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Valor and Doyle Mysteries #7
Matrimonial Merriment
Who would have thought Quaid and Aslan would come so far?
Join the couple as they scramble to arrange Quaid's dream wedding in under three months. Then take a seat because you are cordially invited to attend the ceremony.
Join the couple as they scramble to arrange Quaid's dream wedding in under three months. Then take a seat because you are cordially invited to attend the ceremony.
380 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 7, 2023
158 people are currently reading
498 people want to read
About the author
Nicky James
76 books2,263 followersI live in the small town of Petrolia, Ontario, Canada and I am a mother to a wonderful teenage boy (didn't think those words could be typed together...surprise) and wife to a truly supportive and understanding husband, who thankfully doesn't think I'm crazy.
I have always had two profound dreams in life. To fall back hundreds of years in time and live in a simpler world, not bogged down by technology and to write novels. Since only one of these was a possibility I decided to make the other come alive on paper.
I write mm romance novels that take place in fantastical medieval type settings and love to use the challenges of the times to give my stories and characters life.
I have always had two profound dreams in life. To fall back hundreds of years in time and live in a simpler world, not bogged down by technology and to write novels. Since only one of these was a possibility I decided to make the other come alive on paper.
I write mm romance novels that take place in fantastical medieval type settings and love to use the challenges of the times to give my stories and characters life.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 310 reviews
June 17, 2025
Only Quaid and Aslan could make me go through the stress of planning a wedding, and it was worth it. I thought it was beautiful and magical, and this is coming from someone who doesn't usually get emotional about weddings in books or movies, and definitely doesn't cry. Well, I did all of that here.
I can't even pick what I loved the most. It would probably be a long list of many little things and it would include every single character in this book. I won't be making a list, but I need to mention:
- Quaid and Ruiz's friendship, amazing in this one
- Quaid and Graham's relationship, one of my favourite parts of this series
I have loved following Quaid and Aslan's journey from the prequel and I couldn't have imagined a better ending for them. It was perfect and they both deserved it. I loved how the book ended, but I also can't help wishing
Looking forward to the next book(s) in the series!
******
Re-read 6/2025 via audiobook. Perfection.
I can't even pick what I loved the most. It would probably be a long list of many little things and it would include every single character in this book. I won't be making a list, but I need to mention:
- Quaid and Ruiz's friendship, amazing in this one
- Quaid and Graham's relationship, one of my favourite parts of this series
I have loved following Quaid and Aslan's journey from the prequel and I couldn't have imagined a better ending for them. It was perfect and they both deserved it. I loved how the book ended, but I also can't help wishing
Looking forward to the next book(s) in the series!
******
Re-read 6/2025 via audiobook. Perfection.
![Profile Image for len ❀[ia bc of school].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1753226014i%2F51318038._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
January 6, 2024
And the award for best character development goes to …
COSTA RUIZ.
Ruiz is only a side character (an important one, though), and his character development has been fabulous. We go from seeing him being homophobic, uncomfortable, and feeling superior to acknowledging his mistakes, growing from them, and taking ownership of them. His friendship with Quaid is incredibly heartfelt, secure, and nicely developed. I’ve loved seeing his encouragement and love for Quaid, his constant reassurance of who he is now, and how he doesn’t want his kids to be like his past self. Seeing his progress is also entirely realistic. It’s not as easy as it sounds, coming from an environment like his and changing everything in one or a few days.
As for the book and the main couple, I can’t lie and say this finale was a little disappointing.
First thing you should know about this seventh installment: Unlike the other books, this one does not contain a mystery and is wholly focused on our two favorite detectives finally getting married. This is literally in the blurb. Don’t wanna read 380 pages of wedding planning? Don’t read this. I personally didn’t mind this, mostly because I have been waiting for these two to catch a break. I’ve been wanting to read about them just living and enjoying life. And they did. Sort of.
I’ve been caught up on this series since the first book came out, which I never do since I tend to either binge-read the series after it’s all complete or just forget about them for a while and return to them way later. This was a series I kept up with as each new installment came out, making me excited for each story released. I also reviewed each book, which helped me go back and see what worked for me and what didn’t. And now, looking at my older reviews, I see that, sadly, everything that worked for me before is no longer something on that same level.
I only read book six, Disrupted Engagement, yesterday. I kept putting it off because I was worried about exactly what the blurb entailed. But I gave in because I had to finally get to this, and let’s just say I wasn’t impressed. As for this one, don’t get me wrong, there were moments I liked and enjoyed, but more than half of this made me feel more miserable than I already am. I started skimming early on, and I spent at least the first 50% of my time frustrated with Quaid.
One of my comments about him in my review for book 4 is that I loved seeing his character development. I felt like he was finally improving and getting somewhere, giving himself a second chance at love, at what he thought he lost. I loved seeing him open up and embrace the love Aslan was willing to give him. In book 5, while I didn’t write a review, I felt like he continued taking small but sure steps forward as well, although still unsure and with doubt. It makes sense, considering his past.
Also, I will say this without caring what others think. Let’s keep in mind that Aslan and Quaid have been dating for a little over a year. I’m sorry, but you don’t just get over emotional abuse like THAT. You don’t forget everything that hurt you because you suddenly have a new lover. Enduring emotional abuse for two years will fuck you up. There’s the psychological trauma caused by it. Just because it’s book 7, at this point, doesn’t mean Quaid has healed, moved on, and forgotten when he’s only been with Aslan for a little over a year. Aslan’s dick and love declarations aren’t going to heal him magically. It’d be unrealistic if they did. While I will comment on the issue I have with why Quaid hasn’t exactly healed, my problems have nothing to do with Quaid’s insecurities because, I guess, from my perspective, seeing in real-life situations like this has allowed me to sympathize more. I wouldn’t consider myself a friend of my friends if I told them to “Move on” whenever they remember the past or immediately jump to assumptions and conclusions about their insecurities. Hell, I still remember some of the insults my brother told me when we were young, and they still come and bite me years later during my insecure moments. And that’s what it was with my brother when we were young, and insults came left and right. I don’t want to imagine that as an emotionally abusive case.
However, just when I thought Quaid would be taking more steps forward, he remains stuck in the endless loop he was in at the beginning, and that’s why Quaid is, unfortunately, quite judgmental.
There are many things about Quaid I can relate to, which play a big part in my sympathy and appreciation for his character. I’m a big believer in saying that sometimes, relating to characters helps with appreciating their character more. Even if there will always be times when I can’t relate to characters for obvious reasons, there will always be those I can connect to personally, seeing parts of me in them. Some of his tendencies are relatable—his overthinking, constant pessimism, lack of social skills and interactions, need for reassurance, need for acceptance, need to complete something that’s started, need for perfection, overworked self, and neurotic behavior. Quaid has had a special place in my heart since the beginning, with his grumpy, sneering, neurotic behavior and his tendency to push those away from him. There are parts about him I wish I couldn’t relate to because, let’s be honest, nobody likes dealing with people like us. Our aggressive attitude can become too harsh, our pessimism becomes too negative for everyone, our anxious overthinking makes it challenging to hold out hope, and our resting bitch face doesn’t exactly yell, “I’m approachable!” However, if there’s one thing about Quaid I’ve noticed that isn’t something I do (at least not unconsciously), is that I don’t automatically feel superior to those below me, criticizing them from the get-go and judging them based on their looks.
Quaid has been critical since the start. However, with seven books in, I would’ve hoped he would have had some fair character development in how he responds to people from the public, those who aren’t around him most of the time. For example, his relationship with his new partner, Jordyn, started off very rocky but managed to become an alliance and solid friendship that’s still blooming. His friendship with Ruiz has been slowly growing, becoming more adaptable and comfortable for them after their first time working together. But unfortunately, what I’ve noticed is that Quaid will do it only with people he knows he’ll be working with as if those he won’t be around aren’t worth his time. Most of the character development I noticed before had to do with his relationship with Aslan, which had been incredible and worth noting. But after reading book six yesterday and finally getting to this, I can admit that Quaid’s personality wasn’t my favorite. At all. I loved his tendencies and behavior before, but now his flaws and differences don’t help. His development may have shined in the previous books for me, but for these past two books, his behavior felt more childish, which I hadn’t considered before.
Page 5:
The man used far too much product in my opinion. Call it a hunch, but I had a feeling he was the type of guy who bathed in aftershave or cologne, carrying a cloud of fumes in his wake.
Gross.
Probably an attention-seeker. He looked like an attention-seeker.
Literally two pages later:
I studied the man’s picture. Aslan was of the opinion I had broken gaydar. He was probably right, but to be fair, I didn’t like to judge people based on looks or manner of dress. Perhaps I would notice nuances in the flesh, but the still frame image didn’t scream gay.
So it’s not okay to make assumptions when trying to decide if someone ‘is gay’ based on how they look or their manners, but it’s okay to make assumptions on how someone acts or is based on their staff picture? And to judge immediately by saying he uses too much product? Why does it matter? What’s it to you anyway?
When they meet, he realizes Tallus does not bathe in aftershave or cologne, even if he does use it. And they become pretty good friends. If only Tallus had known what Quaid thought about him before adequately meeting him.
It doesn’t get better. He continues being overly judgmental without proper reasons, making assumptions about others and even going as far as blaming them.
Look, man, I worked in retail. We would have customers like Quaid who aren’t fun to deal with. I’d always call my manager up because I wasn’t getting paid to deal with rude, impatient people. If Quaid were a customer, he’d be the type to tell me to hurry up on bagging what he’s buying because he’s crunched on time, as if it’s my fault you decided to buy everything last minute. Also, I grew tired of his berating, reassuring his friends that someone ‘respectable looking’ was necessary as a DJ, as opposed to someone, in Aslan’s words: “You gave me the list at ten o’clock last night after a long lecture about not wanting heavy metal or junkies or guys with dreadlocks behind the sound system.” I would understand if it was more for general preference and having someone listen to the same music. However, my issue is with how he needs someone who ‘looks respectable.’ What does that mean? Someone who doesn’t listen to heavy metal music? Someone without dreadlocks? Someone with an educational background? Depending on how one takes it, this may not be a massive deal to some people. I took it to be judgmental and unnecessary. It isn’t just about being picky; it’s about being critical of people he doesn’t know and judging on first looks. It’s hypocritical and rude.
Moving on, Quaid’s character development is highly lacking in these past two installments. Whereas before, his development focused on his relationship with Aslan and on making progress in his insecurities (trusting Aslan, allowing himself to be loved, accepting someone wants him, etc), now his character is all that, except he’s still struggling outside and along those areas because there’s no outside help. In other words, Quaid needs therapy, and it’s finally brought up here, but sadly, we have to wait until the next book to read about it as he won’t do it until after the wedding. It’s great, but I still can’t feel anything but disappointed.
Quaid’s issues do not bother me entirely; it's more about why he has those issues. Honestly, as someone with a current eating disorder, some of his things felt a little realistic, sadly, yet that’s why I wish he got some sort of help or mentioned it. His pickiness isn’t what bothers me either; it’s his constant judgment of others. Also, with him being a health nut after everything that happened with his father’s stroke, you would think he’d be more involved in eating healthy, but he doesn’t even eat. His eating habits consist of minor bits of food or anything someone like Aslan forces into him. He makes his dad keep up with meals and eat healthy, but he doesn’t make the same choices. It’s obvious he has an eating disorder. It’s a miracle that he’s up and moving with the lack of food in his belly. Sometimes I wonder how the fuck I’m up and moving, and I’m no detective. It’s not so much about Quaid not telling anyone or noticing he might have an ED but about how little he tries. He’s so focused on calories and what is in the food but doesn’t focus on doing anything about it, finding an alternative, actually eating and consuming what he needs. It makes sense that it’s connected to an undiagnosed ED, but the fact that no one has mentioned or noticed this in all seven books is precisely my problem. The words eating disorder were mentioned ONCE only, and it’s when Aslan is talking to Chris, saying “Connoisseur? Not quite. Quaid is one step away from having an eating disorder. And he would sneer at me for saying that, but it’s true. He’s extremely picky and can’t see past sodium, fat, and cholesterol content when he eats. It’s almost debilitating.” So Aslan knows, but because Quaid will sneer at him he won’t tell him? Or mention the possibility of it? I’m surprised his ER results showed up positively, with no issues related to his health. Or why doesn’t anyone notice this is an issue? Aslan sees he has to force-feed Quaid, and sometimes, he must ask Ruiz to check in with him and ask if he’s eaten. Is this not a pattern you see, Aslan? Do you not see that this is not okay? I'd be growing concerned if I had to tell myself and my friends that I’m force-feeding those around me or that I think he has an eating disorder.
And while I can defend Quaid for why he’s insecure (coming from someone who has been insecure her whole life and still is), it’s difficult to continue supporting him when nothing about this is done. It’s nice that Aslan finally brought possible therapy up, but I wish there had been more to this on Quaid’s part. Considering more than a year has passed, I want to say Quaid had noticed something, noticed that maybe keeping this up bottled isn’t the way to go, but sadly that isn’t the case. While I understand it takes time and it’s not easy to just go out and do it, there’s never any thought about it either, no possibility of Quaid improving, no foreshadowing. If it weren’t for Aslan, nothing would’ve been done. And why did it take this long to have it mentioned? Has Quaid never thought to himself why he thinks the way he does, why he still thinks about what Jack did? Does he not get tired of the constant self-belittlement? I liked his behavior in the previous books, but now it’s become too much. The feeling is the same, he’s still berating himself, and his thoughts are always negative. He needs a lot to improve for himself, but without proper help, he won’t get there.
I would like to rate this higher for enjoyment. Still, with about half the book spent with Quaid being miserable and insufferable due to his anxiety over the wedding, it was difficult to see the story differently. It wasn’t till the second half that I started enjoying it more, when Quaid had to take a break from everything because the stress was getting to him, even sending him to the ER. While the second half provided more content I wish the first half did, I still skimmed, enjoying and smiling at certain moments between Aslan and Quaid but still frowning and annoyed at others. With the wedding being cramped down, this could've been shorter, and the process would still be the same. I get it. I do. I get his anxiety over the wedding, but having to spend so much time in his brain processing this got so tiring. Had the story been shorter, the misery would’ve been less.
Aslan is still his perfect self, which some people hate because he’s an incarnation of an ideal human being, but I don’t care. He’s still so patient, so loving, so hopeful. He reads Quaid so well, finding different ways to show him love. He’s a reason my standards are getting higher. I’ve had terrible allergies these past few days, and if I had someone like Aslan in my side, taking care of me, I’d be giving that man anything he wants. His gentle and tender demeanor is so wonderful. His love for Quaid is so apparent, always reassuring him, which I am grateful for. Good for him, because I really cannot imagine loving someone like Quaid, but if no one fell in love with Quaid, there would be many people in this worth considered not worthy and lovable because of how they are, and I think that’s fucked up. We all fall in love with and for different things and reasons; we all notice and appreciate other traits. People like Quaid deserve to be loved for his neurotic mess and over-anxious brain. I’m glad he has someone like Aslan because he deserves it after everything he has been through.
The moments between the two men are gentle, as always, and loving. Heartwarming, poetic in their way, confident, and animating, their love shines through the pages. Besides the times when Quaid is freaking out about the wedding planning, these two have an intense connection that I only hear about in books or television, sadly. The way they’ve grown from rival partners to acquaintances to potential friends to close friends and allies to men with feelings to lovers to soulmates has been a journey I’ve loved. From books 2-5, my love for them was solid, always finding hope in how they loved each other. Unfortunately, book six threw me off; now this installment doesn’t help. While their moments are those worthy of noticing and adoring, there wasn’t enough to save my feelings of previous dread. I was bored, wishing I’d finally get to the moment where I enjoyed myself reading. Instead, I skimmed, grew annoyed at Quaid for different reasons, and wondered why certain things had to happen. Don’t get me wrong. I loved many moments between these two, but sadly, I couldn’t appreciate them enough. The ending, however, was one of my favorites. Highly romantic and sensual, these two’s love for each other is still one of my favorites to read about. They’re natural at what they do, with no force necessary to bring anything to the table. It’s refreshing, admittedly.
Aslan made this story as enjoyable as possible, as well as the rest of the cast: Ruiz and his loving, good-matured friendship that’s improving; Torin and his loud, boisterous, hilarious personality with his inability to not cuss to save his life; Abraham, Quaid’s father, and his pride and joy in finally seeing his son getting married; the rest of Aslan’s family, especially his mother and nephew; Jordyn, who has surprisingly grown on me but still aggravates me here and there. I’m so excited for Tallus, who is Ruiz’s cousin and will get his own HEA in the spin-off on which the author will focus. He already sounds like the unapologetic type of character I adore.
All in all, while I didn’t love this, I didn’t hate it either. I’m simply disappointed. I couldn’t appreciate it enough, especially with how miserable Quaid made me for at least most of the book. While this may seem like the end, we know it’s not. It’s the HEA they deserve, but it isn’t goodbye; it is more like a see-you-later type. The author just wants to take a break from these two, which I support and understand, but she wants to take them to fatherhood, and I am excited about that. Now, we impatiently and patiently wait for Tullen’s book!
Valor and Doyle series overview
Department Rivals | ★★
Temporary Partner | ★★★
Elusive Relations | ★★★★
Unstable Connections | ★★★★
Inevitable Disclosure | ★★★★
Defying Logic | ★★★★
Disrupted Engagement | ★★
Matrimonial Merriment | ★★
COSTA RUIZ.
Ruiz is only a side character (an important one, though), and his character development has been fabulous. We go from seeing him being homophobic, uncomfortable, and feeling superior to acknowledging his mistakes, growing from them, and taking ownership of them. His friendship with Quaid is incredibly heartfelt, secure, and nicely developed. I’ve loved seeing his encouragement and love for Quaid, his constant reassurance of who he is now, and how he doesn’t want his kids to be like his past self. Seeing his progress is also entirely realistic. It’s not as easy as it sounds, coming from an environment like his and changing everything in one or a few days.
As for the book and the main couple, I can’t lie and say this finale was a little disappointing.
First thing you should know about this seventh installment: Unlike the other books, this one does not contain a mystery and is wholly focused on our two favorite detectives finally getting married. This is literally in the blurb. Don’t wanna read 380 pages of wedding planning? Don’t read this. I personally didn’t mind this, mostly because I have been waiting for these two to catch a break. I’ve been wanting to read about them just living and enjoying life. And they did. Sort of.
I’ve been caught up on this series since the first book came out, which I never do since I tend to either binge-read the series after it’s all complete or just forget about them for a while and return to them way later. This was a series I kept up with as each new installment came out, making me excited for each story released. I also reviewed each book, which helped me go back and see what worked for me and what didn’t. And now, looking at my older reviews, I see that, sadly, everything that worked for me before is no longer something on that same level.
I only read book six, Disrupted Engagement, yesterday. I kept putting it off because I was worried about exactly what the blurb entailed. But I gave in because I had to finally get to this, and let’s just say I wasn’t impressed. As for this one, don’t get me wrong, there were moments I liked and enjoyed, but more than half of this made me feel more miserable than I already am. I started skimming early on, and I spent at least the first 50% of my time frustrated with Quaid.
One of my comments about him in my review for book 4 is that I loved seeing his character development. I felt like he was finally improving and getting somewhere, giving himself a second chance at love, at what he thought he lost. I loved seeing him open up and embrace the love Aslan was willing to give him. In book 5, while I didn’t write a review, I felt like he continued taking small but sure steps forward as well, although still unsure and with doubt. It makes sense, considering his past.
Also, I will say this without caring what others think. Let’s keep in mind that Aslan and Quaid have been dating for a little over a year. I’m sorry, but you don’t just get over emotional abuse like THAT. You don’t forget everything that hurt you because you suddenly have a new lover. Enduring emotional abuse for two years will fuck you up. There’s the psychological trauma caused by it. Just because it’s book 7, at this point, doesn’t mean Quaid has healed, moved on, and forgotten when he’s only been with Aslan for a little over a year. Aslan’s dick and love declarations aren’t going to heal him magically. It’d be unrealistic if they did. While I will comment on the issue I have with why Quaid hasn’t exactly healed, my problems have nothing to do with Quaid’s insecurities because, I guess, from my perspective, seeing in real-life situations like this has allowed me to sympathize more. I wouldn’t consider myself a friend of my friends if I told them to “Move on” whenever they remember the past or immediately jump to assumptions and conclusions about their insecurities. Hell, I still remember some of the insults my brother told me when we were young, and they still come and bite me years later during my insecure moments. And that’s what it was with my brother when we were young, and insults came left and right. I don’t want to imagine that as an emotionally abusive case.
However, just when I thought Quaid would be taking more steps forward, he remains stuck in the endless loop he was in at the beginning, and that’s why Quaid is, unfortunately, quite judgmental.
There are many things about Quaid I can relate to, which play a big part in my sympathy and appreciation for his character. I’m a big believer in saying that sometimes, relating to characters helps with appreciating their character more. Even if there will always be times when I can’t relate to characters for obvious reasons, there will always be those I can connect to personally, seeing parts of me in them. Some of his tendencies are relatable—his overthinking, constant pessimism, lack of social skills and interactions, need for reassurance, need for acceptance, need to complete something that’s started, need for perfection, overworked self, and neurotic behavior. Quaid has had a special place in my heart since the beginning, with his grumpy, sneering, neurotic behavior and his tendency to push those away from him. There are parts about him I wish I couldn’t relate to because, let’s be honest, nobody likes dealing with people like us. Our aggressive attitude can become too harsh, our pessimism becomes too negative for everyone, our anxious overthinking makes it challenging to hold out hope, and our resting bitch face doesn’t exactly yell, “I’m approachable!” However, if there’s one thing about Quaid I’ve noticed that isn’t something I do (at least not unconsciously), is that I don’t automatically feel superior to those below me, criticizing them from the get-go and judging them based on their looks.
Quaid has been critical since the start. However, with seven books in, I would’ve hoped he would have had some fair character development in how he responds to people from the public, those who aren’t around him most of the time. For example, his relationship with his new partner, Jordyn, started off very rocky but managed to become an alliance and solid friendship that’s still blooming. His friendship with Ruiz has been slowly growing, becoming more adaptable and comfortable for them after their first time working together. But unfortunately, what I’ve noticed is that Quaid will do it only with people he knows he’ll be working with as if those he won’t be around aren’t worth his time. Most of the character development I noticed before had to do with his relationship with Aslan, which had been incredible and worth noting. But after reading book six yesterday and finally getting to this, I can admit that Quaid’s personality wasn’t my favorite. At all. I loved his tendencies and behavior before, but now his flaws and differences don’t help. His development may have shined in the previous books for me, but for these past two books, his behavior felt more childish, which I hadn’t considered before.
Page 5:
The man used far too much product in my opinion. Call it a hunch, but I had a feeling he was the type of guy who bathed in aftershave or cologne, carrying a cloud of fumes in his wake.
Gross.
Probably an attention-seeker. He looked like an attention-seeker.
Literally two pages later:
I studied the man’s picture. Aslan was of the opinion I had broken gaydar. He was probably right, but to be fair, I didn’t like to judge people based on looks or manner of dress. Perhaps I would notice nuances in the flesh, but the still frame image didn’t scream gay.
So it’s not okay to make assumptions when trying to decide if someone ‘is gay’ based on how they look or their manners, but it’s okay to make assumptions on how someone acts or is based on their staff picture? And to judge immediately by saying he uses too much product? Why does it matter? What’s it to you anyway?
When they meet, he realizes Tallus does not bathe in aftershave or cologne, even if he does use it. And they become pretty good friends. If only Tallus had known what Quaid thought about him before adequately meeting him.
It doesn’t get better. He continues being overly judgmental without proper reasons, making assumptions about others and even going as far as blaming them.
Look, man, I worked in retail. We would have customers like Quaid who aren’t fun to deal with. I’d always call my manager up because I wasn’t getting paid to deal with rude, impatient people. If Quaid were a customer, he’d be the type to tell me to hurry up on bagging what he’s buying because he’s crunched on time, as if it’s my fault you decided to buy everything last minute. Also, I grew tired of his berating, reassuring his friends that someone ‘respectable looking’ was necessary as a DJ, as opposed to someone, in Aslan’s words: “You gave me the list at ten o’clock last night after a long lecture about not wanting heavy metal or junkies or guys with dreadlocks behind the sound system.” I would understand if it was more for general preference and having someone listen to the same music. However, my issue is with how he needs someone who ‘looks respectable.’ What does that mean? Someone who doesn’t listen to heavy metal music? Someone without dreadlocks? Someone with an educational background? Depending on how one takes it, this may not be a massive deal to some people. I took it to be judgmental and unnecessary. It isn’t just about being picky; it’s about being critical of people he doesn’t know and judging on first looks. It’s hypocritical and rude.
Moving on, Quaid’s character development is highly lacking in these past two installments. Whereas before, his development focused on his relationship with Aslan and on making progress in his insecurities (trusting Aslan, allowing himself to be loved, accepting someone wants him, etc), now his character is all that, except he’s still struggling outside and along those areas because there’s no outside help. In other words, Quaid needs therapy, and it’s finally brought up here, but sadly, we have to wait until the next book to read about it as he won’t do it until after the wedding. It’s great, but I still can’t feel anything but disappointed.
Quaid’s issues do not bother me entirely; it's more about why he has those issues. Honestly, as someone with a current eating disorder, some of his things felt a little realistic, sadly, yet that’s why I wish he got some sort of help or mentioned it. His pickiness isn’t what bothers me either; it’s his constant judgment of others. Also, with him being a health nut after everything that happened with his father’s stroke, you would think he’d be more involved in eating healthy, but he doesn’t even eat. His eating habits consist of minor bits of food or anything someone like Aslan forces into him. He makes his dad keep up with meals and eat healthy, but he doesn’t make the same choices. It’s obvious he has an eating disorder. It’s a miracle that he’s up and moving with the lack of food in his belly. Sometimes I wonder how the fuck I’m up and moving, and I’m no detective. It’s not so much about Quaid not telling anyone or noticing he might have an ED but about how little he tries. He’s so focused on calories and what is in the food but doesn’t focus on doing anything about it, finding an alternative, actually eating and consuming what he needs. It makes sense that it’s connected to an undiagnosed ED, but the fact that no one has mentioned or noticed this in all seven books is precisely my problem. The words eating disorder were mentioned ONCE only, and it’s when Aslan is talking to Chris, saying “Connoisseur? Not quite. Quaid is one step away from having an eating disorder. And he would sneer at me for saying that, but it’s true. He’s extremely picky and can’t see past sodium, fat, and cholesterol content when he eats. It’s almost debilitating.” So Aslan knows, but because Quaid will sneer at him he won’t tell him? Or mention the possibility of it? I’m surprised his ER results showed up positively, with no issues related to his health. Or why doesn’t anyone notice this is an issue? Aslan sees he has to force-feed Quaid, and sometimes, he must ask Ruiz to check in with him and ask if he’s eaten. Is this not a pattern you see, Aslan? Do you not see that this is not okay? I'd be growing concerned if I had to tell myself and my friends that I’m force-feeding those around me or that I think he has an eating disorder.
And while I can defend Quaid for why he’s insecure (coming from someone who has been insecure her whole life and still is), it’s difficult to continue supporting him when nothing about this is done. It’s nice that Aslan finally brought possible therapy up, but I wish there had been more to this on Quaid’s part. Considering more than a year has passed, I want to say Quaid had noticed something, noticed that maybe keeping this up bottled isn’t the way to go, but sadly that isn’t the case. While I understand it takes time and it’s not easy to just go out and do it, there’s never any thought about it either, no possibility of Quaid improving, no foreshadowing. If it weren’t for Aslan, nothing would’ve been done. And why did it take this long to have it mentioned? Has Quaid never thought to himself why he thinks the way he does, why he still thinks about what Jack did? Does he not get tired of the constant self-belittlement? I liked his behavior in the previous books, but now it’s become too much. The feeling is the same, he’s still berating himself, and his thoughts are always negative. He needs a lot to improve for himself, but without proper help, he won’t get there.
I would like to rate this higher for enjoyment. Still, with about half the book spent with Quaid being miserable and insufferable due to his anxiety over the wedding, it was difficult to see the story differently. It wasn’t till the second half that I started enjoying it more, when Quaid had to take a break from everything because the stress was getting to him, even sending him to the ER. While the second half provided more content I wish the first half did, I still skimmed, enjoying and smiling at certain moments between Aslan and Quaid but still frowning and annoyed at others. With the wedding being cramped down, this could've been shorter, and the process would still be the same. I get it. I do. I get his anxiety over the wedding, but having to spend so much time in his brain processing this got so tiring. Had the story been shorter, the misery would’ve been less.
Aslan is still his perfect self, which some people hate because he’s an incarnation of an ideal human being, but I don’t care. He’s still so patient, so loving, so hopeful. He reads Quaid so well, finding different ways to show him love. He’s a reason my standards are getting higher. I’ve had terrible allergies these past few days, and if I had someone like Aslan in my side, taking care of me, I’d be giving that man anything he wants. His gentle and tender demeanor is so wonderful. His love for Quaid is so apparent, always reassuring him, which I am grateful for. Good for him, because I really cannot imagine loving someone like Quaid, but if no one fell in love with Quaid, there would be many people in this worth considered not worthy and lovable because of how they are, and I think that’s fucked up. We all fall in love with and for different things and reasons; we all notice and appreciate other traits. People like Quaid deserve to be loved for his neurotic mess and over-anxious brain. I’m glad he has someone like Aslan because he deserves it after everything he has been through.
The moments between the two men are gentle, as always, and loving. Heartwarming, poetic in their way, confident, and animating, their love shines through the pages. Besides the times when Quaid is freaking out about the wedding planning, these two have an intense connection that I only hear about in books or television, sadly. The way they’ve grown from rival partners to acquaintances to potential friends to close friends and allies to men with feelings to lovers to soulmates has been a journey I’ve loved. From books 2-5, my love for them was solid, always finding hope in how they loved each other. Unfortunately, book six threw me off; now this installment doesn’t help. While their moments are those worthy of noticing and adoring, there wasn’t enough to save my feelings of previous dread. I was bored, wishing I’d finally get to the moment where I enjoyed myself reading. Instead, I skimmed, grew annoyed at Quaid for different reasons, and wondered why certain things had to happen. Don’t get me wrong. I loved many moments between these two, but sadly, I couldn’t appreciate them enough. The ending, however, was one of my favorites. Highly romantic and sensual, these two’s love for each other is still one of my favorites to read about. They’re natural at what they do, with no force necessary to bring anything to the table. It’s refreshing, admittedly.
Aslan made this story as enjoyable as possible, as well as the rest of the cast: Ruiz and his loving, good-matured friendship that’s improving; Torin and his loud, boisterous, hilarious personality with his inability to not cuss to save his life; Abraham, Quaid’s father, and his pride and joy in finally seeing his son getting married; the rest of Aslan’s family, especially his mother and nephew; Jordyn, who has surprisingly grown on me but still aggravates me here and there. I’m so excited for Tallus, who is Ruiz’s cousin and will get his own HEA in the spin-off on which the author will focus. He already sounds like the unapologetic type of character I adore.
All in all, while I didn’t love this, I didn’t hate it either. I’m simply disappointed. I couldn’t appreciate it enough, especially with how miserable Quaid made me for at least most of the book. While this may seem like the end, we know it’s not. It’s the HEA they deserve, but it isn’t goodbye; it is more like a see-you-later type. The author just wants to take a break from these two, which I support and understand, but she wants to take them to fatherhood, and I am excited about that. Now, we impatiently and patiently wait for Tullen’s book!
Valor and Doyle series overview
Department Rivals | ★★
Temporary Partner | ★★★
Elusive Relations | ★★★★
Unstable Connections | ★★★★
Inevitable Disclosure | ★★★★
Defying Logic | ★★★★
Disrupted Engagement | ★★
Matrimonial Merriment | ★★
January 2, 2025
* ☘︎ :･ﾟTOP 10 AUDIO 2023 :･ﾟ☘︎ *
5***** stars
Not me wiping at my eyes during the most beautiful words I’ve ever heard during a ring exchange. *sniffle
As soon as Nicky announced that the audio was live, only one day after the book released, I didn’t walk, no, I ran. I threw one of my credits at Audible’s head and dove in immediately. And hell, it’s like Mina said, this was a total fan service Nicky supplied us here .
My favorite parts:
❥ the tux fitting
❥ The Valor and Doyle Shindig Planning Committee
❥ Torin and the cake tasting
❥ Az & Quaid and the thought of kids
❥ Barney
❥ Grandpa Valor (Abraham) and Graham playing chess
❥ Quaid and Ruiz dancing
❥ the ring exchange
Since day one we swooned over them, investigated alongside them, laughed and cried with them and followed them along on their journey and it was nothing short of wonderful. Wishing them a farewell for now on such a high note, is the bestest gift we could’ve ever received from Nicky at this time of the year.
I loved being part of the journey that brought these two former Department Rivals to this day.
And Thank You, Nick J. Russo, for giving these two and all the other beloved characters voices that live rent-free in my mind.
━━━━━━━━━ * .･☆ﾟ*･ﾟ━━━━━━━━━
That there wasn’t a mystery involved here is not entirely true. Quaid was working on a case of a missing woman he had to retire as unsolved. Right into the hands of the newly introduced hire in records in the Toronto PD, Tallus Domingo-Ruiz (Costa Ruiz’s cousin). Said case sets off the events to Nicky’s new series Shadowy Solutions. And hell, what an introduction that was! The link to the prequel you can find at the end of this ebook.
**************
Valor and Doyle Mysteries
Prequel - Department Rivals - 4.5 stars
Book 1 - Temporary Partner - 4.25 stars
Book 2 - Elusive Relations - 4.75 stars ♡
Book 3 - Unstable Connections - 5.0 stars
Xmas-Novella - Relative Commotions 5.0 stars
Book 4 - Inevitable Disclosure - 4.25 stars
Book 5 - Defying Logic - 4.25 stars
Book 6 - Disrupted Engagement - 4.5 stars
Book 7 - Matrimonial Merriment - 5.0 stars
5***** stars
Not me wiping at my eyes during the most beautiful words I’ve ever heard during a ring exchange. *sniffle
As soon as Nicky announced that the audio was live, only one day after the book released, I didn’t walk, no, I ran. I threw one of my credits at Audible’s head and dove in immediately. And hell, it’s like Mina said, this was a total fan service Nicky supplied us here .
My favorite parts:
❥ the tux fitting
❥ The Valor and Doyle Shindig Planning Committee
❥ Torin and the cake tasting
❥ Az & Quaid and the thought of kids
❥ Barney
❥ Grandpa Valor (Abraham) and Graham playing chess
❥ Quaid and Ruiz dancing
❥ the ring exchange
“The fitting of this ring with its unending circle symbolizes my everlasting love for you. The placing of this ring on your finger is the fulfillment of my dreams, to have you as my best friend, my love, my husband, and to live as one forever. With this ring, I give you my heart. From this day forward, you shall not walk alone. My heart will shelter you. My arms will be your home.”
Since day one we swooned over them, investigated alongside them, laughed and cried with them and followed them along on their journey and it was nothing short of wonderful. Wishing them a farewell for now on such a high note, is the bestest gift we could’ve ever received from Nicky at this time of the year.
The following day was Christmas, but today was something better. It was our first full day as a married couple. From today, we would go forth and forge a new path together. It was the first full day of the rest of our lives.
I loved being part of the journey that brought these two former Department Rivals to this day.
And Thank You, Nick J. Russo, for giving these two and all the other beloved characters voices that live rent-free in my mind.
━━━━━━━━━ * .･☆ﾟ*･ﾟ━━━━━━━━━
That there wasn’t a mystery involved here is not entirely true. Quaid was working on a case of a missing woman he had to retire as unsolved. Right into the hands of the newly introduced hire in records in the Toronto PD, Tallus Domingo-Ruiz (Costa Ruiz’s cousin). Said case sets off the events to Nicky’s new series Shadowy Solutions. And hell, what an introduction that was! The link to the prequel you can find at the end of this ebook.
**************
Valor and Doyle Mysteries
Prequel - Department Rivals - 4.5 stars
Book 1 - Temporary Partner - 4.25 stars
Book 2 - Elusive Relations - 4.75 stars ♡
Book 3 - Unstable Connections - 5.0 stars
Xmas-Novella - Relative Commotions 5.0 stars
Book 4 - Inevitable Disclosure - 4.25 stars
Book 5 - Defying Logic - 4.25 stars
Book 6 - Disrupted Engagement - 4.5 stars
Book 7 - Matrimonial Merriment - 5.0 stars
July 22, 2025
*4.5* Valor and Doyle. What can I say? This is their wedding story, it was sweet, emotional, and full of heart. The characters felt so genuine, their love story was beautiful, full of tenderness, vulnerability, and quiet strength.
I might have cried just a bit.
I might have cried just a bit.
December 2, 2025
Second reading 12/2025
reread via audiobook. My goodness, I laughed so much, and poor neurotic Quaid. Sooooo good.
First reading 10/2024
I almost peed my pants during the countdown chapters. All in all, the book was extremely ridiculous. And there are a lot of things that I really didn't like. At the same time, I loved Aslan and Quaid together so much that I will forgive all those annoying things.
All the wedding preparations are very nightmarish and Quaid's stress has been stressing me out.
Still, I had a few good laughs.
“Meh. If I get to couche avec toi in this here bed”—I tapped the photograph—“then I’ll learn a few more sexy phrases for you.”
“Don’t hurt yourself.” He kissed me full on the mouth, his grin stretched ear to ear, before following after our guide.
I hummed approval at the sight of his ass in his tight trousers. In the year we’d been together, it had never failed to turn me on. “Je veux destroyer your derrière ce soir, Quaid. Beaucoup de times.” 🤣😂🤣
And I don't like that there's no case to accompany the story. But I do like the glimpses of Ruiz, finally. Unfortunately, I didn't love the bachelor party because of the alcohol, it was unnecessary and insensitive.
And then finally, after I had to fight my way through a bit, after 300 pages there is finally the wedding.
Yes yes, tears, several. And yes, I have turned completely into bliss.
One final thing. Even though I didn't like the last book that much it gets a bonus for the whole series. Because I think this was the first time in my life that I read a series in one go. Especially with an already established couple. I haven't been distracted by any other book, this is something completely unique for me.
reread via audiobook. My goodness, I laughed so much, and poor neurotic Quaid. Sooooo good.
First reading 10/2024
I almost peed my pants during the countdown chapters. All in all, the book was extremely ridiculous. And there are a lot of things that I really didn't like. At the same time, I loved Aslan and Quaid together so much that I will forgive all those annoying things.
All the wedding preparations are very nightmarish and Quaid's stress has been stressing me out.
Still, I had a few good laughs.
“Meh. If I get to couche avec toi in this here bed”—I tapped the photograph—“then I’ll learn a few more sexy phrases for you.”
“Don’t hurt yourself.” He kissed me full on the mouth, his grin stretched ear to ear, before following after our guide.
I hummed approval at the sight of his ass in his tight trousers. In the year we’d been together, it had never failed to turn me on. “Je veux destroyer your derrière ce soir, Quaid. Beaucoup de times.” 🤣😂🤣
And I don't like that there's no case to accompany the story. But I do like the glimpses of Ruiz, finally. Unfortunately, I didn't love the bachelor party because of the alcohol, it was unnecessary and insensitive.
And then finally, after I had to fight my way through a bit, after 300 pages there is finally the wedding.
Yes yes, tears, several. And yes, I have turned completely into bliss.
One final thing. Even though I didn't like the last book that much it gets a bonus for the whole series. Because I think this was the first time in my life that I read a series in one go. Especially with an already established couple. I haven't been distracted by any other book, this is something completely unique for me.
December 15, 2024
4.5
🥹🥹🥹🥹
I absolutely loved this after being worried that I wouldn't! I'm not a fan of proposals, weddings, or gushy OTT public declarations of love BUT this was so perfectly Quaid and Aslan that I couldn't not enjoy it.
Quaid is an amazing character and it pisses me off when people talk shit about him! He's one of the most real, flawed characters I've ever read and his behaviour unapologetically matches the person he is. He didn't magically get fixed by Aslan's dick like so many other books would have portrayed, and I love the character growth he's shown throughout this series.
Aslan is absolutely perfect for Quaid, and Quaid is perfect for him. Their relationship has built steadily and has been so enjoyable to read. I really, really hope we get to see these guys as parents.
I absolutely love Costa Ruiz too. His character growth has been great, and his friendship with Quaid is one of my absolute favourite things about this series. One of the best side characters I've seen in the almost 2,000 books I've read over the past three years.
I also have to say that I loved their first dance song - it's one of my favourites and it fits Quaid and Aslan's relationship perfectly 🥹
🥹🥹🥹🥹
I absolutely loved this after being worried that I wouldn't! I'm not a fan of proposals, weddings, or gushy OTT public declarations of love BUT this was so perfectly Quaid and Aslan that I couldn't not enjoy it.
Quaid is an amazing character and it pisses me off when people talk shit about him! He's one of the most real, flawed characters I've ever read and his behaviour unapologetically matches the person he is. He didn't magically get fixed by Aslan's dick like so many other books would have portrayed, and I love the character growth he's shown throughout this series.
Aslan is absolutely perfect for Quaid, and Quaid is perfect for him. Their relationship has built steadily and has been so enjoyable to read. I really, really hope we get to see these guys as parents.
I absolutely love Costa Ruiz too. His character growth has been great, and his friendship with Quaid is one of my absolute favourite things about this series. One of the best side characters I've seen in the almost 2,000 books I've read over the past three years.
I also have to say that I loved their first dance song - it's one of my favourites and it fits Quaid and Aslan's relationship perfectly 🥹
December 13, 2023
You either LOVE this one (and yes, I mean LOVE with capital letters) or you won’t like it at all.
If you’re reading this book (or thinking about reading it) you’ve probably read the first six books and you don’t need me to tell you who Valor and Doyle are.
In this book, we don’t have a crime case to solve - it’s focusing entirely on their wedding, giving theses two - and the series - an ending that will leave us all in a happy place.
What I love about these two, who are so real in my head as if I’d known them personally for years: they’re not perfect. But they’re perfect for each other.
Aslan is the more likable of the two - easygoing and flirty, good natured, but with a darker side, still occasionally struggling with his addiction to alcohol. In this book, we don’t get to see these darker parts. Az is the solid rock to Quaid’s spiralling mess, the one person who can ground him when he’s on the verge of a meltdown.
Because yes, I can understand how some of you aren’t happy with Quaid. He’s a mess. He has a wedding to plan, and he’s not the most chill person to be around on his best days - now imagine him trying to organise the event he’s been dreaming about all his life. Because deep down, before meeting Aslan, he’s given up on his own happy ending, convinced that he’s not worthy of happiness, or love, and that - if he’s lucky- he’ll end up settling for a more or less loveless, convenient partnership.
So yes, Quaid is groom-zilla, a hot mess, firing wedding planners and snarling at everyone and everything. He’s on the verge of a breakdown, making himself sick. And it’s just heartmelting to see how Az helps him, all in a way that isn’t cheesy, OTT dramatic. There’s no breakup, and the only tears that are shed are the ones on their (definitely NOT Christmas themed) wedding day.
And shoutout to some of the best side characters ever written- Graham “The Ring Bearer” who finally found somebody who can beat him in chess. And most of all, Ruiz, who’s character development makes me hopeful irl, too: his transformation from a bigoted homophobe to a genuinely good man, who opened his eyes and didn’t like the person he’s become, and who makes amends to people he has wronged in the past - kudos. I really loved him in this book and hope to see glimpses of him in the future spinoff-books.
Is the book perfect? No, because you don’t really have a “plot” - we all know from the start that their wedding will be nothing short of magical. Will I rate it with 5 stars? Absolutely. Because I’m so genuinely happy for them, and I want to believe that even persons who are far from perfect are able to find their soulmate, and live their HEA.
All in all a worthy ending to one of my favorite series ❤️
And now excuse me while I listen to Skillet's "Anchor" and bawl my eyes out...
If you’re reading this book (or thinking about reading it) you’ve probably read the first six books and you don’t need me to tell you who Valor and Doyle are.
In this book, we don’t have a crime case to solve - it’s focusing entirely on their wedding, giving theses two - and the series - an ending that will leave us all in a happy place.
What I love about these two, who are so real in my head as if I’d known them personally for years: they’re not perfect. But they’re perfect for each other.
Aslan is the more likable of the two - easygoing and flirty, good natured, but with a darker side, still occasionally struggling with his addiction to alcohol. In this book, we don’t get to see these darker parts. Az is the solid rock to Quaid’s spiralling mess, the one person who can ground him when he’s on the verge of a meltdown.
Because yes, I can understand how some of you aren’t happy with Quaid. He’s a mess. He has a wedding to plan, and he’s not the most chill person to be around on his best days - now imagine him trying to organise the event he’s been dreaming about all his life. Because deep down, before meeting Aslan, he’s given up on his own happy ending, convinced that he’s not worthy of happiness, or love, and that - if he’s lucky- he’ll end up settling for a more or less loveless, convenient partnership.
So yes, Quaid is groom-zilla, a hot mess, firing wedding planners and snarling at everyone and everything. He’s on the verge of a breakdown, making himself sick. And it’s just heartmelting to see how Az helps him, all in a way that isn’t cheesy, OTT dramatic. There’s no breakup, and the only tears that are shed are the ones on their (definitely NOT Christmas themed) wedding day.
And shoutout to some of the best side characters ever written- Graham “The Ring Bearer” who finally found somebody who can beat him in chess. And most of all, Ruiz, who’s character development makes me hopeful irl, too: his transformation from a bigoted homophobe to a genuinely good man, who opened his eyes and didn’t like the person he’s become, and who makes amends to people he has wronged in the past - kudos. I really loved him in this book and hope to see glimpses of him in the future spinoff-books.
Is the book perfect? No, because you don’t really have a “plot” - we all know from the start that their wedding will be nothing short of magical. Will I rate it with 5 stars? Absolutely. Because I’m so genuinely happy for them, and I want to believe that even persons who are far from perfect are able to find their soulmate, and live their HEA.
All in all a worthy ending to one of my favorite series ❤️
And now excuse me while I listen to Skillet's "Anchor" and bawl my eyes out...
December 8, 2023
[4.5] CRYING AT THE GYM BECAUSE MY HEART IS FULL. i am 100% that emotional attendee in the back pew blowing her nose into the wad of tissues she had stuffed in her pocket because she got to witness the greatest *not* Christmas wedding ever 🤧
full disclosure: i learned very late in the game - as in after setting down the book - that this was meant to be a bonus book without a case in the mix (the page count's deceiving and the GR blurb is outdated!). so much for being a sleuth when i only finally cottoned on halfway through that, indeed, we were not getting a mystery this time around. that was entirely on me.
however, it soon became apparent that this story had plenty to offer in its own right: providing the space for our stalwart heroes to go back to the bedrock of the human experience. seeking love, companionship, and security. solidifying these promises to each other for forevermore. it truly felt like the end of a chapter and a formal passing of the torch to its new bearer in the upcoming spin-off series.
big events are inherently stressful to plan, and Quaid's pursuit of his Perfect Fairytale Non-Christmas Wedding was no different. as the person who (a) feels the compelling desire, nay, need to do everything herself (for the vision!!) and (b) experiences the whole slew of physical reactions each and every time stress swaggers up to the door, it was like seeing a sad reflection of myself in the mirror with how the planning and preparation turned him threadbare physically and mentally. it’s incredibly frustrating to watch on the sidelines when you can pick up on so many elements of self-sabotage, but that reluctance to budge is reminiscent of my own actions, so i can’t exactly fault him for his neuroses. not entirely.
for a bonus “holiday” read, i had some initial worries that this would be a repeat of book 6 with strangely prolonged, avoidable stress, but i think the context ultimately set it apart for me. there's so much joy and laughter and comfort and understanding that's grown not only in how Aslan and Quaid support each other in equal measure, but within their nest of friends and family who have become integral cogs in the system of their lives. the chummy work squad of Torin, Ruiz, Jordyn; the way Quaid carries himself around Barnabus, his father, and Graham; Amelia; Aslan’s parents - a whole team of beam bolsters that give me all the warm fuzzies (today's tear duct status: perfectly functioning 🥲👍).
retreating to the spin-off's prequel story now! i love that when more than a paragraph is dedicated to describing a newly introduced character in handsome detail, you know they’re the next main man 😂 i’m especially dying to know more about how a certain precarious meet-cute occurs in real time...
full disclosure: i learned very late in the game - as in after setting down the book - that this was meant to be a bonus book without a case in the mix (the page count's deceiving and the GR blurb is outdated!). so much for being a sleuth when i only finally cottoned on halfway through that, indeed, we were not getting a mystery this time around. that was entirely on me.
however, it soon became apparent that this story had plenty to offer in its own right: providing the space for our stalwart heroes to go back to the bedrock of the human experience. seeking love, companionship, and security. solidifying these promises to each other for forevermore. it truly felt like the end of a chapter and a formal passing of the torch to its new bearer in the upcoming spin-off series.
big events are inherently stressful to plan, and Quaid's pursuit of his Perfect Fairytale Non-Christmas Wedding was no different. as the person who (a) feels the compelling desire, nay, need to do everything herself (for the vision!!) and (b) experiences the whole slew of physical reactions each and every time stress swaggers up to the door, it was like seeing a sad reflection of myself in the mirror with how the planning and preparation turned him threadbare physically and mentally. it’s incredibly frustrating to watch on the sidelines when you can pick up on so many elements of self-sabotage, but that reluctance to budge is reminiscent of my own actions, so i can’t exactly fault him for his neuroses. not entirely.
for a bonus “holiday” read, i had some initial worries that this would be a repeat of book 6 with strangely prolonged, avoidable stress, but i think the context ultimately set it apart for me. there's so much joy and laughter and comfort and understanding that's grown not only in how Aslan and Quaid support each other in equal measure, but within their nest of friends and family who have become integral cogs in the system of their lives. the chummy work squad of Torin, Ruiz, Jordyn; the way Quaid carries himself around Barnabus, his father, and Graham; Amelia; Aslan’s parents - a whole team of beam bolsters that give me all the warm fuzzies (today's tear duct status: perfectly functioning 🥲👍).
retreating to the spin-off's prequel story now! i love that when more than a paragraph is dedicated to describing a newly introduced character in handsome detail, you know they’re the next main man 😂 i’m especially dying to know more about how a certain precarious meet-cute occurs in real time...
December 16, 2023
I enjoyed Az & Quaid’s HFN. So sad that we have to say goodbye for the time being 😭
What worked well:
Az - the way he loves/supports Quaid unconditionally - he’s perfect in every way 🫠
Az’s family. His ma & pa cracked me up 😂
The fitting room - oh my 😛
Az/Torin cake testing 😋
Az/Torin tete-a-tete - so happy Torin got his HEA 🥰
Chris, Az’s BIL making an effort - nice to see their relationship healing and appreciated his consideration when it came to alcohol 👍
Quaid finally agreeing to therapy 👏
Abe & Quaid’s heart to heart - it was long overdue and emotional. Oh how these boys have suffered! I adored their scenes and proud papa’s sage words of wisdom ❤️🩹
Graham - As a mother of an Autistic son, I shy away from characters on the spectrum as a) I don’t appreciate the general representation and it usually depresses me and b) reading is my escape. However, Nicky nailed it with his portrayal and he was a joy to read. The way he bonded with Quaid/Grandpa Valor really got to me. I won’t ever be able to look at a chess set again without thinking of him 💙
The wedding vows 💝
Torin’s speech 🫶
The wedding dance - Quaid chose THE perfect song. The lyrics said it all❣️Alexa, play Skillet’s Anchor 🎶
What didn’t work so well for me:
No case, heavy on the wedding planning
Quaid, sigh
Not enough Az/Quaid quality time for me - too much emphasis on other characters
Barnabus officiating stressed me out 😅
Eden
No epilogue
Initially, I missed there wasn’t a case to work. With nothing to hide behind, not to mention the added stress of organising a wedding at short notice, all of Quaid’s traits that I sometimes struggle with were amplified. I understood his wedding anxiety, but it was all a bit too much for me and vetoing Az’s suggestions just for the sake of it and not trusting him to do a good job once he’d taken over the planning was frustrating. More importantly, I wish he could have been more mindful that it wasn’t just HIS big day.
There are also certain aspects of the Quaid/Ruiz bromance that I struggle with and I know I’m completely on my own here. I’m all for Quaid bonding with his new best bud, but I just don’t like the fake flirting, innuendos and sweetheart/handsome/darling/other BF endearments, all in front of Az. I don’t think Quaid would be happy if the shoe was on the other foot, especially after his ex. Az is completely fine with it, but I just don’t enjoy it or the dichotomy of Az seeing Quaid at his most neurotic, whilst Ruiz mostly gets a more confident version. I think I must be the only person who didn’t care to see Quaid/Ruiz dance at the wedding. That was something that should have been reserved solely for Az. As I adore Torin’s/Az’s relationship, the fact that their scenes were limited, compared to the page time devoted to Quaid’s friendship, even if Ruiz’s character growth is highly commendable, was still annoying.
That leads me to Eden. I’ve missed her. Not only a great partner, but a true friend to Quaid. I was genuinely interested in her backstory, but she got phased out for Jordan, which I’ll never understand why. I was looking forward to her catching up with the happy couple, but disappointingly, she was mostly off page and had no dialogue apart from “congratulations”. Couldn’t we have had an update on how Eden was coping? Or a conversation between her and her former partner?
Most of the wedding ceremony was yet again, in Quaid’s POV. I was disappointed not to have seen some of the vows through Az’s eyes or how he felt on the stairs seeing his future hubby after a night apart. We got to see Quaid with his dad and Ruiz before the wedding, but not Az or how he was doing. I didn’t find Barnabus officiating particularly funny, but the beautiful vows made up for it.
Az did everything in his power to ensure that Quaid’s fairy tale wedding came true. Yet, I don’t recall Quaid ever saying thank you? At the reception, champagne was put in front of Az for the toast. Quaid never picked up on this. In fact, Az had to go and get himself a glass of sparkling water. It’s a pity Quaid didn’t do that for his hubby. It’s the little things that matter! It was the same story in the honeymoon suite and at the bachelor party. I know I’m being persnickety, but, I also noticed when Az was hurt by the fact he would have to continue updating his boss about his AA attendance, instead of Quaid giving him a hug, he told Az he could tell his sponsor in the car, as they were late for a fitting. May be that’s a convo Az would have preferred in private.
When it came to their dance, which I DID love, Quaid also thought the following, which didn’t sit right with me:
“But I’d been contemplating what to use for our first dance and wanted to see if Aslan had an opinion. He did not. In fact, as had recently been demonstrated at the table, he didn’t even recall the conversation, hence it wasn’t as important to him. Well, it was to me, and the song I’d chosen was special”.
I love that they sat up and watched the sunrise together. The venue/winter setting was perfect. I just wished we could have seen the two of them in Paris.
Despite my niggles, it’s been an awesome series and one of my reading highlights. Looking forward to all the potential future cameos in Nicky’s latest series, Skeletons in the Closet.
What worked well:
Az - the way he loves/supports Quaid unconditionally - he’s perfect in every way 🫠
Az’s family. His ma & pa cracked me up 😂
The fitting room - oh my 😛
Az/Torin cake testing 😋
Az/Torin tete-a-tete - so happy Torin got his HEA 🥰
Chris, Az’s BIL making an effort - nice to see their relationship healing and appreciated his consideration when it came to alcohol 👍
Quaid finally agreeing to therapy 👏
Abe & Quaid’s heart to heart - it was long overdue and emotional. Oh how these boys have suffered! I adored their scenes and proud papa’s sage words of wisdom ❤️🩹
Graham - As a mother of an Autistic son, I shy away from characters on the spectrum as a) I don’t appreciate the general representation and it usually depresses me and b) reading is my escape. However, Nicky nailed it with his portrayal and he was a joy to read. The way he bonded with Quaid/Grandpa Valor really got to me. I won’t ever be able to look at a chess set again without thinking of him 💙
The wedding vows 💝
Torin’s speech 🫶
The wedding dance - Quaid chose THE perfect song. The lyrics said it all❣️Alexa, play Skillet’s Anchor 🎶
What didn’t work so well for me:
No case, heavy on the wedding planning
Quaid, sigh
Not enough Az/Quaid quality time for me - too much emphasis on other characters
Barnabus officiating stressed me out 😅
Eden
No epilogue
Initially, I missed there wasn’t a case to work. With nothing to hide behind, not to mention the added stress of organising a wedding at short notice, all of Quaid’s traits that I sometimes struggle with were amplified. I understood his wedding anxiety, but it was all a bit too much for me and vetoing Az’s suggestions just for the sake of it and not trusting him to do a good job once he’d taken over the planning was frustrating. More importantly, I wish he could have been more mindful that it wasn’t just HIS big day.
There are also certain aspects of the Quaid/Ruiz bromance that I struggle with and I know I’m completely on my own here. I’m all for Quaid bonding with his new best bud, but I just don’t like the fake flirting, innuendos and sweetheart/handsome/darling/other BF endearments, all in front of Az. I don’t think Quaid would be happy if the shoe was on the other foot, especially after his ex. Az is completely fine with it, but I just don’t enjoy it or the dichotomy of Az seeing Quaid at his most neurotic, whilst Ruiz mostly gets a more confident version. I think I must be the only person who didn’t care to see Quaid/Ruiz dance at the wedding. That was something that should have been reserved solely for Az. As I adore Torin’s/Az’s relationship, the fact that their scenes were limited, compared to the page time devoted to Quaid’s friendship, even if Ruiz’s character growth is highly commendable, was still annoying.
That leads me to Eden. I’ve missed her. Not only a great partner, but a true friend to Quaid. I was genuinely interested in her backstory, but she got phased out for Jordan, which I’ll never understand why. I was looking forward to her catching up with the happy couple, but disappointingly, she was mostly off page and had no dialogue apart from “congratulations”. Couldn’t we have had an update on how Eden was coping? Or a conversation between her and her former partner?
Most of the wedding ceremony was yet again, in Quaid’s POV. I was disappointed not to have seen some of the vows through Az’s eyes or how he felt on the stairs seeing his future hubby after a night apart. We got to see Quaid with his dad and Ruiz before the wedding, but not Az or how he was doing. I didn’t find Barnabus officiating particularly funny, but the beautiful vows made up for it.
Az did everything in his power to ensure that Quaid’s fairy tale wedding came true. Yet, I don’t recall Quaid ever saying thank you? At the reception, champagne was put in front of Az for the toast. Quaid never picked up on this. In fact, Az had to go and get himself a glass of sparkling water. It’s a pity Quaid didn’t do that for his hubby. It’s the little things that matter! It was the same story in the honeymoon suite and at the bachelor party. I know I’m being persnickety, but, I also noticed when Az was hurt by the fact he would have to continue updating his boss about his AA attendance, instead of Quaid giving him a hug, he told Az he could tell his sponsor in the car, as they were late for a fitting. May be that’s a convo Az would have preferred in private.
When it came to their dance, which I DID love, Quaid also thought the following, which didn’t sit right with me:
“But I’d been contemplating what to use for our first dance and wanted to see if Aslan had an opinion. He did not. In fact, as had recently been demonstrated at the table, he didn’t even recall the conversation, hence it wasn’t as important to him. Well, it was to me, and the song I’d chosen was special”.
I love that they sat up and watched the sunrise together. The venue/winter setting was perfect. I just wished we could have seen the two of them in Paris.
Despite my niggles, it’s been an awesome series and one of my reading highlights. Looking forward to all the potential future cameos in Nicky’s latest series, Skeletons in the Closet.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 12, 2024
There's no mystery in this final installment of the series, just the wedding and a very stressed out Quaid.
As expected, Quaid is an unrepentant, demanding groomzilla. After Quaid's severe anxiety lands him in the hospital, Aslan and Co take over the planning.
The ceremony takes place in a castle two days before Christmas, and the grooms are resplendent in sage and crimson.
It was good to see the two detectives so happy and in love!
I read all seven books and two novellas of the Valor and Doyle Mysteries series in 10 days, and I'm not sorry. It's not my favorite Nicky James series (that would be Trials of Fear), but the stories were interesting and entertaining.
Solid four stars.
As expected, Quaid is an unrepentant, demanding groomzilla. After Quaid's severe anxiety lands him in the hospital, Aslan and Co take over the planning.
The ceremony takes place in a castle two days before Christmas, and the grooms are resplendent in sage and crimson.
It was good to see the two detectives so happy and in love!
I read all seven books and two novellas of the Valor and Doyle Mysteries series in 10 days, and I'm not sorry. It's not my favorite Nicky James series (that would be Trials of Fear), but the stories were interesting and entertaining.
Solid four stars.
December 22, 2023
✦ such a beautiful and romantic way to end this series. these two are so perfect together. i adore them. they feel like real people to me at this point. i admit i teared up a couple of times during the wedding. a great series overall! i am also very excited for the spin off series.
December 10, 2023
I loved everything about this book. I can see how the lack of a mystery might be controversial, but I liked getting the chance to spend time with all of these characters without the immediate demands of a missing person or a murderer on the loose pulling them in all sorts of directions. It allowed for so many tender and emotional moments, and not only between Aslan and Quaid. Ruiz and Torin got so much page time and truly shined as more than just side characters. I loved how intense Graham was about his ring guard duties and I swear every time he made eye contact with Quaid, my eyes welled up. I had only seen Aslan's parents in a short story and I adored the "old married couple" energy they brought to each scene they were in. And my goodness, a vulnerable Abraham Valor speaking from the heart was something I was not prepared for.
This book addressed some things that have needed addressing for awhile, but did so with a soft touch. I think we all knew that Quaid would be a groomzilla and that planning a wedding in 3 months would be detrimental to his health and potentially the health of those around him. At one point I was worried that this would be a 300+ page book of Quaid ripping people to shreds for daring to be too busy to help him 2 days before Christmas. I liked the way everything came to a head and the steps taken and promises made as a result.
As far as the wedding was concerned...ugh. I sobbed through the vows. I laughed at all things Barnabus Rooney. I shook my head at Torin's failed attempts to clean up his potty mouth. I sobbed again during their first dance, as well as later on when I listened to the song they danced to. I don't even like or care about weddings, but this one made me feel so happy because there is nothing better than witnessing dreams coming true. I thought this book was beautiful from start to finish and have the puffy eyes today to prove it.
While I did think Tallus Domingo got shoved down our throats a bit, I can't lie and say I'm not going to read the prequel to his series as soon as I post this review.🤣
This book addressed some things that have needed addressing for awhile, but did so with a soft touch. I think we all knew that Quaid would be a groomzilla and that planning a wedding in 3 months would be detrimental to his health and potentially the health of those around him. At one point I was worried that this would be a 300+ page book of Quaid ripping people to shreds for daring to be too busy to help him 2 days before Christmas. I liked the way everything came to a head and the steps taken and promises made as a result.
As far as the wedding was concerned...ugh. I sobbed through the vows. I laughed at all things Barnabus Rooney. I shook my head at Torin's failed attempts to clean up his potty mouth. I sobbed again during their first dance, as well as later on when I listened to the song they danced to. I don't even like or care about weddings, but this one made me feel so happy because there is nothing better than witnessing dreams coming true. I thought this book was beautiful from start to finish and have the puffy eyes today to prove it.
While I did think Tallus Domingo got shoved down our throats a bit, I can't lie and say I'm not going to read the prequel to his series as soon as I post this review.🤣
February 10, 2024
2.5 stars
I really struggled with this one andit still gets 3 stars only because it’s a me-problem, not a book-problem. On second thought, no, I don’t need to sugarcoat my rating. I’m sure there are enough 5-star ones to go around to balance out my solitary, tiny 2-star one.
Throughout this series, I’ve benefitted from many of those rare occurrences when I’m reading a book and I’m perfectly aware of its flaws, but I still enjoy reading it. This couple had that effect on me from the first time I read about them and I’ve been glad that it kept up for so many books. But even Aslan and Quaid can’t make up for an entire (and long!) book of
Like I said, it’s a me problem. I’m happy for the characters, but I was bored out of my mind for entire stretches of this book and it really didn’t help that there wasn’t even a crumb of mystery/investigation plot to give me a break from all , but I really, really didn’t need to read about this for 380 pages. Sometimes less is more and I think everything covered in this book would’ve been better conveyed in a more concise way.
YMMV and it probably will.
P.s.: the jury’s still out on and the spin-off, but so far I can’t say I’m particularly interested.
I really struggled with this one and
Throughout this series, I’ve benefitted from many of those rare occurrences when I’m reading a book and I’m perfectly aware of its flaws, but I still enjoy reading it. This couple had that effect on me from the first time I read about them and I’ve been glad that it kept up for so many books. But even Aslan and Quaid can’t make up for an entire (and long!) book of
Like I said, it’s a me problem. I’m happy for the characters, but I was bored out of my mind for entire stretches of this book and it really didn’t help that there wasn’t even a crumb of mystery/investigation plot to give me a break from all , but I really, really didn’t need to read about this for 380 pages. Sometimes less is more and I think everything covered in this book would’ve been better conveyed in a more concise way.
YMMV and it probably will.
P.s.: the jury’s still out on and the spin-off, but so far I can’t say I’m particularly interested.
January 21, 2024
”So I vow to you, Aslan Ronan Doyle, that from this day forward, I will remain faithfully by your side as your husband. I will love you, laugh with you, cry with you, and give you strength when yours is depleted. No matter the obstacles we encounter, I will remain your friend, your companion, your lover, and your soulmate, until we are someday parted by death. And even then, I’ll find you in the afterlife, and we can go on from there because this love we share is eternal.”
Well I’ll be damned! Only Nicky James could make me read three hundred-and-eighty pages of wedding planning and not have me tear my hair out. Not only that, I thoroughly enjoyed it. I’m glad Quaid and Aslan got the epic HEA all us fans had been longing me for. Was Quaid neurotic, annoying and obsessive compulsive along the way? Of course he was. He wouldn’t be Quaid otherwise. Aslan must have the love and patience of a saint, but these two are meant for each other. I wouldn’t mind an epilogue down the road, but until then we can only wish the newlyweds a happy honeymoon!
Well I’ll be damned! Only Nicky James could make me read three hundred-and-eighty pages of wedding planning and not have me tear my hair out. Not only that, I thoroughly enjoyed it. I’m glad Quaid and Aslan got the epic HEA all us fans had been longing me for. Was Quaid neurotic, annoying and obsessive compulsive along the way? Of course he was. He wouldn’t be Quaid otherwise. Aslan must have the love and patience of a saint, but these two are meant for each other. I wouldn’t mind an epilogue down the road, but until then we can only wish the newlyweds a happy honeymoon!
January 18, 2024
I didn't imagine a Doyle & Valor Mysteries book without crime, action, and mystery would be this delightful. I know they can be sweet and fluffy but the mysteries were a big part of what attracted to me and what I enjoyed the most in this series. I must admit that it took me days to get into the story mostly because event preparation stories bore me. I forced myself not to skim because I want to know why it's important and although some details still flew over my head, halfway, I did enjoy the rest of the book. ❤️
It was different. I found I really love Quaid when he's being vulnerable, shy, and hesitant. All his visions for their wedding were kept secret because of his insecurity but Az accommodated all of them and tried his best to give Quaid what he thought he secretly wanted. Such a thoughtful man. Quaid remains my favorite of the two but Az accrued SO MUCH manly points for me in this book, especially now that he put his foot down regarding Quaid's OCD, stress, and eating concerns. He's so sweet and fluffy I can't stand it. 😂
It also touched my heart how much Quaid and Ruiz's friendship bloomed throughout the series. They found a lifelong friend with each other and their bromance was even more thrilling than the couple sometimes. 🤭😌 Overall, a really nice and well-put series ender and a good way to introduce a new character for a new series. I don't like Tallus much in these POVs although he's interesting. Who knows? He might be delightful!
It was different. I found I really love Quaid when he's being vulnerable, shy, and hesitant. All his visions for their wedding were kept secret because of his insecurity but Az accommodated all of them and tried his best to give Quaid what he thought he secretly wanted. Such a thoughtful man. Quaid remains my favorite of the two but Az accrued SO MUCH manly points for me in this book, especially now that he put his foot down regarding Quaid's OCD, stress, and eating concerns. He's so sweet and fluffy I can't stand it. 😂
It also touched my heart how much Quaid and Ruiz's friendship bloomed throughout the series. They found a lifelong friend with each other and their bromance was even more thrilling than the couple sometimes. 🤭😌 Overall, a really nice and well-put series ender and a good way to introduce a new character for a new series. I don't like Tallus much in these POVs although he's interesting. Who knows? He might be delightful!
December 4, 2024
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes down below.
“What are you thinking?” Quaid asked, breaking into my musing. “About how lucky I am.” I brushed the hair off his forehead and pressed my lips to his warm skin underneath, inhaling and closing my eyes. Savoring. “I’m so in love with you.”
Y’all best believe I cried my way through this wedding. I am so sad it’s over and that I have to say goodbye to these characters. 7 books and many pages later, and I don’t want to leave their little world.
I really adored how this book just toned down the action and focused on our boys and their nuptials (can’t believe I said that), but it was really nice to just focus on their love after everything they’ve been through. That doesn’t mean it was a smooth ride by any means, considering we had the neurotic bridezilla of the century trying to plan a wedding he’s dreamed of for 26 years in three months, but everyone survived, and Quaid got the fairy-tale wedding he wanted.
You ever read a book or a series with a relationship so good and a romance so real that it makes you sad about your own life? No? Just me? Oof. Anyway, I adored this series through every heartache, every murder mystery, missing persons case and every fuckup from Aslan. Can’t recommend it enough.
I also splurged on the audiobook for this last book, and apart from being traumatized by how Nick J. Russo pronounces the name ‘Ruiz’, it was perfect.
“[…] every day by your side has been better and better and better. It’s like we came together and knew all the dance moves without anyone teaching us.”
Feelings update:
Quaid: finally accepted he needs extensive therapy. Good on ya, hot stuff/lover boy. He’s perfect either way.
Aslan: is the best boyfriend for realizing that the wedding was super important to Quaid and went all out to make his dreams come true. At least he didn’t fumble it like he did the blasted proposal.
Quaid’s dad: actually for once showed up for his hurting son. Only 30 years too late.
Ruiz: I love Rooess. Going from bigoted and nasty to slow dancing with his gay best friend = exceptional character development.
Aslan’s parents: couldn’t even remember if they existed as this is the first time we meet them — and thank god for that. Annoying, chatty, OTT people, lol.
Torin: how did he manage to get a fiancé?? A good guy, but man is he tiring on every level.
Vows:
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & content tags ⚠️
Established couple
Wedding
Police procedural
Detectives
Case solving
Recovering addict
Bridezilla MC
Changing room quickie
Holiday themed
Neurotic MC
Found family
Grumpy/sunshine
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Explicit sexual content
Mild exhibitionism (changing room sex)
Penetration without lube or prep
Mentions of minor SC being disowned (homophobic parent, past)
MC visiting emergency room — health problems because of stress
Use of homophobic slur (SC)
Alcohol consumption (not addict MC)
Disordered eating and extreme focus on health
Throat-fucking
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No
Breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual
Genre: Romantic suspense
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Versatile
Main characters’ age: 36 and 43
Series: Series
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 372
Happy ending: Yes
God, I loved that insufferable man. Planning this wedding may be the death of him—and me—but I’d give him anything his heart desired if it made him smile for one day.
Aslan chuckled. “Consider it a department social. The purpose being that we spend an hour each week between now and Christmas getting to know people outside our department and forming new friendships and bonds.” That time, I did roll my eyes. “Sounds awful. I hate socializing.”
“From today until tomorrow and until time stops, we are one. I love you.”
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
“What are you thinking?” Quaid asked, breaking into my musing. “About how lucky I am.” I brushed the hair off his forehead and pressed my lips to his warm skin underneath, inhaling and closing my eyes. Savoring. “I’m so in love with you.”
Y’all best believe I cried my way through this wedding. I am so sad it’s over and that I have to say goodbye to these characters. 7 books and many pages later, and I don’t want to leave their little world.
I really adored how this book just toned down the action and focused on our boys and their nuptials (can’t believe I said that), but it was really nice to just focus on their love after everything they’ve been through. That doesn’t mean it was a smooth ride by any means, considering we had the neurotic bridezilla of the century trying to plan a wedding he’s dreamed of for 26 years in three months, but everyone survived, and Quaid got the fairy-tale wedding he wanted.
You ever read a book or a series with a relationship so good and a romance so real that it makes you sad about your own life? No? Just me? Oof. Anyway, I adored this series through every heartache, every murder mystery, missing persons case and every fuckup from Aslan. Can’t recommend it enough.
I also splurged on the audiobook for this last book, and apart from being traumatized by how Nick J. Russo pronounces the name ‘Ruiz’, it was perfect.
“[…] every day by your side has been better and better and better. It’s like we came together and knew all the dance moves without anyone teaching us.”
Feelings update:
Quaid: finally accepted he needs extensive therapy. Good on ya, hot stuff/lover boy. He’s perfect either way.
Aslan: is the best boyfriend for realizing that the wedding was super important to Quaid and went all out to make his dreams come true. At least he didn’t fumble it like he did the blasted proposal.
Quaid’s dad: actually for once showed up for his hurting son. Only 30 years too late.
Ruiz: I love Rooess. Going from bigoted and nasty to slow dancing with his gay best friend = exceptional character development.
Aslan’s parents: couldn’t even remember if they existed as this is the first time we meet them — and thank god for that. Annoying, chatty, OTT people, lol.
Torin: how did he manage to get a fiancé?? A good guy, but man is he tiring on every level.
Vows:
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & content tags ⚠️
Established couple
Wedding
Police procedural
Detectives
Case solving
Recovering addict
Bridezilla MC
Changing room quickie
Holiday themed
Neurotic MC
Found family
Grumpy/sunshine
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Explicit sexual content
Mild exhibitionism (changing room sex)
Penetration without lube or prep
Mentions of minor SC being disowned (homophobic parent, past)
MC visiting emergency room — health problems because of stress
Use of homophobic slur (SC)
Alcohol consumption (not addict MC)
Disordered eating and extreme focus on health
Throat-fucking
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No
Breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual
Genre: Romantic suspense
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Versatile
Main characters’ age: 36 and 43
Series: Series
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 372
Happy ending: Yes
God, I loved that insufferable man. Planning this wedding may be the death of him—and me—but I’d give him anything his heart desired if it made him smile for one day.
Aslan chuckled. “Consider it a department social. The purpose being that we spend an hour each week between now and Christmas getting to know people outside our department and forming new friendships and bonds.” That time, I did roll my eyes. “Sounds awful. I hate socializing.”
“From today until tomorrow and until time stops, we are one. I love you.”
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 3, 2023
Matrimonial Merriment is the long-awaited wedding between grumpy Quaid and effortlessly calm Aslan. Their relationship has had its many hurdles and together they are finally having their wedding. Their winter-themed wedding is completely magical. The fairytale location and many princely references made for such a majestic experience that I could not get enough of.
Seeing these two finally have their long overdue HEA was so wonderfully executed. Together they are quite a pair who are constantly supporting one another and I am so excited to see their next journey together in marriage. Such a wonderful read that has me excited for what is coming next.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.***
Seeing these two finally have their long overdue HEA was so wonderfully executed. Together they are quite a pair who are constantly supporting one another and I am so excited to see their next journey together in marriage. Such a wonderful read that has me excited for what is coming next.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.***
January 29, 2026
i was scared that without a mystery to solve i would get bored reading this.
bored????? my cheeks hurt from how much i was smiling. i even squealed a couple of times.
pure perfection. can’t wait for quaid to get pregnant soon.
(also, i genuinely don’t buy that he doesn’t have serious issues do to his eating disorder)
bored????? my cheeks hurt from how much i was smiling. i even squealed a couple of times.
pure perfection. can’t wait for quaid to get pregnant soon.
(also, i genuinely don’t buy that he doesn’t have serious issues do to his eating disorder)
December 14, 2023
What a fabulous way to wrap up the series
If someone had told me I'd happily read more than 350 pages of wedding planning, I'd have told them they were nuts.
But of course, that's if it's anything other than Quaid Valor and Aslan Doyle, because I'd read these two doing their laundry and going shopping.
Bonus points go to Torin and Costa, who both come through big time when Quaid's anxiety and stress levels threaten to put a halt to the wedding planning.
It's packed with all the sharp humour and obsessive nature readers of the previous books will expect, it's also got all the love that flows rampant between not only the two grooms to be, but their wider family and friendship groups.
There's no secondary plot, other than a minor one involving Costa's cousin, who will be starring in a new spin-off series coming soon, so don't expect a suspenseful case to add to the dramas.
Here it's all about the cake flavours and not p***ing off another salesperson!
There's something truly special about reading two people cementing their lives together, whether it be through marriage or not, and here Aslan conspires with the two best men to give the love of his life everything he's ever wanted, but never thought he could have.
It's a glorious finale and a beautiful celebration of love. I'm hoping for maybe a bonus Paris honeymoon extra some time in the future!
If someone had told me I'd happily read more than 350 pages of wedding planning, I'd have told them they were nuts.
But of course, that's if it's anything other than Quaid Valor and Aslan Doyle, because I'd read these two doing their laundry and going shopping.
Bonus points go to Torin and Costa, who both come through big time when Quaid's anxiety and stress levels threaten to put a halt to the wedding planning.
It's packed with all the sharp humour and obsessive nature readers of the previous books will expect, it's also got all the love that flows rampant between not only the two grooms to be, but their wider family and friendship groups.
There's no secondary plot, other than a minor one involving Costa's cousin, who will be starring in a new spin-off series coming soon, so don't expect a suspenseful case to add to the dramas.
Here it's all about the cake flavours and not p***ing off another salesperson!
There's something truly special about reading two people cementing their lives together, whether it be through marriage or not, and here Aslan conspires with the two best men to give the love of his life everything he's ever wanted, but never thought he could have.
It's a glorious finale and a beautiful celebration of love. I'm hoping for maybe a bonus Paris honeymoon extra some time in the future!
December 10, 2023
Story: 4.5⭐️
The wedding scene: unlimited ⭐️
First thing: I will protect Quaid with my LIFE. he deserved that fairytale wedding and to be a prince for the day. He deserved all the happiness Aslan gave him. I do not care what anyone says. Argue with the wall. He’s everything.
Second: Quaid and Ruiz’s friendship is perfection. They both came a long way from book one and it’s so obvious Ruiz cares about him 😭 their flirty banter is fun
Also obsessed with Quaid and Graham’s relationship. The switch from Detective Quaid to Uncle Quaid had me emotional
THE WEDDING THOUGH. I SOBBED LIKE AN UGLY PERSON. it was so perfect and so very Quaid and Aslan. These two are the definition of soulmates. Both must be protected at all costs.
“From this day forward, you shall not walk alone. My heart will shelter you. My arms will be your home.”
LIKE OKAY SHUT UP??????
Anyways I’m very sad this is the last book (for now?) but I am excited to read Tallus’ story.
I miss them already :(
The wedding scene: unlimited ⭐️
First thing: I will protect Quaid with my LIFE. he deserved that fairytale wedding and to be a prince for the day. He deserved all the happiness Aslan gave him. I do not care what anyone says. Argue with the wall. He’s everything.
Second: Quaid and Ruiz’s friendship is perfection. They both came a long way from book one and it’s so obvious Ruiz cares about him 😭 their flirty banter is fun
Also obsessed with Quaid and Graham’s relationship. The switch from Detective Quaid to Uncle Quaid had me emotional
THE WEDDING THOUGH. I SOBBED LIKE AN UGLY PERSON. it was so perfect and so very Quaid and Aslan. These two are the definition of soulmates. Both must be protected at all costs.
“From this day forward, you shall not walk alone. My heart will shelter you. My arms will be your home.”
LIKE OKAY SHUT UP??????
Anyways I’m very sad this is the last book (for now?) but I am excited to read Tallus’ story.
I miss them already :(
December 10, 2023
First of all, this book (and really this whole series) deserves all the stars. All of them. Every single one. I have loved following Quiad and Aslan on their journey and god do they both deserve this happy ever after. They have worked so hard for it and been through it.
I never thought I would want to read a book about planning a wedding in three months. Seriously, I could feel the stress coming just thinking about it. After having planned my own wedding in only four months, I wasn't keen on reliving it. I would and will relive it many times though because this book is beautiful and sweet and I want to read it over and over again. Preferably without having to stop reading because I'm crying too much. I started crying sometime around the rehearsal dinner and was done for after that. I think I even cried more than Quaid did.
I can't wait for the spin-off.
I never thought I would want to read a book about planning a wedding in three months. Seriously, I could feel the stress coming just thinking about it. After having planned my own wedding in only four months, I wasn't keen on reliving it. I would and will relive it many times though because this book is beautiful and sweet and I want to read it over and over again. Preferably without having to stop reading because I'm crying too much. I started crying sometime around the rehearsal dinner and was done for after that. I think I even cried more than Quaid did.
I can't wait for the spin-off.
January 12, 2024
3.5
I have only one word: FINALLY.
No okay, I do have more but really, finally
This book would have had a much lower rating otherwise, and I would have probably abandoned this series altogether.
Anyway, the first half of the book was a bit tough for me to get through: mental health issues aside, Quaid's an acquired taste and I think I'm at my last straw with him. He sneers and judges and shames, distrusts everyone (Aslan, his friends, his family; although to be fair, he has gotten better) and is constantly insecure. I know, it's relatable: I'm a bit like him, so I think that's the reason a fair chunk of his thoughts and words were kinda of... triggering? for me? I don't know, but I might have found a trigger/content that doesn't work for me. Especially the food/fat-shaming he does: yes, okay, it's part of his whole "insert mental health issue that needs to be treated" but god, it hit really close to home, it left me feeling bad, and I know he's just a character, but I'm pretty sure this kind of stuff needs to be handled in a much more thoughtful way.
Wedding books/installments should feel light-hearted and sweet, but that first half was anything but; it was frustrating.
Also, did it need to be this long? I skimmed quite a lot.
Thankfully, the second half is so much better. So, so much better: I laughed and swooned, and everything felt so much more joyful and fun.
Aslan, my precious baby, he's been my fav since book one: I adored him in this one. So patient, so loving, so sexy. He's the reason I keep coming back to this series, and if there are to be more books, I so hope he gets another chance to shine in the spotlight (there's a reason why I love the mysteries that centred around his work more).
I loved the character interactions (Torin and Ruiz, Allison and Amelia, her kids... I loved everything about them all), the banter and the fun, and hilarious, scenes (Torin and Ruiz make an epic team, I adore them), and the wedding was pretty much dreamy. The ending was perfect.
I'm glad Nicky James is hitting pause of this series for a bit though; it's time to give these two a chance to properly grow (*cough* and for Quaid to become healthier and happier). I'm really curious about the next MCs for the spin-off series! Hopefully I'll end up loving them.
TWs/CWs: untreated eating disorder and anxiety, food-shaming, homophobia and bullying (referenced, in the past), death of family members (referenced, in the past), alcohol addiction.
I have only one word: FINALLY.
No okay, I do have more but really, finally
This book would have had a much lower rating otherwise, and I would have probably abandoned this series altogether.
Anyway, the first half of the book was a bit tough for me to get through: mental health issues aside, Quaid's an acquired taste and I think I'm at my last straw with him. He sneers and judges and shames, distrusts everyone (Aslan, his friends, his family; although to be fair, he has gotten better) and is constantly insecure. I know, it's relatable: I'm a bit like him, so I think that's the reason a fair chunk of his thoughts and words were kinda of... triggering? for me? I don't know, but I might have found a trigger/content that doesn't work for me. Especially the food/fat-shaming he does: yes, okay, it's part of his whole "insert mental health issue that needs to be treated" but god, it hit really close to home, it left me feeling bad, and I know he's just a character, but I'm pretty sure this kind of stuff needs to be handled in a much more thoughtful way.
Wedding books/installments should feel light-hearted and sweet, but that first half was anything but; it was frustrating.
Also, did it need to be this long? I skimmed quite a lot.
Thankfully, the second half is so much better. So, so much better: I laughed and swooned, and everything felt so much more joyful and fun.
Aslan, my precious baby, he's been my fav since book one: I adored him in this one. So patient, so loving, so sexy. He's the reason I keep coming back to this series, and if there are to be more books, I so hope he gets another chance to shine in the spotlight (there's a reason why I love the mysteries that centred around his work more).
I loved the character interactions (Torin and Ruiz, Allison and Amelia, her kids... I loved everything about them all), the banter and the fun, and hilarious, scenes (Torin and Ruiz make an epic team, I adore them), and the wedding was pretty much dreamy. The ending was perfect.
I'm glad Nicky James is hitting pause of this series for a bit though; it's time to give these two a chance to properly grow (*cough* and for Quaid to become healthier and happier). I'm really curious about the next MCs for the spin-off series! Hopefully I'll end up loving them.
TWs/CWs: untreated eating disorder and anxiety, food-shaming, homophobia and bullying (referenced, in the past), death of family members (referenced, in the past), alcohol addiction.
November 19, 2025
This was a beautiful installment. No mystery this time... just life with Quaid and Aslan as they get ready for their wedding. And more Costa Ruiz... LOVE their budding bromance best friendship.
I loved it. I'm guessing there will be some mystery in book 8. But I can't believe this is coming to the end. This is an amazing series and I HIGHLY recommend.
I love how amazing Aslan is for Quaid. He really appreciates him so much. I wish he had better vows tho.
I loved it. I'm guessing there will be some mystery in book 8. But I can't believe this is coming to the end. This is an amazing series and I HIGHLY recommend.
I love how amazing Aslan is for Quaid. He really appreciates him so much. I wish he had better vows tho.
December 20, 2023
This was everything I wanted and more! Loved it so much! Great story and narration, perfect HEA for Aslan and Quaid!
February 3, 2024
Such a great ending to this series! 🥹
May 5, 2024
*sniff sniff* I have so many emotions. I adored every minute of this series. Throughout the seven books, we’ve seen these characters grow and heal so beautifully. Their journey felt so real. Nicky did an excellent job pacing their evolution, which is so much harder than people realize. What I love the most is that these guys are a better version of themselves at the end and not new, perfect versions who are unrecognizable from the guys who stole our hearts. Many authors mess up the transformation phase in writing, but not Nicky. This is perfection! I love that I share an anniversary with these guys.
December 16, 2023
5 stars for this grand HEA for Quaid and Aslan.. ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
December 7, 2023
December 7; 2023
I cried my heart out reading this book. Aslan and Quaid are really special to me and they have occupied a space in my heart I didn't even realize was waiting for them. 2023 has been their year for me because I started this year highly anticipating the fourth book in this series which was a real doozy and I'm ending this year with them married and I couldn't have asked for anything better.
The author mentioned how with this book she wouldn't be focusing on any new mystery but the entire story of this book would focus on Aslan and Quaid's wedding and I really couldn't figure out how it would all work out. But this pivot in the story structure was the best gift ever because it gave me everything I never knew I wanted.
This book is a giant celebration of Quaid and Aslan and it is just heartwarming to read. We get to see them trying to navigate how to plan a wedding successfully in under three months and it's a blast, especially seeing how things come together. I cried so many times, I was crying at completely unexpected moments and it all meant so much.
Not only do we get to celebrate these two as a couple but this book also takes time to focus on all the other relationships that have defined who these are as people, especially with regard to Quaid. Quaid's conversation with his dad on the day of his wedding was devastating, I cried so much and the waterworks didn't stop for a while after that.
Seeing Quaid and Aslan get married was magical, I literally couldn't have asked for a better ending for these two... for now!
My Thoughts Before Publication Day
This time around I want to see both of them on the cover!
I cried my heart out reading this book. Aslan and Quaid are really special to me and they have occupied a space in my heart I didn't even realize was waiting for them. 2023 has been their year for me because I started this year highly anticipating the fourth book in this series which was a real doozy and I'm ending this year with them married and I couldn't have asked for anything better.
The author mentioned how with this book she wouldn't be focusing on any new mystery but the entire story of this book would focus on Aslan and Quaid's wedding and I really couldn't figure out how it would all work out. But this pivot in the story structure was the best gift ever because it gave me everything I never knew I wanted.
This book is a giant celebration of Quaid and Aslan and it is just heartwarming to read. We get to see them trying to navigate how to plan a wedding successfully in under three months and it's a blast, especially seeing how things come together. I cried so many times, I was crying at completely unexpected moments and it all meant so much.
Not only do we get to celebrate these two as a couple but this book also takes time to focus on all the other relationships that have defined who these are as people, especially with regard to Quaid. Quaid's conversation with his dad on the day of his wedding was devastating, I cried so much and the waterworks didn't stop for a while after that.
Seeing Quaid and Aslan get married was magical, I literally couldn't have asked for a better ending for these two... for now!
My Thoughts Before Publication Day
This time around I want to see both of them on the cover!
December 14, 2023
I am so disappointed in this book. No mystery. No cases. Just a bunch of tedious dialogue while the story painstakingly makes its way towards the inevitable conclusion. Could have been a short story.
August 17, 2024
Ahora ya decididos a casarte antes del día de Navidad, Valor se encuentra estresado intentando organizar la boda de sus sueños, pero no es fácil, siendo él tan perfeccionista e incapaz de realmente aceptar que es lo quiere, ha logrado "espantar" ya a 3 organizadores de boda, 5 floristerías y al menos 2 fotógrafos. Y si eso no fuera suficiente, junto con la boda, su trabajo, también el Departamento de Policía ha organizado un intercambio de regalos (Amigo Secreto) para comienzos de Diciembre, y lo peor del caso es que es con personas de otros departamentos, gente que no conoce y que no quiere conocer.
Por otro lado Doyle, intenta sobrellevar a Valor, intenta ayudarlo con todo lo de la boda, además de intentar bajar el nivel de stress de su novio. Sin embargo, luchar con Valor por el control de la organización es una tarea casi imposible, aunque Doyle deberá buscar la forma de que Valor acepte la ayuda de sus amigos y familia.
En fin, ambos deberán tomar el tiempo de ver hacía el futuro y decidir si realmente eso es lo que quieren, y si son capaces de convivir uno con el otro para toda la vida.
Este es un cierre de serie bastante romántico, no hay misterio, no hay trabajo, todas las interacciones de los personajes son emocionales, sentimentales y románticas. En algunos momentos demasiado sentimentales para lo que me esperaba de la pareja. Sin embargo, aunque es el final de la serie, se siente como si faltara algo más, como si los personajes necesitaran un epílogo donde nos den un resumen de como fue su luna de miel, o la boda de Torin, o el agrandamiento de la familia.
En fin, es una serie entretenida, divertida, con buenos personajes, pero el final fue demasiado "emocional" para lo que esperaba de estos personajes. Pero es seguro que leeré otros libros de este autor.
Por otro lado Doyle, intenta sobrellevar a Valor, intenta ayudarlo con todo lo de la boda, además de intentar bajar el nivel de stress de su novio. Sin embargo, luchar con Valor por el control de la organización es una tarea casi imposible, aunque Doyle deberá buscar la forma de que Valor acepte la ayuda de sus amigos y familia.
En fin, ambos deberán tomar el tiempo de ver hacía el futuro y decidir si realmente eso es lo que quieren, y si son capaces de convivir uno con el otro para toda la vida.
Este es un cierre de serie bastante romántico, no hay misterio, no hay trabajo, todas las interacciones de los personajes son emocionales, sentimentales y románticas. En algunos momentos demasiado sentimentales para lo que me esperaba de la pareja. Sin embargo, aunque es el final de la serie, se siente como si faltara algo más, como si los personajes necesitaran un epílogo donde nos den un resumen de como fue su luna de miel, o la boda de Torin, o el agrandamiento de la familia.
En fin, es una serie entretenida, divertida, con buenos personajes, pero el final fue demasiado "emocional" para lo que esperaba de estos personajes. Pero es seguro que leeré otros libros de este autor.
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