. Let me first start RAVING about how lovely the additional plot is, and then I’ll talk about how very soft Jay and Emile make my heart feel.
The way that Ember decided to continue this novel was excellent. Jay and Emile deserved more screen time, and they got it here. Watching the two of them work out their relationship and find out how they, specifically, fit together as a romantic couple was beautiful. Watching their relationship grow and flourish was… it was so good. I loved every single second of it.
These two come together as beautifully as you would expect during the beginning of this novel. Jay seems to fit into Emile’s personal life like he’s always been meant to be there, and while their relationship has to be kept private, the affection and care between them only grows and grows.
I love getting to see them be together. I love Jay getting the house, the dog, AND the man of his dreams.
I also love Jay’s exploration into BDSM and domming, which was a nice inclusion. It’s very clear from the beginning that Jay is following a gut instinct that propels him to take on a dominant role with Emile, but he has no idea what he’s doing or where these instincts are coming from. Ember does a fantastic job at broadening Jay’s awareness of the lifestyle he’s stumbled upon, and he makes sure that he educates himself as he continues his relationship with Emile.
The sex isn’t the focus of this book, and I enjoyed that about it. While there are steamy scenes, they are a device for growth. Everything that happens between Jay and Emile happens to bring the two of the closer together, which I adored.
There is… absolutely nothing more I could have wanted from this story. It flowed perfectly, working up towards a climax that kept me reading far past my bedtime just to make sure everything worked out. It gave me highs and lows, and I definitely laughed more than a few times.
If it wasn’t already clear, I LOVE the second edition of Jaywalking. Easily a 5-star read, this is a novel that I already see myself rereading every fall to give myself a bit of fluff. While I may not be going back to school anytime soon, if ever, I think this novel will be the perfect read for the back-to-school season for years to come.
If gentle dominance and service-based submission are your thing, I think this could be the novel for you. While the dom/sub dynamic is present, it’s not overpowering. Jay is Jay and also a dom, and Emile is Emile and also a sub, and the two of them fit together perfectly.
It’s perfect, they’re perfect, and the care and affection between them is twined through every page of this novel.
If you want to read a well-written gay romance that features a subversive dom/sub dynamic, an age gap, and a professor/student relationship that will leave your heart feeling full (especially after one of the best epilogues I’ve ever read), this book is a must-have.
Plus, the new cover is cute as shit, so pick it up!
The first edition of Jaywalking was a novella I rated at 2-stars. My biggest gripe? That the story ended abruptly, and LONG before it should have. The second edition of Jaywalking is a full-length novel that’s nearly twice the length of the original, and is everything I could have asked for and so many things I never knew I wanted.
I want to thank the author for sending me an advanced reader copy!
Jaywalking by Rachel Ember follows Jay, a young college student who likes to play soccer, read poetry, and make moon eyes at handsome men in tweed vests, and Emile, a university professor with a perfect job, a comfortable home, and loyal friends.
And while Emile might be lonely, he can’t just find someone he wants to date—he has to find someone he wants to kneel for. Jay may never have felt this way before, but a chance encounter with a hot, older man awakens a powerful urge to take, command, and control—and he wants to do all of that to the man who awoke it: his literature professor.
Emile might think they can’t be together, but Jay is determined to figure out a way for the two of them to explore the electric connection that’s been growing and growing between them.
What will happen when Emile craves Jay’s gentle dominance too much to resist him?
So. Many. Good. Things.
Let’s start off with the things I liked the first time around that I still like: the characterization of Jay and Emile, their easy give and take between them, and their immediate, electric connection.
Jay, from the very beginning when he starts the book, is a bright and engaging character. He’s kind-hearted and enthusiastic, and I found myself wanting to read more about his life. He’s a soccer jock, a simple boy, and he’s a poetry nerd. I love all of these things about him, and I love the way he navigates through this story, with a sort of youthful naivety, yes, but with absolute care and consideration for those in his life.
Actually, his caring nature is something that is threaded through the entire story, and is possibly what I love the most about him. He may not get everything right, but damn does he put every bit of himself into everything he does.
Emile, in a way that compliments Jay’s often brash nature, is reserved and contemplative. He’s older, sometimes wise, and definitely warier. Not as quick to act as Jay, I found that reading Emile’s point of view was always a nice reprieve to study what was really going on. As a poet, he navigates through life very differently than Jay, but there was still a lot I liked about him!
More mature, I found that Emile was a bit pragmatic at times. It was all deserved, especially seeing as he was recovering from his relationship with a much older staff member who, at once, had been in a similar position of authority over Emile as Emile is over Jay.
