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Kevin Connor Mysteries #2
Second You Sin
The NYC hustler scene goes from rough trade to downright deadly as one call boy chases down a serial killer in this award-winning mystery series. Someone is killing New York City’s hottest male prostitutes, and it's up to full-time call boy, part-time sleuth Kevin Connor to find out who. With his spectacular boy-next-door looks, quick wit, and ability to role-play even the most outrageous scenarios, Kevin is facing his most challenging position yet—one that puts him up against a ruthless killer. As Kevin begins his investigation, there's no shortage of possible suspects or motives. Could the killer be a sadistic head case with a deadly fetish? A high-profile celebrity worried that his biggest secret might get out? Or perhaps it's a right-wing politician, guilty of protesting too much from his pious and unforgiving soapbox. As Kevin gets closer to the truth, he'll find himself trapped in a scandalous web of secrets where the line between victim and predator blurs, and no sin goes unpunished . . .
288 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2011
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
April 14, 2013
So, you know how I really really really liked book 1, First You Fall?
Well, I really really (I'll leave it at 2 reallys for now) did not like book 2, Second You Sin.
In America, they call it the "Sophomore slump"...when a great new tv series debuts and their second season pales in comparison. Or, as the term comes from, you love your first year at school only to be disappointed by the second.
Everything that I loved about book 1 (Kevin, Tony, mystery...) I found extra grating and annoying in book 2. I still adore Kevin, but I also rolled my eyes at him time and time again. Freddy no longer charmed. Tony was an ass. Marc...well, still adore him...but not enough of him. The mystery was lame and to be honest, if it weren't for the ending (which I kinda loved), this would not have even gotten 3 stars.
Goes to show, too much of a good thing usually equals a bad thing.
Disappointing. (BUT...still highly reco book 1!!!)
May 20, 2022
The character of Kevin is lovely, bright, funny, and a guy that his friends and family can count on. I really liked him. The main problem that I had with the story was that it was hard to tell where the "mystery" began and why Kevin's closeted boyfriend, Tony, who was a cop, didn't take more of an interest in the murders. Early in the story one of Kevin's friends is hit by a hit and run driver and spends the entire story in a coma without Kevin or any of his friends taking much of an interest in his condition. Just seemed odd. I did like the ending, and I loved Kevin's mother and the lengths she went to in order to get even with the TV personality that was running down Kevin and the rest of the gay community. There are 3 books in this series thus far and of course I've read them backwards but I know for a fact that Scott Sherman has created a character in Kevin that is both charming and intelligent, and is only discovering just how smart he really is. I hope that the author lets Kevin live in several more books.
April 15, 2013
Exhilarating escapades. Magnetic MC. Hustling hilarity.
Adorable hustler, Kevin Connor is a magnet for sleaze crooks and sticky situations. A recent thrilling investigation sparked embers from an old flame and burned brightly with an eleventh hour rescue from a psychotic kidnapper. With the killer behind bars Kevin should be safe in the puzzle-piece-perfect lap of his lover, yet as it turns out he may be in more danger than ever.
Semi-boyfriend Tony has his own set of battles to fight, though his are all internal. His mind is at war with his heart and Kevin is stuck in the middle. Logic tells him what and who he should be, yet his heart aches for something, someone different. Secrets threaten to tear them apart and honor and self-preservation may the weapon of choice. I'll be the first to admit I wasn't happy with Tony for a great deal of the story. I didn't understand and I was angry. However, I never stopped rooting for him.
Kevin’s strength….I was filled with pride and admiration even as sadness overwhelmed me. Respecting yourself enough to know you deserve the very best and staying strong enough to demand it is cheer worthy.
I was fascinated with the constant surprises cute little Kevvy dished out.
I was love-struck by secondary characters and the amusing humor they brought with them. And again I was glued to my kindle to see how all of the outrageous antics played out.
Marc, *sigh* I kinda want to hide him in my home and never let him out! Marc is the single sweetest man in the entire book and he’d be the perfect match for Kevin if only Kevin hadn't given his heart away years ago.
As expected, Freddy made his journey considerably more enjoyable for all of us, and I am delighted to see what his future may have in store for him.
Surrounded by marvelous men, Kevin is taking NYC by the balls.
Will he survive this next set of adventures the same man that he was to begin with? And when the dust settles, who will be by his side?
*4.5 giggly&gripping&gratifying stars*
Adorable hustler, Kevin Connor is a magnet for sleaze crooks and sticky situations. A recent thrilling investigation sparked embers from an old flame and burned brightly with an eleventh hour rescue from a psychotic kidnapper. With the killer behind bars Kevin should be safe in the puzzle-piece-perfect lap of his lover, yet as it turns out he may be in more danger than ever.
Semi-boyfriend Tony has his own set of battles to fight, though his are all internal. His mind is at war with his heart and Kevin is stuck in the middle. Logic tells him what and who he should be, yet his heart aches for something, someone different. Secrets threaten to tear them apart and honor and self-preservation may the weapon of choice. I'll be the first to admit I wasn't happy with Tony for a great deal of the story. I didn't understand and I was angry. However, I never stopped rooting for him.
Kevin’s strength….I was filled with pride and admiration even as sadness overwhelmed me. Respecting yourself enough to know you deserve the very best and staying strong enough to demand it is cheer worthy.
I was fascinated with the constant surprises cute little Kevvy dished out.
I was love-struck by secondary characters and the amusing humor they brought with them. And again I was glued to my kindle to see how all of the outrageous antics played out.
Marc, *sigh* I kinda want to hide him in my home and never let him out! Marc is the single sweetest man in the entire book and he’d be the perfect match for Kevin if only Kevin hadn't given his heart away years ago.
As expected, Freddy made his journey considerably more enjoyable for all of us, and I am delighted to see what his future may have in store for him.
Surrounded by marvelous men, Kevin is taking NYC by the balls.
Will he survive this next set of adventures the same man that he was to begin with? And when the dust settles, who will be by his side?
*4.5 giggly&gripping&gratifying stars*
March 3, 2012
I take my TSTL comment from the first book back! Seriously, Kevin, what were you thinking? Did you take your medication? Liked the first one better but I still love Kevin, Freddy, Marc, Mom (high-five Mom!) and now Cody AND the jury is STILL out on Tony (I'm trying Tony, help me out!)
December 14, 2018
Oh Kevvy, Kevvy, Kevvy! You have stolen my heart again. Still a trouble magnet, still a minx and still as adorable as ever.
I have to be honest I was a little bit surprised that certain expectations from the first book didn't materialise, I was hoping that there would be more made of the UST surrounding all the possible love interests for Kevin because I loved that in First You Fall even though it's fairly obvious that semi boyfriend Tony is the front runner but having said that I wasn't disappointed because everything else that I loved before is still there.
Tony is an enigma and to be honest an absolute arse at times. I think most readers will wonder why Kevin even bothers trying to keep their relationship going because even though he loves Kevin he's struggling to come to terms with his profession as a hustler, so at times I felt myself hoping that Kevin would just say enoughs enough but of course these types of love stories never run that smooth. I'm still slightly on the fence about whether Tony will change enough to be the man that Kevvy really needs but there's another book to go yet. I'm hoping though because I want to see them both happy in lurve and I can see the pull plus there is a bit of a revelation at the end of this one so we'll see.
Meanwhile, back to the other stuff....
I really liked the background murder mystery surrounding the male hookers who were being killed off even though I did guess the perpetrator. Not that it mattered because its watching Kevin stumble through it all with the help of his guys that's the enjoyable part, he's the heart of the book and although he doesn't arrive till fairly late on, the lovely sweet Marc is still around and of course the outrageous but totally loveable Freddy who cracks me up with what comes out of his totally irreverent mouth. Still a walking sex machine he's another favourite of mine and the stories wouldn't be the same without him. There's also a few newbies introduced who add some more giggles, fun and trouble to the pot and Kevin's clients kinks have become even more weird and wonderful... The clown guy had me laughing out loud but it was also kind of cute!
Mum is still as wacky as a box of frogs and was responsible for a lot of * snort * moments again. She does make me laugh but one thing I will say is NEVER cross Kevin's mum! I' m giggling just thinking of what happens if you do!
I had to read this in paperback because I couldn't get it in Kindle so it felt a bit strange and I never thought I'd ever be saying this but I did miss my Paperwhite because I couldn't read it at night as easily! Its nice to hold a real book though for a change.
Love this series up to now and If you decide to take the plunge I really hope you do too. There's some mixed reviews on the last two stories but I'm definitely keeping my Kevvy books.
I have to be honest I was a little bit surprised that certain expectations from the first book didn't materialise, I was hoping that there would be more made of the UST surrounding all the possible love interests for Kevin because I loved that in First You Fall even though it's fairly obvious that semi boyfriend Tony is the front runner but having said that I wasn't disappointed because everything else that I loved before is still there.
Tony is an enigma and to be honest an absolute arse at times. I think most readers will wonder why Kevin even bothers trying to keep their relationship going because even though he loves Kevin he's struggling to come to terms with his profession as a hustler, so at times I felt myself hoping that Kevin would just say enoughs enough but of course these types of love stories never run that smooth. I'm still slightly on the fence about whether Tony will change enough to be the man that Kevvy really needs but there's another book to go yet. I'm hoping though because I want to see them both happy in lurve and I can see the pull plus there is a bit of a revelation at the end of this one so we'll see.
Meanwhile, back to the other stuff....
I really liked the background murder mystery surrounding the male hookers who were being killed off even though I did guess the perpetrator. Not that it mattered because its watching Kevin stumble through it all with the help of his guys that's the enjoyable part, he's the heart of the book and although he doesn't arrive till fairly late on, the lovely sweet Marc is still around and of course the outrageous but totally loveable Freddy who cracks me up with what comes out of his totally irreverent mouth. Still a walking sex machine he's another favourite of mine and the stories wouldn't be the same without him. There's also a few newbies introduced who add some more giggles, fun and trouble to the pot and Kevin's clients kinks have become even more weird and wonderful... The clown guy had me laughing out loud but it was also kind of cute!
Mum is still as wacky as a box of frogs and was responsible for a lot of * snort * moments again. She does make me laugh but one thing I will say is NEVER cross Kevin's mum! I' m giggling just thinking of what happens if you do!
I had to read this in paperback because I couldn't get it in Kindle so it felt a bit strange and I never thought I'd ever be saying this but I did miss my Paperwhite because I couldn't read it at night as easily! Its nice to hold a real book though for a change.
Love this series up to now and If you decide to take the plunge I really hope you do too. There's some mixed reviews on the last two stories but I'm definitely keeping my Kevvy books.
January 12, 2012
Scott Sherman's debut book (which features Kevin Connor, male prostitute extraordinaire), First You Fall, was one of my earliest experience with gay mystery genre. And starts my love towards M/M in general. So, reading the sequel to that is a little bit like reunion with friends. It gives me joy.
This time, Kevin Connor deals about his acquaintances getting killed, his mother being a guest star in a TV show (which ends up with disaster when the TV personality makes bigotry comments against gay, Jews, and her own audience), and his complicated relationship with closeted semi-boyfriend cop, Tony. In addition to that, we have Kevin with his friends and his clients.
I enjoy Kevin's line of work, because unlike several titles dealing with male prostiture as their MC, Kevin is not having angst about his job. He loves it -- plus his clients are more weird (they have STRANGE fetishes!) than brutal. And Kevin can definitely takes care of himself. He's just adorable, with his attention deficiency syndrom, and his hilarious mother. His friends can be outrageous ... seriously, this is like reading "Sex in the City", starring a male prostitute slash part time sleuth. It's just fun, fun, fun.
I admit there are some clichés (especially regarding the Republican politician ) and somehow I feel that the mystery part is pushed to the background several times to make ways for Kevin's friends, Kevin's family, and Kevin's relationship. That's okay, I don't mind, I love Kevin so much, I want to know more about his world.
Having said that, I'm NOT 100% in support of his semi-boyfriend, Tony. Seriously, that guy has issues. I wonder how that is going to work. I mean . Tony needs to be seriously redeemed in next books if he wants to have MY support!!
This time, Kevin Connor deals about his acquaintances getting killed, his mother being a guest star in a TV show (which ends up with disaster when the TV personality makes bigotry comments against gay, Jews, and her own audience), and his complicated relationship with closeted semi-boyfriend cop, Tony. In addition to that, we have Kevin with his friends and his clients.
I enjoy Kevin's line of work, because unlike several titles dealing with male prostiture as their MC, Kevin is not having angst about his job. He loves it -- plus his clients are more weird (they have STRANGE fetishes!) than brutal. And Kevin can definitely takes care of himself. He's just adorable, with his attention deficiency syndrom, and his hilarious mother. His friends can be outrageous ... seriously, this is like reading "Sex in the City", starring a male prostitute slash part time sleuth. It's just fun, fun, fun.
I admit there are some clichés (especially regarding the Republican politician ) and somehow I feel that the mystery part is pushed to the background several times to make ways for Kevin's friends, Kevin's family, and Kevin's relationship. That's okay, I don't mind, I love Kevin so much, I want to know more about his world.
Having said that, I'm NOT 100% in support of his semi-boyfriend, Tony. Seriously, that guy has issues. I wonder how that is going to work. I mean . Tony needs to be seriously redeemed in next books if he wants to have MY support!!
May 2, 2012
I think I liked book one better. I still liked this one. It was enjoyable.
I figured out the mystery way early on. Before Kevin even starts his non-investigation. This book didn't really focus on the mystery at all. I think it started to come into play after 50% and then Kevin does one thing and it all comes together
Tony is a douche. I don't see why Kevin likes him.
The mom is the best part
IMO it tried too hard to work in pop cultural and movie references. Like the shout out to Bristol Palin and shit were more distracting than funny. And the movies wtf is up with them? If I wants to read movie plot summaries I'd go to IMDB.com
Also his choice in the movies he's seen are like old school. I haven't even heard of most of them and I'm older than Kevin. I've seen the John waters movies of course and classics but the shit he quotes makes me wonder where/when the hell he watched these. Anyway the references/plot analysis's got old
So I ha a question but it's spoiler ish.
I figured out the mystery way early on. Before Kevin even starts his non-investigation. This book didn't really focus on the mystery at all. I think it started to come into play after 50% and then Kevin does one thing and it all comes together
Tony is a douche. I don't see why Kevin likes him.
The mom is the best part
IMO it tried too hard to work in pop cultural and movie references. Like the shout out to Bristol Palin and shit were more distracting than funny. And the movies wtf is up with them? If I wants to read movie plot summaries I'd go to IMDB.com
Also his choice in the movies he's seen are like old school. I haven't even heard of most of them and I'm older than Kevin. I've seen the John waters movies of course and classics but the shit he quotes makes me wonder where/when the hell he watched these. Anyway the references/plot analysis's got old
So I ha a question but it's spoiler ish.
April 14, 2013
Since book one wasn't necessarily my favorite book I've ever read, I'm a little confused as to why I decided to continue the series. Curiosity, maybe? Unfortunately, I liked this one less than the first one. The mystery is nowhere near as good. I had it figured out long before the big reveal and was disappointed to find myself right this time as opposed to with First You Fall, which had managed to fool me. This one also features Tony more heavily than FYF, as he's now officially Kevin's “semi-boyfriend,” which is probably another reason I didn't like it that much. I spent the whole book wishing that Kevin and Freddy would act on the sexual tension between the two of them and it There's still no chemistry between Tony and Kevin, and the author's last ditch effort to make the pairing likable by throwing in (which I also called before the big reveal) did nothing to save the pairing for me. The only part of the book I did like was Kevin's maturity in starting to open his eyes to his relationship with Tony and all the ways it's not working. It was nice to see him start to gain a little bit if self-respect and want to be treated better than he has been being. It still isn't enough for him to leave Tony and find someone a little further out of the closet, but I'll settle for it. Oh, well. Off to read the third one. I basically have to at this point.
April 25, 2012
Very good gay mystery in which Kevin tries to figure out why some other rent boys have been killed or injured. This one ends on a heckuva relationship cliffhanger - I hope the next book is out soon!
December 30, 2011
This was awesome. Scott Sherman said in the intro that winning the award for First You Fall put a lot of pressure on the second book, but I'm not seeing any sign of sophomore slump. I just finished reading First You Fall again, and it was so cool to be able to pick up the SECOND Kevin Connor Mystery. I had seriously begun to worry that maybe Scott had just decided to stop writing and I would have to respect that. But hooray for the second book! Pleeeeaase don't make us wait three years for the third one?
Kevin is such a great character; he wants stuff that's bad for him, still gets kind of frisky when he meets a hot guy who likes him, and surrounds himself with one of the best casts of supporting characters I've read in a long time. I love his mom, and I would be in absolute HEAVEN if I could be a fag hag for Freddy. I thought the main story and the ongoing drama of Kevin's relationship with Tony were both handled very well; the reveal at the end is SO not expected and so great. I thought the main story was wrapped up a bit too neatly, but what the hell, I was too busy enjoying me some Kevin Connor to feel disappointed in the ending. Loved the ending.
Sorry if this sounds too fangirly to be objective, but these stories are so much fun, and seriously laugh-out-loud funny AND sweet. My sister bought me a ticket to a musical about a family who is seriously dysfunctional because the mom is bipolar...one of those "powerful" dramas where powerful is a euphamism for Incredibly Depressing. I have enough angst in my life, I don't need someone singing about it. But she loves the show...so she thought it would be a great way to spend an evening.
In my opinion, this book was a MUCH better way to spend the evening. Or Christmas...it was like saving the GOOD present for last. I'm smiling and I feel hopeful about things...Kevin Connor rocks, and Freddy rules.
Kevin is such a great character; he wants stuff that's bad for him, still gets kind of frisky when he meets a hot guy who likes him, and surrounds himself with one of the best casts of supporting characters I've read in a long time. I love his mom, and I would be in absolute HEAVEN if I could be a fag hag for Freddy. I thought the main story and the ongoing drama of Kevin's relationship with Tony were both handled very well; the reveal at the end is SO not expected and so great. I thought the main story was wrapped up a bit too neatly, but what the hell, I was too busy enjoying me some Kevin Connor to feel disappointed in the ending. Loved the ending.
Sorry if this sounds too fangirly to be objective, but these stories are so much fun, and seriously laugh-out-loud funny AND sweet. My sister bought me a ticket to a musical about a family who is seriously dysfunctional because the mom is bipolar...one of those "powerful" dramas where powerful is a euphamism for Incredibly Depressing. I have enough angst in my life, I don't need someone singing about it. But she loves the show...so she thought it would be a great way to spend an evening.
In my opinion, this book was a MUCH better way to spend the evening. Or Christmas...it was like saving the GOOD present for last. I'm smiling and I feel hopeful about things...Kevin Connor rocks, and Freddy rules.
April 12, 2013
3.5 stars
I have somewhat conflicted feelings about this book.
Overall, I really enjoyed it – even a little more than the first one. It was another entertaining and clever mystery plot, with the same witty, hilarious dialogue I loved from the first book. Apart from the author clearly being a sizeist asshole (seriously Mr. Sherman, are those fat comments really necessary?), I am in love with this series and the characters.
Except Tony. So,
So… let’s see what kind of zany hijinks Kevin gets up to in Third You Die .
I have somewhat conflicted feelings about this book.
Overall, I really enjoyed it – even a little more than the first one. It was another entertaining and clever mystery plot, with the same witty, hilarious dialogue I loved from the first book. Apart from the author clearly being a sizeist asshole (seriously Mr. Sherman, are those fat comments really necessary?), I am in love with this series and the characters.
Except Tony. So,
So… let’s see what kind of zany hijinks Kevin gets up to in Third You Die .
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 2, 2012
Still absolutely love Kevin! Not as strong as the first book, but still a great read. I missed Mark in this book (still there, but I guess I want him for more...). Still great humor, some heart tugging, and great scenarios fit within this story. I am completely anxious and ready for the next book. Still not convinced about Kevin's love interest (did I mention Mark...I really do like Mark ;)
September 6, 2023
I have a bunch of reviews to write today so this is going to be just random notes.
Even a call boy level prostitute's life isn't this delightful.
He's Unitarian!! Woo hoo!
Jory. He is so Jory.
Very funny. I laughed so hard I couldn't breathe. Some funny parts (I can't promise these are the LOL ones):
(He sounds like me in the kitchen)
More:
I don't know how a car can hit someone on a sidewalk in NYC during the daytime. They'd have to smash through other cars either parked or driving and there are gobs of obstacles like parking meters, lamp posts, newspaper boxes, trash cans and sign boards.
I love his mom. I just wish there was one not annoying woman in the book.
Tony's a dick. I don't even understand why he's with Kevin. He's bi and homophobic. He can have ample sex and a relationship without Kevin. This isn't even a 100% gay guy who would never be happy with a woman.
This is like Jory Keyes (from A Matter of Time series) dating Jake Riordan (from the Adrien English Mysteries). (Hint: I love Jory, hate Jake. I wanted Adrien to find someone else.)
He mentions Jay Brennan's music. I know him from the movie Short Bus in which he both acted and sang Soda Shop. Fabulous movie, BTW.
Pg 212 broke my heart. I don't know if I can forgive Tony. He's a prick and I hate him. Thank God Kevin is finally manning up.
Ok at the end now. That is the only explanation that I could accept and it did take me by surprise, so that's good. Tony's still a jerk and his coming around so completely was a bit unrealistic.
Total déjà vu with the campaign stuff. I swear I read the same book before, but just that part of it, not the whole book. Predictable.
Whole bad guy explanation spill your guts stuff at the end ridiculous.
Still, I loved it. It's interesting because I hated Jake Riordan, too, and still gave those books 5 stars as well.
Even a call boy level prostitute's life isn't this delightful.
He's Unitarian!! Woo hoo!
Jory. He is so Jory.
Very funny. I laughed so hard I couldn't breathe. Some funny parts (I can't promise these are the LOL ones):
“Darling,” Freddy said, “it was practically dawn on a Sunday morning.” It was after noon, but Freddy was on gay time. “Where was the person rushing off to? No one in their right mind goes to church anymore—no offense, dear.”
I sneered and took a long swig of his cola. Was there anything more delicious than carbonated sugar?
“Do you want some eggs,” I asked.
He shook his head.
“Bacon? Pancakes?”
“You don’t have any of those things, Kevvy.” He poured himself a cup of black coffee and took a sip. A pained look crossed his face. He put the cup in the sink.
“How’s the coffee?” I asked.
“Same as usual. Tastes like shit.”
I held up the can. “I don’t understand. I follow the recipe.”
“That’s not a recipe, babe. It’s just instructions.”
“Well, whatever it is, I follow it. It’s not my fault I don’t have a round spoon.”
Tony took the can from me. “It’s a ‘rounded’ spoonful.”
“Isn’t that what I said?”
Tony sighed and kissed my forehead. “I’m going to get dressed now. Try to stay out of the kitchen until I get back. I wouldn’t want you to get hurt.”
“I could make you some toast,” I offered.
“Do you have bread?” Tony asked as he walked back into the bedroom.
“Uh, no.”
“Key ingredient.”
(He sounds like me in the kitchen)
More:
“Men are like snack foods. The ones you want are never good for you.”
“OK, that’s too deep for this early in the morning. Can we pick it up again later?”
I don't know how a car can hit someone on a sidewalk in NYC during the daytime. They'd have to smash through other cars either parked or driving and there are gobs of obstacles like parking meters, lamp posts, newspaper boxes, trash cans and sign boards.
I love his mom. I just wish there was one not annoying woman in the book.
Tony's a dick. I don't even understand why he's with Kevin. He's bi and homophobic. He can have ample sex and a relationship without Kevin. This isn't even a 100% gay guy who would never be happy with a woman.
This is like Jory Keyes (from A Matter of Time series) dating Jake Riordan (from the Adrien English Mysteries). (Hint: I love Jory, hate Jake. I wanted Adrien to find someone else.)
He mentions Jay Brennan's music. I know him from the movie Short Bus in which he both acted and sang Soda Shop. Fabulous movie, BTW.
Pg 212 broke my heart. I don't know if I can forgive Tony. He's a prick and I hate him. Thank God Kevin is finally manning up.
Ok at the end now. That is the only explanation that I could accept and it did take me by surprise, so that's good. Tony's still a jerk and his coming around so completely was a bit unrealistic.
Total déjà vu with the campaign stuff. I swear I read the same book before, but just that part of it, not the whole book. Predictable.
Whole bad guy explanation spill your guts stuff at the end ridiculous.
Still, I loved it. It's interesting because I hated Jake Riordan, too, and still gave those books 5 stars as well.
August 11, 2012
This was a great second book. Kevin's detective skills haven't improved any but it doesn't make him any less loveable! He again finds himself knee-deep in a murder mystery and somehow bumbles his way through it. Not much has changed in his personal life, although his mother is no longer living with him, which you would think would make his semi-relationship with Tony a bit easier... but no. I was disappointed at first because it didn't seem as though Marc would be in this book but, thankfully, he does eventually turn up. The twist at the end was sweet and gives hope that there may yet be a happy ending out there for Kevin.
May 9, 2012
These books are so funny. A little bit of romance and it looks like that may get heavier in any upcoming books. It's going in a direction that isn't my favorite in this genre but most people like it so read on!.
Read
February 13, 2012What a great follow up to Scott Sherman's first book, First You Fall. The same clever plotting and witty humor, and the same charming rascal of a hero!
April 11, 2020
Adorable blond 5 foot three Kevin is back and so is his semi-boyfriend NY cop Tony Rinaldi, his gay best friend Freddy, his OTT hairdressing mother and of course his many discrete clients who require him for their special kinky needs. The book launches with almost no preamble into a violent scene where Kevin finds out someone is killing off his fellow call-boy co-workers. Of course, getting his deeply closeted bi-sexual boyfriend into the investigations is not an option – Kevin’s line of work is a current no-go zone of discussion for the pair. This and other contentious issues between them (open relationship, no PDAs, no long-term commitment, strange gaps when accounting for whom Tony is spending leisure time with, and highly restrictive boundaries from Tony on what Kevin can or cannot do with regards to sex with clients) … all these pave the way for readers as well as Kevin himself to question the benefits of continuing this ‘semi-relationship’.
When the call-boy bodies start stacking up – Kevin and Freddy shift into ‘Charlies Angels’ undercover mode, with our MC placing himself (with reservations) directly in the lion’s den. At this point, I should say that whilst the witty dialogue and many references to Kate and Farrah are highly amusing, I���m not convinced that twenty-something year old gays today are so deeply informed about 1970s gay pop-culture; 40-something years old gays like myself clueing in to a comment regarding undercover roller-derby perhaps. That aside, Sherman (very similar to Rick Copp’s approach) brings in the gay-arsenal - Barbra, Baby Jane, Beyonce and Joan Crawford as well current topicals such as Real Housewives, Mitt Romney lookalikes and Oprah-wannabes. Sherman also continues to provide readers with amusing hi-jinks from Kevin’s paid forays into his clientele kink-doms. As with the first book in the series, the side-plotline involving Kevin’s mother (and her venture into variety talk-shows) is very amusing and does not detract from the main mystery.
I did manage to work out who the killer was two-thirds if the way into the book but the book momentum kept my interest from flagging. On the relationship front, Kevin suspicions of Tony’s evasiveness result in matters coming to a head and Kevin having to make that decision he’s been long delaying. I’ve come to expect fast-paced, highly entertaining, funny plots with snappy repartee dialogue from Sherman and he doesn’t disappoint. This book makes for a great holiday, plane ride or beach read – such fun!
When the call-boy bodies start stacking up – Kevin and Freddy shift into ‘Charlies Angels’ undercover mode, with our MC placing himself (with reservations) directly in the lion’s den. At this point, I should say that whilst the witty dialogue and many references to Kate and Farrah are highly amusing, I���m not convinced that twenty-something year old gays today are so deeply informed about 1970s gay pop-culture; 40-something years old gays like myself clueing in to a comment regarding undercover roller-derby perhaps. That aside, Sherman (very similar to Rick Copp’s approach) brings in the gay-arsenal - Barbra, Baby Jane, Beyonce and Joan Crawford as well current topicals such as Real Housewives, Mitt Romney lookalikes and Oprah-wannabes. Sherman also continues to provide readers with amusing hi-jinks from Kevin’s paid forays into his clientele kink-doms. As with the first book in the series, the side-plotline involving Kevin’s mother (and her venture into variety talk-shows) is very amusing and does not detract from the main mystery.
I did manage to work out who the killer was two-thirds if the way into the book but the book momentum kept my interest from flagging. On the relationship front, Kevin suspicions of Tony’s evasiveness result in matters coming to a head and Kevin having to make that decision he’s been long delaying. I’ve come to expect fast-paced, highly entertaining, funny plots with snappy repartee dialogue from Sherman and he doesn’t disappoint. This book makes for a great holiday, plane ride or beach read – such fun!
April 26, 2016
This was just as fantastic and entertaining as the first book. I am a big fan of First You Fall and have been waiting for this book for a long time and it didn't disapoint.
I love the character of Kevin, he is smart, funny and a scrappy little guy. His continuing friendship with Freddy was also fun and I am warming more towards his semi-boyfriend Tony.
There are secrets, lies and Kevin kicking some serious ass in this book and I hope the wait for the next one isn't as long.
I love the character of Kevin, he is smart, funny and a scrappy little guy. His continuing friendship with Freddy was also fun and I am warming more towards his semi-boyfriend Tony.
There are secrets, lies and Kevin kicking some serious ass in this book and I hope the wait for the next one isn't as long.
December 1, 2011
The first book was much better. This had some cutesy draw for me, but the mystery was weak and the relationship bits were scattered. It's being drawn out too much for the sake of making a series; the abrupt ending was off-putting. I think I'll skip the third installment.
February 22, 2012
This is another great book from S. Sherman.
Our funny hero Kevin and his off again on again love of a cop has an uncanny way of getting involved in murder and mayhem. Not to mention a Mother who is funny as hell herself.
Our funny hero Kevin and his off again on again love of a cop has an uncanny way of getting involved in murder and mayhem. Not to mention a Mother who is funny as hell herself.
June 9, 2012
Oh Kevin. I just want to give you a big hug with my bosoms. You are such a cute little rent boy. But WTF, Tony needs to go..... maybe if I start chanting Marc. Marc. Marc. Marc. Marc you'll switch. No? Damn.
September 29, 2012
Very good read, only the last few pages left me with a 'WTH' feeling. Sorry, but that development came too out of the blue for me. And it took away part of my reading fun.
September 26, 2012
2nd read: 9/25/12: I basically skimmed thru this one just reading Tony/Kevin's dialogues. Still enjoyed it immensely.
August 22, 2019
I really, really liked this novel until the last 10% or so. Then, not so much. It’s a story of characters. They are wonderfully crazy yet they mostly have an underlying sanity about them. The description of clown sex will be with me for the rest of my life. Not because it was at all sexy but because it came as a complete surprise and was so wonderfully narrated. The main character is fantastic. The nature of his work is different than one would, at first blush, expect but it is all explained. He is a giving person without even knowing it. His doubts about his self worth are heart breaking when all his kindnesses are considered. Did I mention this book is funny? In addition to the Clown sex scene, there are a myriad of other scenes that left me laughing, not just smiling or chuckling, but laughing. Okay, the negative. The resolution of the murder mystery becomes pretty obvious. Not the exact details but generally who did it. It’s not in keeping with the creativeness of the rest of the book. It’s a bit of a let down. And finally, the love story with the policeman. So they were friends since their youth and buddy kept a big secret from the main character. First, because he was gay (they’re having sex through all of this by the way), then because he knew the main character would be angry. All of the main character’s tricks treated him with respect but not his boyfriend. I say dump this guy. Get over the heartbreak and move on. He clearly doesn’t love you. He’s good sex and you have some memories. His ability and willingness to keep big secrets is a poison that makes him bad relationship material. The ending to this storyline of this relationship is a bit upsetting. Definitely worth the read but could have been better.
March 24, 2017
Kevin Connor is back! His job as a call boy does not keep him from returning to his sleuthing activities. Someone is killing New York City’s hottest male prostitutes. As Kevin begins, he has a surfeit of suspects. It is beginning to look like it could be someone who wants to keep their assignations a secret. Or maybe it is someone with a fetish. Then again, it could be a politician who protests too much. As he gets close, the web of secrets unravels and Kevin finds himself in danger.
Kevin Connor continues to amaze. In spite of being a call boy, he still has a sweetness to him that nothing can take away. Tony is still there but the two are often on rocky ground. His mother’s side story makes for some great reading and we will all wish we could be as expressive, especially with a little help from Kevin and his clients. Solving the murders takes Kevin into danger. You will need to read this excellent story to find out what happens next. There is so much happening story that you will not want to miss reading Second You Sin. Scott Sherman is an incredible talented writer.
Kevin Connor continues to amaze. In spite of being a call boy, he still has a sweetness to him that nothing can take away. Tony is still there but the two are often on rocky ground. His mother’s side story makes for some great reading and we will all wish we could be as expressive, especially with a little help from Kevin and his clients. Solving the murders takes Kevin into danger. You will need to read this excellent story to find out what happens next. There is so much happening story that you will not want to miss reading Second You Sin. Scott Sherman is an incredible talented writer.
September 30, 2019
Now I realize why I didn't write a review of the first book in this series. Some of the things here are fun and flirty, and some of them are just uncomfortable in the worst way, especially for someone who's all about being inclusive and affirming. There's not the huge amount of fat shaming in this book, which is at least a small comfort. However...there's still a little too much cattiness in Kevin for me to truly like him. Or want to spend more time with him. Maybe he really should finish up his psych degree so he can get a little better handle on his own neuroses, hmmn?
January 21, 2022
So I kind of see why some people didn't love this book but I adored it. Tony still had me iffy towards him and the way he treats Kevin but at the very end (we should all know why) he kinda made sense. Lets just say I hope their relationship in the next book is much more solid. And although the mystery wasn't that big and the climax was kinda boring, I enjoyed getting to just learn and hear Kevin think.
Also Nick and Paul and Cody!! They were all great. And we better see a lot more of Rafi in the next book.
Also Nick and Paul and Cody!! They were all great. And we better see a lot more of Rafi in the next book.
July 28, 2023
This was very different from the first one.
It's easy and pleasant to slip in and out of Kevin's world but I found that this one didn't quite keep my attention the way the first one did. What I mean to say is I found it easy to put down but just as easy to pick back up. I really did enjoy the characters and the drama.
The mystery didn't seem to be a mystery until you got to almost the end, but the resolution and the tension in the final scenes was worth the wait.
The third one is on my TBR pile.
I just wish I had read these when I discovered the first one when it was first published.
It's easy and pleasant to slip in and out of Kevin's world but I found that this one didn't quite keep my attention the way the first one did. What I mean to say is I found it easy to put down but just as easy to pick back up. I really did enjoy the characters and the drama.
The mystery didn't seem to be a mystery until you got to almost the end, but the resolution and the tension in the final scenes was worth the wait.
The third one is on my TBR pile.
I just wish I had read these when I discovered the first one when it was first published.
June 24, 2019
Ok, this is a silly an fun mystery book. Kevin is such a likable guy and his out look on his job isn't probably very realistic but it make you want to believe in it. Kevin is up beat and seems to be able to figure out crimes better than his cop boyfriend. I still can't stand Alex and keep hoping he will kick him to the curb and hook up with Marc the all round nice guy computer hacker. Kevin's mom is still a lot of fun as well.
September 30, 2019
Kevin Connor would be the first to tell you he doesn't seek out mystery--it just seems to find its way into his orbit. So when his friends and fellow escorts are being targeted by a potential serial killer, he can't help going into to crime solver mode. Even if it means putting himself in danger. This is an entertaining read with a great through-line in terms of the plot and some excellent side characters thrown in to fill out Kevin's world.
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