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Coda #3
The Letter Z
Sequel to A to Z
Spin-off of Promises
Zach and Angelo have settled into their new lives in Coda, Colorado, finding their place in the community with the help of their good friends Matt and Jared. Zach and Angelo are also working out the particulars of their relationship, but when they make a decision Jared disagrees with, Angelo finds himself at odds with his partner's best friend. And his best friend's partner.
When the four decide on a quick trip to Vegas, Angelo thinks he and Jared may be back on the right track. But a chance encounter with Zach’s ex-boyfriend will make Angelo question everything about himself and his relationship with Zach. Matt and Jared have always been there when Zach and Angelo needed help. But when it comes to sorting out their relationship, their friends may do more harm than good.
Coda: Which book do I read first?
Spin-off of Promises
Zach and Angelo have settled into their new lives in Coda, Colorado, finding their place in the community with the help of their good friends Matt and Jared. Zach and Angelo are also working out the particulars of their relationship, but when they make a decision Jared disagrees with, Angelo finds himself at odds with his partner's best friend. And his best friend's partner.
When the four decide on a quick trip to Vegas, Angelo thinks he and Jared may be back on the right track. But a chance encounter with Zach’s ex-boyfriend will make Angelo question everything about himself and his relationship with Zach. Matt and Jared have always been there when Zach and Angelo needed help. But when it comes to sorting out their relationship, their friends may do more harm than good.
Coda: Which book do I read first?
102 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 12, 2010
37 people are currently reading
851 people want to read
About the author
Marie Sexton
71 books2,224 followersMarie Sexton lives in Colorado. She’s a fan of just about anything that involves muscular young men piling on top of each other. In particular, she loves the Denver Broncos and enjoys going to the games with her husband. Her imaginary friends often tag along. Marie has one daughter, two cats, and one dog, all of whom seem bent on destroying what remains of her sanity. She loves them anyway.
The absolute best way to stay up-to-date on my books is by joining my FB group. You can view livestreams about Oestend, Coda, and the Heretic Doms Club. I also give away books on a regular basis. NO DRAMA ALLOWED!!
Or, you might want to check out these pages:
Coda: Which book do I read first?
Find a book by trope or heat level.
Visit my website/blog at http://www.MarieSexton.net
The absolute best way to stay up-to-date on my books is by joining my FB group. You can view livestreams about Oestend, Coda, and the Heretic Doms Club. I also give away books on a regular basis. NO DRAMA ALLOWED!!
Or, you might want to check out these pages:
Coda: Which book do I read first?
Find a book by trope or heat level.
Visit my website/blog at http://www.MarieSexton.net
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 265 reviews
April 19, 2020
I loved it!
Zach and Angelo have settled into their new lives in Coda, Colorado. Their relationship dynamics are quite unusual, and it is far beyond the standards acceptable by Jared. He strongly disapproves Zach and Angelo’s newly discovered kink.
When the four decide on a trip to Vegas, Angelo thinks he and Jared may be back on the right track. But Jared’s stubbornness and other unexpected things almost ruin not only their vacation, but Zach and Angelo’s relationship, and also the friendship the four of them have just established.
Zach knows Angelo so well. They are perfect for each other.
Don’t start with me! It’s not . But it’s hot as hell!
It was great to see Jared and Matt, too. The Letter Z is an awesome addition to Zach and Angelo’s story.
My favorite quotes.
Zach and Angelo have settled into their new lives in Coda, Colorado. Their relationship dynamics are quite unusual, and it is far beyond the standards acceptable by Jared. He strongly disapproves Zach and Angelo’s newly discovered kink.
When the four decide on a trip to Vegas, Angelo thinks he and Jared may be back on the right track. But Jared’s stubbornness and other unexpected things almost ruin not only their vacation, but Zach and Angelo’s relationship, and also the friendship the four of them have just established.
Zach knows Angelo so well. They are perfect for each other.
Don’t start with me! It’s not . But it’s hot as hell!
It was great to see Jared and Matt, too. The Letter Z is an awesome addition to Zach and Angelo’s story.
And isn’t that just so sweet it makes your teeth hurt?
My favorite quotes.
March 27, 2011
First and foremost, I'd just like to point out that this is actually a good book but ultimately the open-relationship Zach allowed Angelo to have killed my enjoyment of the story. I'm not saying I judge their relationship, I just don't understand it and I don't want to read about it. If you like reading about all that and if you don't mind open-relationships, that's cool, but I prefer monogamous relationships over anything else and that's that. :-/
It was great getting another installment of the guys, though. In the past, Angelo was my favorite character but, unfortunately, he's not anymore. He's actually my least favorite now and Matt is firmly at the top. Anyways, I liked the fact that we got to see Matt get a little more intimate with Jared in public (there's only a brief scene but still, it was sweet) and I liked the fact that Zach and Angelo get closer through their little 'kink'. It was nice how everything worked out in the end even if it wasn't the way I'd like it to have ended.
I liked seeing pieces of Angelo's old personality and how he could pretty much lose anyone with how he just goes off topic and then back on it again. There was also brief spurts of humor I rather enjoyed and I especially enjoyed getting back into Matt's head again.
All in all, I think this would have been a great book if the whole conflict of Zach and Angelo's sex life would have been left out but that's just my opinion and because of that, I can't recommend this book. Sorry :-/
It was great getting another installment of the guys, though. In the past, Angelo was my favorite character but, unfortunately, he's not anymore. He's actually my least favorite now and Matt is firmly at the top. Anyways, I liked the fact that we got to see Matt get a little more intimate with Jared in public (there's only a brief scene but still, it was sweet) and I liked the fact that Zach and Angelo get closer through their little 'kink'. It was nice how everything worked out in the end even if it wasn't the way I'd like it to have ended.
I liked seeing pieces of Angelo's old personality and how he could pretty much lose anyone with how he just goes off topic and then back on it again. There was also brief spurts of humor I rather enjoyed and I especially enjoyed getting back into Matt's head again.
All in all, I think this would have been a great book if the whole conflict of Zach and Angelo's sex life would have been left out but that's just my opinion and because of that, I can't recommend this book. Sorry :-/
May 11, 2010
The Letter Z is the third book by Marie Sexton that takes place in Colorado and involves Matt and Jared (Promises) and Zach and Angelo (A to Z). “Sequel to...” “Spin-off of...” In my head I’ve labeled them “the three books from the Coda, Colorado series” One of the dangers of reading a series or “falling in love” with a character is that as the story continues there is a chance that the author can introduce a situation or characteristic that can change the dynamics of what you’ve been enjoying. For me that kinda happened in this book, I’m not as warm and fuzzy about Zach and Angelo. But my love for Matt and Jared has grown.
Promises centered around Matt and Jared. A to Z centered around Zach and Angelo. The Letter Z features both couples and is told from the POV’s of Matt and Angelo in alternating chapters. For those that have read A to Z you will remember that the relationship between Zach and Angelo was in it’s beginning stages...shaky, yet growing...certainly not at a “happily ever after” stage.
At 102 pages Letter Z is a quick, enjoyable and, for me, at times a frustrating read. There was some growth in the relationship of Matt and Jared that I really liked. I’m glad that they are going strong and still learning things about one another. Matt still has tiny bits of the closet that he is shaking off...as a matter of fact there was a comment made toward the end of the book that made me wonder if I was incorrect to assume he is gay, he may actually be bisexual.
Angelo and Zach... Angelo. And. Zach. In this book we see these two settle into their relationship a little further...and this includes setting rules for what the boundaries are when it comes to seeing other people. It would be difficult to talk about their rules without giving too much of their story away so I’ll avoid that. I will say that I’m interested to see what other fans of Marie’s books think of Zach and Angelo’s arrangement. I respect that each couple, straight or gay, has to set their own rules that govern their relationship. I just didn’t walk away from this book thinking these two made the healthiest of choices. We are told it’s a good choice for them. The reasons are laid out. But for me it’s the difference between being told vs. believing. If Zach and Angelo were friends of mine in real life I’d have looked at my partner at the end of this book and said “Poor messes. I give them 3 months.” I’d like to add that I think Jared gets a bum rap in this book...yes, he goes off half-cocked in his accusations but he’s concerned for a friend.
Regardless of what I think of the character’s actions, I continue to enjoy the world Marie has created. The strongest book has been Promises, but A to Z and The Letter Z leave me wanting more.
Promises centered around Matt and Jared. A to Z centered around Zach and Angelo. The Letter Z features both couples and is told from the POV’s of Matt and Angelo in alternating chapters. For those that have read A to Z you will remember that the relationship between Zach and Angelo was in it’s beginning stages...shaky, yet growing...certainly not at a “happily ever after” stage.
At 102 pages Letter Z is a quick, enjoyable and, for me, at times a frustrating read. There was some growth in the relationship of Matt and Jared that I really liked. I’m glad that they are going strong and still learning things about one another. Matt still has tiny bits of the closet that he is shaking off...as a matter of fact there was a comment made toward the end of the book that made me wonder if I was incorrect to assume he is gay, he may actually be bisexual.
Angelo and Zach... Angelo. And. Zach. In this book we see these two settle into their relationship a little further...and this includes setting rules for what the boundaries are when it comes to seeing other people. It would be difficult to talk about their rules without giving too much of their story away so I’ll avoid that. I will say that I’m interested to see what other fans of Marie’s books think of Zach and Angelo’s arrangement. I respect that each couple, straight or gay, has to set their own rules that govern their relationship. I just didn’t walk away from this book thinking these two made the healthiest of choices. We are told it’s a good choice for them. The reasons are laid out. But for me it’s the difference between being told vs. believing. If Zach and Angelo were friends of mine in real life I’d have looked at my partner at the end of this book and said “Poor messes. I give them 3 months.” I’d like to add that I think Jared gets a bum rap in this book...yes, he goes off half-cocked in his accusations but he’s concerned for a friend.
Regardless of what I think of the character’s actions, I continue to enjoy the world Marie has created. The strongest book has been Promises, but A to Z and The Letter Z leave me wanting more.
April 19, 2020
Trust + Strength = Blinding Love
This was tough for me, like wrecking ball to the gut, vise on the heart, tough. I was left dazed and confused, struggling to find my voice, and then unsure what my inner voice was mumbling about. Once I peeled my personal feelings back a bit, I realized I didn’t like it.
No, I hated it.
And yet, I loved it. Makes sense right?
It kicks off with our four favorite Coda boys bringing in the New Year. An unexpected guest arrives and this is where it gets tricky. My stomach heaved and I held my breath as the evening played out. And then when , well, I was furious, sad and perplexed.
Next, a trip later that spring to Sin City brings all sorts of trouble. Of all the people to run into, they cross paths with Jonathon, Zach’s ex.
Good-looking, successful, and still in love with Zach, Jonathon tries to stir up the trouble pot. It doesn’t take much for the waves to become a tsunami, and all hell breaks loose. Angelo and Zach teeter on the edge of destruction and their best friends cause more harm than good. I squirmed and fidgeted during the club scenes, and felt even more lost after their second night out.
It was easy to feel like Jared, but I wanted to feel like Matt in my assessment of the situation.
I had a death grip on my kindle and the world could have stopped for all I cared. Then I lay awake dumbfounded while it played like a broken record in my head all night.
My conclusion…..
Bottom line- If it makes them happy, I mean both of them truly happy, then who am I to judge?
Just because Wilbur would fly and Frosty would have tea with Lucifer before this would happen in my own relationship, doesn’t make it wrong.
I think judgment can be one of the greatest evils in this world. And if I can stop myself from sneering with pointed fingers towards a situation I felt disturbing with my fictional friends, well then maybe I can be more like Matt and less like Jared in my viewpoint of others.
Again, I enjoyed the flipping POV. It was important for me to see each scene play out in each of their minds. The characters are lovable, and I still adore Ang; even if I don’t quite understand his free-ness, Zach does…and that is all that matters.
Excited and scared shitless to move onto book 4.
*4.5 flabbergasting stars*
This was tough for me, like wrecking ball to the gut, vise on the heart, tough. I was left dazed and confused, struggling to find my voice, and then unsure what my inner voice was mumbling about. Once I peeled my personal feelings back a bit, I realized I didn’t like it.
No, I hated it.
And yet, I loved it. Makes sense right?
It kicks off with our four favorite Coda boys bringing in the New Year. An unexpected guest arrives and this is where it gets tricky. My stomach heaved and I held my breath as the evening played out. And then when , well, I was furious, sad and perplexed.
Next, a trip later that spring to Sin City brings all sorts of trouble. Of all the people to run into, they cross paths with Jonathon, Zach’s ex.
Good-looking, successful, and still in love with Zach, Jonathon tries to stir up the trouble pot. It doesn’t take much for the waves to become a tsunami, and all hell breaks loose. Angelo and Zach teeter on the edge of destruction and their best friends cause more harm than good. I squirmed and fidgeted during the club scenes, and felt even more lost after their second night out.
It was easy to feel like Jared, but I wanted to feel like Matt in my assessment of the situation.
I had a death grip on my kindle and the world could have stopped for all I cared. Then I lay awake dumbfounded while it played like a broken record in my head all night.
My conclusion…..
Bottom line- If it makes them happy, I mean both of them truly happy, then who am I to judge?
Just because Wilbur would fly and Frosty would have tea with Lucifer before this would happen in my own relationship, doesn’t make it wrong.
I think judgment can be one of the greatest evils in this world. And if I can stop myself from sneering with pointed fingers towards a situation I felt disturbing with my fictional friends, well then maybe I can be more like Matt and less like Jared in my viewpoint of others.
Again, I enjoyed the flipping POV. It was important for me to see each scene play out in each of their minds. The characters are lovable, and I still adore Ang; even if I don’t quite understand his free-ness, Zach does…and that is all that matters.
Excited and scared shitless to move onto book 4.
*4.5 flabbergasting stars*
January 16, 2024
Zach owns a video rental store. When his ex-boyfriend left him, he got the video rental, Blockbuster-like, store. He was also left a diffident cat which I thought was the better part of that deal. Zach is just getting through life, existing from day to day, then he gets a new landlord and then he hires a helper. Suddenly things start to turn around. The landlord proved to be something else ...but it was interesting. Zach gets to keep his store IF he keeps the landlord happy. Now almost everyone over the age of 15 probably understands what "keeping the landlord happy" actually means, but Zach, true to his nature...doesn't get it. Yes, Zach lives on a different plane of existence from most everyone else, which is why he misses the signs entirely. Now we meet his new employee, Angelo. Zach doesn’t really get Angelo either, which won't surprise you in the least by now... but they do slowly become friends. Angelo educates Zach about movies. How can you own and run a video store if you don't know the first thing about movies?? Zach also learns about Angelo’s past....and somehow the two of them manage to just…get along. We aren't finished with the new landlord, and he's not by any means finished with Zach, and he proves that in spades with the monkey-wrench he throws into things. With Angelo’s encouragement, Zach takes a risk and moves to Coda, joining Matt and Jared from book 1...a couple that he and Angelo met at a festival. Zach wants more from Angelo, but Angelo’s been burned before, making him fearful of relationships and not trusting anyone...not even the man he’s falling in love with. Just when things seem to be settling down for Zack and Angelo, who should reappear but Zach’s old landlord and then the proverbial hell breaks loose. Marie Sexton's characters always seem to overcome their difficulties and find happiness, so I wasn't too worried for Zack...but things were close for a while. This crazy couple deserved happiness if anybody did. This little series is best read in order as the characters reappear in each story as the series progresses. As usual, John Solo does a fantastic job with the narration.
September 20, 2012
*scratches head* Okay. *rubs chin* Right. I'm trying here. Honestly. But I'm drawing a blank. Not because I don't have anything to say, but because this particular reading experience turned out to be more complex than I initially expected.
Let's just say I strongly dislike Angelo. Zach seems all preppy and proper on the outside—and maybe he is—but the guy also has some serious kinks. However, they seem to work well together.
The thing is, in the last 30% or so, the story kind of took a different turn for me. I think it was the bathroom stall scene and how they ended up in there and how it worked for them. That's when, in my head, Zach stopped being the spineless doormat and became the mastermind.
*shrugs* So, yeah. This wasn't the train wreck I thought it would be. I didn't enjoy it but, by the end, I wasn't furious anymore. If that's how Zach and Angelo get off, and if they're both happy with their arrangement, who am I to piss on their party?
Let's just say I strongly dislike Angelo. Zach seems all preppy and proper on the outside—and maybe he is—but the guy also has some serious kinks. However, they seem to work well together.
The thing is, in the last 30% or so, the story kind of took a different turn for me. I think it was the bathroom stall scene and how they ended up in there and how it worked for them. That's when, in my head, Zach stopped being the spineless doormat and became the mastermind.
*shrugs* So, yeah. This wasn't the train wreck I thought it would be. I didn't enjoy it but, by the end, I wasn't furious anymore. If that's how Zach and Angelo get off, and if they're both happy with their arrangement, who am I to piss on their party?
September 3, 2024
Wow.
Wow.
2nd installment of the Angelo-Zach saga and surprise!, it gets even worse.
🔵 Zach and Angelo live in Coda, a few months into their relationship
🟣 Matt and Jared are very present in this novella
🟡 Multiple POV
🟢 These guys don't know what they want, it's like looking at a couple of college guys who aren't serious about each other
🟠 Monogamous goes into an open relationship (one sided)
🌶️ Keep it. No, thank you.
Angelo is a traumatized guy who has intimacy problems and if you ask me he's in no way, shape or form ready for a serious relationship. He prefers his own room, his own bed, doesn't do a lot of things couples do, so Zach is pretty much having a very unconventional relationship where the weight of it all probably lies on him alone.
The story starts out with Angelo seeing Cole, Jared's ex fuck buddy at a party and wants to fuck him, right now, Zach be damned. Zach and Angelo never talked about having an open relationship, Zach just kinda saw Angelo lusting after the guy and probably thought hey, he's not gonna be loyal otherwise, so fuck it. 🤷
Angelo has sex with Cole at a family Christmas party in Matt's bedroom. He picked a family Christmas party to have sex without prior discussing it with Zach. Just a quick - you know what, can I??
The rest of the book tries to defend Angelo at all costs and makes everyone else apologise to the guy for "judging him". He's been through so much, can't a guy fuck around a little bit??
Open relationships aren't a problem if they both want it. That's fine. Open relationships are fine as long as they're consensual and the boundaries are predetermined, talked out, everyone agrees.
But this wasn't it. This was so poorly executed.
Zach's ex is the only smart guy around but he's the villain in the story. Of course he is.
“What do you have to offer him?” he asks. “Somebody to bag his groceries? You’re nothing but an easy lay.”
You're seriously telling me Angelo gets all the freedom to fuck around and Zach will stay forever in the corner somewhere counting his lucky stars he even has a boyfriend in the first place? Because Zach can't play. No, he's told not to. It would be a completely different story if this was talked out and agreed upon. If they'd both play around. Even together with a third. That would be hot.
But yeah, it feels like these two have no idea what they're doing. Break-up happening in a few months. Depends on how much of a masochist Zach is.
Their story wasn't as good to begin with, so I don't really give a shit what happens to them. They can do whatever they want. They're not good together. They're not good characters either.
• For a serious, long-term relationship like Matt and Jared's, this comes as a surprise.
"It’s not that I don’t enjoy fucking Jared— of course I do— but afterwards I feel bad about it. It feels wrong to me. Jared’s strong and hard and masculine in my mind. He’s smaller than me, but he’s tough as hell, and he can kick my ass on any mountain biking trail. Somehow, having him bottom makes me feel like I’m using him, or shaming him."
Then what the hell are you even doing with him??
Matt sure loves to check out women for someone who said he never really liked them much in his book. And he also says he feels the desire to have sex with them. And here I thought their story stated something completely different.
What was the point of this novella that obliterated everything that was said so far about these couples?
April 29, 2013
2.5 stars
This book had a lot potential but it fell short for me. Although, I still liked it better than Zach and Angelo's book. It was a great idea to show the fact that everyone loves differently by examining the dynamics in the two relationships. Matt and Jared had the traditional relationship while Zach and Angelo had some kinks. I'm kind of upset because this could have been great. I love reading about unconventional relationships. The concept was there and by the end I was almost convinced that this was what Zach wanted but the problem was that I didn't understand where this attitude was coming from. The first time everything went down with Cole, I wasn't even sure if this was really ok with Zach or if this was him trying to please Angelo again. It seemed to come out of the blue. I wanted more development. This is all good if I understood the dynamics better. I wanted to know these details.
I believed Angelo could separate his emotions from sex but unfortunately I wasn't completely sold on the story.
This book had a lot potential but it fell short for me. Although, I still liked it better than Zach and Angelo's book. It was a great idea to show the fact that everyone loves differently by examining the dynamics in the two relationships. Matt and Jared had the traditional relationship while Zach and Angelo had some kinks. I'm kind of upset because this could have been great. I love reading about unconventional relationships. The concept was there and by the end I was almost convinced that this was what Zach wanted but the problem was that I didn't understand where this attitude was coming from. The first time everything went down with Cole, I wasn't even sure if this was really ok with Zach or if this was him trying to please Angelo again. It seemed to come out of the blue. I wanted more development. This is all good if I understood the dynamics better. I wanted to know these details.
I believed Angelo could separate his emotions from sex but unfortunately I wasn't completely sold on the story.
March 25, 2011
Third book in the Coda series, more from Matt&Jared and from Zach&Angelo.
At Matt & Jared's new year party, Angelo meets Jared's ex-lover Cole, and has the hots for him. Zach has no problem with it as long as Angelo comes home with him at the end of it. It does bother Jared however, and is the beginning of some conflict between the two of them.
Then, when the 4 go away together on a trip to vegas, they bump into Zach's ex Jonathan, which leads to even more conflicts, and some interesting developments in Zach&Angelo's relationship.
I have to say I'm still a little dissapointed in these books, after enjoying the first one so much. The thing with romance books.. I have no real preference for gay straight lesbian etc, but what is important is the romance itself, but it does mean that I need to be able to relate to the characters or find them a little bit attractive.
I loved Jared and Matt in the first book, I thought they were brilliant, and I still think they're great together, but Zach and Angelo aren't working for me. Which is mostly down to personal preference, I think Zach seems a nice guy, but Angelo I just don't like. Maybe it's because I don't like skinny guys, or maybe I just find him too antagonistic. Which he is, deeply antagonistic, I get that his problems are part of the character, and there is a need for conflict in romance novels, in order for there to be a resolution, but I felt that the conflict was all coming from Angelo's side, which was bad.
The problem with Jonathan coming into play also felt a little bit awkward. Zach was the only person that knew him, and he clearly didn't want to go to dinner with him, Angelo just as clearly didn't either. So why did they all go. Just for the sake of the plot and the conflict, but it didn't seem realistic to me.
I'm also not keen on effeminate guys, or on promiscuity. I think in m/m novels these are stereotypes that you have to be careful around. And while I suppose it wasn't particularly badly done here, it just makes me uncomfortable, and doesn't actually do anything for me either.
The perspective switing is still not working for me either. That was started in book 2, switching between Zach and Angelo, and in this I believe it was just between Angelo and Matt. In some books this works really well, I don't like it here, sometimes too disjointed, and sometimes too much repetition from another perspective.
Although I didn't hate the book, I was disappointed. I still like the Matt&Jared relationship, but I found myself skimming through everything else to get to them. Now undecided whether to continue to the next book.
See my other reviews of the Coda Books series:
← #2 A to Z | #4 Strawberries for Dessert →
At Matt & Jared's new year party, Angelo meets Jared's ex-lover Cole, and has the hots for him. Zach has no problem with it as long as Angelo comes home with him at the end of it. It does bother Jared however, and is the beginning of some conflict between the two of them.
Then, when the 4 go away together on a trip to vegas, they bump into Zach's ex Jonathan, which leads to even more conflicts, and some interesting developments in Zach&Angelo's relationship.
I have to say I'm still a little dissapointed in these books, after enjoying the first one so much. The thing with romance books.. I have no real preference for gay straight lesbian etc, but what is important is the romance itself, but it does mean that I need to be able to relate to the characters or find them a little bit attractive.
I loved Jared and Matt in the first book, I thought they were brilliant, and I still think they're great together, but Zach and Angelo aren't working for me. Which is mostly down to personal preference, I think Zach seems a nice guy, but Angelo I just don't like. Maybe it's because I don't like skinny guys, or maybe I just find him too antagonistic. Which he is, deeply antagonistic, I get that his problems are part of the character, and there is a need for conflict in romance novels, in order for there to be a resolution, but I felt that the conflict was all coming from Angelo's side, which was bad.
The problem with Jonathan coming into play also felt a little bit awkward. Zach was the only person that knew him, and he clearly didn't want to go to dinner with him, Angelo just as clearly didn't either. So why did they all go. Just for the sake of the plot and the conflict, but it didn't seem realistic to me.
I'm also not keen on effeminate guys, or on promiscuity. I think in m/m novels these are stereotypes that you have to be careful around. And while I suppose it wasn't particularly badly done here, it just makes me uncomfortable, and doesn't actually do anything for me either.
The perspective switing is still not working for me either. That was started in book 2, switching between Zach and Angelo, and in this I believe it was just between Angelo and Matt. In some books this works really well, I don't like it here, sometimes too disjointed, and sometimes too much repetition from another perspective.
Although I didn't hate the book, I was disappointed. I still like the Matt&Jared relationship, but I found myself skimming through everything else to get to them. Now undecided whether to continue to the next book.
See my other reviews of the Coda Books series:
← #2 A to Z | #4 Strawberries for Dessert →
August 23, 2010
I went to bed early last night with every intention of reading a few pages of this book and then going to sleep so I could get up and go to work early today.
2 hours later it was midnight and I had read the whole thing. Damn you, Marie Sexton!
*ETA*
Re-read on 8/22/10. I couldn't *not* read it after finishing A to Z yesterday. I'm desperate to see Angelo in eyeliner.
2 hours later it was midnight and I had read the whole thing. Damn you, Marie Sexton!
*ETA*
Re-read on 8/22/10. I couldn't *not* read it after finishing A to Z yesterday. I'm desperate to see Angelo in eyeliner.
January 24, 2013
I always love to check back in with some of my favorite couples and in this book I get double the pleasure!
If you have issues with 'open' relationships, definitely think on that before you start on this story.
We get to see these guys doing normal things that couples do...with a little bit of kinky thrown in. :) Super Quick read but still a whole lot of story in the 100 or so pages that we get! I'm dying to see how Cole makes his way to Coda!
If you have issues with 'open' relationships, definitely think on that before you start on this story.
We get to see these guys doing normal things that couples do...with a little bit of kinky thrown in. :) Super Quick read but still a whole lot of story in the 100 or so pages that we get! I'm dying to see how Cole makes his way to Coda!
September 28, 2012
2.5 Stars
***CONTAINS SPOILERS***
I dove into this book right after finishing A to Z. I really like Marie Sexton's writing style and the characters she creates. I absolutely LOVE Matt and Jared; and, I used to LOVE Zach and Angelo. After The Letter Z, I'm less than thrilled (lukewarm at best) about the latter couple. Why? Their open relationship was a total turn-off for me. I'm not judging but I'm all about monogamy in my romantic fiction. Period. I realize that Zach and Angelo got their rocks off but that ruined this book for me. At the very start of the book I watched in horror as my HEA from A to Z disintegrated right before my very eyes!
Along those same lines, I actually sided with Jonathan (gasp!) at the club in Vegas. As far as I was concerned, Zach and Angelo were to blame for that whole debacle. Anyone watching that scene unfold (i.e., seeing Angelo do the bump and grind on the dance floor with multiple partners and then getting a hand job from one of them) would think that either he and Zach weren't a couple OR they had an open relationship. Either way, they're fair game. I thought it laughable when Zach and Angelo were so upset with Jonathan when he made a pass at Zach. Whatever! That's like laying out a huge buffet in front of hundreds of starving guests and then getting pissed when one of them wants to eat. Fidiots.
Bottom line: If you are a fan of open relationships or you like swingers in your m/m romance, then this book is for you. Otherwise, I'd recommend you pass on this one.
***CONTAINS SPOILERS***
I dove into this book right after finishing A to Z. I really like Marie Sexton's writing style and the characters she creates. I absolutely LOVE Matt and Jared; and, I used to LOVE Zach and Angelo. After The Letter Z, I'm less than thrilled (lukewarm at best) about the latter couple. Why? Their open relationship was a total turn-off for me. I'm not judging but I'm all about monogamy in my romantic fiction. Period. I realize that Zach and Angelo got their rocks off but that ruined this book for me. At the very start of the book I watched in horror as my HEA from A to Z disintegrated right before my very eyes!
Along those same lines, I actually sided with Jonathan (gasp!) at the club in Vegas. As far as I was concerned, Zach and Angelo were to blame for that whole debacle. Anyone watching that scene unfold (i.e., seeing Angelo do the bump and grind on the dance floor with multiple partners and then getting a hand job from one of them) would think that either he and Zach weren't a couple OR they had an open relationship. Either way, they're fair game. I thought it laughable when Zach and Angelo were so upset with Jonathan when he made a pass at Zach. Whatever! That's like laying out a huge buffet in front of hundreds of starving guests and then getting pissed when one of them wants to eat. Fidiots.
Bottom line: If you are a fan of open relationships or you like swingers in your m/m romance, then this book is for you. Otherwise, I'd recommend you pass on this one.
January 18, 2013
Yet another solid 2.5 stars. I rounded up to 3 because the prose was better than it was in
A to Z
.
However, this book was like someone staged a trainwreck for the insurance money - a contrived mess.
First of all, I still don't understand why any of these people are together in the first place. Neither of these pairings makes any sense to me whatsoever. The author telling me I should buy it because their "compasses" point at each other just isn't enough.
As for the plot... hey, to each their own - if you're cool with your sig other fucking around as long as they still come back to you at the end of the day, then that's your biz. *shrug* I think that was supposed to be the point, here - that every couple has to find their own way to make it work.
...But don't worry, if you didn't figure that out yourself, you have Matt the All Knowing to point it out to you. Twice.
Hilariously, the one "coincidence" that I actually bought was them randomly running into Zach's ex in Vegas. I travel a lot for work, and I can't even begin to tell you the weird places around the world where I've run into people I know.
But everything else boggled my mind:
1) “It’s gone now, isn’t it?” he says in surprise.
“What’s gone?”
“All that tension. I haven’t wanted anyone so much in a long time. But now,” he shrugs, “it’s over.”
He’s right. Whatever I felt with him is already fadin’—like a match that flares bright at first, but goes out too soon. Now he just seems like any other guy. Like we could hang out forever and never fuck again.
...Just click your heels 3 times, and poof! Gone! Just like magic!
2) "It's my fault. If Jonathan hadn't kissed me -"
And
My instinct is to attack: to blame him for bringin’ us to Vegas or for makin’ that stupid dinner date with Jonathan. I could say it’s his fault for kissin’ his ex, or for not arguin’ when Jonathan called me an easy lay.
Um, what? This book could have been renamed The Blame Game. I was baffled as to why Zach kept saying, "It's my fault." He literally said it, like, 4 times in one conversation. He didn't ask Jonathan to kiss him; he just did what he does best - stood there.
3) “You’re not usually a ragin’ asshole?”
*snort*
But here's my actual question: why did Jonathan want to even try in the first place?! Zach was a cheating junkie who had no ambition. I'd have left his ass, too. Why in the WORLD would you even bother?
And finally, if I were Dear Abby...
Dear Jonathan, I think you left your long-lost twin back in Denver. You might want to call 1-800-Mat-tel1; ask for Douchebag Ken. Also, my personal copy of He's Just Not That Into You is in the mail as we speak, 'cause shit, son... you need waaaaaay more than I do.
Dear Angelo, You found a guy who doesn't care that you're a hussy, and who appreciates your mad movie critic skillz. Congratulations; you’ve got yourself a keeper.
Dear Zach, Who ARE you? Because after 2 full books, I still have no clue.
Dear Jared, Honey, just loosen up. *pats* I know, I know; it would be much easier to do so if you didn't have a boyfriend who is hell-bent on protecting your virtue. Recommendation: invest in a sturdy vibrator.
Dear Matt, SHUT UP. NO ONE ASKED YOU.
However, this book was like someone staged a trainwreck for the insurance money - a contrived mess.
First of all, I still don't understand why any of these people are together in the first place. Neither of these pairings makes any sense to me whatsoever. The author telling me I should buy it because their "compasses" point at each other just isn't enough.
As for the plot... hey, to each their own - if you're cool with your sig other fucking around as long as they still come back to you at the end of the day, then that's your biz. *shrug* I think that was supposed to be the point, here - that every couple has to find their own way to make it work.
...But don't worry, if you didn't figure that out yourself, you have Matt the All Knowing to point it out to you. Twice.
Hilariously, the one "coincidence" that I actually bought was them randomly running into Zach's ex in Vegas. I travel a lot for work, and I can't even begin to tell you the weird places around the world where I've run into people I know.
But everything else boggled my mind:
1) “It’s gone now, isn’t it?” he says in surprise.
“What’s gone?”
“All that tension. I haven’t wanted anyone so much in a long time. But now,” he shrugs, “it’s over.”
He’s right. Whatever I felt with him is already fadin’—like a match that flares bright at first, but goes out too soon. Now he just seems like any other guy. Like we could hang out forever and never fuck again.
...Just click your heels 3 times, and poof! Gone! Just like magic!
2) "It's my fault. If Jonathan hadn't kissed me -"
And
My instinct is to attack: to blame him for bringin’ us to Vegas or for makin’ that stupid dinner date with Jonathan. I could say it’s his fault for kissin’ his ex, or for not arguin’ when Jonathan called me an easy lay.
Um, what? This book could have been renamed The Blame Game. I was baffled as to why Zach kept saying, "It's my fault." He literally said it, like, 4 times in one conversation. He didn't ask Jonathan to kiss him; he just did what he does best - stood there.
3) “You’re not usually a ragin’ asshole?”
*snort*
But here's my actual question: why did Jonathan want to even try in the first place?! Zach was a cheating junkie who had no ambition. I'd have left his ass, too. Why in the WORLD would you even bother?
And finally, if I were Dear Abby...
Dear Jonathan, I think you left your long-lost twin back in Denver. You might want to call 1-800-Mat-tel1; ask for Douchebag Ken. Also, my personal copy of He's Just Not That Into You is in the mail as we speak, 'cause shit, son... you need waaaaaay more than I do.
Dear Angelo, You found a guy who doesn't care that you're a hussy, and who appreciates your mad movie critic skillz. Congratulations; you’ve got yourself a keeper.
Dear Zach, Who ARE you? Because after 2 full books, I still have no clue.
Dear Jared, Honey, just loosen up. *pats* I know, I know; it would be much easier to do so if you didn't have a boyfriend who is hell-bent on protecting your virtue. Recommendation: invest in a sturdy vibrator.
Dear Matt, SHUT UP. NO ONE ASKED YOU.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 8, 2015
Angelo and Zach have an arrangement. Jared takes offense. Matt doesn't have a clue. They all take off for a Vegas vacation. Jonathan, Zach's ex, shows up. Hell breaks loose.
I love Angelo. I don't relate to him...but I love him. Emotionally, he's so young, so fragile. Rarely do I want to reach through the pages of a book and kick a character's ass on another's behalf, but in this book...I really wanted to kick, slap, and even throttle somebody.
It's easy to get caught up on the events in the first chapter. The readers might do themselves a favor by letting Jared carry the grudge against Angelo on their behalf because Sexton reveals something about Zach in later chapters. While the other characters are watching/coping/reacting to the events, Zach is focused on something else.
I don't relate to what Angelo does. But I also don't relate to Zach. The Letter Z is about Angelo and Zach relating to each other and dealing with their own hang-ups. It's also about accepting that the private lives of consenting adults should be their own. I don't blame Jared for feeling the way he does...I just think that he temper control issues and occasionally short-sided.
The Letter Z doesn't give Zach and Angelo their happy ending, just a step closer. I hope Sexton takes us along for more of their journey.
I love Angelo. I don't relate to him...but I love him. Emotionally, he's so young, so fragile. Rarely do I want to reach through the pages of a book and kick a character's ass on another's behalf, but in this book...I really wanted to kick, slap, and even throttle somebody.
It's easy to get caught up on the events in the first chapter. The readers might do themselves a favor by letting Jared carry the grudge against Angelo on their behalf because Sexton reveals something about Zach in later chapters. While the other characters are watching/coping/reacting to the events, Zach is focused on something else.
I don't relate to what Angelo does. But I also don't relate to Zach. The Letter Z is about Angelo and Zach relating to each other and dealing with their own hang-ups. It's also about accepting that the private lives of consenting adults should be their own. I don't blame Jared for feeling the way he does...I just think that he temper control issues and occasionally short-sided.
The Letter Z doesn't give Zach and Angelo their happy ending, just a step closer. I hope Sexton takes us along for more of their journey.
June 21, 2014
Loved. Review to come...
“The whole thing is Jared’s fault.”
May 15, 2010
The Letter Z is the third book in the same grouping as Promises and A to Z (reviewed here and here). Marie Sexton is a clever magician in combining the couples from the two books into an interesting third novella in the series. You have to read the books in order to fully understand this offering as the two main relationships grow and develop in ways that won’t make sense otherwise. The issues tackled and how they’re handled may not please all fans and I personally was at times uncomfortable and dissatisfied, yet at the end Sexton turned me into a huge fan of Angelo and Zach, even more than my previous faves Matt and Jared. I didn’t think it was possible but it happened so I’d highly suggest fans seek this novella out and see for yourselves.
Zach, Angelo, Jared, and Matt all decide to head to Las Vegas for an impromptu mini-vacation. There has been some tension among both couples and best friends due to Angelo’s recent actions and this trip ends up bringing most of those issues to head. Against the glittery lights of the Vegas nightlife to the harsh reality of daylight, both couples examine their relationships and what works for them. Then they must face the equally tough challenge of accepting their friends’ choices.
The story blends two first person point of views, Angelo in present tense and Matt in past tense. Whereas in the previous book (A to Z) the shifting from third person/past tense to first person/present tense kept jarring me, the blending this time is incredibly smooth and an much easier transition. So right away the ease of reading and flowing, natural prose expected from Sexton delivers very well. In fact the story is so quick and engaging, I finished it before I expected. I just couldn’t stop reading. The narrative flows from one view point to the next with an emotional intensity that is gripping and keeps you wondering. The novella shows how two happy couples aren’t completely issue free and still have to work on their relationships.
The action is very character driven and focuses on the two relationships. The mini-vacation to Vegas is almost a distraction, although not a bad one. The main reason seems to be to introduce Zach’s ex Jonathan, who will star in his own book coming up. Jonathan brings up a lot of Angelo’s issues and insecurities, which force Zach and Angelo to really examine their relationship and what each gets out of it. Jonathan also surprisingly offers insight into Zach that ends up invaluable to Angelo. The ex here is well handled and skates that fine line of acting like a dick yet is not an unlikable character.
Matt and Jared offer some very nice scenes but feel like the supporting best friends they are. Their relationship has some personal, alone moments as readers can see how they’ve progressed. I had forgotten Matt was a “gay for you” character so his discomfort at open displays of affection comes across well and I liked that he didn’t immediately shed his straight thinking even after a few years. He and Jared have a different sexual relationship than you find in most romance novels so the time spent on reflection and explanation is refreshing and interesting. They reminded me of why they are such a great couple and solid characters. Unfortunately in my opinion, they are also completely upstaged by the intensity and flash of the relationship between Zach and Angelo.
Zach and Angelo’s issues and complications caught my attention much more vividly than the other couple and thus their growth made the book more interesting for me. Angelo starts the story by cheating on Zach with Jared’s ex-fling Cole. However Zach knows about it before it happened and even gives his blessing. Their reasons for the pseudo-open relationship are then explored through Angelo’s point of view and contrasted with Matt’s confusion for the rest of the book. It’s not an easy relationship and not one I’m entirely convinced will work. This is the part that sometimes had me uncomfortable and dissatisfied because I’m just not convinced their relationship will survive with the current boundaries. However, the couple has a lot more growth and change to come so I can envision a happy ending. By the end of the novella, the story has done a commendable job of explaining and telling the reader why their relationship works the way it does and showing how happy Zach and Angelo are, so whether or not you believe this is a highly personal reaction.
The Vegas setting is nicely descriptive and enjoyable, but the real stars are the characters themselves. You’ll want to read this story to not only revisit great couples but to follow their progression as no doubt the author is going to have more books in this series. As much as I love Matt and Jared, I have to give Sexton some kudos for swinging me over to Angelo and Zach’s side as a big fan. I’m looking forward to seeing where both of these couples go from here. Some of the issues handled may not appeal to all readers – infidelity is somewhat of a hot button in the romance genre – but give this a chance to see how the characters react and the reasons for their choices. Oh and for the completely fabulous Ziggy Stardust mention.
Zach, Angelo, Jared, and Matt all decide to head to Las Vegas for an impromptu mini-vacation. There has been some tension among both couples and best friends due to Angelo’s recent actions and this trip ends up bringing most of those issues to head. Against the glittery lights of the Vegas nightlife to the harsh reality of daylight, both couples examine their relationships and what works for them. Then they must face the equally tough challenge of accepting their friends’ choices.
The story blends two first person point of views, Angelo in present tense and Matt in past tense. Whereas in the previous book (A to Z) the shifting from third person/past tense to first person/present tense kept jarring me, the blending this time is incredibly smooth and an much easier transition. So right away the ease of reading and flowing, natural prose expected from Sexton delivers very well. In fact the story is so quick and engaging, I finished it before I expected. I just couldn’t stop reading. The narrative flows from one view point to the next with an emotional intensity that is gripping and keeps you wondering. The novella shows how two happy couples aren’t completely issue free and still have to work on their relationships.
The action is very character driven and focuses on the two relationships. The mini-vacation to Vegas is almost a distraction, although not a bad one. The main reason seems to be to introduce Zach’s ex Jonathan, who will star in his own book coming up. Jonathan brings up a lot of Angelo’s issues and insecurities, which force Zach and Angelo to really examine their relationship and what each gets out of it. Jonathan also surprisingly offers insight into Zach that ends up invaluable to Angelo. The ex here is well handled and skates that fine line of acting like a dick yet is not an unlikable character.
Matt and Jared offer some very nice scenes but feel like the supporting best friends they are. Their relationship has some personal, alone moments as readers can see how they’ve progressed. I had forgotten Matt was a “gay for you” character so his discomfort at open displays of affection comes across well and I liked that he didn’t immediately shed his straight thinking even after a few years. He and Jared have a different sexual relationship than you find in most romance novels so the time spent on reflection and explanation is refreshing and interesting. They reminded me of why they are such a great couple and solid characters. Unfortunately in my opinion, they are also completely upstaged by the intensity and flash of the relationship between Zach and Angelo.
Zach and Angelo’s issues and complications caught my attention much more vividly than the other couple and thus their growth made the book more interesting for me. Angelo starts the story by cheating on Zach with Jared’s ex-fling Cole. However Zach knows about it before it happened and even gives his blessing. Their reasons for the pseudo-open relationship are then explored through Angelo’s point of view and contrasted with Matt’s confusion for the rest of the book. It’s not an easy relationship and not one I’m entirely convinced will work. This is the part that sometimes had me uncomfortable and dissatisfied because I’m just not convinced their relationship will survive with the current boundaries. However, the couple has a lot more growth and change to come so I can envision a happy ending. By the end of the novella, the story has done a commendable job of explaining and telling the reader why their relationship works the way it does and showing how happy Zach and Angelo are, so whether or not you believe this is a highly personal reaction.
The Vegas setting is nicely descriptive and enjoyable, but the real stars are the characters themselves. You’ll want to read this story to not only revisit great couples but to follow their progression as no doubt the author is going to have more books in this series. As much as I love Matt and Jared, I have to give Sexton some kudos for swinging me over to Angelo and Zach’s side as a big fan. I’m looking forward to seeing where both of these couples go from here. Some of the issues handled may not appeal to all readers – infidelity is somewhat of a hot button in the romance genre – but give this a chance to see how the characters react and the reasons for their choices. Oh and for the completely fabulous Ziggy Stardust mention.
December 17, 2010
Not a tale of a new romance, but rather an examination of the challenges relationships can face, even from very well meaning friends. The Letter Z is a novella dealing primarily with the development of Zach and Angelo’s relationship. It kicks off with a scene that I found extremely hot, but that I know some readers might find objectionable if they believe that all relationships should be monogamous.
Zach and Angelo have their own arrangement which works well for them, but Jared finds out and can’t handle the idea, letting it colour his opinion of Angelo. When the four friends take a trip to Las Vegas, an encounter with Zach’s jealous ex in a gay bar leads to all hell breaking loose. The novel is narrated by Matt and Angelo, and I was really excited to get some of Matt’s POV for the first time in the series, as well as some more insight into his relationship with Jared.
I thought The Letter Z was a very brave story, especially as it took two established characters and developed their relationship boundaries in a way that some readers won’t like. It’s a plea for tolerance of those aspects of others’ relationships that we just “don’t get”, and a reminder to keep your opinions to yourself or risk damaging friendships. Be warned, I don’t think this works as a standalone. You really need to have read the first two as you are thrown straight into scenes that just won’t have the emotional impact if you don’t have a prior connection to the characters.
Zach and Angelo have their own arrangement which works well for them, but Jared finds out and can’t handle the idea, letting it colour his opinion of Angelo. When the four friends take a trip to Las Vegas, an encounter with Zach’s jealous ex in a gay bar leads to all hell breaking loose. The novel is narrated by Matt and Angelo, and I was really excited to get some of Matt’s POV for the first time in the series, as well as some more insight into his relationship with Jared.
I thought The Letter Z was a very brave story, especially as it took two established characters and developed their relationship boundaries in a way that some readers won’t like. It’s a plea for tolerance of those aspects of others’ relationships that we just “don’t get”, and a reminder to keep your opinions to yourself or risk damaging friendships. Be warned, I don’t think this works as a standalone. You really need to have read the first two as you are thrown straight into scenes that just won’t have the emotional impact if you don’t have a prior connection to the characters.
December 2, 2013
I am a tad conflicted on how to rate this one. The writing is outstanding as usual, the storyline is engaging, and I found the characters charming. Except for Angelo. This whole thing at the beginning with Cole. WTF was that?? If you are in a committed relationship, you don’t cheat. Even if you have permission. End of story.
The book got better as it progressed and I enjoyed their trip to Vegas. Bottom line is that it was NOT my favorite Coda book, but I liked it and will continue on with the series.
The book got better as it progressed and I enjoyed their trip to Vegas. Bottom line is that it was NOT my favorite Coda book, but I liked it and will continue on with the series.
April 5, 2011
This was a quickie..I think 100 pages or so. And I LOVED it. I think I really needed this book to truly understand Zach and Angelo. I'm so glad I read it immediately after A to Z. I am in love with these boys big time now. Loved Matt's and Jared's involvement too.
And Jonathan and Cole are next?? *I die* :)
And Jonathan and Cole are next?? *I die* :)
May 19, 2010
Hmm. I found this one really hard to rate. I just HATED the first part at the New Years Party, I hated reading that sex scene with Cole, and I found it quite hard to believe the way it just...happened...just like that when I hadn't got a hint of anything like that from either of them in the previous book. It seemed so sudden the way that Zach suggested what he did, and it made me feel really uncomfortable that Ang just went right ahead with it there and then virtually in front of Zach, even doing it on Matt and Jared's OWN bed even when he already had a good idea that Jared didn't particularly like it and Matt didn't even know about it. It just struck me as really selfish, and it put me right off Ang. So, it was always going to be a hard read for me after that, because I didn't particularly like Ang anymore! LOL!!
And I wasn't sure that I believed the character of Zach much by then either...But my problem is this, I don't know whether it's just my OWN dislikes that made it seem slightly unbelievable to me that Zach wouldn't mind all that you know? It was that I, personally, couldn't believe that ZACH didn't mind, even though he said he didn't. It was that the character had surprised me, more than that the character had changed.
So, later in the writing, when I found myself really identifying with Jared, this pulled me up short, the part where Matt talks to him and tells him
"The difference is I can accept that how he and Zach get off is none of my business. And you, for some reason which I absolutely cannot
comprehend, cannot.”
That certainly gave me something to think about. It seemed I couldn't accept it either for no reason other than, I, personally, just didn't like it.
So, all in all, although I still don't know how much I like Ang anymore, ( he seems very high maintenance to me ) and I still don't like reading about him doing anything with anyone else, the writing DID make me believe that it was Zach that he loved, and that ( for NOW at least ) this arrangement does work for them. Even if I don't understand it, or like it. At all.
Good Writing!
And I wasn't sure that I believed the character of Zach much by then either...But my problem is this, I don't know whether it's just my OWN dislikes that made it seem slightly unbelievable to me that Zach wouldn't mind all that you know? It was that I, personally, couldn't believe that ZACH didn't mind, even though he said he didn't. It was that the character had surprised me, more than that the character had changed.
So, later in the writing, when I found myself really identifying with Jared, this pulled me up short, the part where Matt talks to him and tells him
"The difference is I can accept that how he and Zach get off is none of my business. And you, for some reason which I absolutely cannot
comprehend, cannot.”
That certainly gave me something to think about. It seemed I couldn't accept it either for no reason other than, I, personally, just didn't like it.
So, all in all, although I still don't know how much I like Ang anymore, ( he seems very high maintenance to me ) and I still don't like reading about him doing anything with anyone else, the writing DID make me believe that it was Zach that he loved, and that ( for NOW at least ) this arrangement does work for them. Even if I don't understand it, or like it. At all.
Good Writing!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 2, 2014
This is a sequel to A to Z and a spin-off to Promises
We have Angelo and Zach, settling into their new life in Coda. And with the help of their friends Matt and Jared finding their way into their new business and life. They are also working out on their relationship, but when they make a decision Jared doesnt agree with Angelo only finds animosity from his best friend's partner towards him.
We get to see -briefly- Cole again, which is always refreshing!
And when the four decide to take a quick trip to Vegas, Angelo is convinced all's good again. But a chance encounter with Zach's ex Jonathan makes Angelo question everything that he and Zach have built together. And when Matt and Jared try to be there for them, it ends up being a disaster.
Matt and Jared fan girl moment...
I reached up and grabbed a handful of his hair, and he let me pull him down. I stopped just before his lips touched mine.
“I love you,” I said.
I loved to watch his face when I said those words too. He did the same thing every time: his eyes would close, and he would cock his head to the side and smile just a little. It was like he had a little box somewhere deep in his mind, where he kept all his favorite things. And each time I told him how I felt, he would close his eyes for just a second, while he tucked that moment away in that secret place.
I cant really talk much about Angelo and Zach's relationship without spoiling the whole thing, I just have to say the turn of events was amazing to watch and really opened me up to new circumstances, and i have to say I sure as hell enjoyed them!
We have Angelo and Zach, settling into their new life in Coda. And with the help of their friends Matt and Jared finding their way into their new business and life. They are also working out on their relationship, but when they make a decision Jared doesnt agree with Angelo only finds animosity from his best friend's partner towards him.
We get to see -briefly- Cole again, which is always refreshing!
And when the four decide to take a quick trip to Vegas, Angelo is convinced all's good again. But a chance encounter with Zach's ex Jonathan makes Angelo question everything that he and Zach have built together. And when Matt and Jared try to be there for them, it ends up being a disaster.
Matt and Jared fan girl moment...
I reached up and grabbed a handful of his hair, and he let me pull him down. I stopped just before his lips touched mine.
“I love you,” I said.
I loved to watch his face when I said those words too. He did the same thing every time: his eyes would close, and he would cock his head to the side and smile just a little. It was like he had a little box somewhere deep in his mind, where he kept all his favorite things. And each time I told him how I felt, he would close his eyes for just a second, while he tucked that moment away in that secret place.
I cant really talk much about Angelo and Zach's relationship without spoiling the whole thing, I just have to say the turn of events was amazing to watch and really opened me up to new circumstances, and i have to say I sure as hell enjoyed them!
May 14, 2010
3.5 stars.
Oh dear... where do I begin? For such a short spin-off/sequel, Marie Sexton is telling us a lots of things about the characters that we thought we knew in Promises and A-Z.
Jared and Matt (from Promises) are a very established couple, while Angelo and Zach (from A-Z) have just started to settle into their relationship. The fact that Angelo still sleeps in his own bed and only wanders into Zach's bed in ungodly hours is telling sign that they have issues to settle.
So the four of them are good friends, but one incident on New Years Eve put their friendship to test - even though the incident is primarily a private matter between Zach and Angelo. A few months later, the four of them decided to go to Vegas for holiday, all is going well - until they bump into Zach's ex...
In a nutshell, it's a story about what dealing with insecurities and what works best for different couples and... sometimes friends (even good ones) need to stop meddling.
I get what Marie Sexton is trying to do here. I do. And to some degree - I agree - that some couples might have arrangement that work for them, make them happy, even though other might disagree. However, I have a bit of difficulty "buying" it here. I feel that Angelo seems a bit off in this story, apart form his quick wit and charm, he seems like a different person to me. And same is Zach... his acceptance and even encouragement seem... not as convincing as the author would like us to believe.
Oh dear... where do I begin? For such a short spin-off/sequel, Marie Sexton is telling us a lots of things about the characters that we thought we knew in Promises and A-Z.
Jared and Matt (from Promises) are a very established couple, while Angelo and Zach (from A-Z) have just started to settle into their relationship. The fact that Angelo still sleeps in his own bed and only wanders into Zach's bed in ungodly hours is telling sign that they have issues to settle.
So the four of them are good friends, but one incident on New Years Eve put their friendship to test - even though the incident is primarily a private matter between Zach and Angelo. A few months later, the four of them decided to go to Vegas for holiday, all is going well - until they bump into Zach's ex...
In a nutshell, it's a story about what dealing with insecurities and what works best for different couples and... sometimes friends (even good ones) need to stop meddling.
I get what Marie Sexton is trying to do here. I do. And to some degree - I agree - that some couples might have arrangement that work for them, make them happy, even though other might disagree. However, I have a bit of difficulty "buying" it here. I feel that Angelo seems a bit off in this story, apart form his quick wit and charm, he seems like a different person to me. And same is Zach... his acceptance and even encouragement seem... not as convincing as the author would like us to believe.
September 29, 2015
Allow me a little rant before my review, sorry this just irks me.
It's not cheating if there is permission! IT'S NOT CHEATING IF THERE IS PERMISSION!! IT'S NOT CHEATING IF THERE IS PERMISSION!!! Even if you disagree with the being "open" or can't understand it....it's still not cheating!
I LOVED getting to see more of both Matt and Jared & Angelo and Zach. Jared worked my nerves a lot during this quickie. So judgmental and nosy, though I do suppose that since Angelo slept with Cole in Jared's bed, it was basically made his business (though if that was what he had been upset by I would've understood). I loved that Zach ultimately laid the law down with him. He was beyond ridiculous. I think it's probably a good thing I read this series out of order and stared with Book 4, I might not have liked Jonathan nearly as much. But I do wish I hadn't put as much time between books 2 and 3, would've been nicer to have read them closer together....my bad.
It's not cheating if there is permission! IT'S NOT CHEATING IF THERE IS PERMISSION!! IT'S NOT CHEATING IF THERE IS PERMISSION!!! Even if you disagree with the being "open" or can't understand it....it's still not cheating!
I LOVED getting to see more of both Matt and Jared & Angelo and Zach. Jared worked my nerves a lot during this quickie. So judgmental and nosy, though I do suppose that since Angelo slept with Cole in Jared's bed, it was basically made his business (though if that was what he had been upset by I would've understood). I loved that Zach ultimately laid the law down with him. He was beyond ridiculous. I think it's probably a good thing I read this series out of order and stared with Book 4, I might not have liked Jonathan nearly as much. But I do wish I hadn't put as much time between books 2 and 3, would've been nicer to have read them closer together....my bad.
July 18, 2014
REVIEW OF AUDIO AND EBOOK; 21 MAY 2013:
When I started this back in 2010, I abandoned it after realizing Ange fucks another guy at a New Year Eve's party. I gave it one star for being a dnf.
Now, having listened to the audiobook and skimmed/read the print more or less simultaneously, I am giving it 1.5 stars. The half star is because I now see where GR reviewer, Wendy Russo, got her perception of Zach as a voyeur and because I wasn't as disgusted by Ange's fucking another guy as I expected to be.
Nevertheless, while I now see why other reviewers "got" Zach and Ange's relationship and can accept that theirs is a different type from Matt's and Jared's, I thought this book was very poorly-executed. If Ms Sexton had given more depth and expanded on this particular aspect of Zach and Ange, I believe I could easily have given this story 5 stars.
Why? Because I'm intrigued by menages and multiple partnering within a committed relationship. I'm interested in the why and how and especially if the menage-or-more is a permanent one. In this case, unfortunately, there is very little character development and next-to-no development to this kinky aspect of the Zach-and-Ange pairing.
I never would have guessed Zach had a kinky bone so the voyeur bit that was so casually thrown in came across out-of-character for me. This is a hidden side to Zach that wasn't even touched on in their prequel, A to Z. To just drop in here without a thought to the reader's reaction was, IMO, a misstep by the author.
Backtracking to Ange's fling with Cole at the start of the book...
In the previous book I was led to see him as having finally found a "home" with Zach. Ange even describes his relationship with Zach as 'belongin'', where Matt's and Jared's was 'amazed' and 'reverent'. There was absolutely no hint, even, that Ange would even think of screwing another guy. Certainly not so soon into his relationship with Zach. Still, I wanted to give this book a chance so I told myself to understand and accept that Ange is not used to a monogamous and committed relationship and he needs time to adjust.
This did help me to get through Ange's one-nighter with Cole...but disgust was replaced by puzzlement.
If Zach's kinky side had been introduced back A to Z and I was given a different understanding of Ange, I wouldn't have abandoned The Letter Z when I tried reading it the first time and, with a bit more kink, Zach's and Ange's story would have really shone, for me.
As it is, I'm perplexed as to how this relationship just flipped over and became a different beast. I don't like this book. I don't like how Zach and Ange were portrayed and I'm disappointed that a potentially powerful element in their relationship was so cavalierly treated.
Again, alternate 1st Person POVs don't work well in audiobooks. I must remember not to buy these.
When I started this back in 2010, I abandoned it after realizing Ange fucks another guy at a New Year Eve's party. I gave it one star for being a dnf.
Now, having listened to the audiobook and skimmed/read the print more or less simultaneously, I am giving it 1.5 stars. The half star is because I now see where GR reviewer, Wendy Russo, got her perception of Zach as a voyeur and because I wasn't as disgusted by Ange's fucking another guy as I expected to be.
Nevertheless, while I now see why other reviewers "got" Zach and Ange's relationship and can accept that theirs is a different type from Matt's and Jared's, I thought this book was very poorly-executed. If Ms Sexton had given more depth and expanded on this particular aspect of Zach and Ange, I believe I could easily have given this story 5 stars.
Why? Because I'm intrigued by menages and multiple partnering within a committed relationship. I'm interested in the why and how and especially if the menage-or-more is a permanent one. In this case, unfortunately, there is very little character development and next-to-no development to this kinky aspect of the Zach-and-Ange pairing.
I never would have guessed Zach had a kinky bone so the voyeur bit that was so casually thrown in came across out-of-character for me. This is a hidden side to Zach that wasn't even touched on in their prequel, A to Z. To just drop in here without a thought to the reader's reaction was, IMO, a misstep by the author.
Backtracking to Ange's fling with Cole at the start of the book...
In the previous book I was led to see him as having finally found a "home" with Zach. Ange even describes his relationship with Zach as 'belongin'', where Matt's and Jared's was 'amazed' and 'reverent'. There was absolutely no hint, even, that Ange would even think of screwing another guy. Certainly not so soon into his relationship with Zach. Still, I wanted to give this book a chance so I told myself to understand and accept that Ange is not used to a monogamous and committed relationship and he needs time to adjust.
This did help me to get through Ange's one-nighter with Cole...but disgust was replaced by puzzlement.
If Zach's kinky side had been introduced back A to Z and I was given a different understanding of Ange, I wouldn't have abandoned The Letter Z when I tried reading it the first time and, with a bit more kink, Zach's and Ange's story would have really shone, for me.
As it is, I'm perplexed as to how this relationship just flipped over and became a different beast. I don't like this book. I don't like how Zach and Ange were portrayed and I'm disappointed that a potentially powerful element in their relationship was so cavalierly treated.
Again, alternate 1st Person POVs don't work well in audiobooks. I must remember not to buy these.
May 23, 2011
I'm not mad at Zach and Angelo for their arrangement, I think the author was able to make me believe it's something which works for them. The only problem I had - and that's the reason why I give 4 stars as a rating - is that I didn't see that coming. I should probably re-read the previous book A to Z and pick the hints of what was going to happen. It wasn't difficult to believe that Angelo agreed to Zach's suggestion, in a sense he's the one who seems to gain more from their arrangements. Then I played devil's advocate with myself and wondered: what would I think if my partner suggested with apparently no problem that I sleep with someone else? Maybe that he really doesn't care about me. About us. That what we have is not so precious. That he's not afraid I'll find someone better. That no one else will think I'm worth a thing. I don't know what to think, really.
The narrators of this short story are Angelo, with his colloquial and clipped voice, and Matt, who is the voice of balance and reason. In Promises I probably preferred Jared, but in this book Matt is just wonderful. He is a true friend, he doesn't try to judge or interfere, he is there for everyone who might need him.
Zach came out rather dull and subdued. He was very indecisive and overwhelmed from what was going on. It really seemed he didn't care. I can't say I understand him. Even if I didn't like his ex Jonathan at the beginning, I can almost justify him for why he left Zach. I want to see someone fight for their relationship, but Zach wasn't convincing enough.
Jared was a bit pushy, but I think he was mistreated a bit. I am sure he was in good faith even if he was quite offensive, but honestly, I think I would have the same reaction. It would take me a little while to put me in the frame of mind to accept a friend's open relationship without expressing a few doubts, but I'd try to be more subtle. He apologized with Angelo at the end, but I don't think he thinks higher of Angelo. I am sure he still sees a danger in Ang and Zach's relationship.
This is the perfect book to open discussions, but I really appreciated that the author let all the opinions show. The writing is wonderful and it confirms my love for this series.
The narrators of this short story are Angelo, with his colloquial and clipped voice, and Matt, who is the voice of balance and reason. In Promises I probably preferred Jared, but in this book Matt is just wonderful. He is a true friend, he doesn't try to judge or interfere, he is there for everyone who might need him.
Zach came out rather dull and subdued. He was very indecisive and overwhelmed from what was going on. It really seemed he didn't care. I can't say I understand him. Even if I didn't like his ex Jonathan at the beginning, I can almost justify him for why he left Zach. I want to see someone fight for their relationship, but Zach wasn't convincing enough.
Jared was a bit pushy, but I think he was mistreated a bit. I am sure he was in good faith even if he was quite offensive, but honestly, I think I would have the same reaction. It would take me a little while to put me in the frame of mind to accept a friend's open relationship without expressing a few doubts, but I'd try to be more subtle. He apologized with Angelo at the end, but I don't think he thinks higher of Angelo. I am sure he still sees a danger in Ang and Zach's relationship.
This is the perfect book to open discussions, but I really appreciated that the author let all the opinions show. The writing is wonderful and it confirms my love for this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 16, 2013
This book gutted me in a way. I love Marie Sexton's writing style and I think she does characterisation very well. I liked that Angelo and Zach were still finding their way.
Like other reviewers I was unhappy with the turn of Angelo and Zach's relationship. Having fun on the dance floor because your partner enjoys watching you is one thing but .
I like to read romance for a solid HEA i.e. a committed relationship between 2+ people. I'll even settle for a shaky HEA like in the previous books A to Z, but I'm personally not satisfied with the open element of Angelo and Zach's relationship.
Like other reviewers I was unhappy with the turn of Angelo and Zach's relationship. Having fun on the dance floor because your partner enjoys watching you is one thing but .
I like to read romance for a solid HEA i.e. a committed relationship between 2+ people. I'll even settle for a shaky HEA like in the previous books A to Z, but I'm personally not satisfied with the open element of Angelo and Zach's relationship.
November 20, 2015
Comencé a leerlo con mucha reticencia por las críticas que había leído, pero me podía la curiosidad por saber qué ocurría con Jared y Matt y Zack y Angelo. Sin embargo, me ha encantado... No es una obra maestra, y otra vez es una historia muy corta, pero constantemente suceden cosas, hay muchos sentimientos por medio y algunas situaciones que te hacen pensar en las relaciones entre pareja y lo diversas que pueden ser.
Después de haberlo leído, la sensación que tengo es que las críticas no son por el libro, la forma de escribir, son críticas a cómo una de las parejas desarrolla su relación, pero no soy yo juez para juzgar. Creo que la historia merece la pena y que las dos parejas son estupendas.
Después de haberlo leído, la sensación que tengo es que las críticas no son por el libro, la forma de escribir, son críticas a cómo una de las parejas desarrolla su relación, pero no soy yo juez para juzgar. Creo que la historia merece la pena y que las dos parejas son estupendas.
May 19, 2012
Short novella. The book really covers all 4 boys and their relationships even though the focus is squarely on Angelo and Zach. I didn't ever really take to Angelo, and that doesn't change with this book, but it IS a good additional to the development of the overall storyline. And it highlights that one person's idea of acceptable parameters in a relationship can vary widely with another's, even though you are close friends. And it is very hard not to judge.
June 27, 2010
Very good m/m romance about Angelo & Zach and Jared & Matt and how relationships are complicated and easily misunderstood by those outside the relationships... including, in this case, the reader. You definitely need to read both Promises and A to Z before reading this book.
September 20, 2018
Same as for my previous book review. A&Z are definitely my best couple in this series. Not my favourite character, though, this honour must go to Cole.
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