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Wilde's #6
No Distance Left to Run
Back from the dead...and back to square one.
The Distance Between Us, Book 4
The night before Chris and his best friend Joshua were sent thousands of miles apart on their respective Mormon missions, they finally gave in to their mutual desire. Left trying to make sense of what happened, Chris’s already shaky faith crumbled altogether a year later, when Joshua suddenly died.
Inconsolable, ostracized by his family and the only community he’d ever known, Chris found his way on his own. Now he’s going to school and loves his job as a bartender at Wilde’s. Years after Joshua’s death, he’s finally moving on.
Then a familiar face rocks his world. Joshua isn’t dead. He’s back in Seattle to make peace with his dying father, with a new name, a new accent…and old feelings for Chris that are alive and well.
Forgiveness doesn’t come easy for anyone, but just as Chris is accepting that the man he loves isn’t going to run away this time, their families threaten to pull them apart all over again…
Contains two lost boys who need to make up for a hell of a lot of lost time. There’s also a military uniform, a tuxedo, and a knife. In the same scene. And yes, it’s that kind of scene.
The Distance Between Us, Book 4
The night before Chris and his best friend Joshua were sent thousands of miles apart on their respective Mormon missions, they finally gave in to their mutual desire. Left trying to make sense of what happened, Chris’s already shaky faith crumbled altogether a year later, when Joshua suddenly died.
Inconsolable, ostracized by his family and the only community he’d ever known, Chris found his way on his own. Now he’s going to school and loves his job as a bartender at Wilde’s. Years after Joshua’s death, he’s finally moving on.
Then a familiar face rocks his world. Joshua isn’t dead. He’s back in Seattle to make peace with his dying father, with a new name, a new accent…and old feelings for Chris that are alive and well.
Forgiveness doesn’t come easy for anyone, but just as Chris is accepting that the man he loves isn’t going to run away this time, their families threaten to pull them apart all over again…
Contains two lost boys who need to make up for a hell of a lot of lost time. There’s also a military uniform, a tuxedo, and a knife. In the same scene. And yes, it’s that kind of scene.
218 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 13, 2014
43 people are currently reading
568 people want to read
About the author
L.A. Witt
217 books2,697 followersL.A. Witt and her husband have been exiled from Spain and sent to live in Maine because rhymes are fun. She now divides her time between writing, assuring people she is aware that Maine is cold, wondering where to put her next tattoo, and trying to reason with a surly Maine coon. Rumor has it her arch nemesis, Lauren Gallagher, is also somewhere in the wilds of New England, which is why L.A. is also spending a portion of her time training a team of spec ops lobsters.
Authors Ann Gallagher and Lori A. Witt have been asked to assist in lobster training, but they "have books to write" and "need to focus on our careers" and "don't you think this rivalry has gotten a little out of hand?" They're probably just helping Lauren raise her army of squirrels trained to ride moose into battle.
Visit her website at http://www.gallagherwitt.com/.
Authors Ann Gallagher and Lori A. Witt have been asked to assist in lobster training, but they "have books to write" and "need to focus on our careers" and "don't you think this rivalry has gotten a little out of hand?" They're probably just helping Lauren raise her army of squirrels trained to ride moose into battle.
Visit her website at http://www.gallagherwitt.com/.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
August 6, 2014
3.5 Stars
This is a good collaboration by these two authors. I’ve given a reasonable amount of thought as to why I didn’t LURVE it and the only thing I can come up with is the religious aspects. The writing is solid. These are good, maybe even great authors, and that’s definitely not the problem. They breathe life into their characters. They don’t skimp on the details that can take a character from two-dimensional to three in a heartbeat. The dialogue is alive and realistic. The feelings they have for each other are genuine. I like both of them. I understand what motivates their behaviors. I can sympathize with why Julien made the decisions that he made. Maybe Chris forgave Julien rather quickly, maybe he didn’t. I guess it depends on your perspective.
The sex… C’mon man! It’s Voinov and Witt. Those two could scorch an ice field without even breaking a sweat. It’s even got a little kink. Ok, more like kinky fuckery, but still.
The story is maybe not the most exciting one they’ve come up with, but it is a slice of life tale and, all told, it was fairly engaging. I had a hard time getting into it, but once it had me, it had me.
So, that leaves the religion. Religious zealotry pisses me off. I spent a good portion of my reading time thinking, “FUCK THEM IN THEIR EYE!” I know. I know. It’s family and family’s family. I get it. Easier said than done and all that jazz. I know. Doesn’t mean I have to like it and I think that’s what made No Distance Left to Run a less than glorious read for me. This will be a fantastic read for those who enjoy lots of feels.
On the whole, there was one editing error that surprised me, otherwise it was flawless. Also, it is book #4 of a series. I’ve not read any of the previous ones and I wasn’t a bit lost.
Reviewed for
t
This is a good collaboration by these two authors. I’ve given a reasonable amount of thought as to why I didn’t LURVE it and the only thing I can come up with is the religious aspects. The writing is solid. These are good, maybe even great authors, and that’s definitely not the problem. They breathe life into their characters. They don’t skimp on the details that can take a character from two-dimensional to three in a heartbeat. The dialogue is alive and realistic. The feelings they have for each other are genuine. I like both of them. I understand what motivates their behaviors. I can sympathize with why Julien made the decisions that he made. Maybe Chris forgave Julien rather quickly, maybe he didn’t. I guess it depends on your perspective.
The sex… C’mon man! It’s Voinov and Witt. Those two could scorch an ice field without even breaking a sweat. It’s even got a little kink. Ok, more like kinky fuckery, but still.
He kissed me hard, ground against me, waking up every nerve ending in my body with memories of that feverish, violent fuck yesterday. Oh, this was going to hurt, and I couldn’t wait.
The story is maybe not the most exciting one they’ve come up with, but it is a slice of life tale and, all told, it was fairly engaging. I had a hard time getting into it, but once it had me, it had me.
So, that leaves the religion. Religious zealotry pisses me off. I spent a good portion of my reading time thinking, “FUCK THEM IN THEIR EYE!” I know. I know. It’s family and family’s family. I get it. Easier said than done and all that jazz. I know. Doesn’t mean I have to like it and I think that’s what made No Distance Left to Run a less than glorious read for me. This will be a fantastic read for those who enjoy lots of feels.
On the whole, there was one editing error that surprised me, otherwise it was flawless. Also, it is book #4 of a series. I’ve not read any of the previous ones and I wasn’t a bit lost.
Reviewed for
t
May 11, 2014
I can honestly say that I am so glad I am not a religious person, nor affiliated with an overly religious family. Spiritual, yes, but religion in and of itself scares me…and this book is prime reason for that fear. Any family that says, “Come back to the church” as opposed to “come home” is cause for me, or in this case, Joshua to run…run far, far away.
Joshua and Chris had been best friends growing up and just came out to each other…and more, just before they each left for their missions…in different directions. When Joshua disappears and is presumed dead, Chris is devastated…so much so that he leaves his mission and the church. In this instance, leaving the church equals leaving your family. Chris lost his faith. He lost everything.
So what the hell is a guy to do when the long lost best friend, the reason for your five years of heartache, just waltzes back into your life? Chris is floored, deliriously happy, but equally pissed that Joshua could just take off without a word, at least a word to him. They were best friends, damn it.
I felt so bad for Chris, but I completely understood Joshua, who is now Julien. Julien took off and joined the French Foreign Legion and comes back a soldier, and even has a little French accent. That is a lot to wrap your mind around, but even though Chris gets his digs in for taking off on him, he is still hugely attracted…they both are…but now they are no longer inexperienced kids, but experienced men…and the sex is insanely hot! Chris and his uniform fetish…wowza!! I readily admit, I looked up images of the French Foreign Legions uniforms so that I could have a pretty accurate visual on that little steam-fest.
Wish I could say that Julien and Chris put all their issues behind them and rode off into the sunset, but I can’t because that stupid church has come between Julien and his dying father. They have to deal with an awful Bishop who seems to get a thrill out of causing more pain for the family than actually helping them heal the rift. But fear not, he gets his in the end.
So yes, this a typical Witt/Voinov novel, which means it’s off the charts smoking hot with a great storyline that keeps the reader captivated until the very end. It’s one that has a story that might tick off a few people, but in reality it’s very well researched and sometimes the truth is not all that pretty.
I definitely recommend for those who like a little drama with their MM love stories; a tortured family that is torn apart, but slowly put back together again; and a lost love that thrives again after they are reunited. Yeah, it was good…read it!
Joshua and Chris had been best friends growing up and just came out to each other…and more, just before they each left for their missions…in different directions. When Joshua disappears and is presumed dead, Chris is devastated…so much so that he leaves his mission and the church. In this instance, leaving the church equals leaving your family. Chris lost his faith. He lost everything.
So what the hell is a guy to do when the long lost best friend, the reason for your five years of heartache, just waltzes back into your life? Chris is floored, deliriously happy, but equally pissed that Joshua could just take off without a word, at least a word to him. They were best friends, damn it.
I felt so bad for Chris, but I completely understood Joshua, who is now Julien. Julien took off and joined the French Foreign Legion and comes back a soldier, and even has a little French accent. That is a lot to wrap your mind around, but even though Chris gets his digs in for taking off on him, he is still hugely attracted…they both are…but now they are no longer inexperienced kids, but experienced men…and the sex is insanely hot! Chris and his uniform fetish…wowza!! I readily admit, I looked up images of the French Foreign Legions uniforms so that I could have a pretty accurate visual on that little steam-fest.
Wish I could say that Julien and Chris put all their issues behind them and rode off into the sunset, but I can’t because that stupid church has come between Julien and his dying father. They have to deal with an awful Bishop who seems to get a thrill out of causing more pain for the family than actually helping them heal the rift. But fear not, he gets his in the end.
So yes, this a typical Witt/Voinov novel, which means it’s off the charts smoking hot with a great storyline that keeps the reader captivated until the very end. It’s one that has a story that might tick off a few people, but in reality it’s very well researched and sometimes the truth is not all that pretty.
I definitely recommend for those who like a little drama with their MM love stories; a tortured family that is torn apart, but slowly put back together again; and a lost love that thrives again after they are reunited. Yeah, it was good…read it!
October 17, 2014
I really enjoyed this book, but was surprised at what to me was a sudden ending (maybe because I was so engrossed with the story). I now see that we will get some more Chris and Julien in the next book. If you haven't read any of the other books in this series this one can be read, since the only real connection is the bar where Chris works.
Although not preachy, the plot does involve religion as both men were raised Mormon and although Chris is no longer a member of the Church, he is still involved with people who are and Joshua/Julien's return ignites some issues within his family and the church community. I really liked Chris and his ability to deal with Julien's return in a fairly reasonable manner given the circumstances.
Overall a good read about second chances, forgiveness and finding your own path despite family pressures and expectations.
Although not preachy, the plot does involve religion as both men were raised Mormon and although Chris is no longer a member of the Church, he is still involved with people who are and Joshua/Julien's return ignites some issues within his family and the church community. I really liked Chris and his ability to deal with Julien's return in a fairly reasonable manner given the circumstances.
Overall a good read about second chances, forgiveness and finding your own path despite family pressures and expectations.
April 15, 2024
Joshua and Chris had been best friends growing up. just before they each left for their church missions…going in different directions...Joshua disappears and is presumed dead, Chris is beyond devastated…so much so that he never goes on his mission and leaves the church. When Chris leaves the mission and his church it also meant leaving his family.... or more so his family leaving and forsaking him. At any rate, when Chris lost his faith, he lost everything. So, what is a guy to do when the long-lost best friend, the reason for your five years of heartache, just comes waltzing back into your life?
Chris is floored, but deliriously happy, but also equally angry that Joshua could just take off without a word, at least without a single, solitary word to him. Weren't they best friends? Weren't they beginning to feel more? I really felt bad for Chris, but I also completely understood Joshua, who is now calling himself Julien. Julien not only took off, but he joined the French Foreign Legion and now has returned as a soldier, and even has a French accent. That is a lot to wrap your head around, but even though Chris gets his digs in for taking off on him, he is still has a huge attraction…they both do…but now they are no longer inexperienced, scared kids...now they are experienced men…and they are nothing short of hot together.
Wish I could say that Julien and Chris put all their issues behind them and rode off into the sunset, but it didn't happen because...you guessed it...the church is back rearing its head again into their lives. This time it has come between Julien and his dying father. They have to deal with an ungodlike totally unlikeable awful Bishop who gets more of a thrill out of causing more pain for the family than actually helping them. I cheered when he gets his "just reward" in the end.
This a typical L.A. Witt novel. It has a great storyline that keeps the reader captivated until the very end. The story may offend a few people, but in reality, it appears to be very well researched, and you know that sometimes the truth is just not necessarily wrapped up in all that pretty.
Chris is floored, but deliriously happy, but also equally angry that Joshua could just take off without a word, at least without a single, solitary word to him. Weren't they best friends? Weren't they beginning to feel more? I really felt bad for Chris, but I also completely understood Joshua, who is now calling himself Julien. Julien not only took off, but he joined the French Foreign Legion and now has returned as a soldier, and even has a French accent. That is a lot to wrap your head around, but even though Chris gets his digs in for taking off on him, he is still has a huge attraction…they both do…but now they are no longer inexperienced, scared kids...now they are experienced men…and they are nothing short of hot together.
Wish I could say that Julien and Chris put all their issues behind them and rode off into the sunset, but it didn't happen because...you guessed it...the church is back rearing its head again into their lives. This time it has come between Julien and his dying father. They have to deal with an ungodlike totally unlikeable awful Bishop who gets more of a thrill out of causing more pain for the family than actually helping them. I cheered when he gets his "just reward" in the end.
This a typical L.A. Witt novel. It has a great storyline that keeps the reader captivated until the very end. The story may offend a few people, but in reality, it appears to be very well researched, and you know that sometimes the truth is just not necessarily wrapped up in all that pretty.
November 11, 2021
4.5 Stars ~ I have become quite a fan of L.A. Witt's in the past year and the 'Wilde's' series is an excellent example of the author’s writing skill. I was particularly interested in this book as it's the first one the author has co-written, and I'm a fan of Aleksandr Voinov's work, also. 'No Distance Left To Run' is the fourth installment in the series and I was excited to get back to all my guys and to Wilde's, a bar I wouldn't mind spending a whole lot of time in.
My mind is simply reeling from the idea of a best friend, maybe more, coming back from the dead after five years. I felt just as Chris did. Completely struck dumb. Angry, so angry, on one hand, and then equally grateful that this person wasn't really dead. But, then back to anger. I'd've probably remained at angry for a long time, but I'm stubborn that way. The fact that Joshua, now Julien, left his mission for the Mormon church halfway through and joined the French Foreign Legion? Leaving his family, his best friend, to all think he died? His family had a funeral for him! Just like Chris, I couldn't seem to wrap my head around that. I was on pins and needles waiting for that entire story.
"Well, you've been gallivanting around with the French Foreign Legion. And I'm sure you have some stories. Me? I've been trying to figure out what the fuck I'm doing. I came home from my mission a wreck, and I've stayed a wreck since then, especially because I couldn't get a fucking answer from God about why He would let someone like you die while you were out doing His work, and -" I cut myself off, snapping my teeth together. "It's been rough, okay?"
Two men, best friends all of their lives, who shared their first sexual experience with another guy the night before they both left for their missions. Julien chose to leave his life as Joshua, to give up the way he'd been forced to be, perfect at everything, and instead to embrace the man he really was, the man who'd lost his faith. Chris suffered through his mission after the death of his best friend, finally coming home and realizing he no longer had a faith, and spending the following years trying to live his own life. What happens to them now? How will Julien's family deal with him no longer believing? Do he and Chris have a future together, once the dust settles?
I'm going to say this once, and only once, and then I'm leaving my opinions out of it. Family mixed with religion and guilt can do a tsunami of damage in a very short amount of time. It broke my heart to watch Julien struggle with this, all of these things which caused him to disappear in the first place, and new conflicts his parents put on him when he came back. And there was Chris who'd already gone through all his own horrors with family and church, trying not to get sucked back in. I truly adored both of these men. They were honest and real, with each other and themselves. They were strong men, who could be vulnerable and when they loved, they did it 100 percent.
This was a wonderful addition to the series. It dealt with many difficult issues and, happily enough, it came to resolution for most of them in a manner I could accept. Great collaboration and I hope this isn't the end of the series.
NOTE: This book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
My mind is simply reeling from the idea of a best friend, maybe more, coming back from the dead after five years. I felt just as Chris did. Completely struck dumb. Angry, so angry, on one hand, and then equally grateful that this person wasn't really dead. But, then back to anger. I'd've probably remained at angry for a long time, but I'm stubborn that way. The fact that Joshua, now Julien, left his mission for the Mormon church halfway through and joined the French Foreign Legion? Leaving his family, his best friend, to all think he died? His family had a funeral for him! Just like Chris, I couldn't seem to wrap my head around that. I was on pins and needles waiting for that entire story.
"Well, you've been gallivanting around with the French Foreign Legion. And I'm sure you have some stories. Me? I've been trying to figure out what the fuck I'm doing. I came home from my mission a wreck, and I've stayed a wreck since then, especially because I couldn't get a fucking answer from God about why He would let someone like you die while you were out doing His work, and -" I cut myself off, snapping my teeth together. "It's been rough, okay?"
Two men, best friends all of their lives, who shared their first sexual experience with another guy the night before they both left for their missions. Julien chose to leave his life as Joshua, to give up the way he'd been forced to be, perfect at everything, and instead to embrace the man he really was, the man who'd lost his faith. Chris suffered through his mission after the death of his best friend, finally coming home and realizing he no longer had a faith, and spending the following years trying to live his own life. What happens to them now? How will Julien's family deal with him no longer believing? Do he and Chris have a future together, once the dust settles?
I'm going to say this once, and only once, and then I'm leaving my opinions out of it. Family mixed with religion and guilt can do a tsunami of damage in a very short amount of time. It broke my heart to watch Julien struggle with this, all of these things which caused him to disappear in the first place, and new conflicts his parents put on him when he came back. And there was Chris who'd already gone through all his own horrors with family and church, trying not to get sucked back in. I truly adored both of these men. They were honest and real, with each other and themselves. They were strong men, who could be vulnerable and when they loved, they did it 100 percent.
This was a wonderful addition to the series. It dealt with many difficult issues and, happily enough, it came to resolution for most of them in a manner I could accept. Great collaboration and I hope this isn't the end of the series.
NOTE: This book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
May 13, 2014
This was a very enjoyable addition to this series. It does touch on religion, but it isn't preachy. I enjoyed both MC very much. I could hear Julien's slight French accent in my head. I could hear him switching between English and French during their intense sexy times... So hot. I only wished that I could have had an epilogue with their wedding. Maybe their wedding will be a part of the next installment in the series (please please please)?
August 30, 2014
Final Scuttlbutt review for today.
Yet another first, as far as I am aware this is the first co authored book that I’ve read (that I’m aware of). While I really like Aleks Voinov’s writing a great deal I’ve never read anything before by Lori Gallagher and although I wasn’t really sure what to expect from them, I wasn’t expecting this.
I’m going to try and review this without spoilers, but can’t guarantee it.
Chris and Joshua were best friends, double dated on their prom, and the night before they went on their missions had sex. While Chris is on his South Korea mission Joshua is reported as dead. A combination of the death of his best friend and Chris’ being ‘different’ lead to him leaving the Mormon faith and becoming disenfranchised from his parents, for a while he goes off the rails, drinking and shagging, but finally starts getting it together and going to college while working at Wildes bar.
Five years later, via Joshua’s sister , Deb, we discover that not only did Joshua not die, he enrolled in the French foreign legion, his name is now Julien, and he’s coming back to Seattle to see his father who is dying.
What I respect about the AV books I have read is the level of research that goes into them, and this trend was here as well. That Joshua changes his name, something that was compulsory for legionnaires in their first year of service, signed on in mainland France (the only place that it’s possible to do so )to the Legion for five years (the minimum term permissible) added credibility to the story.
Chris decides that Julien can sleep on his couch while he waits to see his parents and decide what to do next, sign on for another five years in the Legion, stay in Seattle or go somewhere else….
This is a romance, and as Chris and Julien begin to know each other again their strong attraction is rekindled, and the chemistry is off the charts, there is a scene where Julien wears his Legionaries uniform which I read on the train to work, and almost missed my stop!
I read that we all really only have about three real friends, those that we bear out souls to and take us unconditionally, this is the friendship that Chris and Julien have. After the initial OMG moments Chris embraces (yes literally as well) Julien and he accepts him for the person he has become. It takes Julien a little longer to come to terms with what he needs, as his family starts to put pressure on him to return to the Mormon fold.
The dilemma that Julien faces with his family and their faith versus Chris and the life they both want is beautifully realised, this and the unconditional friendship element really are the crux of the book for me.
So, in the end, this was about friendship and love. The quality of the writing raised it above the average, recommended.
Yet another first, as far as I am aware this is the first co authored book that I’ve read (that I’m aware of). While I really like Aleks Voinov’s writing a great deal I’ve never read anything before by Lori Gallagher and although I wasn’t really sure what to expect from them, I wasn’t expecting this.
I’m going to try and review this without spoilers, but can’t guarantee it.
Chris and Joshua were best friends, double dated on their prom, and the night before they went on their missions had sex. While Chris is on his South Korea mission Joshua is reported as dead. A combination of the death of his best friend and Chris’ being ‘different’ lead to him leaving the Mormon faith and becoming disenfranchised from his parents, for a while he goes off the rails, drinking and shagging, but finally starts getting it together and going to college while working at Wildes bar.
Five years later, via Joshua’s sister , Deb, we discover that not only did Joshua not die, he enrolled in the French foreign legion, his name is now Julien, and he’s coming back to Seattle to see his father who is dying.
What I respect about the AV books I have read is the level of research that goes into them, and this trend was here as well. That Joshua changes his name, something that was compulsory for legionnaires in their first year of service, signed on in mainland France (the only place that it’s possible to do so )to the Legion for five years (the minimum term permissible) added credibility to the story.
Chris decides that Julien can sleep on his couch while he waits to see his parents and decide what to do next, sign on for another five years in the Legion, stay in Seattle or go somewhere else….
This is a romance, and as Chris and Julien begin to know each other again their strong attraction is rekindled, and the chemistry is off the charts, there is a scene where Julien wears his Legionaries uniform which I read on the train to work, and almost missed my stop!
I read that we all really only have about three real friends, those that we bear out souls to and take us unconditionally, this is the friendship that Chris and Julien have. After the initial OMG moments Chris embraces (yes literally as well) Julien and he accepts him for the person he has become. It takes Julien a little longer to come to terms with what he needs, as his family starts to put pressure on him to return to the Mormon fold.
The dilemma that Julien faces with his family and their faith versus Chris and the life they both want is beautifully realised, this and the unconditional friendship element really are the crux of the book for me.
So, in the end, this was about friendship and love. The quality of the writing raised it above the average, recommended.
Read
January 4, 2014Wilde's (aka The Distance Between Us) book #4, and the first co-written book in the series. Due out in May.
dnf-not-4-me
December 24, 2014Too much religious nonsense.
May 21, 2014
I'm a huge fan of LA Witt. This is my favorite of her series. awesome addition. It was fun seeing what Voinov brought to the series as well. kudos.
May 30, 2014
4 stars.
Wow...this book hurt.
I didn't read the blurb, L.A. Witt is something of an auto-buy for me, so I wasn't prepared for the whole religious aspect of it. I really prefer not to read anything with any religious affiliation because people can be just so damn awful to each other and say they're doing it for religion. THis was less about God, though and more about how people acted. I just don't have patience for parents that don't love their children, either. Ugh...I pretty much wanted to erase these parents, they were the worst!
L.A. Witt writes some truly hot stuff--oh man, the uniform and knife--dude, I may have a uniform fetish now! But as hot as those first few scenes were, it morphed into something much more than just kinky hot sex--there was some intense emotion there and some real need.
Chris was a great character, even when everyone around him was awful, he was still looking out for Julien and doing what was right for him.
I liked Julien a lot as well. I felt for him. He gained so much strength from Chris and it was great to see that, even when my heart was breaking.
We didn't get much of the guys from the other stories--only Kiernan and Liam for a hot second, but that was okay.
Plenty of characters pissed me off and I spent a good deal of time either wanting to hurt someone or cringing or just wishing these people away. Having said that, I did like the story, even when it hurt. I was rooting for my guys.
Will of course read more from this author.
Wow...this book hurt.
I didn't read the blurb, L.A. Witt is something of an auto-buy for me, so I wasn't prepared for the whole religious aspect of it. I really prefer not to read anything with any religious affiliation because people can be just so damn awful to each other and say they're doing it for religion. THis was less about God, though and more about how people acted. I just don't have patience for parents that don't love their children, either. Ugh...I pretty much wanted to erase these parents, they were the worst!
L.A. Witt writes some truly hot stuff--oh man, the uniform and knife--dude, I may have a uniform fetish now! But as hot as those first few scenes were, it morphed into something much more than just kinky hot sex--there was some intense emotion there and some real need.
Chris was a great character, even when everyone around him was awful, he was still looking out for Julien and doing what was right for him.
I liked Julien a lot as well. I felt for him. He gained so much strength from Chris and it was great to see that, even when my heart was breaking.
We didn't get much of the guys from the other stories--only Kiernan and Liam for a hot second, but that was okay.
Plenty of characters pissed me off and I spent a good deal of time either wanting to hurt someone or cringing or just wishing these people away. Having said that, I did like the story, even when it hurt. I was rooting for my guys.
Will of course read more from this author.
February 8, 2015
This is the fourth installment of the series, and written by my favorite duo,Aleks and Lori.
Reading this series you have to prepare for anything, just like I prepared myself before I read Dark Soul series.
The series came with warning , since the first book, it contains some very open relationships among the MCs.
So, if lots of sex and open relationship is not your cuppa, better stay away from this series. Especially when you hate sex in books, this is Aleks and Lori's anyways... LOL
But for me, there's no way I'm avoiding Aleksandr Voinov and L.A. Wittbooks and won't enjoy it.
I read anything they write. Anything!
This series is a non exceptional.
I enjoyed this number four, headed to number 5, Marcus and Timur...and some *cough* Julien and Chris..again.
May 15, 2018
3.75 stars
May 12, 2014
Trish reviews No Distance Left to Run by LA Witt, Aleksandr Voinov
http://www.mrsconditreadsbooks.com/?p...
TRISH’S OPINION: What price do you pay when the person you are goes against everything your religion preaches as the truth?
Chris and his best friend Joshua gave in to their mutual attraction on the night before they were to be sent on their two-year Mormon missions thousands of miles apart. With his faith already shaken by his questions about what happened that night, Chris’s faith completely falls apart when, a year later, he gets the news that Joshua had died suddenly. Since then, inconsolable and ostracized by both his parents and the only community that he’s ever known, Chris has had to make his own way. Going to school and working as a bartender at the popular gay bar Wilde’s, he’s finally starting to move on with his life, years after Joshua’s death. He receives the shock of his life when an old familiar face shows up after five years. Joshua isn’t dead. With a new name and accent, he’s come back to Seattle to make peace with his dying dad……and prove to Chris that his old feelings for him are alive and well. At first, Chris finds it hard to forgive Joshua for disappearing five years ago, but his love won’t let him stay angry for long. Just when it appears that Chris and Joshua will finally get their happily-ever-after, pressure from both of their families threatens to tear them apart.
In No Distance Left to Run, LA Witt and Aleksandr Voinov have written a powerful character driven story about two young men who love each other, but find themselves torn apart by the bigoted, homophobic, and hypocritical religion that tells them that who and what they are is an offense against God. So many lives are destroyed, lost, or permanently scarred by the intolerance, hate, and outright violence shown them by so-called parents, friends, and family who are supposed to love them! ( Sorry, I’ll get off my soapbox now.) Both authors have done a fantastic job of blending their own unique styles of writing into a beautiful and richly detailed story that shows how all too often people try to force their rigid and hypocritical views on others under the guise of religion. Both main and secondary characters are vivid, and multi-layered, and I found myself wanting to jackslap the crap out of one smug asshole. I found myself pulled in from the very beginning, and it didn’t turn me loose until long after reading the last page. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this fascinating tale, and would definitely recommend it to everyone looking for a book that is anything but ordinary.
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TRISH’S OPINION: What price do you pay when the person you are goes against everything your religion preaches as the truth?
Chris and his best friend Joshua gave in to their mutual attraction on the night before they were to be sent on their two-year Mormon missions thousands of miles apart. With his faith already shaken by his questions about what happened that night, Chris’s faith completely falls apart when, a year later, he gets the news that Joshua had died suddenly. Since then, inconsolable and ostracized by both his parents and the only community that he’s ever known, Chris has had to make his own way. Going to school and working as a bartender at the popular gay bar Wilde’s, he’s finally starting to move on with his life, years after Joshua’s death. He receives the shock of his life when an old familiar face shows up after five years. Joshua isn’t dead. With a new name and accent, he’s come back to Seattle to make peace with his dying dad……and prove to Chris that his old feelings for him are alive and well. At first, Chris finds it hard to forgive Joshua for disappearing five years ago, but his love won’t let him stay angry for long. Just when it appears that Chris and Joshua will finally get their happily-ever-after, pressure from both of their families threatens to tear them apart.
In No Distance Left to Run, LA Witt and Aleksandr Voinov have written a powerful character driven story about two young men who love each other, but find themselves torn apart by the bigoted, homophobic, and hypocritical religion that tells them that who and what they are is an offense against God. So many lives are destroyed, lost, or permanently scarred by the intolerance, hate, and outright violence shown them by so-called parents, friends, and family who are supposed to love them! ( Sorry, I’ll get off my soapbox now.) Both authors have done a fantastic job of blending their own unique styles of writing into a beautiful and richly detailed story that shows how all too often people try to force their rigid and hypocritical views on others under the guise of religion. Both main and secondary characters are vivid, and multi-layered, and I found myself wanting to jackslap the crap out of one smug asshole. I found myself pulled in from the very beginning, and it didn’t turn me loose until long after reading the last page. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this fascinating tale, and would definitely recommend it to everyone looking for a book that is anything but ordinary.
May 20, 2014
Synopsis:
Back from the dead...and back to square one.
The Distance Between Us, Book 4
The night before Chris and his best friend Joshua were sent thousands of miles apart on their respective Mormon missions, they finally gave in to their mutual desire. Left trying to make sense of what happened, Chris’s already shaky faith crumbled altogether a year later, when Joshua suddenly died.
Inconsolable, ostracized by his family and the only community he’d ever known, Chris found his way on his own. Now he’s going to school and loves his job as a bartender at Wilde’s. Years after Joshua’s death, he’s finally moving on.
Then a familiar face rocks his world. Joshua isn’t dead. He’s back in Seattle to make peace with his dying father, with a new name, a new accent…and old feelings for Chris that are alive and well.
Forgiveness doesn’t come easy for anyone, but just as Chris is accepting that the man he loves isn’t going to run away this time, their families threaten to pull them apart all over again…
Warning: Contains two lost boys who need to make up for a hell of a lot of lost time. There’s also a military uniform, a tuxedo, and a knife. In the same scene. And yes, it’s that kind of scene.
My Thoughts:
Liked this one a lot. Read it straight through. I like these second-chance love stories. I do think Chris got into bed with Julien way too soon, though. I understand the reasoning, but it was still too soon.
The sex scenes were pretty hot, though and they didn't feel unnecessary or too frequent.
There was surprisingly a lot less angst between the MCs than I was expecting considering the amount of time between them and the circumstances in which Joshua left. Chris deserved to be pissed off. It makes no sense that Julien didn't contact him in all that time or that he didn't talk to him before taking off. And seriously? The French Foreign Legion? He sure got up to some kinky stuff over there, too. I expected more jealousy out of Chris, but hearing about some of Julien's exploits turned Chris the hell out. Led to some hot scenes, though.
The majority of the angst actually came from the LDS church and their parents. The Bishop was a total douche and so was Chris's dad. Julien's family eventually came around at least and the guys get to be happy. I'm still not sure if I consider it a HFN or a HEA. Hard call, but it wasn't too bad.
All in all, the book worked for me, I just wished Chris and Julien had taken things a bit slower. Yeah, their friendship was still there, but they were both very different people by that point. I just didn't think they should have had sex so soon.
Back from the dead...and back to square one.
The Distance Between Us, Book 4
The night before Chris and his best friend Joshua were sent thousands of miles apart on their respective Mormon missions, they finally gave in to their mutual desire. Left trying to make sense of what happened, Chris’s already shaky faith crumbled altogether a year later, when Joshua suddenly died.
Inconsolable, ostracized by his family and the only community he’d ever known, Chris found his way on his own. Now he’s going to school and loves his job as a bartender at Wilde’s. Years after Joshua’s death, he’s finally moving on.
Then a familiar face rocks his world. Joshua isn’t dead. He’s back in Seattle to make peace with his dying father, with a new name, a new accent…and old feelings for Chris that are alive and well.
Forgiveness doesn’t come easy for anyone, but just as Chris is accepting that the man he loves isn’t going to run away this time, their families threaten to pull them apart all over again…
Warning: Contains two lost boys who need to make up for a hell of a lot of lost time. There’s also a military uniform, a tuxedo, and a knife. In the same scene. And yes, it’s that kind of scene.
My Thoughts:
Liked this one a lot. Read it straight through. I like these second-chance love stories. I do think Chris got into bed with Julien way too soon, though. I understand the reasoning, but it was still too soon.
The sex scenes were pretty hot, though and they didn't feel unnecessary or too frequent.
There was surprisingly a lot less angst between the MCs than I was expecting considering the amount of time between them and the circumstances in which Joshua left. Chris deserved to be pissed off. It makes no sense that Julien didn't contact him in all that time or that he didn't talk to him before taking off. And seriously? The French Foreign Legion? He sure got up to some kinky stuff over there, too. I expected more jealousy out of Chris, but hearing about some of Julien's exploits turned Chris the hell out. Led to some hot scenes, though.
The majority of the angst actually came from the LDS church and their parents. The Bishop was a total douche and so was Chris's dad. Julien's family eventually came around at least and the guys get to be happy. I'm still not sure if I consider it a HFN or a HEA. Hard call, but it wasn't too bad.
All in all, the book worked for me, I just wished Chris and Julien had taken things a bit slower. Yeah, their friendship was still there, but they were both very different people by that point. I just didn't think they should have had sex so soon.
March 13, 2015
So what do you get when you combine two Mormon boys, Dan & Vadim from Special Forces and then dump them down the rabbit hole together? This book. I'm so confused. I kept looking up from my Kindle while I was reading this expecting to see the Mad Hatter and the White Rabbit sitting beside me. Was this a joke? Tongue in cheek? Serious? I just don't know. So MC2 has been in the French Foreign Legion. He has a F**k buddy in the French Foreign Legion..... "We just care about each other very much but what we have is not the same as you & I. No one can ever replace you in my heart." (sound familiar?) Then MC2 has a duffle bag full of protein bars. (sound familiar?) The two guys like to dress in cameo and incorporate some knife play into their sex scenes. (sound familiar?) Fortunately there were no Mormon prayer beads so I didn't have to actually throw my Kindle across the room. I'm just.....I'm just....confused.
If I set aside the weird Special Forces....the Disney version.... then I still had problems with this book. Joshua/Julian has been gone for 5 years. The asshat disappears from his Mormon mission and lets everyone think he's dead. Now that his dad is dying he shows up to make amends. He just waltz's back in to everyone's lives and no one's actually upset. They're all just glad he's alive. Chris, who was broken hearted and not able to really put his life back together after this loss just welcomes him back, forgives him, lets him move in and immediately has sex with him. In addition to this exceptional forgiveness they immediately fall back in love and are ready to marry each other a couple weeks later. I just wasn't buying any of it. I didn't feel their connection at all. I was told they loved each other but I didn't feel it. The church people were evil caricutures as were Chris's parents. Joshua/Julian's parents did this about face from evil to all loving and forgiving which came without any build up or warning and I just didn't believe it either. The premise of this book was really good in my opinion but the execution just did not work for me in any way.
If I set aside the weird Special Forces....the Disney version.... then I still had problems with this book. Joshua/Julian has been gone for 5 years. The asshat disappears from his Mormon mission and lets everyone think he's dead. Now that his dad is dying he shows up to make amends. He just waltz's back in to everyone's lives and no one's actually upset. They're all just glad he's alive. Chris, who was broken hearted and not able to really put his life back together after this loss just welcomes him back, forgives him, lets him move in and immediately has sex with him. In addition to this exceptional forgiveness they immediately fall back in love and are ready to marry each other a couple weeks later. I just wasn't buying any of it. I didn't feel their connection at all. I was told they loved each other but I didn't feel it. The church people were evil caricutures as were Chris's parents. Joshua/Julian's parents did this about face from evil to all loving and forgiving which came without any build up or warning and I just didn't believe it either. The premise of this book was really good in my opinion but the execution just did not work for me in any way.
August 16, 2015
This is a solid series. The books are always of different couples so they can be read as stand-alones. But it's actually more fun to read all.
Chris and Joshua have been lovers, years ago as young Mormon men. Then they left on their missions. And Joshua died. Chris broke with his belief, struggled and and came back on his feet, living his life now as an out gay man.
And now Joshua is back. He had pretended his death to get free, joined the French Legion.
His father is ill and he wants to reconnect.
And he wants to reconnect with his love, Chris.
This book is about a lot of things, how Joshua and Chris find each other in the men they have become, about Joshua's reconnection with his old life, his family. It's about falling in love again, with someone who is your long lost love and still another person. The years have changed both, Chris and Joshua.
And the book is sexy. Do I need to say more?
Chris and Joshua have been lovers, years ago as young Mormon men. Then they left on their missions. And Joshua died. Chris broke with his belief, struggled and and came back on his feet, living his life now as an out gay man.
And now Joshua is back. He had pretended his death to get free, joined the French Legion.
His father is ill and he wants to reconnect.
And he wants to reconnect with his love, Chris.
This book is about a lot of things, how Joshua and Chris find each other in the men they have become, about Joshua's reconnection with his old life, his family. It's about falling in love again, with someone who is your long lost love and still another person. The years have changed both, Chris and Joshua.
And the book is sexy. Do I need to say more?
June 1, 2014
Bringing religious ideologies into a novel is… well… kind of brave. After reading the premise I was anything but sure about this one. But of course I should have known that Lori and Aleks would be more than capable of creating a story worth reading, even if the religious story background isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, me included!
Incapable of being Mr Perfect Mormon and the straight-A student anymore, Joshua goes so far as to fake his own death. He joins the French Foreign Legion and even changes his name. Joshua Hawthorne becomes Julien Sargent… a tough guy, a soldier, a mercenary, a grown up man. When his father is sick and dying he returns to Seattle and meets Chris again, Chris, his best friend, Chris, who thinks the love of his life died five years ago on a Mormon mission.
Chris’ past five years have been anything but easy. After losing his best friend Joshua, Chris turns his back on being the not-so-perfect-but-damn-I-tried Mormon kid, he knows too well that the Mormon ideology doesn’t give his sexual preferences any room, as homosexuality is ‘sick and perverted’. Stigmatized as an apostate, ostracized from his church, family and friends, somehow he has to survive. After a few years of struggling to find his way Chris goes to school and works as a bartender at Wilde’s - the bar we know from the previous books. Btw, it was nice to meet Kieran again. :) When after five years his presumed dead best friend and onetime lover Joshua appears out of thin air his world once more turns upside down.
How the mighty had fallen. Or risen. Or whatever. He wasn’t the same starry-eyed perfect LDS specimen who’d fucked me in the back room of our pre-mission farewell party, and I wasn’t the same not-so-perfect-but-damn-I-tried Mormon kid who’d let him.”
In No Distance Left To Run the authors have written a very thought provoking book. It’s challenging and also entertaining and emotionally satisfying. Those two guys finally come together, despite their pain surrounding the events of the past and difficulty accepting the changes of the present. They realise that turning away from their childhood ideologies doesn’t necessarily mean the loss of friendship and love.
What I liked about the story is that Julien returns to his parents with the intention of being their son again. He realises he can’t be the guy who gives a damn and turns his back on his family. He might not share their ideologies anymore, he might have lost his faith but he still cares for the ones he left behind five years ago.
It’s still a challenging read and it’s not all about love and sex, even when the sex is hot as hell… *coughs* Speaking of sex… as always with these authors the sex scenes are steamy and in my mind I was reeling from the anticipation and tension that dripped from the pages. I felt the tension in the air… hissing breathes, hooded looks, and I loved it, I enjoyed the hell out of the sex scenes. Every thrust, lick, kiss and touch… yes, I loved them all, but it was the undercurrent of emotions from both characters that kept me squirming on my seat… especially when a military uniform, a tuxedo and a knife are involved!
“You really do like this kind of thing, don’t you?”
I just nodded. To hell with speech.
“One of these days”—he slid a fingertip beneath my shorts—”I’m going to find out all your dirty little kinks and enjoy the fuck out of every last one of them.”
All I could say was, “Oh God…”
The cool blade touched my thigh just above my knee. Just the flat side again, but the coolness startled me. And turned me on. Fuck, this kind of sensory overload, and anticipation, and danger, and…
“Julien…”
A knife? Yesssss, and I’m sure every single Vadim Krasnorada fan is on high alert now! Nooooooo, I won’t go into detail about this, you need to experience it for yourself…*evil grin*
Okay, where was I? I talked about the challenging read…and that the story isn’t only a romance, it’s about coming to terms with different ideologies. We all have strong beliefs or disbeliefs about certain things because of what we were taught as children, or because of the beliefs we developed as adults based on our own experiences. The conclusions we reach might be different from those of our families and we might not share their ideologies. So relying on the love and the respect of our families can’t be taken for granted, it needs forgiveness, love and respect on both sides.
Of course I’m aware that Julien’s story doesn’t work for everyone (unfortunately it didn’t work for Chris) but I loved him for acting without prejudices, for not turning his back on his family, for not taking the easy way out and just breaking up with them. For not giving up, for his willingness to make amends, and for trying to give Chris a new family.
Overall, I’m really glad that I’ve read No Distance Left To Run and liked the way the authors developed the story. And I appreciate that I had the chance to get an early review copy, I guess I wouldn’t have purchased the book because of the controversial topic.
No Distance Left To Run is the fourth book of the Distance Between Us series but to read this one you don’t need to know the previous books, it can be read as a standalone.
May 20, 2014
I received my copy from the publisher through Love Romances and More.
This is the fourth book in the ‘Distance Between Us’ series but can easily be read as a stand-alone.
It has been five years since Chris and his best friend Joshua gave in to their feelings for each other and spent one passionate but clumsy night together. The following the day both of them left on for their separate two year long Mormon missions. Chris has had doubt s about his faith and the Mormon community he is a part of for some time but both his world and his faith are shattered when he finds out Joshua has gone missing and is assumed dead. Cutting his mission short, Chris returns to Seattle where he turns his back on his faith and finds himself excluded from the community he grew up in as well as his family.
When Chris discovers that Joshua isn’t dead and is on his way home to reconcile with his family and dying father his emotions are torn between relief and anger.
The man who returns to Seattle may look like an older version of Joshua but after five years in the French Foreign Legion he’s acquired an accent as well as a new name - Julian - and no intention of returning to the Joshua he used to be. What’s more, the attraction between the two men is as strong as it ever was. Despite his lingering anger and the fear that Julian may just leave again, Chris offers him a place to stay and it isn’t long before that place turns out to be in Chris’ bed.
The Church and Julian’s family aren’t prepared to just allow the lost son to be who he needs to be though, forcing Julian to make an impossible choice between the man he loves and his family. All Chris can do is stand on the sidelines, ready to catch Julian should he fall.
“Not simple by any means - there was nothing left between us that could be considered simple – but easier.”
No review of mine could summarize this story better than the quote above does. This book is an emotional rollercoaster. The love and passion between the two men is so intense and beautiful it will take your breath away while the pressures put on them by their families and community are both realistic and heartbreaking. The angst in this book isn’t the result of doubts about the two men’s commitment to or feelings for each other, although Chris suffers some of those. The tension is the result of outside forces doing their damnest to keep the two men apart. Nobody should ever be forced to choose between their family and the person they love, and yet that is exactly the choice Julian is left with.
While the story is told from Chris’ point of few I did get a good impression of Julian’s difficult journey too and he all but broke my heart. Because Chris has gone through a similar process years before he knows exactly what Julian is dealing with although that doesn’t alleviate his helplessness. He can’t force Julian to choose between him and his family and is all too aware he may lose Julian, despite the man’s obvious feelings for him. Lesser authors might have jumped on the opportunity to force that rift between the two men; Aleksandr Voinov and L.A. Witt are good enough to know the story didn’t need the extra tension. The story as it is provided almost more angst than I could deal with as it was and I’m so grateful they didn’t go for overkill.
For someone who has huge issues with organised religion at the best of times this was the perfect read. Not only because the two main characters take their stance against the indoctrination they’re facing but also because it showed the other side as well. The side where the love within a family can’t be broken, not even by the power and rules of a self-important head of the congregation. I liked that it didn’t make the dilemma black against white. Yes, Chris is shunned by the people he grew up with and knows that he’ll never be able to be part of that community again. But even five years later it still hurts him, because it does. Even when a clean break is the only option it doesn’t mean it is an easy one and I applaud the authors for including that hardship in this story.
And, before I forget, allow me to add that the relationship between Chris and Julian is HOT. Both men have used the five years apart to become experienced and inventive lovers. When they get together passion rules and naughty fantasies spice up their bed, bringing this reader some wonderful moments in the process.
As I’ve come to expect from this partnership this was a very well written and captivating love story filled with tension, tender moments and passionate love. This book was a pure joy to read while giving me plenty to think about at the same time. I may be repeating myself but I don’t care; Voinov and Witt are now high on my list of must-read authors and I can’t thank them enough for being as prolific as they are.
This is the fourth book in the ‘Distance Between Us’ series but can easily be read as a stand-alone.
It has been five years since Chris and his best friend Joshua gave in to their feelings for each other and spent one passionate but clumsy night together. The following the day both of them left on for their separate two year long Mormon missions. Chris has had doubt s about his faith and the Mormon community he is a part of for some time but both his world and his faith are shattered when he finds out Joshua has gone missing and is assumed dead. Cutting his mission short, Chris returns to Seattle where he turns his back on his faith and finds himself excluded from the community he grew up in as well as his family.
When Chris discovers that Joshua isn’t dead and is on his way home to reconcile with his family and dying father his emotions are torn between relief and anger.
The man who returns to Seattle may look like an older version of Joshua but after five years in the French Foreign Legion he’s acquired an accent as well as a new name - Julian - and no intention of returning to the Joshua he used to be. What’s more, the attraction between the two men is as strong as it ever was. Despite his lingering anger and the fear that Julian may just leave again, Chris offers him a place to stay and it isn’t long before that place turns out to be in Chris’ bed.
The Church and Julian’s family aren’t prepared to just allow the lost son to be who he needs to be though, forcing Julian to make an impossible choice between the man he loves and his family. All Chris can do is stand on the sidelines, ready to catch Julian should he fall.
“Not simple by any means - there was nothing left between us that could be considered simple – but easier.”
No review of mine could summarize this story better than the quote above does. This book is an emotional rollercoaster. The love and passion between the two men is so intense and beautiful it will take your breath away while the pressures put on them by their families and community are both realistic and heartbreaking. The angst in this book isn’t the result of doubts about the two men’s commitment to or feelings for each other, although Chris suffers some of those. The tension is the result of outside forces doing their damnest to keep the two men apart. Nobody should ever be forced to choose between their family and the person they love, and yet that is exactly the choice Julian is left with.
While the story is told from Chris’ point of few I did get a good impression of Julian’s difficult journey too and he all but broke my heart. Because Chris has gone through a similar process years before he knows exactly what Julian is dealing with although that doesn’t alleviate his helplessness. He can’t force Julian to choose between him and his family and is all too aware he may lose Julian, despite the man’s obvious feelings for him. Lesser authors might have jumped on the opportunity to force that rift between the two men; Aleksandr Voinov and L.A. Witt are good enough to know the story didn’t need the extra tension. The story as it is provided almost more angst than I could deal with as it was and I’m so grateful they didn’t go for overkill.
For someone who has huge issues with organised religion at the best of times this was the perfect read. Not only because the two main characters take their stance against the indoctrination they’re facing but also because it showed the other side as well. The side where the love within a family can’t be broken, not even by the power and rules of a self-important head of the congregation. I liked that it didn’t make the dilemma black against white. Yes, Chris is shunned by the people he grew up with and knows that he’ll never be able to be part of that community again. But even five years later it still hurts him, because it does. Even when a clean break is the only option it doesn’t mean it is an easy one and I applaud the authors for including that hardship in this story.
And, before I forget, allow me to add that the relationship between Chris and Julian is HOT. Both men have used the five years apart to become experienced and inventive lovers. When they get together passion rules and naughty fantasies spice up their bed, bringing this reader some wonderful moments in the process.
As I’ve come to expect from this partnership this was a very well written and captivating love story filled with tension, tender moments and passionate love. This book was a pure joy to read while giving me plenty to think about at the same time. I may be repeating myself but I don’t care; Voinov and Witt are now high on my list of must-read authors and I can’t thank them enough for being as prolific as they are.
May 20, 2014
I received my copy from the publisher through Love Romances and More.
This is the fourth book in the ‘Distance Between Us’ series but can easily be read as a stand-alone.
It has been five years since Chris and his best friend Joshua gave in to their feelings for each other and spent one passionate but clumsy night together. The following the day both of them left on for their separate two year long Mormon missions. Chris has had doubt s about his faith and the Mormon community he is a part of for some time but both his world and his faith are shattered when he finds out Joshua has gone missing and is assumed dead. Cutting his mission short, Chris returns to Seattle where he turns his back on his faith and finds himself excluded from the community he grew up in as well as his family.
When Chris discovers that Joshua isn’t dead and is on his way home to reconcile with his family and dying father his emotions are torn between relief and anger.
The man who returns to Seattle may look like an older version of Joshua but after five years in the French Foreign Legion he’s acquired an accent as well as a new name - Julian - and no intention of returning to the Joshua he used to be. What’s more, the attraction between the two men is as strong as it ever was. Despite his lingering anger and the fear that Julian may just leave again, Chris offers him a place to stay and it isn’t long before that place turns out to be in Chris’ bed.
The Church and Julian’s family aren’t prepared to just allow the lost son to be who he needs to be though, forcing Julian to make an impossible choice between the man he loves and his family. All Chris can do is stand on the sidelines, ready to catch Julian should he fall.
“Not simple by any means - there was nothing left between us that could be considered simple – but easier.”
No review of mine could summarize this story better than the quote above does. This book is an emotional rollercoaster. The love and passion between the two men is so intense and beautiful it will take your breath away while the pressures put on them by their families and community are both realistic and heartbreaking. The angst in this book isn’t the result of doubts about the two men’s commitment to or feelings for each other, although Chris suffers some of those. The tension is the result of outside forces doing their damnest to keep the two men apart. Nobody should ever be forced to choose between their family and the person they love, and yet that is exactly the choice Julian is left with.
While the story is told from Chris’ point of few I did get a good impression of Julian’s difficult journey too and he all but broke my heart. Because Chris has gone through a similar process years before he knows exactly what Julian is dealing with although that doesn’t alleviate his helplessness. He can’t force Julian to choose between him and his family and is all too aware he may lose Julian, despite the man’s obvious feelings for him. Lesser authors might have jumped on the opportunity to force that rift between the two men; Aleksandr Voinov and L.A. Witt are good enough to know the story didn’t need the extra tension. The story as it is provided almost more angst than I could deal with as it was and I’m so grateful they didn’t go for overkill.
For someone who has huge issues with organised religion at the best of times this was the perfect read. Not only because the two main characters take their stance against the indoctrination they’re facing but also because it showed the other side as well. The side where the love within a family can’t be broken, not even by the power and rules of a self-important head of the congregation. I liked that it didn’t make the dilemma black against white. Yes, Chris is shunned by the people he grew up with and knows that he’ll never be able to be part of that community again. But even five years later it still hurts him, because it does. Even when a clean break is the only option it doesn’t mean it is an easy one and I applaud the authors for including that hardship in this story.
And, before I forget, allow me to add that the relationship between Chris and Julian is HOT. Both men have used the five years apart to become experienced and inventive lovers. When they get together passion rules and naughty fantasies spice up their bed, bringing this reader some wonderful moments in the process.
As I’ve come to expect from this partnership this was a very well written and captivating love story filled with tension, tender moments and passionate love. This book was a pure joy to read while giving me plenty to think about at the same time. I may be repeating myself but I don’t care; Voinov and Witt are now high on my list of must-read authors and I can’t thank them enough for being as prolific as they are.
This is the fourth book in the ‘Distance Between Us’ series but can easily be read as a stand-alone.
It has been five years since Chris and his best friend Joshua gave in to their feelings for each other and spent one passionate but clumsy night together. The following the day both of them left on for their separate two year long Mormon missions. Chris has had doubt s about his faith and the Mormon community he is a part of for some time but both his world and his faith are shattered when he finds out Joshua has gone missing and is assumed dead. Cutting his mission short, Chris returns to Seattle where he turns his back on his faith and finds himself excluded from the community he grew up in as well as his family.
When Chris discovers that Joshua isn’t dead and is on his way home to reconcile with his family and dying father his emotions are torn between relief and anger.
The man who returns to Seattle may look like an older version of Joshua but after five years in the French Foreign Legion he’s acquired an accent as well as a new name - Julian - and no intention of returning to the Joshua he used to be. What’s more, the attraction between the two men is as strong as it ever was. Despite his lingering anger and the fear that Julian may just leave again, Chris offers him a place to stay and it isn’t long before that place turns out to be in Chris’ bed.
The Church and Julian’s family aren’t prepared to just allow the lost son to be who he needs to be though, forcing Julian to make an impossible choice between the man he loves and his family. All Chris can do is stand on the sidelines, ready to catch Julian should he fall.
“Not simple by any means - there was nothing left between us that could be considered simple – but easier.”
No review of mine could summarize this story better than the quote above does. This book is an emotional rollercoaster. The love and passion between the two men is so intense and beautiful it will take your breath away while the pressures put on them by their families and community are both realistic and heartbreaking. The angst in this book isn’t the result of doubts about the two men’s commitment to or feelings for each other, although Chris suffers some of those. The tension is the result of outside forces doing their damnest to keep the two men apart. Nobody should ever be forced to choose between their family and the person they love, and yet that is exactly the choice Julian is left with.
While the story is told from Chris’ point of few I did get a good impression of Julian’s difficult journey too and he all but broke my heart. Because Chris has gone through a similar process years before he knows exactly what Julian is dealing with although that doesn’t alleviate his helplessness. He can’t force Julian to choose between him and his family and is all too aware he may lose Julian, despite the man’s obvious feelings for him. Lesser authors might have jumped on the opportunity to force that rift between the two men; Aleksandr Voinov and L.A. Witt are good enough to know the story didn’t need the extra tension. The story as it is provided almost more angst than I could deal with as it was and I’m so grateful they didn’t go for overkill.
For someone who has huge issues with organised religion at the best of times this was the perfect read. Not only because the two main characters take their stance against the indoctrination they’re facing but also because it showed the other side as well. The side where the love within a family can’t be broken, not even by the power and rules of a self-important head of the congregation. I liked that it didn’t make the dilemma black against white. Yes, Chris is shunned by the people he grew up with and knows that he’ll never be able to be part of that community again. But even five years later it still hurts him, because it does. Even when a clean break is the only option it doesn’t mean it is an easy one and I applaud the authors for including that hardship in this story.
And, before I forget, allow me to add that the relationship between Chris and Julian is HOT. Both men have used the five years apart to become experienced and inventive lovers. When they get together passion rules and naughty fantasies spice up their bed, bringing this reader some wonderful moments in the process.
As I’ve come to expect from this partnership this was a very well written and captivating love story filled with tension, tender moments and passionate love. This book was a pure joy to read while giving me plenty to think about at the same time. I may be repeating myself but I don’t care; Voinov and Witt are now high on my list of must-read authors and I can’t thank them enough for being as prolific as they are.
June 13, 2014
This is a 3.5 star review
I’m one that if I’m familiar with an author, or authors, I tend to start reading their books without really looking at the blurb. I like going into a story knowing very little about it. Needless to say, I kind of wish that I had read the blurb for this one. I would have been better prepared for a topic about which I’m a little touchy: religion.
Chris finds out that Joshua is still alive while having lunch with Joshua’s sister, Deb, and that the two have been in contact with each other for about a year, through Facebook. That Joshua is coming back to make peace with his dying father, and, by the way, that Joshua is flying in this evening, and “would you like to come with me to see him?” Stunned, Chris has his moment of accepting that someone he thought dead is, in fact, alive and well. After all, his whole life changed when he thought his best friend had died, going so far as to leave his religion behind. When these two men meet again at the airport, there are some awkward moments. Chris invites Joshua (aka Julian) to come stay with him, while Joshua explains why he left to join the Foreign Legion. And since they’re both self proclaimed sluts, it doesn’t take very long for Joshua and Chris to fall into bed with each other.
Okay…about this time I have this weird, skeptical look on my face, and I’m asking myself, what the heck have I gotten myself into with this one? I guess I expected a little bit more resistance from Chris since he was so hurt by what Julian (aka Joshua) had done when he just disappeared. But, ever the faithful friend, it just got swept under the rug in the name of friendship and lust.
Now, we come to Julian/Joshua’s family. I also would have left these people and all their religious expectations behind! Like I mentioned earlier, I’m a little touchy when it comes to religion. There were moments when I became a bit irritated by the parents of both these young men, but the one thing about this story is that it did have a couple of good points to make about unconditional love and acceptance, even though it felt that certain topics were rushed through and left up in the air.
So, with that in mind, I’m giving No Distance Left to Run a 3.5 star rating.
Reviewed by Kim at The Novel Approach
I’m one that if I’m familiar with an author, or authors, I tend to start reading their books without really looking at the blurb. I like going into a story knowing very little about it. Needless to say, I kind of wish that I had read the blurb for this one. I would have been better prepared for a topic about which I’m a little touchy: religion.
Chris finds out that Joshua is still alive while having lunch with Joshua’s sister, Deb, and that the two have been in contact with each other for about a year, through Facebook. That Joshua is coming back to make peace with his dying father, and, by the way, that Joshua is flying in this evening, and “would you like to come with me to see him?” Stunned, Chris has his moment of accepting that someone he thought dead is, in fact, alive and well. After all, his whole life changed when he thought his best friend had died, going so far as to leave his religion behind. When these two men meet again at the airport, there are some awkward moments. Chris invites Joshua (aka Julian) to come stay with him, while Joshua explains why he left to join the Foreign Legion. And since they’re both self proclaimed sluts, it doesn’t take very long for Joshua and Chris to fall into bed with each other.
Okay…about this time I have this weird, skeptical look on my face, and I’m asking myself, what the heck have I gotten myself into with this one? I guess I expected a little bit more resistance from Chris since he was so hurt by what Julian (aka Joshua) had done when he just disappeared. But, ever the faithful friend, it just got swept under the rug in the name of friendship and lust.
Now, we come to Julian/Joshua’s family. I also would have left these people and all their religious expectations behind! Like I mentioned earlier, I’m a little touchy when it comes to religion. There were moments when I became a bit irritated by the parents of both these young men, but the one thing about this story is that it did have a couple of good points to make about unconditional love and acceptance, even though it felt that certain topics were rushed through and left up in the air.
So, with that in mind, I’m giving No Distance Left to Run a 3.5 star rating.
Reviewed by Kim at The Novel Approach
March 5, 2016
One word to sum up this book: Frustrating.
Julien runs away from his family and friends for years without telling them he was okay, allowing them to think that he was dead during that entire time, because he was too cowardly to tell them all to fuck off. But he is willing to join the military and risk life and limb in a foreign country where he barely spoke the language. When he does finally go home, there are no consequences for his runaway act. Everyone just accepts him back into their lives and they honestly don't come down very hard on him.
Chris was brave enough to leave his family and church behind when they didn't agree with his homosexuality but for some reason he's a total doormat for Julien. I understand that Chris was in love with Julien when he was younger but being in love with someone does not give them an excuse to show back up in your life like nothing had changed.
I really wanted Chris to be angry at Julien. His acceptance of Julien back in his life and in his bed despite years of thinking he was dead, when in reality he was just too chicken shit to come home, is infuriating. We don't even get one real good argument between the two of them about Julien's desertion.
The sex scenes were great but the love they had for each other was pretty unconvincing. Chris and Julien fell in love when they were teenagers. They both have changed so much as people. How can they possibly know their love is the same when they spend most of their reunion in bed? I really wished the authors had tried harder to build a more deeper romance between the two that didn't have anything to do with being each other's firsts when they were exploring their sexuality. That would have been the only way I could have bought the whole dynamic between Chris and Julien when they meet again.
The writing is good and there were very few typos. I've really enjoyed other books by these authors in the past, which makes this book even more baffling and frustrating for me.
Julien runs away from his family and friends for years without telling them he was okay, allowing them to think that he was dead during that entire time, because he was too cowardly to tell them all to fuck off. But he is willing to join the military and risk life and limb in a foreign country where he barely spoke the language. When he does finally go home, there are no consequences for his runaway act. Everyone just accepts him back into their lives and they honestly don't come down very hard on him.
Chris was brave enough to leave his family and church behind when they didn't agree with his homosexuality but for some reason he's a total doormat for Julien. I understand that Chris was in love with Julien when he was younger but being in love with someone does not give them an excuse to show back up in your life like nothing had changed.
I really wanted Chris to be angry at Julien. His acceptance of Julien back in his life and in his bed despite years of thinking he was dead, when in reality he was just too chicken shit to come home, is infuriating. We don't even get one real good argument between the two of them about Julien's desertion.
The sex scenes were great but the love they had for each other was pretty unconvincing. Chris and Julien fell in love when they were teenagers. They both have changed so much as people. How can they possibly know their love is the same when they spend most of their reunion in bed? I really wished the authors had tried harder to build a more deeper romance between the two that didn't have anything to do with being each other's firsts when they were exploring their sexuality. That would have been the only way I could have bought the whole dynamic between Chris and Julien when they meet again.
The writing is good and there were very few typos. I've really enjoyed other books by these authors in the past, which makes this book even more baffling and frustrating for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 30, 2014
The story these two have created together is wonderful. The writing crisp and flawless while capturing into the lives of Chris and Joshua/Julian. I was more drawn to Chris than Julian to the point I felt protective of him and didn’t want to see him hurt again by Julian like he was all those years ago.
Chris went through so much to get to where he was and comfortable in his own skin and when you read this you growl at Julian as you read Chris’s thoughts and see his confused actions. But Chris being an amazing guy( a Mr. Darcy for men to be lucky to be with) forgave Julian unconditionally and was there for him no matter what with open arms. Even when Julian allowed his guilt to come into play Chris was there when he was needed. Chris loved wholly and unconditionally. Just took Julian awhile to see this and come around. Julian needed time to really look at himself and figure out his emotions before truly seeing Chris for who he is and to see his own emotions for being real.
These two when together wows. Steams up the kindle so have a towel handy. These two are perfect together. They support each other and give each other the strength one another needs to be who they are. Their chemistry is through the roof and written to where you truly feel all the emotions come off the pages. The easy banter is sexy to see and gives you all you need even if it is unsaid. The intimacy is like seeing two people become one even if it seems rough but their is passion and oneness there. The writing allows us to see this. As they come to terms with each other,they stand as one and become what the other truly needs. A beautiful book of forgiveness and love that is unconditional.
Chris went through so much to get to where he was and comfortable in his own skin and when you read this you growl at Julian as you read Chris’s thoughts and see his confused actions. But Chris being an amazing guy( a Mr. Darcy for men to be lucky to be with) forgave Julian unconditionally and was there for him no matter what with open arms. Even when Julian allowed his guilt to come into play Chris was there when he was needed. Chris loved wholly and unconditionally. Just took Julian awhile to see this and come around. Julian needed time to really look at himself and figure out his emotions before truly seeing Chris for who he is and to see his own emotions for being real.
These two when together wows. Steams up the kindle so have a towel handy. These two are perfect together. They support each other and give each other the strength one another needs to be who they are. Their chemistry is through the roof and written to where you truly feel all the emotions come off the pages. The easy banter is sexy to see and gives you all you need even if it is unsaid. The intimacy is like seeing two people become one even if it seems rough but their is passion and oneness there. The writing allows us to see this. As they come to terms with each other,they stand as one and become what the other truly needs. A beautiful book of forgiveness and love that is unconditional.
July 4, 2014
Blockbuster Conclusion to a Brilliant Series...
This book may be the end of a series...and if it isn't, that's really terrific, because we can use more of these characters and their tales. But if it is the last one, let's get this straight right from the beginning: All four were superb, all had different themes dealing with a set of characters in Seattle whose lives sometimes revolve around a gay bar named Wilde's or the extended family the place has spawned. Each one was strongly plotted, beautifully written, heartbreaking and heartwarming.
But this one--this one is a blockbuster!
Not only does it deal with an exceptionally strong set of characters, it also takes a huge chunk out of the Mormon church, which will please some people but maybe offend others. Too bad--read it straight through to the end to see whether you agree that redemption is in the soul of the believer, even if he doesn't believe anymore.
L.A. Witt is joined in this one by Aleksandr Vionov, a truly accomplished m/m romance veteran, I don't know who wrote or contributed whatever along the way but the combination produced a book that is breathtaking, seriously hot, and brilliantly exposed every word of the way. One of the most extraordinary conclusions to a series in this genre of this or any other year. Get it now.
This book may be the end of a series...and if it isn't, that's really terrific, because we can use more of these characters and their tales. But if it is the last one, let's get this straight right from the beginning: All four were superb, all had different themes dealing with a set of characters in Seattle whose lives sometimes revolve around a gay bar named Wilde's or the extended family the place has spawned. Each one was strongly plotted, beautifully written, heartbreaking and heartwarming.
But this one--this one is a blockbuster!
Not only does it deal with an exceptionally strong set of characters, it also takes a huge chunk out of the Mormon church, which will please some people but maybe offend others. Too bad--read it straight through to the end to see whether you agree that redemption is in the soul of the believer, even if he doesn't believe anymore.
L.A. Witt is joined in this one by Aleksandr Vionov, a truly accomplished m/m romance veteran, I don't know who wrote or contributed whatever along the way but the combination produced a book that is breathtaking, seriously hot, and brilliantly exposed every word of the way. One of the most extraordinary conclusions to a series in this genre of this or any other year. Get it now.
May 18, 2014
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
No Distance Left to Run is the fourth book in the Distance Between Us series (the first three written by Witt alone). The book is only loosely connected with the others however, with Chris an employee at Wilde’s and friends with Kiernan, another character from the series. But this book is otherwise independent and stands alone perfectly fine.
The story takes a really interesting angle in its look at the hold of religion on these two men. While we often read about the effects of religious intolerance in m/m romance, in this case the book approaches it from a slightly different angle. Julian’s family is very much a part of the Mormon community of Seattle and believe Julian’s return to the church is essential for his salvation. Their concerns about his relationship with Chris are less about Chris being gay than about the fact that he has left the church. While they are happy to have their son home, they believe firmly he must reaccept his old faith if he is going to have any kind of relationship with them.
Read Jay's review in its entirety here.
4 stars
No Distance Left to Run is the fourth book in the Distance Between Us series (the first three written by Witt alone). The book is only loosely connected with the others however, with Chris an employee at Wilde’s and friends with Kiernan, another character from the series. But this book is otherwise independent and stands alone perfectly fine.
The story takes a really interesting angle in its look at the hold of religion on these two men. While we often read about the effects of religious intolerance in m/m romance, in this case the book approaches it from a slightly different angle. Julian’s family is very much a part of the Mormon community of Seattle and believe Julian’s return to the church is essential for his salvation. Their concerns about his relationship with Chris are less about Chris being gay than about the fact that he has left the church. While they are happy to have their son home, they believe firmly he must reaccept his old faith if he is going to have any kind of relationship with them.
Read Jay's review in its entirety here.
Read
April 28, 2017A military uniform , a tuxedo and a knife.
This scene SCREAMS Aleks , from miles and miles away.
I cannot BEGIN to describe what your combined writing has given to me.
Angst.
Sleepless nights - aka, something that resembles eyes inside dark circles on my pale face ( i don't go outside, i READ - duh ...)
Having to explain to the manicurist why i don't have to do my nails- again.
Satisfaction.
Oh boy , so much satisfaction that you MUST have a cigarette after .
There's no book of Aleks's that i haven't read.Neither of L.A.'s.
I've won every time i chose one of their books ; i'm keeping it that way.
But...
There's always a but.
They don't speed write -- they're old-fashioned that way.
So i dislike them for that.
Cause all this love , frankly , makes me a little sick in the stomach.
Born to be a bitch, that's me.
Waiting, AGAIN.
* Diva-writers,pfft *Aleksandr VoinovL.A. Witt
This scene SCREAMS Aleks , from miles and miles away.
I cannot BEGIN to describe what your combined writing has given to me.
Angst.
Sleepless nights - aka, something that resembles eyes inside dark circles on my pale face ( i don't go outside, i READ - duh ...)
Having to explain to the manicurist why i don't have to do my nails- again.
Satisfaction.
Oh boy , so much satisfaction that you MUST have a cigarette after .
There's no book of Aleks's that i haven't read.Neither of L.A.'s.
I've won every time i chose one of their books ; i'm keeping it that way.
But...
There's always a but.
They don't speed write -- they're old-fashioned that way.
So i dislike them for that.
Cause all this love , frankly , makes me a little sick in the stomach.
Born to be a bitch, that's me.
Waiting, AGAIN.
* Diva-writers,pfft *Aleksandr VoinovL.A. Witt
February 8, 2015
I really enjoyed this story very much. Both characters were likeable and they were amazingly hot together. I also liked the fact that the drama in the story wasn't something that pulled them apart, instead it just reinforced their love for each other.
There was a lot about the Mormon religion in this one so any reader who doesn't want to read about religion shouldn't even bother to read the story. I'm not a big fan of reading about religion, but it was necessary to the story since it was really the focal point of why Julien (Joshua) left his family in the first place and why he and Chris are struggling to stay together in the first half of the story. To be honest, it broadened my understanding of that religion and even this little old lady likes to learn something new when I read.
Imagining this couple looked like the men on the cover was no hardship either. Great story by two of my favorite authors. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this whole series to my friends. Each book is different. Each is terrific.
There was a lot about the Mormon religion in this one so any reader who doesn't want to read about religion shouldn't even bother to read the story. I'm not a big fan of reading about religion, but it was necessary to the story since it was really the focal point of why Julien (Joshua) left his family in the first place and why he and Chris are struggling to stay together in the first half of the story. To be honest, it broadened my understanding of that religion and even this little old lady likes to learn something new when I read.
Imagining this couple looked like the men on the cover was no hardship either. Great story by two of my favorite authors. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend this whole series to my friends. Each book is different. Each is terrific.
May 29, 2014
Very sweet, low key yet hot romance. I absolutely loved the two MCs - Joshua/Julien and Chris. I understood Chris' struggle with what he had been taught about God and religion and how intolerant that religion is when it comes to his life. What a strong person! It's hard to deal with the alienation of your family whose beliefs refuse to let them just simply love their son. I think the religion aspect of the book adds a layer of emotion and feelings that you don't often see in romance novels let along mm romances. Well done! Julien was one hot Frenchman - o la la.. And as always, Witt and Voinov bring us some lovely heat to the table. The uniform scene - whew, my Kindle was smoking. Love these two authors. Solid snappy writing, depth of emotion, sexiness and humor - all rolled into one yummy mm package.
May 20, 2014
I've loved all the other books in this series and this one did not disappoint. What an original storyline, two Mormon boys realize they might be gay right before they leave for a 2 year mission. One of them doesn't return, Joshua is killed and Chris is never the same. He's grieved for his friend ever since, and cant seem to move on. He meets with his sister for coffee one day, and she tells him that Joshua isn't dead, that now he's Julian and he's coming home. I don't want to give away too much of the story because it really is very clever. Both of them struggle between doing what they both want, and what has been taught to them their whole lives. I loved how it all ended it was perfect.
July 16, 2023
This one is a little different to the others in the series. First of all, only Kieran has a small cameo in this book. None of the other guys come into this one at all.
Secondly, there was a slightly different "feel" to it. Most likely due to the co0authoring, but it doesn't detract anything from it at all. This one had even more depth than the previous ones. Yet again, no unnecessary drawing out of situations, no angst-for-angst sake. In fact, in my humble opinion, it was just perfect alround.
Sexy, interesting characters, smoking hot sex scenes and enough of a story to bite into. Again, a perfect way to escape.
Secondly, there was a slightly different "feel" to it. Most likely due to the co0authoring, but it doesn't detract anything from it at all. This one had even more depth than the previous ones. Yet again, no unnecessary drawing out of situations, no angst-for-angst sake. In fact, in my humble opinion, it was just perfect alround.
Sexy, interesting characters, smoking hot sex scenes and enough of a story to bite into. Again, a perfect way to escape.
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