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Least Likely Partnership #2
Holding Out for a Fairy Tale by A. J. Thomas
Spin-off from A Casual Weekend Thing.When his vicious cousin Alejandro makes a violent late-night visit, San Diego homicide detective Ray Delgado gets a brutal reminder of why he left his family behind. Alejandro wants Ray to find his sister, Sophia, who disappeared from the UC San Diego campus, before the FBI digs too deep into his business. Special Agent Elliot Belkamp spent his entire life jumping from one place to another, but his new assignment assisting a FBI task force offers him a chance to settle down. When Elliot catches a missing person's case as his first assignment, the last person he expects to find poking around the victim’s dorm room is Ray, a one-time hookup he’s more inclined to punch in the face than kiss hello. After discovering Sophia's disappearance is linked to a massive computer-based theft that has two powerful crime families ready to declare war, Elliot focuses on his investigation and tries to ignore Ray. As the search for Sophia turns dangerous, Elliot and Ray discover that tackling organized crime might be easier than resisting the urge to tackle each other.
Mass Market Paperback
First published May 8, 2014
37 people are currently reading
421 people want to read
About the author
A.J. Thomas
8 books354 followersA.J. Thomas writes romantic suspense. She’s earned a Bachelor’s degree in Literature from the University of Montana and worked in a half-dozen different jobs from law enforcement officer to librarian before settling down. Life as a military spouse has tossed her around the country so many times she doesn’t know how to answer when people ask her where she’s from, but she delights in living as a perpetual tourist, visiting new places and discovering amazing things.
Her time is divided between taking care of her three young children, experimenting with cooking and baking projects that rarely explode these days, and embarrassing her husband with dirty jokes. When she’s not writing, she hikes, gardens, researches every random idea that comes into her head, and develops complicated philosophical arguments about why a clean house is highly overrated. Her work has won multiple awards, including the 2013 AMB Ovation Award for Best LGBT Inter-racial Romance, and the 2014 Rainbow Award for Best Gay Contemporary Fiction.
Blog: http://ajthomasromance.blogspot.com/
Website: http://ajthomasromance.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AJ.Thomas.Ro...
E-mail: ajthomasromance@gmail.com
Her time is divided between taking care of her three young children, experimenting with cooking and baking projects that rarely explode these days, and embarrassing her husband with dirty jokes. When she’s not writing, she hikes, gardens, researches every random idea that comes into her head, and develops complicated philosophical arguments about why a clean house is highly overrated. Her work has won multiple awards, including the 2013 AMB Ovation Award for Best LGBT Inter-racial Romance, and the 2014 Rainbow Award for Best Gay Contemporary Fiction.
Blog: http://ajthomasromance.blogspot.com/
Website: http://ajthomasromance.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AJ.Thomas.Ro...
E-mail: ajthomasromance@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews
June 17, 2014
3.5 stars. Review posted June 17, 2014
You go, Ray!
The book title is accurate to a certain degree. However, it might also be a little bit misleading. A fairy tale alludes to a somewhat fluffy and sweet read and this story wasn't light at all which suited me just fine because I'm not a fan of fluff. There's quite a bit going on and it includes all kinds of interesting…erm…stuff. There are drug cartels, gang wars, murder, a huge amount of money, family disputes and in between a homicide detective and an FBI agent who try to put an end to all the mayhem. While we're on it, Ray and Elliot also explore the possibility of their mutual fairy tale. Although the road to a happy ending proves to be quite rocky and they're affected by a couple setbacks, mainly due to Ray being deep in the closet and dealing with lots of conflicted emotions but other factors also played a role.
I wasn't quite happy with the way it panned out in the end and I felt that Elliot manifested a couple faux-pas that made me cringe. Also, while I like my heroes to feature some realistic flaws, I doubt that a real FBI agent with such severe would still be working in the field. I found that downright irresponsible. Elliot's for a considerable time. In a
Overall though it was an engagingly penned story that kept me invested from start to finish and I did like the smart Ray with all his quirks very much. Readers who enjoyed A.J. Thomas' debut A Casual Weekend Thing should definitely put Holding Out for a Fairy Tale on their TBR shelf.
You go, Ray!
The book title is accurate to a certain degree. However, it might also be a little bit misleading. A fairy tale alludes to a somewhat fluffy and sweet read and this story wasn't light at all which suited me just fine because I'm not a fan of fluff. There's quite a bit going on and it includes all kinds of interesting…erm…stuff. There are drug cartels, gang wars, murder, a huge amount of money, family disputes and in between a homicide detective and an FBI agent who try to put an end to all the mayhem. While we're on it, Ray and Elliot also explore the possibility of their mutual fairy tale. Although the road to a happy ending proves to be quite rocky and they're affected by a couple setbacks, mainly due to Ray being deep in the closet and dealing with lots of conflicted emotions but other factors also played a role.
"But I saw you watching. What were you thinking about? What were you imagining that got you so hot you managed a hard-on with a jockstrap?"
"Being your sparring partner. When you fight, legs and arms and hands get tangled together…sliding together…It's fucking hot…"
I wasn't quite happy with the way it panned out in the end and I felt that Elliot manifested a couple faux-pas that made me cringe. Also, while I like my heroes to feature some realistic flaws, I doubt that a real FBI agent with such severe would still be working in the field. I found that downright irresponsible. Elliot's for a considerable time. In a
"Why do I want you like this?" he asked. "Like I can't breathe unless I can touch you."
Overall though it was an engagingly penned story that kept me invested from start to finish and I did like the smart Ray with all his quirks very much. Readers who enjoyed A.J. Thomas' debut A Casual Weekend Thing should definitely put Holding Out for a Fairy Tale on their TBR shelf.
July 18, 2016
2.5 stars
If you prefer mystery to relationship development, grit to romance, screwing to kissing, this book might appeal. Me? I'm a hardcore sap and proud of it.
There's a LOT of plot, a lot of confusing, sensational plot: drug cartels, high-tech money schemes, murder, missing persons, dirty agents, and so on. I couldn't keep track of it all. I wanted more of Ray and Elliot together, more sweetness, but this isn't that kind of book. The relationship is engulfed by the mystery, and even the steamy scenes seem to hang on a precipice.
I have not read the first book, and this was fine as a standalone. Hayes is mentioned, as is his partner Doug, although Ray calls Hayes' partner "the cowboy," which was weird but might make sense if you're read A Casual Weekend Thing.
I was underwhelmed by this one to be honest. It dragged and was kind of a snoozer, despite the constant action. I liked the few days Ray and Elliot spent alone in the midst of chaos. I wanted more of that and less of the running around, especially because the mystery didn't keep my interest. If you liked the first book, I bet you'll like this one too.
The ending is a . Oh, and Elliot's Pop-Tarts obsession? That's just weird.
Few books can combine suspense/action with romance; the couple standouts that come to mind are:
If you prefer mystery to relationship development, grit to romance, screwing to kissing, this book might appeal. Me? I'm a hardcore sap and proud of it.
There's a LOT of plot, a lot of confusing, sensational plot: drug cartels, high-tech money schemes, murder, missing persons, dirty agents, and so on. I couldn't keep track of it all. I wanted more of Ray and Elliot together, more sweetness, but this isn't that kind of book. The relationship is engulfed by the mystery, and even the steamy scenes seem to hang on a precipice.
I have not read the first book, and this was fine as a standalone. Hayes is mentioned, as is his partner Doug, although Ray calls Hayes' partner "the cowboy," which was weird but might make sense if you're read A Casual Weekend Thing.
I was underwhelmed by this one to be honest. It dragged and was kind of a snoozer, despite the constant action. I liked the few days Ray and Elliot spent alone in the midst of chaos. I wanted more of that and less of the running around, especially because the mystery didn't keep my interest. If you liked the first book, I bet you'll like this one too.
