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The Brothers Grime #2
Eddie: Grime Doesn't Pay
Eddie Vasquez is hot for his niece Lucy’s third grade teacher, B. Andrew (call me Andrew) Daley. Eddie can’t wait to take Andrew dancing to show him his moves. The only problem is, Andrew keeps talking about books Eddie hasn’t read, that he can’t read — at least not in the usual way — because Eddie’s dyslexic.
When the two men find Eddie’s favorite teacher, Mrs. Henderson, wandering the school grounds confused and smelling of human decomposition, they come together to help her. Eddie’s fiercely loyal, and this is the teacher who uncovered Eddie’s learning disability and helped him regain his self-esteem. He’ll do anything, even take on a massive cleaning job pro bono to pay Mrs. Henderson back for the support she’s given him.
Andrew and Eddie come from different worlds, Eddie can’t read, Andrew can’t dance. Andrew’s father is a horrible snob and if all Eddie’s secrets are laid bare, he’ll have plenty to feel superior about. But Eddie and Andrew have taken on a massive project together, and their growing attraction can’t be denied. They learn the trick to forming a lasting partnership in dance and in life might be finding a partner whose weaknesses you can live with and whose strengths make you look good, in Grime Doesn’t Pay.
When the two men find Eddie’s favorite teacher, Mrs. Henderson, wandering the school grounds confused and smelling of human decomposition, they come together to help her. Eddie’s fiercely loyal, and this is the teacher who uncovered Eddie’s learning disability and helped him regain his self-esteem. He’ll do anything, even take on a massive cleaning job pro bono to pay Mrs. Henderson back for the support she’s given him.
Andrew and Eddie come from different worlds, Eddie can’t read, Andrew can’t dance. Andrew’s father is a horrible snob and if all Eddie’s secrets are laid bare, he’ll have plenty to feel superior about. But Eddie and Andrew have taken on a massive project together, and their growing attraction can’t be denied. They learn the trick to forming a lasting partnership in dance and in life might be finding a partner whose weaknesses you can live with and whose strengths make you look good, in Grime Doesn’t Pay.
241 pages, ebook
First published November 1, 2013
32 people are currently reading
324 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews
June 5, 2017
**4.5 stars**
Before I got heavily into reading, I had an addiction to TV shows that featured people whose lives were in crisis or lived on the fringe of society. You know the ones: People who eat couch cushions, people who are in love with their cousins, fighting gypsy women, 1,000-pound men... the stranger the better. But my favorite shows were the hoarder ones. I would get all teary eyed watching these people fight about 20 year old broken Christmas ornaments with weary loved ones. These shows spoke to me (I know, I'm strange). My husband always said that all I needed to be happy was a show about gay hoarders looking for love. When I started reading my book, imagine my surprise at the hoarder side-plot.
Jackpot.
I'm clearly manifesting something into the universe. Next up, lotto winnings, okay?
Though I obviously clicked with the plot, what made this book was the awesome writing from Z.A. Maxfield. She did such a fabulous job creating the characters of Eddie and Andrew. They had this funny banter between them, just really palpable chemistry there. They felt like they fit so well together, and I loved their playful, surprising sexy-times. They were fearless and open and it was HOT. I felt like they knew themselves and their needs and weren't afraid to just go for it.
This book was so much more than a book about two men finding love. The messages about self-acceptance and opening oneself up to others were profound without being heavy-handed. I empathized with Eddie and Andrew without pitying either of them. I think the author struck really nice balances.
Z.A. Maxfield really outdid herself with this book, which far surpasses the first in the series, in my opinion. I can't wait to read the next in the series!
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
Before I got heavily into reading, I had an addiction to TV shows that featured people whose lives were in crisis or lived on the fringe of society. You know the ones: People who eat couch cushions, people who are in love with their cousins, fighting gypsy women, 1,000-pound men... the stranger the better. But my favorite shows were the hoarder ones. I would get all teary eyed watching these people fight about 20 year old broken Christmas ornaments with weary loved ones. These shows spoke to me (I know, I'm strange). My husband always said that all I needed to be happy was a show about gay hoarders looking for love. When I started reading my book, imagine my surprise at the hoarder side-plot.
Jackpot.
I'm clearly manifesting something into the universe. Next up, lotto winnings, okay?
Though I obviously clicked with the plot, what made this book was the awesome writing from Z.A. Maxfield. She did such a fabulous job creating the characters of Eddie and Andrew. They had this funny banter between them, just really palpable chemistry there. They felt like they fit so well together, and I loved their playful, surprising sexy-times. They were fearless and open and it was HOT. I felt like they knew themselves and their needs and weren't afraid to just go for it.
This book was so much more than a book about two men finding love. The messages about self-acceptance and opening oneself up to others were profound without being heavy-handed. I empathized with Eddie and Andrew without pitying either of them. I think the author struck really nice balances.
Z.A. Maxfield really outdid herself with this book, which far surpasses the first in the series, in my opinion. I can't wait to read the next in the series!
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
July 1, 2018
The Story: 4 Pants Off
I love ZAMs books so much and this one was a great addition to The Brothers Grime series. Eddie has the hots for his nieces teacher Andrew and luckily the teacher has the hots for Eddie.
They begin a tentative relationship that turned out to be hot as hell which surprised the ever loving eff out of me.
While Eddie does do crime scene cleanups this delved away from that and moved into the cleaning up of someone who hoards who happens to be Andrews father. That brings up a whole lot of issues and the men have to try and restore and already fragile bond.
Also, they were hot fire together.
Downside, I wanted more gore and crime scene cleanup. I love that ish!!
The Narration: 4 Pants Off
I loved what Joe Arden did here with Eddie. I swear I lived for that voice the whole time I was listening. It had that nice Latino accent but it wasn’t overdone just smooth and it left me in a puddle. This might be my fave Joe Arden Narration.
Definitely would listen again!
I love ZAMs books so much and this one was a great addition to The Brothers Grime series. Eddie has the hots for his nieces teacher Andrew and luckily the teacher has the hots for Eddie.
They begin a tentative relationship that turned out to be hot as hell which surprised the ever loving eff out of me.
While Eddie does do crime scene cleanups this delved away from that and moved into the cleaning up of someone who hoards who happens to be Andrews father. That brings up a whole lot of issues and the men have to try and restore and already fragile bond.
Also, they were hot fire together.
Downside, I wanted more gore and crime scene cleanup. I love that ish!!
The Narration: 4 Pants Off
I loved what Joe Arden did here with Eddie. I swear I lived for that voice the whole time I was listening. It had that nice Latino accent but it wasn’t overdone just smooth and it left me in a puddle. This might be my fave Joe Arden Narration.
Definitely would listen again!
November 26, 2013
4.5 stars
There is a sign that you are reading a good book ... when you cannot put it down. I was not feeling well when I read this, I suffered from stomach flu and had been feeling weak for two days, couldn’t even had the energy to read. But when I received the ARC, once I started, I couldn’t put it down. I read it, while trying to get comfortable position in my bed, stomachache and all. I was so immersed with the life of Eddie “Cha-Cha” Vasquez and B. Andrew Daley, that I read all through it for few hours.
This is MY kind of book, people, and I LOVED every minute of it.
Grime Doesn’t Pay dealt with several issues, not an easy ones, I’d say. Let’s see, we have Eddie who suffered from dyslexia. Andrew, whose father was a hoarder. Andrew was worried that it was all in the gene, and the OCD that he had, that he couldn’t let go of a good book, was a sign that he could end up a hoarder like his father. Then there was another character, an ex-teacher of Eddie, who suffered from dementia. I mean, WOW, right? Imagine the drama!
But interestingly, I thought Z.A. Maxfield was able to pull off the story without making me, as a reader, felt pity for the characters or overwhelmed with the problems. Instead, I loved how they deal with it along with their friends and family. I loved each and every characters, with their flaws and all. I thought Eddie and Andrew complemented each other. They had a beautiful chemistry and they overcame their differences with grace, even if there were arguments and slammed doors.
The part where Eddie and his brothers along with partners in The Brothers Grime helped Andrew cleaning his father’s house was the strongest scene of this book. It was really gripping in a down-to-earth kind of way, you know? You learned a lot about Andrew and his fear, about Reese (Andrew’s father) and his pain of losing his wife, in this scene. But at the same time, you also see how Eddie felt connected to Reese because they were both, ‘defective’.
I could go on and on ... but the main point is the story SPEAKS to ME. It is a story about imperfection. A story about life and its problems but written in a understated and realistic tone without having to add excessive angst or amount of sugar. It is the kind of story that touches me deeper and stays with me for much longer time.
If I had complaint, which stopped me from giving this 5-stars, was the fact that when I thought about it, Eddie and Andrew were only together in a relationship for a week. Which meant it was sort of instant-love – not a thing I enjoy in any romance. My issue of course, others might think differently.
“Because life is not a fairy tale” ... that is the slogan for The Brothers Grime. Well, maybe it is not. But once in awhile, when you get the help and support from other people, either your family, friends, or even a professional one, your life could be more meaningful and richer than fairy tale...
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
There is a sign that you are reading a good book ... when you cannot put it down. I was not feeling well when I read this, I suffered from stomach flu and had been feeling weak for two days, couldn’t even had the energy to read. But when I received the ARC, once I started, I couldn’t put it down. I read it, while trying to get comfortable position in my bed, stomachache and all. I was so immersed with the life of Eddie “Cha-Cha” Vasquez and B. Andrew Daley, that I read all through it for few hours.
This is MY kind of book, people, and I LOVED every minute of it.
Grime Doesn’t Pay dealt with several issues, not an easy ones, I’d say. Let’s see, we have Eddie who suffered from dyslexia. Andrew, whose father was a hoarder. Andrew was worried that it was all in the gene, and the OCD that he had, that he couldn’t let go of a good book, was a sign that he could end up a hoarder like his father. Then there was another character, an ex-teacher of Eddie, who suffered from dementia. I mean, WOW, right? Imagine the drama!
But interestingly, I thought Z.A. Maxfield was able to pull off the story without making me, as a reader, felt pity for the characters or overwhelmed with the problems. Instead, I loved how they deal with it along with their friends and family. I loved each and every characters, with their flaws and all. I thought Eddie and Andrew complemented each other. They had a beautiful chemistry and they overcame their differences with grace, even if there were arguments and slammed doors.
The part where Eddie and his brothers along with partners in The Brothers Grime helped Andrew cleaning his father’s house was the strongest scene of this book. It was really gripping in a down-to-earth kind of way, you know? You learned a lot about Andrew and his fear, about Reese (Andrew’s father) and his pain of losing his wife, in this scene. But at the same time, you also see how Eddie felt connected to Reese because they were both, ‘defective’.
I could go on and on ... but the main point is the story SPEAKS to ME. It is a story about imperfection. A story about life and its problems but written in a understated and realistic tone without having to add excessive angst or amount of sugar. It is the kind of story that touches me deeper and stays with me for much longer time.
If I had complaint, which stopped me from giving this 5-stars, was the fact that when I thought about it, Eddie and Andrew were only together in a relationship for a week. Which meant it was sort of instant-love – not a thing I enjoy in any romance. My issue of course, others might think differently.
“Because life is not a fairy tale” ... that is the slogan for The Brothers Grime. Well, maybe it is not. But once in awhile, when you get the help and support from other people, either your family, friends, or even a professional one, your life could be more meaningful and richer than fairy tale...
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
February 22, 2020
Sometimes in a series, it starts out great but that turns out to be the best book. Not so with this series. Each book has been a great book, expanding on a different set of characters . At the same time it expands the overall scene they all occupy. While a casual glance may scare some off, due to the nature of their work. Those who explore these stories will be rewarded with great stories. I will be sorry to see them end. I love the characters and bond between them all. Easy to get involved in the stories. Really recommend them. The author handles things with a deft touch.
January 7, 2014
I liked this book even more than the first one in the series. Eddie is a great guy, with hidden vulnerability. I loved the unexpected sexiness of Andrew, and his confidence. These guys are really good together, and the heat just simmered off the page when they began kissing.
Andrew's father has been alone, and lost his bookstore to the online monopoly, but he has enough money to live on. What Andrew didn't realize was how adrift his father felt, without the work he spent his life on. Until one day Andrew arrives to find his father and his childhood home in a bad state.
Eddie is glad to be able to offer the man he's coming to care about a cleaning service he knows well, his professional approach to the problem of a house full of junk, but sometimes professional comes across as impersonal. Finding a balance that is supportive but not too much, can be difficult. And Eddie has his own secrets which are more deeply entrenched than he realizes.
The unpleasant hazards of growing old affect more than one secondary character, and hit home for me, although they are not overplayed. The secondary characters are well done (and I look forward to what appears to be the set-up for the third book.) This was one fast, smooth read with realistic men, hot sex, and a low-angst but interesting plot.
Andrew's father has been alone, and lost his bookstore to the online monopoly, but he has enough money to live on. What Andrew didn't realize was how adrift his father felt, without the work he spent his life on. Until one day Andrew arrives to find his father and his childhood home in a bad state.
Eddie is glad to be able to offer the man he's coming to care about a cleaning service he knows well, his professional approach to the problem of a house full of junk, but sometimes professional comes across as impersonal. Finding a balance that is supportive but not too much, can be difficult. And Eddie has his own secrets which are more deeply entrenched than he realizes.
The unpleasant hazards of growing old affect more than one secondary character, and hit home for me, although they are not overplayed. The secondary characters are well done (and I look forward to what appears to be the set-up for the third book.) This was one fast, smooth read with realistic men, hot sex, and a low-angst but interesting plot.
December 6, 2013
I liked this book, I just didn’t like one of the main characters.
Andrew irritated the hell out of me, and his control issues creeped me out. Issues like that are the first step into an abusive relationship. Just because Eddie is physically larger than Andrew doesn’t mean that Andrew had no power over him. Eddie’s disability, no matter what he says, makes him feel lesser than a more educated man, which Andrew is.
Maybe I am reading more into this, but the relationship just didn’t sit well with me.
Andrew irritated the hell out of me, and his control issues creeped me out. Issues like that are the first step into an abusive relationship. Just because Eddie is physically larger than Andrew doesn’t mean that Andrew had no power over him. Eddie’s disability, no matter what he says, makes him feel lesser than a more educated man, which Andrew is.
Maybe I am reading more into this, but the relationship just didn’t sit well with me.
December 17, 2017
3.5 stars rounded down because still no 1/2 stars here on GR and I just didn't enjoy this one quite as much as the first book.
It's like reading an episode of hoarders!
'Eddie: Grime Doesn't Pay' is the second book in Z.A. Maxfield's series 'The Grime Brothers' and while I enjoyed it. It didn't quite match the first book for me.
I really, really liked Eddie. Interestingly Eddie rhymes with teddy and that's what Eddie was he was just a total teddy bear and really, really good guy. I liked Eddie a lot. Eddie's one of Jack's partners at 'The Grime Brothers' and he's a really solid guy. Eddie works hard, he's a good friend and as his integrity is rock solid but he's also considerate and honest...in short Eddie's a keeper and it seems that Andrew wants to keep him.
Andrew's a school teacher and he's had Eddie on his radar since the first day Eddie brought his niece to school. I have to admit I never quite warmed up to Andrew. I found Andrew to be at times overly controlling and at times just downright obtuse....especially where his father is concerned.
I liked the way that Eddie's dyslexia was handled in this story. While Eddie's dyslexia is indicated as being one of the more serious types. While Eddie has worked hard to enable himself to be highly functional and independent he still struggles with his self esteem because he has dyslexia. Ironically it was being dyslexic that also contributed to Eddie's compassion.
At the end of it all I just didn't feel the connection between Eddie and Andrew as strongly as I did between Jack and Ryan.
We are once again given a series where we get a new pairing with each book but we also get to see couples from previous books since the core characters in this series are friends and so far also co-workers. It's been a while since this story was first released back in 2013 and I have to admit now that I've had the opportunity to experience these first two stories there's definitely at least one more story that I'd love to read and that's Dave and Gabe's story, because there's totally a story there. We first met both of these men in Jack's book and again here in this book and and I know for sure that the more I learn about these two...the more I want a story. I know it's been 4 years but a girl can hope, right?
One last note...'Jack' was my first time listening to Joe Arden who was the narrator for both of these books and I enjoyed the audio experience. The narration was solid. The character voices were solid and consistent, providing depth to the characters and I'm looking forward to enjoying other books narrated by this narrator in the future.
It's like reading an episode of hoarders!
'Eddie: Grime Doesn't Pay' is the second book in Z.A. Maxfield's series 'The Grime Brothers' and while I enjoyed it. It didn't quite match the first book for me.
I really, really liked Eddie. Interestingly Eddie rhymes with teddy and that's what Eddie was he was just a total teddy bear and really, really good guy. I liked Eddie a lot. Eddie's one of Jack's partners at 'The Grime Brothers' and he's a really solid guy. Eddie works hard, he's a good friend and as his integrity is rock solid but he's also considerate and honest...in short Eddie's a keeper and it seems that Andrew wants to keep him.
Andrew's a school teacher and he's had Eddie on his radar since the first day Eddie brought his niece to school. I have to admit I never quite warmed up to Andrew. I found Andrew to be at times overly controlling and at times just downright obtuse....especially where his father is concerned.
I liked the way that Eddie's dyslexia was handled in this story. While Eddie's dyslexia is indicated as being one of the more serious types. While Eddie has worked hard to enable himself to be highly functional and independent he still struggles with his self esteem because he has dyslexia. Ironically it was being dyslexic that also contributed to Eddie's compassion.
At the end of it all I just didn't feel the connection between Eddie and Andrew as strongly as I did between Jack and Ryan.
We are once again given a series where we get a new pairing with each book but we also get to see couples from previous books since the core characters in this series are friends and so far also co-workers. It's been a while since this story was first released back in 2013 and I have to admit now that I've had the opportunity to experience these first two stories there's definitely at least one more story that I'd love to read and that's Dave and Gabe's story, because there's totally a story there. We first met both of these men in Jack's book and again here in this book and and I know for sure that the more I learn about these two...the more I want a story. I know it's been 4 years but a girl can hope, right?
One last note...'Jack' was my first time listening to Joe Arden who was the narrator for both of these books and I enjoyed the audio experience. The narration was solid. The character voices were solid and consistent, providing depth to the characters and I'm looking forward to enjoying other books narrated by this narrator in the future.
January 20, 2014
This is another winner from Z.A. Maxfield. Although it didn't have the intensity of the first book, Jack: Grime and Punishment I did enjoy the story of Eddie and Andrew.
The two men are outwardly very different, but their chemistry was very good, especially the surprising dynamics in the bedroom. Both men have personal and family issues that are easy to relate to and those come to a head when Andrew is forced to face his father's illness.
While there is insta-love, considering the book takes place of a period of a couple weeks, it didn't feel forced or unbelievable to me. While this book easily works as a standalone, there are appearances from Jack and Ryan and the rest of the Grime crew, and one underlying storyline that will likely make a great book in the future.
The two men are outwardly very different, but their chemistry was very good, especially the surprising dynamics in the bedroom. Both men have personal and family issues that are easy to relate to and those come to a head when Andrew is forced to face his father's illness.
While there is insta-love, considering the book takes place of a period of a couple weeks, it didn't feel forced or unbelievable to me. While this book easily works as a standalone, there are appearances from Jack and Ryan and the rest of the Grime crew, and one underlying storyline that will likely make a great book in the future.
December 10, 2013
Unfortunately, I did not enjoy this one nearly as much as the previous book. I absolutely loved Eddie but had a very hard time feeling anything for Andrew. I quickly lost interest in Andrew's father's hoarding issues which take up the bulk of this story. I still love the rest of the Grime crew though and am looking forward to the next installment. Some of my favorite parts of this story involved the other characters. Perhaps Gabe will finally get the breakthrough he longs for with Dave?
December 13, 2013
4.5 stars
Eagerly awaited, started reading - only I got sidetracked. But yesterday I returned and couldn't put it down. Yes, I liked it a lot - Eddie and Andrew as a couple with hangups were great. And poor Reese! Reading about his hoarding was gripping. The end was sweet. I can't wait for the next book.
Eagerly awaited, started reading - only I got sidetracked. But yesterday I returned and couldn't put it down. Yes, I liked it a lot - Eddie and Andrew as a couple with hangups were great. And poor Reese! Reading about his hoarding was gripping. The end was sweet. I can't wait for the next book.
November 29, 2013
The Brothers Grime takes a new route to show us another tale of one of the partners. This is the story of Eddie Vasquez who finds his one true love in B. Andrew Daley – his neice’s school teacher.
It put a smile on my face right at the beginning and I got sucked in to never turn back. We find Eddie fixing his hair, trying to look neat and impressive as he drops his neice off at her school. In Grime and Punishment, we have one of the briefest scenes with Eddie where the guys are giving him a hard time about how he dresses up every time he goes to that school, knowing that there had to be a teacher crush involved. So when I read that first scene with Eddie and his adorable neice, my mind soothed back into full concentration. I knew this was going to be the type of book which I’d read without a halt.
Maxfield gives us what was lacking in the first book and that is letting us know the characters by soul and heart. Neither of them was perfect, they didn’t always make the right choices, but still Eddie and Andrew (Don’t you dare call him Boston or Andy or he will come after you!) linger in your memories like they were the best friends you once knew.
The theme of this book is well-thought. Its proximity to the real life problems one faces leaves a distinct impression. Though Eddie has dyslexia, he has managed to overcome the barriers every way he can. But I kept getting the hint that he is indeed ashamed of his limitations as he hides it from Andrew for far too long. One thing that kept touching me regarding Eddie that he seems to be a very kind soul who feels for the others around him, cares for them selflessly. Can you tell that I am absolutely in love with this guy?
Andrew, on the other hand, is a bit spontaneous with his thoughts and actions. This gets him into a very heated arguement at one point of time with Eddie and that was when I realized how different these two are. Their ways of thinking, their behavior patterns, likes, dislikes – they vary so much one would be amazed. Yet, what binds them together is pure love…
… and lust.
The intimate scenes between them are steamy, to put it very mildly because Maxfield does one hell of a job describing their time together. There was a progression there that I saw. The first time what they was pure, lustful sex – the second was exploration, desperation for one more time … and by the time we get the final scene we can feel the true meaning of the words – “making love”.
Eddie and Andrew’s story was like a true love song with a soothing melody. It calms you down, pleases you in ways you can’t even begin to imagine and it makes you want more of it even when you know it will be ending some time. I just didn’t want it to end.
I am sure the author will come out soon with a third installment in this series because we already saw a story brewing in here – Dave and Gabe. I liked Dave – that character intrigues me so I will be looking forward to it, if that is what Maxfield plans.
It put a smile on my face right at the beginning and I got sucked in to never turn back. We find Eddie fixing his hair, trying to look neat and impressive as he drops his neice off at her school. In Grime and Punishment, we have one of the briefest scenes with Eddie where the guys are giving him a hard time about how he dresses up every time he goes to that school, knowing that there had to be a teacher crush involved. So when I read that first scene with Eddie and his adorable neice, my mind soothed back into full concentration. I knew this was going to be the type of book which I’d read without a halt.
Maxfield gives us what was lacking in the first book and that is letting us know the characters by soul and heart. Neither of them was perfect, they didn’t always make the right choices, but still Eddie and Andrew (Don’t you dare call him Boston or Andy or he will come after you!) linger in your memories like they were the best friends you once knew.
The theme of this book is well-thought. Its proximity to the real life problems one faces leaves a distinct impression. Though Eddie has dyslexia, he has managed to overcome the barriers every way he can. But I kept getting the hint that he is indeed ashamed of his limitations as he hides it from Andrew for far too long. One thing that kept touching me regarding Eddie that he seems to be a very kind soul who feels for the others around him, cares for them selflessly. Can you tell that I am absolutely in love with this guy?
Andrew, on the other hand, is a bit spontaneous with his thoughts and actions. This gets him into a very heated arguement at one point of time with Eddie and that was when I realized how different these two are. Their ways of thinking, their behavior patterns, likes, dislikes – they vary so much one would be amazed. Yet, what binds them together is pure love…
… and lust.
The intimate scenes between them are steamy, to put it very mildly because Maxfield does one hell of a job describing their time together. There was a progression there that I saw. The first time what they was pure, lustful sex – the second was exploration, desperation for one more time … and by the time we get the final scene we can feel the true meaning of the words – “making love”.
Eddie and Andrew’s story was like a true love song with a soothing melody. It calms you down, pleases you in ways you can’t even begin to imagine and it makes you want more of it even when you know it will be ending some time. I just didn’t want it to end.
I am sure the author will come out soon with a third installment in this series because we already saw a story brewing in here – Dave and Gabe. I liked Dave – that character intrigues me so I will be looking forward to it, if that is what Maxfield plans.
December 1, 2013
4.5 stars
This was a lovely book. It was funny and sad and really, really heartfelt. It is a book about family and imperfection. Like Eddie's friends say: we all have something. Some baggage, some flaw, some 'defect' that we have to overcome. For Eddie it is dyslexia, for Reese it is loss that led to hoarding, for Andrew it is his fears. It might seem that this book should be a huge angst-fest, but it isn't. Maxfield deals with all these issues with humor and heart for the lack of better word.
Some readers may have an issue with the super fast way the guys fell in love with, but I didn't. They were dancing around each other for a year and, once they started the relationship, they fell into it like pieces of a puzzle. They just fit together. I liked how Maxfield defied stereotypes: Andrew and his friends are like twink-fest when faced with Eddie's muscles, but Andrew takes command in bed, Eddie is submissive in bed in spite of his size and 'take action' personality in the rest of his life.
The secondary characters gave so much dept and color to the story. From Reese, Andrew's dad, and Mrs. Handerson, Eddie's former teacher, to Eddie's partners and family. It is a rare book that has no 'villain' or antagonist in it. All these people are basically good people. The conflict comes from real life problems not some external force.
I laughed and I cried and thoroughly enjoyed this. It is not hard to predict that the next book will be about Gabe and Dave. That story also has a potential to become angst ridden but, if this book is any indication, we have nothing to worry about.
Highly, highly recommended.
This was a lovely book. It was funny and sad and really, really heartfelt. It is a book about family and imperfection. Like Eddie's friends say: we all have something. Some baggage, some flaw, some 'defect' that we have to overcome. For Eddie it is dyslexia, for Reese it is loss that led to hoarding, for Andrew it is his fears. It might seem that this book should be a huge angst-fest, but it isn't. Maxfield deals with all these issues with humor and heart for the lack of better word.
Some readers may have an issue with the super fast way the guys fell in love with, but I didn't. They were dancing around each other for a year and, once they started the relationship, they fell into it like pieces of a puzzle. They just fit together. I liked how Maxfield defied stereotypes: Andrew and his friends are like twink-fest when faced with Eddie's muscles, but Andrew takes command in bed, Eddie is submissive in bed in spite of his size and 'take action' personality in the rest of his life.
The secondary characters gave so much dept and color to the story. From Reese, Andrew's dad, and Mrs. Handerson, Eddie's former teacher, to Eddie's partners and family. It is a rare book that has no 'villain' or antagonist in it. All these people are basically good people. The conflict comes from real life problems not some external force.
I laughed and I cried and thoroughly enjoyed this. It is not hard to predict that the next book will be about Gabe and Dave. That story also has a potential to become angst ridden but, if this book is any indication, we have nothing to worry about.
Highly, highly recommended.
October 16, 2014
I wanted to love this one, but it was really just ok for me. I loved Eddie, but I'm more iffy on Andrew. There's a fine line between taking charge and being bossy, and for me, Andrew came too close to the bossy line. I did feel sorry for him and his issues with his dad, and totally got where Andrew was coming from there. I think both guys tossed the "L" word out way too soon, they'd only been on a couple of dates, and then dealt with Andrew's dad's stuff. I liked the hoarding aspect, and how they managed to tie in The Brothers Grime that way. Looking forward to Gabe and Dave's story ( I hope, anyway!).
January 29, 2021
Book Reaction: https://neverhollowed.com/2021/01/29/...
Rating: 4 Stars – minor quibbles but I loved it to bits
Rating: 4 Stars – minor quibbles but I loved it to bits
December 5, 2019
It feels like forever that I've been waiting for this second installment in the fabulous Z.A. Maxfield's 'The Brothers Grime' series. I loved the first book featuring Jack and Ryan, but the author did such a wonderful job in that story introducing the secondary characters, that I totally and completely felt as if I already knew Eddie before I cracked this book open. I have spent the majority of my life with my nose buried in a book, so I can't begin to imagine what having severe dyslexia would be like, or how I would feel about it. I do know the author did a great job of depicting how Eddie handles everything in his day-to-day from text messaging to email, in a way that didn't make me feel sorry for Eddie; in fact, just the opposite, I was impressed.
Eddie owns The Brothers Grime company with his two partners, Jack and Gabe. They handle crime scene cleanup, sewage accidents, biohazard spills, and everything else along those lines. It's not glamorous but it allows Eddie a debt free life excluding his mortgage and a couple of nice vacations a year. Eddie grew up in a big family and he wants to settle down and have kids when he meets the right guy. He isn't sure but his niece's first grade teacher, Andrew, might just be that guy. Unfortunately for Eddie, he doesn't have a lot of experience with dating, his is more along the lines of hookups. But when he and Andrew find Eddie's favorite teacher, Mrs. Henderson, wandering the school grounds thinking it's still 1986 and covered in the scent of decomposing tissue, it brings the two men together to begin getting to know one another.
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
Eddie owns The Brothers Grime company with his two partners, Jack and Gabe. They handle crime scene cleanup, sewage accidents, biohazard spills, and everything else along those lines. It's not glamorous but it allows Eddie a debt free life excluding his mortgage and a couple of nice vacations a year. Eddie grew up in a big family and he wants to settle down and have kids when he meets the right guy. He isn't sure but his niece's first grade teacher, Andrew, might just be that guy. Unfortunately for Eddie, he doesn't have a lot of experience with dating, his is more along the lines of hookups. But when he and Andrew find Eddie's favorite teacher, Mrs. Henderson, wandering the school grounds thinking it's still 1986 and covered in the scent of decomposing tissue, it brings the two men together to begin getting to know one another.
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
December 12, 2013
This was almost better than the first book.
The drama here was quieter, almost even more personal than in the first book even though on the surface both Eddie and Andrew didn't appear as deeply damaged as Jack and Nick. But they had their own issues to deal with, which they did, and in a very relatable way.
Particularly Eddie was such an amazing man, incredibly understanding und very Zen for the most part despite everything. I fell in love with him from the word "go". Eddie was also such a perfect complement to Andrew's at times somewhat over-the-top drama-queening. In fact, they really complemented each other as if they'd been made for each other.
The supportive cast was great. I loved Mrs. H, Eddie's old teacher, and Eddie's adorable little niece; and Andrew's father Riley almost stole the show away from the main characters, he was so well-wrought and multi-faceted.
I also enjoyed meeting the other "Brothers Grime" again, even though I wanted to smack Dave on the head constantly. Can't wait to read his and Gabe's story.
Missed Token Chick, though. I guess nothing can be perfect.
The drama here was quieter, almost even more personal than in the first book even though on the surface both Eddie and Andrew didn't appear as deeply damaged as Jack and Nick. But they had their own issues to deal with, which they did, and in a very relatable way.
Particularly Eddie was such an amazing man, incredibly understanding und very Zen for the most part despite everything. I fell in love with him from the word "go". Eddie was also such a perfect complement to Andrew's at times somewhat over-the-top drama-queening. In fact, they really complemented each other as if they'd been made for each other.
The supportive cast was great. I loved Mrs. H, Eddie's old teacher, and Eddie's adorable little niece; and Andrew's father Riley almost stole the show away from the main characters, he was so well-wrought and multi-faceted.
I also enjoyed meeting the other "Brothers Grime" again, even though I wanted to smack Dave on the head constantly. Can't wait to read his and Gabe's story.
Missed Token Chick, though. I guess nothing can be perfect.
September 2, 2015
So, I just finished this on audio, and wonder how I missed this series? It's a very interesting premise and the sensitive treatment of autonomy with what are considered both mental disorders and disabilities impressed me greatly. This book even more so then the first. I'm just sad to see that the series seems to be inclomplete after the first 2 books, as surely Gabe and Dave have a story as well?
Very well thought out premise, and I appreciated the different job that this company portrays with after death, etc industrial cleanup. I always wondered who took care of things after a crime scene. Thank you for the detailed, and promising start to a series.
Very well thought out premise, and I appreciated the different job that this company portrays with after death, etc industrial cleanup. I always wondered who took care of things after a crime scene. Thank you for the detailed, and promising start to a series.
dnf
November 22, 2021DNF @ 26%
These MCs kept saying how much they liked each other, but wow, I sure didn’t feel it from the text.
These MCs kept saying how much they liked each other, but wow, I sure didn’t feel it from the text.
January 12, 2014
I really liked the first book in this series, Grime and Punishment, but this one, I loved. I think Eddie is now on my list of top MC's, this book got an extra star just for him. Also because it had a lot of unexpected depth and emotion that made it so much more than what I expected.
From the beginning I didn't think Andrew was good enough for my Eddie, but the author really broke him down and he wasn't perfect but I liked him better for his true flaws and not the persona he projected with his friends. Eddie is very centered and wise, but also very unassuming and subtle. Once Andrew let his stereotype go and really listened to Eddie he became more of a layered character for me. Andrew knew there were quite a few times he was being unfair to Eddie because of everything he was going through with his dad and it broke my heart to see Eddie hurt. I wanted to smack Andrew upside his melon. At the same time I could understand why Andrew was reluctant to share his families problem and the secrets both Andrew and Eddie weren't sharing were setting their new relationship up to fail. I was getting all stressed out during some of their date conversations because they both wanted to share, were nervous, ashamed, confused, gah!
I always love when characters have unexpected bedroom roles and when they find a partner that is a perfect fit, damn, it's good stuff. These two balanced each other so well and I loved reading about them discovering just exactly how well. This was perfect, seriously, don't read this quote until you read the book
This story has some great funny moments and secondary characters too. How much did I love Senor Toppy Pantalones? So many teases leading up to book 3 that has to be about Gabe and Dave. Good gravy I hope so, Gabe needs his HEA and right now Dave is just not good enough for him! He's got a lot of redeeming to do in my book and I know there is a lot more to his story that I need to know.
From the beginning I didn't think Andrew was good enough for my Eddie, but the author really broke him down and he wasn't perfect but I liked him better for his true flaws and not the persona he projected with his friends. Eddie is very centered and wise, but also very unassuming and subtle. Once Andrew let his stereotype go and really listened to Eddie he became more of a layered character for me. Andrew knew there were quite a few times he was being unfair to Eddie because of everything he was going through with his dad and it broke my heart to see Eddie hurt. I wanted to smack Andrew upside his melon. At the same time I could understand why Andrew was reluctant to share his families problem and the secrets both Andrew and Eddie weren't sharing were setting their new relationship up to fail. I was getting all stressed out during some of their date conversations because they both wanted to share, were nervous, ashamed, confused, gah!
I always love when characters have unexpected bedroom roles and when they find a partner that is a perfect fit, damn, it's good stuff. These two balanced each other so well and I loved reading about them discovering just exactly how well. This was perfect, seriously, don't read this quote until you read the book
This story has some great funny moments and secondary characters too. How much did I love Senor Toppy Pantalones? So many teases leading up to book 3 that has to be about Gabe and Dave. Good gravy I hope so, Gabe needs his HEA and right now Dave is just not good enough for him! He's got a lot of redeeming to do in my book and I know there is a lot more to his story that I need to know.
started-didn-t-finish
July 1, 2014Unfortunately this is a DNF for me. Maxfield's work seems to divide for me: books I adore St. Nacho's, Physical Therapy, The Pharaoh's Concubine and those I can't finish, The Book Of Daniel, Crossing Borders. I'm pretty sure the books I don't finish feature the more off-beat, non-traditional dynamics. That tells me the problem is with me and my own difficulties investing when the power play doesn't follow the script I've created in my head--that is to say, my own lameness. However, I also think all of these books have problems with the pacing. Either way, I'm disappointed because I greatly enjoyed the first of this series.
December 1, 2013
This has all the qualities of fine fiction - enough issues to make us think and appreciate our own lives; just the right amount of angst so the boys develop like authentic people, and so so much good smexy fun times.
These boys have fun in bed. They mix it up, they flirt and tease each other, and when you realise who is the real boss, you might be a mite surprised (but probably not).
Roll on Gabe and Dave's story.
These boys have fun in bed. They mix it up, they flirt and tease each other, and when you realise who is the real boss, you might be a mite surprised (but probably not).
Roll on Gabe and Dave's story.
July 8, 2020
This one hurt. Instead of a murder scene it’s clearing up a hoarder’s mess and scraping at emotional wounds. Andrew I found was very judgy and stuck in his own world, whilst you’ve got dyslexic Eddie rolling with things but deep down insecure about his dyslexia.
I liked how everyone got together to help out and try to have a good time. I also liked how the dominant situation worked out. Really enjoying the series.
I liked how everyone got together to help out and try to have a good time. I also liked how the dominant situation worked out. Really enjoying the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 24, 2022
Nothing wrong, nothing special. Although I had to eyeroll about the coincidence a professional cleaner finds a boyfriend in need of a cleaner.
The narration was a bit bland.
The narration was a bit bland.
December 14, 2013
2.5 stars rounded up
I honestly don't know what to say here, it wasn't bad per se but it wasn't great either. There was something missing between the MC's. There was physical attraction but I'm not sure what Eddie saw in Andrew. Andrew was kind of a brat. Their first date was uncomfortable to say the least. I guess I didn't like Andrew and there wasn't a lot of redeeming to make me like him by the end. The last 3 chapters + epilogue were mostly skimmed. I just didn't care all that much and I assume most was just a lot of hearts and flowers and awe isn't that sweet bs.
I'm kind of irritated here, Brothers Grime #1 was just great for me! I really do love that story. I've probably read about three times. This wasn't near as good.
I honestly don't know what to say here, it wasn't bad per se but it wasn't great either. There was something missing between the MC's. There was physical attraction but I'm not sure what Eddie saw in Andrew. Andrew was kind of a brat. Their first date was uncomfortable to say the least. I guess I didn't like Andrew and there wasn't a lot of redeeming to make me like him by the end. The last 3 chapters + epilogue were mostly skimmed. I just didn't care all that much and I assume most was just a lot of hearts and flowers and awe isn't that sweet bs.
I'm kind of irritated here, Brothers Grime #1 was just great for me! I really do love that story. I've probably read about three times. This wasn't near as good.
September 2, 2015
So, I just finished this on audio, and wonder how I missed this series? It's a very interesting premise and the sensitive treatment of autonomy with what are considered both mental disorders and disabilities impressed me greatly. This book even more so then the first. I'm just sad to see that the series seems to be inclomplete after the first 2 books, as surely Gabe and Dave have a story as well?
Very well thought out premise, and I appreciated the different job that this company portrays with after death, etc industrial cleanup. I always wondered who took care of things after a crime scene. Thank you for the detailed, and promising start to a series.
Very well thought out premise, and I appreciated the different job that this company portrays with after death, etc industrial cleanup. I always wondered who took care of things after a crime scene. Thank you for the detailed, and promising start to a series.
December 3, 2015
4.5 stars for an amazing audiobook that was even better than book one.
The tone of this book was very different to book one. The industrial cleaning company and some character cameos connect both books, but I don't think the order of the books in this series matters a lot.
I love how the author tackles very difficult character relationship. I think the relationship between father and son and between the two main protagonists is equally important in this book. I really cared for ALL the characters in this book and really enjoyed the book.
Highly recommended!
The tone of this book was very different to book one. The industrial cleaning company and some character cameos connect both books, but I don't think the order of the books in this series matters a lot.
I love how the author tackles very difficult character relationship. I think the relationship between father and son and between the two main protagonists is equally important in this book. I really cared for ALL the characters in this book and really enjoyed the book.
Highly recommended!
February 21, 2016
Eddie was wonderful.
March 25, 2018
This is number 2 in this series and I'm happy I tried again. I was not bowled over by Jack & Ryan's story, oh but I liked the kitty. I couldn't find a point in the read but I remembered it enough to be curious about this one. Yea, I'm glad I did. I liked both Eddie & Andrew. They both had hurdles to climb, they were like-able and the story had a pleasant flow. Maxfield did a solid job integrating past characters and introduce new ones. I hope there's a third because we to settle detective's life.
February 9, 2025
Cute book. Low angst. The couple only have one small issue, otherwise they're all-in to a sickeningly sweet degree. Eddie is unnecessarily kind, way more tolerant than I would have been. Andrew needs to do some growing. Not sure if the book actually depicts that, but there's potential so I don't hate it. The book isn't quite as deep as it could be, but it still works. The precocious child is a nice touch. Interesting how we never meet the kids parents.
May 31, 2022
I loved how Eddie and Andrew finally figured out how to trust each other with the thing that made them each ashamed of himself. (Although, as Pam pointed out, neither one is something to be ashamed of. They just both need to work on remembering that fact.)
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