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Owen & Nathan #1
La sfida degli appuntamenti
Cinque appuntamenti e niente sesso… quanto può essere dura?
Quando era all’università, Owen aveva una mezza cotta per Nathan. Ma apparentemente Nathan era etero, e Owen era troppo occupato con gli altri ragazzi per prendere sul serio quei sentimenti.
Quando Nathan ritorna a Bristol, dopo un anno passato altrove, Owen viene a sapere che il ragazzo è uscito allo scoperto e gli fa un’avance. Nathan, però, non vuole essere soltanto l’ennesima tacca sulla testiera del suo letto, quindi lo sfida a dimostrargli di essere capace di fare le cose sul serio: cinque appuntamenti, prima di fare sesso.
A Owen non sembra troppo difficile. Si aspetta comunque che Nathan trovi irresistibile il suo fascino. Solo che, man mano che il tempo passa, ci tiene sempre di più a dimostrare a Nathan chi è davvero, piuttosto che a portarselo a letto.
Quando era all’università, Owen aveva una mezza cotta per Nathan. Ma apparentemente Nathan era etero, e Owen era troppo occupato con gli altri ragazzi per prendere sul serio quei sentimenti.
Quando Nathan ritorna a Bristol, dopo un anno passato altrove, Owen viene a sapere che il ragazzo è uscito allo scoperto e gli fa un’avance. Nathan, però, non vuole essere soltanto l’ennesima tacca sulla testiera del suo letto, quindi lo sfida a dimostrargli di essere capace di fare le cose sul serio: cinque appuntamenti, prima di fare sesso.
A Owen non sembra troppo difficile. Si aspetta comunque che Nathan trovi irresistibile il suo fascino. Solo che, man mano che il tempo passa, ci tiene sempre di più a dimostrare a Nathan chi è davvero, piuttosto che a portarselo a letto.
129 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 22, 2014
34 people are currently reading
685 people want to read
About the author
Jay Northcote
54 books1,653 followersI don't hang out on Goodreads much, so if you'd like to connect with me then Twitter, Facebook or an email is usually best :) All my contact details are on my website.
Jay lives just outside Bristol in the West of England. He comes from a family of writers, but always used to believe that the gene for fiction writing had passed him by. He spent years only ever writing emails, articles, or website content.
One day, Jay decided to try and write a short story—just to see if he could—and found it rather addictive. He hasn’t stopped writing since.
Jay writes contemporary romance about men who fall in love with other men. Jay has five books published by Dreamspinner Press, and he also self-publishes under the imprint Jaybird Press. Many of his books are now available as audiobooks.
Jay is transgender and was formerly known as she/her.
Jay lives just outside Bristol in the West of England. He comes from a family of writers, but always used to believe that the gene for fiction writing had passed him by. He spent years only ever writing emails, articles, or website content.
One day, Jay decided to try and write a short story—just to see if he could—and found it rather addictive. He hasn’t stopped writing since.
Jay writes contemporary romance about men who fall in love with other men. Jay has five books published by Dreamspinner Press, and he also self-publishes under the imprint Jaybird Press. Many of his books are now available as audiobooks.
Jay is transgender and was formerly known as she/her.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 233 reviews
October 26, 2014
4.25 stars
Five dates, no sex.
That's Nathan's proposal to Owen, who's always been a bit of a tart. Nathan doesn't want to be just another notch on Owen's bedpost. Owen accepts the challenge, hoping he can change Nathan's mind. But it's Nathan who makes Owen realize that five dates may not be enough.
Cuteness and sweetness abound in this novella! Northcote's book are warm and light, and this one's no exception. I love easy, get-lost-in-the-moment stories.
Each of the five dates was a smile, a wink, a moment of connection. The banter was easy; the chemistry definitely there. And the no-orgasm rule fueled plenty of smoldering tension, lots of hot kisses, and naughty teasing.
There's some brief angst at the end, mostly because both MCs want more but aren't sure how to ask for it. I really liked the setting and Owen's roomates, who were a couple.
And no worries: there's still steamy action on page.
Do Owen and Nathan make it five dates? Read the story to find out.
Five dates, no sex.
That's Nathan's proposal to Owen, who's always been a bit of a tart. Nathan doesn't want to be just another notch on Owen's bedpost. Owen accepts the challenge, hoping he can change Nathan's mind. But it's Nathan who makes Owen realize that five dates may not be enough.