The ending is a . Oh, and Elliot's Pop-Tarts obsession? That's just weird.
Few books can combine suspense/action with romance; the couple standouts that come to mind are:
February 6, 2020
3.00 because I'm being generous. I like the idea of these characters but somehow the execution fell short
This is book two in this series, which I didn't actually know was a series when I started, and somehow thought it was a shifter thing. A Casual Weekend Thing worked pretty well for me, I'm trying to finish series I've started, and I already owned this so it was a no brainer. Sadly it was ... underwhelming.
Ray is Hayes's partner from the previous book., where it turned out he was flirting with bisexuality or coming to terms with being gay. He was also, allegedly, in love with Hayes but ended up having a one week hookup with Elliot, an FBI agent, which didn't end well, what with Ray's machismo insecurities. Eight months have gone by, Elliot has relocated to San Diego, and circumstances bring Ray and Elliot into the same orbit.
The premise was good, I like Elliot very much, and the writing wasn't bad. I just couldn't warm up to Ray. I know his eccentricities are rooted in his need for separation and he has his reasons but I just ... dunno, was indifferent to him? I didn't hate him but I did find his cousin Alejandro a more interesting character and he's meant to be a villain. Not a good sign.
It wasn't clear by the end if Ray has overcome some of his main issues with being gay or bi, to me they seemed pretty important as they weren't just a preference thing. The "mystery" wasn't so much a mystery as a business imbroglio that I didn't really care much about, and Ray's family issues were also left hanging. I know many families never come around to being accepting or understanding, and that's fine, it's a sad fact of life, but this wasn't really addressed one way the another.
I guess the best way to read this is as a bridge between A Casual Weekend Thing and The Intersection of Purgatory and Paradise, which picks up with Chris & Doug's story. On it's own? Meh
This is book two in this series, which I didn't actually know was a series when I started, and somehow thought it was a shifter thing. A Casual Weekend Thing worked pretty well for me, I'm trying to finish series I've started, and I already owned this so it was a no brainer. Sadly it was ... underwhelming.
Ray is Hayes's partner from the previous book., where it turned out he was flirting with bisexuality or coming to terms with being gay. He was also, allegedly, in love with Hayes but ended up having a one week hookup with Elliot, an FBI agent, which didn't end well, what with Ray's machismo insecurities. Eight months have gone by, Elliot has relocated to San Diego, and circumstances bring Ray and Elliot into the same orbit.
The premise was good, I like Elliot very much, and the writing wasn't bad. I just couldn't warm up to Ray. I know his eccentricities are rooted in his need for separation and he has his reasons but I just ... dunno, was indifferent to him? I didn't hate him but I did find his cousin Alejandro a more interesting character and he's meant to be a villain. Not a good sign.
It wasn't clear by the end if Ray has overcome some of his main issues with being gay or bi, to me they seemed pretty important as they weren't just a preference thing. The "mystery" wasn't so much a mystery as a business imbroglio that I didn't really care much about, and Ray's family issues were also left hanging. I know many families never come around to being accepting or understanding, and that's fine, it's a sad fact of life, but this wasn't really addressed one way the another.
I guess the best way to read this is as a bridge between A Casual Weekend Thing and The Intersection of Purgatory and Paradise, which picks up with Chris & Doug's story. On it's own? Meh
June 8, 2014
4.5 stars
I actually liked this a lot. I am not surprised though. This is the third book released by this author and I have enjoyed all three of them. I may even like this one better than A Casual Weekend Thing. I loved that book but the topic was very gritty and that did take away some of my enjoyment of that book. But none of that here. Here's what I liked about this story:
1) First and foremost: BOTH MCs. I knew I would like Ray from the glimpse I got from him in ACWT. Sure he comes off as a serious jerk there but Ray in this book is a delightful surprise: sexy, confident, smart but also vulnerable and at times scared. Elliot is not as "in your face" as Ray but he is quietly confident and even though I kept thinking he was a delicate skinny guy he kept reminding us that he was the toughest of the two.
2) The sexual tension! It was totally killing me! At the beginning of the story we catch up with Ray 8 months after the end of ACWT. He was alone and still hooking up with guys (at this point exclusively it seems). But he has regrets over how things ended with Elliot after the week they spend screwing each other silly. But a case brings them together and they have to work together. Elliot doesn't want to get tangled up with Ray anymore because he thinks Ray doesn't respect him. Ray in the other hand wants Elliot like crazy but he doesn't understand the real reasons why.
3) Just the right mix of suspense/action and romance. I loved that the author doesn't spend ridiculous amounts of time waxing poetic about the guys, their eyes, their muscles,their feelings for each other, the meals they eat, their "rose buds" or their 10in. schlongs. None of that silly filler crap here. That's not to say there isn't some of this but the amount is measured, not overdone and that made me totally happy.
4) The end. I love endings like this a lot better than when an author gives it all to me thoroughly digested complete with wedding rings, white picket fence and 2.5 kids. Endings like this one feel real to me, so I enjoy them.
In conclusion, AJ Thomas is an auto-buy author for me. I look forward to more of her stories.
I actually liked this a lot. I am not surprised though. This is the third book released by this author and I have enjoyed all three of them. I may even like this one better than A Casual Weekend Thing. I loved that book but the topic was very gritty and that did take away some of my enjoyment of that book. But none of that here. Here's what I liked about this story:
1) First and foremost: BOTH MCs. I knew I would like Ray from the glimpse I got from him in ACWT. Sure he comes off as a serious jerk there but Ray in this book is a delightful surprise: sexy, confident, smart but also vulnerable and at times scared. Elliot is not as "in your face" as Ray but he is quietly confident and even though I kept thinking he was a delicate skinny guy he kept reminding us that he was the toughest of the two.
2) The sexual tension! It was totally killing me! At the beginning of the story we catch up with Ray 8 months after the end of ACWT. He was alone and still hooking up with guys (at this point exclusively it seems). But he has regrets over how things ended with Elliot after the week they spend screwing each other silly. But a case brings them together and they have to work together. Elliot doesn't want to get tangled up with Ray anymore because he thinks Ray doesn't respect him. Ray in the other hand wants Elliot like crazy but he doesn't understand the real reasons why.
3) Just the right mix of suspense/action and romance. I loved that the author doesn't spend ridiculous amounts of time waxing poetic about the guys, their eyes, their muscles,their feelings for each other, the meals they eat, their "rose buds" or their 10in. schlongs. None of that silly filler crap here. That's not to say there isn't some of this but the amount is measured, not overdone and that made me totally happy.
4) The end. I love endings like this a lot better than when an author gives it all to me thoroughly digested complete with wedding rings, white picket fence and 2.5 kids. Endings like this one feel real to me, so I enjoy them.
In conclusion, AJ Thomas is an auto-buy author for me. I look forward to more of her stories.
June 2, 2014
This book was a bit elusive - it felt like there was an excellent story here that just somehow got tangled in its own feet and fell a little short. I loved Ray - he had so many twists and quirks, skills and flaws. I enjoyed Elliot although he was a less interesting character. Their chemistry was off-and-on, but they had some very nice scenes together. And some of Ray's attempts to communicate his feelings were funny and off-the-wall. I liked the relationships he had with the secondary characters too.
The mystery plot in this is tangled up with the actions of Ray's cousin Alejandro, who wanders through complicating things, and by Ray's connections with his extended family and various aspects of the crime. A slightly simpler plot might have served this story better. I found I liked the relationship moments better than the action and mystery moments, and despite its ties to Ray's family, the mystery seemed a bit dry and puzzle oriented, where it should have had more emotional depth.
I read this straight through and enjoyed it but didn't connect to it quite as well as I'd hoped.
The mystery plot in this is tangled up with the actions of Ray's cousin Alejandro, who wanders through complicating things, and by Ray's connections with his extended family and various aspects of the crime. A slightly simpler plot might have served this story better. I found I liked the relationship moments better than the action and mystery moments, and despite its ties to Ray's family, the mystery seemed a bit dry and puzzle oriented, where it should have had more emotional depth.
I read this straight through and enjoyed it but didn't connect to it quite as well as I'd hoped.
July 15, 2022
Another good read by A J Thomas. Can't wait to read book three.
April 4, 2023
3.5 rounded down. This was good but not great. I'm sad that I've now read this author's entire backlist and that she seems to have stopped writing 😭😭. This is a mystery/romance and the balance was good. The romance was a bit underwhelming though. The two MCs have met 8 months prior and have had a fling but things went wrong and I wasn't a fan of how that was resolved. They get to know each other here and move beyond their assumptions but there was too much push and pull and it felt manufactured. They didn't communicate well which made sense for the characters but not toward the end. The mystery was good but we were left out of too much investigating, we saw a bit but I wanted more. I would still recommend this series as a whole, this one not being my favorite.
May 30, 2020
3.75 stars
Really, this would've been 4 stars easily, but the "fairy tale" metaphor got a little heavy-handed after the fourth or fifth time it was brought up and I lost track after that. The book is titled "Holding Out For a Fairy Tale". At that point, I think the reader knows what the main conflict of the couple is going to be. You don't have to keep mentioning it in the book over and over and over. Once or twice, sure, but anything more than that isn't necessary.
That complaint aside, I really enjoyed this book. I admit, I should've skimmed the first book in this series before starting this one, as I remembered it a lot less than I thought I did. I vaguely remembered Special Agent Elliot Belkamp from A Casual Weekend Thing, but I didn't remember Ray Delgado at all. Not too big of a deal, as the author gave enough information that I could follow along, and it didn't effect this story beyond the background of how these two met. If you picked up this book without reading the first one, you wouldn't be lost.
There was a lot of examination on Ray's hangups with being bisexual and attracted to men. He was given a lot of depth here and basically boils down to the "hardass who's a big cuddly teddy bear underneath" and I do love that trope. I wish we'd have gotten as much depth into Elliot's background. There is some background there, but it become apparent quickly that, even though it switches POV's from chapter to chapter, this is really Ray's book. He's a complex character from a complex family, and each layer that was peeled back slowly uncovers his vulnerabilities and emotional hangups. Elliot isn't as complex, and so really doesn't need as much background, but I still felt as if I didn't quite know him or understand him as well as I did Ray.
The story itself is straightforward, once you get past the extremely messed up family dynamics. Ray is a homicide detective in his hometown, San Diego, where his extended family run part of the drug trade. As you can imagine, he's not a popular guy in his family and has arrested many of them in the past. His cousin Alejandro, a drug kingpin, comes to him with news his sister Sophie is missing, along with millions of cartel money. From there, it's just tracking down who was involved and how and why they were involved. Ray runs into Elliot when he goes to the FBI office to check on their investigation into his cousin's disappearance. Elliot and Ray had hooked up for awhile in Montana, but called it quits when it was clear they wanted different things from a relationship and that Ray wasn't comfortable with being bisexual. Their getting back together here happens gradually and naturally, and is the basis from which we learn more about Ray's background and why he is the way he is.
The sex scenes weren't dragged out for pages and pages and I felt there were just enough of them so the book didn't stall out halfway through. There was one sex scene in the car I had to roll my eyes at, especially once it was revealed they were only a mile and a half away from Elliot's home. Y'all couldn't wait five minutes? Really? There were a few typos here and there but nothing that threw me out of the story. There was also a nice cameo at the end for Christopher and Doug, and the last chapter had all the warm fuzzies you could hope for.
One more little niggle, and this did not reflect on my rating: While this doesn't reach the levels of geography fail as the last book I read that was based in San Diego, there was still some. For instance, Rancho Bernardo is not two hours from San Diego, more like a half-hour to 45 minutes, an hour if traffic really sucks. La Jolla is not the northern most part of San Diego County, just of San Diego; it's not even the halfway point for the county. I really don't expect people who don't live here to get the regionalisms right, but those did kind of throw me when they'd come up.
Really, this would've been 4 stars easily, but the "fairy tale" metaphor got a little heavy-handed after the fourth or fifth time it was brought up and I lost track after that. The book is titled "Holding Out For a Fairy Tale". At that point, I think the reader knows what the main conflict of the couple is going to be. You don't have to keep mentioning it in the book over and over and over. Once or twice, sure, but anything more than that isn't necessary.
That complaint aside, I really enjoyed this book. I admit, I should've skimmed the first book in this series before starting this one, as I remembered it a lot less than I thought I did. I vaguely remembered Special Agent Elliot Belkamp from A Casual Weekend Thing, but I didn't remember Ray Delgado at all. Not too big of a deal, as the author gave enough information that I could follow along, and it didn't effect this story beyond the background of how these two met. If you picked up this book without reading the first one, you wouldn't be lost.
There was a lot of examination on Ray's hangups with being bisexual and attracted to men. He was given a lot of depth here and basically boils down to the "hardass who's a big cuddly teddy bear underneath" and I do love that trope. I wish we'd have gotten as much depth into Elliot's background. There is some background there, but it become apparent quickly that, even though it switches POV's from chapter to chapter, this is really Ray's book. He's a complex character from a complex family, and each layer that was peeled back slowly uncovers his vulnerabilities and emotional hangups. Elliot isn't as complex, and so really doesn't need as much background, but I still felt as if I didn't quite know him or understand him as well as I did Ray.
The story itself is straightforward, once you get past the extremely messed up family dynamics. Ray is a homicide detective in his hometown, San Diego, where his extended family run part of the drug trade. As you can imagine, he's not a popular guy in his family and has arrested many of them in the past. His cousin Alejandro, a drug kingpin, comes to him with news his sister Sophie is missing, along with millions of cartel money. From there, it's just tracking down who was involved and how and why they were involved. Ray runs into Elliot when he goes to the FBI office to check on their investigation into his cousin's disappearance. Elliot and Ray had hooked up for awhile in Montana, but called it quits when it was clear they wanted different things from a relationship and that Ray wasn't comfortable with being bisexual. Their getting back together here happens gradually and naturally, and is the basis from which we learn more about Ray's background and why he is the way he is.
The sex scenes weren't dragged out for pages and pages and I felt there were just enough of them so the book didn't stall out halfway through. There was one sex scene in the car I had to roll my eyes at, especially once it was revealed they were only a mile and a half away from Elliot's home. Y'all couldn't wait five minutes? Really? There were a few typos here and there but nothing that threw me out of the story. There was also a nice cameo at the end for Christopher and Doug, and the last chapter had all the warm fuzzies you could hope for.
One more little niggle, and this did not reflect on my rating: While this doesn't reach the levels of geography fail as the last book I read that was based in San Diego, there was still some. For instance, Rancho Bernardo is not two hours from San Diego, more like a half-hour to 45 minutes, an hour if traffic really sucks. La Jolla is not the northern most part of San Diego County, just of San Diego; it's not even the halfway point for the county. I really don't expect people who don't live here to get the regionalisms right, but those did kind of throw me when they'd come up.
July 31, 2014
3.5 stars
This book has a mixture of action, mystery, family drama, and a more realistic look at romance. I really enjoyed the first book in this series, A Casual Weekend Thing,, and I LOVED Ray in that, so I was excited about reading his own book with the FBI agent, Elliot. It had its strong moments, but it also dragged a bit in places, and I felt like I kept missing an emotional connection to the book as a whole.
Ray Delgado is a homicide detective who met FBI agent Elliot Belkamp several months ago through another case and the two had one week of sweaty good times. Ray had voiced some opinions on being with a man and Elliot felt personally insulted and disrespected, and left Ray. Now the two come together for a case that affects them both personally and professionally. Ray’s cousin – who he has raised like a sister – Sophia, has disappeared and fearing that her brother Alejandro, along with other cartel members are after her, sets out to find her. Elliot has been assigned to the case officially and the two must find a way to work together, discuss their past interactions, and rework preconceived ideas they have about each other and life, all while trying to stay alive.
Some people have mentioned the title and how it might be misleading, but I actually really liked what the author was saying with that idea and concept. Elliot, along with many other people, keep saying they are holding out for a fairy tale, and while that’s a great idea, sometimes the idea of a romantic fairy tale could be flexible. Elliot thinks he knows what he wants, what to expect, and if the person he’s involved with doesn’t react or act or think immediately how he thinks they should, then he has a tendency to shut down and shut them out. But when he stops trying to fit his views and opinions on to someone else, he slowly falls for a guy he never thought he would. And in many ways, the same goes for Ray. Ray overthinks everything in his life, but he has expectations he’s put upon himself from society, family, etc. and it’s just as hard for him to let go of those expectations as it is for Elliot to try and remember that not everyone thinks, feels and acts like him. In many ways, this is a fairy tale. Not epic, swooning romance, but a slow, unfurling friendship and love that becomes their own fairy tale. However, there was something about this book as a whole that lacked emotional depth for me, but as for the relationship between Elliot and Ray, I think I just needed something…more. I can’t honestly tell you more of what, but I didn’t fall in love with them as much as I wanted to. I think it felt a bit like I was an observer to them rather than falling in love with them falling in love, if that makes sense. I needed more emotional moments between them and the back felt lacking there.
The plot had a lot going on, and at times it was confusing, and other times it dragged, but I did like it overall. The cartel, computer hacking, kidnapping, murder, and the like are all going on and there were definitely some exciting moments, but the slow non-romantic moments felt verrrrrry slow.
Overall it was a quick, good read if you like mystery and plot to have equal time with the relationship aspects in a book.
This book has a mixture of action, mystery, family drama, and a more realistic look at romance. I really enjoyed the first book in this series, A Casual Weekend Thing,, and I LOVED Ray in that, so I was excited about reading his own book with the FBI agent, Elliot. It had its strong moments, but it also dragged a bit in places, and I felt like I kept missing an emotional connection to the book as a whole.
Ray Delgado is a homicide detective who met FBI agent Elliot Belkamp several months ago through another case and the two had one week of sweaty good times. Ray had voiced some opinions on being with a man and Elliot felt personally insulted and disrespected, and left Ray. Now the two come together for a case that affects them both personally and professionally. Ray’s cousin – who he has raised like a sister – Sophia, has disappeared and fearing that her brother Alejandro, along with other cartel members are after her, sets out to find her. Elliot has been assigned to the case officially and the two must find a way to work together, discuss their past interactions, and rework preconceived ideas they have about each other and life, all while trying to stay alive.
Some people have mentioned the title and how it might be misleading, but I actually really liked what the author was saying with that idea and concept. Elliot, along with many other people, keep saying they are holding out for a fairy tale, and while that’s a great idea, sometimes the idea of a romantic fairy tale could be flexible. Elliot thinks he knows what he wants, what to expect, and if the person he’s involved with doesn’t react or act or think immediately how he thinks they should, then he has a tendency to shut down and shut them out. But when he stops trying to fit his views and opinions on to someone else, he slowly falls for a guy he never thought he would. And in many ways, the same goes for Ray. Ray overthinks everything in his life, but he has expectations he’s put upon himself from society, family, etc. and it’s just as hard for him to let go of those expectations as it is for Elliot to try and remember that not everyone thinks, feels and acts like him. In many ways, this is a fairy tale. Not epic, swooning romance, but a slow, unfurling friendship and love that becomes their own fairy tale. However, there was something about this book as a whole that lacked emotional depth for me, but as for the relationship between Elliot and Ray, I think I just needed something…more. I can’t honestly tell you more of what, but I didn’t fall in love with them as much as I wanted to. I think it felt a bit like I was an observer to them rather than falling in love with them falling in love, if that makes sense. I needed more emotional moments between them and the back felt lacking there.
The plot had a lot going on, and at times it was confusing, and other times it dragged, but I did like it overall. The cartel, computer hacking, kidnapping, murder, and the like are all going on and there were definitely some exciting moments, but the slow non-romantic moments felt verrrrrry slow.
Overall it was a quick, good read if you like mystery and plot to have equal time with the relationship aspects in a book.
January 17, 2020
3 stars
Ahhh... this one didn’t hold onto my attention as well as the first book did. I skimmed way too much of the book to truly appreciate it. I’m sorry 😔 I don’t know what it was, I just wasn’t as engaged and i wasn’t sure I could even finish it. So in a way, I feel a little satisfied that I actually finished. But argh... I don’t think I really got into the meat of the story with all the skimming I did 🙊
Ahhh... this one didn’t hold onto my attention as well as the first book did. I skimmed way too much of the book to truly appreciate it. I’m sorry 😔 I don’t know what it was, I just wasn’t as engaged and i wasn’t sure I could even finish it. So in a way, I feel a little satisfied that I actually finished. But argh... I don’t think I really got into the meat of the story with all the skimming I did 🙊
August 6, 2016
4.5 stars
Just as in the first book Christopher Hayes found himself dragged in the middle of a case by a family member he despised and had distanced himself from, in Holding Out for a Fairy Tale his ex-partner, Raymond Delgado, has to find his missing cousin and manage the difficult relationship he has with his criminal family.
I remember not liking Raymond at all in the first book, but the author did a great job in building his character in this one.
Ray is the typical one-night-stand kind of guy, afraid to get close to another person because his observation of the world has taught him that relationships don’t last and, anyway, his family is going to use anyone he cares about as a mean to punish him for turning his back on the illegal “family business”.
He’s having second thoughts about what he really wants, though, and when he meets Elliot again, while they’re both looking for his cousin Sophie, he tries to find a way to reconnect with him.
Elliot and Ray met in Montana during the events of the first book and spent a week together. A week that ended with Elliot walking out on Ray, when he discovered that Ray wouldn’t bottom because he thought it would’ve made him “less than a man”.
Elliot drew the obvious conclusion that Ray would never be able to respect him for the same reason and decided to put an end to things.
When they meet again the attraction between them is still very strong and Ray would gladly act on it, but Elliot makes clear that he’s looking for a real relationship, not a casual thing. Ray makes a couple of sarcastic comments about it and they decide to concentrate on the case and accept the fact that they want and believe in different things.
It’s easier said than done, though. While they work on the case they’re forced to spend a lot of time together and, as they get to know each other, they start to fall for each other.
I really liked how Ray’s more hidden sides were uncovered the more time he spent with Elliot. He was caring and attentive in his own way and very affectionate.
Elliot is a less complex character, but not less interesting. He’s strong and determined enough to keep up with Ray and I think they balanced each other pretty well as a couple.
The mystery plot was good enough to keep my interest, but I’m having a difficult time believing that two experienced FBI agent and homicide detective would
Apart from this detail, I really enjoyed this book and the last chapter was just the perfect conclusion. A special mention for St. Claire, really, she's the best boss ever.
I hope there’ll be another book about Ray and Elliot in this series. I’d really like to see them work together again and see how they’ll manage with their relationship.
