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Matchmakers #1
Mismatched
Hot-shot lawyer Hank Donovan and motorcycle maintenance man Lucas Dean were hopelessly mismatched until a lakeside kiss, a death in the family, and a little girl named Jasmine turned their world upside down.
Lucas Dean, owner of Cycle Shift, a motorcycle maintenance and second-hand shop, wants a match who’s as much of a free-spirit as he is, and someday he wants to be a father. His business partner, Jerry, thinks Match Made is the perfect way to find the dream partner.
Hank Donovan, one of the hottest names on the local legal scene, is lonely, although he’s the last to admit it. He buries his fears that he’ll never find a man in courtroom success and a stunning view of Lake Michigan from his living room window. Kids are out of the question, but there must be a single man out there who can bring Hank his happily ever after.
When Daniel and Blake match up Hank and Luke, it’s a guaranteed success. Or it was supposed to be, if it weren’t for the computer error that put the mismatched pair together for a disastrous first date.
A last-ditch second-chance outing puts the wheels of fate into motion, and they just might cure Hank’s loneliness, make Luke a dad, and give a precocious little girl named Jasmine a permanent home.
Mismatched is a 53,000-word gay romance. It’s the first book in the Matchmakers series. The book includes steamy scenes and a guaranteed happily-ever-after ending.
Lucas Dean, owner of Cycle Shift, a motorcycle maintenance and second-hand shop, wants a match who’s as much of a free-spirit as he is, and someday he wants to be a father. His business partner, Jerry, thinks Match Made is the perfect way to find the dream partner.
Hank Donovan, one of the hottest names on the local legal scene, is lonely, although he’s the last to admit it. He buries his fears that he’ll never find a man in courtroom success and a stunning view of Lake Michigan from his living room window. Kids are out of the question, but there must be a single man out there who can bring Hank his happily ever after.
When Daniel and Blake match up Hank and Luke, it’s a guaranteed success. Or it was supposed to be, if it weren’t for the computer error that put the mismatched pair together for a disastrous first date.
A last-ditch second-chance outing puts the wheels of fate into motion, and they just might cure Hank’s loneliness, make Luke a dad, and give a precocious little girl named Jasmine a permanent home.
Mismatched is a 53,000-word gay romance. It’s the first book in the Matchmakers series. The book includes steamy scenes and a guaranteed happily-ever-after ending.
205 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 26, 2019
215 people are currently reading
156 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
July 29, 2019
Really really loved this. First and foremost, what I absolutely adored about this book was the way the author wove the humor throughout, even managing to insert in seamlessly into one of the the love scenes. A close second is Jasmine... without everything that she brings to this book it would have still been a good read... but not an awesome one. Lucas and Hank are everything you want in two MCs falling in love. Sweet, sexy, fully-developed and wonderfully flawed! Hank's reaction to how he handled the trial involving Lucas brought this out in a way that provided drama but also showed that Hank could learn from his mistakes but not allow them to ruin his life. The writing in this book was such that the pages flew by and I reached the end effortlessly! Over all this was a wonderful start to what promises to be an awesome series!
September 16, 2019
2.75 stars!! It was just ok for me. I feel like I should have loved it, and it had all the right ingredients that I typically like, likable but opposites-in-personality MCs, slow-burn, a little drama, adorable little girl.. etc etc.. and yet the whole things was just meh..🙄.
The whole matchmaking company and their involvement felt contrived and lengthy. The interactions and banter between Luke and Hank seemed drab and boring even after their disastrous first date. There was sweetness, yes... but no spark🤔.. no witty banter.. 😬. Even when there was a serious event in Luke's life; there was no grief, sorrow or even mourning. It seemed like everyone moved on too quickly from it. The miscommunication towards the tail end of the story also felt like just a plot to extend the story a little longer and was resolved with soapy-melodrama🙄.
All in all in wasn't bad, but it wasn't good either. It lacked the oomph factor that grabs a reader and keeps you glued till you finish. I doubt I'll remember the story in a few days..🤪 but I'll remember that it wasn't worth a re-read. 🤨
The whole matchmaking company and their involvement felt contrived and lengthy. The interactions and banter between Luke and Hank seemed drab and boring even after their disastrous first date. There was sweetness, yes... but no spark🤔.. no witty banter.. 😬. Even when there was a serious event in Luke's life; there was no grief, sorrow or even mourning. It seemed like everyone moved on too quickly from it. The miscommunication towards the tail end of the story also felt like just a plot to extend the story a little longer and was resolved with soapy-melodrama🙄.
All in all in wasn't bad, but it wasn't good either. It lacked the oomph factor that grabs a reader and keeps you glued till you finish. I doubt I'll remember the story in a few days..🤪 but I'll remember that it wasn't worth a re-read. 🤨
August 17, 2019
I really loved this cover, it definitely sold the book to me.
The story was not as exciting, unfortunately. An okay read with quite a lot of (unnecessary) drama, everything a little exaggerated and just too much...
Not really bad, but not convincing either. Average 3 stars for me
The story was not as exciting, unfortunately. An okay read with quite a lot of (unnecessary) drama, everything a little exaggerated and just too much...
Not really bad, but not convincing either. Average 3 stars for me
August 8, 2019
I liked how this story showed that it’s not a bad thing to give someone a second shot or try again (though that isn’t always the case). Lucas is the perfect guy to get Hank to relax and let his walls down. I adored Jasmine (though she seemed a little too perfect for an eight year old) and that she just adopted Hank the first time she met him.
The story was cute and had the unfortunate timing of being read right after another book that had one character deciding their own reputation is more important than the relationship. I am not a fan of that trope much to begin with but when it’s one right after it’s one of those “didn’t I just read this” moments. I am sure I will try another in this series to see what other couples get brought together.
I received an ARC of this book and am giving an honest review.
The story was cute and had the unfortunate timing of being read right after another book that had one character deciding their own reputation is more important than the relationship. I am not a fan of that trope much to begin with but when it’s one right after it’s one of those “didn’t I just read this” moments. I am sure I will try another in this series to see what other couples get brought together.
I received an ARC of this book and am giving an honest review.
March 5, 2021
Another great book by Declan Rhodes. I enjoy his writing style because it’s fresh and to the point with just enough inner monologues. This is a sweet low angst story about mismatched guys by a dating agency. I really liked both Hank and Luck, but little Jasmine stolen the show.
September 6, 2019
This book isn’t sure what it wants to be. It’s mostly kind of a sweet romance, with some of the writing seeming more formal. The sex scenes are more fitting with the genre of other gay romance novels.
At other times, the writing is stilted and unrealistic. It was short enough that I finished it, and I like Jasmine so I wanted to hear about her, and Hank and Luke are also interesting enough.
OK read, but too inconsistent.
KU
At other times, the writing is stilted and unrealistic. It was short enough that I finished it, and I like Jasmine so I wanted to hear about her, and Hank and Luke are also interesting enough.
OK read, but too inconsistent.
KU
June 14, 2020
I did not expect to like this book as much as I did, so this was a nice little surprise.
Luke and Hank meets through a dating service. They are supposed to be each others perfect match, except the computer missed a few parts and well, at first they really ain't each others perfect match. However, they decide to go on a second date and things takes off from there.
This was a sweet, low on angst fast paced read that I came to adore.
Sure, there was times where I wanted to slap Hank (okay, one time), but it all worked out in the end.
I also loved Jasmine. Kids that acts too old for the age are always relatable for me since I was one of those kids.
Would absolutely recommend this book!
Luke and Hank meets through a dating service. They are supposed to be each others perfect match, except the computer missed a few parts and well, at first they really ain't each others perfect match. However, they decide to go on a second date and things takes off from there.
This was a sweet, low on angst fast paced read that I came to adore.
Sure, there was times where I wanted to slap Hank (okay, one time), but it all worked out in the end.
I also loved Jasmine. Kids that acts too old for the age are always relatable for me since I was one of those kids.
Would absolutely recommend this book!
March 21, 2021
Interesting premise of a dating app match up gone wrong, yet so right. I loved how they took a second chance to get to know each other rather than rely on their first impression and meeting. They had a lot more in common than they thought, but getting to know each other was a great thing.
Jasmine was a totally sweet kid, and Luke was a great uncle. You could tell he adored her and was a wonderful parent to her. At first I was a little bummed that the whole incident with Luke’s sister took place off page and we found out with little emotion, but after I kept reading, I really didn’t feel like I needed that. Watching Luke and Jasmine in the backlash from everything was what mattered, and seeing Hank help them and grow closer with them was beautiful.
I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC provided by LesCourt Author Services
Jasmine was a totally sweet kid, and Luke was a great uncle. You could tell he adored her and was a wonderful parent to her. At first I was a little bummed that the whole incident with Luke’s sister took place off page and we found out with little emotion, but after I kept reading, I really didn’t feel like I needed that. Watching Luke and Jasmine in the backlash from everything was what mattered, and seeing Hank help them and grow closer with them was beautiful.
I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC provided by LesCourt Author Services
July 28, 2019
Dating someone from a dating site seems desperate.
That is what happened with Hank and Luke. However, after the agency sent out their profiles they realized that they were mismatched. They had the first date and I thought that was it...there was no sparkle and a handshake at the end.
Luke decided to give it another chance. This time they found common ground.
It took four dates for them to realize that indeed there was something worth working for.
There were some upheavals and miscommunication, but in the end they found the love and companion they wanted. Lovely story. One of the better ones from Declan.
That is what happened with Hank and Luke. However, after the agency sent out their profiles they realized that they were mismatched. They had the first date and I thought that was it...there was no sparkle and a handshake at the end.
Luke decided to give it another chance. This time they found common ground.
It took four dates for them to realize that indeed there was something worth working for.
There were some upheavals and miscommunication, but in the end they found the love and companion they wanted. Lovely story. One of the better ones from Declan.
August 12, 2019
A good story, but some weird behavior by the MCs. If Hank is aware of his behavior patterns so well and his assistant is as well, how does he get away with cutting people off for weeks at a time? His assistant is brash enough to get him to sign up with a matchmaker in the first place, why would she hold her tongue when we acts the way he does? Especially when he does ask for her input and she gives it to him with both barrels. Other than this weirdness, I really did enjoy it. Luke and Jasmine are adorable. He's going to be a great dad. I have a feeling that Luke deserves better than Hank, but that's just me.
August 7, 2019
This was a decent read dealing with opposites attracting and the like. Luke and Hank were decently flushed out with familial backgrounds and everyday tendencies/habits. Side characters weren't too overbearing. I wasn't a fan of the one sided berating towards the end though. I understood that Hank made a big decision but it was a decision that was logically made and Luke gave Hank alot of shit for it even though Hank was uneasy for the right reasons. Luke also responded selfishly and continued through the rest of the story as if he was right all along and I am not a fan. A decent read overall
August 10, 2019
Mismatched Melted My Heart ✨💖✨
Title: Mismatched
Author: Declan Rhodes
Publisher:
Release Date: 7/26/2019
Genre/ Trope(s): Gay Romance;
Page Count: 205p.
SteaMMy Swordplay: 2 out of 5⚔
Sharonica-Stars: 3.75✨
GoodReads AVG: 3.96🌟
Hank & Luke
Mismatched was super sweet, and portrayed the best and worst in everyday life, and how a life can change in an instant. That change causing a rippled effect like a pebble being dropped into a pool. The change never impacts just one person.
After reading this I pondered for a while, "which pebble (person/ event) caused the most ripples in the story? Was it the techie who messed up the coding for the software? The person/event who caused the accident? Luke? Hank? Hazel? The father? Or, did life just happen the way it was meant to, tragic events included. Was life more about the ripples and less about the pebble that was dropped? After all, the ripples were beautiful, even when the water was dark and murky.
Declan Rhodes wrote an excellent book filled with intriguing characters, keeping the dialogue simple, yet colorful so the reader is swept away by the interactions between the pages. You fall in love with Luke, Hank, Jasmine, and even Hazel who is like a modern-day fairy godmother in smart business suits, who makes amazing vanilla-hazelnut ☕ coffee.
A realistic love story that has you rooting for the MCs' HEA (even when they are dumb boys), wanting to hug and hold tight to a sweet lil girl, and make a sassy lawyer's PA, your new BFF. 😍
There was an instance where Hank's memory about his parents' divorce didn't match up, but beyond that, the story was tight, fast paced, and very enjoyable.
3.75 mismatched-made-in-heaven-stars ✨✨✨•✨
I read a complimentary Advanced Reader Copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest and unbiased review.💋
Title: Mismatched
Author: Declan Rhodes
Publisher:
Release Date: 7/26/2019
Genre/ Trope(s): Gay Romance;
Page Count: 205p.
SteaMMy Swordplay: 2 out of 5⚔
Sharonica-Stars: 3.75✨
GoodReads AVG: 3.96🌟
Hank & Luke
Mismatched was super sweet, and portrayed the best and worst in everyday life, and how a life can change in an instant. That change causing a rippled effect like a pebble being dropped into a pool. The change never impacts just one person.
After reading this I pondered for a while, "which pebble (person/ event) caused the most ripples in the story? Was it the techie who messed up the coding for the software? The person/event who caused the accident? Luke? Hank? Hazel? The father? Or, did life just happen the way it was meant to, tragic events included. Was life more about the ripples and less about the pebble that was dropped? After all, the ripples were beautiful, even when the water was dark and murky.
Declan Rhodes wrote an excellent book filled with intriguing characters, keeping the dialogue simple, yet colorful so the reader is swept away by the interactions between the pages. You fall in love with Luke, Hank, Jasmine, and even Hazel who is like a modern-day fairy godmother in smart business suits, who makes amazing vanilla-hazelnut ☕ coffee.
A realistic love story that has you rooting for the MCs' HEA (even when they are dumb boys), wanting to hug and hold tight to a sweet lil girl, and make a sassy lawyer's PA, your new BFF. 😍
There was an instance where Hank's memory about his parents' divorce didn't match up, but beyond that, the story was tight, fast paced, and very enjoyable.
3.75 mismatched-made-in-heaven-stars ✨✨✨•✨
I read a complimentary Advanced Reader Copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest and unbiased review.💋
December 13, 2019
Mismatched (Matchmakers 1)
By Declan Rhodes
Published by the author, 2019
Four stars
Daniel and Blake run a “high-end” gay matching service (whatever that means!) in Wisconsin. Daniel is a nearly-forty gay man (aging well, we are told, which always makes me snort) and Blake, his hot-shot code writer, is straight. They all but disappear after the opening of the story, but I suspect, since this is the first of a series, they will reappear.
Blake’s brilliant algorithm has matched up a high-powered young lawyer, Hank Donovan, with a laid-back motorcycle dealer and mechanic, Lucas Dean. A minor glitch in the software leaves Blake wondering what will happen, but rather than tell his gung-ho boss about the error, he simply corrects it and hopes for the best.
This is classic m/m romance, but I have to say that Declan Rhodes (whose website says nothing about him of any significance) writes very nicely, and grammatically. Both Hank and Lucas carry on with the dating process outlined by Match Made, and because they believe it’s supposed to be a good match, make the effort to look past the initial awkwardness and obvious differences between the two men.
Then, as it is wont to do, life steps in and upsets the apple cart. Hank finds himself engaged with Lucas in an entirely unexpected – and unwanted – way. Thing is, it is this unanticipated interaction that changes everything, and forces the careerist Hank to think long and hard about the family-centric Lucas.
I was intrigued that, in a series that is supposed to be about matchmaking in the modern world, the emphasis in the first installment is on error and miscalculation. Of course, that has piqued my curiosity, so I suppose I’ll have to add book two to my backlog.
By Declan Rhodes
Published by the author, 2019
Four stars
Daniel and Blake run a “high-end” gay matching service (whatever that means!) in Wisconsin. Daniel is a nearly-forty gay man (aging well, we are told, which always makes me snort) and Blake, his hot-shot code writer, is straight. They all but disappear after the opening of the story, but I suspect, since this is the first of a series, they will reappear.
Blake’s brilliant algorithm has matched up a high-powered young lawyer, Hank Donovan, with a laid-back motorcycle dealer and mechanic, Lucas Dean. A minor glitch in the software leaves Blake wondering what will happen, but rather than tell his gung-ho boss about the error, he simply corrects it and hopes for the best.
This is classic m/m romance, but I have to say that Declan Rhodes (whose website says nothing about him of any significance) writes very nicely, and grammatically. Both Hank and Lucas carry on with the dating process outlined by Match Made, and because they believe it’s supposed to be a good match, make the effort to look past the initial awkwardness and obvious differences between the two men.
Then, as it is wont to do, life steps in and upsets the apple cart. Hank finds himself engaged with Lucas in an entirely unexpected – and unwanted – way. Thing is, it is this unanticipated interaction that changes everything, and forces the careerist Hank to think long and hard about the family-centric Lucas.
I was intrigued that, in a series that is supposed to be about matchmaking in the modern world, the emphasis in the first installment is on error and miscalculation. Of course, that has piqued my curiosity, so I suppose I’ll have to add book two to my backlog.
August 7, 2019
Declan Rhodes's Mismatched is a fabulous read! I was drawn into this story immediately. The writing is smooth, calming, and extra comforting.
Hank and Luke meet as they are paired up by a dating app service. In a unique twist, we get to learn about the men who run the service, leading to some cute and funny moments.
This book includes an awkward and boring first date. The lawyer and biker certainly have nothing to talk about. Both are too nervous and skeptical to be themselves, and neither acts as themselves. But after trying a second date, with a more open mind, the walls come down, and they get quickly become close.
Theirs is a story of interruptions, doubts, priorities, and family. There's a cute kid and a custody fight. Their tale includes the complications of attorney/client conflict of interest, trying to do what's best for everyone, and the re-evaluation of ones' priorities. The storyline is carried out at an excellent pace, and the characters are all extremely likeable. And don't forget Hank's co-worker Hazel, who's fantastic, with fun banter and wise-cracks.
Told in dual 1st person pov, I feel like I'm sitting down catching up with a good friend. The whole story is downright enjoyable, as it's riveting, compelling, and a truly delightful read.
Mismatched is a wonderful story of two men who are great together, but have some obstacles to face. I love this Declan Rhodes book and am excited for more of this series. And, omg I love the epilogue!
Hank and Luke meet as they are paired up by a dating app service. In a unique twist, we get to learn about the men who run the service, leading to some cute and funny moments.
This book includes an awkward and boring first date. The lawyer and biker certainly have nothing to talk about. Both are too nervous and skeptical to be themselves, and neither acts as themselves. But after trying a second date, with a more open mind, the walls come down, and they get quickly become close.
Theirs is a story of interruptions, doubts, priorities, and family. There's a cute kid and a custody fight. Their tale includes the complications of attorney/client conflict of interest, trying to do what's best for everyone, and the re-evaluation of ones' priorities. The storyline is carried out at an excellent pace, and the characters are all extremely likeable. And don't forget Hank's co-worker Hazel, who's fantastic, with fun banter and wise-cracks.
Told in dual 1st person pov, I feel like I'm sitting down catching up with a good friend. The whole story is downright enjoyable, as it's riveting, compelling, and a truly delightful read.
Mismatched is a wonderful story of two men who are great together, but have some obstacles to face. I love this Declan Rhodes book and am excited for more of this series. And, omg I love the epilogue!
July 28, 2019
Delightful love story with all the feels! Finding your real self and touching real emotion can be scary and amazing at the same time. I loved how these guys really shared themselves after their first date. Motorcycles, sail boats, dinners and movies create a beautiful basis for a couple and romance. Great supporting characters. The writing flowed and the story-line was interesting and engaging.
Hank and Luke have an amazing connection and then life happens and now Luke has a lifetime commitment to his darling little niece. How do you navigate life and find your path with so many responsibilities and changes. I loved the connection that Hank found with Jasmine and how he found more of himself to share.
This is the first in The Matchmakers series and it was an awesome introduction to a new series. So much potential, including one of the owners, so i am looking forward to more fun and love to come in the future.
Hank and Luke have an amazing connection and then life happens and now Luke has a lifetime commitment to his darling little niece. How do you navigate life and find your path with so many responsibilities and changes. I loved the connection that Hank found with Jasmine and how he found more of himself to share.
This is the first in The Matchmakers series and it was an awesome introduction to a new series. So much potential, including one of the owners, so i am looking forward to more fun and love to come in the future.
August 10, 2019
So what happens when you have a great super-duper dating app with a fancy computer that makes amazing matches...that has a malfunction and pairs two distinctly mismatched men together? A subpar first date that with some work leads to more.
Both men had me wanting to strangle them at parts in this book, as they did what they thought was for the best (Luke when he took on Jasmine and Hank after the trial), but when they were together they were sweet. Jasmine definitely had to be my favourite character, followed by Hazel - she’s a woman who told it like it was!
Some adorable parts with Jas getting used to her new life with Uncle Luke, and letting Hank in. Sweet book about a mismatched couple who managed to make it work.
Both men had me wanting to strangle them at parts in this book, as they did what they thought was for the best (Luke when he took on Jasmine and Hank after the trial), but when they were together they were sweet. Jasmine definitely had to be my favourite character, followed by Hazel - she’s a woman who told it like it was!
Some adorable parts with Jas getting used to her new life with Uncle Luke, and letting Hank in. Sweet book about a mismatched couple who managed to make it work.
July 30, 2019
This book was very cute and adorable to read!
I love books when one of the MCs becomes an "unexpected" parent. The mismatch with the dating site was funny as hell, too.
I loved Luke a bit more than Hank, well, there where moments I really didn't like Hank, he seemed a little too self-centered at times...
The book is really enjoyable, though, and it sets the premis for a great series, too!
I love books when one of the MCs becomes an "unexpected" parent. The mismatch with the dating site was funny as hell, too.
I loved Luke a bit more than Hank, well, there where moments I really didn't like Hank, he seemed a little too self-centered at times...
The book is really enjoyable, though, and it sets the premis for a great series, too!
July 31, 2019
Luke and Hank meet through a dating sight and the first date was awkward at best. They agree to go on another date and things were a little better.
As they got to know each other sparks started to fly when Luke gets a call that changes his life forever.
Jasmine is a cute addition to the story line.
This is a sweet story and a great start to a new series.
As they got to know each other sparks started to fly when Luke gets a call that changes his life forever.
Jasmine is a cute addition to the story line.
This is a sweet story and a great start to a new series.
August 14, 2019
I wanted to like this book so much but found it unbelievable and boring. The dialogue was clunky. No grief around the sister’s death? Jasmine didn’t come across as a believable kid either.
I wasn’t a fan of Hank either. He annoyed me to no end. And what was with the barking orders when they had sex?
Hopefully the series will get better, though I’ve heard the author generally writes like this.
I wasn’t a fan of Hank either. He annoyed me to no end. And what was with the barking orders when they had sex?
Hopefully the series will get better, though I’ve heard the author generally writes like this.
September 15, 2019
DNF
I just find the writing so stiff and mechanical. Can't get into the story
I just find the writing so stiff and mechanical. Can't get into the story
August 10, 2019
"Mismatched" is the first volume of the "Matchmakers" series written by Declan Rhodes, and as the titles of the novel and the whole series indicate, a dating agency is the motif that fuels all this. I admit that this theme was one of the reasons I really wanted to read this book. The other one was a seemingly mismatched couple with great chemistry. Thus, "Mismatched" combines two motifs that have really conquered my heart some time ago. However, when it comes to the way they were presented in this novel, I admit that the author did a really great job. He managed to put together not only two people who belong to completely different worlds, but two men who complement each other in many ways, and who, above all, broaden each other's horizons. In other words, Hank and Luke change and develop thanks to each other, which I really like in this novel, as it sheds a completely different light on a dating agency theme.
Emotions are another advantage of "Mismatched". It's worth noting that in this novel we find a lot of them and they all touch our hearts and move us deeply. Interestingly, emotions are presented from many different angles often based on a principle – one's point of view depends on the point where one sits. The best example is probably the tragedy Luke's family faces. While Luke's heart is bleeding, his strength is put to the test, his paternal instinct is awakening, and dating is not really important at the moment, Hank is furious and feels betrayed, disappointed, and what is more, over time all these feelings change. I think that equally important is the fact that Declan Rhodes in his novel shows feelings in a way that really moves us, makes us cry and smile, makes us burst with anger or, on the contrary, with enjoyment. In this case, I think it's amazing that he was able to achieve all this in the most natural and unobtrusive way. In fact, the author doesn't need to focus purely on emotions and analyze them to touch us and influence us. I don't know how he does it, but he does it perfectly.
I think that another worth mentioning topic, which undoubtedly occupies a very important place in "Mismatched", is the topic of pace at which life and priorities can change. In fact, this subject appears at the very beginning of the novel and as the story unfolds we follow it, as the new evidence which prove that life is unpredictable and can change dramatically in an instant is presented. I admit that I really like the way the author approached this topic, because he turned the characters' lives upside down in a really charming way by making the paths of two strangers cross. It is important that the changes in the life of one of them significantly affect the life of the other. It's obvious it works like that, so it doesn't really surprise us, but it seems to me that we rarely think about how many events that occur every day depend on pure accident. I really like the fact that the author has subtly reminded us of this.
Finally, I would like to mention one more topic raised in "Mismatched" which is a great advantage of the novel. I'm talking about making a choice between love and career. What can I say, the author really approached this issue very well and presented it perfectly, because when I was reading the story told in this book, he managed to affect my emotions. I admit that from time to time during reading I was really angry when something wasn't going the way I wanted, and that is a good thing. However, let's add that the motif of making a choice between love and career, although evident, is not "labeled" in the novel. It's not even named or used as an argument to affect the other character's emotions, feelings. To be honest, it really surprised me. Nevertheless, it was thanks to it that in "Mismatched" we could see the undeniable maturity of the characters. It impressed me a lot.
In summary, "Mismatched" is a really interesting and enjoyable novel that is definitely worth reading. The lighter and more dramatic elements of the story were combined in perfect proportions, thanks to which the book engrosses the reader and undoubtedly conquers their heart. What's more, we quickly become close to the characters. In short, I highly recommend "Mismatched".
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„Mismatched” to pierwszy tom serii „Matchmakers” tworzonej przez Declana Rhodesa i jak wskazuje tytuł powieści oraz całej serii, motywem napędowym są tu usługi oferowane przez agencję randkową. Przyznaję, że właśnie ten motyw był pierwszym powodem, dla którego zainteresowałam się tą książką. Drugim była pozornie źle dobrana para, w przypadku której zaczęło iskrzyć. Tym samym, „Mismatched” tak naprawdę łączy w sobie dwa motywy, które już jakiś czas temu podbiły moje serce. Jeśli jednak chodzi o ich wykorzystanie w tej powieści to przyznaję, że autor naprawdę doskonale się spisał. Udało mu się bowiem zestawić ze sobą nie tyle dwóje ludzi należących do zupełnie różnych światów, ile dwóch mężczyzn, którzy nie tylko potrafią się pod wieloma względami dopełniać, ale przede wszystkim poszerzają horyzonty tej drugiej osoby. Inaczej mówiąc, Hank i Luke zmieniają się i rozwijają dzięki sobie nawzajem, co naprawdę bardzo mi się podoba i rzuca zupełnie inne światło na motyw agencji randkowej.
Kolejnym atutem „Mismatched” są emocje. Warto wspomnieć, iż w tej powieści znajdziemy ich naprawdę bardzo wiele i wszystkie one łapią nas za serce i poruszają nas dogłębnie. Co ciekawe, emocje zostają przedstawione z wielu różnych stron, nierzadko na zasadzie – punkt widzenia zależy od punktu siedzenia. Najlepszym przykładem jest chyba dramat, jaki dotyka Luke. Podczas, kiedy jego serce krwawi, jego siła zostaje wystawiona na próbę, instynkt ojcowski przeżywa przebudzenie, a myśli o randkowaniu zostają zepchnięte na dalszy plan, Hank kipi ze złości i czuje się zdradzony, zawiedziony, z czasem jednak wszystkie te uczucia ulegają zmianie. Myślę, że równie istotny jest fakt, iż Declan Rhodes przedstawił w powieści uczucia w sposób, który naprawdę nas porusza, wyciska łzy, wywołuje uśmiech, sprawia, że kipimy ze złości, bądź rozpiera nas energia. Niesamowite wydaje mi się w tym wypadku to, że osiągnął to w sposób jak najbardziej naturalny, nierzucający się w oczy. Tak naprawdę autor nie ma potrzeby skupiać się czysto na emocjach i ich analizowaniu, aby do nas dotrzeć i na nas wpłynąć. Nie wiem jak to robi, ale jest w tym perfekcyjny.
Myślę, że tematem, o którym warto wspomnieć, a który niewątpliwie zajmuje w „Mismatched” bardzo ważne miejsce jest tempo w jakim życie i priorytety potrafią ulec zmianie. Tak naprawdę, temat ten pojawia się już na samym początku powieści i w miarę rozwoju przedstawionej tu historii śledzimy coraz to nowsze dowody na to, że życie jest nieprzewidywalne i w przeciągu jednej chwili potrafi się diametralnie zmienić. Przyznaję, że bardzo podoba mi się to, w jaki sposób do tego tematu podszedł autor, który splatając ze sobą ścieżki dwóch do niedawna obcych sobie mężczyzn, w naprawdę czarujący sposób postawił na głowie ich życie. Istotne jest bowiem to, że zmiany w życiu jednego z nich, odbijają się w znacznym stopniu na życiu drugiego. Jest to coś oczywistego, co raczej nas nie zaskakuje, a jednak wydaje mi się, że rzadko myślimy o tym, jak dalece wiele wydarzeń mających miejsce na co dzień zależy od zwykłych przypadków. Naprawdę podoba mi się to, że autor subtelnie nam o tym przypomniał.
Na koniec chciałabym wspomnieć jeszcze o jednym temacie poruszonym w „Mismatched”, który stanowi ogromną zaletę powieści. Chodzi o wybór między miłością a karierą. Przyznaję, autor naprawdę doskonale podszedł do tego zagadnienia i świetnie je przedstawił, ponieważ zdołał wpłynąć na moje emocje, kiedy czytałam przedstawioną w „Mismatched” historię. Przyznaję bowiem, że czasami podczas lektury byłam naprawd�� wściekła, kiedy coś nie szło po mojej myśli. Warto jednak wspomnieć, że motyw wyboru między miłością a karierą chociaż ewidentny, nie zostaje w powieści w żaden sposób „zaszufladkowany”, ostatecznie nazwany i wykorzystany jako argument mający grać na emocjach któregokolwiek z bohaterów. Nie zaprzeczam, że byłam tym bardzo zdziwiona. Niemniej jednak, właśnie dzięki temu można było dostrzec w „Mismatched” bezsprzeczną dojrzałość bohaterów. To zrobiło na mnie spore wrażenie.
Podsumowując, „Mismatched” jest naprawdę interesującą i przyjemną powieścią, którą zdecydowanie warto przeczytać. Lżejsze oraz bardziej dramatyczne elementy historii zostały połączone w doskonałych proporcjach, dzięki czemu książka pochłania czytelnika i niewątpliwie podbija jego serce, zaś bohaterowie szybko stają się nam bardzo bliscy. Naprawdę gorąco polecam Wam „Mismatched”.
Emotions are another advantage of "Mismatched". It's worth noting that in this novel we find a lot of them and they all touch our hearts and move us deeply. Interestingly, emotions are presented from many different angles often based on a principle – one's point of view depends on the point where one sits. The best example is probably the tragedy Luke's family faces. While Luke's heart is bleeding, his strength is put to the test, his paternal instinct is awakening, and dating is not really important at the moment, Hank is furious and feels betrayed, disappointed, and what is more, over time all these feelings change. I think that equally important is the fact that Declan Rhodes in his novel shows feelings in a way that really moves us, makes us cry and smile, makes us burst with anger or, on the contrary, with enjoyment. In this case, I think it's amazing that he was able to achieve all this in the most natural and unobtrusive way. In fact, the author doesn't need to focus purely on emotions and analyze them to touch us and influence us. I don't know how he does it, but he does it perfectly.
I think that another worth mentioning topic, which undoubtedly occupies a very important place in "Mismatched", is the topic of pace at which life and priorities can change. In fact, this subject appears at the very beginning of the novel and as the story unfolds we follow it, as the new evidence which prove that life is unpredictable and can change dramatically in an instant is presented. I admit that I really like the way the author approached this topic, because he turned the characters' lives upside down in a really charming way by making the paths of two strangers cross. It is important that the changes in the life of one of them significantly affect the life of the other. It's obvious it works like that, so it doesn't really surprise us, but it seems to me that we rarely think about how many events that occur every day depend on pure accident. I really like the fact that the author has subtly reminded us of this.
Finally, I would like to mention one more topic raised in "Mismatched" which is a great advantage of the novel. I'm talking about making a choice between love and career. What can I say, the author really approached this issue very well and presented it perfectly, because when I was reading the story told in this book, he managed to affect my emotions. I admit that from time to time during reading I was really angry when something wasn't going the way I wanted, and that is a good thing. However, let's add that the motif of making a choice between love and career, although evident, is not "labeled" in the novel. It's not even named or used as an argument to affect the other character's emotions, feelings. To be honest, it really surprised me. Nevertheless, it was thanks to it that in "Mismatched" we could see the undeniable maturity of the characters. It impressed me a lot.
In summary, "Mismatched" is a really interesting and enjoyable novel that is definitely worth reading. The lighter and more dramatic elements of the story were combined in perfect proportions, thanks to which the book engrosses the reader and undoubtedly conquers their heart. What's more, we quickly become close to the characters. In short, I highly recommend "Mismatched".
_______________________________
„Mismatched” to pierwszy tom serii „Matchmakers” tworzonej przez Declana Rhodesa i jak wskazuje tytuł powieści oraz całej serii, motywem napędowym są tu usługi oferowane przez agencję randkową. Przyznaję, że właśnie ten motyw był pierwszym powodem, dla którego zainteresowałam się tą książką. Drugim była pozornie źle dobrana para, w przypadku której zaczęło iskrzyć. Tym samym, „Mismatched” tak naprawdę łączy w sobie dwa motywy, które już jakiś czas temu podbiły moje serce. Jeśli jednak chodzi o ich wykorzystanie w tej powieści to przyznaję, że autor naprawdę doskonale się spisał. Udało mu się bowiem zestawić ze sobą nie tyle dwóje ludzi należących do zupełnie różnych światów, ile dwóch mężczyzn, którzy nie tylko potrafią się pod wieloma względami dopełniać, ale przede wszystkim poszerzają horyzonty tej drugiej osoby. Inaczej mówiąc, Hank i Luke zmieniają się i rozwijają dzięki sobie nawzajem, co naprawdę bardzo mi się podoba i rzuca zupełnie inne światło na motyw agencji randkowej.
Kolejnym atutem „Mismatched” są emocje. Warto wspomnieć, iż w tej powieści znajdziemy ich naprawdę bardzo wiele i wszystkie one łapią nas za serce i poruszają nas dogłębnie. Co ciekawe, emocje zostają przedstawione z wielu różnych stron, nierzadko na zasadzie – punkt widzenia zależy od punktu siedzenia. Najlepszym przykładem jest chyba dramat, jaki dotyka Luke. Podczas, kiedy jego serce krwawi, jego siła zostaje wystawiona na próbę, instynkt ojcowski przeżywa przebudzenie, a myśli o randkowaniu zostają zepchnięte na dalszy plan, Hank kipi ze złości i czuje się zdradzony, zawiedziony, z czasem jednak wszystkie te uczucia ulegają zmianie. Myślę, że równie istotny jest fakt, iż Declan Rhodes przedstawił w powieści uczucia w sposób, który naprawdę nas porusza, wyciska łzy, wywołuje uśmiech, sprawia, że kipimy ze złości, bądź rozpiera nas energia. Niesamowite wydaje mi się w tym wypadku to, że osiągnął to w sposób jak najbardziej naturalny, nierzucający się w oczy. Tak naprawdę autor nie ma potrzeby skupiać się czysto na emocjach i ich analizowaniu, aby do nas dotrzeć i na nas wpłynąć. Nie wiem jak to robi, ale jest w tym perfekcyjny.
Myślę, że tematem, o którym warto wspomnieć, a który niewątpliwie zajmuje w „Mismatched” bardzo ważne miejsce jest tempo w jakim życie i priorytety potrafią ulec zmianie. Tak naprawdę, temat ten pojawia się już na samym początku powieści i w miarę rozwoju przedstawionej tu historii śledzimy coraz to nowsze dowody na to, że życie jest nieprzewidywalne i w przeciągu jednej chwili potrafi się diametralnie zmienić. Przyznaję, że bardzo podoba mi się to, w jaki sposób do tego tematu podszedł autor, który splatając ze sobą ścieżki dwóch do niedawna obcych sobie mężczyzn, w naprawdę czarujący sposób postawił na głowie ich życie. Istotne jest bowiem to, że zmiany w życiu jednego z nich, odbijają się w znacznym stopniu na życiu drugiego. Jest to coś oczywistego, co raczej nas nie zaskakuje, a jednak wydaje mi się, że rzadko myślimy o tym, jak dalece wiele wydarzeń mających miejsce na co dzień zależy od zwykłych przypadków. Naprawdę podoba mi się to, że autor subtelnie nam o tym przypomniał.
Na koniec chciałabym wspomnieć jeszcze o jednym temacie poruszonym w „Mismatched”, który stanowi ogromną zaletę powieści. Chodzi o wybór między miłością a karierą. Przyznaję, autor naprawdę doskonale podszedł do tego zagadnienia i świetnie je przedstawił, ponieważ zdołał wpłynąć na moje emocje, kiedy czytałam przedstawioną w „Mismatched” historię. Przyznaję bowiem, że czasami podczas lektury byłam naprawd�� wściekła, kiedy coś nie szło po mojej myśli. Warto jednak wspomnieć, że motyw wyboru między miłością a karierą chociaż ewidentny, nie zostaje w powieści w żaden sposób „zaszufladkowany”, ostatecznie nazwany i wykorzystany jako argument mający grać na emocjach któregokolwiek z bohaterów. Nie zaprzeczam, że byłam tym bardzo zdziwiona. Niemniej jednak, właśnie dzięki temu można było dostrzec w „Mismatched” bezsprzeczną dojrzałość bohaterów. To zrobiło na mnie spore wrażenie.
Podsumowując, „Mismatched” jest naprawdę interesującą i przyjemną powieścią, którą zdecydowanie warto przeczytać. Lżejsze oraz bardziej dramatyczne elementy historii zostały połączone w doskonałych proporcjach, dzięki czemu książka pochłania czytelnika i niewątpliwie podbija jego serce, zaś bohaterowie szybko stają się nam bardzo bliscy. Naprawdę gorąco polecam Wam „Mismatched”.
May 24, 2025
An unexpected romance between Hank Donovan, a successful but lonely lawyer who believes children are out of the question, and Lucas Dean, a free-spirited motorcycle shop owner who dreams of being a father. Initially mismatched by a computer error from a dating service, their disastrous first date is followed by a second chance that sets in motion a series of life-changing events: a "lakeside kiss," a family death, and the introduction of a little girl named Jasmine. These events ultimately lead to Hank finding companionship, Lucas becoming a dad, and Jasmine finding a permanent home.
I loved this story with the two men who should not work together but were the best for each other especially when Jasmine was added to the mix. I loved the various trials that their relationship went through although they could have benefited from more detail about the emotions and feelings of the characters. Easy to read and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.
I loved this story with the two men who should not work together but were the best for each other especially when Jasmine was added to the mix. I loved the various trials that their relationship went through although they could have benefited from more detail about the emotions and feelings of the characters. Easy to read and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.
August 9, 2022
I really enjoyed reading this book. The plot and the emotions make for an awesome read. Lucas owns a motorcycle shop and want someone who like a lot the things he likes.. Hank is a hotshot attorney that has it all but no one to share it with him. Both men decide to try a dating site. They agree to have a first date and it is an unmitigated disaster. But Lucas sets up a second date date and things go as well as the first date was bad. But then tragedy strikes the relationship has to end. Lucas has to attend to issues that Hank does not want or need in his life, or so he says. This is not a spoiler but anyone who have ever tried a match making service would love for this to happen to them.
August 6, 2021
I had so many chores planned for today, I was going to wash my floors, vacuum my rugs, and clean the bathroom while getting two loads of laundry done, but first, with a coffee, I thought I'd read a page or two of this story. And that was that! I was hooked from the start, an engrossing, wonderful tale of two gorgeously sexy men who meet through a dating app and keeps you entertained from start to finish. Then there is Jasmine, young but so wise for her age with amusing little remarks and a heart of gold. Just a great read. I can always do my chores another day.
November 7, 2021
Motorcycle mechanic and a lawyer
Luke and Hank get matched on a dating app, resulting in a bad first date. The second involved a motorcycle ride, and went better. Luke suddenly gets custody of his niece, to Hank's dismay. Legal proceedings have wins and losses, but Jasmine works magic.
Rhodes describes the MCs and their tight circles well, triggering emotional buy-in from this reader. I felt some of the bridging material may have been edited out, as the story seems to have small holes. All in all, a nice read.
Luke and Hank get matched on a dating app, resulting in a bad first date. The second involved a motorcycle ride, and went better. Luke suddenly gets custody of his niece, to Hank's dismay. Legal proceedings have wins and losses, but Jasmine works magic.
Rhodes describes the MCs and their tight circles well, triggering emotional buy-in from this reader. I felt some of the bridging material may have been edited out, as the story seems to have small holes. All in all, a nice read.
June 8, 2020
The first book from this author that I have read. I will be reading the next book in the series.
Hank is so focused on his work he doesn't seem to know who to have social interactions. That all changes when Luke is able to plan the second date.
After a couple of serious disruptions to Luke's life it takes Hank's assistant Hazel to get things headed back in the right direction. It's the supporting characters that kick the story along.
Hank is so focused on his work he doesn't seem to know who to have social interactions. That all changes when Luke is able to plan the second date.
After a couple of serious disruptions to Luke's life it takes Hank's assistant Hazel to get things headed back in the right direction. It's the supporting characters that kick the story along.
March 24, 2020
DNF just couldn’t get into it.
May 7, 2020
Fate
I truly enjoyed reading this story. It had a very interesting story line and characters. I loved the happy ending
I truly enjoyed reading this story. It had a very interesting story line and characters. I loved the happy ending
August 18, 2021
This was a cute story and an easy read. I got really invested the story and really read straight through - despite jet lag.
February 12, 2020
What a surprise... here we are again. DNF 27%
The plot had such promise, I actually thought I was going to really enjoy it.
The writing is what ruined it. It was VERY one-dimensional. Very redundant. So much was added that was unnecessary, things that an author should assume the reader would just know without having to specifically state.
“Hank continued with his story.”- obviously, he kept on talking didn’t he, why did that need to be said? There was more of those kinds of things written (ones that don’t need to be said) than there was actual plot.
Also, why are we supposed to care so much about their conversations with their friends? Hank had more chemistry in two sentences with Hazel than he did at all during the time he spent with Luke. And instead of actually experiencing their second date, and kiss, with them we only heard about what happened barely through a conversation not even between the MCs????
Hank’s personality did not fit with being a lawyer. There was a huge disconnect. Didn’t like it, didn’t like him.
Skip this book, tbh. The writing leaves just about everything to be desired.
The plot had such promise, I actually thought I was going to really enjoy it.
The writing is what ruined it. It was VERY one-dimensional. Very redundant. So much was added that was unnecessary, things that an author should assume the reader would just know without having to specifically state.
“Hank continued with his story.”- obviously, he kept on talking didn’t he, why did that need to be said? There was more of those kinds of things written (ones that don’t need to be said) than there was actual plot.
Also, why are we supposed to care so much about their conversations with their friends? Hank had more chemistry in two sentences with Hazel than he did at all during the time he spent with Luke. And instead of actually experiencing their second date, and kiss, with them we only heard about what happened barely through a conversation not even between the MCs????
Hank’s personality did not fit with being a lawyer. There was a huge disconnect. Didn’t like it, didn’t like him.
Skip this book, tbh. The writing leaves just about everything to be desired.
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