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Home in the Heartland #1
Never Too Late
Dax: My life ended six years ago. No, really. I was dead on the side of the road following a gruesome motorcycle accident. From what I've been told, it's only because of one stubborn man that I have another chance to make something of my life. I no longer hate him for screwing up what I thought I wanted. I want to thank him. NEED to tell him what his actions mean to me.
Now, I’m headed back to the town I’ve never set foot in even though it’s a huge part of my life. I’m not thrilled about that, but the job offers haven’t exactly been flowing in. They’ll probably think I’m crazy, because there’s no way I won’t be able to look at every guy I walk past, wondering if he’s the one who saved me.
Michael: My entire life, I wanted to save lives. I’d earned a full-ride scholarship and had been accepted to med schools across the country. I was so close to making those dreams a reality until the night held a dying man in my arms. I’ve never been able to get the images of his lifeless body caked in mud out of my head. Even when the paramedics tried to take over trying to save him, I couldn’t let go. I never let go. Eventually, my guilt over not doing more cost me everything but my son. And now, I worry I’ll lose him if I don’t get it together.
I’ve often thought that if I could find him, maybe I could get some closure and finally get my life back on track. Now he’s here and I’m more of a mess than ever. Once the truth comes out, will he keep trying to save me or will he realize that it’s too late?
Now, I’m headed back to the town I’ve never set foot in even though it’s a huge part of my life. I’m not thrilled about that, but the job offers haven’t exactly been flowing in. They’ll probably think I’m crazy, because there’s no way I won’t be able to look at every guy I walk past, wondering if he’s the one who saved me.
Michael: My entire life, I wanted to save lives. I’d earned a full-ride scholarship and had been accepted to med schools across the country. I was so close to making those dreams a reality until the night held a dying man in my arms. I’ve never been able to get the images of his lifeless body caked in mud out of my head. Even when the paramedics tried to take over trying to save him, I couldn’t let go. I never let go. Eventually, my guilt over not doing more cost me everything but my son. And now, I worry I’ll lose him if I don’t get it together.
I’ve often thought that if I could find him, maybe I could get some closure and finally get my life back on track. Now he’s here and I’m more of a mess than ever. Once the truth comes out, will he keep trying to save me or will he realize that it’s too late?
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First published March 14, 2016
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About the author
Sloan Johnson
26 books836 followersSloan Johnson is a big city girl trapped in a country girl’s body. While she longs for the hustle and bustle of New York City or Las Vegas, she hasn’t yet figured out how to sit on the deck with her morning coffee, watching the deer and wild turkeys in the fields while surrounded by concrete and glass.
When she was three, her parents received their first call from the principal asking them to pick her up from school. Apparently, if you aren’t enrolled, you can’t attend classes, even in Kindergarten. The next week, she was in preschool and started plotting her first story soon after.
Later in life, her parents needed to do something to help their socially awkward, uncoordinated child come out of her shell and figured there was no better place than a bar on Wednesday nights. It’s a good thing they did because this is where she found her love of reading and writing. Who needs socialization when you can sit alone in your bedroom with a good book?
Now, Sloan is a tattooed, purple haired mom of two kids, one of which was a thank you present to her husband for letting her get a Staffordshire Terrier with more anxiety issues than Sloan has, which is saying something. She’s been kicked out of the PTA in two school districts and is no longer asked to help with fundraisers because she’s been known to lose herself in a good book and forget that she has somewhere to be.
When she was three, her parents received their first call from the principal asking them to pick her up from school. Apparently, if you aren’t enrolled, you can’t attend classes, even in Kindergarten. The next week, she was in preschool and started plotting her first story soon after.
Later in life, her parents needed to do something to help their socially awkward, uncoordinated child come out of her shell and figured there was no better place than a bar on Wednesday nights. It’s a good thing they did because this is where she found her love of reading and writing. Who needs socialization when you can sit alone in your bedroom with a good book?
Now, Sloan is a tattooed, purple haired mom of two kids, one of which was a thank you present to her husband for letting her get a Staffordshire Terrier with more anxiety issues than Sloan has, which is saying something. She’s been kicked out of the PTA in two school districts and is no longer asked to help with fundraisers because she’s been known to lose herself in a good book and forget that she has somewhere to be.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 159 reviews
August 2, 2016
3.5 Stars!
This one was just an okay read for me.
The story just really seemed to drag. There wasn't a lot of actual dialogue, more so internal monologues I guess which made the book feel rather long. I ended up skimming by the halfway mark.
Plus I found Michael to be a bit of a martyr. And the GFY aspect wasn't all that believable.
I liked Dax's character pretty well.
I just never really connected with this one...whether it was the writing, the characters or the story itself.
This one was just an okay read for me.
The story just really seemed to drag. There wasn't a lot of actual dialogue, more so internal monologues I guess which made the book feel rather long. I ended up skimming by the halfway mark.
Plus I found Michael to be a bit of a martyr. And the GFY aspect wasn't all that believable.
I liked Dax's character pretty well.
I just never really connected with this one...whether it was the writing, the characters or the story itself.
December 29, 2019
I hate to give books not so great ratings pre-release, but Never Too Late was just difficult for me. This wasn't a bad book and it wasn't offensive, but I struggled to get through it and I ended up DNFing somewhere around the 60% mark.
I was drawn to this book originally for a few reasons. Everyone has their favorite tropes and, without a doubt, a sexuality discovery story is it for me. I loooooove a good one, but I'm really picky about how they are done. They have to be 100% believable for me to be on board, and that is no easy task for an author. This was sort of a mess for me. For a guy who had never been attracted to another guy, it was too quick a transition for my tastes. I like things to be really well conceived and explored, and the sexuality discovery aspect seemed sudden.
Interestingly enough, I'd say that this book IS a slow-burn romance, which I enjoyed, even if the sexuality part was ill-fitting. The hurt/comfort plot of this book sounded like something I would love, but, in the end, none of it fell into place for me. However, my main issue with this book was the writing. This was my first book by Sloan Johnson and I don't know if she and I are a good fit for each other. I found the writing style to be really tell-y instead of show-y, which is always a pet peeve of mine. I also thought that the pacing was weird. It felt like the story was rushing, but I'm not sure exactly what about the writing caused me to feel that way. However, at the same time, I thought that the plot dragged. It was like time sped by quickly in the story but nothing really happened, if that makes sense.
I've also read books with similar plots before (Breathe), and so that twistiness alone wasn't enough to keep me wanting to read. I also have a child around the same age as the MC's child in the story, and the child aspect was such a big focus of the story that I found it to be distracting.
I don't want to be too discouraging of others who are wanting to try this story, but I need to be honest because this book just didn't jive with me. Though this wasn't a bad story, I think there are many better hurt/comfort ones out there.
*Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
I was drawn to this book originally for a few reasons. Everyone has their favorite tropes and, without a doubt, a sexuality discovery story is it for me. I loooooove a good one, but I'm really picky about how they are done. They have to be 100% believable for me to be on board, and that is no easy task for an author. This was sort of a mess for me. For a guy who had never been attracted to another guy, it was too quick a transition for my tastes. I like things to be really well conceived and explored, and the sexuality discovery aspect seemed sudden.
Interestingly enough, I'd say that this book IS a slow-burn romance, which I enjoyed, even if the sexuality part was ill-fitting. The hurt/comfort plot of this book sounded like something I would love, but, in the end, none of it fell into place for me. However, my main issue with this book was the writing. This was my first book by Sloan Johnson and I don't know if she and I are a good fit for each other. I found the writing style to be really tell-y instead of show-y, which is always a pet peeve of mine. I also thought that the pacing was weird. It felt like the story was rushing, but I'm not sure exactly what about the writing caused me to feel that way. However, at the same time, I thought that the plot dragged. It was like time sped by quickly in the story but nothing really happened, if that makes sense.
I've also read books with similar plots before (Breathe), and so that twistiness alone wasn't enough to keep me wanting to read. I also have a child around the same age as the MC's child in the story, and the child aspect was such a big focus of the story that I found it to be distracting.
I don't want to be too discouraging of others who are wanting to try this story, but I need to be honest because this book just didn't jive with me. Though this wasn't a bad story, I think there are many better hurt/comfort ones out there.
*Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review*
March 14, 2017
3 Stars
This story is about two men. Dax who is a kindergarten teacher and also a gay and Michael, who is a straight single father to Jagger. They are linked together by an accident in the past but when they meet, they don’t remember each other. This accident has changed the lives of both of them, one in a good way and the other not in a bad way but it has a bad influence on his life. The first half was fantastic but after that the story is getting really slow; their love was sweet but in slow romance I got bored. So after the first half I skipped most of the pages and if it wasn’t for Jagger, I think the story was unbearable! So this 3 Stars are just for the first half and for the cute Jagger.
This story is about two men. Dax who is a kindergarten teacher and also a gay and Michael, who is a straight single father to Jagger. They are linked together by an accident in the past but when they meet, they don’t remember each other. This accident has changed the lives of both of them, one in a good way and the other not in a bad way but it has a bad influence on his life. The first half was fantastic but after that the story is getting really slow; their love was sweet but in slow romance I got bored. So after the first half I skipped most of the pages and if it wasn’t for Jagger, I think the story was unbearable! So this 3 Stars are just for the first half and for the cute Jagger.
February 9, 2016
5 Never Too Late Stars!
Never Too Late by Sloan Johnson is a wonderful love story. Dax was injured in an accident; However, the accident has given him a second chance at life. After accepting a teaching job in a small town he inadvertently meets Michael after finding Michael' son Jagger lost in the local hardware store. First impressions are they are Dax thinks Michael is not parent of the year, so easily losing his son. A short time later while working on his house,Dax hears a familiar voice coaxing Jagger to jump. Investigation shows that a few houses down, Dax meets his neighbor Michael again who's son Jagger is now stuck in a tree. After getting the little boy out of the tree Dax and Michael start talking and their relationship begins. As the two settle into a friendship with Dax helping to babysit Jagger while a Michael works nights at a bar, Dax begins to have feelings for Michael -- But, he doesn't think they will ever be returned.
The school year begins and Dax starts teaching, he of course has Jagger as a student. Meanwhile Michael confesses to Dax he has feelings for him, he wants him, he needs him. The two agree to take their relationship to the next level, Dax deferring to Michaels speed of progression. Michael is revved to go and they go from 0-60 in 6.0 seconds!
In addition to a change in their relationship, Dax starts making friends of his own -- one is Michaels former best friend Justin and one night out after school with Justin unveils a history that rocks Dax to his core. When Dax confronts Michael their ability to continue their relationship or not hinges on Michaels honesty.
I loved watching Dax and Michael fall in love, watching Michael fight to prove his feelings were real and they weren't wrong. It was great watching Dax heal and learn that he was given a second chance at life, that it was never too late to live again! It was fun watching Michael and Dax's friends, Matt & Justin -- now I can't wait for their book!! Great book with the perfect amount of angst, lots of good emotion, some hot scenes between the sheets, and a HEA!
5 Stars!!
Full review posted at Alpha Book Club
*ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Jaime from Alpha Book Club
and Gay Book Reviews
Never Too Late by Sloan Johnson is a wonderful love story. Dax was injured in an accident; However, the accident has given him a second chance at life. After accepting a teaching job in a small town he inadvertently meets Michael after finding Michael' son Jagger lost in the local hardware store. First impressions are they are Dax thinks Michael is not parent of the year, so easily losing his son. A short time later while working on his house,Dax hears a familiar voice coaxing Jagger to jump. Investigation shows that a few houses down, Dax meets his neighbor Michael again who's son Jagger is now stuck in a tree. After getting the little boy out of the tree Dax and Michael start talking and their relationship begins. As the two settle into a friendship with Dax helping to babysit Jagger while a Michael works nights at a bar, Dax begins to have feelings for Michael -- But, he doesn't think they will ever be returned.
The school year begins and Dax starts teaching, he of course has Jagger as a student. Meanwhile Michael confesses to Dax he has feelings for him, he wants him, he needs him. The two agree to take their relationship to the next level, Dax deferring to Michaels speed of progression. Michael is revved to go and they go from 0-60 in 6.0 seconds!
In addition to a change in their relationship, Dax starts making friends of his own -- one is Michaels former best friend Justin and one night out after school with Justin unveils a history that rocks Dax to his core. When Dax confronts Michael their ability to continue their relationship or not hinges on Michaels honesty.
I loved watching Dax and Michael fall in love, watching Michael fight to prove his feelings were real and they weren't wrong. It was great watching Dax heal and learn that he was given a second chance at life, that it was never too late to live again! It was fun watching Michael and Dax's friends, Matt & Justin -- now I can't wait for their book!! Great book with the perfect amount of angst, lots of good emotion, some hot scenes between the sheets, and a HEA!
5 Stars!!
Full review posted at Alpha Book Club
*ARC provided by author in exchange for an honest review. Reviewed by Jaime from Alpha Book Club
and Gay Book Reviews
May 30, 2016
“I’d go through it all again if I knew this was where I’d wind up. I don’t want to go another day without you knowing how much you mean to me. I thought it was too late for me to have the life I used to think I’d eventually have, but you barged in here and proved to me that it’s never too late to be happy.”
Never Too Late is a sweet story about Dax, a gay kindergarten teacher and Michael, a straight bartender and single father to Jagger and devoting much of his time to him.
Dax, after a life altering accident, decided it is time to grow up and made some serious changes.
They meet and they become friends settling into a routine with Dax watching Jagger while Michael is working. The story unfolds into a Michael and Dax falling for each other despite the hurdles that come their way.
It is a really sweet story and I am looking forward to reading the next instalment to the series, hoping it is about Justin and/or Matt.
December 25, 2016
I liked it. I would have given it 3.5 stars rounded up to 4. But it needs editing. There are either a lot of bad editors out there or authors aren't bothering with it. It never fails to piss me off.
The story is pretty good. I'm not a fan of romance books with children side characters. One MC has a five year old little boy. While that's cute as a button, I don't want to read about children and sex in the same story.
The plot revolved around a widowed dad and his fight to make a go at life for his son. Unfortunately, I thought the plot climax and resolution lacked any substance at all.
The romance aspect is GFY. Again, it needed more exploration. It was very superficial.
It sounds like I didn't enjoy it. But I did! I read it in one day. I was wrapped up in the characters. It's just that there were too many times I looked up wondering what in the world just happened.
The story is pretty good. I'm not a fan of romance books with children side characters. One MC has a five year old little boy. While that's cute as a button, I don't want to read about children and sex in the same story.
The plot revolved around a widowed dad and his fight to make a go at life for his son. Unfortunately, I thought the plot climax and resolution lacked any substance at all.
The romance aspect is GFY. Again, it needed more exploration. It was very superficial.
It sounds like I didn't enjoy it. But I did! I read it in one day. I was wrapped up in the characters. It's just that there were too many times I looked up wondering what in the world just happened.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 29, 2016
First, this is a total non realistic story xD but I liked it!
It has some secrets that goes revealing slowly, slow burn, very hotttt scenes and very romantic ones too!!!
Must say that if this book would ended at 50 % with a cute epilogue I would give it 5 stars because that first part was perfect!!!! But we had another half of the book, that in my opinion wasn't necessary, with the typical misunderstandings.
It has some secrets that goes revealing slowly, slow burn, very hotttt scenes and very romantic ones too!!!
Must say that if this book would ended at 50 % with a cute epilogue I would give it 5 stars because that first part was perfect!!!! But we had another half of the book, that in my opinion wasn't necessary, with the typical misunderstandings.
May 30, 2016
I really wanted to like this one, but it appears as though Sloan Johnson wasn't paying much attention to the manuscript. There are several instances of repetition, and a few cases where things are alluded to that never happened on-page. Add to that sentences that make very little sense, and I got the feeling Johnson just isn't very good with words.
"First, my best friend, the one I told you I'd been crushing on..."
Never happened. Dax never said anything like this to Michael before that moment.
"She let him go and took both of his hands in her face."
"It'd have been..."
At one point, Michael's friend Justin is lamenting the lack of openly gay men in their town...
"'But that doesn't mean there's a line of guys waiting to have someone shove their dick up another guy's ass.'"
Just think that through for a minute. I'll wait.
"'...probably would've done the same if I'd been on the other hand.'"
"'The one thing I don't miss about not living with him is listening to him having sex from across the hall.'"
Again. Think about it.
"'Hopefully, it meant he'd quit giving us crap about Dax stealing me out from under his nose."
Michael stole Dax out from under Justin's nose. Not the other way around.
"'Feels different than when a doctor does it, huh?'"
Michael agreed with this assessment of a prostate exam, and I'm sitting here thinking...why would two guys who aren't yet 30 know what a prostate exam feels like?
"No fooling myself that this writhing person beneath me was all man."
Shouldn't that be wasn't? Wasn't all man?
"'And Dax is like family to me, and you are to him, so that make you my family as well.' I lost him somewhere along that convoluted train of thought, but I understood the basics of what he was saying."
This coming from Michael, the man everyone keeps saying is too smart for his own good. And that is a convoluted train of thought for him.
"Michael and I needed to find time to talk about the surgery and what to expect after."
So this surgery thing just pops up out of nowhere. Dax wakes and it seems like everything's fine, and then, whammo, casual mention of surgery.
*Sigh*
"First, my best friend, the one I told you I'd been crushing on..."
Never happened. Dax never said anything like this to Michael before that moment.
"She let him go and took both of his hands in her face."
"It'd have been..."
At one point, Michael's friend Justin is lamenting the lack of openly gay men in their town...
"'But that doesn't mean there's a line of guys waiting to have someone shove their dick up another guy's ass.'"
Just think that through for a minute. I'll wait.
"'...probably would've done the same if I'd been on the other hand.'"
"'The one thing I don't miss about not living with him is listening to him having sex from across the hall.'"
Again. Think about it.
"'Hopefully, it meant he'd quit giving us crap about Dax stealing me out from under his nose."
Michael stole Dax out from under Justin's nose. Not the other way around.
"'Feels different than when a doctor does it, huh?'"
Michael agreed with this assessment of a prostate exam, and I'm sitting here thinking...why would two guys who aren't yet 30 know what a prostate exam feels like?
"No fooling myself that this writhing person beneath me was all man."
Shouldn't that be wasn't? Wasn't all man?
"'And Dax is like family to me, and you are to him, so that make you my family as well.' I lost him somewhere along that convoluted train of thought, but I understood the basics of what he was saying."
This coming from Michael, the man everyone keeps saying is too smart for his own good. And that is a convoluted train of thought for him.
"Michael and I needed to find time to talk about the surgery and what to expect after."
So this surgery thing just pops up out of nowhere. Dax wakes and it seems like everything's fine, and then, whammo, casual mention of surgery.
*Sigh*
March 17, 2016
3,5 stars : an enjoyable read
When I started this book, I was twice surprised : first because I didn’t enjoy the books I previously read from this author (so, glad I tried this one anyway), and then because the story is not at all what I assumed it would be when I read the blurb (my opinion : the blurb is a tad deceptive).
6 years ago, Dax had a road accident that made him changed his way and view of life. After healing, he decided to clean up his mess and become a teacher. His first job leads him to the place where his accident happened.
6 years ago, Michael, an EMT at that time, was deeply affected while rescuing a man from an accident and started having a hard time dealing with his emotions and the difficulties of life such as having to raise on his own his kid, Jagger, after his wife’s death, especially since all was so easy for him when he grew up.
The path of these 2 men met again when they became neighbors and quickly friends, Dax helping Michael to take care of Jagger. Their bond turns deeper the more they spent time together until both of them reveal their feelings and get to explore this relationship, Michael surprised to have such strong feelings for a man, and Dax anxious to be too pushy.
It’s a slow-burn romance but fast-paced at the same time (the timescale got confusing sometimes). Despite some lack of development, I liked to watch Dax and Michael relationship grows. The relationship with Michael’s step parents felt a bit OTT for my taste, but apart from that, no drama. Oh, and I found the ending a little bit abrupt. In overall, a good comfort read for me.
When I started this book, I was twice surprised : first because I didn’t enjoy the books I previously read from this author (so, glad I tried this one anyway), and then because the story is not at all what I assumed it would be when I read the blurb (my opinion : the blurb is a tad deceptive).
6 years ago, Dax had a road accident that made him changed his way and view of life. After healing, he decided to clean up his mess and become a teacher. His first job leads him to the place where his accident happened.
6 years ago, Michael, an EMT at that time, was deeply affected while rescuing a man from an accident and started having a hard time dealing with his emotions and the difficulties of life such as having to raise on his own his kid, Jagger, after his wife’s death, especially since all was so easy for him when he grew up.
The path of these 2 men met again when they became neighbors and quickly friends, Dax helping Michael to take care of Jagger. Their bond turns deeper the more they spent time together until both of them reveal their feelings and get to explore this relationship, Michael surprised to have such strong feelings for a man, and Dax anxious to be too pushy.
It’s a slow-burn romance but fast-paced at the same time (the timescale got confusing sometimes). Despite some lack of development, I liked to watch Dax and Michael relationship grows. The relationship with Michael’s step parents felt a bit OTT for my taste, but apart from that, no drama. Oh, and I found the ending a little bit abrupt. In overall, a good comfort read for me.
February 19, 2020
When Dax decided to clean up his life years ago, he never quite forgot the voice of the man who rescued him back then. That that man is now in his life is something neither could have foreseen coming.
While sweet, I have to admit that this slow burn story didn't quite work for me. I liked Dax, and loved that he figured himself out and became a teacher. Michael, on the other hand, did nothing for me and their relationship moved at an odd pace. Still, not a horrible story or anything, just not really to my taste.
ARC via Gay Romance Reviews/LesCourt ARC Team for an honest review.
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March 17, 2016
beautiful story of love and second chances.
Overall the story was a great love story and I enjoyed that the focus didn't rely heavily on it being a gay romance (I'm of the mind it's not who you love it's how you love). The story had a good pace and flow to it. I enjoyed the balance of humour, love and angst.
I liked Dax's character. He had gone through a lot to find his happiness. He was laid back and easily likeable.
Michael, was likeable, handsome, heartbroken and protective of his child. I enjoyed that his character loved his son fiercely and wanted to do right by him. I also like how Sloan Johnson didn't make him be this perfect (Leave It To Beaver) type dad. He was flawed but was always trying and worked hard. There were times I struggled with Michael though. I can't entirely explain it. He did give off a vibe. Hear me out-- there are many people who have been in committed, loving even, heterosexual relationships but did some life and soul searching and gone into a homosexual relationship. This isn't them "turning" gay or whatever or even a case of "gay for you." Again it's not who, it's how. But in some ways I almost got the feeling that Michael was settling for Dax and not embracing the "how" because of the "who." Make sense? Maybe because even his character struggled to find a definition or a label for what he was feeling. Yet, I liked reading the awkwardness Michael felt when he began having feelings for Dax and when they spent more time together. The chemistry was there but there were a couple of instances where it felt like Michael was resigned to the fact that he would be with Dax because of all that life had thrown at him rather than he would be with Dax because his heart wanted it. However, even through my moments of feeling this, Michael and Dax were good together. Sloan Johnson wrote the story well that you did get that sense and that you did get that they truly did feel something-- there was a deeper connection. And bottom line she writes stories of the heart. Not appearance, not societal views. What the heart can't deny.
Jagger, Michael's son added the perfect spot for their family dynamic. I absolutely loved Michael's parents and Jason. Their support and encouragement was unwavering and again truly embraced the "how"
I have always loved how Sloan Johnson's stories have a level of respect and loyalty for family (through blood or otherwise) in them. She is able to use this aspect to get you invested in her stories, pull at your heartstrings and fall in love with the characters, flaws and all.
I know many will read this book and want to somehow label it. Sorry, not going to happen. You can't label love. You can't label the heart. Never Too Late is a love story. It isn't about the sex or physical connections. Therefore this story isn't a gay romance, a bi romance a labelled romance. Never Too late is a love story. A heart story. And it's definitely worthwhile reading.
D 4/5
February 16, 2020
I very much enjoyed this book. The story was interesting and well written. I loved the writing style and especially the dialogues. They were really natural. What I loved the most was the two main characters, Dax and Micheal. Their relationship evolved so naturally, it was truly beautiful to read. They had amazing chemistry and I just couldn’t get enough. The side characters were great too. I hope Matt and Justin will get a story too.
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review.
I received an ARC of this book for an honest review.
May 15, 2016
I really enjoyed this book. I love GFy and this was a really good example of that.I loved how even after a few doubts, Michael threw himself into his relationship with Dax.
I loved Jagger.
Hopefully as this is book 1, maybe the bext book with be Justin and Matt's story.
I loved Jagger.
Hopefully as this is book 1, maybe the bext book with be Justin and Matt's story.
March 15, 2016
Within the M/M romance genre, the gay-for-you trope is a favorite of mine since it really expresses how you love a PERSON, not a gender. I thought that this was done extremely well here in Never Too Late. The story is very well paced, never making the evolution of Michael and Dax's relationship seem rushed or forced, and it is also quite believable.
Both Dax and Michael have their own difficult, tragic pasts though they don't realize just exactly how much they truly have in common. Both have overcome and thrived, and as the story progresses it is almost as if they are drawn to each other...even though Michael is straight. The pairing of these two characters is spot-on and feels very comfortable and just...well, just plain RIGHT.
I found both Dax and Michael to be excellent lead characters, they are both written so you feel like you have an emotional attachment to them not only as individuals, but also to the two of them as a couple...and by extension, them and Michael's son Jagger (who is a wonderful, precocious and intuitive little boy) as a family--even when they really aren't one yet.
There are a couple of places where the story slowed a little bit for me, but those points were relatively easy to push through and did not affect my enjoyment of the story at all. This wound up being one of those books where I just settled in and truly enjoyed the read, becoming attached to the characters quite easily...enough to really grab my heart and make me panic at one point toward the end of the story.
Never Too Late was a 4.5-star read for me, and I'd highly recommend it to M/M romance fans 18+ (due to adult language and M/M sexual content). While I have purchased several of this author's books, this is the first chance I've had to read one of her stories, and now I can't wait to dive in to the rest of my stash...and I'm eager for more in this series!
Both Dax and Michael have their own difficult, tragic pasts though they don't realize just exactly how much they truly have in common. Both have overcome and thrived, and as the story progresses it is almost as if they are drawn to each other...even though Michael is straight. The pairing of these two characters is spot-on and feels very comfortable and just...well, just plain RIGHT.
I found both Dax and Michael to be excellent lead characters, they are both written so you feel like you have an emotional attachment to them not only as individuals, but also to the two of them as a couple...and by extension, them and Michael's son Jagger (who is a wonderful, precocious and intuitive little boy) as a family--even when they really aren't one yet.
There are a couple of places where the story slowed a little bit for me, but those points were relatively easy to push through and did not affect my enjoyment of the story at all. This wound up being one of those books where I just settled in and truly enjoyed the read, becoming attached to the characters quite easily...enough to really grab my heart and make me panic at one point toward the end of the story.
Never Too Late was a 4.5-star read for me, and I'd highly recommend it to M/M romance fans 18+ (due to adult language and M/M sexual content). While I have purchased several of this author's books, this is the first chance I've had to read one of her stories, and now I can't wait to dive in to the rest of my stash...and I'm eager for more in this series!
March 16, 2016
First I have to say that Sloan has done a fantastic job of weaving a tragic situation into a love story flawlessly. At first I was a little nervous to read Never Too Late because it sounded like such a sad story and I was not sure the ending would be good. I hate cliffhangers and I hate mushy mushy love endings but this ending Sloan killed it!
This story started out with Dax having a motorcycle accident. Laying on the side of road dying a mysterious man comes over to help him out. The man stays with him until the ambulance comes and when Dax wakes up he wants to meet the mysterious man who helped him out. So he decides to go back to the small town where he had his accident in hopes of finding the man who saved him and thanking him. But what Dax gets when he gets to the town is something totally different than what he thought.
Michael has always wanted to be a doctor. He has been accepted into several medical schools and has not chosen a school yet when he comes upon a horrible motorcycle accident. It is in seeing the man laying there dying that Michael holds the man until help comes when he decides that being a doctor is something he can't do. Holding a dying man has changed him to the point he loses his wife and the only thing holding him on to reality is raising his young son.
Michael is spiraling out of control when he gets a new neighbor and his world is about to change in ways he never thought. Dax and Michael will take a journey of discovery that turns from friendship to love. But will their past bring them together or tear them apart?
This story started out with Dax having a motorcycle accident. Laying on the side of road dying a mysterious man comes over to help him out. The man stays with him until the ambulance comes and when Dax wakes up he wants to meet the mysterious man who helped him out. So he decides to go back to the small town where he had his accident in hopes of finding the man who saved him and thanking him. But what Dax gets when he gets to the town is something totally different than what he thought.
Michael has always wanted to be a doctor. He has been accepted into several medical schools and has not chosen a school yet when he comes upon a horrible motorcycle accident. It is in seeing the man laying there dying that Michael holds the man until help comes when he decides that being a doctor is something he can't do. Holding a dying man has changed him to the point he loses his wife and the only thing holding him on to reality is raising his young son.
Michael is spiraling out of control when he gets a new neighbor and his world is about to change in ways he never thought. Dax and Michael will take a journey of discovery that turns from friendship to love. But will their past bring them together or tear them apart?
April 6, 2016
I tried... Not for me at all. And I'm so sad about that.
I didn't feel the connection between the two main characters! Not once! Sigh. I also felt there were major gaps in the story. One minute the MC was facing off with the other MC - but it wasn't until he was leaving that the "tone of his voice" with his son got him to thinking and remembering? Then things progressed, we have the second meeting under the same circumstances and yet, even though they didn't meet on good terms they had dinner together and played hotwheels with the kid? Then! Wham "yea I wanted to stick my dick in him" ( not an actual quote from the book) but you get the point.
The other MC was with women, my favourite type of character! I respected his "face what you're feeling like a man" attitude. He didn't run from it in any way to me. But that attraction itself wasn't fully built up and I was left feeling cheated of the feels.
It was disjointed. And I feel so sad that I didn't connect with this book. It was a slow burn "GFY/OFY" novel and I'm sitting here like "how could I not love this book? How?" That's my favourite type of book (add cute jealousy, a little possessiveness and angst to that list as well) But I just didn't. Sadly.
I hate leaving reviews like this, but it's how I feel. (Please don't hate me).
I didn't feel the connection between the two main characters! Not once! Sigh. I also felt there were major gaps in the story. One minute the MC was facing off with the other MC - but it wasn't until he was leaving that the "tone of his voice" with his son got him to thinking and remembering? Then things progressed, we have the second meeting under the same circumstances and yet, even though they didn't meet on good terms they had dinner together and played hotwheels with the kid? Then! Wham "yea I wanted to stick my dick in him" ( not an actual quote from the book) but you get the point.
The other MC was with women, my favourite type of character! I respected his "face what you're feeling like a man" attitude. He didn't run from it in any way to me. But that attraction itself wasn't fully built up and I was left feeling cheated of the feels.
It was disjointed. And I feel so sad that I didn't connect with this book. It was a slow burn "GFY/OFY" novel and I'm sitting here like "how could I not love this book? How?" That's my favourite type of book (add cute jealousy, a little possessiveness and angst to that list as well) But I just didn't. Sadly.
I hate leaving reviews like this, but it's how I feel. (Please don't hate me).
February 18, 2016
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
This is a story that is more about telling us about what is happening in the characters' lives rather than telling us about the characters themselves. As a result I didn't feel an emotional connection to what I was reading. But the story was interesting enough to keep me turning the pages.
I enjoyed seeing Michael's struggles as a single parent and watching him deal with his growing feelings for Dax. Dax himself felt a little too perfect and like he only existed to further Michael's story. He got swallowed up.
Never Too Late was enjoyable but I felt like something was missing.
This is a story that is more about telling us about what is happening in the characters' lives rather than telling us about the characters themselves. As a result I didn't feel an emotional connection to what I was reading. But the story was interesting enough to keep me turning the pages.
I enjoyed seeing Michael's struggles as a single parent and watching him deal with his growing feelings for Dax. Dax himself felt a little too perfect and like he only existed to further Michael's story. He got swallowed up.
Never Too Late was enjoyable but I felt like something was missing.
February 23, 2016
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads Review Team.
While I enjoyed this book, I felt as though something was missing. We had POVs from both Dax and Michael, but it still felt as though I was missing an important part of the story.
I loved the way the author very artfully wrote Michael, a single father, who until he met Dax never had feelings for another man, much less acted on them. Dax's insights into Michael's persona were authentic and true and their feelings for each other very real.
The drama with the maternal grandparents seemed a bit forced, but overall an enjoyable read.
While I enjoyed this book, I felt as though something was missing. We had POVs from both Dax and Michael, but it still felt as though I was missing an important part of the story.
I loved the way the author very artfully wrote Michael, a single father, who until he met Dax never had feelings for another man, much less acted on them. Dax's insights into Michael's persona were authentic and true and their feelings for each other very real.
The drama with the maternal grandparents seemed a bit forced, but overall an enjoyable read.
January 26, 2020
I am thrilled to have gotten a chance to read Quinn Ward's Never Too Late.
This is the impressive story of two men who save one another. One is saved years ago, the other now. These two men who come into one another's lives at the right time and it's beautiful.
Michael lost his wife and is struggling to raise his son, Jagger, alone. He's let his pain and struggles drag him under. But with Dax re-entering his life, he's about to live again.
What follows is a wonderful story of struggling with opening one's heart. It's full of heightened emotions, some spice, and a whole lot of tenderness. This is a gay for you relationship, leading to some great first times.
Jagger is adorable and adds so many sweet moments to the story. He's so impulsive and precocious, I just love him.
The writing is great, with well rounded characters, a complex storyline, and plenty of romance. Told in alternating 1st person pov, the reader is fully brought into the story, both actions and emotions. And there are plenty of emotions including pain, grief, fear, and resentment.
Never Too Late is a story with a lot of heart. Quinn Ward takes the reader on an emotional journey which is all about the character growth and learning to believe in yourself and love. I absolutely loved this book, staying up late into the night to finish it.
This is the impressive story of two men who save one another. One is saved years ago, the other now. These two men who come into one another's lives at the right time and it's beautiful.
Michael lost his wife and is struggling to raise his son, Jagger, alone. He's let his pain and struggles drag him under. But with Dax re-entering his life, he's about to live again.
What follows is a wonderful story of struggling with opening one's heart. It's full of heightened emotions, some spice, and a whole lot of tenderness. This is a gay for you relationship, leading to some great first times.
Jagger is adorable and adds so many sweet moments to the story. He's so impulsive and precocious, I just love him.
The writing is great, with well rounded characters, a complex storyline, and plenty of romance. Told in alternating 1st person pov, the reader is fully brought into the story, both actions and emotions. And there are plenty of emotions including pain, grief, fear, and resentment.
Never Too Late is a story with a lot of heart. Quinn Ward takes the reader on an emotional journey which is all about the character growth and learning to believe in yourself and love. I absolutely loved this book, staying up late into the night to finish it.
December 19, 2021
I really enjoyed this read and the concept that fate plays a part in our lives..whether it is wanted at the time. Dax and Michael path cross, change both their lives, they cross again and life changes again! Good bad better worse sadness happiness hurt heartache and Love!
Michael and Dax - second chance at love, both men have been through hard times, they have an insta connection and more in common than they first know.
This is a beautiful emotional read and well written. Gotta admit Jagger stole my heart! For me this book had it all.
Michael and Dax - second chance at love, both men have been through hard times, they have an insta connection and more in common than they first know.
This is a beautiful emotional read and well written. Gotta admit Jagger stole my heart! For me this book had it all.
March 25, 2025
things did move way too fast!
thomas doesn’t deserve to be anywhere jagger and i don’t know why dax was acting like he gets any say in who gets to be around him…like sir the man accused YOU of molesting him like be so serious. They were all acting like teenagers, they have a lot of growing up to do.
the only people i feel bad for are michael and jagger, they’ve really been through the wringer for the last six years.
thomas doesn’t deserve to be anywhere jagger and i don’t know why dax was acting like he gets any say in who gets to be around him…like sir the man accused YOU of molesting him like be so serious. They were all acting like teenagers, they have a lot of growing up to do.
the only people i feel bad for are michael and jagger, they’ve really been through the wringer for the last six years.
February 14, 2020
very good story.. sweet sexy and interesting. i enjoyed it a lot and the writing is really good. i liked it
March 4, 2016
I received a copy of this title to read and review for Wicked Reads
3.5 Stars
I'm a sucker for a book with a little kid in it. My next favorite trope in the MM genre is gay-for-you. So with those two plot devices, Erica was a happy girl. As the cherry on top of the sundae, slow-burn romance instead of insta-love/lust.
Never too Late was written in a steady pace with an easy to read writing style. Dual-narrated 1st person, there was no head-hopping due to the fact that each chapter was sub-headed by the narrator, and they never shared a chapter.
In the beginning I loved Dax's POV. New to town, his impression of the town itself and its inhabitants was amusing (I'm from a small town), especially the first 3 impressions Michael made on him. Now, Michael on the other hand, he was a bit too defeatist for my tastes. Even after reading in his voice what his angsty reasons were, they still didn't jive with the level of self-deprecation the man was feeling. He could be downright nasty, especially to Dax who had no need to help and was only doing so out of the goodness of his own heart. Meanwhile, Dax, the man who had lived life on the edge, he had some reasons to be that way, and it was refreshing to see he wasn't.
Never Too Late was Michael's story, even if Dax narrated a little less than half. Michael's family, Michael's town, Michael's child, and Michael's issues. I would have liked a bit more of a balance, because like a lot of wives in life, they lose their personality when they become their husband's helpmate. Dax was neither a wife, nor a woman, and everyone, regardless of gender, should retain the core of who they are, no matter who they are coupled with.
Jagger, Michael's little rascal was an extra-special addition to the storyline. Michael was a loving dad, but one who had his hands tied behind his back (see my defeatist attitude comment above). As a Kindergarten teacher, Dax was a natural.
Overall, I was thoroughly entertained. Now, you're probably asking why I didn't 5 star Never Too Late, aren't you?
Around the 50 - 60% range, I could feel the story winding down, but knew there was most of the book left. But by then I was getting disinterested and anxious because I knew DRAMA was about to show up in town and infect the easy, enjoyable story I was gobbling up. I was right, and the drama felt forced and took the comfort read feel away from the story, driving it toward frustrating and drawn-out.
There were a few instances with timeline issues that had me clicking back a chapter or two, confused. 'Dates' were happening on specific days of the week, with plans made on specific nights. Yet the lack of communication between the pair was written as if it was a week or so, when on the timeline, it couldn't have been more than 12-24 hours, or specific events would have been passed by. I mean, next Saturday is always the NEXT Saturday, not two or three from then. Yet those dates and dinners were still in their assigned days in the same week, but it was written as if a long time had passed. Basically, I was thinking this, "Wait a minute. Didn't that happen on a Thursday, and today must be Friday. So how did days go past without communication when they had to have parted this morning. Especially when Saturday's date with the fam happened in the next scene? School day are only on weekdays."
I received an ARC, so I don't know if this was edited in the final publication, and it didn't effect my rating whatsoever. But there were several instances when the narration was mixed up. The chapter would be Dax or Michael, yet they were calling themselves in the third-person during dialogue/monologue as if the other narrator was speaking, and I had to click back to check out who was the narrator during that particular chapter. It was only for a sentence within a paragraph, but it was jarring. Basically, the author had the wrong name in the passage, confusing the reader.
Over all, I enjoyed the heck out of Never Too Late, confusing issues aside. I believe MM romance readers will adore Dax, Michael, and the naughty Jagger. I would most definitely read more by this author.
3.5 Stars
I'm a sucker for a book with a little kid in it. My next favorite trope in the MM genre is gay-for-you. So with those two plot devices, Erica was a happy girl. As the cherry on top of the sundae, slow-burn romance instead of insta-love/lust.
Never too Late was written in a steady pace with an easy to read writing style. Dual-narrated 1st person, there was no head-hopping due to the fact that each chapter was sub-headed by the narrator, and they never shared a chapter.
In the beginning I loved Dax's POV. New to town, his impression of the town itself and its inhabitants was amusing (I'm from a small town), especially the first 3 impressions Michael made on him. Now, Michael on the other hand, he was a bit too defeatist for my tastes. Even after reading in his voice what his angsty reasons were, they still didn't jive with the level of self-deprecation the man was feeling. He could be downright nasty, especially to Dax who had no need to help and was only doing so out of the goodness of his own heart. Meanwhile, Dax, the man who had lived life on the edge, he had some reasons to be that way, and it was refreshing to see he wasn't.
Never Too Late was Michael's story, even if Dax narrated a little less than half. Michael's family, Michael's town, Michael's child, and Michael's issues. I would have liked a bit more of a balance, because like a lot of wives in life, they lose their personality when they become their husband's helpmate. Dax was neither a wife, nor a woman, and everyone, regardless of gender, should retain the core of who they are, no matter who they are coupled with.
Jagger, Michael's little rascal was an extra-special addition to the storyline. Michael was a loving dad, but one who had his hands tied behind his back (see my defeatist attitude comment above). As a Kindergarten teacher, Dax was a natural.
Overall, I was thoroughly entertained. Now, you're probably asking why I didn't 5 star Never Too Late, aren't you?
Around the 50 - 60% range, I could feel the story winding down, but knew there was most of the book left. But by then I was getting disinterested and anxious because I knew DRAMA was about to show up in town and infect the easy, enjoyable story I was gobbling up. I was right, and the drama felt forced and took the comfort read feel away from the story, driving it toward frustrating and drawn-out.
There were a few instances with timeline issues that had me clicking back a chapter or two, confused. 'Dates' were happening on specific days of the week, with plans made on specific nights. Yet the lack of communication between the pair was written as if it was a week or so, when on the timeline, it couldn't have been more than 12-24 hours, or specific events would have been passed by. I mean, next Saturday is always the NEXT Saturday, not two or three from then. Yet those dates and dinners were still in their assigned days in the same week, but it was written as if a long time had passed. Basically, I was thinking this, "Wait a minute. Didn't that happen on a Thursday, and today must be Friday. So how did days go past without communication when they had to have parted this morning. Especially when Saturday's date with the fam happened in the next scene? School day are only on weekdays."
I received an ARC, so I don't know if this was edited in the final publication, and it didn't effect my rating whatsoever. But there were several instances when the narration was mixed up. The chapter would be Dax or Michael, yet they were calling themselves in the third-person during dialogue/monologue as if the other narrator was speaking, and I had to click back to check out who was the narrator during that particular chapter. It was only for a sentence within a paragraph, but it was jarring. Basically, the author had the wrong name in the passage, confusing the reader.
Over all, I enjoyed the heck out of Never Too Late, confusing issues aside. I believe MM romance readers will adore Dax, Michael, and the naughty Jagger. I would most definitely read more by this author.
March 17, 2016
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
This is the first time the stars have aligned properly, allowing me the chance to read one of Johnson’s books when it came up for review. I usually keep my review schedule packed. I’m a book-a-day reader. But in order to keep from spreading myself too thin, I’ve pulled back a bit on my review schedule so that I had time built in for other book-related activities. Hi, my name is Angela and I am an addict. I’m addicted to books and Never Too Late proved to be an enjoyable way to feed my addiction, while giving me a chance to finally read an author I’ve had to miss out on repeatedly because of my schedule.
By opening the book with Dax’s memories and his return to the so-called scene of the crime, Johnson snagged my attention from the beginning. She finished reeling me in with his rescue of Jagger and stand-off with Michael. I was hooked. Growing up in small town America in the Southern Bible Belt, I had almost no difficulty in understanding the mindset that Michael grew up with and I could relate to his feelings of being suffocated by it. Because of this, I got where he was coming from, feeling overwhelmed as a single parent, feeling as though nothing he ever did was right, and feeling as though EVERYONE in town judged him for his parental deficits. So it made sense that when Dax offered him friendship without the judgements of his supposed past failures, that Michael clung to it like a drowning man, because that’s exactly what he was. Watching the men build a friendship over a matter of weeks was heartwarming because while Jagger may have been what brought them together, they both needed someone they could count on to have their back – and if Dax had to keep to himself that he wanted to have more than just Michael’s back, then so be it. However, as Dax spent more and more time with Michael and Jagger, it was Michael who found himself questioning his feelings for Dax, especially as he’d never felt an inkling of attraction for another man in his life. Even as Michael comes to terms with how he feels, he is faced with all of the “normal” relationship issues of a single father along with worrying if being in a relationship with another man was something he could do in Marshall, and if it was worth the risk.
When I began reading Never Too Late, I had no idea that it was a gay-for-you romance. I’m still relatively new to the genre, but I enjoyed this theme in the novel quite a bit. I cannot even begin to imagine the inner struggle someone would have to deal with to find themselves attracted to a person of the same sex when they’ve never had such feelings before. The relationship that forms between Dax and Jagger was heartwarming to watch and vital to the eventual relationship that developed between Michael and Dax. Not surprisingly, the sexy fun times between the men proved to be quite sexy and a lot of fun to read. I enjoyed watching Michael find himself again as he found the love and safety in Dax he didn’t realize he was missing. This included him reconnecting with Justin, who proved to be a much better friend (and alcohol beard) to both Michael and Dax than my first impression of him led me to believe he would be. There are several things within the storyline that make Never Too Late a heavy read in places, but Johnson does a nice job of inserting humor into various scenes when I needed it. Although there were a few times over the course of the novel that interactions between Michael and Dax felt more formal than the scene called for, I’m chalking that up to regional differences and a good dose of small town wariness. In the end, Never Too Late was an enjoyable read and I look forward to reading more of Johson’s writing.
This is the first time the stars have aligned properly, allowing me the chance to read one of Johnson’s books when it came up for review. I usually keep my review schedule packed. I’m a book-a-day reader. But in order to keep from spreading myself too thin, I’ve pulled back a bit on my review schedule so that I had time built in for other book-related activities. Hi, my name is Angela and I am an addict. I’m addicted to books and Never Too Late proved to be an enjoyable way to feed my addiction, while giving me a chance to finally read an author I’ve had to miss out on repeatedly because of my schedule.
By opening the book with Dax’s memories and his return to the so-called scene of the crime, Johnson snagged my attention from the beginning. She finished reeling me in with his rescue of Jagger and stand-off with Michael. I was hooked. Growing up in small town America in the Southern Bible Belt, I had almost no difficulty in understanding the mindset that Michael grew up with and I could relate to his feelings of being suffocated by it. Because of this, I got where he was coming from, feeling overwhelmed as a single parent, feeling as though nothing he ever did was right, and feeling as though EVERYONE in town judged him for his parental deficits. So it made sense that when Dax offered him friendship without the judgements of his supposed past failures, that Michael clung to it like a drowning man, because that’s exactly what he was. Watching the men build a friendship over a matter of weeks was heartwarming because while Jagger may have been what brought them together, they both needed someone they could count on to have their back – and if Dax had to keep to himself that he wanted to have more than just Michael’s back, then so be it. However, as Dax spent more and more time with Michael and Jagger, it was Michael who found himself questioning his feelings for Dax, especially as he’d never felt an inkling of attraction for another man in his life. Even as Michael comes to terms with how he feels, he is faced with all of the “normal” relationship issues of a single father along with worrying if being in a relationship with another man was something he could do in Marshall, and if it was worth the risk.
When I began reading Never Too Late, I had no idea that it was a gay-for-you romance. I’m still relatively new to the genre, but I enjoyed this theme in the novel quite a bit. I cannot even begin to imagine the inner struggle someone would have to deal with to find themselves attracted to a person of the same sex when they’ve never had such feelings before. The relationship that forms between Dax and Jagger was heartwarming to watch and vital to the eventual relationship that developed between Michael and Dax. Not surprisingly, the sexy fun times between the men proved to be quite sexy and a lot of fun to read. I enjoyed watching Michael find himself again as he found the love and safety in Dax he didn’t realize he was missing. This included him reconnecting with Justin, who proved to be a much better friend (and alcohol beard) to both Michael and Dax than my first impression of him led me to believe he would be. There are several things within the storyline that make Never Too Late a heavy read in places, but Johnson does a nice job of inserting humor into various scenes when I needed it. Although there were a few times over the course of the novel that interactions between Michael and Dax felt more formal than the scene called for, I’m chalking that up to regional differences and a good dose of small town wariness. In the end, Never Too Late was an enjoyable read and I look forward to reading more of Johson’s writing.
March 14, 2016
REVIEWED FOR PRISM BOOK ALLIANCE
4.5 Stars
Never too late is the perfect story of when your past and present meet. It’s a story of healing and moving on for Dax and Michael who have no idea how much they have impacted on each other’s lives when they first meet.
Dax Collins has just taken his first teaching job in the small town of Marshall but his rented house looks nothing like the advertisement and his best friend thinks he’s nuts. The move is bittersweet – on one hand the job and the house are testament that Daz is recovering and moving on but on the other – well, the last time Dax was anywhere near this town was six years ago when life no longer felt like it should be lived and he lay dying at the side of the road. His suicide attempt was a failure, like so much of his life at that time and he felt tremendous anger at the stranger that saved him that night but now all he would like to do is thank him.
Michael Underwood isn’t coping and his life seems completely out of control. Six years ago he had his life all planned out, he was going to be a Doctor and he was spending more and more time contemplating whether his relationship with his childhood girlfriend was worth working on. Two things happened almost simultaneously – he found out he was going to be a father and a man lay dying in his arms at the roadside. Michael has never gotten over that night and the trauma is a big part of the reason he didn’t follow his career. Two years ago his wife died leaving him to raise his young son alone and his days are long and complicated.
When Dax meets Jagger, Michael’s young son, his first impressions aren’t good. Michael and Jagger appear disconnected and Daz is worried about the young boy. A second meeting doesn’t improve those thoughts when once again Michael seems not to be coping and Jagger is stuck up a tree. An innocent invite to dinner, a way for Michael to convince Dax he isn’t as hopeless as he looks, is the beginning of a friendship that neither man could have seen coming. The next few weeks the three of them spend nearly all of their spare time together creating an odd sort of family but definitely something that works and both men come to rely on it more than they realise.
Daz is angry at himself for falling for a straight man and is determined for it not to become obvious – he really doesn’t want to mess up this new friendship. The problem there is that Michael is feeling things for Daz that really confuse him, he has never been attracted to a man before and has no idea what to do or how to approach it. Watching this pair fumble through it all was heart-warming and awkward. There are past demons to be dealt with, there are families to deal with and there is the rest of the small town to come out to but there was an overwhelming feeling that the two of them could work it all out.
The supporting cast was great. As Daz makes new friends in town Michael has to reach out to people he pushed away from him when his wife died. Both men’s lives are changing dramatically but for the better. Justin is one such friend and I really hope he gets his own story in the future!
4.5 Stars
Never too late is the perfect story of when your past and present meet. It’s a story of healing and moving on for Dax and Michael who have no idea how much they have impacted on each other’s lives when they first meet.
Dax Collins has just taken his first teaching job in the small town of Marshall but his rented house looks nothing like the advertisement and his best friend thinks he’s nuts. The move is bittersweet – on one hand the job and the house are testament that Daz is recovering and moving on but on the other – well, the last time Dax was anywhere near this town was six years ago when life no longer felt like it should be lived and he lay dying at the side of the road. His suicide attempt was a failure, like so much of his life at that time and he felt tremendous anger at the stranger that saved him that night but now all he would like to do is thank him.
Michael Underwood isn’t coping and his life seems completely out of control. Six years ago he had his life all planned out, he was going to be a Doctor and he was spending more and more time contemplating whether his relationship with his childhood girlfriend was worth working on. Two things happened almost simultaneously – he found out he was going to be a father and a man lay dying in his arms at the roadside. Michael has never gotten over that night and the trauma is a big part of the reason he didn’t follow his career. Two years ago his wife died leaving him to raise his young son alone and his days are long and complicated.
When Dax meets Jagger, Michael’s young son, his first impressions aren’t good. Michael and Jagger appear disconnected and Daz is worried about the young boy. A second meeting doesn’t improve those thoughts when once again Michael seems not to be coping and Jagger is stuck up a tree. An innocent invite to dinner, a way for Michael to convince Dax he isn’t as hopeless as he looks, is the beginning of a friendship that neither man could have seen coming. The next few weeks the three of them spend nearly all of their spare time together creating an odd sort of family but definitely something that works and both men come to rely on it more than they realise.
Daz is angry at himself for falling for a straight man and is determined for it not to become obvious – he really doesn’t want to mess up this new friendship. The problem there is that Michael is feeling things for Daz that really confuse him, he has never been attracted to a man before and has no idea what to do or how to approach it. Watching this pair fumble through it all was heart-warming and awkward. There are past demons to be dealt with, there are families to deal with and there is the rest of the small town to come out to but there was an overwhelming feeling that the two of them could work it all out.
The supporting cast was great. As Daz makes new friends in town Michael has to reach out to people he pushed away from him when his wife died. Both men’s lives are changing dramatically but for the better. Justin is one such friend and I really hope he gets his own story in the future!
February 19, 2016
Title: Never Too Late
Author: Sloan Johnson
Series:Home in the Heartland #1
Reviewer: Keri Tabor
Release Date: March 16, 2016
Genre(s): M/M, Romance, GFY, OFY
Page Count: 210
Heat Level: 4 flames out of 5
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
“So it really is a case of him being the special snowflake, huh?”
ღ´¨)
¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)
(¸.•´ (¸.•` ღ FIVE ONLY FOR YOU STARS!! ღ´¨)
¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)
(¸.•´ (¸.•` ღ
WOW.. WOW! Sloan Johnson literally sucked me into this book from the first word. Kindergarten teacher and a single dad widowed bartender?? YES PLEASE!
Dax knew coming back to this small little town may not be a great idea, but he felt in order for him to heal completely he needed to face his demons and learn to live his life to the fullest. He has remained thankful to the stranger that saved his life years ago after an accident in this very same town.
Michael lost his highschool sweetheart and wife a little over 2 years ago and is now raising their son on his own. He has felt tormented by the stranger he saved a years ago in his small town on a desolate road. Since his wife's death he has pushed everyone away that knew him during “that” life. He wanted a do over but knew he couldn't’ get away from the town that he grew up and offered an excellent support system for raising his child.
Dax and Michael start out being friends. Dax wants to help out where he can with Jagger (the son) and in turn help out Michael, who Dax feels inexplicably drawn to. Michael doesn’t really know what to do with these feeling he is having. “I frowned and he winked to show me he was kidding. Mostly. And I’ll be damned if my heart didn’t flutter just a bit at the playful gesture.”
The way these two find their romance is sweet and organic.
These two have a few things to overcome before they will be able to truly be with each other, will they be able to withstand that? Or will Michael pull away from the best thing to ever happen to him? “You told me once that I saved your life that night, but really, you’re the one who saved me.”
This is 2016 must read, the sex is not over done, it’s a lot of fade to black, but honestly you don’t really need all the details, this book is meant to be soft and sweet and the author has more than accomplished that.
Review Copy of Never Too Late provided by the Author for an honest Review.
Reviewed by Keri from Alpha Book Club
Author: Sloan Johnson
Series:Home in the Heartland #1
Reviewer: Keri Tabor
Release Date: March 16, 2016
Genre(s): M/M, Romance, GFY, OFY
Page Count: 210
Heat Level: 4 flames out of 5
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
“So it really is a case of him being the special snowflake, huh?”
ღ´¨)
¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)
(¸.•´ (¸.•` ღ FIVE ONLY FOR YOU STARS!! ღ´¨)
¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)
(¸.•´ (¸.•` ღ
WOW.. WOW! Sloan Johnson literally sucked me into this book from the first word. Kindergarten teacher and a single dad widowed bartender?? YES PLEASE!
Dax knew coming back to this small little town may not be a great idea, but he felt in order for him to heal completely he needed to face his demons and learn to live his life to the fullest. He has remained thankful to the stranger that saved his life years ago after an accident in this very same town.
Michael lost his highschool sweetheart and wife a little over 2 years ago and is now raising their son on his own. He has felt tormented by the stranger he saved a years ago in his small town on a desolate road. Since his wife's death he has pushed everyone away that knew him during “that” life. He wanted a do over but knew he couldn't’ get away from the town that he grew up and offered an excellent support system for raising his child.
Dax and Michael start out being friends. Dax wants to help out where he can with Jagger (the son) and in turn help out Michael, who Dax feels inexplicably drawn to. Michael doesn’t really know what to do with these feeling he is having. “I frowned and he winked to show me he was kidding. Mostly. And I’ll be damned if my heart didn’t flutter just a bit at the playful gesture.”
The way these two find their romance is sweet and organic.
These two have a few things to overcome before they will be able to truly be with each other, will they be able to withstand that? Or will Michael pull away from the best thing to ever happen to him? “You told me once that I saved your life that night, but really, you’re the one who saved me.”
This is 2016 must read, the sex is not over done, it’s a lot of fade to black, but honestly you don’t really need all the details, this book is meant to be soft and sweet and the author has more than accomplished that.
Review Copy of Never Too Late provided by the Author for an honest Review.
Reviewed by Keri from Alpha Book Club
March 14, 2016
~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads Review Team~
I wanted to love this book but I just couldn’t. The blurb drew me in and I was so excited to read this book. Don’t get me wrong, it wasn’t bad, just wasn’t as good as I was hoping. I wanted to see more chemistry and more heat between Dax and Michael, more passion. You could tell they liked each other and there was a spark but once the spark lit it just fizzled out at times and the sex wasn’t very hot either. Things just seemed too easy, I mean Dax thought Michael was a bad dad and then was always watching Jagger. Jagger is a great part of the story and I think he added something. There just wasn’t the angst you thought there would be reading the blurb. A lot of it was from Michael’s point of view and I think at times we missed some stuff that was going on with Dax. What little drama there was, between Michael and his in-laws was really nothing and seemed like filler. I think the copy I received wasn’t edited because there was a lot of typos and sentences that didn’t make sense and at one point Justin was called Jason once. I didn’t hate the book but I didn’t love it like I wanted to but if there is a second book I will read it because I am curious about Justin.
Characters: easy to relate to in certain instances
Sex: not descriptive
Religious: no
Would I recommend to others: yes
More than one book in the series: not sure, but I hope there is a second book about Justin
Genre: M/M Romance
Would I read more by this author: yes
~Wicked Reads Review Team~
I wanted to love this book but I just couldn’t. The blurb drew me in and I was so excited to read this book. Don’t get me wrong, it wasn’t bad, just wasn’t as good as I was hoping. I wanted to see more chemistry and more heat between Dax and Michael, more passion. You could tell they liked each other and there was a spark but once the spark lit it just fizzled out at times and the sex wasn’t very hot either. Things just seemed too easy, I mean Dax thought Michael was a bad dad and then was always watching Jagger. Jagger is a great part of the story and I think he added something. There just wasn’t the angst you thought there would be reading the blurb. A lot of it was from Michael’s point of view and I think at times we missed some stuff that was going on with Dax. What little drama there was, between Michael and his in-laws was really nothing and seemed like filler. I think the copy I received wasn’t edited because there was a lot of typos and sentences that didn’t make sense and at one point Justin was called Jason once. I didn’t hate the book but I didn’t love it like I wanted to but if there is a second book I will read it because I am curious about Justin.
Characters: easy to relate to in certain instances
Sex: not descriptive
Religious: no
Would I recommend to others: yes
More than one book in the series: not sure, but I hope there is a second book about Justin
Genre: M/M Romance
Would I read more by this author: yes
~Wicked Reads Review Team~
March 15, 2016
Never Too Late (Home in the Heartland #1) by Sloan Johnson
4.5 stars
M/M Romance
Triggers: Death, suicidal tendency, homophobic attitudes
I was given this book for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
Yeah for love!
This book had the most adorable child - Jagger was so loving and understanding, nonjudgmental and curious. He was essentially the glue that held this story together.
Michael was kind of a mess. However, those who love him surrounded him and tried their best to help him piece himself back together again, especially for the sake of Jagger. I was saddened by his ability to give up on himself so easily.
Michael's parents were amazing in this story - they were accepting, if not taken a little off guard and they were amazing with Jagger.
Then you have Dex. I liked him right off the bat. Despite what his initial reaction was to his first encounters with Michael and Jagger, he withheld judgment. I found him to be relaxed and honest, which were nice qualities given the situation he found himself in.
When their lives come together, despite the difficulties they both face, I love how they had such a great friendship. Yes, it was almost an insta-relationship, which I am not a huge fan of, but somehow, Johnson was able to pull that off.
The book was somewhat slow in the beginning, but I think that was to establish the friendship. Then you have the middle section, which is a lot of back and forth about feelings and such. I wish that we were able to have a little more development of the characters and their individual relationships, but it was cohesive enough.
Overall, this was a sweet story that both teaches you to never give up and that everyone is deserving of love.
I really hope that Justin and Matt get their story too.
4.5 stars
M/M Romance
Triggers: Death, suicidal tendency, homophobic attitudes
I was given this book for an honest review by Inked Rainbow Reads.
Yeah for love!
This book had the most adorable child - Jagger was so loving and understanding, nonjudgmental and curious. He was essentially the glue that held this story together.
Michael was kind of a mess. However, those who love him surrounded him and tried their best to help him piece himself back together again, especially for the sake of Jagger. I was saddened by his ability to give up on himself so easily.
Michael's parents were amazing in this story - they were accepting, if not taken a little off guard and they were amazing with Jagger.
Then you have Dex. I liked him right off the bat. Despite what his initial reaction was to his first encounters with Michael and Jagger, he withheld judgment. I found him to be relaxed and honest, which were nice qualities given the situation he found himself in.
When their lives come together, despite the difficulties they both face, I love how they had such a great friendship. Yes, it was almost an insta-relationship, which I am not a huge fan of, but somehow, Johnson was able to pull that off.
The book was somewhat slow in the beginning, but I think that was to establish the friendship. Then you have the middle section, which is a lot of back and forth about feelings and such. I wish that we were able to have a little more development of the characters and their individual relationships, but it was cohesive enough.
Overall, this was a sweet story that both teaches you to never give up and that everyone is deserving of love.
I really hope that Justin and Matt get their story too.
March 11, 2016
*copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie via author/publisher in exchange for an honest review*
Dax hit a turning point in his life six years ago. After a horrible car crash in a small town, where his life is saved by an off duty EMT, it took some time, but Dax discovered life was worth living. He moves to the small town where his life nearly came to an end, when he is offered a teaching job at the local elementary school.
After just getting to town he meets Jagger, a cute little 5 year old, then he meets Jagger's father, Michael. Sparks fly, but not in a good way. Can these three learn to be a cohesive unit?
I loved the premise of this story, and I adored the main characters. I loved that Jagger was such a huge part of this story and in so many scenes. He was an awesome little character, and I loved getting to read about him. I adored Dax and Michael, but at times I wanted to strangle them both. The story progressed kind of fast, but it's so detailed that, if the characters hadn't mentioned how short the time periods were I would have never noticed. It's a well written story that kept me turning the pages to see what would happen next. It's heartwarming and steamy, and my only real complaint is I think I would have liked a little more of a solid ending. I like my endings tied in a double knot, so they are sure not to come apart, haha!
The secondary characters of Justin and Michael's parents also made the book a joy to read. I hope there is more in the future, I'd love to revisit this small town, and see Justin find love. All in all a really enjoyable read, which is no surprise from this author. Highly recommended!!
Dax hit a turning point in his life six years ago. After a horrible car crash in a small town, where his life is saved by an off duty EMT, it took some time, but Dax discovered life was worth living. He moves to the small town where his life nearly came to an end, when he is offered a teaching job at the local elementary school.
After just getting to town he meets Jagger, a cute little 5 year old, then he meets Jagger's father, Michael. Sparks fly, but not in a good way. Can these three learn to be a cohesive unit?
I loved the premise of this story, and I adored the main characters. I loved that Jagger was such a huge part of this story and in so many scenes. He was an awesome little character, and I loved getting to read about him. I adored Dax and Michael, but at times I wanted to strangle them both. The story progressed kind of fast, but it's so detailed that, if the characters hadn't mentioned how short the time periods were I would have never noticed. It's a well written story that kept me turning the pages to see what would happen next. It's heartwarming and steamy, and my only real complaint is I think I would have liked a little more of a solid ending. I like my endings tied in a double knot, so they are sure not to come apart, haha!
The secondary characters of Justin and Michael's parents also made the book a joy to read. I hope there is more in the future, I'd love to revisit this small town, and see Justin find love. All in all a really enjoyable read, which is no surprise from this author. Highly recommended!!
March 12, 2016
**I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.**
Dax never wanted to come back to this town, but the job offer he received for his first teaching job was something he couldn't pass up. Coming back brought up all the memories of his old life. The life he had before the accident, an accident that was life changing.
Michael thought he had it all together, at least he was trying to get it all together. He was on the right path, going to school, working and trying to make it work with his wife, but life changed when he caused an accident on a back country road. After his wife dies unexpectedly he's suddenly a single father fumbling through life, until he meets Dax. Dax is the first person he's let get close to him, he's pushed everyone else away.
Dax and Michael fall into a fast friendship. Dax helps with Jagger and points out when Michael needs to just be there for his son. Dax is instantly attracted to Michael but knows his feeling won't be reciprocated, Michael's straight. Or is he?
I enjoyed Never too Late. It's a sweet read. Is it realistic that a straight widower would fall for the boy next door? I have no idea. It's fiction and I got lost in the world that Sloan created and that is enough for me. Michael was lost and fumbling through, Dax was enough to keep him grounded and it works. I look forward to more in this series.
Dax never wanted to come back to this town, but the job offer he received for his first teaching job was something he couldn't pass up. Coming back brought up all the memories of his old life. The life he had before the accident, an accident that was life changing.
Michael thought he had it all together, at least he was trying to get it all together. He was on the right path, going to school, working and trying to make it work with his wife, but life changed when he caused an accident on a back country road. After his wife dies unexpectedly he's suddenly a single father fumbling through life, until he meets Dax. Dax is the first person he's let get close to him, he's pushed everyone else away.
Dax and Michael fall into a fast friendship. Dax helps with Jagger and points out when Michael needs to just be there for his son. Dax is instantly attracted to Michael but knows his feeling won't be reciprocated, Michael's straight. Or is he?
I enjoyed Never too Late. It's a sweet read. Is it realistic that a straight widower would fall for the boy next door? I have no idea. It's fiction and I got lost in the world that Sloan created and that is enough for me. Michael was lost and fumbling through, Dax was enough to keep him grounded and it works. I look forward to more in this series.
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