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His Steady Heart
Ashley “Buck” Buchanan moved back home to take care of his sick mother when he was 22. That was the first time he met Pippin, the neglected 6-year-old boy next door. Fifteen years later, Buck, a caretaker by nature, offers up his couch for Pippin, who needs a break from his mom and a quiet place to sleep.
Pippin Olander is a ray of sunshine despite his emotionally lacking upbringing and works hard to make a better life for himself. Even though he’s fiercely self-sufficient, he learns to accept help from Buck, his rock and the only steady presence in his life.
Their friendship deepens and grows into something more as they spend time together. But when other people try to throw a wrench in the works, when Pippin’s independence is triggered, can Buck and Pippin trust in the love they’ve found?
Pippin Olander is a ray of sunshine despite his emotionally lacking upbringing and works hard to make a better life for himself. Even though he’s fiercely self-sufficient, he learns to accept help from Buck, his rock and the only steady presence in his life.
Their friendship deepens and grows into something more as they spend time together. But when other people try to throw a wrench in the works, when Pippin’s independence is triggered, can Buck and Pippin trust in the love they’ve found?
86 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 25, 2019
3 people are currently reading
58 people want to read
About the author
Nell Iris
65 books97 followersNell Iris writes gay romance, prefers sweet over angsty, short over long, and quirky characters over alpha males. She published her first book in 2017.
Nell is an author with a day job that steals too much time from her writing, her reading, her gardening, and her crocheting. She’s an introverted tea drinker who loves her family, her books, and her home in the Swedish countryside.
Nell is an author with a day job that steals too much time from her writing, her reading, her gardening, and her crocheting. She’s an introverted tea drinker who loves her family, her books, and her home in the Swedish countryside.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
May 25, 2019
Oh my heart. What a sweet emotional story. I love this author’s way of writing, so much story on every page, always into the deep with feelings, and the romance, oh boy, is of the best kind.
Ashley is Pippin’s protector in a way. From the first day Pippin moved in next door, Ashley was smitten by the skinny, by his mother neglected, sixteen year old boy. Now five years later he still is.
When Pippin lands on Ashley’s couch they are getting closer and closer.
They tell each other their dreams. The share breakfast, they share everything. Ashley’s loneliness is over and he can finally take care of someone again.
Ashley’s feelings for Pippin are strong and the looks he gets back gives him hope.
The way they dance around each other, the way they eyed each other, the way they opened up to each other, touched my heart deeply. Without words they tell each other everything.
Ashley and Pippin are the most adorable couple. It was such delicate and strong connection they had. I loved Pippin’s moves, the opposite of Ashley. I loved their dreams and strong believe for the future. An utterly kind, sweet heartwarming story with beautifully layered personalities and, for outsiders with a kind of simplicity on first sight, but never judge a book by it’s cover. (Proverb of course because thís books cover is stunning!
Read and reviewed for Signal Boost Review
Ashley is Pippin’s protector in a way. From the first day Pippin moved in next door, Ashley was smitten by the skinny, by his mother neglected, sixteen year old boy. Now five years later he still is.
When Pippin lands on Ashley’s couch they are getting closer and closer.
They tell each other their dreams. The share breakfast, they share everything. Ashley’s loneliness is over and he can finally take care of someone again.
Ashley’s feelings for Pippin are strong and the looks he gets back gives him hope.
The way they dance around each other, the way they eyed each other, the way they opened up to each other, touched my heart deeply. Without words they tell each other everything.
Ashley and Pippin are the most adorable couple. It was such delicate and strong connection they had. I loved Pippin’s moves, the opposite of Ashley. I loved their dreams and strong believe for the future. An utterly kind, sweet heartwarming story with beautifully layered personalities and, for outsiders with a kind of simplicity on first sight, but never judge a book by it’s cover. (Proverb of course because thís books cover is stunning!
Read and reviewed for Signal Boost Review
May 27, 2019
I really like Nell Iris’ writing. But somehow her latest books feel underdeveloped. As did this one.
Ashley has tried to be there in any way for the boy next door since he moved in when he was 22 and the boy was 6.
Now the boy is 21, and he still has to take care of himself, because his mother can’t be bothered. So Pippin spends most of his days at Ashley’s.
Even though Ashley is quite a bit older than Pippin, neither have an issue with that when things start to change between them. They both acknowledge the attraction but Ashley says they have to take it slow, since Pippin deserves no less…
I’ve felt this with Nell Iris’ last few books, but this book felt like one big prologue. The writing did suck me in, and I think if Nell Iris ever decides to write a full novel, it would be wonderful. Unfortunately this wasn’t quite what I’d hoped it would be. It just could have been so much more…
I’m also a bit bummed I spent $4 on 85 pages. They were not worth it unfortunately.
Ashley has tried to be there in any way for the boy next door since he moved in when he was 22 and the boy was 6.
Now the boy is 21, and he still has to take care of himself, because his mother can’t be bothered. So Pippin spends most of his days at Ashley’s.
Even though Ashley is quite a bit older than Pippin, neither have an issue with that when things start to change between them. They both acknowledge the attraction but Ashley says they have to take it slow, since Pippin deserves no less…
I’ve felt this with Nell Iris’ last few books, but this book felt like one big prologue. The writing did suck me in, and I think if Nell Iris ever decides to write a full novel, it would be wonderful. Unfortunately this wasn’t quite what I’d hoped it would be. It just could have been so much more…
I’m also a bit bummed I spent $4 on 85 pages. They were not worth it unfortunately.
June 14, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
As a whole, this story felt like a syrupy, feel-good, get together. One of the main tropes is age difference and Iris really highlights this aspect of the characters’ relationship on page. It seems a bit odd that these long-time neighbors are suddenly tip-toeing around an intense attraction. There was no discernable shift from “just the little neighbor kid who grew up next to me” to “hot young neighbor guy.” I find this extra puzzling because Ashley does quibble with the age difference and initially sort of write himself off as being too old for Pippin, despite offering the younger man a place to crash while his mother is selling sex, buying him books and clothes, and cooking for him, etc.
As far as the characters go, I took some issues with how Ashley’s narration frames Pippin’s mother. I think my dislike of his intensely negative assessment of her stems from the fact that he’s criticizing a woman I wasn’t sure he really knew. Once Pipping begins piping in with his own quibbles about his mother and once the woman herself appears on page and (finally) reinforces the negative image in pretty spectacular fashion, I felt better about how Ashley disparrages her choices.
Read Camille’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
As a whole, this story felt like a syrupy, feel-good, get together. One of the main tropes is age difference and Iris really highlights this aspect of the characters’ relationship on page. It seems a bit odd that these long-time neighbors are suddenly tip-toeing around an intense attraction. There was no discernable shift from “just the little neighbor kid who grew up next to me” to “hot young neighbor guy.” I find this extra puzzling because Ashley does quibble with the age difference and initially sort of write himself off as being too old for Pippin, despite offering the younger man a place to crash while his mother is selling sex, buying him books and clothes, and cooking for him, etc.
As far as the characters go, I took some issues with how Ashley’s narration frames Pippin’s mother. I think my dislike of his intensely negative assessment of her stems from the fact that he’s criticizing a woman I wasn’t sure he really knew. Once Pipping begins piping in with his own quibbles about his mother and once the woman herself appears on page and (finally) reinforces the negative image in pretty spectacular fashion, I felt better about how Ashley disparrages her choices.
Read Camille’s review in its entirety here.
June 20, 2019
This is a really sweet romance between Pippin and Ashley who have been friends forever. Pippin's mom is pretty awful but Ashley or Buck is really kind.
The other characters in this book are cartoonish but the connection between the heroes is lovely and its a nice age gap romance. Nell Iris writes nice love stories but they always need to be longer. The in a full relationship part and the HEA could be more developed but its a nice read.
The other characters in this book are cartoonish but the connection between the heroes is lovely and its a nice age gap romance. Nell Iris writes nice love stories but they always need to be longer. The in a full relationship part and the HEA could be more developed but its a nice read.
May 27, 2019
This was super cute! I adored Pippin and Ashley a lot.
Review soon :)
March 13, 2021
Cute, low-angst, no steam, age gap romance. A lovely way to spend 1.5 hours.
May 20, 2019
This is a first for me with this author, and I have to say, it was exactly the kind of fluffy read that I needed today! So, so very cute.
Ashley moved home to take care of his mother when he was 22, though it’s merely mentioned, we don’t see any of that; but that’s where he met Pippin, the six-year-old boy who’d moved in next door with his mother. Selfish, neglectful and downright stupid is how I’d describe her, especially with the way she treats Pippin, and always has. Ashley, or Buck as he’s known to everyone else, and his mother though, kind of took him in and looked over him the best they could.
Now though, after seeing Pippin on his porch in the cold because his mom was “entertaining” another male visitor, Ashley has had enough and gives Pippin a key to his house to get out of the cold when that happens, or just whenever he needs to.
Ashley is sweet in the way that he’s always looking to take care of people in his life, and Pippin is no different. He’s been the constant in his life, the steady. While it's true that Pippen is 16 years his junior, it doesn’t stop him from seeing the man that he’s grown into. Pippin is independent and very sweet and considerate and loyal, despite the mother he grew up with. I was hoping to get Pippin’s POV, some, but it was really well written from Ashley’s.
I loved that these two weren’t what most would assume, like just because Ashley is a big burly man with the beard and fur and tattoo’s, that he’s the “Daddy” type, or the “top” …. He’s so sweet and soft that you can’t help but love him…. And I love that just because Ashley is younger, smaller and the more subdued type, doesn’t mean he isn’t just as fiercely protective, possessive and sweet as Ashley.
I really enjoyed it for the short read it was. And I keep saying sweet, because…. well it just was. I do wish we’d have dished some karma back on the mom and the ex that popped up for a second, but… still… I’m just petty that way.
4 stars from me
Ashley moved home to take care of his mother when he was 22, though it’s merely mentioned, we don’t see any of that; but that’s where he met Pippin, the six-year-old boy who’d moved in next door with his mother. Selfish, neglectful and downright stupid is how I’d describe her, especially with the way she treats Pippin, and always has. Ashley, or Buck as he’s known to everyone else, and his mother though, kind of took him in and looked over him the best they could.
Now though, after seeing Pippin on his porch in the cold because his mom was “entertaining” another male visitor, Ashley has had enough and gives Pippin a key to his house to get out of the cold when that happens, or just whenever he needs to.
Ashley is sweet in the way that he’s always looking to take care of people in his life, and Pippin is no different. He’s been the constant in his life, the steady. While it's true that Pippen is 16 years his junior, it doesn’t stop him from seeing the man that he’s grown into. Pippin is independent and very sweet and considerate and loyal, despite the mother he grew up with. I was hoping to get Pippin’s POV, some, but it was really well written from Ashley’s.
I loved that these two weren’t what most would assume, like just because Ashley is a big burly man with the beard and fur and tattoo’s, that he’s the “Daddy” type, or the “top” …. He’s so sweet and soft that you can’t help but love him…. And I love that just because Ashley is younger, smaller and the more subdued type, doesn’t mean he isn’t just as fiercely protective, possessive and sweet as Ashley.
I really enjoyed it for the short read it was. And I keep saying sweet, because…. well it just was. I do wish we’d have dished some karma back on the mom and the ex that popped up for a second, but… still… I’m just petty that way.
4 stars from me
July 19, 2019
This book is another reason I love Nell Iris’s stuff so much. So incredibly sweet and beautiful, with a little angst. This one broke my heart a little, well a lot. Being a parent myself, neglect breaks my heart. But there’s a sweet angel from next door that makes it all better.
Little Pippen is used to being neglected. Stuck outside in the cold or not getting much to eat because his mother is too busy being a ho. But when Ashley moves in next door to help his ailing mother, he refuses to see little Pippen being neglected anymore. He knows he can’t say anything to the mother without causing world war 3, so he takes it upon himself to help little Pippen as much as he can. (Why the cops were never called I don’t understand.) But as they grow older, Ashley realizes he really cares for Pippen. And more than just a friend. But the age difference alone throws him off. Plus, he thinks Pippen would never see anything in him. It’s hard too, because Pippen is a proud man and he has to be sort of sneaky with how he helps. When it comes to Pippen finally losing pretty much everything, Ashley tries to help. But Pippen is proud and says no. And now they’re both scared of what would happen if Pippen has to leave because they will lose what they have.
Pippen. Oh Pippen. I love this little guy. Even as a grown man, he’s such a vulnerable, innocent person. And I hate his mother. I hate the way she treats him. She’s not fit to be a mother. How anyone could not take care of that sweet little boy is beyond me. But thank goodness for Ashley. The horrible things that could have happened to Pippen if Ashley hadn’t stepped in to help care for him.
But what I love is the slow burn with these two. Pippen was only 6 when Ashley met him, so nothing would have happened, obviously. But as they both get older, their friendship blossoms into a beautiful thing. I love them both so much. Ashley is such a sweet man. He’s often misunderstood and I love that Pippen sees Ashley as he is. It’s a beautiful story.
http://lovebytesreviews.com/
Little Pippen is used to being neglected. Stuck outside in the cold or not getting much to eat because his mother is too busy being a ho. But when Ashley moves in next door to help his ailing mother, he refuses to see little Pippen being neglected anymore. He knows he can’t say anything to the mother without causing world war 3, so he takes it upon himself to help little Pippen as much as he can. (Why the cops were never called I don’t understand.) But as they grow older, Ashley realizes he really cares for Pippen. And more than just a friend. But the age difference alone throws him off. Plus, he thinks Pippen would never see anything in him. It’s hard too, because Pippen is a proud man and he has to be sort of sneaky with how he helps. When it comes to Pippen finally losing pretty much everything, Ashley tries to help. But Pippen is proud and says no. And now they’re both scared of what would happen if Pippen has to leave because they will lose what they have.
Pippen. Oh Pippen. I love this little guy. Even as a grown man, he’s such a vulnerable, innocent person. And I hate his mother. I hate the way she treats him. She’s not fit to be a mother. How anyone could not take care of that sweet little boy is beyond me. But thank goodness for Ashley. The horrible things that could have happened to Pippen if Ashley hadn’t stepped in to help care for him.
But what I love is the slow burn with these two. Pippen was only 6 when Ashley met him, so nothing would have happened, obviously. But as they both get older, their friendship blossoms into a beautiful thing. I love them both so much. Ashley is such a sweet man. He’s often misunderstood and I love that Pippen sees Ashley as he is. It’s a beautiful story.
http://lovebytesreviews.com/
May 21, 2019
If you are looking for a comfortable, short and sweet story, this is right up your alley. And with an age gap added in for good measure!
Ashley has lived next door to Pippin for over a decade. Pippin's mother was absentee and flighty, showing up with a different boyfriend all the time. Now that Pippin is an adult, he's working two jobs and needs some peace and quiet in his life. He takes up residence on Ashley's couch and finds that Ashley might just be what he's been searching for.
I loved that Ashley took such good care of Pippin and watched after him, buying books for his house, even though he didn't read. He was so sweet and caring. Pippin was true to his character throughout, hesitant, yet domineering when he'd made up his mind. They were a perfect match.
This story was very sweet, no angst, just plotted along well. The HEA covered quite a span of time and was a nice finish to their story.
*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/ *
Ashley has lived next door to Pippin for over a decade. Pippin's mother was absentee and flighty, showing up with a different boyfriend all the time. Now that Pippin is an adult, he's working two jobs and needs some peace and quiet in his life. He takes up residence on Ashley's couch and finds that Ashley might just be what he's been searching for.
I loved that Ashley took such good care of Pippin and watched after him, buying books for his house, even though he didn't read. He was so sweet and caring. Pippin was true to his character throughout, hesitant, yet domineering when he'd made up his mind. They were a perfect match.
This story was very sweet, no angst, just plotted along well. The HEA covered quite a span of time and was a nice finish to their story.
*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/ *
September 12, 2022
Another sweet romance from this author, this one is an age gap story, and I love age gap stories. Ashley is tired of seeing his young nextdoor neighbor sitting on the doorstep of his home at night, kicked out again because his mother is having sex with some dude, again. Ashley invites Pippin to sleep on his sofa anytime he needs to. And so begins a hesitant but sweet growing friendship.
October 21, 2019
Super sweet shorty by the queen of novellas, Nell Iris. Very engaging MCs, Pippin and Buck. Amazing how she gives you a multi-dimensional romance with great secondary characters in less than 100 pages. Great connection between the two guys with a realistic feel to the age gap. Can always count on Ms. Iris to give you a compelling story with great MCs.
May 30, 2019
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
I’m gonna jump straight in here, cos, well, because it’s my review and I can.
If you follow my reviews, you’ll know I have a particular dislike of several things.
First Person
Present Tense
Single Point of View.
So, when I started this book, and found it first person AND present tense, I got all ansty and twitchy and thought, nope, not doing it. THEN I realised it was single point of view, and my twitchiness went sky high and . . . .
bloody hell if I did not bloody LOVE this book!
Ashley or Buck, depending on who addresses him, was 22 years old when he first met Pippin and now, some 15 years (I was a bit unclear on that) later, he is still looking out for the little 6 year old boy who wormed his way into his heart. Now though, the little boy is all man, and when Pippin’s mother throws him under a bus (not literally, mind you!) of course Ashley will step up to look after the young man. But Pippin is proud, and won’t just take Ashley’s care, he must give back. The big bear of a man is Pippin’s idea of heaven, he just has to reach out and take him.
This has to be the sweetest, cutest CLEANEST book I've read in a long time, and I inhaled this book. I mean, I sat down, and didn’t move til I was done. It is only short, took me just over an hour but I really LOVED!
Ashley is the sweetest bear of a man, and no one can see that, except Pippin. Pippin sees Ashley, deep down, that he isn’t anyone’s “daddy”. He wants to look after people, yes, but PIPPIN is at the top of that very short list. PIPPIN is the one he realises he wants, even as he fights his attraction to the smaller man. PIPPIN tells Ashley he wants him, too, but not just for a quick lay. Pippin wants his first time to be special, and ASHLEY is that special man for Pippin.
I didn’t like what Pippin’s mum does to him, but you kinda saw that one coming like a train wreck and you can’t do anything to stop it.
The only thing, the one thing I cannot forgive is that Pippin doesn’t get a say! I wanted desperately to hear from him, even if it does make it first person/present tense/MULTI point of view (cos that would be my idea of Hell!) I NEEDED Pippin and I don’t get him. And I wanted to know, just what it was about Ashley that pushed his buttons, what he thought when Ashley’s ex turned up (and I LOVED how Pippin reacted to that!) and I wanted to know how he felt about his mum, and what she was doing to him.
That’s the only reason I gave it 4 stars and not 5 stars, was because I did not get Pippin and I really needed him.
I’ve not read anything by this author before, but if they are all this good, I’d gladly inhale a few more!
4 sweet, cute, warm and so bloody fuzzies stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
I’m gonna jump straight in here, cos, well, because it’s my review and I can.
If you follow my reviews, you’ll know I have a particular dislike of several things.
First Person
Present Tense
Single Point of View.
So, when I started this book, and found it first person AND present tense, I got all ansty and twitchy and thought, nope, not doing it. THEN I realised it was single point of view, and my twitchiness went sky high and . . . .
bloody hell if I did not bloody LOVE this book!
Ashley or Buck, depending on who addresses him, was 22 years old when he first met Pippin and now, some 15 years (I was a bit unclear on that) later, he is still looking out for the little 6 year old boy who wormed his way into his heart. Now though, the little boy is all man, and when Pippin’s mother throws him under a bus (not literally, mind you!) of course Ashley will step up to look after the young man. But Pippin is proud, and won’t just take Ashley’s care, he must give back. The big bear of a man is Pippin’s idea of heaven, he just has to reach out and take him.
This has to be the sweetest, cutest CLEANEST book I've read in a long time, and I inhaled this book. I mean, I sat down, and didn’t move til I was done. It is only short, took me just over an hour but I really LOVED!
Ashley is the sweetest bear of a man, and no one can see that, except Pippin. Pippin sees Ashley, deep down, that he isn’t anyone’s “daddy”. He wants to look after people, yes, but PIPPIN is at the top of that very short list. PIPPIN is the one he realises he wants, even as he fights his attraction to the smaller man. PIPPIN tells Ashley he wants him, too, but not just for a quick lay. Pippin wants his first time to be special, and ASHLEY is that special man for Pippin.
I didn’t like what Pippin’s mum does to him, but you kinda saw that one coming like a train wreck and you can’t do anything to stop it.
The only thing, the one thing I cannot forgive is that Pippin doesn’t get a say! I wanted desperately to hear from him, even if it does make it first person/present tense/MULTI point of view (cos that would be my idea of Hell!) I NEEDED Pippin and I don’t get him. And I wanted to know, just what it was about Ashley that pushed his buttons, what he thought when Ashley’s ex turned up (and I LOVED how Pippin reacted to that!) and I wanted to know how he felt about his mum, and what she was doing to him.
That’s the only reason I gave it 4 stars and not 5 stars, was because I did not get Pippin and I really needed him.
I’ve not read anything by this author before, but if they are all this good, I’d gladly inhale a few more!
4 sweet, cute, warm and so bloody fuzzies stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
September 30, 2019
3.5 Stars
Sooooo, super cute. Basically what I’ve come to expect from a Nell Iris story, I got with His Steady Heart.
Ashley and Pippin have known each other for years, Ashley watched Pippin grow up way too fast and has always felt protective of him. I love May-December romances where the MC’s are on equal footing and the dynamic that grew between Ashley and Pippin showed that aspect of their relationship really well.
Because Pippin’s mom has many nights of extracurricular activities with gentleman callers, Pippin begins spending more and more time at Ashley’s house. Ashley works nights and Pippin works two day jobs to save for college. Their interactions consist of them crossing paths at the beginning and ending of work days/nights and I loved their little quiet domestic rituals they fell into.
I think the little “moments” were my favorite parts of the book. Ashley, who isn’t a fan of his own name, goes by Buck to the world. The only one who calls him Ashley is Pippin and that was my first little nugget moment that I thought was just so sweet. All the time they spent together, just living their lives and becoming more intertwined as they shared morning cocoa spoke volumes organically for them. I didn’t have to be told they were falling in love, I could see it in everything they did.
The only thing I found a little off putting was the disconnect between Ashley’s inner dialog and his external speech. In his head he was relatively eloquent and his voice matched what I knew of his personality. When he spoke out loud however, his speech was more ‘sloppy’. Words were run together like “whaddaya” and “wanna”. Every word that ends in “ing” loses the “g” and is just “in’”, like “nothin’” and “sayin’”. It’s distracting and the two distinct voices made it seem like there was a third MC in the relationship sometimes.
There is minimal angst, but just enough conflict to keep the relationship more real and keeps the sugar to an acceptable level. A level of sweetness that works for a book that is based on the welcoming honey goodness of the beginning of a relationship between two people who are meant to be together.
**a copy of this story was provided for an honest review**
Sooooo, super cute. Basically what I’ve come to expect from a Nell Iris story, I got with His Steady Heart.
Ashley and Pippin have known each other for years, Ashley watched Pippin grow up way too fast and has always felt protective of him. I love May-December romances where the MC’s are on equal footing and the dynamic that grew between Ashley and Pippin showed that aspect of their relationship really well.
Because Pippin’s mom has many nights of extracurricular activities with gentleman callers, Pippin begins spending more and more time at Ashley’s house. Ashley works nights and Pippin works two day jobs to save for college. Their interactions consist of them crossing paths at the beginning and ending of work days/nights and I loved their little quiet domestic rituals they fell into.
I think the little “moments” were my favorite parts of the book. Ashley, who isn’t a fan of his own name, goes by Buck to the world. The only one who calls him Ashley is Pippin and that was my first little nugget moment that I thought was just so sweet. All the time they spent together, just living their lives and becoming more intertwined as they shared morning cocoa spoke volumes organically for them. I didn’t have to be told they were falling in love, I could see it in everything they did.
The only thing I found a little off putting was the disconnect between Ashley’s inner dialog and his external speech. In his head he was relatively eloquent and his voice matched what I knew of his personality. When he spoke out loud however, his speech was more ‘sloppy’. Words were run together like “whaddaya” and “wanna”. Every word that ends in “ing” loses the “g” and is just “in’”, like “nothin’” and “sayin’”. It’s distracting and the two distinct voices made it seem like there was a third MC in the relationship sometimes.
There is minimal angst, but just enough conflict to keep the relationship more real and keeps the sugar to an acceptable level. A level of sweetness that works for a book that is based on the welcoming honey goodness of the beginning of a relationship between two people who are meant to be together.
**a copy of this story was provided for an honest review**
May 26, 2019
A very sweet short story.
Nell Iris has been at the top of my list for MM short stories for quite a while now. While His Steady Heart didn't hit me quite as powerfully as some of her others, I still liked it a lot. It's a really sweet story with a slow burn that leads to fade-to-black intimacy between the two main characters.
Buck is a big bear of a man so most people assume he wants to take control in the bedroom. What he really wants is someone to love and care for; not someone to control. Pippin is 16 years younger than Buck but he grew up much faster than any kid should have to.
Buck can't stand to see Pippin sitting out in the cold while his mother "entertains" her gentlemen friends so he invites him to come in and use his couch. As the months go by their friendship looks like it's heading towards more but then life outside forces try to change everything.
Buck is such a gentle soul and a natural care-giver. Pippin is fiercely independent and doesn't want charity. These two are so sweet together. While a short story doesn't allow for a lot of character development, Nell Iris is a master at giving us enough details in few words so that you still feel like you know Buck and Pippin.
I loved the epilogue – like the rest of the story it's short and concise but we find out how they are getting on farther on down the road.
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
Nell Iris has been at the top of my list for MM short stories for quite a while now. While His Steady Heart didn't hit me quite as powerfully as some of her others, I still liked it a lot. It's a really sweet story with a slow burn that leads to fade-to-black intimacy between the two main characters.
Buck is a big bear of a man so most people assume he wants to take control in the bedroom. What he really wants is someone to love and care for; not someone to control. Pippin is 16 years younger than Buck but he grew up much faster than any kid should have to.
Buck can't stand to see Pippin sitting out in the cold while his mother "entertains" her gentlemen friends so he invites him to come in and use his couch. As the months go by their friendship looks like it's heading towards more but then life outside forces try to change everything.
Buck is such a gentle soul and a natural care-giver. Pippin is fiercely independent and doesn't want charity. These two are so sweet together. While a short story doesn't allow for a lot of character development, Nell Iris is a master at giving us enough details in few words so that you still feel like you know Buck and Pippin.
I loved the epilogue – like the rest of the story it's short and concise but we find out how they are getting on farther on down the road.
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
June 10, 2019
3.75 Stars!
I enjoyed this sweet, fluffy read. As a short story goes, it packs a lot in without overloading you with details. I had some issues with some of the wording that just felt awkward on a few occasions, but in general this was just the kind of story I need at the moment.
Ashley, or Buck as most people call him, has lived across the street from Pippin for 15 years. When he first moved back home to help his mother out, he noticed a very young Pippin who was clearly neglected by his mother. Over the years, they have gotten to know each other. Buck wants to help Pippin, but Pippin wants to stand on his own two feet.
There were a lot of things that kept me interested in this story. Their age gap and differences in interests weren't made into a big deal as happens in a lot of books. As their friendship grows, they get to know each other better and see beyond what people make assumptions over. While Buck wants someone to take care of, he is not a "Daddy" and has no wish to be. And though Pippin seems the type that might avoid confrontation, he has a spine of steel when he needs it. I enjoyed watching these two grow closer and deal with what life threw at them. I liked that they really took their time before moving past friendship to something more.
All in all, if you are looking for a short, sweet read with an age gap, this story may be for you.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
I enjoyed this sweet, fluffy read. As a short story goes, it packs a lot in without overloading you with details. I had some issues with some of the wording that just felt awkward on a few occasions, but in general this was just the kind of story I need at the moment.
Ashley, or Buck as most people call him, has lived across the street from Pippin for 15 years. When he first moved back home to help his mother out, he noticed a very young Pippin who was clearly neglected by his mother. Over the years, they have gotten to know each other. Buck wants to help Pippin, but Pippin wants to stand on his own two feet.
There were a lot of things that kept me interested in this story. Their age gap and differences in interests weren't made into a big deal as happens in a lot of books. As their friendship grows, they get to know each other better and see beyond what people make assumptions over. While Buck wants someone to take care of, he is not a "Daddy" and has no wish to be. And though Pippin seems the type that might avoid confrontation, he has a spine of steel when he needs it. I enjoyed watching these two grow closer and deal with what life threw at them. I liked that they really took their time before moving past friendship to something more.
All in all, if you are looking for a short, sweet read with an age gap, this story may be for you.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
April 11, 2020
3,5*
PLEASE READ MY RATING SYSTEM!!!
To my ratings:
A 3,5* is clicked with a 4* but in review marked as 3,5*:
5* - very very good and rare (it would be a Blow-Away-book like ‘Jesse's Smile’ or ‘Joey’ from Angelique Jurd, ‘Save the the kids’ series
from EM Leya, ‘Love’s Tethered Heart’ from C.L. Etta or ‘Liberty’ from Seth King),
it's like an A+
4* - very good and will be often reread and is a WOW-book with interesting plot and surprises (like most of Andrew Grey books and Davidson Kings 'Haven Hart'-series)
it's like an A
3,5* - a really good book, which will be reread a few times (most romances where you can enjoy for relaxing and during waiting times in
hospitals). I can recommend them definitively!
It's like an B+
3* - it could be more then a one-time-reader (2-3 times a year),
it's like a B
2* - it was ok to read, but it's more a one-time-reader (I wouldn't recommend it heartily, but it was ok)
It's like a C-, D
1* - sorry, but that isn't really a book for me (too many mistakes, not nice plot, illogical, so an absolute NO-GO). It's like failure in the
whole line, dismissed, repeat the class
PLEASE READ MY RATING SYSTEM!!!
To my ratings:
A 3,5* is clicked with a 4* but in review marked as 3,5*:
5* - very very good and rare (it would be a Blow-Away-book like ‘Jesse's Smile’ or ‘Joey’ from Angelique Jurd, ‘Save the the kids’ series
from EM Leya, ‘Love’s Tethered Heart’ from C.L. Etta or ‘Liberty’ from Seth King),
it's like an A+
4* - very good and will be often reread and is a WOW-book with interesting plot and surprises (like most of Andrew Grey books and Davidson Kings 'Haven Hart'-series)
it's like an A
3,5* - a really good book, which will be reread a few times (most romances where you can enjoy for relaxing and during waiting times in
hospitals). I can recommend them definitively!
It's like an B+
3* - it could be more then a one-time-reader (2-3 times a year),
it's like a B
2* - it was ok to read, but it's more a one-time-reader (I wouldn't recommend it heartily, but it was ok)
It's like a C-, D
1* - sorry, but that isn't really a book for me (too many mistakes, not nice plot, illogical, so an absolute NO-GO). It's like failure in the
whole line, dismissed, repeat the class
May 25, 2019
His Steady Heart is a delightful May to December romance by Nell Iris.
The relationship between Buck/Ashley and Pippin is beautiful. A natural caregiver, Ashley's been looking out for the neglected Pippin his whole life. From the start, you get a sense of the relationship as Pippin's the only one who calls him Ashley. He obviously feels safe and secure with Ashley.
This romance is riveting from the start. It's tender and sweet the way these two neighbors come together to be more than friends.
Ashley's an amazing bear of a man. His personality is far from what one would expect from him, creating a great dynamic with the younger Pippin. As for Pippin, wow, just the fact that's survived all these years living with his neglectful mother shows how strong he is. He's stubborn and too proud to take help when offered.
His Steady Heart is short and sweet, and just perfectly beautiful. Both men are wonderful and will leave you happy for having read their story.
The relationship between Buck/Ashley and Pippin is beautiful. A natural caregiver, Ashley's been looking out for the neglected Pippin his whole life. From the start, you get a sense of the relationship as Pippin's the only one who calls him Ashley. He obviously feels safe and secure with Ashley.
This romance is riveting from the start. It's tender and sweet the way these two neighbors come together to be more than friends.
Ashley's an amazing bear of a man. His personality is far from what one would expect from him, creating a great dynamic with the younger Pippin. As for Pippin, wow, just the fact that's survived all these years living with his neglectful mother shows how strong he is. He's stubborn and too proud to take help when offered.
His Steady Heart is short and sweet, and just perfectly beautiful. Both men are wonderful and will leave you happy for having read their story.
June 5, 2019
Beautiful, gentle, emotional love story that will touch your heart. I really loved the flow and tone of this story. So much was communicated with a very gentle hand. The MC's were both so touchable and vulnerable to the reader and each other. The story-line flowed and was very engaging.
Buck and Pippin touched my heart and made me smile. I laughed and at times my heart hurt with this story. I loved seeing their journey and how they both found acceptance with themselves and with each other. I love that they were able to be honest with each other and find something really special. i really enjoyed the epilogue and how their dream became reality.
I really enjoyed this book and i highly recommend it!
I was gifted this book from the author and i freely give my review.
Buck and Pippin touched my heart and made me smile. I laughed and at times my heart hurt with this story. I loved seeing their journey and how they both found acceptance with themselves and with each other. I love that they were able to be honest with each other and find something really special. i really enjoyed the epilogue and how their dream became reality.
I really enjoyed this book and i highly recommend it!
I was gifted this book from the author and i freely give my review.
May 20, 2019
Ashley is living in the house he shared with his mother till she passed away. He’s known the boy next door since Pippin was six years old. Forced out of his home when ever his mother had “callers”. Fending for himself at such a young age has made him independent and leery of people. He works two jobs but has nothing except his pride and his neighbor Ashley.
Ashley desperately want to help but knows that Pippin’s “Pride has pride” and doesn’t want to force the young man out of his life.
Short, sweet, very slow burn story. Characters are given enough background to make them believable. The emphasis is on Ashley getting comfortable with their age difference and getting past Pippin’s wall of pride. I liked it.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
Ashley desperately want to help but knows that Pippin’s “Pride has pride” and doesn’t want to force the young man out of his life.
Short, sweet, very slow burn story. Characters are given enough background to make them believable. The emphasis is on Ashley getting comfortable with their age difference and getting past Pippin’s wall of pride. I liked it.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
May 26, 2019
A very sweet may/december story about two guys, who've known each other for years, and how they eventually come to fall in love.
I thoroughly enjoyed the way in which Pippin and Ashley's relationship developed from kind caretaker/friend, to lovers.
Both Pippin and Ashley were not as they appeared. Ashley is a big, tough looking man, but is sweet natured and just wants someone to love and care for. Pippin is smaller and delicate looking, but has a core of steel.
It's a beautifully written story, mellow and full of hope. I'd have loved a more detailed epilogue though.Loved these two characters.
I thoroughly enjoyed the way in which Pippin and Ashley's relationship developed from kind caretaker/friend, to lovers.
Both Pippin and Ashley were not as they appeared. Ashley is a big, tough looking man, but is sweet natured and just wants someone to love and care for. Pippin is smaller and delicate looking, but has a core of steel.
It's a beautifully written story, mellow and full of hope. I'd have loved a more detailed epilogue though.Loved these two characters.
May 5, 2021
Friends to lovers, self-imposed protector falling in love with his charge, opposites attract... For such a short story there's a whole lot of stuff packed in and while it could have been overwhelmed by it all it was all a subtle journey of eye and heart opening moments to help both Buck and Pippin grow together. There was a lot of honesty and only getting Buck's POV was both just right and not enough at the same time. He was the steady presence, the foundation Pippin needed, but it was Pippin's growth, Pippin's change that unlocked the door to the more Buck was always secretly hoping for. I would have liked to see Pippin's growth through his own eyes.
May 24, 2019
This is a wonderful story and I loved how caring Buck was and how independent and funny Pippin was, especially after you learn about how he grew up. Buck has been looking out for Pippin since he and his mother moved into the neighborhood, but as Pippin grew up and is now working hard to save money for college, Buck's feelings start to grow. It's a sweet, quick read that I read twice in one sitting. The connection between the two men, along with their honesty with one another, makes this one of the best character books I've read. Highly recommended!!
September 10, 2021
A beautifully written and emotionally engaging story in Nell Iris' distinctive, warm and lovely writing style. The central couple was completely adorable, their backstory was effortlessly told and I was yearning for the happy ending together they both so richly reserved. I really loved this.
September 18, 2021
3.5 stars - Age gap that could've been creepy, but instead was sweet. (Maybe a bit too much back story, but I think the author wanted to cover bases.) These little novellas are not very deep, but often hit the spot as a literary aperitif.
May 28, 2019
4.5 *
July 9, 2019
3.5 stars
December 19, 2022
3.5 stars
May 28, 2019
While His Steady Heart might be on the shorter side, the story was so good! The writing was really good and had an easy flow to it.
Buck was so sweet and caring to Pippin and I loved how he just wanted to take care of him and love him. And, while Pippin was proud to not need anyone to take care of him and all, I loved how he knew that Buck wanted to care for him and that it wasn’t because he thought Pippin couldn’t do it himself.
The way they interacted with one another had me smiling and made my heart happy! Though I will say I was not impressed by Pippin’s selfish mom...just saying.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Buck was so sweet and caring to Pippin and I loved how he just wanted to take care of him and love him. And, while Pippin was proud to not need anyone to take care of him and all, I loved how he knew that Buck wanted to care for him and that it wasn’t because he thought Pippin couldn’t do it himself.
The way they interacted with one another had me smiling and made my heart happy! Though I will say I was not impressed by Pippin’s selfish mom...just saying.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
October 20, 2019
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
Quick Disclaimer: I’m trying to write this review while ill, so it’s not going to be up to my usual standards. For that, I apologize to both readers and the author for the (hopefully, not incoherent) ramble that is to follow.
In my opinion, Nell Iris excels at writing novellas. Often capturing a snapshot of her characters’ lives, the stories I’ve read make me feel as though I’ve witnessed a pivotal point in their lives, and they leave me feeling warm, happy, and satisfied with that glimpse into their lives and their happy for now ending. His Steady Heart is probably the most developed Iris story I’ve read to date and my favorite. Buck and Pippin have a history that is more extensive than I’ve encountered in the author’s stories and their story spans more time than I’ve read before. This combination made me feel as though I’d finally gotten the full-length novel I’ve been hoping for because I enjoy Iris’ writing style so much, and yet, it’s still a novella.
I’m a fan of May-December romances and His Steady Heart is no exception. The best age-gap romances make you forget the difference in the couple’s ages and it’s Pippin who bridges much of that gap. Forced to grow up quickly because of a neglectful mother, Pippin seems older than his twenty-one years. And yet, he maintains an air of innocence thanks to Buck’s mom’s intervening into Pippin’s life when he was just a boy and making sure that young Pippin had a safe place to be when his mother’s antics had him fleeing his home – a haven that Buck continued to provide for Pippin after Buck’s mom died. Based on their current day conversations, it’s all too clear that Pippin spent a lot of time at the Buchanan home and that fulfilled Buck’s natural protective instincts – a characteristic few people don’t see in Buck because of his outward appearance, but it’s what makes Pippin feel safe. It’s also that protective instinct that has Buck questioning his sudden interest in Pippin as more than just a friend and neighbor and wondering when he stopped seeing Pippin as the boy next door and as a man instead.
Because of the way the story is written, I felt as though I got to see more character development in His Steady Heart than I usually encounter in the author’s books. I not only got to see Buck grapple with his feelings toward Pippin and his self-doubt, but I also got to see Pippin become more secure in himself as he learned the difference between charity and being cherished. It was sweet watching Buck, this big bear of a man, finally being allowed to be true to himself and share the tender heart he’s been forced to keep hidden with Pippin. Of course, Pippin already knew Buck was a big ol’ teddy bear but discovering that his attraction to Buck was mutual gave Pippin the courage he needed to claim his teddy bear. I will confess, though, that Pippin’s mother’s outburst was unexpected and had me wondering if I missed part of the story; her character was not sympathetic, but there wasn’t anything to suggest she was bat-pfft-crazy. That was really the only blip in the story for me. As always, Iris left me wanting for more because I adored Buck and Pippin and wasn’t quite ready to say goodbye.
Please note: My review is of an unedited, pre-release copy of this book and assumes that any errors were corrected prior to publication.
Quick Disclaimer: I’m trying to write this review while ill, so it’s not going to be up to my usual standards. For that, I apologize to both readers and the author for the (hopefully, not incoherent) ramble that is to follow.
In my opinion, Nell Iris excels at writing novellas. Often capturing a snapshot of her characters’ lives, the stories I’ve read make me feel as though I’ve witnessed a pivotal point in their lives, and they leave me feeling warm, happy, and satisfied with that glimpse into their lives and their happy for now ending. His Steady Heart is probably the most developed Iris story I’ve read to date and my favorite. Buck and Pippin have a history that is more extensive than I’ve encountered in the author’s stories and their story spans more time than I’ve read before. This combination made me feel as though I’d finally gotten the full-length novel I’ve been hoping for because I enjoy Iris’ writing style so much, and yet, it’s still a novella.
I’m a fan of May-December romances and His Steady Heart is no exception. The best age-gap romances make you forget the difference in the couple’s ages and it’s Pippin who bridges much of that gap. Forced to grow up quickly because of a neglectful mother, Pippin seems older than his twenty-one years. And yet, he maintains an air of innocence thanks to Buck’s mom’s intervening into Pippin’s life when he was just a boy and making sure that young Pippin had a safe place to be when his mother’s antics had him fleeing his home – a haven that Buck continued to provide for Pippin after Buck’s mom died. Based on their current day conversations, it’s all too clear that Pippin spent a lot of time at the Buchanan home and that fulfilled Buck’s natural protective instincts – a characteristic few people don’t see in Buck because of his outward appearance, but it’s what makes Pippin feel safe. It’s also that protective instinct that has Buck questioning his sudden interest in Pippin as more than just a friend and neighbor and wondering when he stopped seeing Pippin as the boy next door and as a man instead.
Because of the way the story is written, I felt as though I got to see more character development in His Steady Heart than I usually encounter in the author’s books. I not only got to see Buck grapple with his feelings toward Pippin and his self-doubt, but I also got to see Pippin become more secure in himself as he learned the difference between charity and being cherished. It was sweet watching Buck, this big bear of a man, finally being allowed to be true to himself and share the tender heart he’s been forced to keep hidden with Pippin. Of course, Pippin already knew Buck was a big ol’ teddy bear but discovering that his attraction to Buck was mutual gave Pippin the courage he needed to claim his teddy bear. I will confess, though, that Pippin’s mother’s outburst was unexpected and had me wondering if I missed part of the story; her character was not sympathetic, but there wasn’t anything to suggest she was bat-pfft-crazy. That was really the only blip in the story for me. As always, Iris left me wanting for more because I adored Buck and Pippin and wasn’t quite ready to say goodbye.
Please note: My review is of an unedited, pre-release copy of this book and assumes that any errors were corrected prior to publication.
May 26, 2019
Sweet. a few times the descriptions were over the top and the big drama felt manufactured.
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