While those dynamics aren’t the same, I enjoyed the contrast between the two relationships and the way that it was threaded throughout the story.
I don’t even have the words to describe HOW HAPPY I am with what Ember decided to do with this book. The build up to Jay and Emile getting together is so good, and it’s just as sweet this time around because it’s nearly the same. While there are a few small additions added to the plot and a smoother overall read to the second edition, the first 40% is nearly the same.
And that’s why it’s so perfect.
In the novella, the way these two met, their instant connection, and the warm arousal that was so clearly threaded between them was fantastic. It is JUST as fantastic this second time around, and it’s made even better by the way the novel keeps going where the novella had ended.
This second edition does exactly what I was yearning for after reading the first; it gives us more of Jay and Emile, who have to navigate being together when they, perhaps, shouldn’t be.
The challenges that arise after the two of them decide to be together are further explored in the second edition of Jaywalking, and so is the relationship between Jay and Emile. Let me first start RAVING about how lovely the additional plot is, and then I’ll talk about how very soft Jay and Emile make my heart feel.
The way that Ember decided to continue this novel was excellent. Jay and Emile deserved more screen time, and they got it here. Watching the two of them work out their relationship and find out how they, specifically, fit together as a romantic couple was beautiful. Watching their relationship grow and flourish was… it was so good. I loved every single second of it.
These two come together as beautifully as you would expect during the beginning of this novel. Jay seems to fit into Emile’s personal life like he’s always been meant to be there, and while their relationship has to be kept private, the affection and care between them only grows and grows.
I love getting to see them be together. I love Jay getting the house, the dog, AND the man of his dreams.
I also love Jay’s exploration into BDSM and domming, which was a nice inclusion. It’s very clear from the beginning that Jay is following a gut instinct that propels him to take on a dominant role with Emile, but he has no idea what he’s doing or where these instincts are coming from. Ember does a fantastic job at broadening Jay’s awareness of the lifestyle he’s stumbled upon, and he makes sure that he educates himself as he continues his relationship with Emile.
The sex isn’t the focus of this book, and I enjoyed that about it. While there are steamy scenes, they are a device for growth. Everything that happens between Jay and Emile happens to bring the two of the closer together, which I adored.
There is… absolutely nothing more I could have wanted from this story. It flowed perfectly, working up towards a climax that kept me reading far past my bedtime just to make sure everything worked out. It gave me highs and lows, and I definitely laughed more than a few times.
If it wasn’t already clear, I LOVE the second edition of Jaywalking. Easily a 5-star read, this is a novel that I already see myself rereading every fall to give myself a bit of fluff. While I may not be going back to school anytime soon, if ever, I think this novel will be the perfect read for the back-to-school season for years to come.
If gentle dominance and service-based submission are your thing, I think this could be the novel for you. While the dom/sub dynamic is present, it’s not overpowering. Jay is Jay and also a dom, and Emile is Emile and also a sub, and the two of them fit together perfectly.
It’s perfect, they’re perfect, and the care and affection between them is twined through every page of this novel.
If you want to read a well-written gay romance that features a subversive dom/sub dynamic, an age gap, and a professor/student relationship that will leave your heart feeling full (especially after one of the best epilogues I’ve ever read), this book is a must-have.
Plus, the new cover is cute as shit, so pick it up!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 4, 2021
Soccer-playing, poem loving Jay crashed into buttoned-up, by-the-book Emile in a club where they are both attending a poetry reading. Their chemistry is instant, but when Jay instructs Emile to meet him in the restroom for a more in-depth exploration of said chemistry, Emile disappears.
Flash forward a month. Jay is starting college and sees the man he can’t get out of his mind in his Lit class. Jay is a first year student and Emile is his - Lit professor?
Their chemistry is real, their dilemma is obvious and their path to HEA is littered with missteps, kink awakenings, and lessons in walking outside the lines. Add in some snarky BFF’s, a bunch of totally adorable dogs, and the most awesomely hilarious parents ever and this story is by turns sweet, sexy and funny.
I totally loved everything about this book. I laughed, I shed a few tears and I adored every character. Rachel Ember writes complex characters and allows the reader to really see inside their thoughts and emotions. And she creates such a vivid picture of the setting she creates that they are additional characters in the book. This is yet another wonderful creation by the author.
Flash forward a month. Jay is starting college and sees the man he can’t get out of his mind in his Lit class. Jay is a first year student and Emile is his - Lit professor?
Their chemistry is real, their dilemma is obvious and their path to HEA is littered with missteps, kink awakenings, and lessons in walking outside the lines. Add in some snarky BFF’s, a bunch of totally adorable dogs, and the most awesomely hilarious parents ever and this story is by turns sweet, sexy and funny.
I totally loved everything about this book. I laughed, I shed a few tears and I adored every character. Rachel Ember writes complex characters and allows the reader to really see inside their thoughts and emotions. And she creates such a vivid picture of the setting she creates that they are additional characters in the book. This is yet another wonderful creation by the author.
January 28, 2021
Well-written, but half the book is missing. Very decent dialogue (though the MCs talk more to their friends than to each other), and good descriptive writing. But just at the point where the MCs agree they could be together, the book ends.
HFN is fine, but I do have to be able to envisage what H looks like. Here, there are so many HFN-critical questions completely unaddressed.
I think this is a debut work, so I'll try something else by RE, and hope the writing is matched by the structure.
4* writing, 2* plot. No idea who the bloke on the cover is.
HFN is fine, but I do have to be able to envisage what H looks like. Here, there are so many HFN-critical questions completely unaddressed.
I think this is a debut work, so I'll try something else by RE, and hope the writing is matched by the structure.
4* writing, 2* plot. No idea who the bloke on the cover is.
May 20, 2022
I loved this so much! They were so great together and a little old man dog too. I loved Emile's friends and Bria. I'm not sure it's entirely realistic, why isn't Jay friends with anyone but Bria, he's a jock after all, someone on the team would be friendly at least. And the BDSM aspect is almost nonexistent, although I think that might have partially been the point, because not everyone lives the same lifestyle. I have the feeling I could probably pick this apart but I don't want to. I loved them together, and, yes, I know the relationship is problematic, but I really enjoyed their story and the overall lack of drama. I was a little surprised that Jay's parents were apparently uncomfortable with the relationship since Jay said multiple times that they were very accepting, but maybe that's a nod to the teacher/student issue. At any rate this was a winner for me!
July 30, 2021
This was an Adorable Love Story! Jay is a very young new college student. He is a big softie who plays soccer but also loves poetry.. He is very inexperienced with relationships and intimacy. Emile is our older vest wearing nerdy young professor. These two seem so very different yet they bring out the best in each other. They had an immediate chemistry that at first Emile feels he needs to resist.. but you know how that goes! They both have amusing friends that keep the story fresh and fun with the exaggerated personalities and banter! This is age gap with a twist since it is our younger guy who is realizing that he might like being a bit of a gentle DOM! I received and ARC of this book and I highly recommend you read and see how things grow between these two once Emile gives in!! It is a truly lovely, steamy, sweet and fun romance!
June 12, 2022
I always enjoy Rachel Ember’s writing. After finishing her Wild Ones series (reading it straight for a couple of days), I know I’m in for a romantic treat that’s just the right amount of steam and sweetness. I adored Jay and Emile, both had their own strength’s and weakness but together they fit each other. The light d/s dynamic was portrayed well with Jay as a younger Dom just coming to discover that side of himself and Emile as a more older and experienced sub. I loved seeing how their relationship bloomed and how misunderstandings were avoided because they communicated and were honest with each other.
This was such a lovely feel good story. I’m excited to read the next one because Oliver was so well portrayed from Emile’s pov.
January 26, 2021
I loved a lot about this book and I really want to see more from the author but it left me a bit unsatisfied. It's almost as if all the scenes that had the big emotional payoff that we expect from the genre had been strategically removed. I expected there to be the typical climax somewhere in the plot where characters finally proclaim their love/lust, expose their vulnerabilities, and confess their weaknesses and mistakes. This story kind of skipped that and jumped to an epilogue. There is lots of sexual tension and the angst of the prof/student relationship. Material that should lead to some kind of climax. I'm looking forward to reading more from the author but I'm hoping for more emotional payoff because the characters, writing, and world of the series is great.
July 31, 2021
It takes a really wonderful story and amazing writing for me to give a story 5 stars, and here this author has done it three times in a row for me. However, I realize that the ofttimes poetic text may be a turnoff to some readers, but I simply adore it when it's not overdone, which it absolutely wasn't in Jaywalking.
I truly loved how Jay's youth and innocence played into the story of him meeting and falling in love with an older submissive. Emile isn't your typical sub either. It's a simple submission of "what pleases you, pleases me," and bended knee. While we can easily imagine what might occur as Jay comes into his own as he ages, I'm glad we get the chance to do so without reading it.
I truly loved how Jay's youth and innocence played into the story of him meeting and falling in love with an older submissive. Emile isn't your typical sub either. It's a simple submission of "what pleases you, pleases me," and bended knee. While we can easily imagine what might occur as Jay comes into his own as he ages, I'm glad we get the chance to do so without reading it.
