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Still Your Guy
Chase Rogan and Mason Finley fell in love as kids and had their happily-ever-after at eighteen...or so they thought.CHASEOver a decade after his estrangement from his ex, Chase returns to Finley Dairy to celebrate Mason's sister's engagement. But being back at the place where his fondest memories are--the place where he and Mason laughed, played, and loved--quickly ropes Chase back into those feelings all over again, reminding him of the flame he could never extinguish.MASONDespite his attempts at getting over Chase, Mason still can't move on--not from the greatest love he's ever known. When Chase comes back to the dairy, all those old feelings return, as powerful as ever. A wavering hope strengthens, making him believe that maybe...just maybe...they can find a way to put the past behind them and create a future together. But it isn't easy, and every time he pushes, Chase pulls away. As much as Mason wants it to work, if it doesn't, what's he supposed to do?How can you move on when--even after all the years--you know in your heart, he's still your guy?
314 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 12, 2017
About the author
Devon McCormack
41 books1,328 followersDevon McCormack grew up in the Georgia suburbs with his two younger brothers and an older sister. At a very young age, he spun tales the old fashioned way, lying to anyone and everyone he encountered. He claimed he was an orphan. He claimed to be a king from another planet. He claimed to have supernatural powers. He has since harnessed this penchant for tall tales by crafting worlds and characters that allow him to live out whatever fantasy he chooses. Devon is an out and proud queer man living in Atlanta, Georgia.
Devon's body of work ranges from erotica to young adult, so readers should check the synopses of his books before purchasing so that they know what they're getting into.
Devon's body of work ranges from erotica to young adult, so readers should check the synopses of his books before purchasing so that they know what they're getting into.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews
August 13, 2017
The MC's of the story were in love since they were kids, Chase was actually fostered by Mason's parents since he was a teen (not sure about the age)
Chase and Mason have been separated for 11 years and Chase is back for Mason's sister weeding.
-I understand why their relationship didn't worked and hell I'm even ok with the separation but 11 years?? That's a lot
-Chase had reasons for leaving but every time he talks with Mason it feels like he's giving excuses, no, tell the guy you chose what you wanted for you and that's it.
-Mason was like a puppy behind Chase and it was painful to read, he had hopes even though according to the book they never really talked in all those years, and omg he was such a doormat! Chase would push him away and he kept coming back, hell in the end he is the one that fought for them! wtf? Chase was just there to whine apparently.
-They both were with other people which is understandable because so many years but here's the thing.. THEY ARE MARRIED!!!
No, just no, why would they keep being married for more than a decade if they didn't had any hopes? And Chase had year long relationships! Are you telling me that his partners were ok with that?
And ugh, don't get me started on the weird behavior they both had of towards the other's sex life.
-The flashbacks, why? At first I thought we were going to get important info from them but not really, everything that happened there was understood from the comments they made about the past in the present so it was useless.
-The tears, everyone was always crying for some reason.
-Their relationship never really made sense, the flashbacks didn't really explored their past as a couple and the present was poorly explained, they had a lot of inner monologue about how they felt and they talked but their talks were pretty much "I'm mad cause you hurt me" "I'm sorry" "i have always loved you" *sex scene* that was it. So I didn't really buy their connection.
-After every talk there was a sex scene, that's how they resolved everything.
-The epilogue was 13 years in the future!! I'm a sucker for a HEA, there are ok-ish books that I have given good rating because of the HEA but in here it just didn't made sense because the relationship was pretty much left in the air before that.
So for me this book is at most "ok".
Chase and Mason have been separated for 11 years and Chase is back for Mason's sister weeding.
-I understand why their relationship didn't worked and hell I'm even ok with the separation but 11 years?? That's a lot
-Chase had reasons for leaving but every time he talks with Mason it feels like he's giving excuses, no, tell the guy you chose what you wanted for you and that's it.
-Mason was like a puppy behind Chase and it was painful to read, he had hopes even though according to the book they never really talked in all those years, and omg he was such a doormat! Chase would push him away and he kept coming back, hell in the end he is the one that fought for them! wtf? Chase was just there to whine apparently.
-They both were with other people which is understandable because so many years but here's the thing.. THEY ARE MARRIED!!!
No, just no, why would they keep being married for more than a decade if they didn't had any hopes? And Chase had year long relationships! Are you telling me that his partners were ok with that?
And ugh, don't get me started on the weird behavior they both had of towards the other's sex life.
-The flashbacks, why? At first I thought we were going to get important info from them but not really, everything that happened there was understood from the comments they made about the past in the present so it was useless.
-The tears, everyone was always crying for some reason.
-Their relationship never really made sense, the flashbacks didn't really explored their past as a couple and the present was poorly explained, they had a lot of inner monologue about how they felt and they talked but their talks were pretty much "I'm mad cause you hurt me" "I'm sorry" "i have always loved you" *sex scene* that was it. So I didn't really buy their connection.
-After every talk there was a sex scene, that's how they resolved everything.
-The epilogue was 13 years in the future!! I'm a sucker for a HEA, there are ok-ish books that I have given good rating because of the HEA but in here it just didn't made sense because the relationship was pretty much left in the air before that.
So for me this book is at most "ok".
August 27, 2017
Warning: This is a rant containing spoilers I can't be bothered to censor. It's a rant ... with substance, but still a rant. A tantrum, really, if I'm being honest. And I am. Brutally so.
I'm done. DNF @ 37%. I got indescribably tired of the push-pull bullshit. Chase was a useless fucking whiner and treated Mason like a bathroom stall hookup with feelings if that's even possible. He's a selfish fucking user with a martyr complex and yet, neither one of the MCs gains anything from the 'noble sacrifice' ●●eyeroll●● except five wasted years. I'll be generous and not count the time it took for them to go to college and for Chase to go to law school because that shit was important. But why not reunite after? There's no lawyers in Georgia? It was a poor attempt at creating problems in the relationship to try to justify the 'separation'. In other words, it was a nonsensical crock of shit that filled pages with unnecessary pain all around. All on the premise that Chase, the whiny, crybaby bratling with an abusive-oh-wait-not-abusive but despicably neglectful family made a whole lot of assumptions with no basis in fact.
The married-but-not-married thing other reviewers mentioned didn't bother me too much AT FIRST. But then .... Okay, so let me preface this unpleasantness by saying I understand the fact that the marriage was heartfelt and presided over by clergy, attended by family, etc. despite the lack of legal standing at the time. In their position, I might have done the same, as have many others I'm sure. But when it all fell apart and it was over, since it wasn't legal or real in any universe under the law, doesn't that just mean it's over?! For example, at the end of a common-law marriage ... you're not legally married per se, therefore it's just over when it's over, right? Allowing for the fact that shared assets have to be divided like any other failed marriage or relationship, it's still not a formal arrangement that has to be dissolved in court. Split your shit up, move out, move on. Done and dusted. Cut, sling, load.
So on that note, question: If you get 'married' when it's not legal, does a Supreme Court decision years later automatically legalize the shit? I don't see how, since nothing could have legitimately been filed or otherwise put on record at the time the 'marriage' occurred, symbolic license or no. Yet, we're supposed to believe that a not-marriage became official years later automatically by osmosis or something. Ha!
Apparently, the bored, underpaid, and disgruntled county clerk is fucking psychic and somehow knows you were fake-married years ago. He or she is also telekenetic, because, you know, somehow they had to get the not-legal license they miraculously had knowledge of. Aaaaannnd this overworked person was eagerly holding their breath all this time, avidly waiting to press the, "Abracadabra, you're married now!" button just for you when SCOTUS legalized gay marriage, right? I'm supposed to believe that bullshit just magically occurred like I believed there was a unicorn farting behind my couch last night just because the kids said so. [Interject a reality check here]. No wait! That was actually my son blaming his gassy ass on the too fat bulldog.
I'm also somehow inexplicably supposed to buy into the fact that these guys just couldn't be bothered to divorce despite one of them having long-term (pointless) relationships the whole decade they were apart? What did the boyfriends think about that malarkey? Would you mope constantly if you were Mason? For TEN YEARS? Fuck all that jazz! Yet we're asked to believe that hunky hawtness Mason put up with a decade, or 5 years if I absolutely must be fair, of Cheater Chase McDickerson's pseudo-adulterous shenanigans, who he, don't forget! Was married-not-married-married to ... and he just continued to be functionally content for all that time with Eeyore-like melancholy aplomb because, what? He managed to hold on to some hope because, you know, Chase's consistent actions to the absolute contrary would have fostered or nurtured that, right? Wrong. Read on, you'll see what I mean.
And still, we're supposed to accept that Mason would continue to be mostly chastely pining, pining, pining away while his husband-not-husband-husband could live it up with a douchenozzle named Tristan, working a cushy law accounting job, driving a sexy car, and wearing schmancy clothes 'cuz that's what was worth shitting on the love of your life for. Let's not forget that he lives in L-freaking-A, literally as far away as he could get from Mason in Georgia? What an ass.
And this ongoing debacle is further interspersed with Chase's occasional and intentionally short visits 'home' from Cali which he spends avoiding Mason like herpes. All of this occurs while Chase somehow manages to find the time, between all the passive-aggressive avoidance, to indulge in some supreme mindfuckery by helplessly and lustfully making love-you-want-you eyes at Mason. Let's not overlook the fact that this wishy-washy cowardly fucker indulges himself at his soulmate's expense, loving him all the while, but simultaneously rubbing his affaires du jour in his face over the family fucking dinner table at every worthless and painfully awkward visit. Mm-hmm. Real goddamned classy you contemptible shitstain.
Then we come to the resolution, if you want to call it that. Don't judge. I cheated and read the end after I decided to quit. The scene: Chase is literally getting ready to run ... again , my fucking gods, because again he makes assumptions based on an overly emotional conversation with yet another peripheral character, only this time that person's opinions really shouldn't fucking matter! For fuck's sakes. He steels himself to repeat the same mistakes ON PURPOSE for no discernable reason. Mason begs him to stay, he thinks, Okay, well nevermind then, he says he'll stay now as if Mason hasn't been begging for him to come home to stay for TEN YEARS or anything, but somehow this time is different. Uh-huh. Epilogue 13 years later. The end. Was I supposed to want to finish reading this infuriating farce? Come the frick-frack on already. It's fucking stupid. Illogical, legally improbable (if not impossible), realistically implausible, and altogether just fucking asinine.
The book was well-written from a purely technical standpoint, and I wanted to like these guys, I really did, but I ... I just. Couldn't. Believe. Any of it. The disingenuous plot device tanked any credibility the characters may otherwise have had, which is unfortunate, because there was real potential there. And finally! The epiphany! That explains why I'm angry. I was invested enough in the overall idea to be incredibly disappointed with the lack of veracity inherent in the plot and in the subsequently poor execution of the storyline.
Instead it was an angst-ridden mess entirely based on an absurd conflict that is nothing but a contrived bunch of horseshit, therefore rendering the entire thing ... impossible to sustain in reality or in even the most fertile imagination. I genuinely like friends-to-lovers and back-for-you/with-you themes, but this one totally missed the mark. Sing it with me: Dumb-dumb-dumb-dumb-duuuuuhhhn.
I'm done. DNF @ 37%. I got indescribably tired of the push-pull bullshit. Chase was a useless fucking whiner and treated Mason like a bathroom stall hookup with feelings if that's even possible. He's a selfish fucking user with a martyr complex and yet, neither one of the MCs gains anything from the 'noble sacrifice' ●●eyeroll●● except five wasted years. I'll be generous and not count the time it took for them to go to college and for Chase to go to law school because that shit was important. But why not reunite after? There's no lawyers in Georgia? It was a poor attempt at creating problems in the relationship to try to justify the 'separation'. In other words, it was a nonsensical crock of shit that filled pages with unnecessary pain all around. All on the premise that Chase, the whiny, crybaby bratling with an abusive-oh-wait-not-abusive but despicably neglectful family made a whole lot of assumptions with no basis in fact.
The married-but-not-married thing other reviewers mentioned didn't bother me too much AT FIRST. But then .... Okay, so let me preface this unpleasantness by saying I understand the fact that the marriage was heartfelt and presided over by clergy, attended by family, etc. despite the lack of legal standing at the time. In their position, I might have done the same, as have many others I'm sure. But when it all fell apart and it was over, since it wasn't legal or real in any universe under the law, doesn't that just mean it's over?! For example, at the end of a common-law marriage ... you're not legally married per se, therefore it's just over when it's over, right? Allowing for the fact that shared assets have to be divided like any other failed marriage or relationship, it's still not a formal arrangement that has to be dissolved in court. Split your shit up, move out, move on. Done and dusted. Cut, sling, load.
So on that note, question: If you get 'married' when it's not legal, does a Supreme Court decision years later automatically legalize the shit? I don't see how, since nothing could have legitimately been filed or otherwise put on record at the time the 'marriage' occurred, symbolic license or no. Yet, we're supposed to believe that a not-marriage became official years later automatically by osmosis or something. Ha!
Apparently, the bored, underpaid, and disgruntled county clerk is fucking psychic and somehow knows you were fake-married years ago. He or she is also telekenetic, because, you know, somehow they had to get the not-legal license they miraculously had knowledge of. Aaaaannnd this overworked person was eagerly holding their breath all this time, avidly waiting to press the, "Abracadabra, you're married now!" button just for you when SCOTUS legalized gay marriage, right? I'm supposed to believe that bullshit just magically occurred like I believed there was a unicorn farting behind my couch last night just because the kids said so. [Interject a reality check here]. No wait! That was actually my son blaming his gassy ass on the too fat bulldog.
I'm also somehow inexplicably supposed to buy into the fact that these guys just couldn't be bothered to divorce despite one of them having long-term (pointless) relationships the whole decade they were apart? What did the boyfriends think about that malarkey? Would you mope constantly if you were Mason? For TEN YEARS? Fuck all that jazz! Yet we're asked to believe that hunky hawtness Mason put up with a decade, or 5 years if I absolutely must be fair, of Cheater Chase McDickerson's pseudo-adulterous shenanigans, who he, don't forget! Was married-not-married-married to ... and he just continued to be functionally content for all that time with Eeyore-like melancholy aplomb because, what? He managed to hold on to some hope because, you know, Chase's consistent actions to the absolute contrary would have fostered or nurtured that, right? Wrong. Read on, you'll see what I mean.
And still, we're supposed to accept that Mason would continue to be mostly chastely pining, pining, pining away while his husband-not-husband-husband could live it up with a douchenozzle named Tristan, working a cushy law accounting job, driving a sexy car, and wearing schmancy clothes 'cuz that's what was worth shitting on the love of your life for. Let's not forget that he lives in L-freaking-A, literally as far away as he could get from Mason in Georgia? What an ass.
And this ongoing debacle is further interspersed with Chase's occasional and intentionally short visits 'home' from Cali which he spends avoiding Mason like herpes. All of this occurs while Chase somehow manages to find the time, between all the passive-aggressive avoidance, to indulge in some supreme mindfuckery by helplessly and lustfully making love-you-want-you eyes at Mason. Let's not overlook the fact that this wishy-washy cowardly fucker indulges himself at his soulmate's expense, loving him all the while, but simultaneously rubbing his affaires du jour in his face over the family fucking dinner table at every worthless and painfully awkward visit. Mm-hmm. Real goddamned classy you contemptible shitstain.
Then we come to the resolution, if you want to call it that. Don't judge. I cheated and read the end after I decided to quit. The scene: Chase is literally getting ready to run ... again , my fucking gods, because again he makes assumptions based on an overly emotional conversation with yet another peripheral character, only this time that person's opinions really shouldn't fucking matter! For fuck's sakes. He steels himself to repeat the same mistakes ON PURPOSE for no discernable reason. Mason begs him to stay, he thinks, Okay, well nevermind then, he says he'll stay now as if Mason hasn't been begging for him to come home to stay for TEN YEARS or anything, but somehow this time is different. Uh-huh. Epilogue 13 years later. The end. Was I supposed to want to finish reading this infuriating farce? Come the frick-frack on already. It's fucking stupid. Illogical, legally improbable (if not impossible), realistically implausible, and altogether just fucking asinine.
The book was well-written from a purely technical standpoint, and I wanted to like these guys, I really did, but I ... I just. Couldn't. Believe. Any of it. The disingenuous plot device tanked any credibility the characters may otherwise have had, which is unfortunate, because there was real potential there. And finally! The epiphany! That explains why I'm angry. I was invested enough in the overall idea to be incredibly disappointed with the lack of veracity inherent in the plot and in the subsequently poor execution of the storyline.
Instead it was an angst-ridden mess entirely based on an absurd conflict that is nothing but a contrived bunch of horseshit, therefore rendering the entire thing ... impossible to sustain in reality or in even the most fertile imagination. I genuinely like friends-to-lovers and back-for-you/with-you themes, but this one totally missed the mark. Sing it with me: Dumb-dumb-dumb-dumb-duuuuuhhhn.
May 14, 2024
#HusbandsWithBenefits 🙄
a second chance romance that was not done that well in my opinion, it might have been better if it was written with one point of view; but again the characters are just so annoying, especially Chase.
a second chance romance that was not done that well in my opinion, it might have been better if it was written with one point of view; but again the characters are just so annoying, especially Chase.
August 13, 2017
Must Read!!!!!!!!!
Ok, excuse me while I fanboy for just a moment. I truly believe that Devon McCormack can write virtually anything he sets his mind to. While too many authors in the field stick to one style, one voice, to tell a story, he’s a veritable writing chameleon, able to apply unique writing styles to his work. He has the ability to take tried and true tropes, and give them a fresh spin, making each book he writes a true work of art. You never know what you’re going to get with one of his books because he refuses to follow a formula. This is a very good thing because it makes him a unique voice that stands out from a saturated crowd, and virtually guarantees his longevity.
In “Still Your Guy”, he takes the second-chance trope, and turns it on it’s head. Mason and Chase were married before it was legal to do so. They separated a while after. Now, thanks to the Supreme Court decision legalizing Same-Sex Marriage, their marriage is now legal, and yet they lead separate lives on opposite sides of the country. Mason’s sisters impending wedding acts as the impetus to bring Chase home.
From the first page, you know these two still love each other. Their emotions are raw and just below the surface. They almost literally ache for each other, but so much time has passed each wonders how they can make it work.
Devon asks a question in this book that I have never seen in a second-chance book: You loved me then, but can you love the person I’ve become? It’s this question that permeates the book, and speaks to the change all of us experience as we grow older. We all change. Can the people that are important to us accept that change, or will they leave us behind?
This book very quickly became my favorite of his solo work. There’s just so much character and emotional depth that you find you have to see how it all plays out.
Ok, excuse me while I fanboy for just a moment. I truly believe that Devon McCormack can write virtually anything he sets his mind to. While too many authors in the field stick to one style, one voice, to tell a story, he’s a veritable writing chameleon, able to apply unique writing styles to his work. He has the ability to take tried and true tropes, and give them a fresh spin, making each book he writes a true work of art. You never know what you’re going to get with one of his books because he refuses to follow a formula. This is a very good thing because it makes him a unique voice that stands out from a saturated crowd, and virtually guarantees his longevity.
In “Still Your Guy”, he takes the second-chance trope, and turns it on it’s head. Mason and Chase were married before it was legal to do so. They separated a while after. Now, thanks to the Supreme Court decision legalizing Same-Sex Marriage, their marriage is now legal, and yet they lead separate lives on opposite sides of the country. Mason’s sisters impending wedding acts as the impetus to bring Chase home.
From the first page, you know these two still love each other. Their emotions are raw and just below the surface. They almost literally ache for each other, but so much time has passed each wonders how they can make it work.
Devon asks a question in this book that I have never seen in a second-chance book: You loved me then, but can you love the person I’ve become? It’s this question that permeates the book, and speaks to the change all of us experience as we grow older. We all change. Can the people that are important to us accept that change, or will they leave us behind?
This book very quickly became my favorite of his solo work. There’s just so much character and emotional depth that you find you have to see how it all plays out.
September 9, 2018
DNF @ 48%
I found the idea of estranged husbands captivating. The notion that a marriage could become valid years after the fact sounded strange to me, but as far as I understand from other reviewers that could/did happen when US federal law regarding same-sex marriage was changed.
Although I usually like McCormack's steamy writing, this story was given a metaphorical flat tire in the UST department during the first few chapters . From that point the story slowly meandered towards their possible reunion. Too slowly for me.
Lots of smex scenes intertwined with plenty of walks down memory lane couldn't hold my attention because the emotional escalation reached a plateau so early in the story. Midway through and I had no sense of a real obstacle for the husbands to reunite. They clearly like, love and are very attracted to each other. Jobs? Living in different areas of the country? Those are negotiables for any pair of lovers. Other reviews indicate not much change in the second half of the book, so I skipped the second half and went straight to the epilogue.
I found the idea of estranged husbands captivating. The notion that a marriage could become valid years after the fact sounded strange to me, but as far as I understand from other reviewers that could/did happen when US federal law regarding same-sex marriage was changed.
Although I usually like McCormack's steamy writing, this story was given a metaphorical flat tire in the UST department during the first few chapters . From that point the story slowly meandered towards their possible reunion. Too slowly for me.
Lots of smex scenes intertwined with plenty of walks down memory lane couldn't hold my attention because the emotional escalation reached a plateau so early in the story. Midway through and I had no sense of a real obstacle for the husbands to reunite. They clearly like, love and are very attracted to each other. Jobs? Living in different areas of the country? Those are negotiables for any pair of lovers. Other reviews indicate not much change in the second half of the book, so I skipped the second half and went straight to the epilogue.
August 31, 2017
UGH.
I hate this book. And I really like this book.
I had to stop and switch to other things several times during this book, because shit got too real, but that's when you know you're invested. When you want to punch someone in the face.
There does seem to be some confusion for some people about how they're still married 11 years later. It was a legal snafu. Click the spoiler for details.
The book was frustrating, and from the beginning, I knew it was going to piss me off. I have a hard time with lost love books, because most of them do not adequately address why the thing that split them up in the first place now isn't an obstacle or if it's not one now, why it was such a big one before.
I actually think this one did a better job than most.
This doesn't mean it wasn't frustrating. Just that it wasn't a lost cause. I did feel like with both of their feelings still being so strong, one or both of them should have broken sooner. A drunk dial? A late-night-I'm-so-lonely Facebook message? One of those "I miss you." Oh, shit did I just send that? UNSEND! UNSEND! text messages....
Regardless of the frustration, though, and how much I wanted to gut-punch Chase, I felt feelings. The two of them are sweet together, and you do root for them, which is the primary source of wanting to bloody Chase's nose - the stubborn ass. I was 100% invested in them, and even though they drove me crazy, I still wanted them to be happy.
The sex was hot, but I would expect nothing less from Devon McCormack. I often want to punch McCormack's characters in the face, but the man can write him some sexy times. ***
***With the exception of "I'm precoming so much right now"... This is the second of McCormack's books we've seen that little gem in and I gotta say, I have never heard anyone say that in real life. I understand the sentiment. More precum = more turned on. I get it. I do. But the phrasing is... not super sexy? Like when you're describing something, fine. What other noun are you going to use? A drop of.... pre-ejaculate? Accurate. Unsexy. But in terms of talking about it during sexy times? I'm... leaking... wet... fine. "Precoming so much"... oddly multi-syllabic and... clinical, almost? "I'm very much enjoying coitus with you." "I am precoming so much". Ok, Sheldon, next are we going to alphabetize the kitchen cabinets and review our roommate agreement?
I hate this book. And I really like this book.
I had to stop and switch to other things several times during this book, because shit got too real, but that's when you know you're invested. When you want to punch someone in the face.
There does seem to be some confusion for some people about how they're still married 11 years later. It was a legal snafu. Click the spoiler for details.
The book was frustrating, and from the beginning, I knew it was going to piss me off. I have a hard time with lost love books, because most of them do not adequately address why the thing that split them up in the first place now isn't an obstacle or if it's not one now, why it was such a big one before.
I actually think this one did a better job than most.
This doesn't mean it wasn't frustrating. Just that it wasn't a lost cause. I did feel like with both of their feelings still being so strong, one or both of them should have broken sooner. A drunk dial? A late-night-I'm-so-lonely Facebook message? One of those "I miss you." Oh, shit did I just send that? UNSEND! UNSEND! text messages....
Regardless of the frustration, though, and how much I wanted to gut-punch Chase, I felt feelings. The two of them are sweet together, and you do root for them, which is the primary source of wanting to bloody Chase's nose - the stubborn ass. I was 100% invested in them, and even though they drove me crazy, I still wanted them to be happy.
The sex was hot, but I would expect nothing less from Devon McCormack. I often want to punch McCormack's characters in the face, but the man can write him some sexy times. ***
***With the exception of "I'm precoming so much right now"... This is the second of McCormack's books we've seen that little gem in and I gotta say, I have never heard anyone say that in real life. I understand the sentiment. More precum = more turned on. I get it. I do. But the phrasing is... not super sexy? Like when you're describing something, fine. What other noun are you going to use? A drop of.... pre-ejaculate? Accurate. Unsexy. But in terms of talking about it during sexy times? I'm... leaking... wet... fine. "Precoming so much"... oddly multi-syllabic and... clinical, almost? "I'm very much enjoying coitus with you." "I am precoming so much". Ok, Sheldon, next are we going to alphabetize the kitchen cabinets and review our roommate agreement?
August 17, 2017
This one wasn't for me, I guess. I didn't love the fact that they were separated for 11 years, but remained married while Chase left and dated other people for years. At first I felt really bad for Mason because it was obvious how much he was hurt but he still loved Chase, but then he let Chase get away with everything and was such a doormat. I felt a little ragey every time Chase would get upset about the fact that Mason had hooked up with people in those 11 years that they were separated. Chase was in multiple long term relationships after he left!! Soooo he was supposed to pine for him all those years even though Chase STILL wasn't going to change anything to be with him. Doesn't sound like he truly loved him very much to me. I also hated that any time they were having any sort of disagreement they would just turn to sex. Every. Single. Time. It got really old. Honestly, I wanted Mason to move on.
June 4, 2021
Nayeli - per RFS
.
«Come se negli ultimi dieci anni fossi stato a digiuno e alla fine mi avessero concesso un pasto. Ed è più di questo corpo. È perdersi in questi bellissimi occhi. È vedere la persona chiusa lì dentro, il ragazzo che ricordo, e sapere che è diventato l’uomo che voleva essere. Un uomo di cui sono davvero fiero. No, Chase, nessuno mi ha mai preso come mi prendi tu. Con altri ci sono state delle scintille, ma tu sei un cazzo di inferno.»
(Tratto dal libro)
La narrazione inizia a metà della storia, undici anni dopo che due ragazzini appena maggiorenni si sono sposati quasi per gioco, convinti delle loro emozioni ma ancora troppo giovani per decidere del futuro, prima che potessero crescere.
Ci troviamo in Georgia, dove Mason è proprietario di una fattoria insieme alla sua famiglia, e Chase arriva da Los Angeles per i preparativi di un matrimonio.
Li troviamo separati, arrabbiati e colmi di frustrazione per cose non dette o mai chiarite, eppure entrambi ancora tremendamente attratti da colui che formalmente è ancora il loro marito.
Ci si chiede cosa sia successo per farli separare, e lo capiremo strada facendo, grazie a una serie di capitoli al passato alternati alla narrazione presente.
«Ci credevo davvero in quelle promesse quando le ho pronunciate, Chase. Che ti avrei amato per sempre. Ogni volta che torni, continuo a pensare a quanto sarai cambiato… che ti vedrò diverso, ma quando ti guardo, vedo ancora il ragazzo di cui mi sono innamorato.»
(Tratto dal libro)
Nonostante indubbiamente l’amore che provano sia profondo, le loro vite, crescendo, si sviluppano in modo da andare in direzioni diverse. Mason rimane alla fattoria e Chase studia per diventare avvocato. Troppo complicato e doloroso gestire tutto questo in una relazione a distanza, e Chase teme che il marito finisca per sacrificarsi rinunciando ai luoghi a cui è affezionato e alla sua famiglia trasferendosi in città per lui, cosa che non può accettare. Pertanto il Chase diciannovenne prende la decisione di dare un taglio netto per permettere che ognuno possa realizzarsi nella carriera che ha scelto.
«Eravamo così distanti. Ognuno di noi cercava di tirare l’altro in una direzione che non voleva intraprendere.»
«Oh, lo ricordo.»
«Abbiamo fatto ciò che era giusto al tempo, non è così?»
«Abbiamo fatto ciò che era giusto per te.»
(Tratto dal libro)
Nonostante questa scelta razionale, undici anni dopo nessuno dei due è riuscito davvero a voltare pagina e si è dimenticato dell’altro.
Le scintille tra loro prendono di nuovo fuoco e i due uomini decidono di “mettere in pausa” la separazione e donarsi questa settimana di tempo per fare finta che non esista futuro. Vivono i momenti che riescono, si riscoprono, rievocano i vecchi ricordi e tutto ciò che li aveva uniti, e comprendono di non aver mai smesso di amarsi.
Non è ancora un nuovo inizio, ma una piccola bolla in cui possono essere di nuovo se stessi, fare molto (molto, davvero tantissimo, quasi troppo) sesso e volersi ancora bene; riattivare la loro amicizia, la confidenza, il dialogo e iniziare a spiegare le motivazioni che li hanno allontanati. Ma non vogliono ancora parlare di ostacoli insormontabili e delle loro vite che sono, come prima, inconciliabili.
Le audaci sensazioni familiari riempirono Chase di una passione che sapeva di non poter raggiungere con l’avventura di una notte. Quello che Mason gli stava dando in quel momento proveniva dalla loro profonda connessione, non solo per l’intimità fisica vissuta nel tempo trascorso insieme, ma per l’intimità spirituale che mai avrebbe provato con un altro.
(Tratto dal libro)
Quando si rincontrano tutto quello che era stato il loro passato torna a galla; sono ancora gli stessi ragazzini innamorati che hanno lottato per sposarsi, ma allo stesso tempo ora sono anche due uomini che hanno fatto esperienze separate. Chase e Mason si prendono del tempo per conoscersi di nuovo, per capire cosa sono diventati, non solo nella carriera, che li rende entrambi orgogliosi dell’altro, ma su tutti i pezzi di vita che hanno arricchito la loro nuova identità, non ultime le storie con altri uomini.
Al sicuro in questa bolla in cui non guardano al futuro, cercano di tenersi in contatto anche in una relazione a distanza, e si rinnamorano di nuovo uno dell’altro. Nessuno dei due può lasciare per molto tempo il lavoro ed entrambi sono davvero realizzati in quello che stanno facendo, ma rimanere lontani è straziante.
«Che stiamo facendo, Mason?»
«Ha importanza? Non possiamo semplicemente godercelo? La fiamma c’è ancora. Non è una brutta cosa. La maggior parte delle coppie sposate non può dire la stessa cosa.»
«È triste, ma hai ragione.»
(Tratto dal libro)
Finché la bolla scoppia e diventa necessario capire come riuscire a farla funzionare.
Come undici anni prima, l’istinto di Chase è quello di tirarsi indietro e lasciare che ognuno possa andare per la sua strada. Pensa che mollare prima che le cose diventino serie, che la speranza abbia fatto radici e che poi finiscano per fallire possa risparmiare a entrambi molto dolore. Ma chi non lotta non vince mai. E neppure Mason, che invece ha sempre creduto in loro, ha mai lottato, nella convinzione che per farlo bisogna essere in due.
Ora che sono adulti, però, hanno anche la maturità e gli strumenti emotivi ed economici per reggere una storia così complicata.
«Mi è piaciuto. Molto,» confessò Chase. «Ma…»
«Siamo sposati, quindi nessuno può accusarci di vivere nel peccato.»
Gli rivolse un sorriso malizioso che fece indurire di nuovo l’uccello di Chase.
«Fa’ il serio,» lo rimproverò.
«Faremo i seri più tardi.»
Baciò la guancia di Chase, poi il collo e giù lungo il corpo mentre strisciava all’indietro verso il fondo del letto.
«Facciamolo. Facciamo ciò che vogliamo. Come lo vogliamo. Posso renderti felice, Chase. Posso renderti felice, cazzo. Lo sai che faccio il serio.»
(Tratto dal libro)
Ammetto che il fattore legato alle due vicende così lontane e inconciliabili è talmente opprimente da tenerci agganciati fino alla fine, con la smania di vedere che cosa si potranno mai inventare. La risoluzione, però, è così rapida e semplice che, da un certo punto di vista, mi ha lasciata inappagata. Se è vero che “basta pensarci, basta volerlo davvero e la soluzione si trova” per far vincere l’amore su ogni difficoltà, è anche vero che un finale più elaborato avrebbe potuto meglio appagare le aspettative maturate durante la lettura del romanzo.
«Concordo. Troveremo un modo,» confermò Chase.
«È solo che non voglio che finisca come è già successo. Quando eravamo al college, eri nervoso perché non riuscivamo a vederci, e…»
«Ero impaziente, e volevo vedere mio marito, l’uomo che amavo.»
«Allora cosa è cambiato adesso? Sei diventato più paziente tutto all’improvviso?»
Mason sorrise. «No, non sono più paziente di allora. Ma so solo che preferirei soffrire sapendo di avere la possibilità di vederti di nuovo piuttosto che star male sapendo di non poterti rivedere.»
(Tratto dal libro)
La traduzione non è eccelsa, quindi le frasi a volte sono un po’ farraginose, e la narrazione in terza persona ma focalizzata ora sull’uno ora sull’altro porta talvolta a confondere i soggetti.
Ho trovato inoltre che le scene di sesso siano un po’ troppe e i protagonisti abbiano caratterizzazioni poco marcate.
D’altro canto, c’è tantissimo romanticismo e l’amore trasuda ovunque, così come il senso straziante di qualcosa di incompiuto, e questo porta a chiedersi da subito dove sia il problema e a sintonizzarsi sulla ricerca di una possibile soluzione, spingendoci a voltare le pagine velocemente.
«Lo so che non possiamo tornare indietro. Lo so che non funziona così, ma mi sei mancato in questi anni. Non sai nemmeno quanto tu mi sia mancato. Quante volte avrei voluto chiamarti. Scriverti. Supplicarti di tornare da me. Ma non sono uno stupido. Non mi illudo su come stanno le cose tra noi, ma questo non cambia ciò che provo quando ti tocco. Quella scintilla che chiaramente hai sentito anche tu.»
(Tratto dal libro)
.
«Come se negli ultimi dieci anni fossi stato a digiuno e alla fine mi avessero concesso un pasto. Ed è più di questo corpo. È perdersi in questi bellissimi occhi. È vedere la persona chiusa lì dentro, il ragazzo che ricordo, e sapere che è diventato l’uomo che voleva essere. Un uomo di cui sono davvero fiero. No, Chase, nessuno mi ha mai preso come mi prendi tu. Con altri ci sono state delle scintille, ma tu sei un cazzo di inferno.»
(Tratto dal libro)
La narrazione inizia a metà della storia, undici anni dopo che due ragazzini appena maggiorenni si sono sposati quasi per gioco, convinti delle loro emozioni ma ancora troppo giovani per decidere del futuro, prima che potessero crescere.
Ci troviamo in Georgia, dove Mason è proprietario di una fattoria insieme alla sua famiglia, e Chase arriva da Los Angeles per i preparativi di un matrimonio.
Li troviamo separati, arrabbiati e colmi di frustrazione per cose non dette o mai chiarite, eppure entrambi ancora tremendamente attratti da colui che formalmente è ancora il loro marito.
Ci si chiede cosa sia successo per farli separare, e lo capiremo strada facendo, grazie a una serie di capitoli al passato alternati alla narrazione presente.
«Ci credevo davvero in quelle promesse quando le ho pronunciate, Chase. Che ti avrei amato per sempre. Ogni volta che torni, continuo a pensare a quanto sarai cambiato… che ti vedrò diverso, ma quando ti guardo, vedo ancora il ragazzo di cui mi sono innamorato.»
(Tratto dal libro)
Nonostante indubbiamente l’amore che provano sia profondo, le loro vite, crescendo, si sviluppano in modo da andare in direzioni diverse. Mason rimane alla fattoria e Chase studia per diventare avvocato. Troppo complicato e doloroso gestire tutto questo in una relazione a distanza, e Chase teme che il marito finisca per sacrificarsi rinunciando ai luoghi a cui è affezionato e alla sua famiglia trasferendosi in città per lui, cosa che non può accettare. Pertanto il Chase diciannovenne prende la decisione di dare un taglio netto per permettere che ognuno possa realizzarsi nella carriera che ha scelto.
«Eravamo così distanti. Ognuno di noi cercava di tirare l’altro in una direzione che non voleva intraprendere.»
«Oh, lo ricordo.»
«Abbiamo fatto ciò che era giusto al tempo, non è così?»
«Abbiamo fatto ciò che era giusto per te.»
(Tratto dal libro)
Nonostante questa scelta razionale, undici anni dopo nessuno dei due è riuscito davvero a voltare pagina e si è dimenticato dell’altro.
Le scintille tra loro prendono di nuovo fuoco e i due uomini decidono di “mettere in pausa” la separazione e donarsi questa settimana di tempo per fare finta che non esista futuro. Vivono i momenti che riescono, si riscoprono, rievocano i vecchi ricordi e tutto ciò che li aveva uniti, e comprendono di non aver mai smesso di amarsi.
Non è ancora un nuovo inizio, ma una piccola bolla in cui possono essere di nuovo se stessi, fare molto (molto, davvero tantissimo, quasi troppo) sesso e volersi ancora bene; riattivare la loro amicizia, la confidenza, il dialogo e iniziare a spiegare le motivazioni che li hanno allontanati. Ma non vogliono ancora parlare di ostacoli insormontabili e delle loro vite che sono, come prima, inconciliabili.
Le audaci sensazioni familiari riempirono Chase di una passione che sapeva di non poter raggiungere con l’avventura di una notte. Quello che Mason gli stava dando in quel momento proveniva dalla loro profonda connessione, non solo per l’intimità fisica vissuta nel tempo trascorso insieme, ma per l’intimità spirituale che mai avrebbe provato con un altro.
(Tratto dal libro)
Quando si rincontrano tutto quello che era stato il loro passato torna a galla; sono ancora gli stessi ragazzini innamorati che hanno lottato per sposarsi, ma allo stesso tempo ora sono anche due uomini che hanno fatto esperienze separate. Chase e Mason si prendono del tempo per conoscersi di nuovo, per capire cosa sono diventati, non solo nella carriera, che li rende entrambi orgogliosi dell’altro, ma su tutti i pezzi di vita che hanno arricchito la loro nuova identità, non ultime le storie con altri uomini.
Al sicuro in questa bolla in cui non guardano al futuro, cercano di tenersi in contatto anche in una relazione a distanza, e si rinnamorano di nuovo uno dell’altro. Nessuno dei due può lasciare per molto tempo il lavoro ed entrambi sono davvero realizzati in quello che stanno facendo, ma rimanere lontani è straziante.
«Che stiamo facendo, Mason?»
«Ha importanza? Non possiamo semplicemente godercelo? La fiamma c’è ancora. Non è una brutta cosa. La maggior parte delle coppie sposate non può dire la stessa cosa.»
«È triste, ma hai ragione.»
(Tratto dal libro)
Finché la bolla scoppia e diventa necessario capire come riuscire a farla funzionare.
Come undici anni prima, l’istinto di Chase è quello di tirarsi indietro e lasciare che ognuno possa andare per la sua strada. Pensa che mollare prima che le cose diventino serie, che la speranza abbia fatto radici e che poi finiscano per fallire possa risparmiare a entrambi molto dolore. Ma chi non lotta non vince mai. E neppure Mason, che invece ha sempre creduto in loro, ha mai lottato, nella convinzione che per farlo bisogna essere in due.
Ora che sono adulti, però, hanno anche la maturità e gli strumenti emotivi ed economici per reggere una storia così complicata.
«Mi è piaciuto. Molto,» confessò Chase. «Ma…»
«Siamo sposati, quindi nessuno può accusarci di vivere nel peccato.»
Gli rivolse un sorriso malizioso che fece indurire di nuovo l’uccello di Chase.
«Fa’ il serio,» lo rimproverò.
«Faremo i seri più tardi.»
Baciò la guancia di Chase, poi il collo e giù lungo il corpo mentre strisciava all’indietro verso il fondo del letto.
«Facciamolo. Facciamo ciò che vogliamo. Come lo vogliamo. Posso renderti felice, Chase. Posso renderti felice, cazzo. Lo sai che faccio il serio.»
(Tratto dal libro)
Ammetto che il fattore legato alle due vicende così lontane e inconciliabili è talmente opprimente da tenerci agganciati fino alla fine, con la smania di vedere che cosa si potranno mai inventare. La risoluzione, però, è così rapida e semplice che, da un certo punto di vista, mi ha lasciata inappagata. Se è vero che “basta pensarci, basta volerlo davvero e la soluzione si trova” per far vincere l’amore su ogni difficoltà, è anche vero che un finale più elaborato avrebbe potuto meglio appagare le aspettative maturate durante la lettura del romanzo.
«Concordo. Troveremo un modo,» confermò Chase.
«È solo che non voglio che finisca come è già successo. Quando eravamo al college, eri nervoso perché non riuscivamo a vederci, e…»
«Ero impaziente, e volevo vedere mio marito, l’uomo che amavo.»
«Allora cosa è cambiato adesso? Sei diventato più paziente tutto all’improvviso?»
Mason sorrise. «No, non sono più paziente di allora. Ma so solo che preferirei soffrire sapendo di avere la possibilità di vederti di nuovo piuttosto che star male sapendo di non poterti rivedere.»
(Tratto dal libro)
La traduzione non è eccelsa, quindi le frasi a volte sono un po’ farraginose, e la narrazione in terza persona ma focalizzata ora sull’uno ora sull’altro porta talvolta a confondere i soggetti.
Ho trovato inoltre che le scene di sesso siano un po’ troppe e i protagonisti abbiano caratterizzazioni poco marcate.
D’altro canto, c’è tantissimo romanticismo e l’amore trasuda ovunque, così come il senso straziante di qualcosa di incompiuto, e questo porta a chiedersi da subito dove sia il problema e a sintonizzarsi sulla ricerca di una possibile soluzione, spingendoci a voltare le pagine velocemente.
«Lo so che non possiamo tornare indietro. Lo so che non funziona così, ma mi sei mancato in questi anni. Non sai nemmeno quanto tu mi sia mancato. Quante volte avrei voluto chiamarti. Scriverti. Supplicarti di tornare da me. Ma non sono uno stupido. Non mi illudo su come stanno le cose tra noi, ma questo non cambia ciò che provo quando ti tocco. Quella scintilla che chiaramente hai sentito anche tu.»
(Tratto dal libro)
August 13, 2017
Reviewed by Jenn on Diverse Reader
************************************************
Sometimes love just isn't enough... For Chase, Rogan, and Mason Finley, loving each other isn't the problem. Finding a way to fit that love into two very different lives is the part they're having trouble with.
Chase and Mason met as children and quickly became best friends. That friendship grows into a very real love, the type of love that can last a lifetime.
Chase Rogan is living the dream, he has a great job, a beautiful home, a sexy car. Chase has everything he worked so hard in life to have, everything except his husband. Chase is coming to the Finley Dairy , the only home he's really ever known for his ex's sisters engagement. Chase will have to face Mason Finley, the man he left behind over a decade ago. Seeing Mason again reminds Chase of all the love they shared, love that has never died. All the reasons Chase left are still there, but so are all the memories, the attraction, the love. No matter how much distance and time he has put between himself and Mason, he can't escape those feelings.
Mason Finley has tried to put Chase and the past behind him, he really has. He and Chase were just kids when they fell in love, so how come he can't let go? Chase is back and this time it's not a quick weekend visit where he and Mason can just ignore each other. This time they talk about the past and try to understand the hurt...maybe even try to forgive. As the two men spend time together, all those old feelings arise, along with Mason's hope for a second chance. As Mason begins to push for more, Chase begins to pull away. Along with the old feelings, comes the old fears. Will Mason be able to convince Chase that he is still his guy?
I loved this book, I think it is Devon McCormack's best work to date. I spent almost the whole book with either goosebumps or tears. There is a depth and a rawness in these characters and this story that breaks my heart with its beauty. This book asks the question of "is love enough?" The answer isn't always simple or painless, but the love is worth it. This is most definitely a 5 star book for me!
*This book was given to Jenn by the author for an honest review*
************************************************
Sometimes love just isn't enough... For Chase, Rogan, and Mason Finley, loving each other isn't the problem. Finding a way to fit that love into two very different lives is the part they're having trouble with.
Chase and Mason met as children and quickly became best friends. That friendship grows into a very real love, the type of love that can last a lifetime.
Chase Rogan is living the dream, he has a great job, a beautiful home, a sexy car. Chase has everything he worked so hard in life to have, everything except his husband. Chase is coming to the Finley Dairy , the only home he's really ever known for his ex's sisters engagement. Chase will have to face Mason Finley, the man he left behind over a decade ago. Seeing Mason again reminds Chase of all the love they shared, love that has never died. All the reasons Chase left are still there, but so are all the memories, the attraction, the love. No matter how much distance and time he has put between himself and Mason, he can't escape those feelings.
Mason Finley has tried to put Chase and the past behind him, he really has. He and Chase were just kids when they fell in love, so how come he can't let go? Chase is back and this time it's not a quick weekend visit where he and Mason can just ignore each other. This time they talk about the past and try to understand the hurt...maybe even try to forgive. As the two men spend time together, all those old feelings arise, along with Mason's hope for a second chance. As Mason begins to push for more, Chase begins to pull away. Along with the old feelings, comes the old fears. Will Mason be able to convince Chase that he is still his guy?
I loved this book, I think it is Devon McCormack's best work to date. I spent almost the whole book with either goosebumps or tears. There is a depth and a rawness in these characters and this story that breaks my heart with its beauty. This book asks the question of "is love enough?" The answer isn't always simple or painless, but the love is worth it. This is most definitely a 5 star book for me!
*This book was given to Jenn by the author for an honest review*
August 25, 2017
2.5☆
I just didn't like this story.
I like most childhood sweethearts stories
but I had a hard time with this one .
Mason and Chase broke up during college because of the long distance and the constant fighting.
Which I can understand relationships are hard work .
They broke up 11 years ago but
they are still legally married
like WTF?
Chase was in a serious relationship with Tristan for 3 years and he dated 2 guys before him *ugh
But he is still in Love with Mason (really??)
Mason never stopped loving Chase he had some hook-ups but he never dated anyone so...
I can't with this story
I just didn't like this story.
I like most childhood sweethearts stories
but I had a hard time with this one .
Mason and Chase broke up during college because of the long distance and the constant fighting.
Which I can understand relationships are hard work .
They broke up 11 years ago but
they are still legally married
like WTF?
Chase was in a serious relationship with Tristan for 3 years and he dated 2 guys before him *ugh
But he is still in Love with Mason (really??)
Mason never stopped loving Chase he had some hook-ups but he never dated anyone so...
I can't with this story
August 25, 2021
Confesso di avere un rapporto altalenante con questo autore: i primi libri che ho letto non mi avevano convinto appieno, ma perseverando mi sono ricreduta e questo ne è un esempio, perché Still your guy tratta proprio gli argomenti che amo in una storia e lo fa con un’accortezza che ammiro.
Chase e Mason si incontrano per la prima volta in quinta elementare e, anche se è più uno scontro che un incontro, da lì diventano inseparabili, soprattutto grazie alla generosità della mamma di Mason, che si prende a cuore il piccolo Chase, bambino sfortunato che vive in una situazione precaria e abusiva, con dei genitori drogati e inaffidabili.
La fattoria di Mason è l’isola felice di Chase, dove può giocare e crescere amato come un figlio e un fratello da tutta la famiglia. Quando la salda amicizia con Mason diventa un tenero sentimento, la cosa è ben accolta, ma la separazione per frequentare due università e la morte di Ma’ portano i due a una rottura dolorosa e insanabile.
Chase sente di dover onorare le promesse e le aspettative della donna, per questo si impegna a fondo e, dieci anni dopo, ama il suo lavoro, la sua vita più che benestante e come si è ‘redento’ da un’infanzia di povertà, vergogna e soprusi.
Peccato che Los Angeles sia all’altro capo degli Stati Uniti rispetto a dove risiede il suo cuore, la fattoria e l’unica famiglia che abbia mai amato.
Sia Chase sia Mason hanno avuto altre storie e altri uomini nei dieci anni di separazione, ma rivedersi per il matrimonio della sorella di Mason rende disperatamente chiaro a entrambi che nessun altro riempirà il vuoto nei loro petti che ha la forma del loro amore.
Rivedersi riaccende la stessa passione fisica mai sopita, lo stesso feeling che nessun altro offre loro, gli stessi sentimenti forti e viscerali che li hanno fatti sposare a diciott’anni perché credevano in un amore immortale fra anime gemelle.
Dopo dieci anni il problema è lo stesso: come far collimare due vite soddisfacenti, ma situate a migliaia di miglia di distanza? Vale la pena sacrificare tutto per amore?
Ho già detto tante volte che ho un debole per le seconde possibilità, per le coppie che nascono ancora da ragazzini, per il tropo ‘da amici ad amanti’, per le anime gemelle e per le famiglie accoglienti.
Qui abbiamo tutto questo e delle buone introspezioni, che spiegano la sofferenza di entrambi e i turbamenti che li accompagnano, ma anche il legame frutto di anni vissuti gomito a gomito.
Ci sono tante scene erotiche ed esplicite, ma c’è anche molto posto per i sentimenti, per l’attrazione non fisica ma emotiva, per quell’amore viscerale che fa intenerire il lettore.
Non ho dato punteggio pieno perché, per mio gusto personale, alcuni concetti sono ripetuti un po’ troppo e l’autore mi aveva già convinta alla prima spiegazione sulla veridicità dei loro sentimenti, quindi avrei sfoltito qualche riga, ma resta una bella storia, ben tradotta, che ho letto con molto piacere e che vi consiglio.
Chase e Mason si incontrano per la prima volta in quinta elementare e, anche se è più uno scontro che un incontro, da lì diventano inseparabili, soprattutto grazie alla generosità della mamma di Mason, che si prende a cuore il piccolo Chase, bambino sfortunato che vive in una situazione precaria e abusiva, con dei genitori drogati e inaffidabili.
La fattoria di Mason è l’isola felice di Chase, dove può giocare e crescere amato come un figlio e un fratello da tutta la famiglia. Quando la salda amicizia con Mason diventa un tenero sentimento, la cosa è ben accolta, ma la separazione per frequentare due università e la morte di Ma’ portano i due a una rottura dolorosa e insanabile.
Chase sente di dover onorare le promesse e le aspettative della donna, per questo si impegna a fondo e, dieci anni dopo, ama il suo lavoro, la sua vita più che benestante e come si è ‘redento’ da un’infanzia di povertà, vergogna e soprusi.
Peccato che Los Angeles sia all’altro capo degli Stati Uniti rispetto a dove risiede il suo cuore, la fattoria e l’unica famiglia che abbia mai amato.
Sia Chase sia Mason hanno avuto altre storie e altri uomini nei dieci anni di separazione, ma rivedersi per il matrimonio della sorella di Mason rende disperatamente chiaro a entrambi che nessun altro riempirà il vuoto nei loro petti che ha la forma del loro amore.
Rivedersi riaccende la stessa passione fisica mai sopita, lo stesso feeling che nessun altro offre loro, gli stessi sentimenti forti e viscerali che li hanno fatti sposare a diciott’anni perché credevano in un amore immortale fra anime gemelle.
Dopo dieci anni il problema è lo stesso: come far collimare due vite soddisfacenti, ma situate a migliaia di miglia di distanza? Vale la pena sacrificare tutto per amore?
Ho già detto tante volte che ho un debole per le seconde possibilità, per le coppie che nascono ancora da ragazzini, per il tropo ‘da amici ad amanti’, per le anime gemelle e per le famiglie accoglienti.
Qui abbiamo tutto questo e delle buone introspezioni, che spiegano la sofferenza di entrambi e i turbamenti che li accompagnano, ma anche il legame frutto di anni vissuti gomito a gomito.
Ci sono tante scene erotiche ed esplicite, ma c’è anche molto posto per i sentimenti, per l’attrazione non fisica ma emotiva, per quell’amore viscerale che fa intenerire il lettore.
Non ho dato punteggio pieno perché, per mio gusto personale, alcuni concetti sono ripetuti un po’ troppo e l’autore mi aveva già convinta alla prima spiegazione sulla veridicità dei loro sentimenti, quindi avrei sfoltito qualche riga, ma resta una bella storia, ben tradotta, che ho letto con molto piacere e che vi consiglio.
August 14, 2017
Gorgeous second chance romanc
Sometimes you meet 'the one' when you're young and you don't know any different and you think the world will always be laid out in front of you.
Then life conspires and sometimes it twists along the way and you lose 'the one' and you're not sure your heart will ever recover. And then, if you're one of those gifted by fate, sometimes 'the one' comes back and you get another chance.
This book has an occasional splutter, when perhaps the language doesn't match up to the emotions being expressed, but otherwise it's a gorgeous journey with two men who lost their hearts as boys growing up together.
There's a great set of secondary characters and the world building creates a location which is as strong a character as the people.
As this is a Devon McCormack story, there's plenty of smexy times, but it's also emotionally connected as well as smoking hot, there is a deep aching love between Mason and Chase which seeps from the pages and wraps itself around the reader.
Stunning Jay Aheer cover too.
Sometimes you meet 'the one' when you're young and you don't know any different and you think the world will always be laid out in front of you.
Then life conspires and sometimes it twists along the way and you lose 'the one' and you're not sure your heart will ever recover. And then, if you're one of those gifted by fate, sometimes 'the one' comes back and you get another chance.
This book has an occasional splutter, when perhaps the language doesn't match up to the emotions being expressed, but otherwise it's a gorgeous journey with two men who lost their hearts as boys growing up together.
There's a great set of secondary characters and the world building creates a location which is as strong a character as the people.
As this is a Devon McCormack story, there's plenty of smexy times, but it's also emotionally connected as well as smoking hot, there is a deep aching love between Mason and Chase which seeps from the pages and wraps itself around the reader.
Stunning Jay Aheer cover too.
June 19, 2020
3.5 stars
I struggled with this book for the first few chapters. I couldn’t figure out why Chase had left Mason all those years ago. It felt like he just didn’t want to live on a farm anymore and wanted to move to LA and live a fancy life. Mason was amazing, but I was also wondering why he wasn’t angrier, why he still loved him all those years after his husband broke his heart. It was very angsty and not in a good way.
But after a few chapters, I really felt their intense love and it became a very emotional and incredibly sexy read. I still feel like Chase was a dumbass for not trying harder to make their marriage work back then, but then I was also a dumbass at 20.
I was so happy to read the beautiful epilogue and know that those two find a true HEA and built an amazing life together.
I struggled with this book for the first few chapters. I couldn’t figure out why Chase had left Mason all those years ago. It felt like he just didn’t want to live on a farm anymore and wanted to move to LA and live a fancy life. Mason was amazing, but I was also wondering why he wasn’t angrier, why he still loved him all those years after his husband broke his heart. It was very angsty and not in a good way.
But after a few chapters, I really felt their intense love and it became a very emotional and incredibly sexy read. I still feel like Chase was a dumbass for not trying harder to make their marriage work back then, but then I was also a dumbass at 20.
I was so happy to read the beautiful epilogue and know that those two find a true HEA and built an amazing life together.
August 15, 2017
A Very enjoyable Read.
One of my favourites by this author. True love standing the test of time even if I did want to throttle Chase an occasion or two. Mason is adorable and the story well written. Great Book.
One of my favourites by this author. True love standing the test of time even if I did want to throttle Chase an occasion or two. Mason is adorable and the story well written. Great Book.
August 20, 2017
I couldn't finish this one. It bored me to tears.
Read
August 27, 2017DNF at 30%
So damn slow! I also didnt really care for the characters and their decisions.
So damn slow! I also didnt really care for the characters and their decisions.
April 26, 2021
Questo romanzo mi è piaciuto, però la storia non mi ha appassionato quanto altri libri scritti dallo stesso autore. L'intreccio è abbastanza lineare e la trama non particolarmente originale. La caratterizzazione dei due protagonisti è variegata però, all'interno della storia, ho trovato il loro percorso di crescita poco accentuato. Tutto sommato sono gli stessi dall'inizio alla fine del libro, nonostante riescano poi, infine, a coronare il loro il loro sogno d'amore.
Altro neo, almeno per me, è il numero troppo elevato di scene sensuali che, pur essendo sempre affascinanti sono semplicemte tante! .
Mi è piaciuto l'alternarsi cadenzato tra presente e passato. E soprattutto mi è piaciuto che i capitoli relativi al passato fossero brevi e strettamente connessi con quello che stava succedendo nel presente, spiegando così le radici degli eventi e dei sentimenti.
Lo stile di McCormack è, come sempre, coinvolgente, fluido, appassionante e pieno di passione. La traduzione italiana è ottima. Nel complesso... Un bel 7 su dieci
Hugs&kisses
Altro neo, almeno per me, è il numero troppo elevato di scene sensuali che, pur essendo sempre affascinanti sono semplicemte tante! .
Mi è piaciuto l'alternarsi cadenzato tra presente e passato. E soprattutto mi è piaciuto che i capitoli relativi al passato fossero brevi e strettamente connessi con quello che stava succedendo nel presente, spiegando così le radici degli eventi e dei sentimenti.
Lo stile di McCormack è, come sempre, coinvolgente, fluido, appassionante e pieno di passione. La traduzione italiana è ottima. Nel complesso... Un bel 7 su dieci
Hugs&kisses
November 26, 2017
I had been in a slump, unable to get fully immersed in any book I picked up for a couple of weeks until I started this one! I read it within a few hours and didn't even want to stop for toilet breaks! That's how amazing this is and why 5 stars are certainly not enough!!
Although I've loved every book I've read by this author, this has to be my favourite by FAR!
One of the things I loved about Chase and Mason's story is that it's so different.
I loved how throughout it all we got flashbacks from when they were younger, how they first met as kids and how the relationship blossomed. We're told of the hardships they went through growing up and how it affected them both.
As well as being beautifully written, it still had the usual hot, wild passionate sex we've come to expect from this author.
Although I've loved every book I've read by this author, this has to be my favourite by FAR!
One of the things I loved about Chase and Mason's story is that it's so different.
I loved how throughout it all we got flashbacks from when they were younger, how they first met as kids and how the relationship blossomed. We're told of the hardships they went through growing up and how it affected them both.
As well as being beautifully written, it still had the usual hot, wild passionate sex we've come to expect from this author.
August 17, 2017
4.5 Stars! I was so torn up reading this second chance romance. Mason and his small town values, hard working farm body and devoted soul and I was Team Mason all the way. Chase felt that going to college and the long distance relationship would never work but he just didn't fight hard enough for what he wanted. Life wasn't fair when it kept these two apart after the high school sweethearts started heading in different directions. I just couldn't understand why Chase couldn't see these obstacles could be overcome if you just tried. I guess when you have the entire family involved in your relationship things become more complicated. I cried, I sighed and thoroughly loved all of the ups and downs.
August 15, 2017
I love a second chance romance. I LOVED everything about Mason and HATED everything about Chase. Normally if I dislike a character I don't enjoy the story. Devon had me wanting to throat punch Chase MANY times...That being said I have not read a book in along time that provoked so much emotion from me. I laughed and cried got mad and still really enjoyed the story. Total book hangover. Well done Devon!!
Want to read
August 25, 2017Someone wrote in his/her review:
August 17, 2018
Chase and Mason
They had a love that would last a lifetime.
In love and married but being in love does not make a relationship.
Eleven years later Chase is back for a wedding. Their love has never died and the attraction is as strong as ever.
The only thing I did not like. They both had unrealistic expectations even though they were apart for eleven years.
I'm not sure who was more needy.
Besides that it was ok.
They had a love that would last a lifetime.
In love and married but being in love does not make a relationship.
Eleven years later Chase is back for a wedding. Their love has never died and the attraction is as strong as ever.
The only thing I did not like. They both had unrealistic expectations even though they were apart for eleven years.
I'm not sure who was more needy.
Besides that it was ok.
April 26, 2021
Tre stelline e mezzo.
August 27, 2017
The story of Chase and Mason's relationship meandered from their childhood, through their adulthood and ended with a sweet epilogue. And I do mean meandered. The heat I love from this author was absolutely there but the story itself left me a little cold. So much angst for no real reason. And when the sister got involved, it seemed even more silly, navel-gazing and indulgent. Tempest in a teapot time.
I'm sure I will love the next one. This just wasn't for me. 2.5 stars.
I'm sure I will love the next one. This just wasn't for me. 2.5 stars.
August 20, 2017
auhor Devon McCormack at his best what a great story
strong characters , a good story, sexiness and great portrailing in total
I absolutely think this is one of his best stories
It seems every new release this auhor brings out either alone or with a co author is a definite must read!
highly recommended
strong characters , a good story, sexiness and great portrailing in total
I absolutely think this is one of his best stories
It seems every new release this auhor brings out either alone or with a co author is a definite must read!
highly recommended
September 15, 2017
Don't carr one bit about the MCs
October 12, 2017
For some reason I didn't connect with this book like I thought I would. It wasn't bad, it just didn't wow me and I had a few niggles.
Mason and Chase fell in love when they were young, married early, and then separated. They lived on opposite sides of the country, however they never officially divorced. Chase worked his dream job in California and had numerous other relationships, one even lasting 3 years. Mason had random hookups, but never stopped pining for his Chase while working on his family's dairy farm.
After 10 years of being apart, Chase comes to stay at the farm for Mason's sisters wedding. They have a talk to clear the air and somehow start fooling around again. Here is where my niggles begin. Chase claims he has always loved Mason, but HE is the one who moved away and broke it off. He is the one who shattered Mason's heart for his dream. Mason would have left to be with him and he still said no. Now he starts hooking up with poor Mason giving him hope when Chase believes there is none. Selfish dick. Mason forgives him always and even convinces himself Chase was right to leave before.
Leaving me is the best thing you ever did. Maybe that’s part of why I’m so pissed now. Because you went off and made this incredible life for yourself. Just like you needed to. Just like you deserved. But it was a life without me.
Eventually after all the drama and back in forth we do end up with an HEA, but all along I felt that Mason was the only one who fought for them. Chase just cried about how it was too hard. And then slept with Mason again. Every serious convo basically leads to them screwing.
Whether you like it or not, I’m going to be the one who takes care of you when you’re old and gray. Because I can’t stop loving you, even if I want to. And you can’t stop loving me.
The epilogue which is 13 years in the future is great. We all know I love an epilogue that takes place far away in time. It gives us the glimpse of how they made it work. Again my niggle, how come they didn't do this in the first place if they so "obviously" never stopped loving each other. I'm rating this one 3.25 stars . I love me some Devin and Riley, but Devin alone just didn't wow me like their colabs do.
Mason and Chase fell in love when they were young, married early, and then separated. They lived on opposite sides of the country, however they never officially divorced. Chase worked his dream job in California and had numerous other relationships, one even lasting 3 years. Mason had random hookups, but never stopped pining for his Chase while working on his family's dairy farm.
After 10 years of being apart, Chase comes to stay at the farm for Mason's sisters wedding. They have a talk to clear the air and somehow start fooling around again. Here is where my niggles begin. Chase claims he has always loved Mason, but HE is the one who moved away and broke it off. He is the one who shattered Mason's heart for his dream. Mason would have left to be with him and he still said no. Now he starts hooking up with poor Mason giving him hope when Chase believes there is none. Selfish dick. Mason forgives him always and even convinces himself Chase was right to leave before.
Leaving me is the best thing you ever did. Maybe that’s part of why I’m so pissed now. Because you went off and made this incredible life for yourself. Just like you needed to. Just like you deserved. But it was a life without me.
Eventually after all the drama and back in forth we do end up with an HEA, but all along I felt that Mason was the only one who fought for them. Chase just cried about how it was too hard. And then slept with Mason again. Every serious convo basically leads to them screwing.
Whether you like it or not, I’m going to be the one who takes care of you when you’re old and gray. Because I can’t stop loving you, even if I want to. And you can’t stop loving me.
The epilogue which is 13 years in the future is great. We all know I love an epilogue that takes place far away in time. It gives us the glimpse of how they made it work. Again my niggle, how come they didn't do this in the first place if they so "obviously" never stopped loving each other. I'm rating this one 3.25 stars . I love me some Devin and Riley, but Devin alone just didn't wow me like their colabs do.
March 1, 2019
Ok, so I am feeling a sense of deja vu.
This story I felt was way over the top complicated when it came to the characters and their reasoning. The being legally married for 11 years and being separated wasn't confusing...they jumping back and forth through time was a little off putting, especially when it came to the audiobook.
Neither character seemed to be decent people or really in love, but that was how I viewed it...love attached to sex seems to be the norm. Im not knocking it, but it doesn't seem people can separate the two until they are presented with it.
The sex scenes aren't my cup of tea either...I think it's to show the list and heat if being in the moment, but it comes off so... disconnected. Like it's there because it seemed like a good place to put it. There is no passion to it just... physical and that's not even good.
The other characters are problematic berating Chase then telling him to it's ok to be with Mason. There is a lot of gaslighting and emotional manipulation happening in this book that just made it feel like they should've divorced and ended on good terms. People have a slant against Chase, but none of the characters are redeemable. The sister basically almost causes the situation to get worse, but then gives a non apology!?
With those issues aside the book has some endearing moments. Some of the best moments were when Chase and Mason are alone and reminiscing. Them being married shouldn't have been a plot point or maybe them talking of getting married and it being put on hold. Leaving it to be maybe they will or won't. But we write the stories we wish to read.
Some may enjoy this book so at least find out for yourself
cheers
This story I felt was way over the top complicated when it came to the characters and their reasoning. The being legally married for 11 years and being separated wasn't confusing...they jumping back and forth through time was a little off putting, especially when it came to the audiobook.
Neither character seemed to be decent people or really in love, but that was how I viewed it...love attached to sex seems to be the norm. Im not knocking it, but it doesn't seem people can separate the two until they are presented with it.
The sex scenes aren't my cup of tea either...I think it's to show the list and heat if being in the moment, but it comes off so... disconnected. Like it's there because it seemed like a good place to put it. There is no passion to it just... physical and that's not even good.
The other characters are problematic berating Chase then telling him to it's ok to be with Mason. There is a lot of gaslighting and emotional manipulation happening in this book that just made it feel like they should've divorced and ended on good terms. People have a slant against Chase, but none of the characters are redeemable. The sister basically almost causes the situation to get worse, but then gives a non apology!?
With those issues aside the book has some endearing moments. Some of the best moments were when Chase and Mason are alone and reminiscing. Them being married shouldn't have been a plot point or maybe them talking of getting married and it being put on hold. Leaving it to be maybe they will or won't. But we write the stories we wish to read.
Some may enjoy this book so at least find out for yourself
cheers
July 11, 2022
This was really more of a 4, and Chase really was selfish and so hurtful. I get why he left Mason, but if he really loved him, they could have done the long distance thing, he could have still made it during school independently and when done, and when they reunited, he could have found a job near Mason, since he loves him, his family and home. It comes down to Mason being willing to fight for him and Chase not. And yes they were young, so that’s part of why I can see they split, but when school was done, he could have made his way back.
And I had a hard time understanding why he couldn’t possibly keep his career, but maybe move to a closer job when they tried the second time. Also, how could he not think how much the breakup would hurt Mason, and he had the gall to be mad that Mason wouldn’t talk to him?
The major double standard was when Chase was jealous Mason had been with other men, but first of all, he ended it, it was 11 years, and he’d steadily saw many men. He recognized he didn’t have the right to be upset, but he mentioned it to Mason. Didn’t he think his years long and several actual relationships were more hurtful than Mason’s series of hookups? It was clear that Mason never got over him and he said that too. It always seemed like Mason was more into and invested in the relationships than Chase was.
And then Chase ended it the second time because he doesn’t want to hurt Mason further? Yeah, breaking his heart by ending it then won’t do that. He really was a punk. So yeah, poor Mason, I felt bad he kept getting his hopes up.
All that said, all the angst, jealousy, rejection are my absolute favorites in books and I will absolutely reread, hence the 5.
Read on kindle unlimited
And I had a hard time understanding why he couldn’t possibly keep his career, but maybe move to a closer job when they tried the second time. Also, how could he not think how much the breakup would hurt Mason, and he had the gall to be mad that Mason wouldn’t talk to him?
The major double standard was when Chase was jealous Mason had been with other men, but first of all, he ended it, it was 11 years, and he’d steadily saw many men. He recognized he didn’t have the right to be upset, but he mentioned it to Mason. Didn’t he think his years long and several actual relationships were more hurtful than Mason’s series of hookups? It was clear that Mason never got over him and he said that too. It always seemed like Mason was more into and invested in the relationships than Chase was.
And then Chase ended it the second time because he doesn’t want to hurt Mason further? Yeah, breaking his heart by ending it then won’t do that. He really was a punk. So yeah, poor Mason, I felt bad he kept getting his hopes up.
All that said, all the angst, jealousy, rejection are my absolute favorites in books and I will absolutely reread, hence the 5.
Read on kindle unlimited
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 25, 2021
«È di Hermann Hesse: Se so cos’è l’amore, è grazie a te.»
"Rispecchiava la sua infanzia con Mason, come aveva imparato sin da giovane a porre i sentimenti dell’amico davanti ai suoi, a prendersi profondamente cura di un’altra persona, a volerla vedere davvero contenta. Sapeva di volere far di tutto per compiacerlo, desiderava il meglio per la sua vita, tanto che avrebbe persino sacrificato la propria felicità."
Ormai sono dipendente da quest’autore, amo ogni sua storia, i suoi protagonisti riescono a catturare l’attenzione non solo con la loro fisicità, la loro bellezza, il loro sex appeal, catturano l’attenzione del lettore, per i profondi sentimenti che nutrono l’uno con l’altro, sentimenti che affrontano e cercano di portare avanti nonostante i problemi che la vita non manca di porre sul cammino di tutti.
L’amore che nasce fin da ragazzi tra Chase e Mase è un qualcosa di bello e meraviglioso, ma non è solo questo, la famiglia di Mase sarà l’ancora di Chase, l’aiuterà a crescerlo e a supportarlo nel corso di anni che lo vedranno lontano dal suo amore Mase.
Una storia che suscita emozioni, coinvolge il cuore e fa tremare l’animo, una storia che racconta un amore che...
"Doveva solo ricordarsi che avrebbe avuto Chase per sempre. Ma dopo ciò che aveva visto accadere alla madre, rimaneva la paura di perderlo, una paura che non lo avrebbe mai lasciato. Quindi continuava a ripetere a se stesso: Ti prego, non lasciarmi, Chase. Non lasciarmi mai."
Un amore quando è unico non può finire, ci sarà sempre qualcosa che lo porterà ad essere più vivo e forte che mai, fino a farti dire che…
E io sarò sempre il tuo uomo.
Buona lettura e alla prossima
"Rispecchiava la sua infanzia con Mason, come aveva imparato sin da giovane a porre i sentimenti dell’amico davanti ai suoi, a prendersi profondamente cura di un’altra persona, a volerla vedere davvero contenta. Sapeva di volere far di tutto per compiacerlo, desiderava il meglio per la sua vita, tanto che avrebbe persino sacrificato la propria felicità."
Ormai sono dipendente da quest’autore, amo ogni sua storia, i suoi protagonisti riescono a catturare l’attenzione non solo con la loro fisicità, la loro bellezza, il loro sex appeal, catturano l’attenzione del lettore, per i profondi sentimenti che nutrono l’uno con l’altro, sentimenti che affrontano e cercano di portare avanti nonostante i problemi che la vita non manca di porre sul cammino di tutti.
L’amore che nasce fin da ragazzi tra Chase e Mase è un qualcosa di bello e meraviglioso, ma non è solo questo, la famiglia di Mase sarà l’ancora di Chase, l’aiuterà a crescerlo e a supportarlo nel corso di anni che lo vedranno lontano dal suo amore Mase.
Una storia che suscita emozioni, coinvolge il cuore e fa tremare l’animo, una storia che racconta un amore che...
"Doveva solo ricordarsi che avrebbe avuto Chase per sempre. Ma dopo ciò che aveva visto accadere alla madre, rimaneva la paura di perderlo, una paura che non lo avrebbe mai lasciato. Quindi continuava a ripetere a se stesso: Ti prego, non lasciarmi, Chase. Non lasciarmi mai."
Un amore quando è unico non può finire, ci sarà sempre qualcosa che lo porterà ad essere più vivo e forte che mai, fino a farti dire che…
E io sarò sempre il tuo uomo.
Buona lettura e alla prossima
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