Laura, Aiswrya & Jans - Our Secret Wedding starting Sept 7, 2020

[Aiswrya]

Our Secret Wedding by H.J. Perry

It's free on amazon :)

[Laura]

Look forward to this one, been on my tbr for a little while 😊

[Aiswrya]

Me too!

So, it has 49 chapters + epilogue. The book is not very long, so I think chapter length wouldn’t be too long either. Can we do 10 chapters a day?

[Laura]

I was thinking the same, so yeah 10 a day works for me xx

[J]

10 a day works for me too. :)

[Laura]

Finished the first 10 chapters, its light fast paced and easy reading so far. I like the characters, got soft feels and chemistry - humor as well which is always a bonus 😊

Ch1 to end of ch 10
(view spoiler)[The first couple chapters took bit time to get into, but once Connor decides what he wants his persistant and made me smile as he stumbles over himself trying to get Lees attention. The breakfast date was super sweet.

His adoration/attraction of Lee is great, im glad learn a little about their friendship and that its not a sudden thing. As much as a realisation. Bi-sexual representation, which i am always happy to see. As some erase Bi as an option in gay for you, so im glad thats not the case here.

I am glad Lee doesn't just jump into with Connor though, as uncertainty there and his looking for more then a fling. Love their flirting though and enjoy the chemistry between them so far.

Look forward to the bbq and more characters, progression, as this seems fairly fastpaced since not long book.
(hide spoiler)]

[Aiswrya]

I agree, it's fast paced and light!

Chapters 1 through 10
(view spoiler)[
My first impression is sort of mixed. I want to like the characters but Lee seems like a weird dude. I don't like that Connor (whom I really like) thought Lee was his "best-friend-forever" whereas Lee put Connor in his "work-place" acquaintances. As Laura said, I thought Connor's foot in the mouth moment when he first approached Lee about going on a date with him was totally adorable and funny. Favorite scene:
Connor: "I'm like a dog with a bone"
Lee: "Yeah, I noticed that earlier". LOL (as long as you are also reading too much into this statement 😉)!

The story-telling lacks cohesiveness. It's literally all over the place, with too much happening too fast. That goes back to Laura's comment about the length of the book, but I've read several short novels that were much better structured. Another minus here is that I have big problems with generalizations and this book has plenty of those. Eg- "Big macho construction men" can't be gay. Come on!

I'm hoping the story will improve over the next few chapters
(hide spoiler)]

[Laura]

I completely agree on everything!

(view spoiler)[The generalisations definitely annoyed me so i tried to kind of ignore them, along with the fact that just because Connor hasn't been with a man automatically assuming his just looking for fling/experiment.

I did find strange too that Connor sees Lee as like a long time best friend, while Lee only saw him as work aquintence/friend. But i guess justifies as he has hidden a large part of his life all these years from Connor so couldn't have the same connection. While Connor didn't have awareness of that side.

Oh and definitely jumpy, shorter books always hit or miss with that. I have read many that work it amazingly well for length and others not so much, but i don't mind it here as quick flow to it. Fitting the pacing for me at moment.

Im hoping improvement too as Lee becomes more comfortable with Connor, developing relationship. Connor is definitly my fave of the two so far 😂
(hide spoiler)]

[Aiswrya]

Laura wrote: "I completely agree on everything! ..."

Oooh speaking of short, well-written reads, have you read Alaska by Cate Ashwood? I read that during the Bachelor challenge and it was awesome. The characters were great and the chemistry was off the charts!

[Laura]

Aiswrya wrote: "Laura wrote: "I completely agree on everything! ..."

Oooh speaking of short, well-written reads, have you read Alaska by Cate Ashwood? I read that during the Bache..."

Oh looks good! I enjoyed the last book i read from this author, definitely does amazing with shorter books. I read The Mistletoe Effect xx

Thanks for rec, added to my tbr.. which seems to have exploded in the last month. Keeps getting closer to 400, hope to keep less. But i keep starting series and more great book recs, also love a pretty cover so im weak 😂

[J]

The only other m/m I have read is Wolfsong by T.J.Klune. This one has a contrasting 180 degree difference with the characters from T J Klune's world. And I am extremely in love with it.
(view spoiler)[
Initially, I felt very sorry for Lee. See, India isn't a country of coming out. I was friends with only one girl, who belonged to LGBTQ. And her story was so, so sad. Many don't come out for the fear and so, I am not aware of many stories.
In Wolfsong, the characters have a good support system around. So, they go through different experiences of life.
When I read through the initial few chapters of Lee's, my heart ached for him. We know what Connor feels, but Lee doesn't. All of a sudden, his long time friend and boss, knocking the door and asking questions how it would feel like kissing a guy? Oh, I was quite pissed at Conner's naivety.
Not to mention how Connor removed his shirt and made a move. Such stupidity. Many important aspects of life around Lee, had been neatly described.
But both slowly started growing on me.
Both are truly good people and I am rooting for them to understand each other.

As Laura mentioned, I was glad that Lee took it slow. I can understand Lee why he had to safeguard his heart rather to get it broken.
"This just feels like some weird twilight world. I've slipped into some other dimension in which a handsome, sexy, hunk from work is begging me to fuck him. And I have to admit I quite like this alternative reality. I'm just a bit worried about when I wake up, or even worse, when you wake up and realize you're not gay at all. Or bi or into guys. And I don't want that to happen after we've done the fandango."

As Aish pointed out, I too felt little jumpy reading Connor proclaiming Lee to be his best buddy while Lee doesn't. Lee keeps mentioning about an incident in France. May be we will know something.
I think that is where their differences lie.

And Aish, even I read too much of this line, "I'm like a dog with a bone" :)

Overall, I am in love with their story.
(hide spoiler)]

[J]

Laura wrote: "I completely agree on everything!

The generalisations definitely annoyed me so i tried to kind of ignore them, along with the fact that just because Connor hasn't been with a man automatically as..."

I don't know why, this generalization was important to show it indeed is difficult for a gay man to come out and the society is tough on them.

Lee even questions at one point, how many gay men have you hired in work and Connor goes blank. He literally doesn't realizes it and thinks gay men would rather prefer more artistic works.

These moments scored point for Lee in my heart. The truth is the generalization had hurt me, but it pointed out the reality too.

[Laura]

Oh awesome, im glad to introduce to more mm and yeah this is complete opposite end to tj klunes stuff i think.

I've read primarily m/m or fanfiction the last few years, so this story fairly light hearted feel good simple for me with the variety ive read. But definitely great for new to mm, as pure feel good vibes.

Your story was interesting and love hearing how is in different locations, people as for me i never really worried about coming out much since my family have always been rather relaxed. Although i think they forget since i havent really done romance or been in relationship, i think would shock my dad if ever actually brought a woman home.

Its tragic to me how much the world is still so cruel in places sadly.

Love the quote you mentioned!

[J]

Laura wrote: "Oh awesome, im glad to introduce to more mm and yeah this is complete opposite end to tj klunes stuff i think.

I've read primarily m/m or fanfiction the last few years, so this story fairly light ..."

Yeah, Laura.

I am enjoying all that feel-good vibes. I think I am not the best judge of the book. But my experience reading it is very splendid.

[Laura]

Jans wrote: "Laura wrote: "I completely agree on everything!

The generalisations definitely annoyed me so i tried to kind of ignore them, along with the fact that just because Connor hasn't been with a man au..."

Oh i understand in a way, but it feels stereotypical to me and thats a nope for me. As yes their are common experiances, but its not a constant. Also do people announce their sexuality in job applications? I just feel he could have hired, how do we know as not like you instant know someones gay when meet them... Also by looks of the series, majority of these construction crew turn out to be gay or bi 😂

I do understand Lees fears though and concerns as impact his work too, just didn't like how it was presented. Also im probably too idealistic and think the world/society more accepting these days, although as you say sadly thats not the truth everywhere and still much to imorove.

[Laura]

Jans wrote: "Laura wrote: "Oh awesome, im glad to introduce to more mm and yeah this is complete opposite end to tj klunes stuff i think.

I've read primarily m/m or fanfiction the last few years, so this story..."

Im glad your enjoying it!

Oh everyones judge of book is valid, different experiances and views are interesting. Thats what makes fun! A great one to get into the genre more as all the feel good vibes 😊

[J]

Laura wrote: "Jans wrote: "Laura wrote: "I completely agree on everything!

The generalisations definitely annoyed me so i tried to kind of ignore them, along with the fact that just because Connor hasn't been ..."

I think this is again a personal experience stuff.

What I felt was, he didn't feel safe in his environment to come out and was very insecure about how he would be judged.

Part of his life revolves around his work. So, when his colleagues ramble about wife, kids, and stuff, he can't openly admit about his personal life. He is always distant from them.

It is important that as the boss of a company, Connor/his father, should have taken initiative to break that norm. Because I would expect my manager to know that my husband is sick at home, or what struggles I face, or how I may not be able to come to work with me being pregnant. So, many personal connections will automatically associate to work.

Now, Lee can't do that. He can't tell anything true about his personal life.

I think that's why he asked if there were any gays hired for work. It is quite hard.

[Aiswrya]

Jans wrote: "The only other m/m I have read is Wolfsong by T.J.Klune. This one has a contrasting 180 degree difference with the characters from T J Klune's world. And I am extremely in love with it.

Initially..."

Oh, I'm so glad you like this book!

[Aiswrya]

Jans wrote: I don't know why, this generalization was important to show it indeed is difficult for a gay man to come out and the society is tough on them.

Lee even questions at one point, how many gay men have you hired in work and Connor goes blank. He literally doesn't realizes it and thinks gay men would rather prefer more artistic works...."

That's definitely one way to look at it. The way I saw it, Connor not knowing how many gay men are in his company scores him brownie points because honestly, one's sexuality should have nothing to do with their job. I'm not sure if the author implied Connor thought gay men would prefer more artistic careers and I just missed it, but I didn't get this impression. To me, it sounded as if Connor definitely doesn't care because when Lee asked him if his job was on jeopardy, Connor was genuinely confused when he said "Why would it?"

[Aiswrya]

Laura wrote: "Jans wrote: "Laura wrote: "Oh awesome, im glad to introduce to more mm and yeah this is complete opposite end to tj klunes stuff i think.

I've read primarily m/m or fanfiction the last few years, ..."

Agreed! I haven't had this much fun on buddy reads before :) You guys are awesome!

[Aiswrya]

Jans wrote: "Laura wrote: "Jans wrote: "Laura wrote: "I completely agree on everything!

The generalisations definitely annoyed me so i tried to kind of ignore them, along with the fact that just because Conno..."

Aww, are you pregnant? Congratulations!

[Laura]

Thats very true and competely understandable, i do feel thats why he probably doesnt feel their close friendship as much since his been hiding large part of his life.

Although i disagree with the part about boss asking about personal life, thats kind of a nope to me unless essential for them to know or he feels comfortable to share.

Work don't need to know all personal life, i wouldn't expect them to know everything about. Id only tell essential, but yeah i don't feel sexuality boss needs to know that. If asked fair enough, but its not something really just announce. Thats just me though, i seperate work and personal easily 😂

But yeah i can feel Lees fear, uncertainty in work as you say surrounded by men talking about things he has no connection too. Unable to discuss his own life, definitely makes feel disconnected.

I liked the question i just don't feel like its something instantly know, as like Lee people don't always announce their sexuality so not really any true answer to the question. Connor doesn't know if he has or not, since he doesn't ask people. But like you say maybe he should be more forward in that.

[J]

Aiswrya wrote: "Jans wrote: I don't know why, this generalization was important to show it indeed is difficult for a gay man to come out and the society is tough on them.

Lee even questions at one point, how many..."

Aiswrya wrote: "Jans wrote: I don't know why, this generalization was important to show it indeed is difficult for a gay man to come out and the society is tough on them.

Lee even questions at one point, how many..."

I think I mixed two different instances.

I agree, Aish, when Lee worries if it would impact his job, Connor gets quite puzzled and it makes us feel Connor doesn't care.

But I think, it is implied in Connor's first chapter through inner monologue that in construction works, it is all straight men as machoism is much preferred.

"Who would think it? Construction workers were not gay, and Connor thought that was a fact. He would have put money on it, up until that very night. Obviously loads of guys were gay, and that was okay. On the TV, in films, in sitcoms, and in pop groups. Not just celebrities. Ordinary local men were visible at night in the bars and restaurants too. Just not among their crowd of blokes" ~Connor
"Scaffolders were a macho bunch of straight guys and, as he walked home, Connor felt pretty foolish. He'd assumed gay men chose other careers. Teachers, nurses, and whatever it was people did when they worked in offices wearing smart suits"

Which is why I felt, the generalization had a point in those characters.

One's sexuality should never be a criterion in the workplace. I agree. Neither the employer should wonder about his employee's sexuality, nor that the employee should disclose it. That's quite creepy.

My point is, care should be taken from the management to involve everyone.

[J]

Aiswrya wrote: "Jans wrote: "Laura wrote: "Jans wrote: "Laura wrote: "I completely agree on everything!

The generalisations definitely annoyed me so i tried to kind of ignore them, along with the fact that just ..."

Oh, no. But there were many instances when I was in need of leave and I had to explain to my manager the reason.

One of my colleagues had to try IVF way, and she often needs to visit hospitals in the evening, so she had been open about it to all of us. We would lower her burden a little, with all that hormones, you know. Which is why I felt it would become extremely uncomfortable for people who had to aggressively hide their identity.

[Laura]

Oh yeah i remember that quote, it made me rather uncomfortable too. But I guess it felt like he was coming to realisation there, that he was wrong for assuming those things and makes him feel stupid for not even considering it. I think Connor is just rather naive and foolish overall, but makes me smile.

Like his move on Lee, it was wrong but he didn't even think and then tried to correct himself. Also his like comments on guys and presuming other men had the same thoughts.

But yeah agreed Care should be taken to involve everyone, i feel like Lee is very good at blending in through by the sounds of it as mentioned he would say girls for lots of his past relstions etc when actually men. So i think noone probably noticed, as sad as seems... His good at hiding, tragic really.

[J]

Laura wrote: "Oh yeah i remeber that quote, it made me rather uncomfortable too. But I guess it felt like he was coming to realisation there, that he was wrong for assuming those things and makes him feel stupid..."

I know, right. Connor is very naive and I like him so much.

I like the layers the author has created for both the characters. Both lived a very different life. And I think, I missed pointing out, how Connor was extremely open in exploring his sexuality with Lee as his mate. Although, he made some stupid, naive and foolish moves, it just proves, he trusts him and already has great confidence in him.

[Laura]

Agreed!

I forgot to mention the france incident/memory which you said about, i too am very curious to what that shall be about as think your right about being rather important. The layers and differences betweem them are great as you say. I look forward to seeing their relationship develop, expecting lots of sweet moments 😊

[Aiswrya]

Ahh, yeah that comment from Connor in chapter 1 wasn’t cool.

[J]

Have you guys read any medieval fantasy fiction?

I have done ASOIAF A Game of Thrones, which is by far my favorite of all times.
I am planning to do The Wheel of Time Series The Eye of the World.

In the romance section, I have been trying to give a revisit on The Winter King

Have you read any of the above?

[Aiswrya]

Not sure what the first one is. I’ve read game of thrones but abandoned series when that prince dude dies and the mother goes half blind. That was book 4 I think?

[J]

Aiswrya wrote: "Not sure what the first one is. I’ve read game of thrones but abandoned series when that prince dude dies and the mother goes half blind. That was book 4 I think?"

Do you mean Prince Oberyn and Lady Stoneheart? I have read the series some five times, I suppose.

BTW, The Winter King is a romance genre. And it is good. I like the MCs.

Let me know if you are interested. I want to read it again. Quite long book but I have read it within two days, some time back. The writing is also good.

[Aiswrya]

I honestly couldn’t tell you, it’s been about 9 years since I read it ☹️

The winter knight sounds interesting, but that trope isn’t something I enjoy reading. Niki has it on her TBR though, maybe check with her?

[J]

Aiswrya wrote: "I honestly couldn’t tell you, it’s been about 9 years since I read it ☹️

The winter knight sounds interesting, but that trope isn’t something I enjoy reading. Niki has it on her TBR though, maybe..."
No problem. I have weird habit of rereading favorites. :)

Yeah. I saw it just now. Will get in contact with her.

Laura, how about you?

[Laura]

I think i have read some medieval in the past, but none come to mind. I ussually go more ancient rome, gladiators and vikings.

Game of thrones never interested me and too much tragedy, im all for a happy ending. So not for me sorry.

I had a look at the winter king, but not really jumping out at me for now. Sorry, i do have bad habit since rarely go for mf these days in general xx

[J]

Laura wrote: "I think i have read some medieval in the past, but none come to mind. I ussually go more ancient rome, gladiators and vikings.

Game of thrones never interested me and too much tragedy, im all for ..."

Oh, no problem, Laura. I guess I will go for a repeat. Do let me know the medieval books you have mentioned. I am quite invested in the history. :)

[Laura]

Sweet, i shall have a look through shelfs when home and see what can recommend. I don't know if any be close to the history, as while i enjoy a lot of the ancient rome and greek knowledge. Im no scholar on most history, while i do love it 😂

[Laura]

Goign to start the next 20 chapters, but before that thought would let know the books... Going from my read shelf here are a few medieval romance ive enjoyed 😊

Laiden's Daughter
Grave Mercy
Wildwing
The Greatest Lover in All England

[Aiswrya]

Oh, grave mercy was a good one!

[Laura]

Yeah was a 5 star read for me, although been years i still need to catch up on the series.. Ive read the 2nd book - still need to to try the 3rd and then the duology looks great too 💕

[Aiswrya]

I’ve not read too many historical romances. The only medieval one I can think of is a kingdom of dreams. But I don’t know if it has any historical accuracy. The romance is beautiful though. Judith McNaught is an amazing story teller.

[Laura]

Just read the next 10 chapters 😊

Ch 11 to end of ch 20
(view spoiler)[The pacing is very jumpy i found the first 5 so slow and not much happening, but then picked up again and progress here that i loved!

I feel got lot more of Lees perspective here, which gave lot more insight as to his fears and views on the situation. Some misunderstandings as he presumed Connor just experimenting and not sure what to believe. Also his thoughts on their friendship too which was great to learn more about, makes sense.

These two compliment each other so well for all their differences, the date with the romantic dinner and flowers was so sweet. Along with the movie nights, im glad led to them finally having proper conversation about their feelings and lifes. Clear worry about what others may think, impact on their work.

I enjoyed the development here, getting to learn more about their work and thoughts. Progress in relationship and lots of soft feels, with plenty of steamy scenes 💕

Look forward to reading more, although the writing is rather simple/basic - i do adore the intimacy exploration here, as they start to fall in love and learn more about each other. (hide spoiler)]

[Laura]

Oh and thought would mention some my mm challenge books for month in case any interest in buddy reading for any of them.



For mf here are a few i want to try out soon too

[J]

ch: 11 to 20:

(view spoiler)[
I agree with you, Laura. Most of the time, I felt it was very slow.

My major complaint is, Lee and Connor are the only characters in the story. Only at the party, we see a few friends of Lee, but I don't even remember their names. It made the whole read pretty dragging.

Their relationship is definitely healthy, slow, and at the right pace. No unnecessary drama. From both the perspective, it felt right. I am a little more leaning on Connor for being so sweet, making sure to prepare a romantic dinner, becoming emotional after their first sexual encounter.

I think they are open and discussing, but maybe I want something extra spiced up. Especially I want to see them have a life. There is no single character that we clearly know about other than Lee and Connor.

Also, writing is a little stretchy.
(hide spoiler)]

[J]

Laura wrote: "Goign to start the next 20 chapters, but before that thought would let know the books... Going from my read shelf here are a few medieval romance ive enjoyed 😊

Laiden's Daughter
[b..."

Thanks a lot.
I think someone once said about Grave Mercy. I will begin with that. :)

[Aiswrya]

I literally just got off work ☹️ I didn’t get any reading done today. I’ll try to catch up tomorrow

[Laura]

No problem, i hop you will enjoy it 😊

(view spoiler)[ Yeah i agree!

I was hoping the big would be a bigger event, get to know some other characters but it was short and as you say i can barely remember the names. So definitely felt the drag at the start, im glad not just me as i originally thought just because i was tired when reading that 😂

I too am liking the development and emotions, i think this first half is very much the progress of their relationship and then shall be that secret wedding.. Where i think shall get to meet more characterafter that and some drama, at least im hoping shall get to see more of their lifes too outside of their homes xx

And yeah i agree the writing is rather stretchy (hide spoiler)]

[Laura]

Oh that sucks Aiswyra, don't worry i almost thought i wouldn't get mine read since was so tired. Hopefully you can catch up today 😊

[Aiswrya]

Laura wrote: "Oh and thought would mention some my mm challenge books for month in case any interest in buddy reading for any of them.

. But I highly doubt I can do this and manage amazing race. So, if you don't get to it until after the challenge, I'd like to join you :)

[Laura]

Aiswrya wrote: "[bookcover..."

Oh sweet, im happy just to share ideas. Sadly these my picks for mm sh challenge september so need to read by end of month.

But im sure we will find others to buddy read after race 😊

[Laura]

Ch 21 to end of ch 30
(view spoiler)[The pacing is so jumpy which i find rather annoying at times, as goes from one moment to another without much in between. Also some chapters very short and fast, while others long and slow. Just makes feel draggy at points.

However i do like to see more progress in their relationship, more discussions such as the game and their spending lots of time togethr. Although sadly short time skip so we miss a lot of that development and jump straight into some steamy scenes, but still entertaining.

Glad to see more characters too! Such as Tom who is friend of Lee and now working for connor. Hearing his story gave me so many emotions, was bittersweet to learn about him and his offering support was sweet.

Also their seperate friends getting in contsct and wanting to meet up was interesting contrast, with Connors ususual group pub and woman. While Lees with his friends who are couple, meeting at home. The fear aspect and the open parts, there both still uncertain in different ways.

Im glad they had chance to speak with people other then each other though, as allowed outside view. Since Lee still doesn't think Connor in it for the long run and Connors desperate to prove how much he wants to be with Lee.

Hopefully see more progress in the next chapters, considering over half way now and looks like both getting more comfortable in their feelings despite the still lingering fear/coming out.
(hide spoiler)]