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Book Club Boys #3
Die For You
TRISTAN HALL
With a serial killer's crosshairs on my back, the world as I knew it is turned upside down. The threats are real, the fear is palpable, and my survival? Questionable.
Enter Gabriel Fernandez, a hunky detective-bodyguard hybrid with a mission to shield me from danger. Our connection is instantaneous, sparking an undeniable attraction that threatens to melt us both on the spot. But yielding to our emotions could jeopardize my safety, exposing me to danger.
Our solution? Draw a line until the killer is caught, then reassess things then. Except a looming question What if Gabriel fails to stop the murderer in time? And what if our lightning-hot romance only paints a brighter bullseye on my back?
GABRIEL FERNANDEZ
As a detective in Stonewall Investigations' elite division, I specialize in high-stakes cases and perilous pursuits. My latest mission leads me to Atlanta, and straight into the life of Tristan Hall. He's alluring, captivating, and in serious danger.
My task is keep distractions at bay and ensure Tristan's safety while uncovering the identity of the Midnight Chemist. But how can I maintain focus when Tristan himself is the most tantalizing distraction of all?
The stakes are sky-high, and more than just my heart is on the line. As the danger escalates, so do my feelings for Tristan, setting the stage for a case that will change both of our lives one way or another.
With a serial killer's crosshairs on my back, the world as I knew it is turned upside down. The threats are real, the fear is palpable, and my survival? Questionable.
Enter Gabriel Fernandez, a hunky detective-bodyguard hybrid with a mission to shield me from danger. Our connection is instantaneous, sparking an undeniable attraction that threatens to melt us both on the spot. But yielding to our emotions could jeopardize my safety, exposing me to danger.
Our solution? Draw a line until the killer is caught, then reassess things then. Except a looming question What if Gabriel fails to stop the murderer in time? And what if our lightning-hot romance only paints a brighter bullseye on my back?
GABRIEL FERNANDEZ
As a detective in Stonewall Investigations' elite division, I specialize in high-stakes cases and perilous pursuits. My latest mission leads me to Atlanta, and straight into the life of Tristan Hall. He's alluring, captivating, and in serious danger.
My task is keep distractions at bay and ensure Tristan's safety while uncovering the identity of the Midnight Chemist. But how can I maintain focus when Tristan himself is the most tantalizing distraction of all?
The stakes are sky-high, and more than just my heart is on the line. As the danger escalates, so do my feelings for Tristan, setting the stage for a case that will change both of our lives one way or another.
284 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 21, 2023
72 people are currently reading
806 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
January 5, 2025
oh damn what a disappointing end to this series. the plot twist was the most obvious thing in the world and I picked it halfway through book two. way too many obvious bread crumbs. I was almost hoping that the author was leading us in one direction just to gaslight us into thinking one way and then they would pull the rug out from under us, but this wasn’t the case. the signs were very evident as to who the killer was and it was disappointing AF.
everything about this was a bit lacklustre compared to the other two. the mystery and suspense wasn’t as evident, the smut wasn’t as good, the chemistry between the two male characters was barely evident, the forced proximity trope was exciting but fizzled pretty quickly as it seemed like nothing really forced them together apart from the fact they had met each other.. just two gay men sleeping together for the sake of it. and then to fall in love so quickly after one night of light fun…. give me a break queen. there wasn’t nearly enough tension or chemistry between them to warrant the relationship and the words I love you.
there are 4 or 5 parts of the book where grammatical errors took me out of the fantasy, which seems to be a running theme with this author. Is no one proofreading these books? the first two books were so good I didn’t mind, but this one was so lacklustre it just pissed me off.
and then all that build up for half a chapter of drama before everyone gets arrested and life moves on… boring.
anyway, I’m sad that this didn’t live up to the other two books. RIP xox
everything about this was a bit lacklustre compared to the other two. the mystery and suspense wasn’t as evident, the smut wasn’t as good, the chemistry between the two male characters was barely evident, the forced proximity trope was exciting but fizzled pretty quickly as it seemed like nothing really forced them together apart from the fact they had met each other.. just two gay men sleeping together for the sake of it. and then to fall in love so quickly after one night of light fun…. give me a break queen. there wasn’t nearly enough tension or chemistry between them to warrant the relationship and the words I love you.
there are 4 or 5 parts of the book where grammatical errors took me out of the fantasy, which seems to be a running theme with this author. Is no one proofreading these books? the first two books were so good I didn’t mind, but this one was so lacklustre it just pissed me off.
and then all that build up for half a chapter of drama before everyone gets arrested and life moves on… boring.
anyway, I’m sad that this didn’t live up to the other two books. RIP xox
January 22, 2025
✰ 2.25 stars ✰
If the author had put in just as much effort into the storyline as he did into the ridiculously corny humor, I might have been just a smidge more forgiving of my overall feelings on these Book Club Boys with their stone-solid bonds and 'a general sense of unwavering support and love between us, for whatever it was we ended up doing. 😮💨
Alas, that is not the case. Perhaps if I had known beforehand that humor would play such a heavy part in what should really be a more serious situation, I might have been better prepared. But, when random statements have me rolling my eyes - 'Tristan was a writer, which likely meant he was a highly sensitive soul' 🙅🏻♀️ - or hitting my forehead or resting my head in my palm because I just can't with these comparisons and analysis and choices that just ---
“... pushing him up against the arm of the couch as our kiss deepened, the tidal wave of our chemistry cresting over the horizon, its monstrous size ready to devour us.”
See what I have to work with? 😣 I mean, the romance was fine - cute, generic, insta-attraction, no angst attached - no bother with boundaries when 'Gabriel Fernandez, bodyguard extraordinaire and the detective of my dreams' is ready to Die for You to keep him safe. 🙃 Tristan is severely traumatized by how close he skated with death, thus leading to Gabriel taking it upon himself to attach himself to his hip for all foreseeable purposes. 🙄 Unless, of course, he conveniently is called elsewhere, leaving Tristan unprotected and open to attack, only for him to realize just how much he means to me. And that's fine, fair. They both come from troubled waters and it was cathartic for them to find solace and comfort with each other. 🫶🏻🫂
“My job here was to protect Tristan and to figure out the identity of this Midnight Chemist. Nothing more and nothing less.”
Sure, keep telling yourself that. 😏 For as the stakes rise, Gabriel goes above board to make Tristan feel loved and protected; helping him bring back a bit of semblance into his life after it was torn asunder by his volatile and flimsy state of mind of his close brush with a serial killer. '.... he made me feel happy again. It was the tiniest spark of light in the all-consuming darkness.' 🥺 It's the little things that matter as they finally figure that they don't have any rules to follow save the passion of their desires - that reawakens Tristan's burning earnest fervent hope to start up writing again, 'each one more inspired than the last, fed by the eternal presence of my muse.' 💪🏻🖤
It's just really hard when the two of them are sharing a profoundly deep meaningful connection, only if it to follow up with such an unserious comment that it just takes the whammy out of me. I don't mind the emotions, it's just the dramatic comparisons that have me wondering why??? 😩
“But for Tristan, I’d do anything. Trust was an infinity pool overlooking the Mediterranean between us, reaching out toward the edge of the world.”
Not to mention how much little effort is really put into making the suspect who the identity of the Midnight Chemist belongs to! *weary* Like, could you BE any more obvious?? 🤦🏻♀️ Nothing frustrates me more than a poorly developed mystery - nothing. I couldn't even take the threat against Tristan's life seriously enough; I tried, believe me. 'I could hardly comprehend the depravity and darkness that I was hearing.' You and me, both, and not in a good way. 🙂↔️🙂↔️ The clues, the attempts to track it down, the cryptic stalking and the sudden ending - everything was so surface-level in conviction, almost a little silly, if I'm being brutally honest - that I could not feel the tension, the fear, or the despair. 😓
“He encompassed it all. Safety and warmth and sex and laughter and love.
It was all there. God damn. I got lucky with this one.”
That you did, Tristan, and good for you. 😤
Apologies if none of my humor hits, I don't think I have a funny bone in my body. 😅 Side note, I was happy to get some insight into a plot line from the previous book. I had my suspicion and to have them confirmed accurately certainly made the pay-off worth it. Well, almost... It's been one heck of a doozy of a series, took a chance, rolled with it, in the hopes for an improvement or a connection, but I guess it's safe to say that I can part ways happily. No doubt about it. 😌
“I realized then that I would do anything to keep him safe.
I’d die for him if I had to. No doubt about it.”
If the author had put in just as much effort into the storyline as he did into the ridiculously corny humor, I might have been just a smidge more forgiving of my overall feelings on these Book Club Boys with their stone-solid bonds and 'a general sense of unwavering support and love between us, for whatever it was we ended up doing. 😮💨
Alas, that is not the case. Perhaps if I had known beforehand that humor would play such a heavy part in what should really be a more serious situation, I might have been better prepared. But, when random statements have me rolling my eyes - 'Tristan was a writer, which likely meant he was a highly sensitive soul' 🙅🏻♀️ - or hitting my forehead or resting my head in my palm because I just can't with these comparisons and analysis and choices that just ---
“... pushing him up against the arm of the couch as our kiss deepened, the tidal wave of our chemistry cresting over the horizon, its monstrous size ready to devour us.”
See what I have to work with? 😣 I mean, the romance was fine - cute, generic, insta-attraction, no angst attached - no bother with boundaries when 'Gabriel Fernandez, bodyguard extraordinaire and the detective of my dreams' is ready to Die for You to keep him safe. 🙃 Tristan is severely traumatized by how close he skated with death, thus leading to Gabriel taking it upon himself to attach himself to his hip for all foreseeable purposes. 🙄 Unless, of course, he conveniently is called elsewhere, leaving Tristan unprotected and open to attack, only for him to realize just how much he means to me. And that's fine, fair. They both come from troubled waters and it was cathartic for them to find solace and comfort with each other. 🫶🏻🫂
“My job here was to protect Tristan and to figure out the identity of this Midnight Chemist. Nothing more and nothing less.”
Sure, keep telling yourself that. 😏 For as the stakes rise, Gabriel goes above board to make Tristan feel loved and protected; helping him bring back a bit of semblance into his life after it was torn asunder by his volatile and flimsy state of mind of his close brush with a serial killer. '.... he made me feel happy again. It was the tiniest spark of light in the all-consuming darkness.' 🥺 It's the little things that matter as they finally figure that they don't have any rules to follow save the passion of their desires - that reawakens Tristan's burning earnest fervent hope to start up writing again, 'each one more inspired than the last, fed by the eternal presence of my muse.' 💪🏻🖤
It's just really hard when the two of them are sharing a profoundly deep meaningful connection, only if it to follow up with such an unserious comment that it just takes the whammy out of me. I don't mind the emotions, it's just the dramatic comparisons that have me wondering why??? 😩
“But for Tristan, I’d do anything. Trust was an infinity pool overlooking the Mediterranean between us, reaching out toward the edge of the world.”
Not to mention how much little effort is really put into making the suspect who the identity of the Midnight Chemist belongs to! *weary* Like, could you BE any more obvious?? 🤦🏻♀️ Nothing frustrates me more than a poorly developed mystery - nothing. I couldn't even take the threat against Tristan's life seriously enough; I tried, believe me. 'I could hardly comprehend the depravity and darkness that I was hearing.' You and me, both, and not in a good way. 🙂↔️🙂↔️ The clues, the attempts to track it down, the cryptic stalking and the sudden ending - everything was so surface-level in conviction, almost a little silly, if I'm being brutally honest - that I could not feel the tension, the fear, or the despair. 😓
“He encompassed it all. Safety and warmth and sex and laughter and love.
It was all there. God damn. I got lucky with this one.”
That you did, Tristan, and good for you. 😤
Apologies if none of my humor hits, I don't think I have a funny bone in my body. 😅 Side note, I was happy to get some insight into a plot line from the previous book. I had my suspicion and to have them confirmed accurately certainly made the pay-off worth it. Well, almost... It's been one heck of a doozy of a series, took a chance, rolled with it, in the hopes for an improvement or a connection, but I guess it's safe to say that I can part ways happily. No doubt about it. 😌
August 11, 2024
This last book in the series was Tristan and Gabriel’s story. Poor Tristan had the misfortune to find himself a psychopathic serial killer. Things escalate and Tristan gets a bodyguard. Enter the man mountain, ex-military, Stonewall Investigations very own, Gabriel.
This a separate series written by Max Walker. I was so happy to see the two series merging. The Stonewall Investigations series features a serial killer called the "Unicorn" Zane, the owner of the detective agency sends Gabe to protect Tristan. It's a great the way for us to get to meet all the members of the book club in each book and the drinking games they play get more inventive with each meeting.
This would have been a five-star read like all the rest have been, but it lost a half star because of all the asinine errors that Gabe made. He should have known better than to make some of the mistakes he made here.
Eric has been the hero of two books now, but it was still way to close for comfort. It's a fast paced read with good solid characters. Hope Max Walker will change his mind and there will be more of Tristan, Gabe and the book club.
This a separate series written by Max Walker. I was so happy to see the two series merging. The Stonewall Investigations series features a serial killer called the "Unicorn" Zane, the owner of the detective agency sends Gabe to protect Tristan. It's a great the way for us to get to meet all the members of the book club in each book and the drinking games they play get more inventive with each meeting.
This would have been a five-star read like all the rest have been, but it lost a half star because of all the asinine errors that Gabe made. He should have known better than to make some of the mistakes he made here.
Eric has been the hero of two books now, but it was still way to close for comfort. It's a fast paced read with good solid characters. Hope Max Walker will change his mind and there will be more of Tristan, Gabe and the book club.
December 3, 2023
I figured out who the Midnight Chemist was as soon as he first appeared. Which was a little bit anti climatic. I was really hoping I was wrong lol. Still, the rest was great.
June 26, 2023
This series has been fun so I’m sad it’s over because it’s been a wild ride
I love this group of friends so much. Their little found family is everything and it’s nice to see them all get the HEA
The whole mystery of this book was interesting and I did not expect the killer until towards the end. How wild.
Tristian and Gabe truly fell fast for each other but they were a good match
I love this group of friends so much. Their little found family is everything and it’s nice to see them all get the HEA
The whole mystery of this book was interesting and I did not expect the killer until towards the end. How wild.
Tristian and Gabe truly fell fast for each other but they were a good match
September 13, 2024
PROS:
1: MCs with decent chemistry.
2: Good 🌶️ scenes.
3: Sweet romance.
CONS:
1: Predictable mystery.
2: A couple of blatant continuity issues. The same info is sometimes given more than once, and the MC will act like he’s never heard it before.
3: Given the dire circumstances, these characters made the dumbest decision at nearly every turn. Unfortunately, there’s no overlooking it or forgiving it for the sake of “crafting an entertaining story”. When the murderer gets the upper hand multiple times only because of the sheer incompetence of the heroes, that’s a problem in my opinion—especially when one of the MCs was this professional bodyguard/detective/ex-marine.
2.5/5 ⭐️
Fortunately, the sweet romance was what I was mainly here for, and in that aspect it delivered. But the stupid decisions happened too many times to not be a huge gross stain on the plot. The answer to the mystery was also so obvious that it felt a bit contrived when the MCs suddenly lacked the ability to connect any of the dots. Not even an iota of suspicion was raised inside of them.
1: MCs with decent chemistry.
2: Good 🌶️ scenes.
3: Sweet romance.
CONS:
1: Predictable mystery.
2: A couple of blatant continuity issues. The same info is sometimes given more than once, and the MC will act like he’s never heard it before.
3: Given the dire circumstances, these characters made the dumbest decision at nearly every turn. Unfortunately, there’s no overlooking it or forgiving it for the sake of “crafting an entertaining story”. When the murderer gets the upper hand multiple times only because of the sheer incompetence of the heroes, that’s a problem in my opinion—especially when one of the MCs was this professional bodyguard/detective/ex-marine.
2.5/5 ⭐️
Fortunately, the sweet romance was what I was mainly here for, and in that aspect it delivered. But the stupid decisions happened too many times to not be a huge gross stain on the plot. The answer to the mystery was also so obvious that it felt a bit contrived when the MCs suddenly lacked the ability to connect any of the dots. Not even an iota of suspicion was raised inside of them.
March 30, 2025
I think this one was the best in the series. The plot was a lot better and the characters continued to be great.
July 6, 2023
Tristan is being stalked by the Midnight Chemist, a serial killer. Gabe is a detective with Stonewall Detective Agency and he has taken Tristan's case as his live in bodyguard while he is tracking the killer.
I really loved this series. Do you need to read the first 2 before this one? Absolutely! There is so much that is wrapped up in this one and you may be a bit lost without the back stories.
The mystery and the romance is just right.
I had to give it 4 stars because I guessed who the killer was way too early. Was it my fine detective skills? Maybe
It is still a great twist.
And we finally figured out Colton's Dad's secret, which I figured was the secret, but it had a little twist too. I was honestly annoyed for weeks that the last book ended without wrapping that up lol.
I really loved this series. Do you need to read the first 2 before this one? Absolutely! There is so much that is wrapped up in this one and you may be a bit lost without the back stories.
The mystery and the romance is just right.
I had to give it 4 stars because I guessed who the killer was way too early. Was it my fine detective skills? Maybe
It is still a great twist.
And we finally figured out Colton's Dad's secret, which I figured was the secret, but it had a little twist too. I was honestly annoyed for weeks that the last book ended without wrapping that up lol.
June 25, 2023
WOW Max Walker definitely knows how to wrap up a series, excellent job Max!
I will say after book 2 I did have my suspicions and was actually correct, even though in true Max style he threw in some slight twists.
Max ‘Padam Padam’ this made me lol and awwwww at the same time.
Bring on the next series Max, I’m ready!
I will say after book 2 I did have my suspicions and was actually correct, even though in true Max style he threw in some slight twists.
Max ‘Padam Padam’ this made me lol and awwwww at the same time.
Bring on the next series Max, I’m ready!
June 24, 2023
I have loved every book in this series and Gabriel & Tristan’s story might be my new favorite of the bunch. I was hooked from page one and read this in one sitting. I could not put it down! This author has a way with captivating you from page one and weaving so many great twists and turns into each book. If you’re a romantic suspense fan, I definitely recommend this book and series!
June 30, 2024
Gabriel might be the worst detective & bodyguard ever. He made the dumbest choices. I figured out who the Midnight Chemist was the moment they came into the story and it was just obvious clue after obvious clue. Usually I suck at figuring out the killer so it was kind of a let down that it was clear who they were from the jump.
February 15, 2024
The abrupt start had me checking that I started the audiobook in the right place. I wish there had been time devoted to seeing the characters meet and get to know each other. There was zero build up and tension so when they first hooked up I was just like…meh.
I would have DNFed but I was invested enough that I wanted to know who the killer was. That reveal was also meh. I figured out who it was early on but I kept hoping I was being led down a false path and there’d be some kind of bigger twist. Nope.
Anyway I needed something dumb to give my brain a break from school and this was that. I liked the first two books a lot more than this one.
