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All's Fair in Love and Advertising
The life of a creative genius isn’t all it’s cracked up to be, not when said genius is Max Tomlin, hotshot creative director of his own New York ad agency and slightly neurotic headcase. Still reeling after a painful divorce, he’s been taking a walk on the gay side, but that hasn’t gone much better. At least his agency is in the running for a new account—even if the prospective client is from rural, backward Montana!Max’s big-city prejudices go by the wayside when he meets Joe Bennett, aviation innovator and self-made businessman. Joe is smart, passionate, good-looking in a Marlboro Man way, and Max is hopelessly smitten. But business comes first, and Max can’t afford any distractions, not when he has an account to win and Joe’s legacy to protect. It’s going to take all of Max’s quick thinking, fast talking and sheer determination to win the account, save Joe’s company—and keep their budding relationship from becoming a casualty of corporate warfare.
127 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2009
2 people are currently reading
205 people want to read
About the author
Lenore Black
8 books26 followers“I want to work with words!” That's been Lenore Black's ambition since she learned how to read. After trying out publishing and public relations, she took up a career as an advertising copy writer. Now, she's happy to add "fiction writer" to the resume.
Lenore lives and works in Brooklyn. She wrote her first romance novel in the fifth grade. She published her first story in 2009. What's next for her? More writing. Hopefully, more publishing. And definitely a lot more daydreaming on the subway!
Lenore lives and works in Brooklyn. She wrote her first romance novel in the fifth grade. She published her first story in 2009. What's next for her? More writing. Hopefully, more publishing. And definitely a lot more daydreaming on the subway!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
August 19, 2012
Max cracked me up, I am positive he was high from all the caffeine he kept gulping down, the neurotic oddball never stopped, my head was in overdrive trying to keep up with him. Joe fits in perfectly, shakes Max up, who is a *tiny* bit more settled and willing to let himself have a chance at happiness. Loved it, totally made my day.
“There’s thinking, and then there’s overthinking. And then there’s being an insane, delusional, over-caffeinated dictator!” That sums up Max perfectly lol!
“There’s thinking, and then there’s overthinking. And then there’s being an insane, delusional, over-caffeinated dictator!” That sums up Max perfectly lol!
August 24, 2012
What a DELIGHTFUL story!!
I think there are already a lot of reviews praising this story. So I am just going to keep this short.
Reading over-caffeinated, narcissistic, advertising genius, arrogant, Max and his journey of falling for the more laidback Joe is a high class entertainment. And since none of Max's colleagues or his therapist or his ex-wife are even 'scared' of his tantrum, it makes it even more fun!
Thank you, Vio, for bringing this old release back on my radar.
I think there are already a lot of reviews praising this story. So I am just going to keep this short.
Reading over-caffeinated, narcissistic, advertising genius, arrogant, Max and his journey of falling for the more laidback Joe is a high class entertainment. And since none of Max's colleagues or his therapist or his ex-wife are even 'scared' of his tantrum, it makes it even more fun!
Thank you, Vio, for bringing this old release back on my radar.
April 28, 2014
3.5 stars
The first thing I thought while reading this book was “this author has definitely worked in Advertising and definitely lived in NY”. Having worked in Advertising for a long time, I usually shy away from books about the industry because…well…they’re typically wrong when it comes to the details. Lenore Black, however, has got her facts, her descriptions, and her story all right, authentic even in the NY parts. And that made it fun to read.
The second thing I thought while reading this book was “I wish I had read this back in 2012 when I first added it.” I think I would have REALLY loved this book back then because I was new to M/M and this was exactly the kind of book that I would have devoured and appreciated. After 400+ books and 2 years later, I liked it enough and it kept me entertained. It just didn’t wow me.
The third thing I thought while reading this book was “this is funny!” Max, the MC, was hysterical and witty and self-deprecating while being full of himself and I kinda loved him. He is exactly the kind of Creative Directors I’ve worked with in the past and I loved that about him.
The fourth thing I thought while reading this book was “I really adore this couple”. Max and Joe were sweet and flirtatious, and HOT, and I ate it all up.
The fifth thing I thought while reading this book was “What’s up with all the ‘yeah yeah’s and ‘you you’s and ‘no no’s …?” The author did this weird thing were on NUMEROUS occasions, the dialogue had these repeated words and it was…weird. Especially the “yeah yeah”…I tried to remember a time when that was the ‘in’ thing to do (this was written 5 years ago)…but I can’t. So, it bugged me.
In any case, if you want a book that’s fun, kinda funny, sweet with some hot bits, but that really just serves as a filler/in-betweener…not trying to blow your mind or change your world…this is a good one. Oddly, and sadly, however, I think it’s out of circulation because I can’t find buy links anywhere.
August 21, 2012
I love "Mad Men" and Don Draper is one my most favorite of television characters. Reading this was like watching "Mad Men" in fast forward. I loved it.
How could I not get a kick out of Max. Neurotic, sweet, sarcastic and just all around awesome. He's an advertising genius and he knows it, he just likes for people to remind him and themselves of that as often as possible.
He meets a prospective client and it's lust at first sight. I adored the Max and Joe dynamic, so much chemistry there. I liked this story a lot as well. Joe's company is fending off a hostile takeover and they need advertising to bring in investors, Max's team is one of the advertising agencies giving them a pitch.
Joe is a bit of dark horse here but I liked him, quite a bit. He seemed to ground Max which was sweet. This was definitely a HFN but I want it to be a HEA and think they do as well, so I finished off reading this with a very hopeful outlook on their relationship.
The Don Draper-esque pitch was awesome! I LOVED what they came up with, good on Black for her clever wordplay and images here. Max really brought to mind those client pitches from the show, he was every bit as charasmatic and charming as Don.
As for the reasons why they had to downgrade the pitch:
This story made me laugh, I loved being inside Max's head. He was one of the craziest characters I've ever read and that only adds to his appeal!
How could I not get a kick out of Max. Neurotic, sweet, sarcastic and just all around awesome. He's an advertising genius and he knows it, he just likes for people to remind him and themselves of that as often as possible.
He meets a prospective client and it's lust at first sight. I adored the Max and Joe dynamic, so much chemistry there. I liked this story a lot as well. Joe's company is fending off a hostile takeover and they need advertising to bring in investors, Max's team is one of the advertising agencies giving them a pitch.
Joe is a bit of dark horse here but I liked him, quite a bit. He seemed to ground Max which was sweet. This was definitely a HFN but I want it to be a HEA and think they do as well, so I finished off reading this with a very hopeful outlook on their relationship.
The Don Draper-esque pitch was awesome! I LOVED what they came up with, good on Black for her clever wordplay and images here. Max really brought to mind those client pitches from the show, he was every bit as charasmatic and charming as Don.
As for the reasons why they had to downgrade the pitch:
This story made me laugh, I loved being inside Max's head. He was one of the craziest characters I've ever read and that only adds to his appeal!
December 4, 2009
Wow! Max is a total asshole but I LOVE him so far. This is making me laugh often with all the snarky observations and Max's inner bitchy dialogue.
I don't know why but Max's antics completely tickled my humor bone. I laughed really hard reading this book. Fair warning though I can see some readers never warming up to Max, in which case, it will be a struggle to get through this one. If you don't see the potential in Max as a heroic figure or any of the humor in the excerpt, you may not ever do so.
I am glad I got to know Max. This book purely entertained me 100%.
I don't know why but Max's antics completely tickled my humor bone. I laughed really hard reading this book. Fair warning though I can see some readers never warming up to Max, in which case, it will be a struggle to get through this one. If you don't see the potential in Max as a heroic figure or any of the humor in the excerpt, you may not ever do so.
I am glad I got to know Max. This book purely entertained me 100%.
December 22, 2011
I did not drink coffee at all while reading this book. Neurotic, arrogant, egotistical, frantic, creative genius Max was over-caffeinated enough for both us. I LOVED HIM! Max and Joe together were icing on the cake. I had too much fun with this book and it totally made my day.
December 12, 2009
M/M Romance. Newly gay Max Tomlin is a genius when it comes to advertising, but not so good when it comes to people. Joe Bennett is hot, easy-going, and, inexplicably, seems to like Max, but his aeronautics company is in danger of a corporate takeover. Can Max save Joe's company? More importantly, can Max keep his pants on in the face of Joe's super hotness?
This is a slash rom-com, basically. The writing is fun, the romance is sweet, and the sex is hot. There's no forced misunderstanding in third act, just events falling naturally into place to create conflict. Unfortunately, I saw the (metaphorical) car crash coming from the first chapter and it made me nervous for the entire book. I don't know if that's a personal failing or if Black could have been more subtle, but I suspect it's a little of both.
What makes this book stand out is Black's humor and her skill as a writer. Max is especially enjoyable. Yeah, he's loud and arrogant, but he's got a vulnerable underbelly that makes him loveable; he's aware of his faults, even as he's blind to some of his better qualities. Also the "newly gay" aspect of his character pays off in a way I wasn't expecting, and it's very satisfying. Joe, on the other hand, is a bit vague at first, his voice wanders like he's not entirely sure who he is, but he gets to be more solid towards the end.
