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Living Situations #1
Domestic Service
Colin Caldwell clawed his way out of a rough childhood to put himself through college, and now grad school. Broke, stressed-out, and struggling to stay afloat after he loses his regular ridesharing gig, he’s willing to do anything that pays the bills.
Simon Vessey, on the other hand, is a handsome, wealthy, and successful executive. On the surface, he’s the total package, but behind closed doors he’s shy, insecure, and so inexperienced that he might as well be a virgin. Limited by his fears, but craving companionship beyond an occasional escort, what he really wants is someone he can come home to, even if he’s paying for the privilege.
When a mutual acquaintance suggests that Colin might be the perfect fit for Simon’s live-in submissive dreams, it seems like the perfect solution for them both. But when their connection begins to run deeper than their business contract, and old demons rear their heads, will they find a way to persevere?
Domestic Service by Ella Fenn is a gay romance featuring an age gap, light BDSM, and two broken people fixing each other in service of their happy ending.
Simon Vessey, on the other hand, is a handsome, wealthy, and successful executive. On the surface, he’s the total package, but behind closed doors he’s shy, insecure, and so inexperienced that he might as well be a virgin. Limited by his fears, but craving companionship beyond an occasional escort, what he really wants is someone he can come home to, even if he’s paying for the privilege.
When a mutual acquaintance suggests that Colin might be the perfect fit for Simon’s live-in submissive dreams, it seems like the perfect solution for them both. But when their connection begins to run deeper than their business contract, and old demons rear their heads, will they find a way to persevere?
Domestic Service by Ella Fenn is a gay romance featuring an age gap, light BDSM, and two broken people fixing each other in service of their happy ending.
321 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 30, 2021
33 people are currently reading
507 people want to read
About the author
Ella Fenn
4 books49 followersBorn and raised in the American south, Ella believes in unsweet iced tea, the power of “y’all,” and that progressive values aren’t just for blue states. She’s been writing since she was knee high to a grasshopper, and while winning a sixth-grade regional poetry competition convinced her she might have talent, she left it behind for fan fiction and, later on, original romance. Now in her mid-thirties, Ella is dipping a toe into the waters of self-publishing her wares and hopes you’ll come along for the ride.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
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February 17, 2022DNF @48 %.
I tried but I can't get into it. I liked Simon but struggled with Colin. By the reviews, it's obvious that it's me and not the book. Ugh.
I tried but I can't get into it. I liked Simon but struggled with Colin. By the reviews, it's obvious that it's me and not the book. Ugh.
December 3, 2021
3.5 stars
I was speaking to a friend about this book once I had finished reading and I mentioned that I wasn't sure how I felt about this book. A week later and I'm still not sure.
My main struggle with the story was Simon. He's insecure, introverted, meek and scared of exploring any type of real relationship. He's not just an inexperienced dominant.....he wasn't dominant at all. Honestly, I would have enjoyed the story more if the BDSM was left out of the book. Simon wasn't dominant and Colin wasn't submissive. It could have been skipped and been a really good story.
My other complaint was there was no follow up to the brief hint that Simon was in love with his business partner/friend. I honestly think that should have been explored more...especially since Simon was trying to fill his role.
I do like that they got their happy ending and I enjoyed their relationship when they were reunited.
This was my first book by this author and while this one wasn't the best, it definitely didn't turn me off wanting to read future books.
*I received and ARC, but all thoughts and opinions are my own.*
I was speaking to a friend about this book once I had finished reading and I mentioned that I wasn't sure how I felt about this book. A week later and I'm still not sure.
My main struggle with the story was Simon. He's insecure, introverted, meek and scared of exploring any type of real relationship. He's not just an inexperienced dominant.....he wasn't dominant at all. Honestly, I would have enjoyed the story more if the BDSM was left out of the book. Simon wasn't dominant and Colin wasn't submissive. It could have been skipped and been a really good story.
My other complaint was there was no follow up to the brief hint that Simon was in love with his business partner/friend. I honestly think that should have been explored more...especially since Simon was trying to fill his role.
I do like that they got their happy ending and I enjoyed their relationship when they were reunited.
This was my first book by this author and while this one wasn't the best, it definitely didn't turn me off wanting to read future books.
*I received and ARC, but all thoughts and opinions are my own.*
December 11, 2021
Review to come soon. But I really enjoyed a lot of this book, I loved how the characters realized where they went wrong, got therapy for their trauma and apologized for their mistake, thats not something that happens often enough in books so I was glad to see it here. The thing that didn’t work for me was the BDSM relationship, it’s probably because i’ve read way too many BDSM books and my standards are too high now but their relationship just wasn’t developed enough for me to classify as BDSM, there wasn’t really a power dynamic between them and I really missed it and wished it was in the book, I felt like that part needed to be developed a bit more for me to enjoy it. Also this book had a little too much angst for me, it’s not a bad thing, it’s just that i’m not in the right mood for this much angst at the moment, so it was harder for me to get into the book at times.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review.
November 26, 2021
Sweet, sexy, funny, and clever. A great debut!
October 14, 2022
I was really impressed with the way the author showed how both characters had issues that affected their ability to communicate with each other and how they eventually resolved those issues. Colin and Simon both thought they understood their issues, but actually had blind spots that it took their burgeoning relationship to see. They also made a lot of missteps and getting to a healthy place in their relationship took time and effort. A lot of romances have overly self-aware characters who just need to have one good conversation to figure things out, so I love it when authors write something more complicated and true-to-life.
Simon and Colin were fun together, and I always enjoy the experienced sub/inexperienced dom dynamic. Despite the serious issues both characters were dealing with, this book felt fun and lighthearted most of the time, and the angst level was just right. Both characters had strong friendships outside the relationship that added a lot to the story. There was maybe a bit too much of the “friend knows just what to say to solve the current relationship problem” trope, but mostly felt believable due to the level of support and trust between the main characters and their friends.
This was an excellent debut (that I never would have guessed was a debut) and much more than just the sum of its tropes.
Simon and Colin were fun together, and I always enjoy the experienced sub/inexperienced dom dynamic. Despite the serious issues both characters were dealing with, this book felt fun and lighthearted most of the time, and the angst level was just right. Both characters had strong friendships outside the relationship that added a lot to the story. There was maybe a bit too much of the “friend knows just what to say to solve the current relationship problem” trope, but mostly felt believable due to the level of support and trust between the main characters and their friends.
This was an excellent debut (that I never would have guessed was a debut) and much more than just the sum of its tropes.
November 26, 2021
You know when you go into a book with preconceptions as to what it’s going to be like and then it knocks you on your butt? This book did that to me. I really liked the blurb and thought it would be a fun read, and it was initially. And then it started going into things deeper, and there were feelings – so many feelings. I admit it – I cried. Real life is a trip at the moment and for some reason, the scene with the bear cub (by the way, we all need a Bertram) just took me completely by surprise and I was bawling my eyes out.
I admired both Simon and Collin – not because they were perfect, but because they weren’t. It would have been so easy to keep this as a surface romance – man falls in love with his live-in sub, etc but this was so much more than that. The supporting cast were brilliant – can I just say three cheers for well-rounded female characters – and I stayed up far too late reading this.
The sex/kink was almost by the by – instead, I really wanted to see how Simon and Colin were going to make it, how they were going to get their broken pieces to fit. And I really applaud the way it was done – it took time, effort, self reflection and some really painful changes. I can hardly believe that this is a debut novel – I was really impressed, and will most definitely be looking for more by this author.
An easy 5/5 – I’m off to blow my nose and cuddle my cats!
I received an ARC from GayRomanceReviews in exchange for an honest review.
I admired both Simon and Collin – not because they were perfect, but because they weren’t. It would have been so easy to keep this as a surface romance – man falls in love with his live-in sub, etc but this was so much more than that. The supporting cast were brilliant – can I just say three cheers for well-rounded female characters – and I stayed up far too late reading this.
The sex/kink was almost by the by – instead, I really wanted to see how Simon and Colin were going to make it, how they were going to get their broken pieces to fit. And I really applaud the way it was done – it took time, effort, self reflection and some really painful changes. I can hardly believe that this is a debut novel – I was really impressed, and will most definitely be looking for more by this author.
An easy 5/5 – I’m off to blow my nose and cuddle my cats!
I received an ARC from GayRomanceReviews in exchange for an honest review.
May 7, 2022
4.25 stars - One of my favorite things about this book is the casual way kink is woven into their relationship. Also, having an unsure Dom who knows what he wants but doesn’t know how to go about it, who’s had his confidence knocked in the past, was very interesting to see. Colin was also more than your typical bratty sub who is flirting with kink. The way his temper/anger issues are shown and dealt with makes us sympathize with him, rather than write him off as a hothead.
The path of their relationship has a lot of twists and turns and while I love when an author can manage a conflict without a break, this time it really was needed for the characters to recontextualize their relationship and move from what it was to what it could be with clear eyes.
Everything about this book goes just a little deeper than you would expect, and I’m very glad I decided to pick this one up before reading book 2, which I received as an ARC. Even though Max and Ben were only slightly hinted at in this book, what we see of Simon and Colin wouldn’t have been as meaningful without context.
This is definitely an author I will be following and reading more from in future!
The path of their relationship has a lot of twists and turns and while I love when an author can manage a conflict without a break, this time it really was needed for the characters to recontextualize their relationship and move from what it was to what it could be with clear eyes.
Everything about this book goes just a little deeper than you would expect, and I’m very glad I decided to pick this one up before reading book 2, which I received as an ARC. Even though Max and Ben were only slightly hinted at in this book, what we see of Simon and Colin wouldn’t have been as meaningful without context.
This is definitely an author I will be following and reading more from in future!
December 9, 2021
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
Domestic Service is the first book in Ella Fenn’s Living Situations series and I really enjoyed this one. Fenn is a new-to-me author and one I wasn’t familiar with, so I really grabbed this book because I was intrigued by the blurb. I ended up really enjoying Fenn’s style and appreciating how the author develops these characters and has them do the work to get themselves sorted out. Both of these guys start out the story having some issues they need to work through, yet both are sort of ignoring it all and powering through.
Overall, I quite enjoyed this one and was happy to have found a new author with such a great style. I am glad that I picked up Domestic Service and look forward to following along with the series.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
Domestic Service is the first book in Ella Fenn’s Living Situations series and I really enjoyed this one. Fenn is a new-to-me author and one I wasn’t familiar with, so I really grabbed this book because I was intrigued by the blurb. I ended up really enjoying Fenn’s style and appreciating how the author develops these characters and has them do the work to get themselves sorted out. Both of these guys start out the story having some issues they need to work through, yet both are sort of ignoring it all and powering through.
Overall, I quite enjoyed this one and was happy to have found a new author with such a great style. I am glad that I picked up Domestic Service and look forward to following along with the series.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
November 30, 2021
Już dawno nie czytałam tak fajnej i przemyślanej książki. Nawet tzw 70% nieporozumienie było bardzo potrzebne. Były momenty gdzie się śmiałam , były momenty , gdzie oczko mi się zaszkliło , no i były te "momenty". Polecam
June 10, 2022
Hmm. Bedside Manners, the follow-up to Domestic Service, had some logistical/plotting issues but basically swept me off my feet, and I expected I'd feel the same way about this one.
So I mostly did, until , and all the psychologizing that follows. "We belong together, but " is a classic trope and a good one; the trouble is, I simply couldn't believe that for cripes' sake!
Also, not like lived experience. We don't really see it -- we're told about it, and the pat descriptions suck the life out of the last 10-ish percent of the book.
But here's the thing. I never once got the feeling that Ella Fenn was cranking out a story she didn't care about for the sake of making a few bucks on Amazon. The feeling I got instead was that I was reading the first published book by a writer who's on her way to being absolutely terrific in the not at all distant future. So even though I'm only giving this three stars, I want more Ella Fenn. At her earliest convenience, please.
So I mostly did, until , and all the psychologizing that follows. "We belong together, but " is a classic trope and a good one; the trouble is, I simply couldn't believe that for cripes' sake!
Also, not like lived experience. We don't really see it -- we're told about it, and the pat descriptions suck the life out of the last 10-ish percent of the book.
But here's the thing. I never once got the feeling that Ella Fenn was cranking out a story she didn't care about for the sake of making a few bucks on Amazon. The feeling I got instead was that I was reading the first published book by a writer who's on her way to being absolutely terrific in the not at all distant future. So even though I'm only giving this three stars, I want more Ella Fenn. At her earliest convenience, please.
November 7, 2022
I'm kind of lost - and confused - with this book.
I don't know how to put this, because there are many things that puzzle me.
The love story between Simon, a genius environmental mogul, and Colin, a sporty grad student in need of money, who's had a years long crush on Simon, was not believable.
Simon is in his late 30's, he's very shy, held back, an introvert, he's had miserable experiences in sex and relationships and is renting young men as escorts occasionally.
Colin is willing to be a houseboy (to manage Simon's house and be intimate) for a lot of money and he's so much more into it when he realises who his employer is.
They're also both into environmental politics, so another thing they have in common.
Their intimate moments together have been nothing short of weird.
The chemistry was not palpable. It was, yes, when they first met, but after that? I had no idea what on Earth were they doing. I don't think they knew it either.
They were most certainly not acting as a dom and a little, whatever it was that author incorporated into the story was not in context with who Simon and Colin were and if we take that and the unfortunate bdsm touch from the equation, the story suddenly becomes much, much better.
You would expect for (more) spice to be the centre point in a book with such sensitive topics, yet again, their intimate moments were described in passing, more or less.
I expected detailed descriptions of Simon's experiencing his kisses, sex, everything that was taken away from him, but even though there were some intimate moments, they were not nearly as detailed to experience them vividly when reading.
Their transition from employer/employee to a relationship was not smooth, they've had some minor events happening, not even much on the intimacy front, and all of a sudden they love each other. How did that happen? When?
As for the BDSM part, I was wondering all the time - what are they doing? Why don't they just simply get to know each other and try to have a go at a relationship, because clearly that's what they wanted, they're two simple men who just like an occasional kink.
Everytime Colin called Simon "sir", I cringed. They had weird and sometimes unpleasant dialogues, I didn't like them. The story wasn't paced well and by the time I read the bonus story of their first vacation, I had lost all hope.
I did like the characters themselves though and I expected for them to develop more and for their path to love to be a little bit different. My opinion is if the author would remove the dom/sub dynamic, the story would have been much better.
December 7, 2021
4 Stars
I liked this one. The MCs were both interesting characters who each had their own issues to work through.
Simon was interesting to me. A Dom who was so unsure of himself and so self conscious was different from anything I've read before. I enjoyed watching Colin work his way in there and slowly open up Simon to all his kinky sides.
Colin was also a good a character. His sunny personality was a good match for the quieter Simon. I thought it was well done seeing how the lack of aftercare and touching effected Colin. I liked that after the big blow up he spent time working on getting himself healthy before reconnecting.
A enjoyable read
*** ARC Provided by GRR. This is my honest and voluntary review ***
I liked this one. The MCs were both interesting characters who each had their own issues to work through.
Simon was interesting to me. A Dom who was so unsure of himself and so self conscious was different from anything I've read before. I enjoyed watching Colin work his way in there and slowly open up Simon to all his kinky sides.
Colin was also a good a character. His sunny personality was a good match for the quieter Simon. I thought it was well done seeing how the lack of aftercare and touching effected Colin. I liked that after the big blow up he spent time working on getting himself healthy before reconnecting.
A enjoyable read
*** ARC Provided by GRR. This is my honest and voluntary review ***
November 30, 2021
I thought I knew what I was in for when I started reading Domestic Service, but it surprised me at a few turns and that's pretty hard to do these days!
For my full review please visit:
http://www.mmromancereviewed.com/2021...
For my full review please visit:
http://www.mmromancereviewed.com/2021...
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January 6, 2022I feel like this book could have been so good but it fell a little bit flat for me in terms of actual plot development. This book is about a guy named Colin who is literally out of money and he ends up taking a job as a live in submissive. Simon is a tech billionaire/millionaire? And he is lonely as shit. He has a lot of self-esteem issues surrounding his sexuality and his dominant tendencies. He knows he is a Dom but has had negative experiences in the past that have affected his confidence moving forward. He decides to get a live in submissive and hope that he will be able to feel more comfortable with someone who is around more frequently.
Both Colin and Simon were good MCs. They each had their own things going on and we get enough plot of them outside of their relationship but my biggest issue with this book is that as soon as things start to happen, the book skips ahead. I'm not really sure how much time went by in this book but I'm pretty sure it's almost 6 months yet it feels as though the book takes place over a week or two. It was just a downfall for me that led to not being able to really connect with their relationship.
One thing this book does really well on the other hand is kind of a realistic look at people who have to work on themselves before they're able to be in a relationship. Something happens in this book where Colin and Simon break up and Simon isn't quite sure what went wrong because Colin has a lot of baggage that he didn't disclose. Colin over the course of a couple months I believe ends up having an emotional breakdown and realization and starting therapy. He really puts in a lot of work into navigating and sorting through his own traumatic history so that he can be vulnerable in a relationship again.
I really loved that there was this kind of break up period. It allowed both characters to figure out where things went wrong and how to be in a healthy relationship moving forward.
I would say that this book is light BDSM. The actual scenes are few and far between and not very strict. Simon is definitely a Dom and Colin is definitely a sub but with the way the book was written, that element isn't as big of a part of the book as I thought it would be.
Gay MCs, anxiety disorder,. Queer secondary.
CW: anxiety attack, panic attack, homophobia, discussion of past events including threatened with conversion camp, being kicked out for being gay, and homophobia.
Both Colin and Simon were good MCs. They each had their own things going on and we get enough plot of them outside of their relationship but my biggest issue with this book is that as soon as things start to happen, the book skips ahead. I'm not really sure how much time went by in this book but I'm pretty sure it's almost 6 months yet it feels as though the book takes place over a week or two. It was just a downfall for me that led to not being able to really connect with their relationship.
One thing this book does really well on the other hand is kind of a realistic look at people who have to work on themselves before they're able to be in a relationship. Something happens in this book where Colin and Simon break up and Simon isn't quite sure what went wrong because Colin has a lot of baggage that he didn't disclose. Colin over the course of a couple months I believe ends up having an emotional breakdown and realization and starting therapy. He really puts in a lot of work into navigating and sorting through his own traumatic history so that he can be vulnerable in a relationship again.
I really loved that there was this kind of break up period. It allowed both characters to figure out where things went wrong and how to be in a healthy relationship moving forward.
I would say that this book is light BDSM. The actual scenes are few and far between and not very strict. Simon is definitely a Dom and Colin is definitely a sub but with the way the book was written, that element isn't as big of a part of the book as I thought it would be.
Gay MCs, anxiety disorder,. Queer secondary.
CW: anxiety attack, panic attack, homophobia, discussion of past events including threatened with conversion camp, being kicked out for being gay, and homophobia.
November 29, 2021
I really enjoyed this book a lot! I always love a book where the MC's live together because it gives you so much quality time of them with each other! This book did that but so much more! Colin may have moved in with Simon to be the "House Manager" but he kept his friends close! Minette was a wonderful female character! Colin is a young sweet adorable freckle faced guy with some temper and trust issues from his past and Simon is socially awkward and insecure despite all his money and CEO position. I do not want to give too much away because the journey of them discovering each other is the best part! It needs to be a surprise you experience with them! I will say I love how they meet and their first actual in person meeting is awkwardly adorable! Both of them are very lovable people! It is told in both POV and all the characters and scenery are very well fleshed out and described. I received an ARC of this book and I highly recommended to anyone who enjoys a fresh new take on the House Boy theme. We have age gap & wealth gap, but despite it all two guys meant to be! You will laugh and be routing for them both to get their HEA together!
December 1, 2021
I’m always hesitant to pick up books from news/unknown authors. I’m happy to say that this book was well written and very enjoyable to read!
Colin and Simon are definitely opposites to struggle to find common ground between them. There were quite a few struggles before they found their HEA but in the end it was well deserved. Simon is a wonderful flawed character. He struggles to find what he really wants in a partner and let himself go. Sometimes he seems to have more money than sense, but he grew up in a completely different world from Colin.
I was rooting for Colin to find his joy and help Simon find his along the way. Having come from a difficult past, Colin struggles to see the good in people. He definitely grows through the story.
Overall, I would recommend this story!
Heat: 6/10 (sex brings the main characters together but it is not the focus of the story)
BDSM: 4/10 (not a primary focus, I’d say it’s BDSM light)
Pacing: 8/10 (good, but seemed to drag a bit when Colin and Simon are apart)
Writing: 8/10 (skilled author, I look forward to seeing more from her)
Overall: 8/10 (would recommend)
Colin and Simon are definitely opposites to struggle to find common ground between them. There were quite a few struggles before they found their HEA but in the end it was well deserved. Simon is a wonderful flawed character. He struggles to find what he really wants in a partner and let himself go. Sometimes he seems to have more money than sense, but he grew up in a completely different world from Colin.
I was rooting for Colin to find his joy and help Simon find his along the way. Having come from a difficult past, Colin struggles to see the good in people. He definitely grows through the story.
Overall, I would recommend this story!
Heat: 6/10 (sex brings the main characters together but it is not the focus of the story)
BDSM: 4/10 (not a primary focus, I’d say it’s BDSM light)
Pacing: 8/10 (good, but seemed to drag a bit when Colin and Simon are apart)
Writing: 8/10 (skilled author, I look forward to seeing more from her)
Overall: 8/10 (would recommend)
November 30, 2021
Domestic Service is sweet and sexy on the surface but has surprising depth. Colin is a grad student who can’t seem to keep a job. He desperately needs money, so he’s intrigued when a friend tells him about an opportunity to be a live-in house manager/sub for a millionaire who doesn’t have the time or inclination to find someone organically. Simon is the reluctant CEO of a powerful environmental tech company. He’s overworked, lonely, and socially awkward, so he hires someone to take care of his house and provide companionship. Simon lacks confidence in his abilities as a Dom, but Colin’s cheerful attitude and lack of judgement help him come out of his shell. They’re really sexy together, and their personalities compliment one another. However, they’re both dealing with insecurities that make if difficult for either man to trust. There are some miscommunications that cause some issues, but the challenges force both men to work on themselves in order to heal past traumas and be better partners for each other. Colin has to learn to trust and to let go of anger and abandonment issues from his adolescence, and Simon learns to be confident in himself, let go of guilt he’s carrying, and to be comfortable making decisions that make him happy. I really enjoyed this one and can’t wait for the next book in the series.
March 13, 2022
Well... I skimmed a lot. Sorry, but I did. It was a very emotional book, with a lot of personal development in it. Right from the start it was clear that both main characters were searching for themselves, but each in their own way. I thought they would do it all together, but you know.. life. And that is kind of the thing why I skimmed? Life. So much of it. Aside from all the high level drama and emotions, the rest of it felt mundane and dull in comparison so I skimmed it. Somehow it kept dropping in complete opposites - either intense high level drama or boring, mundane details. It wasn't bad, I quite enjoying it and it didn't shorten the recovery stuff, but it just felt way too long and those boring bits were..boring. Aside from that, it was a good, emotional read.
November 30, 2021
A really fun, deep, engaging story with complex characters, a relationship with pitfalls and challenges, and a hard-won HEA.
Both characters have baggage. Colin is a mess. A difficult upbringing, anger issues, can’t hold a job, and can’t seem to fully trust anyone. Simon isn’t much better – nerdy, introverted, overanalyzed previous relationship issues until he’s almost paralyzed when interacting with other guys.
Through dominance and submission, and some challenging conversations, the two ultimately make it to their HEA, but getting there isn’t easy. One unintended mess-up and there’s a lot of ground to recover and new conversations to be had before they get there. I'm not normally a fan of the unnecessary drama at the 75% mark in the book, but this one really helps round out the characters a bit more.
I really, really enjoyed this story. It felt very real. Two men who knew what they wanted and fumbled their way towards it. Neither of them was already perfect, experienced, and just slotting someone into the relationship. This one was built from the ground up.
Both characters have baggage. Colin is a mess. A difficult upbringing, anger issues, can’t hold a job, and can’t seem to fully trust anyone. Simon isn’t much better – nerdy, introverted, overanalyzed previous relationship issues until he’s almost paralyzed when interacting with other guys.
Through dominance and submission, and some challenging conversations, the two ultimately make it to their HEA, but getting there isn’t easy. One unintended mess-up and there’s a lot of ground to recover and new conversations to be had before they get there. I'm not normally a fan of the unnecessary drama at the 75% mark in the book, but this one really helps round out the characters a bit more.
I really, really enjoyed this story. It felt very real. Two men who knew what they wanted and fumbled their way towards it. Neither of them was already perfect, experienced, and just slotting someone into the relationship. This one was built from the ground up.
November 28, 2021
Wow!! This is the first book I’ve read from this author and I was completely blow away with it. Colin is a broke college student in need of a job and Simon is the CEO of a successful company trying to stave off his loneliness. Well written will great characters keep me so enthralled I couldn’t put this book down. I really enjoyed Colin and Simon’s story.
I received an advanced copy of this book and this is my honest review.
I received an advanced copy of this book and this is my honest review.
November 26, 2021
Sometimes the beginning of something ends up being a long lasting, successful, and the best thing you ever did. Colin’s decision to “work” for Simon was one of those things. Their journey was bumpy but bumps smooth out especially when love is on the line. This story was a little different as far as a typical romance yet the flavor of the relationship was quite enjoyable. The heroes grew from being uncomfortable, having misunderstandings and not handling them correctly to a lasting and admirable relationship. An enjoyable journey. I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book.
November 28, 2021
This book was very fun to read. Definitely had me laughing sometimes. Colin and Simon are so different then what they appear to be on the outside. What is suppose to be just a job turns into so much more. But it isn’t easy, they both work hard to get to where they needed to be. Definitely be reading more of this authors books in the future. Highly recommend!
November 26, 2021
This book was extremely interesting and fun to read. There was some BDSM elements where an inexperience Dom and a sub that loved showing off without his clothes. There was also hurt on both sides that needed to be resolved before they could move on to their HEA. Also there was mention where a MC parents were homophobic which was the cause to him issues that needed worked out.
I volunteer to review this Advance Readers Copy of this book.
I volunteer to review this Advance Readers Copy of this book.
August 2, 2022
So cute, but also very spicy! Love it very much and now I’m off to read max’s story!
December 9, 2021
It doesn’t always happen, but it’s disappointing when it does—I find a book I like so much that I immediately search out their other books, only to find out they are a first time writer! Ella Fenn, please write faster.
I wasn’t sure if I’d like this one, but the premise made me think this might be interesting. While this story is lighter on the kink than I expected, (spicy but def BDSM light, sorry folks,) the care, consideration, and respect they MC’s showed each other was more than I dared hope for.
I don’t mind age-gap or employer/employee or rich/poor stories, just as long as the power differential is acknowledged and dealt with. Here Fenn hands all the possible pitfalls with thoughtful care I did not expect.
First, poor Simon has some issues that keep him from intimacy if any kind—romantic, sexual, or platonic. He is shown as a smart capable man (though with imposter syndrome) who is running his own company he started from the ground up, but his insecurities are deep-seeded and painful, while also believable. On paper the guy sounds amazing, so it was interesting to see him mess up, but learn. To open up slowly to Colin even though it scared him. His past experiences really scarred him, to the point of paralyzing all of his relationships. My heart just hurt for poor past young Simon, so vulnerable and puttying himself out there, only to have assholes through things in his face. (Who makes fun of how someone sounds during sex??? Everyone sounds dumb during sex, if you’re paying attention to that your not doing it right. SIMON DESERVED BETTER, and luckily gets it.)
Colin has his own issues and it was surprising in how well they were dealt with. There’s the typical homophobic family story, but it wasn’t used as a tragic backstory, but a reason and a trigger for his anger.
There were so many times in this story that I thought I knew what was coming or how the characters would react…but I was always wrong. Because they take the time to talk or give each other the benefit of the doubt, or just act like grownups. Why is that refreshing??? They even go to THERAPY. There’s no magical dick, it’s time and CBT!! Unheard of!!
And honestly, I have never in my more identified with a character than when Colin is softly bitching about his therapist. ““Damn it,” he swore as he searched through his desk for an envelope. “She’s always fucking right.”” BEEN THERE, KID.
Overall, I really really enjoyed this book. There is just this lovely and real feel to it, not a lot of angst or artifice, no artificially manufactured problems in order to ramp up the drama. If Fenn can bring back this thoughtfulness to her characters in her second book, I’m in. I believe she can; so much so that I already pre-ordered book 2.
**I received this as an ARC and this has been my honest review.**
I wasn’t sure if I’d like this one, but the premise made me think this might be interesting. While this story is lighter on the kink than I expected, (spicy but def BDSM light, sorry folks,) the care, consideration, and respect they MC’s showed each other was more than I dared hope for.
I don’t mind age-gap or employer/employee or rich/poor stories, just as long as the power differential is acknowledged and dealt with. Here Fenn hands all the possible pitfalls with thoughtful care I did not expect.
First, poor Simon has some issues that keep him from intimacy if any kind—romantic, sexual, or platonic. He is shown as a smart capable man (though with imposter syndrome) who is running his own company he started from the ground up, but his insecurities are deep-seeded and painful, while also believable. On paper the guy sounds amazing, so it was interesting to see him mess up, but learn. To open up slowly to Colin even though it scared him. His past experiences really scarred him, to the point of paralyzing all of his relationships. My heart just hurt for poor past young Simon, so vulnerable and puttying himself out there, only to have assholes through things in his face. (Who makes fun of how someone sounds during sex??? Everyone sounds dumb during sex, if you’re paying attention to that your not doing it right. SIMON DESERVED BETTER, and luckily gets it.)
Colin has his own issues and it was surprising in how well they were dealt with. There’s the typical homophobic family story, but it wasn’t used as a tragic backstory, but a reason and a trigger for his anger.
There were so many times in this story that I thought I knew what was coming or how the characters would react…but I was always wrong. Because they take the time to talk or give each other the benefit of the doubt, or just act like grownups. Why is that refreshing??? They even go to THERAPY. There’s no magical dick, it’s time and CBT!! Unheard of!!
And honestly, I have never in my more identified with a character than when Colin is softly bitching about his therapist. ““Damn it,” he swore as he searched through his desk for an envelope. “She’s always fucking right.”” BEEN THERE, KID.
Overall, I really really enjoyed this book. There is just this lovely and real feel to it, not a lot of angst or artifice, no artificially manufactured problems in order to ramp up the drama. If Fenn can bring back this thoughtfulness to her characters in her second book, I’m in. I believe she can; so much so that I already pre-ordered book 2.
**I received this as an ARC and this has been my honest review.**
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 6, 2022
This one was a toughie to review. It's better than a two, but I couldn't rate it a three. What I liked, I loved, especially the mcs having lives, friends, hobbies, career goals outside of the relationship and the kink. But there was a lot that didn't work for me. I liked Simon-- who can't commiserate with someone who dislikes their job but feels obligated. I liked the inexperienced dom aspect, and most of all, I liked his playful side, like suggesting reward/punishments as means for Colin to handle schoolwork. I wish this came out more. I understand why he doesn't use his home lab, but also tinkering is in his nature and it would have been fun seeing him fiddle with things or ideas.
I disliked Colin a lot of time. The joke about "this book could have been resolved by a simple conversation" is strong here, and while lots of valid reasons added strength to the miscommunication, ultimately, it was Colin making a lot of selfish and just-be-contrary choices. Twice I closed out of the book after a dumb choice. And he was selfish beyond his stubborn choices. Like, never asking Simon about his limits. Doms get to have limits too.
Anyway, a lot of pieces worked for me, and the major one didn't.
I disliked Colin a lot of time. The joke about "this book could have been resolved by a simple conversation" is strong here, and while lots of valid reasons added strength to the miscommunication, ultimately, it was Colin making a lot of selfish and just-be-contrary choices. Twice I closed out of the book after a dumb choice. And he was selfish beyond his stubborn choices. Like, never asking Simon about his limits. Doms get to have limits too.
Anyway, a lot of pieces worked for me, and the major one didn't.
December 8, 2021
Colin and Simon ❤️
3.5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟
This book was a great start to this series. Simon and Colin are both extremely damaged characters IMO, both guys have been through it....however the character growth throughout this book was organically written and their journey together was heartfelt and sincere....they have plenty of learning curves to get to the end but it was well worth the investment ❤️ This book has a bit of everything: hurt/comfort, boss/ employee, light dom/sub, emotional struggle, laughs, sexy times and love. The side charters were also interesting and I'm excited to learn more about Max... his book is next 😬 I'm defiantly invested in this series and was impressed with this new author....
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
3.5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟
This book was a great start to this series. Simon and Colin are both extremely damaged characters IMO, both guys have been through it....however the character growth throughout this book was organically written and their journey together was heartfelt and sincere....they have plenty of learning curves to get to the end but it was well worth the investment ❤️ This book has a bit of everything: hurt/comfort, boss/ employee, light dom/sub, emotional struggle, laughs, sexy times and love. The side charters were also interesting and I'm excited to learn more about Max... his book is next 😬 I'm defiantly invested in this series and was impressed with this new author....
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
January 12, 2022
I have read some reviews that mentioned how nice it was to find two flawed MC's who had to work on themselves before working on the relationship and that part is true; however, I did not like Colin. Maybe his flaws made him seem to real, I don't know, but I wanted to smack him multiple times and tell him to grow up.
Granted, he is only 23, but most of the time he acted like a sulky tween. He was so immature it made it difficult for me to enjoy the story.
The story is well written. I don't know if I will read the other full story by this author, I may try a sample first. I really enjoyed the short story, "The Charity Auction", which encouraged me to get this book but if the sample hints at another MC like Colin, I will not read it.
Granted, he is only 23, but most of the time he acted like a sulky tween. He was so immature it made it difficult for me to enjoy the story.
The story is well written. I don't know if I will read the other full story by this author, I may try a sample first. I really enjoyed the short story, "The Charity Auction", which encouraged me to get this book but if the sample hints at another MC like Colin, I will not read it.
February 23, 2022
DNF 84% Got Tedious
I think part of the problem for me is that I didn’t like the characters. Collin is a self sabotaging, blame everyone else sub; and Simon is an inexperienced Dom with no outward Dom tendencies so he comes off as wanting to be a Dom not just being one who can’t express his Dom side. The prophetic and annoying side character of Collins friend is clearly a plot device. The “mystery” of why the main characters act the way they do, and their hang ups seem underwhelming to how they react when triggered. In short, I didn’t believe in the character, the situation, or the drama. I will say that the writing itself is good, just not the characters. For those looking for anything other than very, very light service kink, probably better to go for another book.
I think part of the problem for me is that I didn’t like the characters. Collin is a self sabotaging, blame everyone else sub; and Simon is an inexperienced Dom with no outward Dom tendencies so he comes off as wanting to be a Dom not just being one who can’t express his Dom side. The prophetic and annoying side character of Collins friend is clearly a plot device. The “mystery” of why the main characters act the way they do, and their hang ups seem underwhelming to how they react when triggered. In short, I didn’t believe in the character, the situation, or the drama. I will say that the writing itself is good, just not the characters. For those looking for anything other than very, very light service kink, probably better to go for another book.
November 30, 2021
I’m not sure what I was expecting when I started this book but this was not it! This was such a good book and surprising in a really good way.
I loved Simon and Colin. I loved how they were both flawed but took necessary steps to overcome these flaws and to be better versions of themselves. I also liked that the flaws were real issues and didn’t feel contrived in any way. A couple of times Colin and Simon annoyed me as if they just spoke to each other, the issues would have been resolved but other than those brief moments, this was a fantastic book and I really enjoyed it. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series which is going to be about Colin’s former roommate, Max.
I loved Simon and Colin. I loved how they were both flawed but took necessary steps to overcome these flaws and to be better versions of themselves. I also liked that the flaws were real issues and didn’t feel contrived in any way. A couple of times Colin and Simon annoyed me as if they just spoke to each other, the issues would have been resolved but other than those brief moments, this was a fantastic book and I really enjoyed it. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series which is going to be about Colin’s former roommate, Max.
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