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Fated Soulmates #3
Love On Life Support
Matthew Kailen, a respected paramedic, has two
1. I don’t date guys from work.
2. I don’t do relationships.
The son of a homophobic father, Matthew learned to stay deeply entrenched in the closet for his own protection. He remained under his father’s radar until his sister Meredith and her husband were killed by a drunk driver. When Matthew became the guardian of their two young children, his life got complicated.
Trent Paleck completed his residency in Emergency Medicine at Lake Community Hospital outside of L.A. Despite the abundance of hot surfers and muscle studs, he longed to get back to the east coast. When a position for an Emergency Room doctor became available at Amity Hospital, in Trent’s home town, he jumped at the opportunity to move home.
Trent never expected to find what he did, when he found himself working alongside Matthew. A reluctant attraction quickly blossoms into something deeper. Can Matthew find in Trent the one thing that will cause him to break his own rules? Is Trent ready to trade in California surfers for the father of two young children? Both men are faced with what appears to be insurmountable challenges when Matthew’s father takes actions to prevent Trent from having the man he wants and Matthew the children he loves. Can they climb over the hurdles to find the love they desire?
1. I don’t date guys from work.
2. I don’t do relationships.
The son of a homophobic father, Matthew learned to stay deeply entrenched in the closet for his own protection. He remained under his father’s radar until his sister Meredith and her husband were killed by a drunk driver. When Matthew became the guardian of their two young children, his life got complicated.
Trent Paleck completed his residency in Emergency Medicine at Lake Community Hospital outside of L.A. Despite the abundance of hot surfers and muscle studs, he longed to get back to the east coast. When a position for an Emergency Room doctor became available at Amity Hospital, in Trent’s home town, he jumped at the opportunity to move home.
Trent never expected to find what he did, when he found himself working alongside Matthew. A reluctant attraction quickly blossoms into something deeper. Can Matthew find in Trent the one thing that will cause him to break his own rules? Is Trent ready to trade in California surfers for the father of two young children? Both men are faced with what appears to be insurmountable challenges when Matthew’s father takes actions to prevent Trent from having the man he wants and Matthew the children he loves. Can they climb over the hurdles to find the love they desire?
- GenresM M Romance
142 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 2, 2015
4 people are currently reading
17 people want to read
About the author
John Charles
15 books24 followersWhen asked why he writes under a pseudonym, he explains it this way, "My birth name was John Charles, but shortly after I was brought home, my parents changed it to Larry. I never got the real reason and I still have that original birth certificate." When he decided to write and publish, he chose to use his birth name - John Charles.
As a youngster, he had trouble reading. While in college, he learned that he had a form of dyslexia. When he was taught how to overcome the issues it caused, a new world opened for him. He now reads constantly.
John loves to read M/M mystery romance as well as action / adventure novels. He can be found with his Kindle or iPad in his hands most of the time.
He spent years in the technology industry and found himself immersed in writing marketing brochures, and technical and operations manuals. Writing fiction was not his lifelong dream, but emerged after his youngest went off to college. The writing bug stuck and now he writes every day.
Being single and living at the beach in southern Delaware has its benefits, too. You can frequently find him walking along the water's edge before the rest of the tourists and vacationers have awakened. He says that the secluded beach time is most precious.
The plots in his novels come from real life situations. "I have always believed that real life is more interesting than anything a person could make up. I listen, keep my eyes open, and let the world give me the ideas that make my stories believable and interesting."
"I find myself enjoying writing more than anything I've ever done in my life."
John's website is http://johncharlesbooks.com
To get a free book, sign up for his newsletter at: https://wp.me/P64Wfz-1dZ In his newsletter and blog, John reviews many of the books he reads.
You can stay in touch with John at:
https://twitter.com/johncharlesauth
https://www.facebook.com/johncharlesa...
http://www.goodreads.com/john_charles
As a youngster, he had trouble reading. While in college, he learned that he had a form of dyslexia. When he was taught how to overcome the issues it caused, a new world opened for him. He now reads constantly.
John loves to read M/M mystery romance as well as action / adventure novels. He can be found with his Kindle or iPad in his hands most of the time.
He spent years in the technology industry and found himself immersed in writing marketing brochures, and technical and operations manuals. Writing fiction was not his lifelong dream, but emerged after his youngest went off to college. The writing bug stuck and now he writes every day.
Being single and living at the beach in southern Delaware has its benefits, too. You can frequently find him walking along the water's edge before the rest of the tourists and vacationers have awakened. He says that the secluded beach time is most precious.
The plots in his novels come from real life situations. "I have always believed that real life is more interesting than anything a person could make up. I listen, keep my eyes open, and let the world give me the ideas that make my stories believable and interesting."
"I find myself enjoying writing more than anything I've ever done in my life."
John's website is http://johncharlesbooks.com
To get a free book, sign up for his newsletter at: https://wp.me/P64Wfz-1dZ In his newsletter and blog, John reviews many of the books he reads.
