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The First and Last Adventure of Kit Sawyer
In the archaeology community, Christopher “Kit” Sawyer’s family is a legacy. And while he may be a historian, not a treasure hunter, he thinks he does a pretty good job of living up to the Sawyer name. He's a book-smart research fanatic and does his best work at his tidy desk. No fedora and whip for him, if you please—a nice cup of coffee and a comfy chair will do. But decoding an ancient relic soon gives him more adventure than he bargained for.
Unwittingly, he unleashes a force he doesn't know how to control. And now he has to reunite the relic with a powerful Aztec God. The trouble with that? Kit doesn’t where to find the Tlaloc’s temple. No one does, in fact. Finding it could be a discovery for the ages. It could also lead to his untimely death. So...yay? But it’s not like he has a choice. So off to the Mexican jungle he goes.
At least he isn’t going alone.
Ethan Stone, former stepbrother and overall pain in the rump, horns in on the expedition. An experienced archaeologist, he's only coming along at their grandfather's request—which annoys Kit to no end. But he knows Ethan is just the right person to get them through the jungle safely. It’s just too bad someone is trying to beat them to the temple. And he’s willing to do anything to get there first.
Ethan thinks Kit is in over his head. Kit is secretly afraid he just may be right. In manners of archaeology...and manners of the heart….
Unwittingly, he unleashes a force he doesn't know how to control. And now he has to reunite the relic with a powerful Aztec God. The trouble with that? Kit doesn’t where to find the Tlaloc’s temple. No one does, in fact. Finding it could be a discovery for the ages. It could also lead to his untimely death. So...yay? But it’s not like he has a choice. So off to the Mexican jungle he goes.
At least he isn’t going alone.
Ethan Stone, former stepbrother and overall pain in the rump, horns in on the expedition. An experienced archaeologist, he's only coming along at their grandfather's request—which annoys Kit to no end. But he knows Ethan is just the right person to get them through the jungle safely. It’s just too bad someone is trying to beat them to the temple. And he’s willing to do anything to get there first.
Ethan thinks Kit is in over his head. Kit is secretly afraid he just may be right. In manners of archaeology...and manners of the heart….
357 pages
First published July 20, 2023
291 people are currently reading
2292 people want to read
About the author
S.E. Harmon
22 books1,727 followersS.E. Harmon has had a lifelong love affair with writing. It's been both wonderful and rocky (they've divorced several times), but they always manage to come back together. She's a native Floridian with a Bachelor of Arts and a Masters in Fine Arts, and used to spend her time writing educational grants. She now splits her days between voraciously reading romance novels and squirreling away someplace to write them. Her current beta reader is a nosy American Eskimo who begrudgingly accepts payment in the form of dog biscuits.
http://seharmon.weebly.com/
http://seharmon.weebly.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 547 reviews
May 17, 2024
This is a romance book. Now normally that wouldn’t be an issue for me (quite the opposite, actually), but I went into this expecting the grandeur nature of stories like Tomb Raider, Indiana Jones, Uncharted, or even the Memories of the Eagle and the Jaguar series by Isabel Allende! If I’m reading a genre book that has a bit of a romance on the side, I generally prefer that romance to stay over there… on the side. Here, it takes up so much space that I genuinely forgot why they were in the jungle at several points (a cursed crown or something). I get that this is supposed to be a kind of “anti-adventure,” adventure story with the main character, Kit, wanting nothing to do with that life, but most of the actual adventure that he actually goes on is just a bit of a hike, and then we arrive at the end. It really didn’t help that Kit was too much of a “failure hero” for him to ever feel like he comes into his own. And a lot of the book’s humor is at his expense, where we're supposed to be laughing and cringing at how ill-equipped he is at being an explorer. Let me get this out of the way; I do not like punching-bag protagonists. A lot of the narrative tries to make us laugh at how dumb he is for not realizing that Ethan was always desperately in love with him, but it never seemed that far-fetched that he wouldn’t see it. Kit has always felt inadequate his whole life, meaning he’s incredibly insecure and sensitive, with his walls always up, so why exactly would he believe some dick like Ethan, who’s always making little jabs about his profession and lifestyle, is in love with him!? It’s hard to accept love from someone who constantly belittles you. Also, because Kit is supposed to be this really smart guy, and him being out of his depth is supposed to be the point of the story, I was under the impression that his character arc was going to be him going against his family’s legacy of gung-ho Indiana-Jones-types and becoming an accomplished adventurer in his own right, in his own way. Instead, he just “proves” himself to his family name, which didn’t sit right with me.
Anyway, on to the next part called “Ethan-Sucked-and-I-Hated-Him,” which is called that because Ethan sucked and I hated him. I’ll admit that I had a hard time getting a handle on his character. At first it seemed like he and Kit had a one-sided rivalry on Kit’s end (which would be pretty funny), and then it seemed like they’d have that classic romcom, bickering type of romance when they first arrive in Mexico (good for banter), and then when they’re in the jungle it’s mostly just Ethan making snide remarks to Kit without him having any kind of retort (making him read like a bully). It was enough to make my head spin! It would have been nice if he didn’t constantly switch between being a smart-alecky jerk and being Mr. Blah. Who is he!? I’d like to know! And if we absolutely had to have this Bear Grylls mf attaching himself to every page like a tick, then I wish Kit would have argued back wa~ay more. Ethan’s implied to have been in love with Kit for a long time, but their romance still felt really abrupt! There’s literally a line where Kit says that he “felt the resentment flowing out of him,” which… I’m sorry, but I just don’t think that’s good enough. It’s not satisfying and it doesn’t explain away decades of bitterness and anger. This is just my opinion, but I really needed a Revolutionary Road-style blowout argument before I’d buy into them declaring their devotion and exclaiming their “I love you’s.” I mean, they’re stuck in a humid jungle with dwindling supplies and danger lurking around every corner… the setting is perfect for a huge fight! Ugh. Oh, also Kit calls him “Eth” at one point, which isn’t a real nickname. That’d be like if you called me “No”... or “Ah.”
Phew, I’ve been a little angry at this book, but I didn’t hate it. I think a lot of my irritation is the fact that I only liked it when I was hoping to love it. I know that’s not fair. It’s also a little sad because I wasn’t even mad about anything until the last third of the book. I think it was a bit of a “last straw” situation because one page our good pal, Eth was fine, and then the next page I’d loathe having to read any of the dumbass things he had to say! I’ve only played one Uncharted game, but one thing they do really well is the easy and light banter that really makes it feel like the characters actually grow to like each other. In this book, the dialogue was so charged and heated that it only helped to highlight the fact that none of these people would actually get along if they weren’t forced to be in the same proximity with each other. You know when you're getting roasted a little too hard and you're like, "damn, are these even my friends!?" Yeah, it felt like that. By the time we reach the end, I think it’s safe to say that they still had a lot to work through. Like getting a better nickname for Eth. At least Kit has a cute one with “Kit-Kat.” None of this is to say that I think any part of this book was poorly written, and I thought that it was great how the author side-stepped a lot of the racial insensitivities that stories of this genre tend to have. In many ways, this book embodies that classic Indiana Jones quote, “that artifact belongs in [its country of origin]”...which I may or may not have modified a little. And while I wish that Kit had a little more to do in a story that is so wholly named after him, I do think that he was a great character, and managed to be interesting and fun despite not fitting the mold of a classic action-hero. Still, I’m glad that this is Kit’s last adventure, because I’m sure as hell not reading another one.
“I might love a puzzle, but I hated a fucking mystery.”
Anyway, on to the next part called “Ethan-Sucked-and-I-Hated-Him,” which is called that because Ethan sucked and I hated him. I’ll admit that I had a hard time getting a handle on his character. At first it seemed like he and Kit had a one-sided rivalry on Kit’s end (which would be pretty funny), and then it seemed like they’d have that classic romcom, bickering type of romance when they first arrive in Mexico (good for banter), and then when they’re in the jungle it’s mostly just Ethan making snide remarks to Kit without him having any kind of retort (making him read like a bully). It was enough to make my head spin! It would have been nice if he didn’t constantly switch between being a smart-alecky jerk and being Mr. Blah. Who is he!? I’d like to know! And if we absolutely had to have this Bear Grylls mf attaching himself to every page like a tick, then I wish Kit would have argued back wa~ay more. Ethan’s implied to have been in love with Kit for a long time, but their romance still felt really abrupt! There’s literally a line where Kit says that he “felt the resentment flowing out of him,” which… I’m sorry, but I just don’t think that’s good enough. It’s not satisfying and it doesn’t explain away decades of bitterness and anger. This is just my opinion, but I really needed a Revolutionary Road-style blowout argument before I’d buy into them declaring their devotion and exclaiming their “I love you’s.” I mean, they’re stuck in a humid jungle with dwindling supplies and danger lurking around every corner… the setting is perfect for a huge fight! Ugh. Oh, also Kit calls him “Eth” at one point, which isn’t a real nickname. That’d be like if you called me “No”... or “Ah.”
Phew, I’ve been a little angry at this book, but I didn’t hate it. I think a lot of my irritation is the fact that I only liked it when I was hoping to love it. I know that’s not fair. It’s also a little sad because I wasn’t even mad about anything until the last third of the book. I think it was a bit of a “last straw” situation because one page our good pal, Eth was fine, and then the next page I’d loathe having to read any of the dumbass things he had to say! I’ve only played one Uncharted game, but one thing they do really well is the easy and light banter that really makes it feel like the characters actually grow to like each other. In this book, the dialogue was so charged and heated that it only helped to highlight the fact that none of these people would actually get along if they weren’t forced to be in the same proximity with each other. You know when you're getting roasted a little too hard and you're like, "damn, are these even my friends!?" Yeah, it felt like that. By the time we reach the end, I think it’s safe to say that they still had a lot to work through. Like getting a better nickname for Eth. At least Kit has a cute one with “Kit-Kat.” None of this is to say that I think any part of this book was poorly written, and I thought that it was great how the author side-stepped a lot of the racial insensitivities that stories of this genre tend to have. In many ways, this book embodies that classic Indiana Jones quote, “that artifact belongs in [its country of origin]”...which I may or may not have modified a little. And while I wish that Kit had a little more to do in a story that is so wholly named after him, I do think that he was a great character, and managed to be interesting and fun despite not fitting the mold of a classic action-hero. Still, I’m glad that this is Kit’s last adventure, because I’m sure as hell not reading another one.
“I might love a puzzle, but I hated a fucking mystery.”
July 29, 2023
This was such a great story. Also nerve wracking and anxiety inducing, but mostly so much fun.
I loved Kit. This author is so good at writing characters like him. I love her humor and the banter between Kit and Ethan was the best. I also liked how Kit's
The relationship development is not in the foreground of the story and I actually preferred it that way. I think the balance between the romance and the main plot was just right for this type of story. I was also happy to find out that it features one of my favourite tropes.
The adventure plot was well-written. I liked the pacing and I liked the side characters. Well, most of them. When it comes to the supernatural elements, I expected a bit more, but I was still satisfied with how things wrapped up.
There's only thing that left me wondering -
I loved Kit. This author is so good at writing characters like him. I love her humor and the banter between Kit and Ethan was the best. I also liked how Kit's
The relationship development is not in the foreground of the story and I actually preferred it that way. I think the balance between the romance and the main plot was just right for this type of story. I was also happy to find out that it features one of my favourite tropes.
The adventure plot was well-written. I liked the pacing and I liked the side characters. Well, most of them. When it comes to the supernatural elements, I expected a bit more, but I was still satisfied with how things wrapped up.
There's only thing that left me wondering -
July 28, 2023
***4.0 rating***
"I wasn't sure when he'd gone from my frenemy to someone I trusted more than anyone, but here we were. Maybe once I'd put all that ridiculous jealousy aside, everything I felt for him just had more room to breathe. Either way, he was so very dear to me."
I have finally come out of my weird review slumber/slump (whatever you want to call it). Not sure what was going on with me, I have had a very hectic week and life has been busy. Adulting. Yuck. But anyway finally found some time to write a review for this fab book.
I'll try to keep it brief because I am still not in the mood to write my usual long reviews lol.
This book was unlike anything I have read by this author. I loved The Spectral Files by S.E. Harmon and the blurb for this book intrigued me, especially the part about one of the MCs being a former stepbrother. I am into that this month. Most of the books that I have read this month have been in the same trope. Heck, I even read a taboo book about an Alpha and his omega brother.👀. Incest. Something that was a trigger for me before isn't anymore I suppose? Let's just say I am more open-minded these days.
I am getting carried away. Smh.
Back to this book, our boy Christopher Addison Sawyer the Third, or as we know him by "Kit" comes from old money. The name speaks for itself, lol. Kit comes from generational wealth and lives a privileged life. His family has quite a legacy in the archaeology community. His grandfather, parents, and stepbrother, Ethan have all been on interesting expeditions where they found groundbreaking discoveries. Kit, however, is no explorer or treasure hunter. He is a very knowledgeable historian and is quite the expert in his field. He is fascinated by the Aztec civilization and at times wished he could live up to the Sawyer name like the rest of his family. Unfortunately, Kit has a chronic illness. He has epilepsy and due to the nature of his illness, he hasn't been able to go on wild adventures to be able to tell the tale. But that doesn't stop him from living his life in the other ways that he can. S.E. Harmon talks in great detail about how Kit suffers from epilepsy and how intrusive such an illness can be to one's life or daily activities that we may take for granted. The author tackled this topic with much empathy and as a reader, you can see how someone like Kit has been struggling with it since he was a kid.
One night, when Kit is working on an Aztec relic, strange things begin to happen to him. Supernatural things? His vision starts to suddenly get better, he doesn't feel as weak as he usually does, and he has strength that wasn't there before. He has symbolic tattoos that were never there before. Strange things. Kit tries to make sense of these things and he concludes that he must go to where the relic has originated. But before he can go on this crazy adventure of his, devastating news brings Kit to his grandfather's estate. There he and his grandfather deal with many unsaid feelings between them. It is also at Remi's estate (the grandfather) that Kit sees his former stepbrother, Ethan, again.
There is a lot of tension between these two, like how Ethan is still handsome as ever with his messy blond hair and crystal green eyes. Yep, Ethan is devastatingly gorgeous and Kit cannot help but appreciate the man in front of him. The tension between the former stepbrothers was enjoyable and sets the tone for how these two will eventually get together. Kit finds Ethan annoying and is a bit jealous of him but he couldn't be any more wrong about Ethan. When Kit decides to go on his suicide mission/crazy adventure, Ethan being the voice of reason decides to tag along, and what an adventure they go on. Everything that can't go wrong, does. On this wild ride in the jungles of Mexico, they come across shady characters, a jealous ex, wild animals and so much more.
Kit was an absolute disaster😂😂. Everything that he wasn't supposed to do he does, he doesn't listen to Ethan and well let's just say he f*cked around and found out. In this misadventure, Kit also finds out how wrong he was about Ethan all these years. These two amid chaos, fall in love. It is not instant love (thank god) nor slow burn. The pace was just right. Ethan had the patience of a saint and idk how they survived this insane journey. Haha. Never a dull moment with these two. You do have to suspend disbelief at times to be able to enjoy this story. So there is that. I read this in one sitting and enjoyed it. Whether it was the Aztec gods, shady ass dudes, or jaguars, I was never bored. The sex scenes weren't that many but it was spicy enough that I enjoyed it. If you are a fan of the Mummy film franchise or Indiana Jones, I guarantee you will enjoy this! The original concept for this story was also refreshing at a time when it feels like some tropes and plots are constantly recycled.
Expect:
🛕Stepbros
🗿Enemies to lovers
🛕Epilepsy Rep
🗿Protective MCs
🛕Adventure
🗿Low Angst/some hurt/comfort
🛕Forced-proximity
🗿Paranormal/fantasy elements
🛕First person pov (wish it was dual)
🗿Standalone
I know the author intended for this to be a standalone but I am hoping I am wrong and this turns into a series at some point.🤞🏻
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
"I wasn't sure when he'd gone from my frenemy to someone I trusted more than anyone, but here we were. Maybe once I'd put all that ridiculous jealousy aside, everything I felt for him just had more room to breathe. Either way, he was so very dear to me."
I have finally come out of my weird review slumber/slump (whatever you want to call it). Not sure what was going on with me, I have had a very hectic week and life has been busy. Adulting. Yuck. But anyway finally found some time to write a review for this fab book.
I'll try to keep it brief because I am still not in the mood to write my usual long reviews lol.
This book was unlike anything I have read by this author. I loved The Spectral Files by S.E. Harmon and the blurb for this book intrigued me, especially the part about one of the MCs being a former stepbrother. I am into that this month. Most of the books that I have read this month have been in the same trope. Heck, I even read a taboo book about an Alpha and his omega brother.👀. Incest. Something that was a trigger for me before isn't anymore I suppose? Let's just say I am more open-minded these days.
I am getting carried away. Smh.
Back to this book, our boy Christopher Addison Sawyer the Third, or as we know him by "Kit" comes from old money. The name speaks for itself, lol. Kit comes from generational wealth and lives a privileged life. His family has quite a legacy in the archaeology community. His grandfather, parents, and stepbrother, Ethan have all been on interesting expeditions where they found groundbreaking discoveries. Kit, however, is no explorer or treasure hunter. He is a very knowledgeable historian and is quite the expert in his field. He is fascinated by the Aztec civilization and at times wished he could live up to the Sawyer name like the rest of his family. Unfortunately, Kit has a chronic illness. He has epilepsy and due to the nature of his illness, he hasn't been able to go on wild adventures to be able to tell the tale. But that doesn't stop him from living his life in the other ways that he can. S.E. Harmon talks in great detail about how Kit suffers from epilepsy and how intrusive such an illness can be to one's life or daily activities that we may take for granted. The author tackled this topic with much empathy and as a reader, you can see how someone like Kit has been struggling with it since he was a kid.
One night, when Kit is working on an Aztec relic, strange things begin to happen to him. Supernatural things? His vision starts to suddenly get better, he doesn't feel as weak as he usually does, and he has strength that wasn't there before. He has symbolic tattoos that were never there before. Strange things. Kit tries to make sense of these things and he concludes that he must go to where the relic has originated. But before he can go on this crazy adventure of his, devastating news brings Kit to his grandfather's estate. There he and his grandfather deal with many unsaid feelings between them. It is also at Remi's estate (the grandfather) that Kit sees his former stepbrother, Ethan, again.
There is a lot of tension between these two, like how Ethan is still handsome as ever with his messy blond hair and crystal green eyes. Yep, Ethan is devastatingly gorgeous and Kit cannot help but appreciate the man in front of him. The tension between the former stepbrothers was enjoyable and sets the tone for how these two will eventually get together. Kit finds Ethan annoying and is a bit jealous of him but he couldn't be any more wrong about Ethan. When Kit decides to go on his suicide mission/crazy adventure, Ethan being the voice of reason decides to tag along, and what an adventure they go on. Everything that can't go wrong, does. On this wild ride in the jungles of Mexico, they come across shady characters, a jealous ex, wild animals and so much more.
Kit was an absolute disaster😂😂. Everything that he wasn't supposed to do he does, he doesn't listen to Ethan and well let's just say he f*cked around and found out. In this misadventure, Kit also finds out how wrong he was about Ethan all these years. These two amid chaos, fall in love. It is not instant love (thank god) nor slow burn. The pace was just right. Ethan had the patience of a saint and idk how they survived this insane journey. Haha. Never a dull moment with these two. You do have to suspend disbelief at times to be able to enjoy this story. So there is that. I read this in one sitting and enjoyed it. Whether it was the Aztec gods, shady ass dudes, or jaguars, I was never bored. The sex scenes weren't that many but it was spicy enough that I enjoyed it. If you are a fan of the Mummy film franchise or Indiana Jones, I guarantee you will enjoy this! The original concept for this story was also refreshing at a time when it feels like some tropes and plots are constantly recycled.
Expect:
🛕Stepbros
🗿Enemies to lovers
🛕Epilepsy Rep
🗿Protective MCs
🛕Adventure
🗿Low Angst/some hurt/comfort
🛕Forced-proximity
🗿Paranormal/fantasy elements
🛕First person pov (wish it was dual)
🗿Standalone
I know the author intended for this to be a standalone but I am hoping I am wrong and this turns into a series at some point.🤞🏻
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 28, 2023
⛔️mild spoilers
As much as I adore SE Harmon this ended up to be just a cute book for me. It had a lot of potential and I loved the first 50% (with little exceptions like Kit being too stupid to live when we were told he was extremely smart- he comes to Mexico unprepared when he was supposed to know very well what an expedition like that entails and also he carries around a bag with unimportant knickknacks but with ….oh oh THE ONLY COPY OF THE MAP 🙄)
Unfortunately the second half was a bit too chaotic for my liking. It had plot holes, events used only as a distraction, insta love (the overused mutual pining “have always will always” where the guys are already in a relationship and always have been and they only need to accept the fact. Yup, pretty boring scenario for me) the dangerous supernatural God element was extremely underwhelming and fizzled out and everything was ..umm cute. Just cute.
The banter fell flat most of the times even though I do like this author’s witty writing style and Kit became less like a cool MC and more like an annoying buzzing fly lol
I liked a lot the animosity between them in the beginning and I totally understand Kit’s resentment (I would have been even more petty and resentful lol) that’s why I would have liked less insta, more serious talks about feelings and less “I have always….!” and “I was with them because they weren’t you” sappy lines.
Also Kit driving knowing he might seizure any time was an incredible stupid thing to do and I hated him for it. He might have killed somebody, that’s not a freaking joke. So yeah, I loved the idea a lot , the Indiana Jones vibes and I liked the side characters too (well except for Dean- I wanted him to die a slow painful death after the Simon thing) . I just wish it had been …more . Nothing reached its potential, not a single story arc. Well , the romance did but it was also a bit underwhelming too.
As much as I adore SE Harmon this ended up to be just a cute book for me. It had a lot of potential and I loved the first 50% (with little exceptions like Kit being too stupid to live when we were told he was extremely smart- he comes to Mexico unprepared when he was supposed to know very well what an expedition like that entails and also he carries around a bag with unimportant knickknacks but with ….oh oh THE ONLY COPY OF THE MAP 🙄)
Unfortunately the second half was a bit too chaotic for my liking. It had plot holes, events used only as a distraction, insta love (the overused mutual pining “have always will always” where the guys are already in a relationship and always have been and they only need to accept the fact. Yup, pretty boring scenario for me) the dangerous supernatural God element was extremely underwhelming and fizzled out and everything was ..umm cute. Just cute.
The banter fell flat most of the times even though I do like this author’s witty writing style and Kit became less like a cool MC and more like an annoying buzzing fly lol
I liked a lot the animosity between them in the beginning and I totally understand Kit’s resentment (I would have been even more petty and resentful lol) that’s why I would have liked less insta, more serious talks about feelings and less “I have always….!” and “I was with them because they weren’t you” sappy lines.
Also Kit driving knowing he might seizure any time was an incredible stupid thing to do and I hated him for it. He might have killed somebody, that’s not a freaking joke. So yeah, I loved the idea a lot , the Indiana Jones vibes and I liked the side characters too (well except for Dean- I wanted him to die a slow painful death after the Simon thing) . I just wish it had been …more . Nothing reached its potential, not a single story arc. Well , the romance did but it was also a bit underwhelming too.
July 25, 2023
Loved this! Really liked the expedition and Indiana Jones vibes. I thought it had the perfect balance of romance and action as well.
This is one of the few books that has gotten me to stay up past my bed time because I can’t stop reading 😂
It was hard to put down, never a dull moment. Really enjoyed every page of this!
This is one of the few books that has gotten me to stay up past my bed time because I can’t stop reading 😂
It was hard to put down, never a dull moment. Really enjoyed every page of this!
July 21, 2023
The first 40% was really good, had me gripped. Character was likable, history setup interesting and the touch of supernatural had great potential.
The Mummy meets Indiana.
Warning - there's a lot of talk of death/dying relatives and cancer, which I wasn't expecting.
From there the pace picked up, and the tone changed. For me it mostly felt inauthentic. Considering his family and qualifications Kit would have an idea of what expeditions required if no practical experience. But he's ill equipped and taking stupid risks to confirm his role as cute clumsy nerd. So Ethan can be the strong capable man. As the story went I came to like precious Kit a lot less! He Ostriches things I'd expect him to research hard.
The romance went from childish resentment - understandable but spiteful, to a bicker-apologise pattern then insta-insta have always, will always..
They walk, it's hot, they eat. Then we hear there were storms... that happened off page. The secondary characters are little more than names with hair colours. It was hard to care too much even when the plot required it.
Harmon likes her witty puns a tad too much. It worked for Spectral Files but has me wary of her as an author. It really depends on your sense of humour if this works for you. For me the constant 'clever' comebacks and similies were too much. Meant I was never sure to read this as an adventure with threat and fears, or take it as a comedy sketch. It didn't suit the insecure character from the start.
Drama happens. Exs, guns, threats, waterfalls - but the 'jokes' continue. Kit can shout sentences while swimming against a strong current for his life.
They even chat through the sex scenes, they were few, I skimmed them.
Kit seems able to fight off seizures long enough to fuss over things, and to fight them off for days when necessary?! While his history suggests he has the type that take him with little to no warning.
The supernatural in the end was simply a convenient device.
There was a lot of potential here, a lot I liked, but the overall tone threw me. Not helped by the nickname KitKat it maybe a play on his name but it's also urban slang and not used to be complimentary.
For me started great, dragged in the middle, then all action that I wanted to like but (with the 'witty' tone) couldn't take serious. Disappointing. Doubt I'll try another Harmon, though I'm sure many will enjoy this.
The Mummy meets Indiana.
Warning - there's a lot of talk of death/dying relatives and cancer, which I wasn't expecting.
From there the pace picked up, and the tone changed. For me it mostly felt inauthentic. Considering his family and qualifications Kit would have an idea of what expeditions required if no practical experience. But he's ill equipped and taking stupid risks to confirm his role as cute clumsy nerd. So Ethan can be the strong capable man. As the story went I came to like precious Kit a lot less! He Ostriches things I'd expect him to research hard.
The romance went from childish resentment - understandable but spiteful, to a bicker-apologise pattern then insta-insta have always, will always..
They walk, it's hot, they eat. Then we hear there were storms... that happened off page. The secondary characters are little more than names with hair colours. It was hard to care too much even when the plot required it.
Harmon likes her witty puns a tad too much. It worked for Spectral Files but has me wary of her as an author. It really depends on your sense of humour if this works for you. For me the constant 'clever' comebacks and similies were too much. Meant I was never sure to read this as an adventure with threat and fears, or take it as a comedy sketch. It didn't suit the insecure character from the start.
Drama happens. Exs, guns, threats, waterfalls - but the 'jokes' continue. Kit can shout sentences while swimming against a strong current for his life.
They even chat through the sex scenes, they were few, I skimmed them.
Kit seems able to fight off seizures long enough to fuss over things, and to fight them off for days when necessary?! While his history suggests he has the type that take him with little to no warning.
The supernatural in the end was simply a convenient device.
There was a lot of potential here, a lot I liked, but the overall tone threw me. Not helped by the nickname KitKat it maybe a play on his name but it's also urban slang and not used to be complimentary.
For me started great, dragged in the middle, then all action that I wanted to like but (with the 'witty' tone) couldn't take serious. Disappointing. Doubt I'll try another Harmon, though I'm sure many will enjoy this.
July 22, 2023
~4.5
Loved:
◇ Dynamics between MCs: banter, pining, slow burn, frenemies to lovers, trust, protectiveness, chemistry
◇ Kit - limited by his epilepsy but not letting it define his life. Smart, nerdy, oblivious, funny, sarcastic, insecure, complex, lovable
◇ Ethan - handsome, loyal, always accepting Kit just as he is and being there for him
◇ The balance between the adventure and the romance
◇ Paranormal angle
◇ Secondary characters
◇ The epilogue
As with all romantic adventure movies, you need to suspend disbelief to enjoy this one.
Everyone mentions Indiana Jones in relation to the book, but it gave me "Romancing The Stone" vibe
Loved:
◇ Dynamics between MCs: banter, pining, slow burn, frenemies to lovers, trust, protectiveness, chemistry
◇ Kit - limited by his epilepsy but not letting it define his life. Smart, nerdy, oblivious, funny, sarcastic, insecure, complex, lovable
◇ Ethan - handsome, loyal, always accepting Kit just as he is and being there for him
◇ The balance between the adventure and the romance
◇ Paranormal angle
◇ Secondary characters
◇ The epilogue
As with all romantic adventure movies, you need to suspend disbelief to enjoy this one.
Everyone mentions Indiana Jones in relation to the book, but it gave me "Romancing The Stone" vibe
July 29, 2023
This was so good, I adored it.
Kit Sawyer is actually Christopher Sawyer the Third. He comes from a family of famous archeologists. His father, his mother, his grandfather - also named Christopher, but he goes by Remi - and also his former stepbrother and perpetual thorn in his side (and crush he's repressed for a long, long time), Ethan Stone.
Only thing is, when he was a kid it was found out he has epilepsy, so he could never go on the adventures his parents, his grandfather and Ethan could. But he still loves archeology from a research standpoint.
Only, since the Sawyer name is so well known in the archeology world, Kit is sometimes seen as the 'boring' one told by several of his exes, most notably Paul, his most recent ex.
Also because he could never go on adventures when he was a kid like Ethan could, there was misplaced jealousy from Kit towards Ethan. Like Ethan was somehow stealing his dad from him. Which led to a love-hate dynamic between them. Mostly on Kit's side, but Ethan was jealous sometimes too.
But the thing is, Kit has repressed a crush that he knows about deep down for Ethan for years, even after their parents divorced, but whenever he's around Ethan it's clear as day how he really feels but won't dare to admit.
Ethan, on the other hand, it's pretty clear he gave into his feelings a long time ago and is just full on head over heels for Kit. But Kit is totally oblivious.
It takes an adventure into the past Aztec forest for Kit to let go of the walls he's put up and let him just feel what he so wants to feel for Ethan.
I loved these two so much, they were so enjoyable together. They're snark and banter was A+ and they made me laugh several times. Kit as a main character was just hilarious too. All his quips and one-liners were so funny, whether he said them out loud or just thought them.
And as he and Ethan spend more and more time together, Kit sees Ethan for who he really is, not the idea he had of him before, or who he made himself believe Ethan is. And he can't resist the hunky man in all his sweet, sexy glory.
This was kinda slow burn and kind not. They were a little forced to be slow burn because of where they were, but their feelings don't take too long to be realized (and it's clear Ethan already feels that way and realizes he feels that way) and once they do, they're practically all in.
There's adventure to be had and it's enough adventure to last Kit Sawyer a lifetime lol. His reactions to bugs and spiders and snakes, etc, in the jungle is just pure magic, because that's exactly how I'd react. It also led to some funny "dance" moves to get them off him lol.
There is a supernatural element too with potential Aztec gods who may or may not be real. But as perilous as the journey may seem, Ethan and Kit make it out of the scary jungle alive, to be able to get their HEA, which was just wonderful to read.
And of course the is just quintessential Kit and Ethan, it was perfect, I was grinning like a loon while reading it.
Can't wait for more from this author, her books are always so good and always such a fun read. Loved it! 😍😘🥰
Kit Sawyer is actually Christopher Sawyer the Third. He comes from a family of famous archeologists. His father, his mother, his grandfather - also named Christopher, but he goes by Remi - and also his former stepbrother and perpetual thorn in his side (and crush he's repressed for a long, long time), Ethan Stone.
Only thing is, when he was a kid it was found out he has epilepsy, so he could never go on the adventures his parents, his grandfather and Ethan could. But he still loves archeology from a research standpoint.
Only, since the Sawyer name is so well known in the archeology world, Kit is sometimes seen as the 'boring' one told by several of his exes, most notably Paul, his most recent ex.
Also because he could never go on adventures when he was a kid like Ethan could, there was misplaced jealousy from Kit towards Ethan. Like Ethan was somehow stealing his dad from him. Which led to a love-hate dynamic between them. Mostly on Kit's side, but Ethan was jealous sometimes too.
But the thing is, Kit has repressed a crush that he knows about deep down for Ethan for years, even after their parents divorced, but whenever he's around Ethan it's clear as day how he really feels but won't dare to admit.
Ethan, on the other hand, it's pretty clear he gave into his feelings a long time ago and is just full on head over heels for Kit. But Kit is totally oblivious.
It takes an adventure into the past Aztec forest for Kit to let go of the walls he's put up and let him just feel what he so wants to feel for Ethan.
I loved these two so much, they were so enjoyable together. They're snark and banter was A+ and they made me laugh several times. Kit as a main character was just hilarious too. All his quips and one-liners were so funny, whether he said them out loud or just thought them.
And as he and Ethan spend more and more time together, Kit sees Ethan for who he really is, not the idea he had of him before, or who he made himself believe Ethan is. And he can't resist the hunky man in all his sweet, sexy glory.
This was kinda slow burn and kind not. They were a little forced to be slow burn because of where they were, but their feelings don't take too long to be realized (and it's clear Ethan already feels that way and realizes he feels that way) and once they do, they're practically all in.
There's adventure to be had and it's enough adventure to last Kit Sawyer a lifetime lol. His reactions to bugs and spiders and snakes, etc, in the jungle is just pure magic, because that's exactly how I'd react. It also led to some funny "dance" moves to get them off him lol.
There is a supernatural element too with potential Aztec gods who may or may not be real. But as perilous as the journey may seem, Ethan and Kit make it out of the scary jungle alive, to be able to get their HEA, which was just wonderful to read.
And of course the is just quintessential Kit and Ethan, it was perfect, I was grinning like a loon while reading it.
Can't wait for more from this author, her books are always so good and always such a fun read. Loved it! 😍😘🥰
June 5, 2024
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes down below.
Maybe I was in a bad mood while listening and maybe I’m a bit harsh, but I was expecting more from this. The romance was nearly non-existent and very forgettable. I actually missed the first time one of the MCs made a move on the other and had to go back because it was so out of the blue. I’m also disappointed by the step brothers thing. Sure, most of their issues were in the past and they’re grown men, but I expected it to play a bigger part in their relationship. It’s not even mentioned how other people, friends or close family, reacted to finding out.
The adventure part was exciting, and I loved all of the bits of history and anthropology. All I can say is thank god it’s the first and last adventure for Kit, because he’s a shit adventurer, lol.
It’s clearly not a bad book, but I found most of the characters to be unlikeable for a very large part of the book, none more than the terminally sick grandfather who I wanted to roundhouse kick in the face a time or two.
Great book if you want the focus to be on the action and exploration stuffs, but the romance was lacking. Sometimes romcom vibes/type of humor works for me, but usually it doesn’t, and it felt like it was trying very hard to be funny.
Don’t get me started on rimming after over a month in the jungle without showering. I don’t know whether to be horrified or somehow impressed.
3.5 ⭐️
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Gay Indiana Jones
Step brothers
Adventure and action
MC with epilepsy
Frenemies
Anthropology/culture
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Mentions of past death of parents (off page)
MC cheated on by ex boyfriend (past, some details)
Sober MCs drink spiked with alcohol (past, detailed)
Past and present epileptic seizures (on page)
Grandparent with terminal colon cancer (does not die during book)
Recounting of being crawled on by a spider
Explicit sexual content
Side character shot on page
Gun violence
Unsafe sex
Penetration without lube
Injured MC
Graphic deaths of minor characters
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No
Breakup: No
POV: 1st person, single
Genre: Urban romantasy
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
Main characters’ age: 32 and 32
Series: Standalone
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 326
Happy ending: Yes
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
Maybe I was in a bad mood while listening and maybe I’m a bit harsh, but I was expecting more from this. The romance was nearly non-existent and very forgettable. I actually missed the first time one of the MCs made a move on the other and had to go back because it was so out of the blue. I’m also disappointed by the step brothers thing. Sure, most of their issues were in the past and they’re grown men, but I expected it to play a bigger part in their relationship. It’s not even mentioned how other people, friends or close family, reacted to finding out.
The adventure part was exciting, and I loved all of the bits of history and anthropology. All I can say is thank god it’s the first and last adventure for Kit, because he’s a shit adventurer, lol.
It’s clearly not a bad book, but I found most of the characters to be unlikeable for a very large part of the book, none more than the terminally sick grandfather who I wanted to roundhouse kick in the face a time or two.
Great book if you want the focus to be on the action and exploration stuffs, but the romance was lacking. Sometimes romcom vibes/type of humor works for me, but usually it doesn’t, and it felt like it was trying very hard to be funny.
Don’t get me started on rimming after over a month in the jungle without showering. I don’t know whether to be horrified or somehow impressed.
3.5 ⭐️
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Gay Indiana Jones
Step brothers
Adventure and action
MC with epilepsy
Frenemies
Anthropology/culture
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Mentions of past death of parents (off page)
MC cheated on by ex boyfriend (past, some details)
Sober MCs drink spiked with alcohol (past, detailed)
Past and present epileptic seizures (on page)
Grandparent with terminal colon cancer (does not die during book)
Recounting of being crawled on by a spider
Explicit sexual content
Side character shot on page
Gun violence
Unsafe sex
Penetration without lube
Injured MC
Graphic deaths of minor characters
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No
Breakup: No
POV: 1st person, single
Genre: Urban romantasy
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles
Main characters’ age: 32 and 32
Series: Standalone
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 326
Happy ending: Yes
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
June 8, 2024
This was so fun to read! I laughed so much and I wasn't expecting that at all.
I'm generally not a fan of adventure stories - I've never watched Indiana Jones, The Mummy etc because I get so bored and end up wandering off to do something else 😂 I prefer to cry at my entertainment either from laughing so much or there being emotional trauma. BUT this book really pulled me in and I couldn't put it down until I was done.
I loved the relationship between Kit and Ethan - stepbrothers is one of my favourite tropes, especially when one is oblivious of how the other feels and their feelings span years. I really liked how they were snarky with each other but ultimately were always there for each other.
The villain irritated me though and I did find the mystery/curse a little lacking in the end, plus the whole supernatural element kind of threw me, but overall this was a really entertaining and engaging story.
I'm generally not a fan of adventure stories - I've never watched Indiana Jones, The Mummy etc because I get so bored and end up wandering off to do something else 😂 I prefer to cry at my entertainment either from laughing so much or there being emotional trauma. BUT this book really pulled me in and I couldn't put it down until I was done.
I loved the relationship between Kit and Ethan - stepbrothers is one of my favourite tropes, especially when one is oblivious of how the other feels and their feelings span years. I really liked how they were snarky with each other but ultimately were always there for each other.
The villain irritated me though and I did find the mystery/curse a little lacking in the end, plus the whole supernatural element kind of threw me, but overall this was a really entertaining and engaging story.
August 3, 2023
This was so much fun! Indiana Jones, but make him gay (Ethan) and with a nerdy sidekick (Kit). But the book is entirely in Kit’s POV.
Jungle adventures, hidden temple, human sacrifices, cursed relics, the whole thing. It was amazing.
Why not 5 stars?
The secret pining and relationship start was unconvincing.
And the epilogue bored me to death.
Jungle adventures, hidden temple, human sacrifices, cursed relics, the whole thing. It was amazing.
Why not 5 stars?
The secret pining and relationship start was unconvincing.
And the epilogue bored me to death.
July 25, 2023
This was so refreshing and different to so many books I’ve read this year. I loved Kit - the epilepsy rep and his general persona really worked for me. I loved how the author showed what an unreliable narrator he was without explicitly saying it. She showed that his opinion of himself differs a lot from how other people view him, particularly Ethan. This was single POV done really well, I never felt the need for Ethan’s POV as I felt I saw Kit in his entirety purely from how he was depicted.
This was super engaging and read like an action film - absolutely need to suspend disbelief and if you’re a die-hard survivalist wanting a realistic depiction of life in the jungle this probably won’t be for you. There is a supernatural element which I wasn’t expecting but it worked well. I do wish that there was more detail gone into the whole “sacrifice” thing but overall it was still really good with suspenseful tension but not angst.
The balance between romance and action was lovely, not insta-love yet not slowburn, the pacing worked great. I really felt the connection here and liked how this didn’t turn into stepbrother kink, rather that part of it was in relation to their troubled beginning which felt believable. The epilogue was lovely and finished this off really nicely.
If you loved the archeological adventure aspect of this I highly recommend Anna Butler’s Gilded Scarab (Lancasters Luck series-m/m). It’s been a few years since I’ve read this series but the characters have stuck in my head and I really enjoyed it at the time.
This was super engaging and read like an action film - absolutely need to suspend disbelief and if you’re a die-hard survivalist wanting a realistic depiction of life in the jungle this probably won’t be for you. There is a supernatural element which I wasn’t expecting but it worked well. I do wish that there was more detail gone into the whole “sacrifice” thing but overall it was still really good with suspenseful tension but not angst.
The balance between romance and action was lovely, not insta-love yet not slowburn, the pacing worked great. I really felt the connection here and liked how this didn’t turn into stepbrother kink, rather that part of it was in relation to their troubled beginning which felt believable. The epilogue was lovely and finished this off really nicely.
If you loved the archeological adventure aspect of this I highly recommend Anna Butler’s Gilded Scarab (Lancasters Luck series-m/m). It’s been a few years since I’ve read this series but the characters have stuck in my head and I really enjoyed it at the time.
July 30, 2023
4.5 stars
This was fun and exciting and kept me glued to the pages. I loved Kit and was rooting for him from the beginning. I liked how the author handled his epilepsy, except I kept wondering why he drove. After 2 years of no seizures was one thing but when he was having them pretty regularly while he was younger was another. But I admired his courage and drive to do what he wanted and to not let anyone else slow him down.
The relationship was full of sexual tension, only Kit couldn’t see that Ethan was head over heels for him. I always love good bantering between characters and these two did that perfectly. I adored how protective Ethan was over Kit while also giving him his own space to be himself.
The adventure was exciting and then it was stressful. I wish we saw more of the supernatural element. I actually didn’t expect it but then I wanted a bit more.
I really enjoyed this and it was different than a lot of books which I appreciated.
This was fun and exciting and kept me glued to the pages. I loved Kit and was rooting for him from the beginning. I liked how the author handled his epilepsy, except I kept wondering why he drove. After 2 years of no seizures was one thing but when he was having them pretty regularly while he was younger was another. But I admired his courage and drive to do what he wanted and to not let anyone else slow him down.
The relationship was full of sexual tension, only Kit couldn’t see that Ethan was head over heels for him. I always love good bantering between characters and these two did that perfectly. I adored how protective Ethan was over Kit while also giving him his own space to be himself.
The adventure was exciting and then it was stressful. I wish we saw more of the supernatural element. I actually didn’t expect it but then I wanted a bit more.
I really enjoyed this and it was different than a lot of books which I appreciated.
August 6, 2023
On paper this is another one I should love. In reality - not quite so much. Rating it ⭐⭐⭐
September 23, 2023
4.5 Adventure! Treasure hunting! A wonderful story with romance, action, bad guys, good guys, a jungle trek and ancient myths and legends. Enemy to lovers, stepbrothers, treasure hunt, m/m, magic/mystic/curse, first person single POV, light spice, light movie style bad guy drama.
The book is enemies to lovers, friend-enemies, frienemies, and the beginning is heart wrenching watching Kit have to play nice with the person that has literally replaced him in his family legacy, the person treated more like part of the team than he is. I wanted to slap everyone for making Kit feel like the outsider time and again. Everyone saying horrible things to him and yet demanding that HE apologize when making some minor comment.
Kit is a human shaped suitcase full of hurt feelings from numerous fronts and it’s so satisfying seeing Kit’s hopes, dreams and long-time wish to add to his family’s legacy come to fruition. The writing is really great, excellent banter without being over the top, some fun and funny parts and some heavy and deep moments as well. Very well rounded, fast paced, stayed interesting.
Half a point off for the lack luster “confrontation”, lots of awesome build-up and then… that.
Enemy to lovers, stepbrothers, treasure hunt, m/m, magic/mystic/curse, first person single POV.
The book is enemies to lovers, friend-enemies, frienemies, and the beginning is heart wrenching watching Kit have to play nice with the person that has literally replaced him in his family legacy, the person treated more like part of the team than he is. I wanted to slap everyone for making Kit feel like the outsider time and again. Everyone saying horrible things to him and yet demanding that HE apologize when making some minor comment.
Kit is a human shaped suitcase full of hurt feelings from numerous fronts and it’s so satisfying seeing Kit’s hopes, dreams and long-time wish to add to his family’s legacy come to fruition. The writing is really great, excellent banter without being over the top, some fun and funny parts and some heavy and deep moments as well. Very well rounded, fast paced, stayed interesting.
Half a point off for the lack luster “confrontation”, lots of awesome build-up and then… that.
Enemy to lovers, stepbrothers, treasure hunt, m/m, magic/mystic/curse, first person single POV.
July 24, 2023
Very enjoyable story, even though I wanted less action and more romance. This author makes me enjoy a jungle adventure, though.
July 13, 2023
4.5
I adored this. So much.
"The First and Last Adventure of Kit Sawyer" is a fun, adventurous, witty and romantic ride of a book: I enjoyed the hell out of it and I seriously have to applaud S.E. Harmon. This novel has kept me out of a reading slump and I'm so thankful I got the chance to read and review this in advance!
I had such a fun time with this, and following Kit and Ethan on their (mis)adventure in the Mexican jungles, battling spiders and jaguars, handling creepy (and possibly supernatural) Aztec relics and their not-so-hidden attraction to one another, was absolutely priceless. I loved their story to bits. And I adored both protagonists too.
Kit is to the adventure, Indiana Jones-esque genre, what amateur sleuths are to the murder mystery one. He's an absolute disaster: reckless and clueless and hilariously unlucky, but also witty and snarky and prickly and insecure and lovable, and I just adored him. I wanted to kick him and wrap him in bubble wrap at the same time.
Kit's a mess, but thankfully he has his ex-stepbrother, and frenemy, Ethan to look out for him. And omg, their dynamic was FABULOUS: fueled by hidden tension and oblivious crushing, chemistry and snarky banter... I adored their romance. I also adored Ethan: gah, where does one go about finding an Ethan in real life? Please, someone help.
I adored all the side characters, from Remy to snarky Val and funny Simon, and the villains were positively villainous and creepy and easy to hate. I loved the atmosphere, the old-time adventure romp this book had going on, and the setting was so vivid my mind was instantly transported inside the book.
I also LOVED the fact that there's epilepsy rep: romances need more chronic illness rep, so I was sold on this book from the very first time I discovered there was some here too. I found Kit's character to be very relatable: I don't have epilepsy, but I do have a few chronic illnesses of my own that limit the share of adventures and journeys I can be on, so I found Kit's character and his struggles very relatable and refreshing. His epilespy isn't magically cured by the end of the novel either; the ending is even more satisfying because of it.
I'm so damn happy I gave this book a go: "The First and Last Adventure of Kit Sawyer" was a fantastic, action-packed and romance-fueled, adventure and its writing was *chef's kiss* incredible. S.E. Harmon has a witty, hilarious pen, and she is one of the few authors that never fails to make me laugh at loud, gasp and swoon at the same time. Wholly recommended.
Thank you GRR for the ARC. I received it in exchange for an honest review.
I adored this. So much.
"The First and Last Adventure of Kit Sawyer" is a fun, adventurous, witty and romantic ride of a book: I enjoyed the hell out of it and I seriously have to applaud S.E. Harmon. This novel has kept me out of a reading slump and I'm so thankful I got the chance to read and review this in advance!
I had such a fun time with this, and following Kit and Ethan on their (mis)adventure in the Mexican jungles, battling spiders and jaguars, handling creepy (and possibly supernatural) Aztec relics and their not-so-hidden attraction to one another, was absolutely priceless. I loved their story to bits. And I adored both protagonists too.
Kit is to the adventure, Indiana Jones-esque genre, what amateur sleuths are to the murder mystery one. He's an absolute disaster: reckless and clueless and hilariously unlucky, but also witty and snarky and prickly and insecure and lovable, and I just adored him. I wanted to kick him and wrap him in bubble wrap at the same time.
Kit's a mess, but thankfully he has his ex-stepbrother, and frenemy, Ethan to look out for him. And omg, their dynamic was FABULOUS: fueled by hidden tension and oblivious crushing, chemistry and snarky banter... I adored their romance. I also adored Ethan: gah, where does one go about finding an Ethan in real life? Please, someone help.
I adored all the side characters, from Remy to snarky Val and funny Simon, and the villains were positively villainous and creepy and easy to hate. I loved the atmosphere, the old-time adventure romp this book had going on, and the setting was so vivid my mind was instantly transported inside the book.
I also LOVED the fact that there's epilepsy rep: romances need more chronic illness rep, so I was sold on this book from the very first time I discovered there was some here too. I found Kit's character to be very relatable: I don't have epilepsy, but I do have a few chronic illnesses of my own that limit the share of adventures and journeys I can be on, so I found Kit's character and his struggles very relatable and refreshing. His epilespy isn't magically cured by the end of the novel either; the ending is even more satisfying because of it.
I'm so damn happy I gave this book a go: "The First and Last Adventure of Kit Sawyer" was a fantastic, action-packed and romance-fueled, adventure and its writing was *chef's kiss* incredible. S.E. Harmon has a witty, hilarious pen, and she is one of the few authors that never fails to make me laugh at loud, gasp and swoon at the same time. Wholly recommended.
Thank you GRR for the ARC. I received it in exchange for an honest review.
October 12, 2023
I picked up this book during my summer vacation, and it turned out to be the perfect story to read while on the go or lounging by the pool. It is packed with action and set against the exotic backdrop, most of the story is set in the Mexican jungle, with the main characters embarking on an Indiana Jones-style expedition.
The main characters, Kit and Ethan, are undeniably cute, and it's easy to believe in the bond that grows between them. Even though they were unaware of each other's feelings for many years; this aspect of the story, while occasionally feeling a bit contrived, did not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment. The author did an excellent job of convincing readers that these two very different men could indeed form a successful relationship and were truly meant for each other. I appreciated how they supported each other and how Ethan encouraged Kit to pursue his dreams.
Despite its considerable length, the book never felt dragging. There is plenty of action, unexpected twists, and intriguing moments throughout. Right from the beginning, we are introduced to a paranormal element that sets the stage for the entire adventure. It adds an extra layer of excitement to the narrative, making it an enjoyable ride.
I sincerely hope that the author decides to turn this book into a series because I would gladly revisit these main characters and join them on another journey. Watching them face challenges, both from the forces of nature and destiny, provided a great deal of entertainment. I can easily imagine them experiencing yet another thrilling adventure together.
We are treated to a really nice combination of adventure, romance, and a touch of the supernatural, all set against the backdrop of the Mexican jungle. The characters are pretty well-developed, and their journey is both exciting and heart-warming at times. If you're looking for an adventurous escape, this book is an excellent choice. I, for one, am looking forward to the possibility of more adventures with Kit and Ethan in the future.
The main characters, Kit and Ethan, are undeniably cute, and it's easy to believe in the bond that grows between them. Even though they were unaware of each other's feelings for many years; this aspect of the story, while occasionally feeling a bit contrived, did not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment. The author did an excellent job of convincing readers that these two very different men could indeed form a successful relationship and were truly meant for each other. I appreciated how they supported each other and how Ethan encouraged Kit to pursue his dreams.
Despite its considerable length, the book never felt dragging. There is plenty of action, unexpected twists, and intriguing moments throughout. Right from the beginning, we are introduced to a paranormal element that sets the stage for the entire adventure. It adds an extra layer of excitement to the narrative, making it an enjoyable ride.
I sincerely hope that the author decides to turn this book into a series because I would gladly revisit these main characters and join them on another journey. Watching them face challenges, both from the forces of nature and destiny, provided a great deal of entertainment. I can easily imagine them experiencing yet another thrilling adventure together.
We are treated to a really nice combination of adventure, romance, and a touch of the supernatural, all set against the backdrop of the Mexican jungle. The characters are pretty well-developed, and their journey is both exciting and heart-warming at times. If you're looking for an adventurous escape, this book is an excellent choice. I, for one, am looking forward to the possibility of more adventures with Kit and Ethan in the future.
August 7, 2023
This was just so. much. fun.
If you ever watched The Mummy or Indiana Jones and thought “I want more of this but make it queer” then I can promise that you will have a great time with this.
I was drawn in initially for the adventuring/archaeological romance but stayed for the surprisingly complex characters and watching Kit and Ethan navigate their history to come together in a relationship with great chemistry.
I would like more of this please 😌
If you ever watched The Mummy or Indiana Jones and thought “I want more of this but make it queer” then I can promise that you will have a great time with this.
I was drawn in initially for the adventuring/archaeological romance but stayed for the surprisingly complex characters and watching Kit and Ethan navigate their history to come together in a relationship with great chemistry.
I would like more of this please 😌
Read
May 16, 2024Audio: 4.5 stars, I enjoy Joel Leslie's narration
Book: DNF @54%
This started so well, but then Kit became so annoying. Like I get the back and forth with him and Ethan, at the beginning, but after 54% and it still happens, it got old.
Idk I just lost interest in continuing with the remainder of the book.. and I looked at spoiler reviews, and decided it won't be for me since there will be plot holes...
Book: DNF @54%
This started so well, but then Kit became so annoying. Like I get the back and forth with him and Ethan, at the beginning, but after 54% and it still happens, it got old.
Idk I just lost interest in continuing with the remainder of the book.. and I looked at spoiler reviews, and decided it won't be for me since there will be plot holes...
September 17, 2024
This was fun. The adventure aspect was very much secondary to the romance but it was a very sweet romance with an adventure in the Mexican jungle as a backdrop.
September 30, 2023
✰4.5 stars ✰
I really adored this book. It was giving all of the gay Indiana Jones/National Treasure/Temple Run vibes that I didn’t know I needed this week.
I’ve read a fair number of books by S.E. Harmon and have yet to be disappointed, the Spectral Files series will always have a special place in my heart. So this was such a lovely treat because it was new and unique, so vividly S.E. Harmon, but not something I’ve read in MM romance before.
Kit Sawyer was a lovely character. He had amazing depth, and a wealth of feelings that he was dealing with throughout the book. S.E. Harmon didn’t shy away from tough subjects and tough feelings, especially those we sometimes feel towards our parents. I really enjoyed that we got what that real emotion might look like.
I also really loved Ethan. Listen, I’ve seen other reviews that weren’t a fan of the whole “I’ve loved you the whole time trope” but that’s my jam sometimes and I was all for it in this book. It worked so well for the characters, and I was onboard 100%.
Another great thing about this book is that is mostly plot driven, I feel like in the MM romance world there is a lot of character driven books/emphasis on smut and the plot gets the back burner a lot of the time. Now don’t get me wrong, I LOVE those books too. I just really enjoyed this one because it was a change of pace and there was a really full-blown plot arc to this one.
Along that same vein, there were spicy sex scenes between these characters, but it was a small portion of the overall novel. So there might be less than you expect, but I think it was truly the right amount for the way this novels story was set up.
I definitely recommend this if you’re looking for something that gives the perfect amount of action, romance, and excitement perfect for a cozy fall afternoon read.
I really adored this book. It was giving all of the gay Indiana Jones/National Treasure/Temple Run vibes that I didn’t know I needed this week.
I’ve read a fair number of books by S.E. Harmon and have yet to be disappointed, the Spectral Files series will always have a special place in my heart. So this was such a lovely treat because it was new and unique, so vividly S.E. Harmon, but not something I’ve read in MM romance before.
“I can call it The First and Extremely, Utterly, Absolutely Last Adventure of Kit Sawyer.”
Kit Sawyer was a lovely character. He had amazing depth, and a wealth of feelings that he was dealing with throughout the book. S.E. Harmon didn’t shy away from tough subjects and tough feelings, especially those we sometimes feel towards our parents. I really enjoyed that we got what that real emotion might look like.
I also really loved Ethan. Listen, I’ve seen other reviews that weren’t a fan of the whole “I’ve loved you the whole time trope” but that’s my jam sometimes and I was all for it in this book. It worked so well for the characters, and I was onboard 100%.
Without the animosity and jealousy, I’d found there was just…Ethan. And that was the very best excavation I’d ever done.
Another great thing about this book is that is mostly plot driven, I feel like in the MM romance world there is a lot of character driven books/emphasis on smut and the plot gets the back burner a lot of the time. Now don’t get me wrong, I LOVE those books too. I just really enjoyed this one because it was a change of pace and there was a really full-blown plot arc to this one.
Along that same vein, there were spicy sex scenes between these characters, but it was a small portion of the overall novel. So there might be less than you expect, but I think it was truly the right amount for the way this novels story was set up.
I definitely recommend this if you’re looking for something that gives the perfect amount of action, romance, and excitement perfect for a cozy fall afternoon read.
July 23, 2023
I enjoyed this one, but on the whole, I'd say I liked the idea of it more than the actual execution. The concept was unique and I enjoyed the various relationship dynamics, but the pacing and plotting didn't always feel cohesive to me. The sudden switch from argumentative banter to explicit flirting felt quite sudden and heavy-handed, and I was left with the same impression for several of the plot beats. I was also left a little confused at the end
I really loved Kit (and having an epileptic MC) and I thought the tensions between him and Ethan was super great and definitely gave me what I wanted dynamics and connections-wise, but the evolution didn't build quite as organically as I'd have liked. There were some great bones here, but it felt really sloppy and rushed, and like it needed some good dev edits to bring out the best in the story.
I really loved Kit (and having an epileptic MC) and I thought the tensions between him and Ethan was super great and definitely gave me what I wanted dynamics and connections-wise, but the evolution didn't build quite as organically as I'd have liked. There were some great bones here, but it felt really sloppy and rushed, and like it needed some good dev edits to bring out the best in the story.
September 9, 2023
Indiana Jones but make it gay, I was all for it, and it was a quick and enjoyable read.
Kit was quite likeable and relatable as MC, his chemistry with Ethan quite exciting (though the sex was more hilarious than hot). It was also a really funny read, it had me snicker quite a lot, although some of Kit's inner monologue was corny as hell.
Regarding the plot, I simply had to suspend my disbelief, then I was able to properly enjoy the ride.
The ending/epilogue was really cheesy and everything was wrapped up way too neatly for my tastes, but otherwise I don't regret reading the story.
Kit was quite likeable and relatable as MC, his chemistry with Ethan quite exciting (though the sex was more hilarious than hot). It was also a really funny read, it had me snicker quite a lot, although some of Kit's inner monologue was corny as hell.
Regarding the plot, I simply had to suspend my disbelief, then I was able to properly enjoy the ride.
The ending/epilogue was really cheesy and everything was wrapped up way too neatly for my tastes, but otherwise I don't regret reading the story.
April 15, 2024
Indiana Jones meets Tomb Raider but make it gay
Want to read
March 10, 2025Pre-read
I got this without looking at the narrator because S E Harmon and I was distracted and it turned out to be one of the two narrators I don't like. Now what 😭
I got this without looking at the narrator because S E Harmon and I was distracted and it turned out to be one of the two narrators I don't like. Now what 😭
August 26, 2023
An excellent, high-adventure tale with all the feels. I enjoyed every second spent with Ethan and Kit. I’ve always adored treasure hunting and explorer themes and this story didn’t disappoint. And the Aztec legend and lore was handled perfectly. Enough detail to entice and paint a vivid picture but not so much to make it feel like a stuffy history class. I was late to SE Harmony’s work, but I am quickly catching up!
April 19, 2024
I loved it! Even with a full list of plot holes and impossible things🙌
RTC
RTC
September 1, 2023
What a delight this book was! Kit is a historian in a family of adventurers / archeologists. He very much feels like the odd one out as his health issues have always precluded him from adventuring so he focusses on his research and is mostly, quietly happy.
Ethan is Kit's former stepbrother and a high octane treasure hunter. He's the son that Kit feels that his parents should have had and Ethan stayed part of his family's life long after their parents were no longer married. The two have a difficult relationship full of sniping and dislike and a great deal of resentment from Kit.
When Kit decodes a crown, only to find the crown following him around and appearing unexpectedly atop his head, he realises the only way to solve the mystery is to find the lost city the relic came from. And Ethan joins him for the journey (much to his disgust).
The tension and banter between these two was funny and also a little bittersweet as we see how much miscommunication has arisen between them over the years. I just adored .
Kit was so clueless about so many things and there were some actions in the book that were so eyeroll worthy I wondered why they had been included. However, this didn't really detract overall from how much fun this was to read. The chemistry between Kit and Ethan was 🔥; their coming together was🔥 and the story was just a rollicking good time - I read the whole thing in one sitting it was so much fun.
A great addition to SE Harmon's body of work.
ARC provided in exchange for my honest review
Ethan is Kit's former stepbrother and a high octane treasure hunter. He's the son that Kit feels that his parents should have had and Ethan stayed part of his family's life long after their parents were no longer married. The two have a difficult relationship full of sniping and dislike and a great deal of resentment from Kit.
When Kit decodes a crown, only to find the crown following him around and appearing unexpectedly atop his head, he realises the only way to solve the mystery is to find the lost city the relic came from. And Ethan joins him for the journey (much to his disgust).
The tension and banter between these two was funny and also a little bittersweet as we see how much miscommunication has arisen between them over the years. I just adored .
Kit was so clueless about so many things and there were some actions in the book that were so eyeroll worthy I wondered why they had been included. However, this didn't really detract overall from how much fun this was to read. The chemistry between Kit and Ethan was 🔥; their coming together was🔥 and the story was just a rollicking good time - I read the whole thing in one sitting it was so much fun.
A great addition to SE Harmon's body of work.
ARC provided in exchange for my honest review
May 26, 2024
2.5/5⭐ 2.5/5🌶️ 1/5😱 0/5🎧
Boy oh boy did I spend an inordinate amount of time on the struggle bus that was reading this book.
Y'all, I don't know why some of you rated it so highly.
This was queer Indiana Jones with Tomb Raider vibes. Which sounds interesting you know?
First I audio'd this. Big mistake. The narrator's voice irritated me to hell, with its ending each sentence on a question mark and sounding like he is a septuagenarian on a Viagra and uppers cocktail. But I was still intrigued by the story enough that I decided I will just read this.
You guessed it, it didn't get all that much better. I was bored out of my mind for most of it, only getting out of slumpy state at the spicy scenes (the 2.5 that were there), only to return to being bored senseless again.
Even the Jaguar-Aztec God dude didn't impress me much. Also, the writing just didn't work for me. Too many turns of phrase that felt forced.
"...as a shitty chaser to that craptastic cocktail..."
"...seizures would return, like a shitty ex with an ex to grind..."
"...wished I had rented a flying carpet so I could get out of there, pronto..."
"...patted my blushing cheeks, who were busying themselves calling me a liar..."
"...hand me those eyebrows at your feet so I can glue them back on..."
And of course, this gem:
"...the only way he would've spat me out quicker was if I'd said I was secreting poison from my dick..."
Mic drop. 🎤
Actually, just reviewing this is making me wonder why I finished it. My little Indiana Jones fan heart made me do it. But it was annoying.
Xoxo
Boy oh boy did I spend an inordinate amount of time on the struggle bus that was reading this book.
Y'all, I don't know why some of you rated it so highly.
This was queer Indiana Jones with Tomb Raider vibes. Which sounds interesting you know?
First I audio'd this. Big mistake. The narrator's voice irritated me to hell, with its ending each sentence on a question mark and sounding like he is a septuagenarian on a Viagra and uppers cocktail. But I was still intrigued by the story enough that I decided I will just read this.
You guessed it, it didn't get all that much better. I was bored out of my mind for most of it, only getting out of slumpy state at the spicy scenes (the 2.5 that were there), only to return to being bored senseless again.
Even the Jaguar-Aztec God dude didn't impress me much. Also, the writing just didn't work for me. Too many turns of phrase that felt forced.
"...as a shitty chaser to that craptastic cocktail..."
"...seizures would return, like a shitty ex with an ex to grind..."
"...wished I had rented a flying carpet so I could get out of there, pronto..."
"...patted my blushing cheeks, who were busying themselves calling me a liar..."
"...hand me those eyebrows at your feet so I can glue them back on..."
And of course, this gem:
"...the only way he would've spat me out quicker was if I'd said I was secreting poison from my dick..."
Mic drop. 🎤
Actually, just reviewing this is making me wonder why I finished it. My little Indiana Jones fan heart made me do it. But it was annoying.
Xoxo
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