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His #3
Être son havre de paix: Secondes chances - 3
Une simple rupture multiplie les armures...
Keir Brodie est un avocat qui a de bonnes raisons de ne pas accorder sa confiance. Un an après que son fiancé ne s’est pas présenté à l’autel, la plaie est encore béante et douloureuse. Le travail l’a sauvé, mais un nouveau projet vient tirer la sonnette d’alarme : son plus fidèle client souhaite acheter une maison à un homme que Keir considère comme un menteur.
La façade si bienveillante de Mitch ne fonctionne pas sur Keir, et il ne doit pas se laisser distraire par ces étincelles qui jaillissent lorsqu’ils sont ensemble. Ce n’est qu’une passion déclenchée par deux caractères totalement opposés. Et aucune passion ne vaut la peine de risquer son cœur, surtout pour quelqu’un qui ne cherche que des coups d’un soir.
Leur projet commun met à mal les premières impressions de Keir. Tandis que la vérité et l’avocat se dévoilent peu à peu, Mitch l’aide à recoller les morceaux de son cœur d’une manière qu’il n’aurait pas soupçonnée. Pour confier à Mitch davantage que l’argent de son client, il lui faudra faire un immense saut dans le vide et faire confiance à un homme qui, Keir l’espère, ne le laissera pas attendre.
#MM #Handicap #SantéMentale #Humour #ProximitéForcée #DifférenceD’Âge
Ce tome termine la série Secondes chances.
----
« Cette série m'a fait découvrir des endroits que je garderai toujours dans mon cœur. » - Sheri (Goodreads)
« Ce livre était fabuleux, mon préféré des trois (je sais, je sais, j'ai dit ça des deux derniers), mais celui-ci était si beau. » - Rachel (Goodreads)
« Chaque fois que je lis un des livres de Con Riley, je me dis que c'est le meilleur qu'elle ait jamais écrit et qu'il ne peut pas s'améliorer. Puis je prends le suivant et je suis à nouveau époustouflée. » - Amanda (Goodreads)
388 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 21, 2021
91 people are currently reading
474 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 157 reviews
March 16, 2021
Oh my Keir, how much do I love you!
And Mitch, you utterly perfect rogue, you knew just what Keir needed and how to get him out of his own head.
I'll just disclaimer here to say, as with the previous books, I alpha read this one and so it holds a very special place in my heart.
Even before I got involved with Con's work, I've adored the lyrical way she writes and I think with His Haven, she's hit the pinnacle of beautiful storytelling.
Keir is so in need of Mitch, even though he fights his hardest against the attraction. He's wounded, hurting and so lost, even while he drives himself into his work to stop feeling lonely.
Mitch has spent his life caring for others, a youthful mistake giving him a lifetime of guilt he just can't shake no matter how much his work as a brain trauma specialist PT gives back.
Theirs is a complex narrative, there's lots going on with this story, but it's all intertwined so neatly that the reader never gets lost in the process. There's obviously close ties to His Compass as Mitch is Justin's full-time support, Keir is Nicky's lawyer and biggest supporter.
We get to see more of their happy ending, and a brief flying visit with Jude and Rob, who are still fully loved up at their new bijou hotel venture.
The Cornish setting is as vivid as ever, The Haven and the people there are as much a part of the story as the landscape and the experiences Keir and Mitch go through. There's humour, of course, which stops things ever getting too mawkish.
The His series has been wonderful, but Keir and Mitch are absolutely, hands down, my favourite pairing although Charles and HHH (and yes I'm being sneaky with my insider knowledge of what's coming next from Con 😁 ) are giving them a real run for the money atm.
Oh and the wee Easter Egg in the Epilogue, that just caps it all off.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
And Mitch, you utterly perfect rogue, you knew just what Keir needed and how to get him out of his own head.
I'll just disclaimer here to say, as with the previous books, I alpha read this one and so it holds a very special place in my heart.
Even before I got involved with Con's work, I've adored the lyrical way she writes and I think with His Haven, she's hit the pinnacle of beautiful storytelling.
Keir is so in need of Mitch, even though he fights his hardest against the attraction. He's wounded, hurting and so lost, even while he drives himself into his work to stop feeling lonely.
Mitch has spent his life caring for others, a youthful mistake giving him a lifetime of guilt he just can't shake no matter how much his work as a brain trauma specialist PT gives back.
Theirs is a complex narrative, there's lots going on with this story, but it's all intertwined so neatly that the reader never gets lost in the process. There's obviously close ties to His Compass as Mitch is Justin's full-time support, Keir is Nicky's lawyer and biggest supporter.
We get to see more of their happy ending, and a brief flying visit with Jude and Rob, who are still fully loved up at their new bijou hotel venture.
The Cornish setting is as vivid as ever, The Haven and the people there are as much a part of the story as the landscape and the experiences Keir and Mitch go through. There's humour, of course, which stops things ever getting too mawkish.
The His series has been wonderful, but Keir and Mitch are absolutely, hands down, my favourite pairing although Charles and HHH (and yes I'm being sneaky with my insider knowledge of what's coming next from Con 😁 ) are giving them a real run for the money atm.
Oh and the wee Easter Egg in the Epilogue, that just caps it all off.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review
April 24, 2021
I can’t properly explain to you how ecstatic I was for this story. I could try but it wouldn’t be pretty. This series has taken me places that I will forever hold close to my heart. I thought I loved the first book only to discover my boundless love for the second. Book three had me eager and if I’m honest, a little anxious. How could it hold a candle to what transpired before? Could I possibly love them as much?
I’ll save you the suspense, yes and yes! On par with Con’s matryoshka style writing, the hidden layers continued to appear as the chapters flew by. Technically this could be a standalone story but I would urge you to start at the beginning. You don’t miss the intimate details of the first two books. Trust me, they are worth it.
Keir Brodie was bitten.
No, this isn’t a paranormal story or a book with vamps. Betrayal sank its teeth deep into the tender flesh around his heart and his wounds have yet to heal. He keeps the damage tucked discreetly behind his immaculate suits. With his personal life in turmoil, he decides to zero in on his professional life. Work is safe. So he fills every waking hour with work and managing Nick’s affairs easily consumes him. But recently, there’s been a distraction. A frisky fun-loving distraction. Mitch is full of life. Sparks fly and surprisingly some burn. This is vexing at first because it proves his first impression was hasty and off course. Perhaps Mitch isn’t as slick as Keir thought. Maybe his light-hearted approach to life is buoyed by something significant. Could there be more to Mitch than the eye beholds? Since we are navigating through one of Riley’s stories I can guarantee you the answer is yes.
Their journey is emotionally charged with erratic zigs and zags. Fortunately, the ebb and flow eventually wash them ashore. I raced through with bated breath. We witness the magic behind a shelter that does more than offer refuge. We sail through turbulent but gorgeous seas. We observe powerful forgiveness and essential healing. We discover that sometimes those ‘almost maybes’ are supposed to happen, passing us over to destiny’s hands. There are romantic moments that deserve to see the cinema. Oh, my stars! And some characters deserve standing ovations.
I absolutely, completely, totally, and utterly loved it!
Beware of: Broken trust and broken hearts can heal with time. Everyone carries baggage in life and sharing requires faith and confidence. Assumptions are rarely accurate and often we must see to believe.
This book is for: Anyone and everyone! This stunning story captured my heart and I have no doubt you’ll feel the same.
I’ll save you the suspense, yes and yes! On par with Con’s matryoshka style writing, the hidden layers continued to appear as the chapters flew by. Technically this could be a standalone story but I would urge you to start at the beginning. You don’t miss the intimate details of the first two books. Trust me, they are worth it.
Keir Brodie was bitten.
No, this isn’t a paranormal story or a book with vamps. Betrayal sank its teeth deep into the tender flesh around his heart and his wounds have yet to heal. He keeps the damage tucked discreetly behind his immaculate suits. With his personal life in turmoil, he decides to zero in on his professional life. Work is safe. So he fills every waking hour with work and managing Nick’s affairs easily consumes him. But recently, there’s been a distraction. A frisky fun-loving distraction. Mitch is full of life. Sparks fly and surprisingly some burn. This is vexing at first because it proves his first impression was hasty and off course. Perhaps Mitch isn’t as slick as Keir thought. Maybe his light-hearted approach to life is buoyed by something significant. Could there be more to Mitch than the eye beholds? Since we are navigating through one of Riley’s stories I can guarantee you the answer is yes.
Their journey is emotionally charged with erratic zigs and zags. Fortunately, the ebb and flow eventually wash them ashore. I raced through with bated breath. We witness the magic behind a shelter that does more than offer refuge. We sail through turbulent but gorgeous seas. We observe powerful forgiveness and essential healing. We discover that sometimes those ‘almost maybes’ are supposed to happen, passing us over to destiny’s hands. There are romantic moments that deserve to see the cinema. Oh, my stars! And some characters deserve standing ovations.
I absolutely, completely, totally, and utterly loved it!
Beware of: Broken trust and broken hearts can heal with time. Everyone carries baggage in life and sharing requires faith and confidence. Assumptions are rarely accurate and often we must see to believe.
This book is for: Anyone and everyone! This stunning story captured my heart and I have no doubt you’ll feel the same.
April 26, 2021
4 “My taste can’t be that bad, can it?” [...] “I chose you, didn’t I?” stars
None of that felt temporary. Not any of the promises he’d heard Mitch make, nor the gut feeling Keir had that he’d keep every last one of them.
This one will be really short, i’m crying too much to type. Damn this book made me feel so many things and the ending was so fufilling it just made me cry, so much.
Brief summary:Kier’s fiance didn’t show up at their wedding almost a year ago and he’s still grieving. He has to do a job and while doing it he meets Mitch. They starts a friends with benefits agreement but fall in love instead.
I loved most things about this book. I loved how guarded Kier was at first and how he wasn’t sure if he watched Mitch. I loved how Mitch kept proving to Kier that he was the right guy for him. I loved how Kier’s grief was shown and he dealt with it, all of it was portrayed so well and I loved how his panic attacks were portrayed too. I also loved how we got to see him live through his grief. It was so rewarding when we got to see him finally be happy again. His transformation was just the best. Mitch was so damn good, he wasso understanding, so patient and he was always there for Keir, he made sure that Kier was always right. I loved how the book that it was important for Kier to get over his grief before he got with Mitch. I also loved how Kier finding someone new didn’t fix all of his grief and that he actually had to deal with it. I loved how their love and chemistry was described, it was pooring out of the pages and it was just so good. Also the sex scenes were really fucking hot and I loved them, they fit so well within the story. I also really loved the story progression, it flowed really well and everything made sense, I loved the ending so much, so much that i’m still crying about it. It was just a journey to get to that ending, but such a rewarding journey.
The only reason why this is four stars is because I wanted them to communicate better, it got so bad that they just never talked to each other and fixed all of their problems with big romantic gestures when they could just have been talked and they wouldn’t have had any problems in the first place.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review.
None of that felt temporary. Not any of the promises he’d heard Mitch make, nor the gut feeling Keir had that he’d keep every last one of them.
This one will be really short, i’m crying too much to type. Damn this book made me feel so many things and the ending was so fufilling it just made me cry, so much.
Brief summary:Kier’s fiance didn’t show up at their wedding almost a year ago and he’s still grieving. He has to do a job and while doing it he meets Mitch. They starts a friends with benefits agreement but fall in love instead.
I loved most things about this book. I loved how guarded Kier was at first and how he wasn’t sure if he watched Mitch. I loved how Mitch kept proving to Kier that he was the right guy for him. I loved how Kier’s grief was shown and he dealt with it, all of it was portrayed so well and I loved how his panic attacks were portrayed too. I also loved how we got to see him live through his grief. It was so rewarding when we got to see him finally be happy again. His transformation was just the best. Mitch was so damn good, he wasso understanding, so patient and he was always there for Keir, he made sure that Kier was always right. I loved how the book that it was important for Kier to get over his grief before he got with Mitch. I also loved how Kier finding someone new didn’t fix all of his grief and that he actually had to deal with it. I loved how their love and chemistry was described, it was pooring out of the pages and it was just so good. Also the sex scenes were really fucking hot and I loved them, they fit so well within the story. I also really loved the story progression, it flowed really well and everything made sense, I loved the ending so much, so much that i’m still crying about it. It was just a journey to get to that ending, but such a rewarding journey.
The only reason why this is four stars is because I wanted them to communicate better, it got so bad that they just never talked to each other and fixed all of their problems with big romantic gestures when they could just have been talked and they wouldn’t have had any problems in the first place.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review.
Read
June 23, 2021DNF at 14%. The miscommunication, misunderstanding, and willfully assholery are a big turn off.
Shrugs. Onto the next.
Shrugs. Onto the next.
April 23, 2021
this was my first time reading Con Riley, but it definitely won’t be the last. this story was lovely and sweet and a little bit sad, with characters who felt like real people with real reactions and believable dialogue.
i enjoy that even Kier’s ex - who, in a story by a lesser writer, would have been a generic, one-note villain - was given a bit of depth and development and not treated like a caricature. i still don’t like him, but i understood him and why he did what he did.
i’m definitely looking forward to reading the first two books in this series, as well as Charles’ story when it comes out this summer.
i enjoy that even Kier’s ex - who, in a story by a lesser writer, would have been a generic, one-note villain - was given a bit of depth and development and not treated like a caricature. i still don’t like him, but i understood him and why he did what he did.
i’m definitely looking forward to reading the first two books in this series, as well as Charles’ story when it comes out this summer.
May 21, 2021
I've given this an A- at AAR - 4.5 stars rounded up.
The third book in Con Riley’s His series of contemporary romances, His Haven is a gorgeous, angsty opposites-attract romance between an uptight lawyer and an open-hearted gentle giant of a man, and it’s every bit as good as His Compass, which I adored.
The books in this series work as standalones, but I’d advise reading His Compass before this one, as it will provide a bit more background detail about the relationships between the main characters.
The beginning of His Haven finds lawyer Keir Brodie aboard The Aphrodite, the charter yacht owned by Tom Kershaw and his partner Nick, together with Tom’s younger brother Justin and Justin’s carer, Mitch, a specialist in severe brain injury rehabilitation. Nick comes from an extremely wealthy family, and Keir sees it as part of his job to protect him from poor decisions and to make sure he isn’t taken advantage of financially, so when Nick and Tom ask Keir if he will work with Mitch to find Justin a house somewhere near Porthperrin harbour, alarm bells start ringing. Property in the area is far from cheap and Justin can’t live independently; Keir suspects Mitch is behind the idea, that he’s sowed seeds of doubt in Tom’s mind about The Haven (the facility Justin and Mitch live in) becoming a bit run down, and is out to get himself a very valuable property without paying a penny. Keir’s suspicions are only increased by the fact that Mitch has been blatantly flirting with him all day but wears a silver band on his ring finger – and in Keir’s eyes, cheaters are the lowest of the low. But it’s his job to do what Nick instructs him to do, even if it means spending time with Mitch and constantly shutting down his flirty innuendo.
It’s apparent right away that Keir is tightly wound and the way he jumps to conclusions about Mitch makes him seem like a class A prick. But it’s also clear that there’s something else behind his suspicions, something that doesn’t really have anything to do with Mitch at all. Almost a year earlier, Keir’s fiancé jilted him on their wedding day, and since then, he’s thrown himself into his work rather than deal with the emotional fallout. It’s obviously left him with serious trust issues, but Ms. Riley slowly and skilfully shows us that those issues go a lot further back than his aborted wedding. He’s wounded, hurting and lost and the author does an amazing job of portraying him as a man close to the edge, the raw emotions that lurk behind his rigidly maintained self-control a tangible presence.
By contrast, Mitch is pretty much an open book. He’s kind and patient and understanding and he’s one of life’s givers; he’s devoted to Justin and to making his life the best it can be, and he regularly goes above and beyond at The Haven, helping to care for all the residents and being an important part of the community there. He’s a skilled professional, too – he senses straight away that Keir is carrying a huge burden and genuinely wants to help; there’s a lovely scene early on where he helps Keir through a panic attack which shows exactly the sort of person he is – he notices everything and acts accordingly and that moment is something of a turning point in his relationship with Keir.
Keir is definitely attracted to Mitch but he fights it all the way – until he decides he’s tired of feeling empty and alone and that maybe a fling with Mitch is just what he needs. Mitch has made it clear he’s not looking for anything long term, and that suits Keir just fine; they’ll have a no-strings affair while they’re house-hunting for Justin and once that’s done, so are they. Simple.
But of course, it’s not simple at all, and it doesn’t take long at all for both men to realise that there’s more than ‘just sex’ to whatever is going on between them. The romance between this unlikely pair is beautifully written and superbly developed as they learn more about each other – their pasts and insecurities – and Keir comes to fully appreciate the role Mitch plays in Justin’s life and to see him for the genuine, caring man he is. He is also, with Mitch’s help, able to start letting go of some of the experiences and misconceptions that have been holding him back and to begin to move forward with his life. The amount of character growth Keir experiences is phenomenal; one can almost feel him slowly lightening up as he learns to trust – and to love – Mitch, who makes him feel truly wanted and fully present in a way he hasn’t ever felt before, as though he’s enough and worthy of being held on to after a life full – one way or another – of rejection.
Mitch isn’t without his demons; we learn here of the guilt he carries over the incident that happened in his younger days that prompted him to specialise in brain injuries, and how it informed his attitude towards relationships. He’s such a thoughtful, compassionate person, and he thoroughly deserves someone who’s going to look out for and be there for him, someone who sees him and understands what’s important to him. The chemistry between these two very different men is so strong that it leaps off the page, and their romance is peppered with moments of such perfect honesty and understanding as to be almost breathtaking.
Although Keir is the PoV character, the author does such a great job of bringing Mitch to life through his eyes that I didn’t for one moment miss a second perspective, and the same is true of the secondary characters. Justin is extremely well-written and the limitations he lives with as a result of his injury feel very realistic; he’s endearing and sweet, but there’s no question that looking after him can be difficult at times. I loved catching up with Nick and Tom, and meeting Keir’s best friend and flatmate Charles, who is huge fun and completely irrepressible, but who clearly has issues of his own to deal with. I was delighted to learn that he’s getting his own book soon and I’ll be at the front of the queue waiting for it!
A warm, tender and emotionally satisfying romance featuring two memorable leads and a superbly characterised secondary cast, His Haven will tug at the heartstrings and bring a tear to the eye in the very best way. I wholeheartedly recommend it.
The third book in Con Riley’s His series of contemporary romances, His Haven is a gorgeous, angsty opposites-attract romance between an uptight lawyer and an open-hearted gentle giant of a man, and it’s every bit as good as His Compass, which I adored.
The books in this series work as standalones, but I’d advise reading His Compass before this one, as it will provide a bit more background detail about the relationships between the main characters.
The beginning of His Haven finds lawyer Keir Brodie aboard The Aphrodite, the charter yacht owned by Tom Kershaw and his partner Nick, together with Tom’s younger brother Justin and Justin’s carer, Mitch, a specialist in severe brain injury rehabilitation. Nick comes from an extremely wealthy family, and Keir sees it as part of his job to protect him from poor decisions and to make sure he isn’t taken advantage of financially, so when Nick and Tom ask Keir if he will work with Mitch to find Justin a house somewhere near Porthperrin harbour, alarm bells start ringing. Property in the area is far from cheap and Justin can’t live independently; Keir suspects Mitch is behind the idea, that he’s sowed seeds of doubt in Tom’s mind about The Haven (the facility Justin and Mitch live in) becoming a bit run down, and is out to get himself a very valuable property without paying a penny. Keir’s suspicions are only increased by the fact that Mitch has been blatantly flirting with him all day but wears a silver band on his ring finger – and in Keir’s eyes, cheaters are the lowest of the low. But it’s his job to do what Nick instructs him to do, even if it means spending time with Mitch and constantly shutting down his flirty innuendo.
It’s apparent right away that Keir is tightly wound and the way he jumps to conclusions about Mitch makes him seem like a class A prick. But it’s also clear that there’s something else behind his suspicions, something that doesn’t really have anything to do with Mitch at all. Almost a year earlier, Keir’s fiancé jilted him on their wedding day, and since then, he’s thrown himself into his work rather than deal with the emotional fallout. It’s obviously left him with serious trust issues, but Ms. Riley slowly and skilfully shows us that those issues go a lot further back than his aborted wedding. He’s wounded, hurting and lost and the author does an amazing job of portraying him as a man close to the edge, the raw emotions that lurk behind his rigidly maintained self-control a tangible presence.
By contrast, Mitch is pretty much an open book. He’s kind and patient and understanding and he’s one of life’s givers; he’s devoted to Justin and to making his life the best it can be, and he regularly goes above and beyond at The Haven, helping to care for all the residents and being an important part of the community there. He’s a skilled professional, too – he senses straight away that Keir is carrying a huge burden and genuinely wants to help; there’s a lovely scene early on where he helps Keir through a panic attack which shows exactly the sort of person he is – he notices everything and acts accordingly and that moment is something of a turning point in his relationship with Keir.
Keir is definitely attracted to Mitch but he fights it all the way – until he decides he’s tired of feeling empty and alone and that maybe a fling with Mitch is just what he needs. Mitch has made it clear he’s not looking for anything long term, and that suits Keir just fine; they’ll have a no-strings affair while they’re house-hunting for Justin and once that’s done, so are they. Simple.
But of course, it’s not simple at all, and it doesn’t take long at all for both men to realise that there’s more than ‘just sex’ to whatever is going on between them. The romance between this unlikely pair is beautifully written and superbly developed as they learn more about each other – their pasts and insecurities – and Keir comes to fully appreciate the role Mitch plays in Justin’s life and to see him for the genuine, caring man he is. He is also, with Mitch’s help, able to start letting go of some of the experiences and misconceptions that have been holding him back and to begin to move forward with his life. The amount of character growth Keir experiences is phenomenal; one can almost feel him slowly lightening up as he learns to trust – and to love – Mitch, who makes him feel truly wanted and fully present in a way he hasn’t ever felt before, as though he’s enough and worthy of being held on to after a life full – one way or another – of rejection.
Mitch isn’t without his demons; we learn here of the guilt he carries over the incident that happened in his younger days that prompted him to specialise in brain injuries, and how it informed his attitude towards relationships. He’s such a thoughtful, compassionate person, and he thoroughly deserves someone who’s going to look out for and be there for him, someone who sees him and understands what’s important to him. The chemistry between these two very different men is so strong that it leaps off the page, and their romance is peppered with moments of such perfect honesty and understanding as to be almost breathtaking.
Although Keir is the PoV character, the author does such a great job of bringing Mitch to life through his eyes that I didn’t for one moment miss a second perspective, and the same is true of the secondary characters. Justin is extremely well-written and the limitations he lives with as a result of his injury feel very realistic; he’s endearing and sweet, but there’s no question that looking after him can be difficult at times. I loved catching up with Nick and Tom, and meeting Keir’s best friend and flatmate Charles, who is huge fun and completely irrepressible, but who clearly has issues of his own to deal with. I was delighted to learn that he’s getting his own book soon and I’ll be at the front of the queue waiting for it!
A warm, tender and emotionally satisfying romance featuring two memorable leads and a superbly characterised secondary cast, His Haven will tug at the heartstrings and bring a tear to the eye in the very best way. I wholeheartedly recommend it.
March 15, 2021
OH MY DAYS!! This book was fabulous, my favourite of the three (I know I know I said that about the last two) but this was so lovely. I didn't want this to finish <3 Now I might just have to go read it again!
April 21, 2021
This one costed me my night rest, I couldn’t put it down, I did but picked it up again because I couldn’t get them out of my head and sleep.
This author writes impressive stories, It’s the third in this series, and omg I was stunned again!
I loved Mitch already in His Compass, here he’s the main. I adored this huge kind-hearted man.
Everything he did was from his heart.
That’s not how Keir saw him. Keir has big trust issues and he doesn’t trust that huge man.
Whatever Mitch said, Keir is certain he has a second agenda.
Keir, as the family lawyer, and Mitch has to work together to find a home, a safe place for Justin. Justin is under Mitch’s care (oh my goodness read His Compass I was floored) and Justin will sail with Tom and Nick on their yacht The Aphrodite.
When Mitch tells Keir the attraction always fades after the first time, Keir thinks it’s safe to experience a single time with Mitch.
Keir has one best friend, Charles, who was everything to him, I loved him hard!
Charles was there for Keir when he was broken after his groom didn’t show up at the altar.
His Haven is a beautifully layered narrative, with intense conversations, not one moment superficial. The author created some extraordinary characters, Mitch and Keir are thoroughly examined, we meet them on different levels.
You’ll be amazed by their stories!! There is so much going on and every step was worth knowing.
Oh boy, the plot is so incredibly fascinating. Beside a good plot it was at times utterly romantic! The author did an amazing job. I loved LOVED this story!
This story can be read alone but I highly recommend to read the previous one, or else you’ll miss some beautiful and precious moments.
Can’t wait for Charles story!
This author writes impressive stories, It’s the third in this series, and omg I was stunned again!
I loved Mitch already in His Compass, here he’s the main. I adored this huge kind-hearted man.
Everything he did was from his heart.
That’s not how Keir saw him. Keir has big trust issues and he doesn’t trust that huge man.
Whatever Mitch said, Keir is certain he has a second agenda.
Keir, as the family lawyer, and Mitch has to work together to find a home, a safe place for Justin. Justin is under Mitch’s care (oh my goodness read His Compass I was floored) and Justin will sail with Tom and Nick on their yacht The Aphrodite.
When Mitch tells Keir the attraction always fades after the first time, Keir thinks it’s safe to experience a single time with Mitch.
Keir has one best friend, Charles, who was everything to him, I loved him hard!
Charles was there for Keir when he was broken after his groom didn’t show up at the altar.
His Haven is a beautifully layered narrative, with intense conversations, not one moment superficial. The author created some extraordinary characters, Mitch and Keir are thoroughly examined, we meet them on different levels.
You’ll be amazed by their stories!! There is so much going on and every step was worth knowing.
Oh boy, the plot is so incredibly fascinating. Beside a good plot it was at times utterly romantic! The author did an amazing job. I loved LOVED this story!
This story can be read alone but I highly recommend to read the previous one, or else you’ll miss some beautiful and precious moments.
Can’t wait for Charles story!
April 23, 2021
Swoony...is that a word?? Yep, just looked it up [thanks Collins] and that's exactly how I felt after reading this story. This is a SWOONY, ROMANTIC NOVEL 💕💕💕 with some angst, pictures being painted with words by Con, and two MC's who fully deserved their HEA. Love, LOVE, LOVED, and onto my Best of 2021 Bookshelf!!
I desperately wanted Mitch from His Compass to have a story and HEA of his own, and Con duly obliged. A delightful story, with the narrative split between London [where Keir is based] and Cornwall, where Mitch spends his time looking after Justin...whom you will also know from His Compass. I was so happy with the solution they arrived at for The Haven, and it just goes to show you Keir...you can't judge a book by its cover. As I told Con, I LOVED Charles too, and am already looking forward to Charles: Learning to Love, which comes out in July and is available for pre-order on Amazon.
April 28, 2021
Cathartic! After two years of a very emotional break-up, this story made me think about my own situation and why I am still here, when I should/need to move on.
Such a beautiful story, such a romantic story, and just the right amount of the intimate, that I could read through it without skipping.
Dearest Con, you've done it again. I cried with joy, sadness and understanding. I loved this story.
Such a beautiful story, such a romantic story, and just the right amount of the intimate, that I could read through it without skipping.
Dearest Con, you've done it again. I cried with joy, sadness and understanding. I loved this story.
May 2, 2025
Oh, I just wanted to hug Keir Brodie and not let go!
I knew I would like getting to know Keir - he's Charles's best friend and I adore Charles, so I knew Keir had to be pretty decent. His failed relationship with Oliver was so sad, and I don't think I'd clicked really about who Oliver actually was!!
Mitch is exactly the character he comes across as when he cameos in the Glyn Harber books, but it was so nice to see more of his relationship with Justin and Tom.
I do feel like I've caught up now on the larger picture of Con Riley's books - the only one's I haven't read are any set in America - and now I'm eagerly anticipating Second Story.
I knew I would like getting to know Keir - he's Charles's best friend and I adore Charles, so I knew Keir had to be pretty decent. His failed relationship with Oliver was so sad, and I don't think I'd clicked really about who Oliver actually was!!
Mitch is exactly the character he comes across as when he cameos in the Glyn Harber books, but it was so nice to see more of his relationship with Justin and Tom.
I do feel like I've caught up now on the larger picture of Con Riley's books - the only one's I haven't read are any set in America - and now I'm eagerly anticipating Second Story.
August 6, 2021
This was a sweet and warm story of Kier whose trust was shattered when the man he was engaged to left him at the altar, and Mitch, who can't possibly be as good as he seems, and therefore must be mistrusted. Kier has channeled all his energy in the past year into protecting his client Tom from those who might take advantage. And no matter how attractive Kier finds Mitch - no, perhaps because of how attractive he finds Mitch, he's sure there must be ulterior motives behind Mitch's every move.
We met Mitch in His Compass so we have the advantage of knowing just how exceptional he is. But Kier doesn't have that perspective, and his past experience deeply colors everything he thinks about Mitch. Occasionally, that bitterness seemed a bit unreasonable, but that could be excused by the depth of hurt we discover. Hurt which has more nuances, and more sting, than we are aware of at first.
We also meet Charles, Kier's best friend and staunch champion, whose subsequent book is my favorite so far. And we get to see Mitch with the man he cares for, Justin, and to wish more people in Justin's position had this kind of support and care.
The romance is warm, despite the push and pull of Kier's fears and misunderstandings. The ending gives us a new perspective, and more closure than might be expected. And both main characters caught my sympathy and made me cheer for their happy ending.
We met Mitch in His Compass so we have the advantage of knowing just how exceptional he is. But Kier doesn't have that perspective, and his past experience deeply colors everything he thinks about Mitch. Occasionally, that bitterness seemed a bit unreasonable, but that could be excused by the depth of hurt we discover. Hurt which has more nuances, and more sting, than we are aware of at first.
We also meet Charles, Kier's best friend and staunch champion, whose subsequent book is my favorite so far. And we get to see Mitch with the man he cares for, Justin, and to wish more people in Justin's position had this kind of support and care.
The romance is warm, despite the push and pull of Kier's fears and misunderstandings. The ending gives us a new perspective, and more closure than might be expected. And both main characters caught my sympathy and made me cheer for their happy ending.
April 21, 2021
Every time I I read one of Con’s books I think, this is it; the best Con had ever written and it cannot get any better. Then I pick up the next one and am blown away all over again. This series is magical, with the descriptions transporting you wherever the characters go, and the characters so lively they feel like so much more than just words on a page. Keir and Mitch both had side roles in His Compass, so we didn’t truly get to know them so I was so excited to get to dig into their stories. I felt so much reading their story, laughter, heartbreak, so much love. These two have more love to give than you could expect and give it all they definitely do. This is one of those books I wish I could read forever, definitely worth all five stars and beyond.
Read
July 2, 2021Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08RJTGX6F
Amazon UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08RJTGX6F
April 13, 2021
Con Riley pulled me into this world, even though at first I didn't particularly like Kier. There were times when I wanted to shake him and tell him he was being a stubborn git, but in the end, I understood why. The characters in this series are simply beautiful. I love them all, and their world is so real, so tangible, I feel like I could visit Cornwall and stop in for tea with them. In His Haven, there's a lot of push and pull between the characters, which makes my heart happy as I love books with conflict that's not easily solved. Each of these men has baggage not easily unpacked. However, there is a sweet HEA, though, thankfully. While you can read this book as a standalone, don't deprive yourself of the journey through the first two books.
September 19, 2023
DNF ~10%
This whole series is cursed, LOL. I don't know why the author decided to do a whole series of pairings that drop us in the middle of the story and have just the weirdest dynamics ever...
This whole series is cursed, LOL. I don't know why the author decided to do a whole series of pairings that drop us in the middle of the story and have just the weirdest dynamics ever...
April 21, 2021
Independent reviewer for Gay Romance Reviews, I was gifted my copy of this book.
This is book 3 in the His series, but it's not necessary to have read His Horizon (book 1) and His Compass (book 2). Not NECESSARY however I would personally RECOMMEND you read His Compass before this one. Then again, I said in my review for that book you should probably read book one before that one, so maybe, I should read books one and two before this one! But that is just a person point, more than anything. These books are best enjoyed when read in order.
I also said in my review for His Compass that it was rare I gave a single person point of view book 5 stars. And lookit! TWO out the three books are 5 stars, and the other is 4 stars!
We met Mitch in His Compass, he looks after Captain Tom's brother, Justin. I don't recall if we met Keir, he is Nick's lawyer (who falls in love with Tom) Keir is a bit cynical with Mitch, he thinks he's out to rob Nick blind, with the idea of a home for Justin near the harbour. Something away from his other home, His Haven. Mitch isn't, he just wants Justin to be happy and settled, where ever he is. And when Mitch starts flirting with Keir, he kinda sees red since Mitch is wearing a ring, on his ring finger on the left hand.
Once THAT matter is sorted, there seems to be one misunderstanding after another until Mitch sends texts to Keir that were clearly NOT meant for him. Mitch, in true fashion, does redeem himself beautifully though.
I love being made to wait for the good stuff, you know? I love that it takes time for the full picture of Keir's ex standing him up at the altar to become clear, and just WHO that ex is to Keir, and to Charles, Keir's best friend. Mitch, while clearly in pain for something, takes his sweet time revealing that pain. And the good GOOD stuff comes after a great long time, and I loved that!
Yes, of COURSE I wanted to hear from Mitch, only Keir has a voice. But I'm greedy, you know? I like to hear from everyone, I really do HOWEVER, I knew going in it would be just one character given a voice and Keir is that voice. So either that fact, or the fact that Keir's voice is so deep and profound, and so heartwrenching at times, negated the point that Mitch doesn't have a voice. I loved this, I really did!
And I really REALLY liked the fact that Keir and his ex make their peace with what happened between them.
AND OH!!! that last little bit, those last 4 lines?? Loved it!
A very well written, beautiful love story, really, thats what it is.
5 full and shining stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
This is book 3 in the His series, but it's not necessary to have read His Horizon (book 1) and His Compass (book 2). Not NECESSARY however I would personally RECOMMEND you read His Compass before this one. Then again, I said in my review for that book you should probably read book one before that one, so maybe, I should read books one and two before this one! But that is just a person point, more than anything. These books are best enjoyed when read in order.
I also said in my review for His Compass that it was rare I gave a single person point of view book 5 stars. And lookit! TWO out the three books are 5 stars, and the other is 4 stars!
We met Mitch in His Compass, he looks after Captain Tom's brother, Justin. I don't recall if we met Keir, he is Nick's lawyer (who falls in love with Tom) Keir is a bit cynical with Mitch, he thinks he's out to rob Nick blind, with the idea of a home for Justin near the harbour. Something away from his other home, His Haven. Mitch isn't, he just wants Justin to be happy and settled, where ever he is. And when Mitch starts flirting with Keir, he kinda sees red since Mitch is wearing a ring, on his ring finger on the left hand.
Once THAT matter is sorted, there seems to be one misunderstanding after another until Mitch sends texts to Keir that were clearly NOT meant for him. Mitch, in true fashion, does redeem himself beautifully though.
I love being made to wait for the good stuff, you know? I love that it takes time for the full picture of Keir's ex standing him up at the altar to become clear, and just WHO that ex is to Keir, and to Charles, Keir's best friend. Mitch, while clearly in pain for something, takes his sweet time revealing that pain. And the good GOOD stuff comes after a great long time, and I loved that!
Yes, of COURSE I wanted to hear from Mitch, only Keir has a voice. But I'm greedy, you know? I like to hear from everyone, I really do HOWEVER, I knew going in it would be just one character given a voice and Keir is that voice. So either that fact, or the fact that Keir's voice is so deep and profound, and so heartwrenching at times, negated the point that Mitch doesn't have a voice. I loved this, I really did!
And I really REALLY liked the fact that Keir and his ex make their peace with what happened between them.
AND OH!!! that last little bit, those last 4 lines?? Loved it!
A very well written, beautiful love story, really, thats what it is.
5 full and shining stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
October 20, 2021
Pretty good and likable MCs but it didn't woe me. I think my expectations were just too high after Charles which was absolutely amazing.
May 8, 2021
I feel lucky that the last few titles I read this month had been excellent. Con Riley's last book in her His series,
His Haven
is so far my most favorite story from her -- and with this, she has claimed a position in my favorite MM authors list.
His Haven features Keir Brodie and Mitch - both first appeared in previous book, His Compass. Being a lawyer who takes care of all Nick's business, Keir finds himself in position to work together with Mitch, who is the primary caretaker of Justin, when Tom (Justin's brother, who is also Nick's partner) wants to find a new home for Justin. Keir doesn't trust Mitch's good-guy act. And in this book, Riley explored the root of Keir's reasons, deep from the betrayal he experienced right on the day he was supposed to be married...
This books is EXCELLENT all around -- even if it's written solely in Keir's perspective. But it hit me in all the right places. Riley carries her character, Keir, through the journey of self-healing, of finally letting go the hurt and shame after being jilted at the wedding. Keir is attracted to someone who is a total opposite of himself, and there are worries, concerns, whether he could trust his own heart again after being blindsided the last time by someone he should have known so well.
It feels like EVERY single moment, every single conversation Keir has with Mitch or his best friend Charles, heck even a "talk with stranger on a plane" moment builds up to mean SOMETHING to Keir, that brings him to happiness. I think I glued myself to every word, knowing that I wanted to be involved in Keir's journey every step of the way.
And even so, Con Riley still managed to slip in a surprise () and not one, but TWO GRAND GESTURES... I was so highly satisfied with those, I admit that I re-read the parts over and over again. Sure, I may cringe on grand gestures in real life, but in romance novels, yeah, they can be GLORIOUS!!
So what if Mitch feels too good to be true? So what if Mitch feels like he's written just for Keir? My cynical self may think that it would never happened in real life. But this is NOT real life, isn't it? This is the world that Con Riley created, and bottom line, the world is PERFECT.
Now, I'm so deliriously happy that Keir's best friend, Charles, already has his own book lined-up in few months. PLUS, his HEA will be Hugo, also known as His Holy Hotness, the chaplain of boarding school first mentioned by Mitch in His Compass and finally appeared for a short time in this book. I mean, Charles, the eternal player, with a chaplain?!? THAT IS SO PROMISING I can't wait to get my hand on the book.
So yes, Con Riley, THANK YOU for another 5-stars read of 2021 for me.
His Haven features Keir Brodie and Mitch - both first appeared in previous book, His Compass. Being a lawyer who takes care of all Nick's business, Keir finds himself in position to work together with Mitch, who is the primary caretaker of Justin, when Tom (Justin's brother, who is also Nick's partner) wants to find a new home for Justin. Keir doesn't trust Mitch's good-guy act. And in this book, Riley explored the root of Keir's reasons, deep from the betrayal he experienced right on the day he was supposed to be married...
This books is EXCELLENT all around -- even if it's written solely in Keir's perspective. But it hit me in all the right places. Riley carries her character, Keir, through the journey of self-healing, of finally letting go the hurt and shame after being jilted at the wedding. Keir is attracted to someone who is a total opposite of himself, and there are worries, concerns, whether he could trust his own heart again after being blindsided the last time by someone he should have known so well.
It feels like EVERY single moment, every single conversation Keir has with Mitch or his best friend Charles, heck even a "talk with stranger on a plane" moment builds up to mean SOMETHING to Keir, that brings him to happiness. I think I glued myself to every word, knowing that I wanted to be involved in Keir's journey every step of the way.
And even so, Con Riley still managed to slip in a surprise () and not one, but TWO GRAND GESTURES... I was so highly satisfied with those, I admit that I re-read the parts over and over again. Sure, I may cringe on grand gestures in real life, but in romance novels, yeah, they can be GLORIOUS!!
So what if Mitch feels too good to be true? So what if Mitch feels like he's written just for Keir? My cynical self may think that it would never happened in real life. But this is NOT real life, isn't it? This is the world that Con Riley created, and bottom line, the world is PERFECT.
Now, I'm so deliriously happy that Keir's best friend, Charles, already has his own book lined-up in few months. PLUS, his HEA will be Hugo, also known as His Holy Hotness, the chaplain of boarding school first mentioned by Mitch in His Compass and finally appeared for a short time in this book. I mean, Charles, the eternal player, with a chaplain?!? THAT IS SO PROMISING I can't wait to get my hand on the book.
So yes, Con Riley, THANK YOU for another 5-stars read of 2021 for me.
March 13, 2021
I love Con Riley’s books and they are an auto buy for me, but I also feel this series gets better and better with each book.
If you have read the earlier books in the series and in particular His Compass, then His Haven is the story of Keir - Nick’s uptight lawyer, and Mitch - Tom’s brother Justin’s carer at the Haven, who on the face of it is a total flirt, looking for no strings.
They are set a job by Nick & Tom that involves them having to work together and from Keir’s initial distrust of Mitch’s motives we see their relationship develop.
As with all of Con’s books, we get detailed character building and full backgrounds that emerge during the course of the book. No Spoilers so I’ll be deliberately vague - we learn about Keir’s last relationship and how it ended, but also events from his childhood which together shaped him and help explain his sense of self-preservation and why he acts the way he does. Likewise we eventually learn more of Mitch’s past, but from the very beginning with him we see under the surface and that Mitch is a gentle giant, who cares for everyone - Justin, the other residents of the Haven and Keir.
The book has a great supporting cast - quite a bit of Tom, Nick & Justin as you’d expect, plus residents and other carers at the Haven. Keir’s best friend Charles is my personal favourite and I hope the MC of the next book. He has the best one liners and reminded me of some of my favourite Lily Morton snarky characters.
If you are a Con Riley fan and have read her other books, I will finish by saying look out for the “Easter egg” in the epilogue. I did an internal squeal of excitement despite not finishing the book until 2am!
If you have read the earlier books in the series and in particular His Compass, then His Haven is the story of Keir - Nick’s uptight lawyer, and Mitch - Tom’s brother Justin’s carer at the Haven, who on the face of it is a total flirt, looking for no strings.
They are set a job by Nick & Tom that involves them having to work together and from Keir’s initial distrust of Mitch’s motives we see their relationship develop.
As with all of Con’s books, we get detailed character building and full backgrounds that emerge during the course of the book. No Spoilers so I’ll be deliberately vague - we learn about Keir’s last relationship and how it ended, but also events from his childhood which together shaped him and help explain his sense of self-preservation and why he acts the way he does. Likewise we eventually learn more of Mitch’s past, but from the very beginning with him we see under the surface and that Mitch is a gentle giant, who cares for everyone - Justin, the other residents of the Haven and Keir.
The book has a great supporting cast - quite a bit of Tom, Nick & Justin as you’d expect, plus residents and other carers at the Haven. Keir’s best friend Charles is my personal favourite and I hope the MC of the next book. He has the best one liners and reminded me of some of my favourite Lily Morton snarky characters.
If you are a Con Riley fan and have read her other books, I will finish by saying look out for the “Easter egg” in the epilogue. I did an internal squeal of excitement despite not finishing the book until 2am!
July 3, 2021
This is the third book in this series and I think they just keep getting better. I adored His Horizon and His Compass, and true to form, Ms. Riley’s gorgeous, lyrical writing shines through here in His Haven. This is Keir’s story; Keir who I loved from the first time I met him. (BTW: You can read His Haven as a standalone, but I highly recommend you read the first two books because they will give you some additional context for this story. And they're excellent in their own right.) Mitch is a bit of an acquired taste, but I think our experience of him mirrors that of Keir’s. I don’t want to say too much about the plot because there’s an organic unfolding of a storyline with reveals that are perfectly timed and seamlessly integrated into the narrative. Suffice it to say, this book checked all the boxes for me, and wrapped up in Ms. Riley’s breathtaking writing, you cannot go wrong. Can’t wait for the next installment (hope it’s Charles’ story!)
December 21, 2022
4.5 stars. I’ve really enjoyed this series and loved this last installment. Keir and Mitch were fun characters and I loved getting to know what life was like at the Haven for Mitch and Justin. We are also introduced to Charles, who I loved and who will be the subject of Con’s next book, so I’m very excited for that! His Haven did have a few parts where the miscommunication and jumping to conclusions really aggravated me, but the situations were resolved pretty quickly so I wasn’t tortured too much. Overall I just totally loved this whole series!
April 23, 2021
READ THIS BOOK!
This review and much more can be found at Love Bytes Reviews
Note: This is the third book in this series. While it can be read as a stand alone, I feel like reading at least the 2nd book, His Compass, would really add to the enjoyment of this story.
Keir Brodie, the lawyer of Nick from the previous book, and Mitch, the carer for Justin, brother of Tom from the previous book, are on a sailing trip with Nick, Tom and Justin. Justin has suffered a traumatic brain injury and lives at a group home, The Haven, where Mitch is his primary carer. He’s a nurse who has specialized in brain injury and recovery. While Tom and Nick are getting Justin used to sailing with them and have retrofitted the yacht to standards that will allow Justin to sail safely, it’s still a lot for Justin to process. So Nick has decided that they need to get a house closer to the village where they dock. Keir is entirely skeptical of this venture and ascribes greedy motives to Mitch in this idea. His job is to look out for Nick, and when Mitch flirts with him while wearing a silver band on his wedding ring finger, Keir is outraged and even more convinced that Mitch is a liar and not to be trusted.
When Keir returns to Cornwall from London the following week to help conduct the search for a suitable house, he’s surprised when Mitch meets him at the airport and he’s also suspicious. But when he ends up having a bit of a crisis and Mitch takes care of him, he begins to think that maybe he’s wrong about the guy. And when he proposes a no strings attached sex only relationship, Keir, who has cut himself off from everyone except work and Charles, his best friend and current erstwhile flat mate, he thinks maybe that will get him out of the funk and rut he’s been in since he was left at the altar nearly a year ago. And when the sex is off the charts, he can’t help but think that maybe this is just what he needs. And also he may have been wrong about Mitch.
Upon his return to London and work, Keir also begins to take control of his life and steps to put the past behind him, starting with dealing with his wedding detritus, etc. But there is much to ponder here and he realizes that maybe it’s not so much the ex as the being humiliated and left at the altar that is so upsetting. Much of this abandonment issue becomes clear as we learn more about Keir and his life and his relationship with Charles, his best friend since age 7 at boarding school.
The next trip to Cornwall includes a stay at The Haven which Mitch while Justin, Tom and Nick are on a longer sailing trip. Keri stays at the Annexe at the home and enjoys his time with Mitch and the other residents. He comes to see Mitch in a whole different light – one that convinces him that Mitch is not motivated by any selfish desires in finding a place for Justin to be comfortable near the port. Mitch challenges him and pushes him to take control of his life and go after what he really needs and wants. Keir ends up confessing all about his disaster of a wedding day and also shares his childhood trauma. They end up having a wonderful week together and finding a possible house as well 🙂 They even have an unexpected reunion with someone who helped Keri accept that he’s not the cutthroat he likes to think himself 😉
When Keri returns to London though, something happens that trips his usual distrust and fear of not being enough. Well two things really. And so he makes some foolish assumptions and decides not to communicate with anyone. Luckily, Mitch is not so easily dissuaded. More true confession time and thankfully Keir is ready and wiling to listen. And in return, Keir comes up with a plan – one that will hopefully work out for everyone 🙂
This story! I know it’s only April, but I’m confident that this is definitely going to be in my top 10 books of the year 🙂 I really don’t know how I could love this story more. Keir is so guarded and skeptical and suspicious when this book opens. He distrusts pretty much everything and everyone except for Nick, his client, and Charles, his BFF. And while he has had love and support in his life, he’s also dealt with a lot of trauma and loss. Charles has been his one constant, but that relationship is fraught with other issues as well 😉 I boy I CANNOT WAIT for his story so I was thrilled to read in the author’s note afterward that it’s coming this summer 😀 Mitch has dealt with his own losses and traumas and we learn why he decided to go into the field he’s in. I absolute adored the way the author constructed the reveals in this story – BRILLIANT! Everything is organic to the story – there’s no info dumps or early on oversharing. The pacing was perfect and the relationship between Keir and Mitch builds and builds as Keir’s trust in both Mitch and himself grows. Of course he does trip himself up a bit with his jumping to conclusions – he’s so ready to believe the worst about people. Mitch’s response is amazing. And then Keir’s response is epic! I loved how Keir came to accept people and their motives – not looking for the worst in people, but instead believing the best. The epilogue is absolutely breathtaking. And for those fans of Riley’s Seattle Stories, the crossover here is lovely 🙂 So so so good! I cannot recommend this book highly enough. It’s beautiful and swoony and happy tears worthy. BRAVA Con Riley!!
This review and much more can be found at Love Bytes Reviews
Note: This is the third book in this series. While it can be read as a stand alone, I feel like reading at least the 2nd book, His Compass, would really add to the enjoyment of this story.
Keir Brodie, the lawyer of Nick from the previous book, and Mitch, the carer for Justin, brother of Tom from the previous book, are on a sailing trip with Nick, Tom and Justin. Justin has suffered a traumatic brain injury and lives at a group home, The Haven, where Mitch is his primary carer. He’s a nurse who has specialized in brain injury and recovery. While Tom and Nick are getting Justin used to sailing with them and have retrofitted the yacht to standards that will allow Justin to sail safely, it’s still a lot for Justin to process. So Nick has decided that they need to get a house closer to the village where they dock. Keir is entirely skeptical of this venture and ascribes greedy motives to Mitch in this idea. His job is to look out for Nick, and when Mitch flirts with him while wearing a silver band on his wedding ring finger, Keir is outraged and even more convinced that Mitch is a liar and not to be trusted.
When Keir returns to Cornwall from London the following week to help conduct the search for a suitable house, he’s surprised when Mitch meets him at the airport and he’s also suspicious. But when he ends up having a bit of a crisis and Mitch takes care of him, he begins to think that maybe he’s wrong about the guy. And when he proposes a no strings attached sex only relationship, Keir, who has cut himself off from everyone except work and Charles, his best friend and current erstwhile flat mate, he thinks maybe that will get him out of the funk and rut he’s been in since he was left at the altar nearly a year ago. And when the sex is off the charts, he can’t help but think that maybe this is just what he needs. And also he may have been wrong about Mitch.
Upon his return to London and work, Keir also begins to take control of his life and steps to put the past behind him, starting with dealing with his wedding detritus, etc. But there is much to ponder here and he realizes that maybe it’s not so much the ex as the being humiliated and left at the altar that is so upsetting. Much of this abandonment issue becomes clear as we learn more about Keir and his life and his relationship with Charles, his best friend since age 7 at boarding school.
The next trip to Cornwall includes a stay at The Haven which Mitch while Justin, Tom and Nick are on a longer sailing trip. Keri stays at the Annexe at the home and enjoys his time with Mitch and the other residents. He comes to see Mitch in a whole different light – one that convinces him that Mitch is not motivated by any selfish desires in finding a place for Justin to be comfortable near the port. Mitch challenges him and pushes him to take control of his life and go after what he really needs and wants. Keir ends up confessing all about his disaster of a wedding day and also shares his childhood trauma. They end up having a wonderful week together and finding a possible house as well 🙂 They even have an unexpected reunion with someone who helped Keri accept that he’s not the cutthroat he likes to think himself 😉
When Keri returns to London though, something happens that trips his usual distrust and fear of not being enough. Well two things really. And so he makes some foolish assumptions and decides not to communicate with anyone. Luckily, Mitch is not so easily dissuaded. More true confession time and thankfully Keir is ready and wiling to listen. And in return, Keir comes up with a plan – one that will hopefully work out for everyone 🙂
This story! I know it’s only April, but I’m confident that this is definitely going to be in my top 10 books of the year 🙂 I really don’t know how I could love this story more. Keir is so guarded and skeptical and suspicious when this book opens. He distrusts pretty much everything and everyone except for Nick, his client, and Charles, his BFF. And while he has had love and support in his life, he’s also dealt with a lot of trauma and loss. Charles has been his one constant, but that relationship is fraught with other issues as well 😉 I boy I CANNOT WAIT for his story so I was thrilled to read in the author’s note afterward that it’s coming this summer 😀 Mitch has dealt with his own losses and traumas and we learn why he decided to go into the field he’s in. I absolute adored the way the author constructed the reveals in this story – BRILLIANT! Everything is organic to the story – there’s no info dumps or early on oversharing. The pacing was perfect and the relationship between Keir and Mitch builds and builds as Keir’s trust in both Mitch and himself grows. Of course he does trip himself up a bit with his jumping to conclusions – he’s so ready to believe the worst about people. Mitch’s response is amazing. And then Keir’s response is epic! I loved how Keir came to accept people and their motives – not looking for the worst in people, but instead believing the best. The epilogue is absolutely breathtaking. And for those fans of Riley’s Seattle Stories, the crossover here is lovely 🙂 So so so good! I cannot recommend this book highly enough. It’s beautiful and swoony and happy tears worthy. BRAVA Con Riley!!
May 25, 2022
God I love the quality of Con Riley's writing so much! His characters are always so lovely and the story just flows across the page. You get sucked in so quickly and really feel for the people in his worlds. Keir's had it rough the last year, had his world turned upside down and has been running from the pain, burying it in work, ever since. Mitch is the gentlest soul ever, devoted to his charge and committed to making Justin and the rest of the residents at Haven's life as joyful as possible. But Keir's damaged and can't help but look for the catch, he can't believe Mitch is as good as he seems to be.
I loved these two. Keir so afraid to trust again and Mitch just this stalwart steady tree of strength. I loved that Keir could lean, but also still had the space to figure things out for himself. I loved his friendship with Charles (thank goodness he's got his own book out there that I absolutely must get my hands on soon). Everything about this story just made me happy, even when the characters were going through their darkest moments, I just knew they would find a way through it all. Mitch was never going to let Keir fall into the despair he seemed determined to find a way back to.
Love this whole series so much. Can't wait to read more of Con Riley's novels. They're always a treasure.
I loved these two. Keir so afraid to trust again and Mitch just this stalwart steady tree of strength. I loved that Keir could lean, but also still had the space to figure things out for himself. I loved his friendship with Charles (thank goodness he's got his own book out there that I absolutely must get my hands on soon). Everything about this story just made me happy, even when the characters were going through their darkest moments, I just knew they would find a way through it all. Mitch was never going to let Keir fall into the despair he seemed determined to find a way back to.
Love this whole series so much. Can't wait to read more of Con Riley's novels. They're always a treasure.
April 22, 2021
~4.5
The story told solely from Keir's POV sucked me in from the first chapter and didn't let go till the very end. The writing is amazing, it felt like being in Keir's head and feeling what he was feeling. Keir is not perfect and quick to jump to conclusions but the more I learned about him and his backstory, the more his behavior made sense. Under cold exterior he is kind, vulnerable and extremely loyal. Trust doesn't come easy for Keir but Mitch managed to get through his walls and into his heart. Their love story was beautiful and romantic.
I wish there were some chapters from Mitch POV but it was not crucial to the story. I could see Mitch through Keir's eyes and fall in love with him as Keir did.
Identity of the ex-fiance and the resolution of this storyline was both unexpected and satisfying though I would be more vengeful in Keir's place.
I was completely engaged into this emotional, heartbreaking and at the same time hopeful story and read it in one sitting finishing at 3 am - thus rounded up.
It was my first Con Riley book and I had no problem reading it as a stand-alone. Will definitely read her other books. Especially looking forward to Charles' story. He was outstanding both as Keir's best friend and as a secondary character
The story told solely from Keir's POV sucked me in from the first chapter and didn't let go till the very end. The writing is amazing, it felt like being in Keir's head and feeling what he was feeling. Keir is not perfect and quick to jump to conclusions but the more I learned about him and his backstory, the more his behavior made sense. Under cold exterior he is kind, vulnerable and extremely loyal. Trust doesn't come easy for Keir but Mitch managed to get through his walls and into his heart. Their love story was beautiful and romantic.
I wish there were some chapters from Mitch POV but it was not crucial to the story. I could see Mitch through Keir's eyes and fall in love with him as Keir did.
Identity of the ex-fiance and the resolution of this storyline was both unexpected and satisfying though I would be more vengeful in Keir's place.
I was completely engaged into this emotional, heartbreaking and at the same time hopeful story and read it in one sitting finishing at 3 am - thus rounded up.
It was my first Con Riley book and I had no problem reading it as a stand-alone. Will definitely read her other books. Especially looking forward to Charles' story. He was outstanding both as Keir's best friend and as a secondary character
April 24, 2021
A wonderful story!
I had nothing but wonderful things to say in my review of His Compass, book two in this series, and I could almost use that same review, word-for-word, for His Haven. This book is just amazing. It’s a nice length book at 85,000 words and I couldn’t put it down once I started it.
Mitch is not your conventional handsome hero. He’s big and he’s thick and has no problem putting himself out there when he comes on strong to Keir. Keir resists at first but finally gives in but it was just supposed to be a one-off, just a bit of fun.
Wow, these two are explosive together and the sexy time is hot! But, as with most relationships, it’s not all smooth sailing for them. Keir has to learn to trust again (see the blurb) before they can have the kind of relationship that they both want and need.
This book made me laugh and cry and have all kinds of feelings. It confirmed how I felt about Con Riley’s writing after reading His Compass. I can’t wait to read what she comes up with next.
A copy of this book was provided to me at my request but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
I had nothing but wonderful things to say in my review of His Compass, book two in this series, and I could almost use that same review, word-for-word, for His Haven. This book is just amazing. It’s a nice length book at 85,000 words and I couldn’t put it down once I started it.
Mitch is not your conventional handsome hero. He’s big and he’s thick and has no problem putting himself out there when he comes on strong to Keir. Keir resists at first but finally gives in but it was just supposed to be a one-off, just a bit of fun.
Wow, these two are explosive together and the sexy time is hot! But, as with most relationships, it’s not all smooth sailing for them. Keir has to learn to trust again (see the blurb) before they can have the kind of relationship that they both want and need.
This book made me laugh and cry and have all kinds of feelings. It confirmed how I felt about Con Riley’s writing after reading His Compass. I can’t wait to read what she comes up with next.
A copy of this book was provided to me at my request but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
April 28, 2021
This is magical. Everything clicked for me here. Beautiful writing, lyrical and sensual. Great characters. Made me marshmallowy inside.
This is my first Con Riley book. I think I tried something else from them, it didn't work out, but this... It just made my week. It's the third book in a series, it stood well alone, although I felt like I missed some backstory.
What I didn't like was that Keir (I adore the name, never heard it before) and Mitch barely spent a week and a day together before some major gestures and declarations. It's just not consistent with the characters' stories and nature. Also, miscommunication was the name of the game here, and at times, it just pissed me off. Except that - magical.
This is my first Con Riley book. I think I tried something else from them, it didn't work out, but this... It just made my week. It's the third book in a series, it stood well alone, although I felt like I missed some backstory.
What I didn't like was that Keir (I adore the name, never heard it before) and Mitch barely spent a week and a day together before some major gestures and declarations. It's just not consistent with the characters' stories and nature. Also, miscommunication was the name of the game here, and at times, it just pissed me off. Except that - magical.
October 21, 2022
I've already read Charles, so I already knew Kier's best friend and how his HEA happens, but I adored reading Kier and Mitch's story. Reading through my lunch break today, someone at work asked why on earth I was crying, and I had to sniffle that it was the story I was devouring. Yes, I'm a complete sap, but I wouldn't give up a second of my heart breaking along with Kier's when...but that would be spoiling the story. Read, listen, and feel for yourself. What a gorgeous ending!
April 25, 2021
Rep: gay mcs, mc with anxiety, gay side characters, side character with TBI
April 21, 2021
His Haven by Con Riley is book 3 in The His Series.
All three books are very different, but have the same heartwarming feel. Con's words throughout the series are consistently beautiful, vivid and expressive. Each of the love stories left me feeling ridiculously happy.
All the characters are connected in some way....
Book 1- His Horizon is about Jude & Rob.
Two men who went though life with preconceived notions of who they were supposed to be.
Both running for fear of not being accepted for who they truly are or what they want. It's more then a beautiful love story. It's a human story.
Book 2 - His Compass is Tom and Nick's story. It's simply about two broken souls who ultimately mend each other. Two complete oppsites who compliment each other in every way. Tom and Nick will surprise you in the best possible way!
Book 3 - Features
Keir, Nick's buttoned-up lawyer and
Mitch, Tom's brother's good natured care giver. Two men who have nothing in common right down to their choice in clothing! So, why do they have a smoldering mutual attaction?
Mitch is a shameless flirt, who gets under Keir's skin. At first, Keir was hard to like. He was extremely closed off and in his head. There was a lot of internal dialog. (It was around 50% into the book, where I started to really like and feel for him.)
He was burned by someone he loved and has major trust issues. Charismatic Mitch set off all red flags for Keir. Mitch on the other hand, saw passed Keir's prickly attitude... He found away to calm and center Keir.
I loved Mitch. He was all goodness right from the start.
Both men had no interest in a relationship, but why not just scratch that itch?? They agree upon a no strings just fun agreement... But what happens when it's too good and feelings get involved?
It's about finding that special someone who can open your eyes... Someone to truly see you and give you their all!
All three books are very different, but have the same heartwarming feel. Con's words throughout the series are consistently beautiful, vivid and expressive. Each of the love stories left me feeling ridiculously happy.
All the characters are connected in some way....
Book 1- His Horizon is about Jude & Rob.
Two men who went though life with preconceived notions of who they were supposed to be.
Both running for fear of not being accepted for who they truly are or what they want. It's more then a beautiful love story. It's a human story.
Book 2 - His Compass is Tom and Nick's story. It's simply about two broken souls who ultimately mend each other. Two complete oppsites who compliment each other in every way. Tom and Nick will surprise you in the best possible way!
Book 3 - Features
Keir, Nick's buttoned-up lawyer and
Mitch, Tom's brother's good natured care giver. Two men who have nothing in common right down to their choice in clothing! So, why do they have a smoldering mutual attaction?
Mitch is a shameless flirt, who gets under Keir's skin. At first, Keir was hard to like. He was extremely closed off and in his head. There was a lot of internal dialog. (It was around 50% into the book, where I started to really like and feel for him.)
He was burned by someone he loved and has major trust issues. Charismatic Mitch set off all red flags for Keir. Mitch on the other hand, saw passed Keir's prickly attitude... He found away to calm and center Keir.
I loved Mitch. He was all goodness right from the start.
Both men had no interest in a relationship, but why not just scratch that itch?? They agree upon a no strings just fun agreement... But what happens when it's too good and feelings get involved?
It's about finding that special someone who can open your eyes... Someone to truly see you and give you their all!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 157 reviews