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Open Doors #2.5
Doors Open on the Left
Strangers on a train…
Dr. Brooks Bruno has one rule: don’t interrupt someone when they are reading. But when a sexy stranger boards his train, he’s too intrigued to follow his rule. He’s also too smitten to remember to ask for the guy’s phone number. But he can’t get the stranger’s face out of his head.
A missed connection…
Henry Miller has always been a hopeless romantic, so when he meets a gorgeous guy who loves books as much as he does, he’s pretty sure he’s the one. Unfortunately, Henry is too caught up in their literary banter to ask the important questions…like his stranger’s name.
A second chance at love…
In a city as big as Chicago, finding each other again will be nearly impossible, but sometimes fate intervenes in mysterious ways.
Dr. Brooks Bruno has one rule: don’t interrupt someone when they are reading. But when a sexy stranger boards his train, he’s too intrigued to follow his rule. He’s also too smitten to remember to ask for the guy’s phone number. But he can’t get the stranger’s face out of his head.
A missed connection…
Henry Miller has always been a hopeless romantic, so when he meets a gorgeous guy who loves books as much as he does, he’s pretty sure he’s the one. Unfortunately, Henry is too caught up in their literary banter to ask the important questions…like his stranger’s name.
A second chance at love…
In a city as big as Chicago, finding each other again will be nearly impossible, but sometimes fate intervenes in mysterious ways.
122 pages, ebook
First published January 1, 2022
8 people are currently reading
109 people want to read
About the author
Vinni George
36 books113 followersVinni George has been a lover of romance novels (of all shapes, sizes, and colors) since she first got her hands on one of her grandmother’s Harlequins and has never looked back. She lives in Ohio with her two favorite guys (her husband and son) and, hopefully—one day—a dog. When she’s not writing, Vinni can be found working for her family’s business, which provides plenty of plot bunnies. In her spare time, Vinni is a soccer mom who dabbles in performance art, quilting, and various culinary pursuits and enjoys traveling.
Vinni’s debut novel, Hold the Door, was a finalist and runner-up in Contemporary Gay Romance in the 2020-2021 Rainbow Awards.
Vinni’s debut novel, Hold the Door, was a finalist and runner-up in Contemporary Gay Romance in the 2020-2021 Rainbow Awards.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
January 31, 2022
Oh, this was sooooo cute. Sweet and sugar cute. No drama. Just cute.
March 2, 2022
A cute novella, that works fine as a standalone (I had read none of the series prior to this).
I vibe with the total lack of interest in a field you're working in, especially when you can see other people who love it, like poor Brooks:
I know that feel man, especially about academia.
This has the instant-chemistry via static shock trope, which always makes me a little .....eyerolly, but otherwise it didn't feel instalove or instalust to me, which was nice.
Overall, this was well balanced on storylines and romance, and generally sweet without being cloying.
I vibe with the total lack of interest in a field you're working in, especially when you can see other people who love it, like poor Brooks:
The best that could be said for me was that I didn’t run screaming from the building at the end of every workday.
I know that feel man, especially about academia.
This has the instant-chemistry via static shock trope, which always makes me a little .....eyerolly, but otherwise it didn't feel instalove or instalust to me, which was nice.
Overall, this was well balanced on storylines and romance, and generally sweet without being cloying.
He was a tiny guy who insisted on wearing tweed even in the dog days of summer, and a man who could wear tweed in July was not a man I wanted to anger.
April 9, 2022
Meh, it's ok but forgettable.
Quite a few of the conversations felt unnatural and scripted. I skipped the intimate scenes, it's first person and felt that bit off. Too many coincidents. Far too many coincidents.
Two dates and Hentry decides to renovate the top floor of his shop for Brook?!
The professor/father issues/author/writers block all added up to too much going on for a short drama-free read. Would have been better if some drama had evolved from it.
Henry seems to know nothing about running a book store. Stock only the books you like? Glance at shelves in order to reorder rather than track what you sell? He has no staff that are mentioned yet could do major (covertly knocking a wall down?!) renovating while running his shop.
I've decided America must be filled with quirky elderly busy bodies, these women with nothing to do but hound heroes about their love life seem a staple of many books. And what's the deal with Janet Evanovich?
Quite a few of the conversations felt unnatural and scripted. I skipped the intimate scenes, it's first person and felt that bit off. Too many coincidents. Far too many coincidents.
Two dates and Hentry decides to renovate the top floor of his shop for Brook?!
The professor/father issues/author/writers block all added up to too much going on for a short drama-free read. Would have been better if some drama had evolved from it.
Henry seems to know nothing about running a book store. Stock only the books you like? Glance at shelves in order to reorder rather than track what you sell? He has no staff that are mentioned yet could do major (covertly knocking a wall down?!) renovating while running his shop.
I've decided America must be filled with quirky elderly busy bodies, these women with nothing to do but hound heroes about their love life seem a staple of many books. And what's the deal with Janet Evanovich?
February 17, 2023
4.5 stars. His pen name R.W. Cook is not his real-life name. In real life he’s dr. Brooks Bruno, English professor. Sitting on a train opposite a guy who is reading, not just one, but one of his books! Brooks can’t withhold himself and ask the guy what he’s reading and if it’s a good read. Of course not telling him he’s the author, an author with a writing block.
Henry starts talking to the handsome guy who asked what he is reading. Before they know the guy has to leave already, such a shame, it was fun. Both can’t seem to forget about the other.
Henry owns a bookstore Tiny Takes and reading is his life, his story needs a push, and business isn’t going well. But, there’s a plan… that involves authors.
Without giving too much away, their paths cross again, not quite as planned. There’s more to the story than I expected. I loved it all very much.
A sweet angst-free story, quite entertaining and captivating, with kind, mature lovable characters, it was a fun, sexy, and easygoing interesting read, all nicely written and developed. The meddling friends were a more than great addition.
Henry starts talking to the handsome guy who asked what he is reading. Before they know the guy has to leave already, such a shame, it was fun. Both can’t seem to forget about the other.
Henry owns a bookstore Tiny Takes and reading is his life, his story needs a push, and business isn’t going well. But, there’s a plan… that involves authors.
Without giving too much away, their paths cross again, not quite as planned. There’s more to the story than I expected. I loved it all very much.
A sweet angst-free story, quite entertaining and captivating, with kind, mature lovable characters, it was a fun, sexy, and easygoing interesting read, all nicely written and developed. The meddling friends were a more than great addition.
February 16, 2022
3.5 stars
September 4, 2022
4.25 Stars
Vinni George’s terrific novella, Doors Open on the Left, does everything a good short story should do.
First, of course, it’s short. And it’s filled with fascinating, completely developed main and secondary characters, and it actually has a plot - it’s not just about sex.
As George notes in her preface, Doors Open on the Left is a standalone novella set in the Open Doors world featuring a jaded English literature professor [Dr. Brooks Bruno], a bookstore owner who loves romance novels [the cute, bespectacled Henry Miller, owner of the warn and inviting Tiny Tales Book Store ], a human shop cat [the eccentric Mrs. Matthews with her huge turquoise bag and her lists of ideas], and a secret identity [who is the reclusive author R. W. Cook and does he actually know Janet Evanovich?].
It you’re interest in a fun, quick read, starting on Chicago’s rapid transit red line headed toward Fullerton - where the doors open on the left - this is the book for you.
Even though there’s no question this is a standalone story, Doors Open on the Left will leave you hoping that the author will bring Henry and Brooks back in a full length novel of their own.
Vinni George’s terrific novella, Doors Open on the Left, does everything a good short story should do.
First, of course, it’s short. And it’s filled with fascinating, completely developed main and secondary characters, and it actually has a plot - it’s not just about sex.
As George notes in her preface, Doors Open on the Left is a standalone novella set in the Open Doors world featuring a jaded English literature professor [Dr. Brooks Bruno], a bookstore owner who loves romance novels [the cute, bespectacled Henry Miller, owner of the warn and inviting Tiny Tales Book Store ], a human shop cat [the eccentric Mrs. Matthews with her huge turquoise bag and her lists of ideas], and a secret identity [who is the reclusive author R. W. Cook and does he actually know Janet Evanovich?].
It you’re interest in a fun, quick read, starting on Chicago’s rapid transit red line headed toward Fullerton - where the doors open on the left - this is the book for you.
Even though there’s no question this is a standalone story, Doors Open on the Left will leave you hoping that the author will bring Henry and Brooks back in a full length novel of their own.
December 30, 2022
Two men meet on a train. One a professor/author and the other a book store owner, need I say more?
This was such a cute and fast read, it had all the feel good elements that the author usually provides in their books but it felt like it was missing something. I wasn’t 100% sold until the end that Henry’s feelings weren’t just because of who Brooks was. It needed something else to give it more of an oomph.
I still enjoyed reading regardless and would recommend if you want something easy and sweet to read where you don’t have to think too hard to keep track.
This was such a cute and fast read, it had all the feel good elements that the author usually provides in their books but it felt like it was missing something. I wasn’t 100% sold until the end that Henry’s feelings weren’t just because of who Brooks was. It needed something else to give it more of an oomph.
I still enjoyed reading regardless and would recommend if you want something easy and sweet to read where you don’t have to think too hard to keep track.
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March 2, 2022This was fine but forgetable. I actually had to pause about halfway through to read a few arcs that I had deadlines for and I honestly forgot what had happened in the book. It had legitimately only been a day or two but I would have been fine just not coming back to it. It's not that it's bad it's just that I didn't get invested. I'm not a huge fan of time jumps and I don't really like that there were so many in this book. Like this book is only 100 pages but there's a whole section where each chapter is a new month and the chapters are only a few pages long. You only get a few snippets but it isn't done in a way where you get invested in it. It feels like you're missing out instead of being shown a slice of their life.
February 20, 2022
This was actually the first book in the Open Doors series that I’ve read and I really enjoyed it. This was also the first piece by this author that I’ve read. I found the writing style easily pulled me into the story and it was also well edited. Brooks and Henry were both very likable characters and their romance was beautiful. If there was anything I would change, it would be to add just a bit of angst and also have Brooks tell that Dr. Butler what a collassal a-hole he was.
March 20, 2022
Tried this new author and loved this novella! Cute and sweet. Going to check out this series now.
August 30, 2023
I loved this sweet and quick read. A great story.
February 24, 2023
Brooks and Henry's novella was another adorable meet-cute, this time with lots of nerdy book talk, sweet dates, and hidden identities. I was charmed by their connection from the beginning, and as the two of them got to know each other, I only grew more invested in their romance. Brooks had to make some big decisions about his future career path, and I don't think it's an overstatement to say that Henry played a big part in getting him to choose passion over obligation. I do wish Brooks hadn't kept his author secret from Henry for so long, but thankfully it didn't blow up into a big issue for their relationship. After a healthy dose of open communication, these two were back on track for an epic relationship. I could have easily read a dozen more chapters about how they settled into a happy life together, but I got more than enough confidence that the two of them were committed to each other and excited for what was next.
**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.
February 20, 2023
Under His Spell
‘My nose was full of his lemon-and-book scent, my hands were full of his firm, soft skin, and I wanted my mouth full of his taste. I teased the seam of his lips with my tongue, and he opened for me with a soft sigh. I explored his mouth with mine, and he returned the exploration in kind. He tasted like the mocha he’d finished and something deeper and infinitely more complex. We kissed for long moments until the clearing of a throat nearby caused us to shift apart.’
Oh, this sweet little novella by Vinni George is a delightful addition to the Open Doors series.
Doors Open on the Left is a slice of romance, MM style. We have a mysterious meeting on a train, a search that provides an answer by the name of Henry, a lovely book store that finds the way into an author’s heart, and a quirky septuagenarian.
Each of George’s books in this series make my smile wider and wider, and the intimate scenes make me blush, as love conquers all.
‘My nose was full of his lemon-and-book scent, my hands were full of his firm, soft skin, and I wanted my mouth full of his taste. I teased the seam of his lips with my tongue, and he opened for me with a soft sigh. I explored his mouth with mine, and he returned the exploration in kind. He tasted like the mocha he’d finished and something deeper and infinitely more complex. We kissed for long moments until the clearing of a throat nearby caused us to shift apart.’
Oh, this sweet little novella by Vinni George is a delightful addition to the Open Doors series.
Doors Open on the Left is a slice of romance, MM style. We have a mysterious meeting on a train, a search that provides an answer by the name of Henry, a lovely book store that finds the way into an author’s heart, and a quirky septuagenarian.
Each of George’s books in this series make my smile wider and wider, and the intimate scenes make me blush, as love conquers all.
May 23, 2022
Brooks is a professor and novel writer, but he hates teaching and is stuck following his Dad’s wishes for him to get tenured.
Henry has a bookstore and a quirky little old lady who hangs out and helps him with promoting the store.
They meet on a subway train, bond over Brook’s book, but don’t know who each other is. The fates, and friends, intervene, so they find each other and begin dating.
Brooks is having a writer’s block, likely due to his tenure stress, but Henry creates a writing nook for him and he finally makes the choice to write and not teach.
Excellent story, I love both main characters and Mrs. Matthews, as well as the bookstore setting. Well laid out story in a novella, it feels complete rather than too fast paced.
Henry has a bookstore and a quirky little old lady who hangs out and helps him with promoting the store.
They meet on a subway train, bond over Brook’s book, but don’t know who each other is. The fates, and friends, intervene, so they find each other and begin dating.
Brooks is having a writer’s block, likely due to his tenure stress, but Henry creates a writing nook for him and he finally makes the choice to write and not teach.
Excellent story, I love both main characters and Mrs. Matthews, as well as the bookstore setting. Well laid out story in a novella, it feels complete rather than too fast paced.
December 6, 2022
A sweet and light story that is very easy to read as a standalone.
Though a short book it does take place over a large chunk of time, so the relationship didn't feel rushed. Having their meeting be both chance and providence was really neat, as you can see the meeting coming closer and keep hoping for it to play out. There was light relationship issues with the idea of having a writer and a fan and that uncertainty, but the communication and working together is what gets these two through. It was an easy and fun read with some very sweet characters and lots of fun and sexy times. Great little read!
Though a short book it does take place over a large chunk of time, so the relationship didn't feel rushed. Having their meeting be both chance and providence was really neat, as you can see the meeting coming closer and keep hoping for it to play out. There was light relationship issues with the idea of having a writer and a fan and that uncertainty, but the communication and working together is what gets these two through. It was an easy and fun read with some very sweet characters and lots of fun and sexy times. Great little read!
May 15, 2023
I really enjoyed this novella. I liked the chance meeting between Brooks and Henry and the scheming (by the universe or their friends, lol) that ultimately brought them together again. I appreciated that it was plot-heavy and we spend time in both their lives, not just in the bedroom. Their “click”, although pretty instant, nevertheless felt believable to me, and the chapter time jumps helped enough time pass in a short story format that time was established for them to actually get to know one another so I really believed in their HEA.
January 29, 2024
This is a short, sweet story with likeable MC's, low angst, family drama, great friends who add depth, love and a sweetly satisfying HEA.
Henry and Brooks have an instant attraction on a train, but become too caught up in great conversation to ask for names or numbers. A month later and neither man has forgotten the other. Another chance encounter gives them the opportunity to really connect and start their journey together.
Mrs. Matthews is an unforgettable character who brings joy and laughs - I loved her.
Henry and Brooks have an instant attraction on a train, but become too caught up in great conversation to ask for names or numbers. A month later and neither man has forgotten the other. Another chance encounter gives them the opportunity to really connect and start their journey together.
Mrs. Matthews is an unforgettable character who brings joy and laughs - I loved her.
January 20, 2022
Oh, I loved this, I truly truly loved this novella, it has strangers meet and fall for each other on a train, (and doesn't that hint of an old black and white movie plot?) To make it even better we have a little bookshop, heaven! Brooks and Henry are to die for, just a gorgeous tale and a sweet hea.
March 20, 2022
3.5 stars - Super bookish romance, with a professor/writer and bookseller meeting by chance on the train and reconnecting later. This had echoes of other books I’ve read and liked, and so I liked this, too. Not amazing, but very cozy (and way above the YBBB average.) Another old lady character that didn't bug me.
November 5, 2023
Brooks & Henry
I read this out of order but it was fine. I’m so glad I got to read their story! This was another short that was perfection by George. The way they met was swoon worthy and they just fit so great together. Henry with his Tiny Tales store and Brooks with his career as an author and of course, Mrs Matthews! I loved this from beginning to end.
I read this out of order but it was fine. I’m so glad I got to read their story! This was another short that was perfection by George. The way they met was swoon worthy and they just fit so great together. Henry with his Tiny Tales store and Brooks with his career as an author and of course, Mrs Matthews! I loved this from beginning to end.
November 4, 2024
I was worried about this one missing the charm of the novels and it feeling rush but my fears were unfounded. The pacing is smooth and fits well.
My only complaint is that it ends right before Brooks tells Dr Butler off and quits. I was looking forward to how that played out.
Also Beckett's appearance was appreciated as he's my favorite in the series.
My only complaint is that it ends right before Brooks tells Dr Butler off and quits. I was looking forward to how that played out.
Also Beckett's appearance was appreciated as he's my favorite in the series.
January 21, 2022
A very enjoyable story and another author whose books I will have to check out, starting with book one of this series.
If you don't know where to find this book, check out the "Your Book Boyfriend's Boyfriend" collection on Prolific Works, where everything is free.
If you don't know where to find this book, check out the "Your Book Boyfriend's Boyfriend" collection on Prolific Works, where everything is free.
April 29, 2022
This was a great Novella. I loved how they first met on a train and the coincidences/circumstances that brought them together again. Mrs Matthews really led to the story and had me in stitches. A fun feel good book with a great storyline.
November 17, 2022
A sweet, low angst story. Can I just say that I love the title for this book? It is perfectly evocative of the meet cute for the two main characters. Another low angst story, and lovely to read.
Freebie from author.
Freebie from author.
February 8, 2023
A insta-attraction story with a professor/author and a bookstore owner.
There are some unrealistic parts but it is a cute story with awesome side characters. I wish we saw more of them post-reveal but something is growing.
There are some unrealistic parts but it is a cute story with awesome side characters. I wish we saw more of them post-reveal but something is growing.
April 3, 2025
This was seriously the sweetest novella. An author and a bookstore owner! Come on. Seriously Brooks and Henry’s meet-cute was everything and the way these two just had a soul connection…it was so good! First of this authors work and won’t be the last!!
January 8, 2022
Loved this novella! Mrs. Matthews is a great side character! Almost as good as Hank in Vinni George’s Revolving Door! Highly recommend this whole series!
January 12, 2022
Sweet story.
January 19, 2022
Easy sweet read with the wonderful side character of Mrs Matthews.
February 11, 2022
4.25 stars
Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews