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Not So #2
Not So Nice
"I do not have feelings for Damon Price."
JOSH
Not the kind he wants me to, anyway. Just because I agreed to stick around for now doesn't mean I'm interested in more than just a good time. This is still purely physical, no matter what he thinks.
Yeah, I like how possessive he is. But I'd rather break his rules than follow them. And I like how demanding he is. But only when it comes to the bedroom. If he expects things to be different now, just because I maybe, sort of like him a little, he doesn't get me as well as he claims to.
I know exactly what I need my life to be like to keep from going off the deep end. I need to be in charge. I need to be in control. Even when I'm on my knees. Maybe I had a moment of weakness and let things get personal. Maybe it even felt good. But I never wanted that before, and I'm not going to let him change me. don't do boyfriends. I don't date. And I sure as hell don't sleep over. I'd like to see him try and make me.
"I do not have feelings for Josh Holloway."
DAMON
I shouldn't, anyway. Not if I had any self respect. But apparently, when it comes to him, there's a lot more I want than just a good time. Even if I'm not sure why.
Yeah, I like how obnoxious he is. Even if it makes me want to smack him. And I like how he's up for anything, anytime, anywhere. As long as we're naked. But if he thinks I'm going to let him keep me at arm's length much longer, he's sorely mistaken.
My last couple years have been hell. When I wasn't barely hanging on, I was too numb to feel a damn thing. But now suddenly a kinky, mouthy brat practically falls into my lap, and I feel everything. Things I don't know how to feel, and yeah, I'm a mess. But, I am not going back to being miserable.
I don't do boyfriends. I don't date. I sure as hell don't beg guys to spend the night. Until now. I'm going to make him mine and make him love it. I'd like to see him try and stop me.
In the second book in the Not So series, Josh and Damon struggle to find a way to peel away some of the layers between them while still keeping their walls up and their hearts safe. Figuring out what they want from each other is almost as hard as figuring out what they need from themselves.
This 110,00 word romance features two damaged college guys who absolutely, positively are not boyfriends, a date that is not a date, some accidental kink discovery no one's quite ready to talk about, belts, bookstores, brownies, and a heavy dose of angst as they both do their best to try and gut it out through holidays they'd really rather ignore without falling apart and needing each other. And, of course. So. Much. Spanking.
**This book is NOT a standalone and this series must be read in order. Not So Nice is a direct sequel and picks up immediately where Not So Smart ends. Not So Nice ends on a soft cliffhanger. Josh and Damon's story will continue in Not So Bad.
JOSH
Not the kind he wants me to, anyway. Just because I agreed to stick around for now doesn't mean I'm interested in more than just a good time. This is still purely physical, no matter what he thinks.
Yeah, I like how possessive he is. But I'd rather break his rules than follow them. And I like how demanding he is. But only when it comes to the bedroom. If he expects things to be different now, just because I maybe, sort of like him a little, he doesn't get me as well as he claims to.
I know exactly what I need my life to be like to keep from going off the deep end. I need to be in charge. I need to be in control. Even when I'm on my knees. Maybe I had a moment of weakness and let things get personal. Maybe it even felt good. But I never wanted that before, and I'm not going to let him change me. don't do boyfriends. I don't date. And I sure as hell don't sleep over. I'd like to see him try and make me.
"I do not have feelings for Josh Holloway."
DAMON
I shouldn't, anyway. Not if I had any self respect. But apparently, when it comes to him, there's a lot more I want than just a good time. Even if I'm not sure why.
Yeah, I like how obnoxious he is. Even if it makes me want to smack him. And I like how he's up for anything, anytime, anywhere. As long as we're naked. But if he thinks I'm going to let him keep me at arm's length much longer, he's sorely mistaken.
My last couple years have been hell. When I wasn't barely hanging on, I was too numb to feel a damn thing. But now suddenly a kinky, mouthy brat practically falls into my lap, and I feel everything. Things I don't know how to feel, and yeah, I'm a mess. But, I am not going back to being miserable.
I don't do boyfriends. I don't date. I sure as hell don't beg guys to spend the night. Until now. I'm going to make him mine and make him love it. I'd like to see him try and stop me.
In the second book in the Not So series, Josh and Damon struggle to find a way to peel away some of the layers between them while still keeping their walls up and their hearts safe. Figuring out what they want from each other is almost as hard as figuring out what they need from themselves.
This 110,00 word romance features two damaged college guys who absolutely, positively are not boyfriends, a date that is not a date, some accidental kink discovery no one's quite ready to talk about, belts, bookstores, brownies, and a heavy dose of angst as they both do their best to try and gut it out through holidays they'd really rather ignore without falling apart and needing each other. And, of course. So. Much. Spanking.
**This book is NOT a standalone and this series must be read in order. Not So Nice is a direct sequel and picks up immediately where Not So Smart ends. Not So Nice ends on a soft cliffhanger. Josh and Damon's story will continue in Not So Bad.
395 pages, ebook
First published December 26, 2018
69 people are currently reading
185 people want to read
About the author
Misha Horne
39 books598 followersMisha Horne (they/them) is a queer kinky author of queer, kinky, character-driven romance. Expect lots of steam, snark, and spanking.
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dnf
December 31, 2018DNF @ 5% and returned for a refund.
I'm sure this seems too early to throw in the towel, particularly when I gave the first book 4 stars. But I'm strongly suspecting that the one who brought the magic to Book 1 was co-author AJ Sisko -- or at least that the writing duo was greater than the sum of its parts. Because while I haven't read solo work by Sisko, I have by Horne. Or tried to -- Working Out the Kinks was a DNF for me because it degenerated into a mind-numbingly boring snoozefest of the MC's mental wheel-spinning and repetitively angsty thoughts.
Dejà vu. So far this book is page after page after page after page of one character's ruminations and brooding and navel-gazing and NOTHING IS HAPPENING. My reading buddy is at 34% and tells me it's still the same thing, with no forward progress. I hate that shit. Here's something I said in my review of the first book, explaining why I loved it:
Well, the pity party is in full swing in this book. In fact, the wallowing IS the story. Forget that. I'm not sticking around to have the same experience I did with Working Out the Kinks. I'm returning this for a refund while the window is still open.
I'm sure this seems too early to throw in the towel, particularly when I gave the first book 4 stars. But I'm strongly suspecting that the one who brought the magic to Book 1 was co-author AJ Sisko -- or at least that the writing duo was greater than the sum of its parts. Because while I haven't read solo work by Sisko, I have by Horne. Or tried to -- Working Out the Kinks was a DNF for me because it degenerated into a mind-numbingly boring snoozefest of the MC's mental wheel-spinning and repetitively angsty thoughts.
Dejà vu. So far this book is page after page after page after page of one character's ruminations and brooding and navel-gazing and NOTHING IS HAPPENING. My reading buddy is at 34% and tells me it's still the same thing, with no forward progress. I hate that shit. Here's something I said in my review of the first book, explaining why I loved it:
they don't wallow in angst or drama or self-pity
Well, the pity party is in full swing in this book. In fact, the wallowing IS the story. Forget that. I'm not sticking around to have the same experience I did with Working Out the Kinks. I'm returning this for a refund while the window is still open.
December 24, 2023
I’m not a superstitious person. But if I end up with an epidemic of DNFs this year, I might have brought it on myself by not calling a flatline on this one yesterday. I mean, I knew it was coming.
The first volume of this series was scorching hot. I was so impressed with the chemistry that was created between these two guys. The authors injected some depth and gave us a few glimpses at the story behind the curtain. I couldn’t wait to get my hands on this next installment.
The first several pages, I was hopeful. Damon’s inner monologue was witty, and yes angsty, but I felt like I’d seen enough of him in book 1 to know that the angst would be held in check.
Boy, that feeling couldn't have been more dead wrong.
The entirety of the first 34% of the book (Damon’s POV) was a repetition of this general idea: “How can I be having feelings for this guy, I don’t do feelings, what the hell is this.” If you can imagine every possible way that sentiment could be expressed, then you’ve read the first third of this book, congratulations.
By this point I knew there was very little chance of the book redeeming itself, but I wanted to read a little of Josh’s POV to see if the tone would change.
Since I’m here with a DNF @36%, do I really need a diagram to show how well that went?
The first volume of this series was scorching hot. I was so impressed with the chemistry that was created between these two guys. The authors injected some depth and gave us a few glimpses at the story behind the curtain. I couldn’t wait to get my hands on this next installment.
The first several pages, I was hopeful. Damon’s inner monologue was witty, and yes angsty, but I felt like I’d seen enough of him in book 1 to know that the angst would be held in check.
Boy, that feeling couldn't have been more dead wrong.
The entirety of the first 34% of the book (Damon’s POV) was a repetition of this general idea: “How can I be having feelings for this guy, I don’t do feelings, what the hell is this.” If you can imagine every possible way that sentiment could be expressed, then you’ve read the first third of this book, congratulations.
By this point I knew there was very little chance of the book redeeming itself, but I wanted to read a little of Josh’s POV to see if the tone would change.
Since I’m here with a DNF @36%, do I really need a diagram to show how well that went?
July 6, 2022
Ffs, this book was way too long and so goddamn exhausting
Also, fuck my luck. I can't believe book 3 doesn't exist 😶
Also, fuck my luck. I can't believe book 3 doesn't exist 😶
October 6, 2025
Ms. Horne, The Queen of Spank, never disappoints - and this one was no exception!
May 4, 2019
I was really looking forward to this continuation, though I wasn’t sure quite what to expect as this installment is not co-written as was the first. My apprehension was unfounded, however, and even though it has been a while since I read the previous book, it didn’t take long for me to get right back into the flow of things. This picks up right where Not So Smart left off with Josh ghosting out on Damon after another fulfilling encounter.
You should really read the first book, but basically, Josh ended up getting what he was looking for from Damon, was adamant that was all he wanted – in no uncertain terms did he want any kind of actual relationship and Damon realizing he wasn’t content with not seeing Josh again when they clearly fit together with their respective kinks/needs. Even though he doesn’t understand it himself, he finds himself wanting to spend more time with Josh, who fights but gives in, but then fights, etc.
So, these guys have issues, as we learned early on. Here, we learn a little bit more about them, but it felt like we only brushed the surface of each. Josh has a lot of issues from his family that have caused, and continue to cause, severe anxiety. I think his “kink” is a product of the issues, but the same issues prevent him from understanding his needs, and end up causing more anxiety. Damon seems to mainly be dealing with some heavy grief. We still don’t know the full extent of either though.
I also found it a little frustrating that the back/forth fighting himself and Damon that Josh spends most of the story doing. Some of that is due to his underlying anxiety issues, among others, and I so badly wanted for them to have a communication breakthrough. Alas, it didn’t come to fruition by the end of this book. They do seem to have made some slight forward progress, and I was left wanting to jump right into the next book to see these guys make it. They are clearly exactly what each other needs, and I’m rooting for them all the way.
Review written for Love Bytes Reviews.
August 18, 2019
Loved this mm contemporary story. A continuation from book 1 and must be read in order. Both Damon and Josh are complex characters and suck you right into their world. Can’t wait for the last book No So Bad.
December 28, 2018
Even better than the first!
I loved Not So Smart, so I was ALL OVER the sequel as soon as it came out. And boy howdy, I was not disappointed.
One of the things I loved about the first one was how conflicted and stubborn these two guys are, and it continues, only MORE so. We get glimpses into why they’re each so effed up, and my heart kinda broke for them. In fact, I actually cried a couple of times, especially Damon trying to deal with what’s hanging over him.
But this is Misha Horne, so in addition to compelling characters, we get lots of spankings, lots of hot-and-heavy (and usually rough and sometimes public) encounters, and basically enough hotness to explode your Kindle. And I loved every bit.
There’s going to be a third one, so everything isn’t completely resolved in this one, but things are definitely heading in a happier direction for our stubborn heroes.
I loved Not So Smart, so I was ALL OVER the sequel as soon as it came out. And boy howdy, I was not disappointed.
One of the things I loved about the first one was how conflicted and stubborn these two guys are, and it continues, only MORE so. We get glimpses into why they’re each so effed up, and my heart kinda broke for them. In fact, I actually cried a couple of times, especially Damon trying to deal with what’s hanging over him.
But this is Misha Horne, so in addition to compelling characters, we get lots of spankings, lots of hot-and-heavy (and usually rough and sometimes public) encounters, and basically enough hotness to explode your Kindle. And I loved every bit.
There’s going to be a third one, so everything isn’t completely resolved in this one, but things are definitely heading in a happier direction for our stubborn heroes.
March 16, 2019
Not So Smart was unexpected. It was supposed to be a little porn without plot to cleanse the palate between real books. And then out of nowhere in between all the kinky rough sex and spanking, there were real characters that packed an emotional punch and an actual smidgen of story. I was shocked that I was hooked, but the characters were just…raw…they reeled me in, and I had to read the next installment. Not So Nice was even more surprising in that it is more plot than porn. Of course, the kinky rough sex and spanking is still there. It’s pivotal to the story and these characters; but the bulk of the story is character development and relationship building.
NSN picks up immediately where NSS left off; Damon has brought Josh home for a hook up that was more than a hook up and convinced him to grudgingly agree to try “not being boyfriends”. Josh naturally freaked out and ghosted Damon in the middle of the night, because Josh is totally out of his depth. He doesn’t do relationships. Hell, Josh doesn’t even do people. “I don’t exactly do communication. I wasn’t good at talking, unless I was in class, where I knew all the answers. Or arguing, when I knew everyone else was wrong. I had zero skills in the casual conversation department. Or casual anything, really. I didn’t know how to make friends, had no idea how other people shared words and emotions.’’
Josh is more than a kinky little “pain slut”; he’s definitely a bit on the spectrum and his anxiety is of the variety that begs to be medicated (and unfortunately isn’t). His Mom left when he was a kid and his Dad tried; but right from “Eight-year old’s don’t get stressed out Josh, just relax”; his Dad’s efforts to help him grow into a “functional adult” were spectacularly unhelpful. Maybe because Damon has his own issues, he was more understanding of Josh’s. More likely it was the intensity of their connection that seemed to have a life of its own. Damon however does have his own issues. He has a touch of OCD, but more significantly he’s nurturing an impressive case of pathological grief. He was very close to his Mom who passed away 2 years ago and he is just…not getting over it. Not coping in a healthy adult way. He won’t speak to his father because he “packed his mom’s stuff away and sold his childhood home out from under him”. Until Josh, it seems he kind of stopped putting any effort into living. “’I’m not ready to start fixing myself. I don’t even think I’m done breaking yet."
Watching these 2 guys try to negotiate a relationship with the multitude of issues that exists on both sides, is a bit – like my Dad used to say – like watching a monkey fuck a football. The game they find themselves caught up in is just as much (if not more) emotional than it is sexual. Damon is desperate for connection, and Josh (while he wants it just as much) is terrified of it: “You know what I want. I want *you*. All of you. Not just this little bullshit corner while you hold back the rest. I *know* you’re fucked up. I *get* it. Like knows like, kid. And I *do not care*. Just crack the case a little for me, huh? I fucking need it”. As for Josh, he’s struggling with learning that he wants more and different than he ever thought he did, both emotionally and sexually – and it’s rocking his world. All he ever wanted was violence, pain and humiliation and now, “He’d broken me somehow. Mixed a gentleness in with my dark desires, tainting everything”.
While there is definite relationship development, the boys have a long way to go for their happily ever after. Good thing the Not So Nice series is going to be a trilogy. 5 stars for well developed characters, an intense emotional connection, some witty dialogue, some pretty hot kink and an interracial couple that have some genuinely sweet moments. My one complaint is that in instances I felt the internal monologues were getting a bit lengthy; but then it’s a catch 22 because their characters are so complicated it does help to hear their “voice”. Still 5 stars, bring on the next book!
NSN picks up immediately where NSS left off; Damon has brought Josh home for a hook up that was more than a hook up and convinced him to grudgingly agree to try “not being boyfriends”. Josh naturally freaked out and ghosted Damon in the middle of the night, because Josh is totally out of his depth. He doesn’t do relationships. Hell, Josh doesn’t even do people. “I don’t exactly do communication. I wasn’t good at talking, unless I was in class, where I knew all the answers. Or arguing, when I knew everyone else was wrong. I had zero skills in the casual conversation department. Or casual anything, really. I didn’t know how to make friends, had no idea how other people shared words and emotions.’’
Josh is more than a kinky little “pain slut”; he’s definitely a bit on the spectrum and his anxiety is of the variety that begs to be medicated (and unfortunately isn’t). His Mom left when he was a kid and his Dad tried; but right from “Eight-year old’s don’t get stressed out Josh, just relax”; his Dad’s efforts to help him grow into a “functional adult” were spectacularly unhelpful. Maybe because Damon has his own issues, he was more understanding of Josh’s. More likely it was the intensity of their connection that seemed to have a life of its own. Damon however does have his own issues. He has a touch of OCD, but more significantly he’s nurturing an impressive case of pathological grief. He was very close to his Mom who passed away 2 years ago and he is just…not getting over it. Not coping in a healthy adult way. He won’t speak to his father because he “packed his mom’s stuff away and sold his childhood home out from under him”. Until Josh, it seems he kind of stopped putting any effort into living. “’I’m not ready to start fixing myself. I don’t even think I’m done breaking yet."
Watching these 2 guys try to negotiate a relationship with the multitude of issues that exists on both sides, is a bit – like my Dad used to say – like watching a monkey fuck a football. The game they find themselves caught up in is just as much (if not more) emotional than it is sexual. Damon is desperate for connection, and Josh (while he wants it just as much) is terrified of it: “You know what I want. I want *you*. All of you. Not just this little bullshit corner while you hold back the rest. I *know* you’re fucked up. I *get* it. Like knows like, kid. And I *do not care*. Just crack the case a little for me, huh? I fucking need it”. As for Josh, he’s struggling with learning that he wants more and different than he ever thought he did, both emotionally and sexually – and it’s rocking his world. All he ever wanted was violence, pain and humiliation and now, “He’d broken me somehow. Mixed a gentleness in with my dark desires, tainting everything”.
While there is definite relationship development, the boys have a long way to go for their happily ever after. Good thing the Not So Nice series is going to be a trilogy. 5 stars for well developed characters, an intense emotional connection, some witty dialogue, some pretty hot kink and an interracial couple that have some genuinely sweet moments. My one complaint is that in instances I felt the internal monologues were getting a bit lengthy; but then it’s a catch 22 because their characters are so complicated it does help to hear their “voice”. Still 5 stars, bring on the next book!
September 9, 2020
This is definitely not a stand-alone book. In fact, I would recommend reading the first book Not So Smart and then leaving it at that. Where to start with this book...well, so much of it takes place in their head. With the point of view changing every few chapters from Josh to Damon then back again, we get countless chapters of their thoughts. Just when you think you can't possibly read anymore of what Josh is thinking and worrying about, then the POV changes to Damon and we get countless more chapters of what he's thinking and feeling. Too much.
The story also stops being fun. Josh seriously needs counseling. He has major anxiety issues, panic attacks and low self-esteem. He is constantly beating himself up about how strange and freaky he is. He doesn't know how anyone could possibly love him or care for him, so if Damon tries to do or say anything nice to Josh, Josh flips out. Then on top of all that, his father just feeds into all Josh's personal and emotional issues. What an asshole.
Damon is a little better, but he could use some counseling also. He is still struggling with his mother's death and has his own issues with his father and brother. I was anxious to get to the end of this story because I thought this was it, the end of their saga, and maybe they could eek out some kind of HFN. I was dismayed to read that their story concludes in Not So Bad (which looks like it hasn't come out yet). I will probably read that, but I can't say I'm really looking forward to it.
The story also stops being fun. Josh seriously needs counseling. He has major anxiety issues, panic attacks and low self-esteem. He is constantly beating himself up about how strange and freaky he is. He doesn't know how anyone could possibly love him or care for him, so if Damon tries to do or say anything nice to Josh, Josh flips out. Then on top of all that, his father just feeds into all Josh's personal and emotional issues. What an asshole.
Damon is a little better, but he could use some counseling also. He is still struggling with his mother's death and has his own issues with his father and brother. I was anxious to get to the end of this story because I thought this was it, the end of their saga, and maybe they could eek out some kind of HFN. I was dismayed to read that their story concludes in Not So Bad (which looks like it hasn't come out yet). I will probably read that, but I can't say I'm really looking forward to it.
January 1, 2019
DNF @31%
I did a re-read of the 1st book to refresh my memory & I was looking forward to seeing this story play out.
I started skimming through Not so Nice pretty early on 😔 for me there was just too much resistance between the two characters & it was clearly not going to get better anytime soon. The fact I had this book on the go for 5days says it all.
I did a re-read of the 1st book to refresh my memory & I was looking forward to seeing this story play out.
I started skimming through Not so Nice pretty early on 😔 for me there was just too much resistance between the two characters & it was clearly not going to get better anytime soon. The fact I had this book on the go for 5days says it all.
November 8, 2019
Re-read this and I'm even more annoyed now that Damon didn't pull back at least once and let Josh come to him. The day after Thanksgiving break doesn't count. The constant acquiescence/lowkey begging/ordering Josh to comply, all while claiming he (Damon) was the one setting the rules was a bit sad and off-putting. I skimmed a bit this time, and I didn't love the ending as much, as it didn't feel as great a payoff for all the crap Damon had to endure the rest of the book. I totally get that it was hard for Josh. I just feel like Damon should have had some dignity and made Josh work a bit harder. It would have given the book more balance. Even denying him some orgasms for more than 10mins or leaving him unfinished as punishment would have tipped things in his favor. As it is, Josh better bring his A-game in book 3 or I'll be rooting for a new boo for Damon, even if it's just till Josh comes to his damn senses. Back to my original 2.75ish
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I saw that this book came out the day after Christmas, but I waited another day to read it because I had no ice cream or cake in the house, and reading this without dessert would be criminal. I got home, set myself up properly and dove in. Book 2 requires a bit of patience. The second book of trilogies is sometimes difficult because they need to expand on things from Book 1 and set things up for Book 3. I've read Book 1 at least 5 times. I.LOVE.IT!
This book went the way of Looking for Trouble, where I felt it pulled me deep really fast, and then I was just kind of 'there' for chapters and chapters and chapters. It also suffered the same fate as LfT in that there is way too much internal monologuing. I much prefer when Damon and Josh actually interact. They're both great characters even though Josh really tried my patience in this book.
In book 2, Josh is still struggling with letting Damon in. In many ways it feels like he actually went backwards, so we feel like we're revisiting old ground. This is exacerbated by the fact that the first few chapters are all told from Damon's point of view, so it's all him venting his frustration and it felt like he was getting the short end of the stick, and that Josh was being a jerk. I understand that it was hard for Josh but I didn't love it. I was beyond ready for Damon to just salvage his dignity, teach Josh a lesson by leaving him, and forcing him to get his mind right and MAKE A DECISION to be with him. Let him come back to you! That doesn't happen. Damon plods along, seemingly the weaker one for wanting Josh so much, and (as in Looking for Trouble) making the same non-effective threats over and over...it kind of pissed me off.
Josh's point of view eventually brings some balance, and we realize how much he is struggling with wanting something more with Damon. Still, because it's introduced so late, I never really warm up to him again until almost the end. The book also seems to stagnate because of the punishments. It took Damon way too long to figure out that punishing a pain slut with spankings and beltings is NOT PUNISHMENT, especially when they practically beg for it and/or manipulate you into punishing them. They get what they want, and still turn around and NOT do what you want. It was frustrating. Damon seemed to realize this, but kept doing it anyway (see earlier comment about being weak). I was quite pleased with his alternative, like finally! But the spankings continued as punishment. Sigh.
The ending is awesome, and that's about when I got to four stars. The rest of the book is 2.5ish to 3 to me. I was disappointed that Josh only showed up because Damon had called him (it would have been so nice to have Josh just unselfishly show up because he missed him and, in doing so, be there when Damon needed him), but when you realize how much it took for Josh to drive there it will warm your heart. The closing scene is beautiful.
So, mixed emotions on this one as you can tell. I've vented my frustrations above, but when Damon and Josh actually interact, it's just...magic. Once Josh actually 'lets go', his submission is a thing of beauty. I loved the scenes where he unconsciously did things outside of his comfort zone (boyfriend like things) before he could stop himself. You could see that he really wanted to give himself to Damon, and just needed to get out of his own way. Damon's reactions to those moments kind of made up for all the crap he had to endure the rest of the book. That man's patience is legendary. But, they're young and figuring things out as they go (Damon admits he has no clue what he's doing when it comes to Josh) and sometimes this is what 'figuring it out' looks like.
Now that we're past all this, I'm looking forward to Book 3. I'm not expecting it to be smooth sailing but I'm hoping for much more development as a payoff for enduring this book lol. I want my babies to have their happy ending! I have no doubt they will get it.
==================
I saw that this book came out the day after Christmas, but I waited another day to read it because I had no ice cream or cake in the house, and reading this without dessert would be criminal. I got home, set myself up properly and dove in. Book 2 requires a bit of patience. The second book of trilogies is sometimes difficult because they need to expand on things from Book 1 and set things up for Book 3. I've read Book 1 at least 5 times. I.LOVE.IT!
This book went the way of Looking for Trouble, where I felt it pulled me deep really fast, and then I was just kind of 'there' for chapters and chapters and chapters. It also suffered the same fate as LfT in that there is way too much internal monologuing. I much prefer when Damon and Josh actually interact. They're both great characters even though Josh really tried my patience in this book.
In book 2, Josh is still struggling with letting Damon in. In many ways it feels like he actually went backwards, so we feel like we're revisiting old ground. This is exacerbated by the fact that the first few chapters are all told from Damon's point of view, so it's all him venting his frustration and it felt like he was getting the short end of the stick, and that Josh was being a jerk. I understand that it was hard for Josh but I didn't love it. I was beyond ready for Damon to just salvage his dignity, teach Josh a lesson by leaving him, and forcing him to get his mind right and MAKE A DECISION to be with him. Let him come back to you! That doesn't happen. Damon plods along, seemingly the weaker one for wanting Josh so much, and (as in Looking for Trouble) making the same non-effective threats over and over...it kind of pissed me off.
Josh's point of view eventually brings some balance, and we realize how much he is struggling with wanting something more with Damon. Still, because it's introduced so late, I never really warm up to him again until almost the end. The book also seems to stagnate because of the punishments. It took Damon way too long to figure out that punishing a pain slut with spankings and beltings is NOT PUNISHMENT, especially when they practically beg for it and/or manipulate you into punishing them. They get what they want, and still turn around and NOT do what you want. It was frustrating. Damon seemed to realize this, but kept doing it anyway (see earlier comment about being weak). I was quite pleased with his alternative, like finally! But the spankings continued as punishment. Sigh.
The ending is awesome, and that's about when I got to four stars. The rest of the book is 2.5ish to 3 to me. I was disappointed that Josh only showed up because Damon had called him (it would have been so nice to have Josh just unselfishly show up because he missed him and, in doing so, be there when Damon needed him), but when you realize how much it took for Josh to drive there it will warm your heart. The closing scene is beautiful.
So, mixed emotions on this one as you can tell. I've vented my frustrations above, but when Damon and Josh actually interact, it's just...magic. Once Josh actually 'lets go', his submission is a thing of beauty. I loved the scenes where he unconsciously did things outside of his comfort zone (boyfriend like things) before he could stop himself. You could see that he really wanted to give himself to Damon, and just needed to get out of his own way. Damon's reactions to those moments kind of made up for all the crap he had to endure the rest of the book. That man's patience is legendary. But, they're young and figuring things out as they go (Damon admits he has no clue what he's doing when it comes to Josh) and sometimes this is what 'figuring it out' looks like.
Now that we're past all this, I'm looking forward to Book 3. I'm not expecting it to be smooth sailing but I'm hoping for much more development as a payoff for enduring this book lol. I want my babies to have their happy ending! I have no doubt they will get it.
December 4, 2023
“I need you to never pay attention to me and also watch me all the time”
could’ve been so good but the end was such a let down
could’ve been so good but the end was such a let down
August 29, 2022
I love this series and I really hope book 3 comes out at some point. I was hesitant to start this (and probably wouldn't have if I'd known book 3 isn't out, so I'm glad I didn't know) because I'm not into pain myself so sometimes it's hard for me to immerse in that type of book. But somehow the way Misha writes just does it for me. Makes me understand why someone would want and need the pain, and why it would be so gratifying to be able to provide that to someone.
The depictions of anxiety and depression were very relatable for me, and I fell in love with these characters and I really hope there is some healing and/or happiness in store for them.
The depictions of anxiety and depression were very relatable for me, and I fell in love with these characters and I really hope there is some healing and/or happiness in store for them.
December 30, 2018
This was an interesting read from both Damon & Joshs POV ... I found myself really wanting them both to open up and speak the words from their hearts & minds. Both men so conflicted and unable to comprehend emotion, however they were a strange beacon for each other. Lots of kink but again they were both unaware of the SM vibe ... hopefully the last book ties it all together.
February 22, 2019
3.5 stars rounded up.
Um ... I liked it, but it was a little too long, and if I'm totally honest, I probably could have just stuck with the first book alone. I'm glad I read it, and I'm hoping it will go on sale before the next book comes out (and also that that book won't take almost two years to be released) because I don't want to pay full price because I'm not sure if I'd re-read it. I did get my hope of there being more story, and less sex, although there is still a lot of sex.
They both make me want to protect them because Damon may appear stronger than Josh, but I don't think he really is. Josh needs more help than he's getting, like I sometimes wonder how he functions at all, let alone as well as he is. Damon needs to be talking to someone too. I do love them together, and I am enjoying watching their relationship become an actual relationship. I want to see them both succeed, with each other and with life. I kind of want Josh's father out of his life entirely, and Damon's father back in his life.
Overall, worth the read, and I'm hoping for yet more story, and a happy resolution for them both in the next book.
Um ... I liked it, but it was a little too long, and if I'm totally honest, I probably could have just stuck with the first book alone. I'm glad I read it, and I'm hoping it will go on sale before the next book comes out (and also that that book won't take almost two years to be released) because I don't want to pay full price because I'm not sure if I'd re-read it. I did get my hope of there being more story, and less sex, although there is still a lot of sex.
They both make me want to protect them because Damon may appear stronger than Josh, but I don't think he really is. Josh needs more help than he's getting, like I sometimes wonder how he functions at all, let alone as well as he is. Damon needs to be talking to someone too. I do love them together, and I am enjoying watching their relationship become an actual relationship. I want to see them both succeed, with each other and with life. I kind of want Josh's father out of his life entirely, and Damon's father back in his life.
Overall, worth the read, and I'm hoping for yet more story, and a happy resolution for them both in the next book.
April 30, 2019
This was a heavy book to read, not solely because of its content but because most of the book is based on Josh and Damon's inner monologues.
This is two broken people that have found another broken piece to cling to, finding a balance in how to deal with a relationship that isn't a relationship. Damon holding back to lure Josh out crumb for crumb to lap up what he have to offer.
They are still having a spanking good time, but things are shifting far out of Josh's comfort zone and Damon is so patient that you just have to admire him.
The way he truly sees Josh is wonderful, giving him what he doesn't know he needs or wants.
I started the last book because, who doesn't like spanking and DD, and Damon is very good at both of those. And suddenly here I'm finding myself in a sea of repressed emotions and so much past hurt that's broken both of them, and it took me longer than usual to get through the book.
At times you just want to shake Josh and make him snap out of it, to just -give- something.
This is a slow burn, and it's not for everyone. But if you liked the two from book one, I say stick it out and let them pull you in.
This is two broken people that have found another broken piece to cling to, finding a balance in how to deal with a relationship that isn't a relationship. Damon holding back to lure Josh out crumb for crumb to lap up what he have to offer.
They are still having a spanking good time, but things are shifting far out of Josh's comfort zone and Damon is so patient that you just have to admire him.
The way he truly sees Josh is wonderful, giving him what he doesn't know he needs or wants.
I started the last book because, who doesn't like spanking and DD, and Damon is very good at both of those. And suddenly here I'm finding myself in a sea of repressed emotions and so much past hurt that's broken both of them, and it took me longer than usual to get through the book.
At times you just want to shake Josh and make him snap out of it, to just -give- something.
This is a slow burn, and it's not for everyone. But if you liked the two from book one, I say stick it out and let them pull you in.
January 6, 2019
Even better than book 1
I really love the progression between Damon and Josh from the first book. They're still messed up, have lots of hot, kinky sex but somehow feelings that none of them wants have starting to bleed in.
We also get a little more background information about what has made them into the men they are today.
Damon both loves and hates the way Josh is making him chase him.
It was never suppose to be anything but sex, but now everything is twisted. He's been feeling lonely and numb for so long and Josh is the first one who's been able to penetrate his shields.
Josh defies him, he makes him angry, he makes him crazy and still he feel s the need to care and protect him.
Josh can't believe he'sput himself in this position.
It was never suppose to be anything but sex, but now he craves Damon. And not only the rough, dominant Damon who can humiliate him in the best way. It hurts to want anything more but Damon is the only one that can sooth his anxiety and now he even misses his smell, his smile and the way he cares.
I really love the progression between Damon and Josh from the first book. They're still messed up, have lots of hot, kinky sex but somehow feelings that none of them wants have starting to bleed in.
We also get a little more background information about what has made them into the men they are today.
Damon both loves and hates the way Josh is making him chase him.
It was never suppose to be anything but sex, but now everything is twisted. He's been feeling lonely and numb for so long and Josh is the first one who's been able to penetrate his shields.
Josh defies him, he makes him angry, he makes him crazy and still he feel s the need to care and protect him.
Josh can't believe he'sput himself in this position.
It was never suppose to be anything but sex, but now he craves Damon. And not only the rough, dominant Damon who can humiliate him in the best way. It hurts to want anything more but Damon is the only one that can sooth his anxiety and now he even misses his smell, his smile and the way he cares.
August 22, 2023
*4,5 stars*
I liked this series SO MUCH MORE than I thought I would! Honestly, I excepted something a little bit dumb, stereotypical, but maybe hot. But that was not that at all! It was so much more and I loved everything about it.
And I REALLY understand now why a lot of you guys call Misha Horne the queen of spanking. Halle-fucking-lujah, I don’t even enjoy spanking per se as much, but that was next level good.
It was so good that I didn’t even mind (much) that they only had sex twice in the second book. The chemistry and everything else they did was scorching and I found it all really well written with a unique style. So much spanking in one book and it didn’t get boring or repetitive even a little bit. That’s not a small thing to pull off. After this, even the biggest non-spanking-fans will find themselves a huge mess for rosy red well spanked butt cheeks. I know I did.
Really enjoyed this a lot!
Wish there was a third book in the series, but I guess it doesn’t look good?
I liked this series SO MUCH MORE than I thought I would! Honestly, I excepted something a little bit dumb, stereotypical, but maybe hot. But that was not that at all! It was so much more and I loved everything about it.
And I REALLY understand now why a lot of you guys call Misha Horne the queen of spanking. Halle-fucking-lujah, I don’t even enjoy spanking per se as much, but that was next level good.
It was so good that I didn’t even mind (much) that they only had sex twice in the second book. The chemistry and everything else they did was scorching and I found it all really well written with a unique style. So much spanking in one book and it didn’t get boring or repetitive even a little bit. That’s not a small thing to pull off. After this, even the biggest non-spanking-fans will find themselves a huge mess for rosy red well spanked butt cheeks. I know I did.
Really enjoyed this a lot!
Wish there was a third book in the series, but I guess it doesn’t look good?
January 25, 2019
I LOVE THIS BOOK. I love it way more than the first one. It’s not all just sex and there’s story and not just sex, and you see Josh and Damon vulnerable and pretending to not be boyfriends.
Gah and Damon made me swoon at the little things he does for Josh. Like the brownie, the books, recognizing when Josh needed an out when things got too loud...And then there’s Josh slowly opening up and being a little ball of anxiety. Also, this book made me CRY?? Like, how dare you. Things were fine one minute and then I was sobbing.
I can’t WAIT for book three! I’m going to need an epilogue or SOMETHING where we see Josh and Damon knocking down that wall between 6A and 6B and living together in domestic bliss.
Gah and Damon made me swoon at the little things he does for Josh. Like the brownie, the books, recognizing when Josh needed an out when things got too loud...And then there’s Josh slowly opening up and being a little ball of anxiety. Also, this book made me CRY?? Like, how dare you. Things were fine one minute and then I was sobbing.
I can’t WAIT for book three! I’m going to need an epilogue or SOMETHING where we see Josh and Damon knocking down that wall between 6A and 6B and living together in domestic bliss.
May 3, 2023
I am super disappointed. Maybe its my ADHD but I felt like i was sitting through the slowest burn that ever slow burned. Even by the end they hadn't decided what they were going to do. We got some background knowledge finally but with no pay off. I skipped a lot of needless paragraphs. Droning on and on and saying the same thing over and over. We get it, Josh doesn't like to get close to people and Damon is a sadboi. But there is no character development! They just kind of accept that they're both fucked up but don't really do anything after. I just feel like a read this for no reason. Most stories have a beginning middle and end. This was just the beginning drawn out for 500 pages.
February 24, 2019
Similarities and differences can be a thin line
Not what I was expecting, however I am not disappointed. Josh and Damon are similar in what they think they want and trying to not want it they are giving it to each other and themselves. If you think that's convoluted you should read this. It's funny how they crave the same things, but are too afraid to get it, but even worse to not. I need to read the next book to see if it all works out. Oh, if you missed it i liked the book.
Not what I was expecting, however I am not disappointed. Josh and Damon are similar in what they think they want and trying to not want it they are giving it to each other and themselves. If you think that's convoluted you should read this. It's funny how they crave the same things, but are too afraid to get it, but even worse to not. I need to read the next book to see if it all works out. Oh, if you missed it i liked the book.
December 29, 2018
Josh and Damon again
This book has more angst than I care for, but it's a well-written sequel.
Definitely read book 1 first, though .
This is really hot. Avoid if you aren't comfortable with people who are turned on by pain. Also, I don't think it's a spoiler to warn that characters are dealing with grief so if that's not good for you right now, avoid it as well .
Everyone else, enjoy another quality book by Misha Horne.
This book has more angst than I care for, but it's a well-written sequel.
Definitely read book 1 first, though .
This is really hot. Avoid if you aren't comfortable with people who are turned on by pain. Also, I don't think it's a spoiler to warn that characters are dealing with grief so if that's not good for you right now, avoid it as well .
Everyone else, enjoy another quality book by Misha Horne.
December 29, 2018
Josh and Damon return!
These two. They are, hands-down, my favorite couple in the gay romance genre. Why? Because they are so beautifully imperfect that you find yourself nodding along throughout their story to moments of vulnerability that you have experienced before. Add that to the fact that the “love” scenes are hot as hellllllll and this story earned every one of its five stars. Misha is an artist in the truest sense and I love her work more and more with every read.
These two. They are, hands-down, my favorite couple in the gay romance genre. Why? Because they are so beautifully imperfect that you find yourself nodding along throughout their story to moments of vulnerability that you have experienced before. Add that to the fact that the “love” scenes are hot as hellllllll and this story earned every one of its five stars. Misha is an artist in the truest sense and I love her work more and more with every read.
February 8, 2021
Second in a series.....two young men find a unique relationship. Both have quirks. The quirks match but it is hard work for these guys to figure how to make them mix and match. There are some kinks in here...one likes pain, the other, well, doesn't mind obliging. I would read these in order. I am on my third or fourth go around and still waiting for the promised Not So # 3 but there is more of Misha Horne's work to read while I am waiting.
September 6, 2023
I love this story. And while it’s super frustrating that they have the next book available yet, I will live.
I saw quite a few comments in the review thread that said they found this second book to be not as compelling or too long and I have to disagree. I feel like the second book went into greater detail into the inner workings of each of the characters.
I have to wait till the third book to see whether or not, I think the second and third could’ve been combined, but we will see.
I saw quite a few comments in the review thread that said they found this second book to be not as compelling or too long and I have to disagree. I feel like the second book went into greater detail into the inner workings of each of the characters.
I have to wait till the third book to see whether or not, I think the second and third could’ve been combined, but we will see.
August 13, 2021
A Negative Plus A Negative Equals A Positive?
Josh is messed up and comes across to other people as aloof and unapproachable. Damon is messed up and comes across as confident and personable. What happens when unapproachable wants to be approached? When the cofident one finds himself at a loss?
A da** fine story. Read it.
Josh is messed up and comes across to other people as aloof and unapproachable. Damon is messed up and comes across as confident and personable. What happens when unapproachable wants to be approached? When the cofident one finds himself at a loss?
A da** fine story. Read it.
January 21, 2023
Not So Nice by Misha Horne – This series is on kindle unlimited. You know when you are hitting the end of the book, and there are still 1 million questions to work out; then you realize this is a trilogy not a duology, and the last book isn’t out yet so you pout? Yep just did that! Still a lot of trauma to process for these two knuckleheads! I am very pleased I get another book! Happy Reading!
December 28, 2018
This book gave a lot more insight into the characters and some of the reasons they are so skittish. At times it felt like there was a bit too much introspection and less action, too much going over the same thoughts. But, I still read this through in one sitting and was absorbed throughout.
January 21, 2019
So many feels
I can’t even explain how much I’m loving this series. Josh and Damon are complex and compelling and everything. I love them so much and I can’t wait for the next book!
I can’t even explain how much I’m loving this series. Josh and Damon are complex and compelling and everything. I love them so much and I can’t wait for the next book!
September 18, 2020
Completely caught up in it, so much so I started to feel panicked when I realized I was getting close to the end and didn't see a resolution... had forgotten there's a third book still to come (someday? hopefully?).
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