August 2, 2021
Heartwarming
I love Rachel’s writing style and this book is no exception, characters were complex and loveable, so much substance in the storyline it was easy to connect. They both had interesting friends and delightful family that had me in stitches and dogs. Emile and Jay had chemistry that was both sweet and sexy hot, I loved their sensual scenes. Another keeper.
I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book for my honest opinions of which I’m under no obligation to do so. I absolutely recommend this story.
I love Rachel’s writing style and this book is no exception, characters were complex and loveable, so much substance in the storyline it was easy to connect. They both had interesting friends and delightful family that had me in stitches and dogs. Emile and Jay had chemistry that was both sweet and sexy hot, I loved their sensual scenes. Another keeper.
I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book for my honest opinions of which I’m under no obligation to do so. I absolutely recommend this story.
August 8, 2021
This is a well written student/teacher age gap romance with a touch of BDSM. The author does a great job developing their relationship and delivering a sweet romance between Jay and Emile. It's well written,moves fluidly with a cast of supporting characters and is an enjoyable read.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
October 12, 2023
I enjoyed this. I definitely like the author's writing style, and want to read more from her.
I definitely felt the chemistry between both characters, though I the romance was a bit less believable. The main conflict of this story is their position as student and teacher (and a little bit on the age gap), and there's not as much sports or kink as I'd hoped for.
I definitely felt the chemistry between both characters, though I the romance was a bit less believable. The main conflict of this story is their position as student and teacher (and a little bit on the age gap), and there's not as much sports or kink as I'd hoped for.
February 11, 2022
3.5 stars. Jay, a college athlete, meets Emile, a professor, in this super cozy little read. Sweet, pleasant, and relaxing, with the *tiniest* hint of a submissive personality.
July 26, 2021
An absolutely wonderful book!!
I found this novel to be very well written and entertaining. The plot is thoughtful imaginative and engrossing.
Jay and Emile are so perfect together.... but with Jay being Emile's student, things could get bad for both of them. Luckily, the two have a couple of friends... and a dog or two... to help each of them really see the other for who he is and what he means to him. The secondary characters are extraordinary, as they help the guys understand that maybe what they have together is worth the hassle - despite the stilted opinions of society.
Highly recommended!! 5 stars!
I found this novel to be very well written and entertaining. The plot is thoughtful imaginative and engrossing.
Jay and Emile are so perfect together.... but with Jay being Emile's student, things could get bad for both of them. Luckily, the two have a couple of friends... and a dog or two... to help each of them really see the other for who he is and what he means to him. The secondary characters are extraordinary, as they help the guys understand that maybe what they have together is worth the hassle - despite the stilted opinions of society.
Highly recommended!! 5 stars!
August 13, 2020
Jay Metz Professor Emile
This was a well written short story about two people that fall in love. It was an age gap with a hint of some kink and the Dom was the younger man. Oh course this tool place on an university campus so it was somewhat forbidden. But you know the old saying, forbidden was as so much sweeter.
This was a well written short story about two people that fall in love. It was an age gap with a hint of some kink and the Dom was the younger man. Oh course this tool place on an university campus so it was somewhat forbidden. But you know the old saying, forbidden was as so much sweeter.
September 25, 2021
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
*This is a review of the longer version, not just the novella.
There is something about Rachel Ember's books that completely hook me in; they are so well written, have interesting characters and there's just an unexplainable level of charm, making them so enjoyable to read. In this regard, 'Jaywalking' is no different. It has two great main characters, Jay and Emile, who have clear chemistry as well as some very interesting secondary characters - I personally want to know so much more about Oliver! Plus, Godot (Emile's dog) was just too cute and the icing on this already very heartwarming and sweet cake!
This book struck a good balance of characterisation and moving the plot forward. Nothing felt too dragged out but at the same point, I never felt rushed along. It was a classic tale of college professor-student romance yet it still felt fresh and I had a great time reading it. It says BDSM as one of the trigger warnings but really this isn't a huge element to the book - Jay gets a little bossy, Emile sometimes kneels for him and identifies as a 'sub' but nothing happens on page that I'd class as truly graphic in regards to BDSM.
Overall, this is a great MM romance that ticks all the boxes and gives you the must have HEA too. I'd definitely recommend it to those who like this genre and I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
*This is a review of the longer version, not just the novella.
There is something about Rachel Ember's books that completely hook me in; they are so well written, have interesting characters and there's just an unexplainable level of charm, making them so enjoyable to read. In this regard, 'Jaywalking' is no different. It has two great main characters, Jay and Emile, who have clear chemistry as well as some very interesting secondary characters - I personally want to know so much more about Oliver! Plus, Godot (Emile's dog) was just too cute and the icing on this already very heartwarming and sweet cake!
