What do you think?
Rate this book
Need You Now
This edition is out of print
After walking in on his college roommate and his best gal pal having sex, Jake Benefield knows he has to let go of the crush he's had on Logan Riley for four long years. He leaves to pursue a graduate degree only to discover love and loss. Home again, the last thing he expects is for Logan to confess his feelings for him. Can their friendship survive a one night stand or is Logan looking for more than Jake is ready to give him?
After walking in on his college roommate and his best gal pal having sex, Jake Benefield knows he has to let go of the crush he's had on Logan Riley for four long years. He leaves to pursue a graduate degree only to discover love and loss. Home again, the last thing he expects is for Logan to confess his feelings for him. Can their friendship survive a one night stand or is Logan looking for more than Jake is ready to give him?
95 pages, ebook
First published June 1, 2012
17 people are currently reading
288 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
November 10, 2016
*3,5 stars*
This is an enjoyable, steamy novella with two very likeable MCs.
A personal tragedy has left Jake broken and lost. When he returns home he is surprised when his old friend Logan seeks him out. Logan who was his first crush and who he was in love with for four years. Logan who was achingly straight. As it turns out Logan is maybe not as straight as Jake thought so many years ago. Well, you can imagine what follows.
A big part of this book is one huge lovely sex scene where the two men find each other and start giving away their feelings for each other. A lot of revelations are part of that. Nice!
My only issue was the time frame for all these events. Basically Jake and Logan have sex, talk a little, talk a little more the following day and we get declarations of love. Now that was speedy, and surprising, considering the two guys haven't really seen each other for two years. There was a lot of scope for more.
Still - a recommendable little piece of heart-warming romance!
This is an enjoyable, steamy novella with two very likeable MCs.
A personal tragedy has left Jake broken and lost. When he returns home he is surprised when his old friend Logan seeks him out. Logan who was his first crush and who he was in love with for four years. Logan who was achingly straight. As it turns out Logan is maybe not as straight as Jake thought so many years ago. Well, you can imagine what follows.
A big part of this book is one huge lovely sex scene where the two men find each other and start giving away their feelings for each other. A lot of revelations are part of that. Nice!
My only issue was the time frame for all these events. Basically Jake and Logan have sex, talk a little, talk a little more the following day and we get declarations of love. Now that was speedy, and surprising, considering the two guys haven't really seen each other for two years. There was a lot of scope for more.
Still - a recommendable little piece of heart-warming romance!
December 12, 2012
Re-read for M/M Bingo challenge:
This sweet little tidbit about long-time friends Jake and Logan takes place over the course of an evening at Logan's place. Told from Jake's POV, the two are trying to figure out where they stand with each other after all the years of friendship. Like typical guys, the communication is not always the best and these two want to protect their friendship above all else. The author gives us Jake and Logan's history with flashbacks and references to their past. I liked the pacing in this story as the author conveys realistically how difficult it can be to express one's true feelings.
This sweet little tidbit about long-time friends Jake and Logan takes place over the course of an evening at Logan's place. Told from Jake's POV, the two are trying to figure out where they stand with each other after all the years of friendship. Like typical guys, the communication is not always the best and these two want to protect their friendship above all else. The author gives us Jake and Logan's history with flashbacks and references to their past. I liked the pacing in this story as the author conveys realistically how difficult it can be to express one's true feelings.
September 8, 2013
This is a wonderful friends-to-lovers story (previously published as Need You Now).
It has all the elements for a lovely emotional read - best friends who are driven apart by undenied feelings, tragedy and heartache and finally a true admission of feelings.
Jake had a crush on his best friend Logan and left town after catching him in bed with Jake's girl friend (girl friend not girlfriend). Jake does find happiness but tragedy drives him home again where he and Logan finally confront their feelings.
They finally admit their feelings and the history of their crushes on each other, with the emotions of the confessions finally falling over into lustful passion. Logan believes that Jake is not ready for a relationship "I know. Jake. No strings. I swear. I'm not looking to pressure you and if this is all there is then I'm good. I swear. Still friends. Just one night to know." and Logan has a sexual history which led to Jake's belief that he would just be one of many..."I just wanted to be one of them. I wasn't vain enough to think I'd be the last. Logan was a horndog. There would be more. I wasn't naive." The sex scene that follows is sizzling - all those years of built up longing and passion....
I loved the characters and thought the handling of Jake's grief, while at the same time allowing his relationship with Logan to rekindle, was beautifully done. Logan is also wonderful as the bisexual slut reformed, opening his heart to his friend.
When this story ended I wanted more! 3.5 stars (plus at $0.99 it was a bargain!)
I now publish all my m/m reviews on my blog so if you want to see all my m/m reviews in one place come visit at Because Two Men Are Better Than One!
It has all the elements for a lovely emotional read - best friends who are driven apart by undenied feelings, tragedy and heartache and finally a true admission of feelings.
Jake had a crush on his best friend Logan and left town after catching him in bed with Jake's girl friend (girl friend not girlfriend). Jake does find happiness but tragedy drives him home again where he and Logan finally confront their feelings.
They finally admit their feelings and the history of their crushes on each other, with the emotions of the confessions finally falling over into lustful passion. Logan believes that Jake is not ready for a relationship "I know. Jake. No strings. I swear. I'm not looking to pressure you and if this is all there is then I'm good. I swear. Still friends. Just one night to know." and Logan has a sexual history which led to Jake's belief that he would just be one of many..."I just wanted to be one of them. I wasn't vain enough to think I'd be the last. Logan was a horndog. There would be more. I wasn't naive." The sex scene that follows is sizzling - all those years of built up longing and passion....
I loved the characters and thought the handling of Jake's grief, while at the same time allowing his relationship with Logan to rekindle, was beautifully done. Logan is also wonderful as the bisexual slut reformed, opening his heart to his friend.
When this story ended I wanted more! 3.5 stars (plus at $0.99 it was a bargain!)
I now publish all my m/m reviews on my blog so if you want to see all my m/m reviews in one place come visit at Because Two Men Are Better Than One!
June 1, 2012
Reviewed for Hearts On Fire Reviews
Oh, what to say about this book? The classic misunderstanding is present, yet it is so believable, something I could completely see happening, that it made me sad for both Jake and Logan.
Jake and Logan were best friends in high school and roommates in college. The fact that Jake was also in love with Logan goes unmentioned. Logan had a girlfriend, Kara, who he loved and wanted to marry, but Kara died. Logan was then a man-slut, working as a bartender and meeting people. Another friend of theirs, Darla, was in love with Jake (who didn’t tell anyone he was gay). When Jake walks in on Darla and Logan having sex in their dorm room, he realizes it is too much for him and he moves out. Eventually he leaves town to pursue his PhD and is gone for two years. Now he’s back.
Jake has been through a lot since leaving and has suffered a huge loss. He doesn’t feel up to dealing with Logan and unresolved issues at this point, but it seems Logan has other ideas. Logan wants to know why Jake left. Seeing as how he doesn’t realize Jake was in love with him, he thought Jake loved Darla and seeing them have sex is what killed their friendship.
This story is sad in parts, especially when Jake is talking of Michael. How difficult that had to be, for both Jake and Michael, and how difficult now for Logan and Jake. It’s hard to describe without spoilering anything, but it’s heartbreaking during a conversation in the car.
In a random note, the cover depicts someone who I thought looked way too young to be Jake or Logan, but that’s a personal opinion.
Ms. Celeste writes this book in a way that I felt like I was sitting in the room listening to the conversations. Nearly the whole of the book happens at Logan’s and you feel a part of the conversation. While it gets a little bittersweet in places, there’s little angst. It’s a soft, flowing story of reconnecting and what you have at stake when you don’t speak up.
Oh, what to say about this book? The classic misunderstanding is present, yet it is so believable, something I could completely see happening, that it made me sad for both Jake and Logan.
Jake and Logan were best friends in high school and roommates in college. The fact that Jake was also in love with Logan goes unmentioned. Logan had a girlfriend, Kara, who he loved and wanted to marry, but Kara died. Logan was then a man-slut, working as a bartender and meeting people. Another friend of theirs, Darla, was in love with Jake (who didn’t tell anyone he was gay). When Jake walks in on Darla and Logan having sex in their dorm room, he realizes it is too much for him and he moves out. Eventually he leaves town to pursue his PhD and is gone for two years. Now he’s back.
Jake has been through a lot since leaving and has suffered a huge loss. He doesn’t feel up to dealing with Logan and unresolved issues at this point, but it seems Logan has other ideas. Logan wants to know why Jake left. Seeing as how he doesn’t realize Jake was in love with him, he thought Jake loved Darla and seeing them have sex is what killed their friendship.
This story is sad in parts, especially when Jake is talking of Michael. How difficult that had to be, for both Jake and Michael, and how difficult now for Logan and Jake. It’s hard to describe without spoilering anything, but it’s heartbreaking during a conversation in the car.
In a random note, the cover depicts someone who I thought looked way too young to be Jake or Logan, but that’s a personal opinion.
Ms. Celeste writes this book in a way that I felt like I was sitting in the room listening to the conversations. Nearly the whole of the book happens at Logan’s and you feel a part of the conversation. While it gets a little bittersweet in places, there’s little angst. It’s a soft, flowing story of reconnecting and what you have at stake when you don’t speak up.
July 24, 2013
I loved this book. Mercy you never disappoint.
January 31, 2014
A short and sexy read, I loved it! Great characters, lots of smexing (my first time reading about someone with an armpit fetish, LOL!) and a very sweet HEA. A perfect afternoon read!!
June 17, 2012
A story full of desperation and fear of getting hurt, passion and a love deeper than any of the main characters ever thought possible make this short book both suspenseful and enjoyable to read. There is enough angst and emotional upheaval in the beginning to make anyone wonder whether the two men will ‘get it’, and the level of passion once they dare to start opening up is breathtaking. They may no longer be best friends, but, boy, do they make up for lost time once they get back together.
Jake is a very lonely, wounded and hesitant man when he returns to his home town after obtaining a degree and failing to get his doctorate. His lover dying in his presence after drunk driving has almost driven Jake into total isolation. Coming home as a teacher seems like a safe solution. But when years of suppressed feelings collide with the opportunity for finally being with the man Jake has loved for years, the results are explosive. Emotionally he is totally overwhelmed, physically he can barely control himself, and his thought process is in serious trouble. He tries to resist temptation, but we all know how that goes…
Logan, from what we find out from the way Jake sees him, is afraid. Jake may ignore this and think only of Logan as the horn dog he used to be, but that is to protect himself from being hurt again. If you read between the lines, it is very clear that Logan has changed and wants more. He never comes out and says this, because he is scared of rejection and getting hurt as much as Jake is. But he is a great guy and deserves to be loved just as much as Jake needs to love him.
If you like stories that are deeply emotional, if passion is important to you, and if two men reconnecting after years apart and trying to clear up their misunderstandings is your thing, then you will probably like this novella.
NOTE: This book was provided by Silver Publishing for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Jake is a very lonely, wounded and hesitant man when he returns to his home town after obtaining a degree and failing to get his doctorate. His lover dying in his presence after drunk driving has almost driven Jake into total isolation. Coming home as a teacher seems like a safe solution. But when years of suppressed feelings collide with the opportunity for finally being with the man Jake has loved for years, the results are explosive. Emotionally he is totally overwhelmed, physically he can barely control himself, and his thought process is in serious trouble. He tries to resist temptation, but we all know how that goes…
Logan, from what we find out from the way Jake sees him, is afraid. Jake may ignore this and think only of Logan as the horn dog he used to be, but that is to protect himself from being hurt again. If you read between the lines, it is very clear that Logan has changed and wants more. He never comes out and says this, because he is scared of rejection and getting hurt as much as Jake is. But he is a great guy and deserves to be loved just as much as Jake needs to love him.
If you like stories that are deeply emotional, if passion is important to you, and if two men reconnecting after years apart and trying to clear up their misunderstandings is your thing, then you will probably like this novella.
NOTE: This book was provided by Silver Publishing for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
February 11, 2017
Love me a second chance at love story (all the more when it's a friends to lovers story as well).
December 13, 2012
This was very disappointing. It felt extremely short, no real story, and a kind of insta-love, but re-warmed. I also saw that in some other books, and a few authors seem to use this story line where two guys were always/a long time ago in love with each other and then the story really starts when they meet again, but conveniently the whole getting to know each other and falling in love is alreay done even before the prologue...I don't like this, but can accept it, if there is an interesting story with development and good dialogues etc following the uninspired beginning. Here the uninspired part is the whole book. Two guys meet again after years, have a one-night-stand-turned-into-HEA. Boring and partially bordering on ridiculous. The christmas part was pretty much two sentences (a tall christmas tree standing around).
August 5, 2016
If you're looking for hott, sexy & short this is a good one to grab up! (And there was a price drop @ Amazon!)
While the guys were cool and the story line was one of my favorite go-tos (friends to lovers) I felt like something just wasn't there. Maybe if we had about 50 more pages it would been a little different. Oh well, that's neither here nor there...it is what it is and that's all. The ending I think was the weirdest part for me . I'd like to think we'll get a peak back into Jake & Logans lives but sadly if it hasn't came yet, I doubt it ever will.
--I read this on March 18th 2014 but had to change the date to the day I added it to a group bookshelf a challenge--
While the guys were cool and the story line was one of my favorite go-tos (friends to lovers) I felt like something just wasn't there. Maybe if we had about 50 more pages it would been a little different. Oh well, that's neither here nor there...it is what it is and that's all. The ending I think was the weirdest part for me . I'd like to think we'll get a peak back into Jake & Logans lives but sadly if it hasn't came yet, I doubt it ever will.
--I read this on March 18th 2014 but had to change the date to the day I added it to a group bookshelf a challenge--
April 10, 2019
⭐️3.5⭐️
July 2, 2012
There wasn't a thing about this story that I didn't like. But now I'm going to do the thing that I try never to do in a review and complain that it was too short. I know it was a short story, but I'm a selfish bitch and I want more of Mercy. This would have been so good if we got to experience everything that Jake had gone through. I liked reading about his past, but I would have loved (and hated) experiencing it with him. From the heartache of unrequited love, to the utter despair of finding and then losing true love, to the hope of a future you never thought you'd have. It might have been epic, but instead I'm just left with a feeling that I missed out on something great. But again, I'm selfish like that.
November 27, 2012
Short read which for me was okay, to short to really develop the story properly in my opinion. I was happy with how it ended though.
Want to read
January 31, 2014For those interested, this just price dropped to $1.75 at Amazon and ARe :)
November 2, 2014
I liked this story, but it was just ok. It had a little paranormal and a lot of old feelings. A good ending for a full lenght novel.
July 5, 2017
There's an old Cannonball Adderley piece called "Mercy, Mercy, Mercy." That's the tune that kept playing in my head as I was reading this little morsel of goodness. Dayyum girl! "I was finished. I ceased to be. I was gone. Poof. And I had no intention of returning. Poof. Gone." "Friendly, competitive, I'm-doing-you-a-solid-here-buddy smile." Lovely throwaway lines that just keep your anchored to the story. Mercy says in her brief statement at the end of the book that she doesn't consider herself to be a writer. She's a storyteller. Damn straight! Her books are stories of tortured men who want, need, have to have and love with all their being. Jake and Logan knew each other in college. Jake moved away, got a graduate degree, found a man, loved that man and then lost him, horrifically. He returns and Logan finds him and throws him an impromptu party with with ghosts from Jake's past. But the biggest ghost is what is between Jake and Logan. Why did Jake leave? Misconceptions, misunderstandings abound. We find out and end in a super lovely HEA.
April 13, 2015
A story full of desperation and fear of getting hurt, passion and a love deeper than any of the main characters ever thought possible make this short book both suspenseful and enjoyable to read. There is enough angst and emotional upheaval in the beginning to make anyone wonder whether the two men will ‘get it’, and the level of passion once they dare to start opening up is breathtaking. They may no longer be best friends, but, boy, do they make up for lost time once they get back together.
Jake is a very lonely, wounded and hesitant man when he returns to his home town after obtaining a degree and failing to get his doctorate. His lover dying in his presence after drunk driving has almost driven Jake into total isolation. Coming home as a teacher seems like a safe solution. But when years of suppressed feelings collide with the opportunity for finally being with the man Jake has loved for years, the results are explosive. Emotionally he is totally overwhelmed, physically he can barely control himself, and his thought process is in serious trouble. He tries to resist temptation, but we all know how that goes…
Logan, from what we find out from the way Jake sees him, is afraid. Jake may ignore this and think only of Logan as the horn dog he used to be, but that is to protect himself from being hurt again. If you read between the lines, it is very clear that Logan has changed and wants more. He never comes out and says this, because he is scared of rejection and getting hurt as much as Jake is. But he is a great guy and deserves to be loved just as much as Jake needs to love him.
If you like stories that are deeply emotional, if passion is important to you, and if two men reconnecting after years apart and trying to clear up their misunderstandings is your thing, then you will probably like this novella.
Jake is a very lonely, wounded and hesitant man when he returns to his home town after obtaining a degree and failing to get his doctorate. His lover dying in his presence after drunk driving has almost driven Jake into total isolation. Coming home as a teacher seems like a safe solution. But when years of suppressed feelings collide with the opportunity for finally being with the man Jake has loved for years, the results are explosive. Emotionally he is totally overwhelmed, physically he can barely control himself, and his thought process is in serious trouble. He tries to resist temptation, but we all know how that goes…
Logan, from what we find out from the way Jake sees him, is afraid. Jake may ignore this and think only of Logan as the horn dog he used to be, but that is to protect himself from being hurt again. If you read between the lines, it is very clear that Logan has changed and wants more. He never comes out and says this, because he is scared of rejection and getting hurt as much as Jake is. But he is a great guy and deserves to be loved just as much as Jake needs to love him.
If you like stories that are deeply emotional, if passion is important to you, and if two men reconnecting after years apart and trying to clear up their misunderstandings is your thing, then you will probably like this novella.
June 2, 2012
This review was posted at Under the Covers
The Story
This was a bit sad and bittersweet. Jake and Logan were roommates in college. Jake knew he was gay and a bit in love with Logan forever. Until he had to leave when he found Logan having sex with the one girl that could've been Jake's girlfriend if he had wanted girls. He moved away, started a life until everything came crashing down on him when the man he was in love with and had thought he would have a future with died. So he moves back home only to find that Logan wants him, has always wanted him. A second chance at love with the man he always dreamed of, even after the heartache.
The HEA
Even though at times I felt Logan was a bit pushy and needy, I still think the ending was appropriate. What maybe was a bit harder for me to understand was the sudden change in Jake from hurting because he didn't have his dead lover to full on yes I am in love with Logan. And even though the scene at the end was meant as healing for this to happen, it felt a bit out of place for me there.
The Writing
I love Mercy Celeste! This was not the first one I read and every time I say that I think the writing is great, it really flows and makes you feel in the story. I think she did great going into this much emotional background in such a short story. Of course it helped that the base for their connection and relationship was already there, at least for me. They had history together and that always helps me connect with a short story. Can't wait to read more from this author.
*ARC provided by publisher
The Story
This was a bit sad and bittersweet. Jake and Logan were roommates in college. Jake knew he was gay and a bit in love with Logan forever. Until he had to leave when he found Logan having sex with the one girl that could've been Jake's girlfriend if he had wanted girls. He moved away, started a life until everything came crashing down on him when the man he was in love with and had thought he would have a future with died. So he moves back home only to find that Logan wants him, has always wanted him. A second chance at love with the man he always dreamed of, even after the heartache.
The HEA
Even though at times I felt Logan was a bit pushy and needy, I still think the ending was appropriate. What maybe was a bit harder for me to understand was the sudden change in Jake from hurting because he didn't have his dead lover to full on yes I am in love with Logan. And even though the scene at the end was meant as healing for this to happen, it felt a bit out of place for me there.
The Writing
I love Mercy Celeste! This was not the first one I read and every time I say that I think the writing is great, it really flows and makes you feel in the story. I think she did great going into this much emotional background in such a short story. Of course it helped that the base for their connection and relationship was already there, at least for me. They had history together and that always helps me connect with a short story. Can't wait to read more from this author.
*ARC provided by publisher
December 17, 2012
4.0 Stars
Jake Benefield had a four year crush on his college roommate, Logan Riley. Despite being closer than thieves, Jake never told Logan he was gay let alone how he felt about him. Undeniably straight, Jake always felt that Logan was out of his reach. Eventually, Jake left to pursue a graduate degree at Princeton. There he fell in love with Michael but lost him in a fatal car accident. Home again, the last thing Jake expects is for Logan to confess his feelings for him. Midnight Clear is Logan and Jake's tale of love, loss, and new beginnings.
I really liked this story even though there isn't much "action." In fact, a lot of the plot involves sex. Not because there's a lot of it but because it's a long and heartfelt episode. Despite this apparent draw back, Mercy Celeste does a great job of conveying the emotions and angst of these best friends. Both Jake and Logan have difficulty with communicating their feelings and being vulnerable to one another. Their determination to try and their ultimate leap of faith is heart warming.
Bottom line: a short and satisfying read about love, loss, and new beginnings.
Jake Benefield had a four year crush on his college roommate, Logan Riley. Despite being closer than thieves, Jake never told Logan he was gay let alone how he felt about him. Undeniably straight, Jake always felt that Logan was out of his reach. Eventually, Jake left to pursue a graduate degree at Princeton. There he fell in love with Michael but lost him in a fatal car accident. Home again, the last thing Jake expects is for Logan to confess his feelings for him. Midnight Clear is Logan and Jake's tale of love, loss, and new beginnings.
I really liked this story even though there isn't much "action." In fact, a lot of the plot involves sex. Not because there's a lot of it but because it's a long and heartfelt episode. Despite this apparent draw back, Mercy Celeste does a great job of conveying the emotions and angst of these best friends. Both Jake and Logan have difficulty with communicating their feelings and being vulnerable to one another. Their determination to try and their ultimate leap of faith is heart warming.
Bottom line: a short and satisfying read about love, loss, and new beginnings.
June 26, 2015
Gawd, I love Mercy Celeste books. This one did not let me down, other than the fact that it was way too short and I would have loved more of Logan and Jake.
Jake is back in town after having left four years ago when he found his roommate Logan, the man he secretly loved, screwing his bestie, Daria, on the couch in their apartment. While away, he's completed his master's degree, fell in love, and lost that lover in a car crash. Now he's back to heal his broken heart and he's faced with a Logan who is putting the moves on him and he just doesn't know what to think.
The sex is hot, the emotions run the gamut from high to low and back again, and the two resolve the issue of whether or not this will be a one-night stand.
This is just what I needed to make my day. I highly recommend it to lovers of M/M romance. Great beach read or mood enhancer. You can't go wrong with this one.
Jake is back in town after having left four years ago when he found his roommate Logan, the man he secretly loved, screwing his bestie, Daria, on the couch in their apartment. While away, he's completed his master's degree, fell in love, and lost that lover in a car crash. Now he's back to heal his broken heart and he's faced with a Logan who is putting the moves on him and he just doesn't know what to think.
The sex is hot, the emotions run the gamut from high to low and back again, and the two resolve the issue of whether or not this will be a one-night stand.
This is just what I needed to make my day. I highly recommend it to lovers of M/M romance. Great beach read or mood enhancer. You can't go wrong with this one.
June 4, 2012
I have mixed emotions about this short story. For my taste I would like it more, if the main storyline was better developed. The way Logan choose to admit his attraction and feelings for Jack, just didn't feel right. It was to rushed and was manly developed around LONG, LONG sex scene. But then, sure it was a deeply detailed scene, too. So it wasn't so bad after all.
June 24, 2012
Pleasant, short (1000 locations) story about a man recovering from the death of his partner and reuniting with his old best friend and secret crush . Approximately 50% sex, it was still romantic, sexy, and interesting. A bit melodramatic at times and a few minor nitpicks - but for the most part, I didn't care.
November 26, 2012
I couldn't really relate to the MCs, but - what a wonderful ending.
November 22, 2017
It was a second chance to finally confess their feelings for one another. As your typical Xmas book - it was really too short to have a lot of depth, but what was there was a super hot and had a sex scene that took up the bulk of the book. Yay Mercy Celeste those are my favourite kinds of book. ;)
June 6, 2017
Love this author. The characters have so much depth to them. I have enjoyed every one that I've read. Not just fluff and sex but true stories.
August 1, 2013
First, let's explore what Need You Now by Mercy Celeste is not.
1. It is not a full length novel--there is no massive storyline; instead this is a snapshot--a glimpse into the ongoing story of two men who have secretly loved each other for years.
2. It is not a ghost story--yes it does have remembrances and even visions of a lost love. Jake's former partner, Michael, does figure into this story that is all about letting go and learning to trust one's heart again--but he is not a ghost per se--rather a fragile memory that needs to be released in order for Jake to go on living.
3. It is not a gay or out for you story. Logan is bisexual, out and proud, and only regrets the fact that he pursued so much mindless sex with too many partners in the attempt to put to rest his secret longing for his former college roommate, Jake.
4. Finally, it is not a "let me save you cause I have my life all together" kind of love story. No, this is a story of two men who mutually save one another from a life of loneliness and deep yearning. Two men who finally look each other in the eye and put aside their fears of rejection and embrace each other in a love that has lived in the shadows for far too many years.
Need You Now is a beautifully written story of love--love that has hidden and languished while other life events have intervened. Logan has been waiting--waiting for Jake to admit to him that which he suspects--that he was gay; waiting for Jake to throw just one glance--one loving look his way so that he could show his friend how very much he has wanted him in his life, by his side.
Jake, after suffering in silence, witnessing his friend having sex with Darla, his other best friend, and then later losing a partner to a hideous accident for which he blames himself, finds that he cannot even stand to be in the same room as Logan. For you see, his feelings--his love for Logan have never really died--they have simply been forced away as a means for Jake to survive.
They come together in an explosion of lust and longing marked by confessions and endless revelations that will have you gasping in amazement and blushing at the heat of their encounter. The sex...hotter than hot. The love...stunning beyond imagination. The story...one of the best I have ever read.
But remember this is a taste--a tease--a mere few seconds of two lives finally colliding at just the right time in order for their love to finally ignite. This is a must read for any of you who simply want to see two men who have lived in confusion and moments of great despair finally find their happily ever after.
1. It is not a full length novel--there is no massive storyline; instead this is a snapshot--a glimpse into the ongoing story of two men who have secretly loved each other for years.
2. It is not a ghost story--yes it does have remembrances and even visions of a lost love. Jake's former partner, Michael, does figure into this story that is all about letting go and learning to trust one's heart again--but he is not a ghost per se--rather a fragile memory that needs to be released in order for Jake to go on living.
3. It is not a gay or out for you story. Logan is bisexual, out and proud, and only regrets the fact that he pursued so much mindless sex with too many partners in the attempt to put to rest his secret longing for his former college roommate, Jake.
4. Finally, it is not a "let me save you cause I have my life all together" kind of love story. No, this is a story of two men who mutually save one another from a life of loneliness and deep yearning. Two men who finally look each other in the eye and put aside their fears of rejection and embrace each other in a love that has lived in the shadows for far too many years.
Need You Now is a beautifully written story of love--love that has hidden and languished while other life events have intervened. Logan has been waiting--waiting for Jake to admit to him that which he suspects--that he was gay; waiting for Jake to throw just one glance--one loving look his way so that he could show his friend how very much he has wanted him in his life, by his side.
Jake, after suffering in silence, witnessing his friend having sex with Darla, his other best friend, and then later losing a partner to a hideous accident for which he blames himself, finds that he cannot even stand to be in the same room as Logan. For you see, his feelings--his love for Logan have never really died--they have simply been forced away as a means for Jake to survive.
They come together in an explosion of lust and longing marked by confessions and endless revelations that will have you gasping in amazement and blushing at the heat of their encounter. The sex...hotter than hot. The love...stunning beyond imagination. The story...one of the best I have ever read.
But remember this is a taste--a tease--a mere few seconds of two lives finally colliding at just the right time in order for their love to finally ignite. This is a must read for any of you who simply want to see two men who have lived in confusion and moments of great despair finally find their happily ever after.
September 27, 2015
This was a bit sad and bittersweet. Jake and Logan were roommates in college. Jake knew he was gay and a bit in love with Logan forever. Until he had to leave when he found Logan having sex with the one girl that could've been Jake's girlfriend if he had wanted girls. He moved away, started a life until everything came crashing down on him when the man he was in love with and had thought he would have a future with died. So he moves back home only to find that Logan wants him, has always wanted him. A second chance at love with the man he always dreamed of, even after the heartache.
The HEA
Even though at times I felt Logan was a bit pushy and needy, I still think the ending was appropriate. What maybe was a bit harder for me to understand was the sudden change in Jake from hurting because he didn't have his dead lover to full on yes I am in love with Logan. And even though the scene at the end was meant as healing for this to happen, it felt a bit out of place for me there.
The Writing
I love Mercy Celeste! This was not the first one I read and every time I say that I think the writing is great, it really flows and makes you feel in the story. I think she did great going into this much emotional background in such a short story. Of course it helped that the base for their connection and relationship was already there, at least for me. They had history together and that always helps me connect with a short story. Can't wait to read more from this author.
*ARC provided by publisher
Reviewed by Francesca
❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
November 5, 2013
Please leave comments on Pattycake's 4 sweet pea review at http://mrsconditreadsbooks.com/index....
“Logan, why is this about you? Can’t it be about me? Maybe I just wanted to slowly step back into my life here. Not that I had a life here. I had your life and Darla’s life and every-damn-body’s life but mine here. But I came back here.”
After Jake Benefield walks in on his best friend Logan Riley having sex with Jake’s galpal Darla, Jake realizes that he has to let go of the crush he’s had on Logan for four years and move on. Years later, Jake is coming back after a drunken car accident costs him any chance of a doctorate, his boyfriend Michael, and his dreams of a future with him. All Jake wants to do is ease back into life in his old town, but Logan has other ideas. He corners Jake after a welcome-back party that Jake really didn’t want to attend, so he could clear up old misunderstandings and to let Jake know how he had truly felt all those years ago. He wants to start a relationship with Jake, but Jake is hesitant about risking their friendship. Will it work out? Only time will tell.
This is a character driven story about crushes, loss, misunderstandings, hope, new beginnings, and chances to rekindle old feelings. The backstory fills in any blanks, and the sex is definitely enough to steam up the page! I love how the author is able to skillfully pack all of the emotions, angst, and hope of a much longer story into this one. The story has a beautiful HEA ending, so if you’re looking for a quick, but VERY satisfying read, then this is a book you should definitely check out
“Logan, why is this about you? Can’t it be about me? Maybe I just wanted to slowly step back into my life here. Not that I had a life here. I had your life and Darla’s life and every-damn-body’s life but mine here. But I came back here.”
After Jake Benefield walks in on his best friend Logan Riley having sex with Jake’s galpal Darla, Jake realizes that he has to let go of the crush he’s had on Logan for four years and move on. Years later, Jake is coming back after a drunken car accident costs him any chance of a doctorate, his boyfriend Michael, and his dreams of a future with him. All Jake wants to do is ease back into life in his old town, but Logan has other ideas. He corners Jake after a welcome-back party that Jake really didn’t want to attend, so he could clear up old misunderstandings and to let Jake know how he had truly felt all those years ago. He wants to start a relationship with Jake, but Jake is hesitant about risking their friendship. Will it work out? Only time will tell.
This is a character driven story about crushes, loss, misunderstandings, hope, new beginnings, and chances to rekindle old feelings. The backstory fills in any blanks, and the sex is definitely enough to steam up the page! I love how the author is able to skillfully pack all of the emotions, angst, and hope of a much longer story into this one. The story has a beautiful HEA ending, so if you’re looking for a quick, but VERY satisfying read, then this is a book you should definitely check out
June 15, 2012
Interesting read about 2 guys who who were friends but didn't communicate everything they felt for one another to one another for their own reasons - 1 for fear of losing the friendship, the other too busy sexing anything that breathed to do anything. In the end their friendship did suffer as one was hurt and moved away.
Jake comes back to town after his partner, Michael, died 13 months earlier, there are some touching moments briefly centred around Michael. Logan is glad his former best friend, Jake, is back. He didn't know about Michael, but now he has matured, knows who he is, who he wants...Jake. Timing is everything, and sometimes the first time around can be the wrong time.
The book wasn't fully developed in a few ways, Darla, for example, was a strange, underdeveloped character, and Logan's all encompassing declarations towards Jake required some suspension of disbelief, given the time spent away from one another, BUT, countering that, I loved the guys and they were hot together. There was a sad undercurrent throughout, which felt appropriate given both MC's past experiences with people they (had) loved, the uncertainty they faced about the relationship; but the ending was optimistic and nice. The sexual tension was high and the primary sex scene was well written and erotic.
If you like friends to lovers, second chances, slow builds, and some hot sex with nice characters, then Need You Now fills a niche nicely.
Jake comes back to town after his partner, Michael, died 13 months earlier, there are some touching moments briefly centred around Michael. Logan is glad his former best friend, Jake, is back. He didn't know about Michael, but now he has matured, knows who he is, who he wants...Jake. Timing is everything, and sometimes the first time around can be the wrong time.
The book wasn't fully developed in a few ways, Darla, for example, was a strange, underdeveloped character, and Logan's all encompassing declarations towards Jake required some suspension of disbelief, given the time spent away from one another, BUT, countering that, I loved the guys and they were hot together. There was a sad undercurrent throughout, which felt appropriate given both MC's past experiences with people they (had) loved, the uncertainty they faced about the relationship; but the ending was optimistic and nice. The sexual tension was high and the primary sex scene was well written and erotic.
If you like friends to lovers, second chances, slow builds, and some hot sex with nice characters, then Need You Now fills a niche nicely.
October 2, 2014
Jake Benefield returns home after a longtime away after seeing his best friend and love interest Logan Riley screwing a female (best)friend on their couch. Still grieving for the lost of his lover in a drunken driving accident, Jake is a bit loss and trying to pull his life back together. Logan not knowing about any of this tried to bring him back into the fold and throws him a party. Afterwards Logan asks him to stay so he can show him something. They get to talking and discover air out feelings that have always been there between them.
I thought this was a pretty good friends to lovers story. There were some parts that I wished there was a bit more tension and I wished had just gone a bit differently. Jake's subconscious seeing his dead lover was a bit much for me. I did think it was nice that his ex-lover approved of him moving on but I felt it all just fell together too easily for Logan and Jake. I did like getting snippets of Jake and his ex. It was nice seeing Jake and Logan talk and airing out that information about their sexuality, relationship and just reading about how much their lives have changed in those four or so years they were separated.
I thought this was a pretty good friends to lovers story. There were some parts that I wished there was a bit more tension and I wished had just gone a bit differently. Jake's subconscious seeing his dead lover was a bit much for me. I did think it was nice that his ex-lover approved of him moving on but I felt it all just fell together too easily for Logan and Jake. I did like getting snippets of Jake and his ex. It was nice seeing Jake and Logan talk and airing out that information about their sexuality, relationship and just reading about how much their lives have changed in those four or so years they were separated.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews