Title: Crash Pad
Series: N/A
Author: Whitley Gray
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Novella (77 pages)
Publisher: Loose Id (October 7th, 2014)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4 Hearts
Blurb: Physician Remy Marshall has two loves: Emergency Medicine and running. Work doesn’t leave much time to meet guys, and most seem more interested in his bank account than him. With a week off to train for a marathon, Remy plans to make the most of his precious vacation. The last thing he needs is a distraction.
Jamie Sutton is new to the area. He hopes to make a fresh start after leaving an abusive relationship with an orthopedic surgeon. He’s got a new job as a massage therapist and wants to meet some nice guys. Against his better judgment, Jamie decides the best way to meet a cute roller blader he’s seen in the park is on wheels.
With attention on his watch and not where he’s going, Remy crashes into Jamie and fractures the first-time roller blader’s ankle. Jamie has no one to help him after the injury; Remy proposes Jamie stay with him. Jamie is reluctant, but it’s a better option than staying with the odd guy in the neighboring motel room. As the two get acquainted, Jamie’s past comes calling. Remy discovers the prize he really wants isn’t a medal in a marathon, but the man right in front of him.
ISBN: 978-1-62300-547-4
Product Link: http://www.loose-id.com/crash-pads.html
Reviewer: KathyMac
Review: Are you looking for a short, feel-good, story that will put a smile on your face? I believe Crash Pad, by Whitley Gray, is just the book to do that. This is not my first read by this author so I was sure I would like this one, as well. And…I did. This novella packs a lot of punch.
If two guys ever needed each other, it’s these two. Jamie Sutton is down on his luck in several categories. He left an abusive ex who continued to cross the line. In doing so, he had to leave behind his home and his job. Hanging out at the park, he sees someone that grabs his attention. A roller-blade hottie. Thinking this would put him on an even playing field and possibly an introduction, Jamie puts on rollerblades to get his attention. At 28, he should know better especially since he can hardly stand up on them, but ya gotta do what ya gotta do.
Instead of running into the hottie on rollerblades, Jamie is plowed over, literally, by Remy Marshall. Remy runs every day practicing for an upcoming marathon so coming around the curve and WHAM…he knocks Jamie over.
Remy is also an ER doctor and quickly assess
es Jamie’s injuries. Feeling guilty and completely responsible, he takes Jamie to the hospital to treat his fractured ankle and then onto his own home for recovery. Remy won’t take NO for an answer to provide Jamie help when he realizes he has no one to call.
These two instantly have an attraction to each other. The only problem is Remy keeps doing things, albeit innocently, that sets Jamie off. Of course, Remy doesn’t have any idea about Jamie and his past relationship. Jamie is very skittish to trust anyone. He still has nightmares from the abusive dominating ex who would never stop no matter how much pleading Jamie done.
With so many missing facts, things are quickly headed for doom. Remy really wants to take a chance but is confused by Jamie’s behavior. Jamie likes Remy but what if he changes as soon as they start to get closer? Until they both start opening up neither one will have what they want. Who will take that first step? Is it even worth it considering they have known each other a very short time?
This is an enjoyable story with lots of humor that will have you laughing out loud at the banter between them. Jamie is a riot and quick witted and Remy usually matches him with the comebacks. There is a brief moment where angst could easily set in but the fires are put out quickly.
The author, thank goodness, doesn’t have them jumping in bed at first sight. I like sex scenes as much as anyone, however, in this short read it doesn’t feel appropriate. They do kiss and have some heated moments making each other feel good. They’re single and attracted to each other, why not?
Ms. Gray writes a very descriptive narrative that easily sets you in the scene and lends perfectly for readers, like me, who like a visual. The plot was very gratifying and closes with a happy for now, and depending on your imagination, maybe happy ever after. Definitely a recommended read if you’re short on time, like to laugh, prefer a well-rounded plot, and HFN/HEA.
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *