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For Him #3.5
To Whom It May Concern
To whom it may concern,
I can't be sure what you're into, that being said, if you like sexy and sweet romance with a whole lot of quirk, keep reading...
Ever since Clay Saxon's parents passed away a year ago, he's been stuck in a rut, running their business, and suffering from the worst writer's block ever. But when Syrus Albie, aka yellow sweater guy, (you'll see) walks into The End Book Store, Clay's mundane little world turns to sunshine.
I don't want to ruin it, but I can definitely say, when an introverted as hell narrator finally meets his favorite author and crush, all of his usual protocols go up in flames.
Set in the For Him World, this standalone is the perfect introduction or addition to this steamy MM collection.
I can't be sure what you're into, that being said, if you like sexy and sweet romance with a whole lot of quirk, keep reading...
Ever since Clay Saxon's parents passed away a year ago, he's been stuck in a rut, running their business, and suffering from the worst writer's block ever. But when Syrus Albie, aka yellow sweater guy, (you'll see) walks into The End Book Store, Clay's mundane little world turns to sunshine.
I don't want to ruin it, but I can definitely say, when an introverted as hell narrator finally meets his favorite author and crush, all of his usual protocols go up in flames.
Set in the For Him World, this standalone is the perfect introduction or addition to this steamy MM collection.
101 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 17, 2022
About the author
A.M. Johnson
32 books1,877 followersA.M. Johnson lives in Utah with her family where she works as a full-time nurse. If she’s not at the hockey rink with her kiddos, you’ll find her buried in a book or behind the keyboard. She loves romance and all things passionate. Amanda enjoys exploring all genres and bringing life to the human experience.
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February 19, 2022
To Whom It May Concern is book #3.5 in the For Him series by A.M. Johnson. This can be read as a complete stand alone and is my very first book by this author. This is a sweet, sexy, angst free little book that will give you all the warm and fuzzies.
Clay Saxon is a twenty three year old author. He lost his parents a year ago and ever since hasn’t been able to write. He’s living in their house and running their book store, trying to keep their memory alive. You just never know when fate has a big surprise for you but that’s exactly what happened on the day the man with the yellow sweater came into his shop. A man who when he finally got to look into his eyes, he was transfixed. And a man who quoted a line out of his last book!
Syrus Albie is twenty six years old and is completely introverted. He gets so nervous in social situations. That’s why working as a book narrator for audio books is the perfect profession for him. He has his own studio in his apartment. The Branches Between Us is his favorite book of all time. He’s read it ten times and can and often does recite quotes from it. He had no idea the owner of the book shop was the author. He had no idea he was accidentally meeting the man whose words have meant so much to him.
“Kissing Clay was like opening up presents at Christmas and getting exactly what you’d been dying for all year.”
These two were adorable together. Syrus was so unsure of himself and Clay was so patient with him. For a person like me who reads every available minute of her life, what a better book could there be than one with an author and an audio book narrator? This was sexy and adorable and was perfect for an afternoon read. I enjoyed it so much and will definitely be looking at the rest of the series.
For more about this book and so many more, come and visit us at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
Clay Saxon is a twenty three year old author. He lost his parents a year ago and ever since hasn’t been able to write. He’s living in their house and running their book store, trying to keep their memory alive. You just never know when fate has a big surprise for you but that’s exactly what happened on the day the man with the yellow sweater came into his shop. A man who when he finally got to look into his eyes, he was transfixed. And a man who quoted a line out of his last book!
Syrus Albie is twenty six years old and is completely introverted. He gets so nervous in social situations. That’s why working as a book narrator for audio books is the perfect profession for him. He has his own studio in his apartment. The Branches Between Us is his favorite book of all time. He’s read it ten times and can and often does recite quotes from it. He had no idea the owner of the book shop was the author. He had no idea he was accidentally meeting the man whose words have meant so much to him.
“Kissing Clay was like opening up presents at Christmas and getting exactly what you’d been dying for all year.”
These two were adorable together. Syrus was so unsure of himself and Clay was so patient with him. For a person like me who reads every available minute of her life, what a better book could there be than one with an author and an audio book narrator? This was sexy and adorable and was perfect for an afternoon read. I enjoyed it so much and will definitely be looking at the rest of the series.
For more about this book and so many more, come and visit us at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
February 22, 2022
This was such a lovely novella. It did feel kind of instalove in a way, but I really liked how the relationship developed. It didn't feel rushed for a story this short.
I loved both Clay and Syrus. I loved the idea of one of them being an author and also owning a bookshop, and the other one being a book narrator. They meet in Clay's bookshop and the story just develops from there.
I always like reading about neurodiverse characters and I think the author did a great job with Syrus's character. And I loved how Clay accepted his little quirks without question. The honesty between them was really refreshing. They were so adorable together.
My only complaint is that, even though it ends with a HFN, the very ending does feel a bit abrupt. It seems there will be more about Clay and Syrus in the future and I'm looking forward to it.
I need to add that this book cover is my favorite in this series so far. When I first saw it, I clicked that "to-read" button so fast, I didn't even get a chance to take a glimpse at the blurb. 😂
I loved both Clay and Syrus. I loved the idea of one of them being an author and also owning a bookshop, and the other one being a book narrator. They meet in Clay's bookshop and the story just develops from there.
I always like reading about neurodiverse characters and I think the author did a great job with Syrus's character. And I loved how Clay accepted his little quirks without question. The honesty between them was really refreshing. They were so adorable together.
My only complaint is that, even though it ends with a HFN, the very ending does feel a bit abrupt. It seems there will be more about Clay and Syrus in the future and I'm looking forward to it.
I need to add that this book cover is my favorite in this series so far. When I first saw it, I clicked that "to-read" button so fast, I didn't even get a chance to take a glimpse at the blurb. 😂
February 20, 2022
4 “I don't like spending time with people, but I like spending time with you“ stars
“He’d never heard anything like him, he never saw anything like him. Him, surrounded in warm skin, he was a reason to wake up, to breathe, to feel.”
I have been wanting to read this series for so long, but I just never got to it yet because I’m the worst when it comes to reading the books on my TBR, I figured that a short sweet and sexy romance would be the perfect introduction to the world for me. And I was right, as I really enjoyed this book and now, I just want to read the rest of the series, right about now.
Brief summary
Clay works at his family’s bookstore. One day he serves a cute guy, and he keeps thinking about him. Clay is also a writer, and a voice actor contacts him to have the rights to do an audiobook of one of his books, that man is Syrus. They start spending time together and they fall for each other.
Syrus has routines and schedules he needs to follow or isn’t feeling well. He isn’t very good at social interactions, and he doesn’t know how to talk to people much, or how to do small talk. He doesn’t like affection much. I liked how respectful Clay was and how he never asked Syrus to do things he didn’t feel comfortable doing. I like how Clay was so understanding of Syrus and never pushed him. Clay was so nice to Syrus and I just loved reading about that. I loved how Cyrus seemed to love everything that makes Syrus himself, it was so sweet and lovely to read about.
This story is mostly just how Clay and Syrus meet and fell for each other, and I loved reading about it. I loved how so much time of the story was dedicated to them talking to each other and getting to know each other. It was just lovely to read all their small interactions. I loved how they started talking through emails, I love online communications in books and there was so many of those in this book and it really worked for me.
The one thing I have to say is that this is the start of a story as it will be continued in the author’s newsletter, which is all fine and I don’t mind the story being incomplete for now, I just want more of the story and I’m so excited to read more of these guy’s story.
I really enjoyed reading this short story and I appreciated every second of it, this story just really worked for me.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest opinion.
“He’d never heard anything like him, he never saw anything like him. Him, surrounded in warm skin, he was a reason to wake up, to breathe, to feel.”
I have been wanting to read this series for so long, but I just never got to it yet because I’m the worst when it comes to reading the books on my TBR, I figured that a short sweet and sexy romance would be the perfect introduction to the world for me. And I was right, as I really enjoyed this book and now, I just want to read the rest of the series, right about now.
Brief summary
Clay works at his family’s bookstore. One day he serves a cute guy, and he keeps thinking about him. Clay is also a writer, and a voice actor contacts him to have the rights to do an audiobook of one of his books, that man is Syrus. They start spending time together and they fall for each other.
Syrus has routines and schedules he needs to follow or isn’t feeling well. He isn’t very good at social interactions, and he doesn’t know how to talk to people much, or how to do small talk. He doesn’t like affection much. I liked how respectful Clay was and how he never asked Syrus to do things he didn’t feel comfortable doing. I like how Clay was so understanding of Syrus and never pushed him. Clay was so nice to Syrus and I just loved reading about that. I loved how Cyrus seemed to love everything that makes Syrus himself, it was so sweet and lovely to read about.
This story is mostly just how Clay and Syrus meet and fell for each other, and I loved reading about it. I loved how so much time of the story was dedicated to them talking to each other and getting to know each other. It was just lovely to read all their small interactions. I loved how they started talking through emails, I love online communications in books and there was so many of those in this book and it really worked for me.
The one thing I have to say is that this is the start of a story as it will be continued in the author’s newsletter, which is all fine and I don’t mind the story being incomplete for now, I just want more of the story and I’m so excited to read more of these guy’s story.
I really enjoyed reading this short story and I appreciated every second of it, this story just really worked for me.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest opinion.
April 4, 2022
Audio - 5 Stars
Story - 2.5 stars
Story - 2.5 stars
September 4, 2022
***I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.***
Overall I really enjoyed this light-hearted, low-angst romance between two shy, humble and adorkable guys who cannot resist one another.
In this novella, Syrus and Clay are two offer a sweet dynamic, and seeing the instant spark between them progress so naturally over the course of this story was such a delight to see. They have a shared interest in literature and seeing their friendship beautifully evolve into such a sweet relationship was wonderful to see.
My favorite aspect was seeing both Syrus and Clay find their person after resigning themselves to a lonely existence, therefore the shock of their connection was such a great surprise.
Overall I really enjoyed this light-hearted, low-angst romance between two shy, humble and adorkable guys who cannot resist one another.
In this novella, Syrus and Clay are two offer a sweet dynamic, and seeing the instant spark between them progress so naturally over the course of this story was such a delight to see. They have a shared interest in literature and seeing their friendship beautifully evolve into such a sweet relationship was wonderful to see.
My favorite aspect was seeing both Syrus and Clay find their person after resigning themselves to a lonely existence, therefore the shock of their connection was such a great surprise.
April 14, 2022
3.5 Stars
Told in dual POV, 1st person, it’s a "For Him" novella and I think a beginning to a new series. It’s a short story but it felt slow, nothing happened really. Maybe the continuation of their story in the new series (I’m not sure yet) will be better but I wish before reading it, I’d know it’s not a finished story. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not cliffy, it just ends. You can count it as an HFN but you would want more of them with a bit of drama, maybe!?! Overall, it was an OK read, and hope you enjoy it as well!
Told in dual POV, 1st person, it’s a "For Him" novella and I think a beginning to a new series. It’s a short story but it felt slow, nothing happened really. Maybe the continuation of their story in the new series (I’m not sure yet) will be better but I wish before reading it, I’d know it’s not a finished story. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not cliffy, it just ends. You can count it as an HFN but you would want more of them with a bit of drama, maybe!?! Overall, it was an OK read, and hope you enjoy it as well!
February 17, 2022
Dear Fellow MM Romance Readers,
You simply must drop everything and read To Whom It May Concern, the latest delightfully romantic nibble from the fantastic and amorous mind of AM Johnson. Charming and whimsical, TWIMC is a sizzling ode to love and vulnerability, to being different, to knowing what you want and going for it. Plus there's a bookstore, a sexy voice, an affirming Greek goddess masquerading as a dog, lots of trivia, acceptance and love. And Anders. Anders is here :)
The sweet story pairs a hot bookish orphaned young man, who hasn't moved on from tragedy, with an equally hot introverted voice actor who ranks at the top of my fave list for quirky uniqueness. And the jewel box of a plot works so well. This is a moving, though brief (grrr) addition to the fantastic For Him epistolary series.
Insider Tip: Do NOT skip a word. You know how when you're reading an unputdownable book a day, occasionally, you'll skip a word or two, skim a marginally interesting section that seems more like the an outtake? Well, dear reader-friends, that simply will not work with Clay and Syrus. EVERY sentence is packed with story, or emotion, or longing, or humor and personality. This is a really really great read.
Sincerely,
KC :)
You simply must drop everything and read To Whom It May Concern, the latest delightfully romantic nibble from the fantastic and amorous mind of AM Johnson. Charming and whimsical, TWIMC is a sizzling ode to love and vulnerability, to being different, to knowing what you want and going for it. Plus there's a bookstore, a sexy voice, an affirming Greek goddess masquerading as a dog, lots of trivia, acceptance and love. And Anders. Anders is here :)
The sweet story pairs a hot bookish orphaned young man, who hasn't moved on from tragedy, with an equally hot introverted voice actor who ranks at the top of my fave list for quirky uniqueness. And the jewel box of a plot works so well. This is a moving, though brief (grrr) addition to the fantastic For Him epistolary series.
Insider Tip: Do NOT skip a word. You know how when you're reading an unputdownable book a day, occasionally, you'll skip a word or two, skim a marginally interesting section that seems more like the an outtake? Well, dear reader-friends, that simply will not work with Clay and Syrus. EVERY sentence is packed with story, or emotion, or longing, or humor and personality. This is a really really great read.
Sincerely,
KC :)
March 4, 2023
|| 3.5 stars ||
Oh my, how cute this was!
The two main characters were both so sweet, and I love how shy, awkward, quirky and adorable Syrus was!
I love it even more that Clay adored these things about him as well. He was never judgemental when it came to Syrus; only loving.
This had very much of an ’insta-love’ vibe going on, but it wasn't too over the top to become grating or annoying. I could deal with it.
I wish there was more tension, of course, but since this is a novella, there really wasn't time.
I can only imagine how awesome this book would have been with more build-up and depth..
Seriously, I wish this was a full-length novel so much.
The potential was definitely there for this to be an amazing novel, rather than merely a very enjoyable short novella. If only it got the time and development the story and characters deserve.
The ending was also super abrupt: it felt as if though the author was thinking about making this story longer at first, but then randomly decided not to when she got to the final two chapters.
Anyway, I hope there'll be more about these two in the future.
Oh my, how cute this was!
The two main characters were both so sweet, and I love how shy, awkward, quirky and adorable Syrus was!
I love it even more that Clay adored these things about him as well. He was never judgemental when it came to Syrus; only loving.
This had very much of an ’insta-love’ vibe going on, but it wasn't too over the top to become grating or annoying. I could deal with it.
I wish there was more tension, of course, but since this is a novella, there really wasn't time.
I can only imagine how awesome this book would have been with more build-up and depth..
Seriously, I wish this was a full-length novel so much.
The potential was definitely there for this to be an amazing novel, rather than merely a very enjoyable short novella. If only it got the time and development the story and characters deserve.
The ending was also super abrupt: it felt as if though the author was thinking about making this story longer at first, but then randomly decided not to when she got to the final two chapters.
Anyway, I hope there'll be more about these two in the future.
March 8, 2022
To Whom It May Concern is my first experience with the writing of A.M. Johnson, and I’m thrilled to have discovered them! I’m amazed by how beautifully Johnson develops these characters in just one hundred pages, and it’s been a long time since I’ve five starred something so short.
Clay is a marvelous character, I love how open and upfront he is. And the way he is able to draw Syrus out is fascinating.
Syrus, so delightfully quirky, and simply embraces the oddness that makes him who he is… I loved it!
I adore Kirt Graves’ narration, and he makes a spectacular Syrus, and Aaron Shedlock’s warm and soothing voice is perfect for Clay. Marvelous performances by both narrators.
I received an audiobook copy of To Whom It May Concern for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
Clay is a marvelous character, I love how open and upfront he is. And the way he is able to draw Syrus out is fascinating.
Syrus, so delightfully quirky, and simply embraces the oddness that makes him who he is… I loved it!
I adore Kirt Graves’ narration, and he makes a spectacular Syrus, and Aaron Shedlock’s warm and soothing voice is perfect for Clay. Marvelous performances by both narrators.
I received an audiobook copy of To Whom It May Concern for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
January 16, 2023
This was good, but even for a novella it was really short. I would love to read a full length novel about these two. I just wanted more than a short novella could give me. Also, I read this because I thought I needed to read it before getting to book 4, but you really don’t have to at all. It’s only loosely tied in to the rest of the series.
February 23, 2022
* 3 stars *
This is a novella-length story about a shy, introverted narrator meeting his favorite author by chance and the relationship that develops between them.
Let's start with the blurb, which was kind of weird. Am I the only one who thinks so? I decided to read the book based on how much I liked the previous ones in the series, as the blurb just had me confused and didn't really give me much insight into the story. I actually thought it was a temporary one when I saw it for the first time.
Unfortunately, the story itself didn't turn out much better for me. I couldn't connect with the characters for some reason, and, as a result, I didn't really come to care about them. However, I liked the side characters, Owen and Shane, which were first introduced in "Dear Mr. Brody." They had a lot more page time here, and I was pleased about it. I hope there will be more from them in the future.
The story was fine. It just wasn't able to hold my interest for very long. I liked that one of the characters was a narrator and the other was a bookstore owner. There were a few workers there as well, and they seemed interesting.
The beginning of the relationship between Clay and Syrus was fast, but then there was a time jump later, and it balanced things out somewhat. I liked their talks and how they communicated, and I liked how Clay didn't push Syrus out of his comfort zone but was respectful of his limits.
~ Copy provided by Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement. ~
This is a novella-length story about a shy, introverted narrator meeting his favorite author by chance and the relationship that develops between them.
Let's start with the blurb, which was kind of weird. Am I the only one who thinks so? I decided to read the book based on how much I liked the previous ones in the series, as the blurb just had me confused and didn't really give me much insight into the story. I actually thought it was a temporary one when I saw it for the first time.
Unfortunately, the story itself didn't turn out much better for me. I couldn't connect with the characters for some reason, and, as a result, I didn't really come to care about them. However, I liked the side characters, Owen and Shane, which were first introduced in "Dear Mr. Brody." They had a lot more page time here, and I was pleased about it. I hope there will be more from them in the future.
The story was fine. It just wasn't able to hold my interest for very long. I liked that one of the characters was a narrator and the other was a bookstore owner. There were a few workers there as well, and they seemed interesting.
The beginning of the relationship between Clay and Syrus was fast, but then there was a time jump later, and it balanced things out somewhat. I liked their talks and how they communicated, and I liked how Clay didn't push Syrus out of his comfort zone but was respectful of his limits.
~ Copy provided by Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement. ~
October 17, 2022
MM Romance
3 Stars ⭐️
It was cute but I don’t think I need a full length book of it like the author is planning. 🤷🏻♀️
Also, this is a weird coincidence. Granted, it’s Sunday the 16th of October today but still odd. “The small date dial told me it was indeed Saturday the sixteenth of October.”
3 Stars ⭐️
It was cute but I don’t think I need a full length book of it like the author is planning. 🤷🏻♀️
Also, this is a weird coincidence. Granted, it’s Sunday the 16th of October today but still odd. “The small date dial told me it was indeed Saturday the sixteenth of October.”
February 28, 2022
This is the beginning of Syrus and Clay's story. While the narrative is sweet and romantic, the ending is abrupt and not at all satisfying.
Also, it's quite obvious that Syrus is on the spectrum, but it's never mentioned, which I found odd.
Clay accepts Syrus's quirks without batting an eye, and the two men grow close over the span of three weeks.
I needed more to believe in the relationship.
Also, it's quite obvious that Syrus is on the spectrum, but it's never mentioned, which I found odd.
Clay accepts Syrus's quirks without batting an eye, and the two men grow close over the span of three weeks.
I needed more to believe in the relationship.
February 17, 2022
Beautifully written sweet novella.
Loved: two adorable MCs, dynamics between them - acceptance, comfort, hope, laughter. Beautiful writing, engaging storytelling.
Niggles: the story is an intro to an upcoming newsletter serial so ends with HFN. And while I look forward to see more of Syrus and Clay, and, hopefully, Owen and Shane, it was a bit frustrating
Loved: two adorable MCs, dynamics between them - acceptance, comfort, hope, laughter. Beautiful writing, engaging storytelling.
Niggles: the story is an intro to an upcoming newsletter serial so ends with HFN. And while I look forward to see more of Syrus and Clay, and, hopefully, Owen and Shane, it was a bit frustrating
June 10, 2023
[3.4~3.5]
April 6, 2022
Definitely the best novella I have read this year so far.
February 19, 2022
4.5 stars!
Beautiful. That’s the only way to describe this novella.
When I’d finished it last night, I had this happy, glow-y feeling in my chest. Serene and content in a way I seldom am right after finishing a story.
Writing-wise, I don’t think I need to explain Johnson’s style. Her writing is always top-notch with the occasional poetic undertone. I love it.
The read is told through dual POVs. Clay’s and Syrus’. The first is an author, who’s hardly written a word since his parents died a year earlier. The second is a narrator of audio books, a recluse of sorts, who happens to love Clay’s latest novel. Both have these jagged edges from hurt and anxieties, and they fit together like pieces of a puzzle.
What’s really interesting about this read is that I didn’t fall for it right away. I was even a bit put off from what I perceived as a story written by someone who didn’t actually know the topic she was writing about (which is a pet peeve of mine).
Now, it doesn’t say outright that Syrus is on the spectrum, but as someone with a close relative with autism, it was glaringly obvious. And even though each autistic person is unique, and what us neurotypicals view as quirks and deviations from “normalcy” manifest in wholly different ways for different individuals, I initially felt that Johnson grossly misrepresented Syrus. Like cultural appropriation, but on a group of people defined by outsiders by their diagnosis. It's probably not fair, but that was my gut reaction at the time. And as it turned out, I judged Johnson unfairly.
And also, I ended up adoring this story.
I came to realize that, for me, it was more than enough to view Surys’ and Clay’s story as two people who weren’t perfect, but were perfect for each other. Even though my own experience of autism didn't completely mesh with the portrayal in this book. This is a story about hope, and about love not being reserved for a select group. And it's gorgeous.
So, this story left me with a feeling all sorts of hopeful. And it was beautiful.
However, I won’t lie. If you have personal experience with autism, this book might not be for you. Or you’ll adore it. It could go either way.
* A free e-copy of this book was kindly provided by the author *
Beautiful. That’s the only way to describe this novella.
When I’d finished it last night, I had this happy, glow-y feeling in my chest. Serene and content in a way I seldom am right after finishing a story.
Writing-wise, I don’t think I need to explain Johnson’s style. Her writing is always top-notch with the occasional poetic undertone. I love it.
The read is told through dual POVs. Clay’s and Syrus’. The first is an author, who’s hardly written a word since his parents died a year earlier. The second is a narrator of audio books, a recluse of sorts, who happens to love Clay’s latest novel. Both have these jagged edges from hurt and anxieties, and they fit together like pieces of a puzzle.
What’s really interesting about this read is that I didn’t fall for it right away. I was even a bit put off from what I perceived as a story written by someone who didn’t actually know the topic she was writing about (which is a pet peeve of mine).
Now, it doesn’t say outright that Syrus is on the spectrum, but as someone with a close relative with autism, it was glaringly obvious. And even though each autistic person is unique, and what us neurotypicals view as quirks and deviations from “normalcy” manifest in wholly different ways for different individuals, I initially felt that Johnson grossly misrepresented Syrus. Like cultural appropriation, but on a group of people defined by outsiders by their diagnosis. It's probably not fair, but that was my gut reaction at the time. And as it turned out, I judged Johnson unfairly.
And also, I ended up adoring this story.
I came to realize that, for me, it was more than enough to view Surys’ and Clay’s story as two people who weren’t perfect, but were perfect for each other. Even though my own experience of autism didn't completely mesh with the portrayal in this book. This is a story about hope, and about love not being reserved for a select group. And it's gorgeous.
So, this story left me with a feeling all sorts of hopeful. And it was beautiful.
However, I won’t lie. If you have personal experience with autism, this book might not be for you. Or you’ll adore it. It could go either way.
* A free e-copy of this book was kindly provided by the author *
June 24, 2023
I love the whole for him series so much and I was anticipating the next book.
A.M. Johnson did one again not disappoint. The MCs were sweet and the chemistry was really great. My only complaint is, that I wish this book was longer.
A.M. Johnson did one again not disappoint. The MCs were sweet and the chemistry was really great. My only complaint is, that I wish this book was longer.
February 14, 2022
I was lucky enough to receive an early copy of this novella, in exchange for an honest review. Everything this author writes always feels right! I just love her words and the way they flow across the page! The chemistry between her characters flies off the pages too, which brings us to Syrus and Clay! I liked them both equally and this usually doesn’t happen, but it does with A.M. Johnson, because her characters are the cream of the crop.❤️🔥
So, about these sweet boys….
An author and an introverted narrator meet in a bookstore….
“𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙪𝙩𝙚, 𝙣𝙤 𝙚𝙮𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙖𝙘𝙩 𝙜𝙪𝙮, 𝙖𝙙𝙤𝙧𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙚 𝙮𝙚𝙡𝙡𝙤𝙬 𝙨𝙬𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙜𝙪𝙮 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙝𝙖𝙙 𝙖 𝙫𝙤𝙞𝙘𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙢𝙖𝙙𝙚 𝙢𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙚𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙤𝙛 𝙢𝙚𝙡𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙝𝙤𝙡𝙮 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙣𝙖𝙧𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙚 𝙢𝙮 𝙗𝙤𝙤𝙠. 𝙒𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙙𝙤 𝙄 𝙨𝙞𝙜𝙣?“
I absolutely love when opposites attract! I thought Syrus (aka yellow sweater guy) was precious with his introverted protocols, and coping mechanisms. Clay was a sweetheart too, like I mentioned, I enjoyed both of these characters equally. I thought Clay was a funny guy, but I felt for him as he had a horrible tragedy in his life. 💔 My heart ached, heck it still does ache for Clay. He is a super likable character.
I adored Syrus and all his quirky, eccentric, uptight introverted ways! I need more of that! Lots of it please!!!! The chemistry between these two is just lovely!! I want to mention how enjoyable it was to see Syrus open up more, (remember he is an introvert,) with Clay. It was so refreshing to watch, but I also felt his pain with his OCD and being an introvert. I cannot wait to see what this author has in store for Syrus and Clay. I also see great things for the awesome secondary characters too!
I devoured this novella in one sitting!! Incredible work as always. I’ll put this honest review on my Instagram feed too. Thank you for the arc. 🌈😍🏳️🌈✌️
➡️➡️Book releases 2/17 but there is still time to pre-order!
★ This can be read as a stand-alone, but as always the reader’s experience is enhanced by reading the series “For Him” too, and this is one incredible series!
So, about these sweet boys….
An author and an introverted narrator meet in a bookstore….
“𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙪𝙩𝙚, 𝙣𝙤 𝙚𝙮𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙩𝙖𝙘𝙩 𝙜𝙪𝙮, 𝙖𝙙𝙤𝙧𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙚 𝙮𝙚𝙡𝙡𝙤𝙬 𝙨𝙬𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙜𝙪𝙮 𝙬𝙝𝙤 𝙝𝙖𝙙 𝙖 𝙫𝙤𝙞𝙘𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙢𝙖𝙙𝙚 𝙢𝙚 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙚𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙤𝙛 𝙢𝙚𝙡𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙝𝙤𝙡𝙮 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙣𝙖𝙧𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙚 𝙢𝙮 𝙗𝙤𝙤𝙠. 𝙒𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙙𝙤 𝙄 𝙨𝙞𝙜𝙣?“
I absolutely love when opposites attract! I thought Syrus (aka yellow sweater guy) was precious with his introverted protocols, and coping mechanisms. Clay was a sweetheart too, like I mentioned, I enjoyed both of these characters equally. I thought Clay was a funny guy, but I felt for him as he had a horrible tragedy in his life. 💔 My heart ached, heck it still does ache for Clay. He is a super likable character.
I adored Syrus and all his quirky, eccentric, uptight introverted ways! I need more of that! Lots of it please!!!! The chemistry between these two is just lovely!! I want to mention how enjoyable it was to see Syrus open up more, (remember he is an introvert,) with Clay. It was so refreshing to watch, but I also felt his pain with his OCD and being an introvert. I cannot wait to see what this author has in store for Syrus and Clay. I also see great things for the awesome secondary characters too!
I devoured this novella in one sitting!! Incredible work as always. I’ll put this honest review on my Instagram feed too. Thank you for the arc. 🌈😍🏳️🌈✌️
➡️➡️Book releases 2/17 but there is still time to pre-order!
★ This can be read as a stand-alone, but as always the reader’s experience is enhanced by reading the series “For Him” too, and this is one incredible series!
February 6, 2022
Introvert to the core Syrus has the sweetest meet cute with bookstore owner and author Clay.
The book had me hooked from page one.
Clay recently suffered a devastating loss and has been sad and lonely. Syrus makes him smile again. I hope there’s more to the story. It ends in a HFN but I definitely want more of this endearing pair.
The book had me hooked from page one.
Clay recently suffered a devastating loss and has been sad and lonely. Syrus makes him smile again. I hope there’s more to the story. It ends in a HFN but I definitely want more of this endearing pair.
November 10, 2022
Promete, pero es corto y se nota, no tiene la intensidad de los libros de la serie.
January 30, 2022
To Whom It May Concern (TWIMC) by A.M. Johnson is yet another wonderful example of why Johnson is one of my absolute favorite authors. TWIMC is a beautifully written and authentic portrayal of characters and their relationships. I truly love the way Johnson continues to create characters with depth and intensity, who develop authentically through layers of narrative prose and dialog. I enjoyed getting to know Clay and Syrus as much from their own inner musings and actions as from other characters' interactions with and descriptions of them. TWIMC works beautifully within the For Him series, while also setting things up for a new spin-off series, intertwining characters I already adore with new characters I cannot wait to see more of.
January 31, 2022
*Book Received in Exchange for Honest Opinion/Review*
This was a sizzling and sweet addition to the For Him Series. I loved the budding attraction between Syrus and Clay, from a quirky and shy meet cute to these two growing into so much more, I couldn't get enough. Clay and Syrus perfectly balanced and complimented each other and this taste of them left me desperate for more.
