Scan barcode
mila_readsmm's review against another edition
5.0
✯✯4.75 rating ✯✯
"I smiled to myself. So that was it. My use of the word family had lit a fire in Quaid’s core. It made sense. He was a man who dreamed about the future. Someday, I wanted to make all his dreams come true. Marriage, kids, the whole shebang. We hadn’t discussed it, but maybe a kitten was a good launch point. Maybe it would set the ball rolling. I hadn’t told Quaid that I dreamed of those things too, and in my dreams, it was him by my side until we were old and gray."
Thank you Nicky James for getting me out of my miserable reading slump! It took me forever to read this book because all the books I have read lately have taken the joy out of reading for me. Every book I have read in the past few months has been a 3.5-star read at best. I had no desire to read even if it was about Quaid and Aslan, a couple that I have grown to adore. But I pushed myself because of my love for this couple and the way NJ writes.
I loved almost everything about this book. Quaid and Aslan have come a long way since I first began reading about their journey. For them it was hate and lust at first sight, then fuck buddies, then feelings emerged. Quaid and Aslan have shown tremendous growth and character development in the past five books. With Quaid struggling to love and trust someone and Aslan just merely existing letting life pass him by, these two found themselves in each other, and love naturally grew. Nicky James's writing is absolutely mesmerizing. The way she writes romance and the way she writes how much these men desire and love each other was more than I could have asked for as a reader.
It's been 11 months since Quaid and Az have gotten together and their love is felt when you read their story. Quaid, my grumpy king, has been supportive in Az's darkest time. Given what he went through in the last book, I truly feared he might relapse. Az was battling his demons and my heart ached for him. He was broken and I missed the Az that was playful and carefree. But with Quaid by his side, things didn't seem so haunting after all.
I could go on but the romance in this book was everything I had hoped for and more. The sex scenes were fantastic too. Whereas in the past it was mostly sexy, in this book it was pure lovemaking. Well done NJ! As a romance junkie, I couldn't ask for more. You could feel their love even in the sex scenes. That is how much growth these men have gone through. Aslan's growth by far has been the best. In previous books, any mention of a relationship would have him flinch but in this book, he envisions a future with Quaid. He wants forever with him. If that ain't growth, idk what it is. With his handle on his trauma, and vulnerabilities with Torin, Aslan has grown into the man I knew NJ was going to make him out to be. Az and his kitten Oscar were also one of the many things I loved about this book.
The mystery and Quaid's new partner Jordyn were alright but I didn't particularly care for them. I found Jordyn to be annoying. She grew on me eventually but she was a bit extra at times. I missed Quaid's dad, he was MIA this whole book. But idc, this book was still highly enjoyable and I can't wait till the next book! Finally a five-star read, lol.
"I smiled to myself. So that was it. My use of the word family had lit a fire in Quaid’s core. It made sense. He was a man who dreamed about the future. Someday, I wanted to make all his dreams come true. Marriage, kids, the whole shebang. We hadn’t discussed it, but maybe a kitten was a good launch point. Maybe it would set the ball rolling. I hadn’t told Quaid that I dreamed of those things too, and in my dreams, it was him by my side until we were old and gray."
Thank you Nicky James for getting me out of my miserable reading slump! It took me forever to read this book because all the books I have read lately have taken the joy out of reading for me. Every book I have read in the past few months has been a 3.5-star read at best. I had no desire to read even if it was about Quaid and Aslan, a couple that I have grown to adore. But I pushed myself because of my love for this couple and the way NJ writes.
I loved almost everything about this book. Quaid and Aslan have come a long way since I first began reading about their journey. For them it was hate and lust at first sight, then fuck buddies, then feelings emerged. Quaid and Aslan have shown tremendous growth and character development in the past five books. With Quaid struggling to love and trust someone and Aslan just merely existing letting life pass him by, these two found themselves in each other, and love naturally grew. Nicky James's writing is absolutely mesmerizing. The way she writes romance and the way she writes how much these men desire and love each other was more than I could have asked for as a reader.
It's been 11 months since Quaid and Az have gotten together and their love is felt when you read their story. Quaid, my grumpy king, has been supportive in Az's darkest time. Given what he went through in the last book, I truly feared he might relapse. Az was battling his demons and my heart ached for him. He was broken and I missed the Az that was playful and carefree. But with Quaid by his side, things didn't seem so haunting after all.
I could go on but the romance in this book was everything I had hoped for and more. The sex scenes were fantastic too. Whereas in the past it was mostly sexy, in this book it was pure lovemaking. Well done NJ! As a romance junkie, I couldn't ask for more. You could feel their love even in the sex scenes. That is how much growth these men have gone through. Aslan's growth by far has been the best. In previous books, any mention of a relationship would have him flinch but in this book, he envisions a future with Quaid. He wants forever with him. If that ain't growth, idk what it is. With his handle on his trauma, and vulnerabilities with Torin, Aslan has grown into the man I knew NJ was going to make him out to be. Az and his kitten Oscar were also one of the many things I loved about this book.
The mystery and Quaid's new partner Jordyn were alright but I didn't particularly care for them. I found Jordyn to be annoying. She grew on me eventually but she was a bit extra at times. I missed Quaid's dad, he was MIA this whole book. But idc, this book was still highly enjoyable and I can't wait till the next book! Finally a five-star read, lol.
sharpsilver's review
emotional
funny
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
I really have enjoyed this series so far. I thought the development of the romance in this book was good but the mystery was a little weaker than the one in the previous books. I was not as invested in the outcomes of the victims and discovery of the perpetrator with the characters and the ways they were presented.
layla87's review
5.0
4.5 stars for the book
5 stars for the audio
Gahhh this was so so good.
I am LOVING these two men and their realistic relationship.
Their perfect banter, the way they take care of each other, the way they show their love... so so good.
This case was also enjoyable although I did have an idea who the culprit was. It was fun to see the case unfold and to experience these two men work with each other.
Highly enjoying Ruise and his part in the books. His friendship with Quaid is so cute.
All in all, another winner from NJ.
And as always, the audiobook was perfection by Nick J Russo. He really IS Valor and Doyle.
You’re the most precious thing I own. I’ll keep you safe. I promise.”
I pulled from his hold and mock-sneered. “You don’t own me, Doyle.”
He winked and fit his helmet over his head. “That’s what you think, hot stuff. You’re mine.”
5 stars for the audio
Gahhh this was so so good.
I am LOVING these two men and their realistic relationship.
Their perfect banter, the way they take care of each other, the way they show their love... so so good.
This case was also enjoyable although I did have an idea who the culprit was. It was fun to see the case unfold and to experience these two men work with each other.
Highly enjoying Ruise and his part in the books. His friendship with Quaid is so cute.
All in all, another winner from NJ.
And as always, the audiobook was perfection by Nick J Russo. He really IS Valor and Doyle.
You’re the most precious thing I own. I’ll keep you safe. I promise.”
I pulled from his hold and mock-sneered. “You don’t own me, Doyle.”
He winked and fit his helmet over his head. “That’s what you think, hot stuff. You’re mine.”
emreadsromance's review against another edition
4.0
Things I liked:
- Aslan and Quaid with their pseudo-baby was catnip to me. Grow it in my garden, let me roll around and get high off of it please.
- Much better balance between romance and mystery. The last book or two was very mystery driven and this one had a lot more couple-moments and focus on internal and relational tension (not between the MCs).
- The romance/relationship was pretty GD perfect. I always appreciate books with couples that treat each other with love and respect.
- That Aslan stayed sober. I was so scared.
- I liked Quaid and Jordyn… and Aslan teaching Quaid how to people. Another example of how this couple brings out the best in each other.
- I kinda wished I had either waited for the audio or read this book on vacation. I don’t know how to explain it. Maybe it was just slower paced than most? It was a relaxing read - so relaxing that it put me to sleep a couple of times, which rarely happens to me. I wasn’t even mad, just like… regretted not reading it on a float in a pool.
Things I didn’t like:
- (TW: ED) There’s literally nothing anyone could say that would convince me that Quaid doesn’t have an eating disorder. Which is OBVIOUSLY a huge trigger for a lot of people and the author skirts a trigger warning by either being embarrassingly ignorant herself about EDs or just pretending it’s not a problem. It’s full on ick.
Honestly, it makes sense for Quaids character to have an ED but it’s never acknowledged or discouraged. Instead, it’s like Quaid intentionally not eating, obsessing over, and restricting his food is just him being *quirky*. Aslan has had to internally and publicly struggle with alcohol being his crutch but there’s no accountability for Quaid’s disordered relationship with food and need for control. There is such excessive description of Quaids eating (or non-eating) habits, it’s weird. It’s mentioned in almost every chapter; there’s no way to avoid it if this is one of your triggers.
- Quaid using “feminist” like a slur when describing his partner *side eye* …sir, you are a gay cop, you have far bigger enemies. Get a grip.
- Fucking Ruiz. Homophobes are not good people. Full stop. When have you ever known a confrontational and vocal homophobe restrict their hate to just one group of marginalized people? Am I really supposed to believe he’s a good and just man now that he’s friends with Quaid? Why am I supposed to be rooting for this man? For this friendship? And Quaid… like salivating for the scraps of decency Ruiz throws him? So. Weird. Honestly, probably getting what I deserve trying to read copaganda-even if it’s Canadian.
- Fake complaint but it niggles me: an absolutely unjustifiable number of people are red heads in this world - like at least 50% of the population.
- Aslan and Quaid with their pseudo-baby was catnip to me. Grow it in my garden, let me roll around and get high off of it please.
- Much better balance between romance and mystery. The last book or two was very mystery driven and this one had a lot more couple-moments and focus on internal and relational tension (not between the MCs).
- The romance/relationship was pretty GD perfect. I always appreciate books with couples that treat each other with love and respect.
- That Aslan stayed sober. I was so scared.
- I liked Quaid and Jordyn… and Aslan teaching Quaid how to people. Another example of how this couple brings out the best in each other.
- I kinda wished I had either waited for the audio or read this book on vacation. I don’t know how to explain it. Maybe it was just slower paced than most? It was a relaxing read - so relaxing that it put me to sleep a couple of times, which rarely happens to me. I wasn’t even mad, just like… regretted not reading it on a float in a pool.
Things I didn’t like:
- (TW: ED) There’s literally nothing anyone could say that would convince me that Quaid doesn’t have an eating disorder. Which is OBVIOUSLY a huge trigger for a lot of people and the author skirts a trigger warning by either being embarrassingly ignorant herself about EDs or just pretending it’s not a problem. It’s full on ick.
Honestly, it makes sense for Quaids character to have an ED but it’s never acknowledged or discouraged. Instead, it’s like Quaid intentionally not eating, obsessing over, and restricting his food is just him being *quirky*. Aslan has had to internally and publicly struggle with alcohol being his crutch but there’s no accountability for Quaid’s disordered relationship with food and need for control. There is such excessive description of Quaids eating (or non-eating) habits, it’s weird. It’s mentioned in almost every chapter; there’s no way to avoid it if this is one of your triggers.
- Quaid using “feminist” like a slur when describing his partner *side eye* …sir, you are a gay cop, you have far bigger enemies. Get a grip.
- Fucking Ruiz. Homophobes are not good people. Full stop. When have you ever known a confrontational and vocal homophobe restrict their hate to just one group of marginalized people? Am I really supposed to believe he’s a good and just man now that he’s friends with Quaid? Why am I supposed to be rooting for this man? For this friendship? And Quaid… like salivating for the scraps of decency Ruiz throws him? So. Weird. Honestly, probably getting what I deserve trying to read copaganda-even if it’s Canadian.
- Fake complaint but it niggles me: an absolutely unjustifiable number of people are red heads in this world - like at least 50% of the population.
kellylayne's review
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
dreamofhorses24's review
5.0
Poor, poor Aslan. IYKYK. I both loved and hated this book. I hated that Aslan had to go through so much emotional torment, but I loved that Quaid was there supporting him every step of the way. The support system these characters have makes me so very happy.
Also this case was bat crap crazy. I have no idea where Nicky gets the ideas for her stories but I was invested! It was like being part of a true crime documentary. I loved it! The outcome was absolutely unexpected. I absolutely loved the way Quaid helped Aslan come back to himself and in return Aslan helped Quaid learn to communicate with his new partner. I can't wait to see what's next for my favorite crime fighters.
Also this case was bat crap crazy. I have no idea where Nicky gets the ideas for her stories but I was invested! It was like being part of a true crime documentary. I loved it! The outcome was absolutely unexpected. I absolutely loved the way Quaid helped Aslan come back to himself and in return Aslan helped Quaid learn to communicate with his new partner. I can't wait to see what's next for my favorite crime fighters.
lmb50's review
emotional
funny
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.5
jamiesbookaddiction's review
5.0
This is seriously one of my favorite series. I just can't get enough of Quaid and Aslan. These two just make me so happy.
I think what I like most about this series is the low angst between them. There is angst with the cases they work, but for the most part, these two are always there for one another regardless of the situation.
Quaid has grown so much in these books. I love how he helped pull Aslan out of the funk he's been in since everything that happened in the last book.
I will say I was not a fan of Jordyn for a good bit. But once the book got about midway, I started to like her more. I think Quaid and her will work well together.
And HELLO!!!!! That ending?!?!?!?!??!?! I need the next book now please!!!
I think what I like most about this series is the low angst between them. There is angst with the cases they work, but for the most part, these two are always there for one another regardless of the situation.
Quaid has grown so much in these books. I love how he helped pull Aslan out of the funk he's been in since everything that happened in the last book.
I will say I was not a fan of Jordyn for a good bit. But once the book got about midway, I started to like her more. I think Quaid and her will work well together.
And HELLO!!!!! That ending?!?!?!?!??!?! I need the next book now please!!!