Cuteness and sweetness abound in this novella! Northcote's book are warm and light, and this one's no exception. I love easy, get-lost-in-the-moment stories.
Each of the five dates was a smile, a wink, a moment of connection. The banter was easy; the chemistry definitely there. And the no-orgasm rule fueled plenty of smoldering tension, lots of hot kisses, and naughty teasing.
There's some brief angst at the end, mostly because both MCs want more but aren't sure how to ask for it. I really liked the setting and Owen's roomates, who were a couple.
And no worries: there's still steamy action on page.
Do Owen and Nathan make it five dates? Read the story to find out.
September 1, 2016
**2.5 stars**
This was my first read from the much loved Jay Northcote, and I think I picked a bad one to start with. Now, keep in mind that I listened to the audio edition, and much of my overall opinion will stem from my personal feelings about the narration.
Let's talk about the narrator. Now, I have very particular tastes when it comes to a narrator, and of primary importance to me is a narrator that can do separate voices for each character. I tend to strongly dislike audiobooks where all the voices sound the same, mostly because it makes for a confusing listening experience. That happened to be the case here. Matthew Lloyd Davies did the same (or virtually indistinguishable) voices for all the characters, main and secondary, and I often was confused as to who was talking. It all started to blend together for me, and I had trouble staying engaged with the story.
My other issue with the narrator was his overall reading voice. It was very... theater-y. It sounded sort of like he was narrating a children's book, with his cadence rising and peaking with each sentence, giving it that singsongy feel that I associate with story time at the library. It didn't sound like a person just speaking, which is more how I like my audiobooks to be. If you listen to my all time favorite narrators (James Marsters, Greg Tremblay, Chris Patton (Adrien English series), if we are just talking male narrators), you'd notice that they all give different flavors to their characters. I wish I got more of that here.
In terms of the story, I thought it was cute but I felt my attention wavering at times. It wasn't a high energy story, and combined with a narration that wasn't working for me, I feel like I wasn't able to grasp what everyone else loves about this book.
I have another Jay Northcote audiobook ready to roll, so I hope with a different narration style I'll be able to see what all the fuss is about. However, this one felt lackluster for me.
**Copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review**
October 21, 2014
4.5--Sex-Free--Stars!!
This was a really cute, fun read! Pretty quick, coming in at just around 100 pages! It really had a great story!
Owen the playboy who crushed on Nathan, who just recently came out of the closet. They originally met in college and both unknowingly crushed on either. But Owen thought Nathan was straight.
Nathan returns to town and Owen wants him in his bed. But Nathan doesn't want to be just another notch so he proposes a challenge....5 sex-free dates to get to know each other!
I really enjoyed the development of Nathan and Owen's relationship. Owen trying to get Nathan to cave. And Nathan seeing that there's more to Owen then his playboy ways!
Despite the sex-free premise there was some good steam. And I LOL several times at the banter.
I would definitely recommend this one, especially if you're looking for something light and easy, with little to no angst!
This was a really cute, fun read! Pretty quick, coming in at just around 100 pages! It really had a great story!
Owen the playboy who crushed on Nathan, who just recently came out of the closet. They originally met in college and both unknowingly crushed on either. But Owen thought Nathan was straight.
Nathan returns to town and Owen wants him in his bed. But Nathan doesn't want to be just another notch so he proposes a challenge....5 sex-free dates to get to know each other!
I really enjoyed the development of Nathan and Owen's relationship. Owen trying to get Nathan to cave. And Nathan seeing that there's more to Owen then his playboy ways!
Despite the sex-free premise there was some good steam. And I LOL several times at the banter.
I would definitely recommend this one, especially if you're looking for something light and easy, with little to no angst!
April 15, 2021
Audiobook and Story - 3.5 stars
June 11, 2017
3.5 Stars
I pretty much know what I'm going to get when I read one of Northcote's books and I'm so okay with that.
The premise is predictable but I liked watching serial-one-night-stand(er) Owen succumb to lurve. Who knew he had it in him?? He sure didn't.
This was fun with excellent UST, flirty banter, and just the right touch of not too angsty feels. Cap it off with some sexy smex and most will enjoy this easy read. I sure did.
I pretty much know what I'm going to get when I read one of Northcote's books and I'm so okay with that.
The premise is predictable but I liked watching serial-one-night-stand(er) Owen succumb to lurve. Who knew he had it in him?? He sure didn't.
This was fun with excellent UST, flirty banter, and just the right touch of not too angsty feels. Cap it off with some sexy smex and most will enjoy this easy read. I sure did.
February 20, 2015
Owen had a crush on Nathan for pretty much forever. He’s happy when he finds out Nathan is back in town for good and he just started a job with the Environment Agency and he’s more than happy when he finds out Nathan came out last year. Owen wants to hook up with Nathan, but Nathan is not interested just in a hookup. He wants the real thing, he wants to date, he wants something more serious. So he proposes a challenge - five dates to get to know each other.
This was a cute, sweet and easy to read novel and I really enjoyed it. Overall it was a light read with just a little angst through the end, which I liked.
I liked Owen and Nathan individually and together. They for sure made a cute couple. I also liked they are so different from each other. They banter was pretty good and their connection was great and palpable. The steam was not necessarily high, but I wasn’t bothered.
Their moments together were adorable and fun and I liked their dates weren’t repetitive or boring. I also enjoyed how their relationship developed.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read, that made me smile and if you’re looking for something nice and light I really recommend it!
This was a cute, sweet and easy to read novel and I really enjoyed it. Overall it was a light read with just a little angst through the end, which I liked.
I liked Owen and Nathan individually and together. They for sure made a cute couple. I also liked they are so different from each other. They banter was pretty good and their connection was great and palpable. The steam was not necessarily high, but I wasn’t bothered.
Their moments together were adorable and fun and I liked their dates weren’t repetitive or boring. I also enjoyed how their relationship developed.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read, that made me smile and if you’re looking for something nice and light I really recommend it!
July 27, 2016
***DNF page 76 of 193***
I'm making too much of an effort to read this so I think it's time to quit.
The book is boring and uninteresting. The MCs are flat and shallow. The plot line is hollow and unsurprising. Owen is a "manizer" who runs into his crush from uni. Nathan was in the closet during uni and now he wants a meaningful relationship with a guy. Nathan challenges Owen to date five times with the no-sex condition, and Owen accepts. Both are 23 years old but they act and think as if they were 40. They felt old (and odd).
I liked Passing Through quite a lot but this one ended up being a disappointment.
I'm making too much of an effort to read this so I think it's time to quit.
The book is boring and uninteresting. The MCs are flat and shallow. The plot line is hollow and unsurprising. Owen is a "manizer" who runs into his crush from uni. Nathan was in the closet during uni and now he wants a meaningful relationship with a guy. Nathan challenges Owen to date five times with the no-sex condition, and Owen accepts. Both are 23 years old but they act and think as if they were 40. They felt old (and odd).
I liked Passing Through quite a lot but this one ended up being a disappointment.
September 20, 2014
Owen has a well earned reputation for being a bed-hopper. Wham, bam, thank you Stan is his style - not dating. When Nathan, the 'straight' guy he fancied at university, moves back to Bristol and Owen hears that he's not so straight these days, he tries it on. Nathan is interested in Owen - just not in becoming another notch on Owen's bedpost. Five dates is the challenge he sets Owen, one a week, before they get down and dirty. Owen accepts, certain Nathan will give in to his charms before five weeks is up.
I liked this book, it made me smile. Although Owen has a reputation as a bed-hopper (and yes, it was earned) he really does like Nathan as more than just a potential shag. Owen was actually very endearing. He joked with Nathan but he didn't push him, he accepted the parameters of the bet, even though he longed for more. Nathan was lovely. Shy, slower at recognising/admitting that his feelings tended more to men than women, he was a really nice bloke. Nice can sometimes be a bit of a death-word when describing a character, yet it wasn't. He wasn't bland or boring, he was sweet and considerate.
The dates were fun. From that slightly awkward first date with all it's questions (am I over/under dressed? Am I boring? Where should we go? Do we kiss? etc. etc.) to the well planned, personalised second, third, fourth & fifth dates. I enjoyed them all.
It's quite a skill describing five dates and not have them become repetitive and boring. I loved the hill walking. That Owen had thought about what Nathan would like and taken him 'home' to Wales. I liked the fact that it was reciprocated with the indoor wall climbing. This wasn't just a quick meal and visit to the pictures, these guys thought about each other when planning these dates. Thoughtful dates were thoughtful and I dug that a lot. I very much like Jay Northcote's descriptions in the climbing date...made me think I might need to take it up as a hobby. (Or some kind of climbing pervert observer, you know to check the ropes were all fitted properly and stuff)...but I digress.
