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A Matter of Time #7
Parting Shot
A Matter of Time Story
(Duncan Stiel from Acrobat by the same author)
Life has never been easy for Duncan Stiel. His childhood was the stuff of nightmares, and his day job as an undercover police officer forces him to hide his true self and occasionally lands him in the hospital. So when he finally meets the perfect man, it comes as no surprise that everything falls apart around him. What Duncan doesn’t expect is that the hardest hurdle to get over before he can make a life with Aaron Sutter is the one inside himself.
Everyone thinks Aaron has it all—looks, money, fame, and success beyond measure. Everyone, that is, except Aaron. At the end of the day, the cameras stop flashing, friends go back to their own lives, company business is handled, and Aaron is always alone. The moment he meets Duncan Stiel, Aaron knows he’ll do anything to hold onto the larger-than-life detective. But when he realizes money won’t buy him the ultimate happiness, Aaron needs to find the strength to give Duncan something much more important—his heart.
(Duncan Stiel from Acrobat by the same author)
Life has never been easy for Duncan Stiel. His childhood was the stuff of nightmares, and his day job as an undercover police officer forces him to hide his true self and occasionally lands him in the hospital. So when he finally meets the perfect man, it comes as no surprise that everything falls apart around him. What Duncan doesn’t expect is that the hardest hurdle to get over before he can make a life with Aaron Sutter is the one inside himself.
Everyone thinks Aaron has it all—looks, money, fame, and success beyond measure. Everyone, that is, except Aaron. At the end of the day, the cameras stop flashing, friends go back to their own lives, company business is handled, and Aaron is always alone. The moment he meets Duncan Stiel, Aaron knows he’ll do anything to hold onto the larger-than-life detective. But when he realizes money won’t buy him the ultimate happiness, Aaron needs to find the strength to give Duncan something much more important—his heart.
264 pages, Paperback
First published July 18, 2013
About the author
Mary Calmes
144 books4,873 followersMary Calmes believes in romance, happily ever afters, and the faith it takes for her characters to get there. She bleeds coffee, thinks chocolate should be its own food group, and currently lives in Kentucky with a six-pound furry ninja that protects her from baby birds, spiders and the neighbor’s dogs. To stay up to date on her ponderings and pandemonium (as well as the adventures of the ninja) follow her on Twitter @MaryCalmes, connect with her on Facebook, and subscribe to her Mary’s Mob newsletter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 391 reviews
July 16, 2013
I don’t know that anyone would describe Mary Calmes books as plot-driven. I mean, in all honesty, you read MC for the formula. And when the formula is there, her fans enjoy her book. And when she strays, well, the results can be disastrous.
Parting Shot is book 7 of the Matter of Time series…the formula-maker series…the original Jory & Sam. But, this story is actually a spin-off and the couple consists of Aaron Sutter, Jory’s former billionaire suiter, and Duncan Stiles, who, quite frankly, I don’t really remember from previous books…but, another closeted cop. I, in all honesty, did NOT like Aaron in the past. I thought he was a jerk and basically wanted him to get out of the way of our power couple. So, I was hesitant to read this.
And though being part of the MoT series, this book does NOT stick to the exact formula. *gasp*! This can NOT possibly go well.
…but…
I LOVED IT!
Ok, ok…I didn’t love the PLOT…it was ALL over the place and the story was a stretch, even by MC standards. What I DID love was this COUPLE! And brace yourselves: this is NOT Jory&Sam v2.0. Aaron and Duncan are 2 alphas (well, kinda…in their own ways), 2 tops (usually…first time for everything…switch!), 2 strong-willed, stubborn men (both closeted at the beginning of their relationship as well)…who turn to putty and mush in the other’s company. It’s kind of the SWEETEST thing ever!!!!
They are needy and insecure and codependent and whiney with each other…and I ate that sh*t up! It’s insta-obsession/love, it’s totally over-the-top, and it’s HOT and ADORBS and I want more of them!!!!!
There is a Sam Kage sighting early on in the book (happpppyyyy!) and many references to Jory throughout (duh…Jory is the topic of everyone’s conversations and the center of everyone’s universes, donthaknow!) And it was just good to get some more of our power couple. (There is also a heart-settling scene for me where Sam explains his past “relationship” with Doctor Kevin Dwyer to Duncan. I needed this.)
There are “mine”-declarations and eyebrow waggles (though I don’t recall a peacoat ) so you KNOW it’s MC. And there is definitely bend-you-in-half sex throughout…good stuff.
This book could possibly work as a stand-alone…but quite frankly, it will be the fans of MC and more specifically, the fans of the MoT series that will enjoy this the most. I don’t know I can recommend it to anyone because I’m not sure why I liked it so much myself! I just know…well, I did. And I’m always happy to get a little Calmes’ fix every now and again…Queen-o-Fluff very rarely lets me down.
Full review can also be found at: http://sidlove.wordpress.com/2013/07/...
August 16, 2021
Re-read 15th - 16th August 2021
Re-read 30th April - 2nd May 2019
Re-read 10th - 11th September 2018.
Original review.
Having just read all the previous books in this series I thought I knew Aaron pretty well. And honestly I didn’t particularly like him, he came across as rich, spoilt and entitled.
When he couldn’t have the real Jory he created his own version.
But despite all the money and all his faults there was something there, he seemed desperate for someone to love him for him not his money.
But when you’re so rich how do you tell who actually wants you?
I always assumed if Aaron found that special someone he’d be rich because how else would it work. I never imagined the love of Aaron’s life would be a huge homicide detective named Duncan.
It turns out I really enjoyed this book. Aaron was much more than I’d expected and Duncan was just perfect for him. Together they are beautiful and sweet and I really hope they get another book.
Re-read 30th April - 2nd May 2019
Re-read 10th - 11th September 2018.
Original review.
Having just read all the previous books in this series I thought I knew Aaron pretty well. And honestly I didn’t particularly like him, he came across as rich, spoilt and entitled.
When he couldn’t have the real Jory he created his own version.
But despite all the money and all his faults there was something there, he seemed desperate for someone to love him for him not his money.
But when you’re so rich how do you tell who actually wants you?
I always assumed if Aaron found that special someone he’d be rich because how else would it work. I never imagined the love of Aaron’s life would be a huge homicide detective named Duncan.
It turns out I really enjoyed this book. Aaron was much more than I’d expected and Duncan was just perfect for him. Together they are beautiful and sweet and I really hope they get another book.
Shelved as 'did-not-finish'
June 23, 2024DNF @54%
Nope, I’m sorry, but this is just not working for me. I would have probably never have even picked this book up if it wasn’t set in a series I was seriously invested in, but well… I tried. And it failed.
Duncan and Aaron had literally no chemistry or connection whatsoever, so it was truly very uninteresting to read.
This is an insta-love story, but it’s even worse than normal because the actual ‘meeting’ happens before the book even starts! So basically the book begins and it’s already a week after they met, instantly fell in love, and had sex. Now they’re both still completely in love and obsessed, even though they’re not yet “together”, but it just lacks any fire or passion. It’s super boring.
And none of that is helped by the fact that our main character, Duncan, is excruciatingly bland and dull. I couldn’t care any less about him.
It’s all really such a shame because Aaron had the potential to be an amazing love interest. When he was in love with Jory in all the previous books he made me swoon multiple times and his devotion to him had me feeling all giddy and stuff. It’s odd to me that he now suddenly fell in love with a man so different from Jory, and unfortunately his match with this new man also made for a much more unsatisfying dynamic. I would have loved to see Aaron dote on, fuss over and be completely crazy about a new man in a way he did with Jory, but now he was all… different. And I didn’t like it. It’s like he did a role reversal and everything he could have brought to the table in the relationship that would be swoony just flew right out the window.
I’m not sure if I’m explaining this well at all, but what I’m basically saying is that I did not care for this romance whatsoever and everything about Aaron’s personality that made me think he would make for an amazing love interest went away here. It’s a waste.
Also, the writing here was very superficial. It lacked any type of feeling or depth, and the dialogue just felt off. It did not draw me in at all.
The plot was extremely uninteresting as well. I don’t think I could have possibly cared any less about the non-stop undercover/detective stuff going on here, but since the romance wasn’t much better, I didn’t even have anything to look forward to during these parts.
This plot was literally nothing other than police-related stories and lots of sex, and it got old really really fast.
Let me just say; I definitely ended up skimming a lot because oh my god this was sooo boring. Eventually I just gave up and put the book away. I simply could no longer be bothered.
'A Matter of Time' series:
1. Book I - 3.5 stars
2. Book II - 3.5 stars
3. Book III - 2.5 stars
4. Book IV - 4.0 stars
5. Bulletproof - 4.5 stars
6. But for You - 2.0 stars
7. Parting Shot - dnf
8. Piece of Cake - 2.5 stars
Short Stories:
5.5. Just Jory - 4.0 stars
6.5. Ears, Eggs and Bunnies - 3.0 stars
Nope, I’m sorry, but this is just not working for me. I would have probably never have even picked this book up if it wasn’t set in a series I was seriously invested in, but well… I tried. And it failed.
Duncan and Aaron had literally no chemistry or connection whatsoever, so it was truly very uninteresting to read.
This is an insta-love story, but it’s even worse than normal because the actual ‘meeting’ happens before the book even starts! So basically the book begins and it’s already a week after they met, instantly fell in love, and had sex. Now they’re both still completely in love and obsessed, even though they’re not yet “together”, but it just lacks any fire or passion. It’s super boring.
And none of that is helped by the fact that our main character, Duncan, is excruciatingly bland and dull. I couldn’t care any less about him.
It’s all really such a shame because Aaron had the potential to be an amazing love interest. When he was in love with Jory in all the previous books he made me swoon multiple times and his devotion to him had me feeling all giddy and stuff. It’s odd to me that he now suddenly fell in love with a man so different from Jory, and unfortunately his match with this new man also made for a much more unsatisfying dynamic. I would have loved to see Aaron dote on, fuss over and be completely crazy about a new man in a way he did with Jory, but now he was all… different. And I didn’t like it. It’s like he did a role reversal and everything he could have brought to the table in the relationship that would be swoony just flew right out the window.
I’m not sure if I’m explaining this well at all, but what I’m basically saying is that I did not care for this romance whatsoever and everything about Aaron’s personality that made me think he would make for an amazing love interest went away here. It’s a waste.
Also, the writing here was very superficial. It lacked any type of feeling or depth, and the dialogue just felt off. It did not draw me in at all.
The plot was extremely uninteresting as well. I don’t think I could have possibly cared any less about the non-stop undercover/detective stuff going on here, but since the romance wasn’t much better, I didn’t even have anything to look forward to during these parts.
This plot was literally nothing other than police-related stories and lots of sex, and it got old really really fast.
Let me just say; I definitely ended up skimming a lot because oh my god this was sooo boring. Eventually I just gave up and put the book away. I simply could no longer be bothered.
'A Matter of Time' series:
1. Book I - 3.5 stars
2. Book II - 3.5 stars
3. Book III - 2.5 stars
4. Book IV - 4.0 stars
5. Bulletproof - 4.5 stars
6. But for You - 2.0 stars
7. Parting Shot - dnf
8. Piece of Cake - 2.5 stars
Short Stories:
5.5. Just Jory - 4.0 stars
6.5. Ears, Eggs and Bunnies - 3.0 stars
March 30, 2016
God, where do I even begin? Of course I loved this book. I adored this book. I want to marry this book and have its babies. Why, you ask?
BECAUSE IT’S MARY FREAKIN’ CALMES, THAT’S WHY!
You either love her or you don’t. Me? I’m a lover of all things Mary Calmes. I can always count on Mary for my fix of perfect MC’s and the alpha males who love them. She’s reliable; she never strays from her formula. Except this time she did.
And it was awesome!
She took two, count ‘em, TWO alpha males and threw them together. You’ve got Aaron “I’m Better Than Everyone Else” Sutter and Duncan “Like I Give a Fuck” Stiel. And it worked. It worked so well that I’m absolutely blown away! Don’t worry, there was still plenty of classic Mary in the story. There were the eye squints and the topcoats and the easy dialogues. But then she threw in all the extras and the new stuff. It was fantastic!
Poor Duncan, he’s had a rough life! I wasn’t too sure I liked him when I met him in Acrobat but I sure as hell do now! He’s big and strong and a total dick but in a loving, caring way. And Aaron! I kinda liked him by the end of Bulletproof but not really. I thought he was way too arrogant. He’s still arrogant, but in an incredibly endearing way.
These two were a match that came completely out of left field. I loved their banter. Yes, there was a lot of sweet moments but remember, these are two tough guys. Their declarations of love were more along the lines of “Oh, how fucking unromantic of you to say that,” and flipping each other off than the classic “I love you”. And don’t even get me started on the sex! Guh and unf and all those other words to describe the hotness. I am so glad that I was gifted with this tale. My only wish is that there was more. I want more. Scratch that – I NEED more.
Please Mary, please will you write a ton more books like this?
BECAUSE IT’S MARY FREAKIN’ CALMES, THAT’S WHY!
You either love her or you don’t. Me? I’m a lover of all things Mary Calmes. I can always count on Mary for my fix of perfect MC’s and the alpha males who love them. She’s reliable; she never strays from her formula. Except this time she did.
And it was awesome!
She took two, count ‘em, TWO alpha males and threw them together. You’ve got Aaron “I’m Better Than Everyone Else” Sutter and Duncan “Like I Give a Fuck” Stiel. And it worked. It worked so well that I’m absolutely blown away! Don’t worry, there was still plenty of classic Mary in the story. There were the eye squints and the topcoats and the easy dialogues. But then she threw in all the extras and the new stuff. It was fantastic!
Poor Duncan, he’s had a rough life! I wasn’t too sure I liked him when I met him in Acrobat but I sure as hell do now! He’s big and strong and a total dick but in a loving, caring way. And Aaron! I kinda liked him by the end of Bulletproof but not really. I thought he was way too arrogant. He’s still arrogant, but in an incredibly endearing way.
These two were a match that came completely out of left field. I loved their banter. Yes, there was a lot of sweet moments but remember, these are two tough guys. Their declarations of love were more along the lines of “Oh, how fucking unromantic of you to say that,” and flipping each other off than the classic “I love you”. And don’t even get me started on the sex! Guh and unf and all those other words to describe the hotness. I am so glad that I was gifted with this tale. My only wish is that there was more. I want more. Scratch that – I NEED more.
Please Mary, please will you write a ton more books like this?
April 5, 2020
4.5 Stars
This! So much this!
It’s for stories like Parting Shot that I keep coming back to read Mary Calmes’ books, time and again, even when I nag and critique 7 times out of 10. Because, seriously, it’s those other precious, highly enjoyable 3 times that leave the desired mark on me as an M/M romance reader.
I flew through this one, excited to read about detective Duncan Stiel and billionaire Aaron Sutter, both closeted but longing to find someone special who gets them and wants for keeps.
These two possessive alpha types have been lingering in the background of this series (and other loosely connected stories) for a while, and although I would have said several books ago that Aaron Sutter needed a swift kick in the nads, I was pleasantly surprised to be very quickly won over by him here in his own story, probably helped along by his absolute passion and adoration for broody Duncan from the first moment they met in But For You.
Sexy, passionate and deeply romantic, Aaron and Duncan fall hard and fast, wasting little time getting to the serious stuff in their quickly blossoming relationship, at least compared to all the back and forth the series was prone to earlier in the long-game played out between fan favourite couple Jory and Sam. Insta-Love is the name of this particular game, but it absolutely worked for me, spurred along by great character chemistry and balanced out with some exciting action-fuelled moments surrounding Duncan’s undercover job on several high risk cases.
What can I say? I had a lot of fun reading this one, easily cementing itself as my favourite of a series that has certainly been a turbulent reading ride for me.
This! So much this!
It’s for stories like Parting Shot that I keep coming back to read Mary Calmes’ books, time and again, even when I nag and critique 7 times out of 10. Because, seriously, it’s those other precious, highly enjoyable 3 times that leave the desired mark on me as an M/M romance reader.
I flew through this one, excited to read about detective Duncan Stiel and billionaire Aaron Sutter, both closeted but longing to find someone special who gets them and wants for keeps.
These two possessive alpha types have been lingering in the background of this series (and other loosely connected stories) for a while, and although I would have said several books ago that Aaron Sutter needed a swift kick in the nads, I was pleasantly surprised to be very quickly won over by him here in his own story, probably helped along by his absolute passion and adoration for broody Duncan from the first moment they met in But For You.
Sexy, passionate and deeply romantic, Aaron and Duncan fall hard and fast, wasting little time getting to the serious stuff in their quickly blossoming relationship, at least compared to all the back and forth the series was prone to earlier in the long-game played out between fan favourite couple Jory and Sam. Insta-Love is the name of this particular game, but it absolutely worked for me, spurred along by great character chemistry and balanced out with some exciting action-fuelled moments surrounding Duncan’s undercover job on several high risk cases.
What can I say? I had a lot of fun reading this one, easily cementing itself as my favourite of a series that has certainly been a turbulent reading ride for me.
July 23, 2018
7/18/18 Update - YEP...I think it's time for a reread. Picked up the audiobook to keep me company during my commute. I can't wait to revisit Duncan and Aaron!
*****************************************
***4.25 Stars***
This review comes to you from a gal sitting in an ice bath to cool her loins after the hotness that was Aaron and Duncan! WOWZA!!
These two were off the charts on fire. I'm talking about desperate, rip your clothes off, growling and begging passion and desire.
In a nutshell....
It's Mary Calmes....so naturally the story was crack-alicious.
She shall provide it...
The insta-lust/love was INSTA on steroids....but you know what? It worked! I got it. Both men, who were somewhat in the closet, tried to make it work with others....but it never fully gelled. They needed someone who understood. Someone who was an equal. Someone who clicked, who got it, who simply fell into stride.
It wasn't supposed to happen like that, that fast, that hard. No one fell like that. I didn't believe in love at first sight, first fuck, or first anything. So why did I feel like Aaron Sutter had just been walking around waiting for me his whole life?
I have to be honest, after reading this whole series I wasn't sure how I was going to feel about Mr. Aaron Sutter here. I mean, we've seen over the previous books how desperately he still longed for Jory. But after seeing him here and truly getting to know him, Jory was never the one.
Aaron wanted Jory for what he had with Sam. Not really the man himself. He liked the chase of Jory, the need to take care of someone (and God knows that Jory definitely needs taking care of), but Duncan was the complete opposite. He was in it. He was willing to compromise about Aaron's lifestyle. He wanted a partnership, a relationship...to be part of a team. And that's exactly what Aaron didn't know he truly, deeply wanted.
"What are you thinking?"
"Just trying to figure out what you see in me."
"What?"
"No, not like 'poor me, I'm so repulsive, what the fuck were you thinking?' But more like, I am so not your type. You like cute little twink boys."
He reached for my hand and I let him take it.
"You don't hafta tell me."
"It's just you. I saw you, and I can't see anybody else anymore."
Duncan's evolution was a little bit too easy in my opinion, but you know what? I can't find it in me to care. Duncan realized that for the right person, everything you worry about seems worth it. So why not just let happen whatever will happen.
Let's not forget that we also have a wacky suspense element here that is kinda far-fetched and naturally over the top, but...
This was a great addition to the series and I'm glad that Aaron got his HEA. Duncan was just the right protective and possessive man to balance out Aaron's protective and possessive side. Did I mention that they're both versatile? No? Well....now you know.
Even though this book is part of a series, it can still easily be read as a standalone. Not fully knowing the history that Aaron has with Jory won't affect your enjoyment of this book.
So, if you're in the market for insta-lust/love, addicting writing, great banter, great chemistry, HOT sex, a zany suspense plot, sweet romance and two possessive men....definitely pick this one up!
"We're going to do our jobs here and then go back to Chicago because I really want to take you home."
"Why?"
"I'm ready for my life to start."
May 29, 2019
This was actually the first Mary Calmes book I ever read. So I hadn't been introduced to Duncan in Acrobat, or Aaron in the other A Matter of Time series books. But I didn't need to be. What I love is this story can easily be read as a standalone without being lost for one moment about the characters or where they came from, and it does it all without losing any of the sexiness or awesomeness of the series.
Truth be told, this is the book that made me fall in love with Mary Calmes and her universe. It's this book that made me addicted to Calmes.
Duncan and Aaron are both so hot and so possessive...but the good kind, you know? When the person who is being possessed wants it just as badly. Otherwise it's just creepy. Here their possession is mutual, lovely, sensual, passionate, and oh-so-right.
"You want promises, but you're scared to ask for them." It was a statement.
"Yes," he cried, and I knew it hurt to answer because it was true.
"Because everybody leaves you," I uttered his fear.
"Yes."
"Not anymore."
This story has it all, hot sex, humor, emotional moments, action, dangerous moments...it's got it all and it gripped me from the moment I began reading until the very last moment.
I adore Tristan James' narration for this. With the tiny exception of Tristan calling Jory "Yory" a bunch of times and saying the wrong word a couple of times (example: comforted instead of confronted), the narration is really well done. James infuses a lot of emotion and humor into his narrative storytelling and his character voices are great.
I do so love Tristan James's voice; it's like rich chocolate: impossible to stay away from, decadent, and delicious.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
Read 05/2014, 06, 07, 08, 09, 10, 11, 12/2014; Listened 12/2014, 01/2015, 02, 03, 04, 05, 06, 07, 08, 09, 10, 11, 12/2015
July 24, 2013
Duncan's macho swagger was a perfect foil for Aaron's assumption that HE was master of the universe. The action/adventure was pitch perfect, and the emotional resonances were touching--I believed in these two men, and I believed that together they were unstoppable. And can I just talk about the sex? NOBODY writes better sex than Mary Calmes--it's neither too detailed nor too cliched, but it just leaves me shaking with the feeling of want. I loved this couple--and even though Sam and Jory are my boos, Duncan and Aaron are DEFINITELY my friends. And I have to say, this was a tough sell for me, initially-- I was NOT impressed by Aaron's character when he was seen with Jory in the AMOT books. But once he's found a real match for himself, in temperament and force of will, he allowed himself to be vulnerable--and much more human. Jory's hummingbird disposition was not what Aaron needed. Duncan's battered tomcat was a much better fit.
March 20, 2015
I think I'm going to Hell for loving this one.
March 20, 2018
Aaron Stutter is a rich man. He can have anything he wants. He thought he wanted Jory but Jory was having none of it. Imagine his surprise when, after years, he meets someone who is exactly what he needs.
Duncan and Aaron met in the last book and hit it off immediately. Duncan had to leave to go undercover in NY but Aaron soon followed. Crazy plots and OTT drama follow but these two remain true to each other.
I seriously wasn't convinced I wanted to read this book and almost skipped it. See, I loathed Aaron in previous books. He was a rich entitled bastard who thought he could own Jory and got pissed when he didn't get his way. I had zero use for him until book 6. I even almost pulled out my rusty knives that were reserved for Sam at one point but luckily it wasn't what it seemed. Then we get a little peek at his softer more vulnerable side...the side that just wants to take care of the people he loves and considers friends and family. This includes Jory and Sam and their children.
So, I decided to give this a shot and boy am I glad I did. OMG how I loved this book. Duncan and Aaron were perfect for each other. We get to see Aaron's softer, vulnerable side more in this one and Duncan is just what Aaron needs...someone to take care of but who also is independent and keeps him on his toes. But man...Aaron had me swooning like crazy.
But Duncan was an awesome hero in his own way and had his swoony moments too.
So I'm super happy with this one. This is my favorite so far and I hope that we will get to see these two again in future books.
Duncan and Aaron met in the last book and hit it off immediately. Duncan had to leave to go undercover in NY but Aaron soon followed. Crazy plots and OTT drama follow but these two remain true to each other.
I seriously wasn't convinced I wanted to read this book and almost skipped it. See, I loathed Aaron in previous books. He was a rich entitled bastard who thought he could own Jory and got pissed when he didn't get his way. I had zero use for him until book 6. I even almost pulled out my rusty knives that were reserved for Sam at one point but luckily it wasn't what it seemed. Then we get a little peek at his softer more vulnerable side...the side that just wants to take care of the people he loves and considers friends and family. This includes Jory and Sam and their children.
So, I decided to give this a shot and boy am I glad I did. OMG how I loved this book. Duncan and Aaron were perfect for each other. We get to see Aaron's softer, vulnerable side more in this one and Duncan is just what Aaron needs...someone to take care of but who also is independent and keeps him on his toes. But man...Aaron had me swooning like crazy.
"I just want to lie on top of you and feel your bare skin under mine. I could do it for hours if you let me.”
“It’s just you. I saw you, and I can’t see anybody else anymore.”
But Duncan was an awesome hero in his own way and had his swoony moments too.
"He was my reward for living and not giving up and holding out for what was real. Heart, head, and body all aligned––finally––at once. He annihilated me.”
So I'm super happy with this one. This is my favorite so far and I hope that we will get to see these two again in future books.
January 18, 2015
It's the first grudge read of 2015! …That didn't take long.
Grudge read, btw, meaning a book you desperately want to throw across the room less than halfway through, but you continue on to the bitter end just for the satisfaction of knowing for sure that it really is that terrible. And also so you can slam it in full knowledge.
So yeah. M/M of the cop and billionaire variety. This book is an unholy mess – disorganized, confused about who its unlikeable protagonists are, full of random BDSM content with no accuracy or emotional context or, uh, sexiness.
But whatever. A bad book is a bad book. Here's what's offensively bad about this one.
So both our heroes were closeted, right, very purposefully and to the detriment of previous relationships. Until – you can see this one coming – they meet each other and that all changes. Here's what our narrator, the cop, has to say about it: "It made me almost sick that I had waited so long to be brave and stand up. That was crazy, but I felt like I owed someone an apology."
That's right, kids. A queer person staying in the closet is failing to be brave and stand up. Coming out being, you see, entirely a function of the queer person's courage (and also whether he is in real love) rather than, say, oh just some random options – physical safety, job security, maintaining familial stability, I could go on.
Staying in the closet isn't a failure of courage. It is often a carefully calculated decision, and an essential or very smart one. This book and it's repeated refrain of how coming out was so much easier than expected – the executive board doesn't care! The police captain doesn't care! – isn't just erasing homophobia, it's placing responsibility for the consequences of homophobia on queer people. Queer people aren't in the closet as a random cultural artifact! The closet exists because of a vast and terrifying history of oppression and violence which is still alive and well today!
But, well, if only those queer people would be braver. Problem solved.
Grudge read, btw, meaning a book you desperately want to throw across the room less than halfway through, but you continue on to the bitter end just for the satisfaction of knowing for sure that it really is that terrible. And also so you can slam it in full knowledge.
So yeah. M/M of the cop and billionaire variety. This book is an unholy mess – disorganized, confused about who its unlikeable protagonists are, full of random BDSM content with no accuracy or emotional context or, uh, sexiness.
But whatever. A bad book is a bad book. Here's what's offensively bad about this one.
So both our heroes were closeted, right, very purposefully and to the detriment of previous relationships. Until – you can see this one coming – they meet each other and that all changes. Here's what our narrator, the cop, has to say about it: "It made me almost sick that I had waited so long to be brave and stand up. That was crazy, but I felt like I owed someone an apology."
That's right, kids. A queer person staying in the closet is failing to be brave and stand up. Coming out being, you see, entirely a function of the queer person's courage (and also whether he is in real love) rather than, say, oh just some random options – physical safety, job security, maintaining familial stability, I could go on.
Staying in the closet isn't a failure of courage. It is often a carefully calculated decision, and an essential or very smart one. This book and it's repeated refrain of how coming out was so much easier than expected – the executive board doesn't care! The police captain doesn't care! – isn't just erasing homophobia, it's placing responsibility for the consequences of homophobia on queer people. Queer people aren't in the closet as a random cultural artifact! The closet exists because of a vast and terrifying history of oppression and violence which is still alive and well today!
But, well, if only those queer people would be braver. Problem solved.
May 19, 2024
Re-read one billion and one 08/04/2015, 03/30/2016, 1/29/2017, 4/8/2017, Month of Mary 5/13/2017, 9/12/2017, 10/16/2017, 11/29/2017, 1/24/2018, 5/10/2018 month of mary, 5/19/2024 month of Mary
Even after reading this so many times, it still surprises me how much I ended up liking Aaron. I did not like him early in the series. He would piss me off with how he was with Jory. Somehow I overcame that to LOVE him with Duncan. Sigh. Soooo good.
Even after reading this so many times, it still surprises me how much I ended up liking Aaron. I did not like him early in the series. He would piss me off with how he was with Jory. Somehow I overcame that to LOVE him with Duncan. Sigh. Soooo good.
January 30, 2019
Finally my curiosity about the mystery of Aaron Sutter has been satisfied. I love it when two men from different backgrounds come together, and Duncan and Aaron are such a beautiful couple. I now see that Jory could never give Aaron what he needed but Duncan certainly could and he did. It may come off as a little bit insta but both men went through so much that I think when the right man came along they both held on and didn't want to let go.
I liked Aaron for his generosity, loyalty and how he was not afraid of showing his vulnerable side to Duncan. He could simply let go. What no one knew was that for all his strength Aaron still needed someone to lean on, to give him the freedom of not being on top of the world but just a man with feeling and wants. I also loved the possessiveness and the attitude he had, it was such a turn on!
Duncan came off a little shallow and hesitant in the beginning but in the course of the book I slowly changed my mind about him. He was very lonely and had no support. It felt like he was surrounded by people but still apart from them for some reason. But when Aaron came along he finally knew that this was the man worth holding on to. I liked how Duncan understood Aaron - his quirks, how his mind worked and what he was about. He showed Aaron how to be partners, how to compromise - it all finally fell into place.
The case itself was fun to read about although it didn't leave a lasting impression. I loved their interactions, the sneak peek into the world of Aaron Sutter. That was the best part. All in all, this was a fun and steamy book that concludes this series. I loved them all, and Jory, Sam, Dane, Aja, Aaron and Duncan will have a special place in my heart and my virtual shelf! I highly recommend it!
I liked Aaron for his generosity, loyalty and how he was not afraid of showing his vulnerable side to Duncan. He could simply let go. What no one knew was that for all his strength Aaron still needed someone to lean on, to give him the freedom of not being on top of the world but just a man with feeling and wants. I also loved the possessiveness and the attitude he had, it was such a turn on!
Duncan came off a little shallow and hesitant in the beginning but in the course of the book I slowly changed my mind about him. He was very lonely and had no support. It felt like he was surrounded by people but still apart from them for some reason. But when Aaron came along he finally knew that this was the man worth holding on to. I liked how Duncan understood Aaron - his quirks, how his mind worked and what he was about. He showed Aaron how to be partners, how to compromise - it all finally fell into place.
The case itself was fun to read about although it didn't leave a lasting impression. I loved their interactions, the sneak peek into the world of Aaron Sutter. That was the best part. All in all, this was a fun and steamy book that concludes this series. I loved them all, and Jory, Sam, Dane, Aja, Aaron and Duncan will have a special place in my heart and my virtual shelf! I highly recommend it!
April 13, 2017
3.5 Stars
Ahhh another Mary Calmes... I've only read her Matter of Time series and the quasi spinoff All Kinds of Tied Down, so these characters are all interwoven and very familiar to me. This particular spinoff features Jory's ex Aaron Sutter, whom we last saw being set up with cop Duncan Stiel in But For You. Of course they hit if off immediately - it IS insta-love on a grand scale but are you suprised?? You shouldn't be.
However unlike the initial Sam and Jory stories, this was pretty high in the smex with just a touch of kink. AND unlike AKoTD, we get it immediately and throughout. The over the top ridiculousness and the hijinks were not as blatant but just enough to lend a little hilarity and fun.
Aaron is a successful and powerful billionaire, always in control.
Duncan is a badass homicide detective, always dominant.
If the idea of two alpha men who are used to being in charge in and out of bed but let their guard down, show their vulnerabilities only to each other, flips your switch - then this is the perfect story for you. To make the pot that much sweeter, I would say that this was the hottest Calmes book I've read to date.
Ahhh another Mary Calmes... I've only read her Matter of Time series and the quasi spinoff All Kinds of Tied Down, so these characters are all interwoven and very familiar to me. This particular spinoff features Jory's ex Aaron Sutter, whom we last saw being set up with cop Duncan Stiel in But For You. Of course they hit if off immediately - it IS insta-love on a grand scale but are you suprised?? You shouldn't be.
However unlike the initial Sam and Jory stories, this was pretty high in the smex with just a touch of kink. AND unlike AKoTD, we get it immediately and throughout. The over the top ridiculousness and the hijinks were not as blatant but just enough to lend a little hilarity and fun.
Aaron is a successful and powerful billionaire, always in control.
Duncan is a badass homicide detective, always dominant.
If the idea of two alpha men who are used to being in charge in and out of bed but let their guard down, show their vulnerabilities only to each other, flips your switch - then this is the perfect story for you. To make the pot that much sweeter, I would say that this was the hottest Calmes book I've read to date.
December 28, 2022
"...another piece of my heart left my chest to go live in his."
August 28, 2016
3.5 Stars
Parting Shot starts off with Duncan flashing back to his first sexual encounter with Aaron. It was pretty hot, I admit, but I've also got to say that it is not my preferred way for a book to start. I like the build up and seeing and experiencing just what the MC's see in each other. I want to feel their attraction. Everything was very 'insta', here. Sometimes I can buy that, but not terribly often. It comes back to wanting to see and experience their attraction and build up to giving in.
I found both MC's likable and though I've read that Aaron was, in previous books, kind of an asshole, he at least tried to keep it in check. And Duncan (love that name) was very determined to not be a kept man. Being a detective and very used to being independent, he was not willing to just be Aaron's partner. He was his own man.
The side mystery plot didn't overtake the story too much, which I appreciated. I did find that I had to suspend my disbelief more than a little, though. It was a touch over the top. And the part where they are undercover at the resort wasn't believable at all. No amount of belief suspension could help me there.
This is my second Mary Calmes book, and the last one left me wanting, too, for some of the same 'insta' reasons. I did enjoy Parting Shot more, though, and it was hella hot, so I call that a win, even though the writing style doesn't really mesh with my tastes.
Parting Shot starts off with Duncan flashing back to his first sexual encounter with Aaron. It was pretty hot, I admit, but I've also got to say that it is not my preferred way for a book to start. I like the build up and seeing and experiencing just what the MC's see in each other. I want to feel their attraction. Everything was very 'insta', here. Sometimes I can buy that, but not terribly often. It comes back to wanting to see and experience their attraction and build up to giving in.
I found both MC's likable and though I've read that Aaron was, in previous books, kind of an asshole, he at least tried to keep it in check. And Duncan (love that name) was very determined to not be a kept man. Being a detective and very used to being independent, he was not willing to just be Aaron's partner. He was his own man.
The side mystery plot didn't overtake the story too much, which I appreciated. I did find that I had to suspend my disbelief more than a little, though. It was a touch over the top. And the part where they are undercover at the resort wasn't believable at all. No amount of belief suspension could help me there.
This is my second Mary Calmes book, and the last one left me wanting, too, for some of the same 'insta' reasons. I did enjoy Parting Shot more, though, and it was hella hot, so I call that a win, even though the writing style doesn't really mesh with my tastes.
April 25, 2019
Re-read April 2019
This book focusses on Aaron Sutter and Duncan Stiel. We know Duncan from Acrobat (Nate’s ex) and of course Aaron is Jory’s billionaire ex.
Jory introduced the two in the last book and they really did hit it off. But after a hot night Duncan had to leave for an undercover assignment in New York.
But of course Aaron doesn’t just sit still and wait for Duncan to return, no, he goes to New York to perhaps convince the man to let him see him.
Duncan is surprised to see Aaron there, but they spend a wonderful weekend together until Aaron has to go back and Duncan has to go undercover again.
Duncan’s assignment is not going well, and when someone suspects that there’s a cop among them, he and several other men get tortured for days.
When Duncan gets rescued he has to go to the hospital to fix all the broken bones. It is there that Max Sutter comes to visit him and tells him that Duncan can’t see his brother anymore. Their father is trying to take over the company, so Aaron can’t have a scandal since everyone thinks he is straight. Duncan would never want to hurt Aaron so he agrees.
It takes Aaron 3 months to figure out what his brother had asked of Duncan, but when he does he immediately calls Duncan. Duncan is surprised but pleased Aaron has been thinking of him too.
When Duncan needs a rich man to pose as his boyfriend in another undercover assignment, Aaron is the only one who would be able to pull that off. So the two go undercover at a remote resort with no connection to the outside world…
I love the kind of possessiveness Mary writes. How they simply want each other and make sure nothing else matters anymore. How Duncan didn’t even care about coming out anymore, and how Aaron just wanted Duncan, consequences be damned.
I wasn’t a big fan of the separation in the first half, but I still liked the rest.
A very enjoyable Mary book.
This book focusses on Aaron Sutter and Duncan Stiel. We know Duncan from Acrobat (Nate’s ex) and of course Aaron is Jory’s billionaire ex.
Jory introduced the two in the last book and they really did hit it off. But after a hot night Duncan had to leave for an undercover assignment in New York.
But of course Aaron doesn’t just sit still and wait for Duncan to return, no, he goes to New York to perhaps convince the man to let him see him.
Duncan is surprised to see Aaron there, but they spend a wonderful weekend together until Aaron has to go back and Duncan has to go undercover again.
Duncan’s assignment is not going well, and when someone suspects that there’s a cop among them, he and several other men get tortured for days.
When Duncan gets rescued he has to go to the hospital to fix all the broken bones. It is there that Max Sutter comes to visit him and tells him that Duncan can’t see his brother anymore. Their father is trying to take over the company, so Aaron can’t have a scandal since everyone thinks he is straight. Duncan would never want to hurt Aaron so he agrees.
It takes Aaron 3 months to figure out what his brother had asked of Duncan, but when he does he immediately calls Duncan. Duncan is surprised but pleased Aaron has been thinking of him too.
When Duncan needs a rich man to pose as his boyfriend in another undercover assignment, Aaron is the only one who would be able to pull that off. So the two go undercover at a remote resort with no connection to the outside world…
I love the kind of possessiveness Mary writes. How they simply want each other and make sure nothing else matters anymore. How Duncan didn’t even care about coming out anymore, and how Aaron just wanted Duncan, consequences be damned.
I wasn’t a big fan of the separation in the first half, but I still liked the rest.
A very enjoyable Mary book.
June 27, 2015
Wow...this was not what I expected. I did read some of the matter of time books, but not all of them. So I knew Aaron but I didn't know Duncan. I expected something simmilar like Jory...that's not what this was. Aaron and Duncan were both hot aplha males, while Jory was more of a twinky. Don't get me wrong...I loved Jory, like so many do, but I love reading about two alpa males who are versatile getting it on !!
This book was explosive HOT. I did not expect that either. Sure Sam and Jory where hot together...but this one had wayyyy more seks, unless I missed the explosive seks, because I haven't read the last books in the matter of time series. Duncan and Aaron were so HAWT together...damn
So...yeah I really enjoyed reading this one. The plot / action was not all that exciting I have to say, but for me it was a nice easy sexy read. It's not a deeply emotional acionfilled book, although there is some action. And yes for the ones out there who hate it...be prepared for the "baby" nickname, but it's not over the top. I liked both characters. I didn't think I would like Aaron, but he was awesome in this book. So far I liked every book I've read by Mary Calmes, so I will just keep on reading. You can read this one as a stand alone. 4 stars from me !!
March 16, 2014
First and foremost, if you are worried about reading this book and haven't read the others in the series, don't be! This book can definitely be read as a stand-alone (that is what I did!).
Moving on, this book grabbed from the first page and would not let go; I could not put it down. This was my first book by Ms. Calmes, and boy, did she blow me away. Her writing was superb and engaging and utterly entertaining and gritty. I felt like this book was really written by a 6'4", 220-lb cop. And her dialogue was one of the best I had seen in a while. I definitely had no complaints about the writing regarding this book.
Since I had not read the previous books in the series, I am not sure exactly how Aaron was portrayed, but I absolutely adored him in this book. He could definitely be a tough guy and go full alpha-male, hulk mode on somebody, but he was also vulnerable. It was so endearing to see how shaken he got when he thought Duncan wasn't as interested in him as he was in Duncan. I also loved seeing his possessiveness of Duncan and his complete unwillingness to ever hurt Duncan, be it under the bedroom or when they were both working undercover. I also loved Duncan. How could I not since he is the consummate alpha male? He could get the crap beat out of him and still bounce back up and go for another round. He could get a little obtuse sometimes in his relationship with Aaron and unintentionally hurt him, but he always figured it out and made it better. He was exactly what Aaron needed: the perfect, solid partner who did not try to take advantage of Aaron's wealth and who wanted the relationship to be equally give-and-take. Duncan was a little reluctant of coming out of the closet but quickly realized that he would rather be with the love of his life than worry about anybody finding out. These two were just amazing as a couple and complemented each other so well!
As for the plot, there is murder and some mystery, but it was never really a whodunnit since we know pretty much from the beginning who committed the crime. But do not let this put you off! This book was still action-packed and fast-paced. There was never a dull moment. I definitely recommend picking up this book if you want to be sucked in and not let go until the very end. I just cannot praise it enough.
Moving on, this book grabbed from the first page and would not let go; I could not put it down. This was my first book by Ms. Calmes, and boy, did she blow me away. Her writing was superb and engaging and utterly entertaining and gritty. I felt like this book was really written by a 6'4", 220-lb cop. And her dialogue was one of the best I had seen in a while. I definitely had no complaints about the writing regarding this book.
Since I had not read the previous books in the series, I am not sure exactly how Aaron was portrayed, but I absolutely adored him in this book. He could definitely be a tough guy and go full alpha-male, hulk mode on somebody, but he was also vulnerable. It was so endearing to see how shaken he got when he thought Duncan wasn't as interested in him as he was in Duncan. I also loved seeing his possessiveness of Duncan and his complete unwillingness to ever hurt Duncan, be it under the bedroom or when they were both working undercover. I also loved Duncan. How could I not since he is the consummate alpha male? He could get the crap beat out of him and still bounce back up and go for another round. He could get a little obtuse sometimes in his relationship with Aaron and unintentionally hurt him, but he always figured it out and made it better. He was exactly what Aaron needed: the perfect, solid partner who did not try to take advantage of Aaron's wealth and who wanted the relationship to be equally give-and-take. Duncan was a little reluctant of coming out of the closet but quickly realized that he would rather be with the love of his life than worry about anybody finding out. These two were just amazing as a couple and complemented each other so well!
As for the plot, there is murder and some mystery, but it was never really a whodunnit since we know pretty much from the beginning who committed the crime. But do not let this put you off! This book was still action-packed and fast-paced. There was never a dull moment. I definitely recommend picking up this book if you want to be sucked in and not let go until the very end. I just cannot praise it enough.
April 19, 2016
Parting Shot ends up being a direct hit for me. 4.5 stars rounded down to 4 here on GoodReads.
I was all prepared to read a Mary Clames book that I didn't like, truly I was. Truly it didn't happen. Nope by the end of this book I was gushing and sighing as if it was Sam and Jory. But it wasn't this is the 7th book in their series but other than a very brief appearance by Sam in one scene and the occasional mention of Jory, they didn't really factor in to this story. This story was Aaron Stutter, who I freely admit is not a favorite of mine, not even a little bit. Well at least he wasn't until this book and Duncan Steil who I remember from book 6, But For You, just barely and not in any great detail. So how could I possibly end up not just liking this book, but loving these two characters. Well I have only one answer for that "It's Mary Calmes".
The lady knows what she's doing and she's obviously doing it well. Up until now, for me Aaron was just a self indulged rich boy and Duncan, well he was a new ball game, because there was so little of him in the other books he may as well have been a new character. Which was good. I think part of why this ended up being such an enjoyable read for me was the fact that I got to see beyond the surface with Aaron, he was finally given a depth of character and he had flaws, beyond what seemed like the obvious rich boy entitlement.
Neither one of these men came off as being perfect, but they were passionate about each other and with each other. They also seemed to be aware of the fact that their relationship would never work if they didn't figure out compromise and partnership.
I can't help but wonder if this book was titled Parting Shot because it's the end of the road for this series, if it is than Ms Calmes has done it up right giving us an incredible farewell and if it's not I will still much to my surprise be very happy to read more about Aaron and Duncan.
I was all prepared to read a Mary Clames book that I didn't like, truly I was. Truly it didn't happen. Nope by the end of this book I was gushing and sighing as if it was Sam and Jory. But it wasn't this is the 7th book in their series but other than a very brief appearance by Sam in one scene and the occasional mention of Jory, they didn't really factor in to this story. This story was Aaron Stutter, who I freely admit is not a favorite of mine, not even a little bit. Well at least he wasn't until this book and Duncan Steil who I remember from book 6, But For You, just barely and not in any great detail. So how could I possibly end up not just liking this book, but loving these two characters. Well I have only one answer for that "It's Mary Calmes".
The lady knows what she's doing and she's obviously doing it well. Up until now, for me Aaron was just a self indulged rich boy and Duncan, well he was a new ball game, because there was so little of him in the other books he may as well have been a new character. Which was good. I think part of why this ended up being such an enjoyable read for me was the fact that I got to see beyond the surface with Aaron, he was finally given a depth of character and he had flaws, beyond what seemed like the obvious rich boy entitlement.
Neither one of these men came off as being perfect, but they were passionate about each other and with each other. They also seemed to be aware of the fact that their relationship would never work if they didn't figure out compromise and partnership.
I can't help but wonder if this book was titled Parting Shot because it's the end of the road for this series, if it is than Ms Calmes has done it up right giving us an incredible farewell and if it's not I will still much to my surprise be very happy to read more about Aaron and Duncan.
July 30, 2019
4.5 stars rounded up to 5 because still no 1/2 stars here on GR & Mary Calmes + Tristan James...really need I say more!
Good-bye Sam and Jory. Hello Aaron and Duncan...
'Parting Shot' is the final book in Mary Calmes's series 'A Matter of Time' and while the previous books have all focused on the relationship between Sam and Jory in this one we are given a closer look at Duncan Stiel and Aaron Sutter...one of Jory's ex's.
We've met both of these characters in previous books in this series and I have to admit when I first read this book I wasn't sure how well this was going to work out for me. While Duncan was a little bit intriguing and I was ok with finding out more about him, I was in all honesty not a fan of Aaron Sutter. This was not a character that I wanted to be bothered with but as always Ms Calmes knew better and she drew me into a story about that got me involved and showed me a different side of Mr Sutter and gave him the perfect match in Duncan Stiel. Someone who could go toe to toe with him and not be intimidated by his wealth and for Duncan Aaron was bold enough to step into his world and face danger with him and have his back...these two men worked much better as a pairing than I had anticipated wrapping up this series with a story that was every bit as interesting and enjoyable as anything that has gone before in the series.
So when I decided to revisit 'A Matter of Time' on audio and saw that Tristan James was the narrator well you can be sure that I was really looking forward to getting to this book and once again this is a perfect example of what a difference a good narrator can make because as much as I enjoyed reading the book...listening to the audio book was just that much better. While I enjoyed my adventures with Sam and Jory I have to say admit 'Parting Shot was my favorite audio book from this series...
Tristan James + Mary Calmes = one of my best happy places and I will be going bac
Good-bye Sam and Jory. Hello Aaron and Duncan...
'Parting Shot' is the final book in Mary Calmes's series 'A Matter of Time' and while the previous books have all focused on the relationship between Sam and Jory in this one we are given a closer look at Duncan Stiel and Aaron Sutter...one of Jory's ex's.
We've met both of these characters in previous books in this series and I have to admit when I first read this book I wasn't sure how well this was going to work out for me. While Duncan was a little bit intriguing and I was ok with finding out more about him, I was in all honesty not a fan of Aaron Sutter. This was not a character that I wanted to be bothered with but as always Ms Calmes knew better and she drew me into a story about that got me involved and showed me a different side of Mr Sutter and gave him the perfect match in Duncan Stiel. Someone who could go toe to toe with him and not be intimidated by his wealth and for Duncan Aaron was bold enough to step into his world and face danger with him and have his back...these two men worked much better as a pairing than I had anticipated wrapping up this series with a story that was every bit as interesting and enjoyable as anything that has gone before in the series.
So when I decided to revisit 'A Matter of Time' on audio and saw that Tristan James was the narrator well you can be sure that I was really looking forward to getting to this book and once again this is a perfect example of what a difference a good narrator can make because as much as I enjoyed reading the book...listening to the audio book was just that much better. While I enjoyed my adventures with Sam and Jory I have to say admit 'Parting Shot was my favorite audio book from this series...
Tristan James + Mary Calmes = one of my best happy places and I will be going bac
August 11, 2022
I just loved it. All the right elements of a relationship all packed into one great story by Mary. Aaron is the rich business man and the other is the detective. Their both hot and heavy from the word go. Very possessive but in a good way.
One of those reads that's hard to put down.
One of those reads that's hard to put down.
January 26, 2019
Loved it ❤️ so glad Aaron found his happy every after. Duncan was the perfect match... a little different to Sam ! Aaron needed strength but also submission. A really enjoyable read
July 21, 2013
I think Im the only one who is dissapointed with this book, I couldn't even find Mary Calmes in this book, it was like it had been written by a nameless generic gay romance author, if this had had been my first book of her, I dont think I would have dare to read her other books, probably I would have given her a three star, but really there is nothing outstanding in this book, and it was boring as hell. I kept asking myself if it was going to be over soon, it doesnt have the magic that Jory and Sam story has, with Sam and Jory you can really feel the love, and they are in a relationship, Aaron and Duncan feel like they are continuously in a one-night stand. I really dont know why they saw in each other, I didnt feel any love coming from them, it also bothered me that Aaron denied he had been in love with Jory, I mean I get they were not theirs true love, but Aaron and Jory stayed together for a year and a half, plus, Aaron kept chasing him when the relationship was over, and then you tell me, oh no, it was only bc he couldn't have him, he HAD him, for a YEAR AND HALF.
It lack they true love characteristic and relationship description, that Jory and Sam and even Jin and Logan had, heck even Eli and Craig's short story had it, this story lack the couple and family warm that Mary Calmes had always given us, and in exchange we were left with cheap porno, not even the previous matter of time, frog and change of heart had this much sex. And I do love sex in my stories but I also need a plot to let me feel the love, really such a dissapointment, I really regret having bought this, and you really dont have to have tons of sex on the book to make it wonderful Strawberries for dessert by Marie Sexton doesnt even have one sex scene, and it's one of my favorites, they only mention, we had sex last night, or we are going to have sex today. Putting a lot of sex scenes together makes me believe the author didnt really know what way to go, and decided to fill it with cheap porno. It is really a pitty since I was really excited to read the Aaron and Duncan story.
I usually take one day to finish a gay romance book, specially when Im in vacations like right now, and with this one I took three, just to show everyone how boring I found it, that I had to force me to read it.
It lack they true love characteristic and relationship description, that Jory and Sam and even Jin and Logan had, heck even Eli and Craig's short story had it, this story lack the couple and family warm that Mary Calmes had always given us, and in exchange we were left with cheap porno, not even the previous matter of time, frog and change of heart had this much sex. And I do love sex in my stories but I also need a plot to let me feel the love, really such a dissapointment, I really regret having bought this, and you really dont have to have tons of sex on the book to make it wonderful Strawberries for dessert by Marie Sexton doesnt even have one sex scene, and it's one of my favorites, they only mention, we had sex last night, or we are going to have sex today. Putting a lot of sex scenes together makes me believe the author didnt really know what way to go, and decided to fill it with cheap porno. It is really a pitty since I was really excited to read the Aaron and Duncan story.
I usually take one day to finish a gay romance book, specially when Im in vacations like right now, and with this one I took three, just to show everyone how boring I found it, that I had to force me to read it.
September 21, 2024
Audio Re-Read, 2024
*******
**Audio Re-Read**
Ok, I don't know for sure how many times I've revisited this story but I think I stand firm in everything I've said each time. my original read truly says it all and I'll stick with it. And, below, my original audio review, I really still feel that way.
I still don't like Aaron's voice. At all.
-------
Looks like I may have read this out of order on my original read too. I for sure read it out of order on my audio re-read. Man, I hate how my old reviews look.
Anyway.
I needed to read about Duncan since I was going to soon be reading aboutConrad Darius and well, I just felt like skipping the whole Hawaii scene with Jory. So much love but he can still grate on my nerves at times.
So, here I am. Doing my own thing and listening out of order.
My first read of this I ended up loving Aaron after HATING him. This book did wonderful things for him. Mary's "flip the script" magic totally worked here. But, but, but...listening to this didn't give me the same warm and fuzzies. Totally the audio and not the story didn't work here. Aaron's voice is just wrong. He just wouldn't sound like a whiner. He'd be strong. He's be scary. He wouldn't sound weak and naive and child like. It wasn't the words though, just how they were read to me.
Ugh. I hate it. It wasn't in your face for the whole listen but when it came out it totally did. It totally took me out of the story at times.
As much as I love this not being the same Aaron from MOT it's not at all the same Aaron I read either.
The audio doesn't do him any favors and I think I knew this my first listen but I didn't judge.
Now I am judging.
I want these two together and loved their story, just not so much when it was read to me.
I'm dropping the .5★. Still, not too shabby.
*******
**Audio Re-Read**
Ok, I don't know for sure how many times I've revisited this story but I think I stand firm in everything I've said each time. my original read truly says it all and I'll stick with it. And, below, my original audio review, I really still feel that way.
I still don't like Aaron's voice. At all.
-------
Looks like I may have read this out of order on my original read too. I for sure read it out of order on my audio re-read. Man, I hate how my old reviews look.
Anyway.
I needed to read about Duncan since I was going to soon be reading about
So, here I am. Doing my own thing and listening out of order.
My first read of this I ended up loving Aaron after HATING him. This book did wonderful things for him. Mary's "flip the script" magic totally worked here. But, but, but...listening to this didn't give me the same warm and fuzzies. Totally the audio and not the story didn't work here. Aaron's voice is just wrong. He just wouldn't sound like a whiner. He'd be strong. He's be scary. He wouldn't sound weak and naive and child like. It wasn't the words though, just how they were read to me.
Ugh. I hate it. It wasn't in your face for the whole listen but when it came out it totally did. It totally took me out of the story at times.
As much as I love this not being the same Aaron from MOT it's not at all the same Aaron I read either.
The audio doesn't do him any favors and I think I knew this my first listen but I didn't judge.
Now I am judging.
I want these two together and loved their story, just not so much when it was read to me.
I'm dropping the .5★. Still, not too shabby.
March 21, 2021
It's just stupid. That's all I can say. The only reason it's 2 stars is for the sex scenes. The whole dialogue, plot, everything. STUPID!
June 7, 2016
Vorrei poter scegliere 6 stelline. Accidenti.
A distanza di sei mesi dal precedente volume, avere fra le mani un nuovo capitolo della saga di “Questione di tempo” mi fa palpitare il cuore, perché la adoro.
I lettori più pignoli potrebbero obiettare che “Stoccata finale” non sia davvero il settimo libro della serie, bensì uno spin off – un ‘libro-costola’, un prodotto collaterale rispetto all’opera originaria – perché Jory e Sam, per la prima volta, non sono i protagonisti.
Sì, è vero. I personaggi principali stavolta sono Aaron Sutter e il detective Duncan Stiel, che si sono incontrati, grazie a Jory, nello scorso libro. Eppure, anche se Jory e Sam praticamente non ci sono, aleggiano sul racconto e si respirano la stessa aria e le stesse atmosfere che ho amato in precedenza, la stessa bravura della Calmes, che è riuscita a farmi amare questa saga.
Stavolta la narrazione è affidata a Duncan, amico ed ex collega di Sam, che fa il detective per la omicidi e troppo spesso finisce sotto copertura a rischiare la pellaccia.
Il primo incontro con Aaron è stato un colpo di fulmine reciproco, un incendio divampato senza preavviso, che li ha lasciati entrambi stravolti, che li ha messi di fronte ad un’attrazione e un’affinità che non credevano potesse mai esistere.
Potrebbe quasi sembrare una storia come quelle delle favole, non fosse che la realtà non è mai così semplice.
Anche se per motivi diversi, Aaron e Duncan non possono rivelare al mondo la loro omosessualità e, anzi, devono fingersi felicemente etero.
Gli incarichi pericolosi di Duncan sono un forte deterrente per la pace mentale di Aaron e il fatto che lui sia un personaggio noto al mondo, abituato ad un certo stile di vita e ad un nutrito entourage di servitori, disturba l’indipendenza di Duncan.
Entrambi hanno dei doveri e degli obblighi verso se stessi e gli altri, verso una posizione lavorativa che è costata molto impegno e sacrifici. Quest’amore sembra una minaccia pronta a sconvolgere vari equilibri, non da ultimo il fatto che entrambi abbiano un carattere forte e dominante, per niente incline alla sottomissione – non solo a letto, ma anche nelle decisioni quotidiane di vita comune.
Eppure mi ha incantata vedere come quei due testoni riescano a incastrarsi a vicenda in modo così perfetto; come l’arte del compromesso e l’abbassare le difese, per avvicinarsi vicendevolmente, sia così naturale e spontaneo. Mi hanno fatta sciogliere, davvero.
Il libro è ricco di momenti molto hot, sensuali e dolcissimi. Posso affermare di essermi innamorata di Duncan fin dall’inizio, ma scoprire man mano nuovi aspetti di Aaron – del suo carattere, del suo buon cuore –, me l’ha fatto amare ancor di più. D’altra parte, se Jory è stato insieme a lui, è perché ha visto almeno un po’ del potenziale latente in questo splendido uomo, no?
Come in ogni libro della saga, oltre alla parte introspettiva e ai problemi di coppia, abbiamo anche scene di azione e più adrenaliniche e persino una missione sotto copertura! Quello che amo della Calmes è che non scade mai nel truculento o nell’angoscioso. Le parti drammatiche ci sono, sì, ti fanno patire e ti tengono incollato allo schermo, ma – seppur tragiche – sono stemperate, senza perderne in qualità.
La resa italiana è davvero coinvolgente e si perdona facilmente qualche innocuo refuso sfuggito.
Il mio consiglio è questo: in attesa di ritrovare Sam e Jory nel prossimo volume, godetevi la storia d’amore di Aaron e Duncan, perché saprà conquistarvi com’è successo a me e non ve ne pentirete!
A distanza di sei mesi dal precedente volume, avere fra le mani un nuovo capitolo della saga di “Questione di tempo” mi fa palpitare il cuore, perché la adoro.
I lettori più pignoli potrebbero obiettare che “Stoccata finale” non sia davvero il settimo libro della serie, bensì uno spin off – un ‘libro-costola’, un prodotto collaterale rispetto all’opera originaria – perché Jory e Sam, per la prima volta, non sono i protagonisti.
Sì, è vero. I personaggi principali stavolta sono Aaron Sutter e il detective Duncan Stiel, che si sono incontrati, grazie a Jory, nello scorso libro. Eppure, anche se Jory e Sam praticamente non ci sono, aleggiano sul racconto e si respirano la stessa aria e le stesse atmosfere che ho amato in precedenza, la stessa bravura della Calmes, che è riuscita a farmi amare questa saga.
Stavolta la narrazione è affidata a Duncan, amico ed ex collega di Sam, che fa il detective per la omicidi e troppo spesso finisce sotto copertura a rischiare la pellaccia.
Il primo incontro con Aaron è stato un colpo di fulmine reciproco, un incendio divampato senza preavviso, che li ha lasciati entrambi stravolti, che li ha messi di fronte ad un’attrazione e un’affinità che non credevano potesse mai esistere.
Potrebbe quasi sembrare una storia come quelle delle favole, non fosse che la realtà non è mai così semplice.
Anche se per motivi diversi, Aaron e Duncan non possono rivelare al mondo la loro omosessualità e, anzi, devono fingersi felicemente etero.
Gli incarichi pericolosi di Duncan sono un forte deterrente per la pace mentale di Aaron e il fatto che lui sia un personaggio noto al mondo, abituato ad un certo stile di vita e ad un nutrito entourage di servitori, disturba l’indipendenza di Duncan.
Entrambi hanno dei doveri e degli obblighi verso se stessi e gli altri, verso una posizione lavorativa che è costata molto impegno e sacrifici. Quest’amore sembra una minaccia pronta a sconvolgere vari equilibri, non da ultimo il fatto che entrambi abbiano un carattere forte e dominante, per niente incline alla sottomissione – non solo a letto, ma anche nelle decisioni quotidiane di vita comune.
Eppure mi ha incantata vedere come quei due testoni riescano a incastrarsi a vicenda in modo così perfetto; come l’arte del compromesso e l’abbassare le difese, per avvicinarsi vicendevolmente, sia così naturale e spontaneo. Mi hanno fatta sciogliere, davvero.
Il libro è ricco di momenti molto hot, sensuali e dolcissimi. Posso affermare di essermi innamorata di Duncan fin dall’inizio, ma scoprire man mano nuovi aspetti di Aaron – del suo carattere, del suo buon cuore –, me l’ha fatto amare ancor di più. D’altra parte, se Jory è stato insieme a lui, è perché ha visto almeno un po’ del potenziale latente in questo splendido uomo, no?
Come in ogni libro della saga, oltre alla parte introspettiva e ai problemi di coppia, abbiamo anche scene di azione e più adrenaliniche e persino una missione sotto copertura! Quello che amo della Calmes è che non scade mai nel truculento o nell’angoscioso. Le parti drammatiche ci sono, sì, ti fanno patire e ti tengono incollato allo schermo, ma – seppur tragiche – sono stemperate, senza perderne in qualità.
La resa italiana è davvero coinvolgente e si perdona facilmente qualche innocuo refuso sfuggito.
Il mio consiglio è questo: in attesa di ritrovare Sam e Jory nel prossimo volume, godetevi la storia d’amore di Aaron e Duncan, perché saprà conquistarvi com’è successo a me e non ve ne pentirete!
July 31, 2013
It's unfair that I hold some authors to a higher standard than others, I know that, but I can't help it. Mary Calmes has written some books that I just loved, and when each new book is released, I want to love it as well.
Parting Shot is ok, but I didn't love it.
The guys are hot and strong and moody and rich, the sex is hot and demanding and wild and full of non-existent gag reflexes, the plot is confusing and disjointed and unbelievable and predictable.... bleh.
Spoilers to follow:
The end is fun in a very 'Matter of Time' way that makes the book feel like part of the series and Duncan and Aaron get a well-deserved HEA.
Who thinks the next book is about Terrance Moss - raise your hands
edited to add that I didn't remember Aaron being in the closet so I went back to MoT, and considering that Jory talks about Aaron going down on him in a restaurant while they were together, it was certainly news to me in "But for You" that Aaron was in the closet... like I said, there's an awful lot of (re)writing about things after the fact to explain Mary Calmes' plots.
Parting Shot is ok, but I didn't love it.
The guys are hot and strong and moody and rich, the sex is hot and demanding and wild and full of non-existent gag reflexes, the plot is confusing and disjointed and unbelievable and predictable.... bleh.
Spoilers to follow:
The end is fun in a very 'Matter of Time' way that makes the book feel like part of the series and Duncan and Aaron get a well-deserved HEA.
Who thinks the next book is about Terrance Moss - raise your hands
edited to add that I didn't remember Aaron being in the closet so I went back to MoT, and considering that Jory talks about Aaron going down on him in a restaurant while they were together, it was certainly news to me in "But for You" that Aaron was in the closet... like I said, there's an awful lot of (re)writing about things after the fact to explain Mary Calmes' plots.
Read
February 28, 2015Reading this was meant to be a bit of a joke, and we had a game all mapped out, scoring sweets if the things that irritated us occurred.
On one hand it was successful, there is repetition, clutching channels, insta love and claiming a plenty. I ate at least 3 bags of sweets in 4 days while reading this.
On the other hand it sucks you into the story and before you know it you want Duncan and Aaron to be the worlds most alpha male couple ever. The way that they interact on an emotional level is really, really sweet.
Then there is the most preposterous plot I have ever read.
And on the other hand Duncan and Aaron need each other so much, its adorable.
I can't rate this as I genuinely went from 1 star to 6 stars, in the space of about 30 mins everytime I read it
On one hand it was successful, there is repetition, clutching channels, insta love and claiming a plenty. I ate at least 3 bags of sweets in 4 days while reading this.
On the other hand it sucks you into the story and before you know it you want Duncan and Aaron to be the worlds most alpha male couple ever. The way that they interact on an emotional level is really, really sweet.
Then there is the most preposterous plot I have ever read.
And on the other hand Duncan and Aaron need each other so much, its adorable.
I can't rate this as I genuinely went from 1 star to 6 stars, in the space of about 30 mins everytime I read it
February 5, 2019
4.5 stars
RR February 2019
_________
Re-read June 2017
RR February 2019
_________
Re-read June 2017
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