Ghost

by Robin Covington

Oliver Burns knew sneaking out on the most delicious one-night-stand he ever had would come back and bite him in the ass. Caught up in his own swagger when he was named to the “30 under 30” list, he publicly bragged that his next goal was to sign the reclusive artist “G” to his talent roster at his comic publishing company and now he’s got to make it happen. 



So, Oliver can only laugh when he realizes that the guy he pulled a post-sex runner on a couple of years earlier is Gareth Rain, also known as “G” – creator of the First Nations graphic novel juggernaut, Ghost Warriors – and the one man he always regretted leaving behind. But Oliver didn’t get to the top by giving up, so now he’s laser focused on two things: getting Gareth on his team and back in his bed.

***Previously published in the Exposed Anthology***

Genres: Romance, M M Romance, LGBT, Contemporary, Fiction, Contemporary Romance, Second Chance

99 pages, ebook

First published March 13, 2018

About the author

A USAToday and Wall Street Journal bestseller, Robin Covington loves to explore the theme of fooling around and falling in love in her books. Her stories burn up the sheets…one page at a time. A biracial author of Native American descent, Robin proudly writes diverse romances where everyone gets their happily ever after.

A 2016 RITA® Award finalist, Robin’s books have won the National Reader’s Choice and Golden Leaf Awards and finaled in the Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice, the Holt Medallion Awards, and the Book Seller’s Best.

She is an unapologetic Indiginerd and comic book geek. She hoards red nail polish and stalks Chris Evans. She is thoroughly obsessed with her Corgis, Dixie Joan Wilder & Delilah Skye O’Malley

Drop her a line at [robin@robincovingtonromance.com](mailto:robin@robincovingtonromance.com) - she always writes back.

Reviews

[*J* Too Many Books Too Little Time · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars!

Loved this one. It had a little bit of everything - angst, steam, and banter.

Definitely could've read a full book about these two.

[Elsa Bravante · Rating 2 out of 5]

Cortito y flojito, flojito... No he conectado absolutamente nada ni con los personajes, ni con la historia. Meh.

[Renée · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 stars

[ivy]

DNF at 54% - it’s not you, it’s me. You were actually pretty cool but I went to sleep in one mood and woke up in another. Might catch you later.

[~Kristin~ · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars
I liked the setting and background of this story, a one night stand three years prior where a deep connection was made, but maybe a little too deep, because in the morning one of them is gone. So when their worlds collide again, what will happen? I guess for me it was a bit short and felt rushed, I just wasn’t really pulled in as much as I would have liked. It was good, I just felt like it could have been so much more.

[Emma · Rating 3 out of 5]

almost but not quite - 2.5* rounded up because I did like the two men.

There were major consistency errors that jarred me out of the story. For example the agent knows Gareth is going to be revealing his real name. He is in the room when Gareth's full name is announced to a room full of ticket holders. And then for some unknown reason he is surprised when someone knows Gareth's name. "How do you know his real name?" Seriously? I know some people are not at all bothered by stuff like this but it really takes away from my reading pleasure. And that is too bad because this book really does have some pleasurable moments.

Gareth and Oliver were both interesting characters and I would very much have enjoyed reading more about them. With the short nature of this book I felt too much was left out and/or moved along too quickly. In many ways it felt like the outline of a longer book.

[Gabi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Originally reviewed as part of the Exposed Anthology

***3.5 stars***
This was the one story, where I instantly felt the spark between the MC's. It was hot as f***.
And the same thing happened here, as with Annabeth Albert's story. The pushy, cocky guy was the bottom, and I like when that happens. :) To hell with the stereotypes.
I only gave it 3.5 stars, because this needed some more editing... It doesn't matter if it's called Epic or Elite Agencies, but pick one, and stick with it (btw Epic is a better name for a comic book agency). :)

[Emily Seelye · Rating 4 out of 5]

Originally read as part of Exposed anthology.

I really enjoyed it. Oliver wasn’t ready for G when they met 3 years ago, so he did a runner after their hot one night stand. Now, they’ve reconnected and the spark that originally drew them together, is still there.

Now, Oliver wants him in his bed and to do business with him. But, what’s more important if he can only have one?

[Ami · Rating 3 out of 5]

I did believe in the chemistry. I also liked both Oliver and Gareth individually as well as together. Sure the main problem between the two is too predictable and cliche, but I could work with that.

I still thought the time-frame couldn't justify the instant-love though (or at least I couldn't be convinced about that particular issue). PLUS, I was quite annoyed with the switch of the publisher's name throughout the novella. Is it Epic Publishing or Elite Publishing? Please be consistent! I usually don't care about nitty gritty detail, but this time it distracted me.

PS: Gareth is a Cree with long black hair, and I was bummed that it wasn't him in the cover.

[haletostilinski · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this short story, Oliver and Gareth were hot and intriguing together. Oliver was a bit of an ass, but he made it up to Gareth :)

This a fun story about a guy (Oliver) who leaves after a one-night-stand with the younger Gareth, and it was the best one-night-stand he'd ever had, so Oliver doesn't forget it. And three years later when they cross paths again, Oliver fights to get back into his bed (and get his contract as an artist/author of a comic series) and makes a mistake along the way that almost denies him a second chance with Gareth.

Fun, quick read with engaging writing (although there is some editing issues here and there that could have easily been fixed) and engaging MC's. Definitely recommend! :)

[Linda (un)Conventional Bookworms · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars
I enjoyed this novella, even if it was short... And that's something I need to pay better attention to - short books are often not my cup of tea, because it's not enough time for me to get to know the characters.
Oliver and Gareth were characters I would have loved to spend much more time with - because they both intrigued me. They came from different backgrounds, but still had a similar view on certain things.
Their sexy scenes were steaming hot, and I loved that they both had strong personalities and weren't afraid to use them.
Ghost was well-written, and the fact that the main topic (apart from the romance) was comics just made it even better.

[Mateo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fast, slow and fast and slow and ....... can I have another one please ?

[Megan]

I enjoy the "one night with you has haunted me for years" trope, at least when there's no pregnancy involved and the characters haven't been celibate or emotionally stuck since then, so this novella was exactly up my alley. I especially enjoyed that Gareth pushed back and did not take shit from Oliver in the present day. Their dynamic was fun because of Gareth's backbone and Oliver's struggle to be better. I liked how the external plot--Oliver's bet with a competitor over who'd sign the mysterious artist G--was resolved in the end, and in most romances, I usually find obligatory groveling performative and tedious, but here, I sincerely believed Oliver, his regret, and his improved ability to communicate.

This did need another pass by a copyeditor to catch inconsistencies and grammar stuff, but I liked the story and the voice. It can be difficult to find interracial romances between characters who are both IBPOC (as well as written by authors who are IBPOC), and this one still had its grating moments (romance novelists should just comprehensively delete the word "exotic" from their vocabulary THANKS), but I'm pleased to have read it.

[Lucy · Rating 1 out of 5]

Nope. Sorry. Nope.

So Oliver walks around naked on set when he doesn't need to be, makes big business decisions without telling his business partner, leaves broke college students with the mini bar bill after sex and follows someone who doesn't want to talk to him to a bar (and later to his teaching job?!). Yes, I'm definitely rooting for this guy to get what he wants. 😬

And what's with these guys talking/thinking about someone they had one night of sex with before one of them ran off like they had a wholeass relationship? Gareth calling Oliver 'Oli' from the moment he sees him again when even his best friend/business partner/actual ex uses his full name, "still trying to get away from his tender traps". Oliver going "I loved making him laugh back then, it was such a rare occurrence" and "we both loved the same kind of [metaphorical] honey". You literally knew each other for ONE night THREE years ago. Please be serious.

MAYBE this story could've worked out if they had known each other for longer back then and if the story had been longer, leaving more time to realistically develop the relationship. But as it is, with the whole story taking place over just a couple of days? Nope.

[Alex (HEABookNerd) · Rating 3 out of 5]

For my first Robin Covington book, I really enjoyed this one. Oliver and Gareth had a one night stand but Oliver was too focused on his career and proving his father wrong to make time for a relationship. But neither man has forgotten that one night and when they meet again Oliver is determined to have Gareth. I liked both men, in particular Gareth who I really sympathized with. He's had a rough upbringing and he's funneled it into his art, but he hates the attention that comes from being comic book artist G. For my preferences, Oliver was a bit too cocky and arrogant, but he grew on me as the story went on.

[Xan · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 stars

A tropetastic whirlwind that is tightly plotted and a whole lot of fun to read.

Read my full review on my blog.

Content Warnings
References to childhood history of physical abuse. References to growing up with an alcoholic parent. Alcohol use. Racial fetishizing moments. Moment where abled MC kisses the area of the body where his love interest is disabled. Casual ableist language. 

Sex on the page.

[Claire · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wanted to like this one a little more than I did - the rich, privileged dude of the couple was just a little too far into that personality type for me to really enjoy him, although I did appreciate that the big gesture he makes at the end was both well-thought-out and appropriately abject. The comic artist character was lovely, and a well rounded and believable character - his relationships with other people also felt real.

[Monique · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oliver Burns is on a mission: sign G, the graphic novelist, to his publishing company. The reclusive G is to appear at a comic con event, a unique occurrence. Gareth Rain, “G”, remembers Oliver from a one-nighter three years ago. Oliver’s face is featured prominently in the financial pages, he’s not easy to forget in more ways than one, but Oliver doesn’t know the gorgeous man he slipped away from in the morning is his possible next client, G, until they meet at the convention.

I will be repeating myself, but Robin Covington impresses me with every book she writes. GHOST is her latest M/M romance, a novella that I wished would have been much longer, and I hope we will see more of those characters in the future because there is so much more to tell: the story behind TJ and Amal; a story featuring Ellis Walsh - Oliver’s business partner and one-time lover - and more of Oliver and Gareth. Ms. Covington’s descriptions of the characters made them crystal clear in my mind, and Gareth, oh what a beautiful man I imagined! I also loved that neither man was Caucasian: Gareth is a Cree, and Oliver is half Korean. I find it fascinating that within so few pages, Ms. Covington is able to engage me in her stories so fully.

Robin Covington is well-known for her steamy sex scenes, and those in GHOST were remarkable, and even more creative than usual; tender and sizzling, and wow! There were so many angles to explore: the graphic novel world; Oliver and Gareth’s issues with their fathers; the uncertainty around Gareth’s future, and the very intriguing Ellis. GHOST is a gripping story, beautifully written, with emotions galore and fabulous characters. My only wish is that we get more of everything that was in this novella, because it was all too good to end so quickly. I’ve come to expect the best from Robin Covington, and again she delivers.


I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Tina Hobbs Payne · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I couldn't stop the flash of memory, me taking off his glasses and placing them on the bedside table before tangling my fingers in his hair to hold him in place as I tasted his kiss."

Oh yes, more please! I adored this story of Oliver and Gareth. Oliver being the business driven, self absorbed man trying to get his father's approval. Gareth being the handsome, creative artist who has hidden his amazing talent behind the reclusive persona by the name of "G".

The amazing night they shared years before has stayed with each of them Oliver left without a word or a note, because he didn't want to leave. Gareth never really knew why Oliver took off. Now Oliver wants Gareth for business reasons, or so was his original plan. The time spent together reminds them both of chemistry they have together. Now, Oliver has to decide which is more important to him - having Gareth in his arms or being on his payroll?

Robin Covington tells a beautiful story of falling in love, reluctantly and thoroughly. My favorite kind of story!

[Mary Mooney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ghost by Robin Covington
Oliver is trying to sign "G" to his publishing company but no one knows what he looks like. But when he sees him at a signing, he is shocked that "G" is the man that he spent one night with three years ago. Oliver left without even saying goodbye.
Gareth or better known as "G" doesn't like crowds or being around anyone for that matter. He just wants to draw and write his comics and be left alone. When he agrees to appear at a signing, he doesn't expect to see the one person that disappeared from his life one night three years ago.
Can Oliver get "G" to sign with him without hurting him all over again? Will Gareth accept Oliver's reasons why he didn't stay three years ago?
This is a really good second chance story and I enjoyed it. If you are looking for a good M/M story that is a quick read, then you need to read this one.
**A copy provided by the author and this is my honest review**

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well-written and enjoyable novella!

It took me a while to warm up to Oliver, though, who comes accross as quite arrogant and not the most considerate of other people's feelings.

He acted like quite a douchebag in the beginning of the story, leaving Gareth without a word after their initial hook-up, and sticking him with the minibar bill... such a gentleman. He doesn't do remorse nor contrition well either, that bugged me.

But then he falls for Gareth... falls hard. And makes an impressively grand gesture to make up for his mistakes (plural, because by that time he has added to his tally of screw-ups). And in doing so redeems himself.

This was a fun, fast-paced short story.

I love how the author manages to give us such a good feel for Gareth's and Oliver's world, their history and the people that are important to them, within the limitations of a novella.

[Amy Dufera - Amy's MM Romance Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ghost was a fun little short story.

A wonderful one-night stand between Oliver and Gareth.
After Oliver snuck out, he didn't expect to see Gareth again.
A couple years later they meet up again. Problem is - Oliver is trying to sign him to his company as an artist. Now Oliver wants to not only sign him, but convince him to be with him again.

It is surprising how much Robin Convington was able to pack into this short story. Most authors can't put so much into a few pages.

The story has enough background to have you interested. And the story proceeds with enough emotion, some angst and some hot sex scenes to keep one intrigued. I would definitely recommend this to anyone who is looking for a nice short story.

My only complaint would be that I wish we could have had even more of this adorable couple.

[Serra ᵔ·͈༝·͈ᵔ · Rating 3 out of 5]

I wanted to like this one, but I just couldn’t.

Oliver snuck out on Gareth after their one night stand three years ago and now, fate has thrown them together once again. Gareth turns out to be the reclusive artist Oliver wants to sign.

I liked the premise, I really did. I also liked the characters at first. However, I wanted to see the Oliver’s cocky act to be shattered so we could see what he’s really like behind it, but we didn’t, we only got glimpses.

I think Oliver’s change of heart came too late into the story, his motives felt superficial because they weren’t really explored so they couldn’t much influence what i thought about him.

I think this would work a lot better as a longer book because the length limitations really hindered aspects that would’ve made this story great.

[Nijntje Pluis · Rating 2 out of 5]

This had the bones of a really interesting story, but it was way too short for the level of feels at the end. They had a one night stand three years ago and they spend one night together and that's it. Oliver was not a very likeable character, although he does redeem himself a little bit at the end.
And don't get me started on the non-existing editing. If you charge money for a story, the least you can do is read it through and make sure you know the name of the company of your main character (Oliver's company is mentioned quite a lot and half of the time it's named Elite, the other half it's called Epic.). Then there's the weird conversation between Oliver and Neil, Gareth's agent, where there is quite some surprise that Oliver knows that Gareth is the illustrious G, when they literally announced this fact before the signing started. ??

[Aurora · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ghost is an M/M romance and I can't say enough about how good it is. Robin Covington always delivers a great read and this is one of her best.
Let me say that I'm probably a little prejudiced in this case. See... this story features a couple of my favourite things. I always enjoy reading about hot men, and this story features two of the hotest ... but I've been a big fan of comic, SF and media conventions for longer than many readers have been walking the earth, so this story was a natural for me.
Having said that, you don't have to love comics to get this second chances romance between a young artist and the publisher who wants him, both as an artist under contract and as a ... well, you get the idea.
A great read.

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a novella not to be missed from the never lets you down Robin Covington. Once again she’s nailed getting so much story into a novella but without it feeling rushed or missing anything.

I was hooked from the first lines to the very last words and okay, grinning like a loon because I had finished yet another keeper story from a favourite author.

It was the combination of two unforgettable characters, the second chance at love, the one that almost got away if fate didn’t convene that had me glued to the pages till I was done and maybe even turning straight away to read it again.

Ghost has become a comfort read for the simple reason that I’m not ready to leave these guys just yet.

[Sydney Hopke · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great second chance story though the first chance wasn't that long. Oliver is a publisher and out to get the hottest comic book writer around, G. Gareth has kept his identity a secret until now when he attends an event. When Oliver finds out that G is actually the one he snuck out on the mission is to get him for both personal and business. But sometimes to get what you want you have to let go. WOW! What a love story with great characters. The reader just falls in love themselves!

[Karen (idleutopia_reads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 🌟 listen this book had errors that a good edit would have taken out that did kind of trip me in my reading pace, it was predictable, there were cringe sex scenes and yet I really liked it. It's a story about an interracial couple that doesn't center whiteness so there's that, I wanted to know more about Gareth and Oliver, and I was rooting for them. The glimpses and impressions we got from their lives were enough to hook me into the story so overall glad to have read this. This is a book that's definitely out of my literary comfort zone and I'm glad to be reading there.

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you're a fan of M/M then you have to give this one a read. Robin Convington does an amazing job with these characters. You can feel the lust pouring off the two. Oliver's dash after a one night stand comes back to bite him in the butt when their paths cross once more. This is a quick read that can enjoyed in one sitting. The characters pulled me into the story and I was invested in their journey.

[Paula´s Brief Review · Rating 4 out of 5]

4,5 * realmente
Me gustó mucho, aunque es una historia corta de menos de 100 pg, enseguida te pone en situación y en nada empatizas con los protagonistas, Es de esos relatos en los que te gustaría que durasen más porque tanto la historia como los personajes están muy bien desarrollados
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