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Enhanced World Security #1
One Step Sideways
"The difference between a hero and an ordinary man is One Step Sideways"
When he was sixteen, Kane Diaz went to prison for assaulting the father who had abused him since he was small.
Nobody in the system took notice of the hundreds of scars on his body, simply the one on his face that marked him as an enhanced.
Seventeen years later on the day Kane gets released, Diesel Rawlings, head of Rawlings Security, meets him at the prison gates and offers him a job.
Danny Sullivan served with Rawlings as a medic. After being captured and tortured in a desert hell-hole, his current battles are fought behind a keyboard with only Sadie, his service dog, for company.
Danny doesn't do well with change. Being asked to babysit an ex-con who apparently tried to kill his own father because the man tried to stop his son bullying a family dog?
Not this ranger.
Except Kane isn't all he seems. Danny comes to realize that not only is this gruff man hiding a past worse than his own, but that the greatest battle he must face is fighting his growing feelings for Kane.
Then enhanced teenagers start disappearing.
To save other boys from going through his same nightmare, Kane might have to face his own demons and go back inside the maximum-security prison he was just freed from.
And turn his back on his growing feelings for Danny.
Which means Danny also has a choice.
Does he join Kane undercover and risk his life?
Or does he stay in the shadows and risk his heart?
When he was sixteen, Kane Diaz went to prison for assaulting the father who had abused him since he was small.
Nobody in the system took notice of the hundreds of scars on his body, simply the one on his face that marked him as an enhanced.
Seventeen years later on the day Kane gets released, Diesel Rawlings, head of Rawlings Security, meets him at the prison gates and offers him a job.
Danny Sullivan served with Rawlings as a medic. After being captured and tortured in a desert hell-hole, his current battles are fought behind a keyboard with only Sadie, his service dog, for company.
Danny doesn't do well with change. Being asked to babysit an ex-con who apparently tried to kill his own father because the man tried to stop his son bullying a family dog?
Not this ranger.
Except Kane isn't all he seems. Danny comes to realize that not only is this gruff man hiding a past worse than his own, but that the greatest battle he must face is fighting his growing feelings for Kane.
Then enhanced teenagers start disappearing.
To save other boys from going through his same nightmare, Kane might have to face his own demons and go back inside the maximum-security prison he was just freed from.
And turn his back on his growing feelings for Danny.
Which means Danny also has a choice.
Does he join Kane undercover and risk his life?
Or does he stay in the shadows and risk his heart?
229 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 25, 2024
121 people are currently reading
114 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Sue
118 books1,018 followersBullets and Babies!
Victoria writes about guys loving other guys in between dodging bullets, kidnappers, and serial killers. She enjoys putting them through hell to get their happy ever after—it’s a character flaw she embraces.
She also believes that family is who you choose, that dogs are often much wiser than human beings, and that we’re steadily destroying the world we live in.
And if people read more books, they'd be much happier.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
April 21, 2025
I absolutely loved this book and can't wait to read the next story in the series.
5+ stars for a non stop storyline with some heavy triggers. A full review on mmbookwormreviews.com
5+ stars for a non stop storyline with some heavy triggers. A full review on mmbookwormreviews.com
July 6, 2024
I'm so happy we get more stories in the enhanced universe! The one of the Tampa team may be done, but there is a lot going on and I plan to enjoy every minute of it. So far, I really loved Danny and Kane and I'm excited to see more.
April 8, 2025
4.75/5 stars! WOW! What a ride. This is the first book I've read by Victoria Sue and I was blown away by the level of world-building and the paranormal elements to this MM romance. Will definitely be adding more of their books to my TBR.
June 27, 2024
No capes needed
That ending almost had me tearing up. Danny and Kane deserved all the happiness that came their way. They were absolutely wonderful characters. Their journey was a fantastic series opener for this continuation of the Enhanced World. I can't wait for my next visit.
That ending almost had me tearing up. Danny and Kane deserved all the happiness that came their way. They were absolutely wonderful characters. Their journey was a fantastic series opener for this continuation of the Enhanced World. I can't wait for my next visit.
June 25, 2024
This is the first book in the Enhanced World Security series, and what a way to kick it off! As soon as I started reading I was immediately pulled into this world full of people with enhanced abilities, and a lot of injustice. Reading about what Kane went through at the hands of his father was heartbreaking, and when he got arrested no one believed him when he was the victim. I'm glad that he formed a bond with Archie and that the older man looked out for and protected Kane. Even going as far as having a plan for Kane once he got released.
That's where Kane meets Danny. Danny used to be a medic oversees but after being held captive by despicable people, he started working with computers and not leaving the safety of his home. His life was all about computers and tech until Kane walked in, everything changed the moment he met the man with walls around his heart and hurt behind his eyes.
For this being the first book in the series it didn't feel like it. What I mean by that is.. the world was written so well and has so many different places this book took place in throughout the course of the story, that it makes me feel as if this world existed prior to this book. I give Victoria a lot of credit for being able to evoke the sense of this world existing already, when in reality, this world and these particular places didn't exist until this book. All of the characters were great, some were awful human beings but they all belonged in this story, each individual helped add another element to the storyline. Each enhanced kid Kane met gave the readers more insight into what some of the different types of skills the enhanced can have, which I found to be really interesting!
I adored the relationship that slowly developed between Danny and Kane, they started off a bit like enemies to lovers, but once they talked some more they realized that they had a lot in common. They were able to bond through their trauma, and helped each other find ways to cope with the horrific things both these men went through.
I really enjoyed the aspect of the main plot where enhanced people are going missing and Kane, Danny, and their team are trying to find out who's responsible. It added a mystery element to the book and kept me engaged wondering about what was going to happen next. We got some answers to the questions Victoria had arise in this book, but we definitely didn't get the answers to everything, I'm excited to read more in this series so I can figure out who's behind the disappearances!!
I adored Kane's character, he's such a sweetheart. As soon as he found out Skye was getting transferred to a bad prison he immediately took action to try to help the kid. Even when it meant going back to the place he never wanted to see again. All in all, a really terrific start to a new series!
That's where Kane meets Danny. Danny used to be a medic oversees but after being held captive by despicable people, he started working with computers and not leaving the safety of his home. His life was all about computers and tech until Kane walked in, everything changed the moment he met the man with walls around his heart and hurt behind his eyes.
For this being the first book in the series it didn't feel like it. What I mean by that is.. the world was written so well and has so many different places this book took place in throughout the course of the story, that it makes me feel as if this world existed prior to this book. I give Victoria a lot of credit for being able to evoke the sense of this world existing already, when in reality, this world and these particular places didn't exist until this book. All of the characters were great, some were awful human beings but they all belonged in this story, each individual helped add another element to the storyline. Each enhanced kid Kane met gave the readers more insight into what some of the different types of skills the enhanced can have, which I found to be really interesting!
I adored the relationship that slowly developed between Danny and Kane, they started off a bit like enemies to lovers, but once they talked some more they realized that they had a lot in common. They were able to bond through their trauma, and helped each other find ways to cope with the horrific things both these men went through.
I really enjoyed the aspect of the main plot where enhanced people are going missing and Kane, Danny, and their team are trying to find out who's responsible. It added a mystery element to the book and kept me engaged wondering about what was going to happen next. We got some answers to the questions Victoria had arise in this book, but we definitely didn't get the answers to everything, I'm excited to read more in this series so I can figure out who's behind the disappearances!!
I adored Kane's character, he's such a sweetheart. As soon as he found out Skye was getting transferred to a bad prison he immediately took action to try to help the kid. Even when it meant going back to the place he never wanted to see again. All in all, a really terrific start to a new series!
June 25, 2024
𝘖𝘯𝘦 𝘚𝘵𝘦𝘱 𝘚𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 is the first book in Victoria Sue’s new spin-off series, 𝘌𝘯𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘥 𝘞𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥 𝘚𝘦𝘤𝘶𝘳𝘪𝘵𝘺. Although the original 𝘌𝘯𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘥 𝘞𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥 H.E.R.O. series characters and their team are often referred to in this book, enough information is given that this can be enjoyed on its own. As with the original series, Sue created characters and a storyline that completely captured me from the beginning, broke my heart, and put it back together again.
As I mentioned, I think this could be enjoyed without reading the original series, but I highly recommend starting with that. There is a lot of history built up in those books that isn’t exactly required for this book, but definitely adds enrichment to the storyline and how we got here. This book is about Kane and Danny, and Kane’s introduction into the Rawlings Security team.
Although both have been through different traumas, Danny and Kane come to realize they actually have more in common than they first believed. Once Danny got over his initial bias based on false information, his remorse and honest apology begins to put Kane at ease. Kane is learning to adjust to the outside world after being wrongly imprisoned since he was 16, and he definitely has demons he has to face. Danny has his own issues from his service years, and they must learn to trust each other in order to hold each other up.
Enhanced youth are going missing from the prisons and things aren’t adding up. Rawlings Security has been asked to find out what is happening, and they end up working other cases that end up related along the way. We meet one of the other team members, Ringo, and another enhanced, Shae, and I’d wager their story will be coming soon. One thing I enjoy about Sue’s books is that they are plot driven, so I know I will always get a great story.
The romance between Kane and Danny is not rushed, but I don’t know that I’d call it 𝒔𝒍𝒐𝒘 𝒃𝒖𝒓𝒏, either. It seems to develop naturally, and that made it all the better. While there are a couple of intimate scenes, this is definitely not a high heat book, but the relationship between these two beautifully damaged men is wonderful.
I had a really nice time reading this story even though my vision blurred a few times. These stories and men always worm their way into my heart and I root them on and hurt with them along the way. If you’ve read the 𝘌𝘯𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘥 𝘞𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥 series, I absolutely recommend you read this book. If you haven’t, I’m pretty sure once you read this one, you will most likely end up doing so afterwards. Danny brings so much joy to Kane’s world toward the end that you just know they have their HEA. I’m excited to see what she has in store for us next.
Happy reading!
~𝓘 𝓻𝓮𝓬𝓮𝓲𝓿𝓮𝓭 𝓪𝓷 𝓐𝓡𝓒 𝓸𝓯 𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓼 𝓫𝓸𝓸𝓴 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓘 𝓪𝓶 𝓵𝓮𝓪𝓿𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓶𝔂 𝓱𝓸𝓷𝓮𝓼𝓽 𝓻𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀.~
As I mentioned, I think this could be enjoyed without reading the original series, but I highly recommend starting with that. There is a lot of history built up in those books that isn’t exactly required for this book, but definitely adds enrichment to the storyline and how we got here. This book is about Kane and Danny, and Kane’s introduction into the Rawlings Security team.
Although both have been through different traumas, Danny and Kane come to realize they actually have more in common than they first believed. Once Danny got over his initial bias based on false information, his remorse and honest apology begins to put Kane at ease. Kane is learning to adjust to the outside world after being wrongly imprisoned since he was 16, and he definitely has demons he has to face. Danny has his own issues from his service years, and they must learn to trust each other in order to hold each other up.
Enhanced youth are going missing from the prisons and things aren’t adding up. Rawlings Security has been asked to find out what is happening, and they end up working other cases that end up related along the way. We meet one of the other team members, Ringo, and another enhanced, Shae, and I’d wager their story will be coming soon. One thing I enjoy about Sue’s books is that they are plot driven, so I know I will always get a great story.
The romance between Kane and Danny is not rushed, but I don’t know that I’d call it 𝒔𝒍𝒐𝒘 𝒃𝒖𝒓𝒏, either. It seems to develop naturally, and that made it all the better. While there are a couple of intimate scenes, this is definitely not a high heat book, but the relationship between these two beautifully damaged men is wonderful.
I had a really nice time reading this story even though my vision blurred a few times. These stories and men always worm their way into my heart and I root them on and hurt with them along the way. If you’ve read the 𝘌𝘯𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦𝘥 𝘞𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥 series, I absolutely recommend you read this book. If you haven’t, I’m pretty sure once you read this one, you will most likely end up doing so afterwards. Danny brings so much joy to Kane’s world toward the end that you just know they have their HEA. I’m excited to see what she has in store for us next.
Happy reading!
~𝓘 𝓻𝓮𝓬𝓮𝓲𝓿𝓮𝓭 𝓪𝓷 𝓐𝓡𝓒 𝓸𝓯 𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓼 𝓫𝓸𝓸𝓴 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓘 𝓪𝓶 𝓵𝓮𝓪𝓿𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓶𝔂 𝓱𝓸𝓷𝓮𝓼𝓽 𝓻𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀.~
June 26, 2024
Captivating Action Packed Adventure
Let me just start by saying I do not usually read action or military themed books, nor do I read fantasy (paranormal yes, fantasy, no). I also had not been aware of the previous serious within the same “enhanced world” that precedes this one so I had not read it prior to this to get more background info and to fall in love with peripheral characters mentioned in this book. So taking that into consideration when I say this gets 5 very enthusiastic stars I hope it resonates at how wildly wonderful this world, these characters, and this story truly are.
I took a chance on this because I love Victoria’s contemporary romances and this new series seemed like a great opportunity to try something WAY outside my usual preferences with an author I enjoyed. And even though I totally missed that this was a shared world/spinoff from a previous series I was hooked immediately.
A dynamic and richly crafted world just left of contemporary featuring “Enchanced” humans who wake up one day with special powers in a unique twist on an “x-men” esque trope pairs with deeply relatable and scarred characters, an edge of your seat plot, and an introduction to a found family that leaves you wanting more, makes this an amazing experience from start to finish.
This story follows an “Enhanced” excon (Kane) and an ex military Hacker (Danny) both with scars literal and figurative who meet when forced to work together to help save enhanced youth disappearing from inside the very prison our excon was just released from after 17 long years. In a story of intrigue, emotion, and fighting internal forces as much as external ones, you’ll be swept away in this new world, routing for beautiful souls and the injustices they’re fighting against.
Clearly you don’t need to have read the Enhanced World Series to enjoy this, but I can only imagine how even more special reading this would be if you already had the world and beloved characters in you heart and mind. I know I want to immediately go back and read that series as well.
Highly recommend. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Let me just start by saying I do not usually read action or military themed books, nor do I read fantasy (paranormal yes, fantasy, no). I also had not been aware of the previous serious within the same “enhanced world” that precedes this one so I had not read it prior to this to get more background info and to fall in love with peripheral characters mentioned in this book. So taking that into consideration when I say this gets 5 very enthusiastic stars I hope it resonates at how wildly wonderful this world, these characters, and this story truly are.
I took a chance on this because I love Victoria’s contemporary romances and this new series seemed like a great opportunity to try something WAY outside my usual preferences with an author I enjoyed. And even though I totally missed that this was a shared world/spinoff from a previous series I was hooked immediately.
A dynamic and richly crafted world just left of contemporary featuring “Enchanced” humans who wake up one day with special powers in a unique twist on an “x-men” esque trope pairs with deeply relatable and scarred characters, an edge of your seat plot, and an introduction to a found family that leaves you wanting more, makes this an amazing experience from start to finish.
This story follows an “Enhanced” excon (Kane) and an ex military Hacker (Danny) both with scars literal and figurative who meet when forced to work together to help save enhanced youth disappearing from inside the very prison our excon was just released from after 17 long years. In a story of intrigue, emotion, and fighting internal forces as much as external ones, you’ll be swept away in this new world, routing for beautiful souls and the injustices they’re fighting against.
Clearly you don’t need to have read the Enhanced World Series to enjoy this, but I can only imagine how even more special reading this would be if you already had the world and beloved characters in you heart and mind. I know I want to immediately go back and read that series as well.
Highly recommend. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
April 1, 2025
Independent reviewer for GRR, I was gifted my copy of this book.
This is a spin off from The Enhanced Wordl series, and you really do need to have some understanding of what it means to be Enhanced and how they are treated to fully appreciate this book. I will be honest, I did not read books 6 and 7 from the main series. I don't I missed anything, but I did read books 1 through 5.
Kane was jailed at 16 for shooting a dog. But no one saw any other scars, just the one on his face. When he is released 17 years later, Diesel Rawlings collects him and offers him a job. Danny was a medic with Rawlings. He suffered at the hands of the enemy. He can't baby sit an ex con, especially one who did what he did. But not all is as it appears, and Danny and Kane must work together to find the missing teenagers.
Like I said, I did not read books 6 and 7 of the main series, I can't rememeber why I didn't, but I absolutely LOVED this revisit to this world and the men in it!
Both Kane and Danny suffered, and I felt for them, deeply. When both men fully open up to the other, I cried, I really did!
I'm not going to go too much into the plot, cos spoilers, but things did not go how I was expecting them to, and I have no idea WHAT I was expecting! My book brain is a fickle place sometimes!
It's dark, though, that suffering both men talk. Not a easy read, I tell ya, and I have no triggers.
It's full of love though! Once Danny and Kane get their act together, it was brilliant. Not especially explicit, but I don't think it was needed. Again, that suffering pops up all the time.
The guys from the main books are talked about, but do not take part here. I would have liked them to, but I didn't miss that they weren't. Does that make sense? I think I'm just greedy!
And that epilogue?? Oh well played there Ms Sue, very VERY well played! Bawling my eyes out, I was!
I can't give it anything other than. . . .
5 full and shiny stars! (and I might just go back now, and read books 6 and 7!)
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
This is a spin off from The Enhanced Wordl series, and you really do need to have some understanding of what it means to be Enhanced and how they are treated to fully appreciate this book. I will be honest, I did not read books 6 and 7 from the main series. I don't I missed anything, but I did read books 1 through 5.
Kane was jailed at 16 for shooting a dog. But no one saw any other scars, just the one on his face. When he is released 17 years later, Diesel Rawlings collects him and offers him a job. Danny was a medic with Rawlings. He suffered at the hands of the enemy. He can't baby sit an ex con, especially one who did what he did. But not all is as it appears, and Danny and Kane must work together to find the missing teenagers.
Like I said, I did not read books 6 and 7 of the main series, I can't rememeber why I didn't, but I absolutely LOVED this revisit to this world and the men in it!
Both Kane and Danny suffered, and I felt for them, deeply. When both men fully open up to the other, I cried, I really did!
I'm not going to go too much into the plot, cos spoilers, but things did not go how I was expecting them to, and I have no idea WHAT I was expecting! My book brain is a fickle place sometimes!
It's dark, though, that suffering both men talk. Not a easy read, I tell ya, and I have no triggers.
It's full of love though! Once Danny and Kane get their act together, it was brilliant. Not especially explicit, but I don't think it was needed. Again, that suffering pops up all the time.
The guys from the main books are talked about, but do not take part here. I would have liked them to, but I didn't miss that they weren't. Does that make sense? I think I'm just greedy!
And that epilogue?? Oh well played there Ms Sue, very VERY well played! Bawling my eyes out, I was!
I can't give it anything other than. . . .
5 full and shiny stars! (and I might just go back now, and read books 6 and 7!)
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
July 30, 2024
This is a spin-off of the Enhanced World series, which I recommend. This story takes place in the same world and while the Tampa Team’s story may be complete, this one is just beginning with a whole new set of characters. The characters from the other series are mentioned and play a small role, but Ms. Sue gives enough detail for you to fully understand what is happening here, and while not necessary, you’d gain a much broader understanding of this world by reading that series.
On to this story…Rawlings Security is a company of security specialists, some of whom we have met previously, and also some new ones. It is about Danny, the IT guru, whose original story was told previously but you get a pretty good idea of his background now. He has PTSD from his past military experience. He has a wonderful service dog who helps him with his struggles. Needless to say, he is not a fan of unexpected changes. Therefore, he does not take to well to the appearance of Kane, an Enhanced who has spent the last 17 years in prison. There is a lot to this aspect of Kane, but suffice to say, Rawlings offers him a job.
There are some trust issues all around, but eventually, everyone gets on the same page as things happen leaving some with little choice in the direction they go. Kane and Danny quickly get over their issues with each other and their bond strengthens.
Ms. Sue is a fabulous paranormal writer. She creates interesting worlds a bit different than everything else out there, which I love. Her characters are flawed and endearing, and you’ll be rooting for them all in no time. It’s always a joy to get immersed into a series like this, and I’m happy to say this one is off to a great start. I’m already looking forward to the next installment.
Review written for Love Bytes Reviews
March 18, 2025
ONE STEP SIDEWAYS is the first book in the Enhanced World Security series, which itself is a spinoff of the Enhanced World H.E.R.O. series. I haven't read any of those, but I now want to! I don't feel as though my enjoyment was negatively impacted by not having read them, as enough details were given here that I understood what was going on.
Kane has had a terrible life. No two ways about it. My heart broke for him on so many occasions and when he first met Danny, I went full-on Mama Bear. Danny was a soldier who also had something terrible happen to him and his friends, which has left him with severe PTSD. He has a gorgeous service dog but immediately thought the worst of Kane in every possible situation when he thought Kane had hurt a dog in his past. He really was a judgemental pr!ck.
But then the story picked up, I became invested, and Danny and Kane worked things out and became the most important thing to each other, and I was okay with that.
This does have an overreaching arc so don't expect everything to be tied up in this edition, but it made for a fantastic read. Well-paced, with plenty of action, twists and turns, plus hooks dangling which left me wanting the next book immediately, it was already a 5-star read for me. But then Danny went above and beyond and had my eyes leaking for the last part of the book. That 5-star was never in doubt!!! An amazing story and HIGHLY RECOMMENDED by me.
** 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; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Mar 18, 2025
Kane has had a terrible life. No two ways about it. My heart broke for him on so many occasions and when he first met Danny, I went full-on Mama Bear. Danny was a soldier who also had something terrible happen to him and his friends, which has left him with severe PTSD. He has a gorgeous service dog but immediately thought the worst of Kane in every possible situation when he thought Kane had hurt a dog in his past. He really was a judgemental pr!ck.
But then the story picked up, I became invested, and Danny and Kane worked things out and became the most important thing to each other, and I was okay with that.
This does have an overreaching arc so don't expect everything to be tied up in this edition, but it made for a fantastic read. Well-paced, with plenty of action, twists and turns, plus hooks dangling which left me wanting the next book immediately, it was already a 5-star read for me. But then Danny went above and beyond and had my eyes leaking for the last part of the book. That 5-star was never in doubt!!! An amazing story and HIGHLY RECOMMENDED by me.
** 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; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Mar 18, 2025
April 1, 2025
I enjoyed this one. It pulled me in and kept me engaged from beginning to end. I enjoyed getting to know Kane and Danny. Kane has gotten the short end of the stick in life and has just finished a 17 year sentence and is just getting out and Diesel Rawlings shows up at the gate to offer him a ride and a job offer. He doesn't know how to take it at first and has no idea really how to trust him and the situation he has now been thrown into. He had no idea what he was going to do but for the most part, life has just thrown him under the bus and given him no reason to trust. Diesel takes him to the apartment where Danny is and has them sharing as Kane settles in and figures out if he wants to take the job offer from Diesel or not and work for the security company. They also want to give him time to think about it and figure out what the company is about. On top of everything else, Kane is enhanced and so is looked down on, feared and degraded for that as well. He ends up getting the short end of the stick and less rights due to being enhanced. At first, Danny is off put and doesn't like Kane, judging him but with the forced proximity of sharing the apartment it causes some things to come out and assumptions to be disproved. It allows them both to see different sides to each other and start sharing deeper parts with each other. In the midst of all this, enhanced are disappearing out of the prison system, both adults and kids, and Rawlings Security is investigating. There were plenty of twists and turns as the story went on and they were trying to put the connections together to see what was happening, who was behind it, and how the pieces connected. The story was well written and engaging. I enjoyed getting to know the team and am excited for the rest of the series.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
March 31, 2025
Back in the Enhanced world with Victoria Sue and it's such a great place to be, though both MC's have experienced trauma in their past and so be sure to read the trigger warnings.
Kane is out of prison years after being convicted for assaulting his father when really it was self defence after years of abuse. What changed his case was the mark on his face making him stand out as Enhanced. There is still a huge negative bias by the public towards those who are Enhanced, even though they don't choose this for themselves.
Danny lives with PTSD from his time held captive when he was in the army but with his support dog, Sadie, is able to work for his team leader's company as their tech guy. Without knowing the full story, Danny makes assumptions on Kane's story and so the two men don't get off to the best start but having to get to work straight away means working closely together. Their chemistry is quick to ignite once they allow it and stressful situations bring on revelations about their pasts, growing closer over a short period of time.
At the same time, they are working on a case of Enhanced people going missing from prison. Of course, with Kane being the most recent to leave prison, it makes sense for him to go undercover. The team works well together, even under extremely stressful situations. I'm looking forward to getting to know the others better, with there being a found family feel I know we'll be seeing a lot more of them in the future. I also really liked Danny's family, but especially how Kane deals with a certain member, making sure they know just how good of a man Danny is.
Another recommended read from Victoria!
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
Kane is out of prison years after being convicted for assaulting his father when really it was self defence after years of abuse. What changed his case was the mark on his face making him stand out as Enhanced. There is still a huge negative bias by the public towards those who are Enhanced, even though they don't choose this for themselves.
Danny lives with PTSD from his time held captive when he was in the army but with his support dog, Sadie, is able to work for his team leader's company as their tech guy. Without knowing the full story, Danny makes assumptions on Kane's story and so the two men don't get off to the best start but having to get to work straight away means working closely together. Their chemistry is quick to ignite once they allow it and stressful situations bring on revelations about their pasts, growing closer over a short period of time.
At the same time, they are working on a case of Enhanced people going missing from prison. Of course, with Kane being the most recent to leave prison, it makes sense for him to go undercover. The team works well together, even under extremely stressful situations. I'm looking forward to getting to know the others better, with there being a found family feel I know we'll be seeing a lot more of them in the future. I also really liked Danny's family, but especially how Kane deals with a certain member, making sure they know just how good of a man Danny is.
Another recommended read from Victoria!
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
June 28, 2024
I love the Enhanced world and loved this spin off!
Spin-offs are tricky in that there’s a lot of expectation with them; I’m really glad to say that will not be a problem with this series. I loved the Enhanced series and so was suuuper excited that we’re getting this series to keep us there. Kane and Danny were exactly the types of characters that made the original series for me. Enhanced get treated really appallingly and Kane is no exception to that role. I’ll admit that I what he went through brought tears to my eyes both in anger and sadness. That kind of brutality should never be inflicted on a child (in terms of injustice as well); but, as I find with this world, there was that glimmer of hope still there. The world might be awful but there were still people who were willing to put the work in to try to make it a little less awful (even if they couldn’t remove the awfulness, just add some comfort). Kane and Danny were peas in a pod in some ways and I loved that about them because whilst they had a lot of similar trauma it came from very different places. I like that kind of duality on characters as it makes their connection especially fun to read. This definitely had an enemies to lovers vibe but it’s more on the misunderstanding/miscommunication end of the trope which I honestly prefer anyway. We got a good background plot too with missing people and some intrigue there, though for me the standout was Kane and Danny. I’m very much looking forward to seeing what comes next!
Spin-offs are tricky in that there’s a lot of expectation with them; I’m really glad to say that will not be a problem with this series. I loved the Enhanced series and so was suuuper excited that we’re getting this series to keep us there. Kane and Danny were exactly the types of characters that made the original series for me. Enhanced get treated really appallingly and Kane is no exception to that role. I’ll admit that I what he went through brought tears to my eyes both in anger and sadness. That kind of brutality should never be inflicted on a child (in terms of injustice as well); but, as I find with this world, there was that glimmer of hope still there. The world might be awful but there were still people who were willing to put the work in to try to make it a little less awful (even if they couldn’t remove the awfulness, just add some comfort). Kane and Danny were peas in a pod in some ways and I loved that about them because whilst they had a lot of similar trauma it came from very different places. I like that kind of duality on characters as it makes their connection especially fun to read. This definitely had an enemies to lovers vibe but it’s more on the misunderstanding/miscommunication end of the trope which I honestly prefer anyway. We got a good background plot too with missing people and some intrigue there, though for me the standout was Kane and Danny. I’m very much looking forward to seeing what comes next!
June 28, 2024
This is the first book in the Enhanced World Security series. The book is very well written. It grabbed from the first page and never let go to the end. I have not read the previous series and I was able to fully enjoy this book. This is the story of Kane Diaz and Danny Sullivan. Kane is an enhanced who has just spent 17 years in prison for a crime he didn't commit. Thankfully he had one protector in prison, Archie. Even though Archie has passed on, he arranged for Kane to be picked up upon his release. With nowhere else to go, he agrees to listen to Diesel Rawlings, head of Rawlings Security, job offer. Danny is an ex military medic who now works as a hacker for Rawlings Security. Since his capture and torcher in the military, Danny has a support dog and doesn't go outside. With his hacking skills he can remain safely inside. Danny and Kane did not have a very good start. Misunderstandings by Danny, soured their first meeting. But as the two worked together to help save other missing enhanced teens. There is action, twists and turns and surprises galore. This is their story. I really enjoyed this book. It is very well written and easy to read. I enjoyed getting to know both the Danny and Kane, as well as other members of Rawlings Security. When you learn of Kane's childhood, it will absolutely break your heart. I am glad that he is having a small piece of happiness now. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
I received a complementary advanced review copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a complementary advanced review copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 1, 2025
Both Kane Diaz and Danny Sullivan have things in their past that continue to affect their present/future. At sixteen, Kane was sent to jail for assaulting his abusive father. Unfortunately, no one listened to Kane’s story due the scar on his face that indicated he is enhanced. Upon leaving jail, he was met by Diesel Rawlings, head of Rawlings Security, who offers him a job. Danny was in the military with Rawlings as a medic. He was captured and tortured while imprisoned in a hole. He was left with PTSD. He survives with the help of his service dog, Sophie. Danny at first wanted nothing to do with Kane as he believed the court records to be true. As he spends more time with Kane, he quickly realizes that there is more to Kane than the court records.
There is much more to this story than the blurb. There is danger, prejudice, hidden agendas, amazing good guys and nasty villains, but the best part is the tender love that develops between Danny and Kane as they face danger and try to help save others like them. Love helped them overcome so much and while coping with the past is difficult that love will help so much. This is book one of the series Enhanced World Security. This new world promises to be captivating. We can all look forward to more set in this world. That will be wonderful.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
There is much more to this story than the blurb. There is danger, prejudice, hidden agendas, amazing good guys and nasty villains, but the best part is the tender love that develops between Danny and Kane as they face danger and try to help save others like them. Love helped them overcome so much and while coping with the past is difficult that love will help so much. This is book one of the series Enhanced World Security. This new world promises to be captivating. We can all look forward to more set in this world. That will be wonderful.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
March 24, 2025
Shoe knife, hen coop, pizza casserole, plastic spoon, crematorium, 1965 Ford Mustang, "101 Dalmatians", maggots, rhodopsin
"One Step Sideways" by Victoria Sue borders on being a dark angst MM romance. And that's okay because this book is great! I'd forgotten how accomplished a writer Ms. Sue is. The drama and action is riveting all the way throughout. I'm happy to see that there's a Book 2 coming. I'm addicted to the series and characters. "Enhanced" humans is a fascinating turn to the story.
Danny Sullivan is an army veteran with severe PTSD/anxiety. He's also a computer whiz who is a behind-the-scenes operative. Danny can't work in the field due to his PTSD, claustrophobia, and agoraphobia. He served two tours in Afghanistan as a field medic.
Kane Diaz is a 17-year ex-con for a crime he didn't commit. His father painted Kane as a abuser, when he's actually the abused with the scars to prove it. Diesel Rawlings, owner of Rawlings Security meets Kane as he is finally released from prison. Diesel wants to recruit Kane for his organization because Kane is Enhanced. Diesel already has Enhanced operatives in his employ.
Seeing the MCs progress past their conditions is heartening, as is their gradual road to romance. I ate up, no, ravaged this book. It just wouldn't let me go! I enthusiastically recommend this book!
"One Step Sideways" by Victoria Sue borders on being a dark angst MM romance. And that's okay because this book is great! I'd forgotten how accomplished a writer Ms. Sue is. The drama and action is riveting all the way throughout. I'm happy to see that there's a Book 2 coming. I'm addicted to the series and characters. "Enhanced" humans is a fascinating turn to the story.
Danny Sullivan is an army veteran with severe PTSD/anxiety. He's also a computer whiz who is a behind-the-scenes operative. Danny can't work in the field due to his PTSD, claustrophobia, and agoraphobia. He served two tours in Afghanistan as a field medic.
Kane Diaz is a 17-year ex-con for a crime he didn't commit. His father painted Kane as a abuser, when he's actually the abused with the scars to prove it. Diesel Rawlings, owner of Rawlings Security meets Kane as he is finally released from prison. Diesel wants to recruit Kane for his organization because Kane is Enhanced. Diesel already has Enhanced operatives in his employ.
Seeing the MCs progress past their conditions is heartening, as is their gradual road to romance. I ate up, no, ravaged this book. It just wouldn't let me go! I enthusiastically recommend this book!
April 1, 2025
*I received an ARC copy of this book and this review is my honest opinion*(no spoilers)
Book:- ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice:- 🌶🌶
"The difference between a hero and an ordinary man is One Step Sideways"
So, firstly. Even I haven't read the previous Enhanced World series, that didn't stop me enjoying this book. There were plenty of cameos in this book however it was well explained enough that I didn't feel lost and I deffo want to read the original series of books now as, while I managed to read this fine without, I really want the added context/world building.
Victoria Sue is a new author to me but I was really impressed with their writing. The story, and the characters sucked me in straight from the start. The world, and the characters were well fleshed out and felt real and deffo got me in the feels several times.
It was a hard read at times - the trauma that both main characters went through was real - but it was deffo worth it. It was a hard-won HEA and I was hooked right up to the epilogue. It's not a super high heat book but the progression of the relationship between Kane and Danny felt natural and well paced, especially getting to watch them trust each other and support each other.
The book does have a HEA for the couple but it does have an overarching plot that will continue into the next book.
Highly recommended!
Book:- ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice:- 🌶🌶
"The difference between a hero and an ordinary man is One Step Sideways"
So, firstly. Even I haven't read the previous Enhanced World series, that didn't stop me enjoying this book. There were plenty of cameos in this book however it was well explained enough that I didn't feel lost and I deffo want to read the original series of books now as, while I managed to read this fine without, I really want the added context/world building.
Victoria Sue is a new author to me but I was really impressed with their writing. The story, and the characters sucked me in straight from the start. The world, and the characters were well fleshed out and felt real and deffo got me in the feels several times.
It was a hard read at times - the trauma that both main characters went through was real - but it was deffo worth it. It was a hard-won HEA and I was hooked right up to the epilogue. It's not a super high heat book but the progression of the relationship between Kane and Danny felt natural and well paced, especially getting to watch them trust each other and support each other.
The book does have a HEA for the couple but it does have an overarching plot that will continue into the next book.
Highly recommended!
April 1, 2025
Kane has been unfairly in prison for seventeen years, because he reacted against his abusing father. On his first day out, Diesel Rawlings, from Rawlings Security, offers him a job and takes him to an apartment where he’s supposed to live together with another team member, Danny Sullivan.
Danny is not keen of having an ex-con in his house, since he doesn’t know the entire truth behind Kane’s story.
After a raw start anyway, they manage to get on quite well. Both men have their ghosts from the past to deal with, and both have been traumatised by what happened them years before.
A case they have to work together to changes everything, and they will have to put at risk not only their lives, but their hearts too.
I loved this book, full of action, and emotions, as well as the main characters. Between them, I think my favourite was Kane, because of the dignity he showed in his behaviour, especially in the beginning.
At first, I didn’t like how judgemental Danny was, but then he changed and recognised how unfair he had been.
I think that Rawlings was my second favourite character anyway. He managed to see the potential in his men before they even saw it themselves, giving them the opportunity opportunity they had never had in their life. Now it’s time to dive into the second book of the series! Can’t wait!
Danny is not keen of having an ex-con in his house, since he doesn’t know the entire truth behind Kane’s story.
After a raw start anyway, they manage to get on quite well. Both men have their ghosts from the past to deal with, and both have been traumatised by what happened them years before.
A case they have to work together to changes everything, and they will have to put at risk not only their lives, but their hearts too.
I loved this book, full of action, and emotions, as well as the main characters. Between them, I think my favourite was Kane, because of the dignity he showed in his behaviour, especially in the beginning.
At first, I didn’t like how judgemental Danny was, but then he changed and recognised how unfair he had been.
I think that Rawlings was my second favourite character anyway. He managed to see the potential in his men before they even saw it themselves, giving them the opportunity opportunity they had never had in their life. Now it’s time to dive into the second book of the series! Can’t wait!
February 15, 2026
I loved the author’s original Enhanced series, and enjoyed reading more set in this world. I loved the mix of character driven, suspense and romance, with the add bonus of powers, and the realistic reactions of a society that doesn’t deal well with anyone different.
I liked how both Kane and Danny have been through horrible situations, and yet that hasn’t stopped them from being decent, and caring about others. I like that the author didn’t down play any of that, and the effect on them afterwards. I loved their relationship, after they got past their preconceptions of each other.
Kane’s abilities are very cool. I love that they evolve over time, the glimpses of others’ abilities, and how they are all different.
I loved Diesel, those who work for him, and what they’re doing to help others. I’m looking forward to reading more about them in future books. I also loved the role of family and the difference good and bad make.
The world building is fabulous, especially around the enhanced, and how society and family perspectives of people change once it’s apparent what they are. The suspense and action scenes are well written and tense. I needed to know what happened next!
I loved the ending, with the sense of full circle and closure with many of the things of Kane’s not so great childhood experience.
I liked how both Kane and Danny have been through horrible situations, and yet that hasn’t stopped them from being decent, and caring about others. I like that the author didn’t down play any of that, and the effect on them afterwards. I loved their relationship, after they got past their preconceptions of each other.
Kane’s abilities are very cool. I love that they evolve over time, the glimpses of others’ abilities, and how they are all different.
I loved Diesel, those who work for him, and what they’re doing to help others. I’m looking forward to reading more about them in future books. I also loved the role of family and the difference good and bad make.
The world building is fabulous, especially around the enhanced, and how society and family perspectives of people change once it’s apparent what they are. The suspense and action scenes are well written and tense. I needed to know what happened next!
I loved the ending, with the sense of full circle and closure with many of the things of Kane’s not so great childhood experience.
June 25, 2024
This book was a rollercoaster of emotions. Danny and Kane were two broken souls, with horrific pasts that just break your heart. Their trauma may have been caused by different experiences but the results were the same. They were two broken men just trying to survive.
Danny might have not been very welcoming to Kane at the beginning but soon realized his mistake. He extends an olive branch and a friendship starts to bloom. The relationship deepens as Danny and Kane slowly share parts of their trauma to help the other cope when they are having an "episode", building trust and a connection. Their relationship blossoms and grows as each heals and could lay some of their demons to rest (not all since there's no easy cure for trauma and the author did a very respectful job of portraying this). The relationship is not rushed but also not slow, the bond/connection happens soon in the story but the relationship develops over time. The pace is set perfectly for them.
There's also suspense, action, and twist and turns that kept me sitting at the edge of my seat. The world building and the characters are intriguing and fully developed, hooking its claws in from the beginning and never letting go. I can't wait for the next book and hopefully find out what happened to Shae.
Danny might have not been very welcoming to Kane at the beginning but soon realized his mistake. He extends an olive branch and a friendship starts to bloom. The relationship deepens as Danny and Kane slowly share parts of their trauma to help the other cope when they are having an "episode", building trust and a connection. Their relationship blossoms and grows as each heals and could lay some of their demons to rest (not all since there's no easy cure for trauma and the author did a very respectful job of portraying this). The relationship is not rushed but also not slow, the bond/connection happens soon in the story but the relationship develops over time. The pace is set perfectly for them.
There's also suspense, action, and twist and turns that kept me sitting at the edge of my seat. The world building and the characters are intriguing and fully developed, hooking its claws in from the beginning and never letting go. I can't wait for the next book and hopefully find out what happened to Shae.
March 21, 2025
**********Contains Spoilers**********
I’m very new to Victoria Sue’s work since I’ve only read one of her books from the multi-authored Valleywood Series. I really enjoyed this book and thought that this was a good start to Enhanced World Security Series, which is a spin-off of Victoria’s Enhanced World Series which I haven’t read yet. There was enough world building information within this book to understand how this world works. Man, my heart broke for everything both Danny and Kane have been through but I’m so glad that they found each other.
I loved seeing them slowly open up to each other about their pasts as it shows they’re starting to trust each other, which is pretty miraculous because of said pasts. I couldn’t put this book down as I really wanted to see what would happen next. I’m really looking forward to reading All of Me next, as well as more books by Victoria Sue in the future. I’d recommend this book, series, and author to others.
******I received a complimentary copy of this book through GRR. I would still happily review this book even if I purchased it myself. My thoughts and feelings about this book are completely unbiased******
I’m very new to Victoria Sue’s work since I’ve only read one of her books from the multi-authored Valleywood Series. I really enjoyed this book and thought that this was a good start to Enhanced World Security Series, which is a spin-off of Victoria’s Enhanced World Series which I haven’t read yet. There was enough world building information within this book to understand how this world works. Man, my heart broke for everything both Danny and Kane have been through but I’m so glad that they found each other.
I loved seeing them slowly open up to each other about their pasts as it shows they’re starting to trust each other, which is pretty miraculous because of said pasts. I couldn’t put this book down as I really wanted to see what would happen next. I’m really looking forward to reading All of Me next, as well as more books by Victoria Sue in the future. I’d recommend this book, series, and author to others.
******I received a complimentary copy of this book through GRR. I would still happily review this book even if I purchased it myself. My thoughts and feelings about this book are completely unbiased******
March 30, 2025
One Step Sideways is the first book in Victoria Sue's Enhanced Security series. It's an offshoot of the first Enhanced series and there already is a bit of character crossover. It's not necessary to have read the Enhanced World series, but it would be useful especially when Victoria Sue writes about "the scar".
Kane and Danny have brutal backstories. They have a lot of issues between them including PTSD, touch and trust. There's a lot of angst in the book. Violence. Edge of the seat tension. The Blurb does not really adequately describe the horrors in the book. And there's no warning content in the ARC. Hopefully one will be added.
The Kane and Danny romance was a bit problematic for me. It went from "I hate/distrust you" to sharing orgasms pretty quick. A day, or two, maybe? Admittedly, it was a steamy encounter. I try to avoid prison stories as I'm not a raw and gritty reader. But it was a VS story and I gave it a read. Pacing and worldbuilding were good.
A quick read. Two or three tissues read. I did enjoy the ending. But I'm gonna have to say, I'm not quite ready to read further into the series.
I received an advanced copy of this book from GRR and this is my review.
Kane and Danny have brutal backstories. They have a lot of issues between them including PTSD, touch and trust. There's a lot of angst in the book. Violence. Edge of the seat tension. The Blurb does not really adequately describe the horrors in the book. And there's no warning content in the ARC. Hopefully one will be added.
The Kane and Danny romance was a bit problematic for me. It went from "I hate/distrust you" to sharing orgasms pretty quick. A day, or two, maybe? Admittedly, it was a steamy encounter. I try to avoid prison stories as I'm not a raw and gritty reader. But it was a VS story and I gave it a read. Pacing and worldbuilding were good.
A quick read. Two or three tissues read. I did enjoy the ending. But I'm gonna have to say, I'm not quite ready to read further into the series.
I received an advanced copy of this book from GRR and this is my review.
April 1, 2025
I would like to thank GRR for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
Ok ok ok ok ok this was pretty wild ngl! For my very first Victoria Sue -and my introduction to her Enhanced world- this dynamic Book 1 knocked it out of the park! I was hooked on the well-written narrative from start to finish. The characters had so much depth and feeling that i was invested to the teeth, and ALL my emotions were BIG for all of them because of how fully seated they were!
The pace, the plot, the discourse on discrimination and prejudice in the system and society, the kicks in the chest, the heroism and sacrifices, and all the vulnerability on display was just the kind of impactful reading experience i love in an SF/PNR story! That high-octane, super emotional ending was EVERYTHING to me and i think i`ve only JUST caught my breath. Heart palpitations from reading is, without a doubt, the best shout possible!
One Step Sideways was a riveting opener to the Enhanced World Security series, and i'm VERY eager to demolish All of Me because if it's as thrilling and as moving as this installment was, Book 2 will 100% be a winner for me! Can't wait!!
Ok ok ok ok ok this was pretty wild ngl! For my very first Victoria Sue -and my introduction to her Enhanced world- this dynamic Book 1 knocked it out of the park! I was hooked on the well-written narrative from start to finish. The characters had so much depth and feeling that i was invested to the teeth, and ALL my emotions were BIG for all of them because of how fully seated they were!
The pace, the plot, the discourse on discrimination and prejudice in the system and society, the kicks in the chest, the heroism and sacrifices, and all the vulnerability on display was just the kind of impactful reading experience i love in an SF/PNR story! That high-octane, super emotional ending was EVERYTHING to me and i think i`ve only JUST caught my breath. Heart palpitations from reading is, without a doubt, the best shout possible!
One Step Sideways was a riveting opener to the Enhanced World Security series, and i'm VERY eager to demolish All of Me because if it's as thrilling and as moving as this installment was, Book 2 will 100% be a winner for me! Can't wait!!
July 2, 2024
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
One Step Sideways is a contemporary quasi-enemies-to-lovers get-together story from author Victoria Sue. The book is the first installment of the Enhanced World Security series, a sister series to Sue’s Enhanced World series, and it can very comfortably be read as a standalone. For readers familiar with the original series, you’ll likely enjoy some well-timed name dropping for characters from other books. For readers new to the meta series and who enjoy the premise laid out in this book, you’ll love knowing that there are multiple books in this world.
Overall, I thought One Step Sideways was a delightful story, perfect for a summer holiday read. Fans of enemies-to-lovers and superhero-like stories are sure to enjoy these characters. Kane and Danny are a great take on overcoming massive misunderstandings to find true love.
Read Camille’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
One Step Sideways is a contemporary quasi-enemies-to-lovers get-together story from author Victoria Sue. The book is the first installment of the Enhanced World Security series, a sister series to Sue’s Enhanced World series, and it can very comfortably be read as a standalone. For readers familiar with the original series, you’ll likely enjoy some well-timed name dropping for characters from other books. For readers new to the meta series and who enjoy the premise laid out in this book, you’ll love knowing that there are multiple books in this world.
Overall, I thought One Step Sideways was a delightful story, perfect for a summer holiday read. Fans of enemies-to-lovers and superhero-like stories are sure to enjoy these characters. Kane and Danny are a great take on overcoming massive misunderstandings to find true love.
Read Camille’s review in its entirety here.
March 19, 2025
First in series (Enhanced World Security). Paranormal. Coworkers. Hurt/comfort. Found family. Slow burn. Dual POV.
Just released from prison, Kane is an enhanced human imprisoned unjustly for the last 17 years, so when a special job is offered the minute he steps outside he doesn’t trust it for a minute. Danny has a great job and family, but is haunted by how his military career ended, and making assumptions about his new coworker Kane causes some initial problems.
A good start to a new spinoff series, you don’t have to have read the previous series although it might make it more fun as characters from there are mentioned. Danny and Kane were a really special combination, both having horrific events in their pasts, being able to honestly communicate and sharing a deep caring and understanding for each other. I am rooting for all the younger enhanced that we meet and have no doubts about Danny and Kane’s HEA, so this was an entertaining introduction to a new series I am interested to see continue. 4.5 rounded up
Just released from prison, Kane is an enhanced human imprisoned unjustly for the last 17 years, so when a special job is offered the minute he steps outside he doesn’t trust it for a minute. Danny has a great job and family, but is haunted by how his military career ended, and making assumptions about his new coworker Kane causes some initial problems.
A good start to a new spinoff series, you don’t have to have read the previous series although it might make it more fun as characters from there are mentioned. Danny and Kane were a really special combination, both having horrific events in their pasts, being able to honestly communicate and sharing a deep caring and understanding for each other. I am rooting for all the younger enhanced that we meet and have no doubts about Danny and Kane’s HEA, so this was an entertaining introduction to a new series I am interested to see continue. 4.5 rounded up
April 3, 2025
I love the Enhanced World universe even though the only other book I’ve read was book one from the original series five years ago, but I’m slowly collecting all the books so I can do a binge-read through all of them because you get so much more backstory to the universe and characters. You can totally read this spinoff as a stand-alone though, because I barely remember anything from that book and I didn’t feel like I was missing out on anything although that could be because I had the introduction to the paranormal stuff… 🤔 but I also don’t remember much of what the abilities were about, only that Finn and Talon were mentioned in here… so, yeah, you could start with this series.
Be prepared for some feels though because it’s not all sunshine and rainbows here, stuff happens but it’s such a good book.
Highly recommend.
I bought this when it was on sale but also accidentally clicked and received a free copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews so I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
Be prepared for some feels though because it’s not all sunshine and rainbows here, stuff happens but it’s such a good book.
Highly recommend.
I bought this when it was on sale but also accidentally clicked and received a free copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews so I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
April 19, 2025
'I didn’t believe in luck. People like me got zero chances, but maybe there was still a tiny part of me that believed in miracles. I guessed there was only one way to find out.'
I really loved this book. It was a great hurt/comfort romance. Good world building and wonderful characters. I loved both Kane and Danny. While both suffered a horrible past, I felt especially protective of Kane. A sixteen year old finally defended himself against his father's abuse and had been thrown in prison and charged as an adult all because he was an enhanced. Finally out seventeen years later and he's still treated with discrimination and contempt. It made me so mad. And I was honestly surprised he wasn't a more angry person because of it. Danny misjudged him, but soon learned there was so much more to Kane than what his record said about him. I liked the way their relationship developed. I also loved a number of the supporting characters.
I found this world fascinating and I was hooked to the story. I can't wait to read more. 5 stars.
I really loved this book. It was a great hurt/comfort romance. Good world building and wonderful characters. I loved both Kane and Danny. While both suffered a horrible past, I felt especially protective of Kane. A sixteen year old finally defended himself against his father's abuse and had been thrown in prison and charged as an adult all because he was an enhanced. Finally out seventeen years later and he's still treated with discrimination and contempt. It made me so mad. And I was honestly surprised he wasn't a more angry person because of it. Danny misjudged him, but soon learned there was so much more to Kane than what his record said about him. I liked the way their relationship developed. I also loved a number of the supporting characters.
I found this world fascinating and I was hooked to the story. I can't wait to read more. 5 stars.
March 19, 2025
Wow. That's pretty much what my brain said repeatedly during and after reading this book. I wouldn't say it subverted tropes so much as took ones that felt somewhat tired and overdone (to me) and...I don't know...twisted them? The enhanced could have been superheroes. They could have been super soldiers. Instead they're not even second-class citizens. On top of that, both main characters battle their own trauma, but somehow their kindness and strengths are exactly what the other needs. Do I sound sappy? Well, that's because the relationship that grew between Kane and Danny had me very much feeling all my feelings. Top that off with a plot that kept me turning pages and a cast of interesting characters? What's not to love?
Fair warning, this is a spin-off (I guess?) of another series. You don't have to have read it to enjoy this one (ask me how I know), but I imagine some things hit harder if you have those details. I fully intend to find out.
Fair warning, this is a spin-off (I guess?) of another series. You don't have to have read it to enjoy this one (ask me how I know), but I imagine some things hit harder if you have those details. I fully intend to find out.
March 22, 2025
Kane and Danny have both experienced a lot of trauma, and I think that's what makes them work. I've read the series that this connects to, and I liked learning about the enhanced. So I'm glad this series will keep bringing us more enhanced humans with cool abilities that find love.
Kane went from being all alone to having a group of friends and family that loved him. Danny found someone who he could trust, and that would fight beside him and for him. The way Kane put Emily in her place was great. Though, I must say I couldn't believe her and the rest of the family wouldn't know how bad it was to be a POW. It's not like Danny put on some shiny, sunny, carefree life's amazing mask. And, there's enough stories out there that tell us horrific accounts of soldiers who were POWs. I just found that entire family drama ridiculous.
Obviously, since I'm giving this 4 stars instead of 5, I felt there was room for improvement. However, I do think it's worth recommending.
Kane went from being all alone to having a group of friends and family that loved him. Danny found someone who he could trust, and that would fight beside him and for him. The way Kane put Emily in her place was great. Though, I must say I couldn't believe her and the rest of the family wouldn't know how bad it was to be a POW. It's not like Danny put on some shiny, sunny, carefree life's amazing mask. And, there's enough stories out there that tell us horrific accounts of soldiers who were POWs. I just found that entire family drama ridiculous.
Obviously, since I'm giving this 4 stars instead of 5, I felt there was room for improvement. However, I do think it's worth recommending.
March 30, 2025
Even though this is a spin off from the Enhanced series, I think that the world building in this book means that it makes sense without having read the other series first. There's a lot going on and all of the characters are really well developed. Kane has had a rough lot in life and Danny was well suited to him because he'd faced (and survived) a lot of trauma too. Although they get off to a rocky start, I liked how they found common ground and how things then developed between them. The plot was engaging and I found it interesting to get so many glimpses of different enhanced talents too. I loved how protective Kane was and it was good to see him come into his own with more confidence. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series where we hopefully learn some more about who's behind things (and enjoy another couple's journey to their HEA too!).
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
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