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What Works For Us
An elf costume, a pair of lacy knickers, and a Christmas charity auction might make Sam’s Christmas wish come true.When sweet barista, Sam, agrees to be a ‘slave’ in a Christmas charity auction, he’s thrilled to be bought by the man he’s had a crush on for the last three months.Theodore is everything Sam is looking for in a older, authoritative, and caring. Unfortunately, Sam isn’t the most forward person when it comes to telling men he likes them. Wearing a sexy costume allows him to be a much flirtier version of himself, but can a naughty elf tempt Theodore into bed?As their relationship intensifies, Sam finds something in Theodore he didn’t realise he a man he wants to call his Daddy.But Theodore isn’t out of the closet, and whilst Sam is happy existing in a bubble in the run up to Christmas, he knows that can’t last forever.Can Sam risk giving his heart to a Daddy who might not ever be able to hold his hand in public, let alone commit to him?What Works For Us is a Christmas-ish romance with an age-gap relationship, lacy underwear, role-play, Daddy kink, a smidge of hurt/comfort, and a guaranteed happy ending.
253 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 17, 2019
53 people are currently reading
148 people want to read
About the author
Colette Davison
66 books434 followersI'm an indie author from the UK, who writes contemporary and paranormal M/M romance. My books have flawed characters, happy endings, and lots of heart.
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https://www.facebook.com/groups/14499...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
December 30, 2019
*2.5 stars*
I love me a kinky book, but What Works For Us was a bit too all over the place for me.
When I read the description and the content warnings, I was like, MAMA LIKE. I mean...
What Works For Us is a Christmas-ish romance with an age-gap relationship, lacy underwear, role-play, Daddy kink, a smidge of hurt/comfort, and a guaranteed happy ending.
SEE!
But what it ended up being was too little of each thing to get anything fully developed.
The romance and the relationship progressed suuuuuuper quickly, which for some may be okay, but it irked me. I wanted more relationship development, more of a build-up of trust before these kink newbies jumped into about 1,000 different kinds of play.
The book was also very sweet, too sweet for me, as I didn't quite feel like the characters gelled enough. I don't know, the kink elements were there but it wasn't fleshed out enough for me.
A cute holiday story and a menagerie of kinkiness, but I like my kink with more buildup and more substance.
goodreads|instagram|twitter|blog
I love me a kinky book, but What Works For Us was a bit too all over the place for me.
When I read the description and the content warnings, I was like, MAMA LIKE. I mean...
What Works For Us is a Christmas-ish romance with an age-gap relationship, lacy underwear, role-play, Daddy kink, a smidge of hurt/comfort, and a guaranteed happy ending.
SEE!
But what it ended up being was too little of each thing to get anything fully developed.
The romance and the relationship progressed suuuuuuper quickly, which for some may be okay, but it irked me. I wanted more relationship development, more of a build-up of trust before these kink newbies jumped into about 1,000 different kinds of play.
The book was also very sweet, too sweet for me, as I didn't quite feel like the characters gelled enough. I don't know, the kink elements were there but it wasn't fleshed out enough for me.
A cute holiday story and a menagerie of kinkiness, but I like my kink with more buildup and more substance.
goodreads|instagram|twitter|blog
December 23, 2019
4.5 stars rounded up to 5
Sam was just awesome throughout this story... Theodore seriously took some getting used to.. but he grew on me... loved the realism of the 6th month gap till the reunion!
Sam was just awesome throughout this story... Theodore seriously took some getting used to.. but he grew on me... loved the realism of the 6th month gap till the reunion!
December 17, 2020
I’m completely charmed! Sweet, sexy, and delightfully dirty, Colette Davison’s What Works For Us is a marvelous holiday treat.
Each admiring the other from afar, both Sam and Theodore have their reasons for not moving forward in pursuing a relationship. Through alternating points of view, we get their stories... and the way these two men blossom over the course of the novel is beautifully done.
Theodore Farrell is firmly in the closet. Between his severely homophobic upbringing, and fears of ‘what will people think’, sadly he has given up on any dreams for a future with any love and romance in it.
Shy and a little insecure on the outside, the passionate daydreams lurking in Sam’s fantasies will make your toes curl! When he dons a sexy maid uniform and plays the part of the naughty elf, Sam becomes a confident and demanding lover. And role playing with Theodore uncovers needs Sam never knew he had.
The attraction between the men is overwhelming. While assuming the role of the strict and stern Mr. Farrell allows Theodore to indulge in his wildest fantasies. And punishing that naughty elf leads to some seriously smoking hot sex!
Magic happens as Theodore and Sam explore their most hidden desires. Sam’s self-confidence grows, and he begins to take more control over his life. The end result is a successful and driven young man.
Theodore’s journey is much more intense. His homophobic parents ingrained a level of shame that is hard to overcome, and the reprieve Theodore gains through the role play gives him a taste of what could be. Theodore begins the battle of finding his real self, and claiming a life he never dreamed he could have.
What Works For Us is fantastic in audio, and kudos to Dan Calley who delivers an absolutely marvelous performance. This narrator has amazing skill with accents, and gives each character a distinct voice which suits their personality. The romantic exchanges between Sam and Theodore are electric, and Mr. Calley’s smoky, sexy voice unquestionably enhances the erotica. Just hearing him croon “Daddy”, oh hell that’s hot!
The way Colette Davison develops the relationship between Sam and Theodore through their role play is truly lovely. There are some spectacular BDSM scenes in this kinky gem, propelling What Works For Us to the top of my holiday re-listen list.
Each admiring the other from afar, both Sam and Theodore have their reasons for not moving forward in pursuing a relationship. Through alternating points of view, we get their stories... and the way these two men blossom over the course of the novel is beautifully done.
Theodore Farrell is firmly in the closet. Between his severely homophobic upbringing, and fears of ‘what will people think’, sadly he has given up on any dreams for a future with any love and romance in it.
