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Skyler Foxe Mysteries #3
Out-Foxed
Skyler breaks it off with Keith, a teacher is murdered and a student might be involved through some twisted football initiation; Just another week at James Polk High.
Distraught at being outed, Skyler breaks it off with Keith, but they've got other problems. Protesters have gathered at the school and the school board has called a special disciplinary hearing. And as if that weren't bad enough, Alex is getting into fights and skipping class. Might he be responsible for the murder of a teacher? Did Coach Carson send the boy to do the dirty work out of some twisted football initiation? Skyler knows it all has to stop, and he and his friends are on the trail to find a murderer and discover once and for all what is happening at James Polk High.
Distraught at being outed, Skyler breaks it off with Keith, but they've got other problems. Protesters have gathered at the school and the school board has called a special disciplinary hearing. And as if that weren't bad enough, Alex is getting into fights and skipping class. Might he be responsible for the murder of a teacher? Did Coach Carson send the boy to do the dirty work out of some twisted football initiation? Skyler knows it all has to stop, and he and his friends are on the trail to find a murderer and discover once and for all what is happening at James Polk High.
312 pages, ebook
First published November 1, 2012
9 people are currently reading
199 people want to read
About the author
Haley Walsh
22 books160 followersHaley Walsh tried acting, but decided the actor’s life was not for her. Instead, she became a successful graphic designer in Los Angeles, her hometown. After fifteen years of burning money in the ’80s and early ’90s, she retired from the graphics industry and turned her interests toward writing. She became a freelance newspaper reporter, wrote articles for quirky magazines, published award-winning short stories, and now writes an acclaimed gay mystery series, the Skyler Foxe Mysteries. She’s lived all her life in southern California, sampling wines and chomping chocolate. Yeah, it’s a living.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
August 11, 2016
2,7 rounded to 3 stars
If you liked the first two books you'll probably enjoy the last book in the series too. It's an easy holiday read, at least partially funny and charming.
I found it difficult to like the main characters.
Skyler was annoying most of the time
and Keith, a gorgeous hunk of male flesh and every gay man’s underwear model dream was not more than a
But my biggest problem was my impossibility to define it's genre.
Not that I necessary need to know what genre I'm reading in the moment: If I like a book, it doesn't matter. But if I start to think about and to question my LIKING or, better to say, the absence of it, I'd like to know at least WHY.
A YA book? And if it is not about college boys but about their teachers that tend to act like teenagers?
A mystery? And if a mystery plot is hard to believe and very unrealistic?
A comedy or parody? But if I didn't really laugh at all?
A cute holiday read? Could be. If you like a lot of dialogues and a certain simplicity and clearness in a writing style you'll probably enjoy it.
It was just not my book.
November 20, 2016
3.5 stars!
Out-Foxed is the third installment in the Skyler Foxe Mystery series and I was really looking forward to this one. I’m always enjoying getting back to Skyler and his crazy friends and now that the secret around Keith was revealed, I was really hoping for their relationship to evolve.
First of all, I really enjoyed the mystery that has been going one from book one and in my eyes, the author managed to bring it to a satisfying ending. We finally find out who killed Julia Meyers, how Couch Carson is involved and what role Alex was playing. Of course, there are a few loose ends and it might be interesting to get some more answers in the next books, but it isn’t a total must for me. Considering that Skyler was investigating on his own again and again, it wouldn’t even be plausible to get a complete picture of all the happening. I’m even quite positive that this is the reality of investigating and I just can’t imagine that every case can be solved in all its details and that every question can be answered at the end of it. So for the mystery alone I would give a solid 4.5 stars.
Let’s move on to Skyler. Of course, he can’t be considered a reasonable character regarding what happened in the previous books, but while he was willing to take risks in the other installment, he just acted completely stupid several times in this one. I don’t know what happened here, but I kept rolling my eyes at how clumsy he acted. And boy, we all know that Skyler is a little men-eater and afraid of commitment, but how often and how long can one be afraid of a single toothbrush. Skyler was a real diva in this one. Considering these two facts, Skyler as a character only gets 3 stars in this one.
Now, let me say a few words about the development of Skyler and Keith’s relationship. I really wanted to know how these two would manage being together and it turned out to be quite difficult. Mistrust, misunderstandings, commitment issues - we had all of it. But I still enjoyed the dynamics between these two. I guess that we will get more on their relationship in the next story, considering that the mystery was often in their way in Foxed-Out. I however really liked their relationship and all the little bits we got in this context. 3.5 stars!
Well, all in all Out-Foxed was an entertaining read and I would like to rate it with 3.5 stars!. I’m definitely going to continue this series. It’s entertaining, refreshing and funny.
Out-Foxed is the third installment in the Skyler Foxe Mystery series and I was really looking forward to this one. I’m always enjoying getting back to Skyler and his crazy friends and now that the secret around Keith was revealed, I was really hoping for their relationship to evolve.
First of all, I really enjoyed the mystery that has been going one from book one and in my eyes, the author managed to bring it to a satisfying ending. We finally find out who killed Julia Meyers, how Couch Carson is involved and what role Alex was playing. Of course, there are a few loose ends and it might be interesting to get some more answers in the next books, but it isn’t a total must for me. Considering that Skyler was investigating on his own again and again, it wouldn’t even be plausible to get a complete picture of all the happening. I’m even quite positive that this is the reality of investigating and I just can’t imagine that every case can be solved in all its details and that every question can be answered at the end of it. So for the mystery alone I would give a solid 4.5 stars.
Let’s move on to Skyler. Of course, he can’t be considered a reasonable character regarding what happened in the previous books, but while he was willing to take risks in the other installment, he just acted completely stupid several times in this one. I don’t know what happened here, but I kept rolling my eyes at how clumsy he acted. And boy, we all know that Skyler is a little men-eater and afraid of commitment, but how often and how long can one be afraid of a single toothbrush. Skyler was a real diva in this one. Considering these two facts, Skyler as a character only gets 3 stars in this one.
Now, let me say a few words about the development of Skyler and Keith’s relationship. I really wanted to know how these two would manage being together and it turned out to be quite difficult. Mistrust, misunderstandings, commitment issues - we had all of it. But I still enjoyed the dynamics between these two. I guess that we will get more on their relationship in the next story, considering that the mystery was often in their way in Foxed-Out. I however really liked their relationship and all the little bits we got in this context. 3.5 stars!
Well, all in all Out-Foxed was an entertaining read and I would like to rate it with 3.5 stars!. I’m definitely going to continue this series. It’s entertaining, refreshing and funny.
July 6, 2017
3.75 stars rounded up
I was one of the very few who disliked the previous book, Foxe Hunt. I knew that Skyler didn't always made a good decision (some thoughts he was TSTL -- even the author wrote it in the book, jokingly, how Skyler's friends called him that), but I was team Skyler before Keith came along. I was more annoyed with Keith than with Skyler. That was why, I approached this book with cautions and low expectations.
For me, this book was definitely better than book #2. The story was tighten -- and THANK GOD, all those meaningless sex scenes that seemed to be added 'just because' were reduced. And we finally got answers about what has been going on in James Polk High.
As the aftermath from the dance, where Skyler got outed for dancing and kissing with Keith, there were some great scenes of Skyler addressing his students' questions. Also a wonderful scene of Skyler and his Mom (I was worried at first with her reaction, but it turned out to be okay). The S.F.C. kept entertaining me throughout; and the side story of Alex and Rick, the wonderful teenagers who were Skyler's students, were also wonderful (had my heart broke a bit but it was all good in the end).
HOWEVER, I was still annoyed with Keith for reprimanding Skyler all the time. I also didn't like Keith to be so strict in keeping secrets from Skyler -- there was one scene where I wanted to kick Keith in the ass: . Again, I was Team Skyler, I was on Skyler's side. Since the series was entitled "Skyler Foxe Mystery", Skyler was expected to do some investigations as an amateur sleuth. I don't want Skyler to stop doing what he is doing to find answers. Any pressure from other people will just makes me annoyed.
But yeah, this book restores my faith to the series (hopefully Keith stops being annoying). I will definitely read the short stories collection and wait for book #4.
I was one of the very few who disliked the previous book, Foxe Hunt. I knew that Skyler didn't always made a good decision (some thoughts he was TSTL -- even the author wrote it in the book, jokingly, how Skyler's friends called him that), but I was team Skyler before Keith came along. I was more annoyed with Keith than with Skyler. That was why, I approached this book with cautions and low expectations.
For me, this book was definitely better than book #2. The story was tighten -- and THANK GOD, all those meaningless sex scenes that seemed to be added 'just because' were reduced. And we finally got answers about what has been going on in James Polk High.
As the aftermath from the dance, where Skyler got outed for dancing and kissing with Keith, there were some great scenes of Skyler addressing his students' questions. Also a wonderful scene of Skyler and his Mom (I was worried at first with her reaction, but it turned out to be okay). The S.F.C. kept entertaining me throughout; and the side story of Alex and Rick, the wonderful teenagers who were Skyler's students, were also wonderful (had my heart broke a bit but it was all good in the end).
HOWEVER, I was still annoyed with Keith for reprimanding Skyler all the time. I also didn't like Keith to be so strict in keeping secrets from Skyler -- there was one scene where I wanted to kick Keith in the ass: . Again, I was Team Skyler, I was on Skyler's side. Since the series was entitled "Skyler Foxe Mystery", Skyler was expected to do some investigations as an amateur sleuth. I don't want Skyler to stop doing what he is doing to find answers. Any pressure from other people will just makes me annoyed.
But yeah, this book restores my faith to the series (hopefully Keith stops being annoying). I will definitely read the short stories collection and wait for book #4.
May 18, 2019
This series is like some sort of crack; a definite guilty pleasure that I have no intention of giving up any time soon. So glad there are more...
Another Joel Leslie touchdown, too. His narration makes the whole crazy story that much more enjoyable.
Also, OMG, as much as I enjoyed the ride, I thought the grade-fixing, gun-running, drug-dealing, nazi cult combo was a ridiculously OTT series arc. Only, according to the author's note at the end - it's based on a true story with those actual elements! JFC, that's just nuts...and yet somehow doesn't surprise me when I really think about where it's set.
