What do you think?
Rate this book
A Golden Thread
Augustine Reynolds—one of the most feared crime bosses in Las Vegas— can’t recall ever having one pure thing in his life. Everything, no matter how good it might have seemed at the time, turned out to be tainted with blood and burned to ash.
As a man of the criminal underground, torn by war and caught in chaos, he lives a life of solitude and refuses to indulge in any weakness. It isn’t until one fateful day, on a routine drive back from his warehouse, that the purest thing on Earth crashes into his life, stealing his breath and his sanity.
In a bizarre twist that Augustine never saw coming, destiny has woven itself along a golden thread, and by a man no less. A sweet and gentle man named Ferdinand Thatcher. The little brother of his sworn enemy.
A Golden Thread is a Peaky Blinders inspired steamy, age-gap, strangers-to-lovers romance with a possessive MC, a grumpy/sunshine trope, two feuding families, and forbidden lovers caught in the middle of it all, with a HEA that’ll capture your heart. Content Violence, profanity, character death, homophobic slurs, and 18+ sexual scenes.
As a man of the criminal underground, torn by war and caught in chaos, he lives a life of solitude and refuses to indulge in any weakness. It isn’t until one fateful day, on a routine drive back from his warehouse, that the purest thing on Earth crashes into his life, stealing his breath and his sanity.
In a bizarre twist that Augustine never saw coming, destiny has woven itself along a golden thread, and by a man no less. A sweet and gentle man named Ferdinand Thatcher. The little brother of his sworn enemy.
A Golden Thread is a Peaky Blinders inspired steamy, age-gap, strangers-to-lovers romance with a possessive MC, a grumpy/sunshine trope, two feuding families, and forbidden lovers caught in the middle of it all, with a HEA that’ll capture your heart. Content Violence, profanity, character death, homophobic slurs, and 18+ sexual scenes.
- GenresM M RomanceLGBTRomance
362 pages, Paperback
Published September 11, 2023
16 people are currently reading
372 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
August 31, 2023
“I knew, angel. I fucking knew I loved you the second I laid eyes on you.”
i need to start this review off by saying that Augustine (Gus) is my favorite MC of all time (other than Viper from the Fallen Angel series bc no one can beat him). if every book i read had an MC like this, you wouldn't see me complaining whatsoever. i'd happily read it everyday. this is peaky blinders inspired so of course, i was immediately intrigued. Gus is the leader of major crime operation in Las Vegas, and his reputation is known as someone who is scary, calculated, and ruthless. if you take the polar opposite of that, that's how he is with Ferdinand (Ferdie). you would never guess that he has the reputation he does because of how much of a big softy he was for Ferdie. he was in disbelief this whole book bc he got to breath the same air as Ferdie. he goes right into the category of a MC who worships the ground his partner walks on to the extreme. if that isn't one of the best things to read, i don't know what is.
“It doesn’t matter what damn timeline, universe, reality, whatever the fuck that dream was,” I whisper, trailing my hand up his hip to his waist to settle on the side of his neck. “It was always going to be us. Always.”
if anyone can make me believe in insta love, it would be these two. to be honest, i don't have good luck with this trope which is why i normally stay away from it. but if it's done like this, i'd read as many insta love books as i could. they fall quick for each other but even after that, there's still pining, there's still relationship development, and there's a lot going on outside of their relationship that they are trying to find a balance between. they had many obstacles to overcome and found themselves on the other side of them even stronger than before. and this author managed to do all of this with no stupid and unnecessary drama, no third act breakup and no om/ow drama. so i was in heaven this whole book.
Gus's sworn enemy is Gerald Thatcher. the Thatchers are also a known crime family in Las Vegas. so what happens when you fall in love with your sworn enemy's little brother? Ferdie has been off to a boarding school for the last five years and he's now just getting back when he crashes into Gus (literally, Ferdie crashes his car into Gus's by accident). they both don't know who each other are and Gus has never felt attraction to a man before, but he's immediately mesmerized by Ferdie the second he lays eyes on him. plus add in grumpy/sunshine, possessive af mc, touch him and die, lots of forbidden love, strangers to lovers, age gap (19 and 37), and it's a book full of perfect tropes that were all delivered amazingly.
The age gap is significant, but in no way did it feel like Ferdie was 19. He's mature and can hold his own. He's aware of the life he lives bc of the Thatcher name, and he's not naive. Gus was absolutely swoon worthy. I loved how Ferdie brought out a side to him that no one would have been able too. He was also hilarious af, and his attitude towards everything had me cracking up. he was a whole mood and so grumpy 🤣 i am just so in love with him. there was so many things in this book that i adore in romance in general. it really did feel like they were living their lives as they were just so they could meet each other and they realized that what they were waiting all along for was each other 🥺
what to expect:
💛 age gap
💛 feuding crime families
💛 forbidden romance
💛 touch him and die
💛 hella possessiveness
💛 virgin mc
💛 insta love
💛 "who did this to you?"
💛 grumpy/sunshine
💛 spicyyyyy
💛 he WORSHIPS him
💛 no third act breakup or ow/om drama
💛 modern day peaky blinders inspired
i received an advanced reader copy for free via Indie Author Creative and am leaving a review voluntarily.
September 12, 2023
Dnf @ 51%
I tried to ignore the aggressive insta love and soldiered on because I was warned about it. I ignored the “He’s everything, he’s my entire life, I’d do anything for him,he’s mine grr” that happened practically from the tenth page but I can’t get over the fact that after all that “mine mine I will do anything for you “ when push came to shove the big bad chest thumping drug lord refused to help the love of his life with a minimum thing . The kid called him at two am, desperate and worried and asked him to to check on his sister (who lived only 10 min away from him) because danger. Well, his answer was this :
““And why is this my problem?”
[….] It’s probably just a weird ass neighbor, I don’t know,” I groan, my body already trying to fall back asleep. “I can’t just go check on her.” “Please, baby. Please go check on her. At least make sure she’s okay. Gerald wouldn’t have called if it wasn’t important. He could owe you.” “It’s two in the morning—”
“If you’re not going to do it for him, do it for me. Please. I know it’s a lot to ask.” I pinch the bridge of my nose. I had a shit day today.”
And all this knowing that the sister was very important to the kid. He went in the end (or he wanted to) but I don’t care to read more . This guy sucks and not in a good way.
Also, the writing is juvenile and kind of bad and the guys have absolutely no depth. 1.5 stars for the effort.
I tried to ignore the aggressive insta love and soldiered on because I was warned about it. I ignored the “He’s everything, he’s my entire life, I’d do anything for him,he’s mine grr” that happened practically from the tenth page but I can’t get over the fact that after all that “mine mine I will do anything for you “ when push came to shove the big bad chest thumping drug lord refused to help the love of his life with a minimum thing . The kid called him at two am, desperate and worried and asked him to to check on his sister (who lived only 10 min away from him) because danger. Well, his answer was this :
““And why is this my problem?”
[….] It’s probably just a weird ass neighbor, I don’t know,” I groan, my body already trying to fall back asleep. “I can’t just go check on her.” “Please, baby. Please go check on her. At least make sure she’s okay. Gerald wouldn’t have called if it wasn’t important. He could owe you.” “It’s two in the morning—”
“If you’re not going to do it for him, do it for me. Please. I know it’s a lot to ask.” I pinch the bridge of my nose. I had a shit day today.”
And all this knowing that the sister was very important to the kid. He went in the end (or he wanted to) but I don’t care to read more . This guy sucks and not in a good way.
Also, the writing is juvenile and kind of bad and the guys have absolutely no depth. 1.5 stars for the effort.
dnf
October 17, 2023DNF at 34%
I just couldn’t get into it. Wasn’t holding my attention.
I just couldn’t get into it. Wasn’t holding my attention.
November 4, 2023
Augustine deserved better. Ferdinand.. was so whiny.
February 14, 2024
My thought process throughout this book was:
Confusion
Confusion
Okay I think I like it
Sigh maybe I should DNF
Okay that’s quite interesting
Confusion
Confusion
I’m intrigued
What the fuck is this timeline then I just straight up skimmed the remaining.
It says this is a re-telling? Maybe if I knew better about what the author was trying to retell I would’ve understood better? Sigh
You would think what will put me off about this would be the insta-love but surprisingly that was the most endearing part about the story.
The stories of the mafia families were underdeveloped, the time-line was shitty + I would’ve really liked it if the author kept the little spoiler of “character death” out of the triggers because that has me on my toes and skimming the pages because I didn’t want to fall in love with someone that won’t get a happy ending.
Honestly I’ve liked all I’ve read from this author but this one is just meh.
Confusion
Confusion
Okay I think I like it
Sigh maybe I should DNF
Okay that’s quite interesting
Confusion
Confusion
I’m intrigued
What the fuck is this timeline then I just straight up skimmed the remaining.
It says this is a re-telling? Maybe if I knew better about what the author was trying to retell I would’ve understood better? Sigh
You would think what will put me off about this would be the insta-love but surprisingly that was the most endearing part about the story.
The stories of the mafia families were underdeveloped, the time-line was shitty + I would’ve really liked it if the author kept the little spoiler of “character death” out of the triggers because that has me on my toes and skimming the pages because I didn’t want to fall in love with someone that won’t get a happy ending.
Honestly I’ve liked all I’ve read from this author but this one is just meh.
Read
September 2, 2023Dnf 46% just couldn’t get connected with the characters or the story. The writing was a bit juvenile for me.
September 16, 2023
1.5⭐️
Eh.
This book did not work for me.
I don't know how I finished it and why I did it honestly. It's also Criminal Intentions' fault haha, going from the writing style of that series to that of this book was...definitely not nice, to say the least.
Eh.
This book did not work for me.
I don't know how I finished it and why I did it honestly. It's also Criminal Intentions' fault haha, going from the writing style of that series to that of this book was...definitely not nice, to say the least.
September 2, 2023
What a rollercoaster of excitement this book is!
The MCs are certainly special. There meeting and relationship almost gives fated mates vibes and i an here for it!!
The story itself is gripping and at parts heart breaking but the love been the two MC never falters.
Unique and exhilarating. Loved every moment....except the saddest on that almost broke me.
The MCs are certainly special. There meeting and relationship almost gives fated mates vibes and i an here for it!!
The story itself is gripping and at parts heart breaking but the love been the two MC never falters.
Unique and exhilarating. Loved every moment....except the saddest on that almost broke me.
October 29, 2023
all the feels are in this book
A Golden Thread by Addison Beck has all my favorites tropes: 1) age gap - big one 18 years apart
2) virgin
3) enemies to lovers- Romeo and Juliet-like romance
4) Bad guys who are antagonists/main characters of the stories
5) possessive and obsessive love
The only con for me was the size difference. I would loved it if Ferdinand was as tall as his brothers. He could be tall and lithe. Instead the author decided to make him a runt in the family. I’m biased because I hate size difference. My friends don’t really have this size difference obsession. They love who they love. And a lot of times, It works out they’re of similar height.
The story was just amazing. Almost realistic. Each characterization was just so multi-dimensional. And so interesting.
A Golden Thread by Addison Beck has all my favorites tropes: 1) age gap - big one 18 years apart
2) virgin
3) enemies to lovers- Romeo and Juliet-like romance
4) Bad guys who are antagonists/main characters of the stories
5) possessive and obsessive love
The only con for me was the size difference. I would loved it if Ferdinand was as tall as his brothers. He could be tall and lithe. Instead the author decided to make him a runt in the family. I’m biased because I hate size difference. My friends don’t really have this size difference obsession. They love who they love. And a lot of times, It works out they’re of similar height.
The story was just amazing. Almost realistic. Each characterization was just so multi-dimensional. And so interesting.
October 6, 2023
Can you spell ‘morally gray characters’? This Vegas Romeo/Romeo story just stole my heart with its grumpy boss who fell so hard for his angel that there was no coming back from that. If you don't like 'we are meant for each other' stories with a touch of insta-love, this book might not be for you ... but if you crave that, this is a perfect treat!
Augustine is a man who owns many things and feels like he needs nothing. Nothing but maybe peace … but that’s pretty much unattainable for a hardened, powerful crime boss like himself. One day a sunshine man crashes into his life with his dark curls and ocean eyes … a boy who soothes his soul but brings war with him. Augustine is helpless against fate as he keeps meeting Ferdinand time and time again … and the insta-attraction becomes insta-love in no time. Ferdinand feels the pull just as much and even though he knows it’s trouble, he falls hard for Augustine with all he has. I cannot even begin to tell you how much I adored these two, Augustine is an absolute marshmallow with Ferdinand, and they are hot as hell in the sheets. Their attraction is so strong it doesn't even bother Augustine that he has never been with a man before. Ferdinand is thorned between his family and his love; Augustine knows fear for the first time in his life as he is trying to keep Ferdinand safe … and that’s even before a couple of old enemies show up and the web of lies crashes. This book kept me on the edge til the very end, I could not stop reading because I wanted to have these two get to their HEA so badly. There are a handful of fascinating side characters and enough action that you can smell the gunpowder as you read. My first book from Addison, but definitely not the last one!
Please check the TWs for sensitive content!
I received a copy of this book from Indie Author Creative, and this is my honest review.
Augustine is a man who owns many things and feels like he needs nothing. Nothing but maybe peace … but that’s pretty much unattainable for a hardened, powerful crime boss like himself. One day a sunshine man crashes into his life with his dark curls and ocean eyes … a boy who soothes his soul but brings war with him. Augustine is helpless against fate as he keeps meeting Ferdinand time and time again … and the insta-attraction becomes insta-love in no time. Ferdinand feels the pull just as much and even though he knows it’s trouble, he falls hard for Augustine with all he has. I cannot even begin to tell you how much I adored these two, Augustine is an absolute marshmallow with Ferdinand, and they are hot as hell in the sheets. Their attraction is so strong it doesn't even bother Augustine that he has never been with a man before. Ferdinand is thorned between his family and his love; Augustine knows fear for the first time in his life as he is trying to keep Ferdinand safe … and that’s even before a couple of old enemies show up and the web of lies crashes. This book kept me on the edge til the very end, I could not stop reading because I wanted to have these two get to their HEA so badly. There are a handful of fascinating side characters and enough action that you can smell the gunpowder as you read. My first book from Addison, but definitely not the last one!
Please check the TWs for sensitive content!
I received a copy of this book from Indie Author Creative, and this is my honest review.
October 22, 2023
I had the immense pleasure of Beta reading this book and I thoroughly enjoyed the story of Ferdie and Augsutine (my Auggie).
Their meeting was a meeting of chance. A minor accident that brought these two together. Little did they know that their lives were already intertwined.
Addison threw A LOT at them. But nothing was going to tear them apart - not their age gap, not business, not family, not death threats. I loved how they were together, how they communicated with each other and how they cared for each other. From the moment they realised their attraction was mutual, they were both ALL IN.
I adore a grumpy/sunshine story and this was a great example. Auggie is one huge grump with a foul mouth (an endearing foul mouth though), with eyes for only his sweet Ferdinand. Ferdie was his sunshine. Caring and considerate with a dangerous streak. He is not to be underestimated.
I am a huge fan of Addison's books. Her writing flows beautifully and draws you in. Taking you into the story and keeping you invested in the characters and their thoughts and feelings.
This is a really great mafia love story with a good plot, great spice and loads of romance. Give this one a read if you like stories between powerful criminal families, age gaps, instalove and possessive characters who would rip the world apart for the man they love.
Their meeting was a meeting of chance. A minor accident that brought these two together. Little did they know that their lives were already intertwined.
Addison threw A LOT at them. But nothing was going to tear them apart - not their age gap, not business, not family, not death threats. I loved how they were together, how they communicated with each other and how they cared for each other. From the moment they realised their attraction was mutual, they were both ALL IN.
I adore a grumpy/sunshine story and this was a great example. Auggie is one huge grump with a foul mouth (an endearing foul mouth though), with eyes for only his sweet Ferdinand. Ferdie was his sunshine. Caring and considerate with a dangerous streak. He is not to be underestimated.
I am a huge fan of Addison's books. Her writing flows beautifully and draws you in. Taking you into the story and keeping you invested in the characters and their thoughts and feelings.
This is a really great mafia love story with a good plot, great spice and loads of romance. Give this one a read if you like stories between powerful criminal families, age gaps, instalove and possessive characters who would rip the world apart for the man they love.
October 22, 2023
3.5 Stars ⭐️
This was very reminiscent of a modern day Romeo/Juliet or Romeo/Julio in this case. Feuding families, darkness and all sorts of trouble. I actually really enjoy the first part of this book so much and then it went a bit south for me. It took a turn so much IMO that I was left shaking my head. I was so disappointed because it just didn't make sense to me (again My opinion). I wanted so badly for these two to get that HEA in the end. It was hard fought and there was some unexpected turns that I didn't see coming. I would recommend especially if your looking for a complex story than this is most definitely the one for you.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
This was very reminiscent of a modern day Romeo/Juliet or Romeo/Julio in this case. Feuding families, darkness and all sorts of trouble. I actually really enjoy the first part of this book so much and then it went a bit south for me. It took a turn so much IMO that I was left shaking my head. I was so disappointed because it just didn't make sense to me (again My opinion). I wanted so badly for these two to get that HEA in the end. It was hard fought and there was some unexpected turns that I didn't see coming. I would recommend especially if your looking for a complex story than this is most definitely the one for you.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
Read
March 24, 2024DNF
All I can say is, Augustine is no Thomas Shelby 😅
All I can say is, Augustine is no Thomas Shelby 😅
September 12, 2023
This is a hard one for me to rate 3.5-4.
I really enjoyed and loved Augustine and Ferdinand. I loved how “fate” kept brining them together.
The story did suck me in and kept me wanting to read. However, I felt the timeline line or time just went too fast. I didn’t see any relationship development or really the getting to know each other. I always love to feel the characters falling for each other. For me it was too fast.
I loved the Thatchers. They made a great addition to the story. I loved the gang/mafia part of the storyline but I felt like it was all rushed at the end.
This is why I am having trouble rating because I did love the characters and especially some secondary characters but I just felt the story was fast from the meet to the I love you and to the big conclusion.
I would totally recommend the book because I am positive others will be okay with the fast timeline
I really enjoyed and loved Augustine and Ferdinand. I loved how “fate” kept brining them together.
The story did suck me in and kept me wanting to read. However, I felt the timeline line or time just went too fast. I didn’t see any relationship development or really the getting to know each other. I always love to feel the characters falling for each other. For me it was too fast.
I loved the Thatchers. They made a great addition to the story. I loved the gang/mafia part of the storyline but I felt like it was all rushed at the end.
This is why I am having trouble rating because I did love the characters and especially some secondary characters but I just felt the story was fast from the meet to the I love you and to the big conclusion.
I would totally recommend the book because I am positive others will be okay with the fast timeline
November 13, 2023
I was a little disappointed in this one. Loved the premise but Ferdie’s relationship with his brother Gerald was annoying. I get it they’re close, but Gerald did not deserve such easy forgiveness for what he did. I also felt like Augustine deserved to feel more important in his own husband’s life. Ferdie’s words and actions didn’t match (especially when you consider the fact that Ferdie had been gone for 5 years. Why was he acting like he couldn’t be separated from his family for a short time?). Poor sweet Tristan. That part broke me and it was Gerald’s fault. He’s a douche bag. There were also some formatting issues that made me wonder what the heck was going on (repeated chapters and one out of order). Confused me for awhile. I think I’ll still check out other books from this author.
February 15, 2024
3.25 🌟
Im actually very disappointed in this book. It started out as a 5 star read, absurd chemistry between the MCs, kinda of a “love at first sight” vibes. It was going SO well. But the weird connection between Ferdinand and Gerald is unsettling, and also very much a turn off for me. The golden thread? Yeah, between him and his brother. So fucking weird.
Like, his brother insulted him VERY BADLY, slapped him, humiliated him publicly, and when him and his husband got attacked, his DISABLED husband got shot, the only thing he was able to say was “I need Gerald”. Yeah, fck off with that weird shit.
I kept reading, but when one of the only good characters, this book to me was done. Ugh, so infuriating.
Im actually very disappointed in this book. It started out as a 5 star read, absurd chemistry between the MCs, kinda of a “love at first sight” vibes. It was going SO well. But the weird connection between Ferdinand and Gerald is unsettling, and also very much a turn off for me. The golden thread? Yeah, between him and his brother. So fucking weird.
Like, his brother insulted him VERY BADLY, slapped him, humiliated him publicly, and when him and his husband got attacked, his DISABLED husband got shot, the only thing he was able to say was “I need Gerald”. Yeah, fck off with that weird shit.
I kept reading, but when one of the only good characters, this book to me was done. Ugh, so infuriating.
February 13, 2024
This book was so badly written. The whole book is like a one sided kind of love where Augustine takes care of Ferdinand while Ferdinand always humiliated him, doubted him and always put him second to his brother, yet somehow Augustine is always understanding. I can't think of one instant where Ferdinand shows, with actions, that he loved Augustine. Augustine deserved so much better.
There's this one time that Ferdinand was on the wrong and instead of apologizing, he goes, "So, who's going to start?" What?!!!
I hated the character Ferdinand.
There's this one time that Ferdinand was on the wrong and instead of apologizing, he goes, "So, who's going to start?" What?!!!
I hated the character Ferdinand.
September 11, 2023
A Golden Thread by Addison Beck is a MM steamy, age-gap forbidden lovers romance story about Augustine Reynolds and Ferdinand Thatcher. Augustine is a thirty-seven year old crime boss that most are scared of in Las Vegas. He falls hard for his enemy Gerald's little brother, Ferdinand. Ferdinand is a nineteen year old that is just returning to Las Vegas after being gone for five years in boarding school. This has kept him out of the Thatcher family crime business, but he starts to get involved now that he is back. Augustine and Ferdinand first meet when they are in a car accident, where Ferdinand crashes his car into Augustine's. Augustine doesn't know Ferdinand is Gerald's brother, and Ferdinand doesn't realize who Augustine is when he introduces himself as Gus. Fate keeps bringing them back together over and over again. Augustine shows Ferdinand a side of him that no one else has seen, and it was amazing to see this softer side. They do eventually learn each other's identities, but they don't let this stop them from being together. When they finally give in to their feelings for each other, there is no going back.
Augustine has always been with women, but he doesn't fight his attraction or feelings for Ferdinand. He believes he doesn't deserve someone as innocent as Ferdinand, but once he has him he doesn't plan on letting him go. I loved how possessive and protective Augustine was with Ferdinand, and he was just so loyal. Ferdinand was so kind, caring, and very forgiving. He was absolute sunshine, but also had the slightest bit of darkness in him since he was a Thatcher. His family meant everything to him, so it was tough to see him struggle when Gerald didn't want to accept his relationship with Augustine. Their journey was not easy, but Augustine and Ferdinand were perfect for each other and truly meant to be together.
This story reminded me a little bit of Romeo and Juliet, which I absolutely love. In addition to the forbidden romance and feuding families, there was danger and violence. I was on the edge of my seat and couldn't wait to see what would happen next. There were times that had me laughing, and there were times that had me heartbroken and left in tears. It really was an emotional roller coaster and I enjoyed every minute of it. A Golden Thread is an incredible story that will give you all the feels, and I highly recommend you read it. I am a big fan of Addison Beck and her One Lie Series, and I can't wait to read what she comes out with next.
I received a free copy of this book via Indie Author Creative and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Augustine has always been with women, but he doesn't fight his attraction or feelings for Ferdinand. He believes he doesn't deserve someone as innocent as Ferdinand, but once he has him he doesn't plan on letting him go. I loved how possessive and protective Augustine was with Ferdinand, and he was just so loyal. Ferdinand was so kind, caring, and very forgiving. He was absolute sunshine, but also had the slightest bit of darkness in him since he was a Thatcher. His family meant everything to him, so it was tough to see him struggle when Gerald didn't want to accept his relationship with Augustine. Their journey was not easy, but Augustine and Ferdinand were perfect for each other and truly meant to be together.
This story reminded me a little bit of Romeo and Juliet, which I absolutely love. In addition to the forbidden romance and feuding families, there was danger and violence. I was on the edge of my seat and couldn't wait to see what would happen next. There were times that had me laughing, and there were times that had me heartbroken and left in tears. It really was an emotional roller coaster and I enjoyed every minute of it. A Golden Thread is an incredible story that will give you all the feels, and I highly recommend you read it. I am a big fan of Addison Beck and her One Lie Series, and I can't wait to read what she comes out with next.
I received a free copy of this book via Indie Author Creative and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 23, 2023
I’m usually not one to read mafia romances that often but every now and then, one comes along that really interests me and grabs my attention. I’ve read this author before and decided to take a chance after reading the blurb. This is a standalone and I think the author does a great job of world building. It has its violent moments and there is an on-page unaliving of a secondary character along with violence against the main characters so check out the content warnings before reading.
This book follows Ferdinand and Augustine who are from rival criminal factions that are currently operating at some sort of arrangement. It’s fragile at best in the Las Vegas criminal underworld. Ferdinand is back from boarding school and literally runs into Augustine by chance in this age/gap romance and they keep bumping into each other with neither one realizing who the other really is. I loved that bubble they exist in during that portion of the book. Showing how the attraction grows between the two and despite Augustine’s reservations cause he knows he’s not a good man with the type of lifestyle he leads, he can’t help his attraction to the sunshine and sweet Ferdie.
Despite the violent nature and world these characters exist in, there are some tender moments between these two and the possessive and protective side of Augustine really adds to his character. I felt the frustration he feels with Ferdinand’s family. Gerald, the oldest brother and leader of the crime family, is manipulating and cold at times and seems unworthy of the dedication that Ferdinand gives to him. Definitely some sad moments for this pair of MCs and some twists and turns as they fight off rival crime bosses.
I love Augustine’s dedication to Ferdinand and I absolutely thought the description of him as being the bigger man was spot on. For him it’s not always about being right but doing what needs to be done. I usually don’t include quotes in my reviews but this one hit me in the feels:
“You taught me-that for the people we love-we can be better.”
I read a complimentary copy of this book and this is my honest and fair review.
This book follows Ferdinand and Augustine who are from rival criminal factions that are currently operating at some sort of arrangement. It’s fragile at best in the Las Vegas criminal underworld. Ferdinand is back from boarding school and literally runs into Augustine by chance in this age/gap romance and they keep bumping into each other with neither one realizing who the other really is. I loved that bubble they exist in during that portion of the book. Showing how the attraction grows between the two and despite Augustine’s reservations cause he knows he’s not a good man with the type of lifestyle he leads, he can’t help his attraction to the sunshine and sweet Ferdie.
Despite the violent nature and world these characters exist in, there are some tender moments between these two and the possessive and protective side of Augustine really adds to his character. I felt the frustration he feels with Ferdinand’s family. Gerald, the oldest brother and leader of the crime family, is manipulating and cold at times and seems unworthy of the dedication that Ferdinand gives to him. Definitely some sad moments for this pair of MCs and some twists and turns as they fight off rival crime bosses.
I love Augustine’s dedication to Ferdinand and I absolutely thought the description of him as being the bigger man was spot on. For him it’s not always about being right but doing what needs to be done. I usually don’t include quotes in my reviews but this one hit me in the feels:
“You taught me-that for the people we love-we can be better.”
I read a complimentary copy of this book and this is my honest and fair review.
September 13, 2023
***ARC Review***
This is my honest review for the ARC I received.
I absolutely love a good mafia romance. Add in feuding families, forbidden lovers, an age gap romance, the grumpy/sunshine trope, and a possessive MC - I’m 100% here for all of it!
Augustine Reynolds and Ferdinand Thatcher are at odds with one another, simply because of their last names. Augustine is a made man. He’s a hard man with a frightening reputation in the crime world. He’s put in the work to scrape himself to the top. People are scared of him and his violent tendencies. So I really appreciated the softer side and more tender moments that he shared with Ferdinand. Ferdinand grew up in the life, but has been abroad for the past five years. I liked the reference to the elite boarding school in Switzerland (from the One Lie series).
Ferdinand is a bright light that Augustine considers perfect. He is the symbol of that slice of peace that Augustine is looking for in his chaotic lifestyle. Ferdinand is a kind soul. Augustine is fiercely loyal.
Augustine and Ferdinand have a lot to overcome but they are drawn to one another from the very beginning. There is a bit of secret identity going on, that eventually transitions to a forbidden relationship when the identities of both MCs comes to light. Even though there is a bit of instalove going on, Augustine takes things at a slower pace for a while when it comes to the physical side of things. Once that ball gets rolling, the couple has immense chemistry and some very steamy moments.
There’s definitely some conflict within Ferdinand’s family - both between Gerald and Ferdie, as well as external conflict with yet another crime family. There’s a decent bit of suspense in this novel as well, especially in the last couple of chapters. Things don’t work out for everyone, but the MCs manage to get their hard earned HEA. The epilogue is both sweet and steamy. I look forward to future books by Addison Beck!
Note: Pay attention to the author’s Content Warning for potential triggers such as violence, homophobic slurs, death, and profanity.
This is my honest review for the ARC I received.
I absolutely love a good mafia romance. Add in feuding families, forbidden lovers, an age gap romance, the grumpy/sunshine trope, and a possessive MC - I’m 100% here for all of it!
Augustine Reynolds and Ferdinand Thatcher are at odds with one another, simply because of their last names. Augustine is a made man. He’s a hard man with a frightening reputation in the crime world. He’s put in the work to scrape himself to the top. People are scared of him and his violent tendencies. So I really appreciated the softer side and more tender moments that he shared with Ferdinand. Ferdinand grew up in the life, but has been abroad for the past five years. I liked the reference to the elite boarding school in Switzerland (from the One Lie series).
Ferdinand is a bright light that Augustine considers perfect. He is the symbol of that slice of peace that Augustine is looking for in his chaotic lifestyle. Ferdinand is a kind soul. Augustine is fiercely loyal.
Augustine and Ferdinand have a lot to overcome but they are drawn to one another from the very beginning. There is a bit of secret identity going on, that eventually transitions to a forbidden relationship when the identities of both MCs comes to light. Even though there is a bit of instalove going on, Augustine takes things at a slower pace for a while when it comes to the physical side of things. Once that ball gets rolling, the couple has immense chemistry and some very steamy moments.
There’s definitely some conflict within Ferdinand’s family - both between Gerald and Ferdie, as well as external conflict with yet another crime family. There’s a decent bit of suspense in this novel as well, especially in the last couple of chapters. Things don’t work out for everyone, but the MCs manage to get their hard earned HEA. The epilogue is both sweet and steamy. I look forward to future books by Addison Beck!
Note: Pay attention to the author’s Content Warning for potential triggers such as violence, homophobic slurs, death, and profanity.
September 8, 2023
A Golden Thread by Addison Beck
ARC REVIEW
« age gap »
« insta-love »
« virgin MC & first times »
« strangers-to-lovers »
« bi-awakening »
« two feuding crime families »
« grumpy x sunshine »
« forbidden lovers »
« possessive & protective MC »
« “who did this to you?” »
« touch him and die »
This is the first book I have read by Addison Beck, but as soon as I read this book was Peaky Blinders inspired, I was SOLD!
I really loved Augustine and Ferdinand together. This book definitely gave me fated mates vibes – fate kept pushing them together as if they were inevitable. Augustine has never been attracted to a man before, but that doesn’t deter him in the slightest. Once both Augustine and Ferdinand know the attraction and feelings are mutual, they are both all in. Nothing could tear these two apart – not family, sexuality, business, age gap, or enemies and death threats. Augustine is a gruff asshole but he softens only for Ferdinand, which is one of my favorite tropes. My heart did break a little at times where I felt like Augustine loved Ferdinand more. It was like all he saw was Ferdinand and all his decisions had his Angel at the centre. He would do anything to protect Ferdinand. Ferdinand loves and needs Augustine but he also needs his family. I LOVED Augustine’s overprotectiveness and possessiveness of Ferdinand. If you are into “you’re mine” like I am, this book it for you!
I was expecting this book to be darker with it being a mafia romance. But I still really enjoyed it. It was sweet, had good action and plot, and enjoyable side characters. The character death gutted me though. I don’t know how to recover from that one!
[I received an ARC of this book from Indie Author Creative and this is my honest review]
ARC REVIEW
« age gap »
« insta-love »
« virgin MC & first times »
« strangers-to-lovers »
« bi-awakening »
« two feuding crime families »
« grumpy x sunshine »
« forbidden lovers »
« possessive & protective MC »
« “who did this to you?” »
« touch him and die »
This is the first book I have read by Addison Beck, but as soon as I read this book was Peaky Blinders inspired, I was SOLD!
I really loved Augustine and Ferdinand together. This book definitely gave me fated mates vibes – fate kept pushing them together as if they were inevitable. Augustine has never been attracted to a man before, but that doesn’t deter him in the slightest. Once both Augustine and Ferdinand know the attraction and feelings are mutual, they are both all in. Nothing could tear these two apart – not family, sexuality, business, age gap, or enemies and death threats. Augustine is a gruff asshole but he softens only for Ferdinand, which is one of my favorite tropes. My heart did break a little at times where I felt like Augustine loved Ferdinand more. It was like all he saw was Ferdinand and all his decisions had his Angel at the centre. He would do anything to protect Ferdinand. Ferdinand loves and needs Augustine but he also needs his family. I LOVED Augustine’s overprotectiveness and possessiveness of Ferdinand. If you are into “you’re mine” like I am, this book it for you!
I was expecting this book to be darker with it being a mafia romance. But I still really enjoyed it. It was sweet, had good action and plot, and enjoyable side characters. The character death gutted me though. I don’t know how to recover from that one!
[I received an ARC of this book from Indie Author Creative and this is my honest review]
September 14, 2023
I have never watched Peaky Blinders so I don’t know the theme the author was going for here, except for rival gangs.
I did like how they were able to get to know each other as Gus and Ferdie first, before they knew who the other was. It allowed each man to see who they were without all the labels and responsibilities. I also liked how they communicated well, even when there could have been many opportunities for misconceptions or snap judgements to happen. And Augustine, despite what he said at the beginning, always chose what was best for Ferdinand. Who doesn’t want a partner like that. I also really liked how Augustine, who had no prior experience with men as sexual partners, had no problems whatsoever realizing he was attracted to Ferdinand.
The dissent between Gerald and Ferdinand still didn’t really have a good enough explanation. They were supposed to be as close as twins and yet somehow Gerald treats him so terribly. It didn’t make any sense to me. Also he was forgiven way too easily, but I’m very petty so that is probably a ‘me’ problem. Also, they definitely treated Ferdinand like he was made of glass and kept him in the dark. While he didn’t want to be in the business, he expressed multiple times that he didn’t want to be left out of the loop.
I hated the catalyst for the ending. I don’t know what could have been done differently but I felt it was unnecessary and cruel. Maybe I’m just too soft, I don’t know.
I liked how they got their happy ending, and I really didn’t picture it going any other way while reading the book. They were a good pair for each other.
I received a free copy of this book via Indie Author Creative and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I did like how they were able to get to know each other as Gus and Ferdie first, before they knew who the other was. It allowed each man to see who they were without all the labels and responsibilities. I also liked how they communicated well, even when there could have been many opportunities for misconceptions or snap judgements to happen. And Augustine, despite what he said at the beginning, always chose what was best for Ferdinand. Who doesn’t want a partner like that. I also really liked how Augustine, who had no prior experience with men as sexual partners, had no problems whatsoever realizing he was attracted to Ferdinand.
The dissent between Gerald and Ferdinand still didn’t really have a good enough explanation. They were supposed to be as close as twins and yet somehow Gerald treats him so terribly. It didn’t make any sense to me. Also he was forgiven way too easily, but I’m very petty so that is probably a ‘me’ problem. Also, they definitely treated Ferdinand like he was made of glass and kept him in the dark. While he didn’t want to be in the business, he expressed multiple times that he didn’t want to be left out of the loop.
I hated the catalyst for the ending. I don’t know what could have been done differently but I felt it was unnecessary and cruel. Maybe I’m just too soft, I don’t know.
I liked how they got their happy ending, and I really didn’t picture it going any other way while reading the book. They were a good pair for each other.
I received a free copy of this book via Indie Author Creative and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 23, 2023
The minute Addison Beck mentioned A Golden Thread was Peaky Blinders inspired, I was hooked!
Augustine Reynolds. Grumpy Vegas crime boss and Ferdinand Thatcher, brother of Augustine’s rival shouldn’t work, but fate keeps throwing them together. An uneasy alliance binds the families together, but mistrust lurks under the surf…
The two have an unconventional beginning, meeting the day Ferdie returns from school in Europe and Ferdie literally crashes into Augustine’s life.
The two have a bit of fun not sharing who they are, and after three unexpected meetings, they’re both in deep. And even though Gus has never been with a man, and Ferdie is a virgin, they figure things out pretty quickly. 😉.
Seriously. They are 🔥🔥🔥
Augustine was amazing. I loved this gruff, grumpy, sarcastic soul who fell fast and hard. But he was also hilarious, protective, and yes, romantic!
And I enjoyed how Ferdinand seemed so sweet and delicate until threatened- and then he got all stabby. And as much as he tried to keep out of family business… he was really good at it.
There’s and age gap and size difference, but you’ll never doubt these two men are equals. Gus teasing Ferdie about his ridiculous name, and Ferdie casually reminding Gus of his advanced age.
Be warned, there is graphic violence, which makes total sense within the story. An event late in the book made me gasp. No spoilers, but you will feel all the emotions in this one.
You need to read this! The writing is so good, and the plot and pacing are just wonderful. I really loved this book and look forward to reading more from this author. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Augustine Reynolds. Grumpy Vegas crime boss and Ferdinand Thatcher, brother of Augustine’s rival shouldn’t work, but fate keeps throwing them together. An uneasy alliance binds the families together, but mistrust lurks under the surf…
The two have an unconventional beginning, meeting the day Ferdie returns from school in Europe and Ferdie literally crashes into Augustine’s life.
The two have a bit of fun not sharing who they are, and after three unexpected meetings, they’re both in deep. And even though Gus has never been with a man, and Ferdie is a virgin, they figure things out pretty quickly. 😉.
Seriously. They are 🔥🔥🔥
Augustine was amazing. I loved this gruff, grumpy, sarcastic soul who fell fast and hard. But he was also hilarious, protective, and yes, romantic!
And I enjoyed how Ferdinand seemed so sweet and delicate until threatened- and then he got all stabby. And as much as he tried to keep out of family business… he was really good at it.
There’s and age gap and size difference, but you’ll never doubt these two men are equals. Gus teasing Ferdie about his ridiculous name, and Ferdie casually reminding Gus of his advanced age.
Be warned, there is graphic violence, which makes total sense within the story. An event late in the book made me gasp. No spoilers, but you will feel all the emotions in this one.
You need to read this! The writing is so good, and the plot and pacing are just wonderful. I really loved this book and look forward to reading more from this author. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 9, 2023
Man, I wasn’t expecting such a violent, emotional, rollercoaster romance but that’s exactly what Addison Beck delivered with A Golden Thread.
Augustine Reynolds is the reigning crime boss of the drugs and fighting rings of Vegas. On his way home one night, a Mercedes slams into his car and an angel with curly black hair and eyes the color of heaven appears before him and the man is whipped.
𝙄𝙩’𝙨 𝙖𝙡𝙬𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝙗𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙝𝙞𝙢, 𝙩𝙪𝙘𝙠𝙚𝙙 𝙛𝙖𝙧 𝙖𝙬𝙖𝙮, 𝙝𝙞𝙙𝙙𝙚𝙣 𝙖𝙢𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙡𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙨, 𝙬𝙖𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙢𝙚. 𝙁𝙖𝙩𝙚.
Unfortunately, that young man is almost twenty years his junior and none other than Ferdinand Thatcher, the gentle younger brother of his somewhat rival/business partner and biggest thorn in his side, Gerald Thatcher.
Lemme just gush about Augustine and Ferdinand. These two were AMAZING. A bit rocky, a bit intense, but so much passion and honesty and trust between these two. I was glued to the pages when these two interacted.
“𝙄’𝙡𝙡 𝙛**𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙨𝙝𝙞𝙥 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙬𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙠 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙖𝙢𝙚 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚.”
Now the plot? Soooo much was going on. It’s like a gang war on steroids, familial problems, gay awakenings, some humor, and I shed some tears. I’ll admit I wasn’t 100% in the headspace for the angst in this one but Addison is a favorite author of mine, so regardless I liked it a lot!
Augustine Reynolds is the reigning crime boss of the drugs and fighting rings of Vegas. On his way home one night, a Mercedes slams into his car and an angel with curly black hair and eyes the color of heaven appears before him and the man is whipped.
𝙄𝙩’𝙨 𝙖𝙡𝙬𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝙗𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙝𝙞𝙢, 𝙩𝙪𝙘𝙠𝙚𝙙 𝙛𝙖𝙧 𝙖𝙬𝙖𝙮, 𝙝𝙞𝙙𝙙𝙚𝙣 𝙖𝙢𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙡𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙨, 𝙬𝙖𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙢𝙚. 𝙁𝙖𝙩𝙚.
Unfortunately, that young man is almost twenty years his junior and none other than Ferdinand Thatcher, the gentle younger brother of his somewhat rival/business partner and biggest thorn in his side, Gerald Thatcher.
Lemme just gush about Augustine and Ferdinand. These two were AMAZING. A bit rocky, a bit intense, but so much passion and honesty and trust between these two. I was glued to the pages when these two interacted.
“𝙄’𝙡𝙡 𝙛**𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙨𝙝𝙞𝙥 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙬𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙠 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙖𝙢𝙚 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚.”
Now the plot? Soooo much was going on. It’s like a gang war on steroids, familial problems, gay awakenings, some humor, and I shed some tears. I’ll admit I wasn’t 100% in the headspace for the angst in this one but Addison is a favorite author of mine, so regardless I liked it a lot!
September 4, 2023
Questo romanzo uscirà il 12 settembre 2023. Voglio ringraziare Addison Beck per avermi dato l'opportunità di leggerlo in anticipo.
Il colpo di fulmine tra Augustine, spietato boss mafioso di Las Vegas, e Ferdinand, figlio del nemico, non promette nulla di buono.
Può un uomo cruento e prepotente sciogliersi di fronte un ragazzo tanto da apparire un'altra persona? Augustine non si lascia scappare quest'occasione quando c'è di mezzo Ferdie.
La storia ha un bel potenziale, essendo ispirata ai Peaky Blinders, ma i dialoghi non mi hanno convinta a pieno. Ho trovato Gus un po' troppo burburo senza giuste ragioni, mentre Ferdinand lo accetta senza problemi, anzi lo trova divertente.
Quello che mi è piaciuto, invece, è stato il modo in cui si proteggono a vicenda del tipo "se lo tocchi, ti uccido". La possessività si fa sentire forte e chiara.
È un insta-love quindi aspettatevi poco romanticismo e tanta azione.
La scrittura è semplice e lineare, come piace a me.
Nel complesso è stato un romanzo piacevole da leggere in un paio di giorni.
I received a free copy of this book via Indie Author Creative and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Il colpo di fulmine tra Augustine, spietato boss mafioso di Las Vegas, e Ferdinand, figlio del nemico, non promette nulla di buono.
Può un uomo cruento e prepotente sciogliersi di fronte un ragazzo tanto da apparire un'altra persona? Augustine non si lascia scappare quest'occasione quando c'è di mezzo Ferdie.
La storia ha un bel potenziale, essendo ispirata ai Peaky Blinders, ma i dialoghi non mi hanno convinta a pieno. Ho trovato Gus un po' troppo burburo senza giuste ragioni, mentre Ferdinand lo accetta senza problemi, anzi lo trova divertente.
Quello che mi è piaciuto, invece, è stato il modo in cui si proteggono a vicenda del tipo "se lo tocchi, ti uccido". La possessività si fa sentire forte e chiara.
È un insta-love quindi aspettatevi poco romanticismo e tanta azione.
La scrittura è semplice e lineare, come piace a me.
Nel complesso è stato un romanzo piacevole da leggere in un paio di giorni.
I received a free copy of this book via Indie Author Creative and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 6, 2023
'I’m a big hulk of a man who’s withered by age and gang wars, hardly nice to those around me, far too violent looking for my own good, and then there’s him. Ferdinand, this impossibly beautiful man with raven hair that looks like he’s been plucked out of a goddamn children’s book.'
I really enjoyed this book. Great world building and wonderful characters. I loved both Ferdinand and Augustine. The two meet with a literal bang as Ferdie crashed into Augustine's car. I loved his initial reaction to seeing Ferdinand- how he recognized his attraction despite considering himself straight his whole life. I love how they are both from opposing crime families. I couldn't wait to see how things would play out. The story had action, suspense, and intrigue. The chemistry between the two of them was scorching. I also liked the supporting characters. This was the first book I've read by this author and I will be reading more. 4 stars
I really enjoyed this book. Great world building and wonderful characters. I loved both Ferdinand and Augustine. The two meet with a literal bang as Ferdie crashed into Augustine's car. I loved his initial reaction to seeing Ferdinand- how he recognized his attraction despite considering himself straight his whole life. I love how they are both from opposing crime families. I couldn't wait to see how things would play out. The story had action, suspense, and intrigue. The chemistry between the two of them was scorching. I also liked the supporting characters. This was the first book I've read by this author and I will be reading more. 4 stars
September 16, 2025
Don't support this author!
TW: SA, CSA, suicide
Addison Beck is also Maddison Devlin.
The same Maddison Devlin who wrote the Devilry series-- the one that gave an HEA to a pedophile in book 2, didn't reveal that information until book 3, and ended book 3 with a murder-suicide of SA and CSA victims that she called a beautiful and necessary "unconventional HEA".
She did NOT trigger warn for these things and traumatized a legion of ARC readers, then cancelled book 3 and tried to bury it along with her connection to this grotesque behavior.
This author is truly a disgusting human being who has zero respect for her readers, particularly the queer ones. Tricking them into rooting for a child predator and withholding MASSIVE triggers from her ARC team that cause serious harm is fucking repulsive.
This author does not deserve your time or money.
More info in a reddit post: https://www.reddit.com/r/MM_RomanceBo...
An excellent, more detailed review by an ARC reader:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
TW: SA, CSA, suicide
Addison Beck is also Maddison Devlin.
The same Maddison Devlin who wrote the Devilry series-- the one that gave an HEA to a pedophile in book 2, didn't reveal that information until book 3, and ended book 3 with a murder-suicide of SA and CSA victims that she called a beautiful and necessary "unconventional HEA".
She did NOT trigger warn for these things and traumatized a legion of ARC readers, then cancelled book 3 and tried to bury it along with her connection to this grotesque behavior.
This author is truly a disgusting human being who has zero respect for her readers, particularly the queer ones. Tricking them into rooting for a child predator and withholding MASSIVE triggers from her ARC team that cause serious harm is fucking repulsive.
This author does not deserve your time or money.
More info in a reddit post: https://www.reddit.com/r/MM_RomanceBo...
An excellent, more detailed review by an ARC reader:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
September 18, 2023
Not all romance is perfect
Let's start off by saying if you are looking for a sweet romance with not faulted characters, this is not the author or book for you. Addison writes unapologetically faulted characters that despite their faults, you see their worth and that they deserve to find their better half. Gus has grown as the head of a major crime family, so of course, he is going to have issues changing, but guess what he does try though stumbles along the way.
With the way Ferdinand was brought up it makes it more understandable why he is able to accept all that is thrown at him and why he is able to move on from all issues thst come his way from all sides. Go into this one with an open mind, or you are joy going to enjoy it because it is dark love, and that's what makes this story work.
Let's start off by saying if you are looking for a sweet romance with not faulted characters, this is not the author or book for you. Addison writes unapologetically faulted characters that despite their faults, you see their worth and that they deserve to find their better half. Gus has grown as the head of a major crime family, so of course, he is going to have issues changing, but guess what he does try though stumbles along the way.
With the way Ferdinand was brought up it makes it more understandable why he is able to accept all that is thrown at him and why he is able to move on from all issues thst come his way from all sides. Go into this one with an open mind, or you are joy going to enjoy it because it is dark love, and that's what makes this story work.
September 27, 2023
Technically a 3.5 for me.
The book is engrossing, and the plot will suck you in. However, the development between the characters didn't feel fully there for me. This is a contemporary, but it read a bit like fated mates; insta-love from the jump. I struggled a few times with the timeline as well. I don't mind insta-love in stories but for the length of the book and the overall plot, it felt like they could have built to the "he's my entire world" part and we would have been able to connect with that bond growing more.
With that aside, the plot is thoroughly engaging, and the side characters are fantastic. I had a great time reading this.
It is grumpy/sunshine, possessive, age-gap, virgin mc, and bisexual awakening.
It is peaky blinders inspired. Read the triggers for this one!
The book is engrossing, and the plot will suck you in. However, the development between the characters didn't feel fully there for me. This is a contemporary, but it read a bit like fated mates; insta-love from the jump. I struggled a few times with the timeline as well. I don't mind insta-love in stories but for the length of the book and the overall plot, it felt like they could have built to the "he's my entire world" part and we would have been able to connect with that bond growing more.
With that aside, the plot is thoroughly engaging, and the side characters are fantastic. I had a great time reading this.
It is grumpy/sunshine, possessive, age-gap, virgin mc, and bisexual awakening.
It is peaky blinders inspired. Read the triggers for this one!
October 2, 2023
Ferdinand and Gus were adorable. Gus’s personally was great especially from the start. His inner dialogue and conversation with Mark was pretty funny. His and Ferdinand’s meet cute was just that. Cute. Ferdie brought Gus to his knees at the starts the I liked the characters at lot and the story reminded me a bit of star crossed lovers fated to hate each other but end up together. The only thing I didn’t love was at time it felt a little too cheesy. It was kinda hard to believe these guys were scary. I don’t wanna be told you’re scary… I want you to show me. But over all an enjoyable book.
I received a free copy of this book via Indie Author Creative and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Indie Author Creative and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews