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How long did it take you to find your place in the world?

For Ethan Walker, going through the motions of life, keeping his distance and never getting attached has become the mantra he lives by. Success is measured by how many hours he can work and how little attention he can draw. That was until he landed on Beau Bennett’s radar. Until Beau, Ethan had never met a man who could get him to question his own logic and even consider taking a different path.

Beau Bennett knows exactly who he is - now. It might’ve taken him some time to figure it out, but now that he has his bearings, Beau has set his sights on the mysteriously sexy Ethan Walker. Pursuing someone has never been his style, but something is telling him to keep at it because the end result is going to be worth it.

Now that they’ve found one another, how long will it take Ethan and Beau to accept that their place in the world is... Together?

Ethan is part of the Alluring Indulgence series (#5), however, this book was written to be read as a stand alone book as well.

Warning: This book contains sexual encounters and graphic language that some readers may find objectionable, including, but not limited to: m/m encounters, anal sex. Contains graphic material that is not suitable for anyone under the age of 18.

420 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 7, 2014

255 people are currently reading
4454 people want to read

About the author

Nicole Edwards

128 books6,068 followers
New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Nicole Edwards spends her days stringing words together to make complete sentences. Sometimes not. Her best friend is coffee, and she has a love/hate relationship with sarcasm. She’s been accused of having a filthy imagination, which she admits is true.

Nicole lives in the suburbs of Austin, Texas. She proudly claims one husband, three grown children, and two bosses (better known as the dogs). When she isn’t writing, watching football or hockey, or keeping her bosses happy, you can probably find her with a book in hand.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 736 reviews
Profile Image for *J* Too Many Books Too Little Time.
1,921 reviews3,718 followers
August 13, 2014
4.5--Alluring--Stars!!

This book....



Um, why did I wait so long to read this again??? Silly me!

Beau has just come to accept the fact that he's gay. He's experimented in some threesome's with Zane and V, but it was being with Zane that ultimately led Beau to realizing who he truly was.



Ethan has always known he was gay but he keeps his personal life just that...personal. He knows the fact that he's gay will impact his family. He doesn't want to bring attention to them, or for them to be treated differenty because he's gay. I wouldn't say Ethan was in the closet, he just didn't flaunt his sexuality.

Beau has always been attracted to Ethan and vice versa but Ethan has always denied his feelings and Beau has just kind of hung around in the back ground waiting for the right opportunity with Ethan. Honestly I was a little worried about the song and dance these two were playing...



Ethan's past experiences have left him leery of relationships and anything beyond casual. But his feelings for Beau prove otherwise. I really loved Ethan and Beau together. Their emotional connection as well as their physical connection was very HAWT!

Both men fighting to be the dominant one..

"Pack whatever you need because you've spent your last night here already. From here on out, you belong in my bed."



I loved all of the Walker family....how supportive they were of each other. Makes me want to go back and read some of their books. *cough, cough....Travis*

I loved that once Ethan and Beau together, the drama was minimal. It was just two people exploring their new relationship and each other. Discovering these new feelings and learning to show them to others. To not be afraid of what others thought.

"Ethan. The man was his everything. All he needed. All he wanted. The very thing that completed him and right there in his arms was the only place Beau wanted to be."

Profile Image for ~Mindy Lynn~.
1,396 reviews661 followers
April 27, 2017
First off I want to say THANK YOU to my girl Mirjana for gifting this to me. So, thanks again boo! xx


I really loved this. I totally fell for both men and wish there was more to come from them. But being as this is a series about brother's I know that wish probably won't come true. But that's OK. I can just re-read this whenever I feel the need to get me a fix of Ethan and Beau.

I have never read anything by this author. I will have to fix that pronto. Meeting all the other brother's in this book makes me want to read their stories as well and I am not a huge fan of MF as I use to be. But Nicole's writing is strong and I think she might do us females some justice and not make us into whinny damsels in distress. So I will for sure be reading the rest of this series.

Now to this lovely book...

Ethan is pretty closed off. He goes through the motions of life really not living. He keeps his distance away from people and his family not wanting to get too close. He doesn't like showing his emotions. He doesn't do relationships and he definitely doesn't get attached. He doesn't like not being in control of his feeling's. He just wants to be left alone and blend into the background. But Beau see's him. Beau wants him. Beau makes him feel. Beau makes him lose control over feelings he doesn't want to feel let alone show. Beau has him breaking all his rules. Beau was just who Ethan needed to start living again.

Beau is secure in who he is. It might have taken him some time to get there but now that he has accepted himself he has no intentions of hiding himself or the way he feels about who he loves. But getting the man he wants and getting Ethan to where Beau is, is going to take some time. But Beau is stubborn and knows what he wants so he has no qualms about taking his time and wearing Ethan down. Once Beau succeeds it is nothing but sweet from there on out.

I loved this story. I loved these two big intimidating men together. The way they cared and the love they had for each other was such a pleasure to read about. It was a beautiful tale and you could just feel how perfect these two were for each other. I loved how intimate their moments were. You could feel how strong their love for one another was coming off the pages. Their love scenes were off the chart hot and super intense at times. They have what I like to call an epic kind of love.

What I also liked about this book was the strong sense of family. I am a sucker for a book with a strong family background. I can't wait to read about all of the Walker brothers.

Even if your not an MF fan and have no desire to read the other's in this series, that's fine. You don't need to. This is written and can be read as a standalone and I definitely recommend that you do. Read this that is. [=

Happy reading dolls! xx
Profile Image for Mirjana **DTR - Down to Read**.
1,480 reviews809 followers
July 13, 2015

****4.75 Stars****

"It won't be easy."

"Nothing that is worth it ever is. Doesn't mean it isn't worth fighting for."


Nicole Edwards is my go-to when I'm in the mood for a good ol' down and dirty smutfest. The woman has a way with a keyboard that will leave you tingling all over. I know what I'll get from her books and I pick them up precisely for that reason...but here, oh Ms. Edwards you gave me so much MORE.

This book is packed full of scorching, white hot, sexy, alpha HEAT and heart-squeezing, blood-boiling, swoony, devastating, euphoric, healing EMOTION.

When their eyes met, Ethan saw the thunderheads brewing, something exquisite and exciting, and it had nothing to do with fights or fury. This was...it was more than desire. More than need. He couldn't even name it. But whatever it was, he felt it too. And oddly enough, he wanted it.


The way that Nicole Edwards balanced the passion with the emotion was fantastic!

Ethan and Beau's journeys were vastly different, yet similar in their foundation. They were both coming to terms with their sexuality, accepting themselves and navigating through the waters of what that means for their future.

While Beau was more open to the possibilities, Ethan's traumatic beginning with his sexuality crippled him when it came to love and acceptance. He suffered such a gut-wrenching beginning, that he closed himself off from everyone and everything. His parents, his family, his friends and any possibility of happiness. He purely existed.

His emotions were strangling him to the point he thought he might choke to death from the weight of them.


But somehow, he feels a connection with Beau. A yearning to open up, to share his life, his burden, his past, his heart.

The way Beau said his name, it was like coming home. Finally, a place to end up that wasn't empty and desolate, despite all of the fancy furnishings. This was what it meant to feel complete. A man who looked deep into your eyes and connected with your soul.


Beau knew he was treading on thin ice with Ethan. He may be opening up and sharing himself, but he was still harboring so much pain, still keeping a piece of himself closed off. Beau wanted to be there for Ethan, but he needed to make sure he kept a careful balance...moving their relationship forward and slowly unlocking Ethan's secrets, while protecting his own heart and making sure he wasn't putting his own happiness on the back burner.

"I want to be with you. By your side. I don't want us to have to hide, but I understand. Doesn't mean I agree with it, and it doesn't mean I'll do it forever, but for now, I'm here. With you. Only you."


Ethan and Beau may be coming to terms with their sexuality, their relationship, themselves, but that doesn't mean that the town of Coyote Ridge is as accepting. Closed-minded bigots threaten to tear everything apart.

Can Ethan move on from his past trauma and fully accept the love that Beau is offering? More importantly, can he finally learn to love himself?

Gah...I could gush about this book forever! I simply loved Ethan and Beau. I loved Beau's strength and support when Ethan needed him. I loved Ethan's angry vulnerability and fragility. He couldn't hide himself from Beau and I loved their relationship because of it. I also loved that they may have been in different places emotionally, but they were equals in the bedroom. Both able to assert dominance when warranted and submitting when desired. The passion they shared for one another sizzled my kindle.

The only reason I couldn't give this a five star is it had a little bit of a slow start for me. But once the story took off, I was glued to my kindle. I was completely entranced by Ethan and Beau.

This is hands down my favorite Nicole Edwards book I've read to date.

Profile Image for Shile (Hazard's Version) on-hiatus.
1,120 reviews1,058 followers
September 10, 2018
5 amazing, hot stars

I loved reading about Ethan and Beau . These two were meant to be. They have both been through a lot. Ethan is one tough nut to crack. He is closed off and doesn’t let anyone in that is until Beau the handsome, loyal big teddy bear comes into his life and starts breaking down those walls he built.

This song is perfect for Ethan and Beau

Remember those walls I built?
Well, baby they're tumbling down
And they didn't even put up a fight
They didn't even make a sound
I found a way to let you in
But, I never really had a doubt
Standing in the light of your halo
I got my angel now

It's like I've been awakened
Every rule I had you breakin'
It's the risk that I'm taking
I ain't never gonna shut you out!


“I want to be with you. By your side. I don't want us to have to hide, but I understand. Doesn't mean I agree with it, and it doesn't mean I'll do it forever, but for now, I'm here. With you. Only you”

Their romance was believable and I loved the growth in their relationship. I felt like I was there with them. The support they got from the walker family was great and Beau finally got the family he deserves.

description

This above all: to thine own self be true

The sex was panty scorching hot, loving, sexy, and deep. These two fucked , made love , had sex and everything in between.

description

Im curious about Travis so i guess im gonna read his book.
Profile Image for Kindle Alexander.
Author 44 books3,638 followers
March 23, 2018
I'm not sure it was possible for me to like Nicole Edwards any more than I did. Then I read Ethan. Please, do yourself a favor and just read the book. You'll love it, I promise.
Profile Image for Gigi.
2,148 reviews1,069 followers
September 22, 2014


One of the biggest reasons I made the switch from M/F erotic romance fiction to M/M erotic romance fiction was the simple fact that men usually didn't treat each other with kid gloves during sex. I was really, really tired of reading about the sweet, delicate, breakable heroines. With M/M romance, the boys tend to manhandle each other most of the time, even those in love with each other and especially in the throws of wild, passionate ecstasy. Fuck, that is some HOT ass stuff! I can't get enough! Well, here is a book that really should just put Manhandle in the title. MCs Ethan and Beau like nothing more than throwing each other up against the nearest wall/door/window/building/any-flat-vertical-surface-will-do and ravishing the hell out of the other. And, my GOD, did that do it for me!

While the sex in this one was mind blowing and off-the-charts hot, I did have a bit of a problem with the continued (but sometimes necessary) family involvement. This is the 5th book in a series about the Walker brothers titled Alluring Indulgence. See this post by MiʂħүJѻ for a run down of who's who. I got a bit creeped out a few times with Beau's involvement with Ethan's brother. And at the beginning of the book, Ethan/Blake/Beau was almost a deal breaker with me, but I hung on and was glad I did. These two boys were great together and the angst was played out quite well and the HEA was lovely.

Highly recommended to all M/M romance junkies who like their sex nice and rough with a dab of tenderness thrown in for good measure every once in awhile.
Profile Image for Ariana  (mostly offline).
1,680 reviews96 followers
April 20, 2017
This is book 5 in a series about the brothers in one family. As I haven't read any of the other books (I prefer m/m romance) it took me a little while to find my way round all the people involved - and there are plenty! (Thank you to those who made lists in their reviews which helped enormously!)

What comes across right from the start is how isolated and lonely Ethan is. His mantra of keeping himself to himself, not drawing attention and basically not allowing himself any kind of life that includes even a morsel of happiness makes him grumpy, dour and utterly miserable. No wonder. The man has built an armour so thick it would take an oil drill to get through.

What is going on with him? Nicole Edwards reveals very very gradually what made Ethan to the man he is today. And when we find out, it is horrible and sad and heart-breaking. And it has left Ethan confused, fearsome and full of distrust. That, on top of his natural stubbornness makes him almost unapproachable.

Almost. Because Beau isn't put off by Ethan's behaviour. Beau has only recently figured out that he is gay and he likes Ethan. He has known him for years because he is his brother's best friend. It seems Ethan and Beau have been skirting around each other for monts. Until skirting is no longer possible. Beau won't give up easily once he's set his eyes on something (or rather someone) he really wants.

Best part of the book was how Beau gradually breaks down the walls around Ethan's heart bit by bit. And how explosive these two are once they get together. This book is not on my hot-hot-hot shelf for nothing!

What else I really liked:
.) Ethan's parents
.) the sexual urgency between Ethan and Beau
.) the tattoos (ahhh! sigh)
.) Ethan melting at the sight of his nephew
.) Ethan jumping over his shadow and doing all the right things in the end
.) Beau never giving up on Ethan, no matter what (That guy deserves a medal for patience and understanding)
.) that Ethan got the chance to help out Beau, too

What bothered me marginally:
.) I really would have liked to be there for their first kiss (that happened in the previous book)
.) I have some reservations about what happened between Beau and Zane in the past (but again - I probably would be wiser had I read the previous book, so I can't really judge.)
.) I was not sure about all the 'cowboy' mentality going about (namely trying to resolve problems with fists)
.) A BDSM club in a little redneck town???? *confused* (but it is hardly mentioned here, I just wondered)
.) the abundance of inner monologues and thoughts (some quite repetitive), taking me out of conversations and having me retrace my steps

Still, none of that can take away from how much I enjoyed this book. I loved how the author showed us Ethan's insecurities, his pain, his confusion and, when it finally happened, his happiness! And Beau ... *dreamy sigh*
Profile Image for Christelle.
808 reviews
April 18, 2017
Just as scorching hot and emotionally packed as it was during the first reads. I loved revisiting Ethan and Beau : they are beautiful together !!

--------- initial review -----------

Much, much above 5 stars

Nicole Edwards has been one of my favorite authors for quite a long time. I avidly read her “club destiny” series and of course, had no choice but to also read her “alluring indulgence” series. That’s how I stumbled on this book. What a revelation !!

Ethan is the reason I switched from M/F erotic romance fiction to M/M erotic romance fiction (and the “temptation” series by Ella Frank put “the last nail in the coffin”).
Gigi’s review says it all. I just want to emphasize what I really enjoyed : Ethan and Beau (triple sigh…no, endless sighs !!) who are such great characters each in his own way, so much I fell hard for these 2 guys, the beautiful development of their relationship, the scorching hot sex scenes (do I have to say it a second time : scorching hot sex !!! There it is).
I reread this book not a long time ago : once again, I was completely lost in this story, in the best possible way. I will reread it again, that’s for sure.

Highly recommended
Profile Image for Renee W. Tyler,  Battery Operated Book Blog.
290 reviews3 followers
December 27, 2013
Ok first off I have to say that this has just became my favorite book by Nicole. This book will rock you to your most inner core. It will have you stopping to think about how you look at people and treat others from this point on. It is also will open your heart to have compassion for others. There were parts of this book where I felt as if I was in the room feeling the passion of these two lovers, and other times when I felt tears pooling because of the hurt and pain that they had. Nicole done an amazing job of showing what family love and support is in a strong family structure as well as friends. I can't say enough about how wonderful this book is. This is one of those stories that will stay with you for a very very long time.
Profile Image for Katy Loves Romance ❤️.
434 reviews756 followers
January 16, 2014
5 Sexy but emotional stars


I have to say I really didn't know what to expect when starting Ethan being that in her past books in every one there is always a third person if it be for pleasure, or that, that particular relationship was a ménage being it being M/M/F or M/F/M so when this was Nicoles first M/M story I didn't honestly know how or where she was going to take this. But wow I really shouldn't of been concerned Nicole has outdone herself once again with not only some seriously HOT Sexy scenes but a beautiful story which was emotional but one that had chemistry, a decent plot and one that I fell hook line and sinker with all characters in this one.


Okay I digress this really was a rollarcoaster of a ride of emotions...

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I was totally excited...

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And I was expecting a whole lot of....

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But what I got was....

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This was a completely different Nicole Edwards story I'm not saying it wasn't Hot and steamy cause yes you will expect a lot of SEX and the raw kind, but Nicole really gave us something else here.


Okay Ethan is one strong cookie he has been through the thrones of bullying, dealing with his sexuality and to protect himself and his family who he loves more than life. He puts a barrier up, he doesn't' do relationships, he only has flings, he never has men stay over at his house, he doesn't let them into his heart, he thinks he is protecting those he loves from getting hurt the way he has. Ultimately he is Lonely


Beau has just recently started to open up to his sexuality but he wants Ethan, from early on even if Ethan wasn't letting Beau in their chemistry is off the charts and Beau is not giving in!!


Eventually Ethan lets beau in and that is where there relationship starts.

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And really how Beau works hard ever so slowly to get Ethan to not only open up but to become himself. I'm not going to go on about Ethan and Beau's story because really you need to enjoy it yourself I had so many quotes I highlighted and so many moments of awe of Nicole's writing, how she developed the story slowly but surely, how she enabled us to see how Ethan has been struggling to live day to day, how he struggled with those shadows behind his eyes, and how Beau brought his emotions to the surface and helped him to live his life and be happy with who he is.

I had a soft spot for Beau back in Zane so when I found out that he was going to be with Ethan I was so happy, Beau has that beautiful heart that I fell in love with all over again and more in this one. Beau is Loyal, strong, loving, and is there every step of the way for Ethan.


What I adored about this story is that it focus's on family, on unity, and friendship, there was no ménage, no sex clubs but brothers all coming together to support and love both Ethan and Beau really Nicole drew a picture of the Walker family I really love those boys and not only the boys but of the girls and more importantly Curtis and Lori were centre of this story, what a strong beautiful family to be in? I love the Walker family because they are Supportive, Loving, Caring, Loyal, and Strong .
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Ethan
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Beau
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So for now give this story a shot if not the others, if you don't like the pleasure side to Nicoles stories and the third person aspect of them give this one a go because it focus's on Ethan and Beau and no third person so until next time....

"I Love you," Ethan whispered against his ear. "I love you with all that I am." And that right there was Beau's future. The only thing he needed. "I love you, too."



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Bring on Sawyer I'm kinda excited for him too.....
Profile Image for Wendys Wycked Words.
1,590 reviews3,954 followers
March 5, 2018
5+stars.png (677×136):

As most readers know, Nicole Edwards writes all sorts of HOT steamy romances. Often times, they are MF, with some scorching mfm scenes thrown in. But she has also written some delicious MMF books (like Travis). The books I myself love most are the MM ones :P

Which is exactly what this one is. You won't find any ladyparts, or threesomes in this book. Ethan is book 5 in the wonderful Alluring Indulgence series, about the "Walker" brothers. I have read all the books in this series and I can honestly say that this one is my favorite, with "Travis" as a very close second ;)

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This book is written as a stand alone, so if you don't want to read the mf or mfm books in the series, you can skip them without a problem ;)

Ethan is 28 years old and he is the Walker brother that has kept most to himself. I didn't know much about him going into this one, even though I have read the previous books about his brothers. The reason for this is that Ethan kind of excludes himself from his family.

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He's gay, but he doesn't flaunt it. He knows his family knows, but he has never said enything about it and he hasn't officialy "come out" to anyone. This is not because he is ashamed of who he is.....this is because he wants to protect himself and his family. You see Ethan....he has learned this very painful lesson in the past.

He has been living his life like this for a long time....and things were pretty easy. Not exactly fun...but easy. That is until Beau starts complicating his simple life....

Jesse:

Beau is Zane's best friend (book 2). He has been a part of the Walker family for a long time and Beau....he has recently come to the accept the fact that he is is gay....with a little help from his best friend. Now Beau has set his eyes on Zane's brother Ethan, and he won't just give up because Ethan refuses to give him the time of day.

So he keeps persuing Ethan and since Ethan is really attracted to Beau as well....there is no other choice then to finally give in. Damn these two rocked the bed !!!

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But Ethan, he doesn't think he can give anymore than that. He is struggeling with his past and his fears. So Beau will have to do his best and help Ethan finally come out of his shell and make him realize how good life can be...(out in the open)...together.

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I really loved these two. Ethan may have seemed a bit cold in the beginning, but he had very good reasons. He isn't cold at all. When he loves, he loves with all his heart. And Beau...what a sweetheart. He really showed patience with Ethan, which was exactly what he needed.

“I want to be with you. By your side. I don't want us to have to hide, but I understand. Doesn't mean I agree with it, and it doesn't mean I'll do it forever, but for now, I'm here. With you. Only you”

This book really had everything I needed. It was romantic, hot, emotional and it had the right amount of angst. I laughed I cried and I swooned......

This above all: to thine own self be true
Profile Image for Snow.
2,323 reviews728 followers
December 11, 2016

4.25 "acceptance" stars

Aside from having some super steamy, pretty long and detailed and scorching hawt MM sex scenes, this book actually touches the general subjects concerning each and one of us individually, no matter the sexual orientation, such as acceptance, issues of being bullied, mocked, humilliated cause of one's choices, the states like depression, low-self appreciation that could potentually lead towards the "unwanted ordeal", if not prevented in time... by showing the support and help needed without singling anyone out as being different...

cause, at the end of the day, we are all equally different as we are equally unique, first of all, for ourselves, then by making the other person as equally accepted and cherished.

cause, LOVE is LOVE, above all...

and the bottom line, in everyone's lives, is the goal to achieve this emotional peace and completion...even if the struggle to get there seems too hard and impossible...

"The only thing we've ever wanted for you is for you to be happy. That's all that matters."
"It won't be easy."
"Nothing that is worth it ever is. Doesn't mean it isn't worth fighting for."


I'd want that emotional peace and fulfillment for my kids when they grow up, just like I 'd want the same thing for every. single. person. out there.
Profile Image for Rosalinda *KRASNORADA*.
268 reviews543 followers
February 11, 2014

Ethan was an 'okay' read. Not really. I mean, it was okay sometimes but then it was predictable another times. And the end was like visiting SugarVille as my amiga Baba would say so...read at your own risk.

But I seriously don't understand the hype.

I don't even know why I read it but I did and now I have to be honest.

It might be a case of 'it's me a not you' book so ignore my nonsense and check other reviews.

Profile Image for Amina .
1,318 reviews32 followers
August 24, 2023
✰ 2.75 stars ✰

“Yes, he’d kissed Ethan. Lord, Ethan had kissed him back and to this day, Beau still felt as though he’d been shaken and not stirred.”

I'm usually wary of reading MM books that belong to series that are predominantly MF, but Ethan had such a high rating on GR, I figured there must be something special about it. While it wasn't anything groundbreakingly different, it was what I like to refer to as a good time-pass, or just a chance for me to see if I shouldn't trust too much in GR ratings. Even so, the romance between Ethan Walker and his younger brother's best friend, Beau Bennett was a sweet, albeit predictable one.

“I want to be with you. By your side. I don’t want us to have to hide, but I understand. Doesn’t mean I agree with it, and it doesn’t mean I’ll do it forever, but for now, I’m here. With you. Only you.”

Ethan's had a rough and painful past. At 19, his heart was broken and denied in the cruelest of ways with a mistake that changed his world forever. There is a lot of baggage of a burden that he has been shouldering and shielding his family from and one he's never been able to shake it off; and now at 28 years of age, he's unwilling to ever have a relationship - swearing off all hope for a potential partner. 🥺 He's never been able to be comfortable enough to be who he is, because of the homophobic community he lives in.

But, somehow, Beau is able to break through his barriers - with one kiss, Beau makes him feel special and worth it - and I liked that even though, Beau was struggling with acceptance from his own family, he never hesitated to prove to Ethan that he was worth the time and the effort and the love. I liked the gradual way in which he was able to overcome his fears and doubts and be able to trust in Beau's affections for him. 🤍🤍

“Pack whatever you need because you’ve spent your last night here already. From here on out, you belong in my bed.”

Beau is your general good guy, whose football career was tragically cut short over a fatal mistake - and his family never lets him forget how much of a failure he is. But, one part of his life that has never let him down is his best friend, Zane and the love his family gives him. 😟 And now, under feelings he can't explain, he's drawn to Ethan - a friend that he's now falling deeper and deeper for - even with limited interaction that they've had, he's attached to him.

So, with careful consideration and gradual affection, they gravitate towards one another - despite the many odds stacked against them - despite their reluctance to accept their growing attraction - despite the fear of what others would think - despite the pain still lurking in Ethan's heart. Their chemistry wasn't explosive - the sex wasn't outlandish, but there was enough heat to show how much they still wanted to be with one another - cared to belong with each other - and fight for a chance to be together. ❤️‍🩹❤️‍🩹

“You don’t want this,” Ethan repeated, his voice containing less anger and more confusion.

Beau placed one hand gently on Ethan’s hip. Tilting his head as he studied him, Beau kept his tone serious when he said, “I want this more than you’ll ever understand.”


There are, of course, plenty of allusions to past characters' relationships, which is to be expected, as it is a part of series; so, this honestly only works as a stand-alone, if you really want to read it. You can truly feel the familial love and camaraderie and brotherly bond amongst all the family members - how much they silently cared for Ethan and how much they loved that for as much as Beau was already such a welcome member of the family - loving Ethan was just a more rewarding blessing for them. 🥹 🥹

It was a nice enough read - one I won't particularly read again. The characters were likeable enough - the chemistry passable - the writing bearable - and the story, nothing too profound or deep, though it did attempt to be one; still, it's nothing I hadn't already read before, so. 🤷 A few moments stood out for me - some interactions wooed me and some feelings enveloped me. But, would I be allured to indulge myself further into the series or this couple's continuity into the future - sadly, probably not. 😞
Profile Image for ~ Becs ~.
672 reviews2,164 followers
January 9, 2014

Read a deleted scene from Ethan at Sinfully Sexy



This above all: to thine own self be true




Becs: I think it’s probably a well known fact around these parts that I’m a die-hard Nicole Edwards fan. I’ve read pretty much everything she’s ever published and loved every book. For me, as a reader, she’s like the Perfect Storm of an author combining super-nova hot erotic scenes with deep and heartfelt emotions. She’s my go-to author for erotic romance and she’s never once let me down. Her books have always explored ménage and male/male pairings within that setting but Ethan marks a first for her - a male/male only erotic romance, I don’t read a lot of M/M romance and I was really looking forward to this one and invited my gorgeous co-blogger Monique to join me so we could read and review this one together. She’s a seasoned m/m reviewer and reads nothing else these days and our reading habits rarely cross over so I thought it would be fascinating to see how we both react to this - for me as someone who’s deeply invested in the characters after reading the previous novels and for Monique to read Nic’s first full M/M romance. As she’s not read the previous books in the series I gave her a very brief run down, Becs-style, of Ethan and Beau’s involvement in the series to date to get her up to speed and off we went. Over to you Mo............

Monique: I can totally see where you and all the fans of Nicole Edwards are coming from… HOLY FUCKING HOTNESS! Becs… these Walker boys are a hedonistic delight of sheer pleasure… I WANT THEM ALL! I think Nicole Edwards should rewrite the series making them ALL Gay! Starting with Sawyer… now that, would make me VERY happy!!!

Despite your reassurances I have to admit, I was a little nervous of going into this book, firstly blind, as I had not read the other books in the series and secondly because as an M/M only reader I have seen authors try to transcend the divide between M/F romance and M/M romance and fail miserably, not because they are poor writers but because the fans of the two genres tend to have a different perspective on what they want from a romance even though two men can be as gooey eyed over each other as a man and a woman there is a certain writing style needed to ensure they are not completely emasculated. Did Nicole Edwards achieve this? In the most part I would have to say yes, I could still sense the underlying tone of an M/F, M/M/F, M/F/M erotic romance, but that is exactly what this series is. Did it appeal to me as a strictly M/M romance reader? Absolutely… I loved it! And, I also love the fact that authors like Nicole Edwards are taking a leap of faith with their fans and readers, introducing them to a genre that in most cases is all very new. I have been on my own voyage of discovery with M/M romance and haven’t looked back since, so I would definitely say those wanting to dip their toes in, the starting point is HERE with authors like Nicole Edwards that give you a taste of something different, which opens up a whole new world of M/M erotic romance with some amazingly talented authors and for this I applaud her because… you did good girl! And coming back to my first concern, even though Ethan is slap bang in the middle of a series, this book can definitely be read as a standalone, at no point was I lost or confused by past events as Nicole gave us a brief history and insight into the characters, enough for me to WANT all those boys!

Becs: LOL Mo, Sawyer is definitely straight - I met him in my birthday story, remember? Back to Ethan, the star of this show - he has been a bit of an enigma since the beginning of the series. In the first book it’s not apparent that he is gay and he rarely gets any page time but, as the series has progressed, his sexuality has become obvious but he’s always been a bit of a bystander to the Walker Brothers shenanigans rather than getting fully involved. He’d come across as a little bit cold and gruff, closed off and distant compared to the rest of the Walkers so it was just wonderful to read this novel and see his character develop and for him to finally open up. At long last get up close and personal with Ethan and, when Beau gets through that seemingly impenetrable facade, he’s a warm and loving man, just like all his Brothers. He’s never really struggled with his sexuality, he’s always accepted that he’s gay - what he’s struggled with is explaining this to the people around him, wary of their reaction after one of his first experiences has taught him to be cautious and it’s a real shocker when it’s revealed.

Monique: Not having read the series, my initial impression of Ethan was that of a frustrated and angry young man in emotional turmoil, hurting with no outlet, internalising and hiding from his own truth, using his anger as a shield, wanting Beau and all he has to offer but fearing his own vulnerability… of being hurt, of loving and losing control of his emotions, because in his heart he couldn’t deny what he was feeling for Beau, but was resigned to a life of meaningless sex and fuck buddies, who didn’t need conversation, because even talking was way too intimate for Ethan. To follow his heart and go with the emotions that overwhelmed him with Beau, would mean that he would have to feel and to feel would mean the carefully constructed walls around his heart would crumble, leaving him to face those demons that had kept him distanced from those he loves… all because of that secret, which he had kept locked within those wall for the last nine years.

When we found out the truth behind his self-imposed isolation, it just about broke my heart, inside, he is so lonely and I could understand his volatile behaviour and I suppose the reason for not sharing it with the Walker clan, although they are the most big hearted loving bunch of folks you could meet. But Ethan seems to be the sensitive soul of the family and I think that’s why, even though not much gets past them, they had given him room to come to terms with things himself. Beau also seems to understand this about Ethan… and I have to tell you, that man has the patience of a saint, not wanting to push Ethan too hard, realising it would be like poking a wounded bear with a stick! …But not for one minute letting up on his determination to get his man, making sure that Ethan is aware he ain’t going anywhere until he sees the light.

Becs: Ah, Beau - I really adored him when we first got to know him way back in Zane. Beau is a man who’s been confused by his sexuality for a long time only having sex with women when he shared them with Zane. He’d harboured some pretty strong feelings for Zane (my favourite Walker) but he only returns that affection as friendship. It’s become apparent in recent books that Beau has a strong burning attraction for Ethan that he’s finding hard to resist but Ethan has been pushing him away although they have shared some seriously hot kisses. I loved Beau - he’s a big old alpha cowboy and he knows what he wants and what he wants is Ethan. He’s struggled with confusion over his sexuality for a long time and doesn’t have the amazingly loving and stable background the Walker Boys have and he struck me as a really lonely soul and I just wanted to reach out and hug him. He deserves to fall in love and Ethan is just perfect for him.

Monique: Becs… you are so right about Beau’s family, I wanted to do some serious damage there! But, you know what… again it was Curtis and Lorrie that showed their true light, and enveloped him with the love and affection he should have had from his own parents! I felt Beau was a little insecure and a big part of that had to do with them and their attitude, plus his lack of sexual experiences, although it didn’t dampen his confidence in any way! I also found him very intuitive, knowing Ethan needed to come to terms with his emotions, understanding and caring for him, slowly breaking down those barriers and it was so lovely watching Ethan let go, finding comfort in Beau with just the nearness of him finally settling his anxieties… with both men having feelings for each other neither had experienced before, learning to love and be loved in return, and I totally agree Becs, these two are perfect for each other!

Becs: I very much enjoyed Nic’s first foray into male/male romance. I found the sex scenes to be off the scales hot - she manages to pack so much emotion into them. Their need for one another, the deep feelings that they share, when they finally admit to them, were palpable and together they’re practically combustible. As I rarely read M/M, I confess I found these scenes as hot as any other m/f or m/f/m or m/m/f that Nic has ever delivered before and more than once found myself heating up despite it being 5 below outside! Air conditioner at the ready I think!! Mo, with your wealth of experience reading M/M, how did these scenes compare for you?

Monique: At last we get to the sex!!! I have been good so far and reigned in my effusiveness… didn’t want to embarrass you too much Becs… But OMG!!! These two are, how did you put it? Combustible, yep, I would say they could set me alight anytime. They are Sexy as Fuck!! ...With two big alpha males vying for dominance, the air was thick with testosterone and so erotically charged, I was zinging… I loved their aggressiveness, and talk about the sexual chemistry between them! It was quite the heady experience I can tell you… so how did the sex scenes compare? …well, I think Nicole Edwards has that one down to perfection.

Although there is a lot of sex in this book, it’s not all about the sex, which for me is important. The emotion is intense and powerful, but there was also a passion and intimacy that was just mind blowing! Nicole Edwards, showed us these two characters, warts and all, all their vulnerabilities laid bare, with all the raw pain and hurt, which for different reasons were kept locked deep inside. They are soul mates, they really are, drawing strength and courage from each other and I could feel it all in my heart, so much it was aching… Nicole Edwards totally endeared me to Ethan and Beau… I loved them, and I am seriously hoping another one of those delicious brothers turns out to be Gay …either that or the lovely Ms Edwards needs to start writing M/M.

I had a couple of niggles reading this, the main one would be there is some repetitiveness that I felt wasn’t necessary, same sentences repeated a couple of paragraphs later perhaps worded slightly different. And the colour of Ethan’s eyes, blue-gray or gray gaze, there is a lot about the eyes in this book, which I get because there is nothing more intense than gazing into someone’s eyes, especially for Ethan and Beau who were unsure of themselves, afraid of their emotions and tried to express and convey with their eyes what they were unable to express with words… personally once I know the colour of the eyes two or three times is enough for my mind to register the fact.

Other than that I loved this book… I am only sad that, as much as I would love to read the rest of the series, as you know, I just don’t read or enjoy hetro romance as I used to… but I am happy that at last I have had the opportunity to read and review a book with you Becs… and the plus… we both loved it …and hopefully between the two of us we can persuade Nicole to write another M/M!

Becs: We’ll have to see what she comes up with next. She likes to keep her readers in suspense and often surprises us!

This series for me is a little bit like coming home. I’ve become so invested in all these characters and I’ve got to know them so well that they feel almost real to me and it’s just heavenly to see yet another Walker Boy brought to his knees by the love of his life. These boys are big, growly alpha cowboys and when they fall, oh boy, do they fall hard and Ethan is no exception to this.

There’s more going on here as well as they deal with small-town narrow minded thinking and I think I almost melted into a puddle when all the Walker Boys stood together against some narrow minded homophobic idiots. Sexy much??? Again, the original Alpha Walker, Curtis, is the star of the show - he may be nearing 70 but age has not dulled protective instincts and I love how he always stands up for what is right. He and Lorrie definitely raised those boys right!

So for me, this was just another fantastic erotic romance from Nicole Edwards - I think she embraced the M/M genre and made it her own and I’d like to see her explore this more in future books and future series. I think she goes from strength to strength in each novel and this is absolutely my favourite type of series to read - each book is a complete story, there are no cliffies and we get to revisit cherished characters time and again. I can’t wait for more Walker boys. Nothing from the Club Destiny crew in this one but a brief glimpse of Tessa and Cooper from Devil’s Bend.

Becs - 4.5 stars

Monique - 4 stars

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Profile Image for Dia.
534 reviews149 followers
January 7, 2019
4,75 STARS

My first book by Nicole Edwards! I know, I know, it took me too much time to dive into one of her stories, but better later than never. Right?

I loved this one even if I haven't read any of the other books in this series. This can definitely be read as a stand-alone as I had no trouble with the other characters.
It really worked for me because we get super hot scenes (A LOT) and ANGST. I loved how Beau won Ethan's heart little by little.

This book touches sensitive subjects such as bullying, homophobia and suicide. It was hard to read some scenes. My heart ached for Ethan! I really wanted to smack Beau's parents and hug Ethan's. Also all Ethan's brothers were extremely protective and stood by their own.

I absolutely loved the epilogue. It was so sweet!! One perfect HEA!
Profile Image for Colt Edwards.
1 review81 followers
January 11, 2014
Like I tweeted and 100s of others have said, its so beyond a love story, it will move you! Love is Love!
Profile Image for Chelsea.
978 reviews7 followers
February 8, 2017
So this was my first ever M/M romance book and since I wasn't on Goodreads when I read it first there is no original review, So I'll just write on now.

Re-read - Oct 2015

I love Ethan's story! Having been badly beaten for being gay as a teenager he chooses not to have any relationships (other than casual sex) and not to talk about being gay, to anyone, ever. I like how he knows he's gay and doesn't ever deny that, he's simply scared of getting hurt again and getting his family hurt. Beau is perfect in his persistence and kindness and draws Ethan out of his shell.

Can this been read as a standalone? Yes it can, however all of Beau's back story was in Zane's book, even some scenes with Beau and Ethan, like their first kiss and how their attraction started. So it's a little annoying and confusing at first, but enough information is given to not get completely lost. I've never read Zane.


The sex is HOT I mean like super super... super super HOT!! Nicole Edwards is a very detailed writer, therefore the sex scenes are super HOT (as stated above) but also super long and if your not in the mood for that, they can drag.

There is also a lot of inner monologuing, lots of emotions and feeling explored and less dialogue, quite a bit of repetition on certain feelings as well, like Beau always thinking, 'I love Zane, but only as a friend', we know, the book's called ETHAN!! All the monologuing mainly occurred in the first half, which is probably why I enjoyed the second half more.

This was a beautiful story with a gorgeous and well deserved HEA and I really enjoyed re-reading it, it's very special to me, being my first.
Profile Image for Susan.
2,349 reviews456 followers
dnf
May 15, 2020
DNF at 10%

I hate lots of (unnecessary) push and pull..... I don't think this author is for me. She uses a lot of words to say very little.
Profile Image for figuranta❤️addicted❤️to❤️books❤️.
765 reviews74 followers
January 12, 2014
5 Scorching Hot Men Loving Stars

Review posted at:

http://romanceisoursecretpleasure.blo...

OMG, OMG, OMG

Finally Nicole Edwards is going to give me wot i wanted the most!!!


A fully M/M book!!!!
And to say that i am excited about it's not quite right. I can't freaking wait to read it!!!

Bring it on!!!

When i first heard that Nicole Edwards is finally going to write a fully m/m book i was so fucking excited. This is the moment i been waiting since i read her first book. Don't get me wrong i love most of them but to me the chemistry between the male characters is much stronger than between them and the heroine and most of the time i didn't see the point for them being there. But That's just me. But most important, from my point of view i think NE should write only m/m books cause i fucking loved reading Ethan and i can't wait for the next one.

Going back to Ethan i have no words to complain about it. Everything was perfect. From the bickering and the dialog between Ethan and Beau to the chemistry between them and the relation to the rest of the gang NE created.

The book was fast paced and draw me complete from the first page and i couldn't put it down till i finish it. I have to say me being busy lately i forgot that this book was coming out till my bff called me yesterday to ask me if i read it and my words to her were: "Holly shit i forgot all about it" and while i was on the phone with her went on amazon, got it and start reading it 5 min later and i didn't finish it till 4 am this morning. But it was so worth it.

This is my first m/m book i read this year and i hope all of them would be as good as this one. If you are a fan of scorching HOT m/m books this is def the book for you.

RECOMMEND IT READ!!!



Profile Image for Aղցela W..
4,518 reviews319 followers
March 1, 2020
This book had it all I laughed and I cried. I love how Ethan and Beau came together. Beau may have been the one to start things with a steely determination and Ethan was unable to deny how deeply and profoundly he was affected by the unwavering sexy man in hot pursuit. Ethan held on to his stance to form no attachments even with Beau, and Beau is not willing to simply be another meaningless encounter to Ethan. As both men fall in deeper with one another, they both must learn how to navigate the new and murky waters of what it would mean to be together. They learn together. They teach one another. And, ultimately, they are there for one another as they learn to let go of the past, heal and move into a new beginning. I loved how Ethan's family accepted him and loved him even when he thought that they didn't know and how they accepted Beau. Nicole has always given us great stories but I think this one takes the cake for me. The love between the two characters grows over a period of time and both of them are finding something in the other that they are missing in their own life. It’s beautiful. Having their own demons in their past they complete each other and truly help each other move on from their pasts and help heal each other. I cannot say enough about how much this book made me swoon and excited me. Oh it was just utterly heartfelt and emotional and beautiful and touching and life changing.

This above all: to thine own self be true
Profile Image for Silkeeeeeereads.
1,449 reviews95 followers
January 11, 2014
Not only touching, this story was HOT and yes I meant to capitalize that for emphasis. Being an avid and almost sole reader of MM, I can say that I'm the crazy straight chic that doesn't mind when an author lets her characters get mushy like women. It's not real accurate but fun as hell to read.  I enjoyed the book and appreciated the note at the end for suicide prevention.  Highly recommended for a hot read!
Profile Image for Jewel.
1,935 reviews279 followers
July 12, 2015
This is the first Nicole Edwards book I have read and all I can really say is WOW! It reads pretty well as a stand alone, so I was able to keep up with the other characters without having the background that is in the previous books. However, past events do get mentioned and I'd like to know more about them, so I have decided to go back and start this series from the beginning. But I digress.

Ethan has, more or less, kept to himself the past several years. He lives in a small town and knows first hand the kind of damage that small minded people can cause and he doesn't want to bring any of that to the people he cares about. Ethan's parents and brothers would be nothing but supportive and he knows this, but he just doesn't want to rock the boat. Ethan prefers to just ignore the bigots - which I think is a good policy unless it keeps you from actually living your life, which is the case with Ethan.

Beau has been Ethan's brother Zane's best friend forever. Beau recently came to terms with the fact that he's gay. Somewhere along the line he fell for Ethan and pursued him. Ethan played mighty hard to get.

When Beau and Ethan come together it is incendiary. Hot hot hot! And the emotion is tangible. Together, they find their way to let go of the past and plan on a future.

Profile Image for Polly.
686 reviews244 followers
April 9, 2025
BEST YET!!!

Loved every minute.
Profile Image for Denise - Shh Mom's Reading®.
965 reviews393 followers
January 14, 2014
BONUS Scene "The Rings" for Ethan (Alluring Indulgence #4) by Nicole Edwards
http://shhmomsreading.com/blog-tour-r...

5 stars!
Ethan is a male / male erotic romance; if you have not read the prior books in the Alluring Indulgence series this book can absolutely be read stand alone though do be warned, I think it will leave you wanting to know the rest of the Walker men so be prepared to 1-click the prior books in the series.

For those of you who have read the prior books in the series, this is Ethan’s story the second youngest Walker sibling and as Holidays with the Walker Brothers revealed this book is Ethan Walker and Beau Bennett’s story.

As I sit here and type this I am struggling to find the words to express just how much this book touched me; it is by far the most emotionally charged book Ms. Edwards has written and is one of the top m/m books I have read – check that one of the top books I have read in any genre.

Ms. Edwards has proven to countless readers in prior books that love is love and in that vein Ethan does not disappoint. The love and connection between Ethan and Beau is not about them both being male but them being soul mates. I know that is an overused terms but in this book Ms. Edwards demonstrated in countless scenes how these two men truly make each better and are meant to be together.

The reader is shown this connection in the prologue, yes the prologue is clear the pull these two have toward each other, the tension is palpable and the imagery so well done you will see inside of Alluring Indulgence on New Year Eve! It was so well done, it pulls the reader in and will have you wanting to know how Ethan and Beau find each other.

I thoroughly enjoyed the masterful way Ms. Edwards unraveled the man Lorrie Walker has called her loner. The reasons behind Ethan Walker keeping his head down and keeping to himself even distancing himself from his brothers pull at my heart and at times make me sick to my stomach. No, I absolutely will not tell you Ethan’s past as I want you to experience the heartache as Ms. Edwards slowly and masterfully reveals it to the reader.
The level of emotion Ms. Edwards pulls from the readers proves to me she continues to improve with each book; the layers of emotion I felt will have this story sticking with me for sometime to come. Wait, let me amend that I think Ethan and Beau will forever have a place in my heart.

Oh I must add that Curtis Walker is the best patriarch ever. I am so thrilled to see Curtis listed as an upcoming release in the Alluring Indulgence series because I so want to know the backstory for Curtis and Lorrie Walker. I should also note Lorrie brought tears to my eyes, her desire to support Beau made we want to hug her and yes, you will know the scene when you get to it.

Sawyer in big brother mode adds a dimension to his man what will leaving you wanting more of him. Sawyer (the second oldest Walker sibling) was used to really open up the storyline, to add depth of emotion, and to remind Ethan that things that happen to you also effect those around you. Speaking of big brother, yes the oldest Walker sibling Travis also has a touching big brother moment. And although Zane (the youngest Walker) too has some serious moments as he and Beau being best friends have a deep share past, he will also remind you why he has always made the reader laugh!

So I told you what I loved, well in this book there were things I hated; I bet you thought you would never hear me say that about a Nicole Edwards book as it is no secret I am big fan of her writing. Well, in this book Ms. Edwards got me to hate; hate secondary characters with such distain they made my stomach turn. I literarily said Omg out loud during chapter 25 for the swing of emotion Ms. Edwards has the reader experiencing. It was so well done, breaking my heart and sadly reminding me that some people make me sick. Poor E (yes Ethan nickname is E). And as I have said before that level emotion for me equals 5 stars because getting readers to feel, to feel as if these characters are real truly hurting others is a thing of pure genius.

This book for me was a journey to a past that was required before Ethan the man could move forward. And stepping forward for Ethan was about more than just expression what happened but working to overcome and accept it (yes I loved how seriously Ms. Edwards handled the topics addressed in this book). For Ethan this is a move forward into the arms of the man he was meant to be with!

This book was emotionally powerful but not to be outdone by her prior books Ethan was one heck of a hot read. Ms. Edwards again has weaved hot sex with emotion. Ethan and Beau made sex hot, fun and endearing; their first’s chat during sex was almost as wonderful as them being responsible and the moment that decide to take it to next level (yes I am being vague). Sex in this book is laced with a connection that had you knowing the first time these two connect that they are meant to find a way to be together; and that journey was so wonderful I almost wish I could re-read this book just to experience it again. Many of us fell in love with big Beau in Zane (book 2) well in Ethan we finally get dominant Beau and let me just say he is sexy as all get up!!!

As this book comes to a close the reader sees the love and support we all knew the Walker family would show Ethan, it also comes from an unexpected place and I for one hope we learn more about Mack the bartender from Moonshiners!

Chapter 42 was wonderful, I love the play into the first two lines. And epilogue was heartfelt with amazing dynamics and heat they might light your kindle on fire!!!
Ending an emotional read with a huge smile for the reader and a warm fuzzy feeling in your heart!

There were so many scenes in this book that reminding me why I love the walker family so much. ps speaking of family scene one last thing, I love Uncle Ethan

Thank you to Ms. Edwards for this family that is a must-click because they have a permanent place in my heart!
Profile Image for Heather .
450 reviews138 followers
January 19, 2014
This is the fourth book in the Alluring Indulgences series. The series is an erotic romance series. The books each tackle one or more or the Walker boys. There are seven of them, so this should be a big series. So far, I have been a huge fan.

I am typically not all that into M/M Romance. Not that I have a problem with it, quite the opposite. It just usually doesn't do it for me. For some reason Nicole Edwards can make any combination of men and women HOT! I absolutely adore this series and I want one of these brooding Walker brothers, actually, I think I'll take the twins. :-)



Ethan Walker has always felt like an outsider, an outcast. He knows he is different, and in his small town, different is not a good thing. Ethan has never had a girlfriend and has never shown any interest in women. But he would never admit aloud his true nature.


Beau has always been best friends with Zane Walker. One wild night while having a threesome with Zane, he takes things further and discovers that he has been missing something his whole life. All of the sex he has had with women had left him feeling unfulfilled. Now he knows why. He was able to walk away from Zane with his friendship intact, but Beau will never be able to go back.

Ethan is in a "relationship" with Blake. I say "relationship" because they are very much in the closet. When Ethan ends things, Blake does not take it well.



Ethan and Beau find themselves giving in to the intense attraction bubbling beneath the surface.



But there is a problem...Ethan has a past. A dark past. He fears getting close to anyone.


Things have a tendency to turn out poorly and he is afraid. If he falls for Beau, they could both get hurt.

So Ethan tries his hardest to run.


“I’m not your business,” Ethan said lethally. Beau didn’t move an inch, but Ethan felt as though he were pressed fully up against him. The heat from his colossal body somehow forced away the icy February breeze and warmed him from the inside out.


Not a good thing. “I want you to be my business.”

Beau is having none of it!


The past comes back and all of the skeletons come flying out of the closet.


Beau and Ethan could be epic. They could have the love of a lifetime, if they can move forwards and leave the past behind them.


Nicole Edwards does it again! This was AMAZING! As I said before, I am not a huge fan of M/M romance. Somehow, Ms. Edwards just makes it work. I don't care that they are both guys, I love them both. They are two alpha males fighting for something forbidden in their small town. The writing was phenomenal. They love each other but they aren't two guys with girly thoughts. They are tough and rugged cowboys. And they are HOT!


This book goes beyond the "love" story and delves into hate crimes and homophobia. It takes on family reactions to coming out and it doesn't sugar coat any of it. Nicole Edwards did an amazing job of pulling me in and hooking me. I felt for these men. I felt love, I felt fear, I felt anger, and I felt their passion and their peace.

So the emotions were off the charts, but lets take a moment and talk about the most important part of the book, the sex. It was OFF THE FREAKING CHARTS! Holy Hell.


This book kept me panting and wanting more. I absolutely LOVED IT!

Five gigantic stars. I adore this series and I will continue to read on!!

red_star_5_of_5-bb0a37528bbb2ff1f4b732afff2bb968
Profile Image for Kim Bailey.
Author 6 books607 followers
May 3, 2015
Amazing!



Let me start this "review" by stating that I haven't read a ton of books in the m/m romance genre ... it's not that I don't enjoy or appreciate them ... I just generally prefer to have some kind of female interaction in my sexy reads (I'm a girl, so it's easier on my imagination). Now, having said that ... this is by far, the best m/m book I've read. But it is so much more than just a nice erotic read!

Nicole Edwards is a master of erotic writing. Seriously. If you like hot - this is by far one of the hottest yet. But this book has taken her writing to a level I wasn't expecting - covering deeply emotional and sometimes troubling subject matter.

I was enthralled by Ethan's story. I was enraptured by his love affair with Beau. And I was haunted by his history as he struggled with learning to love, trust and find acceptance.

The strength of these characters & the real life people who inspire this type of story - have my heart, my compassion and my support.

Fabulous story. I can't wait for more of the Walker clan!
Profile Image for Bitchie.
1,464 reviews75 followers
November 6, 2015
Pre-review:

This is very enjoyable, but I truly hate feeling like I'm missing important details because I'm not interested in an M/F and menage BDSM series. If an author is going to mix M/M into the middle of a het series, they should make darn sure we have all the information, considering a lot of M/M readers don't cross lines back into non-M/M romance. I don't think it would have been too hard to have did a flashback to the first kiss, or taken those scenes and had THOSE be the prologue to the story.

I hate that I missed the first freaking kiss, and the first realization that these guys had feelings for each other.

However, all that being said, I liked this a lot. The sex was hot and plentiful, and I loved watching Ethan fight his feelings, but then once he was in, he was all in. I loved the extended family, but not enough to dive back into that genre.
Profile Image for Renée.
1,172 reviews413 followers
August 15, 2020
4.5 stars!

That was excellent! Just what I needed with only one complaint in sight. There was actually TOO much steam.
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