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Toy Boy
Getting something unexpected can be a shock, but it can also be a wonderful treat, if you allow yourself to indulge, that is. Kay is bubbling with excitement. She’s booked a sailing holiday of a lifetime in Greece with a man she’s fallen for hook, line and sinker. They met on the Internet. She’s from Oxford, he’s from Washington State. She’s a business lecturer, he runs his own successful business. They’re perfect for each other, and she can’t wait to meet him and spend time in and out of his bed, allowing him to seduce her for real and not just with softly spoken words over the telephone. But when she arrives in the idyllic port of Fiscardo, she’s in for a shock. There’s a reason Sullivan’s photographs were grainy, and it’s not because he’s sporting a potbelly or balding as she’d suspected. It’s because he’s over a decade younger than her and could rival any Greek god in the looks department. What’s more, his sex appeal and lust for her is off the scale. Should Kay take what she can with her ‘toy boy’ and have some fun in the sun or hop on the first plane back to England? It’s a tricky decision for a woman who believed she couldn’t be surprised by life anymore.
Kindle Edition
First published June 2, 2015
17 people are currently reading
98 people want to read
About the author
Lily Harlem
248 books686 followersMeet your next sexy as f*ck book boyfriend!
You'll love my Alpha male heroes and the women who (try to) tame them, so dive into my vast selection of steamy romances and be prepared to stay up late into the night being seduced by kinky dukes, hot hockey players, masterful Vikings and badass bikers. (To name a few!)
And to get you started, and my way of saying 'welcome to my world', grab a FREE ebook of your choice from my website www.lilyharlem.com
You'll love my Alpha male heroes and the women who (try to) tame them, so dive into my vast selection of steamy romances and be prepared to stay up late into the night being seduced by kinky dukes, hot hockey players, masterful Vikings and badass bikers. (To name a few!)
And to get you started, and my way of saying 'welcome to my world', grab a FREE ebook of your choice from my website www.lilyharlem.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
June 5, 2015
Oh! The INTERNET!!!
Kay is a 42 y/o widow who has been having an online relationship with Sullivan, a man she thinks is her perfect match. They are both successful people--she's a business management prof at Oxford, and he owns his own company in Washington State. They have spent countless hours online and on the phone revealing their hearts and souls to each other, and Sullivan has finally convinced Kay to meet him in person, in Greece, for a week-long holiday on a sailboat. Just the two of them.
She is beyond excited to share air with this man who has her fragile heart in his palm. But, the Internet strikes!
See, Kay has only seen Sullivan's picture once in all the months they have chatted, and it was not the best pic. It was grainy and Sullivan was all covered in his winter garb. She's a bit nervous that he might not be representing himself honestly, but she's in love with the MAN, not his face, right? He could be balding under that winter beanie, or hiding a paunch under his navy parka, but that's okay because he is her soulmate.
She's so shattered when he steps off the boat to greet her. No! NONONONONO! How? Who?
Sullivan isn't balding, our paunchy. He doesn't have any horrible scarring or facial piercings. He's actually stunning. And he's 28 years old.
Devastated by his shell game, Kay wants to return to Oxford, with haste, but she's in Greece and has no immediate resources--again the Internet FAILS her, with no service in this remote port and the travel agencies having closed for the evening. With nowhere to stay Sullivan, who's pretty broken over Kay's complete refusal to entertain any discourse regarding his age and her uninvited cougar status, convinces Kay to sleep in the boat's cabin for the night. And then, he sets sail at daybreak effectively shanghai-ing her back into her planned vacation.
I ABSOLUTELY LOVED THIS.
I had a lot of trepidation over Sullivan's shadiness, but his desperation to win Kay over was as forthright as it comes. He never expected she'd be so put off by his age, and he craves her wisdom and steadfastness--she's a well-settled woman who doesn't need his money and isn't looking for a meal ticket. She's smart and they have fascinating conversations. Sullivan is convinced they will be happy together, if only Kay will give him he opportunity to prove it.
I was so glad she did. The emotional back-and-forth Kay puts herself through is pretty enlightening, and speaks volumes about society's mores regarding partnerships where a large (in this case 14 years) age difference exists, and the double-standard of that regarding older women. Truth is, I was enchanted by Sullivan, and it took Kay less than 24 hours to recognize that, truly, she fell in love with the man--not his age. The HEA is spectacular, and the sexytimes are as delish as the descriptions of beautiful Greece and its delectable cuisine. Yum.
Kay is a 42 y/o widow who has been having an online relationship with Sullivan, a man she thinks is her perfect match. They are both successful people--she's a business management prof at Oxford, and he owns his own company in Washington State. They have spent countless hours online and on the phone revealing their hearts and souls to each other, and Sullivan has finally convinced Kay to meet him in person, in Greece, for a week-long holiday on a sailboat. Just the two of them.
She is beyond excited to share air with this man who has her fragile heart in his palm. But, the Internet strikes!
See, Kay has only seen Sullivan's picture once in all the months they have chatted, and it was not the best pic. It was grainy and Sullivan was all covered in his winter garb. She's a bit nervous that he might not be representing himself honestly, but she's in love with the MAN, not his face, right? He could be balding under that winter beanie, or hiding a paunch under his navy parka, but that's okay because he is her soulmate.
She's so shattered when he steps off the boat to greet her. No! NONONONONO! How? Who?
Sullivan isn't balding, our paunchy. He doesn't have any horrible scarring or facial piercings. He's actually stunning. And he's 28 years old.
Devastated by his shell game, Kay wants to return to Oxford, with haste, but she's in Greece and has no immediate resources--again the Internet FAILS her, with no service in this remote port and the travel agencies having closed for the evening. With nowhere to stay Sullivan, who's pretty broken over Kay's complete refusal to entertain any discourse regarding his age and her uninvited cougar status, convinces Kay to sleep in the boat's cabin for the night. And then, he sets sail at daybreak effectively shanghai-ing her back into her planned vacation.
I ABSOLUTELY LOVED THIS.
I had a lot of trepidation over Sullivan's shadiness, but his desperation to win Kay over was as forthright as it comes. He never expected she'd be so put off by his age, and he craves her wisdom and steadfastness--she's a well-settled woman who doesn't need his money and isn't looking for a meal ticket. She's smart and they have fascinating conversations. Sullivan is convinced they will be happy together, if only Kay will give him he opportunity to prove it.
I was so glad she did. The emotional back-and-forth Kay puts herself through is pretty enlightening, and speaks volumes about society's mores regarding partnerships where a large (in this case 14 years) age difference exists, and the double-standard of that regarding older women. Truth is, I was enchanted by Sullivan, and it took Kay less than 24 hours to recognize that, truly, she fell in love with the man--not his age. The HEA is spectacular, and the sexytimes are as delish as the descriptions of beautiful Greece and its delectable cuisine. Yum.
February 26, 2017
It All Felt A Bit Awkward
The Age Difference
The Conversations
The Sex
The Sailing
July 1, 2015
Would have been 5 stars if only longer.
Sweet n hot holiday romance set on the seas.
Sweet n hot holiday romance set on the seas.
June 2, 2019
Short and amazingly sweet! Sullivan, oh Sullivan!
It was a great read, grabbed my attention and couldn’t put it down!!!!! It’s not your typical age difference story. It’s mature, passionate and sexy! Give it a go! 😉
It was a great read, grabbed my attention and couldn’t put it down!!!!! It’s not your typical age difference story. It’s mature, passionate and sexy! Give it a go! 😉
June 26, 2015
Maybe more like 3-1/2 stars, but good enough to round up.
An interesting older woman/younger man story, but a different setup. Sullivan, from the US, never told Kay, from England, his age. They met online and fell in love through emails, texts, and phone calls. Kay had been a widow for five years and was thinking maybe she'd found someone to live the rest of her life with. At 42, she still had lots of life left in her.
So now Kay and Sullivan have decided to meet and have a vacation sailing around the islands of Greece. When Kay arrives, however, she's completely astounded at how young Sullivan is. And she's pissed because she feels like he lied to her. And he's extremely hurt because he really didn't think a fourteen year age difference would mean anything, considering how much they'd shared with each other over the past year. Kay's also a bit put off by how attractive Sullivan is. She's sure they can't work because of the age difference -- she wouldn't want to start a family now, and she can't imagine a young man like him would be content with that, despite what Sullivan says.
Kay stays on the boat the first night (Sullivan is elsewhere on the boat), expecting to wake up the next day and make plans to go home. But Sullivan realizes she can't really leave him if they're already sailing, so he sort of quasi kidnaps her. Ha! And the time together slowly makes her realize that Sullivan *is* the same person she fell in love with, regardless of his age. And he really loves her, regardless of hers.
It's really a sweet story, but it ended a bit abruptly for me. Sure, it was a decent spot to end the story, but an epilogue would have been really nice.
I will say that I hope Ms. Harlem had a wonderful time "researching" this story. All those little places in the islands sounded so quaint and off the beaten trail. It sounded like a heavenly place, so I hope she was able to actually experience it instead of just reading about it. Makes me want to book a trip to Greece! :-)
An interesting older woman/younger man story, but a different setup. Sullivan, from the US, never told Kay, from England, his age. They met online and fell in love through emails, texts, and phone calls. Kay had been a widow for five years and was thinking maybe she'd found someone to live the rest of her life with. At 42, she still had lots of life left in her.
So now Kay and Sullivan have decided to meet and have a vacation sailing around the islands of Greece. When Kay arrives, however, she's completely astounded at how young Sullivan is. And she's pissed because she feels like he lied to her. And he's extremely hurt because he really didn't think a fourteen year age difference would mean anything, considering how much they'd shared with each other over the past year. Kay's also a bit put off by how attractive Sullivan is. She's sure they can't work because of the age difference -- she wouldn't want to start a family now, and she can't imagine a young man like him would be content with that, despite what Sullivan says.
Kay stays on the boat the first night (Sullivan is elsewhere on the boat), expecting to wake up the next day and make plans to go home. But Sullivan realizes she can't really leave him if they're already sailing, so he sort of quasi kidnaps her. Ha! And the time together slowly makes her realize that Sullivan *is* the same person she fell in love with, regardless of his age. And he really loves her, regardless of hers.
It's really a sweet story, but it ended a bit abruptly for me. Sure, it was a decent spot to end the story, but an epilogue would have been really nice.
I will say that I hope Ms. Harlem had a wonderful time "researching" this story. All those little places in the islands sounded so quaint and off the beaten trail. It sounded like a heavenly place, so I hope she was able to actually experience it instead of just reading about it. Makes me want to book a trip to Greece! :-)
May 6, 2015
Sun Filled Sensual Adventure!
Kick off your shoes, shed your clothes along with your inhibitions and indulge yourself in a sun filled sensual adventure. I must admit, the premise of this read got me all a quiver from the off, as Kay and Sullivan, who have been having an online relationship for over a year, meet for the first time in Greece. Imagine Kay’s shock and anger when she arrives and sees that the man she has given her heart to is 14 years her junior. What is a woman to do?
Although Sullivan is drop dead gorgeous and Kay wants to rip his clothes off, she views herself a far too old for him and intends to fly back home to the UK as soon as possible. However, Sullivan and the magic of the Greek islands have other ideas…. Indeed, there are a series of deliciously decadent scenes on board Sullivan’s yacht as it ploughs through the waters.Sexual tension and passion sizzle in the Greek sun as Kay and Sullivan explore both the beautiful landscape and examine their emotions. Will Kay succumb to the attraction she feels for Sullivan or will she just enjoy the holiday and return home, leaving her relationship with Sullivan in her past?
I loved the character of Sullivan. He was determined to convince Kay that their age difference was not an issue and that they are soul-mates. I was really rooting for Kay to find a HEA with Sullivan and I adored how he encourages her to let go of her inhibitions and her pre-conceptions. I enjoyed the agony and the ecstacy of their journey and what a beautiful backdrop to their story!
A copy of this book was given to me by the author for the purpose of a fair and honest review.
Kick off your shoes, shed your clothes along with your inhibitions and indulge yourself in a sun filled sensual adventure. I must admit, the premise of this read got me all a quiver from the off, as Kay and Sullivan, who have been having an online relationship for over a year, meet for the first time in Greece. Imagine Kay’s shock and anger when she arrives and sees that the man she has given her heart to is 14 years her junior. What is a woman to do?
Although Sullivan is drop dead gorgeous and Kay wants to rip his clothes off, she views herself a far too old for him and intends to fly back home to the UK as soon as possible. However, Sullivan and the magic of the Greek islands have other ideas…. Indeed, there are a series of deliciously decadent scenes on board Sullivan’s yacht as it ploughs through the waters.Sexual tension and passion sizzle in the Greek sun as Kay and Sullivan explore both the beautiful landscape and examine their emotions. Will Kay succumb to the attraction she feels for Sullivan or will she just enjoy the holiday and return home, leaving her relationship with Sullivan in her past?
I loved the character of Sullivan. He was determined to convince Kay that their age difference was not an issue and that they are soul-mates. I was really rooting for Kay to find a HEA with Sullivan and I adored how he encourages her to let go of her inhibitions and her pre-conceptions. I enjoyed the agony and the ecstacy of their journey and what a beautiful backdrop to their story!
A copy of this book was given to me by the author for the purpose of a fair and honest review.
May 7, 2015
Wow what a story about a woman moving on five years after her husband's passing. Kay is finally ready to live her life again, enjoy the little things that she's denied herself over the past few years. She thinks she's met the perfect guy, the one that has put the smile on her face and a perk in her step. They've decided to get together and have a holiday in Greece, a very romantic holiday. Her bags are packed and she's ready! The only problem is when she finally meets Sullivan, he's not as old as she pictured, in face he's several years younger. Now she's unsure what to do, does she stay or will she run away?
I loved that this story features a mature woman that knows what she wants and takes a chance at finding happiness again. Sullivan may be younger but he knows what he wants and he'll stop at nothing to prove to Kay that he is all man and exactly the person to give her what she needs. Their connection is electric and their attraction cannot be denied. The passion that they share leaves the reader breathless.
This is a fun, sexy story. The perfect story to relax with after a stressful day.
I loved that this story features a mature woman that knows what she wants and takes a chance at finding happiness again. Sullivan may be younger but he knows what he wants and he'll stop at nothing to prove to Kay that he is all man and exactly the person to give her what she needs. Their connection is electric and their attraction cannot be denied. The passion that they share leaves the reader breathless.
This is a fun, sexy story. The perfect story to relax with after a stressful day.
June 1, 2015
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads
This is a lovely, hot atmospheric read, which I could not put down. It is the perfect length and although there is reference to their long online relationship, this book deals with a week in their lives. It is set in the Greek Islands, which anyone who has been (or watched Mamma Mia) will know are magical, romantic places.
The very sensible, but lonely university lecturer throws caution to the wind when turning up to meet someone that she has only a blurry photo of ... but hours of phone ... and conversations! So much build up can only lead to some kind of unexpected.
I was left wanting more ... which I generally consider to be a good thing, and may have had to look at Aegean sailing holidays once I turned the last page! Lucky Kay - would be my summary of this engaging read!
This is a lovely, hot atmospheric read, which I could not put down. It is the perfect length and although there is reference to their long online relationship, this book deals with a week in their lives. It is set in the Greek Islands, which anyone who has been (or watched Mamma Mia) will know are magical, romantic places.
The very sensible, but lonely university lecturer throws caution to the wind when turning up to meet someone that she has only a blurry photo of ... but hours of phone ... and conversations! So much build up can only lead to some kind of unexpected.
I was left wanting more ... which I generally consider to be a good thing, and may have had to look at Aegean sailing holidays once I turned the last page! Lucky Kay - would be my summary of this engaging read!
May 23, 2015
5 Stars
I have read some of Lily's books that were MM so when I had the chance to read one of the MF books I was SUPER excited! And I have to say officially the MF books are just as sexy and well written as the MM books. There was so much turmoil in this book about the age difference between Kay and Sullivan.
I loved how they worked through that little difference and spent the time they had together while developing a relationship that had been developed online. It really worked for me because we got snippets of what their conversations had been like and felt the way Sullivan had treated her and her emotions for him.
Lily's characters are so well developed I felt like I was watching the people in front of me instead of reading a book. Such an excellent read!!
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
I have read some of Lily's books that were MM so when I had the chance to read one of the MF books I was SUPER excited! And I have to say officially the MF books are just as sexy and well written as the MM books. There was so much turmoil in this book about the age difference between Kay and Sullivan.
I loved how they worked through that little difference and spent the time they had together while developing a relationship that had been developed online. It really worked for me because we got snippets of what their conversations had been like and felt the way Sullivan had treated her and her emotions for him.
Lily's characters are so well developed I felt like I was watching the people in front of me instead of reading a book. Such an excellent read!!
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
May 1, 2015
Oh the sun, the sea, the sex!!
Kay & Sullivan have been in a relationship for nearly a year now - now it is time to meet face to face. Sullivan has organised a weeks sailing around Greece. Kay is so excited - this is it - the start of a new life and then it all goes South - Sullivan is not what she expected.
Lily has a way of writing that puts you in the book. Her descriptions of Greek Islands had me day dreaming I was on a boat, feel the wind and sun on my face, could smell the charcoal fires from the harbour side café's and taste the olives and wine.
An absolutely perfect book to read whilst pool side or lounging on a sun deck.
Copy provided by the author for an honest review.
Kay & Sullivan have been in a relationship for nearly a year now - now it is time to meet face to face. Sullivan has organised a weeks sailing around Greece. Kay is so excited - this is it - the start of a new life and then it all goes South - Sullivan is not what she expected.
Lily has a way of writing that puts you in the book. Her descriptions of Greek Islands had me day dreaming I was on a boat, feel the wind and sun on my face, could smell the charcoal fires from the harbour side café's and taste the olives and wine.
An absolutely perfect book to read whilst pool side or lounging on a sun deck.
Copy provided by the author for an honest review.
May 1, 2015
A new romance book by Lily Harlem - no other words are needed, you just know it's going to be fabulous. Guess what? It is!!
Kay and Sullivan have been romancing each other online and over the phone for a year. Now, it's time to meet, face to face, in Greece. It's perfect, nothing could go wrong, or could it? Kay is in for the surprise of her life but is it something that love can conquer?
The characters are warm and interesting. The backdrop is described in such a way that you can feel the sun warming your skin and smell the salt in the air. The romance sets your pulse racing and swells your heart. Simply a beautiful, sexy, smile-inducing story that you will want to read over and over.
Copy kindly gifted by author for honest review.
Kay and Sullivan have been romancing each other online and over the phone for a year. Now, it's time to meet, face to face, in Greece. It's perfect, nothing could go wrong, or could it? Kay is in for the surprise of her life but is it something that love can conquer?
The characters are warm and interesting. The backdrop is described in such a way that you can feel the sun warming your skin and smell the salt in the air. The romance sets your pulse racing and swells your heart. Simply a beautiful, sexy, smile-inducing story that you will want to read over and over.
Copy kindly gifted by author for honest review.
May 3, 2015
Received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
I have to admit I am a huge fan of Lily Harlem and this book once again proves why.
The writting style is fab and the story flows and captures you from the first word. I got so frustrated with the female lead. I mean seriously, who doesn't want a hot younger man in their life? Loved this book once she came to her senses and finally got down to the nitty gritty. The few sex scenes that are in the book are off the charts hot. Definitely a must read
I have to admit I am a huge fan of Lily Harlem and this book once again proves why.
The writting style is fab and the story flows and captures you from the first word. I got so frustrated with the female lead. I mean seriously, who doesn't want a hot younger man in their life? Loved this book once she came to her senses and finally got down to the nitty gritty. The few sex scenes that are in the book are off the charts hot. Definitely a must read
September 28, 2015
Kay is a successful business management professor at Oxford. Forty-two and widowed, she takes to the internet to meet people. She meets Sullivan, also successful owning a IT company in Washington State. After literally thousands of hours talking by phone and email, they decide to take it to the next level by meeting in person for a sailing vacation in Greece.
Exhausted from her flight, but excited to meet Sullivan, Kay makes her way to the marina. She's not exactly sure what he looks like as she only has a grainy photo of Sullivan and he was dressed in ski gear. She hopes he's everything she thinks he is. She sent an accurate picture of herself, but she's nervous he may not like her in person. What if he's disappointed? What if she's made their connection all up in her head? Once finding Sullivan, he's gorgeous and sexy-but only twenty-eight years old!! Kay is devastated! She feels she's been lied to and decides she needs to leave now! But her phone has no internet and the travel bureaus are closed for the day. With it being a busy holiday, she has no choice but to stay on the boat with Sullivan-who is heartbroken at Kay's reaction. He didn't think their age gap was an issue. He needs to think, and think quick before she leaves him. He gives Kay the stateroom and he retires to the deck. She's very upset but hopes things will be clearer in the morning. Once awake, she finds they are no longer in the marina but out at sea! Good heavens! He's kidnapped her into taking their Greek vacation!
I loved this book! I had a bit of uneasiness about what Sullivan's game was, but he was truthful from the start. He genuinely didn't take age into consideration. Kay is everything he's ever wanted and can't believe age is such a deterrent for her. He sets out to remind her what they have had is real and that they are soul mates. Kay is smart and I can totally understand where she is coming from. Sullivan thinks they will be happy together, but Kay is guarded. Society is more accepting of relationships where the male is older than the other way around. She doesn't like the Cougar stamp and she is struggling. Quickly she realizes that Sullivan IS the man she fell for and age be damned, she's going to see how this goes. I am really glad that she did! Sullivan takes the opportunity Kay gives him to show her he is worthy of her respect and love. And with the Greek isles as a backdrop, Kay didn't stand a chance!
4 flames/4 stars
This book was given to me by the Jeep Diva for the express purpose of an honest review. The review and rating are solely my opinions and in no way was I compensated.
Exhausted from her flight, but excited to meet Sullivan, Kay makes her way to the marina. She's not exactly sure what he looks like as she only has a grainy photo of Sullivan and he was dressed in ski gear. She hopes he's everything she thinks he is. She sent an accurate picture of herself, but she's nervous he may not like her in person. What if he's disappointed? What if she's made their connection all up in her head? Once finding Sullivan, he's gorgeous and sexy-but only twenty-eight years old!! Kay is devastated! She feels she's been lied to and decides she needs to leave now! But her phone has no internet and the travel bureaus are closed for the day. With it being a busy holiday, she has no choice but to stay on the boat with Sullivan-who is heartbroken at Kay's reaction. He didn't think their age gap was an issue. He needs to think, and think quick before she leaves him. He gives Kay the stateroom and he retires to the deck. She's very upset but hopes things will be clearer in the morning. Once awake, she finds they are no longer in the marina but out at sea! Good heavens! He's kidnapped her into taking their Greek vacation!
I loved this book! I had a bit of uneasiness about what Sullivan's game was, but he was truthful from the start. He genuinely didn't take age into consideration. Kay is everything he's ever wanted and can't believe age is such a deterrent for her. He sets out to remind her what they have had is real and that they are soul mates. Kay is smart and I can totally understand where she is coming from. Sullivan thinks they will be happy together, but Kay is guarded. Society is more accepting of relationships where the male is older than the other way around. She doesn't like the Cougar stamp and she is struggling. Quickly she realizes that Sullivan IS the man she fell for and age be damned, she's going to see how this goes. I am really glad that she did! Sullivan takes the opportunity Kay gives him to show her he is worthy of her respect and love. And with the Greek isles as a backdrop, Kay didn't stand a chance!
4 flames/4 stars
This book was given to me by the Jeep Diva for the express purpose of an honest review. The review and rating are solely my opinions and in no way was I compensated.
August 19, 2015
Toy Boy by Lily Harlem
Gosh, I had such high hopes for this one. As a woman approaching 40 who still finds myself leering at boys in their 20s and even sometimes shamelessly flirting with them, I was really looking forward to a good BoyToy story.
It just really fell flat to me. Firstly, Kay just seemed too judgey and full of herself. Then the sex was just okay. And finally, the ending was just way too simple. Part of the fun of a good ToyBoy story is when society judges you and you get to tell them to get bent. There was none of this. The only person who needed to be told to get over it was the heroine.
Sullivan was great, but honestly, I just felt like he could do better.
It just didn't work for me. Skip this one.
Author: Lily Harlem
Title: Toy Boy
Series Title & Book #: Stand-Alone
Overall feel: Rushed, fantastical
Smexy level: Eh. Not bad, not great Some of it is great, some of it is just weird. I.E. "Our pubic hair meshed."
Best for: Just trying a new author?
Read or Skip It? Skip It
Gosh, I had such high hopes for this one. As a woman approaching 40 who still finds myself leering at boys in their 20s and even sometimes shamelessly flirting with them, I was really looking forward to a good BoyToy story.
It just really fell flat to me. Firstly, Kay just seemed too judgey and full of herself. Then the sex was just okay. And finally, the ending was just way too simple. Part of the fun of a good ToyBoy story is when society judges you and you get to tell them to get bent. There was none of this. The only person who needed to be told to get over it was the heroine.
Sullivan was great, but honestly, I just felt like he could do better.
It just didn't work for me. Skip this one.
Author: Lily Harlem
Title: Toy Boy
Series Title & Book #: Stand-Alone
Overall feel: Rushed, fantastical
Smexy level: Eh. Not bad, not great Some of it is great, some of it is just weird. I.E. "Our pubic hair meshed."
Best for: Just trying a new author?
Read or Skip It? Skip It
"I've heard you come. Now I want to see it."
June 8, 2015
I will confess I was gutted when this book ended...I mean really!!
This book just had me drawn from the first page to the last, there was nothing not to love about this book, perfect storyline, perfect toy boy and perfect setting.
This story was so special in many ways, Kay a woman who after 5 years previous suffered gravely when her husband past away in a sudden car crash and now Kay was ready to explore live again, live life, go for a few things she'd deprived herself off. Sullivan who she'd been talking to over mails decided to take the leap and meet one another and have a romantic holiday in Greece, only when they finally meet, she's shocked, gutted to the fact the man she pictured and presumed was a similar age to herself, is 14 years younger Toy Boy. Kay cannot decide what to do, does she book a flight back home or stay? Can Sullivan prove he's all man and keep her with him?
This read was perfect for me, having everything in it that I could dream about.
I love Lily Harlem's work and cannot wait to read another scorcher.
I loved that this story features a mature woman that knows what she wants and takes a chance at finding happiness again. Sullivan may be younger but he knows what he wants and he'll stop at nothing to prove to Kay that he is all man and exactly the person to give her what she needs. Their connection is electric and their attraction cannot be denied. The passion that they share leaves the reader breathless.
This is a fun, sexy story. The perfect story to relax with after a stressful day
This book just had me drawn from the first page to the last, there was nothing not to love about this book, perfect storyline, perfect toy boy and perfect setting.
This story was so special in many ways, Kay a woman who after 5 years previous suffered gravely when her husband past away in a sudden car crash and now Kay was ready to explore live again, live life, go for a few things she'd deprived herself off. Sullivan who she'd been talking to over mails decided to take the leap and meet one another and have a romantic holiday in Greece, only when they finally meet, she's shocked, gutted to the fact the man she pictured and presumed was a similar age to herself, is 14 years younger Toy Boy. Kay cannot decide what to do, does she book a flight back home or stay? Can Sullivan prove he's all man and keep her with him?
This read was perfect for me, having everything in it that I could dream about.
I love Lily Harlem's work and cannot wait to read another scorcher.
I loved that this story features a mature woman that knows what she wants and takes a chance at finding happiness again. Sullivan may be younger but he knows what he wants and he'll stop at nothing to prove to Kay that he is all man and exactly the person to give her what she needs. Their connection is electric and their attraction cannot be denied. The passion that they share leaves the reader breathless.
This is a fun, sexy story. The perfect story to relax with after a stressful day
October 1, 2016
A really good story about a man and woman who have only met on the internet (with some down and dirty Skyping included) who agree to meet for a two week vacation in Greece. The fortyish woman is horrified to find out that her vacation mate is significantly younger than she is and she tries to put the kibosh on the whole two weeks.
Our Toy Boy is brokenhearted but pushes on as best he can giving her little glimpses about what their two weeks together might be like before she can make any arrangements to fly back home.
I agree whole heartedly with another reviewer. This book would have been 5 stars all the way if it had been a longer, more in depth story. As it was, it was a something I'm glad I didn't pass over.
Our Toy Boy is brokenhearted but pushes on as best he can giving her little glimpses about what their two weeks together might be like before she can make any arrangements to fly back home.
I agree whole heartedly with another reviewer. This book would have been 5 stars all the way if it had been a longer, more in depth story. As it was, it was a something I'm glad I didn't pass over.
June 15, 2015
Toy Boy by Lily Harlem
You got to love a good cougar story. I have to say I am a little bit of a cougar myself but not as much as Kay. Kay has finally met the man of her dreams online but she really doesn’t know what he looks like. She is going to take a leap of faith and meet up with him for a vacation. How will she react when she learns about his age and will it matter? He looks like a freaking Greek god for cripes sakes and if he doesn’t mind should she? HELL NO, GO FOR IT!!! This was a great short story by Lily. She never disappoints. I received this book as a gift from the author in return for an honest review.
You got to love a good cougar story. I have to say I am a little bit of a cougar myself but not as much as Kay. Kay has finally met the man of her dreams online but she really doesn’t know what he looks like. She is going to take a leap of faith and meet up with him for a vacation. How will she react when she learns about his age and will it matter? He looks like a freaking Greek god for cripes sakes and if he doesn’t mind should she? HELL NO, GO FOR IT!!! This was a great short story by Lily. She never disappoints. I received this book as a gift from the author in return for an honest review.
November 18, 2021
Rating: 2.75 Stars
The FMC and the MMC are already in a committed relationship, but they’ve never met in person until now. FMC is ready to break things off upon realizing the MMC is twenty-seven to her forty-two.
I was already annoyed before their first in-person meeting because the FMC was ready to spend a week on a boat with a man who she couldn’t even identify in a coffee shop. She didn’t have any issues with this because she loved the faceless man she had spent a year getting to know—caution be damned. No, what she takes issue with is the fourteen-year age-gap.
She was ready to cut and run, ending her relationship with the successful, wealthy, adonis who adores and loves her, because he was twenty-seven. Talk about priorities. Her reason was the age difference made them incompatible; she actually tells him, ”you’re so young and you don’t know what you want.” Again, he’s twenty-seven. Stop patronizing him and downplaying the validity of his emotions. The MMC deserved better.
Title: Toy Boy by Lily Harlem
POV(s): Single—First Person
Interconnected Series: No
Standalone: Yes
Cliffhanger: No
HEA:
Relationship: M/F
Genre(s): Contemporary Romance
Triggers: N/A
Tags/Tropes:
❖ Age-Gap (14 years)
❖ Forced-Proximity (vacationing together)
❖ Heroine-Pushes-Hero-Away
❖ Long-Distance-Relationship
❖ Older-Woman-Younger-Man
❖ Online-Relationships
❖ Successful-Businessman-Hero
❖ Widow-Heroine
October 1, 2021
Greece is a magical setting for this age gap romance
Kay and Sullivan are meeting in Greece, face to face for the first time after communicating online for the past year. They met on a forum relating to their jobs, not a dating site, and their friendship grew into so much more over time.
Kay is expecting a man her own age or older but she finds instead a man who is so gorgeous he takes her breath away but so much younger than her that she feels betrayed, as he never told her his age whilst being aware of hers. I understand her feelings completely and watching her try to reconcile those feelings with her love for him was bittersweet.
Sullivan is the sweetest, kindest, most thoughtful and loving man I think I have ever read about in a book. He loves Kay unconditionally and does everything to try and make her happy, even if it means putting his feelings aside and just being friends with her.
The setting of the Greek islands was magical and beautifully realised, and I felt as though I was with them, on the yacht in the sun, sitting outdoors eating, watching the sun go down. It is an ideal book to read while on a sunshine holiday, or indoors tucked up from the cold and rain to brighten your day.
I gave it four stars because of my disbelief that in a year of online communication, Kay had never seen his face or found out his age. She fell in love with him but never Googled him or Facetimed him or sought out any information about him at all. I know this is fiction and if she had have sought out information as we all would have done in her shoes there would have been no story, or a completely different story altogether, but in this day and age, it just didn't ring true.
Kay and Sullivan are meeting in Greece, face to face for the first time after communicating online for the past year. They met on a forum relating to their jobs, not a dating site, and their friendship grew into so much more over time.
Kay is expecting a man her own age or older but she finds instead a man who is so gorgeous he takes her breath away but so much younger than her that she feels betrayed, as he never told her his age whilst being aware of hers. I understand her feelings completely and watching her try to reconcile those feelings with her love for him was bittersweet.
Sullivan is the sweetest, kindest, most thoughtful and loving man I think I have ever read about in a book. He loves Kay unconditionally and does everything to try and make her happy, even if it means putting his feelings aside and just being friends with her.
The setting of the Greek islands was magical and beautifully realised, and I felt as though I was with them, on the yacht in the sun, sitting outdoors eating, watching the sun go down. It is an ideal book to read while on a sunshine holiday, or indoors tucked up from the cold and rain to brighten your day.
I gave it four stars because of my disbelief that in a year of online communication, Kay had never seen his face or found out his age. She fell in love with him but never Googled him or Facetimed him or sought out any information about him at all. I know this is fiction and if she had have sought out information as we all would have done in her shoes there would have been no story, or a completely different story altogether, but in this day and age, it just didn't ring true.
September 25, 2021
Oh my salty goodness! I love this novella so much! This is a contemporary, medium-burn, age-gap, contemporary romance. It has plenty of fun and sexy action. There is a lot of emotion in the story, and it made me cry a little. There is a HEA, though, so I powered through, and it was totally worth a couple of tissues.
Kay and Sullivan have had a long-distance relationship for about a year before this story begins. There is a little bit of a catfish situation at first, because Sullivan didn't tell Kay his age. The age-gap is only fourteen (14) years, with Kay being 42 and Sullivan at 28. This miscommunication is the basis for the story. Having said that, I think Sullivan is one of the sweetest male characters that I've ever read. Sometimes this silver-tongued Romeo made me reach for a tissue.
While most of the steamy stuff is flash-backs to phone calls, the I'm-so-glad-we're-finally-together scenes are seriously HOT.
Hardly any typos!
Kay and Sullivan have had a long-distance relationship for about a year before this story begins. There is a little bit of a catfish situation at first, because Sullivan didn't tell Kay his age. The age-gap is only fourteen (14) years, with Kay being 42 and Sullivan at 28. This miscommunication is the basis for the story. Having said that, I think Sullivan is one of the sweetest male characters that I've ever read. Sometimes this silver-tongued Romeo made me reach for a tissue.
While most of the steamy stuff is flash-backs to phone calls, the I'm-so-glad-we're-finally-together scenes are seriously HOT.
Hardly any typos!
June 4, 2021
3 starsss
age-gap romance, hero nya lebih mudah. agak ga suka karena terlalu instalove banget. ketemu di dating online, kemudian seperti pacaran long-distance 1tahun, dan memutuskan untuk ketemu dan vacation bareng, pas ketemu ternyata heronya lebih muda dari heroine, dan heroine nya kesal karena merasa dipermainkan oleh hero, padahal hero nya emang cinta sama dia. jadi akhirnya mereka menikmati liburan aja, walaupun akhirnya leading to sex ya. dan hero nya berusaha banget untuk make sure if they can happen together despite of their age-gap.
age-gap romance, hero nya lebih mudah. agak ga suka karena terlalu instalove banget. ketemu di dating online, kemudian seperti pacaran long-distance 1tahun, dan memutuskan untuk ketemu dan vacation bareng, pas ketemu ternyata heronya lebih muda dari heroine, dan heroine nya kesal karena merasa dipermainkan oleh hero, padahal hero nya emang cinta sama dia. jadi akhirnya mereka menikmati liburan aja, walaupun akhirnya leading to sex ya. dan hero nya berusaha banget untuk make sure if they can happen together despite of their age-gap.
September 25, 2021
Set in a beautiful sun filled location Toy Boy is an untypical slow burn age gap romance that’s filled with heat… the sexy kind. I was so swept up by Kay and Sullivan’s sizzling chemistry and the wonderful feel good storyline that I didn’t want it to end.
February 1, 2018
Nice and happy story, I liked.
October 9, 2020
UGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHYHHGHHGHGHGHHHHHHHH
June 14, 2021
Romantic, erotic, and love story too!
December 21, 2021
Overall : 3 stars
Relationship : F/M
POV (s) : One/Single
Standalone : Yes
Angst : nope
HEA : Yes
Hero : 3
Heroine : 3
Plot : 3
Steam : 3
chemistry : 3
Relationship : F/M
POV (s) : One/Single
Standalone : Yes
Angst : nope
HEA : Yes
Hero : 3
Heroine : 3
Plot : 3
Steam : 3
chemistry : 3
June 4, 2015
Check out our Toy Boy by Lily Harlem blog post on Wicked Reads.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Rachael – ☆☆☆☆☆
I have read some of Lily's books that were MM so when I had the chance to read one of the MF books I was SUPER excited! And I have to say officially the MF books are just as sexy and well written as the MM books. There was so much turmoil in this book about the age difference between Kay and Sullivan.
I loved how they worked through that little difference and spent the time they had together while developing a relationship that had been developed online. It really worked for me because we got snippets of what their conversations had been like and felt the way Sullivan had treated her and her emotions for him.
Lily's characters are so well developed I felt like I was watching the people in front of me instead of reading a book. Such an excellent read!!
Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is a lovely, hot atmospheric read, which I could not put down. It is the perfect length and although there is reference to their long online relationship, this book deals with a week in their lives. It is set in the Greek Islands, which anyone who has been (or watched Mamma Mia) will know are magical, romantic places.
The very sensible, but lonely university lecturer throws caution to the wind when turning up to meet someone that she has only a blurry photo of ... but hours of phone ... and online conversations! So much build up can only lead to some kind of unexpected.
I was left wanting more ... which I generally consider to be a good thing, and may have had to look at Aegean sailing holidays once I turned the last page! Lucky Kay – would be my summary of this engaging read!
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Rachael – ☆☆☆☆☆
I have read some of Lily's books that were MM so when I had the chance to read one of the MF books I was SUPER excited! And I have to say officially the MF books are just as sexy and well written as the MM books. There was so much turmoil in this book about the age difference between Kay and Sullivan.
I loved how they worked through that little difference and spent the time they had together while developing a relationship that had been developed online. It really worked for me because we got snippets of what their conversations had been like and felt the way Sullivan had treated her and her emotions for him.
Lily's characters are so well developed I felt like I was watching the people in front of me instead of reading a book. Such an excellent read!!
Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is a lovely, hot atmospheric read, which I could not put down. It is the perfect length and although there is reference to their long online relationship, this book deals with a week in their lives. It is set in the Greek Islands, which anyone who has been (or watched Mamma Mia) will know are magical, romantic places.
The very sensible, but lonely university lecturer throws caution to the wind when turning up to meet someone that she has only a blurry photo of ... but hours of phone ... and online conversations! So much build up can only lead to some kind of unexpected.
I was left wanting more ... which I generally consider to be a good thing, and may have had to look at Aegean sailing holidays once I turned the last page! Lucky Kay – would be my summary of this engaging read!
May 22, 2015
Kay’s husband died about five years ago and while she still felt the pain of losing him, she knew she had to move on. So she found an online partner who could fulfill some of her needs. She had been exchanging messages and phone calls with Sullivan Cole for about a year now, until they decided to personally meet.
And Kay got the surprise of a lifetime when she finally landed in Greece and saw Sullivan. He’s hot, gorgeous, yummy, delectable. Only problem was, he’s way too young for her. He was as cute as a button and more than 10 years younger. She didn’t want to be tagged as a cougar, so she adamantly tried to go back and forget about Sullivan.
Is this the end of their whirlwind online love affair?
Oh I love stories like this – a weekend escapade in Greece, looking for love, older woman falling for younger man. I felt Kay’s hesitations when it came to their age differences. If you notice, I’ve read a number of books where the female lead is older and it has never been an issue for me. Maybe because I myself, am older than my husband (well, he’s only about 3 years younger than me, so I think that counts). I loved the scenes between Kay & Sullivan, the tension around them and the sexual atmosphere that’s evident wherever their boat took them.
I love Lily Harlem’s writing too. It is distinct, descriptive, delightful and delicious! I have always wanted to travel to Greece and this book further whets my appetite. Sailing on the Greek Island? Well, I would gladly trade places with Kay anytime!
And Kay got the surprise of a lifetime when she finally landed in Greece and saw Sullivan. He’s hot, gorgeous, yummy, delectable. Only problem was, he’s way too young for her. He was as cute as a button and more than 10 years younger. She didn’t want to be tagged as a cougar, so she adamantly tried to go back and forget about Sullivan.
Is this the end of their whirlwind online love affair?
Oh I love stories like this – a weekend escapade in Greece, looking for love, older woman falling for younger man. I felt Kay’s hesitations when it came to their age differences. If you notice, I’ve read a number of books where the female lead is older and it has never been an issue for me. Maybe because I myself, am older than my husband (well, he’s only about 3 years younger than me, so I think that counts). I loved the scenes between Kay & Sullivan, the tension around them and the sexual atmosphere that’s evident wherever their boat took them.
I love Lily Harlem’s writing too. It is distinct, descriptive, delightful and delicious! I have always wanted to travel to Greece and this book further whets my appetite. Sailing on the Greek Island? Well, I would gladly trade places with Kay anytime!
June 4, 2015
Truly romantic with a touch of 20th century in it is how I would describe Toy Boy by author Lily Harlem. I loved the idea that you can meet someone on the internet, have conversations with them, and fall in love. But are you still in love once you meet. After all is everyone who they seem on the internet. Well Kay is a 42 year old widow. She lost her husband in a car crash five years ago. He was everything to her. She never expects to have that kind of love ever again. Then she gets talking online and meets a man who she cannot stop thinking about. Sullivan turns out to be young and sexy. Kay thinks that this is not for her. After all she is a mature woman. I love how Sullivan uses his charm to make her see he knows what he wants and age is just a number. These two made me smile. Sullivan might be 28 in years but he is far older in maturity. I think he is perfect for Kay. I really enjoyed reading a story that is pure love. I kept re reading this one because it makes me smile. I highly recommend this one to any real romantic. I think you will love Kay and Sullivan’s story as much as I do.
Five Shooting Stars
Five Shooting Stars
June 14, 2015
Light, fluffy and sexy read. Kay and Sullivan met through working together on the Internet and developed a personal relationship. They've never met but come to love one another. They plan to meet in Greece and Kay is blown away by the fact that Sullivan is considerably younger than she is. The book focuses on how they move forward. I particularly liked Sullivan. Confident yet protective, loving and convinced that he can persuade Kay to change her mind about him. I understood Kay's reluctance and was rooting for them. Why three stars - some of the writing was a bit too florid for my tastes. For example "my core seemed to clamp and spill onto him. My limbs trembled. My pulse thudded loud in my ears. Euphoria seared over my skin and flooded my thoughts." But a lovely book and I definitely seek out other Lily Harlem's reads.
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