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Stranded #2
Taken
"Stranded: Book Two"
"A Spin-off of Stranded"
On the day he and Roman Capanelli were to be married, Malik Stevens wakes up in a small room with very little light. Time must be passing, because a door opens from time to time and food is left for him that s his only connection to the outside world. Roman is a choreographer on Broadway, and he s waiting for Malik at the park with all their friends, ready to start their marriage ceremony. When Malik doesn t show up, Roman is nearly heartbroken thinking he s been left at the altar. But soon he understands that Malik hasn t stood him up, he s been taken.
Desperate and determined, Roman begins searching for clues to aid the police. Then, when Malik escapes, the couple continues the search until they ferret out the culprit, and in the process open up a box of secrets. An orphan who grew up in a foster home, Malik knows his father was a serial killer and his mother died of grief and shame after his father was convicted. Now it seems some of his parents skeletons still hang in the family closet. But was Malik s kidnapping meant to uncover those secrets or to hide them forever?
"A Spin-off of Stranded"
On the day he and Roman Capanelli were to be married, Malik Stevens wakes up in a small room with very little light. Time must be passing, because a door opens from time to time and food is left for him that s his only connection to the outside world. Roman is a choreographer on Broadway, and he s waiting for Malik at the park with all their friends, ready to start their marriage ceremony. When Malik doesn t show up, Roman is nearly heartbroken thinking he s been left at the altar. But soon he understands that Malik hasn t stood him up, he s been taken.
Desperate and determined, Roman begins searching for clues to aid the police. Then, when Malik escapes, the couple continues the search until they ferret out the culprit, and in the process open up a box of secrets. An orphan who grew up in a foster home, Malik knows his father was a serial killer and his mother died of grief and shame after his father was convicted. Now it seems some of his parents skeletons still hang in the family closet. But was Malik s kidnapping meant to uncover those secrets or to hide them forever?
200 pages, Paperback
First published October 27, 2013
5 people are currently reading
223 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
April 11, 2014
‘Taken’ is the sequel to 'Stranded', and has the same intensity on both the thriller and the romance side of the equation. It is also a deeply emotional love story between two pretty normal men who are about to get married, yet find their efforts thwarted by a mysterious villain to the point where fear and tension brings out the best in both of them. The suspenseful mystery of who is behind Malik’s disappearance and why had me on the edge of my seat, but Andrew Grey managed to keep me on tenterhooks for the solution to that particular problem until the last 10% of the book. Well played!
Roman is a choreographer on Broadway, and he wants nothing more than to marry the love of his life. The opening scenes in the book when he waits for Malik “at the altar” only to be disappointed when the man doesn’t appear are very powerful. Roman goes from anger to disbelief, to thinking he has been abandoned, until h finally realizes something must be wrong. He and Malik have been together for two years, and nothing adds up to what he knows his lover to be like. Once he starts to investigate (more effectively than the police!), things begin to move.
Malik is an orphan who grew up in a foster home and never had anyone who really loved him. Meeting Roman has truly changed his life – and that is all he thinks about while he is locked up in this bare room, disconnected from the world. Some very powerful scenes and flashbacks there had me close to tears. But once he manages to orchestrate his escape (very cleverly), the sh*t really hits the fan. Action and physical danger are not frequent in Andrew Grey’s work, but when he does add them? His stories become even more incredibly powerful.
Like with ‘Stranded’, I can’t say too much about the details of all the twists and turns that happen (and there are a LOT!) without ruining the surprise for you. If you like mystery and suspense, if you want a great love story on top of that, and if you’re ready for an intense experience, hot loving, and fascinating revelations about Malik’s past, then you will probably enjoy this novel. I certainly did and really hope there will be more in the series!
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Roman is a choreographer on Broadway, and he wants nothing more than to marry the love of his life. The opening scenes in the book when he waits for Malik “at the altar” only to be disappointed when the man doesn’t appear are very powerful. Roman goes from anger to disbelief, to thinking he has been abandoned, until h finally realizes something must be wrong. He and Malik have been together for two years, and nothing adds up to what he knows his lover to be like. Once he starts to investigate (more effectively than the police!), things begin to move.
Malik is an orphan who grew up in a foster home and never had anyone who really loved him. Meeting Roman has truly changed his life – and that is all he thinks about while he is locked up in this bare room, disconnected from the world. Some very powerful scenes and flashbacks there had me close to tears. But once he manages to orchestrate his escape (very cleverly), the sh*t really hits the fan. Action and physical danger are not frequent in Andrew Grey’s work, but when he does add them? His stories become even more incredibly powerful.
Like with ‘Stranded’, I can’t say too much about the details of all the twists and turns that happen (and there are a LOT!) without ruining the surprise for you. If you like mystery and suspense, if you want a great love story on top of that, and if you’re ready for an intense experience, hot loving, and fascinating revelations about Malik’s past, then you will probably enjoy this novel. I certainly did and really hope there will be more in the series!
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
November 4, 2013
Full review can be found at On Top Down Under Book Reviews.
You're standing before your family and friends. You are waiting to marry the man of your dreams, the man who has been your entire world for the past two years. You are in your tuxedo and it's only a matter of minutes before the love of your life will be standing beside you and you will both make a vow to love the other until death do you part. Only that doesn't happen. Your man is a no-show. You are left in pain and shock over of being stood up on your wedding day. You feel lost, confused. Family and friends try to help you but it's no use. Were there signs over the past few weeks? Signs that maybe things weren't all as you had hoped? That maybe he didn't love you enough to commit to spend the rest of his life with you?
This is what Roman is going through when Malik stands him up on their wedding day. Only all is not as it appears and Malik is fighting like hell to get back to the man he loves.
Great romance. Great mystery. Great story.
This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for a fair and honest review.
You're standing before your family and friends. You are waiting to marry the man of your dreams, the man who has been your entire world for the past two years. You are in your tuxedo and it's only a matter of minutes before the love of your life will be standing beside you and you will both make a vow to love the other until death do you part. Only that doesn't happen. Your man is a no-show. You are left in pain and shock over of being stood up on your wedding day. You feel lost, confused. Family and friends try to help you but it's no use. Were there signs over the past few weeks? Signs that maybe things weren't all as you had hoped? That maybe he didn't love you enough to commit to spend the rest of his life with you?
This is what Roman is going through when Malik stands him up on their wedding day. Only all is not as it appears and Malik is fighting like hell to get back to the man he loves.
Great romance. Great mystery. Great story.
This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for a fair and honest review.
October 26, 2013
Please leave comments on my 5 sweet pea review at http://mrsconditreadsbooks.com/index....
“Thank you so much for coming, but Malik isn’t here and I don’t believe he’s coming.” The guests turned to look at each other, confusion and sadness spreading over a hundred different faces at the same time.
Holy cow! If you read Stranded and thought that was suspenseful you ain’t seen nothin’ yet. Wait until you read Taken. I was on the edge of my chair throughout the first half of the book and then again, for slightly different reasons, through the second half.
Imagine arriving at your wedding and the other groom never shows. And you can’t find him. What are you to think? Did he get cold feet? Was he injured in an accident? Could he have been kidnapped? The guy writes security code so of course I assumed he was taken by someone who wanted access to something he wrote code to protect. If you draw that conclusion you too will be wrong. I’m not giving away a spoiler here – it’s right up there in the blurb.
When Malik decides it is up to him to find a way out of his dungeon, not knowing why he was taken or how long he had been there how in the world is he going to do it?
There is one aspect of this story that Andrew Grey got spot on and I can tell you that from personal experience. When an adult goes missing it is very difficult to get anyone to help you look for that person. The assumption by the police is they left because they wanted to go away and not be found. It won’t matter how much you tell them this isn’t the way this person would behave. If they are over 21 they have the right to disappear. So, where do you start? How do you get authorities to help? Think about it. What would you do? That’s the situation that Roman faces in this story.
Will Roman give up on Malik and walk away? Will he help find him and then will he figure out how to protect both Malik and himself from whoever is still out there? Wow. Andrew Grey can write suspense!
“Thank you so much for coming, but Malik isn’t here and I don’t believe he’s coming.” The guests turned to look at each other, confusion and sadness spreading over a hundred different faces at the same time.
Holy cow! If you read Stranded and thought that was suspenseful you ain’t seen nothin’ yet. Wait until you read Taken. I was on the edge of my chair throughout the first half of the book and then again, for slightly different reasons, through the second half.
Imagine arriving at your wedding and the other groom never shows. And you can’t find him. What are you to think? Did he get cold feet? Was he injured in an accident? Could he have been kidnapped? The guy writes security code so of course I assumed he was taken by someone who wanted access to something he wrote code to protect. If you draw that conclusion you too will be wrong. I’m not giving away a spoiler here – it’s right up there in the blurb.
When Malik decides it is up to him to find a way out of his dungeon, not knowing why he was taken or how long he had been there how in the world is he going to do it?
There is one aspect of this story that Andrew Grey got spot on and I can tell you that from personal experience. When an adult goes missing it is very difficult to get anyone to help you look for that person. The assumption by the police is they left because they wanted to go away and not be found. It won’t matter how much you tell them this isn’t the way this person would behave. If they are over 21 they have the right to disappear. So, where do you start? How do you get authorities to help? Think about it. What would you do? That’s the situation that Roman faces in this story.
Will Roman give up on Malik and walk away? Will he help find him and then will he figure out how to protect both Malik and himself from whoever is still out there? Wow. Andrew Grey can write suspense!
March 28, 2014
With the follow up to Stranded, Andrew Grey has again written another enjoyable story full of mystery and suspense. Although Kendall and Johnny and Det. Boutcher from Stranded appear as secondary characters, this is a standalone story.
No time is wasted as the story starts off on Malik and Roman's wedding day. When Malik fails to show up Roman doesn't know what to think, but it soon becomes apparent that Malik didn't just leave. Finding Malik is just the start of the bigger mystery of who is behind the abduction and why. The story is told from both men's POV so we see what each one is going through in the days that follow. There are some flashbacks to fill us in on how the men met and the harsh background Malik struggled out of.
The story moved along quickly, with plenty of action and romance. Highly recommended.
No time is wasted as the story starts off on Malik and Roman's wedding day. When Malik fails to show up Roman doesn't know what to think, but it soon becomes apparent that Malik didn't just leave. Finding Malik is just the start of the bigger mystery of who is behind the abduction and why. The story is told from both men's POV so we see what each one is going through in the days that follow. There are some flashbacks to fill us in on how the men met and the harsh background Malik struggled out of.
The story moved along quickly, with plenty of action and romance. Highly recommended.
November 3, 2013
Imagine standing at the altar, awaiting the arrival of the man you’ve chosen to spend the rest of your life with. Minutes turn to hours and you still stand there alone. Roman Capanelli is heartbroken thinking his fiancé has left him jilted, only to learn that Malik has in fact been kidnapped.
Malik awakes in a cold, dark room, dreaming of Roman only to discover he is truly alone. As the minutes tick by Malik finds comfort and solace in his memories of Roman and plots his escape. As Malik suffers in a cold cellblock of a room, Roman suffers as well, tormented trying to figure out who took his lover, and why. When Malik escapes they think the worst of it is behind them. Until an explosion rocks their world and proves that this is far from over.
Malik has a very dark past, one he’s worked hard to distance himself from. If you can’t trust your family, who can you trust? Gray has gone completely outside of anything he’s ever written, even this books predecessor, and amazed me with his skills at mystery. I actually had to read this book twice. I zipped through it the first time at warp speed to find out first, where was Malik? And then, who did this?!
I absolutely loved the relationship that played out between the two ML. Roman is very unsure of where he stands at the start, but as the story progresses he becomes the rock in their relationship providing that steady ground Malik needs to get through this ordeal.
I can’t say enough about Gray’s writing prowess. As an author of m/m fiction I fully admit I’m lacking certain plumbing and knowledge to fully embrace the genre. Gray, however, is not. I think that he brings a little piece of himself into each and every one of his books. The love, passion, sacrifice and uncertainty of these men is evident on each and every page. Just that little something that reels you in and puts you in the mindset of that particular character. It’s magical.
I think it goes without saying that I recommend this book. It is strong as a stand alone read, but why not read the first book in this series first, Stranded. Strong gay fictional love stories written by a strong gay man, that is any Andrew Gray book you pick up.
Malik awakes in a cold, dark room, dreaming of Roman only to discover he is truly alone. As the minutes tick by Malik finds comfort and solace in his memories of Roman and plots his escape. As Malik suffers in a cold cellblock of a room, Roman suffers as well, tormented trying to figure out who took his lover, and why. When Malik escapes they think the worst of it is behind them. Until an explosion rocks their world and proves that this is far from over.
Malik has a very dark past, one he’s worked hard to distance himself from. If you can’t trust your family, who can you trust? Gray has gone completely outside of anything he’s ever written, even this books predecessor, and amazed me with his skills at mystery. I actually had to read this book twice. I zipped through it the first time at warp speed to find out first, where was Malik? And then, who did this?!
I absolutely loved the relationship that played out between the two ML. Roman is very unsure of where he stands at the start, but as the story progresses he becomes the rock in their relationship providing that steady ground Malik needs to get through this ordeal.
I can’t say enough about Gray’s writing prowess. As an author of m/m fiction I fully admit I’m lacking certain plumbing and knowledge to fully embrace the genre. Gray, however, is not. I think that he brings a little piece of himself into each and every one of his books. The love, passion, sacrifice and uncertainty of these men is evident on each and every page. Just that little something that reels you in and puts you in the mindset of that particular character. It’s magical.
I think it goes without saying that I recommend this book. It is strong as a stand alone read, but why not read the first book in this series first, Stranded. Strong gay fictional love stories written by a strong gay man, that is any Andrew Gray book you pick up.
October 28, 2013
After having loved Stranded, I was thrilled to hear that there was to be another book in the same series. And Oh My, is it worth the read.
No slow build up in this story, things start happening from the very beginning. The wedding between Roman and Malik gets derailed though with Malik not showing for his own wedding, sending poor Roman into a tailspin of pain, loss, fear, and confusion. Is Malik leaving him at the altar or has someone taken the love of his life, and if so . . . Why? That’s the crux of the problem for Roman. A problem he’s not about to leave alone, either.
For Malik though, things are even worse. He wakes in a concrete room with no way to know what day or time it is, nor does he know why he’s been taken. Beyond the fear of the unknown kidnapper is the worry that his lover and friends won’t ever forgive him for not showing, even though it’s not his fault.
Much of the relationship is told in the form of flashbacks, and is done in such a skillful manner that it felt natural and perfect each time. The first half has you biting your nails and then second half nervous yet pissed on behalf of Malik and Roman.
How do you find a lost lover when they’re over 18? How do you convince the cops to help when it looks like he just walked away? And what do you do when the past and present collide with hate and greed?
Andrew Grey has given us another wonderful story! The characters are real, the world and the situation so tangible and ‘real’ as to be channelled instead of made up. And the suspense . . . I read it in one sitting, staying up most of the night—yes, I couldn’t go to sleep without finding out the who and why of the story, lol.
I wholeheartedly recommend Taken to any who love M/M romance, suspense, and a wonderfully written story. There is so much to this story and getting to visit the guys from Stranded was such an added bonus.
No slow build up in this story, things start happening from the very beginning. The wedding between Roman and Malik gets derailed though with Malik not showing for his own wedding, sending poor Roman into a tailspin of pain, loss, fear, and confusion. Is Malik leaving him at the altar or has someone taken the love of his life, and if so . . . Why? That’s the crux of the problem for Roman. A problem he’s not about to leave alone, either.
For Malik though, things are even worse. He wakes in a concrete room with no way to know what day or time it is, nor does he know why he’s been taken. Beyond the fear of the unknown kidnapper is the worry that his lover and friends won’t ever forgive him for not showing, even though it’s not his fault.
Much of the relationship is told in the form of flashbacks, and is done in such a skillful manner that it felt natural and perfect each time. The first half has you biting your nails and then second half nervous yet pissed on behalf of Malik and Roman.
How do you find a lost lover when they’re over 18? How do you convince the cops to help when it looks like he just walked away? And what do you do when the past and present collide with hate and greed?
Andrew Grey has given us another wonderful story! The characters are real, the world and the situation so tangible and ‘real’ as to be channelled instead of made up. And the suspense . . . I read it in one sitting, staying up most of the night—yes, I couldn’t go to sleep without finding out the who and why of the story, lol.
I wholeheartedly recommend Taken to any who love M/M romance, suspense, and a wonderfully written story. There is so much to this story and getting to visit the guys from Stranded was such an added bonus.
September 4, 2021
As much as I adore Andrew Grey, I don't think his writing style is well suited to romantic suspense. Like Stranded, the story moved a bit too slowly. The pacing just wasn't right to keep up the suspense. Also, unlike most romance novels I've enjoyed, the MC's are in a long term established relationship already when the book starts. We learn about the couple's history through memories that the characters think about. Overall, I'm not a huge fan of that. Not a terrible story or idea, though.
By and large, I really like Andrew Grey's writing, so I am sure I will read more of his work.
By and large, I really like Andrew Grey's writing, so I am sure I will read more of his work.
October 26, 2013
Malik wakes up in a dark, concrete, windowless room around the time he should have been standing with his groom, Roman, and getting married in Central Park. He was “taken” outside his apartment by persons unknown for reasons unknown. In the meantime, Roman is at first worried and then heartbroken when Malik doesn’t show up for the ceremony.
Though he knows Malik wouldn’t really run away, it isn’t until the next day that he comes out of his depression long enough to go to Malik’s apartment to seek answers. Though he only finds Malik’s wallet, he’s reassured that Malik didn’t leave him on purpose, but he’s equally frightened that his fiancé is in danger somewhere. Even contact with the police is not reassuring, so Roman begins to search for clues on his own. When he learns details of Malik’s apparent abduction outside of his building from Malik’s elderly neighbor, the police begin to pay closer attention and step up their search.
In the meantime, Malik himself is applying his intelligence and creative thinking to find a way to escape,
I enjoyed following Malik’s thoughts as he came up with his very resourceful escape plan. Through use of flashbacks from both Malik’s and Roman’s POV during this time of abduction, the author gives us the back story on both their romance and Malik’s childhood.
The pace of the story slows after Malik is rescued. With very minimal clues to the abduction, the story is then more about the aftereffects of the ordeal on Malik’s psyche. It’s obvious to the reader that he is suffering from PTSD, though Malik and Roman don’t seem to make that connection right away. They work with a police lieutenant to solve the crime, trying to pin down the why of the abduction, all while trying to keep Malik safe by moving him to Roman’s apartment and utilizing a bodyguard. During this midpoint of the book, with the slower pace, I found myself wishing for more action and less Malik. The author spent quite a bit of time on Malik’s reactions to all of the situations the couple found themselves in and, to be honest, I just didn’t warm to Malik at all. The more I read, the less I liked him, as he seemed to become more and more needy. I couldn’t reconcile that Malik with the one who cleverly managed to escape. The story picked up again in the last quarter when the men finally figure out why Malik was taken and there’s one more attempt on his life.
This is a sequel to “Stranded” and the MCs from that book appear here as secondary characters so it was nice to see how they’ve progressed in their relationship. The newer secondary characters were also very intriguing and Howard, the first bodyguard they used, was my favorite. I’m also hoping to see a story with Victor and Mark, a Broadway director and police detective, who meet in this story.
Overall, I really enjoyed this action adventure and the mystery surrounding Malik’s abduction. I recommend it to all fans of Andrew Grey, especially those who enjoyed Stranded. Lovers of m/m romance and mystery adventures should make sure they don’t miss out on this one.
Note: A copy of this book was provided to me by the author, in exchange for an impartial review.
Though he knows Malik wouldn’t really run away, it isn’t until the next day that he comes out of his depression long enough to go to Malik’s apartment to seek answers. Though he only finds Malik’s wallet, he’s reassured that Malik didn’t leave him on purpose, but he’s equally frightened that his fiancé is in danger somewhere. Even contact with the police is not reassuring, so Roman begins to search for clues on his own. When he learns details of Malik’s apparent abduction outside of his building from Malik’s elderly neighbor, the police begin to pay closer attention and step up their search.
In the meantime, Malik himself is applying his intelligence and creative thinking to find a way to escape,
I enjoyed following Malik’s thoughts as he came up with his very resourceful escape plan. Through use of flashbacks from both Malik’s and Roman’s POV during this time of abduction, the author gives us the back story on both their romance and Malik’s childhood.
The pace of the story slows after Malik is rescued. With very minimal clues to the abduction, the story is then more about the aftereffects of the ordeal on Malik’s psyche. It’s obvious to the reader that he is suffering from PTSD, though Malik and Roman don’t seem to make that connection right away. They work with a police lieutenant to solve the crime, trying to pin down the why of the abduction, all while trying to keep Malik safe by moving him to Roman’s apartment and utilizing a bodyguard. During this midpoint of the book, with the slower pace, I found myself wishing for more action and less Malik. The author spent quite a bit of time on Malik’s reactions to all of the situations the couple found themselves in and, to be honest, I just didn’t warm to Malik at all. The more I read, the less I liked him, as he seemed to become more and more needy. I couldn’t reconcile that Malik with the one who cleverly managed to escape. The story picked up again in the last quarter when the men finally figure out why Malik was taken and there’s one more attempt on his life.
This is a sequel to “Stranded” and the MCs from that book appear here as secondary characters so it was nice to see how they’ve progressed in their relationship. The newer secondary characters were also very intriguing and Howard, the first bodyguard they used, was my favorite. I’m also hoping to see a story with Victor and Mark, a Broadway director and police detective, who meet in this story.
Overall, I really enjoyed this action adventure and the mystery surrounding Malik’s abduction. I recommend it to all fans of Andrew Grey, especially those who enjoyed Stranded. Lovers of m/m romance and mystery adventures should make sure they don’t miss out on this one.
Note: A copy of this book was provided to me by the author, in exchange for an impartial review.
November 1, 2013
°•○★5 Stars - KAPOW★○•°
A "Live Your Life, Buy The Book" Review
Roman is about an hour away from getting married to the love of his life Malik. After two wonderful years together they're finally going to tie the knot, but when Malik doesn't show up for their wedding Roman is confused, hurt and he just doesn't understand why Malik would do that to him. He knows deep down something has to be wrong because nothing short of being taken could keep him away and he's right Malik was taken, but don't think for one minute that the authors going to let you know who did it or why anytime soon because he makes us wait.
The waiting was driving me crazy. I think that's what really grabs you in stories, all that waiting. Waiting to see if they live or die, waiting to be found, waiting to see whodunit. Waiting. Waiting. And more waiting. But, while Malik is waiting we get to see some great flashbacks to his and Romans past. We get to see how they met, how they fell in love, and we get to see what makes them so perfect for each other.
At about 30% into the book I wanted to cry. I just wanted Malik to be found so he could get back to Roman. Eventually he has to be found and when he does, I was jumping for joy. Too bad that waiting game is still going on. He may be free of the small, dark, concrete room but he still doesn't know who did this to him or why. I kept having to set my Kindle down and walk away because I was going nuts. You know that part in horror movies where you're screaming at the TV "Don't go that way" or "Don't do that" or "Run!!" That was me every time something started to happen in this book. The MC never did what I wanted them to do. I would be yelling "CALL THE POLICE" and they would be doing the opposite. I just wanted them to do it my way. :)
This book just blew me away. It's no secret that Andrew Grey is one of my favorite authors and that's because he knows how to tell a tale. TAKEN literally had everything I could want in a story. You want mystery - it had it. You want heart pounding, edge of your seat, on the verge of screaming - it had it. You want emotional - it had it. You want romance, love and sex - it had it. You want the characters to have a happily ever after - you get that too. By the time I finished this book I was ecstatic knowing these two guys were finally going to get everything they wanted and more. Heck, even the side characters seem to be getting there happily ever after's as well, though I wouldn't be against a book for Victor and Detective Boutcher. *hint* *hint* I'm just throwing that out there. :)
Again, another incredible book by Mr. Grey. If you haven't read this yet, then go buy it already.
A "Live Your Life, Buy The Book" Review
Roman is about an hour away from getting married to the love of his life Malik. After two wonderful years together they're finally going to tie the knot, but when Malik doesn't show up for their wedding Roman is confused, hurt and he just doesn't understand why Malik would do that to him. He knows deep down something has to be wrong because nothing short of being taken could keep him away and he's right Malik was taken, but don't think for one minute that the authors going to let you know who did it or why anytime soon because he makes us wait.
The waiting was driving me crazy. I think that's what really grabs you in stories, all that waiting. Waiting to see if they live or die, waiting to be found, waiting to see whodunit. Waiting. Waiting. And more waiting. But, while Malik is waiting we get to see some great flashbacks to his and Romans past. We get to see how they met, how they fell in love, and we get to see what makes them so perfect for each other.
At about 30% into the book I wanted to cry. I just wanted Malik to be found so he could get back to Roman. Eventually he has to be found and when he does, I was jumping for joy. Too bad that waiting game is still going on. He may be free of the small, dark, concrete room but he still doesn't know who did this to him or why. I kept having to set my Kindle down and walk away because I was going nuts. You know that part in horror movies where you're screaming at the TV "Don't go that way" or "Don't do that" or "Run!!" That was me every time something started to happen in this book. The MC never did what I wanted them to do. I would be yelling "CALL THE POLICE" and they would be doing the opposite. I just wanted them to do it my way. :)
This book just blew me away. It's no secret that Andrew Grey is one of my favorite authors and that's because he knows how to tell a tale. TAKEN literally had everything I could want in a story. You want mystery - it had it. You want heart pounding, edge of your seat, on the verge of screaming - it had it. You want emotional - it had it. You want romance, love and sex - it had it. You want the characters to have a happily ever after - you get that too. By the time I finished this book I was ecstatic knowing these two guys were finally going to get everything they wanted and more. Heck, even the side characters seem to be getting there happily ever after's as well, though I wouldn't be against a book for Victor and Detective Boutcher. *hint* *hint* I'm just throwing that out there. :)
Again, another incredible book by Mr. Grey. If you haven't read this yet, then go buy it already.
November 16, 2013
3.5 stars
This is the follow up book to Stranded, which I really enjoyed. The plot on this one involves the kidnap of Malik on the day of his wedding to Roman and, following his ingenious escape, the subsequent unravelling of why. The story moves along quickly with shifting POVs between the characters each chapter, which is easy to follow. There are a nice selection of side characters, including brief appearances of those from Stranded.
However, there was a problem for me… and that was once the action switched to the UK… but this maybe totally personal for me….the main problem was the choice of words used by the security guard who described people and things like traffic as “nutters”… “nuts” or “bonkers” yes, maybe describe someone as "a nutter" but “nutters” no, definitely not… (and this small think lost it half a star because the author/publisher has definitely a chance to run the UK based parts past a UK reader or author to check this sort of thing)
This is the follow up book to Stranded, which I really enjoyed. The plot on this one involves the kidnap of Malik on the day of his wedding to Roman and, following his ingenious escape, the subsequent unravelling of why. The story moves along quickly with shifting POVs between the characters each chapter, which is easy to follow. There are a nice selection of side characters, including brief appearances of those from Stranded.
However, there was a problem for me… and that was once the action switched to the UK… but this maybe totally personal for me….the main problem was the choice of words used by the security guard who described people and things like traffic as “nutters”… “nuts” or “bonkers” yes, maybe describe someone as "a nutter" but “nutters” no, definitely not… (and this small think lost it half a star because the author/publisher has definitely a chance to run the UK based parts past a UK reader or author to check this sort of thing)
October 30, 2013
I actually liked this one better than the first! Once started, I couldn't put down. Really felt as if I KNEW the MC's, felt their pain and their happiness. I sure love a HEA!
September 4, 2021
Time of death: 45%. This story is ridiculous. This is definitely not the trope that Mr. Grey should write. He is great at the lovey-dovey-fluffy stuff, but even that fell kind of flat here.
OTOH, I’d love to read a book that is centered around Malik’s father and what he went to prison for. It just needs a different author.
OTOH, I’d love to read a book that is centered around Malik’s father and what he went to prison for. It just needs a different author.
August 14, 2020
Roman is about an hour away from getting married to the love of his life Malik. After two wonderful years together they're finally going to tie the knot, but when Malik doesn't show up for their wedding Roman is confused, hurt and he just doesn't understand why Malik would do that to him. He knows deep down something has to be wrong because nothing short of being taken could keep him away and he's right Malik was taken, but don't think for one minute that the authors going to let you know who did it or why anytime soon because he makes us wait.
The waiting was driving me crazy. I think that's what really grabs you in stories, all that waiting. Waiting to see if they live or die, waiting to be found, waiting to see whodunit. Waiting. Waiting. And more waiting. But, while Malik is waiting we get to see some great flashbacks to his and Romans past. We get to see how they met, how they fell in love, and we get to see what makes them so perfect for each other.
At about 30% into the book I wanted to cry. I just wanted Malik to be found so he could get back to Roman. Eventually he has to be found and when he does, I was jumping for joy. Too bad that waiting game is still going on. He may be free of the small, dark, concrete room but he still doesn't know who did this to him or why. I kept having to set my Kindle down and walk away because I was going nuts. You know that part in horror movies where you're screaming at the TV "Don't go that way" or "Don't do that" or "Run!!" That was me every time something started to happen in this book. The MC never did what I wanted them to do. I would be yelling "CALL THE POLICE" and they would be doing the opposite. I just wanted them to do it my way. :)
This book just blew me away. It's no secret that Andrew Grey is one of my favorite authors and that's because he knows how to tell a tale. TAKEN literally had everything I could want in a story. You want mystery - it had it. You want heart pounding, edge of your seat, on the verge of screaming - it had it. You want emotional - it had it. You want romance, love and sex - it had it. You want the characters to have a happily ever after - you get that too. By the time I finished this book I was ecstatic knowing these two guys were finally going to get everything they wanted and more. Heck, even the side characters seem to be getting there happily ever after's as well, though I wouldn't be against a book for Victor and Detective Boutcher. *hint* *hint* I'm just throwing that out there. :)
Again, another incredible book by Mr. Grey. If you haven't read this yet, then go buy it already.
The waiting was driving me crazy. I think that's what really grabs you in stories, all that waiting. Waiting to see if they live or die, waiting to be found, waiting to see whodunit. Waiting. Waiting. And more waiting. But, while Malik is waiting we get to see some great flashbacks to his and Romans past. We get to see how they met, how they fell in love, and we get to see what makes them so perfect for each other.
At about 30% into the book I wanted to cry. I just wanted Malik to be found so he could get back to Roman. Eventually he has to be found and when he does, I was jumping for joy. Too bad that waiting game is still going on. He may be free of the small, dark, concrete room but he still doesn't know who did this to him or why. I kept having to set my Kindle down and walk away because I was going nuts. You know that part in horror movies where you're screaming at the TV "Don't go that way" or "Don't do that" or "Run!!" That was me every time something started to happen in this book. The MC never did what I wanted them to do. I would be yelling "CALL THE POLICE" and they would be doing the opposite. I just wanted them to do it my way. :)
This book just blew me away. It's no secret that Andrew Grey is one of my favorite authors and that's because he knows how to tell a tale. TAKEN literally had everything I could want in a story. You want mystery - it had it. You want heart pounding, edge of your seat, on the verge of screaming - it had it. You want emotional - it had it. You want romance, love and sex - it had it. You want the characters to have a happily ever after - you get that too. By the time I finished this book I was ecstatic knowing these two guys were finally going to get everything they wanted and more. Heck, even the side characters seem to be getting there happily ever after's as well, though I wouldn't be against a book for Victor and Detective Boutcher. *hint* *hint* I'm just throwing that out there. :)
Again, another incredible book by Mr. Grey. If you haven't read this yet, then go buy it already.
