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Unbreakable Bonds #1
Shiver
Listening Length 10 hours and 46 minutes
Lucas Vallois is always in control. He’s building an empire in the glittering city of Cincinnati and created his own family from his three close friends. The self-made millionaire has everything he wants within his tight grasp. But his world starts to crumble after he’s jumped by a trio of thugs late one night after leaving a club. The warning is clear—give up his new property venture or end up dead.
Caving to the demands of his friends, Lucas accepts the help of bodyguard, Andrei Hadeon, as as he hunts for the source of this new threat. But as Lucas gets closer to uncovering the danger, he realizes the sexy Romanian bodyguard poses an even bigger risk to his carefully constructed world. Trapped by a need he never expected, Lucas must find a way to deny the shiver of longing he cannot control.
His brother. His warrior. His heart. Four friends. Unbreakable bonds.
Lucas Vallois is always in control. He’s building an empire in the glittering city of Cincinnati and created his own family from his three close friends. The self-made millionaire has everything he wants within his tight grasp. But his world starts to crumble after he’s jumped by a trio of thugs late one night after leaving a club. The warning is clear—give up his new property venture or end up dead.
Caving to the demands of his friends, Lucas accepts the help of bodyguard, Andrei Hadeon, as as he hunts for the source of this new threat. But as Lucas gets closer to uncovering the danger, he realizes the sexy Romanian bodyguard poses an even bigger risk to his carefully constructed world. Trapped by a need he never expected, Lucas must find a way to deny the shiver of longing he cannot control.
His brother. His warrior. His heart. Four friends. Unbreakable bonds.
11 pages, Audible Audio
First published October 27, 2015
904 people are currently reading
3700 people want to read
About the author
Jocelynn Drake
141 books2,890 followersNew York Times Bestselling author Jocelynn Drake loves a good story, whether she is reading it or writing one of her own. Over the years, her stories have allowed her to explore space, talk to dragons, dodge bullets with assassins, hang with vampires, and fall in love again and again.
This former Kentucky girl has moved up, down, and across the U.S. with her husband. Recently, they’ve settled near the Rockies.
When she is not hammering away at her keyboard or curled up with a book, she can be
walking her dog Ace, or playing video games. She loves Bruce Wayne, Ezio Auditore, travel, tattoos, explosions, and fast cars.
She is the author of the urban fantasy books: The Dark Days series and the Asylum Tales. For gay romance, she has completed The Exit Strategy and Shadow Elite series, and is now working on a spin-off of her MM paranormal series, Lords of Discord. She has also co-authored with Rinda Elliot the following series: Unbreakable Bonds, Ward Security, Pineapple Grove, the Weavers Circle. In addition, she has co-authored with AJ Sherwood the following series: Scales 'N' Spell and Wings 'N' Wands. She can be found at JocelynnDrake.com.
This former Kentucky girl has moved up, down, and across the U.S. with her husband. Recently, they’ve settled near the Rockies.
When she is not hammering away at her keyboard or curled up with a book, she can be
walking her dog Ace, or playing video games. She loves Bruce Wayne, Ezio Auditore, travel, tattoos, explosions, and fast cars.
She is the author of the urban fantasy books: The Dark Days series and the Asylum Tales. For gay romance, she has completed The Exit Strategy and Shadow Elite series, and is now working on a spin-off of her MM paranormal series, Lords of Discord. She has also co-authored with Rinda Elliot the following series: Unbreakable Bonds, Ward Security, Pineapple Grove, the Weavers Circle. In addition, she has co-authored with AJ Sherwood the following series: Scales 'N' Spell and Wings 'N' Wands. She can be found at JocelynnDrake.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 773 reviews
May 14, 2017
3.75 Stars
LOVE the friendships between these guys.
I could have gone for such a strong connection between the love interests...but it was still nice.
Will definitely read more in this series.
LOVE the friendships between these guys.
I could have gone for such a strong connection between the love interests...but it was still nice.
Will definitely read more in this series.
June 9, 2022
Reread via Audiobook June 2022
Audiobook - 4 stars
Story - still freaking loved this over the top story.
*******************************************
“I want names. Everyone who touched you.”
Andrei couldn’t stop his grin. “Why?”
“To kill them.”
5+++++++ stars
“Do it,” he pressed. “Please.”
Andrei rattled something off, the foreign words wrapped in his deep voice, so they sounded incredibly sexy and inviting. Lucas pulled back to look Andrei in the eye. “What did you say?”
“Your monkey has stolen my bicycle.”
Yay! I finally did it! i made it to the end and LOVED it!
Obviously i am way late to this party, because of some reading mood swings, it's not even funny. But i am now fully invested.
I will keep this review short. So many fab reviews have been written about this series.
-I loved every fucking word.
-Lucas and Andrei had some serious chemistry and the UST had my stomach flip-floping and wondering will they? or will they not.
- The bond between Lucas, Snow, Rowe and Ian was so strong and i kinda wished one of them. I could feel it while reading.
- These guys are super CRAZY and i love them.
-The mystery/suspense kept me engaged and it was satisfying that i didn't know the perp until he was revealed. Then i sort of felt stupid for not figuring out.
- The intimate scenes between Andrei and Lucas were so hot! and sizzling, the sex damn! And Andrei is a Butt-Virgin, Lawd! that was a plus.
When Lucas relaxed his hold, Andrei dipped his head, grabbing Lucas’s lips in a brief, hot kiss
“I want you to slide your fingers in my ass while you suck my cock,” Andrei’s voice had become thick and warm like syrup, sliding through Lucas’s brain so that he could barely think.
“You’re going to fucking kill me tonight.”
“I’ve got to at least make you work for my virgin ass,” he joked, but Lucas didn’t miss the hint of uneasiness that passed through Andrei’s eyes
-This is Lucas and Andrei's book, but SNOW! SNOW! damn SNOW!
He stole the show. I knew from the first time he was on page that he was going to be my favorite.
-Overall i freaking loved it and every character even the coughing detective Hollis.
Snow baby, i am coming for you.
Audiobook - 4 stars
Story - still freaking loved this over the top story.
*******************************************
“I want names. Everyone who touched you.”
Andrei couldn’t stop his grin. “Why?”
“To kill them.”
5+++++++ stars
“Do it,” he pressed. “Please.”
Andrei rattled something off, the foreign words wrapped in his deep voice, so they sounded incredibly sexy and inviting. Lucas pulled back to look Andrei in the eye. “What did you say?”
“Your monkey has stolen my bicycle.”
Yay! I finally did it! i made it to the end and LOVED it!
Obviously i am way late to this party, because of some reading mood swings, it's not even funny. But i am now fully invested.
I will keep this review short. So many fab reviews have been written about this series.
-I loved every fucking word.
-Lucas and Andrei had some serious chemistry and the UST had my stomach flip-floping and wondering will they? or will they not.
- The bond between Lucas, Snow, Rowe and Ian was so strong and i kinda wished one of them. I could feel it while reading.
- These guys are super CRAZY and i love them.
-The mystery/suspense kept me engaged and it was satisfying that i didn't know the perp until he was revealed. Then i sort of felt stupid for not figuring out.
- The intimate scenes between Andrei and Lucas were so hot! and sizzling, the sex damn! And Andrei is a Butt-Virgin, Lawd! that was a plus.
When Lucas relaxed his hold, Andrei dipped his head, grabbing Lucas’s lips in a brief, hot kiss
“I want you to slide your fingers in my ass while you suck my cock,” Andrei’s voice had become thick and warm like syrup, sliding through Lucas’s brain so that he could barely think.
“You’re going to fucking kill me tonight.”
“I’ve got to at least make you work for my virgin ass,” he joked, but Lucas didn’t miss the hint of uneasiness that passed through Andrei’s eyes
-This is Lucas and Andrei's book, but SNOW! SNOW! damn SNOW!
He stole the show. I knew from the first time he was on page that he was going to be my favorite.
-Overall i freaking loved it and every character even the coughing detective Hollis.
Snow baby, i am coming for you.
June 8, 2021
Forth re-read: 08.06.2021
It took a while to get through this re-read. It's not because I don't like the story or the relationships, especially Lucas and Snow's. It's just that I struggled with concentrating/focusing. I wanted to read but something stopped me from enjoying it. That said, it was nice to see the guys again. Still annoyed that their relationship feel so insta though...
Third re-read: 29.07.2020
While I still like this book, and its characters, I found myself skimming a bit. I think what bothers me is the timeline. It's too fast for me to enjoy their "relationship", I need more slow-burn, even though it is somewhat a slow-burn...
Second re-read: 08.05.2019
I saw a friend of mine reading this one on my dash and I felt the pull to re-read it myself. And I don't regret it. At all. I adore the friendships this book has, specially Lucas & Snow. There's just something so deep there (and yes, I could've (I actually do; don't hate me) shipped them so damn much). Andrei and Lucas a great together. You can feel the chemistry easily between them. My problem is still the insta-love feeling it gives me.
Andrei is Lucas' bodyguard for like 4 days, and the connection is huge from just that (that's the insta-love feeling), and then they go 2 weeks without seeing each other, together less than an hour after that, and then there's a time jump of 3 weeks with no talking between them. So I'm actually glad that the book doesn't end up with them being in a relationship, just casual. Even though it's quite bittersweet since you HAVE to read the rest of the books in the series to see the relationship between the two evolve.
Re-read: 04.03.2018
I still like this story. I like the action, I like the bonds of friendship and I like the connection between the main characters, Lucas and Andrei. I still wish though, that we had gotten more and that the book didn't give me the feeling of insta-love. I mean, they knew each other for a week and the bond was so strong you'd think it was months. So yeah, I still didn't like that. I also wanted a better ending.
Other characters:
↦ Doctor (trauma surgeon), Ashton ‘Snow’ Frost, Lucas' closest friend, the one he sees as his brother. Their bond is quite special. I only wish we had gotten more of their special relationship.
↦ Rowan ‘Rowe’ Ward, who Snow and Lucas met after Army basic training and the three men had been stuck together ever since, and now does security. I don't know if I like him all that much; not my type. We also only met his wife, Melissa ‘Mel’ once, so it was not enough to really get to know her.
↦ Ian ‘E’ Pierce (25), chef and owner of Rialto restaurant (just opened) and the one the group sees as their little brother. He seems adorable and you can't help but want to protect him.
↦ Detective Hollis Banner, seems a bit annoying, yet I believe he's supposed to be a somewhat bad boy? I dunno.
First read review:
Frankly, I'm too damn tried to write a review, so I'm just gonna write this fast. (Self-made millionaire and owner of many properties, has worked his way up to be one of the most powerful men in the city Cincinnati) Lucas ‘Luc’ Vallois (38) and (professional mixed martial arts fighter until an injury a few years ago, now works for Rowe as a bodyguard, and is thoroughly trained in close-quarter combat, a variety of weapons, and defensive driving) Andrei Hadeon (mid-twenties?) were hot together. The story was interesting. The book as a whole was missing a bit of depth that one needs to really connect with the characters, but it works just fine. Not much to complain about expect that damn insta-love feeling. Though the 'L' words wasn't mentioned, it was still some pretty hardcore feelings for the first four days. Overall, it was a alright read. Not the best, but still cool to read. The ending was pretty open, so hopefully we'll get more of a closure of the couple.
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Contemporary Romance (M/M)
Series: - Series, Book One
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Lucas Vallois.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Sure.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Sure.
Will I read this again in the future? - Don't think so.
Rating - 3 stars.
It took a while to get through this re-read. It's not because I don't like the story or the relationships, especially Lucas and Snow's. It's just that I struggled with concentrating/focusing. I wanted to read but something stopped me from enjoying it. That said, it was nice to see the guys again. Still annoyed that their relationship feel so insta though...
Third re-read: 29.07.2020
While I still like this book, and its characters, I found myself skimming a bit. I think what bothers me is the timeline. It's too fast for me to enjoy their "relationship", I need more slow-burn, even though it is somewhat a slow-burn...
⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱*Mightcontain spoilers*⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱
Second re-read: 08.05.2019
I saw a friend of mine reading this one on my dash and I felt the pull to re-read it myself. And I don't regret it. At all. I adore the friendships this book has, specially Lucas & Snow. There's just something so deep there (and yes, I could've (I actually do; don't hate me) shipped them so damn much). Andrei and Lucas a great together. You can feel the chemistry easily between them. My problem is still the insta-love feeling it gives me.
Andrei is Lucas' bodyguard for like 4 days, and the connection is huge from just that (that's the insta-love feeling), and then they go 2 weeks without seeing each other, together less than an hour after that, and then there's a time jump of 3 weeks with no talking between them. So I'm actually glad that the book doesn't end up with them being in a relationship, just casual. Even though it's quite bittersweet since you HAVE to read the rest of the books in the series to see the relationship between the two evolve.
Re-read: 04.03.2018
I still like this story. I like the action, I like the bonds of friendship and I like the connection between the main characters, Lucas and Andrei. I still wish though, that we had gotten more and that the book didn't give me the feeling of insta-love. I mean, they knew each other for a week and the bond was so strong you'd think it was months. So yeah, I still didn't like that. I also wanted a better ending.
Other characters:
↦ Doctor (trauma surgeon), Ashton ‘Snow’ Frost, Lucas' closest friend, the one he sees as his brother. Their bond is quite special. I only wish we had gotten more of their special relationship.
↦ Rowan ‘Rowe’ Ward, who Snow and Lucas met after Army basic training and the three men had been stuck together ever since, and now does security. I don't know if I like him all that much; not my type. We also only met his wife, Melissa ‘Mel’ once, so it was not enough to really get to know her.
↦ Ian ‘E’ Pierce (25), chef and owner of Rialto restaurant (just opened) and the one the group sees as their little brother. He seems adorable and you can't help but want to protect him.
↦ Detective Hollis Banner, seems a bit annoying, yet I believe he's supposed to be a somewhat bad boy? I dunno.
He couldn’t bring himself to admit that he wanted to pitch it all out the fucking window. Break all his rules. Andrei lit a fire in him that he simply couldn’t extinguish. The man made him laugh and feel. He made him reckless and alive for the first time…in so fucking long.
First read review:
Frankly, I'm too damn tried to write a review, so I'm just gonna write this fast. (Self-made millionaire and owner of many properties, has worked his way up to be one of the most powerful men in the city Cincinnati) Lucas ‘Luc’ Vallois (38) and (professional mixed martial arts fighter until an injury a few years ago, now works for Rowe as a bodyguard, and is thoroughly trained in close-quarter combat, a variety of weapons, and defensive driving) Andrei Hadeon (mid-twenties?) were hot together. The story was interesting. The book as a whole was missing a bit of depth that one needs to really connect with the characters, but it works just fine. Not much to complain about expect that damn insta-love feeling. Though the 'L' words wasn't mentioned, it was still some pretty hardcore feelings for the first four days. Overall, it was a alright read. Not the best, but still cool to read. The ending was pretty open, so hopefully we'll get more of a closure of the couple.
“It’s that I’m attracted to Lucas. He’s…”
“Beautiful,” Ian supplied and Andrei glared at him. That word went without saying. “But I think you mean that Lucas is one hundred percent pure alpha. He’s controlling and dictatorial. He’s dominant and there’s no way around that. It’s his comfort zone and I have a feeling it’s the only way he knows how to be.”
“Yes.”
“And you think there can be only one dominant in the bedroom.”
“Yes.”
“And you were sure that that was your role.”
Andrei lifted his eyes back to Ian’s face and nodded. ”
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Contemporary Romance (M/M)
Series: - Series, Book One
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Lucas Vallois.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Sure.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Sure.
Will I read this again in the future? - Don't think so.
Rating - 3 stars.
December 30, 2017
Whhhooooaaaa!!! This book was simply amazing!
I had loved Psycho Romeo, but this book took my love up a few notches into adoration category.
I loved the four friends and their close, sweet friendship. And I thoroughly loved the relationship development between Andrei and Lucas. And I am so short of words to just describe how thrilling the ride was, you’d be better off reading it on your own. I’m just going to bask in their hot romance! ❤️
There were a lot of typos, though, which absolutely angers me every time it happens in a great book. I hate having to mark them, as it disrupts my concentration.
I had loved Psycho Romeo, but this book took my love up a few notches into adoration category.
I loved the four friends and their close, sweet friendship. And I thoroughly loved the relationship development between Andrei and Lucas. And I am so short of words to just describe how thrilling the ride was, you’d be better off reading it on your own. I’m just going to bask in their hot romance! ❤️
There were a lot of typos, though, which absolutely angers me every time it happens in a great book. I hate having to mark them, as it disrupts my concentration.
Read
April 17, 2019Alright. I'm calling it. Time of death: 49%.
Two separate efforts were made to save the life of this book, but life is too short and if I continue reading this I fear my face will end up like this:
Permanently. No one needs that.
Things started to go sideways early on for me, I'm sorry to say. I know many MANY of my peeps lllaaahhaaaauuvvveeedd this story and hopefully you all can forgive my picky bitchiness.
The first thing that started to annoy me was Lucas being bi yet for reasons everyone wants to drag him about his sluttiness with other dudes. He talks about boning both sexes and the split seems to be fairly even in the bone zone. So why are all his "friends" razzing him about fucking dudes?
Then the whole thing with being able to tell someone's sexuality just by looking at them. Is that some sort of superpower that I've never heard of? Because I'm pretty sure no one can tell 100% of the time who's gay, bi, trans or an alien. Unless you're face to face with this:
In which case, yes. That's an alien. And you're toast.
Then the whole beat down by Lucas. Aw hell naw. Yeah, there was a "reason" but it was weak sauce AF. But the thing is his friends took the literal licking like it was nothing but a thing with a chicken wing?!?!?! Then came over the next day after getting choked out to raid the fucking fridge?
These whackadoodles deserve each other.
The final straw was both Andrei and Lucas' fixation on Andrei's supposed "straightness". Lucas keeps putting him off because of it even though they're eye fucking each other 24/7. I'm not even touching the shitty bodyguarding that's shitty.
Anywhat, Andrei pops enough wood to satisfy the Arbor Society for a calendar year in, like, a week. I hope they stay together forever and always if for no other reason than the environment needs them. I digress. So, Lucas keeps inspiring all the wood which makes Andrei come to the conclusion that he must be gay.
So... just the two settings, eh? Even though the one inspiring all the wood is bi? It's just a one hit wonder, is it? Or perhaps he just emerged from the time machine circa 1957 where bi people didn't exist.
Lastly... the sex was moving in a weird and cheesetastic direction, so that, my friends, was that.
Cupcake, party of one, your cloche is available now.
Sorry peeps. #ClocheofShame
Two separate efforts were made to save the life of this book, but life is too short and if I continue reading this I fear my face will end up like this:
Permanently. No one needs that.
Things started to go sideways early on for me, I'm sorry to say. I know many MANY of my peeps lllaaahhaaaauuvvveeedd this story and hopefully you all can forgive my picky bitchiness.
The first thing that started to annoy me was Lucas being bi yet for reasons everyone wants to drag him about his sluttiness with other dudes. He talks about boning both sexes and the split seems to be fairly even in the bone zone. So why are all his "friends" razzing him about fucking dudes?
Then the whole thing with being able to tell someone's sexuality just by looking at them. Is that some sort of superpower that I've never heard of? Because I'm pretty sure no one can tell 100% of the time who's gay, bi, trans or an alien. Unless you're face to face with this:
In which case, yes. That's an alien. And you're toast.
Then the whole beat down by Lucas. Aw hell naw. Yeah, there was a "reason" but it was weak sauce AF. But the thing is his friends took the literal licking like it was nothing but a thing with a chicken wing?!?!?! Then came over the next day after getting choked out to raid the fucking fridge?
These whackadoodles deserve each other.
The final straw was both Andrei and Lucas' fixation on Andrei's supposed "straightness". Lucas keeps putting him off because of it even though they're eye fucking each other 24/7. I'm not even touching the shitty bodyguarding that's shitty.
Anywhat, Andrei pops enough wood to satisfy the Arbor Society for a calendar year in, like, a week. I hope they stay together forever and always if for no other reason than the environment needs them. I digress. So, Lucas keeps inspiring all the wood which makes Andrei come to the conclusion that he must be gay.
So... just the two settings, eh? Even though the one inspiring all the wood is bi? It's just a one hit wonder, is it? Or perhaps he just emerged from the time machine circa 1957 where bi people didn't exist.
Lastly... the sex was moving in a weird and cheesetastic direction, so that, my friends, was that.
Cupcake, party of one, your cloche is available now.
Sorry peeps. #ClocheofShame
June 17, 2023
Reread June 2022
The kissing is still my favorite part 😍
Reread April 2020
Damn...I still love these two so much. I will never get tired of the kissing *sigh*
Reread January 2019
Okay so I might have a problem...I have read this THREE TIMES people in the last 6 months. I just can't help it. I love them so much. And again....KISSING.
Reread October 2018
Yes, I just read this a couple of months ago and yes I reread it. I just love these two so much. And the KISSING! Gah!
Originally read August 2018
Yes! Yes! Yes! This is exactly the type of book I love. Hot domineering alpha who can’t stay away from the guy he’s not supposed to want to keep around. Lord, how I loved Lucas. And sweet Andrei. He was just what the doctor ordered for Lucas.
And KISSING, KISSING, KISSING. Anyone who knows me knows I love me some MM kissing. Give me a picture, gif, book or porn with MM kissing and I’m done for. This was filled with KISSING. I loved every minute their lips touched.
Yes...I love the kissing!❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️
Thanks Anne for giving me that nudge onto the righteous path of the binge Gods with this series. Without you I might still be on the wrong path of leaving this series on my tbr list.
The kissing is still my favorite part 😍
Reread April 2020
Damn...I still love these two so much. I will never get tired of the kissing *sigh*
Reread January 2019
Okay so I might have a problem...I have read this THREE TIMES people in the last 6 months. I just can't help it. I love them so much. And again....KISSING.
Reread October 2018
Yes, I just read this a couple of months ago and yes I reread it. I just love these two so much. And the KISSING! Gah!
Originally read August 2018
Yes! Yes! Yes! This is exactly the type of book I love. Hot domineering alpha who can’t stay away from the guy he’s not supposed to want to keep around. Lord, how I loved Lucas. And sweet Andrei. He was just what the doctor ordered for Lucas.
And KISSING, KISSING, KISSING. Anyone who knows me knows I love me some MM kissing. Give me a picture, gif, book or porn with MM kissing and I’m done for. This was filled with KISSING. I loved every minute their lips touched.
“Kiss me.”~Andrei
“One kiss would never be enough. Not even a dozen kisses stretching straight on until dawn.”~Lucas
“But this kiss. This was tenderness that neither one of them had dared before. It struck Andrei’s heart and left an ache behind that he wasn’t sure would ever go away. This wasn’t about possession, but about Lucas being possessed. It was about surrender and absolute trust.”
Yes...I love the kissing!❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️
Thanks Anne for giving me that nudge onto the righteous path of the binge Gods with this series. Without you I might still be on the wrong path of leaving this series on my tbr list.
February 1, 2017
****4.5 Stars****
Freaking hell! I almost missed this party.
Living under a rock much?
This is book #1 in the Unbreakable Bonds series and book #4 is just around the corner.
So, sorry I am late.
This little gem comes angst free but packed with action and lots of alpha males.
Lucas Vallois
is a 38 year old self-made millionaire on top of his game. When trying to venture and expand his business, Lucas suffers a threat. Against his will Lucas end up giving in to his friends’ pressure to accept the help of a bodyguard.
Enter Andrei Hadeon
Andrei Hadeon is straight, or so he thought. He starts to have serious doubts about his sexuality when he is forced to live with Lucas as his bodyguard. The pull is too strong and soon Andrei realises that he doesn't stand a chance to resist Lucas’s sex appeal.
Besides these two MC’s the author introduces a bunch of secondary characters that come to stay and add to the story. They are all very close and loyal to each other. I must mention their strange dynamic; the four friends have a very unique relationship which the author played in a very engaging and fascinating way. I will definitely be reading the next books in the series because let me tell you: I loved them all.
Lucas and Andrei together were perfect. Great banter and chemistry. I loved that under all the coolness, self-control and against that bulshit speech of I don't do relationships, Lucas was extremely possessive about Andrei. Swoon! So hot!!!!
Lucas could be a SOB e a tad bit difficult sometimes but Andrei always knew how to soften the beast.
Swoon again!
My only criticism is that I wish the sneak peek at the end of the book, was in fact, an epilogue. The teaser is where the guys officially come clean to commit to each other giving me closure and I almost missed that.
Freaking hell! I almost missed this party.
Living under a rock much?
This is book #1 in the Unbreakable Bonds series and book #4 is just around the corner.
So, sorry I am late.
This little gem comes angst free but packed with action and lots of alpha males.
Lucas Vallois
is a 38 year old self-made millionaire on top of his game. When trying to venture and expand his business, Lucas suffers a threat. Against his will Lucas end up giving in to his friends’ pressure to accept the help of a bodyguard.
Enter Andrei Hadeon
Andrei Hadeon is straight, or so he thought. He starts to have serious doubts about his sexuality when he is forced to live with Lucas as his bodyguard. The pull is too strong and soon Andrei realises that he doesn't stand a chance to resist Lucas’s sex appeal.
Besides these two MC’s the author introduces a bunch of secondary characters that come to stay and add to the story. They are all very close and loyal to each other. I must mention their strange dynamic; the four friends have a very unique relationship which the author played in a very engaging and fascinating way. I will definitely be reading the next books in the series because let me tell you: I loved them all.
Lucas and Andrei together were perfect. Great banter and chemistry. I loved that under all the coolness, self-control and against that bulshit speech of I don't do relationships, Lucas was extremely possessive about Andrei. Swoon! So hot!!!!
Lucas could be a SOB e a tad bit difficult sometimes but Andrei always knew how to soften the beast.
Swoon again! My only criticism is that I wish the sneak peek at the end of the book, was in fact, an epilogue. The teaser is where the guys officially come clean to commit to each other giving me closure and I almost missed that.
October 1, 2016
4,5 rounded to 5 stars full of adrenaline and love + 1 gorgeous Romanian character!!!
I am Romanian and it was fantastic to discover Andrei :) while my name is Andreea.
At first it was a little hard for me to get into the story. I thought it was going to be kind of dark, with a lot of fights and mafia.
Well, this book is very different from what I thought. Better.
It has a lot of action, the plot is interesting and the guys were great, each one of them: Lucas, Ash (Snow), Rowe, Ian and of course Andrei - who was my favorite!
Lucas (absolutely loved his name too) is a very powerful man. He is beautiful, rich and he fiercely protects his close friends - his family.
Andrei, is silent but very strong, and he made me love his attitude, his strenght and also the way he needed to protect Lucas.
This is my Andrei - and he is truly a Romanian guy named Andrei :)
The CHEMISTRY was fantastic!!!
I would have given 5 FULL stars, BUT the end of the book almost made me scream!!! I don't want to give too much, so I will let you discover it. But I wanted so much more. Maybe not the L word, but Andrei deserved more from Lucas after everything.
I am looking forward to read all the books in this wonderful series!!!
I am Romanian and it was fantastic to discover Andrei :) while my name is Andreea.
At first it was a little hard for me to get into the story. I thought it was going to be kind of dark, with a lot of fights and mafia.
Well, this book is very different from what I thought. Better.
It has a lot of action, the plot is interesting and the guys were great, each one of them: Lucas, Ash (Snow), Rowe, Ian and of course Andrei - who was my favorite!
Lucas (absolutely loved his name too) is a very powerful man. He is beautiful, rich and he fiercely protects his close friends - his family.
Andrei, is silent but very strong, and he made me love his attitude, his strenght and also the way he needed to protect Lucas.
This is my Andrei - and he is truly a Romanian guy named Andrei :)
The CHEMISTRY was fantastic!!!
I would have given 5 FULL stars, BUT the end of the book almost made me scream!!! I don't want to give too much, so I will let you discover it. But I wanted so much more. Maybe not the L word, but Andrei deserved more from Lucas after everything.
I am looking forward to read all the books in this wonderful series!!!
Read
May 5, 2019
DNF at 2 hours into the audiobooks.
Yeah, this series isn't going to be for me.
So many of my friends are obsessed with these books and these authors, but I did not feel the love. First of all, the narration was awkward at best (painful to listen to at times... Rowe's voice made me actually laugh out loud) and I honestly did not get this story. I was confused, disinterested, and, worst of all, bored. I listened to this one on a long car ride with a friend, and we mutually decided we couldn't take it any longer. I think I'll pass on these.
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February 25, 2018
4.5
Okay, so I started this book back in March 2017. At 47% I paused it, and each time I considered going back to it, I cringed...literally cringed. It wasn't working for me, and I can't put my finger on why. Almost a year later, with the encouragement of my friend, Anne, I read it, and I totally loved it! Now I have a whole new series to enjoy! With the way book 1 ended, I kind of have to get to book 2 real soon!
Thanks, Anne!!!
Okay, so I started this book back in March 2017. At 47% I paused it, and each time I considered going back to it, I cringed...literally cringed. It wasn't working for me, and I can't put my finger on why. Almost a year later, with the encouragement of my friend, Anne, I read it, and I totally loved it! Now I have a whole new series to enjoy! With the way book 1 ended, I kind of have to get to book 2 real soon!
Thanks, Anne!!!
June 22, 2018
SHAKING AND QUAKING
Well, well, well what have we here? I was never expecting to enjoy this book so much so I went in with little expectations. The last time I went in thinking I’m gonna love a book (ahem Try) I was very disappointed so I went in to Shiver expecting nothing and man was I surprised. The book was hella enjoyable and I am so looking forward to reading the entire series. Let the hot man fucking commence.
Lucas Vallois, hot man and millionaire. He doesn’t have many things that he loves in life. His love boils down to his three best-friends and his job. Life is good until Lucas finds himself being jumped on a night out with his friends. In a fight Lucas can most definitely handle himself but against 3 seasoned fighters it’s a bit of a stretch, plus the men have intent to do some serious damage. He gets away (barely) and land in the hospital with some serious injuries. Seems someone wants him to hold out on his business ventures and Lucas doesn’t take threats easily. But it seems his life is in danger and needs to protected, in comes Andrie Hadeon bodyguard extraordinaire.
Andrie Hadeon knows how to do his job but Lucas is making it hard. First he’s got him all tied up in knots, and second he can’t seem to do his job properly. Lucas Vallois is a problem, a serious problem. Andrie has never been this attracted to a man before and it’s messing with his head, add to the fact that he’s supposed to be protecting his body not effing watching and drooling over it. Complicated shit is complicated. Lucas is more dangerous than the crazy situation they’ve landed in.
When I say I wasn’t expecting this level of story telling and enjoyment, believe me because I wasn’t expecting it. A few pages in I knew I found a new series to get lost in and fall in love. I really enjoyed Lucas and Andrie together they were cute as hell, and Lucas’s makeshift family is already the best.
I love the push and pull dance both men do. Is it just fucking? Is it a relationship? Is it just a strong feeling of like? I love that I got to figure it out with them. The plotty device of the thugs trying to stop Lucas’s shine was enjoyable but it was my least fave part of the story. The bad guy reveal had me giggling cus I was like “look at this fool”. While I was a little surprised, his ass was effing amateur.
Overall, really enjoyed this one and am looking forward to the rest of the series. Unsure if Shiver is the authors first foray into M/M and if it is, I gotta say, job well done. While it still has that hyper masculinity that some new m/m authors who predominantly write m/f books possess, I find that I didn’t mind that much and there was a nice balance. These new to me authors have found a fan in me and I am looking forward to reading about my man Snow. I’m Canadian so I can handle the cold 😈
Well, well, well what have we here? I was never expecting to enjoy this book so much so I went in with little expectations. The last time I went in thinking I’m gonna love a book (ahem Try) I was very disappointed so I went in to Shiver expecting nothing and man was I surprised. The book was hella enjoyable and I am so looking forward to reading the entire series. Let the hot man fucking commence.
Lucas Vallois, hot man and millionaire. He doesn’t have many things that he loves in life. His love boils down to his three best-friends and his job. Life is good until Lucas finds himself being jumped on a night out with his friends. In a fight Lucas can most definitely handle himself but against 3 seasoned fighters it’s a bit of a stretch, plus the men have intent to do some serious damage. He gets away (barely) and land in the hospital with some serious injuries. Seems someone wants him to hold out on his business ventures and Lucas doesn’t take threats easily. But it seems his life is in danger and needs to protected, in comes Andrie Hadeon bodyguard extraordinaire.
Andrie Hadeon knows how to do his job but Lucas is making it hard. First he’s got him all tied up in knots, and second he can’t seem to do his job properly. Lucas Vallois is a problem, a serious problem. Andrie has never been this attracted to a man before and it’s messing with his head, add to the fact that he’s supposed to be protecting his body not effing watching and drooling over it. Complicated shit is complicated. Lucas is more dangerous than the crazy situation they’ve landed in.
When I say I wasn’t expecting this level of story telling and enjoyment, believe me because I wasn’t expecting it. A few pages in I knew I found a new series to get lost in and fall in love. I really enjoyed Lucas and Andrie together they were cute as hell, and Lucas’s makeshift family is already the best.
I love the push and pull dance both men do. Is it just fucking? Is it a relationship? Is it just a strong feeling of like? I love that I got to figure it out with them. The plotty device of the thugs trying to stop Lucas’s shine was enjoyable but it was my least fave part of the story. The bad guy reveal had me giggling cus I was like “look at this fool”. While I was a little surprised, his ass was effing amateur.
Overall, really enjoyed this one and am looking forward to the rest of the series. Unsure if Shiver is the authors first foray into M/M and if it is, I gotta say, job well done. While it still has that hyper masculinity that some new m/m authors who predominantly write m/f books possess, I find that I didn’t mind that much and there was a nice balance. These new to me authors have found a fan in me and I am looking forward to reading about my man Snow. I’m Canadian so I can handle the cold 😈
May 7, 2020
3.5 Off to a Good Start Stars
Not bad. Not bad at all.
As per the blurb, you’ve got domineering and controlling Lucas under threat, and though he’s absolutely against a bodyguard, his friends don’t budge on having him protected. But really, being saddled with the uber hot Andrei is barely a hardship. Of course sparks fly, and for the first time, Lucas starts to break all of his rules, and Andrei starts to question his sexuality as he’s drawn to the equally uber hot millionaire.
Despite the lightening speed insta-lust, there’s a decent mystery behind the attempts on Lucas’s life. There’s also a good bit of fighting and action to keep things interesting. And there’s some pretty smexy smex going on. Oh yeah.
All in all, this has the ingredients for some enjoyable entertainment - 2 tough alphas who don't know their heads from their asses when it comes to a real relationship, become growly possessive and protective and can't seem to let the other go once they’ve had a taste. Mmm hmmm.
Some might scoff at the HFN ending, but the authors have reassured their readers with a collection of shorts about these two which will no doubt show their lurve. I’m definitely looking forward to that, as well as the stories about the rest of the men in Lucas’s circle. This certainly has the potential for some great group dynamics (as we saw some fleeting fun and funny moments), and I for one cannot wait to see how it all plays out, hoping that in and amongst the sure to come dramatics, we also get some great levity as well.
Not bad. Not bad at all.
As per the blurb, you’ve got domineering and controlling Lucas under threat, and though he’s absolutely against a bodyguard, his friends don’t budge on having him protected. But really, being saddled with the uber hot Andrei is barely a hardship. Of course sparks fly, and for the first time, Lucas starts to break all of his rules, and Andrei starts to question his sexuality as he’s drawn to the equally uber hot millionaire.
Despite the lightening speed insta-lust, there’s a decent mystery behind the attempts on Lucas’s life. There’s also a good bit of fighting and action to keep things interesting. And there’s some pretty smexy smex going on. Oh yeah.
All in all, this has the ingredients for some enjoyable entertainment - 2 tough alphas who don't know their heads from their asses when it comes to a real relationship, become growly possessive and protective and can't seem to let the other go once they’ve had a taste. Mmm hmmm.
Some might scoff at the HFN ending, but the authors have reassured their readers with a collection of shorts about these two which will no doubt show their lurve. I’m definitely looking forward to that, as well as the stories about the rest of the men in Lucas’s circle. This certainly has the potential for some great group dynamics (as we saw some fleeting fun and funny moments), and I for one cannot wait to see how it all plays out, hoping that in and amongst the sure to come dramatics, we also get some great levity as well.
February 27, 2023
February 2023: Audiobook ***3.5 Stars***
**********************
Original review September 2016:
I have a feeling that this is going to be my series...
Give me a book character that virtually screams 'Sex on legs'...
… and consider me hooked.
So, you can imagine what a book where there is not only one, but four gorgeous, smokin' hot men involved, did to my heart. ;-) Actually, it made more than one flip. One man is more interesting and fascinating than the other. And on top of it all, there are even more...
This series is about four men connected by a deep friendship, with a shared past and a similar background, whose loyalty to each other is so fierce, they consider themselves more a family than just being friends. When one member of their little circle is in danger, their protective streak is in overdrive and they try to do everything in their power to keep him safe.
Normally, Lucas Vallois is the one who holds them together, who is their tower of strength. Who cares about all of them. I loved this guy. His personality has so many layers, you could call him a chameleon. Cold and calculating businessman and owner of several night clubs by day, loyal friend and sometimes hot lover, but -nonetheless- lonely by night. When his business and even his life is threatened, he grumpily accepts new security measures by his friends, but wants to draw the line when they force a shadow on him, a bodyguard who stays with him day and night. Lucas was always the one in control and refuses to give it to someone else. But when he meets Andrei, he feels an immediate attraction...
... which slowly but surely turns into something more.
At first, both men are reluctant to give in to their feelings, because there is still the very real possibility that they won't see each other again when the job is done, but they can't ignore the sparks flying between them for long. Phew, and what kind of sparks there were... There is a lot of dirty talk in this book and hot sex and I had to fan myself rapidly more than once. ;-)
Ex-MMA-fighter Andrei Hadeon, forced to leave his dream behind because of an injury, is now working as a bodyguard for the firm of Rowe, one of Lucas' s friends. Of course it's his job to protect people, but he takes his protection of Lucas even more serious – up to the point of placing himself in danger to get rid of the threat -, because even he feels the sizzle between them. He always considered himself being straight, despite of some minor experiments with other guys and has yet to figure out his feelings for Lucas.
I can tell you exactly the moment when I fell in love with Andrei. Guess what! When he admitted to love books. There is something about hot guys reading... I dunno, but I love it. ;-)
I won't go into detail about the story, as to that the blurb speaks for itself, but let me tell you, it was fast-paced and action-packed and had me several times on the edge of my seat. Exactly my thing, so to speak! I have read the second half of the book in one go and was so full of adrenaline that I had trouble going to sleep.
As for me, the ending of the book was perfect. Believe me, I'm the first person who bawls for a HEA and yes, this is more of a HFN, but it makes the book even more plausible. Both guys have known each other just a few weeks and a HEA at that point would be simply unbelievable.
Highly recommended!
**********************
Original review September 2016:
I have a feeling that this is going to be my series...
Give me a book character that virtually screams 'Sex on legs'...
… and consider me hooked.
So, you can imagine what a book where there is not only one, but four gorgeous, smokin' hot men involved, did to my heart. ;-) Actually, it made more than one flip. One man is more interesting and fascinating than the other. And on top of it all, there are even more...
This series is about four men connected by a deep friendship, with a shared past and a similar background, whose loyalty to each other is so fierce, they consider themselves more a family than just being friends. When one member of their little circle is in danger, their protective streak is in overdrive and they try to do everything in their power to keep him safe.
Normally, Lucas Vallois is the one who holds them together, who is their tower of strength. Who cares about all of them. I loved this guy. His personality has so many layers, you could call him a chameleon. Cold and calculating businessman and owner of several night clubs by day, loyal friend and sometimes hot lover, but -nonetheless- lonely by night. When his business and even his life is threatened, he grumpily accepts new security measures by his friends, but wants to draw the line when they force a shadow on him, a bodyguard who stays with him day and night. Lucas was always the one in control and refuses to give it to someone else. But when he meets Andrei, he feels an immediate attraction...
... which slowly but surely turns into something more.
Lucas clenched his teeth. He couldn't bring himself to admit that he wanted to pitch it all out the fucking window. Break all his rules. Andrei lit a fire in him that he simply couldn't extinguish. The man made him laugh and feel. He made him reckless and alive for the first time... in so fucking long.
At first, both men are reluctant to give in to their feelings, because there is still the very real possibility that they won't see each other again when the job is done, but they can't ignore the sparks flying between them for long. Phew, and what kind of sparks there were... There is a lot of dirty talk in this book and hot sex and I had to fan myself rapidly more than once. ;-)
Ex-MMA-fighter Andrei Hadeon, forced to leave his dream behind because of an injury, is now working as a bodyguard for the firm of Rowe, one of Lucas' s friends. Of course it's his job to protect people, but he takes his protection of Lucas even more serious – up to the point of placing himself in danger to get rid of the threat -, because even he feels the sizzle between them. He always considered himself being straight, despite of some minor experiments with other guys and has yet to figure out his feelings for Lucas.
I can tell you exactly the moment when I fell in love with Andrei. Guess what! When he admitted to love books. There is something about hot guys reading... I dunno, but I love it. ;-)
I won't go into detail about the story, as to that the blurb speaks for itself, but let me tell you, it was fast-paced and action-packed and had me several times on the edge of my seat. Exactly my thing, so to speak! I have read the second half of the book in one go and was so full of adrenaline that I had trouble going to sleep.
As for me, the ending of the book was perfect. Believe me, I'm the first person who bawls for a HEA and yes, this is more of a HFN, but it makes the book even more plausible. Both guys have known each other just a few weeks and a HEA at that point would be simply unbelievable.
Highly recommended!
May 15, 2019
Re-read 9th - 10th May 2019.
I enjoyed this more the second time. Probably because I knew I had to pace myself.
Original review.
3.5*
This book has been on my to-read list for awhile and after seeing so many great reviews coming through I decided to see what all the fuss was about.
Now I've just read this book in one sitting so obviously I enjoyed it but if I'm being totally honest I didn't love it like I hoped and expected.
This book, well this series is based around four friends Lucas, Snow, Rowe and Ian and I loved these guys, their friendship and their connection. They are family a new family they've made for themselves and I liked it all including Andrei and Banner.
These guys are hot sexy and complicated and there's so much here to like, the way they react to each other feels natural and well written, there's humour as you'd expect between friends and everything between these flows.
So what's my problem?
It started so well and I was so excited but then it seemed to stall and became slow and I started skimming and I hate it when I start skimming.
The relationship between Lucas and Andrei seemed drawn out, now this could partly be me because I desperately wanted them together and I have absolutely no patience but it seemed to take forever.
The backstory seemed interesting initially but it was obvious who the 'villain' was early on so the ending itself felt a bit anticlimactic.
I'd checked out the rest of the series before I started so I knew the next book 'Unbreakable Stories: Lucas' contained a collection of six short stories following the romantic adventures and misadventures of Lucas and Andrei and unlike the rest of the series it's available on KU without this I think I'd have felt a bit cheated by the end of the book.
There's so much here, such a solid base to work from that I'm looking forward to the rest of the series.
I enjoyed this more the second time. Probably because I knew I had to pace myself.
Original review.
3.5*
This book has been on my to-read list for awhile and after seeing so many great reviews coming through I decided to see what all the fuss was about.
Now I've just read this book in one sitting so obviously I enjoyed it but if I'm being totally honest I didn't love it like I hoped and expected.
This book, well this series is based around four friends Lucas, Snow, Rowe and Ian and I loved these guys, their friendship and their connection. They are family a new family they've made for themselves and I liked it all including Andrei and Banner.
These guys are hot sexy and complicated and there's so much here to like, the way they react to each other feels natural and well written, there's humour as you'd expect between friends and everything between these flows.
So what's my problem?
It started so well and I was so excited but then it seemed to stall and became slow and I started skimming and I hate it when I start skimming.
The relationship between Lucas and Andrei seemed drawn out, now this could partly be me because I desperately wanted them together and I have absolutely no patience but it seemed to take forever.
The backstory seemed interesting initially but it was obvious who the 'villain' was early on so the ending itself felt a bit anticlimactic.
I'd checked out the rest of the series before I started so I knew the next book 'Unbreakable Stories: Lucas' contained a collection of six short stories following the romantic adventures and misadventures of Lucas and Andrei and unlike the rest of the series it's available on KU without this I think I'd have felt a bit cheated by the end of the book.
There's so much here, such a solid base to work from that I'm looking forward to the rest of the series.
August 30, 2018
I really enjoyed this one, the story sucked me right in. This book is about Lucas and Andrei, but it's not only about them. They are the main MC's, but I loved the supporting characters in this one so freaking much. I've come to the understanding, that they will all be getting there own story...now that makes me really giddy ;)
These books are about 4 really close friends, who share an unbreakable bond together. We have Lucas (protoganist), who is a bisexual, self-made miljonair, and who loves to control everything...and I do mean everything, to within an inch of his life. He is an alpha man in every sense of the word.
Then there is Snow, a trauma surgeon, who is gay and who intrigued the hell out of me. Rowe, who owns his own security firm and is married to Melissa and Ian a younger and very sweet gay chef, who recently opened his own restaurant.
These men would do anything for one another and I loved reading about how close they were.
One day, when Lucas is coming home from a club-night with his best friends, he is attacked by 3 men, who leave him battered and broken in an alley. They also give him the message to give up some of the propery, that he recently bought.
Knowing this wasn't a random attack, Rowe assigns a bodyguard from his firm to Lucas, Big, strong and handsome Andrei. Lucas feels an instant attraction to the bodyguard, but the problem is...he doesn't do repeats. He also doesn't date men. He may be bi, but men are just for sex....having a relationship with one, that's not in his carefully contructed plans.
Since the man is his bodyguard, and escaping him after a hot fuck won't be an option, Lucas will have to keep his lust (read dick) in check.
Then there is also the tiny little fact that Andrei is straight....or at least he seems to be...
Andrei feels an instant spark for the man he is supposed to protect. Which confuses him a little. He has been with some men in the past, but that was only some drunken play, without any feelings or attraction. Maybe he isn't as straight as he thought he was...
The sexual tension between these two men was delicious and of course it was only a matter of time, before they came together (pun intended).
Andrei may not have as much experience with men as Lucas, but he sure knew how to keep things HOT....he had the dirty talk down ;)
While they explore their sexual relationship, the threats increase. There are shootings and notes and things seem to become more and more dangerous... When they find out that Lucas is being targeted by underground fighters, Andrei decides to take up his old job as an underground fighter, to try and help Lucas find out who's behind all of this...
But things don't always go as planned....and now not only Lucas is on danger.
I was really sucked in by the suspense in this story. I only wish there would have been a bit more (intimate) interaction between Lucas and Andrei. These two were very hot together, but they didn't really have a lot of time together. I would have liked for a bit more towards the end. The book also ended a bit abrubtly, and while I understand that there will be more books, I don't think know if will be about the relationship between Lucas and Andrei. For me this didn't feel as a HEA but more a HFN.
I'm really curious about Snow's book....that man was awesome !!
This review is posted on Wendy's Wycked Words
May 9, 2016
***4.5 Stars***
Yes! Yes! And more Yes! A new series to devour!!
This series has been all over my feeds for a few weeks now and even though I try to stay away from hyped books until the dust settles, my curiosity just wouldn't let me wait any longer. And you know what? I'm so glad I didn't wait!! This book hit the damn spot.
What are you in store for?
A story about unconditional friendship. Lucas, Snow, Rowe and Ian share a bond that is evident right from the beginning. You may not know their entire history yet, but you feel the connection they have. Brotherhood. Friendship. Love. It's all there in spades. A romance filled with delicious sexual tension that you gobble up with gusto. Lucas and Andrei sizzled. It was a slow burn that developed into so much more. You felt their pull...the attraction, the desire...the passion. A suspense plotline that's intriguing and keeps you guessing. For me, the reveal ended up being a combination of "dear author, you took the easy way out" and "well damn, why didn't I catch that?" This combo ended up being a plus and minus for me...but the path to get there was pretty satisfying. Scorching hot sex and some testosterone fueled make out sessions. It's all about quality over quantity here...and the quantity may be low to moderate (I really would have liked a bit more) but the quality was damn good! Andrei and Lucas were hot as hell together!Two things kept me from rating this 5 stars.
(1) The book has some editing issues. In addition to grammatical errors, at times it felt kind of wordy. I can't really put my finger on what it was...but there were times when I felt like some fat could be trimmed.
(2) I wish we got more of Andrei's backstory. We're given only small crumbs that leave me hungry for more.
Also, although Andrei and Lucas's storyline is fully resolved...I feel like their relationship ended as more of a HFN instead of a HEA. But I'm okay with that since we'll get to see more of them in the coming books.
And speaking of the coming books....I CANNOT WAIT to jump into Snow's book. A tortured hero? SOLD!
October 21, 2017
4 stars!
I’m feeling really lucky I found myself another great series at least I’m off to a good start. This series is about four friends, Lucas, Snow, Rowe and Ian. They are bounded not by blood but honor, and loyalty. We get a little of their background and see how they came into each other’s lives.
“Shiver” book one in the (unbreakable bound) series is the story of Lucas, who is a rich and successful business man. He suddenly finds himself in trouble and threaten by mysterious enemies. His friends worried for his safety and hire a bodyguard for his protection. Andrei is assigned for the job but when he meets Lucas he feels an attraction to him, which has him confused since his never been attracted to a man.
So this was one was surprisingly good I enjoyed the build of Lucas & Andrei’s relationship. They most definitely had hot chemistry even though they tried to fight it And even though Andrei was the bodyguard I loved how Lucas was so protective of him as well. The friendship between lucas, snow, Rowe and Ian was so intense they love each other fiercely there’s was nothing they wouldn’t do for each other.
The romance between Lucas & Andrei felt realistic to me it wasn’t cheesy or OTT. They definitely had the lust at first sight but they never started declaring undying love for each other. Even at the end of the book how things were left off between them, I thought it was perfect for them. It stayed true to who they were thorough out the book. Hopefully with the rest of the series will get to see them more into their relationship. I’m excited for snow book can’t wait to see him with his hot paramedic in action.❤️
I’m feeling really lucky I found myself another great series at least I’m off to a good start. This series is about four friends, Lucas, Snow, Rowe and Ian. They are bounded not by blood but honor, and loyalty. We get a little of their background and see how they came into each other’s lives.
“Shiver” book one in the (unbreakable bound) series is the story of Lucas, who is a rich and successful business man. He suddenly finds himself in trouble and threaten by mysterious enemies. His friends worried for his safety and hire a bodyguard for his protection. Andrei is assigned for the job but when he meets Lucas he feels an attraction to him, which has him confused since his never been attracted to a man.
So this was one was surprisingly good I enjoyed the build of Lucas & Andrei’s relationship. They most definitely had hot chemistry even though they tried to fight it And even though Andrei was the bodyguard I loved how Lucas was so protective of him as well. The friendship between lucas, snow, Rowe and Ian was so intense they love each other fiercely there’s was nothing they wouldn’t do for each other.
The romance between Lucas & Andrei felt realistic to me it wasn’t cheesy or OTT. They definitely had the lust at first sight but they never started declaring undying love for each other. Even at the end of the book how things were left off between them, I thought it was perfect for them. It stayed true to who they were thorough out the book. Hopefully with the rest of the series will get to see them more into their relationship. I’m excited for snow book can’t wait to see him with his hot paramedic in action.❤️
September 20, 2018
4.5 FUCK ME THIS IS GOOD stars ⭐️.
I’m obsessed with M/M romance lately and I don’t know when will it stop. But I do know is that I’m loving every mother fucking second of it.
I’m finding out so many new books that I never heard before and getting so mind blown.
“Why isn’t this series more famous? Why isn’t everyone reading it?”
That’s basically the thoughts that I’m having with the new series that I found out this month.
“You’ve got the devil’s luck, Lucas Vallois.” He paused and looked at Andrei, a smirk tugging up one corner of his mouth. “And that man has his charm.”
Okay, so this book was awesome.
There was action, sexy times, a very good romance - with developed and they are just great and healthy together, I loved it, like so freaking much, they are everything - friendships that warmed my heart so much, a plot that I had not seen it coming, great writing and fucking great characters.
I loved every character that this book introduced and I can’t wait to find out more about everyone.
This is definitely a series that I will complete, mostly because there everything that I love: a sexy m/m romance that will take my breath away and great friendship (that I sometimes feel like is missing in books these days).
July 25, 2019
To sum it up in one word: inconsistent. Sometimes I liked it, other times not so much. Some scenes were so long I got bored. Long fight scenes, long sex scenes. Others hit the other end of the spectrum.
Insta-attraction. Insta-GFY (or is it Bi-For-You?). The author seeemd to have a hard time with this one. It was hard to buy that over 4 days these MCs fell so hard for each other.
The plot was of the mystery sort, but rather flat and easy to predict.
I liked the interaction of the four friends. Will I continue on with this fabled series? Maybe. Some of the other characters interested me. But there are sooooo many other books on my TBR and even real stacks of books on my nightstand that will likely come before I continue on with this series.
Gotta give it up for a great cover, though!
Insta-attraction. Insta-GFY (or is it Bi-For-You?). The author seeemd to have a hard time with this one. It was hard to buy that over 4 days these MCs fell so hard for each other.
The plot was of the mystery sort, but rather flat and easy to predict.
I liked the interaction of the four friends. Will I continue on with this fabled series? Maybe. Some of the other characters interested me. But there are sooooo many other books on my TBR and even real stacks of books on my nightstand that will likely come before I continue on with this series.
Gotta give it up for a great cover, though!
June 12, 2023
4 Stars
Lucas Vallois is one of Cincinnati’s elite. He’s rich and he’s powerful, running some of the city’s most successful and lucrative business ventures, ranging from night clubs to restaurants, and everything in-between.
Lucas is a very private man. He identifies as bisexual but he doesn’t do relationships, preferring one-night stands with the men he shares his bed with, or uncomplicated arrangements of convenience with the woman he mostly prefers to have on his arm in public.
Lucas has only ever revealed his true self to his three closest and dearest friends, Snow (Ash), Rowe and Ian. Together, these four men share an intense and often complex bond, spanning decades and surviving everything from rough childhoods to shared time in the military. They provide essential support and unconditional love to one another, through thick and thin, and they’d gladly give their lives for each other without a second thought. They’re brothers until the end and their bond is unbreakable.
So, when a recent property deal results in Lucas being threatened and physically injured, his friends rally and rage. It seems someone has it in for Lucas and a few other well-to-do businessmen throughout the city. People are getting hurt, badly, seemingly over unrelated property investments, but before Lucas can come under threat again, his friend Rowe – who just happens to run a successful security firm – immediately details is best and finest employee, Andrei Hadeon, to be Lucas’s personal bodyguard until the danger is contained.
Lucas is none too pleased with this inconvenient arrangement, but finds himself immediately drawn to the stoic and sexy bodyguard, despite his better judgement and his strict rule dictating he steer clear of straight men. But with his gorgeous long hair and piercing eyes, Andrei proves hard to resist, particularly when it becomes clear that Lucas’s intense attraction might just be reciprocated.
Lucas and Andrei grow close fast, especially in the midst of all the escalating attacks on Lucas’s life. All they need to do is work out who has it in for Lucas and get over their seemingly insurmountable relationship hang-ups, and then maybe, just maybe, they can build something together that’s worth keeping. Easy enough. *snorts*
I definitely enjoyed this story. It was kind of high on drama – not all of it logical or plausible – but I had a lot of fun nonetheless. The insta-lust shared between Lucas and Andrei was delicious and engrossing, and the pay-off was even better, but I’m not all that sure I liked where this story ended in terms of relationship satisfaction for me as a reader. It was way more HFN then HEA, so I’m hoping all the sequels and the short story compilations (that have been written since) can provide me with what I need going forward.
My favourite aspect of the story was definitely the complex and intense bonds between Lucas and his three friends. I eagerly look forward to reading on to see what comes from each of their individual stories in the future.
Lucas Vallois is one of Cincinnati’s elite. He’s rich and he’s powerful, running some of the city’s most successful and lucrative business ventures, ranging from night clubs to restaurants, and everything in-between.
Lucas is a very private man. He identifies as bisexual but he doesn’t do relationships, preferring one-night stands with the men he shares his bed with, or uncomplicated arrangements of convenience with the woman he mostly prefers to have on his arm in public.
Lucas has only ever revealed his true self to his three closest and dearest friends, Snow (Ash), Rowe and Ian. Together, these four men share an intense and often complex bond, spanning decades and surviving everything from rough childhoods to shared time in the military. They provide essential support and unconditional love to one another, through thick and thin, and they’d gladly give their lives for each other without a second thought. They’re brothers until the end and their bond is unbreakable.
So, when a recent property deal results in Lucas being threatened and physically injured, his friends rally and rage. It seems someone has it in for Lucas and a few other well-to-do businessmen throughout the city. People are getting hurt, badly, seemingly over unrelated property investments, but before Lucas can come under threat again, his friend Rowe – who just happens to run a successful security firm – immediately details is best and finest employee, Andrei Hadeon, to be Lucas’s personal bodyguard until the danger is contained.
Lucas is none too pleased with this inconvenient arrangement, but finds himself immediately drawn to the stoic and sexy bodyguard, despite his better judgement and his strict rule dictating he steer clear of straight men. But with his gorgeous long hair and piercing eyes, Andrei proves hard to resist, particularly when it becomes clear that Lucas’s intense attraction might just be reciprocated.
Lucas and Andrei grow close fast, especially in the midst of all the escalating attacks on Lucas’s life. All they need to do is work out who has it in for Lucas and get over their seemingly insurmountable relationship hang-ups, and then maybe, just maybe, they can build something together that’s worth keeping. Easy enough. *snorts*
I definitely enjoyed this story. It was kind of high on drama – not all of it logical or plausible – but I had a lot of fun nonetheless. The insta-lust shared between Lucas and Andrei was delicious and engrossing, and the pay-off was even better, but I’m not all that sure I liked where this story ended in terms of relationship satisfaction for me as a reader. It was way more HFN then HEA, so I’m hoping all the sequels and the short story compilations (that have been written since) can provide me with what I need going forward.
My favourite aspect of the story was definitely the complex and intense bonds between Lucas and his three friends. I eagerly look forward to reading on to see what comes from each of their individual stories in the future.
April 26, 2023
I have never read male friendships like this. They were sensitive, emotional yet also very masculine. More what I’d consider “European man” vs “American man.”
“The first two mean brother. The second two mean warrior and the third is heart.”
There were moments I wished for a different romantic lead for Lucas (hello Snow?) but Andrei was almost made for him.
Simple premise, Lucas is attacked one evening and needs a bodyguard. Andrei is a former fighter, now trained as a bodyguard, and hired to protect Lucas. Their attraction is instantaneous, both fight it.
I didn’t mind the insta-lust because, well it happens, but the insta-relationship could have used a little more depth. WHY does Lucas suddenly want more, when he’s never wanted to be out as a gay man? Although no gfy here, both men have been with other men previously.
That’s exactly what that kiss had been with Lucas. A searing, blindingly intimate moment that reached down into his gut and threatened to turn him inside out.
Even though this story wasn’t perfect, I enjoyed the storytelling, these characters, the slooooow burning chemistry, and mystery.
“The first two mean brother. The second two mean warrior and the third is heart.”
There were moments I wished for a different romantic lead for Lucas (hello Snow?) but Andrei was almost made for him.
Simple premise, Lucas is attacked one evening and needs a bodyguard. Andrei is a former fighter, now trained as a bodyguard, and hired to protect Lucas. Their attraction is instantaneous, both fight it.
I didn’t mind the insta-lust because, well it happens, but the insta-relationship could have used a little more depth. WHY does Lucas suddenly want more, when he’s never wanted to be out as a gay man? Although no gfy here, both men have been with other men previously.
That’s exactly what that kiss had been with Lucas. A searing, blindingly intimate moment that reached down into his gut and threatened to turn him inside out.
Even though this story wasn’t perfect, I enjoyed the storytelling, these characters, the slooooow burning chemistry, and mystery.
August 7, 2017
3.5 - 4 Stars!
I think if this one had been slightly shorter, had just a bit more steam and focused a bit more on the romance I could have given this one more like 4.5 stars!
That being said, I definitely enjoyed it and am looking forward to the rest of the books in the series.
I think what I liked most about this one was the dynamic between the 4 group of guys - Lucas, Snow, Ian and Rowe. They were fiercely loyal to each other and just had this awesome connection....even if it is on a friend/family level.
This book was about Lucas...and while I found him pretty intriguing I don't think I loved his "love-interest" Andrei. Liked yes, loved no. I found their dialogue a bit cheesy from time to time.
The book kind of lost me around the 60% mark....which just means the suspense aspect starting outweighing the romance aspect. There was some pretty good sexual chemistry and tension in the first half but then it just became more about the suspense.
Still....a pretty solid read and I'll definitely be reading the other books in the series.
I think if this one had been slightly shorter, had just a bit more steam and focused a bit more on the romance I could have given this one more like 4.5 stars!
That being said, I definitely enjoyed it and am looking forward to the rest of the books in the series.
I think what I liked most about this one was the dynamic between the 4 group of guys - Lucas, Snow, Ian and Rowe. They were fiercely loyal to each other and just had this awesome connection....even if it is on a friend/family level.
This book was about Lucas...and while I found him pretty intriguing I don't think I loved his "love-interest" Andrei. Liked yes, loved no. I found their dialogue a bit cheesy from time to time.
The book kind of lost me around the 60% mark....which just means the suspense aspect starting outweighing the romance aspect. There was some pretty good sexual chemistry and tension in the first half but then it just became more about the suspense.
Still....a pretty solid read and I'll definitely be reading the other books in the series.
January 23, 2019
I absolutely loved, loved, LOVED this book and each and every character!
While the main romance between Lucas and Andrei alone made me melt into a puddle of goo, it was the friendship/brotherhood between Lucas, Snow, Rowe and Ian that really made this book absolutely compelling for me, and I cannot WAIT to read the other guys' stories (especially Ian's ❤️).
While the main romance between Lucas and Andrei alone made me melt into a puddle of goo, it was the friendship/brotherhood between Lucas, Snow, Rowe and Ian that really made this book absolutely compelling for me, and I cannot WAIT to read the other guys' stories (especially Ian's ❤️).
November 13, 2018
**** This is an action packed bodyguard/businessman romance, with lots more. Lucas....
and his three friends are family to each other. It's been Lucas and Snow like brothers since childhood. Snow, a doctor, Rowe, has a security company, and Ian, is a chef in his own restaurant. Most are ex-military, and they are tightly bonded and devoted men. After Lucas is attacked and ends up in the hospital, we meet bodyguard, Andrei.
Andrei is a tall, long haired, ex-military, ex-MMA fighter, and now will be by Lucas's side 24/7.
Andrei and Lucas begin to feel a need for each other. There will be many first times for near virgin, Andrei, and Lucas is happy to provide them.
Meanwhile, the attacks escalate, with a fire, injuries to Andrei, and they find out Lucas is not the only target. They need a plan to take down the leader.
Much is happening, and when a folder shows up inside Lucas's apartment, complete with a photo and ransom demand, all hell breaks loose. Our small group of men with deadly skills have a rescue to plan.
Minute by minute excitement, serious expertise, deeply rooted passions, meet with blood, chaos and destruction.
The wrap up has a HFN, with submission and surrender.
Highly recommended.
Jocelyn Drake and Rinda Elliott write a fabulous tale of intertwined men and their destiny. There will be a book for each man, and I think each one will expand on the men's reasons for their fierce bond.
ENJOY !
======
and his three friends are family to each other. It's been Lucas and Snow like brothers since childhood. Snow, a doctor, Rowe, has a security company, and Ian, is a chef in his own restaurant. Most are ex-military, and they are tightly bonded and devoted men. After Lucas is attacked and ends up in the hospital, we meet bodyguard, Andrei.
Andrei is a tall, long haired, ex-military, ex-MMA fighter, and now will be by Lucas's side 24/7.
Andrei and Lucas begin to feel a need for each other. There will be many first times for near virgin, Andrei, and Lucas is happy to provide them.
Meanwhile, the attacks escalate, with a fire, injuries to Andrei, and they find out Lucas is not the only target. They need a plan to take down the leader.
Much is happening, and when a folder shows up inside Lucas's apartment, complete with a photo and ransom demand, all hell breaks loose. Our small group of men with deadly skills have a rescue to plan.
Minute by minute excitement, serious expertise, deeply rooted passions, meet with blood, chaos and destruction.
The wrap up has a HFN, with submission and surrender.
Highly recommended.
Jocelyn Drake and Rinda Elliott write a fabulous tale of intertwined men and their destiny. There will be a book for each man, and I think each one will expand on the men's reasons for their fierce bond.
ENJOY !
======
January 2, 2016
I just flat out enjoyed this. The relationships, suspense, mystery, and hot smexy times...it all boils down to fun. I had fun while reading this and look forward to a continuation of the series.
The story really centers around the unbreakable bonds Lucas Vallois has with his chosen brothers Ash (known as Snow), Rowe and Ian. That's the core. Built around that is a mystery about someone trying to get millionaire property owner Lucas to sell a group of buildings he's purchased in a not-so-desirable area of Cincinnati. When he refuses to get rid of the property he begins receiving threats, then escalates very quickly to a beat down and multiple attempts on his life.
Now, Lucas is a big, bad alpha male and knows how to take care of himself, but even he needs backup. Rowe, who runs a security firm, assigns his best bodyguard, Andrei, to Lucas after Lucas is hospitalized by a run in with three thugs. Lucas is bi-sexual and feels an immediate attraction to Andrei. Andrei, who's fooled around with men in the past when very drunk, identifies as straight, until he starts spending time with uber-alpha Lucas. The man's take charge attitude and demeanor just flat out works for Andrei and they begin to gravitate toward each other.
There a bit of a slow burn here, and it works, for the story. The romance is a small wheel in this cog though, so romance lovers beware. It's definitely more about the relationships between the four men first, the mystery next, and then the romance. Though there's definitely heat and a particular sex scene that was very steamy...
*coughs* Um, what was I? Oh, right. Anyway, I had a couple of little niggles here and there, but not enough to spoil the fun, and even though the whole "romance" is not so much, and there's only a HFN, it was a fun read that I enjoyed immensely.
RECOMMENDED!
Advanced Review Copy generously provided by the authors in exchange for an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
The story really centers around the unbreakable bonds Lucas Vallois has with his chosen brothers Ash (known as Snow), Rowe and Ian. That's the core. Built around that is a mystery about someone trying to get millionaire property owner Lucas to sell a group of buildings he's purchased in a not-so-desirable area of Cincinnati. When he refuses to get rid of the property he begins receiving threats, then escalates very quickly to a beat down and multiple attempts on his life.
Now, Lucas is a big, bad alpha male and knows how to take care of himself, but even he needs backup. Rowe, who runs a security firm, assigns his best bodyguard, Andrei, to Lucas after Lucas is hospitalized by a run in with three thugs. Lucas is bi-sexual and feels an immediate attraction to Andrei. Andrei, who's fooled around with men in the past when very drunk, identifies as straight, until he starts spending time with uber-alpha Lucas. The man's take charge attitude and demeanor just flat out works for Andrei and they begin to gravitate toward each other.
There a bit of a slow burn here, and it works, for the story. The romance is a small wheel in this cog though, so romance lovers beware. It's definitely more about the relationships between the four men first, the mystery next, and then the romance. Though there's definitely heat and a particular sex scene that was very steamy...
*coughs* Um, what was I? Oh, right. Anyway, I had a couple of little niggles here and there, but not enough to spoil the fun, and even though the whole "romance" is not so much, and there's only a HFN, it was a fun read that I enjoyed immensely.
RECOMMENDED!
Advanced Review Copy generously provided by the authors in exchange for an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
March 14, 2016
I'd like the second book now please?
First off thanks to my friend Ange for encouraging me to read this one. 'Shiver' is book one in the series 'Unbreakable Bonds' by Jocelynn Drake & Rinda Elliott. For me this was one hella' good start to a series.
At the heart of the series we have four friends...brothers of the heart. Lucas a self made millionaire and the foundation for his brothers, the glue that helps keep them together. Rowe a security specialist who'd rather be in the middle of the action than anywhere else, Dr. Ashton 'Snow' Frost a man who's all ice on the outside and barely holding it together on the inside most days and Ian, he came to this family late but his sweet disposition and his amazing cooking skills are just what these men need to help keep them balanced and establish him as the little brother in this group of alpha males.
In Shiver we get to meet this group for the first time and find out what happens when one of their own is threatened. Lucas has plans for the city of Cincinnati and as he starts to put his plans into action someone makes it known that they don't like his plans and he needs to sale his recently acquired property and stop only Lucas doesn't scare that easily, but he does cave when his friends insist he have a body guard. Enter Andrei Hadeon, bodyguard extraordinaire. He's the best Rowe has. Problem is while Andrei is guarding Lucas's body who's going to guard Lucas's heart from Andrei?
I very much enjoyed the mystery that this story centered around I'm usually reasonably good at figuring out who-done-it in a story and while I had a couple of strong hunches it wasn't until the very end that things were confirmed. Layer in a slow burn on the romance with glimpses at the secondary characters who will figure more prominently in future books and I'm a happy, happy girl.
The only thing that niggled at me and kept me from giving this story 5 stars was the ending. For me it just needed a little bit more. It felt just a bit to abrupt and in comparison to how the rest of the book flowed. it was more of a HFN and I really wanted to feel like it was an HEA for these two guys, however, there was nothing hanging over the cliff at the end of this so that was a good thing too. Also I almost forgot to mention the cover. I do appreciate a good cover and for me this cover was excellent.
Now if we could just skip ahead to April. I'd like book 2 now, you see it's about Dr. Ashton (Snow) Frost and I've already decided I like him...a lot!!! I knew this at the 3% mark of this story and I haven't changed my mind....April? Is it April yet?
First off thanks to my friend Ange for encouraging me to read this one. 'Shiver' is book one in the series 'Unbreakable Bonds' by Jocelynn Drake & Rinda Elliott. For me this was one hella' good start to a series.
At the heart of the series we have four friends...brothers of the heart. Lucas a self made millionaire and the foundation for his brothers, the glue that helps keep them together. Rowe a security specialist who'd rather be in the middle of the action than anywhere else, Dr. Ashton 'Snow' Frost a man who's all ice on the outside and barely holding it together on the inside most days and Ian, he came to this family late but his sweet disposition and his amazing cooking skills are just what these men need to help keep them balanced and establish him as the little brother in this group of alpha males.
In Shiver we get to meet this group for the first time and find out what happens when one of their own is threatened. Lucas has plans for the city of Cincinnati and as he starts to put his plans into action someone makes it known that they don't like his plans and he needs to sale his recently acquired property and stop only Lucas doesn't scare that easily, but he does cave when his friends insist he have a body guard. Enter Andrei Hadeon, bodyguard extraordinaire. He's the best Rowe has. Problem is while Andrei is guarding Lucas's body who's going to guard Lucas's heart from Andrei?
I very much enjoyed the mystery that this story centered around I'm usually reasonably good at figuring out who-done-it in a story and while I had a couple of strong hunches it wasn't until the very end that things were confirmed. Layer in a slow burn on the romance with glimpses at the secondary characters who will figure more prominently in future books and I'm a happy, happy girl.
The only thing that niggled at me and kept me from giving this story 5 stars was the ending. For me it just needed a little bit more. It felt just a bit to abrupt and in comparison to how the rest of the book flowed. it was more of a HFN and I really wanted to feel like it was an HEA for these two guys, however, there was nothing hanging over the cliff at the end of this so that was a good thing too. Also I almost forgot to mention the cover. I do appreciate a good cover and for me this cover was excellent.
Now if we could just skip ahead to April. I'd like book 2 now, you see it's about Dr. Ashton (Snow) Frost and I've already decided I like him...a lot!!! I knew this at the 3% mark of this story and I haven't changed my mind....April? Is it April yet?
April 19, 2020
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ 5 shivertastic stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Re-read 2020
My original review still stands and I am crushing more on Hollis Banner after this, I forgot he was in this quite a bit. I have read this complete series and Andrei Hadeon is my No1 guy 😍.
2017 review
Scrolling through my newsfeed on here last month I came across Wendy's updates for Devour and I was curious about the Unbelievable Bonds series when I checked I already had Shiver on my to read shelf since August 2016, one question I need to ask myself is
WHY THE HELL DID I NOT READ THIS SERIES SOONER
I loved EVERYTHING about Shiver.
The bonds of friendships between Lucas, Snow, Rowe and Ian how they are so close in the touchy-feely way I found this to be beautiful
I loved the banter and teasing between them all and how they are protective of Ian when Detective Banner looks at him.
The relationship between Lucas and Andrei, the instant sexual attraction / tension / chemistry and with all the flirting made this a hot read before they even got physical and when they did my kindle was burning up in my hand.
I loved the action / mystery element to the story this was different to my usual m/m reads.
I was hooked from the first page till the last. I felt so many emotions while reading this and I was so scared for Andrei.
I cannot wait to continue this series and get to know everyone better and discover what the future has in store for the gang, I know it will be tough especially for Rowe.
Re-read 2020
My original review still stands and I am crushing more on Hollis Banner after this, I forgot he was in this quite a bit. I have read this complete series and Andrei Hadeon is my No1 guy 😍.
2017 review
Scrolling through my newsfeed on here last month I came across Wendy's updates for Devour and I was curious about the Unbelievable Bonds series when I checked I already had Shiver on my to read shelf since August 2016, one question I need to ask myself is
WHY THE HELL DID I NOT READ THIS SERIES SOONER
I loved EVERYTHING about Shiver.
The bonds of friendships between Lucas, Snow, Rowe and Ian how they are so close in the touchy-feely way I found this to be beautiful
Snow was sprawled on the couch with Ian half on his lap. The younger man had his ankles crossed on the back of the seat as he snuggled into the doctor’s lap and held up bites of…
I loved the banter and teasing between them all and how they are protective of Ian when Detective Banner looks at him.
The relationship between Lucas and Andrei, the instant sexual attraction / tension / chemistry and with all the flirting made this a hot read before they even got physical and when they did my kindle was burning up in my hand.
I loved the action / mystery element to the story this was different to my usual m/m reads.
I was hooked from the first page till the last. I felt so many emotions while reading this and I was so scared for Andrei.
I cannot wait to continue this series and get to know everyone better and discover what the future has in store for the gang, I know it will be tough especially for Rowe.
August 12, 2018
This should have been a 5 star read but the lack of backstory left a lot to be desired. Their pasts were alluded to that really ought to have been fleshed out, it left me confused and wondering if I had started mid series. Why was Lucas so anti commitment? What were the problems in his past that made him the man he is? Why does he have trust issues? Wheres his family? And on and on. That's just sloppy writing and such a damn shame as this let down what should have been a fantastic read.
Less of Lucas pushing away and behaving like an effing prepubescent kid and more details on his past would've made this a winner.
Less of Lucas pushing away and behaving like an effing prepubescent kid and more details on his past would've made this a winner.
May 7, 2016
RATING: 4.5 "His brother. His warrior. His heart." Hearts!! :D
May 30, 2019
Second time with this book. This time via audiobook with Kenneth Obi narrating. Wow!!! What a difference!! I really liked it the second time around. I’m not sure if I was in a crappy mood when I first read it or if Kenneth’s narration added MORE to the book. Either way, I enjoyed it MUCH MORE! Although the insta attraction was still there, it wasn’t insta love and it felt more believable. I’m upping to 3.7 stars!!
Original review:
OK.
To sum it up in one word: inconsistent. Sometimes I liked it, other times not so much. Some scenes were so long I got bored. Long fight scenes, long sex scenes. Others hit the other end of the spectrum.
Insta-attraction. Insta-GFY (or is it Bi-For-You?). The author seeemd to have a hard time with this one. It was hard to buy that over 4 days these MCs fell so hard for each other.
The plot was of the mystery sort, but rather flat and easy to predict.
I liked the interaction of the four friends. Will I continue on with this fabled series? Maybe. Some of the other characters interested me. But there are sooooo many other books on my TBR and even real stacks of books on my nightstand that will likely come before I continue on with this series.
Gotta give it up for a great cover, though!
Original review:
OK.
To sum it up in one word: inconsistent. Sometimes I liked it, other times not so much. Some scenes were so long I got bored. Long fight scenes, long sex scenes. Others hit the other end of the spectrum.
Insta-attraction. Insta-GFY (or is it Bi-For-You?). The author seeemd to have a hard time with this one. It was hard to buy that over 4 days these MCs fell so hard for each other.
The plot was of the mystery sort, but rather flat and easy to predict.
I liked the interaction of the four friends. Will I continue on with this fabled series? Maybe. Some of the other characters interested me. But there are sooooo many other books on my TBR and even real stacks of books on my nightstand that will likely come before I continue on with this series.
Gotta give it up for a great cover, though!
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