The only thing that kind of irked me was the disagreement the MC's had. Although it was sorted quickly and remained relatively angst free, it was the only part that I got a bit annoyed with. I know some conflict was needed, but miscommunication is a trope I generally find irritating. That said, it didn't bother me enough to stop reading or give it a low rating.
I think, when you pick up a Jay Northcote book you know you are in for a world of sweet fun. A couple of hours of wonderful escapism, with characters that are just lovely. If you're looking a for a simple, fun, and happy read, then this is the one for you.
A copy of this book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
Review previously shown at Boy Meets Boy Reviews
I liked this book, it made me smile. Although Owen has a reputation as a bed-hopper (and yes, it was earned) he really does like Nathan as more than just a potential shag. Owen was actually very endearing. He joked with Nathan but he didn't push him, he accepted the parameters of the bet, even though he longed for more. Nathan was lovely. Shy, slower at recognising/admitting that his feelings tended more to men than women, he was a really nice bloke. Nice can sometimes be a bit of a death-word when describing a character, yet it wasn't. He wasn't bland or boring, he was sweet and considerate.
The dates were fun. From that slightly awkward first date with all it's questions (am I over/under dressed? Am I boring? Where should we go? Do we kiss? etc. etc.) to the well planned, personalised second, third, fourth & fifth dates. I enjoyed them all.
It's quite a skill describing five dates and not have them become repetitive and boring. I loved the hill walking. That Owen had thought about what Nathan would like and taken him 'home' to Wales. I liked the fact that it was reciprocated with the indoor wall climbing. This wasn't just a quick meal and visit to the pictures, these guys thought about each other when planning these dates. Thoughtful dates were thoughtful and I dug that a lot. I very much like Jay Northcote's descriptions in the climbing date...made me think I might need to take it up as a hobby. (Or some kind of climbing pervert observer, you know to check the ropes were all fitted properly and stuff)...but I digress.
The only thing that kind of irked me was the disagreement the MC's had. Although it was sorted quickly and remained relatively angst free, it was the only part that I got a bit annoyed with. I know some conflict was needed, but miscommunication is a trope I generally find irritating. That said, it didn't bother me enough to stop reading or give it a low rating.
I think, when you pick up a Jay Northcote book you know you are in for a world of sweet fun. A couple of hours of wonderful escapism, with characters that are just lovely. If you're looking a for a simple, fun, and happy read, then this is the one for you.
A copy of this book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
Review previously shown at Boy Meets Boy Reviews
September 16, 2014
Have I said how much I love Jay’s boys? I know I have but I have to say it again. I adore the bloody hell out of them. I know when I read one of her books I am going to get a rush of emotions that always end with me in a puddle of goo… and goo is good.
Let me first say; I had a massive crush on my husband when we were young, and nothing ever happened until almost ten years later when we met up again. So, the premise behind this story, the story of Owen and Nathan who both fancied one another in Uni and now have a chance at a relationship… pulled at my heart strings and memories.
With that personal confession out of the way, this book was a brilliant read. I loved how Owen was so shocked to not only see Nathan again but to learn that the straight boy he crushed on at Uni was now not straight and out. I grinned from ear to ear as Owen made his play, and then the set the deal for the five sexless dates. Getting the dual POV is always a plus for me and being with Owen and Nathan as they navigated their new feelings and shortcomings glued me to the page. I mean, I read the last bit while doing exercises on the floor to strengthen my hip flexors… that should give you a hint that I didn’t and couldn’t stop reading.
The dates; I found them adorable, imaginative, fun and so thoughtful. Both boys put so much… heart into the dates that I was a goner. I knew I would be a goner before I started the book, and my track record with Ms. Northcote is solid. She writes the best stories with low angst that even this self-proclaimed angst whore can cuddle up with and get lost in.
Nathan, I want to hug you and give you a high five for your choice in cars as I share your views on classic Beetles. Owen, good lord boy! You are such the dirty talker, and I like that about you, but the vulnerability you showed just about did in my poor romantic heart. Simon, Jack and Kristy were wonderful side characters. I would love to read how Simon and Jack met and fell in love. I can hear the sweetness and playful arguing now.
Yeah, I liked The Dating Game, but as I said, I didn’t have a doubt that I would love the story and fall in love with the boys.
Fall in love I did and though I swear, I was getting a bit of reader blue balls reading these boys. The UST was off the charts with them and played out perfectly; just so well done that my Sunday is complete and cozy after finishing their story.
Let me first say; I had a massive crush on my husband when we were young, and nothing ever happened until almost ten years later when we met up again. So, the premise behind this story, the story of Owen and Nathan who both fancied one another in Uni and now have a chance at a relationship… pulled at my heart strings and memories.
With that personal confession out of the way, this book was a brilliant read. I loved how Owen was so shocked to not only see Nathan again but to learn that the straight boy he crushed on at Uni was now not straight and out. I grinned from ear to ear as Owen made his play, and then the set the deal for the five sexless dates. Getting the dual POV is always a plus for me and being with Owen and Nathan as they navigated their new feelings and shortcomings glued me to the page. I mean, I read the last bit while doing exercises on the floor to strengthen my hip flexors… that should give you a hint that I didn’t and couldn’t stop reading.
The dates; I found them adorable, imaginative, fun and so thoughtful. Both boys put so much… heart into the dates that I was a goner. I knew I would be a goner before I started the book, and my track record with Ms. Northcote is solid. She writes the best stories with low angst that even this self-proclaimed angst whore can cuddle up with and get lost in.
Nathan, I want to hug you and give you a high five for your choice in cars as I share your views on classic Beetles. Owen, good lord boy! You are such the dirty talker, and I like that about you, but the vulnerability you showed just about did in my poor romantic heart. Simon, Jack and Kristy were wonderful side characters. I would love to read how Simon and Jack met and fell in love. I can hear the sweetness and playful arguing now.
Yeah, I liked The Dating Game, but as I said, I didn’t have a doubt that I would love the story and fall in love with the boys.
Fall in love I did and though I swear, I was getting a bit of reader blue balls reading these boys. The UST was off the charts with them and played out perfectly; just so well done that my Sunday is complete and cozy after finishing their story.
October 23, 2014
This was short and sweet. Great for a lazy rainy day with a cup of hot chocolate. 3.5 Stars
November 23, 2016
I would like Jay Northcote's writing a whole hell of a lot more if it were just a little more interesting. His stories are sweet and simple, but they're so simple it's hard to remain interested. He takes the idea of formulaic romance to an unheard of level. I've read three books by him and the tenor is the same in every single one. They're just so predictable and bland. I actually found myself daydreaming in spots, coming up with better scenes in my head to help keep my mind engaged...which isn't a compliment.
April 17, 2015
Wish I could say I enjoyed the fire and passion and UST with Owen and Nathan, but I really can't. This one didn't grab and delight me. I'm hoping the sequel with show some Owen/Nathan emotion. I'm starting it now.
May 10, 2015
The experience I had when listening to this audio version was unique. Whilst I have listened to narrators I have really enjoyed, like Jack LaFleur, Jim Frangione or my favourite Greg Tremblay, this narrator unfortunately ruined the enjoyment of the story for me.
You get this perceived notion of characters from the narrator and how you think they're going to behave. Are they a poncy upperclass git or a hard working class punter?
So as the story started, immediately this image pops into my brain.
I keep trying to put this image to the side and finally I do, when then next image is there....
and the thing is, I'm not listening to or watching a children's TV program, but that is what my brain is hearing!
Thinking Thomas is saying to Percy.....
"Oh, yeah, you look so good. I wanna taste you. Is that okay?"
in that British accent just sounded weird.
It did my head in and affected the way I engaged with the book and the two main characters. I spent the first few chapters trying to work out which TV show the narrator's voice was from, and I'm afraid to admit that I even Googled his past works!
The story itself was ok, light romance and holding out for five dates etc, etc.... but unfortunately it became a bit of a train wreck (pardon the pun)!
You get this perceived notion of characters from the narrator and how you think they're going to behave. Are they a poncy upperclass git or a hard working class punter?
So as the story started, immediately this image pops into my brain.
I keep trying to put this image to the side and finally I do, when then next image is there....
and the thing is, I'm not listening to or watching a children's TV program, but that is what my brain is hearing!
Thinking Thomas is saying to Percy.....
"Oh, yeah, you look so good. I wanna taste you. Is that okay?"
in that British accent just sounded weird.
It did my head in and affected the way I engaged with the book and the two main characters. I spent the first few chapters trying to work out which TV show the narrator's voice was from, and I'm afraid to admit that I even Googled his past works!
The story itself was ok, light romance and holding out for five dates etc, etc.... but unfortunately it became a bit of a train wreck (pardon the pun)!
October 5, 2014
3.5 stars
Awwww...this book was super sweet and entertaining!
Secret college crush. Meeting up after a few years separation.
One a notorious player, one a newly out active-type looking for a relationship. How to bridge the gap? FIVE DATES...five dates with no sex. Five dates to see if something might happen.
The attraction between Owen and Nathan was palpable and I LOVED the slow build of their feelings towards one another. And the dates...well they made the romantic in me swoon. And the big pot-o-gold at the end of it all? Totally worth it...hubba hubba.
I enjoyed this. I think that sometimes the author gets caught up in lots of overly-detailed writing and I, at times, felt myself tempted to not skim, but um...glide over some of the text. But, I still found this to be a fun read and enjoyed it.
September 24, 2014
What a refreshing story! These boys didn't jump in to bed together the first time they went out :) I love reading about new relationships... flirting, stomach butterflies, first kisses, talking on the phone until the wee hours of the morning getting to know each other. Dreamy sigh. Loved it!!
April 18, 2015
What can I say? Owen and Nathan's story is completely predictable, but I love it anyway. Five sex-free dates. Two men who crushed on each other for a while. Of course we knew how that would go.
Northcote just does it for me. I adore her writing style. On to the next in this series!
Northcote just does it for me. I adore her writing style. On to the next in this series!
October 6, 2014
4.5 stars - First off, I want to say a HUGE thank you to Jay for sending me an ARC of this story. I was having a terrible week, and she ever so kindly offered me a copy in the hopes of cheering me up, and it really worked.
This book is wonderful, and such a sweet comfort read! It was cute and fluffy, with wonderfully developed characters and an entertaining storyline. Owen and Nathan's story was a joy to read and put a huge smile on my face. I loved the set-up - five sex-free dates for Owen to prove himself to Nathan. Nathan doesn't do hook-ups or one night stands, and he doesn't want to be just another notch on Owen's bedpost. He's looking for something more. I really loved how the whole 'five dates' thing starts off as a challenge - Owen certainly sees them that way - but as they both get to know each other, these dates become much more than that. The growing closeness between the two men was so lovely to read. I absolutely loved both the MCs and was smiling for almost their entire story. It made my heart flutter, seriously! There's also some pretty hot scenes here too. So for all the fans of smutty sexy stuff, you definitely won't be disappointed either ;)
The only real issue I had (and it's barely an issue, really) was the ending. And no, the ending wasn't bad. Not even slightly. 'Cos seriously, I just wanted MORE. I wanted everything. I wanted to see their future, I wanted love and wedding bells and picket fences. That's it. See, not really much on an issue at all! I'm just such an epilogue junkie!
Thanks so so much to Jay Northcote for sending me a copy and for brightening my day with this sweet story. I'll definitely be re-visiting it whenever I want a pick-me-up. It's the perfect length, too, if you're looking for something to read in an evening, curled up on the sofa with a mug of hot chocolate :)
I adore the cover too. Stunning.
This book is wonderful, and such a sweet comfort read! It was cute and fluffy, with wonderfully developed characters and an entertaining storyline. Owen and Nathan's story was a joy to read and put a huge smile on my face. I loved the set-up - five sex-free dates for Owen to prove himself to Nathan. Nathan doesn't do hook-ups or one night stands, and he doesn't want to be just another notch on Owen's bedpost. He's looking for something more. I really loved how the whole 'five dates' thing starts off as a challenge - Owen certainly sees them that way - but as they both get to know each other, these dates become much more than that. The growing closeness between the two men was so lovely to read. I absolutely loved both the MCs and was smiling for almost their entire story. It made my heart flutter, seriously! There's also some pretty hot scenes here too. So for all the fans of smutty sexy stuff, you definitely won't be disappointed either ;)
The only real issue I had (and it's barely an issue, really) was the ending. And no, the ending wasn't bad. Not even slightly. 'Cos seriously, I just wanted MORE. I wanted everything. I wanted to see their future, I wanted love and wedding bells and picket fences. That's it. See, not really much on an issue at all! I'm just such an epilogue junkie!
Thanks so so much to Jay Northcote for sending me a copy and for brightening my day with this sweet story. I'll definitely be re-visiting it whenever I want a pick-me-up. It's the perfect length, too, if you're looking for something to read in an evening, curled up on the sofa with a mug of hot chocolate :)
I adore the cover too. Stunning.
September 24, 2014
So very pretty. So very sweet. So very hot. Not much I didn't love about this book. This made me very happy.
April 10, 2016
MMRG Round 13 Team Bingo Week 12 Category: M/M Romance With Mostly White Covers
Nathan wasn't out of the closet in college or for as long as Owen has been but he has discovered that he wants to really connect with someone in particular rather than engage in a series of one night stands with random guys.
When Owen, who is know as a bit of a "tart"
proposes to His not-so-secret crush Nathan, that they have a hook up, Nathan who has been secretly crushing Owen, responds with a challenge. Nathan's conditions are that the two of them have 5 sex-free dates and Owen be exclusive with him during this period.
Most of the story content of the are the very sweet and charming dates between the MCs. Of course love ensues.
Though I really liked this story, I don't have much to say about it except I liked the writing and plot and I enjoyed the focus of the MCs getting to know each other and enjoyment of one another's company.
I highly recco this book. It's very a very sweet story.
Nathan wasn't out of the closet in college or for as long as Owen has been but he has discovered that he wants to really connect with someone in particular rather than engage in a series of one night stands with random guys.
When Owen, who is know as a bit of a "tart"
proposes to His not-so-secret crush Nathan, that they have a hook up, Nathan who has been secretly crushing Owen, responds with a challenge. Nathan's conditions are that the two of them have 5 sex-free dates and Owen be exclusive with him during this period.
Most of the story content of the are the very sweet and charming dates between the MCs. Of course love ensues.
Though I really liked this story, I don't have much to say about it except I liked the writing and plot and I enjoyed the focus of the MCs getting to know each other and enjoyment of one another's company.
I highly recco this book. It's very a very sweet story.
January 21, 2015
4.5 Stars
September 17, 2018
3.5 Stars
This is a charming read when Owen and Nathan date after crushing on each other in college. It could be richer in that we don't really meet families or see their work life but the dating is great.
I love the time they spend together and watching them fall in love.
Jack and Simon, (Owen's coupled roommates) need their own book if that don't have one.
This is a charming read when Owen and Nathan date after crushing on each other in college. It could be richer in that we don't really meet families or see their work life but the dating is great.
I love the time they spend together and watching them fall in love.
Jack and Simon, (Owen's coupled roommates) need their own book if that don't have one.
April 22, 2015
Originally posted on http://mikkysworldofbooks.blogspot.fr...
Owen is a little bit of a slut. He doesn’t do relationships but, when his old crush walks back into his life and admits to being gay, Owen has to have him.
Nathan likes Owen, a lot, but he’s not about to be one of his one night stands. If Owen really wants him, he has to prove just how much.
So The Dating Game begins. 5 weeks. 5 dates on Nathan’s terms.
I really liked this book. It’s one of those stories you read with a smile on your face from beginning to end.
Owen is charming, funny, determined and always speaks his mind while Nathan is a little bit more serious, more withdrawn.
The attraction between them is really strong and Nathan’s “no sex” rule suddenly doesn’t seem like a good idea anymore.
Five weeks might seem a too short period to get to know someone but, when it’s the right person, everything just clicks into place. And it’s not like Nathan and Owen were complete strangers. It’s nice to see how they get to know each her again, how they try to make the best out those five dates and find out if what they feel is worth a shot.
Jay’s writing style is really good and my only problem with this book is that it was too short because I was captivated from the beginning and I wasn’t ready for it to end.
Loved it! I highly recommend.
Happy Reading!
Owen is a little bit of a slut. He doesn’t do relationships but, when his old crush walks back into his life and admits to being gay, Owen has to have him.
Nathan likes Owen, a lot, but he’s not about to be one of his one night stands. If Owen really wants him, he has to prove just how much.
So The Dating Game begins. 5 weeks. 5 dates on Nathan’s terms.
I really liked this book. It’s one of those stories you read with a smile on your face from beginning to end.
Owen is charming, funny, determined and always speaks his mind while Nathan is a little bit more serious, more withdrawn.
The attraction between them is really strong and Nathan’s “no sex” rule suddenly doesn’t seem like a good idea anymore.
Five weeks might seem a too short period to get to know someone but, when it’s the right person, everything just clicks into place. And it’s not like Nathan and Owen were complete strangers. It’s nice to see how they get to know each her again, how they try to make the best out those five dates and find out if what they feel is worth a shot.
Jay’s writing style is really good and my only problem with this book is that it was too short because I was captivated from the beginning and I wasn’t ready for it to end.
Loved it! I highly recommend.
Happy Reading!
June 28, 2015
BR this afternoon with Mish! Yay!
***************************************
BR with Mish, andthe Bitch in the chair.
Now the review.
This was a really sweet, easy read. I enjoyed the premise behind it. I really enjoyed watching the MCs get to know each other. It was a nice, slow build to the relationship. Very nice.
3.5*
***************************************
BR with Mish, andthe Bitch in the chair.
Now the review.
This was a really sweet, easy read. I enjoyed the premise behind it. I really enjoyed watching the MCs get to know each other. It was a nice, slow build to the relationship. Very nice.
3.5*
September 27, 2014
3.5 stars
As stated on the blurb this book is about two guys going on five dates. Very sweet yes but also a little boring. Level of heat for this one is low. I usually prefer my stories this way but when the plot is so thin I was even missing the sex scenes after a while.
As stated on the blurb this book is about two guys going on five dates. Very sweet yes but also a little boring. Level of heat for this one is low. I usually prefer my stories this way but when the plot is so thin I was even missing the sex scenes after a while.
March 22, 2016
It was nice reading about two young men going on really fun dates, while having some serious UST, since there was a no-sex agreement. Yes, it was predictable but I had so much fun reading this so all is forgiven!
Read
March 14, 2015The Dating Game is now out in audio format, narrated by British actor, Matthew Lloyd Davies who has done a wonderful job with the story :)
It's available at Amazon, Audible and Apple.
It's available at Amazon, Audible and Apple.
March 15, 2015
Five dates without sex is a premise that intrigued me and I loved this book so much. Romance, passion and Owen learning that some things are worth fighting for... awesome...
October 6, 2017
I've read many of Jay Northcote's books and listened to others but I didn't quite enjoy this as much as Jay's more recent works. It's sweet but follows the anticipated plot line with sex scenes toward the end and leaves the guys with a HFN.
The premise is that Owen likes to hop from bed to bed (or couch to couch, wall to wall, stall to stall, whatever the case may be.) He's never really dated but he wants to hookup with Nathan who is not interested in a hookup, just a relationship. Nathan tells Owen that if he's interested in taking him on 5 dates, he'll put out after the 5th.
Over the course of the dates, of course, the guys start to fall for each other. Owen is surprised that he's enjoying it so much and is enjoying getting to know Nathan. Nathan is happy that Owen is turning out to be even nicer than he thought.
What more is there to say? It is a pleasant story and easy to read so would be good to take on a vacation or a day at the beach or on a day forced to be indoors due to snow or rain.
The premise is that Owen likes to hop from bed to bed (or couch to couch, wall to wall, stall to stall, whatever the case may be.) He's never really dated but he wants to hookup with Nathan who is not interested in a hookup, just a relationship. Nathan tells Owen that if he's interested in taking him on 5 dates, he'll put out after the 5th.
Over the course of the dates, of course, the guys start to fall for each other. Owen is surprised that he's enjoying it so much and is enjoying getting to know Nathan. Nathan is happy that Owen is turning out to be even nicer than he thought.
What more is there to say? It is a pleasant story and easy to read so would be good to take on a vacation or a day at the beach or on a day forced to be indoors due to snow or rain.
June 19, 2022
Jay, come sempre la mia copertina di Linus.
Dolce ma non stucchevole
Sexy
Delicato
Che ti fa star bene
3.5
Dolce ma non stucchevole
Sexy
Delicato
Che ti fa star bene
3.5
July 21, 2024
Löysin kirpputorilta ja ostin, koska halusin lukea englanniksi jotakin nopeaa ja isolla fonttikoolla. Kirja osoittautui menestykseksi, sillä halusin koko ajan tietää, miten tarina jatkuu. Rakastin seksuaalisella jännitteellä leikittelyä, ronskia seksuaalista kielenkäyttöä sekä myös päähenkilöiden tunteiden syvenemisen seuraamista.
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