Shy and a little insecure on the outside, the passionate daydreams lurking in Sam’s fantasies will make your toes curl! When he dons a sexy maid uniform and plays the part of the naughty elf, Sam becomes a confident and demanding lover. And role playing with Theodore uncovers needs Sam never knew he had.
The attraction between the men is overwhelming. While assuming the role of the strict and stern Mr. Farrell allows Theodore to indulge in his wildest fantasies. And punishing that naughty elf leads to some seriously smoking hot sex!
Magic happens as Theodore and Sam explore their most hidden desires. Sam’s self-confidence grows, and he begins to take more control over his life. The end result is a successful and driven young man.
Theodore’s journey is much more intense. His homophobic parents ingrained a level of shame that is hard to overcome, and the reprieve Theodore gains through the role play gives him a taste of what could be. Theodore begins the battle of finding his real self, and claiming a life he never dreamed he could have.
What Works For Us is fantastic in audio, and kudos to Dan Calley who delivers an absolutely marvelous performance. This narrator has amazing skill with accents, and gives each character a distinct voice which suits their personality. The romantic exchanges between Sam and Theodore are electric, and Mr. Calley’s smoky, sexy voice unquestionably enhances the erotica. Just hearing him croon “Daddy”, oh hell that’s hot!
The way Colette Davison develops the relationship between Sam and Theodore through their role play is truly lovely. There are some spectacular BDSM scenes in this kinky gem, propelling What Works For Us to the top of my holiday re-listen list.
December 17, 2019
Sam and Theodore
Every morning he serves him a latte macchiato to go and this man is always with his nose on his screen. He is much older than Sam, who has a crush like forever.
After the opportunity to meet with Theodore, they developed some kind of relationship.
Searching for the right dynamic it seems Daddy and boy is what they are looking for.
Only, Theodore isn’t out and it seems he will never.
Theodore is insecure, that’s kind of endearing to watch. Together they were lovely.
The whole story was kind of sweet and certainly entertaining.
Sorry to say the terminology Daddy Dom didn’t do it for me. That’s not how it works for me.
I think this story could do without the whole Daddy boy part, it wasn’t convincing.
When I look behind that, there is still a sweet story to tell, with hurt/comfort, age-gap, role-play and some nice lace, and a hea!
Overall a nicely written, slightly developed, entertaining story.
Every morning he serves him a latte macchiato to go and this man is always with his nose on his screen. He is much older than Sam, who has a crush like forever.
After the opportunity to meet with Theodore, they developed some kind of relationship.
Searching for the right dynamic it seems Daddy and boy is what they are looking for.
Only, Theodore isn’t out and it seems he will never.
Theodore is insecure, that’s kind of endearing to watch. Together they were lovely.
The whole story was kind of sweet and certainly entertaining.
Sorry to say the terminology Daddy Dom didn’t do it for me. That’s not how it works for me.
I think this story could do without the whole Daddy boy part, it wasn’t convincing.
When I look behind that, there is still a sweet story to tell, with hurt/comfort, age-gap, role-play and some nice lace, and a hea!
Overall a nicely written, slightly developed, entertaining story.
December 17, 2019
Sam, agrees to be a ‘slave’ in a Christmas charity auction and he’s is bought by Theodore, the man he’s had a crush on for months. The two of them have amazing chemistry and seem to be perfect for each other. But Theodore isn’t out of the closet and Sam doesn’t know for how long he can be his secret.
This was one of the sweetest Christmas love stories! Sam and Theodore were really well written and realistic. They had to fight for their happily ever after. Theodore especially evolved so much as a person and I loved how the author handled his character. I enjoyed this story so very much! It was fun and steamy and so heartwarming!
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review.
This was one of the sweetest Christmas love stories! Sam and Theodore were really well written and realistic. They had to fight for their happily ever after. Theodore especially evolved so much as a person and I loved how the author handled his character. I enjoyed this story so very much! It was fun and steamy and so heartwarming!
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review.
October 13, 2021
so sweet and surprisingly emotional
I feel like the cover of this book doesn’t do it justice. This book was a little sad, super kinky, super sweet… a little heartbreaking. I adore Colette’s writing and this will definitely go on my favorites list. My only niggle and why I didn’t give it 5 stars was how the last 15% was rushed. There was a lot of emotional/relationship work through that needed to happen and I felt like it was rushed in order to finish the book. But still, the HEA was well worth it. What a fun little sweet kinky story. 💜
I feel like the cover of this book doesn’t do it justice. This book was a little sad, super kinky, super sweet… a little heartbreaking. I adore Colette’s writing and this will definitely go on my favorites list. My only niggle and why I didn’t give it 5 stars was how the last 15% was rushed. There was a lot of emotional/relationship work through that needed to happen and I felt like it was rushed in order to finish the book. But still, the HEA was well worth it. What a fun little sweet kinky story. 💜
December 19, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.75 stars
I was drawn to this story by both the age gap theme, as well as the cross dressing element, and this story didn’t disappoint with its kinky fun. Sam and Theodore are both eager to explore role playing and all kinds of different ways they can enjoy being together, and this part of the story is light and fun and sexy. The men explore spanking, cross dressing, kitten play, and other role playing, as well as moving toward a Daddy/boy dynamic. I enjoyed both the fun and sexy scenes, as well as the way the men shared their desires and grew in their experiences together. While Sam is more open and more experienced, he hasn’t always been good at reaching out for what he wants with men, so both of these guys get a chance to explore their interests and are very compatible in bed.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
3.75 stars
I was drawn to this story by both the age gap theme, as well as the cross dressing element, and this story didn’t disappoint with its kinky fun. Sam and Theodore are both eager to explore role playing and all kinds of different ways they can enjoy being together, and this part of the story is light and fun and sexy. The men explore spanking, cross dressing, kitten play, and other role playing, as well as moving toward a Daddy/boy dynamic. I enjoyed both the fun and sexy scenes, as well as the way the men shared their desires and grew in their experiences together. While Sam is more open and more experienced, he hasn’t always been good at reaching out for what he wants with men, so both of these guys get a chance to explore their interests and are very compatible in bed.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
December 29, 2019
I absolutely loved this book! It was exactly what I needed to read. Sweet, very sexy and a bit kinky and fun, some angst, and then a great and well believable HEA.
