September

Pride and Joy, Book 1

De: Robert Winter

Narrado por: Kale Williams

A May-December contemporary gay romance for lovers of second chances.

David James is smart, successful, handsome...and alone. After the death of his lover, Kyle, from cancer, he buried himself in his law practice and the gym. At 48, he is haunted by his memories and walled off from the world. When David injures himself working out, he’s assigned to Brandon Smith for physical therapy. The vibrant young therapist is attracted to David and realizes he needs a hand to get back into dating. What begins as a practice coffee date escalates to friendship, passion, and maybe something more as they navigate a new relationship in Washington, DC, and the gay mecca of Provincetown.

But David remains trapped behind the barrier of fear and guilt. Will he remain loyal to Kyle’s memory if he moves on? Can he and Brandon manage a 22-year age gap? Brandon thinks he understands David’s concerns, and for him, the answer to those questions is yes. He wants to be with David, and he believes he can overcome David’s barriers. But Brandon fails to account for the world’s reaction to a handsome young man attached to an older, wealthy lover.

David’s memories, Brandon’s pride, and an unexpected tragedy might cost them something very special....

©2016, 2017 Robert Winter (P)2018 Robert Winter

A fantastic love story

David James is 48, a successful Washington attorney, and a widower. Kyle, his partner of 15 years, died from pancreatic cancer two years ago. David has handled his grief by throwing himself into work and CrossFit. CrossFit causes a micro tear in his rotator cuff, which sends him to Brandon James, a 26 year old physical therapist. Both men are immediately attracted to each other, but David is hesitant to get fully involved due to the 22 year age gap and David’s sense that he’s being unfaithful to Kyle’s memory. A life changing event makes both David and Brandon realize that true love conquers adversity and societal norms.

Kale does an outstanding job with his narration and character voices, especially when it comes to Brandon. The Texas twang rings true with that character. This is an awesome book, and the story will stay with you long after you finish listening.

Emotional!

I have mixed feelings. I enjoyed the storyline. Liked both Brandon and David. The bike accident and the after affect took me by surprise. I think I would have preferred a different outcome. It was very emotional for both characters. I also liked how the author tied in Kyle, David’s dead boyfriend. Kyle’s letter brought me to tears. I love Kale as a narrator,I find his voice very pleasant and soothing.

every emotionn

As a man who struggles with my own commitment and compassion this piece was a remarkable journey of discovery for me. I experienced every emotion. I couldn't put down. Thank you Robert Winter

September

September is Robert Winter's debut book and he hit a grand slam on his first time at bat!

David James is in his late forties and after burying his long-term lover, finds himself focused on his career and working out. He is a successful partner in a law firm, and despite his age, is in great shape thanks to how hard he pushes himself at Crossfit. But one day when pushing too hard and trying to keep up with the younger guys in the class, he injures his shoulder. His doctor sends him to physical therapy to work on his rotator cuff and for the first time since burying his lover, he notices and is attracted to someone else.

Brandon Smith is from Texas and a family that says they're "fine" with his being gay, but prefers to act like it's not true. He's moved to DC near an uncle to try and use his degree in the best way to eventually have his own practice. Brandon is very active, involved in various sports and activity and with his friends. He's only in his 20's and enjoying life, though he's at the point that he'd like more than a hookup. When he's assigned David, he's attracted to him and impressed by David and his devotion to taking care of his shoulder. Brandon and David enjoy a little flirtation, and when the opportunity presents itself, Brandon takes a chance and offers to help David get back to the dating world.

Both men are attracted to the other but there's a lot to work out between the two. Despite the chemistry between them, David can't just accept that someone so much younger than him can be in this for a long-term relationship and refuses to open himself up to the possibilities. Brandon fights hard to make David see that everything is possible. And when Brandon suffers a tragedy, both men are reminded how fragile life is.

Let me be honest here, before I started reading this, I looked at the reviews and noticed the comments about a letter and the tissues. I internally rolled my eyes and thought, come on, really? Don't discount it! This was not just a letter turning up magically from a secret, undiscovered before place. It honestly just felt so real, something that could really happen and be believable. And yes, pull out the tissues because it was just so beautifully written and had me crying hard enough that once finished, I had to take off my glasses to dry my eyes so I could continue.

This book was narrated by Kale Williams and he always does such a fantastic job! This book is full of characters, but the narrator handled all the voices without issue. He was able to give the characters voices that were different, and consistent, which allowed me to follow along easily. The narrator has an easy to listen to voice that allows you to immerse yourself in the story. He has an easy pace, good diction and expresses the appropriate emotion the story calls for. Kale Williams was the perfect choice to bring this story to life!

I loved both of these characters! David who came from nothing and just wanted to take care of those he loved and Brandon who seemed to just take hit after hit from life but still came back fighting. This wasn't an easy love story, it seems that way, but there was so much going on in the characters' lives that they really had to work for their love. I loved David's friends, he had such a great support system and they were a great addition to this story and to Brandon. I can't urge you to read, or listen, to this book enough, it was absolutely beautiful!

Overall: 5 stars
Performance: 5 stars
Story: 5 stars

3.5 stars- 4 stars: Some hiccups, but still good

This audiobook is proving a little hard for me to rate and review. I had some major hang-ups with some of the characters’ reactions, plot points, and some random details that rubbed me the wrong way. However, there were also some stellar parts that redeemed the not so loveable aspects; and that ending- wow! That alone was worthy of rounding up my rating.

September is a May-December romance by a new-to-me author. The writing flowed well, the dialogue kept the tempo upbeat and fit the characters, and I really liked the realistic aspects this couple faced considering their age gap and differing life experiences. While I liked both Brandon and David, and thought they complimented each other well, I struggled to really connect with David. This was exacerbated by David’s response to some external conflicts. That said, there were also conflicts that advanced the plot and developed the characters and relationship well, making September somewhat of a mixed bag. I had similar thoughts regarding the book’s pacing. The first part of the story was a little flat and slow, but that picked up as the relationship between the men blossomed. And again, the ending was just fantastic. I hadn’t expected some of the heartbreak and emotional aspects and those were developed and explained really well, leaving me eager to read more by the author, even though I had some issues with this particular title.

Although I hadn’t read this author before, I have listened to the narrator. Mr. Williams measured rhythm and voices worked well for the book and characters. This was definitely what I’d term an easy listen. Even though the story was emotional, the narrator didn’t overact or dramatize those moments, his enunciation was clear, and it flowed smoothly. I’d certainly recommend September to fans of May-December romances, or those who like second chance romances featuring a widowed main character.

*Reviewed for Alpha Book Club*

So amazing, both story and narration

Would you listen to September again? Why?

This story was so amazing. The beginning of the book was a bit slow in that we were learning a lot about the characters and their hangups (and boy did they have hangups), but as the story progressed and we finally get to a part where David and Brandon are finally going to be together, it isn't as simple as one could hope. This is where the story got even stronger. The last third of the book was intense and so amazing. Most of the book was a 4 star book for me until the last third. I wasn't expecting to be moved as much as I was, and I was wrecked for a bit reading it.

What was one of the most memorable moments of September?

I wish I could answer this, but it would be way too spoilerish. David was a lucky man to find such deep love with two different, amazing men. I had 3 favorite characters in this book. David, Brandon, and Kyle.

What about Kale Williams’s performance did you like?

He had such a great performance of David and Brandon, as well as all of the characters. I was pulled right into the story, and he delivered it all so wonderfully.

Beautiful, and Kale Williams brings it to life!

In his novel September Robert Winter blends passion, heartache, and hope to create a powerfully moving romance. Beautifully written, with deep and engaging characters, this first book in his Pride and Joy series touched me so much I had to read it twice at its original publication. There are scenes I still can’t get out of my mind.

When I saw September was being made into an audio book I knew the narrator would have his work cut out for him. I was curious to see how they would capture the essence of these unique men and bring their story to life. Robert Winter’s eloquent writing style would also have to shine through, so the story teller would need an expressive, melodic voice. I knew it was a tall order but if it could all come together, the audio version of September would be a winner. I am not disappointed!

I’ve got to begin by describing what made this intense and moving story so special to me, and then I’ll share how Kale Williams won me over.

The story starts with David, two years after his longtime partner Kyle has passed away from cancer, thinking he might be ready to start dating again. When Brandon, his hot (and very young) physical therapist, starts flirting with him, David can’t deny the attraction and the two men agree to get together for coffee.

Told in alternating points-of-view we get to know how each man is feeling as they navigate their way through the challenges of their blossoming relationship. Despite the twenty-two year age gap, the disparity between their financial situations, and dealing with their friends’ reactions, they can’t deny their powerful chemistry. Putting it all into perspective David says, ‘“This time with you is a gift, Brandon. I have some money, sure, and so much stuff, but it really means nothing… You’ve reminded me I’m still alive.’” Both men can see the possibilities for their future and recognize they have to work through these issues to get there.

There’s no way I could review September without raving about the powerfully erotic scenes between David and Brandon. The depth of the connection between these two men is evident from their first kiss. As they open up to each other both physically and emotionally, they achieve a level of intimacy that’s incredibly intense. Robert Winter captures the passion of these two men in some of the most sensual and romantic scenes I’ve ever read (trust me, there are bookmarks all over my Kindle).

I also have to say how much it moves me to have Kyle be a part of this story. The way David hears Kyle’s voice giving him encouragement and gentle admonition shows the depth of their connection, and how important that relationship will always be. It’s one of the most appealing aspects of David’s character, that he can cherish his love for Kyle and still fully embrace his love for Brandon.

Kale Williams definitely showcases all his skills in his narration of September. He brings these characters to life and demonstrates that he truly understands these complex men and how they change over the course of the story. His expressive voice enhances the emotion and elevates the story to a higher level.

The smooth cadence he uses to tell the story works well and leaves him room to play with David’s confident, relaxed tones and Brandon’s mild Texas twang. There are also a number of supporting characters and Williams keeps them all unique with a wide variety of accents and inflections.

Where Kale Williams really goes above and beyond is in Kyle’s scenes. As a character in the periphery, who we know only through others’ eyes, Williams shows us a man who has experienced real love, brings him to life, and adds a dimension to Kyle I just didn’t get from reading it alone. These are some truly heart wrenching scenes, the emotional pinnacle of the story is amazing and completely tore me up when I read it. If Kyle’s letter doesn’t move you to tears, the epilogue will surely slay you, and Kale Williams brings it home with aplomb.

Robert Winter is an amazing writer and I think the most impressive thing about his talent is that every one of his books is completely unique. He embraces the essence of whichever genre he’s crafting, making his books more fascinating to read. If you haven’t yet discovered this wonderful author I encourage you to pick up any one of his stories and I promise you’ll find something to love.

Finally, if you are like me, a die hard fan of September and are on the fence about investing in this audio book, I can’t stress enough how much Kale Williams adds to the story. This really is a special one, and Williams elevates these men’s journey in a way that reading alone just can’t do. It didn’t surprise me to find out he has a background in acting, he added an extra layer of intimacy with his narration and brought out nuances I hadn’t even realized were there.

Wow, what an emotional ride!!

I really enjoyed my first read from Robert Winter. Very well written and lots of feels! Combine that with a May-December romance and an older MC and you've got a winning combination for me :)

My heart ached for David and his grief over Kyle. I can't imagine losing someone and then trying to find love again without feeling so guilty. And I enjoyed Brandon and his determination. He didn't back down every time David put up walls and tried to push him away.

This is my first time listening to Kale Williams and I thought he did a good job. I enjoyed his narration and will definitely look for more of his books in the future.

Loved the ebook; now love the audiobook as well!

September was Robert Winter's debut release in late 2016, and I was fortunate enough to read it in time for the release of his sophomore effort, Every Breath You Take, in May of last year. Both books were originally published by Dreamspinner Press, and they've been re-released by the author since then. Now, September's been released on audio, and me being the audiobook addict that I am and the fact that I loved the book when I first read it, I snapped it up once I saw it was on Audible. Winter's writing has been paired with the narration of Kale Williams, whose work I've listened to before, and theirs looks to be a match made in audiobook heaven.

Forty-eight-year-old David James deals with the loss of the man he was in a fifteen-year relationship with by working more than he should and working out to the point of exhaustion. It's been two years since he lost Kyle, and he's yet to truly move forward. When an injury sustained while working out has him spending time with twenty-six-year-old physical therapist Brandon Smith, David finds himself opening up to the possibility of being with someone new, even if he does happen to be twenty-two years younger than him. They fit together well, but judgment and presumptions are waiting to pounce from those on the outside of the bubble that is Brandon and David. When bubble bursts, will there be anything left for them to fix or simply leave all their broken pieces be?

Even the second time around, Winter's story remains one that's able to evoke a host of emotions out of me. David and Brandon have the kind of love story that seems doomed to be nothing more than a fling, given that it's originally one they get into because of lust, but listening to them stumble and then go over each hurdle thrown their way made for a romance worth putting time into. With Williams's voice bringing to life this beautiful love story, I allowed myself to experience it with fresh ears. This is my fourth listen for the narrator, but dare I say that this particular audiobook is him at his best, what with wonderfully weaved material to work with. It was easy to distinguish David from Brandon, and I hope that this won't be the only time Winter and Williams combine their talents. September easily gets five stars. Feel free to check out my review for the ebook.

Amazing story and good narration

I’m not – in general – a fan of angst – but I am a total fan of this book! It is sooooo touching and emotional and really gripping. Our guys go through some serious hard times and the author didn’t need to dress those times up to make them difficult, just living through it was hard enough.

What I loved was the support they provided for one another and how – despite the difficulties – they managed to ride out the bad weather.


I was kinda shocked at the path they end up taking – but in the end – I guess it really needed to be something like that because… well…. Reasons. (no spoilers!)

The writing is amazing. The characters are real and make mistakes – SO MANY! – but only because they are so real.

The secondary characters (including Kyle) are also really well drawn and so intricately that I imagine we’ll see them in a future book (ie Colin).

This isn’t a book you take lightly – it’s gonna keep you with a Kleenex in your hand – but it’s reward is worth it.

My only issue – I wanted more groveling by David at the end. But that was minor.


Highly Recommended!

4.5 of 5 stars

Audio

Kale Williams does a nice job narrating this. He puts some emotions into his readings but I didn’t feel he was “acting”. He didn’t necessarily give us a lot of voices or accents but everyone was easy to distinguish.

He’s very easy to listen to and doesn’t detract from the emotions in the story.

This is a fair way to experience this story.

3.5 of 5 stars

Overall 4 of 5 stars