This book struck a good balance of characterisation and moving the plot forward. Nothing felt too dragged out but at the same point, I never felt rushed along. It was a classic tale of college professor-student romance yet it still felt fresh and I had a great time reading it. It says BDSM as one of the trigger warnings but really this isn't a huge element to the book - Jay gets a little bossy, Emile sometimes kneels for him and identifies as a 'sub' but nothing happens on page that I'd class as truly graphic in regards to BDSM.
Overall, this is a great MM romance that ticks all the boxes and gives you the must have HEA too. I'd definitely recommend it to those who like this genre and I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
August 31, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.75 stars
Jaywalking is the first in Rachel Ember’s new Tangled Leash series and appears to be the author’s debut publication. I was drawn in to this one right away from the blurb highlighting the student/teacher angle, as well as the younger dominant partner dynamic. I found I really enjoyed the author’s writing style and it fit well with the story. Both Jay and Emile have an interest in poetry and Emile is an English professor, and Ember’s style is really evocative with some great imagery and a really nice style. She paints great pictures with her words, without having the writing feel stuffy or overly dramatic. In particular, I liked how Ember connects Jay’s role on the soccer field with his personality as he relates to Emile. It does a great job really giving us insight into his character in a nice way.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
3.75 stars
Jaywalking is the first in Rachel Ember’s new Tangled Leash series and appears to be the author’s debut publication. I was drawn in to this one right away from the blurb highlighting the student/teacher angle, as well as the younger dominant partner dynamic. I found I really enjoyed the author’s writing style and it fit well with the story. Both Jay and Emile have an interest in poetry and Emile is an English professor, and Ember’s style is really evocative with some great imagery and a really nice style. She paints great pictures with her words, without having the writing feel stuffy or overly dramatic. In particular, I liked how Ember connects Jay’s role on the soccer field with his personality as he relates to Emile. It does a great job really giving us insight into his character in a nice way.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
August 5, 2021
This was fantastic!! I had previously read the earlier version the author wrote. I felt it ended kind of abrupt, like it needed more. The author did a fantastic job of giving us more and it left me smiling! Jay is a college student on a soccer scholarship. Emile is a professor at the college that Jay is attending. Over the summer Jay and Emile meet at a poetry reading. They have an instant connection but Emile chickens out and leaves Jay hanging. They meet again at the college. Only now Emile is one of Jay’s professors. Loved the professor/student storyline with a bit of light BDSM, especially with the student being the top, but I especially liked how the kink didn’t take over the story, it wasn’t overpowering. A short age gap read, romantic and steamy!! I absolutely enjoyed this story, it was really well written, highly recommend!! I am voluntarily leaving a review form an advanced copy that I received. My reviews are solely based on my thoughts and opinions.
August 14, 2020
3. 5 stars. A good start to the book with an almost hot hook up. An easy read novella which includes both POVs for Jay and Emile. The Dom and Submissive scenes are on the light side of the scale. This was and okay book all up to read. This had so much potential with a longer book though with missing pieces filled in.
• a dash of learner Dom and Submissive
• age gap
• student & professor
• forbidden relations but with hot lust
Jay 18 was hoping to attend a poetry event at a bar but was lost when he entered the bar. Meeting an older Emile had him flustered..
*I received an GRR advanced readers copy and this is my honest review.
• a dash of learner Dom and Submissive
• age gap
• student & professor
• forbidden relations but with hot lust
Jay 18 was hoping to attend a poetry event at a bar but was lost when he entered the bar. Meeting an older Emile had him flustered..
*I received an GRR advanced readers copy and this is my honest review.
August 26, 2020
Most of this book was the two character, Jay and Emile, waxing on about how they couldn't have a relationship. It kind of got repetitive and I felt like we didn't get to know either character all that deeply. This one was hard to get into. I was kind of disappointed by how little we actually see of the two of them interacting with each other, whether sexually or not. I wanted to get to know Bria more. Mostly this book was kind of one dimensional for me. I don't know if I would recommend this book, maybe if you really love angst and will-they-won't-they tropes.
September 19, 2020
Intense novella
This was intense. Jay and Emile had instant chemistry. It was palpable.
What Emile does not know at the time is that Jay is his student. This put a wrinkle in things.
I wish this book was a bit longer so we could have seen the exploration of their relationship more rather than getting a bit of a quickie at the end 😬
This was intense. Jay and Emile had instant chemistry. It was palpable.
What Emile does not know at the time is that Jay is his student. This put a wrinkle in things.
I wish this book was a bit longer so we could have seen the exploration of their relationship more rather than getting a bit of a quickie at the end 😬
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