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The House on Hancock Hill
Pastry chef and bakery owner Jason Wood bakes a mean chocolate soufflé, yet his love life keeps falling flat. He’d blame his past if he wasn’t trying so hard to avoid it.
When his family’s farmhouse burns to the ground, he’s summoned to identify a body found in the ashes. Jason returns to Hancock, Michigan, and reunites with a childhood friend, small town vet Henry McCavanaugh. After fifteen years apart, their rekindled friendship soon develops into much more. But Jason’s baggage threatens their blossoming romance, and he leaves town unannounced to escape his feelings—and Henry’s feelings for him. He has learned the hard way if something seems too good to be true, it’s best to run for the hills. Jason stress-bakes more confections than he knows what to do with before wondering if he’s running in the wrong direction.
When his family’s farmhouse burns to the ground, he’s summoned to identify a body found in the ashes. Jason returns to Hancock, Michigan, and reunites with a childhood friend, small town vet Henry McCavanaugh. After fifteen years apart, their rekindled friendship soon develops into much more. But Jason’s baggage threatens their blossoming romance, and he leaves town unannounced to escape his feelings—and Henry’s feelings for him. He has learned the hard way if something seems too good to be true, it’s best to run for the hills. Jason stress-bakes more confections than he knows what to do with before wondering if he’s running in the wrong direction.
220 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 6, 2014
5 people are currently reading
385 people want to read
About the author
Indra Vaughn
21 books211 followersAfter living in Michigan, USA for seven wonderful years, Indra Vaughn returned back to her Belgian roots. There she will continue to consume herbal tea, do yoga wherever the mat fits, and devour books while single parenting a little boy and working as a nurse.
The stories of boys and their unrequited love will no doubt keep finding their way onto the page--and hopefully into readers hands--even if it takes a little more time.
And if she gleefully posts pictures of snow-free streets in winter, you'll have to forgive her. Those Michigan blizzards won't be forgotten in a hurry.
The stories of boys and their unrequited love will no doubt keep finding their way onto the page--and hopefully into readers hands--even if it takes a little more time.
And if she gleefully posts pictures of snow-free streets in winter, you'll have to forgive her. Those Michigan blizzards won't be forgotten in a hurry.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
April 1, 2014
The House on Hancock Hill is the story of
a pastry chef:
and a veterinarian:
Jason and Henry are friends since their adolescence, they enjoyed summers together as best friends, until the day that everything ended... Fifteen years after they met again!
They share mutual feelings, they feel attracted to each other... but misunderstandings, wrong assumptions, angst and fears, separated them!
This book is very sweet and romantic, but there were some things that bothered me: one of those things was the slowness of the story itself and the fact that there were very few good moments between the MCs... We have more of Jason without Henry, than the other way around. Also Jason's behavior left me sad sometimes and mad at him . But Henry, being such a good and kind man, wasn't perfection as well .
So we have Jason, a pastry chef; and Henry, a veterinarian... none of them perfect, both with unsolved issues, but they are in love and have lot of work to do in their relationship! This is their love story, that is actually beautiful and sweet!
I liked this book, and I'm very happy to be in this BR!!! with my great friends: Barbara, Mandy, Silky and Amy!!!
a pastry chef:
and a veterinarian:
Jason and Henry are friends since their adolescence, they enjoyed summers together as best friends, until the day that everything ended... Fifteen years after they met again!
They share mutual feelings, they feel attracted to each other... but misunderstandings, wrong assumptions, angst and fears, separated them!
This book is very sweet and romantic, but there were some things that bothered me: one of those things was the slowness of the story itself and the fact that there were very few good moments between the MCs... We have more of Jason without Henry, than the other way around. Also Jason's behavior left me sad sometimes and mad at him . But Henry, being such a good and kind man, wasn't perfection as well .
So we have Jason, a pastry chef; and Henry, a veterinarian... none of them perfect, both with unsolved issues, but they are in love and have lot of work to do in their relationship! This is their love story, that is actually beautiful and sweet!
I liked this book, and I'm very happy to be in this BR!!! with my great friends: Barbara, Mandy, Silky and Amy!!!
November 5, 2014
Loved...
In a mood for something sweet
and cute
and sexy
and GFY
Delicious...
I love a friends to lovers story - and this one is an instant favourite of mine. When you want a quintessential romance book, you pick up a book like The House on Hancock Hill. Full of everything that makes up romance—unrequited love, history, mystery, sexual tension, loss. I liked the plot very much, well written, a good angst portion, the twists and turns are turbulent but also with the right measure and the ending was so beautiful…
Loved
Recommended
In a mood for something sweet
and cute
and sexy
and GFY
Delicious...
I love a friends to lovers story - and this one is an instant favourite of mine. When you want a quintessential romance book, you pick up a book like The House on Hancock Hill. Full of everything that makes up romance—unrequited love, history, mystery, sexual tension, loss. I liked the plot very much, well written, a good angst portion, the twists and turns are turbulent but also with the right measure and the ending was so beautiful…
Loved
Recommended
October 6, 2014
1.75 STARS
To say this book didn’t work for me would be an understatement. I’m so in minority here, but well, it happens! C’est la vie! I'm not gonna retell the blurb, so here are mycomplains thoughts.
This book started good. At first I was invested in the story, but gradually I lost my interest. I didn’t want to DNF this, ( I only DNF when the writing is too awful or I can’t connect with the writing style. It wasn't the case ( Lucky me! ), so I continued...Well, big mistake, because this was one of the slowest and boring M/M I’ve read so far. Unfortunately, these are not the only complains I have.
First and foremost, you have to know about this book is that the title and therefore the cover have nothing to do with the storyline, even if this house on Hancock Hill starts all the story.
At some point in the beginning I was thinking this will be a mystery or something, because well the mystery plot was there, but it wasn’t developed. So why the mystery plot??? I didn’t see the author’s point at all.
The story is divided in two parts which I didn’t understand why. Of course, I like a story divided in two or many parts, I have nothing against it, but when is a logical reasoning for it. Here I didn’t understand it, it didn’t seemed logical to me.
Like I said before, almost all the story is very slow and boring. I think for me, some unnecessary details about some unnecessary things made it this way. This is only me!
I can’t say I liked the characters either. One of them because is a douchebag (Jason) and the other because his character wasn’t developed at all through the entire story. ( maybe because the story is told from Jason’s POV? Whatever... ). That doesn’t mean Jason’s characters was developed the right way. I say the right way, because the story relied too much on plot device then an interesting character development, which I didn’t liked at all. Jason is a coward! Really!
A little less than half of the book, the main characters, Jason and Henry are together, than more than 40% they are separated and of course in the end they are reunited for 10% or even less. I think at this point you can understand my frustration?!? Maybe it’s just me, but when I read a romance, it doesn’t matter what type, ( m/f, m/m, m/f/m etc. ), I like the main characters to be together more than 50%-60% of the book.
One of the reason I read romance is obviously to “see”, to feel the romance. Here I didn’t feel it at all! They attraction? Yeah, maybe, but not the romance. I didn't felt the deep connection between the two main characters or something like that ( like Jason says ) and I didn’t feel connected in some way with any of them. I didn’t understood some of their actions either.
I didn’t mention before, but both Jason and Henry are in their thirties or late twenties...I think?? Anyway, they act like they are 12 years old, even 10 years old maybe. When you're an adult, you try to solve your problem, not run away like a coward. The miscommunication between them really pissed me off big time. Obviously this plot device was created to cause some angst. I don’t mind I little angst, but not the big unnecessary amount, like in this book. I was so frustrated with all this that I rolled my eyes a big number of times. ( yeah, my eyes hurt a little when I finished this ).
When they are separated, because Jason is an ass, he doesn’t try to solve his problems...nooo, instead he kiss not one, but two guys and he fucks another (the third) guy and all this after he realizes he loves Henry! Really????????? Okkkkk. I know all this happens during several months, but come on, when you love somebody you pull your head out of your ass and you don’t fuck around, you solve your problems and fight for that person. Personally, I don’t like in my books that one of the MC to be romantically or sexually involved with other/others then the other MC.
The steam is low here, the only sex scenes is just there. Just…there! With “there” I said everything!
The story is full of clichés. I won’t mention them, because I’m really annoyed, even now, two days ater I finished this book. Just know they are there. You have been warned!
With every chapter read, I hoped at least for a decent ending. What I’ve got was something rushed and a little cheesy too. *sigh* ( I would have understand somehow some the cheesiness, if the story had been sweet, but it wasn’t. So why suddenly the author needed all the cheesiness? ) At that point I swore that in the future I will read a review or two before reading something new that none of my friends read it before. I truly have to learn to DNF!
Overall, what can I say? Obviously, not the book for me!Unfortunately, I can’t say I recommend this to anyone!
Note: My 0.75 star rating is for the effort and the writing!
To say this book didn’t work for me would be an understatement. I’m so in minority here, but well, it happens! C’est la vie! I'm not gonna retell the blurb, so here are my
This book started good. At first I was invested in the story, but gradually I lost my interest. I didn’t want to DNF this, ( I only DNF when the writing is too awful or I can’t connect with the writing style. It wasn't the case ( Lucky me! ), so I continued...Well, big mistake, because this was one of the slowest and boring M/M I’ve read so far. Unfortunately, these are not the only complains I have.
First and foremost, you have to know about this book is that the title and therefore the cover have nothing to do with the storyline, even if this house on Hancock Hill starts all the story.
At some point in the beginning I was thinking this will be a mystery or something, because well the mystery plot was there, but it wasn’t developed. So why the mystery plot??? I didn’t see the author’s point at all.
The story is divided in two parts which I didn’t understand why. Of course, I like a story divided in two or many parts, I have nothing against it, but when is a logical reasoning for it. Here I didn’t understand it, it didn’t seemed logical to me.
Like I said before, almost all the story is very slow and boring. I think for me, some unnecessary details about some unnecessary things made it this way. This is only me!
I can’t say I liked the characters either. One of them because is a douchebag (Jason) and the other because his character wasn’t developed at all through the entire story. ( maybe because the story is told from Jason’s POV? Whatever... ). That doesn’t mean Jason’s characters was developed the right way. I say the right way, because the story relied too much on plot device then an interesting character development, which I didn’t liked at all. Jason is a coward! Really!
A little less than half of the book, the main characters, Jason and Henry are together, than more than 40% they are separated and of course in the end they are reunited for 10% or even less. I think at this point you can understand my frustration?!? Maybe it’s just me, but when I read a romance, it doesn’t matter what type, ( m/f, m/m, m/f/m etc. ), I like the main characters to be together more than 50%-60% of the book.
One of the reason I read romance is obviously to “see”, to feel the romance. Here I didn’t feel it at all! They attraction? Yeah, maybe, but not the romance. I didn't felt the deep connection between the two main characters or something like that ( like Jason says ) and I didn’t feel connected in some way with any of them. I didn’t understood some of their actions either.
I didn’t mention before, but both Jason and Henry are in their thirties or late twenties...I think?? Anyway, they act like they are 12 years old, even 10 years old maybe. When you're an adult, you try to solve your problem, not run away like a coward. The miscommunication between them really pissed me off big time. Obviously this plot device was created to cause some angst. I don’t mind I little angst, but not the big unnecessary amount, like in this book. I was so frustrated with all this that I rolled my eyes a big number of times. ( yeah, my eyes hurt a little when I finished this ).
When they are separated, because Jason is an ass, he doesn’t try to solve his problems...nooo, instead he kiss not one, but two guys and he fucks another (the third) guy and all this after he realizes he loves Henry! Really????????? Okkkkk. I know all this happens during several months, but come on, when you love somebody you pull your head out of your ass and you don’t fuck around, you solve your problems and fight for that person. Personally, I don’t like in my books that one of the MC to be romantically or sexually involved with other/others then the other MC.
The steam is low here, the only sex scenes is just there. Just…there! With “there” I said everything!
The story is full of clichés. I won’t mention them, because I’m really annoyed, even now, two days ater I finished this book. Just know they are there. You have been warned!
With every chapter read, I hoped at least for a decent ending. What I’ve got was something rushed and a little cheesy too. *sigh* ( I would have understand somehow some the cheesiness, if the story had been sweet, but it wasn’t. So why suddenly the author needed all the cheesiness? ) At that point I swore that in the future I will read a review or two before reading something new that none of my friends read it before. I truly have to learn to DNF!
Overall, what can I say? Obviously, not the book for me!Unfortunately, I can’t say I recommend this to anyone!
Note: My 0.75 star rating is for the effort and the writing!
April 9, 2014
BR HERE
"Pastry chef and bakery owner Jason Wood,
and small town vet Henry McCavanaugh"
4 Mac’n Jay stars
“You feel so good, my love. Brace yourself.”
This book it was like a “Belgian chocolate truffles”, you’ll be surprised by the wonderfully smooth and sweet “flavour”.
This is Jason and Henry story, teenagers, one of them can hide the unadulterated joy of being in love, and it had flowed but the other never saw it! 15 years later they meet again… Gorgeous Jason has a heart shield like a fortress afraid to love, and Henry is the sweetest and helping person ever who never forgot his love.
I liked the plot very much, well written, a good angst portion, the twists and turns are turbulent but also with the right measure and the ending are so BEAUTIFUL…
Nevertheless would appreciate more if there were more interactions with Jason and Henry, while teenagers and adults!
Overall a very enjoyable B read with my gorgeous friends Isabel, Mandy, Silky and Amy!
"Pastry chef and bakery owner Jason Wood,
and small town vet Henry McCavanaugh"
4 Mac’n Jay stars
“You feel so good, my love. Brace yourself.”
This book it was like a “Belgian chocolate truffles”, you’ll be surprised by the wonderfully smooth and sweet “flavour”.
This is Jason and Henry story, teenagers, one of them can hide the unadulterated joy of being in love, and it had flowed but the other never saw it! 15 years later they meet again… Gorgeous Jason has a heart shield like a fortress afraid to love, and Henry is the sweetest and helping person ever who never forgot his love.
I liked the plot very much, well written, a good angst portion, the twists and turns are turbulent but also with the right measure and the ending are so BEAUTIFUL…
Nevertheless would appreciate more if there were more interactions with Jason and Henry, while teenagers and adults!
Overall a very enjoyable B read with my gorgeous friends Isabel, Mandy, Silky and Amy!
March 9, 2014
A gifty from J and a rec from Karl. GR friends are the best friends.
I loved this sweet and quiet story. Through the first part I was at a solid 4 stars throughout and then Paris happened at around 70% ish and I added another star. The book really could have taken a different turn at this point and ended, but I appreciated the fact the author didn't take the easy way out and Jason faced and dealt with all his issues for himself and I had to respect that. It made the eventual ending more realistic and optimistic.
I loved this sweet and quiet story. Through the first part I was at a solid 4 stars throughout and then Paris happened at around 70% ish and I added another star. The book really could have taken a different turn at this point and ended, but I appreciated the fact the author didn't take the easy way out and Jason faced and dealt with all his issues for himself and I had to respect that. It made the eventual ending more realistic and optimistic.
March 9, 2014
I love the writing, very fluid. Smooth and easy to read. I find this to be quite romantic. One minor issue though, It took soooo long for the MCs to get back together. It was frustrating! Aside from that, I this I enjoyed this a lot! Im looking forward to this author's next book. A snowy town + pastries + dogs = 5 stars!
P.S. Thank you KoboBooks :-)
P.S. Thank you KoboBooks :-)
March 22, 2014
This was one of the most boring, irritating books I have ever read! I skipped pages and pages and skimmed over others searching for something interesting, something to salvage. But alas, I found nothing other than more irritation at a MC I didn’t care for at all…
Jason Wood, has returned to his childhood home because the farmhouse he grew up in burned down. Jason gets in a car accident and is rescued by Henry his childhood friend whom he hasn’t seen in years and years. Jason know he is not staying in town so he doesn’t want to get close to henry. And henry is straight as well. but of course things happen, feelings develop. After a week in town, Jason slinks away in the dead of night and returns to his life and his bakeries.
Jason returns to life and while missing henry does nothing to contact him. So you read about Jason going about his life, mourning Henry, taking up with old lovers, breaking off with them as well. What I found was a lot of apathy and cowardice,like I said before. This was not a romance in my opinion, and it wasn’t a soul searching, who am i, and what do I want kinda story either. Well maybe, it was supposed to be, but I found this entire story boring and pointless.
When something happens in his childhood home and turns what Jason believed in and knows Henry of course seeks him out to offer support. When this happened I thought, ok here we go now. Something to get my interest and salvage this story. But of course, this was not to be. I just got more irritated and again I was left with nothing to get into.
And at 90% when they finally start to rekindle things again, I was so mad and frustrated I don’t give a damn really. I can see by the reviews already posted that most folks love this book. So i guess its one of those “everyone likes it but me” kinda books.
This felt like a total waste of my precious reading time.
Jason Wood, has returned to his childhood home because the farmhouse he grew up in burned down. Jason gets in a car accident and is rescued by Henry his childhood friend whom he hasn’t seen in years and years. Jason know he is not staying in town so he doesn’t want to get close to henry. And henry is straight as well. but of course things happen, feelings develop. After a week in town, Jason slinks away in the dead of night and returns to his life and his bakeries.
Jason returns to life and while missing henry does nothing to contact him. So you read about Jason going about his life, mourning Henry, taking up with old lovers, breaking off with them as well. What I found was a lot of apathy and cowardice,like I said before. This was not a romance in my opinion, and it wasn’t a soul searching, who am i, and what do I want kinda story either. Well maybe, it was supposed to be, but I found this entire story boring and pointless.
When something happens in his childhood home and turns what Jason believed in and knows Henry of course seeks him out to offer support. When this happened I thought, ok here we go now. Something to get my interest and salvage this story. But of course, this was not to be. I just got more irritated and again I was left with nothing to get into.
And at 90% when they finally start to rekindle things again, I was so mad and frustrated I don’t give a damn really. I can see by the reviews already posted that most folks love this book. So i guess its one of those “everyone likes it but me” kinda books.
This felt like a total waste of my precious reading time.
March 22, 2014
I have to admit the thing that first attracted me to this story was the exceptional cover. It’s refreshingly different from the usual half naked men on most of the book covers in this genre. Don’t get me wrong, many of those covers are great, but I love it when authors have the guts to go an entirely different way. The premise was the second thing that attracted my attention. I’m a sucker for hurt/comfort romances with a nice portion of angst, so when my GR friend Katharina (Thx again, sweetie) recommended the story to me I had to read it. Pronto! So I picked up the book and within the first pages it just clicked with me and I couldn’t put it down!
The House on Hancock Hill is about Pastry Chef Jason, who owns a bakery in Traverse City and bakes a mean chocolate cookie. His love life is anything but ‘mean’ though. Disillusioned after his boyfriend Tom cheated on him ten years ago, Jason no longer bothers with commitments, preferring the friends with benefits and no-strings lovers alterative. When his family’s farmhouse in Hancock, Michigan burns to the ground he heads back to the memories of his past, to Henry, ‘Mac’, a childhood friend he hasn’t seen for so long, he doesn’t even recognise him straightaway.
“Mac?”
“Careful,” Henry said, steadying me with an equally tight hold on my arm, and he laughed at the nickname. “No one calls me that anymore. Let me get in the car before you freeze. Again.”
“You did look familiar,” I said as he buckled himself in beside me. “I just can’t believe it’s you.” It wasn’t hyperbole. I really couldn’t believe it…
Henry, a vet with passion for his job lives a lonely life, his only company is his old Irish Wolfhound and his love for animals and in particular for his dog is so heart-warming to see. It’s been fifteen years since Henry fell in love with his childhood friend Jason, having never gotten over him, and with Jason suddenly turning up, Henry is determined to make the best of it.
Only, you know in a few days I’ll be gone, and I’d never… I’d hate for you to do something you’ll regret.”
“I know that,” he whispered. “And I won’t.” He reached for me and stroked my bottom lip with his thumb, catching a little on the moisture, dragging it down…“When we kiss, I feel it right here….” Henry slipped a hand under my T-shirt and touched me below the ribs. His hand was warm, his touch scorching. “And even if it’s only for a few days, I’ll take it. After that, I’ll let you go. I promise.”
Jason’s baggage threatens their blossoming romance and he leaves again. Back to his normal life, only to find out quickly that stress-baking the sweetest confections and running for the hills isn’t the right way. He knows the time has come to man up and face his inner conflicts.
Oh, Jason’s long journey of making peace with his painful past and present isn’t an easy one. His self-pity and passivity drove me crazy. There was something about him though that attracted my motherly instincts, I couldn’t decide either to slap him or hug the living daylights out of him. But when the guy was absorbed in baking and making truffles, omg… I went with him to chocolate heaven.
Indra has taken two gorgeous, endearing and complex characters and woven a story around them that has made me smile, cry and shake my head. At some point I even felt the temptation to grab Jason and drown him in his damn cookie dough. But only characters you developed deep feelings for can carry you that far, right?
The story is full of everything that makes up a great romance. Friendship, sacrifice, unrequited love, sexual tension and obscure history. The twists and turns are turbulent, and sometimes Henry and Jason’s misunderstandings annoyed the hell out of me, but their love for each other smoothed my ruffled feelings again… and again… and again. *sigh* What a bumpy road that journey was.
The supporting characters are just as lovable as the main couple. Caleb, the nurse and Deputy Ron, Jason’s landlady Annie, his employee Alice, his business partner Denny, his friend with benefits Daniel, even at the end Johnny and Tom… And not forgetting the adorable Great Danes we get to know at the end of the book. If you’ve read Indra’s wonderful blog post you know that those dogs are real…
I really have no words to describe how much I enjoyed this book, I loved everything about it. It’s hard to believe that this is Indra Vaughn’s first novel. The writing is exceptionally good… Each scene is carefully worded to bring every emotion to life, the happiness, the loneliness, the humour and the heartbreak. Jason and Henry’s story is simply amazing! I pushed with them through their struggles, I laughed and cried with them.
Overall, The House of Hancock Hill is definitely a book that has already gone in my favourite reads of 2014. I can’t wait to read more from Indra. Indra, I hope asking for a follow-up isn’t too presumptuous? We need to know how the Great Danes are doing… and Caleb needs his own story, right? And Daniel…:D Just saying. :D
5 heavenly, chocolate covered stars…
Check out Indra’s lovely Guest Blog and the recipe of Jason’s heavenly chocolate fudge on Sinfully Sexy Book Reviews Thank you, sweet Indra for sharing it with us. <3 <3 <3
February 14, 2014
4.5 stars+ Full review to come soon. But some initial thoughts....Such a lovely book- a wonderful Valentines Day gift to me! I love a friends to lovers story- and this one is an instant favorite of mine. In some ways, the romance does seem a bit idealized but I didn't mind that. This is a meatier book (which is much appreciated)- allowing the author to really develop the characters, the dynamics of their life-long relationship and really draw me into their world in small town Michigan. I really became invested into Jason and Henry- they were so well drawn and detailed. The author must love pastry and dogs (I do too!) as these details added to the richness of the story. Not too angsty but full of real emotion and it was a tear jerker (for me anyway). My heart is full.
April 1, 2014
“With every minute I sat there, growing colder in the silent apartment, I felt like I was hurtling toward something inevitable.”
I'm really glad for my friends roping me in to a Buddy-read of this book, I might have let it linger on my reader for a while otherwise.
This book has very different ratings and reviews from friends, ranging from 5* to 1* and I can understand why it worked for some and didn't for others.
I'm happy to say it worked for me, I liked it, it held my interest and I raced though it, to see where it was going to end up.
Jason, I didn't quite understand how or why he held everyone at arms length and I did have a Mary Calmes flashback while reading this one, since it seems Jason is irresistible to all men.
Everyone wants him and loves him. Must be nice. :)
And Henry is such a wonderful, sweet and generous man, that's why I was a little disappointed when he didn't let Jason explain or listen to reason.
I was also a little surprised that Henry had such clear memories and Jason didn't of the time they spent together as kids and young teens. I also wished the two of them had spent more on page time together, as it was they were together in the past as kids and one week while Jason was there to heal and clear up the situation with the house. The story covers about a years time and Jason and Henry were together maybe 7 days in that time ( not counting the epilogue). I wanted more of them together, I did like seeing Jason get his act together on his own and come to terms with himself and his history but I would have liked more of Jason and Henry together and working on being a couple and their issues together.
But like I said, it was a well told story, it held my attention and I was invested and really wanted to see it all work out.
I enjoyed it and I will definitely read more of this author's stories.
January 24, 2021
This book consists of 2 parts. The first one is about the romance. Jason reconnects with his childhood best friend and they very quickly develop feelings for each other. For me it was too fast, but it was also sweet.
Except Jason is not ready for commitment, because he is a mess. Cue part 2, where Jason goes on some self-discovery and healing journey. And at that point I considered giving it up, because it made me feel all kinds of confused about my own life decisions and I didn't want to delve too deep. But I was able to put aside my own problems and focus on Jason. And I liked what I read. The healing process was slow and painful and I liked that he took the time to figure things out before rushing into a relationship he wasn't mentally ready for.
Warning: Jason might have some feelings for Henry, but he wants you to know that he is not a monk. Take that how you will.
I enjoyed it. 3.5 stars
Except Jason is not ready for commitment, because he is a mess. Cue part 2, where Jason goes on some self-discovery and healing journey. And at that point I considered giving it up, because it made me feel all kinds of confused about my own life decisions and I didn't want to delve too deep. But I was able to put aside my own problems and focus on Jason. And I liked what I read. The healing process was slow and painful and I liked that he took the time to figure things out before rushing into a relationship he wasn't mentally ready for.
Warning: Jason might have some feelings for Henry, but he wants you to know that he is not a monk. Take that how you will.
I enjoyed it. 3.5 stars
March 6, 2014
4 Lugubrious Stars
mel·an·chol·y
ˈmelənˌkälē/Submit
noun
1.
a feeling of pensive sadness, typically with no obvious cause. (there was cause people, there was)
"an air of melancholy surrounded him"
synonyms: sadness, sorrow, unhappiness, woe, desolation, melancholia, dejection, depression, despondency, cafard, gloom, gloominess, misery; More
^^^^^^^ That description was me. Reading this book. ^^^^^^^
It is no secret that I love angst. Like really I love angst. I search for angst. SEARCH FOR IT. With every single book I read. Sometimes I feel as if I don't give books the credit they are due because, what, it wasn't ANGSTY enough. Yes this is a problem for me. Not enough Angst.
I think that I'm the only person who thought this book was so, so, sad.
I mean yes there is a HEA. There is.
BUT
Friends to lovers is the theme? I got so much more than that.
Mare~Slitsread
mel·an·chol·y
ˈmelənˌkälē/Submit
noun
1.
a feeling of pensive sadness, typically with no obvious cause. (there was cause people, there was)
"an air of melancholy surrounded him"
synonyms: sadness, sorrow, unhappiness, woe, desolation, melancholia, dejection, depression, despondency, cafard, gloom, gloominess, misery; More
^^^^^^^ That description was me. Reading this book. ^^^^^^^
It is no secret that I love angst. Like really I love angst. I search for angst. SEARCH FOR IT. With every single book I read. Sometimes I feel as if I don't give books the credit they are due because, what, it wasn't ANGSTY enough. Yes this is a problem for me. Not enough Angst.
I think that I'm the only person who thought this book was so, so, sad.
I mean yes there is a HEA. There is.
BUT
Friends to lovers is the theme? I got so much more than that.
Mare~Slitsread
August 29, 2015
A very cozy read. However, at the same time, misunderstandings and angst that follows make it pretty intense, so you won't get bored.
March 16, 2014
So lovely. Review later.
It's later. So, to me, this is one of those special reads that make you wish you could travel and see the places where the characters live in person. I want to meet Annie and have tea and scones with her at the hotel cafe. I want to be in Jason's kitchen and see him make his delicious gourmet desserts. I want go on Henry's snowmobile (no pun intended hehe) and visit the pier and the old farm on Hancock hill. I want to see old Pat in front of the fireplace. They all seem so real! This is a slow-pace romance of the good quality, and the author's writing just swept me along for the ride. I think I read in someone's review that this book is the author's first published story. I haven't checked this out myself, so don't quote me, but if it's true, my sincerest congratulations to them. They nailed it!
A few quibbles. Yes there were some "misunderstandings" that prevented the characters from getting together a lot sooner than they could have after their separation, but nothing extremely infuriating. It also seemed to me that Henry was a little too comfortable with being intimate with a man for the first time. These are personal preference issues that others might not even notice or care about, so take them as such.
What I really enjoyed was the romanticism with which Henry was described. He is this macho, athletic man who is kind and shy. His emotions are there for the world to see and he is so gentle and caring towards Jason...Their erotic scenes were wonderful as well. Intimate, emotional, and hot.Yes, there was squeeing.
Another big highlight was Jason's self-discovery period. It was pretty well done, I thought. It was refreshing to read about a character who has issues that are hindering his life to a degree, without being either a millionaire bad boy or a complete bad-ass fuck-up. There is no special privilege to being somewhat emotionally damaged. Jason is, and it doesn't stop him from getting an education, running a successful business, and having healthy relationships with his friends. His personal life is extremely affected by his issues, but I liked that he was an otherwise functional, independent person, without contrived melodramatic behaviours on his part to gain sympathy from the readers.
Highly recommended.
It's later. So, to me, this is one of those special reads that make you wish you could travel and see the places where the characters live in person. I want to meet Annie and have tea and scones with her at the hotel cafe. I want to be in Jason's kitchen and see him make his delicious gourmet desserts. I want go on Henry's snowmobile (no pun intended hehe) and visit the pier and the old farm on Hancock hill. I want to see old Pat in front of the fireplace. They all seem so real! This is a slow-pace romance of the good quality, and the author's writing just swept me along for the ride. I think I read in someone's review that this book is the author's first published story. I haven't checked this out myself, so don't quote me, but if it's true, my sincerest congratulations to them. They nailed it!
A few quibbles. Yes there were some "misunderstandings" that prevented the characters from getting together a lot sooner than they could have after their separation, but nothing extremely infuriating. It also seemed to me that Henry was a little too comfortable with being intimate with a man for the first time. These are personal preference issues that others might not even notice or care about, so take them as such.
What I really enjoyed was the romanticism with which Henry was described. He is this macho, athletic man who is kind and shy. His emotions are there for the world to see and he is so gentle and caring towards Jason...Their erotic scenes were wonderful as well. Intimate, emotional, and hot.Yes, there was squeeing.
Another big highlight was Jason's self-discovery period. It was pretty well done, I thought. It was refreshing to read about a character who has issues that are hindering his life to a degree, without being either a millionaire bad boy or a complete bad-ass fuck-up. There is no special privilege to being somewhat emotionally damaged. Jason is, and it doesn't stop him from getting an education, running a successful business, and having healthy relationships with his friends. His personal life is extremely affected by his issues, but I liked that he was an otherwise functional, independent person, without contrived melodramatic behaviours on his part to gain sympathy from the readers.
Highly recommended.
February 8, 2014
This was bloody great! Admittedly, it was nothing new, nothing unexpected, and I've read this sort of plot countless times before. But I still really enjoyed reading it, and actually couldn't make myself stop. Which is kind of surprising on its own.
Because this plot includes one of my pet peeves (although it does make for delicious angst, I admit), and that is grown-ups who just can't find a way to communicate. People who just assume and draw conclusions and ask later. A big while later. I really don't like that normally - and I didn't like it all that much here.
But instead of feeling overly impatient and grumpy and furious with Jason (and with Henry) I kept on reading and reading and there was enough going on that made that part of the book pass more easily than I anticipated.
I still hated Jason's passivity though. He pitied himself, lived as if he was cast into a martyr role - but really didn't do a damn thing to change that. Argh. But, as I said, even that part passed easily in the end ;-D
I guess, what I liked about this book was the easy feeling to the prose, reading it felt relaxed and easy even in moments that were anything but. And I loved Jay's and Henry's passion for their professions. Henry's love for animals and Jay's enthusiasm when he was baking - that was amazing and heartwarming to see. Jay has lots of issues, emotional-wise, and he goes a long way in this story - and that also is something I like to read, when I have the impression that there's a real, believable, slow development of a character during the course of a story.
I'd definitely recommend this book - although by now I'm in dire need of something funny next. Too many books more on the angsty side of things do that to you, I guess ;-D
Because this plot includes one of my pet peeves (although it does make for delicious angst, I admit), and that is grown-ups who just can't find a way to communicate. People who just assume and draw conclusions and ask later. A big while later. I really don't like that normally - and I didn't like it all that much here.
But instead of feeling overly impatient and grumpy and furious with Jason (and with Henry) I kept on reading and reading and there was enough going on that made that part of the book pass more easily than I anticipated.
I still hated Jason's passivity though. He pitied himself, lived as if he was cast into a martyr role - but really didn't do a damn thing to change that. Argh. But, as I said, even that part passed easily in the end ;-D
I guess, what I liked about this book was the easy feeling to the prose, reading it felt relaxed and easy even in moments that were anything but. And I loved Jay's and Henry's passion for their professions. Henry's love for animals and Jay's enthusiasm when he was baking - that was amazing and heartwarming to see. Jay has lots of issues, emotional-wise, and he goes a long way in this story - and that also is something I like to read, when I have the impression that there's a real, believable, slow development of a character during the course of a story.
I'd definitely recommend this book - although by now I'm in dire need of something funny next. Too many books more on the angsty side of things do that to you, I guess ;-D
January 24, 2014
FULL RECOMMENDATION AND FAVORITE QUOTE ON SMUTBOOKCLUB.COM
4.5/5 stars
When you want a quintessential romance book, you pick up a book like The House on Hancock Hill. Full of everything that makes up romance—unrequited love, history, mystery, sexual tension, loss—this book is different from the typical romance novel in that it is about two men rather than a man and a woman.
4.5/5 stars
When you want a quintessential romance book, you pick up a book like The House on Hancock Hill. Full of everything that makes up romance—unrequited love, history, mystery, sexual tension, loss—this book is different from the typical romance novel in that it is about two men rather than a man and a woman.
March 11, 2014
The House on Hancock Hill fits perfectly in the M/M genre. Loved it. A bit somber, well-written and with a perfect plot development.
March 19, 2014
1.5 Stars
First, the positives: this book was well written. The writing was smooth and the imagery impressive. I swear I could feel the chill in the air as IV described the frigid conditions Jason faced during that first winter on Hancock Hill. Second, the story held promise. I was intrigued by the premise and the author weaved past and present (sans flashbacks ... yay!) together seamlessly. Although there were some loose ends, they weren't so obvious as to detract from the story.
So what was my beef? The characters, namely Jason. I. Didn't. Like. Him. He was a slutty, selfish coward. I hate MCs that are unrepentant assholes and Jason was one. And, while I loved and adored Henry's character, his pining for and putting up with Jason's bull shit irked me to no end and pushed him into TSTL territory.
Selfishness, cowardice, TSTL = the tri-fecta of fucked-up'edness.
Lastly, I'm an angst junkie. But angst as a result of immature, slutty, pricks does not a happy emo make.
Bottom line: Stick a fork in me, I'm done.
First, the positives: this book was well written. The writing was smooth and the imagery impressive. I swear I could feel the chill in the air as IV described the frigid conditions Jason faced during that first winter on Hancock Hill. Second, the story held promise. I was intrigued by the premise and the author weaved past and present (sans flashbacks ... yay!) together seamlessly. Although there were some loose ends, they weren't so obvious as to detract from the story.
So what was my beef? The characters, namely Jason. I. Didn't. Like. Him. He was a slutty, selfish coward. I hate MCs that are unrepentant assholes and Jason was one. And, while I loved and adored Henry's character, his pining for and putting up with Jason's bull shit irked me to no end and pushed him into TSTL territory.
Selfishness, cowardice, TSTL = the tri-fecta of fucked-up'edness.
Lastly, I'm an angst junkie. But angst as a result of immature, slutty, pricks does not a happy emo make.
Bottom line: Stick a fork in me, I'm done.
June 1, 2020
I have to think about the rating and the review for this book.
Indra Vaughn's storytelling and words - as they often are - are melancholy, they're potent, but the romance takes an... unusual turn and Henri not having a POV allowed Jason a hell of a lot of personal unpacking. Let me say that if you don't like Jason or understand his personal journey, because that's a lot of what this is about, his need for an epiphany, it will definitely make this a hard book to enjoy.
Indra Vaughn's storytelling and words - as they often are - are melancholy, they're potent, but the romance takes an... unusual turn and Henri not having a POV allowed Jason a hell of a lot of personal unpacking. Let me say that if you don't like Jason or understand his personal journey, because that's a lot of what this is about, his need for an epiphany, it will definitely make this a hard book to enjoy.
August 22, 2014
Wow. What an emotionally charged book. The House on Hancock Hill is placed in the U.P. of Michigan. Being a Michigander, I ate this book up!
Jay is a pastry chef living in Traverse City when he's asked to make the trip up to his old family farm in the UP. Apparently a fire has burned the place to the ground. Nobody has lived there...just a quick trip to get the story from the fire chief. When he loses control on the snow slicked roads, everything fades to black. Until he wakes to a burly handsome man pulling him from near death of hypothermia.
Henry can't believe he's pulling his childhood friend from the clutches of death on the side of the road. He doesn't seem to recognize him...does he have a head injury or do these long years apart render him unrecognizable to Jay?
It doesn't take long for Jay to figure out his savior is none other than his ole buddy Mac. His old buddy continues to help him, giving him a ride from the hospital and finding a place for him to stay.
The House on Hancock Hill is a story of love and second chances. Henry and Jay never "came out" to each other as children but held deep seated feelings for each other. When Jay's dad moved him out of town, they'd lost contact. Catching up, they realize this is more than brotherly affection. And, let me say, their sexual charge goes from 0 to 60 in about 2.5 seconds! Hot damn.
Jay struggles with panic attacks and has trust issues. Can he put it all on the line for a chance at love with one of his dearest friends? He's got a life in Traverse City to get back to. Just for one weekend, he will make memories...and then walk out the door.
I enjoyed this book. It weighs more on the emotional side than erotic. I was actually suprised it was tagged as erotic in the first place. The ending holds a fair amount of steam, however. My heart broke for Jay. He just never seemed to be "right" in his own skin. Like no matter where he was, he was in the wrong place. The author did a great job of portraying his character. As the book progresses, he finds out more secrets his father kept from him. Finding a way out of his depression seems almost impossible...until he decides to venture back to where his psych settles most...the UP of Michigan. He can't make a happy life with anyone until he makes a happy life for himself priority. Let's see where his future goes from there...
I look forward to reading more from Ms Vaughn.
March 8, 2014
A great, emotionally captivating story about two men who knew each other as children and who now meet again under less than stellar circumstances, with one of them having loved the other for fifteen years. It’s all too easy to miss what’s right under your nose. Get ready for a bumpy ride, told in first person from Jason’s point of view.
Jason is a pastry chef, about to open another bakery, when he’s called back to the small town where he grew up because on a property he owns a house has burned down–and a body found inside. Make no mistake, though. This story is not a murder mystery; more like a tragic mystery, with the past playing a crucial role. Jason’s old friend, Henry, saves Jason from a car accident in the snow, and they warm up their friendship. And then some. But… Jason has serious commitment issues, and Henry’s with a man for the first time. That’s bound to end poorly. And when Jason is unable to cope with getting too close to Henry in a short amount of time and disappears back to his old life in the middle of the night, that’s a recipe for heartbreak right there.
Characterization and dialogue are excellent. They’re realistic and compelling, and you flip forward through the story, unwilling to stop before the end. The story grabs you by the balls and won’t let go until the last line. I simply loved this story. Yes, I admit Jason wasn’t all that endearing to me, not at all like Henry who I adored from the first blush. Jason has panic attacks that derive from stress, so he avoids it by steering clear of people, being emotionally unavailable. Henry, on the other hand, wears his heart on his sleeve, and it breaks your heart to see how badly Jason hurts him.
Also, be forewarned, Jason has sex with other guys in this story, after his affair with Henry, so if you have a hang-up about cheating, then this is not for you.
The plot is divided into two parts, the first with Jason with Henry at Houghton, and the second with Jason abandoning Henry and just drifting through life, not knowing what he wants or how to get it. The second part sees little of Henry, and that was a bit disappointing, but I get that it was Jason’s journey to learn how he feels, how to accept it, and change his life. The pace of the story is swift and sensual in the first part, with little imbedded details about the mystery strewn in. The second part feels a bit out of focus, as we’re taken into Jason’s inner world, shown how he processes things, the stress baking and so on. The pace slowed a bit there even though a great deal of time passed, but the writing is so enthralling I couldn’t miss a single line. Ms. Vaughn is an excellent writer.
So, overall, a wonderful story about overcoming your fears and your past, and trying to see that change isn’t so bad after all. And neither is falling in love, as a leap of faith. Plus, the name of the book makes perfect sense the moment you read that final line. Highly recommended.
Jason is a pastry chef, about to open another bakery, when he’s called back to the small town where he grew up because on a property he owns a house has burned down–and a body found inside. Make no mistake, though. This story is not a murder mystery; more like a tragic mystery, with the past playing a crucial role. Jason’s old friend, Henry, saves Jason from a car accident in the snow, and they warm up their friendship. And then some. But… Jason has serious commitment issues, and Henry’s with a man for the first time. That’s bound to end poorly. And when Jason is unable to cope with getting too close to Henry in a short amount of time and disappears back to his old life in the middle of the night, that’s a recipe for heartbreak right there.
Characterization and dialogue are excellent. They’re realistic and compelling, and you flip forward through the story, unwilling to stop before the end. The story grabs you by the balls and won’t let go until the last line. I simply loved this story. Yes, I admit Jason wasn’t all that endearing to me, not at all like Henry who I adored from the first blush. Jason has panic attacks that derive from stress, so he avoids it by steering clear of people, being emotionally unavailable. Henry, on the other hand, wears his heart on his sleeve, and it breaks your heart to see how badly Jason hurts him.
Also, be forewarned, Jason has sex with other guys in this story, after his affair with Henry, so if you have a hang-up about cheating, then this is not for you.
The plot is divided into two parts, the first with Jason with Henry at Houghton, and the second with Jason abandoning Henry and just drifting through life, not knowing what he wants or how to get it. The second part sees little of Henry, and that was a bit disappointing, but I get that it was Jason’s journey to learn how he feels, how to accept it, and change his life. The pace of the story is swift and sensual in the first part, with little imbedded details about the mystery strewn in. The second part feels a bit out of focus, as we’re taken into Jason’s inner world, shown how he processes things, the stress baking and so on. The pace slowed a bit there even though a great deal of time passed, but the writing is so enthralling I couldn’t miss a single line. Ms. Vaughn is an excellent writer.
So, overall, a wonderful story about overcoming your fears and your past, and trying to see that change isn’t so bad after all. And neither is falling in love, as a leap of faith. Plus, the name of the book makes perfect sense the moment you read that final line. Highly recommended.
September 14, 2022
As much as I dislike having to say this, while Indra Vaughn's writing is as wonderful as always, I just could not like this one and I just didn't like Jason :-/, for very VERY specific reasons. Perhaps the same reasons I didn't like Heath from 'Unguarded' by Lou Kelly :-/. I'm disappointed in this one so I'll elaborate a bit later. Though I would have liked to give this at least one extra star due to REALLY liking Henry, I just couldn't. I didn't appreciate a lot of things happening here and I definitely didn't think/feel Jason deserved Henry :-/. Jason was a fucking douchebag [let me count the ways] - He just REALLY rubbed me the wrong way!!!
Example: Gahhhh I want to smack Jason!! That feeling won't change. Once again, Jason, you are a disgusting IDIOT!!!!! I am royally pissed off!!!!
Example: Gahhhh I want to smack Jason!! That feeling won't change. Once again, Jason, you are a disgusting IDIOT!!!!! I am royally pissed off!!!!
November 1, 2014
2.5 stars
This book was somewhat enjoyable (thank you Henry), but I didn't love it. I have my own personal objections to some things . That just really ruined my enjoyment. That is just my own personal preferences coming to play here.
I also had some major issues with Jason. He was unlikable during a lot of this book, to me. I didn't like the way he treated Henry. I thought Jason was a coward. He was so selfish. There was nothing that really redeemed him in my eyes. There were many times that I wondered why Henry bothered. They started out good, but Jason would just ruin it. With everyone.
I enjoyed the author's writing enough that I would be willing to try another book by them at a later time.
This book was somewhat enjoyable (thank you Henry), but I didn't love it. I have my own personal objections to some things . That just really ruined my enjoyment. That is just my own personal preferences coming to play here.
I also had some major issues with Jason. He was unlikable during a lot of this book, to me. I didn't like the way he treated Henry. I thought Jason was a coward. He was so selfish. There was nothing that really redeemed him in my eyes. There were many times that I wondered why Henry bothered. They started out good, but Jason would just ruin it. With everyone.
I enjoyed the author's writing enough that I would be willing to try another book by them at a later time.
March 1, 2014
Reading a new author is always a gamble but this one definitely paid off for me. I enjoyed this book despite the fact it contains miscommunication misunderstandings which is something that drives me mad in most books. There was a fair amount of angst throughout the story but it never got to be too much. This was well-written and the story developed beautifully as it progressed. I will definitely be reading more by this author.
January 2, 2017
4.5 stars
February 28, 2014
The House on Hancock Hill was my first Indra Vaughn book. I like to try new authors and love to read books with interesting or intriguing titles. This met both of those criteria. There is a house on Hancock Hill that has been in Jason Wood’s family for generations. A friend of the family willed it to Jason’s grandfather. As a child, Jason was able to get out of the city and spend summers there with his family and eventually with just his father after his mother deserted both of them.
Jason and Henry McCavanaugh and the other Musketeer, Jimmy were joined at the hip as children. In the summer they were inseparable. Henry and Jimmy lived there year-round and only got to see Jason in the summers. Then, suddenly, Jason’s dad stopped taking him to The House on Hancock Hill. The house fell into disrepair and has sat empty for over a decade.
During one of the worst storms of the winter, a now adult Jason is headed back because he received a call that the house had burned down and was a total loss. Jason is a very talented and successful pastry chef. He owns a bakery and is in the middle of negotiations to open another one when he receives the call about the fire. He plans to take a quick trip to see the remains of the house, sign the required paperwork and head home. He doesn’t take into account the effect of a blizzard on driving conditions or that his past will come back to hit him between the eyes. And between the legs.
As Jason and Henry rekindle their friendship after a fifteen year separation, it becomes apparent that there are a bunch of folks in town keeping secrets from Jason. Secrets and mysteries and lovers, oh my! As Jason learns all that he thought he knew was a lie, it becomes too much for him and he sneaks out of Henry’s bed in the early hours without even a goodbye kiss.
The way Ms. Vaughn reveals one little tidbit of information to the reader and to Jason and Henry at a time is sublimely satisfying. We are given just enough information in small bits to figure things out. Or are we?
I loved the supporting characters, even if they were secretive suckers sometimes. I wanted to hit Jason’s mom over the heat with a blunt object. But isn’t that the hallmark of a good author? The ability to write characters so fully fleshed out that you feel varying emotions for them. My feelings towards Jason varied from sad to angry to hopeful and back and forth several times.
I loved Henry! He deserved to be happy. There is an event in the book that just breaks Henry’s heart and along with it, mine. I cried for him as I yelled at Jason that Henry needed him dammit! The course of action that Jason chose was one I thought was a little, okay a lot, underwhelming. When you read it, you’ll know exactly what I’m talking about. I don’t want to spoil it, so I’m trying to write around it!
The House on Hancock Hill was an emotionally satisfying read. The characters made me feel, the town itself was quite a central character, and there was just enough of a mystery to keep me guessing. And secrets? Whoo boy, were there some whoppers. I strongly recommend this to everyone!
Jason and Henry McCavanaugh and the other Musketeer, Jimmy were joined at the hip as children. In the summer they were inseparable. Henry and Jimmy lived there year-round and only got to see Jason in the summers. Then, suddenly, Jason’s dad stopped taking him to The House on Hancock Hill. The house fell into disrepair and has sat empty for over a decade.
During one of the worst storms of the winter, a now adult Jason is headed back because he received a call that the house had burned down and was a total loss. Jason is a very talented and successful pastry chef. He owns a bakery and is in the middle of negotiations to open another one when he receives the call about the fire. He plans to take a quick trip to see the remains of the house, sign the required paperwork and head home. He doesn’t take into account the effect of a blizzard on driving conditions or that his past will come back to hit him between the eyes. And between the legs.
As Jason and Henry rekindle their friendship after a fifteen year separation, it becomes apparent that there are a bunch of folks in town keeping secrets from Jason. Secrets and mysteries and lovers, oh my! As Jason learns all that he thought he knew was a lie, it becomes too much for him and he sneaks out of Henry’s bed in the early hours without even a goodbye kiss.
The way Ms. Vaughn reveals one little tidbit of information to the reader and to Jason and Henry at a time is sublimely satisfying. We are given just enough information in small bits to figure things out. Or are we?
I loved the supporting characters, even if they were secretive suckers sometimes. I wanted to hit Jason’s mom over the heat with a blunt object. But isn’t that the hallmark of a good author? The ability to write characters so fully fleshed out that you feel varying emotions for them. My feelings towards Jason varied from sad to angry to hopeful and back and forth several times.
I loved Henry! He deserved to be happy. There is an event in the book that just breaks Henry’s heart and along with it, mine. I cried for him as I yelled at Jason that Henry needed him dammit! The course of action that Jason chose was one I thought was a little, okay a lot, underwhelming. When you read it, you’ll know exactly what I’m talking about. I don’t want to spoil it, so I’m trying to write around it!
The House on Hancock Hill was an emotionally satisfying read. The characters made me feel, the town itself was quite a central character, and there was just enough of a mystery to keep me guessing. And secrets? Whoo boy, were there some whoppers. I strongly recommend this to everyone!
March 9, 2015
For a very large part of this book I did not like Jason very much. And when you expect a nice sweet story with plenty of romance between two guys it is not a good thing to not like one of those guys.
It started out just fine with Jason ending up on a short visit to a small town he used to visit every Summer during his teenage years. He reconnects for a short while with one of his childhood friends. It is clear to both of them that they share more than friendship but as was the plan all along, Jason leaves Hancock to go back to his life. So far, so good.
But what happens when Jason finds out back home that something is missing? That he is lonely? Well, he could call someone. Now who would the sane person call? Jason has two serious options:
A: The ex who caused him a serious case of heartbreak eight years ago, when it turned out the guy had been cheating on him for over a year.
B: Henry, his childhood friend with whom he spent a wonderful time not too long ago on his visit to Hancock.
Do I need to spell out which option Jason chose?
I just never understood the reasoning for his behaviour. Why he would deliberately not try to pursue the good thing and instead go for what experience has taught him was a bad thing? (Not really clear at all, why the ex would want to pop back up on the scene after eight years!)
.
Still, Jason did find his way in the end. I did enjoy the two of them together. But that ending was way too short for how long it took to get there.
It started out just fine with Jason ending up on a short visit to a small town he used to visit every Summer during his teenage years. He reconnects for a short while with one of his childhood friends. It is clear to both of them that they share more than friendship but as was the plan all along, Jason leaves Hancock to go back to his life. So far, so good.
But what happens when Jason finds out back home that something is missing? That he is lonely? Well, he could call someone. Now who would the sane person call? Jason has two serious options:
A: The ex who caused him a serious case of heartbreak eight years ago, when it turned out the guy had been cheating on him for over a year.
B: Henry, his childhood friend with whom he spent a wonderful time not too long ago on his visit to Hancock.
Do I need to spell out which option Jason chose?
I just never understood the reasoning for his behaviour. Why he would deliberately not try to pursue the good thing and instead go for what experience has taught him was a bad thing? (Not really clear at all, why the ex would want to pop back up on the scene after eight years!)
.
Still, Jason did find his way in the end. I did enjoy the two of them together. But that ending was way too short for how long it took to get there.
April 9, 2014
Cooked some really sexy chef....
Henry
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I shouldn't have wasted my time on Jason the chef as I found out was a Complete with a capital C all the adjectives I am about to add- Wuss,Sissy,pansy ass,self pitying,weak,loathsome,no backbone when it comes to relationship and a cheating bastard.Who cheated on someone like Henry who loved him since they were Kids and was so nice,Kind and all lovable & exceptable of Jason's assholic deeds through out the story.The couple of reasons for giving the book 4 star are very understanding side characters,the dogs in the epilogue.Whose story is in fact true and Three cheers to the family who adopted them.
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Henry
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I shouldn't have wasted my time on Jason the chef as I found out was a Complete with a capital C all the adjectives I am about to add- Wuss,Sissy,pansy ass,self pitying,weak,loathsome,no backbone when it comes to relationship and a cheating bastard.Who cheated on someone like Henry who loved him since they were Kids and was so nice,Kind and all lovable & exceptable of Jason's assholic deeds through out the story.The couple of reasons for giving the book 4 star are very understanding side characters,the dogs in the epilogue.Whose story is in fact true and Three cheers to the family who adopted them.
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March 19, 2014
***5 Beautiful Stars***
m/m Love
I'm in love with a Gay Pastry Chef!! Ugh!
Jason "Jay" Wood is a beautifully broken man who just doesn't quite have the luck when it comes to love. His childhood and the many secrets he has yet to unfold may have something to do with it. Jason travels back to Hancock Hill after a fire levels his family farm and what he finds there could make or break his life.
Childhood friend and lifesaver Henry "Mac" McCavanaugh is the local vet and has held a torch for Jason for 15 years. Will Jason finally open his eyes and his heart to friendship and love or will he run away and close himself off from the one thing that could make him whole again?
The journey Jason finds himself on is tragic, fulfilling, and filled with love.
I loved the story, the characters and the writing was exceptional. This is my first from Indra Vaughn and I will be one clicking all her other work. Would highly recommend this book and will!!!
m/m Love
I'm in love with a Gay Pastry Chef!! Ugh!
Jason "Jay" Wood is a beautifully broken man who just doesn't quite have the luck when it comes to love. His childhood and the many secrets he has yet to unfold may have something to do with it. Jason travels back to Hancock Hill after a fire levels his family farm and what he finds there could make or break his life.
Childhood friend and lifesaver Henry "Mac" McCavanaugh is the local vet and has held a torch for Jason for 15 years. Will Jason finally open his eyes and his heart to friendship and love or will he run away and close himself off from the one thing that could make him whole again?
The journey Jason finds himself on is tragic, fulfilling, and filled with love.
I loved the story, the characters and the writing was exceptional. This is my first from Indra Vaughn and I will be one clicking all her other work. Would highly recommend this book and will!!!
October 13, 2014
This was an unabashed and whole hearted romance, about finding love firstly in yourself, and then in another.
Jason, I really liked Jason, that hint of damage; the walls and barriers that he's built around himself.
Henry, beautiful, open loving Henry- who has loved Jason since they were kids.
After 15 or so years, they meet again, and Henry decides that even a brief period of time with Jason is better than nothing, and this is so great, the tenderness and beginning of love. But Jason isn't ready, and needs to accept and understand himself.
For quite a large part of the book Jason and Henry aren't together, but for me this didn't detract from the plot, in fact it made it. Jason coming to realise what love means was well written and believable.
I did however find the last 30% frustrating, and felt that their internal struggles could have been dealt with together rather than acting like 15 year olds.
Overall though enjoyable and romantic.
Jason, I really liked Jason, that hint of damage; the walls and barriers that he's built around himself.
Henry, beautiful, open loving Henry- who has loved Jason since they were kids.
After 15 or so years, they meet again, and Henry decides that even a brief period of time with Jason is better than nothing, and this is so great, the tenderness and beginning of love. But Jason isn't ready, and needs to accept and understand himself.
For quite a large part of the book Jason and Henry aren't together, but for me this didn't detract from the plot, in fact it made it. Jason coming to realise what love means was well written and believable.
I did however find the last 30% frustrating, and felt that their internal struggles could have been dealt with together rather than acting like 15 year olds.
Overall though enjoyable and romantic.
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