You can stay in touch with John at:
https://twitter.com/johncharlesauth
https://www.facebook.com/johncharlesa...
http://www.goodreads.com/john_charles
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
November 9, 2015
Trent was never afraid to be himself he knew he was gay and told his parents at 14 and in high school he never allowed anyone to bully him. He always knew he wanted to be a doctor and he did just that after years spent on the West Coast he finally gets a position back home what he wasn't expecting was the boy he ludted after throughout high school to grow up into such a gorgeous man and though he always thought he was the token straight athlete finding out he was gay is another perk.
Matthew's life has been anything but easy. He knew he was gay but because of his homophobic father was forced to spend his time in school so deep in a closet he wasn't sure he would ever be able to come out of it. Going to college he found a way to explore the side of himself he was always forced to repress and decided that when he came home he would no longer hide. While his father may have disowned him his sister and her husband loved him enough that he never cared but when she and her husband tragically died he was left picking up the pieces. Love became something he desperately wanted in a partner but because of circumstances thought he would never get in so he learned to close himself off until the guy he lusted after in high school comes home.
The attraction between them is expensive but Trent's forceful approach leaves Matt reeling back in order to protect himself. Add the two get closer forces conspire to keep them apart. Will they find their way through it all together or will it push them to the breaking point?
Trent in comfortable in his own skin always has been. He's not afraid to be upfront about his own lifestyle choices and for anyone who tries to put him down because of it he doesn't even care it just rolls right off of him.
Matt has been scarred by circumstance by doesn't let it stop him from being himself anymore. He might keep things closer to the vest but with friends and family there to support him he is more open to trying things, even if he didn't realize it.
They have their share of troubles mostly revolving around one specific character in the story but I love to how they both opened up and we're accepting of each other.
The characters are well developed and I enjoyed getting to know each of them feeling that they were so real their struggles were your own. And by the end tissues were definitely needed as you felt everything right along with the characters.
Matthew's life has been anything but easy. He knew he was gay but because of his homophobic father was forced to spend his time in school so deep in a closet he wasn't sure he would ever be able to come out of it. Going to college he found a way to explore the side of himself he was always forced to repress and decided that when he came home he would no longer hide. While his father may have disowned him his sister and her husband loved him enough that he never cared but when she and her husband tragically died he was left picking up the pieces. Love became something he desperately wanted in a partner but because of circumstances thought he would never get in so he learned to close himself off until the guy he lusted after in high school comes home.
The attraction between them is expensive but Trent's forceful approach leaves Matt reeling back in order to protect himself. Add the two get closer forces conspire to keep them apart. Will they find their way through it all together or will it push them to the breaking point?
Trent in comfortable in his own skin always has been. He's not afraid to be upfront about his own lifestyle choices and for anyone who tries to put him down because of it he doesn't even care it just rolls right off of him.
Matt has been scarred by circumstance by doesn't let it stop him from being himself anymore. He might keep things closer to the vest but with friends and family there to support him he is more open to trying things, even if he didn't realize it.
They have their share of troubles mostly revolving around one specific character in the story but I love to how they both opened up and we're accepting of each other.
The characters are well developed and I enjoyed getting to know each of them feeling that they were so real their struggles were your own. And by the end tissues were definitely needed as you felt everything right along with the characters.
February 11, 2016
Overall, I really liked Love on Life Support. In the end, it packed a satisfying, romantic emotional wallop!–my favorite kind of story. In fact, I had to wipe a few tears from my eyes. The love between Trent and Matthew is so honest, and the way they work to find their way to each other is heartwarming. Add to this a wonderful cast of side characters, most lovable and endearing, and one hell of a villain, and you have the makings for an excellent story. It was really more of a long novella, so the book progressed rather quickly.
Despite the many positive attributes to this book, there were a few things which distracted me as I read. Most notably was in how the author chose to tell us about characters’ emotions rather than show them on the page. At key moments throughout the book, the author would tell us what particular emotion a character was feeling, whereas I would have preferred the actions spoke for themselves. One of the characters took a while to clue in to the needs of the other as well, which made him seem a bit insensitive until he figured out the best way to approach the man of his desires.
All this said, I would recommend Love on Life Support as an enjoyable weekend read, perhaps when you are in the mood to capture an emotional ride, crank out some of those tears just to give yourself an emotional cleansing. If you find yourself in that situation…as I did this weekend…then this book is for you.
Reviewed by Taz for The Novel Approach
http://www.thenovelapproachreviews.co...
Despite the many positive attributes to this book, there were a few things which distracted me as I read. Most notably was in how the author chose to tell us about characters’ emotions rather than show them on the page. At key moments throughout the book, the author would tell us what particular emotion a character was feeling, whereas I would have preferred the actions spoke for themselves. One of the characters took a while to clue in to the needs of the other as well, which made him seem a bit insensitive until he figured out the best way to approach the man of his desires.
All this said, I would recommend Love on Life Support as an enjoyable weekend read, perhaps when you are in the mood to capture an emotional ride, crank out some of those tears just to give yourself an emotional cleansing. If you find yourself in that situation…as I did this weekend…then this book is for you.
