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Straight to the Heart
Ben is having a bad week
Life is never easy for Ben, but this week in particular has been the pits. You name it, it's gone wrong. What he needs is a prince to come and rescue him
Simon has a bad heart
Forced to retire early as the CEO of his company because of his health, Simon is immediately bored. He needs a project, or a pet, or a very pretty man to rescue.
Together, they'll save each other
Once Simon has his hands on Ben, he doesn't want to let him go. But Ben knows that fairy tales aren't real and dreams never come true.
Or do they?
Straight To the Heart is a 79k sweet, low-angst MM age-gap romance with a swoony billionaire in his forties, a much younger man who could really use some help, snarky staff, difficult mothers, amazing suits, and a lot of love.
Life is never easy for Ben, but this week in particular has been the pits. You name it, it's gone wrong. What he needs is a prince to come and rescue him
Simon has a bad heart
Forced to retire early as the CEO of his company because of his health, Simon is immediately bored. He needs a project, or a pet, or a very pretty man to rescue.
Together, they'll save each other
Once Simon has his hands on Ben, he doesn't want to let him go. But Ben knows that fairy tales aren't real and dreams never come true.
Or do they?
Straight To the Heart is a 79k sweet, low-angst MM age-gap romance with a swoony billionaire in his forties, a much younger man who could really use some help, snarky staff, difficult mothers, amazing suits, and a lot of love.
307 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 28, 2023
58 people are currently reading
171 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
January 29, 2023
My God, this was boring af ! Look, tropes like Cinderella and Pretty woman are usually pretty badly executed and the books are mediocre at best . Still , sometimes between heavy books I like to read some mind numbing , light and easy read and why not, a cliché trope. But for this trope to work I need the guys to be as cliché as posible and that means the poor guy to be meek, shy,needy and helpless and the rich guy to be strong , powerful and dominant in order to do the whole sweeping off his feet and fixing the poor guy’s life. What I don’t want to see in these Pretty woman type of books is a bossy young (poor) kid and a bland and insecure rich guy. It was annoying as hell. And it irked me that the guy was a doormat for everybody in his life before meeting the rich guy and suddenly he’s feisty and demanding and calling the shots. Like wtf? The previous day you were meek and shrinking in front of your landlord and now you’re patronizing the rich dude (a 48 years old man who ran his own company for years) insisting that he’s straight (after he fucked you) and that he doesn’t know himself and that he isn’t real and he can’t possibly want to be your knight in shining armor and that he needs saving from you and that’s why you won’t marry him . Because he’s stupid and thank God you’re smart for the both of you🙄Before meeting him he kept wishing that the dude noticed him , that he saved him and make him feel safe and bla bla and when he had all that he starts playing the martyr. “Don’t buy me things, I can’t accept all this, you’re not real, you’re straight, it was ok to wish but now that it’s possible I think I can’t accept you because I will resent you for having all this power over me “. Wtf? You know why “Pretty woman” was so successful? Because she had no problem in accepting everything the guy gave her: money , clothes, jewelry, safety and all that. And she was the one who asked for more..for his heart, for forever. She didn’t play the martyr: “Oh, we’re so different, why would you love me , I can’t accept all this , I’ll pay you back yada yada” . You were dirt poor and almost dying, fuck off with your pride , dude!
Also, the mother was obnoxious and the almost 50 years old Mc was way too attached to his mommy.
And I HAVE TO ask: Why was Hunter, the driver, their interpreter?? Why did he settle all their squabbles and doubts ? He was annoying and he had more protagonism than his rich boss, go figure.. Pretty disappointing this one , even for a book I had no expectations of..
Also, the mother was obnoxious and the almost 50 years old Mc was way too attached to his mommy.
And I HAVE TO ask: Why was Hunter, the driver, their interpreter?? Why did he settle all their squabbles and doubts ? He was annoying and he had more protagonism than his rich boss, go figure.. Pretty disappointing this one , even for a book I had no expectations of..
February 7, 2023
Straight to the Heart is a Cinderfella, rags-to-riches story about Ben, a janitor who lives in a dumpy, constantly damp room and can barely make ends meet, and Simon, newly retired CEO and owner of the building where Ben works.
Ben has been fantasizing about his Silver Fox for years, but Simon didn't know Ben existed until Ben collapses at work and Simon takes him to the hospital.
What follows is Insta Love at its finest, sweetness for days, a couple tantalizing steamy scenes (Simon has a bi/demi awakening), hurt/comfort, and a fairy-tale HEA.
The story isn't without angst: Ben's cruel religious upbringing and his miserable existence broke my heart. Simon, who's 20 years older than Ben (48 to Ben's 28), feels like his clock is ticking as he's predisposed to heart disease.
The secondary characters, especially Hudson, Simon's driver, are pretty awesome. I'm shipping Hudson and Eugene.
One thing I must mention, however, is the subpar editing, mostly missing or repeated words. I can overlook small issues, but the errors were so numerous, they started to pull me out of the story, which I was really enjoying.
I hope this is a fluke and not a standard occurrence for this author.
Ben has been fantasizing about his Silver Fox for years, but Simon didn't know Ben existed until Ben collapses at work and Simon takes him to the hospital.
What follows is Insta Love at its finest, sweetness for days, a couple tantalizing steamy scenes (Simon has a bi/demi awakening), hurt/comfort, and a fairy-tale HEA.
The story isn't without angst: Ben's cruel religious upbringing and his miserable existence broke my heart. Simon, who's 20 years older than Ben (48 to Ben's 28), feels like his clock is ticking as he's predisposed to heart disease.
The secondary characters, especially Hudson, Simon's driver, are pretty awesome. I'm shipping Hudson and Eugene.
One thing I must mention, however, is the subpar editing, mostly missing or repeated words. I can overlook small issues, but the errors were so numerous, they started to pull me out of the story, which I was really enjoying.
I hope this is a fluke and not a standard occurrence for this author.
January 26, 2023
This was the fluffiest fluff that ever fluffed.
“You don’t exist. You’re a myth. A fairy tale. Insanely wealthy straight men do not take in poor nobodies like me in real life. That doesn’t happen.”
Standalone or maybe first of a series
Insta love
Age gap
Rich- poor
Hallmarkish- disneyish Christmasy fairytale
CluelessMC
Asexual MC
Everybody in everybody’s business
Prince Charming
Snarky banter
Two marshmallow MCs
Low angst
High heat
Found family
Best HEA
There is no power imbalance despite one of the mc is much older and also extremely wealthy. The whole story is sweet and lovely, perfect for get a break from the real world.
“I promise to never drop you. No matter what. I know in my heart that you’re the person I didn’t even know I was waiting for. I will never let you fall.”
I have recieved an ARC from the Author and I’m leaving a honest and unbaised review.
“You don’t exist. You’re a myth. A fairy tale. Insanely wealthy straight men do not take in poor nobodies like me in real life. That doesn’t happen.”
Standalone or maybe first of a series
Insta love
Age gap
Rich- poor
Hallmarkish- disneyish Christmasy fairytale
CluelessMC
Asexual MC
Everybody in everybody’s business
Prince Charming
Snarky banter
Two marshmallow MCs
Low angst
High heat
Found family
Best HEA
There is no power imbalance despite one of the mc is much older and also extremely wealthy. The whole story is sweet and lovely, perfect for get a break from the real world.
“I promise to never drop you. No matter what. I know in my heart that you’re the person I didn’t even know I was waiting for. I will never let you fall.”
I have recieved an ARC from the Author and I’m leaving a honest and unbaised review.
March 14, 2023
This was a sweet book I really enjoyed the writing, However there are a few knick·knacks of the character that stopping me from giving this a 4 stars.
Simon's mother is so unhinged, I feel like her purpose was just solely for comedic purpose but I only groaned everytime she appears in the book.
Another one was our Mc Ben
He's inconsistent and frustrating
He could be one thing in one page and then another thing in the next page he's a very complicated man and I'm getting a headache trying to understand him near the end of this book.
Simon's mother is so unhinged, I feel like her purpose was just solely for comedic purpose but I only groaned everytime she appears in the book.
Another one was our Mc Ben
He's inconsistent and frustrating
He could be one thing in one page and then another thing in the next page he's a very complicated man and I'm getting a headache trying to understand him near the end of this book.
January 30, 2023
It pains me to write a bad review but this book was painful to read tbh.
Ben is poor. So poor. It’s drilled into your head how poor he truly is. 🫣🫣😵💫
It gets super boring super fast.
Simon enters the picture when Ben collapses outside his workplace. He’s sweeping the walkway that’s all snowy. This part is NEVER resolved. Like why is he out there. Why does his boss hate him so much. Ben is docile and agreeable like to the extreme. This was a huge plot hole. Ben’s boss never gets her comeuppance either. UGH. Simon OWNS the building. He’s super super rich. This is also drilled into the story ad nauseam. More ugh.
Simon takes Ben to the hospital where we learn that Ben has walking pneumonia among other ailments that are linked to him being super poor. Simon then takes Ben to Ben’s apartment when he’s released from the hospital but Ben’s living conditions are SO bad he can’t leave him there. He whisks him away to his gorgeous house. Ben basically moves in with Simon. More cringey things happens.
Simon has feelings for Ben. Ben has seen Simon from afar and has had a crush on him for years. Simon not being gay gets said OFTEN. It becomes super cringey 😬. I wanted to DNF at 78% but I felt I’d come this far I might as well push through.
The first sex scene was Simon Says play time. Yes, you read that right. It was creepy AF 🤪🤪
Then at 78% something happens to Ben that is really beyond comprehension and I’m like NOPE. Time to skim. Get to the end and that proposal was beyond ick. Poor man marries rich man. Their overall relationship is meh and WTH is said many times by me as I read this. Nothing is resolved here.
This was just not for me. AT ALL. UGH 😣
Ben is poor. So poor. It’s drilled into your head how poor he truly is. 🫣🫣😵💫
It gets super boring super fast.
Simon enters the picture when Ben collapses outside his workplace. He’s sweeping the walkway that’s all snowy. This part is NEVER resolved. Like why is he out there. Why does his boss hate him so much. Ben is docile and agreeable like to the extreme. This was a huge plot hole. Ben’s boss never gets her comeuppance either. UGH. Simon OWNS the building. He’s super super rich. This is also drilled into the story ad nauseam. More ugh.
Simon takes Ben to the hospital where we learn that Ben has walking pneumonia among other ailments that are linked to him being super poor. Simon then takes Ben to Ben’s apartment when he’s released from the hospital but Ben’s living conditions are SO bad he can’t leave him there. He whisks him away to his gorgeous house. Ben basically moves in with Simon. More cringey things happens.
Simon has feelings for Ben. Ben has seen Simon from afar and has had a crush on him for years. Simon not being gay gets said OFTEN. It becomes super cringey 😬. I wanted to DNF at 78% but I felt I’d come this far I might as well push through.
The first sex scene was Simon Says play time. Yes, you read that right. It was creepy AF 🤪🤪
Then at 78% something happens to Ben that is really beyond comprehension and I’m like NOPE. Time to skim. Get to the end and that proposal was beyond ick. Poor man marries rich man. Their overall relationship is meh and WTH is said many times by me as I read this. Nothing is resolved here.
This was just not for me. AT ALL. UGH 😣
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 14, 2023
Fluffy alright. I very much enjoyed the beginning. Learning the characters, seeing where things would go. It kept my interest. A very nice take on Cinderfella.
Then we went straight to Beverly Hills. The references are glaring: "Simon might have rescued Ben, but Ben had rescued Simon right back." Oh c'mon! Could you be any more obvious? A little more creativity would have been appreciated. So we take out the piano and do it at the window, still lots of fireworks.🎆
"Cinderfuckingella" right here folks.
The Pretty Woman references through me out of the story and into the movie which wasn't a hardship. The movie is unforgettable. This book, unfortunately, is not.
Also, bad editing. Really bad. Mixing up the characters? Youza.
A fluffy, over-the-top break in between meatier fare. Enjoyable for the most part.
I do recommend seeing the movie. Very 90's.
Then we went straight to Beverly Hills. The references are glaring: "Simon might have rescued Ben, but Ben had rescued Simon right back." Oh c'mon! Could you be any more obvious? A little more creativity would have been appreciated. So we take out the piano and do it at the window, still lots of fireworks.🎆
"Cinderfuckingella" right here folks.
The Pretty Woman references through me out of the story and into the movie which wasn't a hardship. The movie is unforgettable. This book, unfortunately, is not.
Also, bad editing. Really bad. Mixing up the characters? Youza.
A fluffy, over-the-top break in between meatier fare. Enjoyable for the most part.
I do recommend seeing the movie. Very 90's.
January 30, 2023
This was an OTT, sweet and romantic read. I admit I wanted to strangle Ben a few times, but otherwise it was a lovely read. I hope Hudson's book will be next.
February 10, 2023
This was a very hallmark-y
Cinderfella love story
.
Despite some reviews, I decided to give it a go and I have to say, I really liked the writing . I liked the naming of the chapters, the dating of events , and I especially liked the whole OTT, ridiculously romantic love story .
🟢 GFY
🔵 Age gap - 20 years
🟣 Size difference
🟠 Rich/poor
🟡 Almost no angst
🔴Medium spice
The story is about Ben, who's 28, gay, poor and working as a cleaner for a big company. He doesn't have any money, he's usually hungry and cold and lives in a dump. He had to quit pursuing his Fine arts degree and has noone to talk to.
This was my Ben...
Ben's usually watching people come to work and drawing the ones that catch his eye, one of them being Mr Silver Fox, or Simon, the owner of the building and the CEO of his company, who's about to retire at 48 due to his heart condition. He's straight, but has had a lifetime of meaningless short relationships and was never really invested or attracted.
...and this was my Mr Silver Fox.
One day Ben's so cold and exhausted he falls down while shovelling the snow in front of his work building. Simon sees him and wants to help, consequently taking him to a hospital and later back to Ben's basement room, where Simon is appalled and decides to take Ben to his home to recover.
When there, both get to know each other and slowly fall for each other , for Simon this experience being completely shocking, since he's feeling raw attraction and want for the first time in his life .
Ben can't really fathom he's in Simon's home , in his bed and getting all those wonderful things, especially Simon's attention and love, so he does run, but Simon finds him and brings him back home .
The dialogue was absolutely corny and I loved it.
They were both such romantics and Ben just being this innocent, loving soul, wanting nothing more than someone to be there for him and I thought the money issue was well played-out with Ben making valid points as to why he's not into Simon for his money.
They get married in the epilogue.
I'd like to point out one thing that was cringey for a few reviewers, that I found absolutely hot , and that was the game of "Simon says" when they had sex for the first time. Picture this : Ben on his hands and knees and his Mr Silver Fox telling him from behind "Simon says take it, every last inch" , come on, it was hot !
Despite some reviews, I decided to give it a go and I have to say, I really liked the writing . I liked the naming of the chapters, the dating of events , and I especially liked the whole OTT, ridiculously romantic love story .
🟢 GFY
🔵 Age gap - 20 years
🟣 Size difference
🟠 Rich/poor
🟡 Almost no angst
🔴Medium spice
The story is about Ben, who's 28, gay, poor and working as a cleaner for a big company. He doesn't have any money, he's usually hungry and cold and lives in a dump. He had to quit pursuing his Fine arts degree and has noone to talk to.
This was my Ben...
Ben's usually watching people come to work and drawing the ones that catch his eye, one of them being Mr Silver Fox, or Simon, the owner of the building and the CEO of his company, who's about to retire at 48 due to his heart condition. He's straight, but has had a lifetime of meaningless short relationships and was never really invested or attracted.
...and this was my Mr Silver Fox.
One day Ben's so cold and exhausted he falls down while shovelling the snow in front of his work building. Simon sees him and wants to help, consequently taking him to a hospital and later back to Ben's basement room, where Simon is appalled and decides to take Ben to his home to recover.
When there, both get to know each other and slowly fall for each other , for Simon this experience being completely shocking, since he's feeling raw attraction and want for the first time in his life .
Ben can't really fathom he's in Simon's home , in his bed and getting all those wonderful things, especially Simon's attention and love, so he does run, but Simon finds him and brings him back home .
The dialogue was absolutely corny and I loved it.
They were both such romantics and Ben just being this innocent, loving soul, wanting nothing more than someone to be there for him and I thought the money issue was well played-out with Ben making valid points as to why he's not into Simon for his money.
They get married in the epilogue.
I'd like to point out one thing that was cringey for a few reviewers, that I found absolutely hot , and that was the game of "Simon says" when they had sex for the first time. Picture this : Ben on his hands and knees and his Mr Silver Fox telling him from behind "Simon says take it, every last inch" , come on, it was hot !
January 29, 2023
A Sweet Age-Gap MM Romance
Straight To the Heart delivered exactly what I wanted ; an escape from all the stress of the real world.
In a low angst , fluffy , MM age Gap , sexy story with likeable characters and an overall positive ,fairytale feel plotline.
Straight To the Heart delivered exactly what I wanted ; an escape from all the stress of the real world.
In a low angst , fluffy , MM age Gap , sexy story with likeable characters and an overall positive ,fairytale feel plotline.
February 8, 2023
Charming unrealistic insta love story
Rags to riches, hurt-comfort, 20 years age gap, lovable MCs and great secondary characters
A perfect Christmas read - it had to be released in December.
Rags to riches, hurt-comfort, 20 years age gap, lovable MCs and great secondary characters
A perfect Christmas read - it had to be released in December.
January 30, 2023
Gah! This book hits most of my buttons! Hurt/comfort, bi-awakening, sweet and fluffy, snarky banter and low angst.
Lynn weaves her magic with a thoroughly engaging, character driven story which I simultaneously didn't want to put down, nor did I want it to end!
Ben is an adorable cinnamon roll - but he's no pushover. Simon is unsure why Ben is his person but he's just sure that he is. Even if he's never been attracted to a man before.
If you want a good, sweet story to tug at your heart and fill you with smiles - this is your read!
Lynn weaves her magic with a thoroughly engaging, character driven story which I simultaneously didn't want to put down, nor did I want it to end!
Ben is an adorable cinnamon roll - but he's no pushover. Simon is unsure why Ben is his person but he's just sure that he is. Even if he's never been attracted to a man before.
If you want a good, sweet story to tug at your heart and fill you with smiles - this is your read!
March 25, 2024
It’s very rare that I do not finish a book but I have this time with straight to the heart.
This book is extremely boring and very unrealistic, it’s literally set over 10 days and in that time they say they love each other it’s just stupid.
Don’t get me wrong the first two chapters I was really enjoying it as we got to know the characters but then I just found it very silly.
This book is extremely boring and very unrealistic, it’s literally set over 10 days and in that time they say they love each other it’s just stupid.
Don’t get me wrong the first two chapters I was really enjoying it as we got to know the characters but then I just found it very silly.
February 17, 2023
I liked this even if it was completely unbelievable. Poor guy, working a minimum wage job and rich guy, newly retired and already bored with his meaningless life, finding each other.
Everything in this book was too good to be true, so the only way to enjoy it is to read it as a fairytale, which fortunately worked well for me. There even were some sweet secondary characters, an evil mother who turned out not as black and white as it seemed at the beginning, which also was a bonus.
So overall this was quite enjoyable, even if it failed the reality check spectacularly, 3.5 stars for me
Everything in this book was too good to be true, so the only way to enjoy it is to read it as a fairytale, which fortunately worked well for me. There even were some sweet secondary characters, an evil mother who turned out not as black and white as it seemed at the beginning, which also was a bonus.
So overall this was quite enjoyable, even if it failed the reality check spectacularly, 3.5 stars for me
January 30, 2023
DNF ~31%
This author is really hit or miss for me and this was a miss. OTT and unbelievable to the point of distraction--I know this is supposed to have those fairy tale vibes, but it just did not work for me at all.
This author is really hit or miss for me and this was a miss. OTT and unbelievable to the point of distraction--I know this is supposed to have those fairy tale vibes, but it just did not work for me at all.
January 30, 2023
This had potential but it felt underdeveloped.
January 28, 2023
A cute wron side of the tracks story with age gap and late in life sexual awakening thrown in.
It's a really well written story with some fairy tale themes of a prince rescuing a man from trouble. Simon's exploration of his sexuality so late in life was a refreshing and well done facet of the story.
Lynn van Dorn created a very enjoyable read that was a great refresher after some more angsty books. It's not free of real life issues, but it gives a sweet and cosy vibe all the same.
It's a really well written story with some fairy tale themes of a prince rescuing a man from trouble. Simon's exploration of his sexuality so late in life was a refreshing and well done facet of the story.
Lynn van Dorn created a very enjoyable read that was a great refresher after some more angsty books. It's not free of real life issues, but it gives a sweet and cosy vibe all the same.
January 28, 2023
Ahhhh this was the delightful schmoopy romance I needed to read last night!
If you're a fan of the following:
- may/december age gaps (there is a 20 year difference here)
- the sweetest cinnamon roll character
- billionaire MC/poor MC
- demisexual awakening
- a truly dense man who has no clue how to woo said cinnamon roll
Then you will love this book. (Simon kinda reminds me of Hugh from Finch, if yall have read her series with Piper Scott LOL.)
Ben is just having a truly awful day/month/year/time of it, really. But when his prince in shining armor (quite literally, his name is Simon Prince) shows up, Ben is so afraid to fall for him and ultimately be hurt more than he already was when things are over.
I loved these two together. I love that Ben stood up for himself, and although he kinda made some silly decisions, I get that he had to protect himself and his heart and look out for himself. He was so great with Simon, though, I just loved them.
OK - can we take a second though and talk about Hudson? And how fantastic and perfect of a wing man, best friend, valet, do-everything-for-silly-Simon, character that he is? I love him. And I NEED a story for him, if you read this, Lynn!
So yes, if you're looking for something to just sweep you away for a bit, then get this book! Fans of Lynn's snark, sarcasm, and wit will enjoy this story.
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
If you're a fan of the following:
- may/december age gaps (there is a 20 year difference here)
- the sweetest cinnamon roll character
- billionaire MC/poor MC
- demisexual awakening
- a truly dense man who has no clue how to woo said cinnamon roll
Then you will love this book. (Simon kinda reminds me of Hugh from Finch, if yall have read her series with Piper Scott LOL.)
Ben is just having a truly awful day/month/year/time of it, really. But when his prince in shining armor (quite literally, his name is Simon Prince) shows up, Ben is so afraid to fall for him and ultimately be hurt more than he already was when things are over.
I loved these two together. I love that Ben stood up for himself, and although he kinda made some silly decisions, I get that he had to protect himself and his heart and look out for himself. He was so great with Simon, though, I just loved them.
OK - can we take a second though and talk about Hudson? And how fantastic and perfect of a wing man, best friend, valet, do-everything-for-silly-Simon, character that he is? I love him. And I NEED a story for him, if you read this, Lynn!
So yes, if you're looking for something to just sweep you away for a bit, then get this book! Fans of Lynn's snark, sarcasm, and wit will enjoy this story.
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
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January 29, 2023DNF 20% I am all for a rescue story but not when the rationale for the rescue is a despicable hovel that is likely similar to where a gazillion other worthy young potential rescuees reside.
The despicableness of the hovel was OTT even in light rom-com territory.
But imo there needs to be something beyond being one lucky bastard who happened to be seen by a bored rich guy.
I don't mean fated mates or anything, but all the minor MC offers is a study in unmitigated patheticness.
The despicableness of the hovel was OTT even in light rom-com territory.
But imo there needs to be something beyond being one lucky bastard who happened to be seen by a bored rich guy.
I don't mean fated mates or anything, but all the minor MC offers is a study in unmitigated patheticness.
January 28, 2023
Oh poor sweet Ben. My heart broke for his situation. Simon has major Silver Fox vibes. (Ben’s name for him is perfect.). There is just something about Ben that pulls at Simon’s heartstrings and makes him want to take care of him. This story was so beautiful!. I adored these characters so much!! Hudson is one of my favorite side characters ever. He may be Simon’s driver, but he is also his best friend. There is a lot here and I am so down for it. Simon is unsure what to do with his sudden growing feelings for the younger man. He has never been interested in anyone before and he is so adorably confused. Can you say Daddy vibes? (I love it!) He is so sweet and unsure of himself. Ben is almost afraid everything will disappear if he closes his eyes. These two are on such opposite ends of the spectrum as far as life that it is painful. I loved this story. I was dragged through every chapter because I had to see how this all worked out. Ben almost irreparably got in his own way with his “Logic” but it certainly all works out in the end. It makes the HEA that much more satisfying!
February 13, 2023
not a fan of age gap stories at the first place. this was fine but the steam was boring and the romance was not that much imo. feels very bland..idk its the writing its not the characters i guess.
September 12, 2023
Simon calling Ben “kid” and “boy” made me cringe. Thankfully, that didn’t happen too much. Otherwise, I thought the story was just okay.
The start of the story was great. I really felt for Ben and his situation. And Simon’s driver and housekeeper brought lightness and humor to the story, which I liked. Plus, normally with these types of stories where there is a rescuer of someone who is homeless/poor, it’s not easy for an author to make it clear to the reader that the rescued MC is staying because of love instead of an easy comfy life. So I appreciated Simon’s unique approach to giving Ben an out, which eased the readers mind somewhat that Ben was with Simon for the right reason.
Aside from that, Simon’s love for Ben was super-insta and a bit hard to comprehend. It felt more like he had a hero complex at times. And everything after 50% of the book was a bit boring and predictable.
The start of the story was great. I really felt for Ben and his situation. And Simon’s driver and housekeeper brought lightness and humor to the story, which I liked. Plus, normally with these types of stories where there is a rescuer of someone who is homeless/poor, it’s not easy for an author to make it clear to the reader that the rescued MC is staying because of love instead of an easy comfy life. So I appreciated Simon’s unique approach to giving Ben an out, which eased the readers mind somewhat that Ben was with Simon for the right reason.
Aside from that, Simon’s love for Ben was super-insta and a bit hard to comprehend. It felt more like he had a hero complex at times. And everything after 50% of the book was a bit boring and predictable.
June 9, 2023
4.5 - Here's the deal. My life is a dumpster fire right now. I needed something light and fluffy, no angst, a fairy tale with a very happy ending, along with a lot of spice thrown in! THIS IS THAT BOOK!
Yes, it's completely unbelievable, insta-love, Cinderella/Pretty Woman/My Fair Lady/Pygmalion-esque. But why not? WHY NOT???
Ben is a sheltered, lonely, gay 28 year old janitor who works in a large office building in Chicago. His boss doesn't like him and gives him the crap jobs (do the dishes Cinder-fella, sweep the snow Cinder-fella). He loves to watch the people walk into the building on a daily basis, and then draws them later. One of his favorites is "Silver Fox," who seems to own a different coat for every outfit.
Ben lives in a dank basement that floods, has mold, and rarely has hot water. If there were talking mice, I might've stopped listening. He works as many side jobs as he can to make ends meet, but skimps on food so he's weak.
Simon Prince (REALLY? PRINCE?? again, why not?) is a billionare who is retiring from the company as he has a heart condition that requires him to keep his stress to a minimum. On the day of his retirement, he is dropping off his replacement (his nephew) in front of the building, when he sees a snow sweeping "boy" fall to the ground. He doesn't get up. Simon rushes to his aid, finds that the boy is actually a young man, and decides to take him to the hospital for care. Of course, it's our Ben. Our meet cute is complete.
Simon stays with Ben in the hospital. Simon is intrigued by Ben. He has never had much of an attraction to women and never to a man, but there is something about Ben. He wants to protect him. As Ben is eventually released from the hospital (pneumonia, anemia, and underweight), Simon and his driver Hudson try to take him home. Once they see the horrible conditions of where he lives, they refuse to leave him there. He eventually agrees to come to Simon's house at least until he is well.
Of course, this all culminates in Ben feeling like a kept man, bought and paid for, and lots of back and forth conversations ensue. There is miscommunication, an overbearing mother, a sassy housekeeper, and a wise old driver, and a few other side characters who are okay.
Honestly, I just needed a feel good book and this did the trick. I smiled a lot. So I'm giving it 4.5 stars because it is what it is. It doesn't take itself too seriously. It's just a fun story and of course, the narration is perfection (Michael Ferraiuolo).
Yes, it's completely unbelievable, insta-love, Cinderella/Pretty Woman/My Fair Lady/Pygmalion-esque. But why not? WHY NOT???
Ben is a sheltered, lonely, gay 28 year old janitor who works in a large office building in Chicago. His boss doesn't like him and gives him the crap jobs (do the dishes Cinder-fella, sweep the snow Cinder-fella). He loves to watch the people walk into the building on a daily basis, and then draws them later. One of his favorites is "Silver Fox," who seems to own a different coat for every outfit.
Ben lives in a dank basement that floods, has mold, and rarely has hot water. If there were talking mice, I might've stopped listening. He works as many side jobs as he can to make ends meet, but skimps on food so he's weak.
Simon Prince (REALLY? PRINCE?? again, why not?) is a billionare who is retiring from the company as he has a heart condition that requires him to keep his stress to a minimum. On the day of his retirement, he is dropping off his replacement (his nephew) in front of the building, when he sees a snow sweeping "boy" fall to the ground. He doesn't get up. Simon rushes to his aid, finds that the boy is actually a young man, and decides to take him to the hospital for care. Of course, it's our Ben. Our meet cute is complete.
Simon stays with Ben in the hospital. Simon is intrigued by Ben. He has never had much of an attraction to women and never to a man, but there is something about Ben. He wants to protect him. As Ben is eventually released from the hospital (pneumonia, anemia, and underweight), Simon and his driver Hudson try to take him home. Once they see the horrible conditions of where he lives, they refuse to leave him there. He eventually agrees to come to Simon's house at least until he is well.
Of course, this all culminates in Ben feeling like a kept man, bought and paid for, and lots of back and forth conversations ensue. There is miscommunication, an overbearing mother, a sassy housekeeper, and a wise old driver, and a few other side characters who are okay.
Honestly, I just needed a feel good book and this did the trick. I smiled a lot. So I'm giving it 4.5 stars because it is what it is. It doesn't take itself too seriously. It's just a fun story and of course, the narration is perfection (Michael Ferraiuolo).
January 29, 2023
Ben and Simon's romance was a very sweet read, and even though these two weren't one of my favorite couples, I still really enjoyed their journey. Simon and Ben came from very different walks of life, and though normally they'd never have interacted, their paths happened to cross during one of the worst weeks of Ben's life. Poor, sweet Ben was always working his hardest and making the best of his situation, but life really hadn't been kind to him. My heart was aching for him even before Simon rushed over and flipped his whole world upside down, and once he got involved it seemed like fate was finally smiling at him for once. It was obvious that Simon was smitten right away, and though he was utterly clueless about how to date a man, I could see that he didn't want to let Ben go. I understand why Ben was cautious about revealing his own feelings for Simon, and even though I knew nothing shady was going on, I'm still not sure how I felt about their whirlwind romance. It's not the power imbalance that did me in, because Ben was very aware of what society would think of them, but more the way Simon remained ignorant of why Ben was struggling with the fast changes to their relationship. Not only did Simon have to come to terms with the idea that he may not be as straight as he'd always assumed, he also had to learn that money and presents weren't the most important part of a lasting relationship. I do think he got there in the end, but I was a little uncomfortable before that happened. I don't doubt that what he and Ben shared was real and meant to last, because the two of them were adorable together, but I think the way they went about their romance just personally didn't work for me the way I was hoping.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
February 1, 2023
I tried, but there were just too many issues with this book to bump it up to a mediocre three stars.
Simon is a silver fox recently retired CEO who has caught the eye of Ben, one of the custodians of the office building Simon owns. After Ben succumbs to walking pneumonia one blustery winter day Simon comes to his rescue and brings the poor lost lamb home with him to recuperate. Feelings are caught, drama follows, and love conquers all.
Awesome, right?
Sadly, not.
Briefly, insta-love in a 300-page book? Non, merci. The way the writer broke up the chapters with plot points was supremely irritating and interrupted the flow immensely. Heaped on top of that the persistent editing, spelling, plot errors, I almost gave up. Finally, the most unforgivable sin, it was just dreadfully dull. My heavens the story just dragged and dragged.
There was almost no chemistry, the MCs personalities didn't jive with their established roles, and Ben's behaviour/thoughts changed on a dime, giving the reader (and Simon) whiplash.
Still, I was teetering on the precipice of three stars because I hate giving books I've actually finished such a low rating but BEN NEVER SAYS "I LOVE YOU" to Simon. He dances around and implies it, thinks it might be love, but never declares it. Simon was all in almost right from the beginning, pouring his heart and soul out and getting nothing but mixed signals back. Enough, I'm done. I want to give Simon a hug, be his friend and tell Ben to sit in the corner and thing about his things.
My favourite character in a romance shouldn't be the chauffeur! I disliked the author's writing style so much I will be passing on his story which is sure to be the next book.
Simon is a silver fox recently retired CEO who has caught the eye of Ben, one of the custodians of the office building Simon owns. After Ben succumbs to walking pneumonia one blustery winter day Simon comes to his rescue and brings the poor lost lamb home with him to recuperate. Feelings are caught, drama follows, and love conquers all.
Awesome, right?
Sadly, not.
Briefly, insta-love in a 300-page book? Non, merci. The way the writer broke up the chapters with plot points was supremely irritating and interrupted the flow immensely. Heaped on top of that the persistent editing, spelling, plot errors, I almost gave up. Finally, the most unforgivable sin, it was just dreadfully dull. My heavens the story just dragged and dragged.
There was almost no chemistry, the MCs personalities didn't jive with their established roles, and Ben's behaviour/thoughts changed on a dime, giving the reader (and Simon) whiplash.
Still, I was teetering on the precipice of three stars because I hate giving books I've actually finished such a low rating but BEN NEVER SAYS "I LOVE YOU" to Simon. He dances around and implies it, thinks it might be love, but never declares it. Simon was all in almost right from the beginning, pouring his heart and soul out and getting nothing but mixed signals back. Enough, I'm done. I want to give Simon a hug, be his friend and tell Ben to sit in the corner and thing about his things.
My favourite character in a romance shouldn't be the chauffeur! I disliked the author's writing style so much I will be passing on his story which is sure to be the next book.
February 15, 2023
"Straight to the Heart" received THREE stars.
I liked this story more in the beginning than the end.
The characters were both super sweet. I often found myself smiling as I was reading. I was also happy they got their HEA. The author did a good job with Simon’s insta-love; I wasn’t put off by it. Ben’s hesitation in the beginning was well done, not so much the case at the end. His reason for not accepting right away Simon’s proposal seemed more plot fodder than true-to-character. (Hadn’t running away and Simon finding him in the hospital fix his issues over his strong feelings?) Same for Simon’s mother, she was the cause of Ben running away but was okay with him when he returned. There was also quiet a few copy edit issues that jerked me out of the story.
Until I reached about 80% of this book I thought for sure it would be a re-read book and maybe a hardcopy-book. Now not so much…
The novel gained *stars* for these items:
* gained for: "The book caught my interest in the first five pages."
* gained for: "I thought about the book when I was forced to set it down and re-enter society."
1/2 * gained for: "There were no info dumps, poor writing, or copy edit mistakes that jerked me out of the story."
1/2 * gained for: "I was sad when the book ended. I wanted more!"
The novel failed to gain stars for this item:
NO STAR gained for: "That's it. I'm hooked on this author. I will automatically try anything she/he/they writes."
I liked this story more in the beginning than the end.
The characters were both super sweet. I often found myself smiling as I was reading. I was also happy they got their HEA. The author did a good job with Simon’s insta-love; I wasn’t put off by it. Ben’s hesitation in the beginning was well done, not so much the case at the end. His reason for not accepting right away Simon’s proposal seemed more plot fodder than true-to-character. (Hadn’t running away and Simon finding him in the hospital fix his issues over his strong feelings?) Same for Simon’s mother, she was the cause of Ben running away but was okay with him when he returned. There was also quiet a few copy edit issues that jerked me out of the story.
Until I reached about 80% of this book I thought for sure it would be a re-read book and maybe a hardcopy-book. Now not so much…
The novel gained *stars* for these items:
* gained for: "The book caught my interest in the first five pages."
* gained for: "I thought about the book when I was forced to set it down and re-enter society."
1/2 * gained for: "There were no info dumps, poor writing, or copy edit mistakes that jerked me out of the story."
1/2 * gained for: "I was sad when the book ended. I wanted more!"
The novel failed to gain stars for this item:
NO STAR gained for: "That's it. I'm hooked on this author. I will automatically try anything she/he/they writes."
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 29, 2023
3.5 stars
Ini sebenarnya tipe ku banget, May - December romance dengan tema damsel in distress tapi agak kurang suka dengan karakter Ben. Simon itu sangat bersedia untuk memberikan "segalanya" kepada Ben dan Simon juga sudah melamar Ben tapi Bennya menolak yang membuat Simon sangat sedih hingga menitikkan air mata. Menurut ku keengganannya Ben dan alasannya Ben untuk menolak lamarannya Simon itu tidak masuk akal. Dikarenakan Ben merasa apa yang dia rasakan terhadap Simon dan perlakuan sedemikian baik dan tulusnya Simon kepada Ben adalah sebuah mimpi dan Ben merasa Simon adalah seorang tokoh fiktif, hanya sebuah mitos, Prince Charming dari sebuah dongeng di mana tidak mungkin apabila karakter seperti Simon jatuh cinta kepada seseorang seperti Ben yang bertolak belakang 180 derajat dengan Simon dan Ben takut pada suatu saat nanti mereka bangun dari tidur dan mimpi itu akan berakhir sehingga dia menolak lamaran Simon. Meskipun pada akhirnya Ben bersedia menikah dengan Simon.
Di akhir cerita diberikan sedikit "petunjuk " mengenai Hudson, sopir pribadi Simon dengan Eugene, anak dari penjahit favorit Simon. Meskipun kata Simon, Eugene bukan tipenya Hudson karena tipenya Hudson adalah perempuan.
Apakah Hudson dan Eugene akan ada cerita mereka sendiri? Jadi penasaran.
Ini sebenarnya tipe ku banget, May - December romance dengan tema damsel in distress tapi agak kurang suka dengan karakter Ben. Simon itu sangat bersedia untuk memberikan "segalanya" kepada Ben dan Simon juga sudah melamar Ben tapi Bennya menolak yang membuat Simon sangat sedih hingga menitikkan air mata. Menurut ku keengganannya Ben dan alasannya Ben untuk menolak lamarannya Simon itu tidak masuk akal. Dikarenakan Ben merasa apa yang dia rasakan terhadap Simon dan perlakuan sedemikian baik dan tulusnya Simon kepada Ben adalah sebuah mimpi dan Ben merasa Simon adalah seorang tokoh fiktif, hanya sebuah mitos, Prince Charming dari sebuah dongeng di mana tidak mungkin apabila karakter seperti Simon jatuh cinta kepada seseorang seperti Ben yang bertolak belakang 180 derajat dengan Simon dan Ben takut pada suatu saat nanti mereka bangun dari tidur dan mimpi itu akan berakhir sehingga dia menolak lamaran Simon. Meskipun pada akhirnya Ben bersedia menikah dengan Simon.
Di akhir cerita diberikan sedikit "petunjuk " mengenai Hudson, sopir pribadi Simon dengan Eugene, anak dari penjahit favorit Simon. Meskipun kata Simon, Eugene bukan tipenya Hudson karena tipenya Hudson adalah perempuan.
Apakah Hudson dan Eugene akan ada cerita mereka sendiri? Jadi penasaran.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 5, 2023
it had potential but didn’t work
Both characters had potential but neither were really developed beyond he is so poor, you wouldn’t believe how poor he is, so poor… or he is so rich, so much money, let’s see how rich he is. Perhaps Ben wouldn’t have been in such poor circumstances if Simon didn’t pay his employees slave wages and allow them to be treated so poorly. Which was never addressed. Both mothers were stereotypical. Simon called his mother racist for calling Hudson Hudson and not using his real name, and yet he also called him Hudson, so what should we assume about Simon. Ben’s response to the proposal tells us they are no where near a HEA and he needs a lot of therapy and time to be ready for an actual relationship with Simon let alone a marriage, and yet Simon nagged him into an acceptance anyway. There were also quite a few editing issues, such as repeated words or incorrect sentences. So yeah, there was potential but neither character really grew from the beginning
Both characters had potential but neither were really developed beyond he is so poor, you wouldn’t believe how poor he is, so poor… or he is so rich, so much money, let’s see how rich he is. Perhaps Ben wouldn’t have been in such poor circumstances if Simon didn’t pay his employees slave wages and allow them to be treated so poorly. Which was never addressed. Both mothers were stereotypical. Simon called his mother racist for calling Hudson Hudson and not using his real name, and yet he also called him Hudson, so what should we assume about Simon. Ben’s response to the proposal tells us they are no where near a HEA and he needs a lot of therapy and time to be ready for an actual relationship with Simon let alone a marriage, and yet Simon nagged him into an acceptance anyway. There were also quite a few editing issues, such as repeated words or incorrect sentences. So yeah, there was potential but neither character really grew from the beginning
February 13, 2023
I was a little late to this Christmas story, but since we’re closing in on Valentine’s Day…..
Ben’s life has been circling the drain when he collapses at his janitorial job in front of Simon, the wealthy Silver Fox who owns the building and the company that occupies it. Simon surprises himself by rescuing Ben, and then by being attracted to the bedraggled but gorgeous mostly-homeless kid. Ben tries not to be dazzled by Simon - he’s everything Ben has dreamed of. But…Simon’s not gay…is he? Simon only knows that he cares about Ben in a way he’s never cared about anyone before. However, Ben can’t ignore his insecurities, and he takes off. Is there a way for Simon and Ben to be together?
It’s a sweet, if entirely ridiculous, romance. Everything takes place over the course of a couple of weeks, from Simon rescuing Ben, to Simon jumping into the deep end of the gay sex pool, and then falling in love with each other and getting their HEA. And, its Little Match Girl” vibes are strong….
So…a perfect Christmas bonbon….you just wouldn’t want to eat the whole boxful…..
Ben’s life has been circling the drain when he collapses at his janitorial job in front of Simon, the wealthy Silver Fox who owns the building and the company that occupies it. Simon surprises himself by rescuing Ben, and then by being attracted to the bedraggled but gorgeous mostly-homeless kid. Ben tries not to be dazzled by Simon - he’s everything Ben has dreamed of. But…Simon’s not gay…is he? Simon only knows that he cares about Ben in a way he’s never cared about anyone before. However, Ben can’t ignore his insecurities, and he takes off. Is there a way for Simon and Ben to be together?
It’s a sweet, if entirely ridiculous, romance. Everything takes place over the course of a couple of weeks, from Simon rescuing Ben, to Simon jumping into the deep end of the gay sex pool, and then falling in love with each other and getting their HEA. And, its Little Match Girl” vibes are strong….
So…a perfect Christmas bonbon….you just wouldn’t want to eat the whole boxful…..
January 30, 2023
Cute and sweet but I had a bit of trouble following the back and forth thoughts of the MCs. Often they would be thinking really decidedly about a particular issue, only for it to chop and change. Ben, for example, went from shy and worrying about money, to initiating an overly comfortable friendship between himself and Simon, all within a single day. The text messages when he was bored on the first day at Simon’s home is one instance that confused me because it felt like a jarring shift in character. It wasn’t a major issue for me though, I just think a bit more time and conversation between them would have made the transition more believable. I did, however, adore Simon and how protective he is of Ben; he definitely made me feel all melty inside. When he admits how he feels, it’s all cutesy and swoon worthy moments. So very sweet and romantic, a simply feel-good story. 3.5 stars because I really needed a book like this right now.
February 4, 2023
This has a major Cinderella vibes in that Ben is super poor, working two jobs to make ends meet, and literally almost works himself to death when Simon, a.k.a. Silver Fox, Prince steps and nurses him back to life while also showing him luxuries. I think this was a super sweet story and I love how Simon was really working on understanding himself and his own attraction to Ben for a while. It's a very sweet age gap with a bit of a slow burn start.
This is written in third person, as are most (if not all) of Lynn's stories and I think it might've been this that took me a while to really get into the characters. It felt a bit distant at first, but that may be because I tend to read from first person overall. I'd say it just took a couple of chapters in before I really started to connect with both MCs and I did like that Ben had some back bone when dealing with the whole "stay with me forever" situation. I enjoyed this story and I know I'll be reading more from Lynn in the future.
This is written in third person, as are most (if not all) of Lynn's stories and I think it might've been this that took me a while to really get into the characters. It felt a bit distant at first, but that may be because I tend to read from first person overall. I'd say it just took a couple of chapters in before I really started to connect with both MCs and I did like that Ben had some back bone when dealing with the whole "stay with me forever" situation. I enjoyed this story and I know I'll be reading more from Lynn in the future.
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