Putting the next one on the challenge shelf right now...
Another Joel Leslie touchdown, too. His narration makes the whole crazy story that much more enjoyable.
Also, OMG, as much as I enjoyed the ride, I thought the grade-fixing, gun-running, drug-dealing, nazi cult combo was a ridiculously OTT series arc. Only, according to the author's note at the end - it's based on a true story with those actual elements! JFC, that's just nuts...and yet somehow doesn't surprise me when I really think about where it's set.
Putting the next one on the challenge shelf right now...
December 11, 2012
I am a huge fan of this series. I just love Skyler, he can be a bit annoying at times but he also reminds me a bit of Dick Van Dyke's character Mark Sloan in Diagnosis Murder, or even Angela Lansbury's character Jessica Fletcher in Murder She Wrote. Its a really entertaining read and has some nice twists that just keep me wanting more.
I found this series about four months ago and since then I have been hooked. I waited about two months for this book and Out-Foxed did not disappoint. I have to admit though, I really love Rick and Alex. They are such a cute couple in the series and I would happily read a stand alone book about them too.
This book was a bit more mature in some aspects. Maybe I am the only one who felt like that, but it makes it no less true. I had a great time reading this book. The way Haley Walsh ties everything together is great. I do love the cliffhangers. They make me want the next book even more. Its always fun.
I was so happy with this book, and the ending made me laugh. I had expected that to happen though, don't ask me why. It just seemed to fit in with the whole story thus far. I cannot wait for the next installment of the series. And there will be a short story released soon so I am excited.
I love this series and Haley Fox is great at creating this world. And writing such an amazing story and its characters. :)
I found this series about four months ago and since then I have been hooked. I waited about two months for this book and Out-Foxed did not disappoint. I have to admit though, I really love Rick and Alex. They are such a cute couple in the series and I would happily read a stand alone book about them too.
This book was a bit more mature in some aspects. Maybe I am the only one who felt like that, but it makes it no less true. I had a great time reading this book. The way Haley Walsh ties everything together is great. I do love the cliffhangers. They make me want the next book even more. Its always fun.
I was so happy with this book, and the ending made me laugh. I had expected that to happen though, don't ask me why. It just seemed to fit in with the whole story thus far. I cannot wait for the next installment of the series. And there will be a short story released soon so I am excited.
I love this series and Haley Fox is great at creating this world. And writing such an amazing story and its characters. :)
December 4, 2016
Oh man, I am just loving this series. I love the SFC, Sidney and of course Skyler and Keith. This was a great adventure and even though Skyler remains TSTL, at least he knows it! This was a heart stopping conclusion to the mystery at James Polk High and now I can't wait to see what happens at Thanksgiving.
Joel Leslie's narration just gets better and better. Every single character has a distinctive voice. I know I would not enjoy these books nearly as much if I was reading instead of listening.
Joel Leslie's narration just gets better and better. Every single character has a distinctive voice. I know I would not enjoy these books nearly as much if I was reading instead of listening.
January 26, 2015
This is the final book in the opening trilogy of the Skyler Foxe Mysteries.
As a huge fan of Veronica Mars, I was recommended to try out this mystery series and after enjoying book one, devoured books 2 and 3 in one day each, which is very rare for me (slow reader).
They are fun to read, have wit and sexiness, great mysteries (and the big, satisfying solution of the overarching mystery in this book) and many plot turns.
The amazing characters make this series addictive and it's one of the books that I just want all my friends to try, so they don't miss how awesome it is :)
As a huge fan of Veronica Mars, I was recommended to try out this mystery series and after enjoying book one, devoured books 2 and 3 in one day each, which is very rare for me (slow reader).
They are fun to read, have wit and sexiness, great mysteries (and the big, satisfying solution of the overarching mystery in this book) and many plot turns.
The amazing characters make this series addictive and it's one of the books that I just want all my friends to try, so they don't miss how awesome it is :)
July 25, 2016
***Audiobook*** I love this series. Love it. I want to be a member of the SFC and be friends with these guys. Skyler is just the sweetest. Yes he tends to stick his nose into things he shouldn't. And yes he gets in way over his head, but he has the best of intentions. I'm really liking him with Keith. Again, fantastic narration by Joel Leslie. 5 stars!
December 13, 2018
Re-read December 2018
November 17, 2019
That’s a wrap
We have answers. Now I can rest. I did want to read about the TE. Looks like that is elsewhere. I enjoyed the story, so that’s all that matter to me. 3.5 for dances.
We have answers. Now I can rest. I did want to read about the TE. Looks like that is elsewhere. I enjoyed the story, so that’s all that matter to me. 3.5 for dances.
January 2, 2016
3.5 Stars
One of the things that has made listening to these stories, even at their most maddening (Really, Skyler? Jumping into danger AGAIN?) has been Joel Leslie's thoroughly entertaining, dramatic and slightly OTT (in all the best ways) narration. Leslie captures each of the character's unique "voice" and personality and splashes it all over for us to enjoy.
In the final installment of the original mystery trilogy we find Skyler distraught at being outed by Keith at the end of Foxe Hunt (with good reason). Whereas the outing seemed unintentional and romantic at first blush it turns out Keith had ulterior motives for doing it (without once considering the consequences for Skyler). So now, Skyler finds himself in hot water with irate parents and there are protestors at the school, and there's even an emergency school board meeting called to discuss the possible ramifications of Keith and Skyler's actions! It's a mess.
Then there's the murder of one of James Polk's teachers, and Skyler feels compelled once again to stick his nose where it doesn't belong and investigate. Even though he's been told not to. By everyone.
As if all that wasn't enough, two of Skyler's favorite students, Rick and Alex, are having major problems: Rick's been pulled out of JPH and sent to a Catholic School, leaving his boyfriend, Alex, to spiral out of control, getting into fights and skipping class.
This storyline led to my biggest problem with the story, to be honest. Skyler's seeming disregard to the reality of how bad his situation actually is, on a lot of fronts, but mainly his job as a teacher. His job is being threatened and an emergency School Board meetings has been called, but he's leaving students in charge of class and running all over the campus investigating the murder or running after Alex? Are you kidding me?! Every time it happened I cringed and yelled.
Of course, Skyler bumbles his way to finding clues the police and FBI miss, and helps to solve the case in the end with almost dire consequences! Which made me happy. Though it's the end of the trilogy...which makes me sad. But, wait! There's more hijinks with the S.F.C. and even more TSTL live moments to come for Skyler? Yay!
Note: This is not a standalone story - you must read books 1 and 2 before starting this!
Review Copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
One of the things that has made listening to these stories, even at their most maddening (Really, Skyler? Jumping into danger AGAIN?) has been Joel Leslie's thoroughly entertaining, dramatic and slightly OTT (in all the best ways) narration. Leslie captures each of the character's unique "voice" and personality and splashes it all over for us to enjoy.
In the final installment of the original mystery trilogy we find Skyler distraught at being outed by Keith at the end of Foxe Hunt (with good reason). Whereas the outing seemed unintentional and romantic at first blush it turns out Keith had ulterior motives for doing it (without once considering the consequences for Skyler). So now, Skyler finds himself in hot water with irate parents and there are protestors at the school, and there's even an emergency school board meeting called to discuss the possible ramifications of Keith and Skyler's actions! It's a mess.
Then there's the murder of one of James Polk's teachers, and Skyler feels compelled once again to stick his nose where it doesn't belong and investigate. Even though he's been told not to. By everyone.
As if all that wasn't enough, two of Skyler's favorite students, Rick and Alex, are having major problems: Rick's been pulled out of JPH and sent to a Catholic School, leaving his boyfriend, Alex, to spiral out of control, getting into fights and skipping class.
This storyline led to my biggest problem with the story, to be honest. Skyler's seeming disregard to the reality of how bad his situation actually is, on a lot of fronts, but mainly his job as a teacher. His job is being threatened and an emergency School Board meetings has been called, but he's leaving students in charge of class and running all over the campus investigating the murder or running after Alex? Are you kidding me?! Every time it happened I cringed and yelled.
Of course, Skyler bumbles his way to finding clues the police and FBI miss, and helps to solve the case in the end with almost dire consequences! Which made me happy. Though it's the end of the trilogy...which makes me sad. But, wait! There's more hijinks with the S.F.C. and even more TSTL live moments to come for Skyler? Yay!
Note: This is not a standalone story - you must read books 1 and 2 before starting this!
Review Copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
September 26, 2015
In this the third of the initial trilogy of the Skyler Foxe Mystery series Ms Walsh has once again kept us turning pages from beginning to end. Skyler and his boyfriend Keith Fletcher find themselves back at the school and dealing with the mystery of who has attempted to murder a fellow staff member and more importantly why.
When the staff member wakes from a coma and is unable to tell the police or the FBI anything more about the incident that placed her in hospital they are pressed to investigate as best as possible. Does the attempted murder have anything to do with the coaching staff and the possibility of grade fixing. Are the students involved, are they being coerced into something that could have serious consequences?
In all of this Skyler and Keith struggle with their new relationship and being out at school for the first time after dancing together at the sophomore prom. Parents are incensed that they would subject their children to such a display. The law and most of the staff are on board with Skyler and Keith on the issue but will it be enough?
A very great read, though it would have been nice to read about Skyler and Keith’s first Thanksgiving with Skyler’s mother with Sidney Feldman and her partner and new boyfriend Mike de Guzman. Cynthia had not taken to finding out her only son was gay in the media, but seemed to be coming around to the idea fairly well.
When the staff member wakes from a coma and is unable to tell the police or the FBI anything more about the incident that placed her in hospital they are pressed to investigate as best as possible. Does the attempted murder have anything to do with the coaching staff and the possibility of grade fixing. Are the students involved, are they being coerced into something that could have serious consequences?
In all of this Skyler and Keith struggle with their new relationship and being out at school for the first time after dancing together at the sophomore prom. Parents are incensed that they would subject their children to such a display. The law and most of the staff are on board with Skyler and Keith on the issue but will it be enough?
A very great read, though it would have been nice to read about Skyler and Keith’s first Thanksgiving with Skyler’s mother with Sidney Feldman and her partner and new boyfriend Mike de Guzman. Cynthia had not taken to finding out her only son was gay in the media, but seemed to be coming around to the idea fairly well.
February 5, 2014
Another great addition. Well, I found the explanation for Keith's teacher/FBI career a bit farfetched and I could have done without the final chapter -
Nevertheless I still enjoyed this book a whole lot and now I'm off to reading the next one.
Oh yes, finally one without a cliffhanger:)
Nevertheless I still enjoyed this book a whole lot and now I'm off to reading the next one.
Oh yes, finally one without a cliffhanger:)
January 6, 2016
Haley Walsh can do no wrong with this series. I'm thrilled that there will be more!
November 17, 2016
The third and final book of the initial trilogy. It’s always difficult to find something different to say in a series when you go directly from one book to the next. I still love all the characters and their antics, they have now become like old friends. It’s as though I know how they’ll react and what they’ll say before they do. But then that’s good and shows just how much this series has grown on me. All mysteries are now solved including the big one, the plot arc going over all three books about the school. So for me this book gets a well deserved 5 stars.
The main thing I loved about this book was not only solving the final mystery but how Skyler’s coming out is managed. After the initial surprise coming out in the second book we get a taste of how bigoted some people can be but nice to read that the majority support and stand behind Skyler in solidarity. As a gay man I can only too well appreciate how the whole process of coming out can seem daunting and frightening at first. It’s a step we have all had to take but in an ideal world one that we shouldn’t have to take at all. In an ideal world the phrase “coming out” should be redundant but alas this is still not the case. So with bated breath I waited for the moment that Skyler had to face his mum. Also how the parents react
This one scene alone gave me a lump in my throat and watery eyes. An emotionally charged scene that shows the love a mother has for her children will always shine through. Again it should be like this and for many it is, thankfully. Maybe not for some but I always feel if a mother truly loves her children then whether they are gay or not should not matter. After the initial shock and anger coming arising from the surprise of Skyler’s coming out his mum shows how much she loves her son. These kind of scenes always choke me up in the end. Also towards the end where the students show their support by organising a second dance also choked me up and not only Skyler.
However, there are still a few more bumps in the road to go through with Keith. These two are crazy in love bit now Keith’s secret is out you would think it should make things easier. But not here, it just makes things more complicated, well at least as far as Skyler is concerned because the one thing Skyler doesn’t like is when Keith has to keep things from him. There is quite a bit of make-up sex in this book and it is HOT, so yes they eventually iron out all the kinks in their relationship but had me on the edge of my set until the very to be sure that Keith is going to stick around. This first needed Skyler though to admit to himself that yes, he is in love and wants Keith to be at his side as his boyfriend. Skyler leaves his days of being a tart well and truly behind. This was so sweet and left me with a goofy grin by the end of the book.
So what does Skyler do? Yes, he decides once again to take things into his own hands. Of course only in the name of just asking a few questions. This almost leads him to his own demise at the end of book, but then he has a knight in shining armour so everything is OK in the end. The final action scene where he gets all his friends involved left a big cheesy grin on my face. The Scooby gang goes into action. But this time they bite off a little more than they can chew and this time it really needs the professionals to come in and do their job. When I listened to the final conclusion and what had been going on at the school I often ask myself whether this is plausible or only fiction. I was surprised to find out after listening to the afterword by the author that this case is based on true happenings from her own experience. After knowing this then the book also took on a whole new meaning for me especially where the students are concerned. When Skyler finds out that Alex, one of his more troubled students has been caught up in something that is beyond his control oh my heart went out to the lad. Also when the parents of his boyfriend takes him out of school when it becomes public that Skyler is gay and their son too. Skyler goes and talks to the parents and in so doing manages to have some success. That’s the other thing that came through in all three books, how much Skyler cares for the well being of his students. This makes him a great teacher and shows us that teachers can have very positive effects on the teenagers in their care. A model teacher who I would loved to have had a school too.
NARRATION
Well, seriously nothing to add here now. That's a good thing though as Joel’s narration remains as steady, constant and entertaining as it has always done throughout the series.
The main thing I loved about this book was not only solving the final mystery but how Skyler’s coming out is managed. After the initial surprise coming out in the second book we get a taste of how bigoted some people can be but nice to read that the majority support and stand behind Skyler in solidarity. As a gay man I can only too well appreciate how the whole process of coming out can seem daunting and frightening at first. It’s a step we have all had to take but in an ideal world one that we shouldn’t have to take at all. In an ideal world the phrase “coming out” should be redundant but alas this is still not the case. So with bated breath I waited for the moment that Skyler had to face his mum. Also how the parents react
This one scene alone gave me a lump in my throat and watery eyes. An emotionally charged scene that shows the love a mother has for her children will always shine through. Again it should be like this and for many it is, thankfully. Maybe not for some but I always feel if a mother truly loves her children then whether they are gay or not should not matter. After the initial shock and anger coming arising from the surprise of Skyler’s coming out his mum shows how much she loves her son. These kind of scenes always choke me up in the end. Also towards the end where the students show their support by organising a second dance also choked me up and not only Skyler.
However, there are still a few more bumps in the road to go through with Keith. These two are crazy in love bit now Keith’s secret is out you would think it should make things easier. But not here, it just makes things more complicated, well at least as far as Skyler is concerned because the one thing Skyler doesn’t like is when Keith has to keep things from him. There is quite a bit of make-up sex in this book and it is HOT, so yes they eventually iron out all the kinks in their relationship but had me on the edge of my set until the very to be sure that Keith is going to stick around. This first needed Skyler though to admit to himself that yes, he is in love and wants Keith to be at his side as his boyfriend. Skyler leaves his days of being a tart well and truly behind. This was so sweet and left me with a goofy grin by the end of the book.
So what does Skyler do? Yes, he decides once again to take things into his own hands. Of course only in the name of just asking a few questions. This almost leads him to his own demise at the end of book, but then he has a knight in shining armour so everything is OK in the end. The final action scene where he gets all his friends involved left a big cheesy grin on my face. The Scooby gang goes into action. But this time they bite off a little more than they can chew and this time it really needs the professionals to come in and do their job. When I listened to the final conclusion and what had been going on at the school I often ask myself whether this is plausible or only fiction. I was surprised to find out after listening to the afterword by the author that this case is based on true happenings from her own experience. After knowing this then the book also took on a whole new meaning for me especially where the students are concerned. When Skyler finds out that Alex, one of his more troubled students has been caught up in something that is beyond his control oh my heart went out to the lad. Also when the parents of his boyfriend takes him out of school when it becomes public that Skyler is gay and their son too. Skyler goes and talks to the parents and in so doing manages to have some success. That’s the other thing that came through in all three books, how much Skyler cares for the well being of his students. This makes him a great teacher and shows us that teachers can have very positive effects on the teenagers in their care. A model teacher who I would loved to have had a school too.
NARRATION
Well, seriously nothing to add here now. That's a good thing though as Joel’s narration remains as steady, constant and entertaining as it has always done throughout the series.
September 26, 2021
Well, as it was promised, all the mysteries are put at rest in this book: We know who killed Julia, what was going on in the school and how coach Carson was involved, and what was Alex's part in it. And it was a VERY satisfying resolution.
Although I must say that, at times, I was a bit annoyed at Skyler, because some of his decisions? beyond stupid. And he paid the consequences.
Again, probably my favourite parts were when Skyler was in his role as a teacher, particularly when he was answering questions from his students about the big outing from book 2.
About the romance.... I still have my doubts. I don't understand Keith's silence when he was pulled from the case nor his leaving Skyler facing the board alone. Was he going to stay away and silent until the case was closed and then come back as if nothing had happened? Was he even thinking about come back?
Yes, yes, Skyler isn't the easiest person in the world to date, but c'mon! A disappearance's act won't help to build trust!
I really hope Keith will grow up on me, I want to like the romance :P
Going for the holidays' one now, and we'll see how that goes *laughs*
Although I must say that, at times, I was a bit annoyed at Skyler, because some of his decisions? beyond stupid. And he paid the consequences.
Again, probably my favourite parts were when Skyler was in his role as a teacher, particularly when he was answering questions from his students about the big outing from book 2.
About the romance.... I still have my doubts. I don't understand Keith's silence when he was pulled from the case nor his leaving Skyler facing the board alone. Was he going to stay away and silent until the case was closed and then come back as if nothing had happened? Was he even thinking about come back?
Yes, yes, Skyler isn't the easiest person in the world to date, but c'mon! A disappearance's act won't help to build trust!
I really hope Keith will grow up on me, I want to like the romance :P
Going for the holidays' one now, and we'll see how that goes *laughs*
November 26, 2018
Well that mystery was solved in a rather rushed, bit idiotish, and definitely anticlimactic way.
September 2, 2018
Narrator status: Much improved! All the issues I had with the last two are gone here. The accents are still a little rough but at least Cashmere doesn't have any lines, so there were no Jamaican/Irish hybrid accents to put up with.
Foxe status: He really is TSTL and I'm glad the characters all acknowledge that - even while going along with his poorly thought-out plans. Hey, Skyler, you know who's good at trailing criminals and are actually paid to do it? The FBI. And you just happen to know somebody in the FBI. Also, his whole "I'm not telling you anything if you're not telling me anything" attitude was grating. Grow up, dude. Your students act more mature than you. I love you, man, but seriously. How you're not dead yet is beyond me.
SFC club status: OMG!!
School status: Let's just make something clear. The Inland Empire really is this messed up. Just google "Inland Empire" and "Nazis" or "San Bernardino school" and "Nazi" and you'll see what I mean. So listening to the afterword that this was based on actual events didn't really surprise me. I thankfully live south of the western edge of the IE, where people are still relatively sane, so I don't have to put up with this kind of behavior, thank God.
But anyway, the students are great, even if their parents aren't. Mr. Sherman really puts the "pal" in principal. I think he's my favorite secondary character. I was a bit suspicious of him in the first book but he's grown on me now. Skyler's mom also proves to be pretty awesome.
I'm really enjoying this series. Now to decide if I'm going to continue with ebooks or wait for the audiobooks...
Foxe status: He really is TSTL and I'm glad the characters all acknowledge that - even while going along with his poorly thought-out plans. Hey, Skyler, you know who's good at trailing criminals and are actually paid to do it? The FBI. And you just happen to know somebody in the FBI. Also, his whole "I'm not telling you anything if you're not telling me anything" attitude was grating. Grow up, dude. Your students act more mature than you. I love you, man, but seriously. How you're not dead yet is beyond me.
SFC club status: OMG!!
School status: Let's just make something clear. The Inland Empire really is this messed up. Just google "Inland Empire" and "Nazis" or "San Bernardino school" and "Nazi" and you'll see what I mean. So listening to the afterword that this was based on actual events didn't really surprise me. I thankfully live south of the western edge of the IE, where people are still relatively sane, so I don't have to put up with this kind of behavior, thank God.
But anyway, the students are great, even if their parents aren't. Mr. Sherman really puts the "pal" in principal. I think he's my favorite secondary character. I was a bit suspicious of him in the first book but he's grown on me now. Skyler's mom also proves to be pretty awesome.
I'm really enjoying this series. Now to decide if I'm going to continue with ebooks or wait for the audiobooks...
December 22, 2012
This is the third book in the trilogy, and finally one that ends without a cliff-hanger! Yay! But there is still a bit of an abrupt ending, with a few loose and minor threads waiting to be tied up. (According to an Author's note at the end, these threads were making the book a little unwieldy, so they will be finished as shorts offered on the author's website).
I admit it was good to see Keith and Skyler finally get there, after their many ups and downs. Skyler, while still rather TSTL at times, does seem to finally grow up, mostly triggered by an event that Keith is responsible for towards the end of the second novel. Keith too, seems to evolve, finally taking responsibility for his actions, though I think his motives and responses could have done with a little more depth.
I also enjoyed some of the secondary characters' evolutions too, with Phillip, Mr Sherman and Skyler's mother being amongst my favorites of the adults, with Alex and Drew my favorites amongst the kids. In fact, much of my enjoyment of these novels stem from these secondary characters; their own personalities shone through their interactions with Skyler.
All up, I liked this novel, despite its missing pieces, and will definitely be checking out the author's website for those shorts.
I admit it was good to see Keith and Skyler finally get there, after their many ups and downs. Skyler, while still rather TSTL at times, does seem to finally grow up, mostly triggered by an event that Keith is responsible for towards the end of the second novel. Keith too, seems to evolve, finally taking responsibility for his actions, though I think his motives and responses could have done with a little more depth.
I also enjoyed some of the secondary characters' evolutions too, with Phillip, Mr Sherman and Skyler's mother being amongst my favorites of the adults, with Alex and Drew my favorites amongst the kids. In fact, much of my enjoyment of these novels stem from these secondary characters; their own personalities shone through their interactions with Skyler.
All up, I liked this novel, despite its missing pieces, and will definitely be checking out the author's website for those shorts.
February 12, 2014
“Just another Hard-on Boy mystery, eh?”
“What do you do, just sit at home storing those up?”
“Yes. How else do you think I can be spontaneously clever if I don’t practice first?”
So this was the third installment of Skyboy and the Scooby Gang - and I LOVED it ♥♥♥
I adore Skyler and Jamie ♥ It was so good to see Keith back with Sky, and it felt absolutely genuine now that the biggest secret is outta the way.
I am not sure how I feel about Phillip and Rudy *rolleyes* even though I saw it coming from the start, it feels .. weird.
I really enjoy reading this series and I'm looking forward to another three installments ♥
Go Skyboy ♥
Note by the author:
"As for the story arc, if you think that this is outlandish, that it’s too much suspension of disbelief to include white supremacists recruiting kids, the coaches involved, the drugs and gunrunning…well! Let me tell you that absolutely all of that is based on actual events right here in the Inland Empire…at my son’s high school, no less, way back in 2005! It was in all the papers. Truth is stranger than fiction."
October 6, 2013
This was kind of cute at times, but...but but but....
1. The prose is very basic, with waaaay too much telling and not enough showing. No subtlety.
2. There are too many instances of Skyler being waaaaaaay TSTL.
3. Waaaaaaay too much waffling by Skyler about Keith. I don't mean just changing his opinion when something new happens, but waffling back and forth within the same scene, often within the same few minutes. Find an opinion and stick with it for at least a few minutes!
4. And other complaints that I'm too sleepy to put the energy into writing down right now.
I'm rounding this one up to 3, but I don't think it really deserves more than 2.5 stars. It just didn't do anything for me.
1. The prose is very basic, with waaaay too much telling and not enough showing. No subtlety.
2. There are too many instances of Skyler being waaaaaaay TSTL.
3. Waaaaaaay too much waffling by Skyler about Keith. I don't mean just changing his opinion when something new happens, but waffling back and forth within the same scene, often within the same few minutes. Find an opinion and stick with it for at least a few minutes!
4. And other complaints that I'm too sleepy to put the energy into writing down right now.
I'm rounding this one up to 3, but I don't think it really deserves more than 2.5 stars. It just didn't do anything for me.
September 17, 2015
This is the third book in a series.
What can I say...a lot comes down on Skyler, not only thanks to his annoying boyfriend Keith (yes, I still don't like him, after this book even less).
The SFC and Skyler's students are strong in this, and Skyler actually makes some serious and adult decisions (which means, once in a while he thinks before he acts).
All in all I think the series would have benefitted from another partner for Skyler. It's not enough to be hot - you have to stand with your boyfriend. Not even a message.....sorry, major fail, Keith. And a star less because you are so not my type.
What can I say...a lot comes down on Skyler, not only thanks to his annoying boyfriend Keith (yes, I still don't like him, after this book even less).
The SFC and Skyler's students are strong in this, and Skyler actually makes some serious and adult decisions (which means, once in a while he thinks before he acts).
All in all I think the series would have benefitted from another partner for Skyler. It's not enough to be hot - you have to stand with your boyfriend. Not even a message.....sorry, major fail, Keith. And a star less because you are so not my type.
May 15, 2015
This review contains major spoilers. Just scraped 4 stars for this book and a solid 4 stars for the overall story arc.
I found the first third of the book infuriating (see ranting status update). It seemed to settle down once Keith and Skyler got back together even though Skyler still was TSTL. Then things all went to shit at 87% when Keith just disappeared. The only acceptable answer was that Keith had been captured but, no, the FBI pulled him out and he didn't have the balls to let Skyler know he was okay. Bollocks, the Keith we'd come to know wouldn't have agreed to that.
I found the first third of the book infuriating (see ranting status update). It seemed to settle down once Keith and Skyler got back together even though Skyler still was TSTL. Then things all went to shit at 87% when Keith just disappeared. The only acceptable answer was that Keith had been captured but, no, the FBI pulled him out and he didn't have the balls to let Skyler know he was okay. Bollocks, the Keith we'd come to know wouldn't have agreed to that.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 11, 2012
Haley,
You go girl !!! FOXE ROCKS :))))))))
"Out-Foxed" is a great continuation to a great series :)I am such a hardcore fan since 2010!
It's almost crazy how much I love this book.
I loved the characters and thoroughly enjoyed it.
I can safely say that you will indeed love this book.
Can't wait to get the next story (Foxe Fire) in the series.
Haley, thank you so very much for writing this.
You go girl !!! FOXE ROCKS :))))))))
"Out-Foxed" is a great continuation to a great series :)I am such a hardcore fan since 2010!
It's almost crazy how much I love this book.
I loved the characters and thoroughly enjoyed it.
I can safely say that you will indeed love this book.
Can't wait to get the next story (Foxe Fire) in the series.
Haley, thank you so very much for writing this.
February 8, 2013
I absolutely loved this book! Look for my review on Top 2 Bottom Reviews.
August 18, 2013
I didn't want this series to end. Looking forward to Foxe Fire when it is released.
August 10, 2023
I waited years to read this story because I did not like Keith's treatment of Skyler and because I didn't particularly care for the character of Skyler either. I'm glad i read this finally but I will be ending the series here.
Skyler is too much of a nosy get-in-trouble-because-I-do-stupid-things sort of guy. I was never a fan of slapstick and I hated the old sitcoms where cute guys did dumb things that worked out in the end. This is Skyler in a nutshell. Not for me. I am happy that Keith turned out to be caring and concerned but he wasn't the least bit exemplary as a boyfriend either. Sigh.
In short. Glad I finally read it.
Skyler is too much of a nosy get-in-trouble-because-I-do-stupid-things sort of guy. I was never a fan of slapstick and I hated the old sitcoms where cute guys did dumb things that worked out in the end. This is Skyler in a nutshell. Not for me. I am happy that Keith turned out to be caring and concerned but he wasn't the least bit exemplary as a boyfriend either. Sigh.
In short. Glad I finally read it.
March 30, 2020
Skyler Foxe and his Scooby gang are still trying to solve the murder of the maths teacher and the school grade fixing. Media vans, protesters, Nazis, guns, the FBI, and a school disciplinary hearing all add to the mix! I’ve loved the three-book story arc, Skyler’s transformation from club bunny to marriage material, and the slow reveal of his coming out. 🎧 Great fun and a great trilogy with wonderfully playful, expert narration by Joel Leslie!!
September 11, 2017
Skyler has a "nose" problem. He is always sticking his where it doesn't belong and playing detective. He drags the Scooby Gang into the continuing mystery surrounding the high school.
Things don't always go according to Skyler's plans. When a member of the gang is put into jeopardy, Skyler realizes solving crimes are best left to the professionals. A lesson learned, but is it too late.
Things don't always go according to Skyler's plans. When a member of the gang is put into jeopardy, Skyler realizes solving crimes are best left to the professionals. A lesson learned, but is it too late.
December 27, 2023
I like how this picks up right after the previous story ends - it makes for a very consistent timeline, which I can appreciate.
The relationship with Keith has a great story line. No disappointments there.
The mystery has danger and I'm able to suspend my disbelief to get through it, I could actually see thi as a Murder She Wrote-esk style show which makes it very easy to get into.
The relationship with Keith has a great story line. No disappointments there.
The mystery has danger and I'm able to suspend my disbelief to get through it, I could actually see thi as a Murder She Wrote-esk style show which makes it very easy to get into.
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