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Learning to Love #2
Evan & Daniel
Learning to Book Two Evan Wainwright’s good relationship karma is paying off. After helping his friends, Sean and Michael, discover their sexuality—and each other—Evan meets the love of his life. Their new housemate, Daniel Collier, is everything Evan could want in a boyfriend. Now if Evan can just work out why Daniel panics whenever Evan tries to get close. Daniel has finally met his soul mate. Evan is perfect for him—at least, he would be, if Daniel could find the courage to overcome his demons and leave the past behind. But his mental scars prove difficult to heal, and Daniel struggles with his heart, even though it tells him Evan is the one. Life in the student house goes on despite the usual a wedding, a trial for a hate crime, a gay couple with exhibitionist tendencies. Through it all, Evan and Daniel remind themselves they are meant to be together. But until Daniel trusts Evan with the secret that’s tearing his family apart, “meant to be” is on hold.
332 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 19, 2013
8 people are currently reading
226 people want to read
About the author
K.C. Wells
160 books1,844 followersK.C. Wells lives on an island off the south coast of the UK, surrounded by natural beauty. She writes about men who love men, and can’t even contemplate a life that doesn’t include writing.
The rainbow rose tattoo on her back with the words 'Love is Love' and 'Love Wins' is her way of hoisting a flag. She plans to be writing about men in love - be it sweet and slow, hot or kinky - for a long while to come.
If you want to follow her exploits, you can sign up for her monthly newsletter: http://eepurl.com/cNKHlT
You can stalk – er, find – her in the following places:
E-mail: k.c.wells@btinternet.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KCWellsWorld
Twitter: @K_C_Wells
Website: https://www.kcwellswrites.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/k.c.wells
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/k-c-w...
And for those who like things a little hotter?
There's KC's alter ego, Tantalus, who writes gay erotica.
The rainbow rose tattoo on her back with the words 'Love is Love' and 'Love Wins' is her way of hoisting a flag. She plans to be writing about men in love - be it sweet and slow, hot or kinky - for a long while to come.
If you want to follow her exploits, you can sign up for her monthly newsletter: http://eepurl.com/cNKHlT
You can stalk – er, find – her in the following places:
E-mail: k.c.wells@btinternet.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KCWellsWorld
Twitter: @K_C_Wells
Website: https://www.kcwellswrites.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/k.c.wells
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/k-c-w...
And for those who like things a little hotter?
There's KC's alter ego, Tantalus, who writes gay erotica.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
May 8, 2015
Second part in the Learning to Love trilogy featuring Evan and Daniel. 4 stars
Well, I don't know if it's the house the guys are staying in or something in the water, but they're at it like bunnies all the time...sorry I'm talking about Sean & Michael...our married couple, not Evan and Daniel. Evan would like to be at it like bunnies I'm sure, but something about Daniel's past is holding their relationship back. I did guess what this was, it wasn't difficult, but that didn't make any more pleasant to read about I'm afraid.
This story continued on where book 1 left off, Michael having survived his hate beating and now the guys responsible are awaiting their turn in court, Evan still randy as hell but reluctant to press Daniel in view of what he perceives the problem to be. Daniel talks to Michael and Sean, and of course his therapist, and eventually tells Evan what happened in his past, and how he is taking steps to lessen the impact the has on his future with Evan, because yes, they've definitely got a future. Unfortunately, things are not all sweetness and light now...it would appear that , and in view of his trauma, Daniel reports things to the police (God, a very sympathetic detective, who happens to be the father of one of the guys in the next book in the series Josh), and his mum goes berserk, accusing Daniel of telling lies, of trying to ruin her marriage...stupid cow!!
I'll leave this review here, and get started on book 3 LtL : Josh and Chris.
February 25, 2014
2.5 Stars
I loved Evan. (And, BTW, the was so not his "fault" so I take umbrage that Sean and Michael accepted his "apology!" Why the f--- did Evan apologize?!? Last I counted, there had been three consenting adults in that room AND they'd talked about it - at length - beforehand. *sigh* But I digress.) Okay, I'm back! Daniel was okay. He kinda grew on me, especially after I met his brother. Sean and Michael were ... well, Sean and Michael. Which brings me to my biggest gripe(s):
Once again, this story was just. Too. Much.
First, there was way too much coddling. Let me hold him and rock him gently. No, let me hold him and stroke his hair. WTF!? These are supposed to be grown men not a three-year-old with a boo-boo. Second, there was way too much longing looks of love and adoration ... amongst all the roommates! I mean, get serious! These guys kiss each other on the lips, cheeks, foreheads, and hands every chance they get. They hug and hold each other like nobody's business. Who are these guys?!? Constant touches, loving gazes, and verbal affirmations about how hot each other looks? Um, I think not. These "guys" were more like a club of teenage girls.
Bottom line: Ugh, sorry, but no book 3 for me. This one was just too much. And not in a good way. *sigh* I can't go on ... at least not right now.
I loved Evan. (And, BTW, the was so not his "fault" so I take umbrage that Sean and Michael accepted his "apology!" Why the f--- did Evan apologize?!? Last I counted, there had been three consenting adults in that room AND they'd talked about it - at length - beforehand. *sigh* But I digress.) Okay, I'm back! Daniel was okay. He kinda grew on me, especially after I met his brother. Sean and Michael were ... well, Sean and Michael. Which brings me to my biggest gripe(s):
Once again, this story was just. Too. Much.
First, there was way too much coddling. Let me hold him and rock him gently. No, let me hold him and stroke his hair. WTF!? These are supposed to be grown men not a three-year-old with a boo-boo. Second, there was way too much longing looks of love and adoration ... amongst all the roommates! I mean, get serious! These guys kiss each other on the lips, cheeks, foreheads, and hands every chance they get. They hug and hold each other like nobody's business. Who are these guys?!? Constant touches, loving gazes, and verbal affirmations about how hot each other looks? Um, I think not. These "guys" were more like a club of teenage girls.
Bottom line: Ugh, sorry, but no book 3 for me. This one was just too much. And not in a good way. *sigh* I can't go on ... at least not right now.
April 8, 2013
3.5 stars
While this is titled Evan & Daniel it is every bit as much about the two main characters from the first in the series, Michael and Sean, as it is those two.
This is a nice (though long) story about one man whose secrets are preventing him from moving on and the man who saves him.
Full review with spoilers can be found at On Top Down Under Book Reviews.
This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for a fair and honest review.
While this is titled Evan & Daniel it is every bit as much about the two main characters from the first in the series, Michael and Sean, as it is those two.
This is a nice (though long) story about one man whose secrets are preventing him from moving on and the man who saves him.
Full review with spoilers can be found at On Top Down Under Book Reviews.
This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for a fair and honest review.
May 6, 2013
This absolutely wonderful story takes a sensitive, but no holds barred look at the tragedy of hate crimes, the devastation of sexual abuse, and the heartbreaking struggles to overcome the physical, mental, and emotional scars that they leave behind. With a smoothly flowing, character driven plot, the characters show a loving, quiet courage and support to each other that absolutely jumps off the page. The backstory from the first book continues into this one without overwhelming with a bunch of unnecessary detail. The sex in this story is hot, passionate, and filled with so much love, that I felt it myself. The author's style of writing is poetic, eloquent, concise, and demonstrations a sensitive, in-depth knowledge of just how devastating the aftermath of hate crimes, and sexual abuse can be. It makes the MCs HEA ending that much sweeter for me. I thoroughly enjoyed this absolutely beautiful story and would DEFINITELY recommend it to everyone!
Trish's complete 5 sweet pea review appears at http://mrsconditreadsbooks.com/index.... on May 7, 2013.
Trish's complete 5 sweet pea review appears at http://mrsconditreadsbooks.com/index.... on May 7, 2013.
June 28, 2013
Book 1 in K.C. Wells series learning to love was good, great even. Book 2, Evan & Daniel, rolled all of the brilliance of book one and expanded it to make a phenomenal read. Sean and Michael take over the role of support and use everything we learned from Evan in book one. The couple grow in this book and make you love them even more.
Then it comes to Evan and Daniel. Daniel is such a well-rounded character. He is certainly a favourite. I felt from the first moment that he would end up capturing hearts. His shy nature and past experience just make him so much more. His growth throughout the book is a journey worth reading.
Don’t get me wrong Evan was great too. The emotion the pair have is wonderful.
My only real complaint is lack of sleep – and as I am half way through book 3 I don’t really see this changing tonight.
August 26, 2013
Considering I usually like my characters and my stories with a little more drama, I surprised myself by wanting to read this second installment in the 'Learning to Love' series. I liked the first book, very much, and as I stated in my review, it was exceptionally sweet and somewhat predictable. So why, you may ask, would I want to read more? Well, for one thing I despise not reading all the books in a series. I'm a little too anal retentive to not finish a series. And, another thing, I liked Evan a lot from book one and I was betting this story might be a little edgier and, perhaps, have more angst and drama. I wanted to see if the author might break these characters out of some of their cookie cutter molds they've been written as and do something shocking.
Evan initially came across as a bit of a twink, always with the ready wit, the hugs, the kisses on the cheek, and the 'honey' and 'sweetie' forms of address for everyone. There's so much more depth to him, though. Evan has been a bit of a man-whore and he is most definitely out and proud. He doesn't want the one-offs anymore, he wants what his housemates, Sean and Michael, found. A deep, abiding, and committed love with a man who will cherish him always.
Daniel is a shy, sweet, unassuming young man with a painful past. He has some deep scars from his childhood and they are holding him back from being able to have the full relationship with Evan that Daniel so desperately wants. He knows that he will need to tell Evan the truth about himself, but he's also terrified that maybe Evan won't still love him afterwards.
Evan and Daniel's love story is different from Sean and Michael's. The first couple dealt with discovering they were gay and all the trauma that can follow that. Evan and Daniel are dealing with creating a lasting relationship in the midst of childhood trauma and the effect that finally reporting it to the police can cause. This love story seemed deeper to me and I liked it even better than the first book.
This story was fairly long but it also dealt with a lot of issues and continued to have equal representation within the story by Sean and Michael. The wedding of Sean and Michael plus the trial for the hate crime committed against Michael along with slowly introducing two new characters that are to be the focus of the next story, Josh and Chris, filled the book to overflowing. There is considerable angst and drama in this installment and I'm constantly surprised by how perfectly all the characters seem to respond to all the trauma. It was also interesting to note the sexual situations all four men got up to together with there seemingly being no issues amongst them afterwards.
It is a very good, sweet, but with a little more drama, love story that I enjoyed. Just remember that it is quite long so don't expect to be done with it for awhile.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Evan initially came across as a bit of a twink, always with the ready wit, the hugs, the kisses on the cheek, and the 'honey' and 'sweetie' forms of address for everyone. There's so much more depth to him, though. Evan has been a bit of a man-whore and he is most definitely out and proud. He doesn't want the one-offs anymore, he wants what his housemates, Sean and Michael, found. A deep, abiding, and committed love with a man who will cherish him always.
Daniel is a shy, sweet, unassuming young man with a painful past. He has some deep scars from his childhood and they are holding him back from being able to have the full relationship with Evan that Daniel so desperately wants. He knows that he will need to tell Evan the truth about himself, but he's also terrified that maybe Evan won't still love him afterwards.
Evan and Daniel's love story is different from Sean and Michael's. The first couple dealt with discovering they were gay and all the trauma that can follow that. Evan and Daniel are dealing with creating a lasting relationship in the midst of childhood trauma and the effect that finally reporting it to the police can cause. This love story seemed deeper to me and I liked it even better than the first book.
This story was fairly long but it also dealt with a lot of issues and continued to have equal representation within the story by Sean and Michael. The wedding of Sean and Michael plus the trial for the hate crime committed against Michael along with slowly introducing two new characters that are to be the focus of the next story, Josh and Chris, filled the book to overflowing. There is considerable angst and drama in this installment and I'm constantly surprised by how perfectly all the characters seem to respond to all the trauma. It was also interesting to note the sexual situations all four men got up to together with there seemingly being no issues amongst them afterwards.
It is a very good, sweet, but with a little more drama, love story that I enjoyed. Just remember that it is quite long so don't expect to be done with it for awhile.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Read
January 24, 2023This book was similar to the first book, with the characters being very similar in personality and overly sweet. The behaviour of all the young men was not quite believable.
However, an interesting story that tells the new tale involving Daniel but continues the storyline of Michael and Evan. The couple from the original book play a large role in this story too. 3.5 stars.
However, an interesting story that tells the new tale involving Daniel but continues the storyline of Michael and Evan. The couple from the original book play a large role in this story too. 3.5 stars.
December 2, 2015
I find it very difficult to rate this book, as I really enjoyed the plot and the story behind the MCs. However, the frequent kisses, touches and overly sweet interactions between most of the male characters of the book made the story somehow unrealistic. It was way over the top and I caught myself rolling my eyes many times. As I liked the idea behind it I will give 3 stars to this story.
April 19, 2013
3.5 Stars. http://joyfullyjay.com/2013/04/review...
In the first Learning to Love book, Michael and Sean explore their sexuality and each other with help from their roommate and best friend, Evan. Now Evan is getting his own story, one which follows his new relationship with Daniel, who moved into the house at the end of the last book. They are attracted to each other and are headed toward a committed relationship, but the physical aspect of being together sends Daniel into a panic, and Evan needs to remain patient and figure out what is causing such a reaction in his lover.
In the meantime, newlyweds Michael and Sean are happy and horny. Pretty much all the time. Since Evan had a little bit of a fling with the duo before he realized that, unless he wanted to have his heart broken, he needed to stick to friendship only, they all have a history together that plays a big part in this story. All of the housemates are a very friendly, affectionate bunch and support each other completely. Michael is in the middle of a hate crime trial following his beating the previous year. Daniel is struggling with some issues none of the rest of them can begin to understand. But through it all, their friendship and love for one another is what keeps each of them grounded.
If you’ve read the first Learning to Love book, you know pretty much how this book is going to go as well. Wells sticks to a formulaic pattern. The only thing that has really changed here is the names. We have two young boys (both only 19 years old), who are loving and outwardly affectionate and use a constant stream of endearments, including sweetheart, honey, and love, with each other and their friends. They are completely committed to each other from the beginning, though there is a major obstacle standing in their way. They work through the issue with the help of their friends and, at the ripe old age of barely 20, decide they have found what they want for the rest of their lives.
I’m not denying that it’s sweet to see these lovable boys find each other. Perhaps the reason these four (and a couple of strays they pick up along the way, as a setup for Book 3) migrate toward one another is because they share such abundantly loving sensibilities. The problem I have here is that they are all the same. They come from the same precious cookie-cutter mold, so that it actually becomes difficult to tell them apart.
My favorite parts of the book are when someone has the gall to do something a little different from the others. In one case, Daniel shows his dominating side and commands the three boys through a steamy sexual encounter. In fact, and I know I’ll have some dissenters here, I really enjoyed the sexual interaction between the four boys. Maybe it’s too taboo for some, but for me, it was something different, that cut through the monotony of one sex scene after another.
Be warned that this book has a lot of sex. Those of you who are looking for a lot of sex will be sure to come away satisfied. But it was too much for me. The major problem with this book, and most others that are well over 300 pages, is that it needs to much, much shorter. Cut down to 200 pages, I think this would’ve been a much tighter, much more interesting story. With the addition of another 130 pages, it inevitably becomes monotonous, especially when we are dealing with a group of such similar characters.
This book is highly romantic. It deals with some truly sad, horrific situations, but it’s the power of love that gets them through it all. I like this group of boys and want to believe that such a sensitive caring bunch exists in real life. I just want them to break out of their molds and do something bold and unexpected. I want them to become individuals, instead of replications of each other. I’m hoping in the next book, Wells throws the formula out the window and gives us something new and exciting. The framework is there. Let’s hope the next couple — Josh and Chris — are the ones to do it.
In the first Learning to Love book, Michael and Sean explore their sexuality and each other with help from their roommate and best friend, Evan. Now Evan is getting his own story, one which follows his new relationship with Daniel, who moved into the house at the end of the last book. They are attracted to each other and are headed toward a committed relationship, but the physical aspect of being together sends Daniel into a panic, and Evan needs to remain patient and figure out what is causing such a reaction in his lover.
In the meantime, newlyweds Michael and Sean are happy and horny. Pretty much all the time. Since Evan had a little bit of a fling with the duo before he realized that, unless he wanted to have his heart broken, he needed to stick to friendship only, they all have a history together that plays a big part in this story. All of the housemates are a very friendly, affectionate bunch and support each other completely. Michael is in the middle of a hate crime trial following his beating the previous year. Daniel is struggling with some issues none of the rest of them can begin to understand. But through it all, their friendship and love for one another is what keeps each of them grounded.
If you’ve read the first Learning to Love book, you know pretty much how this book is going to go as well. Wells sticks to a formulaic pattern. The only thing that has really changed here is the names. We have two young boys (both only 19 years old), who are loving and outwardly affectionate and use a constant stream of endearments, including sweetheart, honey, and love, with each other and their friends. They are completely committed to each other from the beginning, though there is a major obstacle standing in their way. They work through the issue with the help of their friends and, at the ripe old age of barely 20, decide they have found what they want for the rest of their lives.