Four stars. Great humor, great sex, great main character. Lots of fun.
This is a slash rom-com, basically. The writing is fun, the romance is sweet, and the sex is hot. There's no forced misunderstanding in third act, just events falling naturally into place to create conflict. Unfortunately, I saw the (metaphorical) car crash coming from the first chapter and it made me nervous for the entire book. I don't know if that's a personal failing or if Black could have been more subtle, but I suspect it's a little of both.
What makes this book stand out is Black's humor and her skill as a writer. Max is especially enjoyable. Yeah, he's loud and arrogant, but he's got a vulnerable underbelly that makes him loveable; he's aware of his faults, even as he's blind to some of his better qualities. Also the "newly gay" aspect of his character pays off in a way I wasn't expecting, and it's very satisfying. Joe, on the other hand, is a bit vague at first, his voice wanders like he's not entirely sure who he is, but he gets to be more solid towards the end.
Four stars. Great humor, great sex, great main character. Lots of fun.
April 7, 2013
This was such a fun read. How could anyone not love Max? He was totally Type A with a side of neurosis. Add in a coffee addiction and an overdose of uncontrollable horniness...and you get Max. The newly turned gay, ad executive who just can't stay out of Joe's bed...who happens to be major potential client. There's also lots of humor and horizontal aerobics.
"You promised to fuck me. You have a contractual obligation." ~ Max to Joe
December 14, 2011
This was just a fun story. Max is very likeable even though he comes across at first as an arrogant person, but at the same time very insecure and out of his element with Joe. His interaction and banter with the people he works with was great. There are parts of the book that were a little unrealistic, the whole became gay after his divorce and hooking up with Joe immediately, but it really didn't take away from the book for me because I liked Max. All in all a good story for me.
April 21, 2014
This was a fun and easy read. I was expecting it from the blurb alone, but the humor in this was some of the easiest I have ever read. It didn't feel forced like other humor books I have read. I wanted this book to keep going and it was sad when it finally ended.
Max and Joe were hot together, but it was the funny scenes and banter between them that kept me interested. It's refreshing to read a book that keeps me laughing and allows me to read it without the hassle of angst around the corner. All the characters worked off each other and with the couple.
I was not shocked by the outcome. You could kind of see it coming without it being too obvious. If it had not been such a funny book the reveal of Abby's character would have annoyed me. It was nice to add the little drama that could make me chuckle without stressing about a major fallout.
I have not read this authors work before but I plan to read more soon. It would be worth it to have a nice read like this when I have read some angsty of depressing books, or even just a day I feel like laughing at a book.
Highly recommend this!
Max and Joe were hot together, but it was the funny scenes and banter between them that kept me interested. It's refreshing to read a book that keeps me laughing and allows me to read it without the hassle of angst around the corner. All the characters worked off each other and with the couple.
I was not shocked by the outcome. You could kind of see it coming without it being too obvious. If it had not been such a funny book the reveal of Abby's character would have annoyed me. It was nice to add the little drama that could make me chuckle without stressing about a major fallout.
I have not read this authors work before but I plan to read more soon. It would be worth it to have a nice read like this when I have read some angsty of depressing books, or even just a day I feel like laughing at a book.
Highly recommend this!
December 6, 2014
The main character grated on my nerves and I predicted the ending right away.
August 30, 2012
A light, fun read that made me smirk a few times. I loved the nod to Mad Men. Max is like a gay, manic Don Draper. Where this story fell short, I think, was in the characterization. I couldn't picture Max in my head, which was a problem. I'm not the kind of reader that needs a complete physical description, but some clues might have helped. I also couldn't see why Joe thought Max's personality was charming. We are shown that Max is abrasive, flippant, difficult, and stalkerish. All of which I could accept, if there were more layers underneath. (There weren't.) So, as long as you don't take this too seriously, it's a pretty good time.
November 14, 2012
3.5 stars.
Max is such an absurd, neurotic, lovable character. He is the whole reason to read this book. Max's struggle with his anxieties is at least as important to the plot as his budding romance with the worthy-but-slightly-boring Joe. Joe definitely needed more characters development; he is the weak link in a story full of quirky, colorful characters. I wish Max's coworkers were fleshed out a bit more as well, since they are almost as funny as Max is. Nitpicks aside, though, this is a very entertaining read.