I adored Sam. I loved how sweet he was, how great he was with Theodore. And Theodore I just felt bad for his upbringing and his family, but I did worry how things would go down with Sam.
Luckily I love that Theodore wanted to better himself FOR himself and hoped that he could still have Sam too. I love the little jump in time before the ending and loved how he overcame his inner demons.
A bit christmassy, a bit kinky, very sexy, and a love story of a beautiful couple. Loved it! Definitely gotta get caught up on what else this author has written.
I adored Sam. I loved how sweet he was, how great he was with Theodore. And Theodore I just felt bad for his upbringing and his family, but I did worry how things would go down with Sam.
Luckily I love that Theodore wanted to better himself FOR himself and hoped that he could still have Sam too. I love the little jump in time before the ending and loved how he overcame his inner demons.
A bit christmassy, a bit kinky, very sexy, and a love story of a beautiful couple. Loved it! Definitely gotta get caught up on what else this author has written.
December 19, 2019
Sam has had a crush on the older man that he serves coffee to every morning but he doesn’t think he has any chances with the seemingly uninterested man. That is until a favor for a friend lands and a sexy little elf costume right into the mans lap.
Theodore can’t help noticing Sam but he’s in the closet and is used to nameless and emotionless hookups in hotel rooms. A chance at an auction is about to change that for him.
Sam and Theodore were smoking hot together. The chemistry between them was explosive and that very much so carried over into the bedroom. But, between all that sexy times and feelings there is angst. Theodore has problems he needs to work with accepting himself — but will he be able to so Sam and him can get their HEA?
I LOVED this book. Age-gap, pining, kinky sex for days, angst, pining and that sweetness that just ties it all together. This was definitely a win for me.
4 kinky stars!
Theodore can’t help noticing Sam but he’s in the closet and is used to nameless and emotionless hookups in hotel rooms. A chance at an auction is about to change that for him.
Sam and Theodore were smoking hot together. The chemistry between them was explosive and that very much so carried over into the bedroom. But, between all that sexy times and feelings there is angst. Theodore has problems he needs to work with accepting himself — but will he be able to so Sam and him can get their HEA?
I LOVED this book. Age-gap, pining, kinky sex for days, angst, pining and that sweetness that just ties it all together. This was definitely a win for me.
4 kinky stars!
December 17, 2019
Wow, I was not expecting this story…
We first meet Sam, who works at a barista at a café, who has a crush on one of his morning patrons. For the last several months, he’s noticed the older gentleman and admired him in his fancy suits, expensive watch and lovely eyes…even if they don’t connect with him very often because the guy is always looking at his phone… still, he’s exactly Sam’s type, even though there’s no way possible that the man could return the attraction, because let’s be real… Sam’s much too young, works at a café serving coffee and still a full-time student. So, he admires from afar each morning and that’s all he gets…
Until Abigal, Sam’s co-worker hatches a plan for Sam to put himself out there…and maybe a little more. She surprised me with the depth of her scheming, but it came from a good place, I loved her personality and her friendship with Sam…. And because of that friendship, when Abigal’s sister is putting on a charity auction for “slaves for a day”, although inappropriate sounding, it was all in good fun and went to a good cause, Sam never dreamed that the handsome latte guy would not only bid on him, but actually outbid everyone else and win him for the day!
Theodore gutted me from beginning to end.
At forty-three, he was firmly in the closet and had no plans to come out, ever. The way he was raised by the worst kind of extremist parents, he was not only taught that being gay was wrong and sinful, he actually believed it. He felt guilty for being attracted to Sam not only because he’s also a man but because he’s so much younger than himself. He felt shame for being who he is, can you even imagine that? For forty-three years, living that way? My heart broke for him so much seeing him struggle.
Then, a scheme from a co-worker has him bidding on a naughty elf at a charity auction his company was at and he gets the shy little barista he’s been mooning over, but trying not to be noticeable with, and Sam comes to collect.
It’s awkward at first, but the two use role-playing, both of them shedding the things/reasons that hold them back from going for what they want and lemme tell ya… it’s steamy. Its light, as far as a lot of roll play goes and I’ll admit I had a tiny problem with them jumping into something so quickly and being like, yes, this is what we’re doing, this is our lable… but, I mean, they had open communication and they both liked the different “kinks”, so why not? It worked for them and even though it was new and fun and they were with each other so much, I had to remind myself that they’d only known each other for such a short time. So, when Sam went home for Christmas, I could understand his family’s reluctance to see Theodore as Sam did. They didn’t know him, they didn’t know their relationship, so I thought it was a little unfair, though, as a parent…. I would’ve had the same reservations.
Now, in saying that…. I do think that with as much communication the two had, Sam and Theodore, I wish they would’ve talked a bit about this before they did because though I saw where Sam was coming from, I thought he pulled the rug out from under Theodore and he kept saying that he wasn’t pushing, but he kind of was. He wanted promises, he wanted assurances and dude, you’ve been together five minutes. He was so reassuring and supportive in the beginning and was everything Theodore needed because let’s be real… after forty-three years of being ashamed of who you are, even accepting that you’re gay and being willing to be in a relationship would be insane…. And he just expected him to be okay with it and be willing to promise to come out someday? I just didn’t think it was fair. Theodore needed to work on himself, to accept himself and be okay with who he is and though he get there, I just didn’t think it was fair of Sam to put that on him just then….
It wasn’t fair to either of them, honestly, but Sam knew that going in. So, that was my only problem. I adored the rest of it. I loved how fast and intense their relationship was and they had some very serious steamy time that was also fun to read. And, I would’ve liked to have seen how Sam’s family treated Theodore by the end, but maybe there’ll be another book? Fingers crossed, I’d love to read more about these two! And Iain as well, I bet he’d be a fun one 😊
4 stars from me!
We first meet Sam, who works at a barista at a café, who has a crush on one of his morning patrons. For the last several months, he’s noticed the older gentleman and admired him in his fancy suits, expensive watch and lovely eyes…even if they don’t connect with him very often because the guy is always looking at his phone… still, he’s exactly Sam’s type, even though there’s no way possible that the man could return the attraction, because let’s be real… Sam’s much too young, works at a café serving coffee and still a full-time student. So, he admires from afar each morning and that’s all he gets…
Until Abigal, Sam’s co-worker hatches a plan for Sam to put himself out there…and maybe a little more. She surprised me with the depth of her scheming, but it came from a good place, I loved her personality and her friendship with Sam…. And because of that friendship, when Abigal’s sister is putting on a charity auction for “slaves for a day”, although inappropriate sounding, it was all in good fun and went to a good cause, Sam never dreamed that the handsome latte guy would not only bid on him, but actually outbid everyone else and win him for the day!
Theodore gutted me from beginning to end.
At forty-three, he was firmly in the closet and had no plans to come out, ever. The way he was raised by the worst kind of extremist parents, he was not only taught that being gay was wrong and sinful, he actually believed it. He felt guilty for being attracted to Sam not only because he’s also a man but because he’s so much younger than himself. He felt shame for being who he is, can you even imagine that? For forty-three years, living that way? My heart broke for him so much seeing him struggle.
Then, a scheme from a co-worker has him bidding on a naughty elf at a charity auction his company was at and he gets the shy little barista he’s been mooning over, but trying not to be noticeable with, and Sam comes to collect.
It’s awkward at first, but the two use role-playing, both of them shedding the things/reasons that hold them back from going for what they want and lemme tell ya… it’s steamy. Its light, as far as a lot of roll play goes and I’ll admit I had a tiny problem with them jumping into something so quickly and being like, yes, this is what we’re doing, this is our lable… but, I mean, they had open communication and they both liked the different “kinks”, so why not? It worked for them and even though it was new and fun and they were with each other so much, I had to remind myself that they’d only known each other for such a short time. So, when Sam went home for Christmas, I could understand his family’s reluctance to see Theodore as Sam did. They didn’t know him, they didn’t know their relationship, so I thought it was a little unfair, though, as a parent…. I would’ve had the same reservations.
Now, in saying that…. I do think that with as much communication the two had, Sam and Theodore, I wish they would’ve talked a bit about this before they did because though I saw where Sam was coming from, I thought he pulled the rug out from under Theodore and he kept saying that he wasn’t pushing, but he kind of was. He wanted promises, he wanted assurances and dude, you’ve been together five minutes. He was so reassuring and supportive in the beginning and was everything Theodore needed because let’s be real… after forty-three years of being ashamed of who you are, even accepting that you’re gay and being willing to be in a relationship would be insane…. And he just expected him to be okay with it and be willing to promise to come out someday? I just didn’t think it was fair. Theodore needed to work on himself, to accept himself and be okay with who he is and though he get there, I just didn’t think it was fair of Sam to put that on him just then….
It wasn’t fair to either of them, honestly, but Sam knew that going in. So, that was my only problem. I adored the rest of it. I loved how fast and intense their relationship was and they had some very serious steamy time that was also fun to read. And, I would’ve liked to have seen how Sam’s family treated Theodore by the end, but maybe there’ll be another book? Fingers crossed, I’d love to read more about these two! And Iain as well, I bet he’d be a fun one 😊
4 stars from me!
December 16, 2019
I was thrilled and how much I enjoyed this book. As soon as I finished it, I wanted to pick it up again!
Sam is a college student, away from home, working at a coffee shop during the Christmas holiday. The same man has been in, ordering the same drink, everyday, since October. Sam's got a crush and maybe the other guy, Theodore does too?
What I loved so much about this story is that it was everything real life is. Theodore had an upbringing that made him scared to death to be gay, let alone out and proud. Sam was true to himself, no matter the cost. There were obvious issues, including a 23 year age gap, but that didn't stop them from finding their footing and discovering their shared kinks.
Definitely recommended. Highly entertaining. Fun, fresh and very sexy.
Sam is a college student, away from home, working at a coffee shop during the Christmas holiday. The same man has been in, ordering the same drink, everyday, since October. Sam's got a crush and maybe the other guy, Theodore does too?
What I loved so much about this story is that it was everything real life is. Theodore had an upbringing that made him scared to death to be gay, let alone out and proud. Sam was true to himself, no matter the cost. There were obvious issues, including a 23 year age gap, but that didn't stop them from finding their footing and discovering their shared kinks.
Definitely recommended. Highly entertaining. Fun, fresh and very sexy.
December 30, 2019
This cute Christmas story was just right for the season. I especially liked the author's note at the end that mentioned characters having a life of their own. I totally could see how the characters evolved and seemed very real. I loved the kink, the daddy play, and was intrigued by kitty play as I have only previously read about puppy play. I liked that they played with Sam wearing women's clothing to look sexy, but he wasn't wanting to be a drag queen or cross dress all the time, it was just something between them. The insta-love was admittedly pretty strong in this one, but it was adorable, so as usual, I will forgive that. ;)
February 20, 2021
Sexy and fun with a whole bunch of chemistry.
April 20, 2021
2.5? What's works for us sure as hell didn't work for me.
December 20, 2019
I have tried 2 other times to read Colette Davison's work but could not get into one and disliked the other, but What Works For Us, I enjoyed so much more than I anticipated.
The characters were great, the writing was smooth, and I think this was the first time I read a book with this much role-play (and enjoyed it).
I think Sam was was my favorite character; he was sweet with how quiet and shy he was when we first met him. I wasn't really as impressed with Theodore as I was with Sam. He was a good character, but there were a few moments toward the end of the book that started to make me feel mad at him but that didn't last long.
I am glad I didn't give up on trying Colette's work and gave this one a go.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement***
The characters were great, the writing was smooth, and I think this was the first time I read a book with this much role-play (and enjoyed it).
I think Sam was was my favorite character; he was sweet with how quiet and shy he was when we first met him. I wasn't really as impressed with Theodore as I was with Sam. He was a good character, but there were a few moments toward the end of the book that started to make me feel mad at him but that didn't last long.
I am glad I didn't give up on trying Colette's work and gave this one a go.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement***
December 12, 2019
I loved this book, just loved it! I saw him for the first time at the coffee shop and now I go everyday just to see him again but...there is this thing for work a charity auction and my coworker wants my boy, he's mine but...he comes to clean my house as a sexy elf and I want him so but...we start an affair hiding in the shadows...but can how we build a lasting relationship this way. This beautiful Christmas story reminds us that the struggle to be your authentic self is real, no matter what your age how you are influnced by your family, your job and your life can make it difficult get to where you need to be mentally so you can have all the things you deserve in your life including someone to love.
December 26, 2019
I have read a book from this author before, and even though I didn't hate it, it wasn't really for me so I haven't been too eager to read other one of her books. But this sounded right up my alley, so I had to give it a chance. I'm glad I did, because I enjoyed this a lot. Sam and Theodore were very sweet together, and I loved the sexy scenes. My only complain is that we didn't get to read more role plays ;)
December 20, 2019
this was adorable and cute... it is a well written and sweet story.. barista's are adorable.. and crushing on patron is just adorable.. i enjoyed the writing and the characters are sweet and fun. plus abigail was sooo much fun. i didnt see her and her shaningans coming lol .. theodore captured my heart and made me super sad... and then he got better.. i loved this story!
December 6, 2019
Great cute sexy elfish fun
December 23, 2019
Age gap, role play, kink, bdsm, closeted. This story has so much going on but all of it works so well together that it keeps you from getting lost in the chaos. Well written and well done.
December 27, 2019
My kind of holiday book
Oh how I love this. Sam was adorable (if not patient and understanding beyond belief) and Theodore...*sigh* my heart went out to him. He also made a hot daddy but that's neither here nor there. This book was a delight. I especially appreciate how Christmas just happened to be the time period, it wasn't the focus or theme of the book. I'm a bit of a scrooge in that regard. I will also quickly say that if you were expecting a quick, cute, holiday romp you're not going to get that here. I'm not going to say don't read it, because you definitely should, the book is great, but I do want to give people the heads up.
Now, I am not one to shy away from smut. I love it. I praise it. And I have read some of the raunchiest things and it didn't even bat an eye. And yet, something about this book, I truly don't know what it was (maybe it was the Christmasy backdrop or whatever) but God was it dirty. I mean it's not the dirtiest thing ever that's for sure. But it's dirty. And I mean that in the best way possible. Something about the dynamic between Theodore and Sam just did it for me. It was great.
Then there's the angst, which I'm also no stranger to. But again there was something about this book, like when Sam finally, for lack of a better word, confronts Theodore about their arrangement had me holding my chest in pain. What is wrong with me!? That's how you know it's some good a** angst though, just saying.
All of this is to say, this book affected me. Not like in some life altering, my life is forever changed kind of way but I definitely wasn't expecting to get what I got out of it. And what I got was a full-fledged story with completely three-dimensional characters. These characters had friends, they had family, the side characters even had agency and played an important role! Can I get a thank you for Ian and Abigail! I even like Logan for being a good big brother. And I absolutely loved how neither Sam nor Theodore changed who they were for each other. Sam realize love isn't enough sometimes. You can't be someones secret forever. Theodore finally acknowledged he needs to want to change for himself before he can be with some else. And that's not a spoiler. It's a romance with an HEA. Y'all knew they were going to get together.
Anyways go read it. It's great. There's even therapy guys, therapy! But if you need more of an excuse to pick it up, they're British. That's the thing for people right? 7 solid stars.
Oh how I love this. Sam was adorable (if not patient and understanding beyond belief) and Theodore...*sigh* my heart went out to him. He also made a hot daddy but that's neither here nor there. This book was a delight. I especially appreciate how Christmas just happened to be the time period, it wasn't the focus or theme of the book. I'm a bit of a scrooge in that regard. I will also quickly say that if you were expecting a quick, cute, holiday romp you're not going to get that here. I'm not going to say don't read it, because you definitely should, the book is great, but I do want to give people the heads up.
Now, I am not one to shy away from smut. I love it. I praise it. And I have read some of the raunchiest things and it didn't even bat an eye. And yet, something about this book, I truly don't know what it was (maybe it was the Christmasy backdrop or whatever) but God was it dirty. I mean it's not the dirtiest thing ever that's for sure. But it's dirty. And I mean that in the best way possible. Something about the dynamic between Theodore and Sam just did it for me. It was great.
Then there's the angst, which I'm also no stranger to. But again there was something about this book, like when Sam finally, for lack of a better word, confronts Theodore about their arrangement had me holding my chest in pain. What is wrong with me!? That's how you know it's some good a** angst though, just saying.
All of this is to say, this book affected me. Not like in some life altering, my life is forever changed kind of way but I definitely wasn't expecting to get what I got out of it. And what I got was a full-fledged story with completely three-dimensional characters. These characters had friends, they had family, the side characters even had agency and played an important role! Can I get a thank you for Ian and Abigail! I even like Logan for being a good big brother. And I absolutely loved how neither Sam nor Theodore changed who they were for each other. Sam realize love isn't enough sometimes. You can't be someones secret forever. Theodore finally acknowledged he needs to want to change for himself before he can be with some else. And that's not a spoiler. It's a romance with an HEA. Y'all knew they were going to get together.
Anyways go read it. It's great. There's even therapy guys, therapy! But if you need more of an excuse to pick it up, they're British. That's the thing for people right? 7 solid stars.
December 29, 2019
WOW!! WHAT A GREAT CHRISTMAS STORY
This is a wonderful Christmas story. Theodore is a serious, handsome older man. He gets his coffee every morning and tries to ignore the cute, sweet barista. Sam works the morning shift and gets giddy every time he sees the sexy older man come in the door. They are both trying to keep their excitement to themselves. Theodore is still firmly in the closet. Sam is a young man looking for a stable relationship. Both their lives begin to change when Sam becomes a naughty elf. I loved this book. This relationship is sweet, funny and not meant to last. But it becomes more than either one could've imagined. I HIGHLY, HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK!!!!!
This is a wonderful Christmas story. Theodore is a serious, handsome older man. He gets his coffee every morning and tries to ignore the cute, sweet barista. Sam works the morning shift and gets giddy every time he sees the sexy older man come in the door. They are both trying to keep their excitement to themselves. Theodore is still firmly in the closet. Sam is a young man looking for a stable relationship. Both their lives begin to change when Sam becomes a naughty elf. I loved this book. This relationship is sweet, funny and not meant to last. But it becomes more than either one could've imagined. I HIGHLY, HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK!!!!!
December 17, 2020
4 Stars!
Sam has been crushing on the older man that visits the coffee store he works at for a long time. When he finally has the chance to start exploring their mutual attraction, Sam jumps in with both feet. Theodore is in the closet, though, and while Sam understands his reasons for not coming out, Sam also realizes that whatever there is between them can't really grow if Theodore isn't willing to be out and proud with him.
I really liked Sam, he was sweet and earnest and naughty. I liked Theodore, most of the time, but he really got on my nerves sometimes and I wanted to shake some sense into him. I liked Sam and Theodore together they had chemistry and fit well together despite their age difference.
Dan Calley is an amazing narrator and I love his rumbly voice, perhaps it was a tad too gruff for Sam, but he definitely nailed Theodore for me.
If you like sweet books with some kink exploration and light angst, and a fantastic performance, this audiobook fits the bill perfectly.
Sam has been crushing on the older man that visits the coffee store he works at for a long time. When he finally has the chance to start exploring their mutual attraction, Sam jumps in with both feet. Theodore is in the closet, though, and while Sam understands his reasons for not coming out, Sam also realizes that whatever there is between them can't really grow if Theodore isn't willing to be out and proud with him.
I really liked Sam, he was sweet and earnest and naughty. I liked Theodore, most of the time, but he really got on my nerves sometimes and I wanted to shake some sense into him. I liked Sam and Theodore together they had chemistry and fit well together despite their age difference.
Dan Calley is an amazing narrator and I love his rumbly voice, perhaps it was a tad too gruff for Sam, but he definitely nailed Theodore for me.
If you like sweet books with some kink exploration and light angst, and a fantastic performance, this audiobook fits the bill perfectly.
December 19, 2019
I absolutely loved this book, read on KU and then immediately purchased it. I actually found it to be a really sweet and emotional read. Theodore is totally closeted and very repressed due to his toxic family and Sam is absolutely adorable and responds so maturely to Theodore's issues. Together they begin to explore roleplay and grow very close, very quickly. All is not smooth sailing though. A really beautiful book which I know that I will reread frequently.
December 31, 2019
Unexpected
For some reason I was expecting a light hearted, silly romp and this was anything but that. Instead it was sweet, heart wrenching, and a thought provoking read. Theodore is such a complex character with many demons to overcome, and yet he’s everything Sam needs. I enjoyed this book even more than I expected to and suspect it will stay with me for a while.
For some reason I was expecting a light hearted, silly romp and this was anything but that. Instead it was sweet, heart wrenching, and a thought provoking read. Theodore is such a complex character with many demons to overcome, and yet he’s everything Sam needs. I enjoyed this book even more than I expected to and suspect it will stay with me for a while.
December 28, 2019
Merry Christmas naughty elf
Such a delightful story. Role playing, age gap, and mild discipline make for Christmas fun and emotional awakening. This story really works for me.
Such a delightful story. Role playing, age gap, and mild discipline make for Christmas fun and emotional awakening. This story really works for me.
March 15, 2020
For some time, Sam has been attracted to a handsome, much older man who comes to the cafe he works in every day. Unfortunately, Sam is afraid that he hasn't got even the slightest chance to attract his sweetheart's attention. However, it turns out that the charity auction of "slaves" changes his situation significantly, because the person who wins Sam is none other than the busy man from the cafe. As Sam has nothing to lose, he decides to listen to his friend and tries to make Theodore his. That's why he puts on a naughty elf costume. Their sexual relationship quickly turns into friendship, and then changes into even deeper feelings. The problem is that Sam is the only person who knows about Theodore's interest in men, as until now the older man hasn't been ready to come out of the closet.
"What Works For Us" is a standalone Christmas novel written by the truly talented Colette Davison, whose works are always worth recommending. No wonder that the case of this story is similar, as with a clear conscience I can say that "What Works For Us" is a books that is really worth reading. Let's start with the fact that as always in Colette Davison's books the novel raises some serious problems that the characters have to deal with. In this case, it is a topic of homophobic family, which not only affects the possible coming out of a non-heterosexual person, but also poisons human life for many years. In this case, I really liked the fact that the author showed this problem in relation to a person in the prime of life, thanks to which she clearly emphasized the fact that our upbringing, the conditions in which we grow up often reflect in our later life, in our adulthood.
In "What Works For Us", the undoubted advantage is also the way Sam approaches his growing and slowly changing relationship with Theodore. To be honest, in literature we much more often see young protagonists who, being attracted to another person, immediately want more, which means that friends with benefits relationship doesn't satisfy them at all. Sam's approach to this problem is not only surprising, but also very mature. What's more, in the case of this character, his sexual relations with Theodore go hand in hand with true friendship, which really surprised and at the same time delighted me, because it distinguishes Sam from many other literary characters.
Another plus of this novel are the kinks that match the characters perfectly. Let's start with the fact that the kinks are extremely interesting and hot, which undoubtedly make us even more interested in this book. However, it is worth noting that, just like I've already mentioned, the author matched the kinks perfectly with her two characters, as she not only made their age difference very attractive to the reader, but also in some way helped Sam and Theodore explore and discover part of themselves, while emphasizing the fact that our personality doesn't always go hand in hand with our needs, hidden desires, our "other face". This is really noteworthy because it makes the main characters of "What Works For Us" more complex and therefore real.
In this Colette Davison's book I also like the fact that to some extent, even more than on the topic of getting to know each other, the author focused on the problem of getting to know oneself. The relationship of our two characters is based on the discoveries of new sexual kinks that they can explore together and which give them pleasure. Sam and Theodore don't even realize their weaknesses, so together they discover the secrets of themselves, realize their needs, fantasies, and at the same time find out something about each other. What can I say, this novel is really fantastic, and what's more, it was perfectly presented.
To sum up, "What Works For Us" is a perfect Christmas novel because it combines sweet, exciting, hot, kinky and romantic elements with serious and thought-provoking topics. In this story we can find everything we could ever want, so if you're wondering which book is best to read during Christmas, you've just found the perfect one. You certainly won't regret reading it.
"What Works For Us" is a standalone Christmas novel written by the truly talented Colette Davison, whose works are always worth recommending. No wonder that the case of this story is similar, as with a clear conscience I can say that "What Works For Us" is a books that is really worth reading. Let's start with the fact that as always in Colette Davison's books the novel raises some serious problems that the characters have to deal with. In this case, it is a topic of homophobic family, which not only affects the possible coming out of a non-heterosexual person, but also poisons human life for many years. In this case, I really liked the fact that the author showed this problem in relation to a person in the prime of life, thanks to which she clearly emphasized the fact that our upbringing, the conditions in which we grow up often reflect in our later life, in our adulthood.
In "What Works For Us", the undoubted advantage is also the way Sam approaches his growing and slowly changing relationship with Theodore. To be honest, in literature we much more often see young protagonists who, being attracted to another person, immediately want more, which means that friends with benefits relationship doesn't satisfy them at all. Sam's approach to this problem is not only surprising, but also very mature. What's more, in the case of this character, his sexual relations with Theodore go hand in hand with true friendship, which really surprised and at the same time delighted me, because it distinguishes Sam from many other literary characters.
Another plus of this novel are the kinks that match the characters perfectly. Let's start with the fact that the kinks are extremely interesting and hot, which undoubtedly make us even more interested in this book. However, it is worth noting that, just like I've already mentioned, the author matched the kinks perfectly with her two characters, as she not only made their age difference very attractive to the reader, but also in some way helped Sam and Theodore explore and discover part of themselves, while emphasizing the fact that our personality doesn't always go hand in hand with our needs, hidden desires, our "other face". This is really noteworthy because it makes the main characters of "What Works For Us" more complex and therefore real.
In this Colette Davison's book I also like the fact that to some extent, even more than on the topic of getting to know each other, the author focused on the problem of getting to know oneself. The relationship of our two characters is based on the discoveries of new sexual kinks that they can explore together and which give them pleasure. Sam and Theodore don't even realize their weaknesses, so together they discover the secrets of themselves, realize their needs, fantasies, and at the same time find out something about each other. What can I say, this novel is really fantastic, and what's more, it was perfectly presented.
To sum up, "What Works For Us" is a perfect Christmas novel because it combines sweet, exciting, hot, kinky and romantic elements with serious and thought-provoking topics. In this story we can find everything we could ever want, so if you're wondering which book is best to read during Christmas, you've just found the perfect one. You certainly won't regret reading it.
December 22, 2019
What I Think: I loved this tale! Having some of my favorite things like age gap, size gap, and sweet kink with characters that are just so sweet and lovable made the tale irresistible. I especially love these tales in which one partner is trying to resist or put up a fight because it’s so much sweeter when they fall (also because I have absolutely no chill and go for what I want like a cavewoman).
I laughed as Theodore tried to control himself, bandying words like being responsible, adult, honorable, etc about while Sam just reels him in without even meaning to just by being his adorably daring self. Their coming together is made even more erotic as they discover new things for the first time, making the difference in age almost forgettable.
Sam is the sweetest baby boy ever yet with so much strength and maturity for someone so young. Theodore is so tender and loving which is quite a contrast as his history has been anything but filled with tenderness.
It also shows a different type of subspace, the type of subspace that a Mummy or Daddy, Lady or Gentleman type of Domme can give to the right kind of sub, opening up even more possibilities in my mind (the last bits of my innocence are fluttering in the wind of knowledge).
The tenderness in the erotica left me breathless so many times and it was further intensified by the times when the Authoress would lay one or the other character bare and vulnerable, inviting affection and tenderness that made me protective over them both. As Sam pours healing into Theodore, he in turn pours care and tenderness into Sam, filling him up heart, body and soul, tightening the bonds between them regardless of the length of time they spend together.
I scolded myself for never reading this Authoress before as her use of kink as both tether and escape is simply too sweet. I guess I should have known that Theodore’s view of himself would make me want to burn something. It’s one thing being raised in a world that hates every and anything that dares to be different. It’s another thing when you’re being fed all that hate in the safety of your home. And just when they find their perfect frequency, reality comes crashing down.
By the last few chapters, I couldn’t say which of them is braver because they both showed such courage in taking the steps that could help them build a life together. I was so gutted on love and comfort that a hangover was inevitable.
Verdict? An erotic, comfort tale keeper that proves it’s never too late to learn, to change and to love.
I laughed as Theodore tried to control himself, bandying words like being responsible, adult, honorable, etc about while Sam just reels him in without even meaning to just by being his adorably daring self. Their coming together is made even more erotic as they discover new things for the first time, making the difference in age almost forgettable.
Sam is the sweetest baby boy ever yet with so much strength and maturity for someone so young. Theodore is so tender and loving which is quite a contrast as his history has been anything but filled with tenderness.
It also shows a different type of subspace, the type of subspace that a Mummy or Daddy, Lady or Gentleman type of Domme can give to the right kind of sub, opening up even more possibilities in my mind (the last bits of my innocence are fluttering in the wind of knowledge).
The tenderness in the erotica left me breathless so many times and it was further intensified by the times when the Authoress would lay one or the other character bare and vulnerable, inviting affection and tenderness that made me protective over them both. As Sam pours healing into Theodore, he in turn pours care and tenderness into Sam, filling him up heart, body and soul, tightening the bonds between them regardless of the length of time they spend together.
I scolded myself for never reading this Authoress before as her use of kink as both tether and escape is simply too sweet. I guess I should have known that Theodore’s view of himself would make me want to burn something. It’s one thing being raised in a world that hates every and anything that dares to be different. It’s another thing when you’re being fed all that hate in the safety of your home. And just when they find their perfect frequency, reality comes crashing down.
By the last few chapters, I couldn’t say which of them is braver because they both showed such courage in taking the steps that could help them build a life together. I was so gutted on love and comfort that a hangover was inevitable.
Verdict? An erotic, comfort tale keeper that proves it’s never too late to learn, to change and to love.
December 19, 2019
Ohhhh...Colette Davison's What Works for Us is a delicious BDSM romance.
Theodore's a closeted businessman who just so happens to wins Sam in an auction. Theo's a relatable character, one who's always been closeted, finding it shameful to admit his truth. But with Sam, who's dressed like a girl, he is tempted more than ever before. What follows is a delightful age gap romance.
Theodore and Sam develop a deep connection before they even know one another's names. Oh course it isn't all an easy ride, as not only does Theodore struggle with the age difference, but also with the thought of actually being in a relationship with a man. I appreciate this part of Theodore's personality, as it's all written in a great manner. And kudos to the author that I could feel every ounce of his pain in my own heart. Well done.
This one has lace and dresses, oh dear god, age play! Did I mention the lace?!?!?! Theodore explores not only some of his desires, but also some of Sam's desires, including kitty play and daddy play. Oh yes, the kink is fantastic, as well as hot and spicy! What develops is a fun story of Theodore discovering his Dom side and I love it all!
One of my favorite quotes is "If someone tells you something enough, it becomes truth." Isn't that the truth? In this case, it applies to Theodore and his lack of self worth, as he was forced to hide his truth. But I am sure we can all appreciate this quote.
What Works for Us is a sweet and tender story of finding out it's okay to be yourself. The author does an excellent job exploring a variety of kinks and roleplay. And holy crap, I love the ending; absolutely love it!
Theodore's a closeted businessman who just so happens to wins Sam in an auction. Theo's a relatable character, one who's always been closeted, finding it shameful to admit his truth. But with Sam, who's dressed like a girl, he is tempted more than ever before. What follows is a delightful age gap romance.
Theodore and Sam develop a deep connection before they even know one another's names. Oh course it isn't all an easy ride, as not only does Theodore struggle with the age difference, but also with the thought of actually being in a relationship with a man. I appreciate this part of Theodore's personality, as it's all written in a great manner. And kudos to the author that I could feel every ounce of his pain in my own heart. Well done.
This one has lace and dresses, oh dear god, age play! Did I mention the lace?!?!?! Theodore explores not only some of his desires, but also some of Sam's desires, including kitty play and daddy play. Oh yes, the kink is fantastic, as well as hot and spicy! What develops is a fun story of Theodore discovering his Dom side and I love it all!
One of my favorite quotes is "If someone tells you something enough, it becomes truth." Isn't that the truth? In this case, it applies to Theodore and his lack of self worth, as he was forced to hide his truth. But I am sure we can all appreciate this quote.
What Works for Us is a sweet and tender story of finding out it's okay to be yourself. The author does an excellent job exploring a variety of kinks and roleplay. And holy crap, I love the ending; absolutely love it!
December 17, 2019
Hot and slightly kinky!
What Works for Us is a really hot, slightly kinky story and I really enjoyed reading it. Theodore is a deeply closeted older man. Due to his strict upbringing, he has intense feelings of shame about being gay and has no desire to come out.
Sam is a college student working as a barista in a coffee shop that Theodore visits every morning. Sam likes older men and longs for "Latte Macchiato" (aka Theodore) to notice him. He is thrilled when Theodore wins him as a slave for a day in a charity auction.
This story has a lot of great tropes going on: age-gap, role playing, Daddy/Boy kink and lacy underwear and boy did things heat up when Sam and Mr. Farrell (aka Theodore/Latte Macchiato) get together. They find out how much they both like role playing which eventually evolves into a Daddy/Boy relationship.
Sam is such a sweet character and he really loves being Mr. Farrell's boy. He's not thrilled that they have to keep their relationship a secret but figures he can live with it for a while. His family has always been accepting of his orientation but he's not sure how they'll react to him dating a much older man.
The story had a twist that I didn't see coming but really enjoyed. The Daddy/Boy trope isn't my favorite, but I've read more of it lately and have come to appreciate its appeal. If the tropes in this story are your jam then you should really like What Works for Us.
A copy of this book was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
What Works for Us is a really hot, slightly kinky story and I really enjoyed reading it. Theodore is a deeply closeted older man. Due to his strict upbringing, he has intense feelings of shame about being gay and has no desire to come out.
Sam is a college student working as a barista in a coffee shop that Theodore visits every morning. Sam likes older men and longs for "Latte Macchiato" (aka Theodore) to notice him. He is thrilled when Theodore wins him as a slave for a day in a charity auction.
This story has a lot of great tropes going on: age-gap, role playing, Daddy/Boy kink and lacy underwear and boy did things heat up when Sam and Mr. Farrell (aka Theodore/Latte Macchiato) get together. They find out how much they both like role playing which eventually evolves into a Daddy/Boy relationship.
Sam is such a sweet character and he really loves being Mr. Farrell's boy. He's not thrilled that they have to keep their relationship a secret but figures he can live with it for a while. His family has always been accepting of his orientation but he's not sure how they'll react to him dating a much older man.
The story had a twist that I didn't see coming but really enjoyed. The Daddy/Boy trope isn't my favorite, but I've read more of it lately and have come to appreciate its appeal. If the tropes in this story are your jam then you should really like What Works for Us.
A copy of this book was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
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