Never Too Early

by Chris Owen and Tory Temple

[Cocktails and Books]

Ok. To be fair, before I start this review I have to say that I wasn't aware that there were four books that I should have read before I read "Never Too Early: The Beginning". While I did notice that two authors wrote this one, I only went by the blurb, thought it sounded pretty good, and picked it up. Turns out that Chris Owen wrote two books called, "Bareback" and "Natural Disaster" about two cowboys, and Tory Temple wrote two called "Flashover" and "Heat", about two firemen. What happens with "Never Too Early: The Beginning" is the two authors combine the four characters.

I actually think this is a great idea. It's something that I've never seen before, and it's an impressive undertaking. I can't imagine what it must be like to write with a partner, and Tory and Chris have done a good job. The story and dialogue flow very nicely. It's actually like listening in on a conversation in a restaurant or at a party. Both couples have a great chemistry. Their love for each other is very relaxed and comfortable. And when it comes to sex? GAH!! Both couples are so good together! Then, when the four of them met at the Kentucky Derby, you feel that the friendship is a natural occurance. It doesn't feel forced or uncomfortable.

All of that being said, I felt that there were some holes in the plot. However, I think it's because I didn't read those four books and not because this one was written poorly. I imagine that, if I'd read the other four books (which I plan on doing) first, I'd have felt that this was perfect. It's obvious that this is the beginning of another series. There will be at least one more book. I don't feel as if I'm giving too much away if I tell you that it ended
on a cliffhanger of sorts. Cliffhangers usually make me angry, but with this story, I only felt a mild frustration because I didn't want the book to end.

I'm going to recommend this book with the provision that you should read the others first. It should all make sense then.

Reviewed by Kenna for Cocktails and Books