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Dungeons and Dating #3
Intelligence Check
Mason gives people too many chances, Hunter gives too few, but are they willing to take a chance on each other?
Mason’s always tried to believe the best in people, and for the most part, their sunshine attitude pays off. They love their friends, their family, and they’re determined to win over their broody, gorgeous coworker Hunter—especially when their car in the shop turns into carpooling to work together.
Hunter’s only seen the worst in people, and he doesn’t trust easily—not after growing up with a mom who ditched and an addict dad. However, perky, sweet, hot-as-hell Mason seems to win him over with every goofy comment or adorable smile, and before he can stop himself, he’s falling hard.
The more time Mase and Hunter spend together, the more their attraction flares until they’re both holding the hope for something real. However, when Hunter’s past collides with his present, the secret he's been keeping threatens to destroy everything—the home he established, the friends who’ve become his new family, and any chance of a future with Mason.
Roll the dice on romance at Tabletop Tavern…
Mason’s always tried to believe the best in people, and for the most part, their sunshine attitude pays off. They love their friends, their family, and they’re determined to win over their broody, gorgeous coworker Hunter—especially when their car in the shop turns into carpooling to work together.
Hunter’s only seen the worst in people, and he doesn’t trust easily—not after growing up with a mom who ditched and an addict dad. However, perky, sweet, hot-as-hell Mason seems to win him over with every goofy comment or adorable smile, and before he can stop himself, he’s falling hard.
The more time Mase and Hunter spend together, the more their attraction flares until they’re both holding the hope for something real. However, when Hunter’s past collides with his present, the secret he's been keeping threatens to destroy everything—the home he established, the friends who’ve become his new family, and any chance of a future with Mason.
Roll the dice on romance at Tabletop Tavern…
231 pages, Hardcover
First published May 24, 2022
34 people are currently reading
252 people want to read
About the author
Katherine McIntyre
85 books712 followersGeeky Queer Romance.
Katherine McIntyre is a feisty chick with a big attitude despite her short stature. She writes stories featuring snarky women, ragtag crews, and men with bad attitudes—high chance for a passionate speech thrown into the mix. As a genderqueer geek who’s always stepped to her own beat, she’s made it her mission to write stories that represent the broad spectrum of people out there. Easily distracted by cats and sugar.
Katherine McIntyre is a feisty chick with a big attitude despite her short stature. She writes stories featuring snarky women, ragtag crews, and men with bad attitudes—high chance for a passionate speech thrown into the mix. As a genderqueer geek who’s always stepped to her own beat, she’s made it her mission to write stories that represent the broad spectrum of people out there. Easily distracted by cats and sugar.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
May 27, 2022
This is the third book I have read by this author but the first book in this four=part series. I loved, loved the Chesapeake Bay series and was equally sure I would love this one also. You just know that Mason & Hunter are going to be perfect for each other...even though they came from completely different backgrounds. We learned early on that both guys had been deeply hurt and seemed almost afraid to trust that they could heal. Their families weren't train wrecks going somewhere to happen...they had ALREADY happened. Mason's twin sister died of an overdose and Hunter's father and mother were both addicts, but both men were determined to climb out of that hole if they possibly could. We also learned that both of them had secrets that had the ability to kill their budding relationship. Katheryn McIntyre tells a story with such depth that the reader feels every victory but also every setback. Thank you Ms McIntyre for giving me the opportunity to read yet another of your wonderful stories. Also for taking the time and trouble seeing that I received it,
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest opinion. The views expressed by this reviewer are entirely my own
April 24, 2022
[I received a digital arc for an honest review]
Intelligence Check is the third book in the Dungeons and Dating series by Katherine McIntyre. While I myself have been reading it from the beginning, it can be read and enjoyed as a stand alone. This is a grumpy/sunshine M/Enby romance between two friends with obvious chemistry.
Hunter's upbringing makes him believe that he's worthless and a burden, and leaves him quiet and insecure. Mason is flirty and vibrant with everyone they meet, but inside they struggle with losing their twin sister / best friend. When Hunter rebukes Mason's advances when they have been drinking, Mason assume their feelings are one-sided. After carpooling to work and spending more time together , both learn that each others feelings are in fact reciprocated. But will regrets from Hunter's past be too much for Mason to handle, and will their new relationship survive when they come to light.
"If Mason had any chance of not falling for this man, it vanished. They were one hundred percent smitten with every single thing about Hunter Hayes, from the serious, meaningful answers he gave to the bits of softness he tried so desperately to hide."
I enjoyed both Mason and Hunter equally. Mason is non-binary and very comfortable in their sexual identity. They are confident , bubbly, and flirty even when they are hurting inside. Then we have Hunter who just broke my heart, which I was surprised at because I'm not a fan of characters who have zero self-esteem and their personal arc focus' on the fact they find themselves worthless. Yet somehow Hunter with his quite grunts, soft-spoken unconfident words, embarrassed blushes and cinnamon roll center completely won me over.
"If he could only wish for one thing in this universe-, it was this - Mason in his arms, in his life. And after a lifetime of loneliness, of feeling like a stone jettisoned out in a lake, he'd do whatever it took to keep them."
When it comes to Hunter and Mason's relationship it was a bit slow moving because of some miscommunication, but when they eventually realize they both have feelings it kind of ramps up in speed. I thought it was a kind of fast, but because of their backstories they both have the 'life's too short' mentality. I loved the communication in the bedroom! Hunter has never been with a non-binary person, and their check in to confirm what Mason is comfortable with does not take away from any of the steam and passion. I also appreciated the communication outside the bedroom too once they are in a relationship. When they argue, they are mature about it, and both ready to acknowledge when they are at fault.
"You're fucking beautiful, Mase." The awe in his voice as he said it had Mason swallowing hard, a wave of vulnerability washing over them. Hunter undid them in the best sort of way.
In the end, Intelligence Check by Katherine McIntyre is a solid friends to lovers romance with the grumpy/sunshine trope, found family, supportive friends, communication, healing from the past, table-top gaming, Comic Con, random animal facts and an only one bed situation that turns steamy!
Tw: drug and alcohol abuse by secondary character and a parent
Intelligence Check is the third book in the Dungeons and Dating series by Katherine McIntyre. While I myself have been reading it from the beginning, it can be read and enjoyed as a stand alone. This is a grumpy/sunshine M/Enby romance between two friends with obvious chemistry.
Hunter's upbringing makes him believe that he's worthless and a burden, and leaves him quiet and insecure. Mason is flirty and vibrant with everyone they meet, but inside they struggle with losing their twin sister / best friend. When Hunter rebukes Mason's advances when they have been drinking, Mason assume their feelings are one-sided. After carpooling to work and spending more time together , both learn that each others feelings are in fact reciprocated. But will regrets from Hunter's past be too much for Mason to handle, and will their new relationship survive when they come to light.
"If Mason had any chance of not falling for this man, it vanished. They were one hundred percent smitten with every single thing about Hunter Hayes, from the serious, meaningful answers he gave to the bits of softness he tried so desperately to hide."
I enjoyed both Mason and Hunter equally. Mason is non-binary and very comfortable in their sexual identity. They are confident , bubbly, and flirty even when they are hurting inside. Then we have Hunter who just broke my heart, which I was surprised at because I'm not a fan of characters who have zero self-esteem and their personal arc focus' on the fact they find themselves worthless. Yet somehow Hunter with his quite grunts, soft-spoken unconfident words, embarrassed blushes and cinnamon roll center completely won me over.
"If he could only wish for one thing in this universe-, it was this - Mason in his arms, in his life. And after a lifetime of loneliness, of feeling like a stone jettisoned out in a lake, he'd do whatever it took to keep them."
When it comes to Hunter and Mason's relationship it was a bit slow moving because of some miscommunication, but when they eventually realize they both have feelings it kind of ramps up in speed. I thought it was a kind of fast, but because of their backstories they both have the 'life's too short' mentality. I loved the communication in the bedroom! Hunter has never been with a non-binary person, and their check in to confirm what Mason is comfortable with does not take away from any of the steam and passion. I also appreciated the communication outside the bedroom too once they are in a relationship. When they argue, they are mature about it, and both ready to acknowledge when they are at fault.
"You're fucking beautiful, Mase." The awe in his voice as he said it had Mason swallowing hard, a wave of vulnerability washing over them. Hunter undid them in the best sort of way.
In the end, Intelligence Check by Katherine McIntyre is a solid friends to lovers romance with the grumpy/sunshine trope, found family, supportive friends, communication, healing from the past, table-top gaming, Comic Con, random animal facts and an only one bed situation that turns steamy!
Tw: drug and alcohol abuse by secondary character and a parent
June 14, 2025
Audio review:
More nerdy DnD related romance! MX, some pining, some emo hair flipping of "I'm not worthy of you" vibes. Both MCs work at the board game cafe, one is also an artist (but doesn't like to show his work) with lots of inner angst and is a bit of a grump/stays to himself. The other MC is finishing up their college degree and dealing with grief. Like book 1, this book deals with parents that are addicts, CW for that. One of the MC's siblings also died from an overdose. There's also discussion on consent when drinking, which I appreciated.
There were some issues with the audio either skipping or repeating the same sentence a couple times, which sounds like a production issue. Brennan Rossi is a new to me narrator, and it was fine. Some of the women voices were meh, but outside of the repeats, this was ok.
Not my favorite in the series, but still an emotionally angsty read. Also am always here for my nonbinary leads, wooo. This has more "this was a book that I read" energy more than anything.
Audio ARC provided by GRR.
More nerdy DnD related romance! MX, some pining, some emo hair flipping of "I'm not worthy of you" vibes. Both MCs work at the board game cafe, one is also an artist (but doesn't like to show his work) with lots of inner angst and is a bit of a grump/stays to himself. The other MC is finishing up their college degree and dealing with grief. Like book 1, this book deals with parents that are addicts, CW for that. One of the MC's siblings also died from an overdose. There's also discussion on consent when drinking, which I appreciated.
There were some issues with the audio either skipping or repeating the same sentence a couple times, which sounds like a production issue. Brennan Rossi is a new to me narrator, and it was fine. Some of the women voices were meh, but outside of the repeats, this was ok.
Not my favorite in the series, but still an emotionally angsty read. Also am always here for my nonbinary leads, wooo. This has more "this was a book that I read" energy more than anything.
Audio ARC provided by GRR.
May 27, 2022
To see more reviews check out MI Book Reviews.
I got an ARC of this book.
Book three is here! I have been counting down for so long for this one. I love how this series is not just m/m. This is a full queer group. There are lesbians, trans people, gay people. I have yet to be in a queer group that was loving and wonderful that were just one identity. It is details like this that make me adore this series and this author.
The geekiness continued in this one so strongly. There were game references, even one to a favorite game of mine. Movie references, feelings about Jar Jar Binks. There was even some art geekery. It just felt like the characters had full lives and interests. It was so heart warming to see the love and support from the café staff.
This romance was a bit harder for me. Addiction is not a plot I want to read about. I grew up in an area so overrun with heroin there is a documentary called Heroin Town about it. I currently work in criminal law in an area with lots of meth. I have been around addiction and addicts most of my life. Reading about addiction is interesting to me, same as reading mysteries aren’t. It is work. So the fact that I still read this book and rated it four stars says a lot about McIntyre. I was still invested in the characters and the romance. I still needed to read every word, even when this book should not have worked for me. I loved that there were different perspectives. The characters were impacted by addiction in different ways and had drastically different views. They had to figure out how to navigate the other’s pain to be together.
There was a line near the end of the book from a character I did not expect that punch me in the heart. I started crying. Had to put down the book and just cry. By the end I was grumpy about this. Hunter and I are both grumpy and closed off in a way that stems from childhood trauma. So hearing words that affirmed that and didn’t try and excuse anything or blame me/Hunter for that was incredibly powerful. The amount of intense feelings and fleshed out characters makes this series one that you have to read.
I highly recommend.
I got an ARC of this book.
Book three is here! I have been counting down for so long for this one. I love how this series is not just m/m. This is a full queer group. There are lesbians, trans people, gay people. I have yet to be in a queer group that was loving and wonderful that were just one identity. It is details like this that make me adore this series and this author.
The geekiness continued in this one so strongly. There were game references, even one to a favorite game of mine. Movie references, feelings about Jar Jar Binks. There was even some art geekery. It just felt like the characters had full lives and interests. It was so heart warming to see the love and support from the café staff.
This romance was a bit harder for me. Addiction is not a plot I want to read about. I grew up in an area so overrun with heroin there is a documentary called Heroin Town about it. I currently work in criminal law in an area with lots of meth. I have been around addiction and addicts most of my life. Reading about addiction is interesting to me, same as reading mysteries aren’t. It is work. So the fact that I still read this book and rated it four stars says a lot about McIntyre. I was still invested in the characters and the romance. I still needed to read every word, even when this book should not have worked for me. I loved that there were different perspectives. The characters were impacted by addiction in different ways and had drastically different views. They had to figure out how to navigate the other’s pain to be together.
There was a line near the end of the book from a character I did not expect that punch me in the heart. I started crying. Had to put down the book and just cry. By the end I was grumpy about this. Hunter and I are both grumpy and closed off in a way that stems from childhood trauma. So hearing words that affirmed that and didn’t try and excuse anything or blame me/Hunter for that was incredibly powerful. The amount of intense feelings and fleshed out characters makes this series one that you have to read.
I highly recommend.
March 28, 2022
Katherine McIntyre does it again in this third installment in the Dungeons and Dating series. This was by far my favorite of the three books in the series. Mason and Hunter had so much chemistry and internal struggles between them that made their relationship so intense and magical I couldn't put it down once I started reading. The characters were so well developed that you could feel the emotional struggles they were going through so intently through the entire book.
Mason lost his twin sister to a drug overdose three years ago and is still coping with the loss. Hunter has struggled with his dad's drug issues since he was a kid and is afraid to bring anyone into his life because he doesn't want to trouble anyone else with his issues, until he starts spending time with Mason. The more time they spend together, the more they fall for each other, but the secret of Hunter's past continues to linger between them. He's afraid to tell Mason the truth because he's afraid he'll lose them. During their time spent together, Mason's best friend and sister's boyfriend, Seth comes home, but doesn't tell Mason the whole truth of why he's there. When Mason finds out the secrets of both Seth and Hunter, will he be able to forgive them both or will he let them both go?
I would highly recommend this entire series to all readers and look forward to Jas' story.
I received this ARC to review my honest opinion through GRR.
Mason lost his twin sister to a drug overdose three years ago and is still coping with the loss. Hunter has struggled with his dad's drug issues since he was a kid and is afraid to bring anyone into his life because he doesn't want to trouble anyone else with his issues, until he starts spending time with Mason. The more time they spend together, the more they fall for each other, but the secret of Hunter's past continues to linger between them. He's afraid to tell Mason the truth because he's afraid he'll lose them. During their time spent together, Mason's best friend and sister's boyfriend, Seth comes home, but doesn't tell Mason the whole truth of why he's there. When Mason finds out the secrets of both Seth and Hunter, will he be able to forgive them both or will he let them both go?
I would highly recommend this entire series to all readers and look forward to Jas' story.
I received this ARC to review my honest opinion through GRR.
July 23, 2024
- coworkers
- friends to lovers
- hurt x comfort, ish
CW: substance abuse/addiction (not MCs), grief
NB babe Mason has had a crush on their aloof coworker Hunter from the moment they saw him, but after being turned down once are doing their best to just crack the tough nut that Hunter is to become his friend.
Hunter keeps everyone at arms length as a defense mechanism, even though he is as equally enamored with the NB cutie who he thinks is way out of his league. Due to his past and the things he had to do to get by, he does not feel like he is good enough for Mason.
Things change between the two though when Mason needs a ride to work and classes after their car kicks the bucket, and the pair grow closer. Sparks fly between Mason and Hunter, but while their story was super sweet, it was also a lot heavier and emotional than I was expecting.
All in all though, I think their story might be my favorite of the series so far!
- friends to lovers
- hurt x comfort, ish
CW: substance abuse/addiction (not MCs), grief
NB babe Mason has had a crush on their aloof coworker Hunter from the moment they saw him, but after being turned down once are doing their best to just crack the tough nut that Hunter is to become his friend.
Hunter keeps everyone at arms length as a defense mechanism, even though he is as equally enamored with the NB cutie who he thinks is way out of his league. Due to his past and the things he had to do to get by, he does not feel like he is good enough for Mason.
Things change between the two though when Mason needs a ride to work and classes after their car kicks the bucket, and the pair grow closer. Sparks fly between Mason and Hunter, but while their story was super sweet, it was also a lot heavier and emotional than I was expecting.
All in all though, I think their story might be my favorite of the series so far!
August 14, 2025
Second read through on audio: I quite enjoyed listening to this one on audio and since I’ve read a few books with NB characters now I found it much easier to get used to the pronouns this time. Definitely recommend!
One of my favourite things about this series so far is how every book has a different pairing between the MCs. Book 1 is FF, book 2 is MM and now this book is MX. This author is helping me read outside of the box and discover new situations. This is my first time reading a book with a non-binary MC and I had a hard time getting used to the pronouns for Mason, but eventually it did get easier.
Mason and Hunter fit so well together as a couple. It was quite slow at the beginning but then once they became a couple their relationship took off. Hunter was a super quiet character that no one really seemed to be able to connect with until Mason and the found family at Tabletop Tavern. I absolutely loved how Mason fully accepted Hunter’s quietness and really needed Hunter’s quiet strength to get through their issues. I also was amazed at how considerate Hunter was in the bedroom with Mason regarding what they needed each time to feel comfortable in their pleasure.
Once again this book covers some tough topics regarding drugs and substance abuse (discussion of side character’s past death), so please keep this in mind if this topic will be triggering. This book can absolutely be read as a stand-alone but I highly recommend reading the others in the series as well.
Again I can’t get enough of the group at Tabletop Tavern and this found family they have formed. Always looking out for and supporting each other. I’m
not huge into FF but I’m really looking forward to the next book in the series as Kelly’s story is really intriguing! On a side note is there really such a thing as a board-game podcast???? I absolutely need to look that up if there is.
One of my favourite things about this series so far is how every book has a different pairing between the MCs. Book 1 is FF, book 2 is MM and now this book is MX. This author is helping me read outside of the box and discover new situations. This is my first time reading a book with a non-binary MC and I had a hard time getting used to the pronouns for Mason, but eventually it did get easier.
Mason and Hunter fit so well together as a couple. It was quite slow at the beginning but then once they became a couple their relationship took off. Hunter was a super quiet character that no one really seemed to be able to connect with until Mason and the found family at Tabletop Tavern. I absolutely loved how Mason fully accepted Hunter’s quietness and really needed Hunter’s quiet strength to get through their issues. I also was amazed at how considerate Hunter was in the bedroom with Mason regarding what they needed each time to feel comfortable in their pleasure.
Once again this book covers some tough topics regarding drugs and substance abuse (discussion of side character’s past death), so please keep this in mind if this topic will be triggering. This book can absolutely be read as a stand-alone but I highly recommend reading the others in the series as well.
Again I can’t get enough of the group at Tabletop Tavern and this found family they have formed. Always looking out for and supporting each other. I’m
not huge into FF but I’m really looking forward to the next book in the series as Kelly’s story is really intriguing! On a side note is there really such a thing as a board-game podcast???? I absolutely need to look that up if there is.
May 5, 2022
I really enjoy this series. I love the characters, the relationship between the coworkers, and just everything.
May 26, 2022
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
This is book 3 in the Dungeons and Dating series. While it can totally be read as a stand-alone, I really think you should read books one and 2 first. It will give you a better, bigger picture of this group of co-workers and friends but also because I said to! Bloody good books, both of them!
Mason and Hunter work at the game cafe, and have crushed on each other for a long time. There are so many miscommunicated moments between these two, it made for painful reading!
Hunter likes how Mason makes him feel, but knows someone like Mase won't ever want him. Mase, in turn, can't understand why Hunter pushed them away a year ago. When Hunter tells them WHY? Oh, I fell in love with Hunter, just a little bit more. Mase too, when they finally let Hunter in.
These two are perfect for each other, but neither thinks they are good enough for the other. Once they actually talk, things become clearer as to why they both think that.
It's not as steamy as the other two books, I thought, but it is HEAVY on the emotions. I loved that Hunter makes a point to ask Mase about their preferences, what they like to do in the smexy department, given that Mase is non-binary. I will admit it took a little getting used to the they/their/them pronouns, but it soon faded to the background. I hated what happened to Mason's sister and how that all came out. And then what happened to Hunter when he was young, you could see why Mason pushed Hunter away for a time.
The others pop up, and I again implore Ms McIntyre to write a story for Jasper! He's starting to hurt, a little, that his friends are pairing up and he can't find his person. You feel for Kelly here. But I think there is a whole LOT we don't know about her relationship with Nat. There are clues, if you know what to look for, that things weren't as clear cut as they seemed. That all comes out in the next book, though.
I loved this book, more so than books 1 and 2 and I loved them too!
5 full and shiny stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
This is book 3 in the Dungeons and Dating series. While it can totally be read as a stand-alone, I really think you should read books one and 2 first. It will give you a better, bigger picture of this group of co-workers and friends but also because I said to! Bloody good books, both of them!
Mason and Hunter work at the game cafe, and have crushed on each other for a long time. There are so many miscommunicated moments between these two, it made for painful reading!
Hunter likes how Mason makes him feel, but knows someone like Mase won't ever want him. Mase, in turn, can't understand why Hunter pushed them away a year ago. When Hunter tells them WHY? Oh, I fell in love with Hunter, just a little bit more. Mase too, when they finally let Hunter in.
These two are perfect for each other, but neither thinks they are good enough for the other. Once they actually talk, things become clearer as to why they both think that.
It's not as steamy as the other two books, I thought, but it is HEAVY on the emotions. I loved that Hunter makes a point to ask Mase about their preferences, what they like to do in the smexy department, given that Mase is non-binary. I will admit it took a little getting used to the they/their/them pronouns, but it soon faded to the background. I hated what happened to Mason's sister and how that all came out. And then what happened to Hunter when he was young, you could see why Mason pushed Hunter away for a time.
The others pop up, and I again implore Ms McIntyre to write a story for Jasper! He's starting to hurt, a little, that his friends are pairing up and he can't find his person. You feel for Kelly here. But I think there is a whole LOT we don't know about her relationship with Nat. There are clues, if you know what to look for, that things weren't as clear cut as they seemed. That all comes out in the next book, though.
I loved this book, more so than books 1 and 2 and I loved them too!
5 full and shiny stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
Read
May 12, 2024Intelligence Check is often excessive. It uses "plunked" approximately 12000 times. It hits the same sort of emotional beat repeatedly until it borderline rings as false as a soap opera. It uses language like "nut up," which is just not the vibe, especially when there's a nonbinary character. And the book doesn't seem entirely sure how long Mason's hair is. It's also lacking severely needed trigger warnings, including but not limited to: parental abuse (off page, past), death in the family (past), on page drug use, discussions of overdosing, parents with addiction. I do not understand failing to mention, even in passing, trigger warnings or content notes when your book spends hundreds of pages dealing directly with serious issues like the emotional abuse that Hunter's parents subjected him to while seeking their highs.
But.
It is nevertheless a compelling centering of grief, how it can manifest in opposite ways, and how we can unwittingly trigger each other with our own self-soothing. Having grown up similarly to Hunter may (probably) have biased me in the book's favor. Even when it felt overwrought.
Sometimes I find that romance novels use plot to justify characters' actions and forget about the heartache as soon as it's inconvenient to the romance. Like when a cartoon character gets drenched and is totally dry the next scene. Even though I felt like an emotional Wile E Coyote reading this book with every act slamming me into a fake tunnel wall or blowing me up with some Acme brand dynamite, I think that's the point.
The book often was like the "mmm whatcha say" SNL sketch, with each emotional plotline segueing into another, more dramatic situation. But, ultimately, that's life. Grief doesn't really ever end; it just changes shape. And when you're in the thick of it, it's hard to see anything else. But you're not the only one here. Everyone's going through something, and somehow this ridiculous book advertised as a queer D&D fun timeTM is one of the most thorough explorations of the constancy of grief, and how to deal when your shit triggers someone else's shit, that I've read in a romance book.
But.
It is nevertheless a compelling centering of grief, how it can manifest in opposite ways, and how we can unwittingly trigger each other with our own self-soothing. Having grown up similarly to Hunter may (probably) have biased me in the book's favor. Even when it felt overwrought.
Sometimes I find that romance novels use plot to justify characters' actions and forget about the heartache as soon as it's inconvenient to the romance. Like when a cartoon character gets drenched and is totally dry the next scene. Even though I felt like an emotional Wile E Coyote reading this book with every act slamming me into a fake tunnel wall or blowing me up with some Acme brand dynamite, I think that's the point.
The book often was like the "mmm whatcha say" SNL sketch, with each emotional plotline segueing into another, more dramatic situation. But, ultimately, that's life. Grief doesn't really ever end; it just changes shape. And when you're in the thick of it, it's hard to see anything else. But you're not the only one here. Everyone's going through something, and somehow this ridiculous book advertised as a queer D&D fun timeTM is one of the most thorough explorations of the constancy of grief, and how to deal when your shit triggers someone else's shit, that I've read in a romance book.
March 19, 2022
I so love the found family that surrounds the Tabletop Tavern. These characters are so well created and fleshed out. They draw me into their stories and don’t let me go, even when I have finished the book. Hunter and Mason….oh my heart. Both men broken and trying to find their way. Both hurt by family and circumstances beyond their control. This book kept me going through the chapters wanting to see where it would go. Hunter just needs family to actually care about him and draw him out of his self imposed shell of ice. But the great thing about ice is that it melts. And Mason is just the person to take on that monumental task. They aren’t brimming with confidence but they know what they want and that happens to be Hunter. Between Mason and the family at the Tavern, Hunter has finally found where he can belong. This author can spin tales with such depth….I have loved everyone of them that I have read so far. I also dearly wish my area had a safe place like this lovely fictional one.
Read
May 27, 2022Holy pining. Sometimes books say they are a standalone but need the others to make it make sense, and thankfully that wasn't the case here. Despite this being the third book in this series I still was able to understand who everyone was and connect with the characters and I look forward to reading the rest of the series.
This book is about Mason and Hunter. They both work at a table top game place like a board game cafe and are pretty much opposites. Mason is thin and willowy and super extroverted and Hunter is big and bulky and super introverted. The two of them have a lot of mutual attraction but neither one of them makes a move due to some self-doubt on Hunter's part and a few other rejection on Mason's part.
Mason struggles a lot with dealing with their sister's death in this book. Their sister died I think five years ago from a drug overdose and that's a big running theme of the book. Mason dealing with their grief and figuring out how to move forward without their twin. Hunter has a different experience with drugs as his parents are addicts and he has seen so much trauma in an entirely different way from Mason.
Slowly, very slowly, these two begin to figure their stuff out and realize that they're just with the other needs. This is a happily ever after book but it can get pretty heavy with themes of drugs, addiction, and grief.
Nonbinary queer MC, gay MC
This book is about Mason and Hunter. They both work at a table top game place like a board game cafe and are pretty much opposites. Mason is thin and willowy and super extroverted and Hunter is big and bulky and super introverted. The two of them have a lot of mutual attraction but neither one of them makes a move due to some self-doubt on Hunter's part and a few other rejection on Mason's part.
Mason struggles a lot with dealing with their sister's death in this book. Their sister died I think five years ago from a drug overdose and that's a big running theme of the book. Mason dealing with their grief and figuring out how to move forward without their twin. Hunter has a different experience with drugs as his parents are addicts and he has seen so much trauma in an entirely different way from Mason.
Slowly, very slowly, these two begin to figure their stuff out and realize that they're just with the other needs. This is a happily ever after book but it can get pretty heavy with themes of drugs, addiction, and grief.
Nonbinary queer MC, gay MC
February 20, 2022
I have absolutely adored this series from book 1! The amazing characters in these books are so incredibly fun to read. Both Mason and Hunter are so drawn to each other. However, with everything they have going on in their lives and the issues they are dealing with from their past they have an extremely hard time expressing their feelings in the correct way. This causes them to have a hard time opening up to each other. Once they are finally able to express themselves a beautiful love story blossoms. This was such an amazing story to read and I absolutely love this series so very much.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
POV: 3rd Person
Standalone or series: Book 3 in the Dungeons and Dating series
Would I recommend it: 5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ highly recommend!! 🤩
Would I read it again: Most definitely!
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
POV: 3rd Person
Standalone or series: Book 3 in the Dungeons and Dating series
Would I recommend it: 5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ highly recommend!! 🤩
Would I read it again: Most definitely!
February 28, 2022
This was my first book by this author and I enjoyed it. To be honest this was first book with the pronoun of they/their and it really threw me for a loop. Once I was able to wrap my head around it. I really enjoyed Mason and Hunter’s story. They were able find solace in each other after suffering alone for so long.
“The last thing they heard before they crashed out was the steady thump-thump-thump where they pressed to Hunter’s chest. Home.”
I will be looking for more books by this author in the future.
About the book:
Mason gives people too many chances, Hunter gives too few, but are they willing to take a chance on each other?
Mason’s always tried to believe the best in people, and for the most part, their sunshine attitude pays off. They love their friends, their family, and they’re determined to win over their broody, gorgeous coworker Hunter—especially when their car in the shop turns into carpooling to work together.
Hunter’s only seen the worst in people, and he doesn’t trust easily—not after growing up with a mom who ditched and an addict dad. However, perky, sweet, hot-as-hell Mason seems to win him over with every goofy comment or adorable smile, and before he can stop himself, he’s falling hard.
The more time Mase and Hunter spend together, the more their attraction flares until they’re both holding the hope for something real. However, when Hunter’s past collides with his present, the secret he's been keeping threatens to destroy everything—the home he established, the friends who’ve become his new family, and any chance of a future with Mason.
“The last thing they heard before they crashed out was the steady thump-thump-thump where they pressed to Hunter’s chest. Home.”
I will be looking for more books by this author in the future.
About the book:
Mason gives people too many chances, Hunter gives too few, but are they willing to take a chance on each other?
Mason’s always tried to believe the best in people, and for the most part, their sunshine attitude pays off. They love their friends, their family, and they’re determined to win over their broody, gorgeous coworker Hunter—especially when their car in the shop turns into carpooling to work together.
Hunter’s only seen the worst in people, and he doesn’t trust easily—not after growing up with a mom who ditched and an addict dad. However, perky, sweet, hot-as-hell Mason seems to win him over with every goofy comment or adorable smile, and before he can stop himself, he’s falling hard.
The more time Mase and Hunter spend together, the more their attraction flares until they’re both holding the hope for something real. However, when Hunter’s past collides with his present, the secret he's been keeping threatens to destroy everything—the home he established, the friends who’ve become his new family, and any chance of a future with Mason.
April 3, 2022
This is a fantastic addition to a great series. Mason and Hunter are easy to care about and to root for. They both deserve happiness and so much love, and the care they show for each other is lovely. Mason is still grieving the loss of their twin sister, and Hunter has painful self-esteem issues after growing up neglected or abandoned by the people he should have been able to depend on. Both are hurting, but the attraction between them makes them both hopeful.
The friends-turned-family at the Tabletop Tavern are all here, and they are all the kind of people we all need in our lives. I love the support and concern they show for each other.
This series is like a warm hug, full of friendship and love. I care about all of the characters, and I hope to see more of them in the future. The love story between Mason and Hunter is healing for them and satisfying for me. I recommend this book with a happy heart.
The friends-turned-family at the Tabletop Tavern are all here, and they are all the kind of people we all need in our lives. I love the support and concern they show for each other.
This series is like a warm hug, full of friendship and love. I care about all of the characters, and I hope to see more of them in the future. The love story between Mason and Hunter is healing for them and satisfying for me. I recommend this book with a happy heart.
January 21, 2024
Beautifully handled
So, having read Katherine's other books, I decided to give this one a shot. I was warned about the events that may trigger me, and yep, they were rough, and yet they were handled beautifully. These two have been through so much with shared experiences and yet so different at the same time. And how they handled them proved how different they are and how substance abuse in a family affects everyone differently.
This book gutted me and built me back up in the way the actions of the surrounding characters affected all. Truly beautiful, add in non binary rep in the best way possible, so it's worth a read even if yeah it hurt.
So, having read Katherine's other books, I decided to give this one a shot. I was warned about the events that may trigger me, and yep, they were rough, and yet they were handled beautifully. These two have been through so much with shared experiences and yet so different at the same time. And how they handled them proved how different they are and how substance abuse in a family affects everyone differently.
This book gutted me and built me back up in the way the actions of the surrounding characters affected all. Truly beautiful, add in non binary rep in the best way possible, so it's worth a read even if yeah it hurt.
May 19, 2022
Loved Masons cute non binary self. They were quirky and enjoyable to see fall for Hunter. Hunter was adorable and perfect for Mason. The two aren’t without their issue but what relationship isn’t. I really liked the community that has been created within the story, found family!
April 5, 2022
This is a well written book with strong characters in Mason and Hunter. The author deals with several difficult issues while telling their story. She brings a heartfelt read, moves it fluidly with her perfectly painted scenes and delivers a terrific read.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
May 30, 2022
RTC but I love a good romance that takes me on an emotional rollercoaster and this book did exactly that for me. It was sweet but also heartbreaking and I loved the mix of the two. It was done very well and hit the spot for me.
I received an arc of this book and this is my honest opinion
I received an arc of this book and this is my honest opinion
May 3, 2022
A great start as poor Mason wasn't having a good day finding their car needs to be fixed.
Working at the Tavern and without transport for a week but that was until Hunter helps them out.
A great love secret crush that neither of them telling of their feelings.
A sexualities for They pronouns for Mason. Sexy banter and flirting between the two work colleagues.
Hunter has baggage with his parents that he tries to deal with but they cause problems a long the line. Comfort and healing for these friends to lovers couple. There romance wasn't a smooth one but they get there for their happily ever after. Includes dual povs for this gorgeous book. .
Working at the Tavern and without transport for a week but that was until Hunter helps them out.
A great love secret crush that neither of them telling of their feelings.
A sexualities for They pronouns for Mason. Sexy banter and flirting between the two work colleagues.
Hunter has baggage with his parents that he tries to deal with but they cause problems a long the line. Comfort and healing for these friends to lovers couple. There romance wasn't a smooth one but they get there for their happily ever after. Includes dual povs for this gorgeous book. .
April 9, 2022
Mason and Hunter's characters are written in such a way that can make you forget they're fictional. Dealing with past hurts, trying to navigate these emotions and learning how to communicate with another.
A long road to finding love after so much pain.
**I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.**
A long road to finding love after so much pain.
**I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.**
February 12, 2022
This is the first book I’ve read of this series (I didn’t know it existed til now!) and you can bet I’m going to be hunting down the other ones asap! This story dealt with so many emotions in such a protective, caring way. You’re going to fall in love with these characters and want to move into this world.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 19, 2023
INTELLIGENCE CHECK is the third book in the Dungeons and Dating series, and it's time for Mase and Hunter. I was 'slightly' excited at the thought of this book and, let me tell you, I was not disappointed.
Mase is a perfect little ray of sunshine... on the outside. Inside, he is dealing with the loss of his twin sister, all the feelings that encompasses, plus normal things like trying to finish school and pay all his bills. Hunter, on the other hand, keeps himself to himself. He doesn't ask much of anyone, knowing all too well the feeling of being let down.
These two! Oh, my days. I love them so much. Two perfect-for-each-other puzzle pieces that slot together with ease. Well, not too much ease, because there's the whole 'issues from the past' to contend with, but you get my meaning. They do have their issues to deal with but they do the mature thing, in that they give each other space when needed, no matter how painful it may be, and communicate with each other.
It's a slow-burn romance in that Hunter isn't prepared to take advantage of Mason when he's drunk. Mason thinks he's been rejected by Hunter, and then Hunter thinks the same when Mason doesn't mention it again. Remember I said they communicated? Yeah, well, maybe not so much to begin with! 😆
This was a fantastic addition to the series that also let me catch up with Roxie and Mel, plus Cal and Julian. Now, I just need to know what's going on with Kelly! A brilliant book that I have no hesitation in highly recommending!!!
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
May 12, 2022
Mase is a perfect little ray of sunshine... on the outside. Inside, he is dealing with the loss of his twin sister, all the feelings that encompasses, plus normal things like trying to finish school and pay all his bills. Hunter, on the other hand, keeps himself to himself. He doesn't ask much of anyone, knowing all too well the feeling of being let down.
These two! Oh, my days. I love them so much. Two perfect-for-each-other puzzle pieces that slot together with ease. Well, not too much ease, because there's the whole 'issues from the past' to contend with, but you get my meaning. They do have their issues to deal with but they do the mature thing, in that they give each other space when needed, no matter how painful it may be, and communicate with each other.
It's a slow-burn romance in that Hunter isn't prepared to take advantage of Mason when he's drunk. Mason thinks he's been rejected by Hunter, and then Hunter thinks the same when Mason doesn't mention it again. Remember I said they communicated? Yeah, well, maybe not so much to begin with! 😆
This was a fantastic addition to the series that also let me catch up with Roxie and Mel, plus Cal and Julian. Now, I just need to know what's going on with Kelly! A brilliant book that I have no hesitation in highly recommending!!!
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
May 12, 2022
July 31, 2022
Intelligence Check, the standalone third in the Dungeons & Dating series by Katherine McIntyre, isn’t always easy to read but couldn’t be put down. The intense loss and continual battling with the impact of substance abuse on bystanders Mason and Hunter torments their everyday life and just might be their undoing, until…
Tabletop Tavern is a chosen family brought together by its owners Cal, Roxie and Jas. The song Chosen Family by Rina Sawayama and Elton John begins with where do I belong, tell me your story and I’ll tell you mine… and reminds me of the Tabletop Tavern family.
Roxie’s journey began the series with Strength Check and Cal’s unfolded with Wisdom Check, will Jas’ story be told this time? Unfortunately, not this time but an outstanding alternative with Intelligence Check brings together the outwardly positive and sunshiny Mason with the broody loner Hunter. Their pain, struggles and connection are extremely intense, penetrating the soul.
Mason and Hunter’s pasts are similar yet very different. Mason lost their twin, their best friend, five years ago when she overdosed on a bad batch of drugs. Hunter’s mother never wanted him leaving him behind with a father and stepmother as they succumb to whatever is their current drug of choice. Even with their internal pain, confident non-binary Mason trusts easily, is outwardly vibrant, dominates any interaction and is sweetly flirty. Hunter, well he shattered my heart. He doesn’t trust anyone and sees himself as a worthless burden. His soft-spoken tentative words and quiet grunts are his charm. Together, Mason and Hunter are Yin to the other’s Yang.
Mason and Hunter have been crushing on each other for some time but after Hunter’s initial rejection, Mason put himself squarely in the friends only column. The slow building of a romantic relationship begins when Masson’s car needs repairs and Hunter offers to carpool with them. However, once their mutual attraction becomes obvious, they kick things into high gear. But the past looms heavy over their future.
Intelligence Check is a strong friends-to-lovers tale that incorporates healing, communication, well-meaning friendships along with a plethora of random animal facts. Most importantly, it is about the power of a found family and a connection that is soul deep and able to conquer the past.
Tabletop Tavern is a chosen family brought together by its owners Cal, Roxie and Jas. The song Chosen Family by Rina Sawayama and Elton John begins with where do I belong, tell me your story and I’ll tell you mine… and reminds me of the Tabletop Tavern family.
Roxie’s journey began the series with Strength Check and Cal’s unfolded with Wisdom Check, will Jas’ story be told this time? Unfortunately, not this time but an outstanding alternative with Intelligence Check brings together the outwardly positive and sunshiny Mason with the broody loner Hunter. Their pain, struggles and connection are extremely intense, penetrating the soul.
Mason and Hunter’s pasts are similar yet very different. Mason lost their twin, their best friend, five years ago when she overdosed on a bad batch of drugs. Hunter’s mother never wanted him leaving him behind with a father and stepmother as they succumb to whatever is their current drug of choice. Even with their internal pain, confident non-binary Mason trusts easily, is outwardly vibrant, dominates any interaction and is sweetly flirty. Hunter, well he shattered my heart. He doesn’t trust anyone and sees himself as a worthless burden. His soft-spoken tentative words and quiet grunts are his charm. Together, Mason and Hunter are Yin to the other’s Yang.
Mason and Hunter have been crushing on each other for some time but after Hunter’s initial rejection, Mason put himself squarely in the friends only column. The slow building of a romantic relationship begins when Masson’s car needs repairs and Hunter offers to carpool with them. However, once their mutual attraction becomes obvious, they kick things into high gear. But the past looms heavy over their future.
Intelligence Check is a strong friends-to-lovers tale that incorporates healing, communication, well-meaning friendships along with a plethora of random animal facts. Most importantly, it is about the power of a found family and a connection that is soul deep and able to conquer the past.
May 24, 2022
I've been intrigued by the character of Mason since the first Dungeons and Dating book and finally, its time for their story. Intelligence Check focuses on Mason, our nonbinary ball of sunshine, and Hunter, their surly coworker who communicates more in a few glances than most people do with a dictionary of words. And the story is well worth the read.
Mason and Hunter work together at Tabletop Tavern. When Mason's car breaks down, Hunter offers to give them a ride to and from work since they live close together. This starts the conversations and really begins to cement the bond between them, one that was already in place. It also helps the crush between our two main characters grow deeper than it already was.
Mason and Hunter are both incredible characters. They provide a great balance for one another with Hunter grounding Mase and Mason providing a lot of light to Hunter. The development of their relationship felt very realistic, though sometimes I wish they would've just communicated a bit better at the beginning. But it made the build up to their first kiss very worth it.
Also I want to commend Katherine McIntyre for how beautifully she handled Mason as a nonbinary character and how beautifully she handled the topics of familial addiction and loss in this book. These are very sensitive topics for some readers (please heed trigger warnings) and can be handled in a lot of graceless ways, but she did not have that problem. Her handling of these sensitive topics was top notch.
Intelligence Check is a dual POV love story and is the third in the Dungeons and Dating series. It can be read as a standalone, though you'll miss a few smaller details by not reading in order. (And the whole series is worth a read so highly recommend.)
** DISCLAIMER: ARC was provided to me by GRR and this is my fair and honest review. **
Mason and Hunter work together at Tabletop Tavern. When Mason's car breaks down, Hunter offers to give them a ride to and from work since they live close together. This starts the conversations and really begins to cement the bond between them, one that was already in place. It also helps the crush between our two main characters grow deeper than it already was.
Mason and Hunter are both incredible characters. They provide a great balance for one another with Hunter grounding Mase and Mason providing a lot of light to Hunter. The development of their relationship felt very realistic, though sometimes I wish they would've just communicated a bit better at the beginning. But it made the build up to their first kiss very worth it.
Also I want to commend Katherine McIntyre for how beautifully she handled Mason as a nonbinary character and how beautifully she handled the topics of familial addiction and loss in this book. These are very sensitive topics for some readers (please heed trigger warnings) and can be handled in a lot of graceless ways, but she did not have that problem. Her handling of these sensitive topics was top notch.
Intelligence Check is a dual POV love story and is the third in the Dungeons and Dating series. It can be read as a standalone, though you'll miss a few smaller details by not reading in order. (And the whole series is worth a read so highly recommend.)
** DISCLAIMER: ARC was provided to me by GRR and this is my fair and honest review. **
May 26, 2022
Wow, that was an emotional rollercoaster with a fantastic HEA
I read this book a while ago and chose to take some time before reviewing mainly so I didn’t accidentally include a spoiler in my excitement. Going in, I honestly thought this would be a mostly fun, quirky book. To be fair, there are large portions where that is exactly what it is. What I would warn people though is that it’s also heartbreaking in sections (I’m talking ugly crying lol). That didn’t stop me from loving it. I do, this is a fantastic book with wonderful characters and a very positive message. But for anyone who is having a bit of a rough time emotionally, or who have triggers related to addiction, death of a family member or similar, just be careful to make sure you’re in the right headspace before reading. Even if those aren’t triggers, this book will hit you in the feels big time. Mason and Hunter are, at first glance, complete opposites but when you take a closer look they are both trying to deal with incredibly difficult pasts that have fundamentally affected how they deal with the world. I loved Mason’s personality. I admit I adore a sunshiny character, but they were just off the charts awesome. I loved seeing how they were unwilling to give up on being Hunter’s friend. Hunter, poor sweet and loveable Hunter really broker my heart. I so wanted to give him a hug and tell him that even if he didn’t believe it, other people knew he was worthy of so many good things. My only small criticism (and we’re talking microscopic lol) was that it took longer than I had hoped for them to actually get together. Their communication once the were together was really lovely so it confused me why some of that communication didn’t translate earlier in their relationship. But, to be fair, sometimes a lack of communication initially can show the importance later on. Anyway, not at all something that detracted from the book (probably just more my own impatience haha).
I read this book a while ago and chose to take some time before reviewing mainly so I didn’t accidentally include a spoiler in my excitement. Going in, I honestly thought this would be a mostly fun, quirky book. To be fair, there are large portions where that is exactly what it is. What I would warn people though is that it’s also heartbreaking in sections (I’m talking ugly crying lol). That didn’t stop me from loving it. I do, this is a fantastic book with wonderful characters and a very positive message. But for anyone who is having a bit of a rough time emotionally, or who have triggers related to addiction, death of a family member or similar, just be careful to make sure you’re in the right headspace before reading. Even if those aren’t triggers, this book will hit you in the feels big time. Mason and Hunter are, at first glance, complete opposites but when you take a closer look they are both trying to deal with incredibly difficult pasts that have fundamentally affected how they deal with the world. I loved Mason’s personality. I admit I adore a sunshiny character, but they were just off the charts awesome. I loved seeing how they were unwilling to give up on being Hunter’s friend. Hunter, poor sweet and loveable Hunter really broker my heart. I so wanted to give him a hug and tell him that even if he didn’t believe it, other people knew he was worthy of so many good things. My only small criticism (and we’re talking microscopic lol) was that it took longer than I had hoped for them to actually get together. Their communication once the were together was really lovely so it confused me why some of that communication didn’t translate earlier in their relationship. But, to be fair, sometimes a lack of communication initially can show the importance later on. Anyway, not at all something that detracted from the book (probably just more my own impatience haha).
May 24, 2022
Well damn, talk about an emotional ride. This book, for me has quite dark clouds that occasionally drop down on the MCs but the light, that comes in the form of Mason and his sunshine personality and the found family at Tabletop Tavern.
Hunter's character was the one that got to me the most. Mason lives with the pain of his twin sister's death five years ago but Hunter constantly has a negative view of himself and no trust in others due to his childhood living with drug addicted parents. Their friendship is tentative, well, everyone's with Hunter is but Mason is more determined to draw him out. There's attraction between them but a miscommunication had them thinking the other isn't interested until they get another chance. Even then, it's hard for Hunter to trust but Mason's charm, sparkling personality and magnetic draw gives him no chance of denying either of them.
Both of their past come in and threaten to derail their newfound happiness and it takes a huge amount of strength on both the parts to work their way back to each other, along with the support of their friends and TT. Such a great group of people who, especially here, so they are there for each other through everything life can throw at you.
Such a great story and so well written, I enjoyed it from start to finish. I'm very interested to see how the next book turns out as I can see that also having some quite dark moments.
**This book deals with themes of loss (past tense/off page), drug abuse and death by drug use**
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
Hunter's character was the one that got to me the most. Mason lives with the pain of his twin sister's death five years ago but Hunter constantly has a negative view of himself and no trust in others due to his childhood living with drug addicted parents. Their friendship is tentative, well, everyone's with Hunter is but Mason is more determined to draw him out. There's attraction between them but a miscommunication had them thinking the other isn't interested until they get another chance. Even then, it's hard for Hunter to trust but Mason's charm, sparkling personality and magnetic draw gives him no chance of denying either of them.
Both of their past come in and threaten to derail their newfound happiness and it takes a huge amount of strength on both the parts to work their way back to each other, along with the support of their friends and TT. Such a great group of people who, especially here, so they are there for each other through everything life can throw at you.
Such a great story and so well written, I enjoyed it from start to finish. I'm very interested to see how the next book turns out as I can see that also having some quite dark moments.
**This book deals with themes of loss (past tense/off page), drug abuse and death by drug use**
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
June 16, 2022
The DUNGEONS AND DATING series has consumed my life for the last few days and I’m sad I have to wait for the next installment. But the good news is I loved Mason & Hunter’s story and once again fell in love with these beautiful character McIntrye has created.
This was a lot heavier with both our leads dealing with grief and/or addiction (not themselves but with their families) and my heart hurt for the pain they were trying to let go of. But they found the one person they could lean on and realize it’s ok to let go and take that happiness for yourself.
Mason was a breath of fresh air with their bubbly personality and always looking on the bright-side. I just adored them. But Hunter, that man stole my heart. The brooding, the shyness and always being shocked when someone shows him any kindness just melted me into a puddle of feelings. This man has endured so much in his young life but he still had the capacity to show love and kindness when he wasn’t given that from those who should have. I loved watching him blossom under the love and care of those around him, especially Mason. They were the one who Hunter could show his true self to and that just made me love Mason even more.
This is a series about finding your tribe, being yourself and finding that one person who just gets you. Found family is one of my favorite tropes and after spending three books with this crew I honestly wished I could go to Tabletop Tavern to play some games with everyone because they are the real deal. 4 Stars!
This was a lot heavier with both our leads dealing with grief and/or addiction (not themselves but with their families) and my heart hurt for the pain they were trying to let go of. But they found the one person they could lean on and realize it’s ok to let go and take that happiness for yourself.
Mason was a breath of fresh air with their bubbly personality and always looking on the bright-side. I just adored them. But Hunter, that man stole my heart. The brooding, the shyness and always being shocked when someone shows him any kindness just melted me into a puddle of feelings. This man has endured so much in his young life but he still had the capacity to show love and kindness when he wasn’t given that from those who should have. I loved watching him blossom under the love and care of those around him, especially Mason. They were the one who Hunter could show his true self to and that just made me love Mason even more.
This is a series about finding your tribe, being yourself and finding that one person who just gets you. Found family is one of my favorite tropes and after spending three books with this crew I honestly wished I could go to Tabletop Tavern to play some games with everyone because they are the real deal. 4 Stars!
May 26, 2022
This is the first book I have read by Katherine McIntyre. I don't know why it took so long for me to find her books but I most certainly intend to read as many as I can. Intelligence Check is book three in the series titled Dungeons & Dating. No, this is not a BDSM story, rather, a series about a group of people who discover one another at a board game cafe. Yes, non-urban America...such things exist. Book three is about two people, both emotionally hurt/scarred for different reasons. It's about the development of a friendship as the reality of life swirls around them.
Ms. McIntyre is a phenomenal writer. She is able to paint a scene the reader can actually visualize. She develops the characters in such a way that the reader becomes emotionally attached and feels their pain as the story progresses. How cool is that?
The story is very believable and very real. The primary plot is the relationship as it develops between Hunter and Mason. Secondary plots of trust, betrayal, secrets, fear of the unknown, and unconditional love are all intertwined into the story. This results in a fantabulous and powerful story which most certainly is worth a read.
Ms. McIntyre is a phenomenal writer. She is able to paint a scene the reader can actually visualize. She develops the characters in such a way that the reader becomes emotionally attached and feels their pain as the story progresses. How cool is that?
The story is very believable and very real. The primary plot is the relationship as it develops between Hunter and Mason. Secondary plots of trust, betrayal, secrets, fear of the unknown, and unconditional love are all intertwined into the story. This results in a fantabulous and powerful story which most certainly is worth a read.
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