I would have DNFed but I was invested enough that I wanted to know who the killer was. That reveal was also meh. I figured out who it was early on but I kept hoping I was being led down a false path and there’d be some kind of bigger twist. Nope.
Anyway I needed something dumb to give my brain a break from school and this was that. I liked the first two books a lot more than this one.
July 5, 2023
too many plot errors
Gabe repeatedly does asinine things no experienced detective would do. Leaving Tristan alone, almost never reporting breakthroughs to police/FBI, and worst, getting in the car with an “unthreatening” murderer who is known to use syringes of chemicals to name but a few. Good sex scenes and fast paced, though.
Gabe repeatedly does asinine things no experienced detective would do. Leaving Tristan alone, almost never reporting breakthroughs to police/FBI, and worst, getting in the car with an “unthreatening” murderer who is known to use syringes of chemicals to name but a few. Good sex scenes and fast paced, though.
April 12, 2024
Max Walker does such good job of actual plot! Like I was equally invested in the characters, and the story line & you get amazing smut?!?! helllllyeahhhh *side note* Seeing Tristian (<- that spelling specifically helped me feel seen because it's never that way.... and why actual Inclusion/ diverse representation matters so much!!)
We love to see MC's actually see a problem, worry about their own well being by actually reaching out for help. Not only that... but the private investigators actually believed him and were able to attempt to catch this stalker!!
this series makes me interested in Walker's other works!!
We love to see MC's actually see a problem, worry about their own well being by actually reaching out for help. Not only that... but the private investigators actually believed him and were able to attempt to catch this stalker!!
this series makes me interested in Walker's other works!!
August 19, 2023
This trilogy was so fun! I love the whole mystery behind each book. This one finally followed the serial killer that’s been big news in Atlanta. He starts following Tristan and Tristan is forced to higher a bodyguard. Gabe will do what he can do to keep Tristan safe while he works with the cops and the FBI to find out who the killer is.
Reasons I Recommend:
1) Each book can be read as a standalone but the build up the Midnight Chemist did start in Noah’s book
2) The book club diving in to help solve the mystery is fun and Eric has a point about his gun 😉 and
3) I want to read these mysteries that they’re reading in book club! But great twist at the end! I did guess the killer, but I was still surprised!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
#briereads #brierecommends #2023goodreadsreadingchallenge #reviewedongoodreads #reviewedoninstagram #bookworm #lovetoread #idratherbereading #mmromance #romanticsuspense #bookclubboysseries #dieforyou #maxwalker @maxwalkerwrites
Reasons I Recommend:
1) Each book can be read as a standalone but the build up the Midnight Chemist did start in Noah’s book
2) The book club diving in to help solve the mystery is fun and Eric has a point about his gun 😉 and
3) I want to read these mysteries that they’re reading in book club! But great twist at the end! I did guess the killer, but I was still surprised!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
#briereads #brierecommends #2023goodreadsreadingchallenge #reviewedongoodreads #reviewedoninstagram #bookworm #lovetoread #idratherbereading #mmromance #romanticsuspense #bookclubboysseries #dieforyou #maxwalker @maxwalkerwrites
October 18, 2024
This book suffered from having many of the same problems that the first two books had. While the MC’s chemistry worked, their survival skills did not. I get that the author needed to create some drama and suspense, but for a former Marine turned bodyguard, Gabriel made many questionable decisions when it came to Tristan's safety. The man needs some retraining.
My other problem with this book was with the mystery itself. The identity of the killer was pretty obvious from the start. Once again I was more interested in the “fictional” serial killer in the story that the book club was reading than I was in the serial killer in the book I was reading.
I will give the twist in the end 5⭐’s though, just because it was the only unpredictable part of the whole book.
My other problem with this book was with the mystery itself. The identity of the killer was pretty obvious from the start. Once again I was more interested in the “fictional” serial killer in the story that the book club was reading than I was in the serial killer in the book I was reading.
I will give the twist in the end 5⭐’s though, just because it was the only unpredictable part of the whole book.
March 28, 2024
Spicy was spicyyyyyy. I was hooked from the start. Their chemistry as Bodyguard and Victim so good. The third act felt like it ended so fast for so much build up. But still it was fun. I felt like I was holding on for dear life because every turn felt murderous.
November 16, 2024
While still enjoyable, this was the weakest of the trilogy. The spice came on way too fast and the mystery and ending was also rushed. This book also seemed to be unfocused at times. That said, I still enjoyed it and I’d love to have more stories with these characters.
July 11, 2023
This is a great story that quickly drew me in and kept me turning the pages. I enjoyed following along on Tristan and Gabriel’s journey and was on the edge of my seat in anticipation and suspense. I do highly recommend reading the first two books in this series for a more enjoyable reading experience. They are definitely worth it.
October 25, 2025
Book 3 in the Book Club Boys series was a good read. For what this book is (a smutty gay suspense-thriller), it’s a fun read. The romance is fun and spicy, and the thrill of Tristan being hunted by a serial killer is intense. The plot may have been predictable, but that’s 100% what this genre is all about. It is free on Kindle Unlimited, so it’s definitely worth the $0 price.
June 25, 2023
Loves it!!
What can I say about the conclusion to this series except that it was pure perfection. This was such a great book, and for once, I actually figured out the mystery before it was revealed. FYI: I totally guessed. Lol. As always, Max outdid himself with this one, and I can't wait for what he comes up with next.
What can I say about the conclusion to this series except that it was pure perfection. This was such a great book, and for once, I actually figured out the mystery before it was revealed. FYI: I totally guessed. Lol. As always, Max outdid himself with this one, and I can't wait for what he comes up with next.
June 25, 2023
Max really knows how to write, and, possibly even more important, knows how to structure a plot. Too often, gay fiction (I won't deign to discuss m/m fiction here) is just an interlude betweeen sex scenes, and this is not the case here.
August 8, 2023
Tristan & Gabriel
This book keeps you gripped to the very end, so many twists and turns. A great book to end the book club, would definitely recommend reading all of these books
This book keeps you gripped to the very end, so many twists and turns. A great book to end the book club, would definitely recommend reading all of these books
December 30, 2023
The couple is cute and the sex scenes are decent. But omg the level of stupidity in the plot is insane. This is a serial killer, the FBI is involved, Gabe just does things for the plot as if he’s never done his job before. Just really badly written plot. I’ve seen garbage cop propaganda CSI episodes with better plotting 😭. It’s why I think these erotic romances are better with simpler plots.
May 22, 2024
3.7 stars
Tristan is a cis gay brown or Black man with dark hair and eyes; he’s a successful author and also a moderate tech whiz. He’s on the skinnier side and likes jewelry. His age is unknown, but most likely late 20s give or take. He’s being stalked by a serial killer.
Gabe is a cis gay white (or at least white-passing) possibly Latino man with blonde hair and blue eyes. He’s tall and very broad and muscular. He’s a PI/bodyguard. His age is unknown, but most likely in his 30s. Like the rest of his agency at Stonewall, he’s a deeply untalented detective but a good boyfriend (eventually). He’s in charge of Tristan’s safety.
This is the third book in a series, and is loosely connected to the Stonewall Investigations series. It’s primarily a romance and has some light mystery and crime feel as well. As with all Max Walker books it includes insta-love and insta-lust, which works with this romance/crime/fluff genre.
The only thing I really didn’t like was that
Tropes and content warnings:
—Bodyguard romance
—Insta-love
—Light mystery/crime
—Serial killer
—Size difference
—History of severe non-sexual abuse (not MC)
—Descriptions of needles and poison
—Kidnapping
—Murder and attempted murder
—Stalking
—Scars = villain (the oldie yet a baddie trope)
Other:
—First person dual POV
—Romantic rival: no
—Cheating: no
—Kids: no
—Breakup: not really, though they “press pause” on their romance due to the serial killer for a while, but they weren’t officially dating at the time
—Sexual roles: strict (Gabe prefers to top and Tristan prefers to bottom)
—HEA: yes
Tristan is a cis gay brown or Black man with dark hair and eyes; he’s a successful author and also a moderate tech whiz. He’s on the skinnier side and likes jewelry. His age is unknown, but most likely late 20s give or take. He’s being stalked by a serial killer.
Gabe is a cis gay white (or at least white-passing) possibly Latino man with blonde hair and blue eyes. He’s tall and very broad and muscular. He’s a PI/bodyguard. His age is unknown, but most likely in his 30s. Like the rest of his agency at Stonewall, he’s a deeply untalented detective but a good boyfriend (eventually). He’s in charge of Tristan’s safety.
This is the third book in a series, and is loosely connected to the Stonewall Investigations series. It’s primarily a romance and has some light mystery and crime feel as well. As with all Max Walker books it includes insta-love and insta-lust, which works with this romance/crime/fluff genre.
The only thing I really didn’t like was that
Tropes and content warnings:
—Bodyguard romance
—Insta-love
—Light mystery/crime
—Serial killer
—Size difference
—History of severe non-sexual abuse (not MC)
—Descriptions of needles and poison
—Kidnapping
—Murder and attempted murder
—Stalking
—Scars = villain (the oldie yet a baddie trope)
Other:
—First person dual POV
—Romantic rival: no
—Cheating: no
—Kids: no
—Breakup: not really, though they “press pause” on their romance due to the serial killer for a while, but they weren’t officially dating at the time
—Sexual roles: strict (Gabe prefers to top and Tristan prefers to bottom)
—HEA: yes
January 5, 2024
“In a Murder mystery, everyone is a suspect until proven innocent.” - Unknown.
Well that’s not the case in Max Walker’s “Die For You.” Let me first start off by saying how difficult it was to write a book and it must be just as hard to get it published. So, I have to give credit to Max Walker. With that being said, some of the decisions made rubbed me the wrong way.
I’ve read other romance erotica books and they had good pacing when it comes to the two M.C’s. It’s the fact they haven’t done anything together is what makes the relationship more intense. We as the reader see the hunger for each other and we feed off of that. So, when they do the deed, there’s a payoff. This book missed the memo. The M.C’s hook up right away, which I wasn’t mad about because that’s part of the reason why I read the book. The way the characters thought about each other and talked to each other seemed a little forced. I felt as if the book was like, “Hey, you guys know they’ll be in love, so we can cut a few corners.” Maybe because I’m a horror man, but some pf the decisions the characters were made were a RED FLAG. The last thing that rubbed me the wrong way, was how easy it was to spot the killer pretty early on. As the book went on, it just became more clear, so when it was revealed, it was lackluster.
Once you get past the earlier chapters, the book finds it rhythm and it’s an enjoyable book. The thing I loved most about this book is the friendship that I feel like it was its own character. The love these friends have for each other was my biggest take away. Shout out to Max Walker for creating bonds that a reader will carry with themselves after this book.
Well that’s not the case in Max Walker’s “Die For You.” Let me first start off by saying how difficult it was to write a book and it must be just as hard to get it published. So, I have to give credit to Max Walker. With that being said, some of the decisions made rubbed me the wrong way.
I’ve read other romance erotica books and they had good pacing when it comes to the two M.C’s. It’s the fact they haven’t done anything together is what makes the relationship more intense. We as the reader see the hunger for each other and we feed off of that. So, when they do the deed, there’s a payoff. This book missed the memo. The M.C’s hook up right away, which I wasn’t mad about because that’s part of the reason why I read the book. The way the characters thought about each other and talked to each other seemed a little forced. I felt as if the book was like, “Hey, you guys know they’ll be in love, so we can cut a few corners.” Maybe because I’m a horror man, but some pf the decisions the characters were made were a RED FLAG. The last thing that rubbed me the wrong way, was how easy it was to spot the killer pretty early on. As the book went on, it just became more clear, so when it was revealed, it was lackluster.
Once you get past the earlier chapters, the book finds it rhythm and it’s an enjoyable book. The thing I loved most about this book is the friendship that I feel like it was its own character. The love these friends have for each other was my biggest take away. Shout out to Max Walker for creating bonds that a reader will carry with themselves after this book.
August 14, 2023
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Max has mastered the sweet, sexy Murder mystery. And I can’t love this Book Club series anymore. It’s got to be my favourite. Such an amazing group of friends who all seem to end up with some trouble following them around.
This time Tristan has found himself with a serial killer who’s sweet on him. Now he’s got a hot and kind bodyguard as protector and distraction.
Tristan is a mess, granted I would be too if I had a stalker, and he’s not coping well, but he’s been able to hide from his friends. It’s not so easy with the bodyguard who’s living with him.
Gabriel is a bit adrift in his life. He’s thankful for the opportunity Stonewall Investigations owner Zane gave him, but this case with Tristan has reminded him that maybe it’s time to find a home.
These two are wonderful and I love how well they work together and support one another. And I highly enjoyed the game of cat and mouse as they tried to figure out who the stalker is without getting killed.
Even if you figure out who it is, being along for the ride as the characters do is even more fun. And ultimately, Gabriel and Tristan falling for each other is the real goal!
Max has mastered the sweet, sexy Murder mystery. And I can’t love this Book Club series anymore. It’s got to be my favourite. Such an amazing group of friends who all seem to end up with some trouble following them around.
This time Tristan has found himself with a serial killer who’s sweet on him. Now he’s got a hot and kind bodyguard as protector and distraction.
Tristan is a mess, granted I would be too if I had a stalker, and he’s not coping well, but he’s been able to hide from his friends. It’s not so easy with the bodyguard who’s living with him.
Gabriel is a bit adrift in his life. He’s thankful for the opportunity Stonewall Investigations owner Zane gave him, but this case with Tristan has reminded him that maybe it’s time to find a home.
These two are wonderful and I love how well they work together and support one another. And I highly enjoyed the game of cat and mouse as they tried to figure out who the stalker is without getting killed.
Even if you figure out who it is, being along for the ride as the characters do is even more fun. And ultimately, Gabriel and Tristan falling for each other is the real goal!
October 6, 2024
Random thoughts:
🚨Spoilers Ahead🚨
-At the end of most chapters, tragedy, fear, and panic is foreshadowed. Lame.
-at 40% I predict Steven is the serial killer
-at 54% "There was a bright floor lamp that appeared to be shining a spotlight on Steven..." Surely this author would not be so obvious? Oh wait this author absolutely would do something this ham fisted 🙄
-Random overshare/trauma dump from Steven. Ok ... So it's Steven
-what the hell is up with police procedure and no one sharing anything to anyone and stealing evidence and what the fuck is going on? There's a serial killer on the loose FFS 😂
-Somehow, Gabe, in the midst of this insane quote unquote investigation, found the time to put up a spiked fence and install a new security system at home? Between finding the serial killer's base of operations, rescuing his boyfriend, stealing evidence, confronting someone, and having lunch at the Mandarin hotel? Got it.
-God the sex scenes are soooo HOT!!! Definitely read this for the sex 🔥
-90% TOLD YA!! TOLD YA TOLD YA TOLD YA!!
-The trauma dump is so over the top it becomes grotesque and performative. Using people's trauma becomes pornographic almost--how far over the line can I go to make me seem like a serious author is gross.
We did get the mystery solved about Colton's dad though. Woo woo!
🚨Spoilers Ahead🚨
-At the end of most chapters, tragedy, fear, and panic is foreshadowed. Lame.
-at 40% I predict Steven is the serial killer
-at 54% "There was a bright floor lamp that appeared to be shining a spotlight on Steven..." Surely this author would not be so obvious? Oh wait this author absolutely would do something this ham fisted 🙄
-Random overshare/trauma dump from Steven. Ok ... So it's Steven
-what the hell is up with police procedure and no one sharing anything to anyone and stealing evidence and what the fuck is going on? There's a serial killer on the loose FFS 😂
-Somehow, Gabe, in the midst of this insane quote unquote investigation, found the time to put up a spiked fence and install a new security system at home? Between finding the serial killer's base of operations, rescuing his boyfriend, stealing evidence, confronting someone, and having lunch at the Mandarin hotel? Got it.
-God the sex scenes are soooo HOT!!! Definitely read this for the sex 🔥
-90% TOLD YA!! TOLD YA TOLD YA TOLD YA!!
-The trauma dump is so over the top it becomes grotesque and performative. Using people's trauma becomes pornographic almost--how far over the line can I go to make me seem like a serious author is gross.
We did get the mystery solved about Colton's dad though. Woo woo!
January 15, 2025
3.25
I picked up Midnights Like This randomly last year because I was trying to find something that could fill the Cole McCade’s Criminal Intentions hole in my reading and the audiobook was available on my library app. I think the entire series has been about a 3.5 star reading experience for me, but I really enjoyed them and if I get the chance I might pick up some of the companion series.
In this one, we follow Tristan, an author being stalked by serial killer that we’ve gotten hints of in the first two books. His romance is with Gabriel a detective/bodyguard who is trying to keep him safe and hunt down the serial killer. Gabe also is the hook into the companion series because he works for Stonewall Investigations. I like the forced proximity trope and love a good bodyguard romance, but the romance here felt a little too insta-lust for me. Granted Gabe began staying with Tristan prior to the start of this book, it felt like they just kind of jumped into bed together, and I think I prefer more pining. I also found the mystery suspense element of this one to be really obvious and not really suspenseful. That being said, I thought this was fun and it was an enjoyable and compelling listen.
I picked up Midnights Like This randomly last year because I was trying to find something that could fill the Cole McCade’s Criminal Intentions hole in my reading and the audiobook was available on my library app. I think the entire series has been about a 3.5 star reading experience for me, but I really enjoyed them and if I get the chance I might pick up some of the companion series.
In this one, we follow Tristan, an author being stalked by serial killer that we’ve gotten hints of in the first two books. His romance is with Gabriel a detective/bodyguard who is trying to keep him safe and hunt down the serial killer. Gabe also is the hook into the companion series because he works for Stonewall Investigations. I like the forced proximity trope and love a good bodyguard romance, but the romance here felt a little too insta-lust for me. Granted Gabe began staying with Tristan prior to the start of this book, it felt like they just kind of jumped into bed together, and I think I prefer more pining. I also found the mystery suspense element of this one to be really obvious and not really suspenseful. That being said, I thought this was fun and it was an enjoyable and compelling listen.
July 2, 2023
The Book Club Boys series has been one of my favorite series of all time!!! There is such a mix of realistic/relatable characters and dramatized situations that is reminiscent of great crime shows of the early 2000’s. This is the third installment of the series which brings us to Tristan the last of the founding members of the book club…..Noah and Eric being the other two who were the protagonist of books one and two. At the end of book two we learned that Tristan had become the next target of the Midnight Chemist( a deranged serial killer who had been wreaking havoc on the LGBTQIA community of Atlanta), now with the constant threat of death lingering over him Tristan’s story begins. With Tristan being in constant danger he receives a bodyguard/PI from Stonewall Investigations( YAY!!! Crossover and possible new spinoff) in the form of Gabe….a big, muscular, thoughtful, blue eyed adonis of a man. As these two have to constantly evade and outsmart a killer they become closer and closer until their love becomes the only thing stronger than a serial killer’s deranged will.
10/10 recommend.
Why doesn’t Max have a TV series deal??? His book series are Binge watchable. Guess binge read until I can watch.
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