Timing (Gay Romance)

I'd like to start by saying that Mary Calmes is NOT a bad writer. The writing in and of itself is good. Her weakness lies in her characterization.

This is the second Mary Calmes novel I have listened to and I've noticed some patterns in her writing.

One- her protagonists were both 'too perfect'. They're what I like to call Mary-Sues. In Timing, Steffan was a flawless little charmer, and her protagonist in the other book I listened to was much the same way. I understand that she wants her main character to look a certain way, but the point doesn't need to be driven home EVERY OTHER SENTENCE. Steffan, did have some flaws- but even the flaws, in the way they were presented, were just totally unbelievable. The character was too much, too perfect, and instead of coming across as the way I'm sure Calmes intended, he was just obnoxious.

Two- The style of romance she writes reminds me very much of anime characters. If you're into UST and males who either constantly top or bottom- story lines that are rushed and with little depth... If you are into that, than I can see this entertaining you.

The story itself isn't bad, and some of the characters are even cute.

However, personally I couldn't get past the stereotyping and weak characterization for the the lead couple.

Lastly... a word on the reader. The reader isn't bad. He has a fun voice and a lot of personality. I only have two complaints about him. One- He reads all of Mary Calmes books and uses the same voices for the lead and the love interest. The love interest always sounds goofy to me, like he's just trying too hard. I could live with it, though. What really got to me was that one of the characters, the best friend's fiance, sounded just like a muppet. Who seriously talks like that? It killed the character. It really did.

All in all... I would tell you to avoid Mary Calmes books, unless it's truly the style of writing you're into. I see this book really appealing to teenage girls... But I think most people would side with me. There are better homosexual romance novels on audible...

I loved this story. Even with the "muppet" voice for some of the side characters, this book was funny and tender. I loved both the main characters. I have another audio by Mary Calmes and cant wait to hear more from her.

wonderful stories, Mary Calmes says she knows what her characters smell like and it certainly works for me. I fell in love with all 3 books, listen to them over and over, I hope audilbe brings in some more of her work, there is quite a lot of it out there. The narrator is wonderful too. If your looking for a great love story, with people to fall in love with, friends and family you wish were yours, Mary Calmes is your girl. Her stories are definitely the feel good variety. The Guardian and Change of Heart have a sci fi twist but are still wonderful, Timing was my 1st listen and I was hooked in the 1st few minutes.
Mary Calmes is one of the few authors that make you look up and say "thank you"!
Bouvier, Ontario Ca

I loved this. Wow... I was like this is like brokeback mt but not...ya know. I loved the characters, but the sister has to be a little flighty right? LOL..

Great story and great smex...even with the drama thrown in.

YES!! I STILL AM!! i love the story it has the perfect amount of comedy besides everything going on.

BOTH! i loved how everything came together!

he brings not only the characters to life but the whole story!!!

they are all memorable

this book has a sequal but it is sadly not on audible. it is really good i recommend it if you want to know what happens, i don't want to spoile it. just take my word for it!! worth it!!

enjoyed the different characters and the story line as well. Love the narrators voice

The story is awsome, I really liked the characters. Sean Crisden's voice is nice and sexy.

Still don't do comparisons each books are unique.

Just 3 words? Don't think so... The monologues were awsome, Stephen's voice was a great performance, the female voices not so much and Rand... well not the greatest try to make him sound macho and sexy.

Sort of. The story that I wanted to here all at once, the narration gave me doubts.

I surly will read the second book. And I will give an otber try to the narrator in a different book I really liked his voice even if I am not 100 percent fond of his performance in this book.

A complete waste of time and money.
The plot is primitive and is clear from the third page. The characters are plain and don't develop whatsoever through the story. The book has no idea in it and doesn't even provide any entertainment.
There is better use for your money.

Stephan and Rand are so good together! Sean Crisden is brilliant with his narration. I can listen to this book over and over again! A great listen!!!

It falls in the chasm between porn and novel, doing neither well or interestingly. Save your money, do not buy this.