Reviewed by Taz for The Novel Approach
http://www.thenovelapproachreviews.co...
December 3, 2015
Love on life Support by John Charles
5 stars
M/M Romance
Triggers: Homophobia, death
I was given this book for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
Matthew is an EMT who is just trying to make it through life without too much trouble. He came from a family who did not have the best role models. Then, he has to come to grips with the fact that even though he has worked incredibly hard to never mix business with pleasure, he finds himself lusting after his old high school mate, who also happens to be the new ER doctor.
Trent is new to town, but only because he left for college. When he sees Matthew again, he is immediately attracted to his old high school classmate. He remembers Matthew is straight and tries to tamp down those urges. When he learns that Matthew is not straight - his days are looking up.
I really liked how their relationship developed. Trent, through patience and love allowed Matthew to come around to the notion that he could develop a relationship.
This would not be a complete story without some drama and boy this has it in spades. What I liked most about the issues in this book were that they were not really centered between the two main characters. Outside forces were the main issue and I think it helped to create a strong, bonded couple.
5 stars
M/M Romance
Triggers: Homophobia, death
I was given this book for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
Matthew is an EMT who is just trying to make it through life without too much trouble. He came from a family who did not have the best role models. Then, he has to come to grips with the fact that even though he has worked incredibly hard to never mix business with pleasure, he finds himself lusting after his old high school mate, who also happens to be the new ER doctor.
Trent is new to town, but only because he left for college. When he sees Matthew again, he is immediately attracted to his old high school classmate. He remembers Matthew is straight and tries to tamp down those urges. When he learns that Matthew is not straight - his days are looking up.
I really liked how their relationship developed. Trent, through patience and love allowed Matthew to come around to the notion that he could develop a relationship.
This would not be a complete story without some drama and boy this has it in spades. What I liked most about the issues in this book were that they were not really centered between the two main characters. Outside forces were the main issue and I think it helped to create a strong, bonded couple.
August 17, 2016
I feel like I should say something if I give a book 2 stars so I'll just say that the idea of the story was a good one but it read stilted and weird. An editor would have been a good idea also.
March 19, 2016
I really wanted to love this book because it had several things I really like in stories; doctors, EMTS, and single fathers. Sadly, I did not enjoy this tale for many reasons. Not only are there some plot and character issues there is also enough grammar and punctuation issues to make it even harder to enjoy.
Right away there was a massive information dump with a ton of backstory. Authors take note, do NOT do this. Readers don’t care about backstory for characters they don’t even know yet.
Matthew is a closeted EMT who is raising his niece and nephew following the death of his sister and her husband. He also has to deal with a stereotypically homophobic father who can’t even control himself in a public place.
As shown in the blurb, Matthew has two rules. Redundant rules. If he doesn’t do relationships why add that he doesn’t do relationships with co-workers? Doesn’t one preclude the other?
Trent is a doctor recently returned to his hometown. He and Matthew knew each other in high school, and both had crushes on each other. However, Trent was openly gay while Matthew was not. When they meet up again the attraction is rekindled, but Matthew is hesitant to act on it because he has those rules against relationships and dating guys from work.
Even when they do go out, Matthew doesn’t tell Trent about his adopted children because… Well, I’m not exactly sure why. He’s had bad reactions in the past when he’s told men about his kids, but that doesn’t explain why he isn’t upfront and honest. As a single father myself, I think that any guy who doesn’t want to be with a man because of his kids isn’t worth a second thought. It’s far better to find out early on than discover the truth later.
The whole deal with Matthew and the kids was handled very strangely. At one point he tells Trent about the death of his sister but not that he took her kids. That, and other information, is revealed rather dramatically over the course of many pages not only by Matthew but also a co-worker. None of this was remotely realistic and just a way to increase the tension.
One of the over-the-top reveals about Matthew’s life is told to Trent by the co-worker. It involves the death of Matthew’s sister.
With her last breath, she whispered ‘I love you.’ She died in his arms Trent.” [sic]
This was all made to be so very dramatic, and I’m not actually sure why. It’s romantic when a dying character’s last words are to someone they’re in love with, but from a sister to a brother I don’t see it as quite as important. The death is the significant factor, not her final words.
One of the main troubles was that I didn’t find either of the main characters all that interesting. Hell, there were times their voices were so similar I had to go back and look to see whose POV I was in. Neither one had a defining personality.
The characterizations of the supporting characters are even worse. Nobody is all that realistic and most are just cardboard characters with nothing special. Even the kids and the nanny suffered.
The dialogue was often stilted and failed to flow. This was due to the characters often not using contractions. Not using contractions can be used to create a character’s personality, especially if the person is wealthy and sophisticated. However here it was several characters who did it. It just didn’t work.
Often I can look past grammar and punctuations mistakes and still appreciate the tale, but that wasn’t the case here. Even if I had liked the story the punctuation issues would’ve been very hard to ignore. There was a lot of them and the mistakes were ones that a proofreader, beta reader, or editor should’ve caught.
It was simple things like the absence of commas or question marks:
“What are you doing Mike.”
