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Transit
When a snow storm strands Javier Castillo in Italy at Christmas, it almost ruins his chance to win back a client his advertising agency desperately needs. The situation isn't improved by the presence of his colleague, Andrew Young, a silver-tongued account director infamous for having slept with a client. Javier has a hard time respecting a man who would do anything for an account, but proximity may prove that Andrew is not quite the man Javier thought. They might have the opportunity to forge a successful business opportunity-or even a life together-if they don't get cold feet.
70 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 1, 2010
4 people are currently reading
153 people want to read
About the author
Raev Gray
6 books8 followersRaev Gray is a 26-year-old itinerant academic, currently living in the Midwestern United States. She started out her academic career resisting writing as a livelihood. In the meantime, she got exposure to psychology, philosophy, physics, sociology, linguistics, art, anthropology, literature and folklore and wasn’t happy with any one of them. She finally came full-circle and realized that the only way to put all of these together was the thing she’d been avoiding all along.
A perpetual student, Raev received a Master’s degree in Creative Writing in May 2009 and expects to receive a Master’s in Composition and Rhetoric in May 2010. She makes a living teaching, tutoring and studying writing; in other words, being a complete academic masochist. Her teaching often spurs on her own writing, both academic and fictional. Raev has written urban fantasy, historical, m/m and contemporary fiction, sometimes combinations of several of the above.
She loves to explore the depths of the soul, with all of its paradoxes, its triumphs and failures, its beauty and ugliness. Her characters often struggle to find redemption and are always fighting against themselves as much as each other.
She is a chronic multitasker, and at any given time, she is usually working on five or six different things. Every once in a while, she finds time for knitting, photography, art and the Academic Infatuation of the Week. She does too much, and she wouldn’t have it any other way.
A perpetual student, Raev received a Master’s degree in Creative Writing in May 2009 and expects to receive a Master’s in Composition and Rhetoric in May 2010. She makes a living teaching, tutoring and studying writing; in other words, being a complete academic masochist. Her teaching often spurs on her own writing, both academic and fictional. Raev has written urban fantasy, historical, m/m and contemporary fiction, sometimes combinations of several of the above.
She loves to explore the depths of the soul, with all of its paradoxes, its triumphs and failures, its beauty and ugliness. Her characters often struggle to find redemption and are always fighting against themselves as much as each other.
She is a chronic multitasker, and at any given time, she is usually working on five or six different things. Every once in a while, she finds time for knitting, photography, art and the Academic Infatuation of the Week. She does too much, and she wouldn’t have it any other way.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
June 6, 2012
”Of course you matter. Who ever told you you don’t?”
Day to day life, work, and relationships can take so much out of us. Control, worth, needs, desires, and trust can somehow get lost, confused, or forgotten with time. Transit tells a story of travel, snow, holidays, and connections that just might remind readers what is really important in life.
Andrew and Javier, co-workers on a business trip, get grounded by snow and sidetracked by an intense attraction to each other. A night of opportunity soon turns to talk of the future. But is everything moving too fast?
Transit is set in an economy filled with uncertainty and fear. Both men seem to be waiting for that next round of lay-offs at work to include their name. So when their trip forms a bubble of stolen time far away from the pressures of work, office politics, reputations, and ex-boyfriends, Andrew and Javier begin to open up and share--bringing them closer than they ever imagined. Perhaps close enough to dream and inspire each other.
”Living for the moment, in this strangely timeless place and time, caught between flights.”
That line and emotion hit my head and heart pretty hard. Suspension of time and place, in the air, “not-there-not-anywhere-yet” feeling is my favorite part of traveling. I love the idea and feeling of not really being anywhere yet. For me, it is the perfect time to think with no pressures weighing on me. Not sure I can truly express that emotion here on the page, but damn that line made me stop, remember, and think for quite some time.
Strong, intelligent voices and dashing, sexy images propelled this story along. I liked both men immediately. Javier’s creative fire and Andrew’s charming ways pulled me right into their journey. But I do have to admit—there was way too much chitchat during sex. *rolls eyes* I went from hot to cold in a hurry! But there were plenty of other hot moments-- the intensity of one’s eyes on you, a hot look without touching, and the power of the pencil turned the chemistry between these men into magic at some points.
This was a modern, romantic story told with intelligence. It’s Voinov, but yet he got under my skin in a new way. A very different emotion. I truly look forward to reading anything and everything Mr. Voinov puts out here in the world. But I also found a new voice—Raev Gray. This collaboration felt intense and equal in strength. Love finding a new author! :) Off to find more from both authors….
Day to day life, work, and relationships can take so much out of us. Control, worth, needs, desires, and trust can somehow get lost, confused, or forgotten with time. Transit tells a story of travel, snow, holidays, and connections that just might remind readers what is really important in life.
Andrew and Javier, co-workers on a business trip, get grounded by snow and sidetracked by an intense attraction to each other. A night of opportunity soon turns to talk of the future. But is everything moving too fast?
Transit is set in an economy filled with uncertainty and fear. Both men seem to be waiting for that next round of lay-offs at work to include their name. So when their trip forms a bubble of stolen time far away from the pressures of work, office politics, reputations, and ex-boyfriends, Andrew and Javier begin to open up and share--bringing them closer than they ever imagined. Perhaps close enough to dream and inspire each other.
”Living for the moment, in this strangely timeless place and time, caught between flights.”
That line and emotion hit my head and heart pretty hard. Suspension of time and place, in the air, “not-there-not-anywhere-yet” feeling is my favorite part of traveling. I love the idea and feeling of not really being anywhere yet. For me, it is the perfect time to think with no pressures weighing on me. Not sure I can truly express that emotion here on the page, but damn that line made me stop, remember, and think for quite some time.
Strong, intelligent voices and dashing, sexy images propelled this story along. I liked both men immediately. Javier’s creative fire and Andrew’s charming ways pulled me right into their journey. But I do have to admit—there was way too much chitchat during sex. *rolls eyes* I went from hot to cold in a hurry! But there were plenty of other hot moments-- the intensity of one’s eyes on you, a hot look without touching, and the power of the pencil turned the chemistry between these men into magic at some points.
