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Stories of Us #2
His Instant Family
Ever since his wife died leaving him a single father of three, Dr. Michael Ashworth has thrown himself into his work. But it's come at a cost.
Though he's now one of the best in his field, he's missing something.
When he meets shy Teo, suddenly, he realizes what he's been missing, and he's shocked to discover it's a man.
When word of his new interest in the smart, shy, and very male novelist starts to spread... Michael's rebellious teenager and bigoted in-laws threaten the happy future that's finally in his grasp.
Can Michael have it all or will he have to give up the man he loves, to keep his family together?
362 pages, ebook
First published October 4, 2018
80 people are currently reading
159 people want to read
About the author
Rheland Richmond
42 books215 followersWrites Omegaverse as Skye R. Richmond.
Rheland is the ultimate bookworm, TV enthusiast, popcorn and ice cream connoisseur (Sweet and Salt is the best), and lover of all things cute and girly! From a young age, Rheland has been entranced by the magic of storytelling, diving headfirst into worlds of romance (before she was allowed to), and mysteries.
When she's not reading the latest romance novel or binge-watching her favorite TV shows (no horror, please!), you can find her writing stories of found families and forevers for her men.
Rheland is a hopeless romantic through and through with dreams of happily ever afters and swoon-worthy moments.
Rheland invites you to join her on a journey of laughter, love, and happily ever afters for her characters. So cozy up with a mug of cocoa or a glass of wine and prepare to fall head over heels for Rheland's men.
Rheland would love to hear from her readers and learn more about you. So if you get a chance... please get in touch.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SkyeRRichmond/
Twitter: @RhelandRichmond
Instagram: @rhelandrichmondmm
Newsletter: https://www.rhelandrichmond.com/newsl...
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/rhela...
Rheland is the ultimate bookworm, TV enthusiast, popcorn and ice cream connoisseur (Sweet and Salt is the best), and lover of all things cute and girly! From a young age, Rheland has been entranced by the magic of storytelling, diving headfirst into worlds of romance (before she was allowed to), and mysteries.
When she's not reading the latest romance novel or binge-watching her favorite TV shows (no horror, please!), you can find her writing stories of found families and forevers for her men.
Rheland is a hopeless romantic through and through with dreams of happily ever afters and swoon-worthy moments.
Rheland invites you to join her on a journey of laughter, love, and happily ever afters for her characters. So cozy up with a mug of cocoa or a glass of wine and prepare to fall head over heels for Rheland's men.
Rheland would love to hear from her readers and learn more about you. So if you get a chance... please get in touch.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SkyeRRichmond/
Twitter: @RhelandRichmond
Instagram: @rhelandrichmondmm
Newsletter: https://www.rhelandrichmond.com/newsl...
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/rhela...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
October 8, 2018
Still dealing with the death of his wife, Michael Ashworth can’t even fathom dating again. That is until Teo Wright walks into his life. Caught off guard by the man — what with him being a man, let alone one married to his patient — Michael doesn’t know what to do. Other than the obvious: get over him stat.
Luckily by the second time the two meet, Michael is relieved to find out that Teo was with his sister, not anyone of the less-platonic variety. That doesn’t mean Michael knows how to go about dating him, but at least all ethical concerns are out of the way. But trying to mix their two lives might be harder than originally thought, especially when Michael’s son takes exception to Teo’s presence in their lives.
I didn’t hate this story. When I was reading it, there was no anger. Just mild disappointment. For every good decision made, there seemed to be three that were fumbled. I liked how easy Michael handled the realization that he was bisexual (and came right out and declared that this was absolutely not a gay-for-you situation). I liked the easy acceptance of non-binary relationships. And there were even times where the conversations flowed easily enough for me to get caught up in them. However…
When it comes right down to it, my issues with this story mostly have to do with the pacing. It is an interesting story that is being dragged down by the constant use of Telling over Showing. The readers are given way too much information just by the characters narrating their backstory, stating their emotions, or explaining what/why they are doing certain things. We are also told things repeatedly — sometimes barely one chapter after we originally learn it. All of this creates a great deal of unneeded drag on the pacing of the story.
It takes them nearly the first half of the story to even get to their first date. Which I wouldn’t have minded if something else interesting was going on. The character building for the two main characters was done in such a matter of fact way that it wasn’t all that compelling; but it was even worse for the secondary characters. Michael’s kids have it the worst. I found his eldest daughter to be the most realistic, but she doesn’t feature much. His son and youngest daughter feel like plot devices more than humans.
And while I know it is such a small thing, there is a constantly repeated grammar error in this book, and it drove me crazy every time I saw it. About half the time the author forgot to use a comma when directly addressing someone in dialogue. It sounds absolutely ridiculous to complain about this, I know, but I had a writing professor who threatened to fail anyone in our class who fucked this up, so I am now NEVER able to skim over it when I’m reading. It nagged at my brain the whole time I was reading this book. Had my professor been a bit less crazy — or on fewer drugs — this might not be an issue for me. But, alas, it totally is.
Like I said before, I didn’t hate this story. It just had some major issues in pacing that made it hard to read at times. I came away feeling like I read a decent story, buried under about 50 pages of filler.
2.5 stars
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
Luckily by the second time the two meet, Michael is relieved to find out that Teo was with his sister, not anyone of the less-platonic variety. That doesn’t mean Michael knows how to go about dating him, but at least all ethical concerns are out of the way. But trying to mix their two lives might be harder than originally thought, especially when Michael’s son takes exception to Teo’s presence in their lives.
I didn’t hate this story. When I was reading it, there was no anger. Just mild disappointment. For every good decision made, there seemed to be three that were fumbled. I liked how easy Michael handled the realization that he was bisexual (and came right out and declared that this was absolutely not a gay-for-you situation). I liked the easy acceptance of non-binary relationships. And there were even times where the conversations flowed easily enough for me to get caught up in them. However…
When it comes right down to it, my issues with this story mostly have to do with the pacing. It is an interesting story that is being dragged down by the constant use of Telling over Showing. The readers are given way too much information just by the characters narrating their backstory, stating their emotions, or explaining what/why they are doing certain things. We are also told things repeatedly — sometimes barely one chapter after we originally learn it. All of this creates a great deal of unneeded drag on the pacing of the story.
It takes them nearly the first half of the story to even get to their first date. Which I wouldn’t have minded if something else interesting was going on. The character building for the two main characters was done in such a matter of fact way that it wasn’t all that compelling; but it was even worse for the secondary characters. Michael’s kids have it the worst. I found his eldest daughter to be the most realistic, but she doesn’t feature much. His son and youngest daughter feel like plot devices more than humans.
And while I know it is such a small thing, there is a constantly repeated grammar error in this book, and it drove me crazy every time I saw it. About half the time the author forgot to use a comma when directly addressing someone in dialogue. It sounds absolutely ridiculous to complain about this, I know, but I had a writing professor who threatened to fail anyone in our class who fucked this up, so I am now NEVER able to skim over it when I’m reading. It nagged at my brain the whole time I was reading this book. Had my professor been a bit less crazy — or on fewer drugs — this might not be an issue for me. But, alas, it totally is.
Like I said before, I didn’t hate this story. It just had some major issues in pacing that made it hard to read at times. I came away feeling like I read a decent story, buried under about 50 pages of filler.
2.5 stars
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
October 10, 2018
This could've been a great read, but the inner monologues just kept on and on and on... The actual dialogue and story were good, but it just got dragged by the inner ramblings. Also... Possible spoiler alert ahead for future books. When one of your best friends drops off the face of the planet after dating someone for several months... Red flags should be popping up every-fucking-where!!! You speak to this person almost everyday, and now they won't answer your calls and make excuses to not see you at all! Also, they won't introduce you to the new guy?! Duh!? These are either the dumbest or the worst friends ever. I actually called the abusive boyfriend in the first book, and rolled my eyes until they almost fell out of my head on that plot turd! I will give this author another try because the potential is there, but lacking execution.
October 5, 2018
DNF at 43%
Too much telling, it was frustrated me to death. I felt irritated all the time.
Gosh, this book gave me headache.
Sorry.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
Too much telling, it was frustrated me to death. I felt irritated all the time.
Gosh, this book gave me headache.
Sorry.
ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
October 4, 2018
So… I had a hard time getting into this one. Anyone who reads my reviews at all, knows that I have a thing for hot dads, so I jumped at the chance at this one… plus, I really enjoyed Tristan and Nathaniel’s story before this one…
However, I just couldn’t get into this one. The dialogue between Teo (tho he’s referred to as Tristan a time or two, Julien and Benjamin… sooo, just pick one) and anyone had me rolling my eyes so hard. It was like he was trying to be cliché, and he was so extra that I just couldn’t find myself warming up to him. But, anyway, in the beginning, he joins his sister at her doctor’s appointment to find out the sex of her baby, where he meets the handsome, but of course, straight as an arrow doctor, Michael.
Michael has three kids, was married to a woman until she passed away and cannot believe he’s lusting after his patient’s “husband” when he’s never had a gay thought in his life. Walking through his life, straight as can be and then see’s one man, this one time and BAM… I’m bi? Since when?! And he’s perfectly okay with that, didn’t give it a second thought, other than ya know… thinking he was married to one of his patients… it was just so…. Unoriginal.
So, while he can’t stop thinking about him all week, his youngest daughter gets him up on one of his rare days off and they go meet her favorite author, who is… I’ll give you one guess of who… that’s right! It’s Teo! Because Teo writes children’s books…
So, once they ascertain that neither guy is married, by hints of the kids and Teo’s friends… they start seeing “forever” with each other….which, I’m all for insta-love, I get it… but it’s only the second time they’ve ever laid eyes on each other… and then Teo’s like… hey, listen, if you can’t hold my hand and kiss me public… this isn’t going to work out.
What isn’t going to work out? You’ve spent a grand total of 20 minutes with him, and have only met him twice… and some people don’t like PDA, though it clearly wasn’t a problem, I just thought it was ridiculous to throw that out there like that ….
So, they date.. well, they have one date, and Michael’s daughters seem okay with it, though his teenage son is just downright rude. They say they’re not boyfriends several times, but Teo’s spending the night, being introduced to the kids and coming to family dinners… so I understood his frustration. If I woke up to a gay dad and a much younger man in his bed, surprise, I’d be upset too! However, he is really bratty, and although the teenage kids are 14 and 15, they’re treated like 17-18 year old…Also… Michael’s youngest daughter is seven… she seems like a genius sometimes, and then four at other times. I don’t know how to process…
Michael’s sister in law, is the most disgusting person ever… of course, there’s someone thrown in that talks about Michael disgusting, immoral behavior and threatening to take the kids away because he might spread the gay…. I’m going to be honest, I completely skimmed any page time she got.. not worth the drama.
I feel like all I’m doing is ranting, so I’m going to just stop here. I liked Michael and Teo together as a couple, but everything else just seemed so unnecessary… I don’t think this one was for me.
3 stars
However, I just couldn’t get into this one. The dialogue between Teo (tho he’s referred to as Tristan a time or two, Julien and Benjamin… sooo, just pick one) and anyone had me rolling my eyes so hard. It was like he was trying to be cliché, and he was so extra that I just couldn’t find myself warming up to him. But, anyway, in the beginning, he joins his sister at her doctor’s appointment to find out the sex of her baby, where he meets the handsome, but of course, straight as an arrow doctor, Michael.
Michael has three kids, was married to a woman until she passed away and cannot believe he’s lusting after his patient’s “husband” when he’s never had a gay thought in his life. Walking through his life, straight as can be and then see’s one man, this one time and BAM… I’m bi? Since when?! And he’s perfectly okay with that, didn’t give it a second thought, other than ya know… thinking he was married to one of his patients… it was just so…. Unoriginal.
So, while he can’t stop thinking about him all week, his youngest daughter gets him up on one of his rare days off and they go meet her favorite author, who is… I’ll give you one guess of who… that’s right! It’s Teo! Because Teo writes children’s books…
So, once they ascertain that neither guy is married, by hints of the kids and Teo’s friends… they start seeing “forever” with each other….which, I’m all for insta-love, I get it… but it’s only the second time they’ve ever laid eyes on each other… and then Teo’s like… hey, listen, if you can’t hold my hand and kiss me public… this isn’t going to work out.
What isn’t going to work out? You’ve spent a grand total of 20 minutes with him, and have only met him twice… and some people don’t like PDA, though it clearly wasn’t a problem, I just thought it was ridiculous to throw that out there like that ….
So, they date.. well, they have one date, and Michael’s daughters seem okay with it, though his teenage son is just downright rude. They say they’re not boyfriends several times, but Teo’s spending the night, being introduced to the kids and coming to family dinners… so I understood his frustration. If I woke up to a gay dad and a much younger man in his bed, surprise, I’d be upset too! However, he is really bratty, and although the teenage kids are 14 and 15, they’re treated like 17-18 year old…Also… Michael’s youngest daughter is seven… she seems like a genius sometimes, and then four at other times. I don’t know how to process…
Michael’s sister in law, is the most disgusting person ever… of course, there’s someone thrown in that talks about Michael disgusting, immoral behavior and threatening to take the kids away because he might spread the gay…. I’m going to be honest, I completely skimmed any page time she got.. not worth the drama.
I feel like all I’m doing is ranting, so I’m going to just stop here. I liked Michael and Teo together as a couple, but everything else just seemed so unnecessary… I don’t think this one was for me.
3 stars
October 12, 2018
this was sexy and amazing and holy crap just... wow.. it was a totally sweet and at times sad story. the emotions are real and raw.. it was well written and just all together an amazing story. i love this series and i cannot wait to see what is next
Want to read
August 10, 2019🎁 FREE on Amazon today (8/10/2019)! 🎁
August 12, 2019
No conversation
This book is a tell, as in the author tells you everything. I counted and in the first 25% there was one line of conversation every 8 pages.
This book is a tell, as in the author tells you everything. I counted and in the first 25% there was one line of conversation every 8 pages.
October 1, 2018
Teo accompanies his sister to her obgyn appointment and is immediately smitten with her doctor. Michael finds himself just as attracted to Teo bit the men both assume that the other is unavailable.
I loved the teasing between Teo and his sister & I really enjoyed the cute funny Dr names that Teo had for Michael in his head.
"He knew without a doubt, Teo wasn't a stop along the way for him, he was the bloody destination."
A story about the struggles of a new relationship with kids involved. Showing patience and love with family and friends.
I really look forward to Chris and Lain's books.
I loved the teasing between Teo and his sister & I really enjoyed the cute funny Dr names that Teo had for Michael in his head.
"He knew without a doubt, Teo wasn't a stop along the way for him, he was the bloody destination."
A story about the struggles of a new relationship with kids involved. Showing patience and love with family and friends.
I really look forward to Chris and Lain's books.
October 16, 2018
2.5 Stars.
I like Teo and I like Micheal. I like them together. I really like that Micheal does not freak out when he finds himself so attracted to Teo after having only been with women.
The circle of friends from the last book in the series is gushie sweet.
Then... cue dumb outside conflict.
Not so good and the writing a character work gets really tell based and not show based and stays pretty surface level.
So, not great.
I like Teo and I like Micheal. I like them together. I really like that Micheal does not freak out when he finds himself so attracted to Teo after having only been with women.
The circle of friends from the last book in the series is gushie sweet.
Then... cue dumb outside conflict.
Not so good and the writing a character work gets really tell based and not show based and stays pretty surface level.
So, not great.
November 3, 2018
The storyline is actually good with a gay artist/writer and a bi doctor who is a widower with 3 kids . But I didnt like the writing, there was medical inaccuaracies and i skimmed through some parts in the end. The strong family sense is appreciable and Teo and his friends should provide good stories . I just didnt like this one.
Want to read
August 10, 20198/10/19 Currently FREE via Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07...
December 19, 2018
An older widower with 3 kids meets a younger artist/writer and their attraction is instant and burning hot. Michael lost his wife 6 years ago and has been raising his 3 children alone. He never really thought much about his sexuality since he married pretty young, but when he realizes his attraction to Two, he also realizes that he is not the first man who ever gained his attention, but he is the only one that has him 5hinking about forever again. But when his teen son is against his dad dating a younger man does the relationship stand a chance at lasting? Especially when his ex in-laws are bigots who can't handle his new found bisexuality.
Teo and Michael are awesome characters with a great love story. They are adorably sweet and incredible sexy together. I love stories where the characters feel so much so soon because I personally can relate to that kind of love.
I received this book as an advanced reader's copy and voluntarily am leaving my honest review and recommendation.
Teo and Michael are awesome characters with a great love story. They are adorably sweet and incredible sexy together. I love stories where the characters feel so much so soon because I personally can relate to that kind of love.
I received this book as an advanced reader's copy and voluntarily am leaving my honest review and recommendation.
October 3, 2018
I have quickly become a huge fan of Rheland Richmond. She writes characters that are full of depth and substance. I devoured His Instant Family. There is such sweetness, humor and love in this story.
All Leo wants is to find his forever man and settle into family life. He has amazing parents and sees by their example what marriage can be.
Michael is a widow with three children. He has not been as present in his life as he could be, using work as an escape. Meeting Leo has Michael reevaluating his priorities.
Watching these two grow into a couple while also including the children was wonderful. Add in Leo's sister and his group of friends and this book is a winner. I love the snark these guys have with each other. I can't wait for the next book in this series.
All Leo wants is to find his forever man and settle into family life. He has amazing parents and sees by their example what marriage can be.
Michael is a widow with three children. He has not been as present in his life as he could be, using work as an escape. Meeting Leo has Michael reevaluating his priorities.
Watching these two grow into a couple while also including the children was wonderful. Add in Leo's sister and his group of friends and this book is a winner. I love the snark these guys have with each other. I can't wait for the next book in this series.
October 4, 2018
Teo is not interested in casual hookups, he has watched his parent's very happy marriage and he wants that for himself. Michael's wife died several years ago and he is bringing up his 3 children alone. When Teo meets Michael at his sister's obstetrician's appointment, both men feel an instant and powerful attraction. They both make assumptions about the relationship status of the other and for Michael things are further complicated by the fact that he has never before felt an attraction towards another man. Add to the mix Michel's two teenagers and seven year old genius.
I loved this book, I love that both men are totally unafraid to be upfront about how they feel and what they want from the relationship and how willing Teo is to take on his ready made family. I can't wait for book 3.
I loved this book, I love that both men are totally unafraid to be upfront about how they feel and what they want from the relationship and how willing Teo is to take on his ready made family. I can't wait for book 3.
September 28, 2018
I loved Teo from book 1 and couldn't wait to see him get his HEA. This book just showed how as a parent patience and understanding when bringing in a new partner into the fold is the most difficult but rewarding aspect of blending families.
Although Micheal is lost when it comes to his kids due to a busy medical career then dealing with his grief, Teo brings out the best in him and shows him how to relate to his kids and make them a family again. I really enjoyed how the teenagers were involved with the story line in terms of sexuality and making it seamless for the adults.
I would have given it 5 stars but I feel the ending was a bit abrupt for me. I know this is probably due to the next book in the series and the story that is to come. I know it isn't the end for this couple but I guess I am a little impatient to see how Luc finally resolves his issues with his fathers partner Teo.
I can't wait for more and I really really hope Cris is next as this story has been brewing in the background for 2 books and not sure if I can handle it through book 3 before getting the full story in book 4.
Although Micheal is lost when it comes to his kids due to a busy medical career then dealing with his grief, Teo brings out the best in him and shows him how to relate to his kids and make them a family again. I really enjoyed how the teenagers were involved with the story line in terms of sexuality and making it seamless for the adults.
I would have given it 5 stars but I feel the ending was a bit abrupt for me. I know this is probably due to the next book in the series and the story that is to come. I know it isn't the end for this couple but I guess I am a little impatient to see how Luc finally resolves his issues with his fathers partner Teo.
I can't wait for more and I really really hope Cris is next as this story has been brewing in the background for 2 books and not sure if I can handle it through book 3 before getting the full story in book 4.
October 9, 2018
Oh man, I loved His Instant Family. I loved Teo and Michael. The pace worked for their story and it was a great quick read. I definitely liked all the other characters/family members of both Teo and Michael. I thought Teo’s focus and art were so incredible. I would love to read Teo’s books. I loved the heat between them and it was super sexy. Michael’s kids were interesting and definitely not perfect and I thought Teo’s interaction with them was great. I haven’t read book one, but I will be and look forward to the next. I do wish there was a story about Reid, Stephen and Alexis. I totally recommend this book.
October 4, 2018
I absolutely adored this sweet romance. Teo’s takes his sister to her pregnancy check and has an instant connection to her doctor the only problem is he’s sure that Dr Do Me is straight. Michael has never felt that instant attraction to somebody before never, mind a man and a patients husband. I absolutely loved this confusion.
Michael takes his daughter to meet her favourite author, who turns out to be Teo and so a sweet romance blossoms, the only spanner is Michael’s son Luc who just can’t accept his dads relationship because his horrible aunt has poisoned his mind.
I absolutely loved how sweet Teo is and especially when he is with Michael’s kids. I also loved Teo’s friends and family who had me in stitches with the banter that they all had with each other.
Michael takes his daughter to meet her favourite author, who turns out to be Teo and so a sweet romance blossoms, the only spanner is Michael’s son Luc who just can’t accept his dads relationship because his horrible aunt has poisoned his mind.
I absolutely loved how sweet Teo is and especially when he is with Michael’s kids. I also loved Teo’s friends and family who had me in stitches with the banter that they all had with each other.
October 26, 2018
Must be love
Awesome, captivating. I don't always think that love at first sight always work, but it did for Teo and Michael.
The way they met you would never guess that their worlds would collide, but it did in a wonderful way.
I loved how their story came alive and see their love flourish.
Really enjoyable.
Awesome, captivating. I don't always think that love at first sight always work, but it did for Teo and Michael.
The way they met you would never guess that their worlds would collide, but it did in a wonderful way.
I loved how their story came alive and see their love flourish.
Really enjoyable.
nope
January 21, 2019Yes, again one of my samples. No idea how I found it, but it was totally boring. Thought the blurb was nice enough, but the dialogues were terrible.
October 7, 2018
Sweet
There’s days where you want a sweet, fun read to counter balance all the angst that I love to read. This book fits the bill. I did not read the first book, so it definitely can be read as a standalone. Sweet, with a few funny parts mixed in made a fun read.
There’s days where you want a sweet, fun read to counter balance all the angst that I love to read. This book fits the bill. I did not read the first book, so it definitely can be read as a standalone. Sweet, with a few funny parts mixed in made a fun read.
September 15, 2019
Just the absolute best story. Everything I like to read about and more. Such a great story I will read again and again. A keeper!!
October 9, 2018
Where I liked the concept of the first book, I struggled with some of the writing. The author definitely improved since the last book, and I really enjoyed this much more. The story was just as interesting as the last one, and I loved the characters. Teo, the best friend of Tristan, has been looking for a committed relationship and is not ready to just settle. When he meets his sister's doctor, he is completely smitten, but believes he is married. Michael is completely smitten with Teo, but he thinks he is the husband, not the brother. Michael's wife died a few years ago, and he has never had any interest in anyone since. When the two meet again and realize they were both wrong and they are both single, they decide that they need to jump in with both feet and grab what happiness they deserve. It was super sweet with the occasional angst/drama, but they both realized that they shouldn't let it slip through their fingers. I really enjoyed this, and I can't wait to find out what happened to Cris.
I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC provided by LesCourt Author Services
I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC provided by LesCourt Author Services
October 6, 2018
This book is so weird written , after 50% I started skipping, I had enough how main characters looks like. This book has potential..
October 4, 2018
I would give this 3.5 stars if I could, but GoodReads doesn't let me. This was a sweet, contemporary May-December romance.
This is the first book I've read by Rheland Richmond and I enjoyed it. The characters were believable and fun to read. The plot was a little predictable but that didn't take away from the charm of the story. There were a few instances of extra information that wasn't really needed to set the scene, which slowed down the story for me, and a few tropes common to this genre. I admit I had to suspend my disbelief a little at quickly a man who'd never had sex with another male was able to do some of the things the character could do right out of the gate. That being said, I still thought the book was sweet and a lovely light read.
The book starts out with Teo Wright, a slightly absent minded but brilliant author and illustrator of children's books running late to his sister's obgyn appointment. Teo's brother in law traveled a lot so family oriented Teo didn't mind in the least acting as his sister's stand in birthing partner. Already flustered at being late, Teo becomes even more so when he comes face to face with his sister's doctor the gorgeous silver fox Dr. Michael Ashworth, who instantly gets nicknamed 'Dr. Do-me.'
Michael Ashworth is a widower of three children aged seven to mid teens. He's a talented doctor who lost his wife in a tragic (if slightly unexplained) set of circumstances that have left him guilty for not being home as much as feels he should have been despite building his career and practice. He's had a few affairs with women since his wife's passing but has resigned himself to being a widower. And then he meets his patient's partner and feels an instant pull despite the fact that Teo is a 'married' man. And Teo, seeing pictures of a wife and children behind the good doctor, also has to deal with his straight crush.
It turns out both men were wrong about the other's status and at an event for one of Teo's books the two men discover that they are both single and interested. Sparks immediately fly and they start dating. However, a monkey wrench is thrown into the works when Michael's oldest, his son Lucas, lashes out at the idea of Michael dating Teo, 'the young boy toy after his money'. Even when he's corrected and told that Teo is independently wealthy, it doesn't matter. Why can't dad marry Aunt Ashley, his mom's sister? This sets the scene for some family strife. Add to the mix that his deceased wife's family are nasty bigots and there's a whole lot of family drama.
The book does end in a happily ever after with Lucas realizing he was being manipulated by his aunt and finally accepting Michael and Teo's relationship, allowing the two men to finally be together. There is also a tease for book 3 and a tie in to book 1 in the book, providing some nice continuity.
On the whole this was a nice, light read, and one I enjoyed.
This is the first book I've read by Rheland Richmond and I enjoyed it. The characters were believable and fun to read. The plot was a little predictable but that didn't take away from the charm of the story. There were a few instances of extra information that wasn't really needed to set the scene, which slowed down the story for me, and a few tropes common to this genre. I admit I had to suspend my disbelief a little at quickly a man who'd never had sex with another male was able to do some of the things the character could do right out of the gate. That being said, I still thought the book was sweet and a lovely light read.
The book starts out with Teo Wright, a slightly absent minded but brilliant author and illustrator of children's books running late to his sister's obgyn appointment. Teo's brother in law traveled a lot so family oriented Teo didn't mind in the least acting as his sister's stand in birthing partner. Already flustered at being late, Teo becomes even more so when he comes face to face with his sister's doctor the gorgeous silver fox Dr. Michael Ashworth, who instantly gets nicknamed 'Dr. Do-me.'
Michael Ashworth is a widower of three children aged seven to mid teens. He's a talented doctor who lost his wife in a tragic (if slightly unexplained) set of circumstances that have left him guilty for not being home as much as feels he should have been despite building his career and practice. He's had a few affairs with women since his wife's passing but has resigned himself to being a widower. And then he meets his patient's partner and feels an instant pull despite the fact that Teo is a 'married' man. And Teo, seeing pictures of a wife and children behind the good doctor, also has to deal with his straight crush.
It turns out both men were wrong about the other's status and at an event for one of Teo's books the two men discover that they are both single and interested. Sparks immediately fly and they start dating. However, a monkey wrench is thrown into the works when Michael's oldest, his son Lucas, lashes out at the idea of Michael dating Teo, 'the young boy toy after his money'. Even when he's corrected and told that Teo is independently wealthy, it doesn't matter. Why can't dad marry Aunt Ashley, his mom's sister? This sets the scene for some family strife. Add to the mix that his deceased wife's family are nasty bigots and there's a whole lot of family drama.
The book does end in a happily ever after with Lucas realizing he was being manipulated by his aunt and finally accepting Michael and Teo's relationship, allowing the two men to finally be together. There is also a tease for book 3 and a tie in to book 1 in the book, providing some nice continuity.
On the whole this was a nice, light read, and one I enjoyed.
October 12, 2018
His Instant Family, the second book in Rheland Richmond's Stories of Us, is a wonderfully sweet romance.
Michael and Teo have an instant attraction when they meet, but they both think the other is taken. For Michael, Teo is the first person that he's been attracted to since his wife died.
The beauty of their relationship for Michael is that Teo helps bring the light back into Michael's life. Since his wife dies, Michael had been spending all his time working, lost in his pain and loneliness. It's touching to see they ways in which Teo pulls him out of the darkness.
One of the things I absolutely love about this story is the way in which the age gap between Michael and Teo is handled. They are about 15 years apart in age, and the men discuss the things that make their relationship work despite the age difference. Most novels tend to skip over the logistics, but this one perfectly addresses it.
Another special thing about this book is the thought of family. Upon reading the title, I assumed it means that Teo will be gaining an instant family when he falls for Michael and his kids. But, Michael also gets an instant family in Teo's parents, siblings and more. It is heart-warming to see them both find the family they are missing.
I definitely recommend His Instant Family, as Rheland Richmond manages to pen this feel good story while keeping me anxiously awaiting the next in the series.
Michael and Teo have an instant attraction when they meet, but they both think the other is taken. For Michael, Teo is the first person that he's been attracted to since his wife died.
The beauty of their relationship for Michael is that Teo helps bring the light back into Michael's life. Since his wife dies, Michael had been spending all his time working, lost in his pain and loneliness. It's touching to see they ways in which Teo pulls him out of the darkness.
One of the things I absolutely love about this story is the way in which the age gap between Michael and Teo is handled. They are about 15 years apart in age, and the men discuss the things that make their relationship work despite the age difference. Most novels tend to skip over the logistics, but this one perfectly addresses it.
Another special thing about this book is the thought of family. Upon reading the title, I assumed it means that Teo will be gaining an instant family when he falls for Michael and his kids. But, Michael also gets an instant family in Teo's parents, siblings and more. It is heart-warming to see them both find the family they are missing.
I definitely recommend His Instant Family, as Rheland Richmond manages to pen this feel good story while keeping me anxiously awaiting the next in the series.
September 27, 2019
A really sweet & enjoyable MM romance with a well-paced, interesting plot. The main characters (Michael & Tristan) are fairly well-developed & they continue to develop throughout the story-line to become a strong loving couple. There is some good support from the secondary characters, although there are some character crossovers from the previous book “A Family for Keeps” this book can be read as a standalone,
There is: a mature obstetrician & widower (Michael) with three children is still dealing with a devastating loss from six years ago & discovers that he is attracted to a young male artist & writer (Benjamin/Tristan aka Teo), Michael’s children (7yr old Marlowe, 14 yr old Reagan & a rather judgmental 15yr old Luc), Teo’s older sister (Mariana), a conniving villainous sister-in-law (Ashley), some twists, drama, humor, homophobia, threats, confrontations, complications, attraction, caring friends, family issues, memories, longings, a chance meeting, confusion, discovery, determination, anticipation, disagreements, protectiveness, love, happiness, some steam & a well-deserved satisfying conclusion for this couple.
There is: a mature obstetrician & widower (Michael) with three children is still dealing with a devastating loss from six years ago & discovers that he is attracted to a young male artist & writer (Benjamin/Tristan aka Teo), Michael’s children (7yr old Marlowe, 14 yr old Reagan & a rather judgmental 15yr old Luc), Teo’s older sister (Mariana), a conniving villainous sister-in-law (Ashley), some twists, drama, humor, homophobia, threats, confrontations, complications, attraction, caring friends, family issues, memories, longings, a chance meeting, confusion, discovery, determination, anticipation, disagreements, protectiveness, love, happiness, some steam & a well-deserved satisfying conclusion for this couple.
October 5, 2018
This is the first book I have read by this author and I really enjoyed it. I love the storyline and the characters are great. Teo and Michael are an interesting couple and in spite of the misunderstandings when they first meet they form a strong connection. I like how Teo helps Michael improve his relationship with his kids and how patient and understanding Teo is while they adjust to his presence in their lives. The lack of angst about their age difference is one of my favorite parts of this story as well as the amazing support and encouragement from their friends and Teo's family. The secondary characters add a lot to the story and I want to read the first book in the series because I am intrigued by Tristan and Nathaniel's story. I wish that Teo and Michael had spent less time in their own heads and more time interacting with each other and I also thought that their relationship was really rushed at the beginning. There are a few editing issues too but overall this is a fun and entertaining book and I look forward to reading the next installment in this engaging series.
May 17, 2019
I received this book by the author as this is my honest opinion
This is a new to me author, but the book description sounded promising and one id think I would enjoy so i did😀. This book has themes of may/december, first gay relationship and family drama! Teo is an out and proud gay man and quite free and fancy but unexpectedly sparks fly at in all p!aces at his sister's ultrasound appointment.
Michael at first thinks teos married to his patient but when he discovers hes single and very much interested he starts his first gay relationship. But his dead wifes family aren't impressed and stir up trouble between his son and him.
I really enjoyed this book the author portrayed each characters personality perfect and which brought them to life. It had drama with the family problems which I'm glad got sorted as she was just horrible.Teos mum though, she was a right character and was like a mama bear defending her cubs😀. A really enjoyable, at times funny read with a beating heart underneath💖
August 23, 2024
Ever since his wife died leaving him a single father of three, Dr. Michael Ashworth has thrown himself into his work. But it's come at a cost. Though he's now one of the best in his field, he's missing something. When he meets shy Teo, suddenly, he realizes what he's been missing, and he's shocked to discover it's a man. When word of his new interest in the smart, shy, and very male novelist starts to spread. Michael's rebellious teenager and bigoted in-laws threaten the happy future that's finally in his grasp. Can Michael have it all or will he have to give up the man he loves, to keep his family together?
I enjoyed this story with Michael realising that he was very attracted to a man after a long time grieving his late wife and then shy Teo getting used to an instant family with one very rebellious member. Teo's family (real and found) were great fun! I loved the confrontation and the way it was handled. We all need Teo's Mum in our corner! Easy to read, feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.
I enjoyed this story with Michael realising that he was very attracted to a man after a long time grieving his late wife and then shy Teo getting used to an instant family with one very rebellious member. Teo's family (real and found) were great fun! I loved the confrontation and the way it was handled. We all need Teo's Mum in our corner! Easy to read, feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.
October 6, 2018
I really enjoyed their story by this new to me author. Teo is a man who knows what he wants and he won't settle for less. When Teo went to the doctor with his sister....he fell into lust with her doctor who he calls in his mind Dr. Do Me. Michael likes what he sees in Teo but mistakenly assumes that he was the husband. They meet again at a convention in where Teo is the featured author. Michael brings his daughter there to meet her favorite author but not realizing it was Teo. Once they both realize that they are both indeed single and interested....the relationship starts rather quickly. There are some bumps in the road....mainly Michael's kids but if they feel as strongly as they do about each other they can get through anything.
I really enjoyed their story and would recommend it. I can't wait to read the next story in this series....well done!!!
I really enjoyed their story and would recommend it. I can't wait to read the next story in this series....well done!!!
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