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Bewitched by Bella's Brother
Sebastian Craig and Isabella Bryne have been best friends for five years in the Neverland of academia, and that's where they're planning to stay. So when Bella's brother, Asa, offers them a rent-free summer in his gorgeous home before they move to their next college and degree, they jump at the chance. It looks like a good deal at first... but there's more to Asa than meets the eye, and Sebastian finds himself suddenly hip-deep in complicated, grown-up problems and the frightening, bemusing prospect of having a family that will miss him when he's gone.
When the best summer of his life finally ends, Sebastian has to make a difficult decision between staying in perpetual childhood forever, and facing adulthood—with all of its joys and fears. It seems that when Sebastian and Bella came up with a master plan for the future, they didn't count on Sebastian being bewitched by Bella's brother.
When the best summer of his life finally ends, Sebastian has to make a difficult decision between staying in perpetual childhood forever, and facing adulthood—with all of its joys and fears. It seems that when Sebastian and Bella came up with a master plan for the future, they didn't count on Sebastian being bewitched by Bella's brother.
147 pages, ebook
First published August 10, 2010
23 people are currently reading
937 people want to read
About the author
Amy Lane
205 books3,493 followersAmy Lane dodges an EDJ, mothers four children, and writes the occasional book. She, her brood, and her beloved mate, Mack, live in a crumbling mortgage in Citrus Heights, California, which is riddled with spiders, cats, and more than its share of fancy and weirdness. Feel free to visit her at www.greenshill.com orwww.writerslane.blogspot.com, where she will ride the buzz of receiving your e-mail until her head swells and she can no longer leave the house.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 208 reviews
May 19, 2019
3.5 Stars
What can I say about this except I adore the trope of falling for your best friend’s brother, and this was really no different.
Sebastian and his bestie have been sorta kind avoiding adulthood for several years now, just being academic nerds and getting various degrees here and there. Their vagabond existence comes to a temporary pause for the summer as they can’t resist a free room offered by Bella’s older brother Asa, a handsome rich contractor who’s newly divorced. What comes about is that Sebastian and Bella’s self imposed personal family of two broadly expands, and they both realize that maybe establishing some roots or reconnecting with loved ones is not such a bad thing after all. How long will Sebastian remain stubborn and deny his and Asa’s wants and needs?
This had a lot funny in it, a gentle giant, an age gap, and some very nice UST. Thankfully, there was no crazy angst that can be prominent in many of Lane’s works. Throw in an adorable 7 year old, the aforementioned fierce bestie, and this was nice and easy entertaining romance!
What can I say about this except I adore the trope of falling for your best friend’s brother, and this was really no different.
Sebastian and his bestie have been sorta kind avoiding adulthood for several years now, just being academic nerds and getting various degrees here and there. Their vagabond existence comes to a temporary pause for the summer as they can’t resist a free room offered by Bella’s older brother Asa, a handsome rich contractor who’s newly divorced. What comes about is that Sebastian and Bella’s self imposed personal family of two broadly expands, and they both realize that maybe establishing some roots or reconnecting with loved ones is not such a bad thing after all. How long will Sebastian remain stubborn and deny his and Asa’s wants and needs?
This had a lot funny in it, a gentle giant, an age gap, and some very nice UST. Thankfully, there was no crazy angst that can be prominent in many of Lane’s works. Throw in an adorable 7 year old, the aforementioned fierce bestie, and this was nice and easy entertaining romance!
August 24, 2021
3.5 Stars
As one of Lane’s earlier works, I wasn’t expecting too much, if truth me told. What I got was a heartwarming, lite-angst tale, of two fairly lonely men unexpectedly falling in love while sharing a home one summer.
This was a best-friends-brother trope well-executed, with the best friend and sister Bella playing a nice, supportive role to our two MCs, Sebastian Craig and Asa Bryne. The whole story had a strong family-vibe which I loved, with Sebastian being wholly welcomed by the entire Bryne clan, always, first as Bella’s friend and later as Asa’s lover, making the stakes a little higher for Sebastian in what he could potentially lose if his romance with Asa went pear-shaped.
However, the romance ran fairly smooth, with little in the way of complications, as Sebastian and Asa shared a sweet connection and a strong sexual chemistry. The little relationship drama we do experience here was towards the end, revolving around whether Sebastian would stay forever with Asa (and his young son Jordan) or if he’d move interstate to complete another college degree. To be honest, this part felt a bit forced and certainly dragged the story out a bit longer than was strictly necessary, IMO.
Overall, I liked the story and the characters well enough, but I wasn’t wowed by their romance. It was a decent best-friends-brother story, if, like me, you’re into such, but I’ve read better stories like this, and I’ve certainly read better stories by Lane herself. But it was still a nice way to pass the time.
As one of Lane’s earlier works, I wasn’t expecting too much, if truth me told. What I got was a heartwarming, lite-angst tale, of two fairly lonely men unexpectedly falling in love while sharing a home one summer.
This was a best-friends-brother trope well-executed, with the best friend and sister Bella playing a nice, supportive role to our two MCs, Sebastian Craig and Asa Bryne. The whole story had a strong family-vibe which I loved, with Sebastian being wholly welcomed by the entire Bryne clan, always, first as Bella’s friend and later as Asa’s lover, making the stakes a little higher for Sebastian in what he could potentially lose if his romance with Asa went pear-shaped.
However, the romance ran fairly smooth, with little in the way of complications, as Sebastian and Asa shared a sweet connection and a strong sexual chemistry. The little relationship drama we do experience here was towards the end, revolving around whether Sebastian would stay forever with Asa (and his young son Jordan) or if he’d move interstate to complete another college degree. To be honest, this part felt a bit forced and certainly dragged the story out a bit longer than was strictly necessary, IMO.
Overall, I liked the story and the characters well enough, but I wasn’t wowed by their romance. It was a decent best-friends-brother story, if, like me, you’re into such, but I’ve read better stories like this, and I’ve certainly read better stories by Lane herself. But it was still a nice way to pass the time.
September 8, 2010
This is where I should try to believe that "Don't Judge The Book By Its Cover" :). I was reluctant to read this at first, since based on the cover (and the blurb here mentioned "Neverland of academia"), I thought it would be a fantasy story -- and I wasn't in the mood to read fantasy; as well as it wasn't my first choice of genre.
HOWEVER, it turns out that this is a contemporary romance, a very good and humorous and tender one to boot. It's very easy to read and totally entertaining. It also features some of the most wonderful people in a story -- Sebastian, a 27-year old doctorate candidate, his best-friend (and probably soul-mate), Bella, Bella's older but oh-my-god-so-sexy brother, Asa (I keep imagining him as Alexander Skarsgård), and Asa's 8-year-old song the quiet-bug-lover Jordan.
The relationship is down-right "Earthly" (can I use that term?); it's fun but also touching -- I admit I cried during a couple of scenes, mostly related to Jordan (I want to hug that kid) -- sort of like a heartwarming Hallmark movie. The dialogs are so easy to read and the banters between Sebastian and Bella are sometimes outrageous but you can simply see how that describes the closeness. I must say that this is for the first time, I enjoy a female character that seems to be as important as the male characters. Oh, there are some female "friends" in several stories I read, but Sebastian and Bella are more than just friends. They're support each other through everything -- they're probably siblings separated by blood.
I totally enjoy Sebastian's rambling -- and how Asa's way to quiet him (very effective :p). I have to admit that at some points I feel that Asa's presence is overshadowed by Sebastian's relationship with Bella. But, it's not such a big problem :). Of course, at the end, I want to smack Sebastian for not seeing what he has and that it needs chicken pox to make him realize that he belongs with Bella and her brother and his son.
The extra 0.5 stars belong to Bella as an important character in an m/m story as well as Jordan, because I want to squeeze him for being so sweet (though he can also be manipulative :p)
HOWEVER, it turns out that this is a contemporary romance, a very good and humorous and tender one to boot. It's very easy to read and totally entertaining. It also features some of the most wonderful people in a story -- Sebastian, a 27-year old doctorate candidate, his best-friend (and probably soul-mate), Bella, Bella's older but oh-my-god-so-sexy brother, Asa (I keep imagining him as Alexander Skarsgård), and Asa's 8-year-old song the quiet-bug-lover Jordan.
The relationship is down-right "Earthly" (can I use that term?); it's fun but also touching -- I admit I cried during a couple of scenes, mostly related to Jordan (I want to hug that kid) -- sort of like a heartwarming Hallmark movie. The dialogs are so easy to read and the banters between Sebastian and Bella are sometimes outrageous but you can simply see how that describes the closeness. I must say that this is for the first time, I enjoy a female character that seems to be as important as the male characters. Oh, there are some female "friends" in several stories I read, but Sebastian and Bella are more than just friends. They're support each other through everything -- they're probably siblings separated by blood.
I totally enjoy Sebastian's rambling -- and how Asa's way to quiet him (very effective :p). I have to admit that at some points I feel that Asa's presence is overshadowed by Sebastian's relationship with Bella. But, it's not such a big problem :). Of course, at the end, I want to smack Sebastian for not seeing what he has and that it needs chicken pox to make him realize that he belongs with Bella and her brother and his son.
The extra 0.5 stars belong to Bella as an important character in an m/m story as well as Jordan, because I want to squeeze him for being so sweet (though he can also be manipulative :p)
September 2, 2015
Oh Amy Lane, you've done it again, I'm well and truly hooked
What a fabulous story. Sebastian and Bella, true friends, even though he does sometimes call her 'heifer' as a term of endearment. Sebastian is a very flamboyant gay, and doesn't care who knows it! Let's just say that their personal lives are not particularly successful, neither of them currently has a lover, and to make up for that, and the fact that Sebastian's upbringing was not particularly happy, he has been 'adopted' by Bella's family, who are of course full of warmth and love. He and Bella spend all the time they can with Bella's siblings and their children, but Sebastian does have a plan - he is going to University to obtain another Doctorate in a subject he feels strongly about, so he is transferring his book store job to one nearer where he will be studying.
Enter Asa, Bella's oldest brother and keeper of her secrets, single parent and father of Jordan. Words fail me!!
He is such a lovely man, and when Bella and Sebastian go to stay at his house, Sebastian falls under his spell straight away. He assumes Asa will not be interested in him - that assumption would be INcorrect! Asa is bi, and even though he hasn't had relationship with a man before, he has been tempted.Matters progress, and Sebastian comes to understand that his 'unrequited' feelings for Asa may not be as unrequited as he thought!
"You're not wearing a shirt Sebastian, and I want to touch you. Consider seduction achieved.
I know I'm a man-virgin, Asa panted in response, but I'm almost forty years old. I do know how to get to second base. Ungh.... Sebastian managed. Will you need help getting to third?"
Jordan is perfectly happy with Sebastian, and spends a lot of time with him and Bella while Asa is working. Jordan is fascinated with reptiles and animals of any description. "Uhm Jordan?... that butterfly might not come out for a little while... butterflies are usually, you know, uhm, in that state for a couple of weeks." He shot a meaningful look at Asa. "They don't usually just come out and be all pretty and gay after hanging out in the dark for a while". Asa says...this particular butterfly might not be ready to come out right now. He's late. The other butterfly that Sebastian is thinking about is all ready to fly".
Things are fine, Asa and Sebastian are definitely falling for each other, but of course, nothing is said out loud!! Time comes for Sebastian to start thinking about his move to Uni, and of course, he's having second thoughts but doesn't say anything. Asa doesn't want him to go, but doesn't feel as though he can interfere because this is what Sebastian has been dreaming of for years, and he won't be the one to block his plans. So even though they really are in love and have been sharing a bed for a while, Sebastian goes off to Uni, and of course the dreaded chickenpox strikes!! Jordan is unwell, but of course Asa gets it too, and as anyone who's had chickenpox as an adult will tell you, it's really not very nice!! Bella is looking after them both but is exhausted, so Sebastian does the only thing he can do - he comes home and takes over from Bella. "Asa, I love you, but if you don't take your medicine, I'll wait until you're asleep and shove it up your ass. It's your call, but so far you haven't bottomed. I think that would be a lousy way to start".
Needless to say, he doesn't go back to Spokane to finish his course. "I love you, you old geezer. I will love you in the nursing home together, when all the orderlies are trying to get a piece of your old wrinkly ass. Better yet, I'll love you in a week when I can get a piece of your fine young ass, and I'll love you in twenty years when Jordan's getting married and you're going to want to kick his ass, and...Asa said I love you too"
November 3, 2016
3.5 stars
I like it when Amy Lane writes angst free, and I’m not sure why I hadn’t tried this one before. It was cute.
Sebastian is best friends with Bella, has been for years. He goes home with her for the summer when her brother offers them to stay at his house with him and his 7 year old son.
It’s practically love at first sight for Sebastian and Asa, Bella’s brother. But Sebastian has his doubts about Asa, since Asa has never acted on his bisexual feelings before. But Asa reassures him it’s the real deal between them.
But 27 year old Sebastian has done everything in his power not to grow up, so he had planned to continue with his education after the summer. But then he has to leave Asa and his son, Jordan, behind…
Sebastian was pretty cute with his foot in mouth decease. I liked how there was no real angst within the relationship. These guys just hit it off and went for it.
I also liked Jordan, the kid, although for once it would have been nice to have a 7 year old boy act out instead of saying his heart is broken and be quiet (like an adult would do).
My experience with 7 year olds (I actually have one right now), is that they are not the best in explaining how they feel. They get angry or walk away when they feel hurt. And if they have an unstable parent I doubt they will just be quiet and get over it, like Jordan did in this.
As a divorced mother of 3 boys, who all have experience with a mentally unstable parent, I can tell you, it’s not easy! Frustration and anger are the main emotions at that age.
I wish all kids talked and acted like grown-ups, but in RL they almost never do….
Still, it was a nice story and I enjoyed it, even though I was a little bored every now and then.
I like it when Amy Lane writes angst free, and I’m not sure why I hadn’t tried this one before. It was cute.
Sebastian is best friends with Bella, has been for years. He goes home with her for the summer when her brother offers them to stay at his house with him and his 7 year old son.
It’s practically love at first sight for Sebastian and Asa, Bella’s brother. But Sebastian has his doubts about Asa, since Asa has never acted on his bisexual feelings before. But Asa reassures him it’s the real deal between them.
But 27 year old Sebastian has done everything in his power not to grow up, so he had planned to continue with his education after the summer. But then he has to leave Asa and his son, Jordan, behind…
Sebastian was pretty cute with his foot in mouth decease. I liked how there was no real angst within the relationship. These guys just hit it off and went for it.
I also liked Jordan, the kid, although for once it would have been nice to have a 7 year old boy act out instead of saying his heart is broken and be quiet (like an adult would do).
My experience with 7 year olds (I actually have one right now), is that they are not the best in explaining how they feel. They get angry or walk away when they feel hurt. And if they have an unstable parent I doubt they will just be quiet and get over it, like Jordan did in this.
As a divorced mother of 3 boys, who all have experience with a mentally unstable parent, I can tell you, it’s not easy! Frustration and anger are the main emotions at that age.
I wish all kids talked and acted like grown-ups, but in RL they almost never do….
Still, it was a nice story and I enjoyed it, even though I was a little bored every now and then.
May 13, 2013
3.5
This is a sweet story but ultimately, unlike other Amy Lane books I've read, I didn't feel an emotional connection to the characters. There is no real conflict in the book and the minimal plot issues are all resolved quickly and neatly. If you want a sweet story with perfect characters it's a nice read though.
This is a sweet story but ultimately, unlike other Amy Lane books I've read, I didn't feel an emotional connection to the characters. There is no real conflict in the book and the minimal plot issues are all resolved quickly and neatly. If you want a sweet story with perfect characters it's a nice read though.
December 29, 2014
Originally read in 2011, ★★★★★ stars given; re-read to see if it holds up to the test of time. Oh yeah, it does.
This is such a lovely, buoyant read much due to Sebastian’s character (he is awesome from page one) and his relationship with BFF, Bella. Their close friendship is the wave that carries the story forward (how wonderful it is to have such a well-drawn female character), they are compadres who can count on each other. In fact, Sebastian would marry Bella if she:
1. didn’t have a such a wicked temper...
2. weren’t a girl...
There is a deep hurt inside Sebastian, a yearning to belong to something or someone, and he cushions himself in graduate student life that keeps him from having to move on to ‘real life.’ Enter Asa, architect and Bella’s older brother, who’s pretty near perfect as he quietly sweeps Sebastian off his feet. There is drama and some tension with past histories to be sorted out, but there’s also lots of witty repartee, a cute kid and a beautifully crafted house to contain it all. Amy Lane’s writing is so fluid and full of grace and warmth. This was a joy to re-read and it stays firmly on my favorites shelf. Once again, I too am “Bewitched by Bella’s Brother.”
This is such a lovely, buoyant read much due to Sebastian’s character (he is awesome from page one) and his relationship with BFF, Bella. Their close friendship is the wave that carries the story forward (how wonderful it is to have such a well-drawn female character), they are compadres who can count on each other. In fact, Sebastian would marry Bella if she:
1. didn’t have a such a wicked temper...
“...she often had a temper that made a PMS-ing harpy going into nicotine withdrawal look like a chubby fuzzy bunny that burped daisies and shot rainbows out its ass.”
2. weren’t a girl...
“...Sebastian was so gay he made a parade in San Francisco look like a Bible Belt tent revival...(he) could only look at Bella as the sister of his heart and not the wench he wanted in his bed.”
There is a deep hurt inside Sebastian, a yearning to belong to something or someone, and he cushions himself in graduate student life that keeps him from having to move on to ‘real life.’ Enter Asa, architect and Bella’s older brother, who’s pretty near perfect as he quietly sweeps Sebastian off his feet. There is drama and some tension with past histories to be sorted out, but there’s also lots of witty repartee, a cute kid and a beautifully crafted house to contain it all. Amy Lane’s writing is so fluid and full of grace and warmth. This was a joy to re-read and it stays firmly on my favorites shelf. Once again, I too am “Bewitched by Bella’s Brother.”
September 14, 2012
4.5 Stars
OMG! I can’t believe I just finished reading a book that had a girl in it that I actually really like! Bella was so funny and her and Sebastian’s back and forth banter was an absolute joy to read. Sebastian, what a sweet, lovable big hearted guy, he would make such a great BFF and Asa a silent, strong loving father but because of his silence we really don’t get to know him as well as I would have liked, but somehow the chemistry between Sebastian and Asa is there right from their first few meetings which had me laughing my head off. What a totally sweet pair, Asa the one that hardly talks and Sebastian the one that never stops, they are a pair that the saying opposites attract fits perfectly. The one thing I loved the most about the characters in this story is that they have flaws, it made them a bit more real.
Writing children into a story can either be really great or a complete disaster, luckily in this book Jordan is a really great kid, his love of bugs was adorable and his easy acceptance of Sebastian made me smile. I really don’t know what else to say about this book. Amy Lane has the ability to make characters jump off the page and into your heart, you get so invested in them and their lives there is always sadness when the story ends.
Bewitched by Bella’s Brother is a light, sweet, fun story, it’s also story about family, acceptance and love. If I had a "I recommend this book shelf" this would be on it.
OMG! I can’t believe I just finished reading a book that had a girl in it that I actually really like! Bella was so funny and her and Sebastian’s back and forth banter was an absolute joy to read. Sebastian, what a sweet, lovable big hearted guy, he would make such a great BFF and Asa a silent, strong loving father but because of his silence we really don’t get to know him as well as I would have liked, but somehow the chemistry between Sebastian and Asa is there right from their first few meetings which had me laughing my head off. What a totally sweet pair, Asa the one that hardly talks and Sebastian the one that never stops, they are a pair that the saying opposites attract fits perfectly. The one thing I loved the most about the characters in this story is that they have flaws, it made them a bit more real.
Writing children into a story can either be really great or a complete disaster, luckily in this book Jordan is a really great kid, his love of bugs was adorable and his easy acceptance of Sebastian made me smile. I really don’t know what else to say about this book. Amy Lane has the ability to make characters jump off the page and into your heart, you get so invested in them and their lives there is always sadness when the story ends.
Bewitched by Bella’s Brother is a light, sweet, fun story, it’s also story about family, acceptance and love. If I had a "I recommend this book shelf" this would be on it.
September 6, 2010
Ahh Amy Lane, you can do nearly no wrong. This is a surprisingly contemporary piece, I assumed paranormal/fantasy based on the cover and title. Instead it’s a light hearted, easy to read and enjoy story about a commitment-phobe who falls in love with a man-virgin and his family. There is no real tension, I mean there is but it’s kind of ridiculous and artificial, and the real strengths are the fabulous characters and delightful dialogue. The road to love is mostly easy and the commitment fear is negligible. For readers looking for a fun, entertaining, absorbing, and easy contemporary romance piece, this fits that description very well.
The story is character driven with characters as the real stars and Lane has done an incredible job here. Sebastian and Bella are best friends with a fun, biting banter that shows how close they are even as they snipe at each other. Their back and forth dialogue is entertaining and fun to read while still giving Bella some real depth other than a token fag hag. She’s so much more than that and becomes a breathing character that you simply adore; and one that deserves a happy ending of her own quite badly. Her family is equally entertaining with their gregarious mannerisms and affectionate brood. Asa is almost too perfect but he’s offset with a quiet nature and almost too easy going manner. He comes close to losing Sebastian from Asa’s own issues that he deals with.
Sebastian on the other hand really shines as a talkative, intelligent, yet still nerdy man that desperately seeks a family and attachment yet fears losing them constantly. His belief that he’ll be kicked aside one day makes him slow to give in mentally, yet he’s generous with his love and affection. While he still fears he may one day lose everything, he still reaches out, falls in love, and lets himself become part of a unit – both Bella’s family and Asa with his son.
This dichotomy is at the heart of the tension injected in the story as Sebastian falls in love with the near perfect brother Asa. Yet Sebastian is supposed to leave at the end of the summer for his second doctorate and thinks he has to go because nothing really lasts. This is the weakest part of the book since the ending is obvious and not just because this is a romance. The story sets up how utterly perfect Asa and Bella’s family is, the house they live in, the completely scene stealing and utterly adorable son Jordan, how Sebastian doesn’t want to leave, his degree really isn’t that essential to his life, and on and on. It’s so obvious that Sebastian should stay that I got annoyed with both the story and character. Why go against everything you want and desire simply to prolong a happy ending? It made no sense to me as a reader nor did it fit really with Sebastian at that point and it made me want the story to hurry up and get back to the characters.
This definitely affected my overall enjoyment of the story yet the characters truly are great. Their banter, dialogue, and unique quirks all came through from the smallest side character to the main group. They feel near perfect yet have enough texture and flaws to stay interesting and the dialogue simply shines. The repetition of the terms “heifer” or “cow woman” in referring to women gets old since this has happened in a few of Lane’s books, but other than that the quick wit and back and forth makes for a really engaging story. Jordan as the son is adorable from his fascination with bugs to drill sergeant repetition and even his frequent sickness.
While the tension is not the strength, the book shines in showing a set of characters that will wrap around your heart almost immediately. The quick pace makes for a story you’ll fly through and likely be disappointed it’s over. This is definitely one of Lane’s better stories and the solid writing helps save the story (even when I got frustrated with it).
The story is character driven with characters as the real stars and Lane has done an incredible job here. Sebastian and Bella are best friends with a fun, biting banter that shows how close they are even as they snipe at each other. Their back and forth dialogue is entertaining and fun to read while still giving Bella some real depth other than a token fag hag. She’s so much more than that and becomes a breathing character that you simply adore; and one that deserves a happy ending of her own quite badly. Her family is equally entertaining with their gregarious mannerisms and affectionate brood. Asa is almost too perfect but he’s offset with a quiet nature and almost too easy going manner. He comes close to losing Sebastian from Asa’s own issues that he deals with.
Sebastian on the other hand really shines as a talkative, intelligent, yet still nerdy man that desperately seeks a family and attachment yet fears losing them constantly. His belief that he’ll be kicked aside one day makes him slow to give in mentally, yet he’s generous with his love and affection. While he still fears he may one day lose everything, he still reaches out, falls in love, and lets himself become part of a unit – both Bella’s family and Asa with his son.
This dichotomy is at the heart of the tension injected in the story as Sebastian falls in love with the near perfect brother Asa. Yet Sebastian is supposed to leave at the end of the summer for his second doctorate and thinks he has to go because nothing really lasts. This is the weakest part of the book since the ending is obvious and not just because this is a romance. The story sets up how utterly perfect Asa and Bella’s family is, the house they live in, the completely scene stealing and utterly adorable son Jordan, how Sebastian doesn’t want to leave, his degree really isn’t that essential to his life, and on and on. It’s so obvious that Sebastian should stay that I got annoyed with both the story and character. Why go against everything you want and desire simply to prolong a happy ending? It made no sense to me as a reader nor did it fit really with Sebastian at that point and it made me want the story to hurry up and get back to the characters.
This definitely affected my overall enjoyment of the story yet the characters truly are great. Their banter, dialogue, and unique quirks all came through from the smallest side character to the main group. They feel near perfect yet have enough texture and flaws to stay interesting and the dialogue simply shines. The repetition of the terms “heifer” or “cow woman” in referring to women gets old since this has happened in a few of Lane’s books, but other than that the quick wit and back and forth makes for a really engaging story. Jordan as the son is adorable from his fascination with bugs to drill sergeant repetition and even his frequent sickness.
While the tension is not the strength, the book shines in showing a set of characters that will wrap around your heart almost immediately. The quick pace makes for a story you’ll fly through and likely be disappointed it’s over. This is definitely one of Lane’s better stories and the solid writing helps save the story (even when I got frustrated with it).
November 17, 2012
This book was clearly just not a good pick for me. It is sweet and even poignant in some parts, but I had trouble making myself care. Sebastian is a funny, likable character who is doing his best never to grow up and get serious about life, which I can certainly sympathize with. But Asa is just too perfect to be real, and his son Jordan adds nothing to the story except for some tedious conflict. And while I like the fact that Amy Lane usually includes at least one major female character in her m/m romances, I did not find Bella to be a likable character at all. So I guess what I'm saying here is that this book would have been great if it had been completely different.
Recommended for readers who like family-centered romances with prominent child characters. Not recommended for curmudgeons like me who don't like children in their romances and who don't want to read about family drama because real life comes with enough of that nonsense already.
Recommended for readers who like family-centered romances with prominent child characters. Not recommended for curmudgeons like me who don't like children in their romances and who don't want to read about family drama because real life comes with enough of that nonsense already.
April 14, 2014
After having this on my shelf for over a year, and seeing all the trusted reviews I had high hopes this was going to be another book I kicked myself for putting off for so long.
Sadly that wasn't the case.
While there was nothing bad about the overall story, I found myself either bored or annoyed. Where most people seemed to like Bella I found she irritated me. Asa and Sebastian were OK but again I really wasn't that into them. Sebastian like Bella struck me as a little too whinny with the whole never gonna grow up vibe.
Jordan was great, and I eagerly read scenes with him.
I did like the Ex wife story. Made a nice change to see that one played out.
The ending was sweet and so while it was more a 2.5 for me I'm pushing it up to a 3 for Jordan and his mum, and the sappy ending.
Sadly that wasn't the case.
While there was nothing bad about the overall story, I found myself either bored or annoyed. Where most people seemed to like Bella I found she irritated me. Asa and Sebastian were OK but again I really wasn't that into them. Sebastian like Bella struck me as a little too whinny with the whole never gonna grow up vibe.
Jordan was great, and I eagerly read scenes with him.
I did like the Ex wife story. Made a nice change to see that one played out.
The ending was sweet and so while it was more a 2.5 for me I'm pushing it up to a 3 for Jordan and his mum, and the sappy ending.
May 29, 2012
Not sure if I can write a review for this without it being 100% gushing, but I LOVED, LOVED, LOVED THIS!!! I've put this story off for so long and I'm not sure why. Maybe I was thinking all this time that it was depressing and angsty...but it wasn't. It was sweet and funny and sexy and romantic. Sebasian and Asa gave me shivers and goosebumps...over and over again. Plus, I loved all the secondary characters. Even the kid was adorable.
This is definitely one of my favorite stories by Amy Lane to date!!
This is definitely one of my favorite stories by Amy Lane to date!!
March 1, 2015
This is a lovely book (not including the cover) which has made it to my favorites shelf & survived multiple readings ... I love the sarcasm and snark ... the fact the angst was kept to a minimum also helps this book stand out from the crowd ... this was a gentle romance where insta-lust was allowed to morph into lurv with time and develop into a true relationship ... this story is sweet without being saccharine; snarky without being bitter and bitchy; funny without being silly ... I'd highly recommend this book ... just ignore the cover and dive in.
October 11, 2011
This is a comedy and a drama but more than anything it's a romance and there is, as always, Amy Lane's lush prose. You will laugh and cry and want to throttle Sebastien and squeeze him tight. It's a winner not to be missed.
November 20, 2014
Really nice one...
Beautiful, sweet, almost angst free, Amy Lane... I was happy.
Loved.
“No matter how badly I want him to stay”
Beautiful, sweet, almost angst free, Amy Lane... I was happy.
Loved.
May 17, 2013
First read in January 2011.
Doing a reread because it deserves one. :)
I finished this one in one sitting ( again) and it still leaves me with just a smile and a sigh.
Bella and Sebastian are best friends, close and loving, but in no way sappy. And I can't tell you how much I love it when the woman aren't just bitchy, conniving, evil, back stabbing, homophobes..well you get my point, Bella is NONE of those, she is a great person.
Sebastian is working on his second doctorate, but I don't think he knows quite why, except it gives him something to do, keeps him with Bella and also keeps him from having to fulfill his own or his parents expectations of him.
He has fallen in love with Bella's large and rambunctious family, something he was missing all of his life.
But now he and Bella are living with the up until now absent oldest brother Asa and Asa's son Jordan.
Both of them are trying to recover and move on from the horrible end of Asa's marriage. ( but even here, the evil ex, wasn't just that..thank you Amy Lane).
The instant attraction between Sebastian and Asa was fun to watch, Sebastian just says almost everything that pops into his head and Asa is far more reserved and contained, but when he said something, he means it and it means something.
This is an all around great read, no huge angst or drama, just a story that left me with the happy and I am sure I will reread it again, and not wait 2 years this time.
Doing a reread because it deserves one. :)
I finished this one in one sitting ( again) and it still leaves me with just a smile and a sigh.
Bella and Sebastian are best friends, close and loving, but in no way sappy. And I can't tell you how much I love it when the woman aren't just bitchy, conniving, evil, back stabbing, homophobes..well you get my point, Bella is NONE of those, she is a great person.
Sebastian is working on his second doctorate, but I don't think he knows quite why, except it gives him something to do, keeps him with Bella and also keeps him from having to fulfill his own or his parents expectations of him.
He has fallen in love with Bella's large and rambunctious family, something he was missing all of his life.
But now he and Bella are living with the up until now absent oldest brother Asa and Asa's son Jordan.
Both of them are trying to recover and move on from the horrible end of Asa's marriage. ( but even here, the evil ex, wasn't just that..thank you Amy Lane).
The instant attraction between Sebastian and Asa was fun to watch, Sebastian just says almost everything that pops into his head and Asa is far more reserved and contained, but when he said something, he means it and it means something.
This is an all around great read, no huge angst or drama, just a story that left me with the happy and I am sure I will reread it again, and not wait 2 years this time.
October 13, 2020
Reread 1/8/2019 I went way back with this reread. Back to the days that started my love of M/M romance.
3/2/2020 I cannot tell a lie. I decided to reread this because the first pages of Exasperating wrecked me, and I needed to go to one of my happy places.
3/2/2020 I cannot tell a lie. I decided to reread this because the first pages of Exasperating wrecked me, and I needed to go to one of my happy places.
September 21, 2012
This was an sweet and enjoyable read for me. It was funny, had a little bit of drama and a nice romance are rolled into one. Loved Asa, Sebastian and Bella. The banter back and forth with Bella and Sebastian was great and you could just feel what a wonderful friendship they had. Definitely a good book for a lighthearted and funny read.
December 26, 2013
I loved every Amy Lane's book so far, and this one is no exception! It is a sweet, funny and without angst story! I loved Sebastian's mouth without filter, and I loved Asa's calmness! They made a very beautiful couple...
August 4, 2016
Me encantan los libros de esta mujer!!!
O lloras a mares o te ríes tanto que en tu casa piensan " Que esta leyendo esta mujer que se ríe sola?!!"
Este es un ejemplo del último!!! :-D
Como me he reído con Sebastian, Bella y Asa!!!! Todo el libro con una sonrisilla tonta
(^^)
O lloras a mares o te ríes tanto que en tu casa piensan " Que esta leyendo esta mujer que se ríe sola?!!"
Este es un ejemplo del último!!! :-D
Como me he reído con Sebastian, Bella y Asa!!!! Todo el libro con una sonrisilla tonta
(^^)
January 29, 2013
When Amy Lane works for me she really works for me. I enjoyed the hell out of this story. Review to come.
June 16, 2015
A really good looking guy falls for his really good looking best friend's really good looking brother. Everybody is beautiful and perfect and something something.
blech.
blech.
November 8, 2017
3.7 Stars
One of the fluffy, less-angsty Amy Lane reads. I never really connected with the characters (especially Sebastian) - probably due to the perpetual Peter Pan syndrome. Unfortunately, that was a big part of the plot (growing up); I just thought it was an endeavor well-past time for a 28yr old to have tackled a bit more. *shrug*
Also, maybe I'm a raging bitch but if I'd been blackballed from completing my (2nd Doctoral) thesis by the guy who'd been fucking me behind his wife's back - forcing me to look out of state for other colleges? - yeah, hellz naw. I'd have told that Son of a Dick that he'd better let me finish or risk my emails, phone logs, voice mails and witnesses becoming public record. I don't like the idea of public outing but you don't get to fuck me over and then fuck me over.
But I did like Bella, I adored their family...and OMG it was nice to see an author reign in those impulses to paint a cheating, druggie ex-wife as the worst person in the history of ever. It looked like it was gonna be another badly drawn caricature, but then we get a complete 180. I totally approve. She (like all of us) still has problems but she's working on them, still cares about her family (for their happiness, rather than hers). You know, like a normal person. (I think that bit alone rose it up half a star from barely over 3 stars.)
Still, a sweet, sexy story with a first-time man-virgin in the 38yr old, newly single father, Asa. Who had either Yellow-Brown, Gold, Gold-Brown, White-Brown (er, tan?), White-Gold or Yellow-Gold hair. I don't know why some variation of blond was never used, but okay. He seemed like a nice guy and I liked that he threw himself into discovering The Gay stuff as soon as he realized he wanted Sebastian.
...and that cover really does have to go.
One of the fluffy, less-angsty Amy Lane reads. I never really connected with the characters (especially Sebastian) - probably due to the perpetual Peter Pan syndrome. Unfortunately, that was a big part of the plot (growing up); I just thought it was an endeavor well-past time for a 28yr old to have tackled a bit more. *shrug*
Also, maybe I'm a raging bitch but if I'd been blackballed from completing my (2nd Doctoral) thesis by the guy who'd been fucking me behind his wife's back - forcing me to look out of state for other colleges? - yeah, hellz naw. I'd have told that Son of a Dick that he'd better let me finish or risk my emails, phone logs, voice mails and witnesses becoming public record. I don't like the idea of public outing but you don't get to fuck me over and then fuck me over.
But I did like Bella, I adored their family...and OMG it was nice to see an author reign in those impulses to paint a cheating, druggie ex-wife as the worst person in the history of ever. It looked like it was gonna be another badly drawn caricature, but then we get a complete 180. I totally approve. She (like all of us) still has problems but she's working on them, still cares about her family (for their happiness, rather than hers). You know, like a normal person. (I think that bit alone rose it up half a star from barely over 3 stars.)
Still, a sweet, sexy story with a first-time man-virgin in the 38yr old, newly single father, Asa. Who had either Yellow-Brown, Gold, Gold-Brown, White-Brown (er, tan?), White-Gold or Yellow-Gold hair. I don't know why some variation of blond was never used, but okay. He seemed like a nice guy and I liked that he threw himself into discovering The Gay stuff as soon as he realized he wanted Sebastian.
...and that cover really does have to go.
September 27, 2011
3.5 stars. This is a nice, satisfying love story about a young man afraid of commitment and the amazing older man he falls for. It's a comfort-read book, the kind of thing you go to after wallowing in some other big emotional story, to get your head out of the emo zone. It's nice and sweet, and there is no big angst and very little actually happens in the plot. The characters are all a little too good. (If Asa had a fault, I couldn't find it, and the kid, Jordan, was really too sweet to be true.) Even the villain of the piece turns herself around some. I would have been a little deeper into the story if there had been more conflict than just Sebastian's inability to figure out what he really wanted (or if his alternatives had been more powerful and difficult to choose between. In this case it felt like a no-brainer.) But the book is full of people it would be lovely to know, and Amy Lane's style carries the story along. I'll save this one, and read it again the next time I need a lift.
September 12, 2013
"Have you ever heard your sister when she's angry? It's like being dragged naked over sandpaper and dipped in battery acid-deranged harpies have sweeter voices, you know?"
See, this is why I love Amy Lane. :D
See, this is why I love Amy Lane. :D
October 5, 2012
Loved this book!!
I mean really LOVED IT!!!
It was every thing i like in a book!
Amy Lane you are FANTASTIC!!
I mean really LOVED IT!!!
It was every thing i like in a book!
Amy Lane you are FANTASTIC!!
March 16, 2013
3.5 stars. I like this one. It's a testament to figuring out what's real, what's true in this life and to allowing detours to deliver you to your destiny.
November 9, 2010
This was a beautiful, light-hearted story, at least for the most part, and the angsty, dramatic parts made my heart beat faster and my emotions run raw.
I loved Sebastian and his wit and his huge, freaking heart. He's such a wonderful full-bodied, endearing, heart-pounding character that was engrained and familiar in my head as soon as I met him. :) I'm not usually a fan of central female characters but Bella was so special and she and Sebastian together were so perfect and hilarous. I fell for Asa immediately - as fast as Sebastian did, I'm sure. I loved his angst and his aura and his responsible "take care of everything and everyone" side, and yeah, I'll admit it, the waist-length hair made him a fave right away. (just call me shallow)
The plot was excellent, moving along at a great pace, always making me want to find out more and never disappointing. I found myself talking to my e-reader when Sebastian went off to school, talking in a my stern "get the hell back there" momma-bear voice. Sebastian's love for Jordan was so lovely, so addicting, too, and watching Jordan open up was so great. Sebastian and Asa are a fantastic couple and as always with Amy's books, I never wanted to leave them. *adds to faves*
I loved Sebastian and his wit and his huge, freaking heart. He's such a wonderful full-bodied, endearing, heart-pounding character that was engrained and familiar in my head as soon as I met him. :) I'm not usually a fan of central female characters but Bella was so special and she and Sebastian together were so perfect and hilarous. I fell for Asa immediately - as fast as Sebastian did, I'm sure. I loved his angst and his aura and his responsible "take care of everything and everyone" side, and yeah, I'll admit it, the waist-length hair made him a fave right away. (just call me shallow)
The plot was excellent, moving along at a great pace, always making me want to find out more and never disappointing. I found myself talking to my e-reader when Sebastian went off to school, talking in a my stern "get the hell back there" momma-bear voice. Sebastian's love for Jordan was so lovely, so addicting, too, and watching Jordan open up was so great. Sebastian and Asa are a fantastic couple and as always with Amy's books, I never wanted to leave them. *adds to faves*
August 9, 2015
****Reviewed for Prism Book Alliance®****
Bewitched by Bella’s Brother is definitely on the lighter side of Amy Lane’s offerings. While there are still tragic back-stories for the characters and difficulties to overcome, the tone, on the whole, is sweeter and not as heart-wrenching as some of her other works.
I enjoyed Sebastian’s personality, and even though it took him a while to realize what it was he needed, I believed in his motivations. Asa was a great father to Jordan and I really respected him. I totally saw what Sebastian did in him and could see how the two were attracted to each other.
Bella was a great secondary character and was a strong female influence. Julie, though her role was minor, also fell into that category. Both helped round out the story.
As always, I love Amy Lane’s descriptions and prose. It just flows and keeps you engaged in the story. Reading this book was a pleasant way to spend a day.
Bewitched by Bella’s Brother is definitely on the lighter side of Amy Lane’s offerings. While there are still tragic back-stories for the characters and difficulties to overcome, the tone, on the whole, is sweeter and not as heart-wrenching as some of her other works.
I enjoyed Sebastian’s personality, and even though it took him a while to realize what it was he needed, I believed in his motivations. Asa was a great father to Jordan and I really respected him. I totally saw what Sebastian did in him and could see how the two were attracted to each other.
Bella was a great secondary character and was a strong female influence. Julie, though her role was minor, also fell into that category. Both helped round out the story.
As always, I love Amy Lane’s descriptions and prose. It just flows and keeps you engaged in the story. Reading this book was a pleasant way to spend a day.
March 14, 2011
I started this book with an optimistic feel about it, only to downgrade the rating to about 1.5.
[spoiler ahead]Sebastian was funny and witty and charismatic.. but up to a point. Afterward, he became too insecure, too hung-up on the PhD. And while he was describing the pain of having to go away, I kept wondering why he couldn't just stay. It put me out-of-sync with the character. Not to mention that Asa became too perfect after about 60 pages. Even Deirdre cleaned up really fast, despite being portrayed as a heavy drug user (mighty strong will she had to pull herself together in just 60 days.. maybe she should write a book on it for others? <-- sarcasm).
From my pov, there were 2 easy options for Sebastian. Give up the PhD and stay with Asa and Jordan or go do the PhD then come back. It wasn't the end of the world. But maybe I just couldn't get into the world described.[end spoiler]
[spoiler ahead]Sebastian was funny and witty and charismatic.. but up to a point. Afterward, he became too insecure, too hung-up on the PhD. And while he was describing the pain of having to go away, I kept wondering why he couldn't just stay. It put me out-of-sync with the character. Not to mention that Asa became too perfect after about 60 pages. Even Deirdre cleaned up really fast, despite being portrayed as a heavy drug user (mighty strong will she had to pull herself together in just 60 days.. maybe she should write a book on it for others? <-- sarcasm).
From my pov, there were 2 easy options for Sebastian. Give up the PhD and stay with Asa and Jordan or go do the PhD then come back. It wasn't the end of the world. But maybe I just couldn't get into the world described.[end spoiler]
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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