This was a modern, romantic story told with intelligence. It’s Voinov, but yet he got under my skin in a new way. A very different emotion. I truly look forward to reading anything and everything Mr. Voinov puts out here in the world. But I also found a new voice—Raev Gray. This collaboration felt intense and equal in strength. Love finding a new author! :) Off to find more from both authors….
January 23, 2012
First thing you need to know about this book is that it isn't perfect. It's sweet and cute, a little rushed in the end and has a few inconsistencies with just borderline too much sex for me. It's insta-love but it's not the roll your eyes kind because while they are technically strangers, they've both admired each other from afar while working together and, as such, it completely works for this story.
When they go on a business trip and get stuck in Malpensa, the intensity between them felt so real to me and the way it was so easy for them to get together made their interactions extremely hot. On top of that, I found the fact that both of them were, in their own ways, afraid of what was forming between them so endearing and made me fall in love with them quickly. I felt the emotions they felt when everything from their perfect 'vacation' together ended and it broke my heart the way Javier and Andrew reacted. In the end, everything worked out and it just made me smile so stupidly, I just couldn't help it!
Buuuuut what made this book fantastic to me, what made it truly special, is that halfway through reading it, after I paused for a bit, I had this desire, this longing to keep reading. I had the strangest feeling of missing the book. The kind of missing where you haven't seen something for months and months but you long to see it again at the most ridiculous times. That's what it felt like to me, which is strange because I only put it down for a few hours! That feeling made me want to finish the book as soon as I could because I've never felt that way about a book before. I got those little butterflies in my tummy that you get when you have a crush on someone because of it and once I finished Transit, it felt strangely like I was coming home, in a sort of way.
It makes absolutely no sense at all and I'm more confused than anything about it but that right there made this book, imperfections and all, a five star read for me. I have a feeling I'll re-read it again. And quite often ;)
When they go on a business trip and get stuck in Malpensa, the intensity between them felt so real to me and the way it was so easy for them to get together made their interactions extremely hot. On top of that, I found the fact that both of them were, in their own ways, afraid of what was forming between them so endearing and made me fall in love with them quickly. I felt the emotions they felt when everything from their perfect 'vacation' together ended and it broke my heart the way Javier and Andrew reacted. In the end, everything worked out and it just made me smile so stupidly, I just couldn't help it!
Buuuuut what made this book fantastic to me, what made it truly special, is that halfway through reading it, after I paused for a bit, I had this desire, this longing to keep reading. I had the strangest feeling of missing the book. The kind of missing where you haven't seen something for months and months but you long to see it again at the most ridiculous times. That's what it felt like to me, which is strange because I only put it down for a few hours! That feeling made me want to finish the book as soon as I could because I've never felt that way about a book before. I got those little butterflies in my tummy that you get when you have a crush on someone because of it and once I finished Transit, it felt strangely like I was coming home, in a sort of way.
It makes absolutely no sense at all and I'm more confused than anything about it but that right there made this book, imperfections and all, a five star read for me. I have a feeling I'll re-read it again. And quite often ;)
June 1, 2012
This was deliciously sweet and mellow and romantic and put a silly smile on my face, something I've learned not to expect from Mr Voinov's work.
It didn't feel like a typical Voinov story, even though I recognized some of his favourite "motifs" (like control and giving it up in and out of bed.) That's not necessarily a bad thing, I enjoyed the book all the same.
My only issue was that Andrew and Javier conversed too much and thought too much during sex. But maybe it was just me.
There was also the issue of Javier's age and Andrew not having figured out he was so much older sooner.
Last, what do you know, it was the first time I liked the other (that is, not Mr Voinov's) character the same or even better. Not that Andrew wasn't interesting. He was. But Javier was the intriguing artist. Can you blame me?
It didn't feel like a typical Voinov story, even though I recognized some of his favourite "motifs" (like control and giving it up in and out of bed.) That's not necessarily a bad thing, I enjoyed the book all the same.
My only issue was that Andrew and Javier conversed too much and thought too much during sex. But maybe it was just me.
There was also the issue of Javier's age and Andrew not having figured out he was so much older sooner.
Last, what do you know, it was the first time I liked the other (that is, not Mr Voinov's) character the same or even better. Not that Andrew wasn't interesting. He was. But Javier was the intriguing artist. Can you blame me?
December 21, 2012
2.5
A story where the "I love yous" come fast and furious. I'm still not quite sure if Javier even likes Andrew or respects him. Definitely a more HFN kind of ending.
These are colleagues who sleep together on a business trip and decide pretty suddenly they are in love. There were some interesting moments when they talked out their relationship needs but I didn't feel any real connection or chemistry between them.
A story where the "I love yous" come fast and furious. I'm still not quite sure if Javier even likes Andrew or respects him. Definitely a more HFN kind of ending.
These are colleagues who sleep together on a business trip and decide pretty suddenly they are in love. There were some interesting moments when they talked out their relationship needs but I didn't feel any real connection or chemistry between them.
June 28, 2023
DNF @ 14%
I hadn't enjoyed the other Voinov book that he co-wrote with Raev Gray (Test Of Faith) but because that one was a historical, I decided to give this one a try. Unfortunately, both books suffered from similar issues in terms of the romance.
It boils down to the MCs having zero chemistry but the authors trying to force a connection between them via instalust. There was also something about the writing that made the MCs remain distant to me. Maybe it was the rushed pace, maybe it was having the instalust happen when the MCs have barely interacted on page, maybe it was having the introductory part of the story (ie how the MCs get to Italy and then get stuck at the airport hotel) be done through telling instead of showing. Or maybe it's a combination of all things. In any case, I was bored and didn't care about either of the MCs so this is gonna be a 'no thanks' from me.
I hadn't enjoyed the other Voinov book that he co-wrote with Raev Gray (Test Of Faith) but because that one was a historical, I decided to give this one a try. Unfortunately, both books suffered from similar issues in terms of the romance.
It boils down to the MCs having zero chemistry but the authors trying to force a connection between them via instalust. There was also something about the writing that made the MCs remain distant to me. Maybe it was the rushed pace, maybe it was having the instalust happen when the MCs have barely interacted on page, maybe it was having the introductory part of the story (ie how the MCs get to Italy and then get stuck at the airport hotel) be done through telling instead of showing. Or maybe it's a combination of all things. In any case, I was bored and didn't care about either of the MCs so this is gonna be a 'no thanks' from me.
Read
October 9, 2010This is my best attempt at writing "sweet romance" (I say "my", but the project was led by Raev Gray).
It was originally meant to be an entry for "I Do, Too", but the word limit zipped past and there was no stopping. As always, we decided to let the characters do their thing, and they did.
This was almost a year in the making - write, editing, two pretty deep re-writes - and just reading it again reminds me of how it's clearly set against the pretty depressing late 2009, when everybody feared for their jobs, Christmas was coming, but very little cheer was in the air. One year later, the picture is pretty different. Amazing how much difference a year makes.
In any case, this is a contemporary m/m romance with a HEA. I don't have many of those.
The cover by Paul Richmond is perfect. Blond guy's Andrew (whom I wrote), and the dark-haired guy's Javier (Raev's). Together, they fall in love.
It was originally meant to be an entry for "I Do, Too", but the word limit zipped past and there was no stopping. As always, we decided to let the characters do their thing, and they did.
This was almost a year in the making - write, editing, two pretty deep re-writes - and just reading it again reminds me of how it's clearly set against the pretty depressing late 2009, when everybody feared for their jobs, Christmas was coming, but very little cheer was in the air. One year later, the picture is pretty different. Amazing how much difference a year makes.
In any case, this is a contemporary m/m romance with a HEA. I don't have many of those.
The cover by Paul Richmond is perfect. Blond guy's Andrew (whom I wrote), and the dark-haired guy's Javier (Raev's). Together, they fall in love.
December 8, 2010
Several times over, here and on other sites, readers have been asked what they wish for in books. Often, the answers were along the lines of more realistic tales, real people, people who deal with their problems like adult persons and not like kindergarteners who run pouting into the Big Misunderstanding. As it turns out, these two authors actually listened and subsequently created this beautiful little gem of genuineness together.
Andrew Young is an account director with the same advertising company where Javier Castillo has been working as an art director for fifteen years now. When a flighty dissatisfied customer threatens to take her business elsewhere, the two men are sent to Singapore together in order to smoothen the waves.
About the only thing Andrew and Javier have in common is that both are gay, but previous to this shared business trip they only knew each other through the company rumor mill. Thus both are not overly comfortable when a freak snowstorm strands them in Malpensa, Northern Italy, and a scarcity of accomodations throws them together in one hotel room. Over Christmas, of all times. Wagging tongues have branded Andrew as a slut since he’s said to have slept with a customer for an account, while Javier is considered a solitary workaholic who -
“only pretends that he’s gay so he doesn’t have to go home to his wife and children”
However, the forced closeness and growing mutual attraction soon lead to the inevitable, and they have sex. It’s almost by accident that Javier, the more reserved of the pair, initiates it. Andrew, who’s had a silent crush on Javier for a while, responds with an enthusiasm that soon works its way beneath and behind Javier’s inhibitions.
Javier is a romantic who has almost exclusively had long – term relationships. He’s also someone who dislikes unpredictability and prefers to be in control of everything, starting with his career right through to his physical reactions when he has an orgasm. When he realizes how fast and how far his feelings for Andrew exceed sexual attraction, he’s scared almost to the point of bolting. Andrew, on the other hand, is just recovering from breaking up with an unfaithful, selfish boyfriend. He has been burned over and over like this in the past since he seems to have a talent for always picking the wrong men, and he’s fed up . In Javier, he sees the solidity and reliability he secretly craves, if Javier would just come around and make up his mind.
And here comes the best part, people: those guys TALK to each other. They talk things through, they work things out, and they talk in order to make things work. They even talk during sex, not your usual dirty remarks and demands (although those occur, too), but about ordinary things, and important things, and their wishes and dreams in bed and beyond
“…as if the sex were only an incidental part of the conversation. Oddly enough, maybe it was. They were connecting, and not just physically.”
Considering they both work in the advertising business, where words are everything, and considering how much they both enjoy what they do and live through their work, I could totally buy this as their way of building a relationship. It fits both their personalities and rounds them. It’s simply wonderful to watch how Javier opens up to Andrew, how his artist’s habit of drawing, scribbling and sketching all the time actually helps him sort things out for himself. Later, when Javier’s fears and Andrew’s misplaced secrecy threaten to drive them apart, they don’t retire sulkily into their mutual shells, either. Javier seeks a friend’s advice to get his head on straight, and Andrew opens his door for Javier and listens to him. They each give a little, take a little, and in the end, both agree that life doesn’t give guarantees, but some things are just worth taking a risk.
There was no exaggerated drama and only very little angst in this story, no breathtaking action or dreadful fate, no power play and no unsurmountable obstacles. Andrew and Javier are just two ordinary people with ordinary problems and normal fears and precautions who have something wonderful happen to them, and when they realize how precious it is what they have, they work together to make it last.
This sweet treasure of a story Raev Gray and Aleksandr Voinov came up with together is absolutely worth exploring. Don’t miss it.
Andrew Young is an account director with the same advertising company where Javier Castillo has been working as an art director for fifteen years now. When a flighty dissatisfied customer threatens to take her business elsewhere, the two men are sent to Singapore together in order to smoothen the waves.
About the only thing Andrew and Javier have in common is that both are gay, but previous to this shared business trip they only knew each other through the company rumor mill. Thus both are not overly comfortable when a freak snowstorm strands them in Malpensa, Northern Italy, and a scarcity of accomodations throws them together in one hotel room. Over Christmas, of all times. Wagging tongues have branded Andrew as a slut since he’s said to have slept with a customer for an account, while Javier is considered a solitary workaholic who -
“only pretends that he’s gay so he doesn’t have to go home to his wife and children”
However, the forced closeness and growing mutual attraction soon lead to the inevitable, and they have sex. It’s almost by accident that Javier, the more reserved of the pair, initiates it. Andrew, who’s had a silent crush on Javier for a while, responds with an enthusiasm that soon works its way beneath and behind Javier’s inhibitions.
Javier is a romantic who has almost exclusively had long – term relationships. He’s also someone who dislikes unpredictability and prefers to be in control of everything, starting with his career right through to his physical reactions when he has an orgasm. When he realizes how fast and how far his feelings for Andrew exceed sexual attraction, he’s scared almost to the point of bolting. Andrew, on the other hand, is just recovering from breaking up with an unfaithful, selfish boyfriend. He has been burned over and over like this in the past since he seems to have a talent for always picking the wrong men, and he’s fed up . In Javier, he sees the solidity and reliability he secretly craves, if Javier would just come around and make up his mind.
And here comes the best part, people: those guys TALK to each other. They talk things through, they work things out, and they talk in order to make things work. They even talk during sex, not your usual dirty remarks and demands (although those occur, too), but about ordinary things, and important things, and their wishes and dreams in bed and beyond
“…as if the sex were only an incidental part of the conversation. Oddly enough, maybe it was. They were connecting, and not just physically.”
Considering they both work in the advertising business, where words are everything, and considering how much they both enjoy what they do and live through their work, I could totally buy this as their way of building a relationship. It fits both their personalities and rounds them. It’s simply wonderful to watch how Javier opens up to Andrew, how his artist’s habit of drawing, scribbling and sketching all the time actually helps him sort things out for himself. Later, when Javier’s fears and Andrew’s misplaced secrecy threaten to drive them apart, they don’t retire sulkily into their mutual shells, either. Javier seeks a friend’s advice to get his head on straight, and Andrew opens his door for Javier and listens to him. They each give a little, take a little, and in the end, both agree that life doesn’t give guarantees, but some things are just worth taking a risk.
There was no exaggerated drama and only very little angst in this story, no breathtaking action or dreadful fate, no power play and no unsurmountable obstacles. Andrew and Javier are just two ordinary people with ordinary problems and normal fears and precautions who have something wonderful happen to them, and when they realize how precious it is what they have, they work together to make it last.
This sweet treasure of a story Raev Gray and Aleksandr Voinov came up with together is absolutely worth exploring. Don’t miss it.
November 20, 2010
This story is so sweet and mature at the same time. I usually smirk on the idea of "falling in love within days" but the way that both Gray/Voinov pen this story out just make me a believer. A contemporary story, with the backdrop of failing economy in the U.S., when people fear about their job.
Andrew and Javier are from two different spectrums, so to speak -- Andrew is the "dreamer" one, he is charming, he is good at easing people. Even if he has "bad" reputation, due to a scandal of him sleeping with a client. He has meltdowns but he always know how to pick himself up again. It doesn't mean that it he doesn't feel hurt when people walk out on him. Deep inside, Andrew longs for stability, some structure, some routine. Javier, on the other hand, is the more domestic one, he keep his two feet on the ground. He depends on stability and security (proven by him working for 15 years in the firm). He doesn't take risk easily, which some of his past lovers accuse him of being "space crowding".
When the two colleagues are stranded because of a freak snowstorm in Northern Italy, Andrew and Javier are forced to share a room and a bed ... which later results in sharing their thoughts and worries and expectations. While they start from different place in life, the two men actually want the same finish line -- a relationship, a pair of dogs (or cats), family. Simply the joy of knowing that you have someone to be there through the thick and thin; which makes them connected in much deeper level -- and this is why I believe in them, even if the journey of falling in love happens quite fast.
Beautifully written (with an HEA no less) and intimate (all those talking sessions in the room), make me falling in love with the story from the beginning to the very end.
Andrew and Javier are from two different spectrums, so to speak -- Andrew is the "dreamer" one, he is charming, he is good at easing people. Even if he has "bad" reputation, due to a scandal of him sleeping with a client. He has meltdowns but he always know how to pick himself up again. It doesn't mean that it he doesn't feel hurt when people walk out on him. Deep inside, Andrew longs for stability, some structure, some routine. Javier, on the other hand, is the more domestic one, he keep his two feet on the ground. He depends on stability and security (proven by him working for 15 years in the firm). He doesn't take risk easily, which some of his past lovers accuse him of being "space crowding".
When the two colleagues are stranded because of a freak snowstorm in Northern Italy, Andrew and Javier are forced to share a room and a bed ... which later results in sharing their thoughts and worries and expectations. While they start from different place in life, the two men actually want the same finish line -- a relationship, a pair of dogs (or cats), family. Simply the joy of knowing that you have someone to be there through the thick and thin; which makes them connected in much deeper level -- and this is why I believe in them, even if the journey of falling in love happens quite fast.
Beautifully written (with an HEA no less) and intimate (all those talking sessions in the room), make me falling in love with the story from the beginning to the very end.
September 1, 2012
This was a bit of a tug of war book for me especially since it's a Voinov and I absolutely love his books.
I liked both MC's, especially Andrew, however I didn't feel a real connection with them. Andrew and Javier are work colleagues who got stranded in Italy over Christmas. They both have a strong attraction for each other but neither of them were ready to act on it. This is all very romantic except their romance just seemed a little too perfect for me. I felt like everything fell into place too quickly and even though they both said all the right things, their words seemed out of place. The story ended up being predictable and it felt a bit contrived to me.
I also wanted to see more of them working together and I was disappointed that the big meeting was skipped over. Both their asses were on the line and depended on the success of this meeting. I guess I wanted a little more of Andrew and Javier in the business setting. Nevertheless, this was a sweet and enjoyable romance.
Even with the issues I mentioned above, it still had me feeling happy in the end.
I liked both MC's, especially Andrew, however I didn't feel a real connection with them. Andrew and Javier are work colleagues who got stranded in Italy over Christmas. They both have a strong attraction for each other but neither of them were ready to act on it. This is all very romantic except their romance just seemed a little too perfect for me. I felt like everything fell into place too quickly and even though they both said all the right things, their words seemed out of place. The story ended up being predictable and it felt a bit contrived to me.
I also wanted to see more of them working together and I was disappointed that the big meeting was skipped over. Both their asses were on the line and depended on the success of this meeting. I guess I wanted a little more of Andrew and Javier in the business setting. Nevertheless, this was a sweet and enjoyable romance.
Even with the issues I mentioned above, it still had me feeling happy in the end.
January 20, 2012
I really enjoyed this story. I even managed to get really into it, something I've been struggling with lately. I don't tend to go for insta-love, but this story made it work. Probably because it was clear these guys had worked together for a while, so while the romance was new they were hardly strangers. And the emotional risks each faced, and his response to them, was believable.
January 29, 2012
I enjoyed this story. Javier and Andrew were real guys with real issues and problems. Yes, they might have fallen for each other very quickly but sometimes it's just a matter of being at the right place at the right time.
My only niggle was that especially during the beginning of the story I had to really pay attention and go back to make sure whos voice and thoughts I was reading about.
My only niggle was that especially during the beginning of the story I had to really pay attention and go back to make sure whos voice and thoughts I was reading about.
July 7, 2012
A cute, fluffy feel-good romance with a slightly stronger first half. Perfect for curling up on the couch with.
November 28, 2010
I probably do have Shawn Lane to thank for liking Transit much more than when I read the pre-published version. Not because the authors have changed anything (not that I noticed, that is) but because I'd only begun to enjoy reading light, fluffy romances this year after I decided to give them a go and found I rather liked the Shawn Lane ones - no nasty surprises, short and sweet and if they were forgettable, I didn'9t mind at all.
Transit is that and zipped along at a nice pace though at parts it did feel unnecessarily truncated. The Singaporean businesswoman, Ms Li, is mentioned enough times for me to have expected some face-to-face time with her since meeting her is the reason Javier and Andrew are heading for S'pore, in the first place. Yet this crucial meeting - when it happens finally - is not only glossed over, it was hardly given more than a line. I would have liked to be there with Javier and Andrew as they worked to get Ms Li to renew the contract. Working together on a critical project enables the protags to learn all kinds of interesting things about each other and if they haven't gotten together yet, this is where the sparks start flying or the realization that the chemistry can't be denied...or that this is The One. Unfortunately, I wasn't treated to this and, like last year, I had to read that little portion twice to make sure I hadn't missed something and the authors really did just skip the entire visit to Singapore, the important meeting, and had put the protag back on the plane heading for home.
Other than this little bit, I enjoyed the little romance that blossomed between the two guys and the small spat wasn't drawn out too long. I can't say I look forward to reading more fluff from Voinov - IMO, he does the serious stuff far, far better.
Transit is that and zipped along at a nice pace though at parts it did feel unnecessarily truncated. The Singaporean businesswoman, Ms Li, is mentioned enough times for me to have expected some face-to-face time with her since meeting her is the reason Javier and Andrew are heading for S'pore, in the first place. Yet this crucial meeting - when it happens finally - is not only glossed over, it was hardly given more than a line. I would have liked to be there with Javier and Andrew as they worked to get Ms Li to renew the contract. Working together on a critical project enables the protags to learn all kinds of interesting things about each other and if they haven't gotten together yet, this is where the sparks start flying or the realization that the chemistry can't be denied...or that this is The One. Unfortunately, I wasn't treated to this and, like last year, I had to read that little portion twice to make sure I hadn't missed something and the authors really did just skip the entire visit to Singapore, the important meeting, and had put the protag back on the plane heading for home.
Other than this little bit, I enjoyed the little romance that blossomed between the two guys and the small spat wasn't drawn out too long. I can't say I look forward to reading more fluff from Voinov - IMO, he does the serious stuff far, far better.
December 16, 2012
I don't really know how to describe this book. Sort of an office romance, but very little takes place in the workplace, so it's more of a "snowed in" story.
I really connected with Javier as a character, much more so than Andrew, but I liked both of them well enough. Their attraction with each other and the sort of gentle affection that springs up between them was very believable and touching, and the sex scenes were very hot and sweet.
The dark moment in this book was, to me, a little predictable, but that's not a bad thing. I found Javier turning to his ex at this point for conversation and clarification both believable and touching--I like romances that feature secondary characters who can give us more insight into the relationship.
An enjoyable read I would definitely recommend.
I really connected with Javier as a character, much more so than Andrew, but I liked both of them well enough. Their attraction with each other and the sort of gentle affection that springs up between them was very believable and touching, and the sex scenes were very hot and sweet.
The dark moment in this book was, to me, a little predictable, but that's not a bad thing. I found Javier turning to his ex at this point for conversation and clarification both believable and touching--I like romances that feature secondary characters who can give us more insight into the relationship.
An enjoyable read I would definitely recommend.
September 9, 2012
4.5 stars
Andrew Young is one of the best account directors in his New York advertising firm; with his English charm and good looks he could land just about any client he wanted. Javier Castillo is a gifted group creative director in the same firm; he has a reputation of having no sense of humor and was said to stalk around like an angry pit bull. Neither man is happy about having to spend Chrismas in Singapore together, but both are willing to do whatever it will take to try to revive the firm’s relationship with a big client. On the way, they get stranded in the northern Italy town of Malpensa, stuck until the weather clears. They will discover whether opposites can attract or implode upon impact.
The two authors, Raev Gray and Aleksandr Voinov have collaborated to give us a sweet novella built around two men who have both been hurt and are unsure about what they want out of their lives and loves. While I haven’t read any of Raev Gray’s other works, I have read a number of Aleksandr Voinov’s and enjoyed them all but it was nice to see a softer side of his writing.
Two more opposite men could not have been found; seemingly they have nothing in common. One is a known playboy, and the other a serious artistic type. As you get further into the story, it’s easy to see that they are more alike than first impressions show. Both want a relationship, neither know how to go about achieving it, and both are frightened of their feelings.
Andrew is the more daring of the two, he has a sort of “what will be, will be” attitude. He knows there is a serious chance he will be a victim of downsizing and is o.k. with it. On the surface, he looks like the devil may care playboy who just wants to have a good time, but as you look closer you see he really just wants to settle down. He is good with taking risks, both in business and in his personal life and is o.k. with whatever consequences may come from those risks. He is openly gay at work; he actually slept with a client to land an account. Javier is just the opposite, he likes the security of his job, even if it’s not perfect, has only had a few long term relationships in his life, and risk taking is not something he would ever do. He is the typical creative type, always needs a pencil in his hand and thinks better when his hand is moving and drawing. He has not come out at work, his personal life is just that, personal, and he feels it’s no one’s business, although he knows in the advertising world it’s neither an asset nor a liability.
Both of these men are likeable in their own way although I will admit, I liked Andrew better just because of his playfulness. Every man should have a little naughty boy in him. Both have been hurt in the past. There were times it was frustrating to watch them struggle with their insecurities; there were also times I just wanted to hold them.
This is a quick novella, I read it in an hour or two, and unlike most novellas, which frustrate me with their shortness, and I was actually satisfied when I finished it. This is erotic romance so there are some explicit M/M scenes, but there is also a sweet love story here so it should appeal to anyone who is a sucker for romance, whether they normally read M/M or not. Everyone should be so lucky to spend Christmas snowed in with a hot person in northern Italy. If you don’t have a trip planned, grab this novella and escape with Andrew and Javier.
Member of the Paranormal Romance Guild Review Team
Andrew Young is one of the best account directors in his New York advertising firm; with his English charm and good looks he could land just about any client he wanted. Javier Castillo is a gifted group creative director in the same firm; he has a reputation of having no sense of humor and was said to stalk around like an angry pit bull. Neither man is happy about having to spend Chrismas in Singapore together, but both are willing to do whatever it will take to try to revive the firm’s relationship with a big client. On the way, they get stranded in the northern Italy town of Malpensa, stuck until the weather clears. They will discover whether opposites can attract or implode upon impact.
The two authors, Raev Gray and Aleksandr Voinov have collaborated to give us a sweet novella built around two men who have both been hurt and are unsure about what they want out of their lives and loves. While I haven’t read any of Raev Gray’s other works, I have read a number of Aleksandr Voinov’s and enjoyed them all but it was nice to see a softer side of his writing.
Two more opposite men could not have been found; seemingly they have nothing in common. One is a known playboy, and the other a serious artistic type. As you get further into the story, it’s easy to see that they are more alike than first impressions show. Both want a relationship, neither know how to go about achieving it, and both are frightened of their feelings.
Andrew is the more daring of the two, he has a sort of “what will be, will be” attitude. He knows there is a serious chance he will be a victim of downsizing and is o.k. with it. On the surface, he looks like the devil may care playboy who just wants to have a good time, but as you look closer you see he really just wants to settle down. He is good with taking risks, both in business and in his personal life and is o.k. with whatever consequences may come from those risks. He is openly gay at work; he actually slept with a client to land an account. Javier is just the opposite, he likes the security of his job, even if it’s not perfect, has only had a few long term relationships in his life, and risk taking is not something he would ever do. He is the typical creative type, always needs a pencil in his hand and thinks better when his hand is moving and drawing. He has not come out at work, his personal life is just that, personal, and he feels it’s no one’s business, although he knows in the advertising world it’s neither an asset nor a liability.
Both of these men are likeable in their own way although I will admit, I liked Andrew better just because of his playfulness. Every man should have a little naughty boy in him. Both have been hurt in the past. There were times it was frustrating to watch them struggle with their insecurities; there were also times I just wanted to hold them.
This is a quick novella, I read it in an hour or two, and unlike most novellas, which frustrate me with their shortness, and I was actually satisfied when I finished it. This is erotic romance so there are some explicit M/M scenes, but there is also a sweet love story here so it should appeal to anyone who is a sucker for romance, whether they normally read M/M or not. Everyone should be so lucky to spend Christmas snowed in with a hot person in northern Italy. If you don’t have a trip planned, grab this novella and escape with Andrew and Javier.
Member of the Paranormal Romance Guild Review Team
December 30, 2013
Generosamente cedido por uno de sus autores,Aleksandr Voinov, tuve la oportunidad de leer esta cortita novela, al igual que otra de sus impresionantes sagas, Special Forces, disponible para descargar gratis desde su web. Si bien me gusta leer las novelas, cuando puedo, en sus idiomas originales, es frustrante que este tipo de literatura aún no logre un lugar entre las elecciones de las editoriales y distribuidoras en castellano. Y eso se aplica a miles de géneros y obras. Un poco por tabú, con algo de ignorancia, y otro poco porque los circuitos comerciales todavía tienen criterios muy discutibles a la hora de decidir qué puede ser vendido y qué no. Por eso terminamos tapados por novelas horribles, ofensivas, ideológicamente sepultables, cuyos autores realmente parece que nos tomaran el pelo. Personalmente no tengo mayores frenos a la hora elegir qué leer: mientras me vuele la cabeza y esté bien escrito, por mí está bien. Existen muchos escritores independientes, para quienes es factible combinar sin contradicciones tanto la ganancia o rentabilidad -reglas del sistema para la supervivencia- como la comunidad de sus creaciones artísticas. Cuánto hay que valorar la importancia del trabajo propio, cuánto amor hay que tener por lo que hacen, como para entender que ese pequeño texto sólo cobra vida en las manos del lector. Todos debemos sobrevivir, hay ciertas reglas que nos obligan, pero entre medio de ese monstruo opresor e igualador, son esas pequeñas acciones las que nos hacen libres.
March 9, 2012
** !Gush and ramble alert! **
I absolutely loved this story. Started reading quite late in the evening then just couldn't stop! Kept me awake till 5AM, work be damned. *grins*
This is by far the sweetest story Aleks Voinov has (co-)written and I can't help hoping that one fine day he will join his forces with Raev Gray once again. One of the greatest writing partnerships I've encountered so far! (Don't miss this wonderful story - Test of Faith)
I can't express how much I love Andrew. I just "clicked" with him so completely... I can't decide why - because I saw myself in him or I saw characteristics that I want to possess? Either way he's my new dream guy. :D
(When I realized this, I wondered why I hadn't come across one already in this genre? It struck me that the sweet and idealistic kind of characters usually are too two-dimensional for me to fall for. Not Andrew. He felt so real and true. And now he wont let me go. :D )
Juan though? I could barely tolerate him. But you know what they say - you hate about others the most you hate about yourself. I recognize that, so I'm not complaining. :D
One thing though - there were a few editorial problems about what, who and when. But not totally sure - might be my sleep deprived mind playing tricks. :) But that's the only complaint (which is minor. And didn't trow me out of the story).
I shall stop here 'cause everything else that would follow would be "I loved this and that was just *ahmazing*! Suffice to say, this book made me want to crawl in it and live there happily ever after! ^^
I absolutely loved this story. Started reading quite late in the evening then just couldn't stop! Kept me awake till 5AM, work be damned. *grins*
This is by far the sweetest story Aleks Voinov has (co-)written and I can't help hoping that one fine day he will join his forces with Raev Gray once again. One of the greatest writing partnerships I've encountered so far! (Don't miss this wonderful story - Test of Faith)
I can't express how much I love Andrew. I just "clicked" with him so completely... I can't decide why - because I saw myself in him or I saw characteristics that I want to possess? Either way he's my new dream guy. :D
(When I realized this, I wondered why I hadn't come across one already in this genre? It struck me that the sweet and idealistic kind of characters usually are too two-dimensional for me to fall for. Not Andrew. He felt so real and true. And now he wont let me go. :D )
Juan though? I could barely tolerate him. But you know what they say - you hate about others the most you hate about yourself. I recognize that, so I'm not complaining. :D
One thing though - there were a few editorial problems about what, who and when. But not totally sure - might be my sleep deprived mind playing tricks. :) But that's the only complaint (which is minor. And didn't trow me out of the story).
I shall stop here 'cause everything else that would follow would be "I loved this and that was just *ahmazing*! Suffice to say, this book made me want to crawl in it and live there happily ever after! ^^
August 26, 2012
Aleksandr Voinov has collaborated with Raev Gray to write a wonderful love story, not as dark as his usual works, yet such a pleasure to read.
Andrew Young and Javier Castillo have been sent to Singapore to save an account, for the company they work for. Andrew is their lead account director and Javier is a fastidious creative director. They are not used to having to travel with anyone, let alone together, and as luck would have it, their plans stall with a snow storm in Malpensa,Italy where transportation is grounded.The Hotel of course has only one room left and grumbling they accept to wait it out for a night, or two or three?
We learn that Andrew although always looking like a winner, has been hurt many times in giving his heart out easily and getting it pummeled. He is 'out' at work, and is known to be a bit of a playboy.He has watched Javier thru the years and his gaydar shows him to be straight.
Who would think that in the middle of their first night together Andrew would wake as Javier is reaching for him. Through the hours while the snow is falling, these two men find the things they think of each other couldn't be further from the truth. That the Playboy wants forever and the Growling Angry Pit Bull wants to feel and laugh.
Get caught up in their story and feel the love and the truth of two people learning, and loving each other.
a Novella is too quick, but this was satisfying
Andrew Young and Javier Castillo have been sent to Singapore to save an account, for the company they work for. Andrew is their lead account director and Javier is a fastidious creative director. They are not used to having to travel with anyone, let alone together, and as luck would have it, their plans stall with a snow storm in Malpensa,Italy where transportation is grounded.The Hotel of course has only one room left and grumbling they accept to wait it out for a night, or two or three?
We learn that Andrew although always looking like a winner, has been hurt many times in giving his heart out easily and getting it pummeled. He is 'out' at work, and is known to be a bit of a playboy.He has watched Javier thru the years and his gaydar shows him to be straight.
Who would think that in the middle of their first night together Andrew would wake as Javier is reaching for him. Through the hours while the snow is falling, these two men find the things they think of each other couldn't be further from the truth. That the Playboy wants forever and the Growling Angry Pit Bull wants to feel and laugh.
Get caught up in their story and feel the love and the truth of two people learning, and loving each other.
a Novella is too quick, but this was satisfying
December 22, 2012
I liked that this story felt real, even if the declarations of love were given within days. I could easily overlook that since both characters expressed their doubts and hesitations from the start. I enjoyed the characters and their chemistry. They had real problems to deal with and their concerns over their professional future and relationship were valid.
Javier was bit harder to like, but in the end I could understand where he was coming from. I could understand how his mind worked, since I've dealt with Hispanic men all my life. Like Javier, they are very proud and come across as inaccessible. I was glad that he was mature enough to realize that he could explore his relationship with Andrew, even if he wasn't sure about the business side of it. Andrew on the other hand was very open and accessible and my heart went out to him instantly. He had been through hell and back during his last relationship and I wanted him to find that happiness he so desired. I don't necessarily think he found that with Javier in the span of time the story took place, but I think he did find a suitable candidate. He'll just need to work a little bit harder is all.
All in all, a very good story with great writing, interesting characters and hot, hot, hot chemistry.
Javier was bit harder to like, but in the end I could understand where he was coming from. I could understand how his mind worked, since I've dealt with Hispanic men all my life. Like Javier, they are very proud and come across as inaccessible. I was glad that he was mature enough to realize that he could explore his relationship with Andrew, even if he wasn't sure about the business side of it. Andrew on the other hand was very open and accessible and my heart went out to him instantly. He had been through hell and back during his last relationship and I wanted him to find that happiness he so desired. I don't necessarily think he found that with Javier in the span of time the story took place, but I think he did find a suitable candidate. He'll just need to work a little bit harder is all.
All in all, a very good story with great writing, interesting characters and hot, hot, hot chemistry.
December 23, 2012
I love Voinov. I did not love this book, though I did like it. I think it was pretty well-written. Sometimes the language felt a little clunky, but it wasn't a big deal. Nothing was egregious enough I bothered marking it. But mostly, I just didn't like Javier. Which made it feel really strange that Andrew was so infatuated with him. I mean, why? Maybe Andrew is a talent-slut. Actually, we know that he is from the rest of the book, so that was well-done. But Javier just strikes me as a dangerous partner for someone like Andrew. Still, the sex was good, if sanitary, and I did believe that they fell in love, however ill-advised.
I think it might be time for me to take a break from m/m romance now--or maybe as soon as I finish reading all of Voinov's other books--because the lack of body hair is making me feel like I'm in a plastic world. I am so desperately longing for Voinov's next solo work. Still, this book was a short read and enjoyable enough, so I wouldn't say I wasted my time. :)
I think it might be time for me to take a break from m/m romance now--or maybe as soon as I finish reading all of Voinov's other books--because the lack of body hair is making me feel like I'm in a plastic world. I am so desperately longing for Voinov's next solo work. Still, this book was a short read and enjoyable enough, so I wouldn't say I wasted my time. :)
April 1, 2013
The microcosm of a snowed-in business trip reveals the history, the present, and possibly a hint of the future of two men who are, at first sight, quite different from one another. The exploration of their attraction and growing "love at first touch" was done with a level of literary sensitivity that I truly appreciated; the reader is treated to not just a kiss-kiss-bang-bang recitation of physical motions, but a revelation of emotional responses and deep yearnings of both characters. It is easy to like both of them and wish them well.
The plot is simple; the tension revolves around internal insecurities, precipitated by work pressures. As much as I reveled in the language and flow of this story, I wished that the authors used Andrew's no-good ex better in the characterization of Andrew's insecurities, and I'd wish that Javier's fatal flaw - being risk-averse - had been integrated into his personality from the very beginning. If there is more written about these two, I will go out of my way to read about their exploits! I recommend this novella.
The plot is simple; the tension revolves around internal insecurities, precipitated by work pressures. As much as I reveled in the language and flow of this story, I wished that the authors used Andrew's no-good ex better in the characterization of Andrew's insecurities, and I'd wish that Javier's fatal flaw - being risk-averse - had been integrated into his personality from the very beginning. If there is more written about these two, I will go out of my way to read about their exploits! I recommend this novella.
December 14, 2010
Stars: 4.5/5
Overall
An enjoyable piece of holiday story telling, although the holidays are not the focus of the story.
Strengths
Realism. Aside from the weakness I mention below, I felt the story was very realistic, touching upon things like the crap economy. The climax and resolution also fitted into this, as this simple story didn't need to have aliens attack, just humans doing human things and causing conflict (another point which I enjoyed, but I won't ruin you on the details).
Writing. Another example of good writing. The characters are varied and well portrayed. The plot is simple and strong.
Weaknesses
Bed to Love. While I understand the characters have history together, that history is limited and their transition of sleeping together to "I think I love you" seemed a bit quick, especially for the character types. While I understand the characters themselves were surprised by the immediacy of the emotion, it still made me go, "Really?"
Overall
An enjoyable piece of holiday story telling, although the holidays are not the focus of the story.
Strengths
Realism. Aside from the weakness I mention below, I felt the story was very realistic, touching upon things like the crap economy. The climax and resolution also fitted into this, as this simple story didn't need to have aliens attack, just humans doing human things and causing conflict (another point which I enjoyed, but I won't ruin you on the details).
Writing. Another example of good writing. The characters are varied and well portrayed. The plot is simple and strong.
Weaknesses
Bed to Love. While I understand the characters have history together, that history is limited and their transition of sleeping together to "I think I love you" seemed a bit quick, especially for the character types. While I understand the characters themselves were surprised by the immediacy of the emotion, it still made me go, "Really?"
November 10, 2011
Hmmm, a "snowmance?" With an HEA? Transit works in that regard. I guess I'm in the mood for more angsty love/lust stories right now, so I can't fault the story.
A few notes, though. Andrew and Javier's relationship was much more interesting to me during the time they are snowbound. But then I guess it's unrealistic to think that whatever one has had on vacation can be sustained once one has returned to the "real" world.
Transit was an enjoyable read. It had more depth than I expected from reading the blurb. The story stalled a bit for me once the guys returned home, but the resolution wasn't drawn out. The HEA seemed satisfying enough for those that require that (I don't...though I didn't mind it in Transit). If I could give fractional points, this would be a 3.7 stars.
A few notes, though. Andrew and Javier's relationship was much more interesting to me during the time they are snowbound. But then I guess it's unrealistic to think that whatever one has had on vacation can be sustained once one has returned to the "real" world.
Transit was an enjoyable read. It had more depth than I expected from reading the blurb. The story stalled a bit for me once the guys returned home, but the resolution wasn't drawn out. The HEA seemed satisfying enough for those that require that (I don't...though I didn't mind it in Transit). If I could give fractional points, this would be a 3.7 stars.
October 15, 2012
It was good. Nice HEA at the end. Their first hook up was my favorite but the 'first times' usually are. I really felt for Andrew. He was a 'slut' who was looking for love. A very sweet guy who didn't have it in him to turn down sex. I think it was more the intimacy he was after then the sex. His lover felt bad for looking down on him for sleeping around but he still found him irresistible because Andrew had a vulnerable boyish charm that unexpectedly came through despite his rumored extensive sexual history. They connected immediately and it was kind of a 'love at first hook up' sort of thing but it wasn't presented in a way that made it unbelievable. Even if it was a little.
March 24, 2011
A good read. A little angst going on for the characters as you would expect from a Voinov partnership. I liked the overall story arc and it kept me entertained. The characters are well rounded and brought to life. I bonded with them both and wanted things to be right for them.
A good read that overall was a little fluffy and twee for me to rate more than 3 stars. I liked it, and it was more than OK so scores above a 2, but I wouldn't read it again. 4 stars and over are reserved for things I know I'll flick back to at some point in the future.
A good read that overall was a little fluffy and twee for me to rate more than 3 stars. I liked it, and it was more than OK so scores above a 2, but I wouldn't read it again. 4 stars and over are reserved for things I know I'll flick back to at some point in the future.
July 4, 2011
4.5 stars. Really enjoyed this story of two at-first-glance disparate co-workers who learn they have more in common than previously thought when one of them takes an unexpected chance. Great erotic scenes are helped by the strong characters, and despite the short time span for the love to develop, it feels organic and not rushed. Sometimes people do fall in love that way. :)
June 10, 2012
This was a sweet little read. There's no adventure or bad guy to overcome, just personal issues the characters have to get through to be together. Bonus points for being extremely hot in places. I was in the mood for something quick and light and this fit the bill. I love this writing team and I think this one showed off their versatility.
Read
October 14, 2012Kind of muddled, honestly. It was enjoyable, but neither POV was deep enough or distinct enough for me to ever know whose head I was in. I think this would have benefitted from sticking in one head, making the other character more of an object of desire/mystery. As it was I spent a lot of the time a little lost, trying to keep up.
September 12, 2011
The only thing that sucked about this book was that it ended. I wanted more of Javier and Andrew together. At least an epilogue to tell me about living and working together. It was left to my imagination...That is very rarely as good as the authors.
June 7, 2012
Good novella, my first Voinov book after SF so ofcourse I've got big expectations. I really like his writing: not too much description, not too much angst, good dose of humour and a wonderful flow to the story: what else do we need? More Voinov!
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