And (this one puzzled me the most and happened often) failure to use proper capitalization:
“Yeah, I am, dad.”
Just a few lines later:
“I love you dad.”
Notice the lack of comma and capital letter in that last example.
This book could’ve been really great but it did not live up to its potential.
http://www.prismbookalliance.com/2016...
Right away there was a massive information dump with a ton of backstory. Authors take note, do NOT do this. Readers don’t care about backstory for characters they don’t even know yet.
Matthew is a closeted EMT who is raising his niece and nephew following the death of his sister and her husband. He also has to deal with a stereotypically homophobic father who can’t even control himself in a public place.
As shown in the blurb, Matthew has two rules. Redundant rules. If he doesn’t do relationships why add that he doesn’t do relationships with co-workers? Doesn’t one preclude the other?
Trent is a doctor recently returned to his hometown. He and Matthew knew each other in high school, and both had crushes on each other. However, Trent was openly gay while Matthew was not. When they meet up again the attraction is rekindled, but Matthew is hesitant to act on it because he has those rules against relationships and dating guys from work.
Even when they do go out, Matthew doesn’t tell Trent about his adopted children because… Well, I’m not exactly sure why. He’s had bad reactions in the past when he’s told men about his kids, but that doesn’t explain why he isn’t upfront and honest. As a single father myself, I think that any guy who doesn’t want to be with a man because of his kids isn’t worth a second thought. It’s far better to find out early on than discover the truth later.
The whole deal with Matthew and the kids was handled very strangely. At one point he tells Trent about the death of his sister but not that he took her kids. That, and other information, is revealed rather dramatically over the course of many pages not only by Matthew but also a co-worker. None of this was remotely realistic and just a way to increase the tension.
One of the over-the-top reveals about Matthew’s life is told to Trent by the co-worker. It involves the death of Matthew’s sister.
With her last breath, she whispered ‘I love you.’ She died in his arms Trent.” [sic]
This was all made to be so very dramatic, and I’m not actually sure why. It’s romantic when a dying character’s last words are to someone they’re in love with, but from a sister to a brother I don’t see it as quite as important. The death is the significant factor, not her final words.
One of the main troubles was that I didn’t find either of the main characters all that interesting. Hell, there were times their voices were so similar I had to go back and look to see whose POV I was in. Neither one had a defining personality.
The characterizations of the supporting characters are even worse. Nobody is all that realistic and most are just cardboard characters with nothing special. Even the kids and the nanny suffered.
The dialogue was often stilted and failed to flow. This was due to the characters often not using contractions. Not using contractions can be used to create a character’s personality, especially if the person is wealthy and sophisticated. However here it was several characters who did it. It just didn’t work.
Often I can look past grammar and punctuations mistakes and still appreciate the tale, but that wasn’t the case here. Even if I had liked the story the punctuation issues would’ve been very hard to ignore. There was a lot of them and the mistakes were ones that a proofreader, beta reader, or editor should’ve caught.
It was simple things like the absence of commas or question marks:
“What are you doing Mike.”
And (this one puzzled me the most and happened often) failure to use proper capitalization:
“Yeah, I am, dad.”
Just a few lines later:
“I love you dad.”
Notice the lack of comma and capital letter in that last example.
This book could’ve been really great but it did not live up to its potential.
http://www.prismbookalliance.com/2016...
February 6, 2016
4 Heart Review by Roberta
So, this book is not what I’d thought it’d be and I’m actually glad.
This book brings on the question of family, love and how love can triumph over hatred. This is such a sweet and wonderful book that I got caught up in reading it and didn’t want to put it down until the very end.
Matt Kailen, has been hurt before, who hasn’t. but two of the hurts come from within his family. His father and I use that term very loosely…is nothing more than just a bully who has nothing but hatred in his heart. His second hurt is the fact that his sister and very best friend, Meredith died in a car accident. Matt now has custody of Meredith and Alan, Meredith’s husband’s children. Matt has been single since just about the time of his taking on his kidlets. I love how Matt loves his family. I love that he’s put them first. They mean that damn much to him. I love that they have a routine and it just makes me smile to think of this single dad doing what needs to be done and handling his business and doing it well. I was sad to see that he doesn’t do relationships, but I get where he was coming from. Who the hell wants to come into a relationship and it comes with an already made family? My guess would be the “Right” Man.
Trent Paleck is an ER doctor who was openly gay in High School. Trent was lucky as he had his family’s love and support. They didn’t care a single bit about his orientation. I love that kind of support. Trent went away for college and med school. He got a job on the West Coast and he liked it, but felt the people were so damn fake and he really wanted to come back to the East Coast. I really have to say that I really liked Trent. He’s this really sweet guy who just wants the same as most people, the chance to fall in love with the right person and share their lives together. Trent is a great ER/Trauma Doctor. He loves what he does and he does it well. Trent is actually the perfect match for Matt. He’s the balm for Matt’s battered soul. Trent is such a great guy and he’s wonderful with Matt’s kidlets.
This story was just the sweetest story that I’ve read in a long time. It’s heart-warming to see these two men fall in love with each other. I like that Matt’s kidlets are sweet and that the author made them pretty age-appropriate. Some authors make them 3 going on 30, but this author made them just cute, normal kidlets and that they didn’t overwhelm the story. Grace who is the Nanny is actually Alan’s Aunt and I love the fact that she stayed and helped Matt and Adriana and Alex. She is a good woman and a great resource for Matt. Matt and Meredith’s father, Mike is a Jackass!! He’s an awful person and it’s a shame to know that there are really people out there who are like that, but it’s nice to see that even though he’s a Jackass, Meredith and Matt turned out to be pretty wonderful people.
This is a wonderful book that is filled with lots of heart and warmth. Good Read.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
So, this book is not what I’d thought it’d be and I’m actually glad.
This book brings on the question of family, love and how love can triumph over hatred. This is such a sweet and wonderful book that I got caught up in reading it and didn’t want to put it down until the very end.
Matt Kailen, has been hurt before, who hasn’t. but two of the hurts come from within his family. His father and I use that term very loosely…is nothing more than just a bully who has nothing but hatred in his heart. His second hurt is the fact that his sister and very best friend, Meredith died in a car accident. Matt now has custody of Meredith and Alan, Meredith’s husband’s children. Matt has been single since just about the time of his taking on his kidlets. I love how Matt loves his family. I love that he’s put them first. They mean that damn much to him. I love that they have a routine and it just makes me smile to think of this single dad doing what needs to be done and handling his business and doing it well. I was sad to see that he doesn’t do relationships, but I get where he was coming from. Who the hell wants to come into a relationship and it comes with an already made family? My guess would be the “Right” Man.
Trent Paleck is an ER doctor who was openly gay in High School. Trent was lucky as he had his family’s love and support. They didn’t care a single bit about his orientation. I love that kind of support. Trent went away for college and med school. He got a job on the West Coast and he liked it, but felt the people were so damn fake and he really wanted to come back to the East Coast. I really have to say that I really liked Trent. He’s this really sweet guy who just wants the same as most people, the chance to fall in love with the right person and share their lives together. Trent is a great ER/Trauma Doctor. He loves what he does and he does it well. Trent is actually the perfect match for Matt. He’s the balm for Matt’s battered soul. Trent is such a great guy and he’s wonderful with Matt’s kidlets.
This story was just the sweetest story that I’ve read in a long time. It’s heart-warming to see these two men fall in love with each other. I like that Matt’s kidlets are sweet and that the author made them pretty age-appropriate. Some authors make them 3 going on 30, but this author made them just cute, normal kidlets and that they didn’t overwhelm the story. Grace who is the Nanny is actually Alan’s Aunt and I love the fact that she stayed and helped Matt and Adriana and Alex. She is a good woman and a great resource for Matt. Matt and Meredith’s father, Mike is a Jackass!! He’s an awful person and it’s a shame to know that there are really people out there who are like that, but it’s nice to see that even though he’s a Jackass, Meredith and Matt turned out to be pretty wonderful people.
This is a wonderful book that is filled with lots of heart and warmth. Good Read.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
January 22, 2016
I received one copy of this book at no charge in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own. Review first posted on Nautical Star Books
In Love On Life Support by John Charles, Mathew grew up in a household where he knew it wasn't acceptable or safe to be gay. He kept things under wrap long enough to get a degree and a job as a paramedic. A freak accident leaves him the sole caretaker of his niece and nephew, a fact that his homophobic father hates with a passion. Matthew works hard and has no interest in forming a serious relationship when he has so many commitments already.
Trent has come back to town as an ER doctor. He and Matthew knew each other in passing in high school and Trent is eager to get to know him again. Preferably without clothes. He soon realizes that there is more to Matthew than just a sexy paramedic. The two slowly start to explore a relationship with each other but there are a few hurdles in the way of their happily ever after.
While I liked the premise of this story and the characters and background of each of them, the writing itself was a bit choppy and rushed. It felt like most of the story was being TOLD rather than SHOWN. I think some slightly more creative writing would have built a better storyline and drawn me into the actual relationship.
Matthew has priorities other than a relationship which is totally understandable. He gets annoyed at Trent's pushy behavior but decides to give him a shot. The story had that one thing that really drives me nuts, though. Instant attraction (ie getting hard the moment you lay eyes on a person for the first time) and a rushed emotional connection. I think Matthew was already saying his heart was involved the first time they went on a date. I really prefer a bit more character development and interaction before they start proclaiming their love for each other.
Mathew's father was a jerk but it felt a bit over the top. I'm sure there are some seriously homophobic people out there but his behavior just seemed forced to create more tension. I think the tension and point of the story could have been made without quite as much yelling. Sometimes it's the quiet ones you should fear most!
Trent seemed like a good guy and it's nice that he wasn't put off my Matthew's kids. He is very comfortable with who he is and never once had to worry about being accepted when he came out in high school. Their physical relationship is rushed, and each time they are together I felt like it should have been MORE. I don't need pages and pages of sex but the interaction should last more than just a paragraph. I think a slower pace would have done wonders to really portray their attraction.