April 19, 2014
B+
I have read a lot of Andrew Grey’s books. He has a very large folder in my kindle. Typically when I pick up one of his books I know what I’m getting into. Something sweet and beautiful.
This book, although very good, is not sweet. It’s about a couple already in love, which changes the dynamics and on top of all of that my heart was in my throat for most of the book. It’s a high intensity story with a well done mystery. This is book 2 in the Stranded series and I read it without reading the first book with no issues. I think I might pick up the first one because I enjoyed this one so much.
Malik comes from a rough past and he just wants Roman and a normal life. I love that he took his life into his own hands and escapes. You are shown insights into the past with well done flashbacks and memories. It allowed us to get to know the men as they struggle with the who and why’s.
Roman. Oh gosh. My heart was in my chest when he realized Malik wasn’t coming. Things moved so quickly. Roman was amazing. Strong when he was trying very hard to not fall apart. He is the rock.
This story is very fast moving. You will be done shortly after you start, and realize you hadn’t taken a deep breath since the beginning. I want to say more, but I don’t want to ruin the surprise of every page of this book. Mr. Grey does an amazing job with the mystery and twists and turns.
If you want to gasp for air, cry, cheer, and do some kick ass reading, pick this book up.
Reviewed by Beans
To see more of this review and others like it please visit us at Gay List Book Reviews at www.gaylistbookreviews.wordpress.com
I have read a lot of Andrew Grey’s books. He has a very large folder in my kindle. Typically when I pick up one of his books I know what I’m getting into. Something sweet and beautiful.
This book, although very good, is not sweet. It’s about a couple already in love, which changes the dynamics and on top of all of that my heart was in my throat for most of the book. It’s a high intensity story with a well done mystery. This is book 2 in the Stranded series and I read it without reading the first book with no issues. I think I might pick up the first one because I enjoyed this one so much.
Malik comes from a rough past and he just wants Roman and a normal life. I love that he took his life into his own hands and escapes. You are shown insights into the past with well done flashbacks and memories. It allowed us to get to know the men as they struggle with the who and why’s.
Roman. Oh gosh. My heart was in my chest when he realized Malik wasn’t coming. Things moved so quickly. Roman was amazing. Strong when he was trying very hard to not fall apart. He is the rock.
This story is very fast moving. You will be done shortly after you start, and realize you hadn’t taken a deep breath since the beginning. I want to say more, but I don’t want to ruin the surprise of every page of this book. Mr. Grey does an amazing job with the mystery and twists and turns.
If you want to gasp for air, cry, cheer, and do some kick ass reading, pick this book up.
Reviewed by Beans
To see more of this review and others like it please visit us at Gay List Book Reviews at www.gaylistbookreviews.wordpress.com
November 5, 2013
Original Blog Post: http://headouttheoven.blogspot.com/20...
My Rating: (5 of 5 Stars)5
I remember reading Stranded and I could not wrap my head around it. The writer is one of my favorites, Andrew Grey, and yet, suddenly, he just changed his writing style. It was still his in an obvious way but there was an edgy change that was better. The work was grittier, tougher.
Then he releases Taken.
Okay, so yes, I have a soft spot for this author, but come on! I don't know what has gotten into him, but he just upped his writing and gave us a tougher, more erotic, hotter, suspenseful and thrilling book than that first one.
Reading through Malik's kidnapping experience, through Roman's desperate hunt for his partner, the escape scene, the bombing! I could just go on and on but it was all the same thing: the thrill and suspense was so tangible I caught myself biting my nails. Don't get me started on the hot scenes between these two men!
H.O.T. (**fanningmyfacefrantically**)
The story winds down to the race for the kidnapper and when the cards are revealed, it was totally unexpected that even Malik thought it was unexpected. With that reason, it was no wonder the poor guy got Taken. This part was realistic in a fictional and yet real way. (I am sleepy, forgive me.) The ending was just a bit cheesy, but I loved the cheesiness for it was totally fitting and deserved by Malik and Roman.
Andrew Grey has literally upped his work style with Taken. I never thought it would be this amazing, thrilling, erotic book. Slash that, I do expect it from him, he just went further with this one. That should explain my rating.
My Rating: (5 of 5 Stars)5
I remember reading Stranded and I could not wrap my head around it. The writer is one of my favorites, Andrew Grey, and yet, suddenly, he just changed his writing style. It was still his in an obvious way but there was an edgy change that was better. The work was grittier, tougher.
Then he releases Taken.
Okay, so yes, I have a soft spot for this author, but come on! I don't know what has gotten into him, but he just upped his writing and gave us a tougher, more erotic, hotter, suspenseful and thrilling book than that first one.
Reading through Malik's kidnapping experience, through Roman's desperate hunt for his partner, the escape scene, the bombing! I could just go on and on but it was all the same thing: the thrill and suspense was so tangible I caught myself biting my nails. Don't get me started on the hot scenes between these two men!
H.O.T. (**fanningmyfacefrantically**)
The story winds down to the race for the kidnapper and when the cards are revealed, it was totally unexpected that even Malik thought it was unexpected. With that reason, it was no wonder the poor guy got Taken. This part was realistic in a fictional and yet real way. (I am sleepy, forgive me.) The ending was just a bit cheesy, but I loved the cheesiness for it was totally fitting and deserved by Malik and Roman.
Andrew Grey has literally upped his work style with Taken. I never thought it would be this amazing, thrilling, erotic book. Slash that, I do expect it from him, he just went further with this one. That should explain my rating.
November 24, 2013
To read my full review, please visit http://onsilverwingz.blogspot.com/201...
4.5 Stars rounded to 5
Malik gets kidnapped on his marriage day to Roman. Roman, of course, freaks out but relentlessly tries to rescue Malik and keep him safe. After Malik escapes, the couple still have to deal with the kidnapper turned murderer.
The plot is engaging and keeps the reader in a guessing game as to who is the culprit and the motive of Malik's kidnapping. I love how innovative Malik is and how he escapes a locked room by skill and some luck. And there are definitely surprises left in the second half of the book.
I love the commitment the MCs showed towards each other and the trust they put in. Roman never quits or doubt their love for each other. He breaks down when he's left at the altar but pushes himself to be useful to rescue Malik. He's always willing to shoulder Malik's pain and emotional turmoil. They make a perfect couple and balance each other.
Overall, this is an amazing story filled with danger and kidnappings but it's still largely a romance. I love their happy ending and how all the loose ends are tied. This story cements the fact that relationships with trust and bonding is something to treasure in times of hardship.
4.5 Stars rounded to 5
Malik gets kidnapped on his marriage day to Roman. Roman, of course, freaks out but relentlessly tries to rescue Malik and keep him safe. After Malik escapes, the couple still have to deal with the kidnapper turned murderer.
The plot is engaging and keeps the reader in a guessing game as to who is the culprit and the motive of Malik's kidnapping. I love how innovative Malik is and how he escapes a locked room by skill and some luck. And there are definitely surprises left in the second half of the book.
I love the commitment the MCs showed towards each other and the trust they put in. Roman never quits or doubt their love for each other. He breaks down when he's left at the altar but pushes himself to be useful to rescue Malik. He's always willing to shoulder Malik's pain and emotional turmoil. They make a perfect couple and balance each other.
Overall, this is an amazing story filled with danger and kidnappings but it's still largely a romance. I love their happy ending and how all the loose ends are tied. This story cements the fact that relationships with trust and bonding is something to treasure in times of hardship.
March 12, 2016
I'm just not a fan of Andrew Grey. The two books (so far) in this series have great premises, but the execution makes the stories feel like a rough draft. The prose is just so boring, the kind of writing that works in a rough draft to get the plot down, but there's no refinement, no poetry to the rhetoric. It's just a dull, dry recitation of details that becomes monotonous after pages and pages of basic prose.
The story really starts dragging the last %25 or so, and I struggled to finish what should be an exciting if improbable climax (no pun intended).
The story really starts dragging the last %25 or so, and I struggled to finish what should be an exciting if improbable climax (no pun intended).
November 9, 2013
I have to admit when I read the first book in this series, I was slightly worried how Andrew Grey would handle the mystery, suspense and action version of his wonderful love stories. That worry was put to rest when I read Stranded, so I went into book 2 with great expectations and they were all met.
See the entire 4.5 star review at The Novel Approach: http://thenovelapproachreviews.com/20...
See the entire 4.5 star review at The Novel Approach: http://thenovelapproachreviews.com/20...
August 3, 2015
Emotion and action packed. Another great work. Yet one wonders why Kendell and Malik didn't bond more over their similar experiences. Roman and Johnny had their been-there-done-that moment, but Kendell was the one person who could have truly related to Malik and I felt a bit let down when that didn't happen.
December 29, 2015
This story flowed and developed at a more enjoyable pace than the first book. Both MC's were likable and their relationship was sexy and touching to read. The plot was interesting and seemed to be much better thought thru than in the first book. And an added bonus is the tearful HEA. Overall, I would recommend this book for an easy and sweet read.
November 9, 2013
So, I have had angst from first page till the last, to begin by Roman left alone at altar, to kidnapping of Malik till the capture of culprit, though the end is very nice and romantic. Wonderful is the relationship between the two and the love and trust that helped them to face that dark moment.
July 18, 2014
I really enjoyed the first book in the series but this one just didn't work for me.
It dragged.
Max Lehnen is not my favourite narrator and I think that might reflect in my rating. He made the two main characters sound old and boring and his English accent just didnt work.
It dragged.
Max Lehnen is not my favourite narrator and I think that might reflect in my rating. He made the two main characters sound old and boring and his English accent just didnt work.
May 23, 2016
3/5
While the plot was more solid here compared to the first book, I didn't enjoy it as much as the first one. Frankly speaking I was a little bit bored throughout the book, but the ending picked up the pace thankfully.
While the plot was more solid here compared to the first book, I didn't enjoy it as much as the first one. Frankly speaking I was a little bit bored throughout the book, but the ending picked up the pace thankfully.
October 20, 2016
If you're looking for a suspenseful thriller that's not lacking in mystery and intrigue, not to mention some very steamy sex then this is for you. It's really well written and the plots and sub plots are well established. It kept me on the edge of my seat.
November 14, 2013
Gotta say, so much better and more realistic than Stranded. :) great read.
October 29, 2013
3.75 stars
November 3, 2013
Loved this book you never knew what came next.
October 29, 2013
2.5 stars
November 5, 2013
I like this one better than the first one..
January 19, 2014
a real struggle to end this story
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