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Delta Restorations #1
Le réveil de David
David Snyder est éperdu de chagrin et cherche un endroit pour s’enraciner. Il achète donc une belle maison centenaire dans l’est de Washington. Malheureusement, sa nouvelle maison présente un bon nombre de problèmes : électricité, plomberie, chauffage… Tout ce que David ne sait pas faire. Sa mère lui donne la carte de visite d’un artisan local et il imagine un homme obèse et chauve, dans la cinquantaine. Cependant, Jackson Henry ne pourrait pas être plus éloigné de ce stéréotype.
Jackson, cheveux bruns, musclé et beau gosse, a quitté une grande entreprise de construction à Seattle afin de s’occuper de sa mère malade. Cependant, sa ville natale a toujours un réseau actif de « traditionalistes » et trouver un emploi dans la construction est presque impossible pour un homme ouvertement gay. Déterminé à persévérer, il accepte des petits boulots d’homme à tout faire. Il est exactement ce dont David a besoin, à plus d’un titre.
Ce dernier n’est pas prêt pour l’attirance qu’il ressent pour Jackson, vu la manière dont sa dernière relation a pris fin. Mais au fur et à mesure que les deux hommes apprennent à se connaître, il devient clair que le cœur sait souvent mieux et récompense ceux qui sont disposés à l’écouter.
Jackson, cheveux bruns, musclé et beau gosse, a quitté une grande entreprise de construction à Seattle afin de s’occuper de sa mère malade. Cependant, sa ville natale a toujours un réseau actif de « traditionalistes » et trouver un emploi dans la construction est presque impossible pour un homme ouvertement gay. Déterminé à persévérer, il accepte des petits boulots d’homme à tout faire. Il est exactement ce dont David a besoin, à plus d’un titre.
Ce dernier n’est pas prêt pour l’attirance qu’il ressent pour Jackson, vu la manière dont sa dernière relation a pris fin. Mais au fur et à mesure que les deux hommes apprennent à se connaître, il devient clair que le cœur sait souvent mieux et récompense ceux qui sont disposés à l’écouter.
266 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 21, 2016
22 people are currently reading
503 people want to read
About the author
Diana Copland
11 books236 followersDiana Copland began writing in the seventh grade, when she shamelessly combined elements of Jane Eyre and Dark Shadows to produce an overwrought gothic tale that earned her an A- in creative writing, thanks entirely to the generosity of her teacher. She wrote for pure enjoyment for the next three decades before discovering LiveJournal and a wonderful group of supportive fanfiction writers, who after gifting her with a "Best New Author" Award encouraged her to try her hand at original gay fiction.
Born and raised in southern California, Diana moved to the Pacific Northwest after losing a beloved spouse to AIDS in 1995. She lives in eastern Washington near her two wonderful adult children and her surprisingly supportive parents.
Born and raised in southern California, Diana moved to the Pacific Northwest after losing a beloved spouse to AIDS in 1995. She lives in eastern Washington near her two wonderful adult children and her surprisingly supportive parents.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 184 reviews
August 27, 2016
~4.5~
The blurb had me at "handyman." I love second-chance-at-love stories, and I have a thing for men who work with their hands.
After breaking up with his emotionally abusive, volatile boyfriend, David buys an older home in the neighborhood where he grew up and where his (seriously awesome) mom still lives. David realizes almost immediately that he was a fool to opt out of a home inspection because his new house is falling apart: the roof is leaking, the water heater is on the fritz, the garage door doesn't open, and there's no heat or power.
When Jackson first meets David, David's house is dangerously close to going down in flames. Fortunately, Jackson knows just what to do. And if David can't keep his eyes off Jackson's ass, well, it's a nice ass, damn it.
As Jackson begins renovations on the house, the men become friends and dance around their growing attraction. David is there for Jackson when Jackson's mom, who has MS, ends up in the hospital. Jackson loves David's slightly geeky glasses and his Dolly Parton sweatshirt. He loves everything about David, and the feeling is all mutual.
Meanwhile, David's douchenozzle of an ex wants him to keep paying the mortgage on the condo they purchased together. Trevor begins threatening David, and David is well and truly fearful of what Trevor might do next.
I'm happy to report this book did not sink into melodrama. The issues David and Jackson face are real: family strife, unhinged ex-boyfriend, vandalism. But the relationship angst is nonexistent.
This is very much a slow burn romance. There are plenty of lingering kisses, but nothing more until approximately 70 percent. While this book isn't drowning in steam, the passion between the men is palpable. David and Jackson are incredibly hot together, and the two sexy scenes are so worth the wait.
Jackson has a great group of friends who become David's friends too. I don't see this book billed as a series (yet), but there's so much potential here for other pairings. David's femme friend Michael and Jackson's friend Gil, a burly mountain of a man, have a flirtation going on, and I would love to read their story.
David, Renewed is a well-written, tender romance with a nicely developed comfort/healing theme; sexual tension in spades; two likable MCs who fit like a lock and key; not one but TWO cute corgis; mild suspense; and a sigh-worthy HEA.
Don't miss this one!
The blurb had me at "handyman." I love second-chance-at-love stories, and I have a thing for men who work with their hands.
After breaking up with his emotionally abusive, volatile boyfriend, David buys an older home in the neighborhood where he grew up and where his (seriously awesome) mom still lives. David realizes almost immediately that he was a fool to opt out of a home inspection because his new house is falling apart: the roof is leaking, the water heater is on the fritz, the garage door doesn't open, and there's no heat or power.
When Jackson first meets David, David's house is dangerously close to going down in flames. Fortunately, Jackson knows just what to do. And if David can't keep his eyes off Jackson's ass, well, it's a nice ass, damn it.
As Jackson begins renovations on the house, the men become friends and dance around their growing attraction. David is there for Jackson when Jackson's mom, who has MS, ends up in the hospital. Jackson loves David's slightly geeky glasses and his Dolly Parton sweatshirt. He loves everything about David, and the feeling is all mutual.
Meanwhile, David's douchenozzle of an ex wants him to keep paying the mortgage on the condo they purchased together. Trevor begins threatening David, and David is well and truly fearful of what Trevor might do next.
I'm happy to report this book did not sink into melodrama. The issues David and Jackson face are real: family strife, unhinged ex-boyfriend, vandalism. But the relationship angst is nonexistent.
This is very much a slow burn romance. There are plenty of lingering kisses, but nothing more until approximately 70 percent. While this book isn't drowning in steam, the passion between the men is palpable. David and Jackson are incredibly hot together, and the two sexy scenes are so worth the wait.
Jackson has a great group of friends who become David's friends too. I don't see this book billed as a series (yet), but there's so much potential here for other pairings. David's femme friend Michael and Jackson's friend Gil, a burly mountain of a man, have a flirtation going on, and I would love to read their story.
David, Renewed is a well-written, tender romance with a nicely developed comfort/healing theme; sexual tension in spades; two likable MCs who fit like a lock and key; not one but TWO cute corgis; mild suspense; and a sigh-worthy HEA.
Don't miss this one!
April 22, 2017
~4.5 stars!~
It makes my freakin' day when I read a story from a new-to-me author and fall in love with it. I get giddy from the promise of a potential back log of books to catch up on. After reading a review from a trusted friend that contained lots of things that crank my chain, I was willing to try this one out, and I was not disappointed.
The premise: David is getting out of a five-year relationship with a cheating asshole. He buys a lovely home in the neighborhood he grew up in, on impulse since he needs a new place to live fast. The house that he didn't have inspected winds up having a bit more of a "fixer-upper" quality to it than he originally guessed. His mother recommends a handyman, Jackson, to him, and one look at this sexy man makes David a little breathless. Not that David is ready to go there or anywhere, for that matter. He is just getting out of a nightmare relationship that is the gift that keeps on giving. Jackson is damn near perfect, tbh. He skated the edge of "too perfect" for me, but it never made me roll my eyes. It never crossed that line. He moved to the town to take care of his mother, who has MS, even though his two siblings live in the town and aren't very helpful.
The crown jewel that made me ADORE this story was the relationship-build. There's no insta-love. It's a slow burn that totally worked. David and Jackson smoothly go from handyman/client to friends to lovers. And once they get going, they light the sheets on fire!
Told exclusively from David's POV, we see no lack of character development from Jackson or the group of secondary characters I'll refer to as the "core group" of this book. Gil, Michael, Manny, Vernon, the moms, and David's sister were delightful, realistic, and fleshed out well. The author sets up the possibility for a series with the other men I mentioned, and I am crossing my fingers and wishing hard!!!
This book was all about the relationship. There are side plots - the ex fuckwad in particular - along with a strong family component, as Jackson's mom's illness affects many of them due to their close relationship with him. But overwhelmingly, you will get to see a beautiful relationship blossom from start to HEA. (I never got the chance to date as an adult, so reading romance lets me get a small "fictional" glimpse into the adult dating game. THIS relationship development is an example of how I'd imagine many people would want to meet the one.)
And their first kiss? Holy hell, was that the perfect first kiss! Sexy and sweet as fuck.
There is one niggle I had with this book, and I can't not mention it because I felt it glaring at me with repeated digs. It in no way affected my rating of this book because I loved it THAT much, but I'll share that if other books by this author have the same thing, it will begin to affect my ratings and has the potential, depending on the degree, to sour me from this author.
Especially within this community, but with all people in general, there shouldn't be stereotyping. No one should paint everyone within a group with the brush of one. Combine stereotyping with politics, which I hate and tend not to follow, and I got a little miffed. I'll show you what I mean.
The overwhelming majority of characters in this book outside of the "core group" I mentioned above, and there were a lot of characters in this book, were all -
Assholes.
Assholes who were straight.
Assholes who were straight Republicans.
I avoid politics in general, but I wouldn't label myself as Democrat or Republican. I'm somewhere in the middle of the Right Wing/Left Wing scale....moderate I think a lot of people call it? I hate labels within politics, but you get the gist of where I land. I digress. Anyway, people are people. We are diverse and I try very hard not to put people in boxes. When it comes to Democrats - if you've met one Democrat, guess what? You've met ONE Democrat. The same holds true for Republicans. The scale of Left and Right and Middle is so vast. Where am I going with this? Bare with me.
There was a lot of shaming in this book. I found both straight shaming and Republican shaming. More Republican shaming, and enough to make me uncomfortable. Here are some examples:
Exhibit A: Gil's siblings are described as money-hungry vultures just waiting for the remaining parent to die so they can get their inheritances. Ok, people can be like that. It ain't pretty, I know. But this:
Exhibit B: David meets Jackson's sister-in-law in the ER waiting room. She asks him, in Jackson's absence, if he and Jackson are friends. Since this is during their "friends" stage of development, he lets her know they're recent acquaintances. "Why are you here with Jackson if you aren't...dating?" Valid question. Recent acquaintances don't tend to wait in ERs while said acquaintance cares for his mother. But David's internal dialogue?
Exhibit C: While Jackson and David talk after David meets Jackson's brother for the first time, this little convo took place:
None of the above sat well with me. One of the comments would've made me pause, but all of them? I'm not liking what this author is painting through her stereotyping and downright shaming. I love my friends' and family's diversity, including their incredibly varied political beliefs, even when I don't agree on one or more of the issues. But there is no way you can put all Democrats in one box or all Republicans in one. It's unjust and unfair.
Ok, I'm off my soapbox now. The above was such a small part of this book that it didn't take away from the absolute beauty of David and Jackson's story. So, like I said, my rating was not affected by it. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves MM romance! But I can't lie and will say that for my reading tastes, I hope Copland leaves the stereotyping at the door in her other books. Which I will be reading!
It makes my freakin' day when I read a story from a new-to-me author and fall in love with it. I get giddy from the promise of a potential back log of books to catch up on. After reading a review from a trusted friend that contained lots of things that crank my chain, I was willing to try this one out, and I was not disappointed.
The premise: David is getting out of a five-year relationship with a cheating asshole. He buys a lovely home in the neighborhood he grew up in, on impulse since he needs a new place to live fast. The house that he didn't have inspected winds up having a bit more of a "fixer-upper" quality to it than he originally guessed. His mother recommends a handyman, Jackson, to him, and one look at this sexy man makes David a little breathless. Not that David is ready to go there or anywhere, for that matter. He is just getting out of a nightmare relationship that is the gift that keeps on giving. Jackson is damn near perfect, tbh. He skated the edge of "too perfect" for me, but it never made me roll my eyes. It never crossed that line. He moved to the town to take care of his mother, who has MS, even though his two siblings live in the town and aren't very helpful.
The crown jewel that made me ADORE this story was the relationship-build. There's no insta-love. It's a slow burn that totally worked. David and Jackson smoothly go from handyman/client to friends to lovers. And once they get going, they light the sheets on fire!
Told exclusively from David's POV, we see no lack of character development from Jackson or the group of secondary characters I'll refer to as the "core group" of this book. Gil, Michael, Manny, Vernon, the moms, and David's sister were delightful, realistic, and fleshed out well. The author sets up the possibility for a series with the other men I mentioned, and I am crossing my fingers and wishing hard!!!
This book was all about the relationship. There are side plots - the ex fuckwad in particular - along with a strong family component, as Jackson's mom's illness affects many of them due to their close relationship with him. But overwhelmingly, you will get to see a beautiful relationship blossom from start to HEA. (I never got the chance to date as an adult, so reading romance lets me get a small "fictional" glimpse into the adult dating game. THIS relationship development is an example of how I'd imagine many people would want to meet the one.)
And their first kiss? Holy hell, was that the perfect first kiss! Sexy and sweet as fuck.
There is one niggle I had with this book, and I can't not mention it because I felt it glaring at me with repeated digs. It in no way affected my rating of this book because I loved it THAT much, but I'll share that if other books by this author have the same thing, it will begin to affect my ratings and has the potential, depending on the degree, to sour me from this author.
Especially within this community, but with all people in general, there shouldn't be stereotyping. No one should paint everyone within a group with the brush of one. Combine stereotyping with politics, which I hate and tend not to follow, and I got a little miffed. I'll show you what I mean.
The overwhelming majority of characters in this book outside of the "core group" I mentioned above, and there were a lot of characters in this book, were all -
Assholes.
Assholes who were straight.
Assholes who were straight Republicans.
I avoid politics in general, but I wouldn't label myself as Democrat or Republican. I'm somewhere in the middle of the Right Wing/Left Wing scale....moderate I think a lot of people call it? I hate labels within politics, but you get the gist of where I land. I digress. Anyway, people are people. We are diverse and I try very hard not to put people in boxes. When it comes to Democrats - if you've met one Democrat, guess what? You've met ONE Democrat. The same holds true for Republicans. The scale of Left and Right and Middle is so vast. Where am I going with this? Bare with me.
There was a lot of shaming in this book. I found both straight shaming and Republican shaming. More Republican shaming, and enough to make me uncomfortable. Here are some examples:
Exhibit A: Gil's siblings are described as money-hungry vultures just waiting for the remaining parent to die so they can get their inheritances. Ok, people can be like that. It ain't pretty, I know. But this:
"Were they jerks or something?" David asked. Jackson snorted softly. "You could say that. His brother has a Ted Cruz bumper sticker on his Beamer."
Exhibit B: David meets Jackson's sister-in-law in the ER waiting room. She asks him, in Jackson's absence, if he and Jackson are friends. Since this is during their "friends" stage of development, he lets her know they're recent acquaintances. "Why are you here with Jackson if you aren't...dating?" Valid question. Recent acquaintances don't tend to wait in ERs while said acquaintance cares for his mother. But David's internal dialogue?
He loved the way straight people felt the need to use euphemisms with gay men. Clearly what she meant was "if you aren't screwing."What does that question have to do with gay/straight? I don't get it. I think it was a tactful question from a near-stranger. And maybe she honestly meant dating instead of screwing......because it would be the behavior of someone you're dating over someone you're screwing to be in an ER waiting room while you're with your mother!
Exhibit C: While Jackson and David talk after David meets Jackson's brother for the first time, this little convo took place:
"I gather he's not a Democrat." [...] "I'm betting he doesn't do pro bono work for indigent clients." [...]"Dad was a lawyer, specializing in corporate law, and a fire-breathing Republican."Fire-breathing Republican, huh? Yes, clearly ALL Republicans are evil in this author's mind. And anyone who doesn't do free work for indigent people, are they automatic assholes? I'm a little fuzzy on what that comment meant, but I'm not getting warm feelings about it. And does she believe there are no Republicans who would do pro bono work for indigents?
None of the above sat well with me. One of the comments would've made me pause, but all of them? I'm not liking what this author is painting through her stereotyping and downright shaming. I love my friends' and family's diversity, including their incredibly varied political beliefs, even when I don't agree on one or more of the issues. But there is no way you can put all Democrats in one box or all Republicans in one. It's unjust and unfair.
Ok, I'm off my soapbox now. The above was such a small part of this book that it didn't take away from the absolute beauty of David and Jackson's story. So, like I said, my rating was not affected by it. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves MM romance! But I can't lie and will say that for my reading tastes, I hope Copland leaves the stereotyping at the door in her other books. Which I will be reading!
October 24, 2025
Re-read October 2025
It was so nice to revisit this.
--------------------
I liked this. Such a comfort read.
David walks into his boyfriend getting a blowjob from a stranger. He moves out immediately and buys a house on a whim. Turns out this house is not in good shape, but David has no idea how to fix this. Luckily his mom gives him the phone number of a handyman.
David expected this handyman to be old, bald, and to have a beer gut. But when he meets Jackson he couldn’t be more wrong. Jackson tells him he can fix his house for him, so David hires him on the spot.
The two strike up a friendship and it’s not long before they both acknowledge their attraction to each other. But between Jackson’s sick mom and David’s raging ex, they don’t seem to find the time to be alone…
I loved the slow burn between these guys. Their talks felt real and their attraction didn’t come out of nowhere, but nothing was rushed either.
And the side characters were amazing. There were quite a few, but they all felt so real. I can’t wait to read their stories.
There is some great hurt/comfort going on in this. It’s not heavy on the steam, but it totally fit the story, and what we got was good.
What I also loved were the little autumn-y details. It was cold, windy, there was pie, they had Halloween. It got me all in the autumn mood.
It was so nice to revisit this.
--------------------
I liked this. Such a comfort read.
David walks into his boyfriend getting a blowjob from a stranger. He moves out immediately and buys a house on a whim. Turns out this house is not in good shape, but David has no idea how to fix this. Luckily his mom gives him the phone number of a handyman.
David expected this handyman to be old, bald, and to have a beer gut. But when he meets Jackson he couldn’t be more wrong. Jackson tells him he can fix his house for him, so David hires him on the spot.
The two strike up a friendship and it’s not long before they both acknowledge their attraction to each other. But between Jackson’s sick mom and David’s raging ex, they don’t seem to find the time to be alone…
I loved the slow burn between these guys. Their talks felt real and their attraction didn’t come out of nowhere, but nothing was rushed either.
And the side characters were amazing. There were quite a few, but they all felt so real. I can’t wait to read their stories.
There is some great hurt/comfort going on in this. It’s not heavy on the steam, but it totally fit the story, and what we got was good.
What I also loved were the little autumn-y details. It was cold, windy, there was pie, they had Halloween. It got me all in the autumn mood.
September 26, 2016
Just what the doctor ordered! Warm and fluffy and Corgis!!!!! Low angst, hunky handyman, delightful, passion filled sex. Big win.
4.5 stars rounded up because CORGIS!!!!
4.5 stars rounded up because CORGIS!!!!
April 25, 2017
This one was a nice, easy read.
Low on angst.
Likable MCs.
Low to moderate steam.
Nothing wowing but nothing to really complain about either.
Low on angst.
Likable MCs.
Low to moderate steam.
Nothing wowing but nothing to really complain about either.
October 2, 2016
This was a very sweet, funny and thouching read. I enjoyed it very much.
David has recently caught his boyfriend of 5 years, blowing someone else in their livingroom. He immediately packs up some of his belongings and moves out. At first he stays at a hotel, but when an awesome house in his mothers neighbourhood catches his attention, he is unstoppable. He is enarmoured with the house and he needs a place of his own, so he buys the house from a little old lady, even foregoing the technical inspection. The house however is a bit of a "moneypit". There is even a movie-reference made in the book, which I thought was awesome....as was said movie !!!
Everything seems in need of fixing and when the electricity goes out, David decides to call the handyman, his mom suggested.
David is expecting some old fart showing off his asscrack, while working, what he gets however is something quite different.
Jackson has recently quit his job at a big construction company and has moved back to his hometown, because his mother needs him. She has been diagnosed with MS and he wants to take care of her. Finding a job with another contruction company within their little town isn't easy though, because Jackson is an out and proud gay man. So he works for himself as a handyman.
He starts working on Davids house and he two of them become friends.....before they become lovers.
This was a very nice and sweet slow burn. The steam wasn't really high in this one, but I think with the built up, it was perfect.
There was also a whole cast of awesome side-characters, whom I hope will get their own books. There was also an asshole ex-boyfriend and a douchy brother.
Very entertaining read, I really hope there will be more !!
April 23, 2017
4.5 Stars
I'm giddy at the possibility of this turning into a series!
This just worked for me. The characters are all sharply written, the dialogue, the scenes, the sex, the side plots...everything was just absolutely lovely. I loved David and Jackson, and their relationship was such an organic build. It never felt too slow, and it just thoroughly entertained me from start to finish.
If I have one complaint it's that everyone who wasn't part of the inner circle of characters, with the exception of Jackson's sister-in-law, is painted with a rather negative brush. It got a little tiresome.
Otherwise, everything from the pacing, to the plot, to the sex, to the romance was wonderful. I loved the HEA and really, really hope Diana Copland will continue this as a series.
Diana Copland is a new-to-me author, but with as much as I enjoyed David, Renewed, I can say I will be taking a look at her backlog.
For my audio review, click here.
Advanced Review Galley copy of David, Renewed provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
I'm giddy at the possibility of this turning into a series!
This just worked for me. The characters are all sharply written, the dialogue, the scenes, the sex, the side plots...everything was just absolutely lovely. I loved David and Jackson, and their relationship was such an organic build. It never felt too slow, and it just thoroughly entertained me from start to finish.
If I have one complaint it's that everyone who wasn't part of the inner circle of characters, with the exception of Jackson's sister-in-law, is painted with a rather negative brush. It got a little tiresome.
Otherwise, everything from the pacing, to the plot, to the sex, to the romance was wonderful. I loved the HEA and really, really hope Diana Copland will continue this as a series.
Diana Copland is a new-to-me author, but with as much as I enjoyed David, Renewed, I can say I will be taking a look at her backlog.
For my audio review, click here.
Advanced Review Galley copy of David, Renewed provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
September 20, 2016
4.5 stars, rounded up, because I can.
This was fabulous, y'all. I hope you've already ordered it.
Seriously, though, this book is near perfect, with a fantastic cast, two utterly lovable MCs, great moms, a snarky assistant who needs his own book, and a tender and oh-so-sweet romance.
The plot is fairly straight-forward:
After breaking up with an abusive boyfriend, David Snyder, who works as an Interior Designer, is looking for a new place to live and on impulse buys a house he falls in love with. The abusive ex has kept everything, including the condo David pays for, all the furnishings, and even the Keurig.
Soon after closing on the house, David regrets not insisting on a home inspection when the house he fell for turns out to be more like a money pit. Interior Design hasn't prepared him for leaking roofs, bad electrical wiring, bad plumbing, and a myriad of other issues.
David's mom hands him a business card for a handyman. Jackson Henry is nothing like what David expected.
Cue massive UST. The attraction is immediate, but of course David is still licking his wounds, and while Jackson is interested, he's also working for the guy, so nothing much happens other than glances and errand thoughts. So while Jackson fixes up David's house, the mating dance begins.
There is very little drama in this book as far as the relationship between the two men is concerned. As their dance continues, they fall more and more, and their relationship is exactly what one would expect - full of mutual respect, comfort, and helping each other. When Jackson's mom is hospitalized, David is right there, lending a hand, keeping Jackson propped up. And Jackson does the same for David.
Jackson has a bunch of awesome friends, who also become David's friends, and David has a fabulous assistant, who needs his own book. This being set in a small town, there's also some homophobia inside, not within Jackson's inner circle, but from people living in the town, who'd rather not hire someone who's gay. Because, you know, gay cooties could rub off. Morons.
The only real drama is with Jackson's siblings (for whom I had no use, and I wish Jackson wouldn't either), and David's ex, Trevor, asshole first class. The latter was perhaps slightly OTT, but whatever. This is me not caring about that, because it helped to really show how well David and Jackson fit together.
This novel is by design low steam and slow burn, but I appreciated that more than I would have appreciated David and Jackson falling into bed together at first sight. When they do finally get it on, they burn up the sheets. Their emotional connection translated into some really hot passion, and oh my... yeah, that was awesome.
Wonderfully engaging writing style, with fantastic dialogue, excellent pacing, some comic relief - this was as close to perfect as possible.
I very much enjoyed reading this, and while this may have been my first book by this author, it won't be my last. And I'm definitely hoping that there will be a sequel to this one. Soon.
** I received a free copy of this book from its publisher. A positive review was not promised in return. **
This was fabulous, y'all. I hope you've already ordered it.
Seriously, though, this book is near perfect, with a fantastic cast, two utterly lovable MCs, great moms, a snarky assistant who needs his own book, and a tender and oh-so-sweet romance.
The plot is fairly straight-forward:
After breaking up with an abusive boyfriend, David Snyder, who works as an Interior Designer, is looking for a new place to live and on impulse buys a house he falls in love with. The abusive ex has kept everything, including the condo David pays for, all the furnishings, and even the Keurig.
Soon after closing on the house, David regrets not insisting on a home inspection when the house he fell for turns out to be more like a money pit. Interior Design hasn't prepared him for leaking roofs, bad electrical wiring, bad plumbing, and a myriad of other issues.
David's mom hands him a business card for a handyman. Jackson Henry is nothing like what David expected.
Cue massive UST. The attraction is immediate, but of course David is still licking his wounds, and while Jackson is interested, he's also working for the guy, so nothing much happens other than glances and errand thoughts. So while Jackson fixes up David's house, the mating dance begins.
There is very little drama in this book as far as the relationship between the two men is concerned. As their dance continues, they fall more and more, and their relationship is exactly what one would expect - full of mutual respect, comfort, and helping each other. When Jackson's mom is hospitalized, David is right there, lending a hand, keeping Jackson propped up. And Jackson does the same for David.
Jackson has a bunch of awesome friends, who also become David's friends, and David has a fabulous assistant, who needs his own book. This being set in a small town, there's also some homophobia inside, not within Jackson's inner circle, but from people living in the town, who'd rather not hire someone who's gay. Because, you know, gay cooties could rub off. Morons.
The only real drama is with Jackson's siblings (for whom I had no use, and I wish Jackson wouldn't either), and David's ex, Trevor, asshole first class. The latter was perhaps slightly OTT, but whatever. This is me not caring about that, because it helped to really show how well David and Jackson fit together.
This novel is by design low steam and slow burn, but I appreciated that more than I would have appreciated David and Jackson falling into bed together at first sight. When they do finally get it on, they burn up the sheets. Their emotional connection translated into some really hot passion, and oh my... yeah, that was awesome.
Wonderfully engaging writing style, with fantastic dialogue, excellent pacing, some comic relief - this was as close to perfect as possible.
I very much enjoyed reading this, and while this may have been my first book by this author, it won't be my last. And I'm definitely hoping that there will be a sequel to this one. Soon.
** I received a free copy of this book from its publisher. A positive review was not promised in return. **
May 2, 2017
4 Stars
I’ll just easily agree with all my friends who have already read this. Not overly sweet to induce cavities, not too down in the dumps to bring on depression, but just right.
Poor David unfortunately has to admit to himself that he’s basically been a doormat for his boyfriend for the last 5 years. An awful discovery finally pushes him to leave the relationship, and he impulsively buys a house.Luckily sadly, it has so many things wrong with it that he needs help ASAP. Enter Jackson. Tall, dark, handsome, and gay - seemingly way out of David’s league. What he doesn’t know is that Jackson too, has had his a fair bit of tough times, and just like David, he wants to find someone who’s caring and respectful to share his life with.
As Jackson makes David’s house liveable, these two realistically build a friendship, finding common ground on many fronts. This was a bit more slow burn than the usual contemporary romance many of us read, but the payoff is well worth it. *wink*
I was expecting pure fluff but was pleasantly surprised by some of the tough topics this story raised - homophobia, scary ex-boyfriends, caring for a sick loved one. It was pitch perfect in the feels and had just enough twisty angst and tension to keep the interest at a high level, as David gets his life back in order. This also had an awesome cast of supporting characters making me wish for their stories as well, despite the maddening fact that I already have an umpteen amount of series to be finished.
Fluff has its place, but it’s nice to be grounded in reality as well - just as long as it has a happy ending, right? Right. This definitely delivers.
I’ll just easily agree with all my friends who have already read this. Not overly sweet to induce cavities, not too down in the dumps to bring on depression, but just right.
Poor David unfortunately has to admit to himself that he’s basically been a doormat for his boyfriend for the last 5 years. An awful discovery finally pushes him to leave the relationship, and he impulsively buys a house.
As Jackson makes David’s house liveable, these two realistically build a friendship, finding common ground on many fronts. This was a bit more slow burn than the usual contemporary romance many of us read, but the payoff is well worth it. *wink*
I was expecting pure fluff but was pleasantly surprised by some of the tough topics this story raised - homophobia, scary ex-boyfriends, caring for a sick loved one. It was pitch perfect in the feels and had just enough twisty angst and tension to keep the interest at a high level, as David gets his life back in order. This also had an awesome cast of supporting characters making me wish for their stories as well, despite the maddening fact that I already have an umpteen amount of series to be finished.
Fluff has its place, but it’s nice to be grounded in reality as well - just as long as it has a happy ending, right? Right. This definitely delivers.
February 15, 2017
It's all about the feelz and the balance...
Apparently I'm feeling a bit rambly these days but I'm not sure how else I'm going to explain why I enjoyed this book so much. A while ago I wrote a review and in it I said the reason that I hadn't enjoyed the book was because for me a good story had to have balance and what I meant by that was...if you're going to give me characters that I really, really dislike then you have to give me someone that I can love and adore and vice versa although maybe a bit less so because the characters I love don't fill me with the passionate anger and rage that those 'I hate you characters' do. In the case of that other book there were no 'I love you' characters to be had...even the MCs weren't likable for me. So by the end of that book 'I had rage' and no warm, flurffy feelz of any kind. I just wanted it over and this is where the balance makes the difference.
There were characters in this story that I hated, I mean seriously passionately hated. They were jerks total dickheads, doorknobs...ok, I think you've probably got my point. There was of course Trevor, David's Ex and the poster child for what not to hook up with let alone live with...honestly, I could rage about this guy for hours but I don't want to spoil the fun of reading the book for anyone. Next we have Travis, Jackson's charming brother (please add copious sarcasm here). Travis was just all kinds of special, ok...NOT! He's a lawyer and a politician so feel free to stereo-type away because in this case it's accurate. Oh yeah, let's not forget Jackson's sister, Michelle whom I apparently tried to forget since I had to go look her name up in the book...sorry, being a princess doesn't excuse her from being an adult, so while I don't think she falls into the category of douchery that Travis and Trevor the A$$hat twins did, still didn't like her.
Ok that's all of the talk about the icky people we need to have because I'm feeling the rage and this is where I get to appreciate the balance and the warm fuzzies that come from the 'people I love' and it's a lovely list.
First the moms...both Jackson and David had awesome moms. Yes, David's mom was a bit more epic but Jackson's mom still loved him and appreciated all that he'd given up for her by moving back home to take care of her because his brother who's too busy and important to help out with hie sick mother and sister who's too much of a princess to be expected to deal with it...see rage coming back, anyways, they both live in the same town close to mom but no Jackson who lives across the country and has a life is the one who's 'suppose' to do this and he does because it's his mom and he loves her. It's not an obligation or even a responsibility for Jackson it's about caring for someone you love pure and simple...you guessed it, I love Jackson he's awesome and sexy and hot too...ask David, he'll agree.
Now David, yep, I love him too. He's awesome and sweet and in general I just found him to be adorable. Not to mention that thankfully his taste in men has vastly improved because Trevor to Jackson is totally a case of going from the ridiculous to the sublime.
I don't know if I'd call this one a case of insta-love or lust but in this case whatever it was it worked and I think that it was mostly because while these two men fell for each other quickly the relationship didn't progress quickly there were obstacles that kept them from really getting together so it didn't become a case boy meets boy, boy falls into bed with boy and they all lived happily ever after. There were problems and things to be dealt with and these guys talked and got to know each other and even after they did finally get to have sex and seriously it was hot!!! They still talked and not all of their interactions took place in the bedroom...ohmygod!!! Isn't that like a real relationship or something?
Ok, let's get back to what I liked David's lawyer...her name was Karen..sue me, it's a nice name. Now, all kidding aside there were so many characters that I like and that I would just love to know more of Michael, David's assistant who apparently doesn't do love and doesn't like Gil...in that way? Yeah, yeah, sure, sure. Michael, you're not fooling anyone except yourself with that line. But yes, I really liked Michael, he was sassy and just all kinds of fun and Jackson's friend Gil, I think he's a mountain of a man with a heart sized to match and I'd love a story about these two.
Then there's Vern with all his grump and snarl...tell me there's not a story there? While we're at it what's up with the roofing guy and his brother maybe they could show up in a future story or two so we could find out more about them.
Ok, I've saved the best for last because more than anyone else, I want a story for Manny. We got to find out a bit about him and what he's been through and if anyone deserves a book with a big, old HEA. It's Manny...Manny made me cry so I now want to have some happy tears for him too.
Balance at the end of it all it's that balance of feelings that help to make a story work. Too much hate leaves me angry and frustrated, too much sugary, sweetness makes everything just feel fake. But give me a bit of both and if you want to make the good feelz side of things a bit more that's ok just don't leave either of them out completely because it's this balance or mixture of both that makes a story feel realistic to me. Hell if you want to give me Unicorns that poop rainbows I'm down with that as long as you make me feel. Happy, sad, frustrated, scared, anxious, whatever because for me it's all about the feelings and connecting with how a character feels that puts me into the story and makes me love it.
'David Renewed' was my first read by this author and most assuredly not my last and hopefully not my last trip to David & Jackson's world either with all the potential untold stories that are there.
********************
An ARC of 'David Renewed' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Apparently I'm feeling a bit rambly these days but I'm not sure how else I'm going to explain why I enjoyed this book so much. A while ago I wrote a review and in it I said the reason that I hadn't enjoyed the book was because for me a good story had to have balance and what I meant by that was...if you're going to give me characters that I really, really dislike then you have to give me someone that I can love and adore and vice versa although maybe a bit less so because the characters I love don't fill me with the passionate anger and rage that those 'I hate you characters' do. In the case of that other book there were no 'I love you' characters to be had...even the MCs weren't likable for me. So by the end of that book 'I had rage' and no warm, flurffy feelz of any kind. I just wanted it over and this is where the balance makes the difference.
There were characters in this story that I hated, I mean seriously passionately hated. They were jerks total dickheads, doorknobs...ok, I think you've probably got my point. There was of course Trevor, David's Ex and the poster child for what not to hook up with let alone live with...honestly, I could rage about this guy for hours but I don't want to spoil the fun of reading the book for anyone. Next we have Travis, Jackson's charming brother (please add copious sarcasm here). Travis was just all kinds of special, ok...NOT! He's a lawyer and a politician so feel free to stereo-type away because in this case it's accurate. Oh yeah, let's not forget Jackson's sister, Michelle whom I apparently tried to forget since I had to go look her name up in the book...sorry, being a princess doesn't excuse her from being an adult, so while I don't think she falls into the category of douchery that Travis and Trevor the A$$hat twins did, still didn't like her.
Ok that's all of the talk about the icky people we need to have because I'm feeling the rage and this is where I get to appreciate the balance and the warm fuzzies that come from the 'people I love' and it's a lovely list.
First the moms...both Jackson and David had awesome moms. Yes, David's mom was a bit more epic but Jackson's mom still loved him and appreciated all that he'd given up for her by moving back home to take care of her because his brother who's too busy and important to help out with hie sick mother and sister who's too much of a princess to be expected to deal with it...see rage coming back, anyways, they both live in the same town close to mom but no Jackson who lives across the country and has a life is the one who's 'suppose' to do this and he does because it's his mom and he loves her. It's not an obligation or even a responsibility for Jackson it's about caring for someone you love pure and simple...you guessed it, I love Jackson he's awesome and sexy and hot too...ask David, he'll agree.
Now David, yep, I love him too. He's awesome and sweet and in general I just found him to be adorable. Not to mention that thankfully his taste in men has vastly improved because Trevor to Jackson is totally a case of going from the ridiculous to the sublime.
I don't know if I'd call this one a case of insta-love or lust but in this case whatever it was it worked and I think that it was mostly because while these two men fell for each other quickly the relationship didn't progress quickly there were obstacles that kept them from really getting together so it didn't become a case boy meets boy, boy falls into bed with boy and they all lived happily ever after. There were problems and things to be dealt with and these guys talked and got to know each other and even after they did finally get to have sex and seriously it was hot!!! They still talked and not all of their interactions took place in the bedroom...ohmygod!!! Isn't that like a real relationship or something?
Ok, let's get back to what I liked David's lawyer...her name was Karen..sue me, it's a nice name. Now, all kidding aside there were so many characters that I like and that I would just love to know more of Michael, David's assistant who apparently doesn't do love and doesn't like Gil...in that way? Yeah, yeah, sure, sure. Michael, you're not fooling anyone except yourself with that line. But yes, I really liked Michael, he was sassy and just all kinds of fun and Jackson's friend Gil, I think he's a mountain of a man with a heart sized to match and I'd love a story about these two.
Then there's Vern with all his grump and snarl...tell me there's not a story there? While we're at it what's up with the roofing guy and his brother maybe they could show up in a future story or two so we could find out more about them.
Ok, I've saved the best for last because more than anyone else, I want a story for Manny. We got to find out a bit about him and what he's been through and if anyone deserves a book with a big, old HEA. It's Manny...Manny made me cry so I now want to have some happy tears for him too.
Balance at the end of it all it's that balance of feelings that help to make a story work. Too much hate leaves me angry and frustrated, too much sugary, sweetness makes everything just feel fake. But give me a bit of both and if you want to make the good feelz side of things a bit more that's ok just don't leave either of them out completely because it's this balance or mixture of both that makes a story feel realistic to me. Hell if you want to give me Unicorns that poop rainbows I'm down with that as long as you make me feel. Happy, sad, frustrated, scared, anxious, whatever because for me it's all about the feelings and connecting with how a character feels that puts me into the story and makes me love it.
'David Renewed' was my first read by this author and most assuredly not my last and hopefully not my last trip to David & Jackson's world either with all the potential untold stories that are there.
********************
An ARC of 'David Renewed' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
September 22, 2016
*** 4.5 Stars ***
This story was great! It was dramatic without being melodramatic and had a perfectly sweet HEA that managed to avoid putting me in a sugar coma. I will be looking forward to reading more by this author.
This story was great! It was dramatic without being melodramatic and had a perfectly sweet HEA that managed to avoid putting me in a sugar coma. I will be looking forward to reading more by this author.
September 25, 2016
That was soooo good! And just what I needed after my last read.
Thanks Sandra, for bringing this book to my attention.
September 26, 2016
4.5 Stars
I loved this character driven story and it wasn’t just the MC’s driving the bus. The entire cast had a real purpose with unique personalities and they all added to the pacing of David’s renewal.
David has left his boyfriend of five years after the Cheating Bastard got caught with his dick down a twinks throat and David comes to the realization that the Cheating Bastard was always a bastard on some level and his self-confidence has taken a hit. He impulsively buys a beautiful Craftsman home in the neighborhood he grew up in and quickly realizes his beautiful home is a money pit. His mom (who is awesome, as is his sister) gives him the card of a local handyman, Jackson Henry.
David is expecting an older, overweight guy sporting a plumber’s crack and instead he is pleasantly surprised and flustered to be confronted with an Adonis in a toolbelt and flannel. The whole getting-to-know-you portion of the book was so yummy. Most everyone loves this part of a relationship and David, Renewed does not disappoint. It was flirty and charming and still read very real. During this part the author also introduced the cast of characters that make me wish with all my nuggets that this turns into a series. I need Michael and Vic’s story. That has to be a thing. And Manny? Manny needs his story told too.
There is some drama thanks to Cheating Bastard, but it wasn’t over the top and it moved the story along as these things do. It didn’t feel forced at all which was good because as I said earlier, great pacing. It did bring David and Jackson together probably a little bit more quickly, but that was a good thing. The story was going there anyway, so it flowed right along. I also liked that the two of them declared their extreme like for each other while there was still plenty of story to be had so I got to get invested in their relationship as well as their courtship.
Jackson is completely swoon worthy and naturally charming while David is so very relatable and genuine, I couldn’t help but want them together. It wasn’t a sugar fest though, there was enough snark, dirty talk and stress to keep the book grounded with the two MC’s as well as the supporting cast. The scene is set for a series and it wouldn’t be one of those where half the “small” town just happens to be gay and they hop from one couple to the next. This ending is unique and calls on the skills of the group and would make complete sense as a series.
Annnnnd, I can’t wait, so I need Ms. Copland to heed the Call of the Unicorn and give Peach what she needs in more stories for the wonderful guys.
**a copy of this story was provided for an honest review**
I loved this character driven story and it wasn’t just the MC’s driving the bus. The entire cast had a real purpose with unique personalities and they all added to the pacing of David’s renewal.
David has left his boyfriend of five years after the Cheating Bastard got caught with his dick down a twinks throat and David comes to the realization that the Cheating Bastard was always a bastard on some level and his self-confidence has taken a hit. He impulsively buys a beautiful Craftsman home in the neighborhood he grew up in and quickly realizes his beautiful home is a money pit. His mom (who is awesome, as is his sister) gives him the card of a local handyman, Jackson Henry.
David is expecting an older, overweight guy sporting a plumber’s crack and instead he is pleasantly surprised and flustered to be confronted with an Adonis in a toolbelt and flannel. The whole getting-to-know-you portion of the book was so yummy. Most everyone loves this part of a relationship and David, Renewed does not disappoint. It was flirty and charming and still read very real. During this part the author also introduced the cast of characters that make me wish with all my nuggets that this turns into a series. I need Michael and Vic’s story. That has to be a thing. And Manny? Manny needs his story told too.
There is some drama thanks to Cheating Bastard, but it wasn’t over the top and it moved the story along as these things do. It didn’t feel forced at all which was good because as I said earlier, great pacing. It did bring David and Jackson together probably a little bit more quickly, but that was a good thing. The story was going there anyway, so it flowed right along. I also liked that the two of them declared their extreme like for each other while there was still plenty of story to be had so I got to get invested in their relationship as well as their courtship.
Jackson is completely swoon worthy and naturally charming while David is so very relatable and genuine, I couldn’t help but want them together. It wasn’t a sugar fest though, there was enough snark, dirty talk and stress to keep the book grounded with the two MC’s as well as the supporting cast. The scene is set for a series and it wouldn’t be one of those where half the “small” town just happens to be gay and they hop from one couple to the next. This ending is unique and calls on the skills of the group and would make complete sense as a series.
Annnnnd, I can’t wait, so I need Ms. Copland to heed the Call of the Unicorn and give Peach what she needs in more stories for the wonderful guys.
**a copy of this story was provided for an honest review**
September 24, 2021
I absolutely loved listening to this story!
I loved Michael Pauley's character voices, which felt spot on and not at all over the top. I loved his pacing, his timing, and the emotion he infuses into the dialogue and story.
I loved the HEA and really, really hope Diana Copland will continue this as a series.
This is absolutely going into my re-listen auto-rotation.
This just worked for me. The characters are all sharply written, the dialogue, the scenes, the sex, the side plots...everything was just absolutely lovely. I loved David and Jackson, and their relationship was such an organic build. It never felt too slow, and it just thoroughly entertained me from start to finish.
Absolutely recommended!
For my full review of the book, click here.
Audio copy of David, Renewed provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
September 25, 2016
This book! Oh, this book! How I loved everything about it. I'm going to speak out of both sides of my mouth, and I hope it will make sense. David, Renewed was so very, very soothing---like a candle-lit bubble bath with a side of chocolate and finished with a warm towel. I just felt happy and content reading this novel. I fear that will sound like it's boring. It isn't. Not at all. There is conflict, drama, multiple story arcs, multiple characters who are dynamic and complex. I consider it high praise that with all that going on, I still found it captivatingly soothing. A lesser author wouldn't have been able to pull off such a feat! Can't wait for book two!
December 17, 2017
3.75
I liked it, it was sweet, cute and fluffy.
I liked it, it was sweet, cute and fluffy.
September 26, 2016
Nice surprise! I loved both MCs something fierce. Actually, I loved the whole group of handymen...
October 28, 2016
Review originally posted at Sinfully.
This is a sweet romance about two men trying to make a fresh start and stumbling into love.
David has just left his cheating, abusive, long-term partner and has recently lost his farther, while Jackson has moved back home to be the caregiver for his mother who has been diagnosed with MS. David buys a house in his mother’s neighborhood and hires Jackson to do some repair and renovation work.
The two men get to know each other, easily finding conversation. David is an interior designer and Jackson has an appreciation for the historic architecture of the house so they find some common ground right away. David’s attraction grows with every interaction and Jackson appreciates David for who he is as he becomes his old self again. In hindsight David sees just how he changed to make his ex happy, always insecure about what Trevor ever saw in him.
The relationship moves at a believable pace. Each man is there for the other when they need support and the friendship is becoming solid as their attraction simmers. There is plenty of tension in the build-up to that first kiss. With everything going on in their lives it’s tough to find time alone, but their families and friends are willing to give them a helping hand. David’s assistant Michael is a sweetheart and the two have some great banter. Jackson and David’s mothers are sweet, but the rest of Jackson’s family leaves much to be desired.
There is some drama courtesy of David’s horrible ex and there is also an underlying sense of pervasive homophobia in the town that is highlighted by some acts of vandalism and the refusal of contractors and homeowners to work with gay men on renovation and construction jobs. We get to know these lovely men as David hires them to work at his house (I see a future story in Michael and Gil, a big bear of a painter).
While there is nothing here that I haven’t seen before, the story works so well that it was a delight to read. Nothing goes over the top and all the interactions between the characters were very down to earth and believable. The romance builds slowly and it’s a real treat when David and Jackson are finally able to spend some time alone. Seeing David get back the things he changed for Trevor from his wardrobe to his choice of food and furniture was very satisfying.
This is the first book I’ve read by Diana Copland and I found it well written and paced. The MC’s had good chemistry and the secondary characters all added to the story. Although I don’t see it mentioned, it appears that this story sets up the start of a series. There is a full love story here, but there are other minor plotlines that were unresolved and a cast of characters that seem primed to be with each other or find their happiness as well. I recommend this to anyone looking for a feel-good love story.
This is a sweet romance about two men trying to make a fresh start and stumbling into love.
David has just left his cheating, abusive, long-term partner and has recently lost his farther, while Jackson has moved back home to be the caregiver for his mother who has been diagnosed with MS. David buys a house in his mother’s neighborhood and hires Jackson to do some repair and renovation work.
The two men get to know each other, easily finding conversation. David is an interior designer and Jackson has an appreciation for the historic architecture of the house so they find some common ground right away. David’s attraction grows with every interaction and Jackson appreciates David for who he is as he becomes his old self again. In hindsight David sees just how he changed to make his ex happy, always insecure about what Trevor ever saw in him.
The relationship moves at a believable pace. Each man is there for the other when they need support and the friendship is becoming solid as their attraction simmers. There is plenty of tension in the build-up to that first kiss. With everything going on in their lives it’s tough to find time alone, but their families and friends are willing to give them a helping hand. David’s assistant Michael is a sweetheart and the two have some great banter. Jackson and David’s mothers are sweet, but the rest of Jackson’s family leaves much to be desired.
There is some drama courtesy of David’s horrible ex and there is also an underlying sense of pervasive homophobia in the town that is highlighted by some acts of vandalism and the refusal of contractors and homeowners to work with gay men on renovation and construction jobs. We get to know these lovely men as David hires them to work at his house (I see a future story in Michael and Gil, a big bear of a painter).
While there is nothing here that I haven’t seen before, the story works so well that it was a delight to read. Nothing goes over the top and all the interactions between the characters were very down to earth and believable. The romance builds slowly and it’s a real treat when David and Jackson are finally able to spend some time alone. Seeing David get back the things he changed for Trevor from his wardrobe to his choice of food and furniture was very satisfying.
This is the first book I’ve read by Diana Copland and I found it well written and paced. The MC’s had good chemistry and the secondary characters all added to the story. Although I don’t see it mentioned, it appears that this story sets up the start of a series. There is a full love story here, but there are other minor plotlines that were unresolved and a cast of characters that seem primed to be with each other or find their happiness as well. I recommend this to anyone looking for a feel-good love story.
October 20, 2016
Definition:
‘nice’, adjective:
1. pleasing, agreeable, delightful
2. amiably pleasant, kind
3. charming, gentle, fair
Three explanations for the word that totally fit this book. It was ‘nice’. The MCs are ‘nice’. The way they act around each other is ‘nice’. And I really enjoyed it because it made me smile and put a ‘nice’ warm feeling all around my insides.
I particularly liked all the cute banter and the friendship between all the guys, loved the way they helped and supported each other.
David and Jackson's relationship develops at a ‘normal’ rate. They fancy each other, they kiss, they make out and finally (after some 'annoying' interruptions) they go for the full monty. It felt very much ‘normal’ and ‘everyday’. Yes, there are some minor hick-ups on the way to their HEA (nothing I would define as ‘angst’ although David might disagree). Tbh, I’m not sure I really bought the whole drama with Travis. But it was fine and didn’t really rub me up the wrong way.
Oh, and having another character called Trevor really frazzled my old brain for a couple of seconds *g*
It was ‘nice’ to read about two good guys finding each other, and changing their lives. And of course there are corgis. XD.
A lovely, fluffy, light read to soothe your nerves and make you feel better.
Recommended.
‘nice’, adjective:
1. pleasing, agreeable, delightful
2. amiably pleasant, kind
3. charming, gentle, fair
Three explanations for the word that totally fit this book. It was ‘nice’. The MCs are ‘nice’. The way they act around each other is ‘nice’. And I really enjoyed it because it made me smile and put a ‘nice’ warm feeling all around my insides.
I particularly liked all the cute banter and the friendship between all the guys, loved the way they helped and supported each other.
David and Jackson's relationship develops at a ‘normal’ rate. They fancy each other, they kiss, they make out and finally (after some 'annoying' interruptions) they go for the full monty. It felt very much ‘normal’ and ‘everyday’. Yes, there are some minor hick-ups on the way to their HEA (nothing I would define as ‘angst’ although David might disagree). Tbh, I’m not sure I really bought the whole drama with Travis. But it was fine and didn’t really rub me up the wrong way.
Oh, and having another character called Trevor really frazzled my old brain for a couple of seconds *g*
It was ‘nice’ to read about two good guys finding each other, and changing their lives. And of course there are corgis. XD.
A lovely, fluffy, light read to soothe your nerves and make you feel better.
Recommended.
August 20, 2022
~ 4.5 stars ~
That was a sweet, lovely, and funny story that had me smiling a lot although there were times when I got sad and angry as well. Great MCs, wonderful family and friends, cute dogs, and a delicious slow burn between the MCs.
If the author decides to give the other guys their HEA as well, I will definitely read it!
That was a sweet, lovely, and funny story that had me smiling a lot although there were times when I got sad and angry as well. Great MCs, wonderful family and friends, cute dogs, and a delicious slow burn between the MCs.
If the author decides to give the other guys their HEA as well, I will definitely read it!
April 3, 2017
This was just what I was looking for, thanks to whoever recced it! Not a bitchy female in sight. Yes, the ex boyfriend was a jerk, and he went just a tad too far in his crazy, but I really enjoyed this one. New to me author, will definitely be reading more.
Editing to add late night thoughts that I forgot to put in here the first time:
I loved that this book was slow burn. All too often, especially in M/M, the guys hook up first, then ask questions later. That didn't happen here. The guys got to know each other as client/handyman first, and then as friends who were there for each other, and then finally as lovers. So refreshing and sweet!
And finally, Trevor. At the beginning of the book, it's said that David was close to proposing to Trevor. He had a ring on hold, and everything. My big question is, why? It's not like David was a decent boyfriend who got caught cheating, and then turned into a jerk about it. This guy was a piece of work all along, apparently. He put down everything about David, from the way he looked, the way he dressed, how "gay" he acted, he had a temper, he apparently didn't pay his share of the bills. So why on earth would David be thinking of proposing? Trevor was awful! There's no WAY I'd even consider tying myself to someone like him permanently.
But still, all in all, I really enjoyed this book!
Editing to add late night thoughts that I forgot to put in here the first time:
I loved that this book was slow burn. All too often, especially in M/M, the guys hook up first, then ask questions later. That didn't happen here. The guys got to know each other as client/handyman first, and then as friends who were there for each other, and then finally as lovers. So refreshing and sweet!
And finally, Trevor. At the beginning of the book, it's said that David was close to proposing to Trevor. He had a ring on hold, and everything. My big question is, why? It's not like David was a decent boyfriend who got caught cheating, and then turned into a jerk about it. This guy was a piece of work all along, apparently. He put down everything about David, from the way he looked, the way he dressed, how "gay" he acted, he had a temper, he apparently didn't pay his share of the bills. So why on earth would David be thinking of proposing? Trevor was awful! There's no WAY I'd even consider tying myself to someone like him permanently.
But still, all in all, I really enjoyed this book!
September 21, 2016
3.5 stars
I loved Diana Copland’s previous books – after being on hiatus for the last couple of years, I was happy when I saw that she had a new book coming. For the most part, I really liked it. However, there were also too many things that diminished my good mood and disrupted my enjoying this book in its entirety.
Let’s see with what I liked best…
The romance between David and Jackson worked well for me. Despite the instant sexual attraction coming from David – he couldn’t help ogling Jackson’s gorgeous body (and ass) when he first saw the handyman – but the actual relationship itself moved at a rather slow-just-right pace. David was still handling the trouble that his cheating-ex was giving him regarding their property and Jackson also juggling with responsibility of taking care of his sick mother.
So there were no instant burning sheets here. It took time for David and Jackson to even have their first kiss, despite the sexual tension the two were throwing in each other’s paths. There were dates and learning about each other’s lives that made me pretty happy that both men didn’t just jump into sexual intercourse right away.
We also had a very good potential of a series because as David and Jackson grew closer, both men also seemed to gather their friends into their inner circle. So we had a group of single gay men with potential love stories to tell. Yes, I couldn’t help but think there MUST BE follow-up to this because I wanted them to get their happy endings as well. It will be too cruel if not. *pout*
Unfortunately, like I said before, there were other things that I disliked. First, the blatant stereotyping that “Republicans are bad and homophobic”. I was quite annoyed with it. I mean, really? Can’t we rise above that kind of behavior? I don’t think that all Republicans are bad. Just like I don’t think all non-Muslims are evil (I'm a Muslim, by the way).
A lot of times I hear about the need for diversity in romance – so why not have it also include different political views? I am sure there are a lot of good, polite, not-homophobic Republicans out there. This felt like a personal political view from the author and I didn’t like it.
Then, what was with all of the other people outside of our gay men group – save for David and Jackson’s mothers, David’s sister, and Jackson’s sister in law – that are portrayed very negatively? The siblings were assholes, who seemed to only want reputation or money. Then we had a seriously bad case of ex-es: David’s and Manny’s (one of Jackson’s friend). It was too much drama for my personal taste.
I prefer my romance to be quite balanced when introducing bad seeds of the world. I didn’t like how Copland wrote those ‘villains’ here, and it smeared the good feel I had about the main romantic relationship. It was still a good read but not my favorite of hers.
Trigger warning: Mention of domestic violence for secondary character
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
I loved Diana Copland’s previous books – after being on hiatus for the last couple of years, I was happy when I saw that she had a new book coming. For the most part, I really liked it. However, there were also too many things that diminished my good mood and disrupted my enjoying this book in its entirety.
Let’s see with what I liked best…
The romance between David and Jackson worked well for me. Despite the instant sexual attraction coming from David – he couldn’t help ogling Jackson’s gorgeous body (and ass) when he first saw the handyman – but the actual relationship itself moved at a rather slow-just-right pace. David was still handling the trouble that his cheating-ex was giving him regarding their property and Jackson also juggling with responsibility of taking care of his sick mother.
So there were no instant burning sheets here. It took time for David and Jackson to even have their first kiss, despite the sexual tension the two were throwing in each other’s paths. There were dates and learning about each other’s lives that made me pretty happy that both men didn’t just jump into sexual intercourse right away.
We also had a very good potential of a series because as David and Jackson grew closer, both men also seemed to gather their friends into their inner circle. So we had a group of single gay men with potential love stories to tell. Yes, I couldn’t help but think there MUST BE follow-up to this because I wanted them to get their happy endings as well. It will be too cruel if not. *pout*
Unfortunately, like I said before, there were other things that I disliked. First, the blatant stereotyping that “Republicans are bad and homophobic”. I was quite annoyed with it. I mean, really? Can’t we rise above that kind of behavior? I don’t think that all Republicans are bad. Just like I don’t think all non-Muslims are evil (I'm a Muslim, by the way).
A lot of times I hear about the need for diversity in romance – so why not have it also include different political views? I am sure there are a lot of good, polite, not-homophobic Republicans out there. This felt like a personal political view from the author and I didn’t like it.
Then, what was with all of the other people outside of our gay men group – save for David and Jackson’s mothers, David’s sister, and Jackson’s sister in law – that are portrayed very negatively? The siblings were assholes, who seemed to only want reputation or money. Then we had a seriously bad case of ex-es: David’s and Manny’s (one of Jackson’s friend). It was too much drama for my personal taste.
I prefer my romance to be quite balanced when introducing bad seeds of the world. I didn’t like how Copland wrote those ‘villains’ here, and it smeared the good feel I had about the main romantic relationship. It was still a good read but not my favorite of hers.
Trigger warning: Mention of domestic violence for secondary character
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
October 4, 2016
A hug in a book. Really sweet and just comforting to read. Felt Autumnal. For me all the characters were extremely likable and it just was all so lovely. It moves slow but also the relationship development is kind of fast and it's got pretty much a little bit of everything. I'm away on my hollibops at the end of the week and I'm annoyed I didn't save this for then. It's perfect 'by the pool' reading but works equally as well as a 'Sunday in PJ's' read as well.
Oh and beware, this book contains a FIERCE wild animal!!
My thanks to Susan for the recommendation. I've been having a bit of a slump of late and have been mostly sticking to rereads. I feel reinvigorated!!
December 19, 2016
This was definitely a lovely surprise. Slow building authentic and believable romance, decent plot and great characters. This book gave me butterflies....just watching David and Jackson's progression. Just a few little niggles....I would've liked Jackson's pov and would've definitely LOVED more steam especially since David is a needy bottom...my favorite!!
Heartwarming and lovely story. Very much recommended.
Heartwarming and lovely story. Very much recommended.
November 5, 2016
4.5 stars for this adorable and sweet read. I really enjoyed the pace, the low angst ( even though Trevor was a massive dick ) and the beautiful chemistry between Jackson & David ... this one just made me smile
September 6, 2016
3.5 stars
It was written well but it was close to insta-love and the plot wasn't anything I haven't read a million times before. Not bad by any means just kind of meh.
It was written well but it was close to insta-love and the plot wasn't anything I haven't read a million times before. Not bad by any means just kind of meh.
September 24, 2016
4.5 Stars
Loved it, and the potential for this series...yep, fricking good!!
Loved it, and the potential for this series...yep, fricking good!!
April 11, 2017
4 Stars
Finally breaking away from his scumbag boyfriend of five (how-the-hell-did-it-last-that-long) years, David throws caution to the wind and invests his savings into a fixer upper in his childhood neighborhood, close to his recently widowed mother.
Soon upon moving in, David realises the house needs a hell of a lot more work done to it than expected. So, as suggested by his mother, David hires local handyman, Jackson, to work his jack-of-all-trades magic on his new home.
Jackson is skilled and fair, working tirelessly to help David restore his once classic home to its rightful glory. It doesn’t hurt that Jackson is also as gorgeous as all get out, leaving David flustered and breathless at every turn.
As the weeks go by, David finds himself growing more enamored with Jackson, especially once he experiences first hand Jackson’s friendship and kindness, and witnesses Jackson’s loyalty to his friends and the unwavering care and support he provides his own sick mother.
The man seems damn near perfect, but is David ready to fall for someone so soon after breaking up with his last boyfriend? A boyfriend that keeps coming back to bite David in the ass (figuratively speaking) at every inconvenient, enraging and slightly fearful turn…
This was a beautifully written story, featuring a perfectly paced slow-burn romance between two cautious but hopeful men, completed with an impressive cast of likeable characters that filled each page with good humour and affection.
This was my first read by Copland and it won’t be my last. I hope to whatever higher power there is out there that this story is merely one in a greater series to come, because this cast of characters is just too good not to explore further.
Finally breaking away from his scumbag boyfriend of five (how-the-hell-did-it-last-that-long) years, David throws caution to the wind and invests his savings into a fixer upper in his childhood neighborhood, close to his recently widowed mother.
Soon upon moving in, David realises the house needs a hell of a lot more work done to it than expected. So, as suggested by his mother, David hires local handyman, Jackson, to work his jack-of-all-trades magic on his new home.
Jackson is skilled and fair, working tirelessly to help David restore his once classic home to its rightful glory. It doesn’t hurt that Jackson is also as gorgeous as all get out, leaving David flustered and breathless at every turn.
As the weeks go by, David finds himself growing more enamored with Jackson, especially once he experiences first hand Jackson’s friendship and kindness, and witnesses Jackson’s loyalty to his friends and the unwavering care and support he provides his own sick mother.
The man seems damn near perfect, but is David ready to fall for someone so soon after breaking up with his last boyfriend? A boyfriend that keeps coming back to bite David in the ass (figuratively speaking) at every inconvenient, enraging and slightly fearful turn…
This was a beautifully written story, featuring a perfectly paced slow-burn romance between two cautious but hopeful men, completed with an impressive cast of likeable characters that filled each page with good humour and affection.
This was my first read by Copland and it won’t be my last. I hope to whatever higher power there is out there that this story is merely one in a greater series to come, because this cast of characters is just too good not to explore further.
October 14, 2016
First time with this author, it’s sweet but not sugary, it’s full of romance, great friendship and families, with a bit of drama but not going into the OTT zone, and there’s plenty of secondary characters to make it a potential series : what’s not to love.
David just walked out of his cheating and demeaning boyfriend and, on a spur of the moment, buys a house. But he’s no housing expert and fast realizes some repairs are necessary. That’s when Jackson, a very sexy handyman, comes into play. Yes, hello fantasies…They are all there, except that it becomes more than just fantasies for our lucky hero.
Everything falls into place nicely, but not without a few bumps on the road , at a steady pace and our very likable heroes are accompanied in this sweet journey by great friends and nice families.
And there is a lot of sexual tension : no "holly hotness", but a good level of steam.
This is exactly what I consider a great comfort read that I thoroughly enjoyed and left me with lots of warm feelings.
Recommended.
David just walked out of his cheating and demeaning boyfriend and, on a spur of the moment, buys a house. But he’s no housing expert and fast realizes some repairs are necessary. That’s when Jackson, a very sexy handyman, comes into play. Yes, hello fantasies…They are all there, except that it becomes more than just fantasies for our lucky hero.
Everything falls into place nicely, but not without a few bumps on the road , at a steady pace and our very likable heroes are accompanied in this sweet journey by great friends and nice families.
And there is a lot of sexual tension : no "holly hotness", but a good level of steam.
This is exactly what I consider a great comfort read that I thoroughly enjoyed and left me with lots of warm feelings.
Recommended.
May 16, 2017
En realidad redondeo a cuatro porque me ha gustado el estilo de la autora, pero debo decir que si bien el primer 50% es genialoso, la segunda parte pierde mucho fuelle. Admito que hay varias cosas que detesto y que han chafado mi percepción de la novela: que todos sean tan perfectos y que los problemas de David se resuelvan como si de magia se tratase y para rematar, está claro que está novela dará paso a una segunda ( y me imagino que más) y a mi en lo personal el tema de que los personajes parezcan vivir en una burbuja en la que todos son gais me aburre cantidad, qué queréis que os diga, yo tengo amigos de todas las clases, incluso gais(sarcasmo), no capto la necesidad de insular a la pareja y a su grupo de amigos.
Por cierto mi voto para el próximo es Michael&Gil
Por cierto mi voto para el próximo es Michael&Gil
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