Overall, I like the premise of Love On Life Support by John Charles and the characters that the author creates. It definitely needs some editing for spelling and grammatical errors, as well as just polishing up the rough edges to create a smooth flowing story.
In Love On Life Support by John Charles, Mathew grew up in a household where he knew it wasn't acceptable or safe to be gay. He kept things under wrap long enough to get a degree and a job as a paramedic. A freak accident leaves him the sole caretaker of his niece and nephew, a fact that his homophobic father hates with a passion. Matthew works hard and has no interest in forming a serious relationship when he has so many commitments already.
Trent has come back to town as an ER doctor. He and Matthew knew each other in passing in high school and Trent is eager to get to know him again. Preferably without clothes. He soon realizes that there is more to Matthew than just a sexy paramedic. The two slowly start to explore a relationship with each other but there are a few hurdles in the way of their happily ever after.
While I liked the premise of this story and the characters and background of each of them, the writing itself was a bit choppy and rushed. It felt like most of the story was being TOLD rather than SHOWN. I think some slightly more creative writing would have built a better storyline and drawn me into the actual relationship.
Matthew has priorities other than a relationship which is totally understandable. He gets annoyed at Trent's pushy behavior but decides to give him a shot. The story had that one thing that really drives me nuts, though. Instant attraction (ie getting hard the moment you lay eyes on a person for the first time) and a rushed emotional connection. I think Matthew was already saying his heart was involved the first time they went on a date. I really prefer a bit more character development and interaction before they start proclaiming their love for each other.
Mathew's father was a jerk but it felt a bit over the top. I'm sure there are some seriously homophobic people out there but his behavior just seemed forced to create more tension. I think the tension and point of the story could have been made without quite as much yelling. Sometimes it's the quiet ones you should fear most!
Trent seemed like a good guy and it's nice that he wasn't put off my Matthew's kids. He is very comfortable with who he is and never once had to worry about being accepted when he came out in high school. Their physical relationship is rushed, and each time they are together I felt like it should have been MORE. I don't need pages and pages of sex but the interaction should last more than just a paragraph. I think a slower pace would have done wonders to really portray their attraction.
Overall, I like the premise of Love On Life Support by John Charles and the characters that the author creates. It definitely needs some editing for spelling and grammatical errors, as well as just polishing up the rough edges to create a smooth flowing story.
December 7, 2015
Heartfelt
I have some definite favorites when it comes to story types and genre. Among them are single Dads, reactions to dating a Dad, medical
personnel in particular paramedics & ER docs, as well as the other staff they regularly work with.
This was a Sweet story of heart ache, broken hearts, guarded hearts, shielded hearts, and the gradual thawing of hearts. How do you learn to love again when fear of getting hurt is such a huge concern?
How do you learn what a real loving family is supposed to be like, if you never had the opportunity to experience it? Except with a sister who also tried to get out of a crazy home. A sister and eventual brother in law with an aunt who cared for all of them dearly finally began to show him what family truly meant.
Because I spent most of my time listening to the book I was at times confused by just who I was listening. Eventually I became familiar enough with the MCs that I knew who I was listening to.
I really enjoyed this book, a first by this author and was glad to see he already has additionally published works. If you enjoy stories featuring medical personnel, first responders, slow building romances, gay dads, men who put others first, falling in love reluctantly, but thoroughly. Having friends who are closer and care more than family.
How important is work to you? How important are your work friendships? Do you cherish their council and advice? Do you spend more time at work than at home? Do you put your all into your job despite the potential for danger or maybe because of it? Do you have a great time with work acquaintances during on and off hours?
This story can be just what you're looking for. I most certainly plan to read it a few more times. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
I have some definite favorites when it comes to story types and genre. Among them are single Dads, reactions to dating a Dad, medical
personnel in particular paramedics & ER docs, as well as the other staff they regularly work with.
This was a Sweet story of heart ache, broken hearts, guarded hearts, shielded hearts, and the gradual thawing of hearts. How do you learn to love again when fear of getting hurt is such a huge concern?
How do you learn what a real loving family is supposed to be like, if you never had the opportunity to experience it? Except with a sister who also tried to get out of a crazy home. A sister and eventual brother in law with an aunt who cared for all of them dearly finally began to show him what family truly meant.
Because I spent most of my time listening to the book I was at times confused by just who I was listening. Eventually I became familiar enough with the MCs that I knew who I was listening to.
I really enjoyed this book, a first by this author and was glad to see he already has additionally published works. If you enjoy stories featuring medical personnel, first responders, slow building romances, gay dads, men who put others first, falling in love reluctantly, but thoroughly. Having friends who are closer and care more than family.
How important is work to you? How important are your work friendships? Do you cherish their council and advice? Do you spend more time at work than at home? Do you put your all into your job despite the potential for danger or maybe because of it? Do you have a great time with work acquaintances during on and off hours?
This story can be just what you're looking for. I most certainly plan to read it a few more times. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
November 14, 2015
I really enjoyed both of the main characters in this book and loved seeing glimpses of the various patients the men were working on.
The story is sweet and I really believed in the connection between Trent and Matthew. I love the way Trent slowed down and allowed Matthew time to adjust to the idea of a relationship and I love the way Matthew’s kids encouraged the relationship.
The storyline with Matthew’s father felt overblown. I hate the cliche m/m plot device where a bullet wound brings everyone together for the HEA and this story uses the very tired formula with limited effect. Matthew’s relationship with his parents is far too simplistic to be believable and his father becomes more of a comic book villain than a human being by the end.
I found the prose very choppy and at times I wanted a red pen. Frequent simple spelling mistakes (your instead of you’re, hold up instead of holed up, rath instead of wrath) were distracting while punctuation errors altered meaning in places. A thorough edit would help the author show, not tell his story and add a layer of emotional resonance to the story.
The stars are for the connection between the main characters and some entertaining moments where we see the men at work. I would love to see this story fully developed and edited properly as the premise has great possibility.
I was given copy of this book in exchange for an honest review for Inked Rainbow Reviews.
The story is sweet and I really believed in the connection between Trent and Matthew. I love the way Trent slowed down and allowed Matthew time to adjust to the idea of a relationship and I love the way Matthew’s kids encouraged the relationship.
The storyline with Matthew’s father felt overblown. I hate the cliche m/m plot device where a bullet wound brings everyone together for the HEA and this story uses the very tired formula with limited effect. Matthew’s relationship with his parents is far too simplistic to be believable and his father becomes more of a comic book villain than a human being by the end.
I found the prose very choppy and at times I wanted a red pen. Frequent simple spelling mistakes (your instead of you’re, hold up instead of holed up, rath instead of wrath) were distracting while punctuation errors altered meaning in places. A thorough edit would help the author show, not tell his story and add a layer of emotional resonance to the story.
The stars are for the connection between the main characters and some entertaining moments where we see the men at work. I would love to see this story fully developed and edited properly as the premise has great possibility.
I was given copy of this book in exchange for an honest review for Inked Rainbow Reviews.
December 26, 2015
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
What I really liked about this story was that the main characters just clicked right from the start. There was a lot of angst going on, but it never seemed to be between Trent and Matthew, rather it tended to be the two of them against everything else.
Trent and Matthew grew up together. While they weren’t friends, they each admired the other in secret. Now, with Trent back in town and the two of them working closely together, Trent asks Matthew out for coffee to catch up. What he wasn’t expecting was that the Matthew he knew as straight is now out of the closet, but unwilling to get involved in a relationship or with someone he works with…except Trent isn’t going to take no as an answer.
As Trent wears down Matthew’s objections, the two find themselves falling for one another, and readers will fall in love with both of these guys. Unfortunately, with one of them living with his parents until he locates suitable housing and the other one having two kids at home, they learn that patience is a virtue…and when you get an opportunity you don’t waste it!
Read Wendy’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
What I really liked about this story was that the main characters just clicked right from the start. There was a lot of angst going on, but it never seemed to be between Trent and Matthew, rather it tended to be the two of them against everything else.
Trent and Matthew grew up together. While they weren’t friends, they each admired the other in secret. Now, with Trent back in town and the two of them working closely together, Trent asks Matthew out for coffee to catch up. What he wasn’t expecting was that the Matthew he knew as straight is now out of the closet, but unwilling to get involved in a relationship or with someone he works with…except Trent isn’t going to take no as an answer.
As Trent wears down Matthew’s objections, the two find themselves falling for one another, and readers will fall in love with both of these guys. Unfortunately, with one of them living with his parents until he locates suitable housing and the other one having two kids at home, they learn that patience is a virtue…and when you get an opportunity you don’t waste it!
Read Wendy’s review in its entirety here.
December 4, 2015
Matthew is a fierce protector of his niece and nephew now that he’s their only parent. His own father has a restraining order against him to stay away from Matthew and his kids because of his hateful slurs. When he meets Trent again, the simmering attraction between them from childhood flares to life, but he won’t acknowledge it due to his fear.
Trent sees Matthew and wants to do everything he can to break through his walls and share his life.
When Matthew’s father attacks Trent and Matthew will they grow closer or be driven forever apart?
**
The basic storyline is a simple one, two boys meet, one resists, the other perseveres and voila. But the writing is rather bulky and “telling” vs “showing”. The sex is almost fade to black but for one scene and that is almost at the end of the book. There are some pretty glaring grammatical errors like “chase” lounge and some poor editing.
I think this is a nice story that needs a more firm hand in both content and copy editing and that in time this author should be able to produce some really good work.
I would definitely look for this author in the future, though this story is a bit rough around the edges.
Trent sees Matthew and wants to do everything he can to break through his walls and share his life.
When Matthew’s father attacks Trent and Matthew will they grow closer or be driven forever apart?
**
The basic storyline is a simple one, two boys meet, one resists, the other perseveres and voila. But the writing is rather bulky and “telling” vs “showing”. The sex is almost fade to black but for one scene and that is almost at the end of the book. There are some pretty glaring grammatical errors like “chase” lounge and some poor editing.
