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Unbreakable Bonds #4
Devour
Listening Length 9 hours and 14 minutes
Ian Pierce is the chef and part owner of the hottest restaurant in Cincinnati, his chosen family is full of happy relationships, and the scruffy, snarky cop who has been haunting his dreams is one step closer to being in his bed. But everything comes crashing down when the past he narrowly escaped nine years ago comes to a deadly head.
Hollis Banner was enamored of Ian at first sight. He’s kept his distance, knowing the gorgeous, self-confident man is out of his league. Yet there’s no standing aside when Boris Jagger escapes a raid. Jagger's world has been nearly destroyed and this time, the crime boss is coming after Ian and his friends personally.
Hollis will do whatever it takes to keep Ian safe as they escape to a safe house with a couple of Ian's overprotective friends. And Ian finds himself in a race to unlock painful memories—memories containing information that could take down the very last of Jagger's illegal operations forever.
Ian Pierce is the chef and part owner of the hottest restaurant in Cincinnati, his chosen family is full of happy relationships, and the scruffy, snarky cop who has been haunting his dreams is one step closer to being in his bed. But everything comes crashing down when the past he narrowly escaped nine years ago comes to a deadly head.
Hollis Banner was enamored of Ian at first sight. He’s kept his distance, knowing the gorgeous, self-confident man is out of his league. Yet there’s no standing aside when Boris Jagger escapes a raid. Jagger's world has been nearly destroyed and this time, the crime boss is coming after Ian and his friends personally.
Hollis will do whatever it takes to keep Ian safe as they escape to a safe house with a couple of Ian's overprotective friends. And Ian finds himself in a race to unlock painful memories—memories containing information that could take down the very last of Jagger's illegal operations forever.
10 pages, Audible Audio
First published April 28, 2017
377 people are currently reading
852 people want to read
About the author
Jocelynn Drake
138 books2,883 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 400 reviews
April 28, 2017
5 Stars.....Loved it.
To say that this was one of my most anticipated reads,so far,this year is an understatement.I've been dying to read Ian's story and it didn't disappoint.
I might even have to bump Jude and Snow(just a bit) because Hollis and Ian are my absolute favourite couple in this series......they were everything I hoped they'd be.
Ever since he met Ian,Hollis has been captivated by Ian.So when he gets the chance to finally end Ian's nightmares and bring Boris Jagger to justice he doesn't hesitate.But things don't always go as planned and with Jagger still at large the men must think of another way to entrap him.
Hollis and Ian,and Rowe and Noah are sent to a 'safe' house and this is when Hollis and Ian can finally have time together and give in to their explosive attraction to each other.And it was definitely worth the wait.....these two are seriously hot together.
So,with time running out,Ian knows he must confront his past and remember things he's tried to forget.
Ian's story,at the hands of Jagger,was heart breaking to read but he showed such strength of character as the painful memories slowly came back to him.
This is an unique series.A connection between four men that goes way beyond friendship.They find love,experience loss and heartbreak but are always there for each other and,without doubt,the bond between them is unbreakable
A highly recommended series.
Couldn't resist.....want more of Hollis??
An Arc of Devour was kindly provided to me from the Authors for an honest review
These men made his heart beat with strength,with courage...with love and acceptance.
To say that this was one of my most anticipated reads,so far,this year is an understatement.I've been dying to read Ian's story and it didn't disappoint.
I might even have to bump Jude and Snow(just a bit) because Hollis and Ian are my absolute favourite couple in this series......they were everything I hoped they'd be.
Ever since he met Ian,Hollis has been captivated by Ian.So when he gets the chance to finally end Ian's nightmares and bring Boris Jagger to justice he doesn't hesitate.But things don't always go as planned and with Jagger still at large the men must think of another way to entrap him.
Hollis and Ian,and Rowe and Noah are sent to a 'safe' house and this is when Hollis and Ian can finally have time together and give in to their explosive attraction to each other.And it was definitely worth the wait.....these two are seriously hot together.
"You're so goddamn gorgeous,you steal my breath away,"Hollis said,bending to lick the water from Ian's neck."I'm glad the other two left because we are gonna make some noise."
So,with time running out,Ian knows he must confront his past and remember things he's tried to forget.
Ian's story,at the hands of Jagger,was heart breaking to read but he showed such strength of character as the painful memories slowly came back to him.
This is an unique series.A connection between four men that goes way beyond friendship.They find love,experience loss and heartbreak but are always there for each other and,without doubt,the bond between them is unbreakable
A highly recommended series.
Couldn't resist.....want more of Hollis??
An Arc of Devour was kindly provided to me from the Authors for an honest review
This review has been posted on Dirty Books Obsession
June 19, 2022
Reread - June 2022
**************************************
All the stars for this book and this series
“Hey, GQ. Are you okay?” Hollis asked in a rough voice.
I Loved this book hard, I can’t choose my favorite couple anymore, they all are. I will heart them for a very long, long time.
“Ian, you are my home. It doesn't matter where we eat or sleep. Wherever you are is where I live.”
Ian the baby of the family, loving, caring, quick with a smile, an outstanding chef. I have loved Ian since book 1 and I knew his book was going to be a heart-breaking one and damn it was. Ian went through hell, my heart broke for him. I wanted to find his parents and strangle them. I am happy he came out on the other side strong, I commend him for that, and he found love and a family that love him fiercely and will gladly take a bullet for him.
Hollis the cop, already caught my attention from the moment he came on page in book 1. I loved him then and love him even more now. We get a glimpse of his past and find out why he joined Missing Persons. Ian and Hollis are a perfect match. I loved how he was patient with Ian, caring, loving, protective and charming. And he loves chocolate.
The chemistry was there from book 1 and there was no doubt in this one.
The Sex between Ian and Hollis was freaking HAWT! Ian is a bossy bottom.
“I want on top this time.”
Ian climbed off him and stood by the bed to remove his clothes. Hollis sat up, his hands going to the bottom of his sweater. “No, I want to undress you, too.”
“Feeling bossy?”
“Two,” Ian breathed. “Use two now.”
Two slid inside him and Ian saw stars. “Oh, fuck yes!” He clenched around Hollis’s fingers. “Crook them.”
“Oh yes,” Hollis breathed against his neck.
“Ready?”
“Are you?”
“Oh yeah.” Ian lowered himself slowly onto Hollis. So, so, slowly. At first he felt too much, felt the split, felt the burn, and he had to close his eyes. He kept pushing down and when Hollis was lodged all of the way inside him, Ian just let himself feel. Oh, he loved this.
Hawt! Hawt! Oh! and Ian loves to sit on Hollis's lap 😋😍
NSFW:
The action part was engaging, just as it was in the other books. I love that these authors made each book unique and different. There was no repetition, I bet that is why I have loved all of them.
The banter, Rowe and Noah are so entertaining, I was laughing so hard every time they opened their mouth. The two are so perfect together.
Lucas!! This guy exudes Power! I was giddy during his scenes and Andrei and the makeup scene:
Snow and Jude are still charming as always and still in their permanent honeymoon stage.
The code names:
Tinker-fucking-bell
Looking forward to reading more and more and more stories about these Wonderful men.
“To our family,” he said.
Flutes rose as everyone repeated his words and they clinked their glasses one by one.
Nine years ago, he’d been caught in a nightmare and rescued by a few men who’d seen something in him that he might never understand. They’d taken him away, given him a home, and helped him create a new life. A fantastic new life. Together, the four of them had made a family, and now there were four more.
**************************************
All the stars for this book and this series
“Hey, GQ. Are you okay?” Hollis asked in a rough voice.
I Loved this book hard, I can’t choose my favorite couple anymore, they all are. I will heart them for a very long, long time.
“Ian, you are my home. It doesn't matter where we eat or sleep. Wherever you are is where I live.”
Ian the baby of the family, loving, caring, quick with a smile, an outstanding chef. I have loved Ian since book 1 and I knew his book was going to be a heart-breaking one and damn it was. Ian went through hell, my heart broke for him. I wanted to find his parents and strangle them. I am happy he came out on the other side strong, I commend him for that, and he found love and a family that love him fiercely and will gladly take a bullet for him.
Hollis the cop, already caught my attention from the moment he came on page in book 1. I loved him then and love him even more now. We get a glimpse of his past and find out why he joined Missing Persons. Ian and Hollis are a perfect match. I loved how he was patient with Ian, caring, loving, protective and charming. And he loves chocolate.
The chemistry was there from book 1 and there was no doubt in this one.
The Sex between Ian and Hollis was freaking HAWT! Ian is a bossy bottom.
“I want on top this time.”
Ian climbed off him and stood by the bed to remove his clothes. Hollis sat up, his hands going to the bottom of his sweater. “No, I want to undress you, too.”
“Feeling bossy?”
“Two,” Ian breathed. “Use two now.”
Two slid inside him and Ian saw stars. “Oh, fuck yes!” He clenched around Hollis’s fingers. “Crook them.”
“Oh yes,” Hollis breathed against his neck.
“Ready?”
“Are you?”
“Oh yeah.” Ian lowered himself slowly onto Hollis. So, so, slowly. At first he felt too much, felt the split, felt the burn, and he had to close his eyes. He kept pushing down and when Hollis was lodged all of the way inside him, Ian just let himself feel. Oh, he loved this.
Hawt! Hawt! Oh! and Ian loves to sit on Hollis's lap 😋😍
NSFW:
The action part was engaging, just as it was in the other books. I love that these authors made each book unique and different. There was no repetition, I bet that is why I have loved all of them.
The banter, Rowe and Noah are so entertaining, I was laughing so hard every time they opened their mouth. The two are so perfect together.
Lucas!! This guy exudes Power! I was giddy during his scenes and Andrei and the makeup scene:
Snow and Jude are still charming as always and still in their permanent honeymoon stage.
The code names:
Tinker-fucking-bell
Looking forward to reading more and more and more stories about these Wonderful men.
“To our family,” he said.
Flutes rose as everyone repeated his words and they clinked their glasses one by one.
Nine years ago, he’d been caught in a nightmare and rescued by a few men who’d seen something in him that he might never understand. They’d taken him away, given him a home, and helped him create a new life. A fantastic new life. Together, the four of them had made a family, and now there were four more.
March 19, 2025
Re-read again 6/30/18 ... I needed my "Hollis" fix ;)
To say that I love every single book in this series would be an understatement. I absloutely adore this series....but this last book, took my breath away !!
Everyone that knows me, knows I have been crushing hard on detective Hollis Banner ever since he showed op in Shiver...all sick and sniffely <3. I love his humor and the way he carries himself. I just knew his and Ian's book would be the best of the series and I love that I was right.
First things first. I think these books should be read in order, starting with book 1. They have a continuing storyline, so I would not advice to read them as stand-alones. Don't worry if you haven't read the others yet....you are in for a big treat !!
Ever since book 1, we have seen Hollis and Ian dancing around each other. Both interested in each other and both doing noting about it.....the sexual tension was through the roof and we have all been rooting for them to finally make a move !!
Sexy detective Hollis Banner is finally back from his undercover stint and he is worried about Ian. He is also very ready to lay his claim on Ian....
And Ian....well he is all too happy to finally be claimed.....
Boris Jagger is still very much a big threat, even more so in this book.... and the time has come to take him on.....
Throughout this book we get to know more about Ian's past with Jagger and my heart really broke for him. Its also made me respect the hell out out of him, because Ian...he is so much stronger than he thinks. Hollis is the perfect man to show him, how strong he really is and seeing how he treated Ian, made me love him even more.
Their sexual chemistry is delicious and when they finally get together...damn they were so HOT !!!
"You are so goddamn gorgeous, you steal my breath away." I'm glad the other two left because we are gonna make some noice. "
"There is a dirty, dirty boy in me dying to experiment."
But this book isn't just about Ian and Hollis. It's about all of them, Lucas, Andre, Snow, Jude, Rowe and Noah. They all need to come together to get rid of Jagger once and for all. All of these men play an important part in this story and I loved the little pieces we got in Lucas' pov.
I don't want to go into the story much more, because I think it should be enjoyed without any spoilers.
I am a bit sad to say goodbye to this series....I have come to love each and every one of these characters. I am however happy that Jocelynn Drake and Rinda Elliott are writing a spin-off series. I will of course read each and every one of the books in that series.
And I will also re-read this series a hundred times more...especially this book.
"Ian you are my home. It doesn't matter where we eat or sleep. Wherever you are is where I live."
To say that I love every single book in this series would be an understatement. I absloutely adore this series....but this last book, took my breath away !!
Everyone that knows me, knows I have been crushing hard on detective Hollis Banner ever since he showed op in Shiver...all sick and sniffely <3. I love his humor and the way he carries himself. I just knew his and Ian's book would be the best of the series and I love that I was right.
First things first. I think these books should be read in order, starting with book 1. They have a continuing storyline, so I would not advice to read them as stand-alones. Don't worry if you haven't read the others yet....you are in for a big treat !!
Ever since book 1, we have seen Hollis and Ian dancing around each other. Both interested in each other and both doing noting about it.....the sexual tension was through the roof and we have all been rooting for them to finally make a move !!
Sexy detective Hollis Banner is finally back from his undercover stint and he is worried about Ian. He is also very ready to lay his claim on Ian....
And Ian....well he is all too happy to finally be claimed.....
Boris Jagger is still very much a big threat, even more so in this book.... and the time has come to take him on.....
Throughout this book we get to know more about Ian's past with Jagger and my heart really broke for him. Its also made me respect the hell out out of him, because Ian...he is so much stronger than he thinks. Hollis is the perfect man to show him, how strong he really is and seeing how he treated Ian, made me love him even more.
Their sexual chemistry is delicious and when they finally get together...damn they were so HOT !!!
"You are so goddamn gorgeous, you steal my breath away." I'm glad the other two left because we are gonna make some noice. "
"There is a dirty, dirty boy in me dying to experiment."
But this book isn't just about Ian and Hollis. It's about all of them, Lucas, Andre, Snow, Jude, Rowe and Noah. They all need to come together to get rid of Jagger once and for all. All of these men play an important part in this story and I loved the little pieces we got in Lucas' pov.
I don't want to go into the story much more, because I think it should be enjoyed without any spoilers.
I am a bit sad to say goodbye to this series....I have come to love each and every one of these characters. I am however happy that Jocelynn Drake and Rinda Elliott are writing a spin-off series. I will of course read each and every one of the books in that series.
And I will also re-read this series a hundred times more...especially this book.
"Ian you are my home. It doesn't matter where we eat or sleep. Wherever you are is where I live."
June 17, 2021
Second re-read: 17.06.2021
I skimmed most of the book and only stopped for Lucas' parts. That was the plan from the beginning and isn't a statement for the book itself. I just wanted more of Lucas this time.
Re-read: 06.08.2019
I only read this one for the Lucas parts. Seriously, I skimmed/skipped the rest of the book, though I got the most important details of the plot in the re-read. I don't know if this is considered a whole re-read, but I went from start to finish, knew what has happening, and I did it only for Lucas. So yeah, I can't really change the rating or opinion on it as I didn't actually fully read it, because, sadly, I don't really care for the other characters POVs.
Book #3 ended on Thanksgiving, and now it's almost Christmas. This book centers around Ian ‘E’ ‘GQ’ Pierce (27), chef and owner of Rialto restaurant, and the one the group sees as their little brother. He seems adorable and you can't help but want to protect him. His love interest, Detective for the Cincinnati Police Department, Hollis Banner (34), seems a bit annoying, but now that we are on his book, I like him just fine, but I didn't connect with him. Ian and Hollis has been someone you know will end up together, so it's good to finally see it all wrapped up. Hollis went undercover in Jagger’s operation so the potential relationship went on hold. Now months into the undercover things are finally coming to an end. There's also the fact that Jagger want's the group dead. Overall, this book wasn't all that bad, but it was my least favorite in the series, though I adored getting glimpse of my babies (L&A).
Other characters:
↦ Lucas ‘Luc’ Vallois (38), 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. Snow's 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. I kinda adore him. He's hot, sexy, dominant, alpha male. Probably my favorite character in the series. And I love his relationship with Andrei.
↦ Andrei Hadeon (mid-twenties?), 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. He's cool. I like that he doesn't take shit.
↦ Doctor (Maverick trauma surgeon), Ashton ‘Snow’ ‘General’ Frost (37), 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 (my doves).
↦ Paramedic at UC Hospital, Jude Torres (30), the one who finally made Snow feel romantic love. A adorable guy. Didn't like that it sometimes felt like he had authority over Lucas. That didn't work for me.
↦ Rowan ‘Rowe’ Ward (39?), owner of Ward Security and who Snow and Lucas met after Army basic training and the three men had been stuck together ever since. His wife, Melissa ‘Mel’ Ward, died in book #2. I didn't like Rowe all that much in the start, but after his own book, that changed. I didn't love him, but I liked him.
↦ Noah Keegan (how old?), old Army buddy of Rowe and Rowe's second chance at love. Seemed like a good guy and I liked him.
↦ Dwight Gratton, a bad ghost from the group's past, (works with audition away young boys?). Also the one who tortured Ian. Hired by a bad man called Boris Jagger who was Cincinnati’s top crime boss with ties to both drugs and sex trade in the city. Gratton is dead.
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Contemporary Romance (M/M)
Series: - Series (Not Really A Standalone), Book Four.
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? - No.
Rating - 2.5 stars.
I skimmed most of the book and only stopped for Lucas' parts. That was the plan from the beginning and isn't a statement for the book itself. I just wanted more of Lucas this time.
Re-read: 06.08.2019
I only read this one for the Lucas parts. Seriously, I skimmed/skipped the rest of the book, though I got the most important details of the plot in the re-read. I don't know if this is considered a whole re-read, but I went from start to finish, knew what has happening, and I did it only for Lucas. So yeah, I can't really change the rating or opinion on it as I didn't actually fully read it, because, sadly, I don't really care for the other characters POVs.
⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱*Wanted a better ending*⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱
Book #3 ended on Thanksgiving, and now it's almost Christmas. This book centers around Ian ‘E’ ‘GQ’ Pierce (27), chef and owner of Rialto restaurant, and the one the group sees as their little brother. He seems adorable and you can't help but want to protect him. His love interest, Detective for the Cincinnati Police Department, Hollis Banner (34), seems a bit annoying, but now that we are on his book, I like him just fine, but I didn't connect with him. Ian and Hollis has been someone you know will end up together, so it's good to finally see it all wrapped up. Hollis went undercover in Jagger’s operation so the potential relationship went on hold. Now months into the undercover things are finally coming to an end. There's also the fact that Jagger want's the group dead. Overall, this book wasn't all that bad, but it was my least favorite in the series, though I adored getting glimpse of my babies (L&A).
Over the past year, he’d marveled at this tight-knit family Ian was a part of. He’d never seen such a group of men so devoted to each other, willing to give up anything and everything for one another’s safety and happiness. It was humbling.
Other characters:
↦ Lucas ‘Luc’ Vallois (38), 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. Snow's 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. I kinda adore him. He's hot, sexy, dominant, alpha male. Probably my favorite character in the series. And I love his relationship with Andrei.
↦ Andrei Hadeon (mid-twenties?), 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. He's cool. I like that he doesn't take shit.
For the first time, the smallest smile tugged at Andrei’s lips. “For those times I’m not standing right in front of you, reminding you that I’m not going anywhere, I want you to look down at the ring I put on your finger and know that I’m still there for you. That you are mine and I am yours. Always.”
↦ Doctor (Maverick trauma surgeon), Ashton ‘Snow’ ‘General’ Frost (37), 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 (my doves).
↦ Paramedic at UC Hospital, Jude Torres (30), the one who finally made Snow feel romantic love. A adorable guy. Didn't like that it sometimes felt like he had authority over Lucas. That didn't work for me.
↦ Rowan ‘Rowe’ Ward (39?), owner of Ward Security and who Snow and Lucas met after Army basic training and the three men had been stuck together ever since. His wife, Melissa ‘Mel’ Ward, died in book #2. I didn't like Rowe all that much in the start, but after his own book, that changed. I didn't love him, but I liked him.
↦ Noah Keegan (how old?), old Army buddy of Rowe and Rowe's second chance at love. Seemed like a good guy and I liked him.
↦ Dwight Gratton, a bad ghost from the group's past, (works with audition away young boys?). Also the one who tortured Ian. Hired by a bad man called Boris Jagger who was Cincinnati’s top crime boss with ties to both drugs and sex trade in the city. Gratton is dead.
“The sex is superior and we haven’t even begun to explore how good we are at that.”He wrapped his arms around Hollis, pressed his palms to his back. “There is a dirty, dirty boy in me dying to experiment.”
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Contemporary Romance (M/M)
Series: - Series (Not Really A Standalone), Book Four.
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? - No.
Rating - 2.5 stars.
December 17, 2017
All the stars.....
Nine years ago, he’d been caught in a nightmare and rescued by a few men who’d seen something in him that he might never understand. They’d taken him away, given him a home, and helped him create a new life. A fantastic new life. Together, the four of them had made a family, and now there were four more. Each and every man in the room was an integral part of that world. As he looked around and realized that they were finally free of the burden of his past, he could only smile.
This was a fantastic ending to the series. I was dreading reading this book knowing it was the end. But I recently found out there will be a new series with Rowe's security guys which makes the ending easier to deal with knowing that we will hopefully see these men in those future books.
It seems like I waited forever for this book. Ever since we read about the sparks flying between these two men I wanted their book. I think it was best that it was the last one because everything in the books before it centered around Ian and his past. So it was only natural to end it all with Ian and the past that brought these men together. I also liked that Lucas was thrown into the mix as well. I thought it might annoy me that it wasn't all about Hollis and Ian, but it totally didn't. I liked we got to see how things went when he got back and how the fallout between him and Andrei worked out. I also really loved seeing Rowe and Noah together. I didn't really know how to feel about their love but seeing how they were in this book just proved how perfect they are for each other.
EPIC. All of these men and their relationships are. The love and the fierceness of that love that they have for their family and the men they love is amazing. Loved reading about all of them and I can't wait to see what comes next from this author. I know there's more of Noah and Rowe coming and I can't wait to get my hands on that! LOL
If you haven't read this series I highly recommend that you fix that and do it ASAP!
Happy reading dolls! xx
Nine years ago, he’d been caught in a nightmare and rescued by a few men who’d seen something in him that he might never understand. They’d taken him away, given him a home, and helped him create a new life. A fantastic new life. Together, the four of them had made a family, and now there were four more. Each and every man in the room was an integral part of that world. As he looked around and realized that they were finally free of the burden of his past, he could only smile.
This was a fantastic ending to the series. I was dreading reading this book knowing it was the end. But I recently found out there will be a new series with Rowe's security guys which makes the ending easier to deal with knowing that we will hopefully see these men in those future books.
It seems like I waited forever for this book. Ever since we read about the sparks flying between these two men I wanted their book. I think it was best that it was the last one because everything in the books before it centered around Ian and his past. So it was only natural to end it all with Ian and the past that brought these men together. I also liked that Lucas was thrown into the mix as well. I thought it might annoy me that it wasn't all about Hollis and Ian, but it totally didn't. I liked we got to see how things went when he got back and how the fallout between him and Andrei worked out. I also really loved seeing Rowe and Noah together. I didn't really know how to feel about their love but seeing how they were in this book just proved how perfect they are for each other.
EPIC. All of these men and their relationships are. The love and the fierceness of that love that they have for their family and the men they love is amazing. Loved reading about all of them and I can't wait to see what comes next from this author. I know there's more of Noah and Rowe coming and I can't wait to get my hands on that! LOL
If you haven't read this series I highly recommend that you fix that and do it ASAP!
Happy reading dolls! xx
April 28, 2017
4.5 stars
Devour in book 4 in the Unbreakable Bonds series, a series about 4 men who have a closer-than-brotherly, but not sexual, connection to one another. Devour is not a stand alone story, so it's time to catch up with the storyline before Devour comes out. GREAT SERIES, highly recommended!
Devour is chef Ian Pierce's story.
Ian is the baby in the "family". He had been used and abused in a child sex trafficking ring but was rescued by his band-of-brothers years ago. Their evil nemesis, Boris Jagger, is still on the loose and is determined to kill Ian and his friends.
Ian's love interest in Devour is gruff cop Hollis Banner. He is a cuddle bug and has been extremely protective of Ian from the first book. One of the downsides to this book is that there was no real sexual tension between Ian and Hollis because it was all used up in the first 3 books. Their coupling was only a matter of time and the time is now.
Great chemistry, hot sex and real emotions had me falling for these two and I really enjoyed their story.
One of the many things I love about this series is that we get to re-visit the other couples in the first person. This book gives us a lot of Lucas and Andrei. My favorite couple in the series, and actually one of my favorite M/M romance couples ever, is Snow and Jude. We didn't see much of them in this book so they were sorely missed.
Another excellent book in the Unbreakable Bonds series and quite bittersweet since it is the last full novel in the series. We have novellas for Lucas and Andrei and Snow and Jude and I assume we'll get novellas for Rowe and Noah and Ian and Hollis.
Recommended!
Advanced review copy of Devour provided by the authors in exchange for an honest review.
This review is also posted at Gay Book Reviews
Devour in book 4 in the Unbreakable Bonds series, a series about 4 men who have a closer-than-brotherly, but not sexual, connection to one another. Devour is not a stand alone story, so it's time to catch up with the storyline before Devour comes out. GREAT SERIES, highly recommended!
Devour is chef Ian Pierce's story.
Ian is the baby in the "family". He had been used and abused in a child sex trafficking ring but was rescued by his band-of-brothers years ago. Their evil nemesis, Boris Jagger, is still on the loose and is determined to kill Ian and his friends.
Ian's love interest in Devour is gruff cop Hollis Banner. He is a cuddle bug and has been extremely protective of Ian from the first book. One of the downsides to this book is that there was no real sexual tension between Ian and Hollis because it was all used up in the first 3 books. Their coupling was only a matter of time and the time is now.
Great chemistry, hot sex and real emotions had me falling for these two and I really enjoyed their story.
One of the many things I love about this series is that we get to re-visit the other couples in the first person. This book gives us a lot of Lucas and Andrei. My favorite couple in the series, and actually one of my favorite M/M romance couples ever, is Snow and Jude. We didn't see much of them in this book so they were sorely missed.
Another excellent book in the Unbreakable Bonds series and quite bittersweet since it is the last full novel in the series. We have novellas for Lucas and Andrei and Snow and Jude and I assume we'll get novellas for Rowe and Noah and Ian and Hollis.
Recommended!
Advanced review copy of Devour provided by the authors in exchange for an honest review.
This review is also posted at Gay Book Reviews
April 28, 2017
I loved this story! Devour is action packed cover to cover - I didn't want to put the book down but work got in the way. This story will keep you flipping pages and reading as fast as you can, with action and romance expertly mixed and sprinkled with sex, it's a phenomenal ride!
Finally, Jocelynn Drake and Rinda Elliot bring us book 4 in their Best-Selling series, Unbreakable Bonds. This series focuses on a group of men who have formed a family - each of them play their own part in the family and each has a story. We have already experienced Lucas's, Snow, and Rowe's story and now this book focuses on Ian, while also including the rest of the group. This book is not a standalone and picks up following events in book three. Devour is told from a first person multiple POV - however, the reader is easily able to tell who is narrating each section.
Before I talk about the two MC in this story, Ian and Hollis I have to mention the rest of the guys. This series is focused on the unbreakable bonds forged between our characters. "Lucas and Andrei. Snow and Jude. Rowe and Noah. And…now, Hollis Banner. These men had come together and created a family that might seem unconventional to some but to Ian, it was infinitely priceless. These men made his heart beat with strength, with courage…with love and acceptance. They would be married, have children…build a world among themselves that couldn’t be broken."
The deep, personal, emotional connection with each other - the bond that brought them together and keeps them together plays a huge part in this story and the entire series. I love the family these men have formed and watching them accept Hollis, and Hollis learn to accept each of the guys, was a great read! "Over the past year, he’d [Hollis] marveled at this tight-knit family Ian was a part of. He’d never seen such a group of men so devoted to each other, willing to give up anything and everything for one another’s safety and happiness. It was humbling." However, make no mistake - while this group of men may be loving and family to each other they can switch gears in the blink of an eye. Going from loving to a lethal special forces crew, ready to rain down fire on anyone who dares to mess with their group. Such as, Boris Jagger. The battle with Boris comes to a head in this book... a few people don't make it out alive. You'll have to read the story to see who makes it...but that is just part of the fun!
In addition to the mystery and action we have a very hot romance occuring in Devour (trust me the name fits perfectly). If you have read the other books (which I hope you have), you know Hollis Banner as the detective who always seems to show up when our guys are on a mission to save each other and the day. Hollis is a southern boy, transplanted in Cincinnati after following his boyfriend there - after they broke-up, Hollis stayed and made Cincinnati his home. Thankfully he stayed because he is Ian's perfect match. I loved the way Hollis loved and accepted Ian - it was irrefutable and unconditional.
Ian Pierce, his story will shred your heart -- be ready. He is however one of the strongest men of the group. To live & survive after what happened to him. He may not be an ex-Army Ranger but he is made of unbreakable steel with a huge heart of gold. He is also a dirty, dirty boy and a character I will always remember.
The relationship between Ian and Hollis has been a long-time coming, so the unresolved sexual tension between these two is pretty much off the charts as they have had the world's longest slow-burn. Their attraction is evident from the get go...“How do you know I’m thinking about sex?” “Because when you do, your eyes go dark, your lids do this sexy, hooded thing, and your mouth slightly parts. It’s hot as hell. You look hungry—like I’m made of chocolate. And everyone knows chocolate is the best thing.”
“Is that right?” Ian chuckled. “The best thing?”
“Chocolate is life.”
Sex & Chocolate -- sounds like Hollis knows what he likes...maybe Ian dipped in...*clears throat*
During a large part of this story Noah, Rowe, Ian & Hollis are sent to live in a remote house, away from the others - trying to keep Ian safe from Boris Jagger. During this time together they get to spend hours getting to know each other, the good and the bad. Some secrets are brought to light and the guys all get to enjoy living in a small house with 4 sex positive adults - they find creative ways to stay busy in between researching, plotting, and for Ian cooking.
“You are so goddamn gorgeous, you steal my breath away,” Hollis said, bending to lick the water from Ian’s neck. “I’m glad the other two left because we are gonna make some noise.” -- Ian was so ready to make some noise." -- Close your eyes if your bashful cause they get down and dirty quite well!!
“The sex is superior and we haven’t even begun to explore how good we are at that.”He wrapped his arms around Hollis, pressed his palms to his back. “There is a dirty, dirty boy in me dying to experiment.”
“What is it with you and my hair?” Hollis asked, kissing his chin. He could feel lightness seeping back into his chest, making it a little easier to breathe. And it was all because of Ian. “It’s soft. And messy. And I’ve wanted to make it messier since I met you.” Ian tugged on his hair until he bent his head back and he whispered against his lips. “I just want to mess up all of you.”“Do it,” Hollis whispered. “Mess me the fuck up.” Hell Yeah!!
I have to mention that these two authors did an amazing job bringing Cincinnati and the surrounding region to life in these books. I feel like I have actually visited the area after reading this series. I found myself googling neighborhood names, geographical regions, looking at online photos and more while reading the stories. Perfect world building and the imagery was impeccable throughout all the books!
Overall, I. LOVED. THIS. BOOK! If this is the last story of the series - I think it wrapped up everything nicely. If we get more, well I will jump for joy! There are tons of scenes I would LOVE to have written and maybe we will get them...only time will tell.
I do highly recommend this series and Devour will be one of my top reads of 2017 - you really can't go wrong with these books. Lucas, Andrei, Snow, Jude, Rowe, Noah, Ian, Hollis, Mel, and Geoffrey will forever have a space in my favorite characters list and I am sure I will be recommending these books for years to come!
5+ Stars and a Must Read!
4/20/17 Update: I found out today from the authors that we will get more of these characters.. there will be Snow's additional story book which is coming out soon, then Ian's extra stories. In addition, a new spin-off series called "Ward Security" is coming and the characters from Unbreakable Bonds will be in the new series. 😍😍😍 So Happy!!!
Review Copy of Devour provided by the authors Jocelynn Drake and Rinda Elliot for an honest Review.
Finally, Jocelynn Drake and Rinda Elliot bring us book 4 in their Best-Selling series, Unbreakable Bonds. This series focuses on a group of men who have formed a family - each of them play their own part in the family and each has a story. We have already experienced Lucas's, Snow, and Rowe's story and now this book focuses on Ian, while also including the rest of the group. This book is not a standalone and picks up following events in book three. Devour is told from a first person multiple POV - however, the reader is easily able to tell who is narrating each section.
Before I talk about the two MC in this story, Ian and Hollis I have to mention the rest of the guys. This series is focused on the unbreakable bonds forged between our characters. "Lucas and Andrei. Snow and Jude. Rowe and Noah. And…now, Hollis Banner. These men had come together and created a family that might seem unconventional to some but to Ian, it was infinitely priceless. These men made his heart beat with strength, with courage…with love and acceptance. They would be married, have children…build a world among themselves that couldn’t be broken."
The deep, personal, emotional connection with each other - the bond that brought them together and keeps them together plays a huge part in this story and the entire series. I love the family these men have formed and watching them accept Hollis, and Hollis learn to accept each of the guys, was a great read! "Over the past year, he’d [Hollis] marveled at this tight-knit family Ian was a part of. He’d never seen such a group of men so devoted to each other, willing to give up anything and everything for one another’s safety and happiness. It was humbling." However, make no mistake - while this group of men may be loving and family to each other they can switch gears in the blink of an eye. Going from loving to a lethal special forces crew, ready to rain down fire on anyone who dares to mess with their group. Such as, Boris Jagger. The battle with Boris comes to a head in this book... a few people don't make it out alive. You'll have to read the story to see who makes it...but that is just part of the fun!
In addition to the mystery and action we have a very hot romance occuring in Devour (trust me the name fits perfectly). If you have read the other books (which I hope you have), you know Hollis Banner as the detective who always seems to show up when our guys are on a mission to save each other and the day. Hollis is a southern boy, transplanted in Cincinnati after following his boyfriend there - after they broke-up, Hollis stayed and made Cincinnati his home. Thankfully he stayed because he is Ian's perfect match. I loved the way Hollis loved and accepted Ian - it was irrefutable and unconditional.
Ian Pierce, his story will shred your heart -- be ready. He is however one of the strongest men of the group. To live & survive after what happened to him. He may not be an ex-Army Ranger but he is made of unbreakable steel with a huge heart of gold. He is also a dirty, dirty boy and a character I will always remember.
The relationship between Ian and Hollis has been a long-time coming, so the unresolved sexual tension between these two is pretty much off the charts as they have had the world's longest slow-burn. Their attraction is evident from the get go...“How do you know I’m thinking about sex?” “Because when you do, your eyes go dark, your lids do this sexy, hooded thing, and your mouth slightly parts. It’s hot as hell. You look hungry—like I’m made of chocolate. And everyone knows chocolate is the best thing.”
“Is that right?” Ian chuckled. “The best thing?”
“Chocolate is life.”
Sex & Chocolate -- sounds like Hollis knows what he likes...maybe Ian dipped in...*clears throat*
During a large part of this story Noah, Rowe, Ian & Hollis are sent to live in a remote house, away from the others - trying to keep Ian safe from Boris Jagger. During this time together they get to spend hours getting to know each other, the good and the bad. Some secrets are brought to light and the guys all get to enjoy living in a small house with 4 sex positive adults - they find creative ways to stay busy in between researching, plotting, and for Ian cooking.
“You are so goddamn gorgeous, you steal my breath away,” Hollis said, bending to lick the water from Ian’s neck. “I’m glad the other two left because we are gonna make some noise.” -- Ian was so ready to make some noise." -- Close your eyes if your bashful cause they get down and dirty quite well!!
“The sex is superior and we haven’t even begun to explore how good we are at that.”He wrapped his arms around Hollis, pressed his palms to his back. “There is a dirty, dirty boy in me dying to experiment.”
“What is it with you and my hair?” Hollis asked, kissing his chin. He could feel lightness seeping back into his chest, making it a little easier to breathe. And it was all because of Ian. “It’s soft. And messy. And I’ve wanted to make it messier since I met you.” Ian tugged on his hair until he bent his head back and he whispered against his lips. “I just want to mess up all of you.”“Do it,” Hollis whispered. “Mess me the fuck up.” Hell Yeah!!
I have to mention that these two authors did an amazing job bringing Cincinnati and the surrounding region to life in these books. I feel like I have actually visited the area after reading this series. I found myself googling neighborhood names, geographical regions, looking at online photos and more while reading the stories. Perfect world building and the imagery was impeccable throughout all the books!
Overall, I. LOVED. THIS. BOOK! If this is the last story of the series - I think it wrapped up everything nicely. If we get more, well I will jump for joy! There are tons of scenes I would LOVE to have written and maybe we will get them...only time will tell.
I do highly recommend this series and Devour will be one of my top reads of 2017 - you really can't go wrong with these books. Lucas, Andrei, Snow, Jude, Rowe, Noah, Ian, Hollis, Mel, and Geoffrey will forever have a space in my favorite characters list and I am sure I will be recommending these books for years to come!
5+ Stars and a Must Read!
4/20/17 Update: I found out today from the authors that we will get more of these characters.. there will be Snow's additional story book which is coming out soon, then Ian's extra stories. In addition, a new spin-off series called "Ward Security" is coming and the characters from Unbreakable Bonds will be in the new series. 😍😍😍 So Happy!!!
Review Copy of Devour provided by the authors Jocelynn Drake and Rinda Elliot for an honest Review.
August 21, 2022
5 Stars
JESUS CHRIST! This hurt so good.
Immediately picking up where Torch left off, we dive back into the action, drama and romance with this awesome group of men, who are still blindly fighting a known monster, in the form of evil crime boss (and disgusting paedophile) Boris Jagger. The stakes are higher than ever and these men know Jagger now has nothing to lose and is out to kill, putting all of their lives in (more) danger and making them (even more) ready than ever to take this fucker down once and for all.
This group of fiercely loyal men, who love one another like brothers and would do anything (anything) to keep each other safe from harm, must work together to bring Jagger down. It’s easier said than done, but combining all their skills and strengths might just tip the scales in their favour and set them free for life.
Ian has always been at the centre of this Jagger madness. As a teenager, Ian was taken, kept and abused by Jagger and his men, in more unfathomable and horrific ways than one. But he survived. Thanks to his dearest friends, who are by all accounts his big brothers, Ian was rescued and cared for and eventually able to build a new life for himself away from the traumas of his past.
Now that Jagger is making considerable waves and is determined to violently destroy all that Ian and his friends hold dear, Ian must face his past head on, reaching into the depths of his subconscious to recall events and details involving Jagger which might just help Ian and his friends destroy this monster and win the day.
Amidst the fight to stay alive and their sometimes legally questionable efforts to beat the baddie, Ian gets his romantic dreams realised in the arms of detective Hollis Banner. And all I can say is: FINALLY!!!
Since beginning the Unbreakable Bonds series, I always knew Ian and Hollis would end up being my favourite couple among what is undoubtedly a cast of really fucking fantastic characters and romantic pairings. There was always something that drew me to Hollis, the gruff and fiercely protective cop who lived on the outside of the friendship circle, but it was Ian, with his pure sweetness and undeniable strength of character in the face of tremendous past trauma, that always made him my absolute favourite character across the series. And finally getting to Ian’s story and seeing these two get together, after a loooong year of built-up attraction and mutual pining: just, WOW!!
Much like the rest of the series, this story continued with the action-packed pacing, fantastic writing and brilliant character development. There literally isn’t a single aspect of this story (or the stories before it) that I would change. For a book to make me laugh uproariously one moment, cry uncontrollable tears the next, and then have me gripping the edge of my blankie for comfort during times of intense drama and action, I have to tip my imaginary hat to Drake and Elliott, because this was a rollercoaster thrill ride of a lifetime and I loved every second of it.
I’m now confident in my claims that this series is one of the best I’ve read in the M/M genre, and even though I’m devastated it’s over, I’m so very glad I got to take this journey with these incredible characters – a journey I have no doubt I’ll take again and again in future re-reads.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! <3
JESUS CHRIST! This hurt so good.
Immediately picking up where Torch left off, we dive back into the action, drama and romance with this awesome group of men, who are still blindly fighting a known monster, in the form of evil crime boss (and disgusting paedophile) Boris Jagger. The stakes are higher than ever and these men know Jagger now has nothing to lose and is out to kill, putting all of their lives in (more) danger and making them (even more) ready than ever to take this fucker down once and for all.
This group of fiercely loyal men, who love one another like brothers and would do anything (anything) to keep each other safe from harm, must work together to bring Jagger down. It’s easier said than done, but combining all their skills and strengths might just tip the scales in their favour and set them free for life.
Ian has always been at the centre of this Jagger madness. As a teenager, Ian was taken, kept and abused by Jagger and his men, in more unfathomable and horrific ways than one. But he survived. Thanks to his dearest friends, who are by all accounts his big brothers, Ian was rescued and cared for and eventually able to build a new life for himself away from the traumas of his past.
Now that Jagger is making considerable waves and is determined to violently destroy all that Ian and his friends hold dear, Ian must face his past head on, reaching into the depths of his subconscious to recall events and details involving Jagger which might just help Ian and his friends destroy this monster and win the day.
Amidst the fight to stay alive and their sometimes legally questionable efforts to beat the baddie, Ian gets his romantic dreams realised in the arms of detective Hollis Banner. And all I can say is: FINALLY!!!
Since beginning the Unbreakable Bonds series, I always knew Ian and Hollis would end up being my favourite couple among what is undoubtedly a cast of really fucking fantastic characters and romantic pairings. There was always something that drew me to Hollis, the gruff and fiercely protective cop who lived on the outside of the friendship circle, but it was Ian, with his pure sweetness and undeniable strength of character in the face of tremendous past trauma, that always made him my absolute favourite character across the series. And finally getting to Ian’s story and seeing these two get together, after a loooong year of built-up attraction and mutual pining: just, WOW!!
Much like the rest of the series, this story continued with the action-packed pacing, fantastic writing and brilliant character development. There literally isn’t a single aspect of this story (or the stories before it) that I would change. For a book to make me laugh uproariously one moment, cry uncontrollable tears the next, and then have me gripping the edge of my blankie for comfort during times of intense drama and action, I have to tip my imaginary hat to Drake and Elliott, because this was a rollercoaster thrill ride of a lifetime and I loved every second of it.
I’m now confident in my claims that this series is one of the best I’ve read in the M/M genre, and even though I’m devastated it’s over, I’m so very glad I got to take this journey with these incredible characters – a journey I have no doubt I’ll take again and again in future re-reads.
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! <3
June 17, 2023
Reread June 2022
Gah how I love these two
Reread July 2020
Reread January 2019
After Lucas and Andrei, Ian and Hollis are my next favorite couple. Hollis is just the perfect hero. I'm so glad Ian got someone special. He deserves Hollis and Hollis deserves him.
Originally read August 2018
I could not wait for Ian and Hollis' book. I knew I would love them and boy did I. Hollis is absolutely perfect book-boyfriend material. He is everything Ian could ever need.
I knew Ian's past would be rough. Kudos to the authors for not giving us a play-by-play flashback of his abuse. It was bad enough just imagining all he went through. I didn't need details. But I love how he is such a strong character and with the help of the other guys, pulled himself out of it and became the successful, sweet and caring person he is.
I still think Lucas and Andrei are my favorite couple but Hollis and Ian are close behind. I absolutely love this series and I'm going to be really sad when I get to the last book.
Oh...and all the KISSING! I think that is my favorite part of the whole series.
Gah how I love these two
Reread July 2020
Reread January 2019
After Lucas and Andrei, Ian and Hollis are my next favorite couple. Hollis is just the perfect hero. I'm so glad Ian got someone special. He deserves Hollis and Hollis deserves him.
Originally read August 2018
I could not wait for Ian and Hollis' book. I knew I would love them and boy did I. Hollis is absolutely perfect book-boyfriend material. He is everything Ian could ever need.
I knew Ian's past would be rough. Kudos to the authors for not giving us a play-by-play flashback of his abuse. It was bad enough just imagining all he went through. I didn't need details. But I love how he is such a strong character and with the help of the other guys, pulled himself out of it and became the successful, sweet and caring person he is.
I still think Lucas and Andrei are my favorite couple but Hollis and Ian are close behind. I absolutely love this series and I'm going to be really sad when I get to the last book.
Oh...and all the KISSING! I think that is my favorite part of the whole series.
May 15, 2019
Finally the book I’ve waited for... Ian and Hollis.
This is a fabulous series. Yes you have to read all the books. If like me you’re tempted to skip Torch don’t. You can’t. You need to read them all but trust me it’s worth it.
So the attraction has been simmering between Ian and Hollis for a year now. Ian has lived the nightmare and he’s finally found his family but he wants more. He wants love and he wants Hollis.
I love all these guys. Yes even Rowe and Noah have grown on me. I love the relationships they have, how close they all are.
Jagged has plagued them throughout the series and this is the book where it all comes to a head.
And it’s good. It’s better than good. I’m off for more of my favourite two in their collection of short stories. Then it’s onto Blaze and then Fracture.
August 19, 2018
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Absolutely loved it! This is the one I was so keen to get to and it didn't disappoint. Everything just worked for me .... their total honesty with each other, no pushing away, no martyrdom, no doormats and at last the baddie gets his comeuppance.
I was blown away by Ian's strength and courage and how it didn't change his sweet and loving nature. His badass moments that shone through was great to see, I think he shocked himself when he took on the bad dudes. 😁
And don't even get me started on Hollis .... be still my beating heart. LOVED that he was always there for Ian, but always at Ian's pace. He was all about Ian. Swoon.
It was bloody perfect, all the stars.
Absolutely loved it! This is the one I was so keen to get to and it didn't disappoint. Everything just worked for me .... their total honesty with each other, no pushing away, no martyrdom, no doormats and at last the baddie gets his comeuppance.
I was blown away by Ian's strength and courage and how it didn't change his sweet and loving nature. His badass moments that shone through was great to see, I think he shocked himself when he took on the bad dudes. 😁
And don't even get me started on Hollis .... be still my beating heart. LOVED that he was always there for Ian, but always at Ian's pace. He was all about Ian. Swoon.
It was bloody perfect, all the stars.
July 1, 2018
4.5 Stars!
A great conclusion to a great series!
This is not the type of series one can read out of order, and I urge you to start at the beginning so you can fully appreciate how the tale of these 4 men who call each other family, defeat a truly evil enemy that’s been haunting them for almost a decade.
Here, Ian finally gets his due and when cop Hollis Banner who’s been invading his fantasies for months finally returns from a covert op, Ian’s not going to lose his chance to tell him how he feels. What sets this apart from the others is truly the interactions and the dynamic between Ian and Hollis and it really played perfectly in how I like gentle giants portrayed. Hollis is protective and devoted, and the care in which he shows Ian just how much he means to him was quite stunning. Ian in turn is no weakling. He’s been through terrible terrible things and when his past resurfaces to destroy all that he loves, he’s determined to conquer the evil man who just won’t let things go.
I melted everytime these two were on page together and the smex?? Yowza. Again, a fabulous series that grew on me with each entry, and I can safely say this ended with a very memorable love story that was my favorite of the bunch.
A great conclusion to a great series!
This is not the type of series one can read out of order, and I urge you to start at the beginning so you can fully appreciate how the tale of these 4 men who call each other family, defeat a truly evil enemy that’s been haunting them for almost a decade.
Here, Ian finally gets his due and when cop Hollis Banner who’s been invading his fantasies for months finally returns from a covert op, Ian’s not going to lose his chance to tell him how he feels. What sets this apart from the others is truly the interactions and the dynamic between Ian and Hollis and it really played perfectly in how I like gentle giants portrayed. Hollis is protective and devoted, and the care in which he shows Ian just how much he means to him was quite stunning. Ian in turn is no weakling. He’s been through terrible terrible things and when his past resurfaces to destroy all that he loves, he’s determined to conquer the evil man who just won’t let things go.
I melted everytime these two were on page together and the smex?? Yowza. Again, a fabulous series that grew on me with each entry, and I can safely say this ended with a very memorable love story that was my favorite of the bunch.
January 2, 2018
Aaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhhhh!!!! The most awaited book of the series, and what a thrilling ride it was! It was so cute to see Ian and Hollis finally get together after sooo long of sizzling chemistry. So much happened in the book, I don’t even have a count of it all! But I do know that this was one amazing series!
February 8, 2019
I’ve been looking forward to my sweet little Ian’s story ever since the first book in this series, "Shiver". And man, am I happy to say that I wasn’t disappointed. Not in the least.
I’m glad that there was no kind of relationship angst or any other self-doubts between Ian and Harris' attraction towards each other. They (FINALLY!) got together pretty early in the story, and let’s be real: anything else would have felt forced because these two have been pining for each other over the course of three books at this point.
So with Ian and Harris’ romance (again: FINALLY!!!) being dealt with from the get-go, the authors were able to focus on the overarching Jagger storyline and bring it to a closure. And they did a pretty good job IMO, with a great and suspenseful final showdown (I will forever remember and cherish this series for those HILARIOUS code names alone).
So yeah, what can I say?
I’m glad that there was no kind of relationship angst or any other self-doubts between Ian and Harris' attraction towards each other. They (FINALLY!) got together pretty early in the story, and let’s be real: anything else would have felt forced because these two have been pining for each other over the course of three books at this point.
So with Ian and Harris’ romance (again: FINALLY!!!) being dealt with from the get-go, the authors were able to focus on the overarching Jagger storyline and bring it to a closure. And they did a pretty good job IMO, with a great and suspenseful final showdown (I will forever remember and cherish this series for those HILARIOUS code names alone).
So yeah, what can I say?
February 11, 2019
Being later than many to dive into this series, I’ve had the opportunity to read loads of reviews and conversations about it, and I know that scads of people were excitedly awaiting Ian’s love story.
I wasn’t one of them.
The thing is, during Lucas’s and Snow’s stories, I never even remotely got a sense of who Ian was. I saw younger, sweet, and exclamation points... but not much beyond that. In Torch, I got a little more, but I still wasn’t sure whether he’d ever jump off the page for me.
I was wrong.
Ian was the biggest breath of fresh air. He was funny, snarky, damaged, resilient, impatient, sexy, vulnerable. Although nuanced and flawed characters aren’t the strength of this series, Ian came alive the most for me. Even though we know it’s coming, getting insight into his backstory was traumatizing. He was determined not to allow it to define the rest of his life, including his friendships and relationship, and my heart went out to him on that uphill battle.
Look, if you’ve read my previous reviews from this series, you know I have had beefs that prevented them from being 5-star reads for me. And I still do — the plot is a mile-long stretch, not all of the characters are well-developed, they can often conveniently mind read, and if I never again hear the phrase "not that he could blame him," it will be too soon. But my gripes absolutely haven’t stopped this from being one very hot and entertaining series.
One last note: Rowe is freaking HILARIOUS in this one. Most of my LOL moments aren’t really funny quotes out of context so I'm not including them here, but his lines broke up many of the tense and intense situations. And made me spit out my coffee at least once.
I wasn’t one of them.
The thing is, during Lucas’s and Snow’s stories, I never even remotely got a sense of who Ian was. I saw younger, sweet, and exclamation points... but not much beyond that. In Torch, I got a little more, but I still wasn’t sure whether he’d ever jump off the page for me.
I was wrong.
Ian was the biggest breath of fresh air. He was funny, snarky, damaged, resilient, impatient, sexy, vulnerable. Although nuanced and flawed characters aren’t the strength of this series, Ian came alive the most for me. Even though we know it’s coming, getting insight into his backstory was traumatizing. He was determined not to allow it to define the rest of his life, including his friendships and relationship, and my heart went out to him on that uphill battle.
Look, if you’ve read my previous reviews from this series, you know I have had beefs that prevented them from being 5-star reads for me. And I still do — the plot is a mile-long stretch, not all of the characters are well-developed, they can often conveniently mind read, and if I never again hear the phrase "not that he could blame him," it will be too soon. But my gripes absolutely haven’t stopped this from being one very hot and entertaining series.
One last note: Rowe is freaking HILARIOUS in this one. Most of my LOL moments aren’t really funny quotes out of context so I'm not including them here, but his lines broke up many of the tense and intense situations. And made me spit out my coffee at least once.
August 27, 2018
5+++ starts
“To our family,” he said.
Flutes rose as everyone repeated his words and they clinked their glasses one by one.
Nine years ago, he’d been caught in a nightmare and rescued by a few men who’d seen something in him that he might never understand. They’d taken him away, given him a home, and helped him create a new life. A fantastic new life. Together, the four of them had made a family, and now there were four more”
This was a great end to this series. Yes there is another book but is basically a epilogue that I’m most definitely reading.
I absolutely loved this book.
I love everything about the relationships in this series, the friendships and the couples.
I love this characters so freaking much ❤️ they all have my heart.
This was filled with action, plot’s, romance, sexy sexy times, friendships goal, family goal, couple goal,
and damn they are all so strong, and I love them.
And I have been waiting to read about Ian since I started reading this series and I’m so happy with the results.
Every character deserves so much happiness and love and sunshines because they when through hell and back, and came out stronger than every and all I want is for them to be happy forever. And I’m so pleased with this end. It was better then I expected.
Have I said that I love them? Because I do, so much.
And I can’t write anything more because I’m fangirling ao hard right now and I have to get my head straight.
I can’t recommend this enough, is just so good, every single book.
July 21, 2018
Ian's story was as good, if not better, than I imagined it would be. He broke my heart so many times. I was in awe of his strength and courage.
I'm so glad there is a spin-off series. I don't want to leave these men and their world.
4.5 stars!!!
I'm so glad there is a spin-off series. I don't want to leave these men and their world.
4.5 stars!!!
May 8, 2017
What a way to finish!
'Shiver' gave us Lucas and Andrei
'Shatter' gave us Snow and Jude
'Torch' gave us Rowe and Noah
and now with the release of 'Devour' finally we get 'Ian and Hollis' the final pairing and the final story in this unique group of men.
I started this adventure with my BR besties, Christelle and Josy and along the way we've happily had Ariana and Simone join in whenever they could. It's been a blast ladies and I honestly wouldn't have wanted to do this without you all. I know we still have the side stories and the spin-off series, Ward Investigations. But for these four men, the original group it's the end and what a hella' amazing ending it was.
Throughout this series we've spend time with all of these men. We've seen them at their best and their worst. We've laughed, cried and raged with them. We mourned when Rowe's beautiful wife, Mel was taken from him. We've all shared a solid hatred of the man known as Jagger. Many faces have been put to the eight men in this series but, and I admit I may have missed it, no one has put a face to the man we all hate...until now. It was during this final story that I was totally slapped in the face with who this man's physical description brought to my mind and I cast Armande Asante into the role for our buddy read...
I just felt it was only fair that we have a visual representation of someone who was so universally despised...RIP Jagger...we will miss you...NOT!!!
I could give a really long list of things I liked about this book or I could just be short, concise and to the point...EVERYTHING! I loved it all from start to finish this book just did it for me. We got to spend time with all 8 of these amazing men and it made sense they're family. They take care of each other and when one of them is in danger the others are there to protect him and in this case the threat was towards the group.
While everyone was in this story, 'Devour' was Ian's time to shine. It was the story that allowed Ian and Hollis to become a couple and equally as important it was Ian's chance to face his demons and put his past to rest. A past that left him troubled and filled with very real fears for his future and whether or not he would have one because his past was still out there stalking him and his friends in the form of Boris Jagger.
As this group of men continue their cat and mouse game with Jagger, Ian and Hollis get to know each other better and yes, I do mean this in every sense of the word including biblical and can I just add here...damn, these men are hot...smokin', sexy, fan myself hot!!! But best of all is the love and respect that Hollis has for Ian as he slowly discovers all that he has endured. I loved that he saw the strength in Ian. Not because he was a fighter but because he was a survivor. What Ian endured would have easily taken down a lesser man.
And on a closing note the ending of this book was superb...yeah, lets go with that one. I loved it. It was happy and I may have had a tear or two in my eye at one point but they were equal parts happy and sad.
I can't wait for the spin-off series. Hopefully there will be more of these amazing men and a whole bunch of new ones for us to get to know and enjoy...let the buddy reads live on.
'Shiver' gave us Lucas and Andrei
'Shatter' gave us Snow and Jude
'Torch' gave us Rowe and Noah
and now with the release of 'Devour' finally we get 'Ian and Hollis' the final pairing and the final story in this unique group of men.
I started this adventure with my BR besties, Christelle and Josy and along the way we've happily had Ariana and Simone join in whenever they could. It's been a blast ladies and I honestly wouldn't have wanted to do this without you all. I know we still have the side stories and the spin-off series, Ward Investigations. But for these four men, the original group it's the end and what a hella' amazing ending it was.
Throughout this series we've spend time with all of these men. We've seen them at their best and their worst. We've laughed, cried and raged with them. We mourned when Rowe's beautiful wife, Mel was taken from him. We've all shared a solid hatred of the man known as Jagger. Many faces have been put to the eight men in this series but, and I admit I may have missed it, no one has put a face to the man we all hate...until now. It was during this final story that I was totally slapped in the face with who this man's physical description brought to my mind and I cast Armande Asante into the role for our buddy read...
I just felt it was only fair that we have a visual representation of someone who was so universally despised...RIP Jagger...we will miss you...NOT!!!
I could give a really long list of things I liked about this book or I could just be short, concise and to the point...EVERYTHING! I loved it all from start to finish this book just did it for me. We got to spend time with all 8 of these amazing men and it made sense they're family. They take care of each other and when one of them is in danger the others are there to protect him and in this case the threat was towards the group.
While everyone was in this story, 'Devour' was Ian's time to shine. It was the story that allowed Ian and Hollis to become a couple and equally as important it was Ian's chance to face his demons and put his past to rest. A past that left him troubled and filled with very real fears for his future and whether or not he would have one because his past was still out there stalking him and his friends in the form of Boris Jagger.
As this group of men continue their cat and mouse game with Jagger, Ian and Hollis get to know each other better and yes, I do mean this in every sense of the word including biblical and can I just add here...damn, these men are hot...smokin', sexy, fan myself hot!!! But best of all is the love and respect that Hollis has for Ian as he slowly discovers all that he has endured. I loved that he saw the strength in Ian. Not because he was a fighter but because he was a survivor. What Ian endured would have easily taken down a lesser man.
And on a closing note the ending of this book was superb...yeah, lets go with that one. I loved it. It was happy and I may have had a tear or two in my eye at one point but they were equal parts happy and sad.
I can't wait for the spin-off series. Hopefully there will be more of these amazing men and a whole bunch of new ones for us to get to know and enjoy...let the buddy reads live on.
April 30, 2017
*4,5 stars*
Ah, what a finale!
With a fast-paced action plot, two hot, really lovable MCs and a wonderful epilogue Jocelynn Drake has given us a fitting ending to a great series. (Well, it isn’t quite the end as there’s promise of further novellas and a spin-off series!)
We’ve all known Ian, the cute chef in the ‘brotherhood’ right from the beginning. It was always clear that he was going through hell when Lucas and Snow rescued him from the clutches of Boris Jagger. This time we find out what exactly happened. No, it isn’t pretty, to say the least. And it will get you raging with fury at some people in Ian’s life, that’s for sure.
No wonder that Ian wears scars of his past, that there are days when he doesn’t cope very well. But that doesn’t lessen his resilience to move on and his willingness ‘to win’ against Jagger. Most of all Ian has had enough of being mollycoddled by his friends, as understandable their protectiveness is. He just wants to be treated normally again.
And Hollis does just that. All he sees is a man he admires, and wants, not just a victim of sexual abuse. And Hollis can give Ian exactly what he is yearning for – a safe heaven, a secure place where he can enjoy sex in all its facets again. Hmm… and that IS what they do. A lot. And they are sizzling together. And … yes. Sigh.
Hollis’s physical strength, the way he cocoons Ian with his love to create a place where he can find himself again is my favourite part of the book. Hollis’s own insecurities were regrettably less explored. His doubts, whether he would fit into Lucas’s family, are raised, but never fully played out.
Although I adored Ian and Hollis together, as you can tell, I felt a little bit deprived of their relationship development – basically because it happened over the last three books. Their yearning, their want, it was all there before, so this time they came across almost like an established couple right from the beginning of the book.
Speaking of established couples – it was brilliant having all the guys very much in the action here, with the Lucas/Andrei subplot particularly delightful.
And the humour made me chuckle. God, those darn-awful cat jokes were hilarious, as were the code names at the end.
It also has to be said that I would like to donate a batch of bullet proof vests to Ward Security (as they obviously haven’t heard about them *g*). I mean - they have minion tape ...
and unicorn tape, .... XD
All in all this is a hell of a great ride and I am looking forward to reading all the books and the novellas in order in a row now, the series is definitely worth it!
Thank you to Christelle, Simone, Josy and Karen for sharing their virtual chocolate! :)
Ah, what a finale!
With a fast-paced action plot, two hot, really lovable MCs and a wonderful epilogue Jocelynn Drake has given us a fitting ending to a great series. (Well, it isn’t quite the end as there’s promise of further novellas and a spin-off series!)
We’ve all known Ian, the cute chef in the ‘brotherhood’ right from the beginning. It was always clear that he was going through hell when Lucas and Snow rescued him from the clutches of Boris Jagger. This time we find out what exactly happened. No, it isn’t pretty, to say the least. And it will get you raging with fury at some people in Ian’s life, that’s for sure.
No wonder that Ian wears scars of his past, that there are days when he doesn’t cope very well. But that doesn’t lessen his resilience to move on and his willingness ‘to win’ against Jagger. Most of all Ian has had enough of being mollycoddled by his friends, as understandable their protectiveness is. He just wants to be treated normally again.
And Hollis does just that. All he sees is a man he admires, and wants, not just a victim of sexual abuse. And Hollis can give Ian exactly what he is yearning for – a safe heaven, a secure place where he can enjoy sex in all its facets again. Hmm… and that IS what they do. A lot. And they are sizzling together. And … yes. Sigh.
Hollis’s physical strength, the way he cocoons Ian with his love to create a place where he can find himself again is my favourite part of the book. Hollis’s own insecurities were regrettably less explored. His doubts, whether he would fit into Lucas’s family, are raised, but never fully played out.
Although I adored Ian and Hollis together, as you can tell, I felt a little bit deprived of their relationship development – basically because it happened over the last three books. Their yearning, their want, it was all there before, so this time they came across almost like an established couple right from the beginning of the book.
Speaking of established couples – it was brilliant having all the guys very much in the action here, with the Lucas/Andrei subplot particularly delightful.
And the humour made me chuckle. God, those darn-awful cat jokes were hilarious, as were the code names at the end.
It also has to be said that I would like to donate a batch of bullet proof vests to Ward Security (as they obviously haven’t heard about them *g*). I mean - they have minion tape ...
and unicorn tape, .... XD
All in all this is a hell of a great ride and I am looking forward to reading all the books and the novellas in order in a row now, the series is definitely worth it!
Thank you to Christelle, Simone, Josy and Karen for sharing their virtual chocolate! :)
June 15, 2017
***4.5 Stars***
Hollis didn't see him the way Jagger did. He didn't even see him the way his friends did. They were a matched pair - equal.
Finally we get Hollis and Ian's story...but unfortunately, that also means the end of this series. Though I'm sad to say goodbye to these guys, I'm one happy gal with where everyone is at and I'm hoping we'll see more of them in the spin-off series!
This final book brought the romance and the action. It's the final showdown. Jagger has had enough and is finally making his intent clear....Ian and his friends must pay.
Trying to outsmart the creepy bastard, the gang splits up....Rowe, Noah, Ian and Hollis hide away in a safehouse, while Snow, Jude, Andrei and a newly returned Lucas stay in the penthouse to keep the attention on them.
Even with the anxiety running high, being stuck in close quarters gives Hollis and Ian the time to finally explore the sexual tension that's been bubbling between them over the course of this series. And I'm here to say...it was great!
They didn't just jump in. A lot of old memories are coming to the forefront for Ian, and Hollis, while he doesn't want to treat Ian with kid gloves, is cautious with pushing Ian too far, too fast. But when they did come together...it was filled with so much emotion, so much heat...so much passion.
"I know you care and trust me, that means more to me than you could possibly imagine. I feel safe with you and I have never, ever, felt that with anyone else. I trust you. So you can move hard or soft or however you like it. You can fuck me through this mattress, bend me over anything you can come up with. This. With you and me. It's good. I will always be okay with it. In fact, this feels so damn good, I might lose my mind."
There's twists and turns, action and suspense, romance and passion, humor and heart....a little bit of everything.
The authors have given these characters the HEA they all deserve. Would I have liked an epilogue of some sort? Yes, but with a spin-off in the works, I can understand why we didn't get one. Even with no epilogue, that finally chapter left me with a full heart and a smile on my face.
Plus we have two more short story anthologies to look forward to! One for Rowe and Noah, and one for Hollis and Ian....so I'm hoping we'll get more HEA goodness in those.
May 15, 2017
4,5 rounded to 5 stars
I loved the whole series and this last book didn't disappoint. Actually it was quite a ride with these men. Hot, powerful, broken men.
I loved each and every couple. SO much! I fell for Lucas and Andrei at first and thought I couldn't love other couple more. The truth is that I just can't pick my favorites, because I love them all. They are so different and so complex, but their friendship broth them together. Such powerful friendship!
I was looking forward to reading Ian's story. Hollis was super protective and he really did everything in his power to fight for Ian. I really loved their connection. They fit perfectly.
This book is full of action and suspense. I really liked the ending, but I'm sad it's over.
I loved the whole series and this last book didn't disappoint. Actually it was quite a ride with these men. Hot, powerful, broken men.
I loved each and every couple. SO much! I fell for Lucas and Andrei at first and thought I couldn't love other couple more. The truth is that I just can't pick my favorites, because I love them all. They are so different and so complex, but their friendship broth them together. Such powerful friendship!
I was looking forward to reading Ian's story. Hollis was super protective and he really did everything in his power to fight for Ian. I really loved their connection. They fit perfectly.
This book is full of action and suspense. I really liked the ending, but I'm sad it's over.
September 30, 2019
I was really nervous about this book. Anticipation can be a good or a bad thing, right? Bad when you end up disappointed because you wanted so much more out of a story.
I wanted to read Ian's story from the very beginning and I'm happy to tell you that I'm very satisfied with how it turned out. There were some small eye-rolling-moments toward the end but overall, this was a great ending to a fantastic series that I read until late into the night because I couldn't put it down.
What made this book even more entertaining was the company I had while reading it! Karen, Christelle, Simone, and Ariana: Thank you so much! It was so much fun experiencing this book with all of you!
I wanted to read Ian's story from the very beginning and I'm happy to tell you that I'm very satisfied with how it turned out. There were some small eye-rolling-moments toward the end but overall, this was a great ending to a fantastic series that I read until late into the night because I couldn't put it down.
What made this book even more entertaining was the company I had while reading it! Karen, Christelle, Simone, and Ariana: Thank you so much! It was so much fun experiencing this book with all of you!
April 22, 2017
Finally! I've been jonesing for Ian Pierce's story since Shiver.
Since the first books in the Unbreakable Bonds series, we have been given glimpses at the horror Ian went through, and how each of his "brothers" - Lucas, Snow, and Rowe - saved him from super-baddie Boris Jagger.
In Devour, we finally get the Ian's side of the story, and we also get to see the combustible passion between Ian and detective Hollis Banner finally ignite!
I loved Hollis and Ian together, especially the way Hollis is so protective of Ian without treating him like he's made of glass. The two have great chemistry, and the hurt/comfort side of the story was good. I love how Drake and Elliott give the POV of both characters so we really get inside their heads.
I really enjoyed this. All of the relationships were well-done, the suspense and mystery worked well, and the passion was hot! I've loved this series and think Devour is a fitting end to the main books of the series.
I must admit, though, that I'm really glad we still get to look forward to the "Unbreakable Stories" novellas featuring Rowe and Noah, and then Ian and Hollis, because I'm not ready to say good-bye to my boys yet.
Advance Review Galley copy of Devour provided by the authors in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
Since the first books in the Unbreakable Bonds series, we have been given glimpses at the horror Ian went through, and how each of his "brothers" - Lucas, Snow, and Rowe - saved him from super-baddie Boris Jagger.
In Devour, we finally get the Ian's side of the story, and we also get to see the combustible passion between Ian and detective Hollis Banner finally ignite!
I loved Hollis and Ian together, especially the way Hollis is so protective of Ian without treating him like he's made of glass. The two have great chemistry, and the hurt/comfort side of the story was good. I love how Drake and Elliott give the POV of both characters so we really get inside their heads.
Of all the things he’d encountered in his life, Hollis knew one thing. He was in love with Ian Pierce. The young man had taken up permanent residence in his heart, claimed his soul as his own, and he would never be the same again. He just had to find a way to be worthy of such an amazing man because he didn’t think it was possible to move on without him.
I really enjoyed this. All of the relationships were well-done, the suspense and mystery worked well, and the passion was hot! I've loved this series and think Devour is a fitting end to the main books of the series.
I must admit, though, that I'm really glad we still get to look forward to the "Unbreakable Stories" novellas featuring Rowe and Noah, and then Ian and Hollis, because I'm not ready to say good-bye to my boys yet.
Advance Review Galley copy of Devour provided by the authors in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
August 1, 2018
This book is all kinds of wonderful and awesome. It is time for the nightmare to be over. Boris Jagger has too much power over their lives and Ian and his family finally take the bull by the horns. It's scary and brave, painful and liberating, agonizing and heart-breaking but they are all in and it's time to up the game.
Ian is such a courageous young man who survived the unspeakable. He blocked all the horror and pain out of his mind but now it's time to remember. To help save the children and to set their family free from a monster he has to recollect and come to terms with what happened to him and try to make the man he loves not see him differently. But Hollis is not your average guy. He is strong, loyal and honest. He never backs away from difficulties. He will stand by Ian's side in his bid for freedom from fear. He will always be there to pick up the pieces of Ian heart and mind and put him together with his love. He will treasure him always. These two men are made for each other and it takes them a long time to get there but here on these pages they finally arrive.
I loved everything about this book. It was thrilling, full of love and sacrifice, very emotional and full of angst but so worth reading to be there in the end for their beginning.
Ian is such a courageous young man who survived the unspeakable. He blocked all the horror and pain out of his mind but now it's time to remember. To help save the children and to set their family free from a monster he has to recollect and come to terms with what happened to him and try to make the man he loves not see him differently. But Hollis is not your average guy. He is strong, loyal and honest. He never backs away from difficulties. He will stand by Ian's side in his bid for freedom from fear. He will always be there to pick up the pieces of Ian heart and mind and put him together with his love. He will treasure him always. These two men are made for each other and it takes them a long time to get there but here on these pages they finally arrive.
I loved everything about this book. It was thrilling, full of love and sacrifice, very emotional and full of angst but so worth reading to be there in the end for their beginning.
August 2, 2018
I loved this but for I’m not in the mood to write a lengthy review so I’ll just say this was a very fitting end to this great series.
Ian, despite being so loveable had a core of steel and complemented Hollis perfectly. I do wish we’d learnt more about Hollis but I’m sure the Novellette after this will shine more light on it.
There’s a spin-off with Geoffrey and Sven’s book as Book 1 so you KNOW I’ll be getting it.
Ian, despite being so loveable had a core of steel and complemented Hollis perfectly. I do wish we’d learnt more about Hollis but I’m sure the Novellette after this will shine more light on it.
There’s a spin-off with Geoffrey and Sven’s book as Book 1 so you KNOW I’ll be getting it.
April 24, 2019
4.5 stars!! 😍Loved it!! 💕💕 This was absolutely the best in the series!!. Hollis and Ian burned the sheets with their passion🔥🔥🔥, but the story with Ian's past was full of angst and darkness too. How Ian got to be a positive and caring person after such a traumatic adolescence is beyond imagination. This was also an ensemble story because it also gave us a view into the Unbreakable Bond family.. especially Lucas and Andrei 😍💘 (one of my all time fav couples)
Highly recommend this book and series!! 👍👍
Highly recommend this book and series!! 👍👍
February 15, 2018
*** The big hunky cop, Hollis, and sweet Chef, Ian !
An exciting wham-bam finish with action and romance!
Regrouping after the fires, the men are hoping for the best. Ian, 27, was headed for lunch when he was attacked by Jagger's goon. Ian's training kicked into high gear. In another part of town Hollis, 34, was undercover and the "bust" is about to take place. Jagger escapes and they are all wide open targets. Ian...
can't remember any clues from his time with Jagger; he's tried to forget it.
But once under the watchful eyes of Rowe, Noah, and Hollis in the safe house, he begins to remember.
Jagger is torturing them with threatening calls, lies, fear and evilness. Hollis...
and Ian are marvelous together, and devour each other. They are super sexy when they finally get to act on their feelings. I've looked forward to their chance.
"...you steal my breath away," Hollis said, "we are gonna make some noise."
Ian's childhood story is rough to hear. You'll want to reach out and hug him, too. We find out why he "sleep crawls."
There are chases and a shooting, a rescue and much more. Lucas and Andrei are solid, as are our other couples; Snow and Jude, Rowe and Noah, and of course Ian and Hollis.
These are a series of tales that are full of strength, unity, and overcoming adversity. We see fierce and faithful men, powerful and sexy, devoted and unwavering.
An unbreakable "family" bond.
Later there is more happening, a plan, an injury, a struggle and justice.
It's a miraculous wrap up, plus their are short story books of each Snow, Rowe, Lucas and Ian, to show us a glimpse into their lives.
Highly recommended. ENJOY !
=====
An exciting wham-bam finish with action and romance!
Regrouping after the fires, the men are hoping for the best. Ian, 27, was headed for lunch when he was attacked by Jagger's goon. Ian's training kicked into high gear. In another part of town Hollis, 34, was undercover and the "bust" is about to take place. Jagger escapes and they are all wide open targets. Ian...
can't remember any clues from his time with Jagger; he's tried to forget it.
But once under the watchful eyes of Rowe, Noah, and Hollis in the safe house, he begins to remember.
Jagger is torturing them with threatening calls, lies, fear and evilness. Hollis...
and Ian are marvelous together, and devour each other. They are super sexy when they finally get to act on their feelings. I've looked forward to their chance.
"...you steal my breath away," Hollis said, "we are gonna make some noise."
Ian's childhood story is rough to hear. You'll want to reach out and hug him, too. We find out why he "sleep crawls."
There are chases and a shooting, a rescue and much more. Lucas and Andrei are solid, as are our other couples; Snow and Jude, Rowe and Noah, and of course Ian and Hollis.
These are a series of tales that are full of strength, unity, and overcoming adversity. We see fierce and faithful men, powerful and sexy, devoted and unwavering.
An unbreakable "family" bond.
Later there is more happening, a plan, an injury, a struggle and justice.
It's a miraculous wrap up, plus their are short story books of each Snow, Rowe, Lucas and Ian, to show us a glimpse into their lives.
Highly recommended. ENJOY !
=====
April 20, 2023
Reread April 2023: Audiobook = ***3.5 Stars***
**********************
Original review April 2017:
***5 Stars for a perfect (not-)ending of this series***
Everytime I finally hold a book in my hands that was so long anticipated I try to scale down my expectations because let's be honest: most of the time it will end in disappointment. Not this time, though. I should have had faith in the skills of the authors that they would not only come up to my expectations, hell no, but exceed them in every possible way.
I loved this book with the same passion I hated this evil bastard, Jagger. Even though I can probably toss the success of my current diet to the wind, I would have never been able to survive this book without chocolate in any form. But how did Hollis put it? "Chocolate is life." Oh yes, you are definitely a man to my taste, Hollis!
I wanted to get his story from his first appearance in Shiver. Although I love every single one of the boys, he was secretly always my favorite. And he and Ian are absolutely perfect for and with each other.
I won't go anywhere near what is happening in this book. Believe me when I say that you won't be spoiled. You would want to experience this emotional roller coaster of a ride without knowing any details. It was not always easy to read, because the things we learn about Ian's past, made my heart clench. What is even worse is the fact that there are monsters out there in the real world who do exactly what Jagger did to Ian and this makes me want to rage about the unrighteousness in the world. But in the end, at least Jagger got what he deserved and that helped me calm my nerves.
Most of the time I sat on the edge of my seat, biting my nails, tearing my hair and even somewhat praying. Of course, the authors would not go easy on anyone, not on the reader and not on Ian and Hollis and the other members of their family to get their well-deserved HEA. They have found a way to accomplish that, though, that made me rooting from the sidelines, suffering with all of them vicariously and swooning over some -well, yes- a bit cheesy moments, but who cares? But I also laughed about some bad cat jokes, which definitely lightened the mood at this point and once again about the ridiculous code names when it comes to them running a secret operation.
I think I already said it in my reviews for the other books that the one thing that I love the most about the whole series is that we always get the whole package. All men from the previous books also play a big part in this story, which demonstrates even more the fact that they are one big family and not opposed to expand it. Okay *cough*, there might have been some problems of acceptance regarding Hollis, but the protective streak in these men is just one more aspect I love about them.
The most important thing for me, though, was that everything what happened did not overshadow the romance between Hollis and Ian.
And boy, what a hot and chemistry-filled, but also sweet romance this is... I loved the way Hollis helped Ian to overcome his past, but I also loved Ian's inner strength, his resolve to not letting anything come between him and Hollis what might destroy their hope for a shared future.
This series will always be one of my favorites, no doubt about it, and with this book the authors have outdone themselves to give it the perfect conclusion. Highly recommended!
Aside from the chocolate, I could have never done it without you, my lovely partners in crime, Josy, Karen, Christelle and Ariana! You made an amazing book all the more special to me. This was another wonderful BR and I'm already looking forward to our next, which book ever it will be! ❤️
**********************
Original review April 2017:
***5 Stars for a perfect (not-)ending of this series***
Everytime I finally hold a book in my hands that was so long anticipated I try to scale down my expectations because let's be honest: most of the time it will end in disappointment. Not this time, though. I should have had faith in the skills of the authors that they would not only come up to my expectations, hell no, but exceed them in every possible way.
I loved this book with the same passion I hated this evil bastard, Jagger. Even though I can probably toss the success of my current diet to the wind, I would have never been able to survive this book without chocolate in any form. But how did Hollis put it? "Chocolate is life." Oh yes, you are definitely a man to my taste, Hollis!
I wanted to get his story from his first appearance in Shiver. Although I love every single one of the boys, he was secretly always my favorite. And he and Ian are absolutely perfect for and with each other.
I won't go anywhere near what is happening in this book. Believe me when I say that you won't be spoiled. You would want to experience this emotional roller coaster of a ride without knowing any details. It was not always easy to read, because the things we learn about Ian's past, made my heart clench. What is even worse is the fact that there are monsters out there in the real world who do exactly what Jagger did to Ian and this makes me want to rage about the unrighteousness in the world. But in the end, at least Jagger got what he deserved and that helped me calm my nerves.
Most of the time I sat on the edge of my seat, biting my nails, tearing my hair and even somewhat praying. Of course, the authors would not go easy on anyone, not on the reader and not on Ian and Hollis and the other members of their family to get their well-deserved HEA. They have found a way to accomplish that, though, that made me rooting from the sidelines, suffering with all of them vicariously and swooning over some -well, yes- a bit cheesy moments, but who cares? But I also laughed about some bad cat jokes, which definitely lightened the mood at this point and once again about the ridiculous code names when it comes to them running a secret operation.
I think I already said it in my reviews for the other books that the one thing that I love the most about the whole series is that we always get the whole package. All men from the previous books also play a big part in this story, which demonstrates even more the fact that they are one big family and not opposed to expand it. Okay *cough*, there might have been some problems of acceptance regarding Hollis, but the protective streak in these men is just one more aspect I love about them.
The most important thing for me, though, was that everything what happened did not overshadow the romance between Hollis and Ian.
And boy, what a hot and chemistry-filled, but also sweet romance this is... I loved the way Hollis helped Ian to overcome his past, but I also loved Ian's inner strength, his resolve to not letting anything come between him and Hollis what might destroy their hope for a shared future.
This series will always be one of my favorites, no doubt about it, and with this book the authors have outdone themselves to give it the perfect conclusion. Highly recommended!
Nine years ago, he'd been caught in a nightmare and rescued by a few men who'd seen something in him that he might never understand. They'd taken him away, given him a home, and helped him create a new life. A fantastic new life. Together, the four of them had made a family, and now there were four more.
Each and every man in the room was an integral part of that world. As he looked around and realized that they were finally free of the burden of his past, he could only smile. ~Ian~
Aside from the chocolate, I could have never done it without you, my lovely partners in crime, Josy, Karen, Christelle and Ariana! You made an amazing book all the more special to me. This was another wonderful BR and I'm already looking forward to our next, which book ever it will be! ❤️
May 3, 2017
FUck. YES.
I was so excited for this and waited so long for it and it did NOT let me down. And holy shit, at the end of the book I found out we ARE getting a collection of stories for Rowe and Noah and Ian and Hollis AND a spin off series! I'm so fuhreakin' happy about that! More goodness with this series, this universe, yes pls! Gimme gimme!
But first, Ian's main story <333 I LOVED IT.
Honestly, Ian and Hollis were my second favorite couple of this series, behind Lucas and Andrei, and I couldn't get enough of them in this. (Also, this gave a little focus at some points to Lucas and Andrei as well because of what happened in the previous book and so on, and so I was a happy camper, lemme tell you).
Now, this story was a little unique in that, Ian and Hollis have known each other a little over a year. But Hollis thought at first Ian was with one of the other three guys, then he backed off because of how protective Lucas and Snow were, then he found out what happened to Ian and that created even more distance for a bit, and THEN Hollis went undercover for months and *deep breath* yeahhhh, shit had just kept these two apart, even though we all knew they wanted each other from book one.
So, while it kind of moved fast for these two in the book, it also didn't, because things have been building between these two for over a year, ya know? We knew it was coming, not like with the other books - the other three guys either met their love interest in that book or pretty soon before their book, or were apart for so long it seemed like they had to relearn each other - and we weren't introduced to the love interest until that book (Rowe and Noah, I mean), but with these two, we all knew it was a long time coming, so any fast-paced quality to it, I didn't mind. Because at this point I was like yisss gimme gimme.
Also, this is truly the end of the main plot, the main series, the big stories, so a lot was happening besides the romance as well. They had to put an end to Jagger, so that is what runs throughout the whole book, plot wise.
But by the end of it, all four couples were in a happy place (and ) and we got to see Ian and Hollis get there too. I am excited for the short stories of these two though because I do want to see how Hollis deals and how these two just are being together. With all the shit that went down in this book we didn't really get to see them be together together, so i'm excited for that.
I just loved this book. It made me so happy, and I just love this series so much. 5 amazed and awstruck stars from me <3333
I was so excited for this and waited so long for it and it did NOT let me down. And holy shit, at the end of the book I found out we ARE getting a collection of stories for Rowe and Noah and Ian and Hollis AND a spin off series! I'm so fuhreakin' happy about that! More goodness with this series, this universe, yes pls! Gimme gimme!
But first, Ian's main story <333 I LOVED IT.
Honestly, Ian and Hollis were my second favorite couple of this series, behind Lucas and Andrei, and I couldn't get enough of them in this. (Also, this gave a little focus at some points to Lucas and Andrei as well because of what happened in the previous book and so on, and so I was a happy camper, lemme tell you).
Now, this story was a little unique in that, Ian and Hollis have known each other a little over a year. But Hollis thought at first Ian was with one of the other three guys, then he backed off because of how protective Lucas and Snow were, then he found out what happened to Ian and that created even more distance for a bit, and THEN Hollis went undercover for months and *deep breath* yeahhhh, shit had just kept these two apart, even though we all knew they wanted each other from book one.
So, while it kind of moved fast for these two in the book, it also didn't, because things have been building between these two for over a year, ya know? We knew it was coming, not like with the other books - the other three guys either met their love interest in that book or pretty soon before their book, or were apart for so long it seemed like they had to relearn each other - and we weren't introduced to the love interest until that book (Rowe and Noah, I mean), but with these two, we all knew it was a long time coming, so any fast-paced quality to it, I didn't mind. Because at this point I was like yisss gimme gimme.
Also, this is truly the end of the main plot, the main series, the big stories, so a lot was happening besides the romance as well. They had to put an end to Jagger, so that is what runs throughout the whole book, plot wise.
But by the end of it, all four couples were in a happy place (and ) and we got to see Ian and Hollis get there too. I am excited for the short stories of these two though because I do want to see how Hollis deals and how these two just are being together. With all the shit that went down in this book we didn't really get to see them be together together, so i'm excited for that.
I just loved this book. It made me so happy, and I just love this series so much. 5 amazed and awstruck stars from me <3333
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