I’m not denying that it’s sweet to see these lovable boys find each other. Perhaps the reason these four (and a couple of strays they pick up along the way, as a setup for Book 3) migrate toward one another is because they share such abundantly loving sensibilities. The problem I have here is that they are all the same. They come from the same precious cookie-cutter mold, so that it actually becomes difficult to tell them apart.
My favorite parts of the book are when someone has the gall to do something a little different from the others. In one case, Daniel shows his dominating side and commands the three boys through a steamy sexual encounter. In fact, and I know I’ll have some dissenters here, I really enjoyed the sexual interaction between the four boys. Maybe it’s too taboo for some, but for me, it was something different, that cut through the monotony of one sex scene after another.
Be warned that this book has a lot of sex. Those of you who are looking for a lot of sex will be sure to come away satisfied. But it was too much for me. The major problem with this book, and most others that are well over 300 pages, is that it needs to much, much shorter. Cut down to 200 pages, I think this would’ve been a much tighter, much more interesting story. With the addition of another 130 pages, it inevitably becomes monotonous, especially when we are dealing with a group of such similar characters.
This book is highly romantic. It deals with some truly sad, horrific situations, but it’s the power of love that gets them through it all. I like this group of boys and want to believe that such a sensitive caring bunch exists in real life. I just want them to break out of their molds and do something bold and unexpected. I want them to become individuals, instead of replications of each other. I’m hoping in the next book, Wells throws the formula out the window and gives us something new and exciting. The framework is there. Let’s hope the next couple — Josh and Chris — are the ones to do it.
September 3, 2013
This is going to be short and hopefully somewhat sweet.
I liked it, I really did. However, I couldn't get on board with a few things.
I am glad that Evan found out Daniel's name and used it more. He's also upgraded from sweetie to honey ;) Pet names weren't too over the top, but the kisses on the cheeks were.
I am not sure if I am going to jump into the 3rd book right away, but I will read Josh's story.
I liked it, I really did. However, I couldn't get on board with a few things.
I am glad that Evan found out Daniel's name and used it more. He's also upgraded from sweetie to honey ;) Pet names weren't too over the top, but the kisses on the cheeks were.
I am not sure if I am going to jump into the 3rd book right away, but I will read Josh's story.
February 25, 2014
Sweet and sexy romance. Slow and gentle paced romance with two people meant for each other. Tackles a very serious issue sensitively. If you loved the characters from the first book you're in luck because they're very prominent in this story too. We also meet the characters from the third book - looking forward to reading their story. All in all a lovely romantic tale of true love - what's not to love!
The only reason this is not a 5 star like the first book is that we don't get their first meeting and the initial feelings that develop from their point of view. It's seen through the eyes of Sean and Michael in the first book. I feel the book does lack something because of this. But I do still love it.
The only reason this is not a 5 star like the first book is that we don't get their first meeting and the initial feelings that develop from their point of view. It's seen through the eyes of Sean and Michael in the first book. I feel the book does lack something because of this. But I do still love it.
September 22, 2014
These characters made this book very difficult to finish. I often forgot they were men, there was so much crying and emotional bullshit. I had to skip A LOT of this book. When I read an m/m book, I wanna read about two freaken men and not a bunch of blubbering chicks.
March 25, 2013
I really enjoyed the story of Evan and Daniel and especially enjoyed the author letting us revisit Sean and Michael (and not just a little bit either). I look forward to the next book!
December 17, 2014
I love this world that KC has made here. I love the flow of this book, it's a smooth read. I'm so happy Evan as gotten his happy ever after. Looking forward to the next book!
November 25, 2014
and another book that I loved!
February 25, 2018
This story is filled with drama, danger, love, and healing. Daniel is trying to overcome so much and there is still some ongoing drama with others in the house. New friendships are also forming. We got to see a very mature and patient Evan. This was a wonderful story of not letting the bad guys win.
June 10, 2013
Rating: 3.75 stars
Read the original review here.
Review Summary: This was a good book that had a few issues that kept it from being great; a sweet, heartfelt story of love and friendship.
Caution: Here be (possible) spoilers. It would be hard to explain what worked and what didn’t without revealing some possibly spoiler-y information. Read at your own risk!
Review
This is the second book in KC Wells’ Learning to Love series, about a group of students living in a house together in Manchester. Two of the housemates, Michael and Sean, fell in love in the first book. Learning to Love: Evan and Daniel starts out with all of the housemates coming together for Michael and Sean’s wedding. Evan is good friends with the couple although they shared a brief sexual encounter in the first book.
Read the original review here.
Review Summary: This was a good book that had a few issues that kept it from being great; a sweet, heartfelt story of love and friendship.
Caution: Here be (possible) spoilers. It would be hard to explain what worked and what didn’t without revealing some possibly spoiler-y information. Read at your own risk!
Review
This is the second book in KC Wells’ Learning to Love series, about a group of students living in a house together in Manchester. Two of the housemates, Michael and Sean, fell in love in the first book. Learning to Love: Evan and Daniel starts out with all of the housemates coming together for Michael and Sean’s wedding. Evan is good friends with the couple although they shared a brief sexual encounter in the first book.
August 28, 2018
Too much sobbing. Too much of everyone kissing on the lips. Not a drop of testosterone between them. SMH.,, Life’s too short.... DNF’d at 24%
August 27, 2014
REVIEWED FOR PRISM BOOK ALLIANCE
I think Evan is my favourite character in this series. He is sexy and sweet with a great sense of humour and has a wicked side of naughty when he needs it. He was also exactly what Daniel needed to help him on his road to recovery.
This is the second book in the series and is similar yet different. Daniel is the new housemate and it is very quickly clear that he has suffered abuse in his childhood. It is also quite obvious from the start what sort of abuse this was but when he finally opens up it is a harrowing story. Evan is there all the way for him along with Michael and Sean and again this book compels you with its sense of friendship and the support these young boys give each other.
With counselling for the past year since he arrived at University Daniel has made a lot of progress. His panic attacks have lessened and he is desperately trying to move his life forward and achieve what he sees as ‘normal’. He is enthralled by Evan but also terrified.
His world comes crashing down when he receives a letter from home and he has to face the biggest dilemma of his life. With the support of Evan and the other boys he has to find the strength to face his demons head on but first he has to find the courage to tell Evan the full story and his biggest fear it that Evan will look at him differently or turn away from him.
With all this going on we are still treated to the shenanigans of Michael and Sean who are still very much in love and just married. Their sex sessions are becoming legendary in the house with their stamina and noise! They are also trying to calm and support Michael as the trial for his bashing looms.
Evan has to grow up a lot in a few short months to become the friend and lover that Daniel needs. He does this admirably and proves himself to be a strong compassionate young man. I loved watching Daniel slowly heal but there was certainly no quick fix given, it was harsh and painful and he had to work for a every little bit of progress.
There is a lot going on in this second book. It may be Evan and Daniel’s story but their lives are wrapped up with their friends and it feels more like a story about a large extended family. We are watching them grow up, face their challenges and fears and fall in love for the first time. The overriding feeling in the series so far is friendship and it leaves you with a warm feeling and very hopeful!
I think Evan is my favourite character in this series. He is sexy and sweet with a great sense of humour and has a wicked side of naughty when he needs it. He was also exactly what Daniel needed to help him on his road to recovery.
This is the second book in the series and is similar yet different. Daniel is the new housemate and it is very quickly clear that he has suffered abuse in his childhood. It is also quite obvious from the start what sort of abuse this was but when he finally opens up it is a harrowing story. Evan is there all the way for him along with Michael and Sean and again this book compels you with its sense of friendship and the support these young boys give each other.
With counselling for the past year since he arrived at University Daniel has made a lot of progress. His panic attacks have lessened and he is desperately trying to move his life forward and achieve what he sees as ‘normal’. He is enthralled by Evan but also terrified.
His world comes crashing down when he receives a letter from home and he has to face the biggest dilemma of his life. With the support of Evan and the other boys he has to find the strength to face his demons head on but first he has to find the courage to tell Evan the full story and his biggest fear it that Evan will look at him differently or turn away from him.
With all this going on we are still treated to the shenanigans of Michael and Sean who are still very much in love and just married. Their sex sessions are becoming legendary in the house with their stamina and noise! They are also trying to calm and support Michael as the trial for his bashing looms.
Evan has to grow up a lot in a few short months to become the friend and lover that Daniel needs. He does this admirably and proves himself to be a strong compassionate young man. I loved watching Daniel slowly heal but there was certainly no quick fix given, it was harsh and painful and he had to work for a every little bit of progress.
There is a lot going on in this second book. It may be Evan and Daniel’s story but their lives are wrapped up with their friends and it feels more like a story about a large extended family. We are watching them grow up, face their challenges and fears and fall in love for the first time. The overriding feeling in the series so far is friendship and it leaves you with a warm feeling and very hopeful!
May 14, 2014
After reading the previous book I had a vague idea of what to expect, but K.C. Wells surprised me with the amount of emotions she brought in this installment. Maybe it was because of how intense Daniel story was or because I had enjoyed Evan so much in the previous installment, but I loved this story so much that the previous one in the series.
K.C. Wells brought about Evan and Daniels connection in a way that was believable. I don't think I could have overlooked an 'insta-love' in this story if she had gone that route. There were too many issues and emotions at play here for their relationship to brought about that way.
I loved Daniel. My heart went out to him immediately and although I didn't know his full story from the beginning I could understand were he was coming from. He tried so hard to move on and keep his emotions in check, so when he finally, finally let go it was a treat for me to read.
At first I thought that having Daniel paired with Evan was a mistake since they were so different. Kudos to K.C. Wells for proving me wrong! The way she went about bringing their personalities together showed how they complemented each other. Evan's care-free ways helped to draw Daniel out of his shell while Daniel's serious side anchored Evan and brought him down a notch or two. And their chemistry? You have to find out for yourself because it was that HOT. Their scenes were so very enjoyable and so very unexpected at times that I found myself grinning and sighing at times.
All in all, an amazing emotional tale about leaving your past behind and embracing the future that's ahead. A great addition to the series--I want more!
K.C. Wells brought about Evan and Daniels connection in a way that was believable. I don't think I could have overlooked an 'insta-love' in this story if she had gone that route. There were too many issues and emotions at play here for their relationship to brought about that way.
I loved Daniel. My heart went out to him immediately and although I didn't know his full story from the beginning I could understand were he was coming from. He tried so hard to move on and keep his emotions in check, so when he finally, finally let go it was a treat for me to read.
At first I thought that having Daniel paired with Evan was a mistake since they were so different. Kudos to K.C. Wells for proving me wrong! The way she went about bringing their personalities together showed how they complemented each other. Evan's care-free ways helped to draw Daniel out of his shell while Daniel's serious side anchored Evan and brought him down a notch or two. And their chemistry? You have to find out for yourself because it was that HOT. Their scenes were so very enjoyable and so very unexpected at times that I found myself grinning and sighing at times.
All in all, an amazing emotional tale about leaving your past behind and embracing the future that's ahead. A great addition to the series--I want more!
October 24, 2014
The second installment of this series is just as good as the first. While the focus here is on Evan and new housemate Daniel's growing relationship, the storylines with Sean and Michael from the first book are continued. While enough information is given to follow along if you are just jumping in, I strongly suggest you read the first book before this one.
The book picks up with the 5 housemates on summer break, but together for Sean and Michael's wedding. Evan and Daniel's relationship is just beginning and Daniel has some serious issues that he is dealing with that are keeping him from being completely comfortable with Evan. He is also concerned about the younger brother he left at home when he came to university. Evan is very understanding and is willing to be whatever Daniel needs him to be. On top of all of this Michael is anticipating having to testify at the trial of the boys who assaulted him, when suddenly one of the men involved offers additional information that may help convict the attackers, himself included.
This installment is not just drama. There is still plenty of sex, and humor, especially with hot nurse Josh becoming a part of the group of friends, but most of all there is the friendship and unconditional love the men all share. I'm really looking forward to jumping right into Chris and Josh's story.
The book picks up with the 5 housemates on summer break, but together for Sean and Michael's wedding. Evan and Daniel's relationship is just beginning and Daniel has some serious issues that he is dealing with that are keeping him from being completely comfortable with Evan. He is also concerned about the younger brother he left at home when he came to university. Evan is very understanding and is willing to be whatever Daniel needs him to be. On top of all of this Michael is anticipating having to testify at the trial of the boys who assaulted him, when suddenly one of the men involved offers additional information that may help convict the attackers, himself included.
This installment is not just drama. There is still plenty of sex, and humor, especially with hot nurse Josh becoming a part of the group of friends, but most of all there is the friendship and unconditional love the men all share. I'm really looking forward to jumping right into Chris and Josh's story.
July 5, 2016
3.5 for the series
I read this entire series back to back as almost one long book. I'm not sure I would have enjoyed it as much had I not done it like that. Each individual book and its MCs were cute but the overall arc is what I enjoyed more. I have a soft spot for series that pull me into families of choice and this definitely did that. K.C. Wells has a certain knack for it which is why she is a favorite of mine. I can tell that this series was one of her earlier works. She has obviously grown a lot as a writer since, but her early work is still leagues above some things I've read by others. By the end of the series I truly believed these guys would be together as friends and family for life even though they were all so young to begin with.
I don't suggest any of these be read as standalones, I just don't think it would work, at least it wouldn't for me.
I read this entire series back to back as almost one long book. I'm not sure I would have enjoyed it as much had I not done it like that. Each individual book and its MCs were cute but the overall arc is what I enjoyed more. I have a soft spot for series that pull me into families of choice and this definitely did that. K.C. Wells has a certain knack for it which is why she is a favorite of mine. I can tell that this series was one of her earlier works. She has obviously grown a lot as a writer since, but her early work is still leagues above some things I've read by others. By the end of the series I truly believed these guys would be together as friends and family for life even though they were all so young to begin with.
I don't suggest any of these be read as standalones, I just don't think it would work, at least it wouldn't for me.
March 10, 2016
This is the second book of the series and deals with some major issues. Michael from the fist book is still dealing with the aftermaths of a hate crime and, the house is assigned a new roommate who has issues of his own.
Evan is immediately attracted to Daniel. This book like all the books in this series has a bit of the old instant love. Daniel is a victim of abuse and is in therapy. He has to navigate how to tell his mother, protect his little brother and share all of it with Evan. Evan for his part has to learn how to go slowly when navigating a sexual relationship with an abuse victim.
Evan is immediately attracted to Daniel. This book like all the books in this series has a bit of the old instant love. Daniel is a victim of abuse and is in therapy. He has to navigate how to tell his mother, protect his little brother and share all of it with Evan. Evan for his part has to learn how to go slowly when navigating a sexual relationship with an abuse victim.
August 16, 2014
This is the 2nd book in this series. This is Daniel and Evan's story. Daniel and Evan meet when Daniel comes to look at the room for rent, in the last part of Michael and Sean's book.
These books are okay I like the guys, but as I said in my review of Michael and Sean's book.. Are these guys or girls!? I know they are gay, but OMG.. Give them testosterone!! The terms of endearment, hugs, crying, and kissing.. Wow **insert eye roll**.
I liked Sean and Michaels book much better. I love Josh and will be reading his book. :)
These books are okay I like the guys, but as I said in my review of Michael and Sean's book.. Are these guys or girls!? I know they are gay, but OMG.. Give them testosterone!! The terms of endearment, hugs, crying, and kissing.. Wow **insert eye roll**.
I liked Sean and Michaels book much better. I love Josh and will be reading his book. :)
June 5, 2014
Evan Wainwright meets the love of his life in new roommate , Daniel Collier.
Daniel feels the same way, but He needs to find the courage to overcome his demons and leave the past behind.
Evan and Daniel need to learn how to trust and how to teach each other that love means accepting and compromising.
Also they learn that Sean and Michael along with new friends Josh and Chris become instrumental in Daniel accepting himself.
Daniel feels the same way, but He needs to find the courage to overcome his demons and leave the past behind.
Evan and Daniel need to learn how to trust and how to teach each other that love means accepting and compromising.
Also they learn that Sean and Michael along with new friends Josh and Chris become instrumental in Daniel accepting himself.
April 19, 2014
I wanted to read her new book, so I wanted to make sure I caught up on the series, despite me not fully enjoying the first book. Overall, I felt like this book had the same issues as the first one…too mushy, not feeling real and believable, and unrealistic. However, I thought that this was better than the first and I did make it to the end!
February 16, 2014
I don't know why but I skipped through this book,oh yeah,I know why,because I accidentally read the 3rd book first,so I wanted to know what happened between Josh and Daniel.Fucking hell,why am I so lame...
February 9, 2015
This is better than the first book in the series, with a stronger story. However, the sex scenes were too long and boring.
February 22, 2016
3.5*
Merged review:
3.5*
Merged review:
3.5*
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