Max is such an absurd, neurotic, lovable character. He is the whole reason to read this book. Max's struggle with his anxieties is at least as important to the plot as his budding romance with the worthy-but-slightly-boring Joe. Joe definitely needed more characters development; he is the weak link in a story full of quirky, colorful characters. I wish Max's coworkers were fleshed out a bit more as well, since they are almost as funny as Max is. Nitpicks aside, though, this is a very entertaining read.
September 22, 2010
I really enjoyed this m/m romance about a hyper advertising exec who knows better than to get involved with a prospective client… usually.
February 10, 2010
This is an easy, fast read that is predictable and kind of trite. There are very classic romance elements to the story that reminded me of formulaic romances and although I understood what the story was attempting to achieve, it didn’t quite accomplish its goal. However those readers who adore the semi-perfect but incredibly neurotic “genius” archetype may indulge in this offering. I unfortunately wouldn’t recommend this offering but reader taste differs.
Beautiful, intelligent, and successful Max Tomlin decided he was gay after his wife of almost a decade left him. However the string of twinks and one night stands is threatened when the hot owner of an aviation company comes to Tomlin for an advertising campaign designed to save his company from a hostile take over. Max decides to mix a little business and pleasure.
The story is told in third person point of view from Max’s perspective and thus he is the driving force of the book. His characterization is the most in depth while the various other characters move in and out of Max’s sphere without much to them other than a variety of humorous comments and some necessary plot progression. Max is a bit too good to be true at the beginning of the story where he is described as good looking in numerous different ways, commanding the attention and attraction of almost everyone he meets. Helping matters is his genius intelligence and gift with advertising. Thankfully Max is not entirely perfect as his completely neurotic behavior and over the top antics start to overshadow the perfect parts of his personality. Unfortunately Max is also judgmental, condescending, and rude to almost everyone all the time. Max is meant to charm the reader with his inability to act like a normal person while excusing such since he’s a creative genius.
Unfortunately Max didn’t possess enough charm and likable characteristics to overcome his ridiculous actions and bitchy personality. Not to mention Max’s sexuality is really questionable for the majority of the story. Although Max claims he is gay and certainly indulges in a lot of gay sex, his claims seem to stem from a desire to strike out at his ex-wife. There are several odd comments Max makes about his sexuality which make me question if Max isn’t using the gay claim simply as a rebound to his ex-wife leaving. This claim is strengthened somewhat by Max’s relationship with Joe though. Joe supposedly finds Max’s behavior amusing and entertaining, thus not caring that Max practically stalks the man on occasion and has no idea of a healthy relationship. Joe as a character is given very little depth and often shows no real reason for being attracted to the neurotic Max. Beyond having a love of flying and cooking, Joe exists for hot sex with Max and a potential client.
Various other elements also made little sense from the gloating ex-wife to the bevy of workers around Max. Each had a purpose in furthering the plot but the story offers very little to each character – they are often interchangeable – other than moving the story along. The plot itself is predictable with unfortunately basic, unimaginative writing to compliment. The prose choices are trite and bland with a lot of extraneous and unnecessary detail thrown in to lengthen the story. This isn’t a difficult story to read but my attention was wandering frequently.
Although I know where the story was going and what it was attempting, unfortunately I don’t think this particular offering was successful. However, opinions vary – check out goodreads, a bunch of readers LOVED Max to the depths of his soul – and if this sounds like something you’d enjoy, you can pick it up over at Dreamspinner.
Beautiful, intelligent, and successful Max Tomlin decided he was gay after his wife of almost a decade left him. However the string of twinks and one night stands is threatened when the hot owner of an aviation company comes to Tomlin for an advertising campaign designed to save his company from a hostile take over. Max decides to mix a little business and pleasure.
The story is told in third person point of view from Max’s perspective and thus he is the driving force of the book. His characterization is the most in depth while the various other characters move in and out of Max’s sphere without much to them other than a variety of humorous comments and some necessary plot progression. Max is a bit too good to be true at the beginning of the story where he is described as good looking in numerous different ways, commanding the attention and attraction of almost everyone he meets. Helping matters is his genius intelligence and gift with advertising. Thankfully Max is not entirely perfect as his completely neurotic behavior and over the top antics start to overshadow the perfect parts of his personality. Unfortunately Max is also judgmental, condescending, and rude to almost everyone all the time. Max is meant to charm the reader with his inability to act like a normal person while excusing such since he’s a creative genius.
Unfortunately Max didn’t possess enough charm and likable characteristics to overcome his ridiculous actions and bitchy personality. Not to mention Max’s sexuality is really questionable for the majority of the story. Although Max claims he is gay and certainly indulges in a lot of gay sex, his claims seem to stem from a desire to strike out at his ex-wife. There are several odd comments Max makes about his sexuality which make me question if Max isn’t using the gay claim simply as a rebound to his ex-wife leaving. This claim is strengthened somewhat by Max’s relationship with Joe though. Joe supposedly finds Max’s behavior amusing and entertaining, thus not caring that Max practically stalks the man on occasion and has no idea of a healthy relationship. Joe as a character is given very little depth and often shows no real reason for being attracted to the neurotic Max. Beyond having a love of flying and cooking, Joe exists for hot sex with Max and a potential client.
Various other elements also made little sense from the gloating ex-wife to the bevy of workers around Max. Each had a purpose in furthering the plot but the story offers very little to each character – they are often interchangeable – other than moving the story along. The plot itself is predictable with unfortunately basic, unimaginative writing to compliment. The prose choices are trite and bland with a lot of extraneous and unnecessary detail thrown in to lengthen the story. This isn’t a difficult story to read but my attention was wandering frequently.
Although I know where the story was going and what it was attempting, unfortunately I don’t think this particular offering was successful. However, opinions vary – check out goodreads, a bunch of readers LOVED Max to the depths of his soul – and if this sounds like something you’d enjoy, you can pick it up over at Dreamspinner.
September 3, 2012
I'd give up my first born for an epilogue.
This brilliant, just-discovered piece of awesome written by my new favorite m-m author, Lenore "I'm glad I read that anthology and discovered your panty-soaking genius" Black is about a legendary ad exec, Max Tomlin, and his romance with himself and a self-made businessman hottie, Joe Bennett. I don't know what's up but I'm just glad to have found some of the most adorable assholes in man-love romances the past couple of weeks. Max Tomlin is such asshole.
Max is an advertising legend whose ex-wife's infidelity drove him to homosexuality. It's weird how it sounds and heartbreaking at the same time since we know he feels things for his gay sexual exploits - so it's not like he's not really gay - but they all are just male versions of his wife - most of them even smell feminine - that you know he's just trying to cover up the betrayal and humiliation by trying to humiliate his ex-wife back but is still not over her. "So you cheated on me, well I'm gay so we never had a chance anyway" kinda thing.
Things change however when he meets the owner of the company whose account they're trying to land and discovers that he actually is gay and quite happy about it. What follows is an attempt to create a balance between a personal and business relationship, some really hot blowjobs and buttsex, and Joe teaching Max that he can be happy again.
I'd have given this book four stars just for Max being in it alone. The guy is neurotic and arrogant and cool and a self-aware genius and abrasive and all things you can expect from a successful asshole. He's also unapologetic and quite child-like about it that you can't help but love the dick. He's kind of a cross between Don Draper and Ari Gold. And I mean the most hot kind of cross - like suave and sexy like Don and loud and obnoxious like Ari. It all worked, though, and that's because Lenore Black is bathed in awesomesauce.
The added star is partly for the supporting characters that brought to mind Lloyd and Ari Gold's business partner in Entourage, but is mostly for the chemistry between the MCs. The relationship is pretty complication free so I had to adjust - I like my gay sex smothered in angst - but the enthusiasm in the MCs more than made up for the lack of angst.
There are not enough info on how Max managed being a baby gay (he was already out eight months by the start of the story) or handled being cuckolded, but I guess that's asking for a flashback so I'm cool not knowing. Although I'd have loved to shove his HEA into his ex's face and at least a short motherfucking epilogue. But still, sexy, hilarious, and more than enough to make me a fan.
Recommended.
This brilliant, just-discovered piece of awesome written by my new favorite m-m author, Lenore "I'm glad I read that anthology and discovered your panty-soaking genius" Black is about a legendary ad exec, Max Tomlin, and his romance with himself and a self-made businessman hottie, Joe Bennett. I don't know what's up but I'm just glad to have found some of the most adorable assholes in man-love romances the past couple of weeks. Max Tomlin is such asshole.
Max is an advertising legend whose ex-wife's infidelity drove him to homosexuality. It's weird how it sounds and heartbreaking at the same time since we know he feels things for his gay sexual exploits - so it's not like he's not really gay - but they all are just male versions of his wife - most of them even smell feminine - that you know he's just trying to cover up the betrayal and humiliation by trying to humiliate his ex-wife back but is still not over her. "So you cheated on me, well I'm gay so we never had a chance anyway" kinda thing.
Things change however when he meets the owner of the company whose account they're trying to land and discovers that he actually is gay and quite happy about it. What follows is an attempt to create a balance between a personal and business relationship, some really hot blowjobs and buttsex, and Joe teaching Max that he can be happy again.
I'd have given this book four stars just for Max being in it alone. The guy is neurotic and arrogant and cool and a self-aware genius and abrasive and all things you can expect from a successful asshole. He's also unapologetic and quite child-like about it that you can't help but love the dick. He's kind of a cross between Don Draper and Ari Gold. And I mean the most hot kind of cross - like suave and sexy like Don and loud and obnoxious like Ari. It all worked, though, and that's because Lenore Black is bathed in awesomesauce.
The added star is partly for the supporting characters that brought to mind Lloyd and Ari Gold's business partner in Entourage, but is mostly for the chemistry between the MCs. The relationship is pretty complication free so I had to adjust - I like my gay sex smothered in angst - but the enthusiasm in the MCs more than made up for the lack of angst.
There are not enough info on how Max managed being a baby gay (he was already out eight months by the start of the story) or handled being cuckolded, but I guess that's asking for a flashback so I'm cool not knowing. Although I'd have loved to shove his HEA into his ex's face and at least a short motherfucking epilogue. But still, sexy, hilarious, and more than enough to make me a fan.
Recommended.
December 7, 2009
This well written story is filled with humor, quirky and interesting characters and has a plot that is simple yet has a nice twist towards the end. This is the first story I've read by this author but it won't be my last, I definitely recommend it.
My complete review is posted at Rainbow Reviews
My complete review is posted at Rainbow Reviews
September 15, 2014
Really well written book with more "real" feel to the couple. No insta love or sappy crap, just a good old fashioned beginning. The sex scenes were very nice and not over the top nasty or kinky. All in all a really good short read. Loved Max!!
August 9, 2013
4.5/5
Max you were interesting to read about, but I would never ever want to meet you in person.
Max you were interesting to read about, but I would never ever want to meet you in person.
April 30, 2013
The most adorable spastic character ever.
June 1, 2014
GOLD! PURE GOLD!
Max Tomlin, creative genius director of his own NYC advertisement agency, sexy as hell man! After his divorce he decided he was gay and walked into the other side, but that hasn't gone that better much better for him. But at least he's about to win a new account, even if his new prospective client is apparently a red-neck from Montana. But all his prejudices fall when he meets Joe Bennett.
Joe Bennett, he's an aviation innovator and now successful businessman. He's extremely hot, passionate, smart and Max simply cant stop himself from being completely enraptured, the fact that he's bi is just the icing on the cake. But can he afford the distraction when he's decided to win the account along with helping Joe protect his legacy?
*_*_*_*_*_*
He smiled conspiratorially, and Max felt the heat curl low in
his belly. That thing where he’d insisted he wasn’t going to fall for
Bennett’s cowboy charm? Famous last words.
This was just perfect, perfect length, perfect plot, perfect sex and jesus it was just great! And being inside Max's head is just amazing, I loved it!
“I had the hottest sex of my life with him last night!” Max
blurted out. “I went to his place and threw myself at him and
begged him to fuck me.” He groaned aloud. “And it gets even
worse! He made me dinner. And he’s a really good cook. And he
wants to take me to a football game, not to schmooze, just to… I
don’t know. Because he wants to spend time with me or
something.”
“And this is a problem because—?”
“I have some kind of impulse control disorder. Obviously.”
Max Tomlin, creative genius director of his own NYC advertisement agency, sexy as hell man! After his divorce he decided he was gay and walked into the other side, but that hasn't gone that better much better for him. But at least he's about to win a new account, even if his new prospective client is apparently a red-neck from Montana. But all his prejudices fall when he meets Joe Bennett.
Joe Bennett, he's an aviation innovator and now successful businessman. He's extremely hot, passionate, smart and Max simply cant stop himself from being completely enraptured, the fact that he's bi is just the icing on the cake. But can he afford the distraction when he's decided to win the account along with helping Joe protect his legacy?
*_*_*_*_*_*
He smiled conspiratorially, and Max felt the heat curl low in
his belly. That thing where he’d insisted he wasn’t going to fall for
Bennett’s cowboy charm? Famous last words.
This was just perfect, perfect length, perfect plot, perfect sex and jesus it was just great! And being inside Max's head is just amazing, I loved it!
“I had the hottest sex of my life with him last night!” Max
blurted out. “I went to his place and threw myself at him and
begged him to fuck me.” He groaned aloud. “And it gets even
worse! He made me dinner. And he’s a really good cook. And he
wants to take me to a football game, not to schmooze, just to… I
don’t know. Because he wants to spend time with me or
something.”
“And this is a problem because—?”
“I have some kind of impulse control disorder. Obviously.”
September 28, 2011
4.5 stars
I've got to say that in the beginning of the book I wasn't too sure I would like Max. However, his snarky attitude was hilarious, and I ended up loving him! The only thing got on my nerves was Max's repeated musings about "going gay" or "deciding to be gay" after his divorce, as if he just decided to give up on women. Now, this isn't a gfy or anything; Max actually has dated other guys before Joe. But we never see Max realizing that he was always bisexual or whatever; instead, his internal musings made it seem like he just decided one day that things would be easier if he just dated males from now on.
I've got to say that in the beginning of the book I wasn't too sure I would like Max. However, his snarky attitude was hilarious, and I ended up loving him! The only thing got on my nerves was Max's repeated musings about "going gay" or "deciding to be gay" after his divorce, as if he just decided to give up on women. Now, this isn't a gfy or anything; Max actually has dated other guys before Joe. But we never see Max realizing that he was always bisexual or whatever; instead, his internal musings made it seem like he just decided one day that things would be easier if he just dated males from now on.
October 4, 2010
Actually a 3,5 read, but I'll rate it 4 stars as it is such a funny read. I loved Max with his über ego but also his little flaws and insecurities that made me laugh and scream at times (i'm thinking about his jealousy act ... hilarious)!!
An easy funny read without too much emotional drama.
An easy funny read without too much emotional drama.
November 18, 2012
Max is the type of person who you would probably want to punch (repeatedly) in real life but works incredibly well as a fictional character. I mean,how can you not adore him?! *lol*
He totally made this book IMO! I liked Joe and all the other characters just fine but Max stands out :)
He totally made this book IMO! I liked Joe and all the other characters just fine but Max stands out :)
November 10, 2015
Update (November 10, 2015):
Just reread this in one go in the middle of the night. Every time I saw this in one of my book apps I remembered how much I loved it, so I finally went for it again. And, I loved it all the way once more. It had me laughing, making cutesy sounds and faces at them, and reminded me of just why I love reading. So good! Read it now!
Original review (July 16, 2014):
This book was such a crack up :D :D :D I adored Max and his neurotic, crazed, egotistical butt.
"'I didn't fail miserably,' Max said, the most profound relief of his life washing over him. 'I'm still a genius!'
Joe kissed him, pressing closer. 'Mmm. Yeah. Genius.'
'People are always trying to say I've lost it,' Max said. 'But I've still got it.'"
His attitude was so fun to experience, and it was great to see him open up and become less abrasive around Joe. Joe was a good fit for him too, with his laid-back attitude and tendency to laugh off any insults, shows of ego, or ignorance on Max's part.
The plot of the story was quick and filled with scenes that I loved. I saw the plot twist coming from a mile off, but I really liked the way that Ms. Black resolved it. Max became more involved and intricate the more I read of him, and the cast of secondaries all added intrigue and entertainment.
All in all, I really enjoyed this and read it so quickly from start to finish. I highly recommend it if you like humor and neuroses in your MC.
"'We're not there yet, but it's coming along, okay?' he said huffily. 'We will have truly exceptional work to show at the presentation. We will win this account. Or my team will die trying. Happy now?'"
P.S. The cover really works with the attitude that fills the book.
P.P.S. I want a sequel!
Just reread this in one go in the middle of the night. Every time I saw this in one of my book apps I remembered how much I loved it, so I finally went for it again. And, I loved it all the way once more. It had me laughing, making cutesy sounds and faces at them, and reminded me of just why I love reading. So good! Read it now!
Original review (July 16, 2014):
This book was such a crack up :D :D :D I adored Max and his neurotic, crazed, egotistical butt.
"'I didn't fail miserably,' Max said, the most profound relief of his life washing over him. 'I'm still a genius!'
Joe kissed him, pressing closer. 'Mmm. Yeah. Genius.'
'People are always trying to say I've lost it,' Max said. 'But I've still got it.'"
His attitude was so fun to experience, and it was great to see him open up and become less abrasive around Joe. Joe was a good fit for him too, with his laid-back attitude and tendency to laugh off any insults, shows of ego, or ignorance on Max's part.
The plot of the story was quick and filled with scenes that I loved. I saw the plot twist coming from a mile off, but I really liked the way that Ms. Black resolved it. Max became more involved and intricate the more I read of him, and the cast of secondaries all added intrigue and entertainment.
All in all, I really enjoyed this and read it so quickly from start to finish. I highly recommend it if you like humor and neuroses in your MC.
"'We're not there yet, but it's coming along, okay?' he said huffily. 'We will have truly exceptional work to show at the presentation. We will win this account. Or my team will die trying. Happy now?'"
P.S. The cover really works with the attitude that fills the book.
P.P.S. I want a sequel!
December 4, 2010
I love Lenore Black's writing, so even though the premise of a neurotic advertising genuis finding love with a prospective client didn't exactly thrill me, I wanted to give it a chance. I'm so glad I did - Max is a complete git but I was drawn to him and his vulnerabilities despite, or perhaps because of, the way he acted towards his colleagues.
Lenore paints the world of New York advertising in vivid colours and the characters are hysterical. My only real criticism is that I would have liked to have had more on page interaction between the romantic leads. However, I was utterly convinced by the chemistry between them and could even understand why Joe was drawn to Max despite his many faults.
Max's attitude to his new-found gaydom made me laugh out loud - the scene when he fires his cute male secretary was inspired! Now, I just wish Lenore Black would hurry up and write some more stories :)
Lenore paints the world of New York advertising in vivid colours and the characters are hysterical. My only real criticism is that I would have liked to have had more on page interaction between the romantic leads. However, I was utterly convinced by the chemistry between them and could even understand why Joe was drawn to Max despite his many faults.
Max's attitude to his new-found gaydom made me laugh out loud - the scene when he fires his cute male secretary was inspired! Now, I just wish Lenore Black would hurry up and write some more stories :)
December 9, 2009
What a wonderfully funny story! Max is such a character. He made me yell at him in frustration about his larger-than life ego, at the same time I had to laugh at his phobias and hidden insecurities.
The story has a very simple plot: company needs rescuing from hostile takeover, the man who built it, Joe, decides he needs a new advertising campaign to save them. Max heads one of the advertising agencies asked to pitch but is unexpectedly attracted to Joe. They decide to keep business separate from pleasure and begin a relationship while the pitch still goes on. Busniness ethics aside, the arising situations are hilarious.
If you're loooking for a fast-paced, fun read with not too much emotion thrown in, this is a book worth reading.
The story has a very simple plot: company needs rescuing from hostile takeover, the man who built it, Joe, decides he needs a new advertising campaign to save them. Max heads one of the advertising agencies asked to pitch but is unexpectedly attracted to Joe. They decide to keep business separate from pleasure and begin a relationship while the pitch still goes on. Busniness ethics aside, the arising situations are hilarious.
If you're loooking for a fast-paced, fun read with not too much emotion thrown in, this is a book worth reading.
February 16, 2012
2.5 StarsThe main character, Max Tomlin, starts off as very unlikable. When he meets Joe Bennett & agrees to do a campaign for him, he begins to acquire a little more depth. Parts of this story is enjoyable., but I was confused on the main character's sexuality as it's written as if Max chooses to be gay after his divorce, to get back at his ex wife or out of spite. No one takes his saying he's gay very seriously as well, that is until all of a sudden Max falls for Joe. I'm not sure where the writer was going with this portrayal but it ended up making the story feel slight & superficial. It could have been better
May 18, 2017
A fizzing 3.5 stars
Great fun. A little cocktail of a book, starring Max Tomlin, self-confessed advertising genius. Max is all about the next big thrill ("he had more important things to focus on than cheese") until he accidentally falls in love with his next client, avionics geek Joe. Can Max help Joe fend off a corporate takeover, develop a killer campaign and put one over on his ex-wife ("Her blond hair was cut short to show off her cheekbones, her dress cut low to show off everything else.")? Of course he can. And all in the time it takes to mix, pour and sip at a really strong Negroni.
Great fun. A little cocktail of a book, starring Max Tomlin, self-confessed advertising genius. Max is all about the next big thrill ("he had more important things to focus on than cheese") until he accidentally falls in love with his next client, avionics geek Joe. Can Max help Joe fend off a corporate takeover, develop a killer campaign and put one over on his ex-wife ("Her blond hair was cut short to show off her cheekbones, her dress cut low to show off everything else.")? Of course he can. And all in the time it takes to mix, pour and sip at a really strong Negroni.
December 4, 2009
This book is a gem. Max, our hero, is a self-proclaimed advertising genius. Following his divorce Max decides he should really become gay (you need to read the become to understand how his mind works) and has pursued this decision with much energy but not much success. Joe Bennett is his perspective new client and current love interest. This book had me laughing out loud many times. I read it in a day and have already went back to reread some particularly funny parts. Lenore Black is a rare author who can write with real wit and humor.
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