With a Kick: Collection No. 1
Failed to add items
Add to Cart failed.
Add to Wish List failed.
Remove from wishlist failed.
Adding to library failed
Follow podcast failed
Unfollow podcast failed
Get 2 free audiobooks during trial.
Buy for $19.95
No default payment method selected.
We are sorry. We are not allowed to sell this product with the selected payment method
-
Narrated by:
-
Joel Leslie
-
By:
-
Clare London
About this listen
This collection includes the charming London-based novellas of the With a Kick series - A Twist and Two Balls and Slap and Tickle. Also included are two short stories featuring the characters in these titles.
A Twist and Two Balls: Eduardo Mancini is going to be a star of the London stage. Unfortunately, his alter ego, Eddy March, hasn't gotten further than a bit part in a TV series. One ghastly day, he’s late for an audition, can’t pay his taxi fare, and is chased across Soho by the irate driver, Nuri. But maybe being caught by Nuri is exactly what Eddy needs.
Slap and Tickle: Bryan is an accountant who admires order and self-discipline. When he literally bumps into Phiz outside With a Kick, Phiz’s lifestyle and behaviour appear totally chaotic. But they each recognise something in the other that they need. Bryan needs a lover who welcomes his secret desire, and Phiz needs a firm hand - in every way. They both agree Bryan may be just the man to provide it.
Collection number two will be released later in 2018.
©2014; 2018 Clare London (P)2018 Clare LondonListeners also enjoyed...
-
With a Kick Collection No. 2
- By: Clare London
- Narrated by: Joel Leslie
- Length: 8 hrs and 58 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
This collection includes Clare London's second two charming London-based novellas of the With a Kick series - Pluck and Play and Double Scoop.
-
-
Lovely 2 stories, and finally Lee and Patrick!
- By Rachel Emily on 04-22-19
By: Clare London
-
The Cuckoo's Call
- By: Lily Morton
- Narrated by: Joel Leslie
- Length: 10 hrs and 39 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Wren Roberts thought he’d found his fairy tale when he met Mateo Rossi on holiday in Majorca. The wealthy and successful older man swept him off his feet, and before he knew it, he’d thrown caution to the wind and was living in Mateo’s waterside apartment in Venice. It’s a far cry from his harsh upbringing and crummy flat in London. But as the summer turns to autumn, cracks begin to show. Mateo’s family aren’t welcoming, and there doesn’t seem to be a place for Wren in Mateo’s world.
-
-
Okay
- By leks on 09-26-22
By: Lily Morton
-
Meet Me There
- By: K.M. Neuhold
- Narrated by: Nick J. Russo
- Length: 7 hrs and 9 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
We haven't spoken in 15 years, and Marlon is the last person I expected to run into in a bar on Bourbon Street. He's not my gangly internet pen pal anymore; he's all muscles, body hair, and temptation. Our friendship feels like it never faded, but the heat between us is brand-new. We're both in different cities every few weeks, hustling to build our careers and soaking up all the perks of being young, hot, and untethered. But our paths seem to be crossing more and more often.
-
-
“Until we’re stardust”
- By Sharon L on 09-18-22
By: K.M. Neuhold
-
The Sceptic
- By: Lily Morton
- Narrated by: Joel Leslie
- Length: 11 hrs and 18 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
As the best friend of a psychic, Will Buchanan can’t help but believe in the dead. It’s the living that he finds to be problematic. However, after a spate of betrayals, he finally has the chance of a new life within his grasp, and he’s not going to risk it for anyone or anything. Staying safe is the name of Will’s game.
-
-
Very well done paranormal romance
- By AT on 03-20-23
By: Lily Morton
-
Pine Cove: The Complete Series
- By: HJ Welch
- Narrated by: Nick J. Russo
- Length: 59 hrs and 26 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Welcome to Pine Cove, where true love lives happily ever after! This box set contains all six novels as well as all five companion short stories. Safe Harbor: Robin Coal needs a fake boyfriend for his high school reunion. He asks his housemate: A gorgeous, totally straight ex-Marine. What could go wrong? There’s only one bed, and Dair might not be so straight after all...When Robin’s past threatens their future, only Dair can save him.
-
-
Great characters, but can't finish
- By Janie.ohio on 05-01-22
By: HJ Welch
-
Project Hero
- By: Briar Prescott
- Narrated by: Kirt Graves, Joel Leslie
- Length: 7 hrs and 23 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
If my life was a movie, I would be the sidekick. Not an especially promising start when my plan is to finally let my best friend know I have a crush on him. I just need a complete makeover. Change everything about myself so that when Falcon returns from his summer vacation, he can finally see I'm the love of his life. If I knew what I was doing, I wouldn't look like every nerd cliche wrapped into one awkward package. In short, I'm screwed. But then Law Anderson enters the picture.
-
-
Adorable jock/nerd story
- By MagicalAM on 09-20-22
By: Briar Prescott
-
With a Kick Collection No. 2
- By: Clare London
- Narrated by: Joel Leslie
- Length: 8 hrs and 58 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
This collection includes Clare London's second two charming London-based novellas of the With a Kick series - Pluck and Play and Double Scoop.
-
-
Lovely 2 stories, and finally Lee and Patrick!
- By Rachel Emily on 04-22-19
By: Clare London
-
The Cuckoo's Call
- By: Lily Morton
- Narrated by: Joel Leslie
- Length: 10 hrs and 39 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Wren Roberts thought he’d found his fairy tale when he met Mateo Rossi on holiday in Majorca. The wealthy and successful older man swept him off his feet, and before he knew it, he’d thrown caution to the wind and was living in Mateo’s waterside apartment in Venice. It’s a far cry from his harsh upbringing and crummy flat in London. But as the summer turns to autumn, cracks begin to show. Mateo’s family aren’t welcoming, and there doesn’t seem to be a place for Wren in Mateo’s world.
-
-
Okay
- By leks on 09-26-22
By: Lily Morton
-
Meet Me There
- By: K.M. Neuhold
- Narrated by: Nick J. Russo
- Length: 7 hrs and 9 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
We haven't spoken in 15 years, and Marlon is the last person I expected to run into in a bar on Bourbon Street. He's not my gangly internet pen pal anymore; he's all muscles, body hair, and temptation. Our friendship feels like it never faded, but the heat between us is brand-new. We're both in different cities every few weeks, hustling to build our careers and soaking up all the perks of being young, hot, and untethered. But our paths seem to be crossing more and more often.
-
-
“Until we’re stardust”
- By Sharon L on 09-18-22
By: K.M. Neuhold
-
The Sceptic
- By: Lily Morton
- Narrated by: Joel Leslie
- Length: 11 hrs and 18 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
As the best friend of a psychic, Will Buchanan can’t help but believe in the dead. It’s the living that he finds to be problematic. However, after a spate of betrayals, he finally has the chance of a new life within his grasp, and he’s not going to risk it for anyone or anything. Staying safe is the name of Will’s game.