I adored how these two stand alone in this universe but also the teasers and tie in to other characters in the series. This budding friendship quickly blossomed into so much more, where they healed and comforted the loneliness in each other. It was an endearing case of two lost souls finding solace and comfort in one another. Honestly, I can't wait to read more about them.
This was a sizzling and sweet addition to the For Him Series. I loved the budding attraction between Syrus and Clay, from a quirky and shy meet cute to these two growing into so much more, I couldn't get enough. Clay and Syrus perfectly balanced and complimented each other and this taste of them left me desperate for more.
I adored how these two stand alone in this universe but also the teasers and tie in to other characters in the series. This budding friendship quickly blossomed into so much more, where they healed and comforted the loneliness in each other. It was an endearing case of two lost souls finding solace and comfort in one another. Honestly, I can't wait to read more about them.
February 8, 2022
Hands down, this is an absolute #mustread series!
Clay and Syrus are a beautiful addition to this world, I honestly can't get enough of these characters. I would strongly recommend starting with book one, trust me, you will fall in love with all of their stories.
Clay is heartbroken, Syrus lives a solitary life and these two finding a connection in each other was purely poetic. The words, the feels, the butterflies in their stomachs when their gazes won't let go of each other. It's low on steam, I didn't even care because these two melted my heart. Loved it ❤️
Clay and Syrus are a beautiful addition to this world, I honestly can't get enough of these characters. I would strongly recommend starting with book one, trust me, you will fall in love with all of their stories.
Clay is heartbroken, Syrus lives a solitary life and these two finding a connection in each other was purely poetic. The words, the feels, the butterflies in their stomachs when their gazes won't let go of each other. It's low on steam, I didn't even care because these two melted my heart. Loved it ❤️
October 18, 2022
3-3.5 stars
if this was longer i could definitely see this being a 4-5 star read.
sadly this was less than 100 kindle pages, still for that short of a novella, i connected with the characters and wanted to know more about them.
i wished we had shane and owens story, maybe its out and i missed it but if not we should get it haha.
if this was longer i could definitely see this being a 4-5 star read.
sadly this was less than 100 kindle pages, still for that short of a novella, i connected with the characters and wanted to know more about them.
i wished we had shane and owens story, maybe its out and i missed it but if not we should get it haha.
February 11, 2022
3,5 stars.
This was an angst-free, sweet short story in the For Him series, but it reads as a stand alone.
A.M. Johnson is one of those authors I can always rely on to deliver a good story. I love her style of writing and the way she tells a story.
In this story we meet Clay and Syrus. Clay has published a novel, but stopped writing after a tragedy threw him out of balance. Syrus loved that novel, however, and hoped for more. When they meet, they bond over the book, and there's an instant connection. Syrus is a narrator, and he offers Clay to narrate his novel, so he can publish it as an audio.
Both Clay and Syrus are sweet, lovable characters, but this felt a bit too much like insta love to me, and well, it's no secret that insta love is not a trope I enjoy.
But when it's your favorite trope, and you enjoy sweet and low angst, this novella is certainly one you'd enjoy. Because A.M. Johnson knows how to use the right words and write them down in an enjoyable, heartfelt story.
I kindly received an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my unbiased, honest and voluntary review
This was an angst-free, sweet short story in the For Him series, but it reads as a stand alone.
A.M. Johnson is one of those authors I can always rely on to deliver a good story. I love her style of writing and the way she tells a story.
In this story we meet Clay and Syrus. Clay has published a novel, but stopped writing after a tragedy threw him out of balance. Syrus loved that novel, however, and hoped for more. When they meet, they bond over the book, and there's an instant connection. Syrus is a narrator, and he offers Clay to narrate his novel, so he can publish it as an audio.
Both Clay and Syrus are sweet, lovable characters, but this felt a bit too much like insta love to me, and well, it's no secret that insta love is not a trope I enjoy.
But when it's your favorite trope, and you enjoy sweet and low angst, this novella is certainly one you'd enjoy. Because A.M. Johnson knows how to use the right words and write them down in an enjoyable, heartfelt story.
I kindly received an ARC from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my unbiased, honest and voluntary review
March 24, 2022
Syrus Albie, 26, cousin of Shane who is engaged to Owen, the brother of Donovan Brody. He is a shy person, a bit socially awkward. He likes the company of solitude over the noise of people. Sy likes being a voice actor. I could work from home. I was my own boss. I didn’t need people to be happy.
But Syrus keeps thinking of the deep blue eyes, heavy, sun-bleached waves, and that warm laugh of the bookstore owner.
Clayton Saxon, 23, is a bookstore owner and novelist, and also a client of Anders Lowe’s literary agency can't stop thinking about the sexy, yellow sweater-wearing shy nerdy who stepped into his shop.
When Syrus is hired to record Clay's book the two of them start spending a lot of time together and for the first time Sy wants to be open to someone who wants to get to know him.
Syrus has had his share of emotionless sexual hook-ups, but is ready to experience sex with Clay, sex with emotions.
This being a short book, we do not get too much background about these MC's, but it seems A.M. Johnson is making up for that:
Want more of Syrus and Clay? Sign up for my newsletter to read the Bookish Boys serial/spinoff I have planned for them!
Part of the For Him Series, that is best enjoyed when read in order:
February 6, 2022
"It has been my experience that life is only a game of mishaps and unexpected coincidences..."
Clay Saxon is an author who is also running his late parent's bookstore. He is stuck in rut, not dating, and suffering writer's block.
Syrus Albie is a narrator that owns his own production company. He is introverted, antisocial, awkward, quiet, shy, orderly, and thrives on routine. He lives in his own world but does not function well with people.
One meeting sparks interest and written communication increases it...not only in Clay's work and Syrus' skills, but also in each other.
This is a sweet, adorkable, unexpected, slow burn, opposites-attract novella about guys who love books and ease the loneliness in the other. Clay is charming, witty, patient, and understanding. He has not been living life to the fullest due to recent struggles. Syrus is quirky, nervous, and reserved. He wants to believe there is a connection, but also has such self-worth issues and anxiety. They manage to balance each other and push each other out of their comfort zones just enough, while managing to provide a safety net to be their authentic selves.
This will be a lead-in for a newsletter serial and I am looking forward to more with these cute guys. It fits in well with the For Him series with some related characters, but works well as a stand-alone. I love this series and the author's unique characters and use of epistolary techniques along with internal dialogue and meaningful conversations to create emotional depth and intense connections.
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Clay Saxon is an author who is also running his late parent's bookstore. He is stuck in rut, not dating, and suffering writer's block.
Syrus Albie is a narrator that owns his own production company. He is introverted, antisocial, awkward, quiet, shy, orderly, and thrives on routine. He lives in his own world but does not function well with people.
One meeting sparks interest and written communication increases it...not only in Clay's work and Syrus' skills, but also in each other.
This is a sweet, adorkable, unexpected, slow burn, opposites-attract novella about guys who love books and ease the loneliness in the other. Clay is charming, witty, patient, and understanding. He has not been living life to the fullest due to recent struggles. Syrus is quirky, nervous, and reserved. He wants to believe there is a connection, but also has such self-worth issues and anxiety. They manage to balance each other and push each other out of their comfort zones just enough, while managing to provide a safety net to be their authentic selves.
This will be a lead-in for a newsletter serial and I am looking forward to more with these cute guys. It fits in well with the For Him series with some related characters, but works well as a stand-alone. I love this series and the author's unique characters and use of epistolary techniques along with internal dialogue and meaningful conversations to create emotional depth and intense connections.
February 15, 2022
The type of MM romance writing I can never get enough of. Real characters that draw you in and keep you invested. Clay and Syrus were awkward and endearing and I absolutely adored them.
Syrus loves his facts, order, and his solitary life. When he walks into a local bookstore, he never imagines that he’d end up meeting his favorite author.
Clay is coming off a tough year. He’s trying to get back to living and writing. When a sexy man walks into his bookstore, he’s finally ready to put his plan into action.
A man who is not a people person, self-described as awkward, will find his person. This is the start of a beautiful romance between two people who needed a connection and found one when they least expected.
The writer delivers beautiful stories consistently. A well-written love story with layered characters, living relatable lives, with actual jobs. Clay was honest, sweet, and kind. He was perfect for Syrus who was serious and reserved. Syrus lived a solitary life filled with facts and books. Clay brought color and warmth into his world. Perfectly matched and totally smitten. This couple will leave you smiling.
Syrus loves his facts, order, and his solitary life. When he walks into a local bookstore, he never imagines that he’d end up meeting his favorite author.
Clay is coming off a tough year. He’s trying to get back to living and writing. When a sexy man walks into his bookstore, he’s finally ready to put his plan into action.
A man who is not a people person, self-described as awkward, will find his person. This is the start of a beautiful romance between two people who needed a connection and found one when they least expected.
The writer delivers beautiful stories consistently. A well-written love story with layered characters, living relatable lives, with actual jobs. Clay was honest, sweet, and kind. He was perfect for Syrus who was serious and reserved. Syrus lived a solitary life filled with facts and books. Clay brought color and warmth into his world. Perfectly matched and totally smitten. This couple will leave you smiling.
February 26, 2022
I have a thing for social awkward protagonists. And even if the love story was not very convincing, it was very sweet.
3.5 stars and I'll give it a push up for the sex thing.
General writing style: 4 stars
Story line idea: 4 stars
Story line execution: 3 stars
Plot: 3 stars
Annoy factors: they seemed very old for being so young
R-rated content: one descriptive scene. This was probably the first MM I ever read where they both opted against anal sex - and held on to this notion.
Narration: 1st person alternating Clay and Syrus POV, past tense
Main Location: contemporary US town
Main protagonists: Clayton Wilbur Saxon, book store owner, 23; Syrus Albie Voice Actor/Audio Producer, 26
3.5 stars and I'll give it a push up for the sex thing.
General writing style: 4 stars
Story line idea: 4 stars
Story line execution: 3 stars
Plot: 3 stars
Annoy factors: they seemed very old for being so young
R-rated content: one descriptive scene. This was probably the first MM I ever read where they both opted against anal sex - and held on to this notion.
Narration: 1st person alternating Clay and Syrus POV, past tense
Main Location: contemporary US town
Main protagonists: Clayton Wilbur Saxon, book store owner, 23; Syrus Albie Voice Actor/Audio Producer, 26
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