Just as in the first book Christopher Hayes found himself dragged in the middle of a case by a family member he despised and had distanced himself from, in Holding Out for a Fairy Tale his ex-partner, Raymond Delgado, has to find his missing cousin and manage the difficult relationship he has with his criminal family.
I remember not liking Raymond at all in the first book, but the author did a great job in building his character in this one.
Ray is the typical one-night-stand kind of guy, afraid to get close to another person because his observation of the world has taught him that relationships don’t last and, anyway, his family is going to use anyone he cares about as a mean to punish him for turning his back on the illegal “family business”.
He’s having second thoughts about what he really wants, though, and when he meets Elliot again, while they’re both looking for his cousin Sophie, he tries to find a way to reconnect with him.
Elliot and Ray met in Montana during the events of the first book and spent a week together. A week that ended with Elliot walking out on Ray, when he discovered that Ray wouldn’t bottom because he thought it would’ve made him “less than a man”.
Elliot drew the obvious conclusion that Ray would never be able to respect him for the same reason and decided to put an end to things.
When they meet again the attraction between them is still very strong and Ray would gladly act on it, but Elliot makes clear that he’s looking for a real relationship, not a casual thing. Ray makes a couple of sarcastic comments about it and they decide to concentrate on the case and accept the fact that they want and believe in different things.
It’s easier said than done, though. While they work on the case they’re forced to spend a lot of time together and, as they get to know each other, they start to fall for each other.
I really liked how Ray’s more hidden sides were uncovered the more time he spent with Elliot. He was caring and attentive in his own way and very affectionate.
Elliot is a less complex character, but not less interesting. He’s strong and determined enough to keep up with Ray and I think they balanced each other pretty well as a couple.
The mystery plot was good enough to keep my interest, but I’m having a difficult time believing that two experienced FBI agent and homicide detective would
Apart from this detail, I really enjoyed this book and the last chapter was just the perfect conclusion. A special mention for St. Claire, really, she's the best boss ever.
I hope there’ll be another book about Ray and Elliot in this series. I’d really like to see them work together again and see how they’ll manage with their relationship.
June 7, 2014
I really loved
, and this so-labeled spinoff came in a close second. The series is essentially about unlikely lovers, and that's what Eliot and Ray are. One is self-confidently out, the other hasn't even quite come to terms with the fact that he's attracted to men as well as to women yet. One is looking for a steady relationship, the other is famous for playing musical beds. One is a Fed, the other a cop. And still.
It's not quite opposites attract; where it counts, the two men aren't that different at all. It's more some kind of a challenge for both of them once they realize they might feel more for each other than sexual attraction. And if something should come out of it, they both need to change--their view of each other, and maybe a bit of their view at the world in general as well. The question is, do they want what they have to turn into more? And if so, what price are they ready to pay? They're both rather unbending spirits. But the world isn't always just black and white, and watching them realizing that fact was beautiful.
A warning for those who look mainly for lots of sex and/ or sweet romance in their reading: this book might be not for you. Not that there wasn't both (and the sex scenes were hot!
But this book had PLOT, in capital letters, and lots of it, and that's where its focus lay, not on the romance. But that's just what I liked about this book; Ray and Eliot's relationship built on, around and beside the plot, not the other way round. A gripping mystery, fast-paced writing and a slowly building romance made this an entertaining and satisfying read.
, and this so-labeled spinoff came in a close second. The series is essentially about unlikely lovers, and that's what Eliot and Ray are. One is self-confidently out, the other hasn't even quite come to terms with the fact that he's attracted to men as well as to women yet. One is looking for a steady relationship, the other is famous for playing musical beds. One is a Fed, the other a cop. And still. It's not quite opposites attract; where it counts, the two men aren't that different at all. It's more some kind of a challenge for both of them once they realize they might feel more for each other than sexual attraction. And if something should come out of it, they both need to change--their view of each other, and maybe a bit of their view at the world in general as well. The question is, do they want what they have to turn into more? And if so, what price are they ready to pay? They're both rather unbending spirits. But the world isn't always just black and white, and watching them realizing that fact was beautiful.
A warning for those who look mainly for lots of sex and/ or sweet romance in their reading: this book might be not for you. Not that there wasn't both (and the sex scenes were hot!
But this book had PLOT, in capital letters, and lots of it, and that's where its focus lay, not on the romance. But that's just what I liked about this book; Ray and Eliot's relationship built on, around and beside the plot, not the other way round. A gripping mystery, fast-paced writing and a slowly building romance made this an entertaining and satisfying read.
July 28, 2014
3.5 stars
I loved Ray from A Casual Weekend Thing, but I had a bit of trouble connecting with Elliot and Ray as a couple. Then again, Elliot and Ray have trouble connecting too. It was a slow build up as the two men get to know each other better, even after having had a fling at the end of the events in the first book. Ray is still struggling with his feelings for his best friend and former partner, as well as with his feelings for men in general, knowing what he will face from the bit of family he has left. There is a lot of focus on the mystery involving Ray's extended, drug lord family, and again, the ending is more a HFN, but I did enjoy the story and catching up with Chris and Doug.
I loved Ray from A Casual Weekend Thing, but I had a bit of trouble connecting with Elliot and Ray as a couple. Then again, Elliot and Ray have trouble connecting too. It was a slow build up as the two men get to know each other better, even after having had a fling at the end of the events in the first book. Ray is still struggling with his feelings for his best friend and former partner, as well as with his feelings for men in general, knowing what he will face from the bit of family he has left. There is a lot of focus on the mystery involving Ray's extended, drug lord family, and again, the ending is more a HFN, but I did enjoy the story and catching up with Chris and Doug.
May 13, 2017
I can't stand straight female writers writing gay/bisexual male characters who say crap like, "it's no ones business who I have sex with" as a narrative to keep that character in the closet. Identifying as gay or bisexual is about more than just where you stick your penis/mouth. Stop it.
December 21, 2021
When you’ve been a prick,
It’s harder to find a prince.
Migraines, anal, crime.
It’s harder to find a prince.
Migraines, anal, crime.
November 17, 2024
I think this is my favorite of this author’s books. The romance and suspense worked well and the characters kept me engaged.
May 24, 2014
I loved A Casual Weekend Thing so I was really excited to see this spinoff. This story features Christopher Hayes’ San Diego police detective ex-partner, Ray Delgado. I was really mad at Ray in the first book and could not believe he could warrant his own story. But he redeemed himself in my eyes. He is an asshole, but he’s an ass for a reason. We also learn what makes Ray such an unlovable guy in this book and even though it took most of the 250 pages to get there, at the end I loved him.
Elliot hates Ray. He was used and humiliated by Ray in the past and when they are thrust upon each other during a case that involves Ray’s family, well, let’s just say, Elliot is not happy to see him. Elliot is FBI, Ray is a police detective. Notorious for not playing well together, these two need to come to terms with their professional and personal lives in order to save Ray’s cousin.
Ray has never had it easy. He is from a crime family; disowned by his family; and struggles to find anyone who wants to work as his partner. He uses jokes and insults to insulate himself. I really started to fall for the big lug…even though he could really be a total jerk.
Elliot isn’t so forgiving. He is not willing to be anyone’s plaything or one night stand. He is holding out for love, for the fairy tale. Ray is definitely not his happily ever after…or is he?
Loved when these two finally got their stars aligned, loved when Ray won Elliot over with Pop Tarts…yep, with Pop Tarts, and I loved that they did not fall into the “I love you” trap from the get-go…as a matter of fact I don’t even think they even used the word.
What I would have liked more was a little less dragging in the middle. At times it seemed that it was moving too slowly and it took me longer to read than it should have. I also wanted more Chris and Doug. I struggled with the constant Cowboy reference to Doug, but figured it was somehow in book one and something I must have forgotten.
But regardless, this is the third book I’ve read by this author and I highly recommend her. The first two got 5 stars, and this one is a 4. In my opinion, that’s an auto-buy author and I look forward to whatever she brings us in the future.
See this and all my reviews at: The Blogger Girls
Elliot hates Ray. He was used and humiliated by Ray in the past and when they are thrust upon each other during a case that involves Ray’s family, well, let’s just say, Elliot is not happy to see him. Elliot is FBI, Ray is a police detective. Notorious for not playing well together, these two need to come to terms with their professional and personal lives in order to save Ray’s cousin.
Ray has never had it easy. He is from a crime family; disowned by his family; and struggles to find anyone who wants to work as his partner. He uses jokes and insults to insulate himself. I really started to fall for the big lug…even though he could really be a total jerk.
Elliot isn’t so forgiving. He is not willing to be anyone’s plaything or one night stand. He is holding out for love, for the fairy tale. Ray is definitely not his happily ever after…or is he?
Loved when these two finally got their stars aligned, loved when Ray won Elliot over with Pop Tarts…yep, with Pop Tarts, and I loved that they did not fall into the “I love you” trap from the get-go…as a matter of fact I don’t even think they even used the word.
What I would have liked more was a little less dragging in the middle. At times it seemed that it was moving too slowly and it took me longer to read than it should have. I also wanted more Chris and Doug. I struggled with the constant Cowboy reference to Doug, but figured it was somehow in book one and something I must have forgotten.
But regardless, this is the third book I’ve read by this author and I highly recommend her. The first two got 5 stars, and this one is a 4. In my opinion, that’s an auto-buy author and I look forward to whatever she brings us in the future.
See this and all my reviews at: The Blogger Girls
July 2, 2015
From the blurb you see that both men are in a similar line of work. They hooked up once, but it didn’t take. Ray is a player and not interested in permanence – yet?
Most of the story revolves around a dizzying array of crime investigations ranging from a missing person to murder to crime families. This is really the meat of the story. There is some sexual tension, a bit of fulfillment, some “why am I so attracted to you when you’re so wrong for me” and at the end some “absolution”.
I never really bonded with either MC, though I did find the fight scene to be particularly hot. (Elliot taking a Judo class while Ray watched and wanted.)
I didn’t read book one, though I think this is a good stand-alone.
When I read the blurb I was thinking it was going to be a hot and heavy enemies to lovers – and it is – but the mystery/crime absolutely takes precedence.
Audio
Jeff Gelder is hit or miss for me. In this case he didn’t do the story any favors. Sometimes, the way his voice lilts at the end can be distracting. Like everything is kind of a question. He didn’t do a lot with the voices or the emotion, so it didn’t add too much to my overall impression of the story. I’d have loved some sexy accents and growly sex scenes, but it was pretty tame.
Overall, if you are interested in crime novels with a romance sub-plot this is your book. I think if you liked book one you’d find this as good.
The writing was good, the editing fine, just not my type of romance.
Love the cover though!
Most of the story revolves around a dizzying array of crime investigations ranging from a missing person to murder to crime families. This is really the meat of the story. There is some sexual tension, a bit of fulfillment, some “why am I so attracted to you when you’re so wrong for me” and at the end some “absolution”.
I never really bonded with either MC, though I did find the fight scene to be particularly hot. (Elliot taking a Judo class while Ray watched and wanted.)
I didn’t read book one, though I think this is a good stand-alone.
When I read the blurb I was thinking it was going to be a hot and heavy enemies to lovers – and it is – but the mystery/crime absolutely takes precedence.
Audio
Jeff Gelder is hit or miss for me. In this case he didn’t do the story any favors. Sometimes, the way his voice lilts at the end can be distracting. Like everything is kind of a question. He didn’t do a lot with the voices or the emotion, so it didn’t add too much to my overall impression of the story. I’d have loved some sexy accents and growly sex scenes, but it was pretty tame.
Overall, if you are interested in crime novels with a romance sub-plot this is your book. I think if you liked book one you’d find this as good.
The writing was good, the editing fine, just not my type of romance.
Love the cover though!
April 30, 2016
I enjoyed this one even more than book 1 because it was much more developed and the characters had great chemistry. I also enjoyed the narration of the book by Jeff Gelder. He was able to keep the dialogue engaging as the story developed.
This book featured Detective Raymond Delgado, the partner of book 1’s hero Detective Christopher Hayes. In the prior book, I had thought that maybe the author would have Chris and Ray settle down as a couple even though Ray was so promiscuous. But in this sequel, we finally get Ray’s side of the story as well as his journey to an HFN.
I am glad that I listened to this one because I got to see Ray in a different light and really enjoyed him as a character. The last scene of the book was one of the best endings I have listened to it a while. This series is definitely a keeper for me.
Oh My Shelves
*Special thanks to Dreamspinner for the audiobook for review.
This book featured Detective Raymond Delgado, the partner of book 1’s hero Detective Christopher Hayes. In the prior book, I had thought that maybe the author would have Chris and Ray settle down as a couple even though Ray was so promiscuous. But in this sequel, we finally get Ray’s side of the story as well as his journey to an HFN.
I am glad that I listened to this one because I got to see Ray in a different light and really enjoyed him as a character. The last scene of the book was one of the best endings I have listened to it a while. This series is definitely a keeper for me.
Oh My Shelves
*Special thanks to Dreamspinner for the audiobook for review.
dnf
September 27, 2017DNF
While I truly liked the first book in this series, I knew very early on this one wasn’t going to work for me.
My comment at page 2: “Oh good lord. Second page and I now have no faith in the author’s knowledge of firearms. She didn’t take the time to research the topic as evidenced by the ridiculous description of our protagonist firing his weapon. Dear author: One does not pull the slide back again after firing the first round of a semi automatic handgun. I’ll let you figure out that one.”
My overriding thought at that early juncture was: What else didn’t she research? I just didn’t want to waste my time finding out.
While I truly liked the first book in this series, I knew very early on this one wasn’t going to work for me.
My comment at page 2: “Oh good lord. Second page and I now have no faith in the author’s knowledge of firearms. She didn’t take the time to research the topic as evidenced by the ridiculous description of our protagonist firing his weapon. Dear author: One does not pull the slide back again after firing the first round of a semi automatic handgun. I’ll let you figure out that one.”
My overriding thought at that early juncture was: What else didn’t she research? I just didn’t want to waste my time finding out.
May 18, 2014
Nice writing but I'm holding out for a Christopher & Ray hook-up. Not sure how this writer came up with these character mis-pairings here..in both books of this series..but wow F for character chemistry because it's even more obvious in this one than the first.
Want to read
July 14, 2014Dreamspinner's $0.99 deal of the day, 7/14/14!
http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/stor...
http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/stor...
August 13, 2015
3,5*
added half star for Alejandro
added half star for Alejandro
October 12, 2016
3.5 stars
July 30, 2024
I loved this, even if I had the chorus of Lady Gaga's Alejandro stuck in my brain for like 2 hours after finishing it, help.
In this one, we don't follow Christopher and Doug, but Christopher's detective partner Ray Delgado. Ray's commitment issues have pushed him to lead the life of a playboy his entire adult life—a straight playboy. But when he realises his feelings for Christopher are maybe more than just friendly, it's too late because Christopher already found someone else. That's a big turning point for Ray, who becomes a bisexual playboy. Ray was the literal embodiment of "so misogynistic he turned gay", he was like "oh I never considered dating a woman before but I can see it with a man" and I was dead laughing like ARE YOU FOR REAL dsfhjgdvh apart from being a whore he was never disrespectful to any woman, but it was just so funny to see him go like noooo I could never spend more than one night with a woman. Please. Anyway, now he is a bi playboy, and one of his first gay conquests is Elliot Belkamp, the FBI agent who assisted Christopher and Doug in the case that blew over their small corner of Montana. After an intense sexual encounter, they separate on horrible terms as Ray's closeted macho bullshit has Elliot leave in a rage. Eight months later, they're reunited as Elliot is the lead agent investigating the disappearance of Ray's baby cousin, embroiled in money theft and gang wars. Angry sexual tension ensues as they're racing the clock to find Sophie.
I really liked this lmao, the dynamics between Elliot and Ray were so funny and it was kind of a second chance trope but not really, and it gave me angry tension and sexy smut so I was all for it! Though it was disappointingly underdeveloped, I really liked how Elliot doesn't shy away from confronting Ray about his macho bullshit and his preconceptions about gay sex and relationships. I wish we could have seen more of that but eyy. And it's very seldom I can say this but I actually liked the miscommunication in this one, it wasn't too heavy and it made sense because it played on both of the guys' insecurities. The case was fine, a bit convoluted but alright.
I really liked Ray's psychopathic cousin, Alejandro and I am DYING to read his story... saw on the author's GR page that she considered writing it at one point if the creative juices collaborated with her, but I have no idea if it's still on. Gimme the hot insane batshit crazy cousin I beg u
In this one, we don't follow Christopher and Doug, but Christopher's detective partner Ray Delgado. Ray's commitment issues have pushed him to lead the life of a playboy his entire adult life—a straight playboy. But when he realises his feelings for Christopher are maybe more than just friendly, it's too late because Christopher already found someone else. That's a big turning point for Ray, who becomes a bisexual playboy. Ray was the literal embodiment of "so misogynistic he turned gay", he was like "oh I never considered dating a woman before but I can see it with a man" and I was dead laughing like ARE YOU FOR REAL dsfhjgdvh apart from being a whore he was never disrespectful to any woman, but it was just so funny to see him go like noooo I could never spend more than one night with a woman. Please. Anyway, now he is a bi playboy, and one of his first gay conquests is Elliot Belkamp, the FBI agent who assisted Christopher and Doug in the case that blew over their small corner of Montana. After an intense sexual encounter, they separate on horrible terms as Ray's closeted macho bullshit has Elliot leave in a rage. Eight months later, they're reunited as Elliot is the lead agent investigating the disappearance of Ray's baby cousin, embroiled in money theft and gang wars. Angry sexual tension ensues as they're racing the clock to find Sophie.
I really liked this lmao, the dynamics between Elliot and Ray were so funny and it was kind of a second chance trope but not really, and it gave me angry tension and sexy smut so I was all for it! Though it was disappointingly underdeveloped, I really liked how Elliot doesn't shy away from confronting Ray about his macho bullshit and his preconceptions about gay sex and relationships. I wish we could have seen more of that but eyy. And it's very seldom I can say this but I actually liked the miscommunication in this one, it wasn't too heavy and it made sense because it played on both of the guys' insecurities. The case was fine, a bit convoluted but alright.
I really liked Ray's psychopathic cousin, Alejandro and I am DYING to read his story... saw on the author's GR page that she considered writing it at one point if the creative juices collaborated with her, but I have no idea if it's still on. Gimme the hot insane batshit crazy cousin I beg u
January 23, 2020
So I decided to change the edition of this novel after I'd written my review and stupid Goodreads doesn't retain my draft review, meaning I have to rewrite the whole bloody thing! Can't be arsed!
It was great. I really enjoyed it. Macho gay/bisexual FBI agent and Homicide detective pick up where they left off after months of not seeing each other and the termination of their initial liaison.
Both become involved in the same case and sparks begin to fly.
5 x Stars
It was great. I really enjoyed it. Macho gay/bisexual FBI agent and Homicide detective pick up where they left off after months of not seeing each other and the termination of their initial liaison.
Both become involved in the same case and sparks begin to fly.
5 x Stars
May 25, 2022
I really like that the backstory in AJ's books are not just some completely superficial excuse for the characters to hook up. Compared to other books from her that I've read previously, I missed a bit of more developed side characters - but still I keep 4 start because somehow I really like Ray. If someone knows where I can find one, please let me know. Elliot is a bit bland, but still I like the two of them together.
June 1, 2014
4.5 Stars
A "Live Your Life, Buy The Book" Review
Although it's the second book in the Least Likely Partnerships series, Holding Out For A Fairy Tale is the standalone story of Ray Delgado and Elliot Belkamp, whom we both met briefly in the first book A Casual Weekend Thing, and can definitely be read on its own without losing anything of the story or character development.
It's been eight months since Ray Delgado lost the only man he thought he'd ever loved to another man. As a matter of fact, it was Ray's previous work partner, Christopher, that made him stop denying his attraction to men as well as women. Although he's accepted that attraction, he's still struggling with what it would mean for both his work and the already strained relations with his estranged crime family. After conceding defeat with Christopher's new boyfriend, Ray consoled himself with FBI agent, Elliot Belkamp. It was a lot of fun for the week it lasted, until Elliot turned decidedly frosty and they both went back to work in different parts of the country. Now he and Elliot have been thrown together for a case involving drug dealers, missing money, a missing cousin and psychotic family.
Holding Out For A Fairy Tale is an action-packed crime mystery/romance that delivers well on both fronts, although the personalities of the two men make it lean a little more to the crime mystery side. Ray is a sometimes abrasive, somewhat socially awkward, very intelligent, focused man who masks his more sensitive, vulnerable side behind laughter and practical jokes. A mask very few people have managed to see past. Until Elliot's interest is piqued and he starts to wonder if there is more to the man than the impression the end of their fling had left him with. Elliot is confident, smart, good at his job and knows what he wants. And what he wants is the whole fairy tale - a loving man to end the day with and wake up to the next morning as they grow old together. A man that previous experience had told him would most definitely not be Ray.
It took me a little while to really warm to Ray, but seeing him through Elliot's growing realisation of who Ray truly is and what makes him tick was both fascinating and enlightening, and I found myself growing to like the man along with Elliot. Both the MCs were interesting and layered, sometimes frustrating and remained consistent in their actions and reactions throughout the whole story. There were times where I got completely frustrated with Ray and thought the author might be heading toward some fairly common plot cliches, but the actions were actually kept true to both personalities and ended up being really well handled between the two characters and in a very believable way. Once the motivation behind the actions became apparent, it made me reframe how I had been seeing them and did made sense in the context of the character's personality. There weren't any sudden acceptances, but things weren't unnecessarily drawn out, either.
I loved the touches of humour and moments of banter. The crime/mystery was well paced with a tight plot that wove effortlessly through the romance of the two men. Their interactions felt believable and, when they get together, were undeniably hot. And the last line is a great one! It stayed with me long after I finished the book and still makes me smile.
A "Live Your Life, Buy The Book" Review
Although it's the second book in the Least Likely Partnerships series, Holding Out For A Fairy Tale is the standalone story of Ray Delgado and Elliot Belkamp, whom we both met briefly in the first book A Casual Weekend Thing, and can definitely be read on its own without losing anything of the story or character development.
It's been eight months since Ray Delgado lost the only man he thought he'd ever loved to another man. As a matter of fact, it was Ray's previous work partner, Christopher, that made him stop denying his attraction to men as well as women. Although he's accepted that attraction, he's still struggling with what it would mean for both his work and the already strained relations with his estranged crime family. After conceding defeat with Christopher's new boyfriend, Ray consoled himself with FBI agent, Elliot Belkamp. It was a lot of fun for the week it lasted, until Elliot turned decidedly frosty and they both went back to work in different parts of the country. Now he and Elliot have been thrown together for a case involving drug dealers, missing money, a missing cousin and psychotic family.
Holding Out For A Fairy Tale is an action-packed crime mystery/romance that delivers well on both fronts, although the personalities of the two men make it lean a little more to the crime mystery side. Ray is a sometimes abrasive, somewhat socially awkward, very intelligent, focused man who masks his more sensitive, vulnerable side behind laughter and practical jokes. A mask very few people have managed to see past. Until Elliot's interest is piqued and he starts to wonder if there is more to the man than the impression the end of their fling had left him with. Elliot is confident, smart, good at his job and knows what he wants. And what he wants is the whole fairy tale - a loving man to end the day with and wake up to the next morning as they grow old together. A man that previous experience had told him would most definitely not be Ray.
It took me a little while to really warm to Ray, but seeing him through Elliot's growing realisation of who Ray truly is and what makes him tick was both fascinating and enlightening, and I found myself growing to like the man along with Elliot. Both the MCs were interesting and layered, sometimes frustrating and remained consistent in their actions and reactions throughout the whole story. There were times where I got completely frustrated with Ray and thought the author might be heading toward some fairly common plot cliches, but the actions were actually kept true to both personalities and ended up being really well handled between the two characters and in a very believable way. Once the motivation behind the actions became apparent, it made me reframe how I had been seeing them and did made sense in the context of the character's personality. There weren't any sudden acceptances, but things weren't unnecessarily drawn out, either.
I loved the touches of humour and moments of banter. The crime/mystery was well paced with a tight plot that wove effortlessly through the romance of the two men. Their interactions felt believable and, when they get together, were undeniably hot. And the last line is a great one! It stayed with me long after I finished the book and still makes me smile.
May 23, 2014
REVIEWED FOR PRISM BOOK ALLIANCE
Damn this was good!
Remember Ray Delgado from A Casual Weekend Thing?
Well, he is back. Still a hot cop and still confused by his sexuality.
Ray has stayed out of the family crime business. In fact he bucked the trend completely and went into law enforcement and is actually responsible for a lot his family being behind bars. His niece Sophia looked to be following in his footsteps but now she is missing from her University dorms. The one thing this means for both of them is danger. Rays cousin Alejandro is the biggest danger of them all.
When trying to get over the crush he had on his partner a few months ago he ran into the hot and delicious FBI agent Elliot Belkamp. The man has plagued his thoughts ever since in both good and bad ways. Imagine his surprise when he is searching Sophias dorm room and Elliot walks in and announces he is the agent in charge of the case. It is lust and hate at first sight.
I loved the dynamics between this pair. Elliot is out and proud and looking for the fairy tale relationship. He wants a man to come home to, cook for and share all aspects of his life. Ray is still loathed to even admit he is bisexual, too afraid of what his family will think of him for sleeping with another man. He will only be gay if he bottoms....right?
The pair agree to work together in the hunt for Sophia and soon discover she may well have left of her own accord and not be quite as innocent as first presumed. The sexual tension between the two is off the scale and Elliot slowly comes to realise there is a lot more to Ray than first meets the eye.
With a war threatening between the crime families, millions of dollars in missing drug money, a leak at the FBI office and dead bodies appearing all over the city the race is on to try and solve the case. The longer they work together the more difficult things become. Elliot begins to wonder whether fairy tales really exist whilst Ray finally comes to the conclusion that maybe he does deserve his happily ever after. Could a castle made out of pop tarts be the answer?
Damn this was good!
Remember Ray Delgado from A Casual Weekend Thing?
Well, he is back. Still a hot cop and still confused by his sexuality.
Ray has stayed out of the family crime business. In fact he bucked the trend completely and went into law enforcement and is actually responsible for a lot his family being behind bars. His niece Sophia looked to be following in his footsteps but now she is missing from her University dorms. The one thing this means for both of them is danger. Rays cousin Alejandro is the biggest danger of them all.
When trying to get over the crush he had on his partner a few months ago he ran into the hot and delicious FBI agent Elliot Belkamp. The man has plagued his thoughts ever since in both good and bad ways. Imagine his surprise when he is searching Sophias dorm room and Elliot walks in and announces he is the agent in charge of the case. It is lust and hate at first sight.
I loved the dynamics between this pair. Elliot is out and proud and looking for the fairy tale relationship. He wants a man to come home to, cook for and share all aspects of his life. Ray is still loathed to even admit he is bisexual, too afraid of what his family will think of him for sleeping with another man. He will only be gay if he bottoms....right?
The pair agree to work together in the hunt for Sophia and soon discover she may well have left of her own accord and not be quite as innocent as first presumed. The sexual tension between the two is off the scale and Elliot slowly comes to realise there is a lot more to Ray than first meets the eye.
With a war threatening between the crime families, millions of dollars in missing drug money, a leak at the FBI office and dead bodies appearing all over the city the race is on to try and solve the case. The longer they work together the more difficult things become. Elliot begins to wonder whether fairy tales really exist whilst Ray finally comes to the conclusion that maybe he does deserve his happily ever after. Could a castle made out of pop tarts be the answer?
January 24, 2015
I didn't enjoy this as much as the first book in the series. It had a lot of the elements I like - suspense plot, tough male leads, reluctance to get involved, but somehow the emotion and heat were missing. The stakes just never came across as feeling real to the characters. Ray, a homicide detective's search for his cousin who was like a little sister to him really felt beside the point even though it was the event driving the entire plot. I never felt like he really cared about her fate all that much, certainly getting into FBI agents, Elliot pants was a much higher priority.
Rays reluctance to bottom, his fear of commitment and his even greater fear of coming out were the hurdles the relationship had to overcome. But their resolutions were all just thrown away as there simply was no emotional pay off to anything. One moment it was an issue and then it wasn't.
I liked the title and the author did a nice job with the theme. The ending was unearned but still really neat.
In the last book I criticized the author for failing to detail her environments to the point it often felt like scenes were occurring in blank space. This time around she made an effort to provide some location information. Too bad, it was often wrong as she bizarrely chose to set the book in the very real La Jolla, CA but neglected to use the old google to get accurate information regarding distances and weather. When you choose a famous locale that some readers are going to be familiar with as it is just jarring to read inaccurate information. I also found it odd that much of the story transpires on the UCSD campus which is situated right on the coast with an amazing view of the ocean and yet not once in the entire book is the word "ocean" ever mentioned nor does the author even bother to note the omni-present palm tree or all of the flowers in bloom. I mean why set your book in January in a sub-tropical coastal city if your going to ignore the environment and make it it in the low 30s (maybe once but typically winter nights are in the 50's)?
Rays reluctance to bottom, his fear of commitment and his even greater fear of coming out were the hurdles the relationship had to overcome. But their resolutions were all just thrown away as there simply was no emotional pay off to anything. One moment it was an issue and then it wasn't.
I liked the title and the author did a nice job with the theme. The ending was unearned but still really neat.
In the last book I criticized the author for failing to detail her environments to the point it often felt like scenes were occurring in blank space. This time around she made an effort to provide some location information. Too bad, it was often wrong as she bizarrely chose to set the book in the very real La Jolla, CA but neglected to use the old google to get accurate information regarding distances and weather. When you choose a famous locale that some readers are going to be familiar with as it is just jarring to read inaccurate information. I also found it odd that much of the story transpires on the UCSD campus which is situated right on the coast with an amazing view of the ocean and yet not once in the entire book is the word "ocean" ever mentioned nor does the author even bother to note the omni-present palm tree or all of the flowers in bloom. I mean why set your book in January in a sub-tropical coastal city if your going to ignore the environment and make it it in the low 30s (maybe once but typically winter nights are in the 50's)?
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