-
-
Very well done paranormal romance
- By AT on 03-20-23
By: Lily Morton
-
Pine Cove: The Complete Series
- By: HJ Welch
- Narrated by: Nick J. Russo
- Length: 59 hrs and 26 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Welcome to Pine Cove, where true love lives happily ever after! This box set contains all six novels as well as all five companion short stories. Safe Harbor: Robin Coal needs a fake boyfriend for his high school reunion. He asks his housemate: A gorgeous, totally straight ex-Marine. What could go wrong? There’s only one bed, and Dair might not be so straight after all...When Robin’s past threatens their future, only Dair can save him.
-
-
Great characters, but can't finish
- By Janie.ohio on 05-01-22
By: HJ Welch
-
Project Hero
- By: Briar Prescott
- Narrated by: Kirt Graves, Joel Leslie
- Length: 7 hrs and 23 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
If my life was a movie, I would be the sidekick. Not an especially promising start when my plan is to finally let my best friend know I have a crush on him. I just need a complete makeover. Change everything about myself so that when Falcon returns from his summer vacation, he can finally see I'm the love of his life. If I knew what I was doing, I wouldn't look like every nerd cliche wrapped into one awkward package. In short, I'm screwed. But then Law Anderson enters the picture.
-
-
Adorable jock/nerd story
- By MagicalAM on 09-20-22
By: Briar Prescott
-
A Mage's Guide to Human Familiars
- R'iyah Family Archives, Book 1
- By: AJ Sherwood
- Narrated by: Tim Paige, Michael Ferraiuolo, Greg Boudreaux
- Length: 10 hrs and 50 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
One mage: Bel Adams–part demon, gun shy about being rejected by one again, needs a familiar. One familiar: Nico di Rossi–Army Ranger, needs a change of pace and a new purpose in life, is a golden retriever in human form (though not literally). Plus one familiar: Garen Dallarosa–Secret Service, part gargoyle, needs his ex-lover Nico back.
-
-
Finally good queer poly rep!
- By Amazon Customer on 07-14-22
By: AJ Sherwood
-
Hopelessly Bromantic
- The Hopelessly Bromantic Duet, Book 1
- By: L. Blakely, Lauren Blakely
- Narrated by: Shane East, Teddy Hamilton, Full Cast
- Length: 8 hrs and 37 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Look, when I met the sexy, witty Brit on the streets of London last night, I had no idea who he was. He was just that hot guy I wanted to have a drink with, so I asked him out for my first evening in town. One thing almost led to another. After a midnight kiss, we made plans for a whole lot more the next day. But when I unlock the door to my rental in the morning, the English hottie is lounging on the couch like he lives here too. Great. For the next year, I’ll be sharing a tiny flat with the sexiest guy I’ve ever known.
-
-
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 STARS ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
- By ❤️Cyndi Marie❤️🎧Audiobook Addicts🎧 on 06-01-22
By: L. Blakely, and others
-
Oz
- Finding Home, Book 1
- By: Lily Morton
- Narrated by: Joel Leslie
- Length: 9 hrs and 7 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Oz Gallagher does not do relationships well. Bored and jobless after another disastrous hook up, he decides to leave London for a temporary job in the wilds of Cornwall. Surely managing a stately home on a country estate will be easier than navigating the detritus of his relationships at home. Six months there will alleviate a bit of his wanderlust and then he can come back to London as footloose and fancy free as the day he left it. However, when he gets there, he finds a house in danger of crumbling to the ground and a man who is completely unlike anyone he’s ever met.
-
-
Defnitely audiobook of the month June 2020
- By Leo on 06-04-20
By: Lily Morton
-
Rule Breaker
- By: Lily Morton
- Narrated by: Joel Leslie
- Length: 9 hrs and 32 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Is it really wrong to want to murder your boss? Dylan has worked for Gabe for two years. Two long years of sarcastic comments. Two long years of insults, and having to redo the coffee pot four times in the mornings to meet his exacting standards. Not surprisingly he has devoted a lot of time to increasingly inventive ways to murder Gabe. From stabbing him with a cake fork, to garrotting him with his expensive tie, Dylan has thought of everything. However, a chance encounter opens his eyes to the attraction that has always lain between them, concealed by the layers of antipathy.
-
-
Brings the emotion to life!
- By Beth I-L on 04-17-19
By: Lily Morton
-
Star Wars: Convergence (The High Republic)
- By: Zoraida Córdova
- Narrated by: Marc Thompson
- Length: 13 hrs and 28 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
It is an age of exploration. Jedi travel the galaxy, expanding their understanding of the Force and all the worlds and beings connected by it. Meanwhile, the Republic, led by its two chancellors, works to unite worlds in an ever-growing community among near and distant stars. On the close-orbiting planets of Eiram and E’ronoh, the growing pains of a galaxy with limited resources but unlimited ambition are felt keenly. The two worlds’ hatred for each other has fueled half a decade of escalating conflict and now threatens to consume surrounding systems.
-
-
Was Skeptical at first…boy was I wrong!
- By Justin Steele on 12-12-22
By: Zoraida Córdova
-
Hidden in Darkness
- In Darkness Series, Book 1
- By: Alice Winters
- Narrated by: Joel Leslie
- Length: 9 hrs and 42 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
When Felix lands a job taking care of a man recovering from severe injuries, he thinks his life may have just turned around. Anything has to be better than the place he's leaving. There's something about Lane that draws Felix to him and makes him question if this place could finally become a home for him. But when someone begins stalking Felix, he is left to question who Lane is and what actually happened to him. Together, Felix and Lane will be forced to see just how far they will go to protect each other.
-
-
I'm going to keep this one in the Favorite pile
- By Mo on 10-10-18
By: Alice Winters
-
Haven Hart Boxed Set
- Books 1-4
- By: Davidson King
- Narrated by: Philip Alces, Joel Leslie
- Length: 25 hrs and 59 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
This boxed set includes books 1-4 in the Haven Hart series.
-
-
What a series...
- By Donald on 04-03-22
By: Davidson King
-
Best Man
- Close Proximity, Book 1
- By: Lily Morton
- Narrated by: Joel Leslie
- Length: 6 hrs and 36 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
The product of a disorganized and chaotic childhood, Zeb likes order and control, and as the boss of his own employment agency he can give that to himself. Life runs along strict lines and he never mixes business with pleasure. Everything in his life lives in neat, alphabetized boxes. Until Jesse.
-
-
Prologe is missing
- By Jessica on 09-30-21
By: Lily Morton
-
Beautifully Unexpected
- By: Lily Morton
- Narrated by: Joel Leslie
- Length: 7 hrs and 7 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Magnus Carlsen is determined to grow old disgracefully. At 52, he doesn’t believe in keeping anything. Men, sofas, books—everything gets jettisoned, eventually. He’s divided his life into happy compartments. A successful trial lawyer, he spends his days lecturing jurors, exasperating judges, and striding arrogantly around courtrooms. He fills his nights with a parade of handsome young men who want to make him happy. Why date someone his own age to discuss back pain, retirement planning, and corns when he can date men who don’t care to discuss anything at all?
-
-
what a lovely tale.
- By Trarv211 on 07-18-22
By: Lily Morton
-
Merry Inkmas
- By: Talia Hibbert
- Narrated by: Mercedes Snow
- Length: 5 hrs and 21 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
The infamous tattoo artist's been watching geeky Bailey Cooper for months, but that's all he'll ever do: watch. Bailey's too sweet, too smart, too good for the likes of him, and he knows it. So Cash keeps his distance . . . until a Christmas miracle makes him Bailey's boss. Socially awkward Bailey learned long ago that men just aren't worth the hassle. Take her new boss, Cash: he's a brooding beast who avoids her like the plague, but he also fixes her plumbing, helps the homeless, and offers Bailey a place to stay for Christmas.
-
-
Xmas romances shouldn’t have so much angst
- By 🔥 Phx17 🔥 on 11-29-23
By: Talia Hibbert
-
Sterling
- Mageri, Book 1
- By: Dannika Dark
- Narrated by: Nicole Poole
- Length: 9 hrs and 59 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Zoë Merrick lived an ordinary life until late one night, she was brutally attacked and left for dead. She survived, saved by a stranger who witnessed her undergo a physical transformation. That's not the only thing that's different. Zoë is unable to control an unexplainable energy coursing through her body. Justus De Gradi is a man who can teach her that control. He's handsome, arrogant, and not entirely human. He reveals that she is a Mage - an immortal made of light, not magic. She must now make a choice: Rebuild her life in the human world with the man who saved her, or live with Justus and learn how to use her extraordinary gifts. Justus has sworn an oath to protect her life, but can he guard her from the one man who has a right to claim it?
-
-
Not as good as her other books in this world
- By Kayla on 10-07-17
By: Dannika Dark
-
Lovestrong Series Bundle: Volume One
- By: Susan Hawke
- Narrated by: Michael Dean
- Length: 21 hrs and 42 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Lovestrong: A series about love, found family, and living one’s truth in a small town. This bundle includes the first four audiobooks from this best-selling series and the prequel short that started it all.
-
-
love this!
- By Kathryn M on 06-09-20
By: Susan Hawke
Related to this topic
-
Spring at Lavender Bay
- Lavender Bay, Book 1
- By: Sarah Bennett
- Narrated by: Rachel Bavidge
- Length: 7 hrs and 45 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Beth Reynolds loved growing up close to Eleanor's Emporium – a bric-a-brac shop full of wonders on Lavender Bay. Devastated to learn that Eleanor has died, she returns home from London immediately and is shocked to discover that the elderly lady has left the shop to her! Vowing to restore it to its former glory, she only intends to stay until the end of the season. Although the longer she spends in the colourful seaside town, the more she falls back in love with everything she left behind... and quite possibly, with her best friend Eliza's older brother, local chef Sam Barnes!
-
-
The Story Was Soooooo Slow
- By VICTORIA E PRALL on 04-26-24
By: Sarah Bennett
-
A Girl Like Her
- By: Talia Hibbert
- Narrated by: Rupert Channing
- Length: 7 hrs and 54 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
After years of military service, Evan Miller wants a quiet life. The small town of Ravenswood seems perfect - until he stumbles upon a vicious web of lies with his new neighbor at its center. Ruth Kabbah is rude, awkward, and - according to everyone in town - bad news. Thing is, no one will tell Evan why. Does she perform ritual sacrifices? Howl at the moon? Pour the milk before the tea? He has no clue. But he desperately wants to find out. The more Evan’s isolated, eccentric neighbor pushes him away, the more he wants her.
-
-
A Love Story - plain and simple
- By LexiLikesLiterature on 02-16-19
By: Talia Hibbert
-
The Millionaire Upstairs
- By: M.J. O'Shea
- Narrated by: Rusty Topsfield
- Length: 5 hrs and 26 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Sasha Sobieski has the perfect job working at legendary American fashion house Harrison Kingsley - or at least he used to. He just never thought he'd have to work for Harrison Kingsley himself. Harrison is exacting, difficult, cold, and hands-down the sexiest man Sasha has ever seen.
-
-
Rusty makes this book really work!
- By Morgan A Skye on 03-02-16
By: M.J. O'Shea
-
Bad Boys Do
- By: Victoria Dahl
- Narrated by: Lauren Fortgang
- Length: 10 hrs and 30 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Olivia Bishop is no fun. That's what her ex-husband said. And that's what her smart bob and glasses imply. So with her trademark determination, Olivia sets out to remake her life. She's going to spend time with her girlfriends and not throw it all away for some man. But when an outing with her book club leads her to a brewery taproom, the dark-haired beauty realizes that trouble - in the form of sexy Jamie Donovan - may be too tempting to avoid.
-
-
Cute, romantic fun
- By jld on 10-19-11
By: Victoria Dahl
-
His for the Holidays
- By: Josh Lanyon, Z. A. Maxfield, L. B. Gregg, and others
- Narrated by: Alec McKellen, Max Tatch, Max Bellmore, and others
- Length: 13 hrs and 17 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Hope brightens a bleak Edinburgh December. A man gets a second chance with his high school crush. A decade-long game of cat and mouse comes to a passionate conclusion. And Santa Claus drives a red muscle car. Heat up your holidays with this collection of four festive tales from some of the top talent in the male/male genre.
-
-
A Great Holiday Treat...
- By Donald on 03-16-12
By: Josh Lanyon, and others
-
Leo
- By: Mia Sheridan
- Narrated by: Maxine Mitchell, Joe Arden
- Length: 7 hrs and 43 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Evie and Leo met in foster care as children and formed a bond of friendship. As they grew, their bond turned to love, and they vowed to make a life together when they turned 18 and were no longer a part of the system.
-
-
I WAS RIVETED TO EVERY WONDERFUL WORD
- By CAROLYN 🔹🔹🔹🔹🔹🔹 on 05-25-15
By: Mia Sheridan
-
Spring at Lavender Bay
- Lavender Bay, Book 1
- By: Sarah Bennett
- Narrated by: Rachel Bavidge
- Length: 7 hrs and 45 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Beth Reynolds loved growing up close to Eleanor's Emporium – a bric-a-brac shop full of wonders on Lavender Bay. Devastated to learn that Eleanor has died, she returns home from London immediately and is shocked to discover that the elderly lady has left the shop to her! Vowing to restore it to its former glory, she only intends to stay until the end of the season. Although the longer she spends in the colourful seaside town, the more she falls back in love with everything she left behind... and quite possibly, with her best friend Eliza's older brother, local chef Sam Barnes!
-
-
The Story Was Soooooo Slow
- By VICTORIA E PRALL on 04-26-24
By: Sarah Bennett
-
A Girl Like Her
- By: Talia Hibbert
- Narrated by: Rupert Channing
- Length: 7 hrs and 54 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
After years of military service, Evan Miller wants a quiet life. The small town of Ravenswood seems perfect - until he stumbles upon a vicious web of lies with his new neighbor at its center. Ruth Kabbah is rude, awkward, and - according to everyone in town - bad news. Thing is, no one will tell Evan why. Does she perform ritual sacrifices? Howl at the moon? Pour the milk before the tea? He has no clue. But he desperately wants to find out. The more Evan’s isolated, eccentric neighbor pushes him away, the more he wants her.
-
-
A Love Story - plain and simple
- By LexiLikesLiterature on 02-16-19
By: Talia Hibbert
-
The Millionaire Upstairs
- By: M.J. O'Shea
- Narrated by: Rusty Topsfield
- Length: 5 hrs and 26 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Sasha Sobieski has the perfect job working at legendary American fashion house Harrison Kingsley - or at least he used to. He just never thought he'd have to work for Harrison Kingsley himself. Harrison is exacting, difficult, cold, and hands-down the sexiest man Sasha has ever seen.
-
-
Rusty makes this book really work!
- By Morgan A Skye on 03-02-16
By: M.J. O'Shea
-
Bad Boys Do
- By: Victoria Dahl
- Narrated by: Lauren Fortgang
- Length: 10 hrs and 30 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Olivia Bishop is no fun. That's what her ex-husband said. And that's what her smart bob and glasses imply. So with her trademark determination, Olivia sets out to remake her life. She's going to spend time with her girlfriends and not throw it all away for some man. But when an outing with her book club leads her to a brewery taproom, the dark-haired beauty realizes that trouble - in the form of sexy Jamie Donovan - may be too tempting to avoid.
-
-
Cute, romantic fun
- By jld on 10-19-11
By: Victoria Dahl
-
His for the Holidays
- By: Josh Lanyon, Z. A. Maxfield, L. B. Gregg, and others
- Narrated by: Alec McKellen, Max Tatch, Max Bellmore, and others
- Length: 13 hrs and 17 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Hope brightens a bleak Edinburgh December. A man gets a second chance with his high school crush. A decade-long game of cat and mouse comes to a passionate conclusion. And Santa Claus drives a red muscle car. Heat up your holidays with this collection of four festive tales from some of the top talent in the male/male genre.
-
-
A Great Holiday Treat...
- By Donald on 03-16-12
By: Josh Lanyon, and others
-
Leo
- By: Mia Sheridan
- Narrated by: Maxine Mitchell, Joe Arden
- Length: 7 hrs and 43 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Evie and Leo met in foster care as children and formed a bond of friendship. As they grew, their bond turned to love, and they vowed to make a life together when they turned 18 and were no longer a part of the system.
-
-
I WAS RIVETED TO EVERY WONDERFUL WORD
- By CAROLYN 🔹🔹🔹🔹🔹🔹 on 05-25-15
By: Mia Sheridan
-
Rules of Negotiation
- By: Inara Scott
- Narrated by: Emily C. Michaels
- Length: 6 hrs and 26 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
NYC's most eligible bachelor Brit Bencher is also known as The Slayer for his reputation in the boardroom - and the bedroom. And he'll do anything to take care of his family, even seduce high-powered corporate attorney Tori Anderson in the hopes of getting her to reveal confidential information about one of her clients. But for the first time in his life, he finds he's falling for a woman - and then he started to break them.
-
-
Ok story, terrible narration
- By CMack on 05-23-15
By: Inara Scott
-
London Calling
- By: Clare Lydon
- Narrated by: Emily Bennet
- Length: 7 hrs and 56 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Jess Sharp's life hasn't exactly gone according to plan. She's 32, unemployed, and single after a devastating breakup. She's also left Australia for London to live in her parents' spare room. Her chaotic life seems to be spiraling until she meets someone who could be a game-changer.
-
-
Wonderfully Witty and Romantic
- By Reader on 02-23-18
By: Clare Lydon
-
Play On
- Play On, Book 1
- By: Samantha Young
- Narrated by: Claire Kilpatrick
- Length: 11 hrs and 33 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Nora O'Brien chased a dream from Indiana to Scotland, so sure it was the right thing to do. Three years later she was left in her adopted country with nothing to her name but guilt and regret. Until Aidan Lennox entered her life. Older, worldlier, a music producer and composer, the sexy Scot should never have made sense for Nora. But somehow in each other they found the light they were looking for, the laughter and the passion - the strength to play on despite their past losses.
-
-
Play On
- By whatcha.listening.to on 10-10-18
By: Samantha Young
-
Deep Desire
- Deep, Book 1
- By: Z. A. Maxfield
- Narrated by: Caleb Dickenson
- Length: 6 hrs and 50 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
As the Indiana Jones of historical erotica, there is no document existing - or just rumored to exist - Adin Tredeger can't unearth. Why he would risk the biggest coup of his career to join the mile-high club is beyond him. But the disarming, dark-eyed man who somehow enters Adin's locked airplane washroom has him completely nude and coming apart. All without a whimper of protest.
-
-
Better in audio format
- By Kathleen on 10-07-15
By: Z. A. Maxfield
-
I Married a Master
- By: Melanie Marchande
- Narrated by: Elena Wolfe
- Length: 10 hrs and 41 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Benjamin Chase is not my type. He's abrasive. He's arrogant. He doesn't take anything seriously. I'd die before I dated him, but he has something different in mind. He has to get married in the next nine months, or he loses his company to his ex-wife. And apparently I'm the most eligible bachelorette in town.
-
-
DISLIKE AT FIRST SIGHT BUT SIZZLES TOO.... OH YUMMY
- By CAROLYN 🔹🔹🔹🔹🔹🔹 on 07-12-15
-
Used-to-Be Lovers
- By: Linda Lael Miller
- Narrated by: Jack Garrett
- Length: 5 hrs and 45 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Sharon Harrison and Tony Morelli were never able to control the powerful chemistry between them. It led first to heart-stopping passion, then to marriage and children. They thought they had it all, but under pressure their happy home became an explosive battleground. Even divorce, however, can't completely separate them. Spending alternate days in their home with their children, they have an unorthodox arrangement that keeps them in close contact. And keeps the desire alive...
-
-
The immaturity of the heroin st
- By Bridgett on 06-04-24
-
Temporary
- By: Sarah Mayberry, Sarina Bowen
- Narrated by: Shane East, Emma Wilder
- Length: 9 hrs and 20 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
The most beautiful man I've ever seen is the same one who can ruin everything. The first time I lay eyes on Callan Walker, I know he'll be trouble. With his smug grin, hot Aussie accent, and thousand-dollar shoes, he's just the kind of rich guy who always gets what he wants. And he wants two things: a night of sin, and my cooperation as he outmaneuvers his powerful mother to take control of his uncle's estate. I can't afford either one. I'm the only thing standing between my little sister and the foster care system.
-
-
Was tired of "She's poor. He's rich. Sex."
- By Amazon Customer on 06-14-18
By: Sarah Mayberry, and others
-
Lincoln's Park
- By: Parker Williams
- Narrated by: Tristan James
- Length: 8 hrs and 42 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Lincoln Merriweather was born an entitled brat with a silver spoon lodged so deep, it might never have come out. At the BDSM club or in business, Lincoln was a storm, blowing in and disrupting the lives of everyone he touched, until the day he met a man who peeled away the tarnished layers to expose a decent person. Lincoln found - then lost - love. Since then, he’s tried to atone for his past, including walking away from his family’s wealth. He opened a diner, hiring people to work for him that he would have spit on before his epiphany.
-
-
Awesome Listen
- By Howard on 07-01-19
By: Parker Williams
-
Act Like It
- By: Lucy Parker
- Narrated by: Billie Fulford-Brown
- Length: 8 hrs and 30 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Richard Troy used to be the hottest actor in London, but the only thing firing up lately is his temper. We all love to love a bad boy, but Richard's antics have made him Enemy Number One, breaking the hearts of fans across the city. Have the tides turned? Has English rose Lainie Graham made him into a new man?
-
-
Brilliant
- By Beckie on 09-29-16
By: Lucy Parker
-
Sift
- By: L. D. Davis
- Narrated by: Julia Farhat
- Length: 10 hrs and 52 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
The summer I graduated from high school, I raced out of my small Virginian town to seek my culinary dreams in the big city. I couldn't afford New York City, though, so I settled in Philadelphia. The City of Brotherly Love wasn't The Big Apple, but it had its charms and pockets of culinary splendor. I hadn't minded because it was only temporary. After culinary school, I planned to do as I'd been dying to do since I was a little girl and roam the earth and splurge on its fruits. More than five years later, I was still in Philly.
-
-
Mmmm WASN'T BAD... BUT WASN'T GREAT EITHER
- By CAROLYN 🔹🔹🔹🔹🔹🔹 on 01-01-17
By: L. D. Davis
-
Beguiled
- By: Lori Foster
- Narrated by: Zoe Winslow
- Length: 7 hrs and 21 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
P.I. Dane Carter assumed his murdered twin's identity to find his killer. Angel Morris was his main suspect - a woman his twin had betrayed. Now Dane could destroy her trust again. By falling in love with her...
-
-
OK. but so wrong..
- By Marilyn on 01-29-10
By: Lori Foster
-
Legally Yours
- Spitfire Series, Book 1
- By: Nicole French
- Narrated by: CJ Bloom
- Length: 14 hrs and 42 mins
- Unabridged
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
Enemies turn to lovers in this bad boy billionaire romance with a twist. I had a plan. Finish law school. Start a job. Stay away from men like Brandon Sterling. Cocky, overbearing, and richer than the Earth, he thinks the world belongs to him, and that includes me. Yeah, no. Think again. It doesn't matter that his blue eyes look straight into my soul, or that his touch melts my icy reserve. It doesn't even matter that past all that swagger, there's a beautiful, damaged man who has so much to offer beyond private planes and jewelry boxes. But I had a plan: no falling in love.
-
-
Nice Billionaire obsessed with Bad Girl student
- By michael crohan on 03-27-19
By: Nicole French
What listeners say about With a Kick: Collection No. 1
Average customer ratingsReviews - Please select the tabs below to change the source of reviews.
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Angela S Goodrich
- 07-19-18
I absolutely adored the stories in With a Kick #1!
I received a free copy of this audiobook to listen to and review for Wicked Reads.
I absolutely adored the stories in Clare London’s With a Kick Collection #1. Listeners are treated to two novellas and two short stories, one of each for two different couples, all performed by the extremely talented Joel Leslie. With the ice cream shop, With a Kick, being the common denominator between the couples’ stories, listeners are also treated to glimpses into Patrick and Lee’s business woes and a professional relationship that seems to be getting a bit more personal.
First up are Eddy and Nuri in A Twist and Two Balls. An aspiring actor frantic to make it to a rare audition, Eddy underestimates the cab fare and overestimates just how much money is in his wallet. Realizing that he’s not close to his destination and had already exceeded his dwindling funds, he guiltily attempts to stiff the cab driver so that he can make the rest of the trip on foot and maybe make it on time as the London traffic isn’t allowing the cab to move. Unbeknownst to Eddy, he’s caught the eye of the cab driver and rather than detaining Eddy, Nuri follows him on foot as Eddy attempts to bluster his way out of the situation he’s created and still make it to his audition on time. It doesn’t work. But the day turns out so much better, even with the missed audition because Eddy now has himself a suitor. In a case of opposites attract, the high-strung Londoner, Eddy, finds his perfect match in the calm and collected Turkish cab driver, Nuri, who not only balances Eddy out in temperament, but also comes with a large and extended family – something Eddy has longed for for years as an only child of parents who travel extensively for their acting careers. While I suspect some readers and listeners will wonder how the laid back Nuri is able to put up with Eddy’s melodramatics, I’ve been Nuri before. I know that as stressful as it can be to deal with such a partner’s often unconscious need to be the center of attention, the Eddys of the world are at their best when they turn their spotlight on their partner, who is their anchor and the center of their world, and those are the moments the outside world often doesn’t see and are why we love our high-strung, drama queen partners so much. Obviously, Eddy and Nuri’s romance struck a personal chord with me, which increased my enjoyment, but I would have loved it either way, especially as Joel Leslie does such a wonderful job of capturing Eddy’s moods – of which there are many – as well as Nuri’s loving patience.
Whereas the first story was sweet, Slap and Tickle, is a lot steamier, but just as enjoyable. Truth be told, I wasn’t sure what to expect when I realized that the second couple were shaping up to be a May-December romance, but I certainly wasn’t expecting their blossoming relationship to have D/s component at all. But wowzer! When Bryan’s natural inclination to be a bit bossy rears its head during a casual interaction with Phiz, whose nervousness and anxiety make him appear high-strung, it becomes apparent that we’ve got another opposites-attract romance unfolding and it’s going to be a HOT one. Again, Leslie’s vocal talents come into play perfectly as he conveys Bryan’s quiet command and Phiz’s relieved acquiescence when Bryan takes charge – both in and out of the bedroom. I loved how Bryan’s need for order made him a natural match for Phiz and that the domination and submission aspect of their relationship was not a formal arrangement, but rather a personal exploration of their individual needs. Argh! I don’t think I’m explaining it right. At the beginning of the story, Bryan is ashamed of his desires, but as his needs and wants enable him to give Phiz what he needs and wants, Bryan learns to accept and embrace who he is and what he needs. And because of that personal acceptance, Bryan’s character grows a bit over the course of the novella, manifesting in a way that spells good news for With a Kick.
The bonus short stories were an absolute delight. I won’t go into either of them as I don’t want to ruin the surprise for others, but I will share that Eddy and Nuri’s is a magical Christmas tale and London brings the heat once again to Bryan and Phiz’s Valentine’s Day activities. Much like their respective novellas, the shorts for each couple are sweet (Eddy and Nuri) and steamy (Bryan and Phiz) and do a lovely job of rounding out the collection. I thoroughly enjoyed the stories that London has penned and Leslie’s performances for all four. I really hope that With a Kick Collection #2 will be available on audio soon, with Leslie at the mic again, as I cannot wait to see who’s up next to find love and ice cream.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
1 person found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- ButtonsMom2003
- 07-30-18
Great audio performance, entertaining stories.
With a Kick Collection No.1 features entertaining stories about two different couples.
A Twist and Two Balls is about aspiring actor Eduardo (Eddy) and taxi driver Nuri. These two meet when Eduardo hires Nuri's taxi. Nearing his destination Eduardo realizes he doesn't have enough money to pay the fare. He leaves the taxi and Nuri chases after him.
Their story is witty, funny at times, and sometimes a little sad. I love how Joel Leslie does all of the different voices for the supporting characters. Nuri has a large family so there were a wide variety of voices he needed to perform.
***
Nice and Snow is about Eddy and Nuri's first Christmas together and things don't go smoothly. When Nuri is driving Eddy home they pick up someone they assume is homeless but he turns out to be much more. This was a delightful short story.
***
Slap and Tickle is about Bryan, an accountant who likes things nice an orderly, and Phiz, someone who is decidedly unorderly. It was fun listening to these two characters blend themselves together and realize that they both harbor similar secret desires.
***
Smack Happy is a cute follow up story for Bryan and Phiz and I liked it a lot.
These stories are delightfully British and I thoroughly enjoyed listening to all of the different voices done by Joel Leslie. His audio book performances are among my favorites; he helped me learn to appreciate listening to books when I thought I wouldn't like it.
Overall this is a good collection of stories and kept me very entertained for several hours.
A copy of this audio book was provided to me by the author but my review was voluntary.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Maria V.
- 07-13-18
Entertaining collection of stories
I have a new audiobook for those of you that like to listen to your books and if you like MM. With a Kick Collection #1, has two stories from the series along with two bonus stories about the couples that appear in the two main stories. It's quirky, funny, and I enjoyed listening to Joel Leslie bring the characters to life. I'm going to break down my review into 3 parts: story, narration, overall.
Story: 4 STARS
First, the story. I'm going to give the collection itself 4 stars. I liked the characters, the plot, and the story. You have characters that struggle in their own way, and you have the men who come in to rescue them, but it isn't as simple as that. They each of their own nuances and each situation is a little different. Everything revolves around this one ice cream shop that makes adult ice cream. I want to find one of those around me. The books do hint at a couple other characters and because I had to know what happened to them, I've already downloaded Collection #2. There were some parts of the stories where I thought they skimmed over content I thought would be better expanded upon and other times when I rushed, but overall, I really liked what I listened to and would recommend this collection to all MM fans.
Narration: 4 STARS
Joel Leslie is one of my favorite narrators. In fact, the main reason I opted to review this audiobook was because I saw that he was the one narrating it. His voice does bring the characters to life and he provides each character with their own accent and personality. That said, there were a few times when I had a hard time making out who was talking or telling the story because the accents melded together and didn't quite sound as distinct as they usually did. It doesn't happen often and only minorly distracted upon occasion. I give the narration 4 stars.
Overall: 4 STARS
The story was good and I found myself grinning at different points throughout the story. The narration brought the characters to life and I've found myself listening to the book a second time. If you like MM and you like audiobooks, I highly recommend that you one click this one today. If you aren't a fan of audiobooks, you should still pick up this collection of stories. I can't wait for part 2 to come out on audiobook.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
2 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Clau
- 11-28-19
What a fantastic collection!
This audiobook has four stories, 'A Twist and Two Balls' which is about Eddy and Nuri's story and 'Slap and Tickle' which is Bryan and Phiz's story. And, after those, there are two shorter stories that revisit these couples, 'Nice and Snow' and 'Smack Happy'.
A Twist and Two Balls' is delightful. It begins with Nuri chasing Eduardo, when Eduardo runs off without paying his cab's fare. Not your usual meet cute :P
I really enjoyed this story, with the ups and downs on their personal and working lives, and I LOVE Nury's family. I love how fiercely loyal they are, how they are there for each other. I simply love it.
Slap and Tickle is a whole different beast. And I'll be honest, I usually don't read kink stories, because habitually., they are all about sex, and that's not my cup of tea. This story, though? This story is all about feelings, about acceptance and about finding yourself and what's right for you. I fell in love with the characters and their story ♥
Nice and Snow is a Christmas' story and it's magical. In every sense of the word :D
Smack Happy is a Valentine's Day story, and the present Phiz gives Brian. Guess what is the present? Yes, you guessed right XD
A fabulous collection, truly delightful.
Now, Joel Leslie. The first time I listen to an audiobook by him (Curl Up and Dye Series) I loved him. But then, I listened to another series (In Darkness), and then a third one (Mixed Messages) and all the characters sound exactly the same. Which bothers me, a lot. And when you are listening to a collection with two different MCs, is even worst. So, yes, I understand why there are people who love his narrations, he IS good. But not versatile, and that's a big dealbreaker for me.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Carra at Making it Happen blog
- 07-13-18
Great stories, amazing narration!
With A Kick Collection #1 gives us four stories from the series—A Twist and Two Balls, Slap and Tickle, plus two short stories (one each for the couples of each of the two other stories), Nice and Snow, and Smack Happy. These stories have some supporting characters in common, in particular Patrick (the owner of the With A Kick ice cream shop) and Lee (Patrick’s employee), both adding some good depth to the each story.
A Twist and Two Balls
Eddy (aka Eduardo Mancini) is a bit over the top sometime actor who can be a bit camp at times and can also pour on the dramatic edge when needed…or even when not. Nuri is a Turkish cab driver with a big, loving family—including some brothers who can be as annoying as siblings can get…much to the amusement of readers.
You’d never expect these two to be the ones getting together after the way their first meeting goes, but they seem to fall into an easy relationship with not much angst. The little bit of conflict comes when family is involved, though it can easily be chalked up to a misunderstanding due to a lack of communication…which considering how early in the relationship it is, is completely understandable.
This is a relatively light story with a touch of heat, and I’d give this one 3.5 stars.
Slap and Tickle
So, I absolutely adored Phiz and his chaotic personality, clumsiness, and the absolute beauty of how he submits when Bryan takes charge. Bryan lives a very ordered life and likes taking control of things. When you think of perfect complements, Bryan and Phiz are exactly what you should be thinking of…Bryan’s order to Phiz’s chaos creates a perfect balance; they truly are the epitome of the idea of one person completing the other.
I saw parts of myself in both characters, so it was really easy for me to identify with both of them, and I found myself drawn to them almost immediately. Their story was easily my favorite of this collection, from the opposites attract to the touch of BDSM elements, from Phiz’s exuberant and hyper personality to Bryan’s staid and calming one. Everything about them led to an overall equilibrium in their relationship.
Phiz may come across as overwhelming for some readers, but I just loved him and was so glad he and Bryan worked so well together—and lets not forget to mention they were also incredibly hot on the physical side! Slap and Tickle was 5 stars for me!
Nice and Snow
In Nice and Snow we get to revisit with Eddy and Nuri during the Christmas holidays. This is a relatively quick short story, and not a lot goes on other than Eddy’s fretting about all of the Santa-dressed people in the city…until they pick up one particular Santa who turns things a bit upside down for them.
This story is a fun read with a touch of some Christmas magic, though there wasn’t much to it leaving me to give it 3 stars.
Smack Happy
I was really glad to see that Smack Happy let us jump back in with Bryan and Phiz again, this time for Valentine’s Day. It’s another short story, this time with more oomph and a nice touch of spice once Phiz presents Bryan with his present…after Phiz spouts off a round of his hyper-chaos craziness first of course. I know some people might find him annoying, but I still think he’s adorable and a bit child-like (at least until his naughty side comes out).
This was a nice bit of spice—thanks in part to Phiz’s present—and made for another fun read that might leave you needing to cool yourself off for a bit. 4.5 stars!
The Narration
I’ve found that Joel Leslie has a true gift for voices, especially when it comes to Brits and other non-American accents. In addition, he was dead-on with Eddy’s over-the-top personality and Phiz’s hyperactive, chaotic self, easily balancing them in the same breath with Nuri and Bryan’s more sedate, even natures. He effortlessly switched back and forth between the very opposite characters (or at least he made it seem effortless), showing great range in his voice characterizations. A solid 5 stars for the narration!
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
3 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Rachel Emily
- 08-04-18
Great narration brings these stories to life!
Oh, well this was delightful! I really enjoyed this set of stories - A Twist and Two Balls is Eddy and Nuri's story (a couple who I just adore!) and Slap and Tickle was Bryan and Phiz's story. Then the two shorter stories after that revisit these couples.
I really loved Eddy and Nuri, I loved Nuri's family and their history, I loved Eddy's melodrama and attitude, and I really thought that they had great chemistry together. I also especially loved Joel Leslie's narration for this one, his voices for Nuri and his family were wonderful.
Bryan and Phiz were funny, I love how they kept running into each other and how klutzy Phiz is, a totally accident waiting to happen. These two also had great chemistry, very much opposites attract. There is also a bit of age gap - Phiz is 12 years younger than Bryan, so that's why I have that tag used. They each find that their desires in the bedroom line up perfectly, and it's quite the YUM!
There were funny moments, sexy moments, and characters that were very endearing. I highly recommend this in audio, it was just great. I loved it!
I received an audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Momma Becky
- 07-11-18
Delightful romances
The stories in this collection are charming, lighthearted romances. The angst level is low and they're a good mix of sweet and sexy as we go through the beginning stages of romance with these couples. The characters are engaging and likable and we get the added bonus of witty dialogue and chuckle-worthy situations. I would've enjoyed this one in eBook format as well, but I have to say that the narrator, Joel Leslie, really sets this one apart with his accents and individual cadences for each character. All in all, this collection is a delightful listen and I thoroughly enjoyed the stories.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
2 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- SoCalBookFiend
- 07-04-18
With a Kick, Collection
3.5 Stars Overall
This is my first time with a Clare London book, and with this audiobook, we actually get two novellas and two even shorter stories in this collection bundle which is really nice. Both of the main books are shorter cute novellas with a lot of humor added into them, and then the shorter stories at the end are an added fun bonus since we get to look back in on both couples. I really had fun listening to all of the books that were included. I especially liked the second book and the narration of the characters in that one. With a narration being done by the captivating Joel Leslie, his narration and accents for each of the characters in these books was great to hear, he does such a great job getting different voices and dialects across to sound amazing to your ear. Although there were a few times I struggled trying to understand Nuri & his family's accents (book 1) since they were so thick but that is more of an issue with "me" and not the narration itself. When we get into book two Joel’s narration really stands out especially for the part of Phiz, I really liked Phiz's character a lot and Joel Leslie is a genius when it comes to audiobook narrations and giving us the characters exactly how they are written.
~ A Twist and Two Balls ~
Eduardo/Eddy is a super overly dramatic (failing) actor, who can’t seem to find a job or be anywhere on time or have anything go right for him at all, he seems to have mostly just bad luck in life. He meets Nuri when he tries to run from paying Nuri for his cab ride. lol. Nuri is instantly drawn to Eddie and their connection is formed. They both have some baggage and past issues they have to work through regarding their jobs and family, but this book is really low angst and Drama. Well, besides all of Eddie's ridiculous self-made drama anyways. There is a good amount of character development and dialogue between all the characters. Nuri has a huge family, some of the names and what they each did, was kind of hard to keep track of but all of their interactions together were hilarious. There was a lot of information packed into this book for it being so short. Overall it was okay and I liked it.
~Bonus Book~
The first bonus book we get follows Eddy and Nuri around the holidays. Once again I was totally amused by these two men. Nuri's dialogue and how his brothers and he get all the phrases they say wrong will make you laugh. It’s almost like they do it to irritate Eddy, lol. Hahaaa. Omg. And Eddy is afraid of Santa and all the impersonators!?!? "The Santa gangs are stalking him" LMAO. It got a little odd at the end with the wishes and the weird Santa. But it was still a good addition and it was nice to re-visit this couple and get another look at their lives together.
~ Slap and Tickle ~
I liked this book so much more than the first one. Phiz is an awesome ball of energy who bounces nonstop off the walls. He makes me think of the bubbles fizzing in soda just bouncing and popping around with no rhyme or reason. Phiz's personality fully stood out in the forefront of this book. Bryan is the complete and total opposite, he's steady, stuffy, predictable and boring. The dynamic between Phiz and Bryan was great once they figured out what they both wanted and needed and how to give it to each other, and I ended up liking this story. I hated that Bryan's ex made him feel like he was not normal, less than he was and couldn’t be loved because of the things he likes. Phiz needs to have someone control parts of him, it helps calm the buzzing inside, and Bryan needs to be in charge in the bedroom. Phiz and Bryan are perfect for each other when it comes to the sexual aspect of their relationship, and they explore parts of some light-BDSM together becoming more comfortable with themselves and each other. But there was a struggle for them getting to that point in life and in their relationship, they definitely hit some bumps in the road along the way.
~Bonus Book~
Phiz is kind of insane *in a good way*... And I'm not quite sure how Bryan deals with his craziness…
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
2 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Barb_T
- 07-11-18
Highly entertaining multi-story collection
This collection includes Clare London’s first two London-based novellas of the With A Kick series—A Twist and Two Balls and Slap and Tickle. Also included are two short stories featuring the characters in these books—Nice and Snow and Smack Happy.
With a Kick is a new ice cream shop, featuring ice cream for adults, i.e., ice cream made with liquor in a variety of flavors, one of which is named for the shop’s accountant, Bryan, and his new boyfriend, Phiz—Slap and Tickle. Patrick and Lee are the struggling owners who hope to be successful in the little shop located in the heart of London.
Each story is a self-contained romance, but Patrick and Lee are featured in each story that shows the progress of both their relationship and the business.
A Twist and Two Balls— Eduardo Mancini is going to be a star of the London stage. Unfortunately, his alter ego, Eddy March, hasn't got further than a bit part in a TV series. One day, when he’s late for an audition, he can’t pay his taxi fare, so he runs off and is chased by the irate driver, Nuri.
This is a sweet romance that starts off with antagonism and moves to love between an awkward, self-proclaimed actor and a cab driver, who has a secret profession. I enjoyed the pace of this story and both characters were terrific. Eddie is hysterically funny as he discovers he doesn’t have enough money to pay Nuri. Nuri, on the other hand, comes off as gruff at first, but it turns out he’s got a sweet marshmallow center.
The two have their ups and downs as does Eddie with his career, but in the long run, it’s family that’s important, and family who help both of them, and the two men get to do what they love best and stay with the person they love best—each other.
Slap and Tickle— This short starts right off with a great scene between Brian, the staid accountant for With a Kick, and Phiz, whose name should have been Spaz. Phiz is a fast-talking, can’t-control-his-mouth klutz, who can’t hold a job because of said klutziness. He also suffers from social anxiety, yet he keeps choosing jobs that require socialization. Joel Leslie kicked it out of the ball park with the voice he gives Phiz. Good heavens, it was perfect! I was hooked immediately, so I was along for the ride as he and Brian got to know each other and began to share their most intimate desires.
This story has a mild BDSM theme and when Brian’s dominant side comes out, Phiz calms and quiets as he finally met a man who can give him what he needs.
Nice and Snow is the first short story—which is actually quite long—and features Nuri and Eddie during their first Christmas season. Nuri is now brushing up on law studies so he can pass the bar exam, and Eddie is working as an actor in a comedy show. Right up his alley, his natural sense of humor has made him very popular.
The story centers on their individual memories of holiday seasons and their plans for this first one. Of course, Nuri’s family wants them to share with them, but Eddie insists they start their own memories because his memories of Santa, Saint Nick, Baba Noel, or whatever name is used are not good ones.
A surprise cab fare and a short ride across town brings both men their Christmas wishes come true. It also leaves them realizing they may have to rethink their beliefs in the jolly old elf. A great story, it provides a nice closure to Nuri and Eddie’s story.
Smack Happy
A delightful short, short story about my favorite character, Phiz, and his Dom, Brian. Phiz is patiently—or impatiently—waiting for Brian to finish his work so he can give Brian a Valentine’s Day gift. Brian finally gives up trying to get anything done when Phiz’s antsy movements and constant interruptions make it clear Bryan had better pay attention to his boy. When Phiz presents him with his gift, the two try it out and find that a good smack on the rear was exactly what Phiz needed to make him happy and peaceful. Add in a taste of Slap and Tickle, the ice cream treat the guys at With a Kick created in their honor, and it’s a perfect Valentine’s Day for these sweethearts. Very cute and a perfect ending for this very nice audio.
Joel Leslie was, as usual, outstanding, and the stories were intriguing and fun. This audiobook sped by and I’m looking forward to the next edition in the series that should be released soon.
Highly recommended.
A copy of the audiobook was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!
2 people found this helpful
-
Overall
-
Performance
-
Story
- Erryn Barratt
- 02-22-19
Sweet ice cream and booze
A Twist and Two Balls
I’m not a drinker and I still loved these stories. That being said, if you enjoy alcohol, the creative drinks concocted to go with the ice cream will make you salivate. A Twist and Two Balls had me consider drinking alcohol.
On with the story. As someone who tried her hand at acting and failed miserably, I was very much able to relate to Eddy March – or Eduardo Mancini as he’s tried to pass himself off as. Aside from one toothpaste commercial and one episode of a popular television series, he’s a bust. On his worst day yet, he winds up in a cab, and belatedly realizes he can’t pay his fair. Instead of trying to reason the situation out, he runs. Luckily for him, he has a strong and fast cab driver who chases him down – literally.
Nuri came to England from Turkey when he was a small child. He has a massive family, all of whom have accepted that he’s gay. They also adore him and his concern for them has him driving taxi all the time. He believes in a hard day’s work and so having someone literally run out on a fair has him annoyed…and intrigued. He wants to know more about this unemployed actor who has hideous stage frights and does amazing Star Wars impressions. (Shout out to Joel Leslie the narrator for the amazing mimicry of the SW characters.) Nuri is also impressed that Eddy can recite Shakespeare while drunk. Heck, I can’t even do it while sober.
Despite their diverse backgrounds and secrets Nuri is hiding, the two men hit it off and Eddy discovers there might be an alternate use for his talents. I found the happy ending very satisfying.
The bonus story for this couple in Nice & Snow. While the first story was entirely in Eddy’s point of view, this story is told from Nuri’s. It involves snow, kids, Santa, and the belief in miracles. It was a nice revisit, especially to see the extent to which the men’s relationship has developed.
Slap and Tickle
I related to both the men in this story. Brian is an accountant who likes order. I have studied accounting and like when things are a certain way. Phiz is a hot mess. More often than not, I’m a hot mess. So what happens when ordered life meets chaotic whirlwind? Love, of course. But that’s at the end, so I’ll go back a step. The two men literally run into each other in front of the ice cream store and while picking up the flyers Phiz has dropped, Brian notices they’re for a BDSM club. After prodding, he discovers Phiz is interested. Neither has been in a Dominant/submissive relationship before and I enjoyed watching it grow organically. Both men fall into their roles, but it’s Brian who has the most doubt. He’s inflicting pain on someone he’s grown to care about and has guilt associated with that. It’s Phiz who recognizes the dilemma and he says to Brian, “Of course I wanted to do it again. I was waiting for you to feel good about it.”
Aside from the D/s relationship, there is also an imbalance within the relationship because of professions. Brian is successful and accomplished. He’s saved carefully and has significant security. Phiz has moved from job to job, his clumsiness and inability to focus always winding up as a detriment. Only when he finds his true passion is he able to settle into happiness. I loved that he found fulfillment outside of the relationship as well as within it. Too often, people see themselves only in relation to the other person. I liked Phiz’ independent streak. The two men worked together as a couple and I was happy when they got their happy ending.
Snack Happy was the follow-up story for this couple. It takes place around Valentine’s Day and Brian says to Phiz, “you’re mine…my present.” And what a present he is. A little spanking scene and some extra loving for everyone involved.
The stories were great and I loved it was Joel Leslie who brought them to life. You just can’t go wrong when he narrates a book and combined with Ms. London’s humour, I highly recommend this collection.
Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
You voted on this review!
You reported this review!