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Ace
Jake Tanner is a gay asexual man who finds peace on his small Australian farm and is content to lead a quiet life taking care of his animals. Then a random act of kindness on his part sets in motion a complex series of events that results in him playing the piano in a local pub and meeting Damien Jamieson, a sexy gay biker with a penchant for leather. Damien finds Jake instantly irresistible, but that could be the worst thing for their budding relationship, as Damien is determined to bed the reluctant Jake. However, Jake has no intention of going along with his plan. If there’s a chance for anything between them, Damien will have to figure out how to turn Jake on without scaring him off.
210 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 15, 2015
7 people are currently reading
227 people want to read
About the author
Jack Byrne
30 books33 followersOkay, some stray books keeping finding their way back to my author profile...
I did NOT write 'Cowgirl Romances' or 'High School Conditioning' just to be clear. I'm sure they're lovely books - just not mine!
Questions arising from the publication of 'Ace':
(1) It's a novel. It's fiction. No, the characters aren't behaving perfectly. Authors create imperfect characters to incite conflict and thus drama in their stories. If you find that concept eluding you, the more savage of my critics are right when they say you won't enjoy this book. If, on the other hand you enjoy complex characters living in real-world circumstances, have a read and let me know what you think!
(2) On a more serious note: Asexuality (being 'Ace') is a spectrum, and can intersect with other orientations. It does not exclude feeling romantic or even some sexual attraction for members of the same gender or the opposite gender from yourself (or both). Sexuality in a lot of people is incredibly complex. For more information about this, here is a marvellous resource where your questions will be welcome:
http://www.asexuality.org/en/
When you get there, tell them I sent you :)
I did NOT write 'Cowgirl Romances' or 'High School Conditioning' just to be clear. I'm sure they're lovely books - just not mine!
Questions arising from the publication of 'Ace':
(1) It's a novel. It's fiction. No, the characters aren't behaving perfectly. Authors create imperfect characters to incite conflict and thus drama in their stories. If you find that concept eluding you, the more savage of my critics are right when they say you won't enjoy this book. If, on the other hand you enjoy complex characters living in real-world circumstances, have a read and let me know what you think!
(2) On a more serious note: Asexuality (being 'Ace') is a spectrum, and can intersect with other orientations. It does not exclude feeling romantic or even some sexual attraction for members of the same gender or the opposite gender from yourself (or both). Sexuality in a lot of people is incredibly complex. For more information about this, here is a marvellous resource where your questions will be welcome:
http://www.asexuality.org/en/
When you get there, tell them I sent you :)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
June 14, 2016
I've seen some reviewers condemn this book because of its blurb. It sounds like it's all about Damien's sexual needs and how all he wants is for Jake to just stop being such an asexual, doesn't it?
Were you told that the blurb doesn't reflect what is in the book?
Well, fuck that noise. It does, it's all the bullshit of the blurb and more.
This book is mostly about the sexual needs of Damien who thinks he is entitled to sex with Jake and tries to pressure him into sex starting from the first date. Jake's asexual needs are treated as selfish, are repeatedly punished by Damien, a source of guilt for Jake, and Jake is treated as someone incapable of love.
If you read Jack Byrne's blog, he writes that Damien is kind and listens. He curiously fails to mention all the self-righteousness, immaturity and emotional blackmail Damien piles on Jake for not having sex with him (even though they both agreed he wouldn't).
I've seen some people worry that this book is about "fixing the asexual." Is it?
Well, considering that the author says Jake is not even strictly asexual (he's demisexual) that's a tough question. (Lucky him, because if he was 100% ace, he'd be fucked).
And I think it's a bag of bullshit and a half that the author uses the label "Ace" on a book that not only doesn't feature a "real" asexual*, but also comes off as prude-shaming and anti-asexual.
And let's not pretend that the first thing people think when you say "Ace" is "sexually attracted to only the people they are close to." And let's not pretend that when people pick up "asexual romance" they want to read a story where the ace is miserable and incapable of understanding love until they have sex. That's what the other romance books are for. You know, the 99.99% of the romance books ever written?
Sex is not how asexual people want to earn love. Except in "Ace".
Seriously, aren't asexuals alienated enough from this genre?
You have to invade the miniscule fucking subgenre that's supposed to be about and for them and punish and shame their needs??
That's how you want to give them visibility?
...Now, if you want to play Wikipedia debate and point out that the "Ace" label is quite inclusive and the usage rules are not strict, we can play that game. Here goes:
Vodka and perfume and window cleaner are all alcohols. But when you go to the store, they don't sell them in the same package labeled "alcohol", do they? (If they do, you should shop somewhere else, seriously.)
Words have meanings. There is easily over a million word combinations Jack Byrne could use on the cover of his book, if "homoromantic demisexual" didn't fit. In fact, that would be basic kindness on his part, seeing that he uses a book titled "Ace" to shame asexuals into conforming to expectations of everyone who wants them to not be asexual.
But, let's move on to what's inside that cover (which btw is an outrageous false advertising because why are there no dogs on this cover?) Aside from "fix the asexual," which may or may not be included, depending on how much benefit of doubt you give to the author, this book has lots of other toxic messages to asexuals:
"You won't be so asexual once you've had the really great sex."
"You can't love someone until you've had sex with them."
"Sexual needs are more important than asexual needs. Asexual needs are just selfish and sadistic."
"Asexuals can't be choosers. They should try to start a relationship with any sleazy creep that wants to fuck them and always try to make them happy and take responsibility for everything that goes wrong. Because every problem can be traced back to sexual frustration. And they all can be fixed with sex."
"What's self-respect? I'll have more from 'things asexuals don't deserve,' Alex."
And I didn't even get started on this book's disturbing consent issues and bad writing yet.
So.
I've spent an embarrassing amount of time trying to come up with an overarching structure for this review, but I give up. You'd need some Inception-grade architecture action to build that multi-level tower of bovine excrement. My review started out as a keysmash, then turned into an anxious, self-loathing rant, then an angry rant, then I realized that I don't have to give this review more thought than Jack Byrne gave to the main character of this book.
So I'm just gonna bold-list the dafuqery for easier skimming. If you have a whole day, I included examples and expounded on my utter frustration and bewilderment in chapters.
Here goes.
What's wrong with Jack Byrne's "Ace"?
1. Let me start with the summary.
It's not really spoilery, but it's long cos there's a LOT of dafuckery in just the first 25%. I'm spoiler-tagging it because it's long.
2. It's disgustingly anti-asexual
Aside from what I already said at the beginning of this review... The whole time that Jake and Damien are together, whenever Jake avoids physical contact, Damien acts like a passive-aggressive bitch, including
- storming out (one time when Jake refused to jerk him off, he stormed out to fucking Brisbane, which was 3h drive away, and cut contact for a week or so)
- making snide remarks about Jake's lack of feelings or adventure spirit
- acting like not wanting to bone him is a form of torture and making himself out into a victim
“How could I? I don’t know from one week to the next whether you’re going to show up here.” [Jake says]
“Well, maybe that’s because I don’t know whether I’m welcome?” Damien was snippy again all of a sudden.
Fun fact: there's this chapter where they fix a fence for their elderly friend and afterwards Damien goes to take a shower at this old lady's house and is totally hurt and SHOCKED that Jake doesn't want to join him.
And here's the kicker. This is a spoiler, but if you don't want to dent your wall by throwing the book that you didn't expect to be so blatantly anti-asexual, here's what happens when Damien threatens to leave for the last time:
So what if I spill my guts to you? What then? Do I feel all safe and comfortable with you and then get slapped away again because I dared to touch your precious body? What is it with you?”
“People are more than just bodies! I just want us to get to know each other.”
“I fucking hate you some days.”
Damien got up and stalked out of the room.
And then Jake, as always, excuses that bullshit and thinks he needs to reassure Damien about their relationship. And:
3. Why are they even together?
We are never shown Jake and Damien have a meaningful
Or over how unreasonable Jake's expectations are, when he gets upset over Damien outing him at work without asking if it was ok.
They have nothing in common except liking dogs and being gay. What's between them is pure physical attraction and neediness. I got an impression that Jake was really lonely and he just really wanted to make this relationship work.
Jake always feels overwhelming guilt, constantly thinks that Damien is about to leave, and is convinced that he is somehow responsible for Damien's happiness. Because Damien literally cannot be alone. He nearly drinks himself to death and ends up on ER when Diane leaves the country.
And then Diane trying to make them happen like:
“Phew. Because that’s… you know, there’s drugs and all sorts of bad things he could get into.”
“Surely he has some self-control.”
“Most of the time, he’s perfect. The other ninety percent of the time, he has all the self-control of a piranha in a feeding frenzy.”
Damien is a fucking prize, that's for sure.
3. The writing is astonishingly bad.
The relationship building is... Non-existent. There is instant attraction and then they hang out a lot and completely fail at communicating. Like, they start talking about their conflicts, they start to see the point... then step around it in a one mile radius.
This book has IKEAesque descriptions and plot development done by way of telling that contradicts what is shown.
Like when at the end we are told that Damien listened to Jake and respected his choice of not having sex... But throughout the book we are shown the opposite.
Instead of communicating, understanding is done through... Sudden Insights. Like, D&J would have a conflict because Jake is asexual, Damien would storm out, and suddenly, with no factual basis or input from Damien, Jake would be hit by a lightning bolt of understanding of what Damien must be feeling.
And their communication? Jake had those elaborate thoughts about what he's feeling and when it comes time to say it to Damien, he's suddenly forgot how to English and says something inane. Or self-blaming.
There are pages upon pages about dogs, fence fixing, and small talk... But just a few passages about what Jake actually feels. And he always thinks that he's hurting Damien by exercising bodily autonomy.
Or when Jake and Damien spend around 30 pages total making and drinking coffee on numerous occasions, but they never have a meaningful conversation or are shown sharing any bonding moments, except when Damien talks about his adolescence spent on the streets... Which is only always mentioned to excuse his bullshit behavior.
And even though Damien never initiated talking about important stuff, he gives Jake shit for not telling him he's an orphan. Because Jake must not trust him... Like, why would he ever?
5. Those men have some serious issues that are never addressed seriously, but they're used for emotional blackmail.
Like when Jake throws up after agreeing to give Damien a handjob, Damien guilt-trips him for not loving him.
Did it ever occur to him that such a violent reaction to a handjob might be result of some mental issues, or trauma, or at least a sign of massive distress? No. Because Jake's needs are not important. It's all about Damien. Jake's needs are just an obstacle between Damien and getting laid... Uh I mean love, because love and sex are the same.
Or how Damien is obviously codependent and seems to have some kind of sex addiction, or at least his self esteem is fully tied to his sexual desirability, everyone falls over themselves arranging their lives around him, but therapy doesn't even cross anyone's mind. Nope, everything is fine with Damien, it's people who don't want to bow to his demands that are the problem.
6. This book in a nutshell:
Damien said, “I can’t fucking say the right thing, can I? Everything I say comes out all wrong.”
“It’s not you, Damien. It’s me.”
Jake rolled over to face Damien and leaned in for a kiss. “Sun’s nice and warm, isn’t it?”
Damien said nothing, and Jake whispered, “The sun’s warm, and you are beautiful, and you deserve a lot better than me.”
Damien kissed him. “Thank you. But there isn’t anyone better than you.”
“And if there was? You’d be better off without me.”
He waited for the response, but there was none.
...
This book is awkward and frustrating and depressing for asexuals who want to be respected instead of being told to stop being so stingy with "their precious bodies". It's not a romance. It's not about a romantic or mature relationship. It's just a bucket of badly written prude-shaming bullshit where sex is always present like a threat.
If you want a realistic and free read about what it's like being an ace, here's a great article in three parts, written by an ace, informative, empathetic and entertaining:
http://www.asexualityarchive.com/poss...
___
*) I don't know how to call someone who is completely asexual, if asexual is not asexual enough to exclude sexual attraction. That's why we need clearly delineated labels.
P.S. Mr Byrne, if you disagree with my reaction to your book, please feel free to comment. Don't flag my review for deletion, I've spent a long time on it, not to mention the time I spent reading your book.
Read
July 16, 2015Damien finds Jake instantly irresistible, but that could be the worst thing for their budding relationship, as Damien is determined to bed the reluctant Jake. However, Jake has no intention of going along with his plan.
If there’s a chance for anything between them, Damien will have to figure out how to turn Jake on without scaring him off.
June 27, 2015
There has been a lot of talk about this book; most of it preposterous and by people who haven't read it. Let me start off my nailing my colours firmly to the mast; I have read this book and I love it. I find it a sensitive, thought-provoking and thoroughly credible exploration of the thoughts and experiences of the one gay asexual relationship explored between its sheets. Jake, the protagonist of this book, does not set out to be a spokesman or template for every asexual on the planet; he is one particular man and the book explores his relationship with Damian, his significant other, and what happens when their sexual appetite/non-appetite meets.
And, to address the elephant in the room for a moment, of course you can be a gay-asexual, just as you can be a straight asexual. It is simply a matter of aesthetics and preferences. Just as some prefer blonds and some brunettes, some tall and others people with spectacles. Goodness, gracious me, asexuals still have preferences you know. It's a fucking masterpiece. Go out and buy it.
And, to address the elephant in the room for a moment, of course you can be a gay-asexual, just as you can be a straight asexual. It is simply a matter of aesthetics and preferences. Just as some prefer blonds and some brunettes, some tall and others people with spectacles. Goodness, gracious me, asexuals still have preferences you know. It's a fucking masterpiece. Go out and buy it.
December 11, 2015
I don't think this story or romance worked. Jake is asexual. Damian is very sexual. He keeps pushing Jake sexually. And tries to emotionally blackmail him into doing more sexual things all the time. Damian continually sees Jake's lack of sexual response as rejection.
Finally Jake is pressured into having sex with Damian. The end. He's still not really interested in having more sex. Damian wants it everyday now. How is that going to work?
I thought Byrne did a good job of depicting the two characters and their issues. I just really really did not like what he did with them.
Asexuals will not find this book a romantic or pleasant read.
Finally Jake is pressured into having sex with Damian. The end. He's still not really interested in having more sex. Damian wants it everyday now. How is that going to work?
I thought Byrne did a good job of depicting the two characters and their issues. I just really really did not like what he did with them.
Asexuals will not find this book a romantic or pleasant read.
August 12, 2015
Labels can be dangerous, and in this case, calling Jake “asexual” in the blurb may simplify the situation at first glance, but it is not doing the multilayered truth that slowly unfolds in the novel any favors. And while I am by no means an expert on the topic, from what I have found out by reading about and talking to asexual people, two things stand out. One, not every asexual person is like every other asexual person. This should not be a surprise, since every other label in the GLBTQ+ spectrum can probably say the same. However, it seems that not many people “outside” the asexual label are aware of the wide range of possible expressions of the asexual orientation. Two, since most people are sexual, i.e., they like and/or want sex, understanding someone who does not want something that seems so natural to the majority is very difficult.
Jake is content with his life on a small farm in Australia. He loves animals, especially dogs, and rescues one right at the beginning of the story. But that is not the only reason I liked him. He knows who he is and what he wants, yet he is also willing to experiment and try something new when Damien comes along. It became clear to me very quickly that Jake may be asexual, but he is not aromantic, and interested in men – just not necessarily in a physical way. So when the right man comes along, one he is interested in and wants a closer bond with, he is willing to open up and try new things.
Damien is a biker (in his spare time), intensely sexual, and knows what he wants. And that happens to be Jake. But despite the fact he is very certain about himself, he isn’t pushy. He is insistent, and asks a lot of questions, and that is exactly what Jake needs to start thinking about things and to begin coming out of his shell.
One of the things I found most amazing and positive about this book is that Jack Byrne addresses asexuality as a spectrum of needs, attitudes, and behaviors. He does this with sensitivity, empathy, and attention to detail in characterization and events that make this book not only entertaining, but informative. He ends up with a story that can open the eyes and minds of anyone who is willing to “listen” to the characters and what they have to say. The author says in his blog that “it reaches across the spectrum of asexuality” and I think that is very true. With an orientation that is so misunderstood by so many people, this is a book that needed to be written, and Jack did it well.
If you are open to learning something you may not have known before, if you like characters who are multilayered, not to say complicated and maybe even flawed, and if you’re looking for a read that is as fascinating as it is eye-opening, then you will probably like this novel as much as I did. It is not only a wonderful story about great characters, but a valuable contribution to inter-human understanding.
Jake is content with his life on a small farm in Australia. He loves animals, especially dogs, and rescues one right at the beginning of the story. But that is not the only reason I liked him. He knows who he is and what he wants, yet he is also willing to experiment and try something new when Damien comes along. It became clear to me very quickly that Jake may be asexual, but he is not aromantic, and interested in men – just not necessarily in a physical way. So when the right man comes along, one he is interested in and wants a closer bond with, he is willing to open up and try new things.
Damien is a biker (in his spare time), intensely sexual, and knows what he wants. And that happens to be Jake. But despite the fact he is very certain about himself, he isn’t pushy. He is insistent, and asks a lot of questions, and that is exactly what Jake needs to start thinking about things and to begin coming out of his shell.
One of the things I found most amazing and positive about this book is that Jack Byrne addresses asexuality as a spectrum of needs, attitudes, and behaviors. He does this with sensitivity, empathy, and attention to detail in characterization and events that make this book not only entertaining, but informative. He ends up with a story that can open the eyes and minds of anyone who is willing to “listen” to the characters and what they have to say. The author says in his blog that “it reaches across the spectrum of asexuality” and I think that is very true. With an orientation that is so misunderstood by so many people, this is a book that needed to be written, and Jack did it well.
If you are open to learning something you may not have known before, if you like characters who are multilayered, not to say complicated and maybe even flawed, and if you’re looking for a read that is as fascinating as it is eye-opening, then you will probably like this novel as much as I did. It is not only a wonderful story about great characters, but a valuable contribution to inter-human understanding.
zz-dnf
May 13, 2021DNF @ 50%
This book is a hot mess, above and beyond the asexual/demisexual representation. That rep is definitely problematic, but I don't think it's any more problematic than the rest of it.
The writing is a bit stilted, something feels off with a lot of the dialog and it gets way too detailed on the minutiae -- step by step making coffee, coming to a stop at a traffic light, walking across a parking lot. But I needed this for a challenge, and the reviews had me hella curious how everything was going to play out, so I decided to roll with it.
The biggest complaint I saw in the reviews was the way the love interest seems to disrespect the ace/demi MC's lack of interest in sex. But...I don't think the love interest really understood what the MC was trying to tell him.
I definitely didn't understand what the MC was saying, and I went into this with an expectation of an asexual storyline, I am demisexual myself, and I'm relatively well-versed on the whole asexaul-demisexual spectrum. (Not that either of these terms has been used at this point.) But I have NO idea how Jake was asking Damien to proceed, and every time I thought I understood, Jake would be the one to do something completely contrary to that. Damien mostly seemed confused about what Jake wanted, and I couldn't blame him.
Damien did say/do a few things that rubbed me the wrong way, but no more than Jake did with his strange thoughts about Damien's background of I think I was bothered most by some of Jake's own thoughts about his asexuality/demisexuality, but not in a way that felt unrealistic or offensive. I, personally, just couldn't relate to how he chose to handle some things.
The extreme case of insta-love on Damien's part was the final straw, though. It's such an awkward fit for everything else going on here, and the whole thing has gotten so weird and muddled that I can't take it any more. My annoyance with the writing has officially surpassed my curiosity, and that's completely unrelated to the MC's sexual identity.
This book is a hot mess, above and beyond the asexual/demisexual representation. That rep is definitely problematic, but I don't think it's any more problematic than the rest of it.
The writing is a bit stilted, something feels off with a lot of the dialog and it gets way too detailed on the minutiae -- step by step making coffee, coming to a stop at a traffic light, walking across a parking lot. But I needed this for a challenge, and the reviews had me hella curious how everything was going to play out, so I decided to roll with it.
The biggest complaint I saw in the reviews was the way the love interest seems to disrespect the ace/demi MC's lack of interest in sex. But...I don't think the love interest really understood what the MC was trying to tell him.
I definitely didn't understand what the MC was saying, and I went into this with an expectation of an asexual storyline, I am demisexual myself, and I'm relatively well-versed on the whole asexaul-demisexual spectrum. (Not that either of these terms has been used at this point.) But I have NO idea how Jake was asking Damien to proceed, and every time I thought I understood, Jake would be the one to do something completely contrary to that. Damien mostly seemed confused about what Jake wanted, and I couldn't blame him.
Damien did say/do a few things that rubbed me the wrong way, but no more than Jake did with his strange thoughts about Damien's background of I think I was bothered most by some of Jake's own thoughts about his asexuality/demisexuality, but not in a way that felt unrealistic or offensive. I, personally, just couldn't relate to how he chose to handle some things.
The extreme case of insta-love on Damien's part was the final straw, though. It's such an awkward fit for everything else going on here, and the whole thing has gotten so weird and muddled that I can't take it any more. My annoyance with the writing has officially surpassed my curiosity, and that's completely unrelated to the MC's sexual identity.
July 13, 2015
This is the first book I've read by this author, and I know people overuse this sentence - but its not gonna be the last. I know this because I will personally track him down and extract his fingernails if he doesn't give me a sequel. This is one of those books that sneaks up on you. meaning you're half way through before you realize it and there's no way you're going to put it down before it's done.
I'm not going to give spoilers or rehash the story because that's not fair (and there's so many professional reviewers that can do that so much better than me) I just will say this - this book wasn't what i expected. Even with the blurb, I was fascinated, horrified, and in love with the characters all at the same time. You don't just read this book, you have to live a little of it at the same time, and any author who gets in my head like this - deserves a five star. I'd write more but I'm going searching for pliers...
I'm not going to give spoilers or rehash the story because that's not fair (and there's so many professional reviewers that can do that so much better than me) I just will say this - this book wasn't what i expected. Even with the blurb, I was fascinated, horrified, and in love with the characters all at the same time. You don't just read this book, you have to live a little of it at the same time, and any author who gets in my head like this - deserves a five star. I'd write more but I'm going searching for pliers...
March 20, 2016
Interesting! Liked it a lot.
REVIEW @Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words
ACE was my first novel by Jack Byrne, non considering the story done for the A Taste of Honey anthology (still waiting for the sequel BTW!). I know he usually writes historicals and in fact his Bushrangers series is next on my reading. I picked up ACE because I was really curious about the asexual aspect, as last month I read another book on the same subject and really liked it.
I read ACE and soon loved it. It’s well written but most of all it’s real, emotional, sensitive and sexy too. I was caught up in Damien and Jake’s story from the start. The characters were well defined. Especially Damien, so sure of himself, he is sexy and wants Jake no matter the cost. He seems so strong but he hides a deep insecurity due to his young years spent on the streets taking care of himself and the person who become his daughter, Diane.
The story was unusual to me, starting just with the relationship between Diane and Damien, never met a 29 years old father of an (adopted) 24 years old. It was interesting look at their dynamics. Moreover, the relationship between Damien and Jake was strange too and I’m not talking about the asexual aspect. It was strange but absolutely believable because it felt real and possible. All the struggles, emotionally and physically, of two people so different from each other, still so needy and full of love to give. Two aspects, the physical and the emotional one, so fused together, seeing Damien so frustrated to not be able to be completely himself with Jake and use the sex as the only way to show his feelings, the only one he knows about. And it’s exactly when that way is barred that I found the realism in the story.
And where some people had some misunderstanding with the blurb, I can say that I didn’t find this strong feeling Damien has in wanting Jake as a constriction or a duty, just as something normal and real. I know, I’m saying the world real a lot, sorry.
Now about the asexual aspect, I could have a lot to say but I’ll keep it brief. I read the book when I still knew nothing about ace people, I wanted to see how the author dealt with it. The word “asexual” was at no time mentioned by the two MCs. The story is a discovery journey, one Jake is still working on. It’s a complex and well done story and later, when I went looking for more clarifications about a couple of things that seemed to be “unclear”, I discovered the author makes his stories this way.
I was pleasurably surprised by ACE and I’m going to read more by this author soon. I want to highly recommend it.
Cover art by Christy Caughie The cover is clean and fits the story perfectly. I like it.
REVIEW @Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words
ACE was my first novel by Jack Byrne, non considering the story done for the A Taste of Honey anthology (still waiting for the sequel BTW!). I know he usually writes historicals and in fact his Bushrangers series is next on my reading. I picked up ACE because I was really curious about the asexual aspect, as last month I read another book on the same subject and really liked it.
I read ACE and soon loved it. It’s well written but most of all it’s real, emotional, sensitive and sexy too. I was caught up in Damien and Jake’s story from the start. The characters were well defined. Especially Damien, so sure of himself, he is sexy and wants Jake no matter the cost. He seems so strong but he hides a deep insecurity due to his young years spent on the streets taking care of himself and the person who become his daughter, Diane.
The story was unusual to me, starting just with the relationship between Diane and Damien, never met a 29 years old father of an (adopted) 24 years old. It was interesting look at their dynamics. Moreover, the relationship between Damien and Jake was strange too and I’m not talking about the asexual aspect. It was strange but absolutely believable because it felt real and possible. All the struggles, emotionally and physically, of two people so different from each other, still so needy and full of love to give. Two aspects, the physical and the emotional one, so fused together, seeing Damien so frustrated to not be able to be completely himself with Jake and use the sex as the only way to show his feelings, the only one he knows about. And it’s exactly when that way is barred that I found the realism in the story.
And where some people had some misunderstanding with the blurb, I can say that I didn’t find this strong feeling Damien has in wanting Jake as a constriction or a duty, just as something normal and real. I know, I’m saying the world real a lot, sorry.
Now about the asexual aspect, I could have a lot to say but I’ll keep it brief. I read the book when I still knew nothing about ace people, I wanted to see how the author dealt with it. The word “asexual” was at no time mentioned by the two MCs. The story is a discovery journey, one Jake is still working on. It’s a complex and well done story and later, when I went looking for more clarifications about a couple of things that seemed to be “unclear”, I discovered the author makes his stories this way.
I was pleasurably surprised by ACE and I’m going to read more by this author soon. I want to highly recommend it.
Cover art by Christy Caughie The cover is clean and fits the story perfectly. I like it.
July 21, 2015
Bloody loved it. If you're an adult Asexual you'll get this book. If you're just cock-shy or don't like touch or are hung up on everything and don't know what you are and are hiding under the ACE banner you'll hate it and run screaming from the room like a blushing pre-teen.
Don't get hung up on the blurb on the back that apparently got written by the production company not the author. Give the man some credit - Jack Byrne really knows how to write and he knows his subject matter here, inside out. And this is his best book yet. He really gets under the skin of his characters, both Jake and Damien. I hope there's a follow-up book, I really need to know why Damien is like he is. His sexuality is just as complex as Jake's. What did he go through? I need to know! And I need to know what happens next!
This is not a 'magic penis' story. There's no 'fixing' of the Asexual. This is two men working through what happens when vastly differing needs meet. Can love find a way through the emotional and psychological chaos? And what does that way look like for them?
LOVE IT. WHEN'S THE SEQUEL, JACK???
Don't get hung up on the blurb on the back that apparently got written by the production company not the author. Give the man some credit - Jack Byrne really knows how to write and he knows his subject matter here, inside out. And this is his best book yet. He really gets under the skin of his characters, both Jake and Damien. I hope there's a follow-up book, I really need to know why Damien is like he is. His sexuality is just as complex as Jake's. What did he go through? I need to know! And I need to know what happens next!
This is not a 'magic penis' story. There's no 'fixing' of the Asexual. This is two men working through what happens when vastly differing needs meet. Can love find a way through the emotional and psychological chaos? And what does that way look like for them?
LOVE IT. WHEN'S THE SEQUEL, JACK???
July 16, 2015
4 Heart Review by Amber
Honestly, this one worried me from the blurb. When I first initially read the blurb I think I thought this would be a story about a guy playing hard to get having had no prior knowledge to what asexual meant. I thought it would be about one MC who never really had sexual interest in anyone UNTIL he met the other MC. This is not that story. This story is so much more complex and I am so happy I put aside my issues in regards to the books I read to give this one a shot. I was not disappointed at all. This story was so surprisingly enjoyable. I’ve always known I like sex in my stories. I don’t need insta-sex/insta-love and I don’t need there to be a sex scene in every chapter but I’m drawn to stories where the sexual chemistry/connection between characters is so strong they have to fight to NOT be all over each other. That’s why I’m so surprised I liked this as much as I did because there’s very little sex but there are passionate moments. There are also moments that twist you up inside. There are also frustrating and confusing moments especially for readers like me who have no real understanding of asexuality. With that said, I was invested in this story and in these characters from basically the first chapter which I attribute mostly to the talent of this author.
When Jake Tanner first lays eyes on Damien Jamieson there’s an immediate interest between both men. Jake’s interest however, is really that simple. He’s interested in Damien. Not interested in sex with Damien because Jake’s totally indifferent when it comes to sex. That’s as basic as I can explain it. He’s had sex with both men and women, he identifies as gay, but the drive to have sex is not there. He wants to get to know Damien, spend time with him and see where it leads.
Damien however has a visceral physical sexual attraction to Jake. He wants him desperately, so desperately that he’s willing to wait it out with Jake. He agrees to take things slow, get to know each other and see if sex happens. I absolutely loved Damien! His patience, care, was so moving. He listened to Jake’s needs and put his own needs aside to put Jake’s first.
Even though this story isn’t volcanic physical passionate need that doesn’t negate the connection that these two men have. It really is beautiful and the love that forms between them was perfect….for them!
Like I mentioned there’s lots of meat to this story. We get back story on Damien and a little of Jake. I loved the side characters they added lots of depth to the story!!
This is the first book I’ve read from Jack Byrne. The writing was very well done. Strong plot, great characters, and I’m definitely interested in more stories by this author. I absolutely recommend this book! There’s just so much here that I wasn’t expecting. I love these kinds of surprises!!
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
Honestly, this one worried me from the blurb. When I first initially read the blurb I think I thought this would be a story about a guy playing hard to get having had no prior knowledge to what asexual meant. I thought it would be about one MC who never really had sexual interest in anyone UNTIL he met the other MC. This is not that story. This story is so much more complex and I am so happy I put aside my issues in regards to the books I read to give this one a shot. I was not disappointed at all. This story was so surprisingly enjoyable. I’ve always known I like sex in my stories. I don’t need insta-sex/insta-love and I don’t need there to be a sex scene in every chapter but I’m drawn to stories where the sexual chemistry/connection between characters is so strong they have to fight to NOT be all over each other. That’s why I’m so surprised I liked this as much as I did because there’s very little sex but there are passionate moments. There are also moments that twist you up inside. There are also frustrating and confusing moments especially for readers like me who have no real understanding of asexuality. With that said, I was invested in this story and in these characters from basically the first chapter which I attribute mostly to the talent of this author.
When Jake Tanner first lays eyes on Damien Jamieson there’s an immediate interest between both men. Jake’s interest however, is really that simple. He’s interested in Damien. Not interested in sex with Damien because Jake’s totally indifferent when it comes to sex. That’s as basic as I can explain it. He’s had sex with both men and women, he identifies as gay, but the drive to have sex is not there. He wants to get to know Damien, spend time with him and see where it leads.
Damien however has a visceral physical sexual attraction to Jake. He wants him desperately, so desperately that he’s willing to wait it out with Jake. He agrees to take things slow, get to know each other and see if sex happens. I absolutely loved Damien! His patience, care, was so moving. He listened to Jake’s needs and put his own needs aside to put Jake’s first.
Even though this story isn’t volcanic physical passionate need that doesn’t negate the connection that these two men have. It really is beautiful and the love that forms between them was perfect….for them!
Like I mentioned there’s lots of meat to this story. We get back story on Damien and a little of Jake. I loved the side characters they added lots of depth to the story!!
This is the first book I’ve read from Jack Byrne. The writing was very well done. Strong plot, great characters, and I’m definitely interested in more stories by this author. I absolutely recommend this book! There’s just so much here that I wasn’t expecting. I love these kinds of surprises!!
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
March 27, 2017
Couldn't put this book down. I did have a few quibbles with it, but knowing every Ace experience is different, it's hard to get too upset over them. The very end explains so much, as well, and makes me happy, makes me feel better about where Jake is going in life. Though I almost wish that Jake's revelation had come a little earlier in the book.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read and I do strongly recommend it to other Aces and non-Aces. Just remember, that the term "Asexual" covers a wide range of feelings. To learn more about it, I highly recommend reading The Invisible Orientation: An Introduction to Asexuality by Julie Sondra Decker. Best non-fiction book about Asexuality I've seen so far, and written by an Ace, making it even more important!
Overall, this was an enjoyable read and I do strongly recommend it to other Aces and non-Aces. Just remember, that the term "Asexual" covers a wide range of feelings. To learn more about it, I highly recommend reading The Invisible Orientation: An Introduction to Asexuality by Julie Sondra Decker. Best non-fiction book about Asexuality I've seen so far, and written by an Ace, making it even more important!
dnf-or-hated
August 17, 2016DNF - No Rating.
DNF of Audio. I'm so disappointed and angry and its only 35% done, I just don't even want to continue.
First, my biggest pet peeve, the story is set in Australia, with all Australian characters, but the narration is done with an American accent.
But I could get over that.
What I cannot get over is that this was supposed to be an asexual romance, and God, how I hungered to see an inclusive, loving depiction of asexuality.
Not so. Or...at least not so in the almost three hours of audio I listened to.
There is shaming, and constantly trying to get Jack to change without Damien ever listening, there are mixed signals, and...just...no.
So, no. I'm not going to continue.
Instead I'm going to wait for TJ Klune's How To Be A Normal Person, which is Ace done well, and spend my time there.
Audio copy of Ace provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
DNF of Audio. I'm so disappointed and angry and its only 35% done, I just don't even want to continue.
First, my biggest pet peeve, the story is set in Australia, with all Australian characters, but the narration is done with an American accent.
But I could get over that.
What I cannot get over is that this was supposed to be an asexual romance, and God, how I hungered to see an inclusive, loving depiction of asexuality.
Not so. Or...at least not so in the almost three hours of audio I listened to.
There is shaming, and constantly trying to get Jack to change without Damien ever listening, there are mixed signals, and...just...no.
So, no. I'm not going to continue.
Instead I'm going to wait for TJ Klune's How To Be A Normal Person, which is Ace done well, and spend my time there.
Audio copy of Ace provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 13, 2016
***Audiobook*** I didn't really connect with this story. Not the storyline, the characters, or the narration. I picked it up because I was intrigued by the blurb and have never read a story with an asexual character. But this just left me feeling frustrated.
I didn't like Damien at all. He didn't seem to be particularly understanding. He was so hot and cold, sending mixed signals, repeatedly trying to pressure Jake into sex, and I honestly can't figure out what Jake saw in him. I did feel bad for Jake. He felt so guilty about his asexuality and not being able to give Damien what he wanted. He was always waiting for Damien to leave him. I didn't feel any connection between them at all. ***2.5 stars***
I didn't like Damien at all. He didn't seem to be particularly understanding. He was so hot and cold, sending mixed signals, repeatedly trying to pressure Jake into sex, and I honestly can't figure out what Jake saw in him. I did feel bad for Jake. He felt so guilty about his asexuality and not being able to give Damien what he wanted. He was always waiting for Damien to leave him. I didn't feel any connection between them at all. ***2.5 stars***
September 12, 2015
I have been on the look out for books with ace characters so was eagerly awaiting this one. Can't say I was impressed with the blurb, but I really did enjoy this book. For Damien, who seemed to equate love and sex, romance and sex (is this how sexual people feel?), it was interesting to see him struggle and try and understand someone who does not need sex. I hope to see more of Jake and Damien.
July 28, 2015
Jack Tanner is gay and asexual. He leads a quiet life in a small town. On his way home one evening, Jake finds a lost dog. He finds the owner and is rewarded with dinner at a local pub. Jake notices a handsome biker, in the pub, who shamelessly winks at him. Jake is puzzled by the biker's behavior. That wink will change Jake's world. The bike turns out to be his best friend Diane's adopted father.
This is a very unique story, in that it explores asexuality. Jake's feelings about sex are alien to his best friend Diane, as she can't understand why he has not jumped her. When his a relationship develops with Damien, Jake is faced with explaining himself to Damien. Damien is frustrated when Jake shows no interest in having sex with him. Jake really cares for Damien. He wants a relationship, but he can not do it on Damien's terms. The idea that one's appetite concerning sex defines a person is explored with intelligence and compassion. It shows what we will and will not do for those we love.
I really loved this story and the characters.
This is a very unique story, in that it explores asexuality. Jake's feelings about sex are alien to his best friend Diane, as she can't understand why he has not jumped her. When his a relationship develops with Damien, Jake is faced with explaining himself to Damien. Damien is frustrated when Jake shows no interest in having sex with him. Jake really cares for Damien. He wants a relationship, but he can not do it on Damien's terms. The idea that one's appetite concerning sex defines a person is explored with intelligence and compassion. It shows what we will and will not do for those we love.
I really loved this story and the characters.
March 14, 2017
want want want!
August 7, 2015
Reviewed for Rainbow Gold Reviews. 9/10 pots of gold. A copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
Ever since I started reading and reviewing m/m romance, I’ve been really interested in reading or learning more about the other letters that make up the LGBT spectrum. LGBTQIA for others. I have read plenty of gay and bisexual stories, one transgender, and recently one intersex. So I was excited when Ace was released and I could learn more about asexuality. Yeah, I could look it up on the internet, but somehow reading, and getting into a character’s head makes it easier to understand. I will say that I learned a lot, and that I had a lot of misconceptions about asexuality prior to reading.
The story is set in Australia, which is always cool, because it’s neat to learn more about their culture and the different animals they have. When Jake and Damien meet on Jake’s doorstep, it seems like fate guided them together. Damien is very attracted to Jake but Jake doesn’t feel the same way. Not that he has anything against getting to know him better or thinks he’s ugly or something, but because he doesn’t feel sexual attraction. Ever. I heard someone say that the blurb turned them off because you can’t be gay and asexual. I thought about that and decided that it could happen. I don’t think being gay or straight is all about sexual desire, it could just be who you are able to get closer to, find yourself wanting to be near. Sometimes labels can make things more confusing.
Two things that surprised me in the story is that first, Jake didn’t have a name for his inability to desire someone, which I think brings to light how overlooked asexuality is in society. Secondly, I was surprised when Jake explained that he had slept with both men and women. That had to do with my misconception that lack of sexual desire meant lack of sexual function. No matter the past experiences Jake might have had or that he found Damien pleasing to the eye, he didn’t want to sleep with him.
Even learning about Jake’s uniqueness didn’t deter Damien from wanting to be with Jake, who was looking for companionship and love but thought he might never have them. They agree to a trial period in which to get to know each other and be friends before intimacy. This is hard for both of them. Jake is sure it won’t work because let’s face it, most relationships thrive with sexual contact. Damien is sure he can make Jake feel good enough that he will feel desire, but those are his misconceptions. It’s also hard for him because he takes Jake’s lack of interest personally, that it’s him, no matter how many times Jake says it’s the same for everyone else.
The two men do go through some things that show how much they care for each other, but the lack of sex does take it’s toll on them to some degree. I would say that this story has a HFN ending. They do come to some agreements, but I have to wonder through Jake’s viewpoint whether Damien will stick around for the long haul. And whether Jake will feel like he’s failing Damien, as well. At the end of the story, Jake meets a group of people who give a name to what he is much to Jake’s surprise. All I have to say is that I hope there is a sequel. I would love to know more about his reaction to the new knowledge and whether they can build something strong enough for a HEA.
Ever since I started reading and reviewing m/m romance, I’ve been really interested in reading or learning more about the other letters that make up the LGBT spectrum. LGBTQIA for others. I have read plenty of gay and bisexual stories, one transgender, and recently one intersex. So I was excited when Ace was released and I could learn more about asexuality. Yeah, I could look it up on the internet, but somehow reading, and getting into a character’s head makes it easier to understand. I will say that I learned a lot, and that I had a lot of misconceptions about asexuality prior to reading.
The story is set in Australia, which is always cool, because it’s neat to learn more about their culture and the different animals they have. When Jake and Damien meet on Jake’s doorstep, it seems like fate guided them together. Damien is very attracted to Jake but Jake doesn’t feel the same way. Not that he has anything against getting to know him better or thinks he’s ugly or something, but because he doesn’t feel sexual attraction. Ever. I heard someone say that the blurb turned them off because you can’t be gay and asexual. I thought about that and decided that it could happen. I don’t think being gay or straight is all about sexual desire, it could just be who you are able to get closer to, find yourself wanting to be near. Sometimes labels can make things more confusing.
Two things that surprised me in the story is that first, Jake didn’t have a name for his inability to desire someone, which I think brings to light how overlooked asexuality is in society. Secondly, I was surprised when Jake explained that he had slept with both men and women. That had to do with my misconception that lack of sexual desire meant lack of sexual function. No matter the past experiences Jake might have had or that he found Damien pleasing to the eye, he didn’t want to sleep with him.
Even learning about Jake’s uniqueness didn’t deter Damien from wanting to be with Jake, who was looking for companionship and love but thought he might never have them. They agree to a trial period in which to get to know each other and be friends before intimacy. This is hard for both of them. Jake is sure it won’t work because let’s face it, most relationships thrive with sexual contact. Damien is sure he can make Jake feel good enough that he will feel desire, but those are his misconceptions. It’s also hard for him because he takes Jake’s lack of interest personally, that it’s him, no matter how many times Jake says it’s the same for everyone else.
The two men do go through some things that show how much they care for each other, but the lack of sex does take it’s toll on them to some degree. I would say that this story has a HFN ending. They do come to some agreements, but I have to wonder through Jake’s viewpoint whether Damien will stick around for the long haul. And whether Jake will feel like he’s failing Damien, as well. At the end of the story, Jake meets a group of people who give a name to what he is much to Jake’s surprise. All I have to say is that I hope there is a sequel. I would love to know more about his reaction to the new knowledge and whether they can build something strong enough for a HEA.
July 19, 2015
I wasn't quite sure how a romance book about an asexual guy would work out, but I really enjoyed the story. I read up a bit on asexuality to find out it is not necessarily a person who doesn't have sex, but more about one who isn't sexually attracted to others for the most part. And that the term asexuality covers a range of feelings and attraction just like other human emotions, so that one type of asexual person could be attracted to someone once he has come to know and love him. Forgive me, I'm sure that is simplistic, but this more in depth concept is new to me and I'm trying to understand it myself.
At the opening of the story, Jake has had plenty of one night stands and a few short term relationships, but nobody has stuck around long enough for him to feel close to. Jake is lonely and wants someone in his life to love, but his longing is more for someone to hang out and be comfortable with, to talk about books and to cuddle with on the couch, rather than to necessisarily have sex. When Damien enters Jake's life, he finds someone that he really enjoys spending time with, but figures that it will be just a short time before Damien moves on like all the rest.
I really liked both of the main characters, and there were many great secondary characters as well, especially the dogs. The opening scene where Jake rescued Sally was great as it tugged on the heartstrings but was funny, too.
Instead of having a bunch of sex scenes, which I usually find boring, this book had more scenes of intimacy, feeling, and understanding. I like this better, so that the sex scenes were even more meaningful when they occurred. By the end of the book, I felt Jake's and Damien's relationship was in a good place, but really they are still at the beginning of understanding each other and themselves. I actually thought that the last few lines of the book were a perfect way to end it, though a bit of a surprise to Jake AND me. But I am hoping that last bit is also a setup for a sequel, since I'd really like to read more about Jake and Damien in the future.
At the opening of the story, Jake has had plenty of one night stands and a few short term relationships, but nobody has stuck around long enough for him to feel close to. Jake is lonely and wants someone in his life to love, but his longing is more for someone to hang out and be comfortable with, to talk about books and to cuddle with on the couch, rather than to necessisarily have sex. When Damien enters Jake's life, he finds someone that he really enjoys spending time with, but figures that it will be just a short time before Damien moves on like all the rest.
I really liked both of the main characters, and there were many great secondary characters as well, especially the dogs. The opening scene where Jake rescued Sally was great as it tugged on the heartstrings but was funny, too.
Instead of having a bunch of sex scenes, which I usually find boring, this book had more scenes of intimacy, feeling, and understanding. I like this better, so that the sex scenes were even more meaningful when they occurred. By the end of the book, I felt Jake's and Damien's relationship was in a good place, but really they are still at the beginning of understanding each other and themselves. I actually thought that the last few lines of the book were a perfect way to end it, though a bit of a surprise to Jake AND me. But I am hoping that last bit is also a setup for a sequel, since I'd really like to read more about Jake and Damien in the future.
August 2, 2015
This book was amazing. I can see where some people had issues, but I loved this book. Yes, Damien loves sex and tried pressuring Jake, but he also in my opinion tried to understand how Jake felt. Its hard in a way. I know how Jake feels.
Jake to me seems to an Autochrissexual, because of how turned on he got from leather, the riding crop, etc. He then started to learn more about Damien. To which makes me think that Jake may be a demisexual, which means once a bond is established that is when the sexual attraction comes in. Yes, Asexuals have no sexual attraction, but some aces do have sex for different reasons. I would love for a sequel to see Jake exploring this side of him.
I couldn't put this book down and I might add that I am a Panromantic Asexual. Keep up the great work Jack. This book was excellent. Ignore the haters.
Jake to me seems to an Autochrissexual, because of how turned on he got from leather, the riding crop, etc. He then started to learn more about Damien. To which makes me think that Jake may be a demisexual, which means once a bond is established that is when the sexual attraction comes in. Yes, Asexuals have no sexual attraction, but some aces do have sex for different reasons. I would love for a sequel to see Jake exploring this side of him.
I couldn't put this book down and I might add that I am a Panromantic Asexual. Keep up the great work Jack. This book was excellent. Ignore the haters.
September 3, 2016
Honestly it was just ok. I love stories where at least one of the MCs is Ace, but this just didn't work for me the way I wanted it to. Mainly because I am not at all comfortable with how Damien basically guilted Jake into having sex with him, even tho it is pretty fucking clear Jake doesn't want to.
The ending was also really abrupt, and it didn't feel like any of there problems got solved. Is Jake just supposed to keep having sex with Damien to keep him around? Is Damien gonna keep being an asshole every time they don't? The story cuts off too suddenly, and left me hanging with no answers, and several really unhappy feelings regarding Damien. As a result this came out feeling like a pretty unhealthy relationship. That coupled with the rather shoddy plotting means I can only give it 2.5 stars.
The ending was also really abrupt, and it didn't feel like any of there problems got solved. Is Jake just supposed to keep having sex with Damien to keep him around? Is Damien gonna keep being an asshole every time they don't? The story cuts off too suddenly, and left me hanging with no answers, and several really unhappy feelings regarding Damien. As a result this came out feeling like a pretty unhealthy relationship. That coupled with the rather shoddy plotting means I can only give it 2.5 stars.
July 22, 2015
I love this book! Why? Mainly because the two main characters are so fully realized, complex, and interesting. Do not be misled by the cover blurb. This is not simply a story of an asexual man who meets Mr. Right and immediately (or even eventually) becomes enthusiastically sexual. Although both men are immediately drawn to each other, that doesn't mean that their essential natures change as a result. And asexuality is just as essential or inborn as being gay, lesbian, bi, or straight. So yeah, they come to love each other, but that doesn't mean that either of them "converts". It doesn't work that way and the author doesn't write it that way. As always with this author, the Austrailian setting is vividly detailed, the writing flawless, and the secondary characters complex and interesting.
August 4, 2015
2.5 Stars, rounding up for reasons
I have very mixed thoughts on this book. There seems to be a lot of love for it, but I had trouble throughout much of the story. Not so much with the story itself, but with the behavior of the characters. Behavior that felt inconsistent, forced at times, and puzzling. For me, Jake and Damien didn’t fit most of the time. When they did gel better, things still felt off and inauthentic. A spark of interest that seemed far fetched at first, builds into a strange sort of friendship that left me feeling bad for a lot of the book.
You can read my full review at Boys In Our Books.
I have very mixed thoughts on this book. There seems to be a lot of love for it, but I had trouble throughout much of the story. Not so much with the story itself, but with the behavior of the characters. Behavior that felt inconsistent, forced at times, and puzzling. For me, Jake and Damien didn’t fit most of the time. When they did gel better, things still felt off and inauthentic. A spark of interest that seemed far fetched at first, builds into a strange sort of friendship that left me feeling bad for a lot of the book.
You can read my full review at Boys In Our Books.
Read
September 8, 2016I couldn't read any more. See status updates. DNF at 42%.
Even the title doesn't do this book any favours.
Even the title doesn't do this book any favours.
March 8, 2016
Jake Tanner is young guy who works on his own as a farm manager and owns his own place. One day, on his way home, he stops when a dog is in the street and ends up taking her home. He calls the local animal shelter to let them know and a few days later, the owners come to get her. She’s gotten along well with Jake’s dog, but he’s happy to see her home with her elderly owners.
In thanks, the owners invite Jake to dinner at their son’s restaurant/bar, and Jake accepts. While he’s there, a very handsome and intriguing motorcyclist comes in and catches Jake’s eye. He’s quickly off, though, so Jake figures that’s that. There is a beautiful piano there and Jake begins to plan. The owners offer him a job playing on weekends—and everyone loves his playing so he accepts.
Jake is then visited by his friend from Uni, Diane. She’s kicked out her two-timing boyfriend and needs to get away from Brisbane, so arrives on Jake’s doorstep. Of course, Jake takes her in. A few days later the mysterious, gorgeous motorcyclist shows up, and it turns out it’s Diane’s adoptive father, who is barely older than Jake. Clearly Damien is smitten with Jake, but he doesn’t understand Jake’s reluctance for a physical relationship. Jake confirms that he is not straight and that he has had sex, but that is not what interests him. He has trouble articulating what it is he needs, and Damien has a hard time not turning everything into a rejection, which then just makes Jake feel worse. Jake doesn’t have a name for it. He just is who he is.
They decide to see each other on weekends when Damien visits from Brisbane, and their relationship is very much a rollercoaster ride. The closer Jake thinks they are to getting it right, the more rejected Damien feels. Their weekends, which started off so great, begin to become a chore, and Damien can’t seem to get Jake’s boundaries, which also makes him angry—while Jake isn’t closeted, he also doesn’t advertise. Then Damien experiences a crisis that causes Jake to question their whole relationship and if he even wants to try.
Ace is my first book about an asexual character. At times I was as confused as Damien about what Jake needed and where his limits were since he had a hard time articulating them in a way that would be easy to understand by an intimate partner. I’m not sure it was entirely clear what his relationship desires would be or what would be too far since at one point he appears to be repulsed by Damien’s behavior. It’s an interesting subject to consider, but I’m not sure how much I took away from this story, except that I would definitely need to do a lot more research about the topic. At times, I felt like I was sort of just flailing about a bit in this book and trying to read between the lines.
Reviewed by Sadonna for The Novel Approach Reviews
http://www.thenovelapproachreviews.co...
In thanks, the owners invite Jake to dinner at their son’s restaurant/bar, and Jake accepts. While he’s there, a very handsome and intriguing motorcyclist comes in and catches Jake’s eye. He’s quickly off, though, so Jake figures that’s that. There is a beautiful piano there and Jake begins to plan. The owners offer him a job playing on weekends—and everyone loves his playing so he accepts.
Jake is then visited by his friend from Uni, Diane. She’s kicked out her two-timing boyfriend and needs to get away from Brisbane, so arrives on Jake’s doorstep. Of course, Jake takes her in. A few days later the mysterious, gorgeous motorcyclist shows up, and it turns out it’s Diane’s adoptive father, who is barely older than Jake. Clearly Damien is smitten with Jake, but he doesn’t understand Jake’s reluctance for a physical relationship. Jake confirms that he is not straight and that he has had sex, but that is not what interests him. He has trouble articulating what it is he needs, and Damien has a hard time not turning everything into a rejection, which then just makes Jake feel worse. Jake doesn’t have a name for it. He just is who he is.
They decide to see each other on weekends when Damien visits from Brisbane, and their relationship is very much a rollercoaster ride. The closer Jake thinks they are to getting it right, the more rejected Damien feels. Their weekends, which started off so great, begin to become a chore, and Damien can’t seem to get Jake’s boundaries, which also makes him angry—while Jake isn’t closeted, he also doesn’t advertise. Then Damien experiences a crisis that causes Jake to question their whole relationship and if he even wants to try.
Ace is my first book about an asexual character. At times I was as confused as Damien about what Jake needed and where his limits were since he had a hard time articulating them in a way that would be easy to understand by an intimate partner. I’m not sure it was entirely clear what his relationship desires would be or what would be too far since at one point he appears to be repulsed by Damien’s behavior. It’s an interesting subject to consider, but I’m not sure how much I took away from this story, except that I would definitely need to do a lot more research about the topic. At times, I felt like I was sort of just flailing about a bit in this book and trying to read between the lines.
Reviewed by Sadonna for The Novel Approach Reviews
http://www.thenovelapproachreviews.co...
July 18, 2015
I give this one 4.25 - 4.5 stars. It was a very good read and I have a feeling that I'll be rereading it in the future.
Jake Tanner seems like a simple man who wants to manage the farms that he works on. He has his own small farm and a dog that he loves. What you don't realize is just how complex he is; there are layers upon layers to this man. While I don't want to give too much away, through a series of events, Jake happens to see Damien Jamieson in a pub one day. It's clear that Damien is interested, but Jake dismisses it.
Jake eventually runs into Damien again. He likes Damien and wants to get to know him, but he knows that Damien wants more than he can to give. Damien doesn't understand the problem, eventually Jake tries to explain it to him. Jake doesn't want or need sex. It can be fun, but in the end, to Jake it's no different than sitting on a couch with a loved one watching a movie together. Nice, but not necessary, not in his list of priorities. Jake doesn't really understand it himself, has a hard time expressing it, and hates how people see and treat him after they know.
What follows is tough. Damien wants Jake, but has a hard time with the restrictions Jake puts down. Jake wants a partner, but really has no interest in sex; therefore, he's given up on finding someone to love him. They both have hidden depths that they eventually show each other. Watching them open up was wonderful, if not a bit painful at times.
I could really identify with Jake. Damien's reactions were amazingly similar to some that I've encountered over the years as well. I think that those portions of the book were very realistic and well portrayed.
Jake Tanner seems like a simple man who wants to manage the farms that he works on. He has his own small farm and a dog that he loves. What you don't realize is just how complex he is; there are layers upon layers to this man. While I don't want to give too much away, through a series of events, Jake happens to see Damien Jamieson in a pub one day. It's clear that Damien is interested, but Jake dismisses it.
Jake eventually runs into Damien again. He likes Damien and wants to get to know him, but he knows that Damien wants more than he can to give. Damien doesn't understand the problem, eventually Jake tries to explain it to him. Jake doesn't want or need sex. It can be fun, but in the end, to Jake it's no different than sitting on a couch with a loved one watching a movie together. Nice, but not necessary, not in his list of priorities. Jake doesn't really understand it himself, has a hard time expressing it, and hates how people see and treat him after they know.
What follows is tough. Damien wants Jake, but has a hard time with the restrictions Jake puts down. Jake wants a partner, but really has no interest in sex; therefore, he's given up on finding someone to love him. They both have hidden depths that they eventually show each other. Watching them open up was wonderful, if not a bit painful at times.
I could really identify with Jake. Damien's reactions were amazingly similar to some that I've encountered over the years as well. I think that those portions of the book were very realistic and well portrayed.
July 16, 2015
3.5 rating waffling on 4 stars. I would like to start off with that if the blurb had stated that Jake was questioning and did not know that he was homoromantic demisxual like the author says in his blog I would have not have had so many issues with the first 25% of the book. The blurb makes it out (especially if you dont know the authors blog post about this until later) that Jake knows he is demi. Second issues is what I perceived as the awkward random use of kink in this. I give a lot of points for using a safeword in the situations they have but the rest of the kink just seemed out of place and I really like kink. Third is the fact that the book literally ends with Julio's friend being oh so you're ace. No explanation beyond that all no more dialogue just boom end. I have no idea if the author is going for a sequel or not but it felt very unfinished almost cliffhanger(y).
The story was enjoyable for the most part from the issues I stated. It is nice to see characters on the ace spectrum in fiction and Jack did a good job at bringing it to life even if at times it felt stilted to me. I hope we get more from these characters.
The story was enjoyable for the most part from the issues I stated. It is nice to see characters on the ace spectrum in fiction and Jack did a good job at bringing it to life even if at times it felt stilted to me. I hope we get more from these characters.
July 18, 2015
This is the first I have read with an asexual character. The attraction between Jake and Damien is immediate, but it quickly becomes clear that a relationship between the two would present a very unique set of problems.
On one hand you have Jake - a man who wants everything a relationship has to offer except sex. Then you have Damien - a man who can't deny his desire for Jake.
As the story unfolded, I could sense the frustration in them both building (and sometimes wanted to slap Damien - after all - he knew that Jake couldn't change who he was). At the same time I was hoping they could sort out their problems and build a relationship in which they could both be fulfilled.
Interesting read.
On one hand you have Jake - a man who wants everything a relationship has to offer except sex. Then you have Damien - a man who can't deny his desire for Jake.
As the story unfolded, I could sense the frustration in them both building (and sometimes wanted to slap Damien - after all - he knew that Jake couldn't change who he was). At the same time I was hoping they could sort out their problems and build a relationship in which they could both be fulfilled.
Interesting read.
August 19, 2015
2.5 stars
I like Jake but I'm not a fan of Damien. His focus on sex in stead of trying to understand Jake didn't endear him to me. I didn't feel the connection between the MC's and the kink was just puzzling.
What happened at the very end should have been the start of something, of communication, of understanding, which made it feel like a cliffhanger. It should have happened much earlier. I want to read about how it helps Jake to know that it is a thing, it has a name, and he is not alone. I want to read about Damien dealing with it and not trying to fix it.
I like Jake but I'm not a fan of Damien. His focus on sex in stead of trying to understand Jake didn't endear him to me. I didn't feel the connection between the MC's and the kink was just puzzling.
What happened at the very end should have been the start of something, of communication, of understanding, which made it feel like a cliffhanger. It should have happened much earlier. I want to read about how it helps Jake to know that it is a thing, it has a name, and he is not alone. I want to read about Damien dealing with it and not trying to fix it.
August 28, 2015
FourStars
Jake is asexual and he loves dogs. What a combo right? I had to admit I was confused and frustrated right along with Damien most of the book. Being asexual is real and can be hard to understand and comprehend. The author does a great job telling the story and letting the reader see both sides of the story. I loved Damien an I felt his pain and frustration. This was a great story of true love and all of its ups and downs.
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Inked Rainbow Reads.
Angie
Jake is asexual and he loves dogs. What a combo right? I had to admit I was confused and frustrated right along with Damien most of the book. Being asexual is real and can be hard to understand and comprehend. The author does a great job telling the story and letting the reader see both sides of the story. I loved Damien an I felt his pain and frustration. This was a great story of true love and all of its ups and downs.
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Inked Rainbow Reads.
Angie
July 17, 2015
3.5 stars
Different from anything I have read before. The POV was fascinating and I mostly enjoyed it, though the abrupt ending threw me off and left me wanting.
Different from anything I have read before. The POV was fascinating and I mostly enjoyed it, though the abrupt ending threw me off and left me wanting.
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