What do you think?
Rate this book
Love #3
Bounty of Love
The night before his wedding, Zander Walsh, his parents, and his husband-to-be are all shot when they return home and interrupt a mysterious robbery in progress. After three weeks in a coma, Zander wakes up to find out he is the only survivor, and his perfect life falls apart in an instant. Hunky FBI Agent Jake Elliot is investigating the case, and he eventually apprehends the killer―who soon escapes. Following six months of searching, Zander and Jake realize they’re being stonewalled by the FBI... and that they have slowly formed an unbreakable bond that is beginning to turn into much more. Once they embark on a journey to apprehend the killer for the second time, they’ll discover that one terrible night was much more than just an interrupted robbery. Can big business and politics cover up the truth, or will Zander and Jake’s quest to unravel the mystery be the end of their newfound love and their lives?
226 pages, Paperback
First published August 21, 2011
5 people are currently reading
234 people want to read
About the author
Scotty Cade
39 books199 followersScotty Cade left Corporate America and twenty-five years of Marketing and Public Relations behind to buy an Inn & Restaurant on the island of Martha’s Vineyard with his partner of over twenty years. He started writing stories as soon as he could read, but just five years ago for publication. When not at the Inn, you can find him on the bow of his boat writing gay romance novels with his Shetland sheepdog Mavis at his side. Being from the south and a lover of commitment and fidelity, most of his characters find their way to long healthy relationships, however long it takes them to get there. He believes that in the end, the boy should always get the boy.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
April 24, 2021
For me this book sounded good in premise but lacked in execution. There were parts that were just too fantastical to be believed and more than once I found myself rolling my eyes. Not to mention if the MC's called each other baby one more time I was going to head for the diaper department. In the end all I can say is what I had hoped would be a really good read was barely an ok read.
February 5, 2013
*This is book three of the Love series, and the characters of Zander and Jake are seen as secondary characters in the other two books. This book, while written afterwards is set in a time before the other two. You really do not need to read the others to read this one.
This is the third book I have read by the author, so I think I get a feel for his writing style. His focus is on fairly well adjusted and happy individuals who are very good at communicating and expressing themselves both inside their heads and to each other.
He likes a happy ending and the focus is always on the relationship, which both things I really like in a story. In this book, his voice reminds me of a Julie Garwood suspense book. A lighter look at criminals, the law, and the FBI. But there were a few things that distracted me from enjoying the suspense part of this book:
1. I am pretty sure the FBI does not work this way.
2. There was a little paranormal action put in this.
3. Too much head jumping, including some of the bad guys. It was so severe that it telegraphed a twist way too early. Show me and let me figure it out on my own, don't tell me.
4. There really was not a relationship conflict because both men were exactly alike: they never fought and were way too good at expressing their emotions. This is great in a relationship, but it really lacks any significant tension within the development. Our tension was then placed on the suspense, but that did not quite hit the mark.
5. These characters clearly did not watch any Bourne movies. There were so many times when they used their credit cards, talked on the phone, or really did anything publicly that I had a hard time believing the reality. The lack of knowledge of the law that Jake had was not realistic for a FBI agent, considering many of them have law or criminal justice degrees before they apply.
---------
All of this being said, I still enjoy reading this author. He has a very pure voice and I know that the story will contain a lot of heart and will make me smile. I think the problem is, that this book dealt with the topics of conspiracy, law, and violence and I really don't think the two tones melded that well.
I still enjoy the author and will continue to purchase his books, I just did not enjoy this one as much.
This is the third book I have read by the author, so I think I get a feel for his writing style. His focus is on fairly well adjusted and happy individuals who are very good at communicating and expressing themselves both inside their heads and to each other.
He likes a happy ending and the focus is always on the relationship, which both things I really like in a story. In this book, his voice reminds me of a Julie Garwood suspense book. A lighter look at criminals, the law, and the FBI. But there were a few things that distracted me from enjoying the suspense part of this book:
1. I am pretty sure the FBI does not work this way.
2. There was a little paranormal action put in this.
3. Too much head jumping, including some of the bad guys. It was so severe that it telegraphed a twist way too early. Show me and let me figure it out on my own, don't tell me.
4. There really was not a relationship conflict because both men were exactly alike: they never fought and were way too good at expressing their emotions. This is great in a relationship, but it really lacks any significant tension within the development. Our tension was then placed on the suspense, but that did not quite hit the mark.
5. These characters clearly did not watch any Bourne movies. There were so many times when they used their credit cards, talked on the phone, or really did anything publicly that I had a hard time believing the reality. The lack of knowledge of the law that Jake had was not realistic for a FBI agent, considering many of them have law or criminal justice degrees before they apply.
---------
All of this being said, I still enjoy reading this author. He has a very pure voice and I know that the story will contain a lot of heart and will make me smile. I think the problem is, that this book dealt with the topics of conspiracy, law, and violence and I really don't think the two tones melded that well.
I still enjoy the author and will continue to purchase his books, I just did not enjoy this one as much.
August 5, 2013
Based upon reviews of this and other titles in the series, I was expecting more. However, one can hardly hold the reviews against the author.
Unfortunately, story-wise, I found it thin and disappointing.
The mystery element was predictable--at least for me--and that detracted since it occupied such a large portion of the story. I felt that the plot actually began in the wrong spot and would have been stronger had the opening chapter been Zander waking in the hospital.
As for the romance, I found certain elements to be almost jarring. After the build up of Zander's familial/pre-marital bliss (which would have been better IMHO in flashback), his lack of grief was very odd. Although he did spend a great deal of time wondering if it was too soon to be with Jake, it didn't seem to hold him back.
The progression of the relationship was also strange: after one meeting, they're soon friends, then things go quickly to "I love you" from there.
And don't even get me going on the ghost/wedding ring bit...
Although, I cannot strongly recommend this title, I am certainly willing to give Scotty Cade another try in the future.
Unfortunately, story-wise, I found it thin and disappointing.
The mystery element was predictable--at least for me--and that detracted since it occupied such a large portion of the story. I felt that the plot actually began in the wrong spot and would have been stronger had the opening chapter been Zander waking in the hospital.
As for the romance, I found certain elements to be almost jarring. After the build up of Zander's familial/pre-marital bliss (which would have been better IMHO in flashback), his lack of grief was very odd. Although he did spend a great deal of time wondering if it was too soon to be with Jake, it didn't seem to hold him back.
The progression of the relationship was also strange: after one meeting, they're soon friends, then things go quickly to "I love you" from there.
And don't even get me going on the ghost/wedding ring bit...
Although, I cannot strongly recommend this title, I am certainly willing to give Scotty Cade another try in the future.
March 26, 2015
Nella situazione in cui si è trovato Zander anche io non avrei creduto alla rapina finita male, insomma non ha rubato niente c'è qualcosa di strano. Ma soprattutto il lavoro del signor Walsh porta ad aver dei nemici, per un po' ho creduto che la morte della moglie, di Darren e la quasi morte di Zander fossero solo errori. Ho creduto che l'assassino avesse voluto uccidere solo il senatore.
Ma andando avanti e scoprendo il coinvolgimento di Ralston mi ha fatto pensare che forse nin era solo una vendetta ma qualcosa di più, e che le morti della sua famiglia erano volute.
Ralston è stata una pedina utile visto il suo lavoro nel FBI però era solo una pedina per far risultare che fosse solo un tragico incidente, ma gli omicidi erano commisionati da qualcun'altro, ma chi?
Ammetto che ho sospettato di Burton però mi sono detta che era assurdo il senatore era il suo migliore amico e la famiglia Walsh era come una famiglia per lui, cosi ho ripiegato su chi poteva la morte del senatore per la bozza di legge sul tabacco.
Invece, a quanto pare, sono le persone che sembra abbiano meno motivi per voler una morte che la vogliono
Ma andando avanti e scoprendo il coinvolgimento di Ralston mi ha fatto pensare che forse nin era solo una vendetta ma qualcosa di più, e che le morti della sua famiglia erano volute.
Ralston è stata una pedina utile visto il suo lavoro nel FBI però era solo una pedina per far risultare che fosse solo un tragico incidente, ma gli omicidi erano commisionati da qualcun'altro, ma chi?
Ammetto che ho sospettato di Burton però mi sono detta che era assurdo il senatore era il suo migliore amico e la famiglia Walsh era come una famiglia per lui, cosi ho ripiegato su chi poteva la morte del senatore per la bozza di legge sul tabacco.
Invece, a quanto pare, sono le persone che sembra abbiano meno motivi per voler una morte che la vogliono
April 30, 2012
I suppose this could be an entertaining read if you don't have issues with following points: the mystery is not so mysterious; the romance is too romantic ; too much sobbing around; Zander behaves like the spoiled brat he is, ordering people around because he comes from a powerful and wealthy family; not to mention the supernatural bit, which IMO didn't fit in the story.
April 17, 2015
1 1/2 The half star is for the idea behind the plot. This could have been a great book but it was so poorly executed that it became unredeemable. Amateurish would be a generous description the writing. Utterly unbelievable it parts. Again this might have worked if it had just been written better. For an author of multiple books I had much much higher expectations. I won't be reading another.
December 13, 2022
L’Amour en Prime (Bounty of Love, French Edition)
By Scotty Cade
Published 2011 (French 2016) by Dreamspinner Press
Four stars
This is the French version Cade’s “Bounty of Love,” and a really nice translation. The third of a series of slightly-related romances with an Alaskan theme, this one only gets to Alaska late in the book. The biggest surprise (to me, who never reads blurbs beforehand) is that it starts very dark, with a brutal triple murder that throws a young man’s perfect life into shambles.
Zander Walsh and Jake Elliot meet under the worst of circumstances. Jake is an FBI special agent, assigned to a murder case of which Zander is the only survivor. Zander’s grief-stricken beauty immediately draws Jake’s attention, but as the case begins to unravel, Jake begins to realize that Zander needs him for more than just an investigator.
It is a nicely twisted plot, the evolving romance being at its center – but always under threat. The bad guys are laid out for the reader fairly early in the plot – or at least we think they are. Meanwhile, Cade spends a lot of time letting us get to know both Zander and Jake, and it’s a warmly engaging experience. There are a couple of weird “magical” moments in this, that don’t seem to be part of a larger theme, but they do relate to Zander’s emotional state. With the rest of the story being a more straightforward murder mystery, these heartfelt details don’t seem quite to jibe with the tone of the rest of the book. That’s not really a complaint, but simply a comment, since one of the main hurdles these two men have to deal with is the very idea of falling in love after suffering unimaginable loss.
Cade sets the story largely in Seattle and surroundings, and the city becomes an important presence in the narrative. When the action shifts to the 49th state, the mood changes as well. Cade’s a good writer who knows how to get the most out of his story and his characters.
By Scotty Cade
Published 2011 (French 2016) by Dreamspinner Press
Four stars
This is the French version Cade’s “Bounty of Love,” and a really nice translation. The third of a series of slightly-related romances with an Alaskan theme, this one only gets to Alaska late in the book. The biggest surprise (to me, who never reads blurbs beforehand) is that it starts very dark, with a brutal triple murder that throws a young man’s perfect life into shambles.
Zander Walsh and Jake Elliot meet under the worst of circumstances. Jake is an FBI special agent, assigned to a murder case of which Zander is the only survivor. Zander’s grief-stricken beauty immediately draws Jake’s attention, but as the case begins to unravel, Jake begins to realize that Zander needs him for more than just an investigator.
It is a nicely twisted plot, the evolving romance being at its center – but always under threat. The bad guys are laid out for the reader fairly early in the plot – or at least we think they are. Meanwhile, Cade spends a lot of time letting us get to know both Zander and Jake, and it’s a warmly engaging experience. There are a couple of weird “magical” moments in this, that don’t seem to be part of a larger theme, but they do relate to Zander’s emotional state. With the rest of the story being a more straightforward murder mystery, these heartfelt details don’t seem quite to jibe with the tone of the rest of the book. That’s not really a complaint, but simply a comment, since one of the main hurdles these two men have to deal with is the very idea of falling in love after suffering unimaginable loss.
Cade sets the story largely in Seattle and surroundings, and the city becomes an important presence in the narrative. When the action shifts to the 49th state, the mood changes as well. Cade’s a good writer who knows how to get the most out of his story and his characters.
November 15, 2017
I'm a sucker for tragedy. I'm sorry. Don't let my affinity for sadness mislead you. Anytime I get a good book with a really great or emotionally charged backstory, that translates into bonus points, which, at the end of the day, translates into bonus stars. I'll be honest, this book was similar to the first book. It was "good." There was room for improvement, but I liked Zander and Jake. Even more, I liked them together. Their story was less rushed and they had some chemistry working for them.
But the backstory in this book, whoa. Knowing the history made everything feel much more emotionally charged. I also felt like the characters were much more fleshed out and consistent, probably because of the backstory. This was my favorite of the three books, by far.
But the backstory in this book, whoa. Knowing the history made everything feel much more emotionally charged. I also felt like the characters were much more fleshed out and consistent, probably because of the backstory. This was my favorite of the three books, by far.
April 23, 2021
Sono io o sto libro è davvero surreale? Scontatissimo nella trama e nella scrittura ma poi ci sono cose che mi hanno fatto spalancare la bocca! Allora mi spiego, quando Zander va finalmente al cimitero c’è la data di morte del suo amato, 1999, come è possibile? Quando mai in quegli anni in America una coppia gay si poteva sposare? Altra cosa surreale: l’iPhone nel 1999???
July 27, 2025
Fan Kindle
Me encantó la novela está hermosa historia con segundas oportunidades dónde uno de los protagonistas pasa por una horrible tragedia y al final encuentra nuevamente el amor logrando reconstruir su vida junto a su hombre la recomiendo 💯
Me encantó la novela está hermosa historia con segundas oportunidades dónde uno de los protagonistas pasa por una horrible tragedia y al final encuentra nuevamente el amor logrando reconstruir su vida junto a su hombre la recomiendo 💯
October 20, 2019
3.5 stars
February 15, 2022
Bounty of love : By Scotty Cade
Love this story and the characters in it were great thank you Scotty for a great enjoyable read. Also loved how it ended.
Love this story and the characters in it were great thank you Scotty for a great enjoyable read. Also loved how it ended.
February 22, 2018
Bounty of Love, introduces us to Alexander (Zander) Walsh whose life is torn apart as gunshots ring out through his parent’s home as they return from the rehearsal dinner for his upcoming wedding to Darren (D) Jordan.
Zander awakes from a medically induced coma only to find that he is the only survivor of the shootings leaving him understandably distraught at the prospects of continuing on without the most important person in his life, D. FBI Special Agent, Jake Eliot has been assigned to be with Zander until he can provide any details about the night of the shooting. Jake, who has recently transferred to the Seattle Bureau and has been keeping his private life private to avoid complications at work, can’t help but notice Zander is very attractive even as he is in and out of consciousness and heavily bandaged.
As Zander begins to recover he finds that in addition to his own physical recovery he must also face the emotional recovery of losing his partner and fighting with D’s estranged parents for his remains all the time trying to find a reason for the senseless violence which has brought him to this point. Zander does what he can to assist Jake with the investigation as he begins to remember details of the day of the shooting and with the help of other witnesses a Jake is able to identify a suspect and bring him in for questioning. Jake is injured during the suspects escape from custody and calls on, Zander, one of the few people he knows in Seattle outside of the Bureau to help him. During the time of Jake’s recovery they become suspicious that there may be more to the shootings than a bungled robbery attempt. It is also during this time that the two men begin to admit that there is more than a professional relationship developing between them.
Mr Cade’s writing style draws you into Zander’s world of privilege as the son of a prominent US Senator and the tragedy which has ripped that world from him. Zander’s feelings of anger, fear, and self doubt during his recovery are understandable and well written as is his sense of devotion to D, and thus his questioning his developing feelings for Jake. Jake’s character is also sensitive to Zander’s situation aware that the timing may not be quite right but at the same time he can’t deny that Zander is the best thing to happen in his life for a very long time.
The investigation draws the story along as both men recover and dance around each other until they can no longer deny their mutual attraction. Once they admit their attraction they must find a way to solve the mystery of the shootings to bring closure not only to the case but to a most difficult time in their lives so that they can move forward.
The final twist to the ending of the book was not quite what I had anticipated. The suspicions raised about the case let you know one of the key players in the murders but the identity of the mastermind behind the whole affair and his motives were never completely clear until his confession in the final chapter. While not an all consuming page turner, it was still hard to put this down for more than a short while before continuing on. I definitely look forward to reading more of Mr. Cade’s writing in the near future.
Zander awakes from a medically induced coma only to find that he is the only survivor of the shootings leaving him understandably distraught at the prospects of continuing on without the most important person in his life, D. FBI Special Agent, Jake Eliot has been assigned to be with Zander until he can provide any details about the night of the shooting. Jake, who has recently transferred to the Seattle Bureau and has been keeping his private life private to avoid complications at work, can’t help but notice Zander is very attractive even as he is in and out of consciousness and heavily bandaged.
As Zander begins to recover he finds that in addition to his own physical recovery he must also face the emotional recovery of losing his partner and fighting with D’s estranged parents for his remains all the time trying to find a reason for the senseless violence which has brought him to this point. Zander does what he can to assist Jake with the investigation as he begins to remember details of the day of the shooting and with the help of other witnesses a Jake is able to identify a suspect and bring him in for questioning. Jake is injured during the suspects escape from custody and calls on, Zander, one of the few people he knows in Seattle outside of the Bureau to help him. During the time of Jake’s recovery they become suspicious that there may be more to the shootings than a bungled robbery attempt. It is also during this time that the two men begin to admit that there is more than a professional relationship developing between them.
Mr Cade’s writing style draws you into Zander’s world of privilege as the son of a prominent US Senator and the tragedy which has ripped that world from him. Zander’s feelings of anger, fear, and self doubt during his recovery are understandable and well written as is his sense of devotion to D, and thus his questioning his developing feelings for Jake. Jake’s character is also sensitive to Zander’s situation aware that the timing may not be quite right but at the same time he can’t deny that Zander is the best thing to happen in his life for a very long time.
The investigation draws the story along as both men recover and dance around each other until they can no longer deny their mutual attraction. Once they admit their attraction they must find a way to solve the mystery of the shootings to bring closure not only to the case but to a most difficult time in their lives so that they can move forward.
The final twist to the ending of the book was not quite what I had anticipated. The suspicions raised about the case let you know one of the key players in the murders but the identity of the mastermind behind the whole affair and his motives were never completely clear until his confession in the final chapter. While not an all consuming page turner, it was still hard to put this down for more than a short while before continuing on. I definitely look forward to reading more of Mr. Cade’s writing in the near future.
January 2, 2012
I give this a almost 4. I really liked this book and Scotty Cade's writing while at the same time repeatedly hitting my forehead with the desk. I liked it but it gave me a headache.
First off, the beginning of the book had me in tears. Scotty Cade builds up this picture of a loving family. Zander Walsh, his parents and his groom to be are out at the rehearsal dinner before their wedding. The interaction between Zander and his folks plus a tender portrayal of Zander's relationship with his fiance make the events that follow all that more devastating to the reader and Zander. As the wedding party reaches home, Zander's parents and fiance are shot and killed. Zander is left for dead. All this is contained in the blurb for the book.
As Zander wakes up in the hospital and reality of his situation sinks in, you feel all his pain and confusion. Really well done. FBI Agent Jake Elliot is waiting in the room for Zander to recover enough to be able to talk about the attack. And here's the problem for me. While I like Jake Elliot, the main character, I just could not swallow Jake Elliot the FBI Agent. Maybe if he had been made a rookie, but definitely not as a seasoned agent. Too weepy and not very confident in his abilities for someone who had wanted to go into law enforcement his entire life. A really nice guy but the portrayal of the FBI and its agents didn't seem real.
Problem No 2: Washington, DC, Senate Bills and how it all works (or doesn't depending upon your point of view). This books pivots upon the idea that introducing a certain bill into the Senate is dangerous because it is a given that the bill will pass. This is folly. I live in the Washington DC metro area where we live and breathe politics. This simply would not happen. A enormous amount of bills are introduced every year, the majority of which die a quick death. Between bipartisan politics, lobbyists and special interests, there are way too many hands in the pot for any bill, especially the one here, to pass both the House and the Senate. Sometimes I can suspend belief for somethings but this kept me just shaking my head and snorting. Unattractive but true.
So even though I liked the story (wonderful secondary characters as well) for every "atta boy well done" there was a "ohmygod he did not just go there". I see the this book was a prequel for others in the series as it sets up how Zander and Jake met and ended up in Alaska. Since this means they leave the FBI and Washington politics behind (hopefully), I will definitely go on to read the rest of the series. As I said, I really like Zander and Jake. So I am wishing them well and happy in Alaska as I go off to get another book in the series.
First off, the beginning of the book had me in tears. Scotty Cade builds up this picture of a loving family. Zander Walsh, his parents and his groom to be are out at the rehearsal dinner before their wedding. The interaction between Zander and his folks plus a tender portrayal of Zander's relationship with his fiance make the events that follow all that more devastating to the reader and Zander. As the wedding party reaches home, Zander's parents and fiance are shot and killed. Zander is left for dead. All this is contained in the blurb for the book.
As Zander wakes up in the hospital and reality of his situation sinks in, you feel all his pain and confusion. Really well done. FBI Agent Jake Elliot is waiting in the room for Zander to recover enough to be able to talk about the attack. And here's the problem for me. While I like Jake Elliot, the main character, I just could not swallow Jake Elliot the FBI Agent. Maybe if he had been made a rookie, but definitely not as a seasoned agent. Too weepy and not very confident in his abilities for someone who had wanted to go into law enforcement his entire life. A really nice guy but the portrayal of the FBI and its agents didn't seem real.
Problem No 2: Washington, DC, Senate Bills and how it all works (or doesn't depending upon your point of view). This books pivots upon the idea that introducing a certain bill into the Senate is dangerous because it is a given that the bill will pass. This is folly. I live in the Washington DC metro area where we live and breathe politics. This simply would not happen. A enormous amount of bills are introduced every year, the majority of which die a quick death. Between bipartisan politics, lobbyists and special interests, there are way too many hands in the pot for any bill, especially the one here, to pass both the House and the Senate. Sometimes I can suspend belief for somethings but this kept me just shaking my head and snorting. Unattractive but true.
So even though I liked the story (wonderful secondary characters as well) for every "atta boy well done" there was a "ohmygod he did not just go there". I see the this book was a prequel for others in the series as it sets up how Zander and Jake met and ended up in Alaska. Since this means they leave the FBI and Washington politics behind (hopefully), I will definitely go on to read the rest of the series. As I said, I really like Zander and Jake. So I am wishing them well and happy in Alaska as I go off to get another book in the series.
April 22, 2013
Originally reviewed for The Book Vixen
In a Nutshell: This MM romantic suspense has a bit more suspense than romance but it was still enjoyable with strong leads that fully developed over time.
Why I Read this Book: Scotty Cade fan here!
What I Liked: I love that this book is told over time. Zander was deeply in love with his fiancé, Darren, so time was necessary for him to heal from Darren’s loss before he jumps into another relationship. I like the exploration of Zander’s survivor guilt and think it was handled with care and realism. Zander’s relationship with Jake starts off as just friends and slowly develops. I especially like that the author doesn’t rush the two men into bed but develops their emotional connection well before their sexual intimacy. This gave credence to Zander’s love for Darren and made the ending so sweet when he “introduces” Jake to Darren *sniffle, sniffle*
What I Also Liked: The plot of this novel paced well for me. Zander is clued in early that the attack may not be the random robbery that everyone thinks it is and he won’t settle for anything other than the truth. The shadowy villains aren’t all that surprising but I enjoyed getting to the full reveal.
I have to also mention how well the author did on setting up the attack. He wrote Darren and Zander’s mom and dad in such loving detail and did so quickly in the novel. In this way I felt emotional loss at their murders. He also did a great job of keeping them “alive” in the story by having Zander share memories of the three and the lives they’d all built together. In the hands of a less talented author this may have taken from the current story or romance but Cade does a great job of integrating both into a well-developed story.
What I Didn’t Like: Not sure this is a dislike but admittance that I thought more of the story would be set in Alaska like the previous two books in the series. I loved that setting and wanted the men to get to Alaska already when it took most of the book. Then the Alaska part was very brief. I’d love a short novella or story revisiting Zander and Jake’s Alaskan life but doubt I’m going to get that.
IMO: This is a good MM romantic suspense that I enjoyed and think others will too.
In a Nutshell: This MM romantic suspense has a bit more suspense than romance but it was still enjoyable with strong leads that fully developed over time.
Why I Read this Book: Scotty Cade fan here!
What I Liked: I love that this book is told over time. Zander was deeply in love with his fiancé, Darren, so time was necessary for him to heal from Darren’s loss before he jumps into another relationship. I like the exploration of Zander’s survivor guilt and think it was handled with care and realism. Zander’s relationship with Jake starts off as just friends and slowly develops. I especially like that the author doesn’t rush the two men into bed but develops their emotional connection well before their sexual intimacy. This gave credence to Zander’s love for Darren and made the ending so sweet when he “introduces” Jake to Darren *sniffle, sniffle*
What I Also Liked: The plot of this novel paced well for me. Zander is clued in early that the attack may not be the random robbery that everyone thinks it is and he won’t settle for anything other than the truth. The shadowy villains aren’t all that surprising but I enjoyed getting to the full reveal.
I have to also mention how well the author did on setting up the attack. He wrote Darren and Zander’s mom and dad in such loving detail and did so quickly in the novel. In this way I felt emotional loss at their murders. He also did a great job of keeping them “alive” in the story by having Zander share memories of the three and the lives they’d all built together. In the hands of a less talented author this may have taken from the current story or romance but Cade does a great job of integrating both into a well-developed story.
What I Didn’t Like: Not sure this is a dislike but admittance that I thought more of the story would be set in Alaska like the previous two books in the series. I loved that setting and wanted the men to get to Alaska already when it took most of the book. Then the Alaska part was very brief. I’d love a short novella or story revisiting Zander and Jake’s Alaskan life but doubt I’m going to get that.
IMO: This is a good MM romantic suspense that I enjoyed and think others will too.
September 29, 2013
This book was an interesting addition to the series. The events actually take place years before the first two books in the series, providing a look at how Zander and Jake meet and eventually end up owning and running the lodge in Alaska. This is the lodge and the couple who appear in the first book of the series, Wings of Love.
The start of the book was very unexpected. The blurb does advise that "the night before his wedding, Zander Walsh, his parents, and his husband-to-be are all shot when they return home and interrupt a mysterious robbery in progress". What I didn't expect was the focus on the grief, which I thought was handled really beautifully, and the slow build up to the romance. I think Scotty Cade does a wonderful job of tackling the issue of loss and grief, as shown in this book and also in the original book where Brad lost his partner to cancer.
However, I did find the start of the book a bit drawn out as I was eager for the romance to start a bit sooner. I just wanted them to hurry up and get together and spice things up with a bit of man-on-man lovin'.
The step back in time was also interesting as we see Mac in this book but it was back when his wife was still alive. It was a bit strange to hear him refer to conversations with her!
So in summary, a nice story with a slow start to the romance but dealing with the grief fully to make the end romance believable. Romance, sex, a bit of mystery, action and a happy ending!
I now publish all my m/m reviews on my blog so if you want to see all my m/m reviews in one place come visit at Because Two Men Are Better Than One!
The start of the book was very unexpected. The blurb does advise that "the night before his wedding, Zander Walsh, his parents, and his husband-to-be are all shot when they return home and interrupt a mysterious robbery in progress". What I didn't expect was the focus on the grief, which I thought was handled really beautifully, and the slow build up to the romance. I think Scotty Cade does a wonderful job of tackling the issue of loss and grief, as shown in this book and also in the original book where Brad lost his partner to cancer.
However, I did find the start of the book a bit drawn out as I was eager for the romance to start a bit sooner. I just wanted them to hurry up and get together and spice things up with a bit of man-on-man lovin'.
The step back in time was also interesting as we see Mac in this book but it was back when his wife was still alive. It was a bit strange to hear him refer to conversations with her!
So in summary, a nice story with a slow start to the romance but dealing with the grief fully to make the end romance believable. Romance, sex, a bit of mystery, action and a happy ending!
I now publish all my m/m reviews on my blog so if you want to see all my m/m reviews in one place come visit at Because Two Men Are Better Than One!
October 13, 2011
It was a pleasure to have the history of two intriguing characters from Scotty Cade's two other "Love" books ("Wings of Love" and "Treasure of Love" being the other two). When we meet Zander and Josh in "Wings..." they are inn keepers in a small Alaskan town, and are truly madly deeply in love and watch over our hero Mac (one of my favorite characters in all of his books), whom we also meet again for the first time in the pre-quel if you will, set a few years prior to the events of "wings" and "Treasure".
Zander is a successful business man, and on the eve of his wedding to the love of his life, is the victim of a tragedy that befalls him, his fiance and his parents. When he awakens in the hospital, one of the first people he encounters is FBI agent Jake.
Not wanting to spoil the storyline or unmask the villians, let me say Scotty has created two believable characters who meet under harsh circumstances, share an adventure and fall in love against the odds. I particularly like how Jake takes his time with the healing Zander, and never pushes or pressures the man.
I have a couple of minor quibbles with the story (this is supposed to be several years ago, but Zander has an iPhone), and how Scotty comes off to me a bit preachy (the harsh way Scotty portrays Zander's fiance's parents and his intolerance of their religious beliefs) suggests a personal stake in the argument, but NOTHING detracts from a charming love story.
I can't wait to see where he goes next with these characters. They have the feel of family and make for a great no-stress enjoyable read.
Comment
Zander is a successful business man, and on the eve of his wedding to the love of his life, is the victim of a tragedy that befalls him, his fiance and his parents. When he awakens in the hospital, one of the first people he encounters is FBI agent Jake.
Not wanting to spoil the storyline or unmask the villians, let me say Scotty has created two believable characters who meet under harsh circumstances, share an adventure and fall in love against the odds. I particularly like how Jake takes his time with the healing Zander, and never pushes or pressures the man.
I have a couple of minor quibbles with the story (this is supposed to be several years ago, but Zander has an iPhone), and how Scotty comes off to me a bit preachy (the harsh way Scotty portrays Zander's fiance's parents and his intolerance of their religious beliefs) suggests a personal stake in the argument, but NOTHING detracts from a charming love story.
I can't wait to see where he goes next with these characters. They have the feel of family and make for a great no-stress enjoyable read.
Comment
July 9, 2013
This book started with a bang...four bangs actually. On the night before his wedding, Zander, his fiance, and his parents are shot when they come home and interrupt a burglary in progress. After 3 weeks in a coma, Zander awakens to learn he is the only survivor. This is even more devastating than Brad's loss in the first book (for me as a reader), because we actually get to meet Zander's fiance and it's the night before their wedding. All very sad things.
Zander meets Jake Elliot, the lead investigator for his case, and they build a hesitant friendship. Hesitant because he's not quite sure at first whether Jake is sincere or humoring him when Zander tells Jake his theories. Unlike in the previous books, Zander and Jake are both gay so there's none of that identity crisis turmoil. However, they are embroiled in a mystery and potential cover-ups so there's more than enough chaos to keep them occupied.
This is my favorite book of the series so far. I think it's great that we already know Zander and Jake from Hiline Lodge, and we get to go back and see their story. And what a story it was. There was lots of excitement and while I can say with all honesty that I figured out the mystery pretty early on, it was still a fun read. Again, we went back to the slow relationship build that was a big plus for me in the first book beginning with a wariness that grew into trust and friendship. Great addition to the series and although I was told I could read this book first, I'm glad I waited and read the books in order.
Zander meets Jake Elliot, the lead investigator for his case, and they build a hesitant friendship. Hesitant because he's not quite sure at first whether Jake is sincere or humoring him when Zander tells Jake his theories. Unlike in the previous books, Zander and Jake are both gay so there's none of that identity crisis turmoil. However, they are embroiled in a mystery and potential cover-ups so there's more than enough chaos to keep them occupied.
This is my favorite book of the series so far. I think it's great that we already know Zander and Jake from Hiline Lodge, and we get to go back and see their story. And what a story it was. There was lots of excitement and while I can say with all honesty that I figured out the mystery pretty early on, it was still a fun read. Again, we went back to the slow relationship build that was a big plus for me in the first book beginning with a wariness that grew into trust and friendship. Great addition to the series and although I was told I could read this book first, I'm glad I waited and read the books in order.
July 25, 2017
This book started with a bang...four bangs actually. On the night before his wedding, Zander, his fiance, and his parents are shot when they come home and interrupt a burglary in progress. After 3 weeks in a coma, Zander awakens to learn he is the only survivor. This is even more devastating than Brad's loss in the first book (for me as a reader), because we actually get to meet Zander's fiance and it's the night before their wedding. All very sad things.
Zander meets Jake Elliot, the lead investigator for his case, and they build a hesitant friendship. Hesitant because he's not quite sure at first whether Jake is sincere or humoring him when Zander tells Jake his theories. Unlike in the previous books, Zander and Jake are both gay so there's none of that identity crisis turmoil. However, they are embroiled in a mystery and potential cover-ups so there's more than enough chaos to keep them occupied.
This is my favorite book of the series so far. I think it's great that we already know Zander and Jake from Hiline Lodge, and we get to go back and see their story. And what a story it was. There was lots of excitement and while I can say with all honesty that I figured out the mystery pretty early on, it was still a fun read. Again, we went back to the slow relationship build that was a big plus for me in the first book beginning with a wariness that grew into trust and friendship. Great addition to the series and although I was told I could read this book first, I'm glad I waited and read the books in order.
Zander meets Jake Elliot, the lead investigator for his case, and they build a hesitant friendship. Hesitant because he's not quite sure at first whether Jake is sincere or humoring him when Zander tells Jake his theories. Unlike in the previous books, Zander and Jake are both gay so there's none of that identity crisis turmoil. However, they are embroiled in a mystery and potential cover-ups so there's more than enough chaos to keep them occupied.
This is my favorite book of the series so far. I think it's great that we already know Zander and Jake from Hiline Lodge, and we get to go back and see their story. And what a story it was. There was lots of excitement and while I can say with all honesty that I figured out the mystery pretty early on, it was still a fun read. Again, we went back to the slow relationship build that was a big plus for me in the first book beginning with a wariness that grew into trust and friendship. Great addition to the series and although I was told I could read this book first, I'm glad I waited and read the books in order.
October 27, 2011
3.5 stars
The mystery behind the shooting didn't turn out to be so mysterious for me. Except for the motivations of the guilty parties. But since this is a combination of romance and crime/mystery I can live with that.
However I'm not quite sure what to think about the romance part of the book. I'll skip the maybe he should have waited longer part, because I do kinda agree with the whole love finds you and if you're lucky to get a second chance at it you don't let it slip by. But, honestly I felt like Zander got over everything a bit fast. Considering all he's lost I didn't really feel like there was any grieving, almost like he wasn't even all that bothered. Yes, there were parts where we were told how he felt but at the same time I couldn't see it. Because of that the romance and the I love yous between Zander and Jake felt rushed, like their relationship wasn't given enough time to form and grow.
Overall it was a good book and I'll be checking out the other two related books at some point.
The mystery behind the shooting didn't turn out to be so mysterious for me. Except for the motivations of the guilty parties. But since this is a combination of romance and crime/mystery I can live with that.
However I'm not quite sure what to think about the romance part of the book. I'll skip the maybe he should have waited longer part, because I do kinda agree with the whole love finds you and if you're lucky to get a second chance at it you don't let it slip by. But, honestly I felt like Zander got over everything a bit fast. Considering all he's lost I didn't really feel like there was any grieving, almost like he wasn't even all that bothered. Yes, there were parts where we were told how he felt but at the same time I couldn't see it. Because of that the romance and the I love yous between Zander and Jake felt rushed, like their relationship wasn't given enough time to form and grow.
Overall it was a good book and I'll be checking out the other two related books at some point.
January 19, 2012
This book threw me for a loop. I wasn’t expecting to be thrown right into Zander’s joyful pre-wedding celebration, and I felt just as horrible as he did upon learning that his family and fiancé didn’t make it. Cade did a wonderful job building up that “perfect” life that he had, and then tearing it all away.
And I think that, as the reader, it had to happen that way. That we open up to something so joyous, and see Zander have to learn to stand on his own. I liked the mystery surrounding his family’s murder; my only complaint was that I felt I knew too much about what had happened. I think I would have (personally) preferred to have been kept in the dark, the same as both Zander and Jake. I think it would have made the villains all the more villainous. But I do think that it was an interesting cover up and issue to resolve.
The growing relationship between Zander and Jake felt very natural. There was no rush into lust, Zander had time to deal with his grief and anger, and both of them were able to get to know each other at first without the pressure of attraction. But when the attraction is admitted and acted upon? Steamy.
This is my first Scotty Cade book, but it probably won’t be my last.
And I think that, as the reader, it had to happen that way. That we open up to something so joyous, and see Zander have to learn to stand on his own. I liked the mystery surrounding his family’s murder; my only complaint was that I felt I knew too much about what had happened. I think I would have (personally) preferred to have been kept in the dark, the same as both Zander and Jake. I think it would have made the villains all the more villainous. But I do think that it was an interesting cover up and issue to resolve.
The growing relationship between Zander and Jake felt very natural. There was no rush into lust, Zander had time to deal with his grief and anger, and both of them were able to get to know each other at first without the pressure of attraction. But when the attraction is admitted and acted upon? Steamy.
This is my first Scotty Cade book, but it probably won’t be my last.
January 10, 2012
Okay!? This book was better than the second in the series but still not as good as the first one. The beginning had me in tears and and I had high hopes that this was going to be a really good book. Then I'm not sure where it started to lose it. The chemistry between Zander and Jake was good, I liked both these guys a lot but it was hard to believe someone who had the love of his life in his fiance would so quickly fall for someone else. I do believe in love at first sight (or shortly there after) but Zander went from a complete basket case to head over heels in love in a really short time. I can believe Jake's feeling for Zander easier, even though Zander was in a coma for a while Jake would have done some checking on Zander's life and sitting with him in the hospital I can see how an attachment would happen.
Ignoring that part of the story I thought the story moved along and was enough to make me want to read the next one.
Ignoring that part of the story I thought the story moved along and was enough to make me want to read the next one.
July 19, 2014
I really enjoyed this book. While this was actually book three in the series, Bounty of Love is more like a prequel to the series as it explains how two characters featured in previous books met and became a couple. (I have yet to read the first two books but I'm glad I read this before them.) Zander Walsh suffers an immense loss when his fiance and both of his parents are killed in an attack that leaves him injured and in a coma. This puts him in contact with FBI agent Jake Elliot who was assigned the case. The book spans a little over six months and you get to see the grief and guilt that Zander deals with as he struggles to move on, as well as the growing relationship between him and Jake.
During this time, the murder investigation is still ongoing and things aren't adding up. While I had already figured out who was involved in the murders, the reason caught me completely off guard. I enjoyed the entire book and will certainly read it again.
During this time, the murder investigation is still ongoing and things aren't adding up. While I had already figured out who was involved in the murders, the reason caught me completely off guard. I enjoyed the entire book and will certainly read it again.
August 23, 2016
I first met Jake and Zander in Wings of Love, book one of this series. They seemed to be fun, interesting characters, and I thought I’d give their story a try. I have to say that I my impression of the series and Cade’s writing has not changed much since book one.
This was a very average read with higher potential. I really did like the MCs, but the book didn’t quite click with me. It didn’t feel real. The bad guys, who certainly should not have been stupid, acted too incompetently. Zander got over the loss of his fiancé a little too easily, too quickly, and the story was a bit too sappy in spots. Actually, in the second half, it gushed sap. (Hmm, my second sappy read this week. Maybe my tolerance is low.)
I definitely wanted to finish the book but more so I could get on to my next read than to experience the HEA ending—which was never in question.
This was a very average read with higher potential. I really did like the MCs, but the book didn’t quite click with me. It didn’t feel real. The bad guys, who certainly should not have been stupid, acted too incompetently. Zander got over the loss of his fiancé a little too easily, too quickly, and the story was a bit too sappy in spots. Actually, in the second half, it gushed sap. (Hmm, my second sappy read this week. Maybe my tolerance is low.)
I definitely wanted to finish the book but more so I could get on to my next read than to experience the HEA ending—which was never in question.
August 30, 2011
Alaskan Love is Hot !!!
What started as a festive evening ended in a bloody robbery, in which Zander Walsh's parents and husband-to-be die. He himself is on the brink of being alive. When he wakes up out of his medical induced coma, all he wants is die himself. But who is that man in the dark suit standing out between the doctors in white?
A young FBI agent is set on this special high profile case. Was it really a robbery gone wrong or is it something totally different? Many questions but not many answers until the very end. A real twist in the tail.
`Bounty of Love' is part of a series, individual books in which the characters have something in common, next to their love for Alaska, especially the Mat-Su Valley, they love their fellow men.
What started as a festive evening ended in a bloody robbery, in which Zander Walsh's parents and husband-to-be die. He himself is on the brink of being alive. When he wakes up out of his medical induced coma, all he wants is die himself. But who is that man in the dark suit standing out between the doctors in white?
A young FBI agent is set on this special high profile case. Was it really a robbery gone wrong or is it something totally different? Many questions but not many answers until the very end. A real twist in the tail.
`Bounty of Love' is part of a series, individual books in which the characters have something in common, next to their love for Alaska, especially the Mat-Su Valley, they love their fellow men.
September 16, 2011
This was my first book by Mr. Cade and I was not disappointed. The tragic way the book started was almost enough to make me cry. The emotional journey that Zander must go on to deal with the deaths of his parents and partner is a story unto its self, but add in trying to get answers in their murders from unwilling people and finding new love was well worth the pain he endured. I don't feel as if I missed anything in reading this book first, it only makes me want to read the first two books of the series even more. I think Jake was the perfect fit for Zander with his patience and understanding of the trauma he went through. Though it was predictable at times it was still enough to catch and keep my attention til the very end.
February 23, 2013
Sad, beautiful with a happy ending. My only complaint is that the author didn't do proper research. I know, I know, being nitpicky is not attractive, but my OCD won't let me look past this. 1) The iPhone only went into development in 2004. The author mentions the MC using his iPhone continuously. Annoyed me to no end. 2)The author refers to the MC listening to Satellite Radio in his Range Rover, when "At Last" played. The first broadcast on satellite radio was 5 January 2001. On Darren's grave his DOB was in 1966 and DOD was 1999, so this story takes place in 1999.
There were a few other things about the technology thing that bothered me, but they were not as in your face as these two. Other than that, still a good story.
There were a few other things about the technology thing that bothered me, but they were not as in your face as these two. Other than that, still a good story.
September 11, 2013
An amazing well written tale of recovery and finding that even though the future you had planned is gone, that doesn't mean a new future can't develop. Zander's world is completely ripped out from under him on the eve of it really just beginning. In his quest to find out what really happened the night his life changed, will he discover a new love as well as the truth? Well developed characters, an interesting mystery, and a love that fate brings together makes this a very entertaining and emotional read.
January 1, 2017
Scotty Cade is fast becoming a favorite author.. I loved reading this story of Alexander, (but friends call him Zander).
When he's looking forward to the happiest day of his life getting married, its suddenly taken away from him. In the horror of the aftermath of being in a coma Zander wakes to be told his beloved and both his parents where killed.
The FBI appointed Agent Jake Elliott to find out what happened on the night.
This is a fantastic book which kept me reading. I had no idea that the ending would be. A recommend book.
When he's looking forward to the happiest day of his life getting married, its suddenly taken away from him. In the horror of the aftermath of being in a coma Zander wakes to be told his beloved and both his parents where killed.
The FBI appointed Agent Jake Elliott to find out what happened on the night.
This is a fantastic book which kept me reading. I had no idea that the ending would be. A recommend book.
January 1, 2012
I really, really wanted to love this book... but I didn't. It was just okay. I mean, it had everything I like in a book: romance, long-term monogamous love, plot, cops, HEA... but it just didn't work for me. I think I went into it expecting a thriller/mystery-like story, but didn't ever reach that standard. Though, I'll probably read the other books in the series... but please, no more 'Daddy' because not only did it make me squirm uncomfortably, it also made me laugh.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews