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Men in Love and at War #4
Computer Lover
After the distress of dealing with a failed relationship and business, life starts to look up for Berkeley when he finds new work and discovers the joys of gay chat sites. When he meets a captain from the US Army, based in Iraq, his hopes of love and a bright future rise. After several months, the captain asks Berkeley to do him a special favour, so he can retire from the army and spend the rest of his days with him. Berkeley reluctantly agrees, but when the favour results in him having to part with his hard-earned cash, he is left with no other choice, but to go to the police. Captain Frances comes to his rescue and what starts out as a professional relationship quickly turns into a lot more as they uncover a major internet scam and strive for justice to be served.
185 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 9, 2016
11 people want to read
About the author
L.J. Collins
20 books11 followersBorn and raised in London, Lee worked as a successful senior management consultant before moving to Tenerife to pursue a more fulfilling life and to focus on his writing.
For Lee, the writing process is all about when the mind and the fingers connect. He plans stories in his head, but when the fingers take over, something else comes out...but invariably, he is happy that he let his fingers do the talking.
He works with an amazing team at eXtasy/Divine books who inspire and encourage his writing. He calls Jay Austin, the Chief Editor in Charge, Laura McNellis, his editor and Carmen Waters, his artist, THE DREAM TEAM. No further explanation required...
For Lee, the writing process is all about when the mind and the fingers connect. He plans stories in his head, but when the fingers take over, something else comes out...but invariably, he is happy that he let his fingers do the talking.
He works with an amazing team at eXtasy/Divine books who inspire and encourage his writing. He calls Jay Austin, the Chief Editor in Charge, Laura McNellis, his editor and Carmen Waters, his artist, THE DREAM TEAM. No further explanation required...
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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
March 15, 2019
this series is very interesting. it is intriguing and keeps me on the edge of my seat.. it makes me curious and keeps me guessing. it is an all around well written and good story. the characters are wonderful as well. plus i love how in depth this writing is.. you really feel as if you can see and feel what is happening with the characters. very good and i cant wait to see what is next
March 22, 2017
When I first requested this book, I didn’t know, since it wasn’t part of the submission information or the blurb, that it is part of a series. That was my bad and I try to not jump into books this late in the game. Sometimes, even without the previous books, I can still feel connected to the characters and get an overall feeling for the story. Though it is possible I am missing some plot points, and I’ll even go as far as to say I may have been a little less confused about the random information dumps that came out of the blue—and only half formed—I still don’t believe this author’s style of writing is for me. There is obviously an audience who appreciates this author’s particular flair, and I even know of a few people I would probably give this book as a recommendation. But, me personally? I don’t think I am one of them. Even if I had read the previous books, I still don’t think I would have connected a whole lot more than I did. I tried. I really, really tried, though.
The premise had a solid foundation and the blurb had me completely interested. Unfortunately, expectation and execution did not hit the mark. I never really got to know Berkeley, or, for that matter, any of the characters beyond surface dialogue. Admittedly, had I read the prior installments in the series I may not have felt as disconnected with the characters as I did. Even so, the potential was there; for me it was more the writing than anything else. I noticed immediately the writing style, vocabulary used and the narration wasn’t working for me. I got more of a “tell-not-show” vibe from the get go, and my guess is the prior books probably have been written in a similar style. The exchanges, both e-mail and dialogue, dripped with sugary sweetness and seemed to wax poetic on everything and from every character. It made interactions feel stilted and unrealistic, especially for the age group and era, in my opinion. The vocabulary choices often reminded me of being more suitable to a “Swashbuckling Pirate of the High Seas meets Damsel in Distress” themed book. I am not knocking those books, because I have been known to read a few of those myself when the mood strikes, but in my opinion, in this story it seemed out of place and therefore made the story less realistic.
Berkeley gets ensnared by someone offering him a chance to realize his own desires for a lasting relationship. I really liked this premise because I can totally see how easy it would be for someone who is lonely and looking for that HEA to jump at the chance of someone offering everything they could want for the taking. Most of what I do know about Berkeley came from those messages. James says all the perfect things and seems to be everything Berkeley could have wanted. The time in between the e-mails, of Berkeley’s everyday life, felt so rushed, though. I wanted to just slow it down and get to know more about him, his job, his friends, his sister. But I felt that instead of getting to know them and their relationships, I was being told about them. Then things start to get weird and James’s behavior gives Berkeley a gut feeling something isn’t right. Berkeley pieces together information about the scam and, in turn, is threatened.
Captain Rick Francis, bi-curious detective who seems to respond in a very noticeable way to meeting Berkeley, enters the picture, and that’s where things get steamy pretty quickly. The last half of the book is very much consumed by the two of them as they get hot and heavy in all sorts of places. If you are into kink factors—especially that adrenaline of maybe getting caught—you just may like the last half of the book. Between scenes, they track down the scoundrels who made threats to Berkeley, but really, that was resolved quickly, and the focus was on the two getting it on and falling (very rapidly) in love. Once again, the descriptions used and choices of vocabulary during these scenes wasn’t really my personal style. Though some may find this story entertaining, and I even know a few who I totally think would, I’ll be honest and say I don’t think that LJ Collins’ writing style and my preferences really sync up.
Reviewed by Lindsey for The Novel Approach Reviews
The premise had a solid foundation and the blurb had me completely interested. Unfortunately, expectation and execution did not hit the mark. I never really got to know Berkeley, or, for that matter, any of the characters beyond surface dialogue. Admittedly, had I read the prior installments in the series I may not have felt as disconnected with the characters as I did. Even so, the potential was there; for me it was more the writing than anything else. I noticed immediately the writing style, vocabulary used and the narration wasn’t working for me. I got more of a “tell-not-show” vibe from the get go, and my guess is the prior books probably have been written in a similar style. The exchanges, both e-mail and dialogue, dripped with sugary sweetness and seemed to wax poetic on everything and from every character. It made interactions feel stilted and unrealistic, especially for the age group and era, in my opinion. The vocabulary choices often reminded me of being more suitable to a “Swashbuckling Pirate of the High Seas meets Damsel in Distress” themed book. I am not knocking those books, because I have been known to read a few of those myself when the mood strikes, but in my opinion, in this story it seemed out of place and therefore made the story less realistic.
Berkeley gets ensnared by someone offering him a chance to realize his own desires for a lasting relationship. I really liked this premise because I can totally see how easy it would be for someone who is lonely and looking for that HEA to jump at the chance of someone offering everything they could want for the taking. Most of what I do know about Berkeley came from those messages. James says all the perfect things and seems to be everything Berkeley could have wanted. The time in between the e-mails, of Berkeley’s everyday life, felt so rushed, though. I wanted to just slow it down and get to know more about him, his job, his friends, his sister. But I felt that instead of getting to know them and their relationships, I was being told about them. Then things start to get weird and James’s behavior gives Berkeley a gut feeling something isn’t right. Berkeley pieces together information about the scam and, in turn, is threatened.
Captain Rick Francis, bi-curious detective who seems to respond in a very noticeable way to meeting Berkeley, enters the picture, and that’s where things get steamy pretty quickly. The last half of the book is very much consumed by the two of them as they get hot and heavy in all sorts of places. If you are into kink factors—especially that adrenaline of maybe getting caught—you just may like the last half of the book. Between scenes, they track down the scoundrels who made threats to Berkeley, but really, that was resolved quickly, and the focus was on the two getting it on and falling (very rapidly) in love. Once again, the descriptions used and choices of vocabulary during these scenes wasn’t really my personal style. Though some may find this story entertaining, and I even know a few who I totally think would, I’ll be honest and say I don’t think that LJ Collins’ writing style and my preferences really sync up.
Reviewed by Lindsey for The Novel Approach Reviews
October 26, 2017
A sad but inspiring story that a lot of internet users can relate to
After meeting the very likeable Berkeley in Sun, Sea and a Contemporary Art Gallery (the third book in the series ‘Men In Love and at War’) LJ Collins had his work cut out to impress me and keep me wanting to read the rest of his series – but I’m pleased to say that Computer Lover did not disappoint!
Poor Berkeley doesn’t get off to a good start as he tries to find romance through an internet chat site and that leads to a very unfortunate outcome that sadly and unfortunately most of us can relate to. I don’t want to include spoilers, so you’ll have to read the book yourself to find out how Berkeley claws his way out of yet another bad decision and time in his life to find happiness.
As with ‘Sun, Sea and a Contemporary Art Gallery’ LJ Collins has filled ‘Computer Lover’ with lots of humour, but there were also times when I wanted to reach out and give Berkeley a huge hug (I’m rapidly developing a soft spot for him in my heart).
Now I’m really looking forward to reading about Berkeley’s antics in ‘Royal Service’ (book 5 in the series) and if the reviews I have read are anything to go by it could be even better than the 4 books I’ve already read in the series. Bring it on! It’s downloaded and I’m ready to make a start...
After meeting the very likeable Berkeley in Sun, Sea and a Contemporary Art Gallery (the third book in the series ‘Men In Love and at War’) LJ Collins had his work cut out to impress me and keep me wanting to read the rest of his series – but I’m pleased to say that Computer Lover did not disappoint!
Poor Berkeley doesn’t get off to a good start as he tries to find romance through an internet chat site and that leads to a very unfortunate outcome that sadly and unfortunately most of us can relate to. I don’t want to include spoilers, so you’ll have to read the book yourself to find out how Berkeley claws his way out of yet another bad decision and time in his life to find happiness.
As with ‘Sun, Sea and a Contemporary Art Gallery’ LJ Collins has filled ‘Computer Lover’ with lots of humour, but there were also times when I wanted to reach out and give Berkeley a huge hug (I’m rapidly developing a soft spot for him in my heart).
Now I’m really looking forward to reading about Berkeley’s antics in ‘Royal Service’ (book 5 in the series) and if the reviews I have read are anything to go by it could be even better than the 4 books I’ve already read in the series. Bring it on! It’s downloaded and I’m ready to make a start...
April 24, 2017
Wow.. what a book.
This was a first read for this author. When i first saw the blurb I needed to read it. The storyline is a great one and a unique one to read. Berkeley's character is desperate for love but he gets taken advantage of by scumbags on the internet. He's 35 and had just relocated to restart his life. Lonely, he signs on to a website called Gaywatch weeks pass and he sees a Captain James from the military reach out and pulls him in. Things are not what they seem and he gets the police involved when treats are made with the support of his sister. I loved the next part when he meets Captain Rick Frances, I mean WOW.. things heat up from there.. This is a must read. I'll be looking forward to reading more of this series..
This was a first read for this author. When i first saw the blurb I needed to read it. The storyline is a great one and a unique one to read. Berkeley's character is desperate for love but he gets taken advantage of by scumbags on the internet. He's 35 and had just relocated to restart his life. Lonely, he signs on to a website called Gaywatch weeks pass and he sees a Captain James from the military reach out and pulls him in. Things are not what they seem and he gets the police involved when treats are made with the support of his sister. I loved the next part when he meets Captain Rick Frances, I mean WOW.. things heat up from there.. This is a must read. I'll be looking forward to reading more of this series..
April 1, 2017
I have read all of LJ Collins’ books and Computer Lover (the fourth in the series) is another magnificent book I can personally relate to. The author states in the dedication they have been a victim of an internet scam and lived through the same horror as I did. And that shows in the raw and direct manner the book has been written in. I could feel Berkeley’s (and the authors) pain and suffering. I can vouch it is so true to life and realistic because I was taken back in time, and whilst it pained me (and at times disturbed me) to recall my own personal memories, it gave me some kind of indirect relief that I I’m not alone and other people have been as vulnerable as I have.
When I was reading through the messages between Berkeley and Captain James I shivered because it brought back some awful memories for me because I exchanged very similar messages. But, I admire the author for being so bold to expose their own experience and the scams that are going on, and how damaging (and costly) they can be. The author clearly illustrates how scammers prey on people by feeding them with what they need to fill a void in their life, and are ruthless in their pursuit of their quest. I’m a smart and educated person, but these rogues seem to be professionally trained and supervised to do their “job” – how they can sleep at night is beyond me, and you’ll understand why when you read the book and discover the extremes these people will go to.
This story doesn’t need to be dressed up to be made flowery or pretty because it’s real life. It’s a story to be “told” with clear and straightforward messages to those unscrupulous people who violate the trust and feelings of innocent, decent human beings. Unfortunately for me I wasn’t as switched on as Berkeley and paid the price for it. For that reason I admire the author for being brave enough to expose these monsters so other people don’t fall foul to their charm and seduction. I would hate for anybody else to go through what I have and Computer Lover is a great way of learning how to avoid getting into that situation.
Despite the seriousness of the story, Collins is very witty and humorous, and his sexual antics and professional relationship with Captain Rick gave the book a much lighter ending which cheered me up and made me laugh after having re-lived a difficult part of my past. I love the relationship Berkeley has with his sister, Dawn, and the closeness and love between them comes across very clearly. Not to mention they share the same wicked sense of humor!
I strongly recommend this book, not only because it’s a funny and entertaining read, but because it’s also a lesson in caution and self-preservation.
When I was reading through the messages between Berkeley and Captain James I shivered because it brought back some awful memories for me because I exchanged very similar messages. But, I admire the author for being so bold to expose their own experience and the scams that are going on, and how damaging (and costly) they can be. The author clearly illustrates how scammers prey on people by feeding them with what they need to fill a void in their life, and are ruthless in their pursuit of their quest. I’m a smart and educated person, but these rogues seem to be professionally trained and supervised to do their “job” – how they can sleep at night is beyond me, and you’ll understand why when you read the book and discover the extremes these people will go to.
This story doesn’t need to be dressed up to be made flowery or pretty because it’s real life. It’s a story to be “told” with clear and straightforward messages to those unscrupulous people who violate the trust and feelings of innocent, decent human beings. Unfortunately for me I wasn’t as switched on as Berkeley and paid the price for it. For that reason I admire the author for being brave enough to expose these monsters so other people don’t fall foul to their charm and seduction. I would hate for anybody else to go through what I have and Computer Lover is a great way of learning how to avoid getting into that situation.
Despite the seriousness of the story, Collins is very witty and humorous, and his sexual antics and professional relationship with Captain Rick gave the book a much lighter ending which cheered me up and made me laugh after having re-lived a difficult part of my past. I love the relationship Berkeley has with his sister, Dawn, and the closeness and love between them comes across very clearly. Not to mention they share the same wicked sense of humor!
I strongly recommend this book, not only because it’s a funny and entertaining read, but because it’s also a lesson in caution and self-preservation.
April 12, 2017
Computer Lover is my second reading adventure with this author... it's a great story and worth reading if for no other reason than to experience his evocative way with a pen. He lays down words like colors on canvas and blends them into a true work of art. I so appreciate the depth and richness of his characters, the detail within their dialogue..... add in tension, suspense, a few well placed steamy scenes... **Omgosh, fondue!** ...some dynamic music references and we have a masterpiece in the making! It's all seamlessly blended as the author brushes across story lines... back and forth. Keep in mind that this is a recounting of a common internet scam. Through it all, the author never fails to infuse the read with drama and suspense, keeping the reader on the edge of their seat while simultaneously weaving in the journey of Rick and Berkeley as they explore each other... pursuing passion, pleasure and love. You may expect to find this read deftly crafted and written with a seamless flow and rythm. An entertaining read, both funny and touching, with an aphrodisiacal heat, but also with a reasonating heart to it that beats from the first pages to the very last.
The story opens with Berkeley, the main character. After deciding to end his boring, often lonely evening routine by submitting his profile on a gay chat site, we find him happily sorting through his many responses. An intriguing message later, his own sparkling reply, and a written courtship begins. Berkeley's heart is lightened with hope and he looks forward to opening each message from his new suitor until the unthinkable happens..... a high risk favor is asked, money is requested... and Berkeley, convinced that he is the victim of an internet scam, feeling his safety is threatened, seeing that his life is crumbling into a sea of deceit and lies, takes himself to the Police Station where he is handed a lifeline by one Captain Rick Frances of Internet Crimes. Berkeley responds to the extended kindness in true Berkeley fashion... **cause a guy must have clear priorities in life** ...the drama, lies and threats are momentarily shown a back seat as he gives serious thought to the Captain's visible assets. Drop dead georgeousness, the warmest of smiles and a hot body are all given due appreciation right before Berkeley moves on to contemplate the substantial asset Captain Rick might be concealing within his trousers!!! We set off with them as they commence their personal journey filled with meals, wine, stimulating conversation and moonlit walks on the beach. Much further down the storyline, when the scam artists have been identified and progress is seen on the case against them... after the two men celebrate with dinner and champagne, Berkeley kindly offers to provide dessert. Displaying a rather cheeky style... **pun intended** ...with a saucy attitude firmly in place, Berkeley promptly dons his best cowboy persona... **complete with leather chaps and cowboy hat** ...mounts his eager stallion, whips him into a full on gallop and rides off into the sunset! Yeeeeeeee haaaaaaaaw!!!
In the end, we reluctantly bid a temporary farewell to Berkeley while he relaxes uncuffed and satiated in Rick's arms. As he is overtaken by sleep, his mind secretly entertains the thought of whether their next cop and robber adventure could take place within a jail cell..... and we, as readers, are left with a smirk and a few spicy memories that linger on... long after the last page has been turned.
I voluntarily received a Reader Copy of this book for review.
The story opens with Berkeley, the main character. After deciding to end his boring, often lonely evening routine by submitting his profile on a gay chat site, we find him happily sorting through his many responses. An intriguing message later, his own sparkling reply, and a written courtship begins. Berkeley's heart is lightened with hope and he looks forward to opening each message from his new suitor until the unthinkable happens..... a high risk favor is asked, money is requested... and Berkeley, convinced that he is the victim of an internet scam, feeling his safety is threatened, seeing that his life is crumbling into a sea of deceit and lies, takes himself to the Police Station where he is handed a lifeline by one Captain Rick Frances of Internet Crimes. Berkeley responds to the extended kindness in true Berkeley fashion... **cause a guy must have clear priorities in life** ...the drama, lies and threats are momentarily shown a back seat as he gives serious thought to the Captain's visible assets. Drop dead georgeousness, the warmest of smiles and a hot body are all given due appreciation right before Berkeley moves on to contemplate the substantial asset Captain Rick might be concealing within his trousers!!! We set off with them as they commence their personal journey filled with meals, wine, stimulating conversation and moonlit walks on the beach. Much further down the storyline, when the scam artists have been identified and progress is seen on the case against them... after the two men celebrate with dinner and champagne, Berkeley kindly offers to provide dessert. Displaying a rather cheeky style... **pun intended** ...with a saucy attitude firmly in place, Berkeley promptly dons his best cowboy persona... **complete with leather chaps and cowboy hat** ...mounts his eager stallion, whips him into a full on gallop and rides off into the sunset! Yeeeeeeee haaaaaaaaw!!!
In the end, we reluctantly bid a temporary farewell to Berkeley while he relaxes uncuffed and satiated in Rick's arms. As he is overtaken by sleep, his mind secretly entertains the thought of whether their next cop and robber adventure could take place within a jail cell..... and we, as readers, are left with a smirk and a few spicy memories that linger on... long after the last page has been turned.
I voluntarily received a Reader Copy of this book for review.
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews