What do you think?
Rate this book
Conduct Unbecoming #1
Conduct Unbecoming
"As long as no one asks and they don't tell "
First class petty officer Eric Randall is less than thrilled about taking orders to Okinawa. Three long, lonely years on a crappy island that's thousands of miles from his daughter? Oh. Yeah. Sign him up. But as long as he's stuck here, he might as well make the best of it, so he discreetly checks out the local gay scene.
Shane nearly drops his drink when the gorgeous, cocky-looking guy strolls into Palace Habu. He buys him a drink, and before long, they're making out in a booth. Eric is a straight-to-the-point kind of guy and doesn't want to play games. Since Eric's idea of not playing games is getting the hell out of there and going back to one of their apartments, Shane is more than happy to go along with it.
What starts as a scorching-hot one-night stand leaves both of them wanting more until Eric finds out Shane doesn t just outrank him, he's an officer. DADT may be repealed, but an officer getting involved with an enlisted man falls under conduct unbecoming.
Still, they can't resist their mutual desire. There's no reason anyone has to find out. But secrets have a way of outing themselves.
Warning: Contains two military boys who keep forgetting they're not supposed to be together. Probably because they never have their uniforms on for any length of time.
First class petty officer Eric Randall is less than thrilled about taking orders to Okinawa. Three long, lonely years on a crappy island that's thousands of miles from his daughter? Oh. Yeah. Sign him up. But as long as he's stuck here, he might as well make the best of it, so he discreetly checks out the local gay scene.
Shane nearly drops his drink when the gorgeous, cocky-looking guy strolls into Palace Habu. He buys him a drink, and before long, they're making out in a booth. Eric is a straight-to-the-point kind of guy and doesn't want to play games. Since Eric's idea of not playing games is getting the hell out of there and going back to one of their apartments, Shane is more than happy to go along with it.
What starts as a scorching-hot one-night stand leaves both of them wanting more until Eric finds out Shane doesn t just outrank him, he's an officer. DADT may be repealed, but an officer getting involved with an enlisted man falls under conduct unbecoming.
Still, they can't resist their mutual desire. There's no reason anyone has to find out. But secrets have a way of outing themselves.
Warning: Contains two military boys who keep forgetting they're not supposed to be together. Probably because they never have their uniforms on for any length of time.
277 pages, ebook
First published October 23, 2012
About the author
L.A. Witt
223 books2,594 followersL.A. Witt and her husband have been exiled from Spain and sent to live in Maine because rhymes are fun. She now divides her time between writing, assuring people she is aware that Maine is cold, wondering where to put her next tattoo, and trying to reason with a surly Maine coon. Rumor has it her arch nemesis, Lauren Gallagher, is also somewhere in the wilds of New England, which is why L.A. is also spending a portion of her time training a team of spec ops lobsters.
Authors Ann Gallagher and Lori A. Witt have been asked to assist in lobster training, but they "have books to write" and "need to focus on our careers" and "don't you think this rivalry has gotten a little out of hand?" They're probably just helping Lauren raise her army of squirrels trained to ride moose into battle.
Visit her website at http://www.gallagherwitt.com/.
Authors Ann Gallagher and Lori A. Witt have been asked to assist in lobster training, but they "have books to write" and "need to focus on our careers" and "don't you think this rivalry has gotten a little out of hand?" They're probably just helping Lauren raise her army of squirrels trained to ride moose into battle.
Visit her website at http://www.gallagherwitt.com/.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 316 reviews
October 30, 2012
Two Hot Military Alpha Males ~ Just needed more angst to satisfy my needs!...
"Dude Okinawa is a fucking shit-hole"
Those were the words ringing in Eric's ears as he departs for a three year tour of the Japanese Island. Three years in a foreign country where he doesn't know the language - and, they drive on the wrong side of the road! Three years without his daughter and three years on a small Island where being Gay is more conspicuous than not!
Lonely and in need of male company and not just to have a chat and a few beers with, Eric visits the local Gay Club - Palace Habu, where he meets Shane. Before long sparks are flying and what starts out as an intense necking session, turns into a night of ceaseless unbridled passion!
The chemistry between them was sizzling... Yep, great sex and fire hose needed! But eventually when they come down from the high of all that sex and decided that it was more than a one night stand, they got to talking and seems that the DADT was the least of their worries - with Shane a Commanding Officer and Eric enlisted Naval Police, even a friendship between the two was enough to damage their careers and definitely a NO, NO!
Despite their misgivings of being together, they are unable to resist the pull and something that was originally driven by lust becomes so much more. The deep affection and subsequent closeness was impossible to ignore and all thoughts of their actions having devastating consequences - forgotten!
Starting this book, I was engrossed in the characters really enjoying the the forbidden aspect of their relationship and how sad it was they had to go to such elaborate lengths, with untruths told just to spend time together, clandestine meetings and prepared explanations if seen!
Shane having already spent time on the Island, wanted to share its beauty with Eric and unfortunately this is where it lost me, we were treated to beautiful vistas and taken on a tour of the rural parts and tourist attractions of Okinawa. Which ended up as more of a travel journal than a romance. Not wanting to be unfair to the author this is probably my own preference.
The book was also told from alternating POV's, with both characters being so very similar it was hard to get a clear voice for them. Both being Alpha males in every sense of the word, they were both compassionate and caring and had great love and affection for their children. Common ground on marriage and divorce, with the islands history and beauty and a love of photography being other similarities. The POV's's were clearly defined by chapters but I found no characteristics or personality nuances to separate them!
Having said that the book finished on a flourish and I like how the author portrayed the hardships and pain felt by military men being parted from their families and not only how hard it is for them but the effect on the children, parents and even the ex-wives!
Personally I am a bit of an adrenaline junkie and like books that get my blood boiling, this was a nice read and failed on the angst! If however you prefer books without having to take something to control your blood pressure then this is for you.
For more reviews, please visit... Sinfully Sexy Book Reviews
"Dude Okinawa is a fucking shit-hole"
Those were the words ringing in Eric's ears as he departs for a three year tour of the Japanese Island. Three years in a foreign country where he doesn't know the language - and, they drive on the wrong side of the road! Three years without his daughter and three years on a small Island where being Gay is more conspicuous than not!
Lonely and in need of male company and not just to have a chat and a few beers with, Eric visits the local Gay Club - Palace Habu, where he meets Shane. Before long sparks are flying and what starts out as an intense necking session, turns into a night of ceaseless unbridled passion!
The chemistry between them was sizzling... Yep, great sex and fire hose needed! But eventually when they come down from the high of all that sex and decided that it was more than a one night stand, they got to talking and seems that the DADT was the least of their worries - with Shane a Commanding Officer and Eric enlisted Naval Police, even a friendship between the two was enough to damage their careers and definitely a NO, NO!
Despite their misgivings of being together, they are unable to resist the pull and something that was originally driven by lust becomes so much more. The deep affection and subsequent closeness was impossible to ignore and all thoughts of their actions having devastating consequences - forgotten!
Starting this book, I was engrossed in the characters really enjoying the the forbidden aspect of their relationship and how sad it was they had to go to such elaborate lengths, with untruths told just to spend time together, clandestine meetings and prepared explanations if seen!
Shane having already spent time on the Island, wanted to share its beauty with Eric and unfortunately this is where it lost me, we were treated to beautiful vistas and taken on a tour of the rural parts and tourist attractions of Okinawa. Which ended up as more of a travel journal than a romance. Not wanting to be unfair to the author this is probably my own preference.
The book was also told from alternating POV's, with both characters being so very similar it was hard to get a clear voice for them. Both being Alpha males in every sense of the word, they were both compassionate and caring and had great love and affection for their children. Common ground on marriage and divorce, with the islands history and beauty and a love of photography being other similarities. The POV's's were clearly defined by chapters but I found no characteristics or personality nuances to separate them!
Having said that the book finished on a flourish and I like how the author portrayed the hardships and pain felt by military men being parted from their families and not only how hard it is for them but the effect on the children, parents and even the ex-wives!
Personally I am a bit of an adrenaline junkie and like books that get my blood boiling, this was a nice read and failed on the angst! If however you prefer books without having to take something to control your blood pressure then this is for you.
For more reviews, please visit... Sinfully Sexy Book Reviews
June 6, 2019
I actually liked this story. I really did.
Two gorgeous guys, both of them dads in their 30s, sizzling sex, rippling muscles glistening with sweat as they rub against each other…
And yet
This story was dry like the Sahara desert…
Eric is an enlisted Navy cop and gets assigned to the island of Okinawa in Japan. Missing his daughter (who lives with the ex-wife) he is miserable and lonely and decides to find company in a gay bar.
The guy he meets there is Shane, a Navy officer, and it’s basically love at first sight. They’re all over each other.
The only problem is that apparently an officer is not allowed to have any kind of private relationship to an enlisted man, so they’re both risking their careers meeting up and sleeping with each other.
And while that might be a nice trope to bring in some drama, it simply wasn’t used. There was a moment where a tiny bit of tension came up, but never the full out drama that I was waiting for.
Shane and Eric basically spent their time together f***ing, snorkeling, sightseeing, buying souvenirs and drinking a totally scary drink with a dead poisonous snake (!!).
Am I the only one who feels sorry for the snakes in this??
This book deserves five stars as a tourist brochure for Okinawa, because even I want to see that place after all the praise it got in this story.
But as a romance, it was plain boring and dry.
3 stars!
Two gorgeous guys, both of them dads in their 30s, sizzling sex, rippling muscles glistening with sweat as they rub against each other…
And yet
This story was dry like the Sahara desert…
Eric is an enlisted Navy cop and gets assigned to the island of Okinawa in Japan. Missing his daughter (who lives with the ex-wife) he is miserable and lonely and decides to find company in a gay bar.
The guy he meets there is Shane, a Navy officer, and it’s basically love at first sight. They’re all over each other.
The only problem is that apparently an officer is not allowed to have any kind of private relationship to an enlisted man, so they’re both risking their careers meeting up and sleeping with each other.
And while that might be a nice trope to bring in some drama, it simply wasn’t used. There was a moment where a tiny bit of tension came up, but never the full out drama that I was waiting for.
Shane and Eric basically spent their time together f***ing, snorkeling, sightseeing, buying souvenirs and drinking a totally scary drink with a dead poisonous snake (!!).
Am I the only one who feels sorry for the snakes in this??
This book deserves five stars as a tourist brochure for Okinawa, because even I want to see that place after all the praise it got in this story.
But as a romance, it was plain boring and dry.
3 stars!
March 28, 2017
I am a bit on top of the fence here.
The MCs were great and scorching hot together! Both divorced and with kids.
The background created behind the family drama felt realistic.
I liked the way the author shows how different was the relationship of both guys with their kids.
However, the Island history made this too boring for me. There was a lot of info about Okinawa (food, drinks, culture, what to see). The author gives a chance to discover this tiny Island with Eric - the MC, who just moved over there. I wasn't much into all that.
The MCs were great and scorching hot together! Both divorced and with kids.
The background created behind the family drama felt realistic.
I liked the way the author shows how different was the relationship of both guys with their kids.
However, the Island history made this too boring for me. There was a lot of info about Okinawa (food, drinks, culture, what to see). The author gives a chance to discover this tiny Island with Eric - the MC, who just moved over there. I wasn't much into all that.
Want to read
April 5, 2017Kindle freebie 4/5/17!
March 29, 2017
3.5 Stars!
I much prefer LA Witt's older stuff...and I'm not sure how this one passed me by. I thought it was pretty good. The pace was a bit slow and it was at times too much about Okinawa. But I quite liked the MCs.
It reminded me a lot of LA Witt's newer series - Anchor Point. Quite a few similarities.
Low on the angst and high on the steam.
I never read the original version so not sure of the differences...but I would recommend this one.
I much prefer LA Witt's older stuff...and I'm not sure how this one passed me by. I thought it was pretty good. The pace was a bit slow and it was at times too much about Okinawa. But I quite liked the MCs.
It reminded me a lot of LA Witt's newer series - Anchor Point. Quite a few similarities.
Low on the angst and high on the steam.
I never read the original version so not sure of the differences...but I would recommend this one.
October 25, 2012
2,5 stars
Oops!
M/m-sex in a guidebook of Okinawa?
How naughty...
I got a vivid picture of Okinawa told from the viewpoints of two military guys trying to keep their love-affair a secret, having sex at every opportunity and discussing family stuff like kids and ex- wives
A plot was nowhere to be found...
2 stars for the story,
3 stars for the guidebook.(Rating would be higher if I had bought it as such...)
Oops!
M/m-sex in a guidebook of Okinawa?
How naughty...
I got a vivid picture of Okinawa told from the viewpoints of two military guys trying to keep their love-affair a secret, having sex at every opportunity and discussing family stuff like kids and ex- wives
A plot was nowhere to be found...
2 stars for the story,
3 stars for the guidebook.(Rating would be higher if I had bought it as such...)
February 14, 2016
This is the story of Shane and Eric, 2 very hot military men based in Okinawa, dealing with hiding their relationship because of DADT.
As soon as they meet, you can feel their deep attraction, even though it put them both at risk. The chemistry is there for sure. It’s HOT. In addition, you get a great description of Okinawa (made me want to plan a trip there) and of the impact of military on families.
In short, I loved it.
PS : I reread it - still one of my favorite
As soon as they meet, you can feel their deep attraction, even though it put them both at risk. The chemistry is there for sure. It’s HOT. In addition, you get a great description of Okinawa (made me want to plan a trip there) and of the impact of military on families.
In short, I loved it.
PS : I reread it - still one of my favorite
May 2, 2015
I just realized this was my first LA Witt book (where the fuck have I been) and it certainly wont be my last.
It was clear Ms Witt has lived on Okinawa and although the book at times bordered on travel log it made me want to go. I have spent time in Tokyo and her description of the back alleys filled with small narrow bars and cafes brought back wonderful memories. REALLY nice memories.
Even though it's post DADT, Shane and Eric's story sadly showed the challenges gay military men and women still face.
And as an air force brat I was grateful Witt was able to so accurately describe the difficulties faced not only with the service personnel but also the families left state side.
A wonderful military story.
Opps-almost forgot. The guys were hot and the sex was super duper hot. With a lovely
Now excuse me and please leave me alone because I will be reading
It was clear Ms Witt has lived on Okinawa and although the book at times bordered on travel log it made me want to go. I have spent time in Tokyo and her description of the back alleys filled with small narrow bars and cafes brought back wonderful memories. REALLY nice memories.
Even though it's post DADT, Shane and Eric's story sadly showed the challenges gay military men and women still face.
And as an air force brat I was grateful Witt was able to so accurately describe the difficulties faced not only with the service personnel but also the families left state side.
A wonderful military story.
Opps-almost forgot. The guys were hot and the sex was super duper hot. With a lovely
Now excuse me and please leave me alone because I will be reading
May 1, 2019
3,5 stars
This story was hot and interesting, low on angst, but it felt too long. We get SO many Okinawa descriptions, places, food, drinks.
Erik and Shane were extremely HOT together but I just got enough of the forbidden and hidden relationship. And I got pretty disappointed with the HFN ending. I wanted so much more.
This story was hot and interesting, low on angst, but it felt too long. We get SO many Okinawa descriptions, places, food, drinks.
Erik and Shane were extremely HOT together but I just got enough of the forbidden and hidden relationship. And I got pretty disappointed with the HFN ending. I wanted so much more.
April 17, 2013
A wonderful, and mature love story. I really liked both Eric, and Shane. It was refreshing to read a story about grown men who act like adults. I like that Eric has a solid relationship with his ex wife, and daughter, and that Shane doesn't spend all his time talking about how his ex was the villain who broke his heart. It's nice to see fully developed women in an mm romance. I also liked that they didn't fall instantly in love, there was lust to be sure, but it took time for the men to get to know each other before love came into play. I appreciated that they were about the same age, and that Eric didn't work under Shane. It made the balance of power more equal, and I like that neither one was taking advantage of the other. The scenery was a nice touch, and made me want to visit Okinawa. I really liked how the history, scenery, and language worked its way into the story. It gave it a real depth, and sense of place lacking in so many other romance novels. One of my new favorite L.A. Witt stories.
October 2, 2013
I get lost in these books that really do take you away. My only experience with Okinawa Japan previously was the Karate Kid 2. With so many places I want to visit in this world, Okinawa was not even a blip.
L.A. Witt takes you on such a descriptive tour of the Island with Eric and Shane that I felt like I was sightseeing vicariously through them.
Eric and Shane are both serving long tours on the island away from their kids, their culture and for Eric even his language. You feel the isolation and loneliness and just need for someone or something coming off the pages.
There is this amazing HOT chemistry, fire, passion between Eric and Shane but unfortunately Shane is an officer and Eric isn’t and apparently the military takes this type of fraternization seriously.
Good to Know, (nodding head) but not good for the guys. So the only way they can spend time together outside of the bedroom is by pretending to be two Americans who run into each other at these sights.
Ohhhh and there are some steamy scenes at those sights. Sighhhhh
I also like the alternating POV the story is told through. I like seeing the same exchange and how different it is to either of them.
Great book for when you do need to just disappear from your real life into a good book , great romance and hey learn a little bit about a different culture while you are at it.
June 6, 2019
Darn, I had no idea how strict and 'savage' the rules for military personal is when is comes to befriending others.
Officers and enlisted guys can't be seen with each other? Can't talk or hang out together? What is this all about? I mean the implication is that something like this could have serious repercussions . Obviously I am totally ignorant, but why is such a rule in place or necessary? What is the problem? If anyone knows, please enlighten me!
Considering that, you can imagine what would happen if two guys outside their own rank have an affair. A gay affair. End of career guaranteed. One would think that this is enough to put guys off.
Eric and Shane understand the consequences of what could happen if they are found out.
They discuss the problem regularly, and yet the pull between them is so strong they can't help wanting to be together. So you kind of get this constant "we shouldn't, we can't, but we will anyway" pull and push between them.
Nothing against that at all. This is a love story after all.
BUT, I really could not understand why they were willing to take unreasonable risks all the time, repeatedly contradicting themselves and their intentions. Yes, they are going to locations that are 'safe' - but considering the size of the island, the chances of being seen are sky-high.
Anyone could be anywhere at any time. And having sex on a beach in broad daylight which could easily be watched through binoculars is simply not a good idea. I mean, they did have a tent with them!
Don't get me wrong - I liked the guys. They were hot together, the usual military muscles and the lot. Their banter was cute, but nothing special. Eric's relationship with his daughter put a smile on my face and Shane is a good guy.
Just their sex was ... OTT at times. It was ALWAYS so urgent, so blinding, so mind-blowing. Again - nothing against that, but I couldn't help feeling that the author was trying too hard (sigh, yes, I know. And no, it's not meant as a pun)
One thing that definitely was not for me - the enormous detail the author puts into her descriptions of the island, the sights, the buildings, the landscapes and scenery. They are worthy of a travel magazine. Of course one needs scene setting - but this is just too much. I marvel at the intimate knowledge about the island the author clearly has, but a little bit less would have been sufficient! It got to the stage where I started skipping pages.
A nice enough book, but nothing that would encourage me to continue with the series.
Officers and enlisted guys can't be seen with each other? Can't talk or hang out together? What is this all about? I mean the implication is that something like this could have serious repercussions . Obviously I am totally ignorant, but why is such a rule in place or necessary? What is the problem? If anyone knows, please enlighten me!
Considering that, you can imagine what would happen if two guys outside their own rank have an affair. A gay affair. End of career guaranteed. One would think that this is enough to put guys off.
Eric and Shane understand the consequences of what could happen if they are found out.
They discuss the problem regularly, and yet the pull between them is so strong they can't help wanting to be together. So you kind of get this constant "we shouldn't, we can't, but we will anyway" pull and push between them.
Nothing against that at all. This is a love story after all.
BUT, I really could not understand why they were willing to take unreasonable risks all the time, repeatedly contradicting themselves and their intentions. Yes, they are going to locations that are 'safe' - but considering the size of the island, the chances of being seen are sky-high.
Anyone could be anywhere at any time. And having sex on a beach in broad daylight which could easily be watched through binoculars is simply not a good idea. I mean, they did have a tent with them!
Don't get me wrong - I liked the guys. They were hot together, the usual military muscles and the lot. Their banter was cute, but nothing special. Eric's relationship with his daughter put a smile on my face and Shane is a good guy.
Just their sex was ... OTT at times. It was ALWAYS so urgent, so blinding, so mind-blowing. Again - nothing against that, but I couldn't help feeling that the author was trying too hard (sigh, yes, I know. And no, it's not meant as a pun)
One thing that definitely was not for me - the enormous detail the author puts into her descriptions of the island, the sights, the buildings, the landscapes and scenery. They are worthy of a travel magazine. Of course one needs scene setting - but this is just too much. I marvel at the intimate knowledge about the island the author clearly has, but a little bit less would have been sufficient! It got to the stage where I started skipping pages.
A nice enough book, but nothing that would encourage me to continue with the series.
April 12, 2017
I loved this one. I liked how much colour and detail it had. Both MCs were very likable and I loved the easy banter and sense of humour, especially with the daughter of one of the MCs. A really good love story - extra points for SLOW development of feelings after the hot hot gymnastics! I really appreciate this kind of structure, because to me it feels much more realistic and keeps a bit of tension in the story.
November 25, 2023
11/25/23 re-read. Here’s a good illustration of how one’s opinion can fluctuate over time. It’s like I’m in a relationship with this book and I love it more some days than others. Bc this time around? Idk what March 2022 me was thinking (see review below). This book is wonderful! So I’m gonna bring my rating back up to 5 stars. Yes, I still love book 2 best, but there is a lot, a lot to love about this one. A+ 5 stars.
__________________
03/16/22 re-read (or, rather, re-listen). This one did not hold up for me. All the things I say in my original review - descriptions of Okinawa that transported me to the island, deep satisfaction with the HFN, and enjoyment of the audio narrator - hold true, but, perhaps unfairly, this one stands beside book two in my mind and pales a bit in comparison. So this one is good, but not as good as book 2 imo. And for that reason I decided to shave off a star. Still a solid 4/5 star read for me though.
__________________
L.A. Witt has become, for me, one of the few authors who I can turn to when I'm struggling to find my next read, and who I can usually count on to deliver a solid story. More than solid, this one gets 5 stars from me. I loved it! Particularly striking, I felt, was the depiction of Okinawa itself as almost a third MC. I have not been to Okinawa so can not speak to whether or not this book accurately represents it, but to me it felt that the author did some research and made an effort to portray the island and the surrounding area in an authentic way. Certainly, I felt transported. What also struck me was my satisfaction with the ending. I am a die hard HEA fan. However, this book offered an HFN that was not only satisfying but also made sense with the story; it worked well whereas an HEA would have been less believable. Finally, what a wonderful audio narrator! I think Greg Boudreaux made what was already a satisfying read even more enjoyable. Two thumbs way up!
__________________
03/16/22 re-read (or, rather, re-listen). This one did not hold up for me. All the things I say in my original review - descriptions of Okinawa that transported me to the island, deep satisfaction with the HFN, and enjoyment of the audio narrator - hold true, but, perhaps unfairly, this one stands beside book two in my mind and pales a bit in comparison. So this one is good, but not as good as book 2 imo. And for that reason I decided to shave off a star. Still a solid 4/5 star read for me though.
__________________
L.A. Witt has become, for me, one of the few authors who I can turn to when I'm struggling to find my next read, and who I can usually count on to deliver a solid story. More than solid, this one gets 5 stars from me. I loved it! Particularly striking, I felt, was the depiction of Okinawa itself as almost a third MC. I have not been to Okinawa so can not speak to whether or not this book accurately represents it, but to me it felt that the author did some research and made an effort to portray the island and the surrounding area in an authentic way. Certainly, I felt transported. What also struck me was my satisfaction with the ending. I am a die hard HEA fan. However, this book offered an HFN that was not only satisfying but also made sense with the story; it worked well whereas an HEA would have been less believable. Finally, what a wonderful audio narrator! I think Greg Boudreaux made what was already a satisfying read even more enjoyable. Two thumbs way up!
October 29, 2012
This book was really dull. Other reviewers have described it as a guide book to Okinawa with a bunch of gay sex, and that is 100% accurate. There's a lot of boring stuff about their kids and a lot of snorkeling and visiting islands and castles and stuff. Stuff that would have been good in a movie, but not so much in a book. I skimmed most of it. In addition to the complete lack of plot or anything interesting to keep the reader hooked, the two main characters were entirely interchangeable. I had no idea who was narrating most of the time. There was no distinction between the two.
I should have just stopped reading this, but I didn't. I continued, and skimmed over a lot of it, just for those few "aw" moments that L.A. Witt can still deliver, but overall I was disappointed. In fact, the last few L.A. Witt books have been very disappointing and she's no longer an auto-buy for me.
P.S. L.A., please stop having your characters "exchange glances and then burst out laughing." Please.
ETA: That cover though! The one guy looks like Brian Kinney. I think that might have been a big reason why I didn't give up. :)
I should have just stopped reading this, but I didn't. I continued, and skimmed over a lot of it, just for those few "aw" moments that L.A. Witt can still deliver, but overall I was disappointed. In fact, the last few L.A. Witt books have been very disappointing and she's no longer an auto-buy for me.
P.S. L.A., please stop having your characters "exchange glances and then burst out laughing." Please.
ETA: That cover though! The one guy looks like Brian Kinney. I think that might have been a big reason why I didn't give up. :)
August 6, 2014
Haurmph
Have I got a bone to pick with you.
Wait! Have you read this yet?
No? Ohh, well then you're off the hook.
Yes? How could you? I thought you were my friend?
*whispers...I'm not really grumpy, just go with it*
My name is written ALL over this book...and nobody told me.
Now that I look closer, it's there...S.H.E.R.I. Yep, it's screaming for me to pick it up...and love it. *sigh* And I finally listened.
Why exactly is this *my* kinda book?
Well, let's see.....
Sexy men in uniforms.
Happy happy happy.
Erotic and adorable at the same time.
Really well written.
I don't need a lot of angst.
*smirky smile*
Okay, okay...I'm not mad. Quite the opposite actually.
What can I tell you that's not in the blurb?
Hmmmm, it's written in first person, and alternating first person at that. This has never bothered me, I tend to prefer it. I relish the pleasure of tasting both boys. *licks lips*
Equally delicious.
Navy hotness AND cop hotness? Have I told you how much I melt over a man in a uniform? Come on, can you blame me? Uniforms are sexy as hell and usually come packed with an alpha inside. Granted the blurb is true to the story and they are very rarely in their uniforms.
Yeah baby.
Which takes us to the smexy. Yowza, they were machines. Couldn't keep their hands (lips, tongues, and other important body parts) to themselves. Constantly manhandling each other. Do you hear me complaining?
Nope.
Even better than the sex was the falling. Oh, how sweet it was. They were forbidden from being together, but some falls are destined. Couldn't stop it even when they tried.
Excellent characters struggling with the harsh reality of military life. Of course I adore the writing...this is Witt we're talking about.
What could have pushed this up a notch? I can see the beauty of the island clearly, yet the boys are a bit fuzzy. Heavy focus on the place and who the boys were, but I think details about the boys appearance were slightly vague. I wish I could see them better.
I enjoyed the pacing until the end. Somebody hit the fast forward and I wanted to elbow them. The ending was tied up quickly. Too quickly.
And the cover isn't really my favorite. It doesn't do the story justice. To be honest, between the title and the cover, I think that's the main reason I breezed past this one. I'm so glad that mistake has been corrected.
Soo, I'm telling you as a friend....if you don't need dark, twisted, and the risk of heart palpitations, you should read this.
Now, if you'll excuse me, I have a sequel calling my name. ;)
*4 gimmie-gimmie-more stars*
Have I got a bone to pick with you.
Wait! Have you read this yet?
No? Ohh, well then you're off the hook.
Yes? How could you? I thought you were my friend?
*whispers...I'm not really grumpy, just go with it*
My name is written ALL over this book...and nobody told me.
Now that I look closer, it's there...S.H.E.R.I. Yep, it's screaming for me to pick it up...and love it. *sigh* And I finally listened.
Why exactly is this *my* kinda book?
Well, let's see.....
Sexy men in uniforms.
Happy happy happy.
Erotic and adorable at the same time.
Really well written.
I don't need a lot of angst.
*smirky smile*
Okay, okay...I'm not mad. Quite the opposite actually.
What can I tell you that's not in the blurb?
Hmmmm, it's written in first person, and alternating first person at that. This has never bothered me, I tend to prefer it. I relish the pleasure of tasting both boys. *licks lips*
Equally delicious.
Navy hotness AND cop hotness? Have I told you how much I melt over a man in a uniform? Come on, can you blame me? Uniforms are sexy as hell and usually come packed with an alpha inside. Granted the blurb is true to the story and they are very rarely in their uniforms.
Yeah baby.
Which takes us to the smexy. Yowza, they were machines. Couldn't keep their hands (lips, tongues, and other important body parts) to themselves. Constantly manhandling each other. Do you hear me complaining?
Nope.
Even better than the sex was the falling. Oh, how sweet it was. They were forbidden from being together, but some falls are destined. Couldn't stop it even when they tried.
Excellent characters struggling with the harsh reality of military life. Of course I adore the writing...this is Witt we're talking about.
What could have pushed this up a notch? I can see the beauty of the island clearly, yet the boys are a bit fuzzy. Heavy focus on the place and who the boys were, but I think details about the boys appearance were slightly vague. I wish I could see them better.
I enjoyed the pacing until the end. Somebody hit the fast forward and I wanted to elbow them. The ending was tied up quickly. Too quickly.
And the cover isn't really my favorite. It doesn't do the story justice. To be honest, between the title and the cover, I think that's the main reason I breezed past this one. I'm so glad that mistake has been corrected.
Soo, I'm telling you as a friend....if you don't need dark, twisted, and the risk of heart palpitations, you should read this.
Now, if you'll excuse me, I have a sequel calling my name. ;)
*4 gimmie-gimmie-more stars*
August 3, 2016
The warning from the publisher pretty much sums it up:
Contains two military boys who keep forgetting they're not supposed to be together. Probably because they never have their uniforms on for any length of time...
Eric and Shane are stationed in Okinawa. They meet at a club and have an instant attraction. Their one night stand quickly turns into more. The problem is that Shane is an officer and Eric is enlisted. Their fraternizing falls under conduct unbecoming. Now they must decide if this relationship is worth the risk to their careers.
I loved it. Not only is it a lovely and sexy story but it's like taking a guided tour of Okinawa.
Contains two military boys who keep forgetting they're not supposed to be together. Probably because they never have their uniforms on for any length of time...
Eric and Shane are stationed in Okinawa. They meet at a club and have an instant attraction. Their one night stand quickly turns into more. The problem is that Shane is an officer and Eric is enlisted. Their fraternizing falls under conduct unbecoming. Now they must decide if this relationship is worth the risk to their careers.
I loved it. Not only is it a lovely and sexy story but it's like taking a guided tour of Okinawa.
April 28, 2018
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! Seriousely, I think I posted more status updates for this story, than any I've read before! Both of the MC's were very likeable and had some amazing chemistry, in and out of the bedroom. Although I must admit, I was a little more partial to Eric over Shane (what? *shrugs* Millitary Police, in uniform, turn me on...lol!). And Eric's daughter, Marie, was hilarious! In the end, it was a low angst, funny, steamy ride, that I'm very happy I took!
June 14, 2013
3.5 Stars
I enjoyed this well enough. I want to visit Okinawa like crazy! Witt's descriptions of the islands' attractions painted a stunning landscape of white sandy beaches, old castle ruins, amazing sunsets, and wonderful people. As an m/m romance, this book was alright. Eric and Shane were likeable enough. I enjoyed their maturity. I LOVED that the women (i.e., Eric and Shane's exes) weren't complete bitches. I didn't like the constant, ulcer-creating, stress of worrying that someone will happen upon them and ruin their careers. I appreciated experiencing first-hand what it might feel like to have to watch your back 24/7 and modulate your behavior around the person you love for fear of outing yourselves and ruining your careers. I would have liked a little more angst to satisfy the m/m romance reader in me.
Bottom-line: a stressful story about an officer and an enlisted falling in love, set in beautiful Okinawa.
I enjoyed this well enough. I want to visit Okinawa like crazy! Witt's descriptions of the islands' attractions painted a stunning landscape of white sandy beaches, old castle ruins, amazing sunsets, and wonderful people. As an m/m romance, this book was alright. Eric and Shane were likeable enough. I enjoyed their maturity. I LOVED that the women (i.e., Eric and Shane's exes) weren't complete bitches. I didn't like the constant, ulcer-creating, stress of worrying that someone will happen upon them and ruin their careers. I appreciated experiencing first-hand what it might feel like to have to watch your back 24/7 and modulate your behavior around the person you love for fear of outing yourselves and ruining your careers. I would have liked a little more angst to satisfy the m/m romance reader in me.
Bottom-line: a stressful story about an officer and an enlisted falling in love, set in beautiful Okinawa.
April 7, 2017
Shane and Eric are hot hot hot!! Loved this book.
August 15, 2014
Hot. Very hot.
Eric and Shane are both in the Navy, currently stationed in Okinawa, Japan. Shane has been stationed there off and on for several years. Eric has just arrived for the first time. Eric did not want to be in Japan, so far from his daughter, for three years. He has also been told it's a dump, that it is completely Americanized, etc. Not much to look forward to, right?
After being in Okinawa for a couple weeks, Eric decides to check out the local gay scene. He could really use the distraction. He meets Shane and their chemistry is off the charts.
Doesn't it figure that Eric and Shane would find each other after DADT was repealed, but they still couldn't openly see one another without risking their careers? That's got to suck. I enjoyed this book, from the tour of Okinawa, which was fantastic and made me want to go there, to the incredible chemistry between Eric and Shane. And the sex was nuclear.
Eric and Shane are both in the Navy, currently stationed in Okinawa, Japan. Shane has been stationed there off and on for several years. Eric has just arrived for the first time. Eric did not want to be in Japan, so far from his daughter, for three years. He has also been told it's a dump, that it is completely Americanized, etc. Not much to look forward to, right?
After being in Okinawa for a couple weeks, Eric decides to check out the local gay scene. He could really use the distraction. He meets Shane and their chemistry is off the charts.
Doesn't it figure that Eric and Shane would find each other after DADT was repealed, but they still couldn't openly see one another without risking their careers? That's got to suck. I enjoyed this book, from the tour of Okinawa, which was fantastic and made me want to go there, to the incredible chemistry between Eric and Shane. And the sex was nuclear.
December 3, 2012
What I loved: Both guys. They were equally sexy and funny, and the chemistry between them was smokin. Eric's relationship with his ex and his daughter was fun to read. Shane had a few more issues with his family, but I enjoyed their interactions as well.
What I didn't quite love: The use of all the military titles got tiresome, as did some of the parts that were a bit too descriptive. I found myself wanting to skip ahead to the next round of dialog. It also got a bit tedious hearing them talk on and on about how much trouble they could get in and how much they shouldn't be continuing their relationship.
But, I really loved when they were together, getting down and dirty, or just hanging out. What's not to love about two hot military men who equal each other in all aspects. Yummm.
What I didn't quite love: The use of all the military titles got tiresome, as did some of the parts that were a bit too descriptive. I found myself wanting to skip ahead to the next round of dialog. It also got a bit tedious hearing them talk on and on about how much trouble they could get in and how much they shouldn't be continuing their relationship.
But, I really loved when they were together, getting down and dirty, or just hanging out. What's not to love about two hot military men who equal each other in all aspects. Yummm.
Read
January 21, 2013Flip flopping points of view of repeat scenes in the first person, really tends to annoy me when there isn't much substance.
The first 25% of this novel had potential. The chemistry is undeniably steaming, and the sex was erotic and delicious. I enjoyed the back drop of Okinawa and what the different cultures have to offer, but I need more than that to pin me down. There is only so much of the wonders of Japan to keep me interested.
Unfortunately the following 25% of enduring the format and not foreseeing any kind of plot development other than the obvious, I gave up half way through.
There is a whole ocean full of literary wonders out there filled with angst, intrigue and fascinating characters for me to devour in the small amount of time that I have, so I choose not to continue, especially when I got tastier fish to fry.
The first 25% of this novel had potential. The chemistry is undeniably steaming, and the sex was erotic and delicious. I enjoyed the back drop of Okinawa and what the different cultures have to offer, but I need more than that to pin me down. There is only so much of the wonders of Japan to keep me interested.
Unfortunately the following 25% of enduring the format and not foreseeing any kind of plot development other than the obvious, I gave up half way through.
There is a whole ocean full of literary wonders out there filled with angst, intrigue and fascinating characters for me to devour in the small amount of time that I have, so I choose not to continue, especially when I got tastier fish to fry.
January 28, 2020
Okay, I want to go to Okinawa. Witt really does an excellent job in describing the island(s), the history and sites. Witt also gives some insight into the life of military Americans, DADT, long-distance parenting, etc. She develops a great foundation on which to build the story.
The romance is smokin' HOT and the characters of Eric and Shane are really well-devoloped as their romance gradually unfolds. Both MCs are adults, and Eric has a great relationship with his ex-wife and daughter and indirectly encourages Shane to develop the same. It was so refreshing to read a book NOT full of angst and misunderstandings. Loved the book - can't wait to read more books by L.A. Witt.
Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
The romance is smokin' HOT and the characters of Eric and Shane are really well-devoloped as their romance gradually unfolds. Both MCs are adults, and Eric has a great relationship with his ex-wife and daughter and indirectly encourages Shane to develop the same. It was so refreshing to read a book NOT full of angst and misunderstandings. Loved the book - can't wait to read more books by L.A. Witt.
Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
February 14, 2013
3.5 stars.
Loved Shane and Eric's story and the chemistry between the MC's. Got a little bogged down in the details of the island and actually skimmed some of the travelogue style descriptions after a while. Would have rather had more time with the characters.
I felt that there was so much more to explore with the storyline and the ending was kind of rushed. Would love to see a sequel as I felt the ending was more a HFN with so much more story that can be told.
Loved Shane and Eric's story and the chemistry between the MC's. Got a little bogged down in the details of the island and actually skimmed some of the travelogue style descriptions after a while. Would have rather had more time with the characters.
I felt that there was so much more to explore with the storyline and the ending was kind of rushed. Would love to see a sequel as I felt the ending was more a HFN with so much more story that can be told.
December 23, 2012
A guided tour of Okinawa. An officer and an enlisted meet, fall in lust and then fall in love. There is a lot of jumping around to all the sites with great description on the sites to see. If you enjoy that kind of book, you'll enjoy this. It's a sweet M/M love story with some steamy sex.
January 1, 2018
Voto: 4.5 stelline.
Alzi la mano chi non subisce il fascino della divisa, perché qui ce n’è per tutti.
I nostri protagonisti sono due militari della Marina americana di stanza su una piccola isola del Giappone e, se non bastasse l’omofobia strisciante in seno alle forze armate, fraternizzare fra militari di grado diverso è severamente vietato e la pena è tremenda.
Queste sono le premesse, e la storia di Eric e Shane è stata davvero una lettura coinvolgente e piacevole, col giusto mix di tensione – perché ogni istante si sente sul collo il pericolo di venir scoperti e il disastro colossale che ne conseguirebbe – e amore, perché loro non riescono a stare lontano l’uno dall’altro, regalandoci un sacco di buon sesso, deliziosamente descritto.
La storia parla di relazioni segrete e della vita militare, ma è anche un affascinante viaggio nel Giappone, magnificamente descritto nei luoghi che circondano Okinawa, coi suoi monumenti storici, gli usi, i costumi, i cibi, gli animali straordinari che si possono incontrare e molto altro.
Accanto ai protagonisti, conosciamo alcuni personaggi secondari simpatici e interessanti, soprattutto la figlia di Eric, Marie, una ragazza intelligente e spigliata.
Ma anche il migliore amico di Shane merita una menzione e, devo dire, pure il guardiamarina Lange mi ha incuriosita. Siccome è il protagonista del prossimo capitolo di questa serie, spero che venga tradotto presto! Intanto vi consiglio questo, perché è una bellissima storia e la resa italiana è davvero piacevole.
Alzi la mano chi non subisce il fascino della divisa, perché qui ce n’è per tutti.
I nostri protagonisti sono due militari della Marina americana di stanza su una piccola isola del Giappone e, se non bastasse l’omofobia strisciante in seno alle forze armate, fraternizzare fra militari di grado diverso è severamente vietato e la pena è tremenda.
Queste sono le premesse, e la storia di Eric e Shane è stata davvero una lettura coinvolgente e piacevole, col giusto mix di tensione – perché ogni istante si sente sul collo il pericolo di venir scoperti e il disastro colossale che ne conseguirebbe – e amore, perché loro non riescono a stare lontano l’uno dall’altro, regalandoci un sacco di buon sesso, deliziosamente descritto.
La storia parla di relazioni segrete e della vita militare, ma è anche un affascinante viaggio nel Giappone, magnificamente descritto nei luoghi che circondano Okinawa, coi suoi monumenti storici, gli usi, i costumi, i cibi, gli animali straordinari che si possono incontrare e molto altro.
Accanto ai protagonisti, conosciamo alcuni personaggi secondari simpatici e interessanti, soprattutto la figlia di Eric, Marie, una ragazza intelligente e spigliata.
Ma anche il migliore amico di Shane merita una menzione e, devo dire, pure il guardiamarina Lange mi ha incuriosita. Siccome è il protagonista del prossimo capitolo di questa serie, spero che venga tradotto presto! Intanto vi consiglio questo, perché è una bellissima storia e la resa italiana è davvero piacevole.
January 15, 2013
Lead me not into temptation, for I know the way myself.
This is the story of two military men serving in Okinawa. One is an enlisted man. The other is an officer. They meet when Eric first arrives for a three year stint. The attraction if instant and not something they deny. I did like how this lust for each other slowly turned to much more.
Shane and Eric both understand that what they are doing is extremely dangerous to their careers. This knowledge doesn't stop them. Slowly the feelings grow.
So this was what falling for someone felt like.
These men had given up so much for the career they were putting in danger. They both had children back in the States that they missed. They had both seen the horrors of war. What more could they give. Did they have to give up each other. Could they give up each other. The romance part of this book was all I could ask for.
My problem was that too much of this book felt like a travel brochure for Okinawa. I like an author who has a descriptive style of writing, but this book had too much of that for me. It at times seemed to over shadow the main story of Eric and Shane's love.
I do enjoy this author, and will continue to read her books, but this one wasn't my favourite of hers.
This is the story of two military men serving in Okinawa. One is an enlisted man. The other is an officer. They meet when Eric first arrives for a three year stint. The attraction if instant and not something they deny. I did like how this lust for each other slowly turned to much more.
Shane and Eric both understand that what they are doing is extremely dangerous to their careers. This knowledge doesn't stop them. Slowly the feelings grow.
So this was what falling for someone felt like.
These men had given up so much for the career they were putting in danger. They both had children back in the States that they missed. They had both seen the horrors of war. What more could they give. Did they have to give up each other. Could they give up each other. The romance part of this book was all I could ask for.
My problem was that too much of this book felt like a travel brochure for Okinawa. I like an author who has a descriptive style of writing, but this book had too much of that for me. It at times seemed to over shadow the main story of Eric and Shane's love.
I do enjoy this author, and will continue to read her books, but this one wasn't my favourite of hers.
December 3, 2012
There were parts of this that were a 5 star and parts that were a 3, so I settled for 4 stars.
Loved: Both Shane and Eric are freaking amazing...both big, strong, alpha navy men. Scorching hot sex scenes that burned up the pages on my Nook.
Enjoyed: The interaction between Shane and Eric and his daughter Marie.
Enjoyed: The suspense of not knowing how they were gonna get caught. I personally think it's quite dumb to not allow "enlisted" and "officers" to fraternize? How is that "Conduct Unbecoming a Gentleman" anyway? Especially since they didn't even work together.
Hated: The military acronyms. I hate acronyms anyway but I think this went a little overboard for my taste.
But I would deal with acronyms on every page if you give me more Shane and Eric...they are so worth it.
Loved: Both Shane and Eric are freaking amazing...both big, strong, alpha navy men. Scorching hot sex scenes that burned up the pages on my Nook.
Enjoyed: The interaction between Shane and Eric and his daughter Marie.
Enjoyed: The suspense of not knowing how they were gonna get caught. I personally think it's quite dumb to not allow "enlisted" and "officers" to fraternize? How is that "Conduct Unbecoming a Gentleman" anyway? Especially since they didn't even work together.
Hated: The military acronyms. I hate acronyms anyway but I think this went a little overboard for my taste.
But I would deal with acronyms on every page if you give me more Shane and Eric...they are so worth it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 316 reviews