I think this is a nice story that needs a more firm hand in both content and copy editing and that in time this author should be able to produce some really good work.
I would definitely look for this author in the future, though this story is a bit rough around the edges.
November 9, 2015
This is the first book I read from this author and I have to confess I am really happy with it.
Matthew and Trent knew each other from High school but they went their separate ways after graduation each holding unto a secret crush for each other.
After going to college and meeting again each one in their respective careers .... they started to develop a friendship not without resistance from Matthew.
Matthew’s life had been full of difficult moments and he never let himself be open to anyone.
Trent saw Matthew with different eyes and fought to win him over.
The story behind Matthew’s family and the heart of Trent made it possible for them to achieve what they wanted.
This is a great book!
My rating 4.5
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Matthew and Trent knew each other from High school but they went their separate ways after graduation each holding unto a secret crush for each other.
After going to college and meeting again each one in their respective careers .... they started to develop a friendship not without resistance from Matthew.
Matthew’s life had been full of difficult moments and he never let himself be open to anyone.
Trent saw Matthew with different eyes and fought to win him over.
The story behind Matthew’s family and the heart of Trent made it possible for them to achieve what they wanted.
This is a great book!
My rating 4.5
http://bikebookreviews.blogspot.com/2...
December 21, 2015
Matthew has had a hard life with having a father who was homophobic and losing his sister and her husband to a drunk driver. He then becomes guardian to their two young children.
Trent is a doctor who moves back home as soon as he gets the chance to and works in Amity Hospital which is where he meets Matthew and their is a instant attraction. But Matthew is not going to give in that easy...
Well while I really like the authors pretense of this story I have to be honest and say this story really dragged for me and I really had a hard time finishing it. I am not really sure why but these characters and this story did not really grab me at all.
So while I did like the authors pretense of this story sadly this book was just not for me...
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review from Inked Rainbow Reads.
Trent is a doctor who moves back home as soon as he gets the chance to and works in Amity Hospital which is where he meets Matthew and their is a instant attraction. But Matthew is not going to give in that easy...
Well while I really like the authors pretense of this story I have to be honest and say this story really dragged for me and I really had a hard time finishing it. I am not really sure why but these characters and this story did not really grab me at all.
So while I did like the authors pretense of this story sadly this book was just not for me...
I received this book free in exchange for an honest review from Inked Rainbow Reads.
November 12, 2015
Hard to rate
Overall, I'd give this 3.5 stars. I enjoyed it. I liked the story and the premise. I feel for a short book the author did a good job of letting us get to know the characters.
There were just several instances where I wasn't sure who was actually speaking and I had to go back and re-read bits of the conversation to figure it out. Other times I had to keep reading ahead to understand it.
I love stories involving medical personnel. Spoiler alert. There was one instance where they were talking about their relationship in front of a conscious patient. Not cool. Very unprofessional. That kind of thing takes an entire star away.
Overall, I'd give this 3.5 stars. I enjoyed it. I liked the story and the premise. I feel for a short book the author did a good job of letting us get to know the characters.
There were just several instances where I wasn't sure who was actually speaking and I had to go back and re-read bits of the conversation to figure it out. Other times I had to keep reading ahead to understand it.
I love stories involving medical personnel. Spoiler alert. There was one instance where they were talking about their relationship in front of a conscious patient. Not cool. Very unprofessional. That kind of thing takes an entire star away.
January 7, 2016
This was my first book by this author and it was really good. There were twists and turns to the story and to me that makes a really good book. I loved both Matthew and Trent from the beginning and absolutely adore the children. When Matt’s father came into the story (almost from the beginning) I just wanted to jump into the pages of the book and throttle him. It made me extremely happy that Trent and Matt were able to build a relationship despite Matt’s father doing everything he could to take the children away from Matt. Excellent job!!
I received a free copy of this book to read for Inked Rainbow Reads in exchange for an honest review.
I received a free copy of this book to read for Inked Rainbow Reads in exchange for an honest review.
January 4, 2016
~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Inked Rainbow Reads Review Team~
4 stars for this M/M
This was a short sweet love story between two guys who unbeknownst to them liked each other when they were in high school. Trent and Matthew work together, which is a big no-no when dating but the attraction is instant. Matthew has had a rough past and has things in his life that Trent doesn’t know about. I liked how this relationship built up, it wasn’t too fast but it also wasn’t painfully slow. The chemistry was sizzling and the story just worked all around.
4 stars for this M/M
This was a short sweet love story between two guys who unbeknownst to them liked each other when they were in high school. Trent and Matthew work together, which is a big no-no when dating but the attraction is instant. Matthew has had a rough past and has things in his life that Trent doesn’t know about. I liked how this relationship built up, it wasn’t too fast but it also wasn’t painfully slow. The chemistry was sizzling and the story just worked all around.
March 20, 2016
Rubbish.
November 14, 2015
loved this book , great characters , nice pace to the story & the ending had me sobbing
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