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The Brothers Grime #1
Jack: Grime and Punishment
The Brothers Grime is Jack Masterson's way of helping people in crisis after disability ends his career as a firefighter. Jack's people get to a scene long after the physical trauma ends. They don't solve crime or rescue the victims. They help people move on. The new job is all Jack wants or needs, until he gets the call about old flame Nick Foasberg's suicide.
Ryan Halloran's cousin Nick has been on a downhill slide for a long time. Despite that, Ryan does everything he knows to help. Ryan only understands part of what happened between Nick and Jack in high school, but after Nick's suicide, Ryan agrees both he and Jack need closure. They work together to clean the scene and despite the situation, heat flares between them.
Jack is keeping a painful secret and fighting his attraction to Nick's lookalike cousin, Ryan. Ryan calls himself a magnet for lost causes and worries Jack might be the next in a long line of losers. Despite his misgivings, despite the past and the mistakes they've both made, Jack gives Ryan something to look forward to, and Ryan gives Jack a reason to stop looking back, in Grime And Punishment.
Ryan Halloran's cousin Nick has been on a downhill slide for a long time. Despite that, Ryan does everything he knows to help. Ryan only understands part of what happened between Nick and Jack in high school, but after Nick's suicide, Ryan agrees both he and Jack need closure. They work together to clean the scene and despite the situation, heat flares between them.
Jack is keeping a painful secret and fighting his attraction to Nick's lookalike cousin, Ryan. Ryan calls himself a magnet for lost causes and worries Jack might be the next in a long line of losers. Despite his misgivings, despite the past and the mistakes they've both made, Jack gives Ryan something to look forward to, and Ryan gives Jack a reason to stop looking back, in Grime And Punishment.
166 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 7, 2013
63 people are currently reading
664 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 240 reviews
May 9, 2013
This book was…ok. I liked it...it was fine.
Original in its background about a team of crime-scene cleaners (ewww…), the rest was fairly generic.
Sweet coupling of a former firefighter, injured on the job, and a nurse, he meets via the tragic death of his high school lover (PS- the nurse is the cousin of the lover and looks just like him…not a spoiler)
Throw in a closeted cop.
Parents who’ve disowned their son for being gay.
A few drunk dials.
Some misunderstandings and angst.
A quirky buddy and a cat.
All in all, the book tries a little too hard, and then not hard enough. Too many distractions (see list above) and not enough detail and depth with the main storyline and couple.
A few super hot smexy scenes (woot!), an endearing, budding relationship between the MC’s Jack & Ryan, and some cute banter/flirting help salvage the book as a whole.
Good, not great. Entertaining enough. Quick, easy read.
Fun buddy read with the crew: https://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/...
May 9, 2013
I cannot say that I'm a 'fan' of Z.A. Maxfield. Meaning, she is not my auto-buy authors and none of her works truly stand out in my head. However, I love the last few titles from her and this one is really good as well.
Dear Gigi has given her review in which she is not recommending this. I guess this is my counter opinion *lol*
1) I have read over a thousand MM stories and it is quite difficult to find one that is new and unique. I think I have read tons of firefighters, cops, teachers, rent-boys, vampires, werewolves, et cetera ... but I can't remember one that features crime scene cleaner. For that, this story wins LOTS of points. I find the occupation to be refreshing. One of the scenes where I am very fascinated of is where Jack and Ryan clean the remains of Nick (the blood, the bones). It is a great description and I'm amazed of real people who do this for a living. It might not be recommended for those who don't like gory scenes...
2) The set-up can easily make the story bleak or angsty. But it is never that. It is complicated but contemplative too. And I am very much drawn towards Jack. He has this sense of melancholia within himself -- as a result of a tragedy that happened in his teens (related to Nick). I always love stories that has a kind of moody nuance and Jack's feel of loneliness speaks volume with me.
3) Regarding Dave -- yes, he is Jack's fuck buddy before he meets Ryan, but I never see this as a problem. Dave never stays the night. Dave clearly is not in it for a relationship. He makes it clear from the beginning. So I don't see it as cheating or love triangle. Having said that, people who has problem with the MC being involved in some sort of relationship before meeting his true love might feel uncomfortable.
4) Some said that the ending feels rushed -- for me, it is just right. There are times I want a full closure or an epilogue to wrap things with a bow. But life isn't always that because life DOES continue and not just stop at certain point (except if you're dead). I liked the ending just as it is.
5) There's a cat. A fuzzy-toe-warmer cat.
It is not a 5-stars read though, because there are few issues that I dislike. I think Dave and Gabe are a bit too meddling (and I'm a bit annoyed with them judging Ryan as quick). I think the secondary characters are a bit bland (except for Skippy, I LOVE Skippy, but he only appears in the very beginning and in the end). The use of 'baby' as terms of endearment (yes, yes, you ALL know I will notice that, right?!). But all in all, I love this story and will definitely be there for the sequel (if it IS the first in a series)
Part of Buddy Read in May 2013
Dear Gigi has given her review in which she is not recommending this. I guess this is my counter opinion *lol*
1) I have read over a thousand MM stories and it is quite difficult to find one that is new and unique. I think I have read tons of firefighters, cops, teachers, rent-boys, vampires, werewolves, et cetera ... but I can't remember one that features crime scene cleaner. For that, this story wins LOTS of points. I find the occupation to be refreshing. One of the scenes where I am very fascinated of is where Jack and Ryan clean the remains of Nick (the blood, the bones). It is a great description and I'm amazed of real people who do this for a living. It might not be recommended for those who don't like gory scenes...
2) The set-up can easily make the story bleak or angsty. But it is never that. It is complicated but contemplative too. And I am very much drawn towards Jack. He has this sense of melancholia within himself -- as a result of a tragedy that happened in his teens (related to Nick). I always love stories that has a kind of moody nuance and Jack's feel of loneliness speaks volume with me.
3) Regarding Dave -- yes, he is Jack's fuck buddy before he meets Ryan, but I never see this as a problem. Dave never stays the night. Dave clearly is not in it for a relationship. He makes it clear from the beginning. So I don't see it as cheating or love triangle. Having said that, people who has problem with the MC being involved in some sort of relationship before meeting his true love might feel uncomfortable.
4) Some said that the ending feels rushed -- for me, it is just right. There are times I want a full closure or an epilogue to wrap things with a bow. But life isn't always that because life DOES continue and not just stop at certain point (except if you're dead). I liked the ending just as it is.
5) There's a cat. A fuzzy-toe-warmer cat.
It is not a 5-stars read though, because there are few issues that I dislike. I think Dave and Gabe are a bit too meddling (and I'm a bit annoyed with them judging Ryan as quick). I think the secondary characters are a bit bland (except for Skippy, I LOVE Skippy, but he only appears in the very beginning and in the end). The use of 'baby' as terms of endearment (yes, yes, you ALL know I will notice that, right?!). But all in all, I love this story and will definitely be there for the sequel (if it IS the first in a series)
Part of Buddy Read in May 2013
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 19, 2013
**3.75 stars**
I think Z.A. Maxfield did a very nice job with this book. Points for originality with Jack's job- I have never read a book about crime-scene cleaners before!
This is my second full-length Z.A. Maxfield book and I liked this much more than Crossing Borders.
What did I love about the book? Aside from the crime scene cleanup stuff (which I found fascinating, I never think about who cleans up after someone dies. It is really expensive!!), I think the chemistry between Jack and Ryan was really nice. I liked the internal struggle that Jack had with Ryan's resemblance to Nick and what that brought out in Ryan, emotionally. It was interesting to see how that played out and it gave Ryan and Jack's relationship another dimension. I also enjoyed the secondary characters of Dave (I hope we get another book to crack that nut and see what is going on with him!), Gabe (though he was a bit clingy), Skippy (so funny), and of course, the cat.
My major gripe with this book has to do with character consistency. I also had this problem in the other book by this author. Jack is supposed to be totally against relationship and says multiple times in the beginning that meeting people's families and getting too close is a no go. However, within very very little time, he did basically a 180 and became Mr. Relationship with Ryan. I expected it to take more emotional work for Ryan to get to the point where he was date-like. I wanted more reticence at first- something to make his character consistent with how he portrays himself in the beginning.
The other issue with with Dave's mom. If Jack has known Dave since high school, how is it possible that Jack had no idea where Dave grew up and had no idea who his mom was? It didn't make any sense.
Overall, this book was a great read and It really put Z.A. Maxfield back on my radar!
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
I think Z.A. Maxfield did a very nice job with this book. Points for originality with Jack's job- I have never read a book about crime-scene cleaners before!
This is my second full-length Z.A. Maxfield book and I liked this much more than Crossing Borders.
What did I love about the book? Aside from the crime scene cleanup stuff (which I found fascinating, I never think about who cleans up after someone dies. It is really expensive!!), I think the chemistry between Jack and Ryan was really nice. I liked the internal struggle that Jack had with Ryan's resemblance to Nick and what that brought out in Ryan, emotionally. It was interesting to see how that played out and it gave Ryan and Jack's relationship another dimension. I also enjoyed the secondary characters of Dave (I hope we get another book to crack that nut and see what is going on with him!), Gabe (though he was a bit clingy), Skippy (so funny), and of course, the cat.
My major gripe with this book has to do with character consistency. I also had this problem in the other book by this author. Jack is supposed to be totally against relationship and says multiple times in the beginning that meeting people's families and getting too close is a no go. However, within very very little time, he did basically a 180 and became Mr. Relationship with Ryan. I expected it to take more emotional work for Ryan to get to the point where he was date-like. I wanted more reticence at first- something to make his character consistent with how he portrays himself in the beginning.
The other issue with with Dave's mom. If Jack has known Dave since high school, how is it possible that Jack had no idea where Dave grew up and had no idea who his mom was? It didn't make any sense.
Overall, this book was a great read and It really put Z.A. Maxfield back on my radar!
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
May 9, 2013
First of all I am (usually) a fan of ZAM's books so I didn't let the lack of a clear blurb deter me from reading this one, second Loose ID is very careful with this blurb to actually say a lot but tell you almost nothing, so I went in with very little idea what it was about.
The setting/occupation that Jack has is interesting and definitely different from the usual ones, I liked it.
Jack has baggage, he gave up his dream job because of an accident on the job that took a lot of his mobility, but he moved on and is doing well, maybe not living life to the fullest, but he has a company that is successful and a good group of family, friends and co-workers, but he is still lonely, deep down.
Dave is a good friend and a late night hook-up of convince, I am very much hoping for his book next, because it's obvious he's a really good guy with some unresolved issues, a good son, a great friend, but he does pull an asshole move IMO.
Ryan has been disowned from his family, fortunately Grandma saw it a little different and left him a house, which he loves, but since that is where his cousin Nick killed himself, he needs to get that part done and over with to find closure.
That's what I think this book so mainly about, closure, or at least moving on and forward despite or maybe because of all the crap life has dealt. I'm guessing Nick and his behavior and actions are the reason for a lot of what these guys are still working through, years later.
Ryan has issue, althought they were mostly just hinted at, and of course Jack does, mainly due to Ryan's cousin Nicck.
Depspite the heavier issues in this story it wasn't dark or felt weighed down, I want to read the next one and hope it comes out soon, I was a big fan of Tasha's, even if I am not a big fan of annoyingly pushy, conniving and slightly overbearing friends.
Hope Dave and Gabe get their comeuppance. ;)
The setting/occupation that Jack has is interesting and definitely different from the usual ones, I liked it.
Jack has baggage, he gave up his dream job because of an accident on the job that took a lot of his mobility, but he moved on and is doing well, maybe not living life to the fullest, but he has a company that is successful and a good group of family, friends and co-workers, but he is still lonely, deep down.
Dave is a good friend and a late night hook-up of convince, I am very much hoping for his book next, because it's obvious he's a really good guy with some unresolved issues, a good son, a great friend, but he does pull an asshole move IMO.
Ryan has been disowned from his family, fortunately Grandma saw it a little different and left him a house, which he loves, but since that is where his cousin Nick killed himself, he needs to get that part done and over with to find closure.
That's what I think this book so mainly about, closure, or at least moving on and forward despite or maybe because of all the crap life has dealt. I'm guessing Nick and his behavior and actions are the reason for a lot of what these guys are still working through, years later.
Ryan has issue, althought they were mostly just hinted at, and of course Jack does, mainly due to Ryan's cousin Nicck.
Depspite the heavier issues in this story it wasn't dark or felt weighed down, I want to read the next one and hope it comes out soon, I was a big fan of Tasha's, even if I am not a big fan of annoyingly pushy, conniving and slightly overbearing friends.
Hope Dave and Gabe get their comeuppance. ;)
February 3, 2022
Audio - 4 Stars
Story - 2.25 Stars
Story - 2.25 Stars
February 22, 2020
This book was the best mix of redemption, humour, life, love and sadness. I thoroughly enjoyed the characters, and look forward to the next book in the series.
January 2, 2017
Read as part of a buddy read in May 2013.
First off, I am a huge fan of the super-talented Z.A. Maxfield. Every book I have ever read of her's has been either a 4 or 5 star rating and her fabulous The Long Way Home is on my favorites list. She does hurt/healing/comfort, a favorite genre of mine, especially well. That being said, Grime and Punishment did not meet the standards I am used to from a Z.A. Maxfield book. I did not dislike the book, but I also did not like it and if this book is the beginning of a new series, I will most likely be stopping with this one.
Grime and Punishment tells the story of ex-firefighter Jack who owns a crime scene clean-up business, the Brothers Grime, with his friend Eddie and cousin Gabe after he was permanently injured while on duty fighting a fire. Jack meets Ryan while at the scene of a suicide of an old boyfriend of Jack's, who just so happens to be Ryan's cousin. Even though Jack is currently involved in a fuck buddy/friends-with-benefits relationship, he feels a strong attraction to Ryan and plays on those feelings. Ryan reciprocates and the two begin a hot sexual affair. (I'll tell you, Z.A. Maxfield sure knows how to write a good 'ol sex scene! You betcha!)
So, what didn't work for me? The whole crime scene clean-up business! Sorry, but gross. There is a scene where Ryan and Jack bond over cleaning up Ryan's cousin's remains from the bathroom after he shot himself. I believe Ms. Maxfield meant for this to be a critical moment in Jack and Ryan's affection for one another, but I couldn't get past my nausea of the entire situation. Also, I failed to properly bond with Jack before the romance with Ryan started, so I wasn't really rooting for him the way I usually do when I read M/M romances. This book is rather short, coming in just over 100 pages, and we didn't get a whole lot of background. The background we did get came sporadically and most towards the end of the book. Lastly, Jack was in a fuck buddy relationship with a closeted cop named Dave when his relationship with Ryan started. No, it wasn't going anywhere and I don't believe either one of them would call Jack and Ryan's relationship cheating, but it made me incredibly uncomfortable. I have a strong feeling this will be resolved in the next book in the series, but that doesn't help me here.
So, I cannot recommend this book to my M/M romance loving friends. This book was dark and dreary with characters I did not like and I did not have fun reading it. There is just WAY too much out there that is a hundred times better for you to spend your money and your time on.
First off, I am a huge fan of the super-talented Z.A. Maxfield. Every book I have ever read of her's has been either a 4 or 5 star rating and her fabulous The Long Way Home is on my favorites list. She does hurt/healing/comfort, a favorite genre of mine, especially well. That being said, Grime and Punishment did not meet the standards I am used to from a Z.A. Maxfield book. I did not dislike the book, but I also did not like it and if this book is the beginning of a new series, I will most likely be stopping with this one.
Grime and Punishment tells the story of ex-firefighter Jack who owns a crime scene clean-up business, the Brothers Grime, with his friend Eddie and cousin Gabe after he was permanently injured while on duty fighting a fire. Jack meets Ryan while at the scene of a suicide of an old boyfriend of Jack's, who just so happens to be Ryan's cousin. Even though Jack is currently involved in a fuck buddy/friends-with-benefits relationship, he feels a strong attraction to Ryan and plays on those feelings. Ryan reciprocates and the two begin a hot sexual affair. (I'll tell you, Z.A. Maxfield sure knows how to write a good 'ol sex scene! You betcha!)
So, what didn't work for me? The whole crime scene clean-up business! Sorry, but gross. There is a scene where Ryan and Jack bond over cleaning up Ryan's cousin's remains from the bathroom after he shot himself. I believe Ms. Maxfield meant for this to be a critical moment in Jack and Ryan's affection for one another, but I couldn't get past my nausea of the entire situation. Also, I failed to properly bond with Jack before the romance with Ryan started, so I wasn't really rooting for him the way I usually do when I read M/M romances. This book is rather short, coming in just over 100 pages, and we didn't get a whole lot of background. The background we did get came sporadically and most towards the end of the book. Lastly, Jack was in a fuck buddy relationship with a closeted cop named Dave when his relationship with Ryan started. No, it wasn't going anywhere and I don't believe either one of them would call Jack and Ryan's relationship cheating, but it made me incredibly uncomfortable. I have a strong feeling this will be resolved in the next book in the series, but that doesn't help me here.
So, I cannot recommend this book to my M/M romance loving friends. This book was dark and dreary with characters I did not like and I did not have fun reading it. There is just WAY too much out there that is a hundred times better for you to spend your money and your time on.
June 7, 2018
I enjoyed this just as much the second time around. Z.A offered up a story with a profession that I’ve never read in m/m before and it just makes it so interesting, and plus I really enjoy the authors writing.
The Story: 4 Pants Off
Jack is one of the owners in The Brothers Grime, a crime scene clean up service. Once a firefighter, an accident left him unable to continue the job of his heart but was able to find another way to help others. One wouldn’t think about what happens after the cops leave but Jack and his crew think about all that comes. They make it easier to clean up so the family, or maybe a spouse won’t have to deal with the hard reality of worrying about getting blood off the walls and out of a carpet.
When he gets the heads up from his detective on and off lover that his first love Nick from his teen years committed suicide Jacks knows he needs to bid for the job no matter that he’s too emotionally connected to the case. How he and Nick ended was very tragic and Jack still carry the scars of it all but deep down he knows he needs do the cleanup even though it will bring old hurts to the forefront. All that’s left is convincing his cousin Ryan who happens to be Nicks lookalike. Cleaning up what’s left of Nick while looking into eyes and face that’s a dead ringer to his once lover now dead is a bad idea of epic proportions.
As I said. I love the crime cleanup part of the story. No one ever thinks about what happens to crime scenes and the care that’s needed to cleanup. Thinking about blood born pathogens and all that isn’t even on people’s radar but Z.A brings it up here and gives you something to think about.
The relationship between Jack and Ryan wasn’t hot fire but I liked it well enough. What bothers me is how Ryan viewed Jack in the beginning without knowing anything and how Jack took everything on like it was his fault. I also didn’t understand why the story revolves around Nick and yet I know nothing about him expect he was a drug addicted asshole. He obviously was dealing with somethings and his story intrigued me because I just wanna know “why”.
Overall, another solid book by ZAM. I’ve never really disliked a book by this author and this one had that dark morose element that doesn’t exist much in the other author’s work. It was a new type of pace.
The Narration: 3.5 Pants Off
The narration wasn’t horrible but I did find it forgettable. It’s a good thing the story is so enjoyable. The was no strong difference between the voice of Jack and some of the other characters. While not incredible I still enjoyed Joe Arden's narration. There was a lot of emoting and no actual strong emotions coming across and that stopped it from getting a higher rating.
The Story: 4 Pants Off
Jack is one of the owners in The Brothers Grime, a crime scene clean up service. Once a firefighter, an accident left him unable to continue the job of his heart but was able to find another way to help others. One wouldn’t think about what happens after the cops leave but Jack and his crew think about all that comes. They make it easier to clean up so the family, or maybe a spouse won’t have to deal with the hard reality of worrying about getting blood off the walls and out of a carpet.
When he gets the heads up from his detective on and off lover that his first love Nick from his teen years committed suicide Jacks knows he needs to bid for the job no matter that he’s too emotionally connected to the case. How he and Nick ended was very tragic and Jack still carry the scars of it all but deep down he knows he needs do the cleanup even though it will bring old hurts to the forefront. All that’s left is convincing his cousin Ryan who happens to be Nicks lookalike. Cleaning up what’s left of Nick while looking into eyes and face that’s a dead ringer to his once lover now dead is a bad idea of epic proportions.
As I said. I love the crime cleanup part of the story. No one ever thinks about what happens to crime scenes and the care that’s needed to cleanup. Thinking about blood born pathogens and all that isn’t even on people’s radar but Z.A brings it up here and gives you something to think about.
The relationship between Jack and Ryan wasn’t hot fire but I liked it well enough. What bothers me is how Ryan viewed Jack in the beginning without knowing anything and how Jack took everything on like it was his fault. I also didn’t understand why the story revolves around Nick and yet I know nothing about him expect he was a drug addicted asshole. He obviously was dealing with somethings and his story intrigued me because I just wanna know “why”.
Overall, another solid book by ZAM. I’ve never really disliked a book by this author and this one had that dark morose element that doesn’t exist much in the other author’s work. It was a new type of pace.
The Narration: 3.5 Pants Off
The narration wasn’t horrible but I did find it forgettable. It’s a good thing the story is so enjoyable. The was no strong difference between the voice of Jack and some of the other characters. While not incredible I still enjoyed Joe Arden's narration. There was a lot of emoting and no actual strong emotions coming across and that stopped it from getting a higher rating.
April 6, 2020
Listened to this and I really liked it although I thought it ended a bit abruptly.
Max & Ryan were fun together. I liked the secondary characters and the steam was pretty good.
Max & Ryan were fun together. I liked the secondary characters and the steam was pretty good.
May 9, 2013
http://www.goodreads.com/topic/show/1...
4.5 stars
I'm a huge fan of ZAM, she's among my favorite authors, an auto-buy and I have yet to read a book by her that I don't like. This was another one I really, really liked. I started yesterday morning and just couldn't stop reading. First, the unusual setting, finally something new to read about:) It was interesting to 'see' the crime and crime scene from another perspective. Then, both men, Jack and Ryan, came with a past, with emotional and in Jack's case physical baggage, if you can say that. I liked it very much that they weren't the perfect men who fell for each other, big misunderstanding and bang - happy end. No, these two met with their past present and with that doubts about the motivation of their building relationship. I liked their getting to know each other while doing the clean-up - that scene was excellent.
Dave - well, I was glad when Jack finally told him that what they had wasn't enough for Jack anymore. He needed more and Dave wasn't willing/able to give that. At that point their 'relationship' was over and for me there was no problem that Jack then got involved with Ryan. Now, the big scene where Dave gave away Jack's 'secret' - yes, someone had to tell it, but I still think it should have been Jack and eventually he would have done so.
Overall, I really liked the story, from beginning with the unusual setting til the end. I even liked the cat and it's no secret that I'm a dog person. My only niggle is: The end was too rushed. I would have liked to read more, have it drawn out a bit more. But that might be the indication of a well-told story, that you don't want it to end.
4.5 stars
I'm a huge fan of ZAM, she's among my favorite authors, an auto-buy and I have yet to read a book by her that I don't like. This was another one I really, really liked. I started yesterday morning and just couldn't stop reading. First, the unusual setting, finally something new to read about:) It was interesting to 'see' the crime and crime scene from another perspective. Then, both men, Jack and Ryan, came with a past, with emotional and in Jack's case physical baggage, if you can say that. I liked it very much that they weren't the perfect men who fell for each other, big misunderstanding and bang - happy end. No, these two met with their past present and with that doubts about the motivation of their building relationship. I liked their getting to know each other while doing the clean-up - that scene was excellent.
Dave - well, I was glad when Jack finally told him that what they had wasn't enough for Jack anymore. He needed more and Dave wasn't willing/able to give that. At that point their 'relationship' was over and for me there was no problem that Jack then got involved with Ryan. Now, the big scene where Dave gave away Jack's 'secret' - yes, someone had to tell it, but I still think it should have been Jack and eventually he would have done so.
Overall, I really liked the story, from beginning with the unusual setting til the end. I even liked the cat and it's no secret that I'm a dog person. My only niggle is: The end was too rushed. I would have liked to read more, have it drawn out a bit more. But that might be the indication of a well-told story, that you don't want it to end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 9, 2013
This story gives us a strong but damaged MC in Jack, ex-firefighter and current crime-scene cleaner. There was a certain resonance in having a guy who liked to help others and had a thing for adrenaline, and a strong stomach, taking on crime scenes when he was injured out of his first-love-job.
Jack has had horrible luck, because the physical injuries that forced him to give up the job he loved are a mirror for the emotional injuries that years earlier killed his relationship with his first lover. And just as the crime-scene job is a workable but not ideal substitute, so is his current friends-with-benefits relationship with a closeted cop. Jack can't fight fires, and he's convinced himself he can't take a chance on love again either.
But when he's called to bid for a crime scene job, and finds out it's the suicide-by-gunshot of that long-ago first lover, Jack's life is about to be turned inside out.
One of the strengths of this book is in the array of side characters (which is a bonus in a book clearly destined to be part of a series.) In some ways, the impact of Jack's past on his friends is as interesting as its effect on him. The setting was unique (very sensitive stomachs be advised to prepare to skip a couple of scenes.) Jack's physical limitations were well handled and consistent, and were an added dimension surrounding the sex scenes, not something that just conveniently disappeared. I would have welcomed a longer, slower build to the relationship, but perhaps that's just me being greedy. There is a lot happening in the emotional and physical background here - I'll read this again, without a doubt.
Jack has had horrible luck, because the physical injuries that forced him to give up the job he loved are a mirror for the emotional injuries that years earlier killed his relationship with his first lover. And just as the crime-scene job is a workable but not ideal substitute, so is his current friends-with-benefits relationship with a closeted cop. Jack can't fight fires, and he's convinced himself he can't take a chance on love again either.
But when he's called to bid for a crime scene job, and finds out it's the suicide-by-gunshot of that long-ago first lover, Jack's life is about to be turned inside out.
One of the strengths of this book is in the array of side characters (which is a bonus in a book clearly destined to be part of a series.) In some ways, the impact of Jack's past on his friends is as interesting as its effect on him. The setting was unique (very sensitive stomachs be advised to prepare to skip a couple of scenes.) Jack's physical limitations were well handled and consistent, and were an added dimension surrounding the sex scenes, not something that just conveniently disappeared. I would have welcomed a longer, slower build to the relationship, but perhaps that's just me being greedy. There is a lot happening in the emotional and physical background here - I'll read this again, without a doubt.
November 29, 2014
Written September 29, 2013
3.5 Stars - a sweet novel with a serious topic as both touched and amused.
This is a new author for me and it was a nice opportunity to get the chance to read this rather short M/M novel (166 pages) for an honest review provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
I LIKE - sweet with seriousness and important issues
~~~~~~~~~~~
It was of course my thought that I would write an ARC review but there was never any written....
3.5 Stars - a sweet novel with a serious topic as both touched and amused.
This is a new author for me and it was a nice opportunity to get the chance to read this rather short M/M novel (166 pages) for an honest review provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
I LIKE - sweet with seriousness and important issues
~~~~~~~~~~~
It was of course my thought that I would write an ARC review but there was never any written....
May 9, 2013
The first 20% of this book had me a bit confused, introducing characters at a rapid rate and delving into the world of crime scene clean up. But as Jack's company's logo says "Life is not a fairytale." I guess I was a little surprised at the depth of information provided (not for the squeamish but if you can stand watching CSI you should be ok!).
By this point of the book I would also expect to have a clear understanding of the two main characters and started to see them interacting. However at this point, Jack is having casual hook-ups with his in-the-closet cop friend Dave and Ryan isn't very much in the picture.
Jack is part-owner of the clean-up company and the plot revolves around him gaining closure by personally cleaning up the scene of his ex-boyfriend's suicide. The ex happens to be Ryan's cousin and the deed occurred in Ryan's home. Ryan also wants closure by assisting in the cleanup. I must say this all seemed a bit odd but anyway, it got Jack and Ryan together.
Jack has been severely hurt in the past, both emotionally and physically. He still bears scars and has never allowed himself to trust and have a proper relationship. Ryan seems to attract people who need help, such as his cousin Nick. They both need to overcome their issues if they are to have their happy ending.
One of the big problems is concern(mainly by Jack's friends) that Jack's attraction to Ryan is based on his likeness to Nick. Luckily this is not a problem for Jack who clearly sees Ryan as his own man. "Ryan was so like Nick. Yet...they were as individual as snowflakes.". He just needs to convince Ryan of this. "He was going to have to prove it was Ryan's heart, and not his face, that mattered."
This book had wonderful characters including a cute cat, and although filled with gory crime scenes, contained lots of humour. The only downsides were minor - I didn't understand what attracted Ryan to Jack, it was maybe a bit too insta-love and I wanted to know more about Dave's background to understand him better.
My favourite line is from Ryan
By this point of the book I would also expect to have a clear understanding of the two main characters and started to see them interacting. However at this point, Jack is having casual hook-ups with his in-the-closet cop friend Dave and Ryan isn't very much in the picture.
Jack is part-owner of the clean-up company and the plot revolves around him gaining closure by personally cleaning up the scene of his ex-boyfriend's suicide. The ex happens to be Ryan's cousin and the deed occurred in Ryan's home. Ryan also wants closure by assisting in the cleanup. I must say this all seemed a bit odd but anyway, it got Jack and Ryan together.
Jack has been severely hurt in the past, both emotionally and physically. He still bears scars and has never allowed himself to trust and have a proper relationship. Ryan seems to attract people who need help, such as his cousin Nick. They both need to overcome their issues if they are to have their happy ending.
One of the big problems is concern(mainly by Jack's friends) that Jack's attraction to Ryan is based on his likeness to Nick. Luckily this is not a problem for Jack who clearly sees Ryan as his own man. "Ryan was so like Nick. Yet...they were as individual as snowflakes.". He just needs to convince Ryan of this. "He was going to have to prove it was Ryan's heart, and not his face, that mattered."
This book had wonderful characters including a cute cat, and although filled with gory crime scenes, contained lots of humour. The only downsides were minor - I didn't understand what attracted Ryan to Jack, it was maybe a bit too insta-love and I wanted to know more about Dave's background to understand him better.
My favourite line is from Ryan
December 11, 2019
Well done. Maxfield always does a great job with a darker story.
I don't think I've ever listened to narrator Joe Arden before, but I enjoyed his performance in this one.
I don't think I've ever listened to narrator Joe Arden before, but I enjoyed his performance in this one.
June 7, 2013
I received a copy of this book as an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this. The writing is sharp, and witty, and the plot well developed, and compelling. I liked the idea of the crime clean up company, and I'm glad that the author didn't spare any of the gritty details. Be forewarned if you are a sensitive person there is copious amounts of blood, and gore in this story. Jack does run a crime scene clean up company, and more than one scene is described in pretty graphic detail.
I really liked Jack. He is an angry guy, and considering his past, and the injuries that ended his career as a firefighter, and the chronic pain he lives with that isn't a surprise. I do like the fact that he doesn’t just sit around feeling bad for himself, and whining about what he has lost. His strength is his ability to move forward, even if she shuts himself off a bit personally, he has made a strong business for himself, and he has used it to give others a chance at a different life. I also loved his intelligence, and sharp sense of humor. It’s nice to read a story where characters from working class backgrounds aren’t treated as inferior or less intelligent than people from more privileged backgrounds.
I like Ryan as well. He has some truly terrible taste in men, but a really good heart tempered with hard earned, practical wisdom. I liked that, while he cared, he knew enough to know that he couldn't save someone who didn't want to be saved, but that didn't stop him from doing what little he could to try to make the situation a bit better.
I respected the bond that was growing between the two of them. I liked that it was never presented as true love, but sexual attraction, and mutual respect, and a deep desire to get to know each other better. Reading a story where two characters meet, and don't fall instantly into hearts, and flowers love. It felt more honest, especially with the secrets Jack was keeping. I respected Jack's reasoning for not sharing the secrets he kept, but for love to grow Ryan needed to understand what happened between his cousin, and Jack.
I really liked the secondary characters, even Dave. I might not have liked him all the time, but I understood him. There were complex, and well written. I liked that the events of the past not only changed Jack's life, but the lives of everyone who knew, and cared about him. Having such a well drawn cast of characters, aside from just the main couple, made for a much richer reading experience. I'm really looking forward to seeing where, and how the plot develops from here. I'm actually hoping to see Dave find a little peace, and acceptance.
I really enjoyed this. The writing is sharp, and witty, and the plot well developed, and compelling. I liked the idea of the crime clean up company, and I'm glad that the author didn't spare any of the gritty details. Be forewarned if you are a sensitive person there is copious amounts of blood, and gore in this story. Jack does run a crime scene clean up company, and more than one scene is described in pretty graphic detail.
I really liked Jack. He is an angry guy, and considering his past, and the injuries that ended his career as a firefighter, and the chronic pain he lives with that isn't a surprise. I do like the fact that he doesn’t just sit around feeling bad for himself, and whining about what he has lost. His strength is his ability to move forward, even if she shuts himself off a bit personally, he has made a strong business for himself, and he has used it to give others a chance at a different life. I also loved his intelligence, and sharp sense of humor. It’s nice to read a story where characters from working class backgrounds aren’t treated as inferior or less intelligent than people from more privileged backgrounds.
I like Ryan as well. He has some truly terrible taste in men, but a really good heart tempered with hard earned, practical wisdom. I liked that, while he cared, he knew enough to know that he couldn't save someone who didn't want to be saved, but that didn't stop him from doing what little he could to try to make the situation a bit better.
I respected the bond that was growing between the two of them. I liked that it was never presented as true love, but sexual attraction, and mutual respect, and a deep desire to get to know each other better. Reading a story where two characters meet, and don't fall instantly into hearts, and flowers love. It felt more honest, especially with the secrets Jack was keeping. I respected Jack's reasoning for not sharing the secrets he kept, but for love to grow Ryan needed to understand what happened between his cousin, and Jack.
I really liked the secondary characters, even Dave. I might not have liked him all the time, but I understood him. There were complex, and well written. I liked that the events of the past not only changed Jack's life, but the lives of everyone who knew, and cared about him. Having such a well drawn cast of characters, aside from just the main couple, made for a much richer reading experience. I'm really looking forward to seeing where, and how the plot develops from here. I'm actually hoping to see Dave find a little peace, and acceptance.
July 1, 2013
What a surprise! I knew very little about this book before I started, but I found that I enjoyed it quite a lot. It had a really interesting storyline and some hot mm lovin’!
Jack Masterson is a former firefighter whose career was cut short after an on-the-job fall left him with an artificial knee and chronic pain. He now runs a crime scene clean-up company, The Brothers Grime, with his cousin Gabe and their friend Eddie.
He receives a tip about a job from Detective Dave, his very much in-the-closet friend with benefits. Jack finds out that his old flame/first love Nick Foasberg committed suicide. When he bids the job, he meets Nick’s cousin Ryan.
They decide to do the clean-up together to get the closure they need regarding Nick’s death. Their attraction grows as they get to know each other. I loved Jack and Ryan together. Ryan was very sweet and understanding about Jack’s pain, his limitations with his leg, his scars, etc.
Overall I really liked this one. The writing was flawless, the story was unique and the sex scenes were smokin’ hot.
ARC provided by the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Jack Masterson is a former firefighter whose career was cut short after an on-the-job fall left him with an artificial knee and chronic pain. He now runs a crime scene clean-up company, The Brothers Grime, with his cousin Gabe and their friend Eddie.
He receives a tip about a job from Detective Dave, his very much in-the-closet friend with benefits. Jack finds out that his old flame/first love Nick Foasberg committed suicide. When he bids the job, he meets Nick’s cousin Ryan.
They decide to do the clean-up together to get the closure they need regarding Nick’s death. Their attraction grows as they get to know each other. I loved Jack and Ryan together. Ryan was very sweet and understanding about Jack’s pain, his limitations with his leg, his scars, etc.
Overall I really liked this one. The writing was flawless, the story was unique and the sex scenes were smokin’ hot.
ARC provided by the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
dnf
May 9, 2016DNF at ~50%
The two protagonists, Jack and Ryan, met each other after Nick (who happened to be Jack's high school love and Ryan's cousin), took his own life in Ryan's bathroom.
So the premise was interesting at first glance, but too soon it became trite.
And I couldn't get past how both heroes kept blaming Nick for his own suicide. The guy was a recovering alcoholic and drug addict who blew his head off in what sounded too much like a classic case of making an effort to get clean and thus becoming clear-headed enough to become overwhelmed by his condition and run out of hope. Yet both Jack and Ryan kept repeating how much of a lost case Nick was, deserving his untimely death.
Get the hell out of here with that mentality. Alcoholism and drug addiction/abuse are mental illnesses and they should be treated as such.
The two protagonists, Jack and Ryan, met each other after Nick (who happened to be Jack's high school love and Ryan's cousin), took his own life in Ryan's bathroom.
So the premise was interesting at first glance, but too soon it became trite.
And I couldn't get past how both heroes kept blaming Nick for his own suicide. The guy was a recovering alcoholic and drug addict who blew his head off in what sounded too much like a classic case of making an effort to get clean and thus becoming clear-headed enough to become overwhelmed by his condition and run out of hope. Yet both Jack and Ryan kept repeating how much of a lost case Nick was, deserving his untimely death.
Get the hell out of here with that mentality. Alcoholism and drug addiction/abuse are mental illnesses and they should be treated as such.
September 26, 2013
I must say that ZA Maxfield is becoming more and more an auto buy for me. I was little weary at first that there was going to be a lot of descriptive gore and stuff considering Jack's occupation, but that wasn't the case. I don't think I have read any other books that have crimes scene cleaners in them, so that made this different from the get go. While things happened really fast between Jack and Ryan, it didn't feel like an insta love story, more of a story of waking up and getting on with your life with a person who makes you feel good about yourself and your life. Tasha was an added bonus and I loved her.
May 11, 2018
3.9 Stars
While I loved the detailed descriptions of crime-scene cleanup and the industry as a whole (I'm weird like that), I felt like sometimes it overshadowed the romance. And it took so long for the romance to kick-start that by the time things are getting good there's a dramatic scene that separates them for a while. Then it ends right when the MCs are getting back together.
IDK, I still liked the emotional content...the message. I'll definitely pick up the next one at some point...
While I loved the detailed descriptions of crime-scene cleanup and the industry as a whole (I'm weird like that), I felt like sometimes it overshadowed the romance. And it took so long for the romance to kick-start that by the time things are getting good there's a dramatic scene that separates them for a while. Then it ends right when the MCs are getting back together.
IDK, I still liked the emotional content...the message. I'll definitely pick up the next one at some point...
June 18, 2013
Beyond the premise of crime scene cleaners nothing appealed to me, including the smut. I couldn’t connect with the couple. I wished both men did more to work out their personal issues instead of wallowing in guilt, pity, and all that woe-is-me crap.
Both men never really recognized that their friends with benefits did them more harm than good, that they were trying to replace true intimacy with meaningless sex. When the growing relationship between Jack and Ryan took a turn for the physical, I thought they were rushing it and repeating the same mistakes they made with their friends with benefits. (Speaking on a tangent, I did not fail to notice how gracefully the story sidestepped cheating, my biggest pet peeve, by establishing Dave and Kevin as Jack and Ryan’s respective friends with benefits instead of boyfriends as I was initially led to believe quickly after Jack and Ryan kissed in chapter 10. Noticed and was amused.)
I understood Jack’s tragic past with Nick was his private business, but when Jack got involved with Ryan, Nick’s cousin, who looked similar to Nick, he should have told Ryan as early as possible. Awfully predictable that the revelation was made the climax and against Jack’s consent. The plot strained itself to construct the revelation as that big obstacle that the couple must overcome to achieve their HEA.
On the bright side, the issue resolved itself quickly and Dave, a secondary character, was redeemed if only by a few inches. I didn’t like Dave because dude was a repressed detective and had his own issues, and I didn’t care for those issues to mix with the bucketful of others that were the couple’s. I was thankful that at the end Dave gave Jack the long-needed bitch slap of reality (figuratively of course although I would’ve been more thankful it was literally).
The only things I liked about the book was the pushy friends who were justifiably pushy and the cat that was forced upon Jack. Gabe seemed to be the only one in the bunch who was well-adjusted and Kim... well, not sure about the well-adjusted because she “referred to herself as ‘Token Chick’ and talked in the third person” (chapter 7), but I thought it was quirky and I liked it. I wished the two secondary characters had more page time. They would have livened up the wearisome somber mood the book had going.
In Conclusion
I rate Grime and Punishment 2-stars for it was okay. It was a nice read, but it was not to my taste. Had the line of communication been open and the characters not dancing with velleity, the book could have been reduced to half as a novella and better off for it.
Both men never really recognized that their friends with benefits did them more harm than good, that they were trying to replace true intimacy with meaningless sex. When the growing relationship between Jack and Ryan took a turn for the physical, I thought they were rushing it and repeating the same mistakes they made with their friends with benefits. (Speaking on a tangent, I did not fail to notice how gracefully the story sidestepped cheating, my biggest pet peeve, by establishing Dave and Kevin as Jack and Ryan’s respective friends with benefits instead of boyfriends as I was initially led to believe quickly after Jack and Ryan kissed in chapter 10. Noticed and was amused.)
I understood Jack’s tragic past with Nick was his private business, but when Jack got involved with Ryan, Nick’s cousin, who looked similar to Nick, he should have told Ryan as early as possible. Awfully predictable that the revelation was made the climax and against Jack’s consent. The plot strained itself to construct the revelation as that big obstacle that the couple must overcome to achieve their HEA.
On the bright side, the issue resolved itself quickly and Dave, a secondary character, was redeemed if only by a few inches. I didn’t like Dave because dude was a repressed detective and had his own issues, and I didn’t care for those issues to mix with the bucketful of others that were the couple’s. I was thankful that at the end Dave gave Jack the long-needed bitch slap of reality (figuratively of course although I would’ve been more thankful it was literally).
The only things I liked about the book was the pushy friends who were justifiably pushy and the cat that was forced upon Jack. Gabe seemed to be the only one in the bunch who was well-adjusted and Kim... well, not sure about the well-adjusted because she “referred to herself as ‘Token Chick’ and talked in the third person” (chapter 7), but I thought it was quirky and I liked it. I wished the two secondary characters had more page time. They would have livened up the wearisome somber mood the book had going.
In Conclusion
I rate Grime and Punishment 2-stars for it was okay. It was a nice read, but it was not to my taste. Had the line of communication been open and the characters not dancing with velleity, the book could have been reduced to half as a novella and better off for it.
January 16, 2014
The career and meet-cute situation in this were both unusual, and I enjoyed that despite being pretty squeamish. I especially thought the explanation for why Jack became a crime-scene cleaner made a lot of sense and fit well with his character.
The humor was great, and I laughed out loud several times. I also really liked Ryan and Jack a lot, individually and as a couple. But while I understand that the situation could create a certain intensity, I wasn't thrilled with how quickly they got so serious. I often prefer HFN to HEA, because I usually find it more believable. But this was barely even HFN, as far as I'm concerned.
I could totally believe the book ending with them planning to give a relationship a shot and see how it goes, but I'd need to see them together a lot longer before I could begin to believe in them lasting beyond next week. And "next week" and "next week" for quite some time, given the circumstances; probably at least a few months, and then I might start believing in "next month" and "next month" for a while. I think this book needed to be a little longer, and give them a bit more time together, for me to really believe in their lasting potential.
I really loved both Dave and Gabe as friends, and was glad to know the next book was already out. I couldn't wait to see more of them, and see if they end up together. I'm particularly eager to see what was hinted at toward the end of this one - exactly what realization did Dave come to about how what happened to Jack affected him? And how did it affect Gabe? But even if the next book wasn't about Dave and Gabe finding HEA together (which I'd probably believe, even after just a few days, given their years of friendship), I was eager to read about at least one of them - preferably Dave - finding HEA.
I opened the book page on Goodreads as soon as I'd reached The End, eager to see which (or both) of them the next book features. I read the blurb, and all my eagerness vanished. Eddie? Really? What do I care about Eddie yet? He seems a nice enough guy, sure. I figured by the end of the next book, I'd be eager to read his story. But not yet; I don't know enough to care about him yet. I want Dave! And Gabe. Bah. I'll almost certainly read it, because it's ZAM, and I'll probably love it. But I think I'll wait until Book 3 is out, so I can hopefully get Dave and/or Gabe's story right after. Hmph.
The humor was great, and I laughed out loud several times. I also really liked Ryan and Jack a lot, individually and as a couple. But while I understand that the situation could create a certain intensity, I wasn't thrilled with how quickly they got so serious. I often prefer HFN to HEA, because I usually find it more believable. But this was barely even HFN, as far as I'm concerned.
I could totally believe the book ending with them planning to give a relationship a shot and see how it goes, but I'd need to see them together a lot longer before I could begin to believe in them lasting beyond next week. And "next week" and "next week" for quite some time, given the circumstances; probably at least a few months, and then I might start believing in "next month" and "next month" for a while. I think this book needed to be a little longer, and give them a bit more time together, for me to really believe in their lasting potential.
I really loved both Dave and Gabe as friends, and was glad to know the next book was already out. I couldn't wait to see more of them, and see if they end up together. I'm particularly eager to see what was hinted at toward the end of this one - exactly what realization did Dave come to about how what happened to Jack affected him? And how did it affect Gabe? But even if the next book wasn't about Dave and Gabe finding HEA together (which I'd probably believe, even after just a few days, given their years of friendship), I was eager to read about at least one of them - preferably Dave - finding HEA.
I opened the book page on Goodreads as soon as I'd reached The End, eager to see which (or both) of them the next book features. I read the blurb, and all my eagerness vanished. Eddie? Really? What do I care about Eddie yet? He seems a nice enough guy, sure. I figured by the end of the next book, I'd be eager to read his story. But not yet; I don't know enough to care about him yet. I want Dave! And Gabe. Bah. I'll almost certainly read it, because it's ZAM, and I'll probably love it. But I think I'll wait until Book 3 is out, so I can hopefully get Dave and/or Gabe's story right after. Hmph.
August 11, 2013
ZA Maxfield has a way of writing stories that are very comforting. Even the angst in the stories is comforting and I enjoy her writing. I really liked this story. It doesnt have a lot of razzmatazz. It is a quiet story of a man coming to terms with hurts from his past and a severe injury. A tragedy occurs to the person who hurt and betrayed him in the past and this tragedy brings Jack in contact with Ryan, but Ryan is related to the person who hurt Jack in the past. The story tells how Jack moves from the hurts of the past into hope for the future.
Jack has already made many adjustments in his life due to the loss of his career. He has good friends, great colleagues and an interesting business of cleaning up crime scenes but he is still hurt by the past and the pain of his past has shaped his expectations about relationships. He slowly comes to realise that in Ryan he has a chance for the kind of love he has been secretly yearning for. He doesnt have to settle for the glass which is half full, when he can take the risk and reach for the glass that is not only full but is overflowing.
I liked the way the story had angst and difficulties but it didnt drag me down, instead it was a kind of quest for hope and a moving from the hurts of the past into something new. It was a really comforting read, but also interesting. I havent come across any books which have characters who clean crime scenes for a living. Having lost my mum recently I had to clear her home and I can well imagine the trauma of having a crime scene in your own home or property. I liked how Jack had been able to work his way from the shadows of the past and severe injury, to set up a business which he then runs with sympathy and understanding.
The book has an excellent cast of supporting characters with his buddies, including a friend with benefits buddy and great colleagues. Jack has to confront his less than satisfactory sexual relationship with his buddy and move towards something more fulfilling whilst still valuing the friendship. I also liked the cat.
This was a lovely read and I have already pre- ordered the sequel.
Jack has already made many adjustments in his life due to the loss of his career. He has good friends, great colleagues and an interesting business of cleaning up crime scenes but he is still hurt by the past and the pain of his past has shaped his expectations about relationships. He slowly comes to realise that in Ryan he has a chance for the kind of love he has been secretly yearning for. He doesnt have to settle for the glass which is half full, when he can take the risk and reach for the glass that is not only full but is overflowing.
I liked the way the story had angst and difficulties but it didnt drag me down, instead it was a kind of quest for hope and a moving from the hurts of the past into something new. It was a really comforting read, but also interesting. I havent come across any books which have characters who clean crime scenes for a living. Having lost my mum recently I had to clear her home and I can well imagine the trauma of having a crime scene in your own home or property. I liked how Jack had been able to work his way from the shadows of the past and severe injury, to set up a business which he then runs with sympathy and understanding.
The book has an excellent cast of supporting characters with his buddies, including a friend with benefits buddy and great colleagues. Jack has to confront his less than satisfactory sexual relationship with his buddy and move towards something more fulfilling whilst still valuing the friendship. I also liked the cat.
This was a lovely read and I have already pre- ordered the sequel.
May 11, 2013
Very much enjoyed this well written tight story involving two MCs finding each other while trying to deal with a suicide relative/ex-lover.
The timeline is quite short, but it makes sense in this grief-stricken environment. As readers we face a quandary with Nick - sadness & horror that his life came to this tragic end, but anger when faced with his actions towards both Jack and Ryan.
I liked everything about this - the narrative, all the people and the cat.
The timeline is quite short, but it makes sense in this grief-stricken environment. As readers we face a quandary with Nick - sadness & horror that his life came to this tragic end, but anger when faced with his actions towards both Jack and Ryan.
I liked everything about this - the narrative, all the people and the cat.
May 26, 2013
This was okay. Nothing wrong with it, I'm just ... underwhelmed. It's easy reading, some humour, some smutt, a wounded hero, a broken heart. Singular straight forward plot line. *sigh* Yup, it's just one those, manufactured same old - same old; generic characters - nothing to see here ... keep moving thanks very much.
March 22, 2020
Since I neglected to write a review at the time I read this book, and wasn't wild about it, I've forgotten any details I could share with prospective readers. I adore this author, but this wasn't my cuppa. I do remember either putting it aside well into the story to move on to my next book or just forcing myself to the finish. Not very helpful. I bought both the first and second book together and will be losing a few bucks by not reading that second book. Oh well, even favorite authors are a miss for me from time to time. I'm just going to slap three stars on it and call the time.
May 15, 2013
Review posted at The Armchair Reader.
4.5 stars
Everyone give a Hell Yeah! for a new ZAM book!
ZA Maxfield is one of those unspoken authors that just naturally seems to go onto my Classic Great M/M Romance Authors list, and I think that this book is a good illustration of why she deserves that spot. I read a lot of likable m/m romances, but it takes a little something extra to sink into the story. The more of this genre that I've read I've realized how that has less to do with how much I like a plot, and more how the author extends the story into wordplay -- one of the biggest reasons that I review a book first on it's execution and only after on the author's choices. The best books use prose like an extra limb, manipulating the reader's emotions not by what they say but how they say it.
Grime and Punishment certainly isn't original, but ZA Maxfield does do something pretty important that allowed me to get closer to the characters. They're playful, both in words and jokes, and in intimacy. And humor and playfulness is important in this story to offset the angst. I've made the mistake in the past of leaping from angst to unpleasant and therefore bad for the story, but whether you're an angst fan or not, angst is really only the angst we talk about when it's overused. In a story such as this, where the characters are working through some pretty heavy emotions and dealing with some seriously unpleasant situations, angst is a natural factor. But, it was needed and balanced nicely with little moments of humor.
Equal parts romance and individual journey, "Grime" is the story of a man who shows up to clean the scene of a suicide to find that the man who killed himself is his first love. Jack is co-owner of The Brothers Grime, a crime scene cleanup company that sees the worst of people's messes, as well as their lives. When Jack receives a call from old friend and fuck buddy Dave about a neighbor's suicide, Jack is thrown headfirst into bad memories that he told himself he'd dealt with. Nick was Jack's first love, and after a betrayal of the worst kind, Jack hasn't seen the man. The last remnants of Nick Foasberg represent closure to Jack, but actually confronting the grisly remains brings up those ugly memories. But even worse than Nick's teenage betrayal, Jack must face his own past: the teenaged boy that lost his idealism and Jack's subsequent lack of progression into adulthood. Worst of all is confronting Ryan, Nick's cousin and the man who was housing Nick and trying to help him get back on his feet. Also, the man who looks almost exactly like Nick.
A walking shadow of his past love is haunting to see, as is the man's anger -- at Nick, at Jack and at himself. A nurse and a beacon for lost causes, Jack is drawn in right away to the man's familiar beauty and his need to shoulder the burden and face the scene himself. The two butt heads from the start, arguing (of all things) over their right to clean the scene themselves. It isn't long before Ryan's anger spills over onto Jack and Jack learns that Ryan doesn't know the full story of Nick's betrayal. But those aren't Jack's secrets to tell, especially a dead man's who isn't there to answer the accusations.
The best part of this story is Jack's own journey toward enlightenment. The romance is sweet at times and poignant at others, but mostly only because of Jack's slow realizations just what romance means to him. Jack is happy to be a hit a run type of guy before the past shows up to haunt him, but spending time with Ryan and bonding, again of all things, over their gruesome task of cleanup shows him the security in having a partner in life instead of only sex. But Nick's treachery is insidious and the rest of Jack's hasn't a piece of cake either. The loss of his other great love, being a firefighter, comes with a major work-related injury. He's floundering in a stagnate life, refusing to accept change. Despite the brief thunderstorms between them, Ryan is fresh air and sunshine in his life and the specter of Nick that has been telling him how love only brings pain slowly starts to drift away. Though I think that a point of view from Ryan could have added some much needed perspective a few times and I didn't really like the manner in which Jack's secrets come to light, I felt that for the most part ZAM made all the right choices here. Though the real charm of the story, for me, came with the several points of epiphany that Jack has as he allows himself to be open to change.
This is a relatively short novel, so there's really no excuse not to pick this one up. For some reason it seems like I read somewhere that this was part of a series called The Brothers Grime, but I have no idea if that's true or not. I'm not sure which characters would move the story forward if it were the start of a series, but I certainly wouldn't complain. I'd never complain about getting a new book from ZA Maxfield :) And this one was definitely satisfying!
4.5 stars
Everyone give a Hell Yeah! for a new ZAM book!
ZA Maxfield is one of those unspoken authors that just naturally seems to go onto my Classic Great M/M Romance Authors list, and I think that this book is a good illustration of why she deserves that spot. I read a lot of likable m/m romances, but it takes a little something extra to sink into the story. The more of this genre that I've read I've realized how that has less to do with how much I like a plot, and more how the author extends the story into wordplay -- one of the biggest reasons that I review a book first on it's execution and only after on the author's choices. The best books use prose like an extra limb, manipulating the reader's emotions not by what they say but how they say it.
Grime and Punishment certainly isn't original, but ZA Maxfield does do something pretty important that allowed me to get closer to the characters. They're playful, both in words and jokes, and in intimacy. And humor and playfulness is important in this story to offset the angst. I've made the mistake in the past of leaping from angst to unpleasant and therefore bad for the story, but whether you're an angst fan or not, angst is really only the angst we talk about when it's overused. In a story such as this, where the characters are working through some pretty heavy emotions and dealing with some seriously unpleasant situations, angst is a natural factor. But, it was needed and balanced nicely with little moments of humor.
Equal parts romance and individual journey, "Grime" is the story of a man who shows up to clean the scene of a suicide to find that the man who killed himself is his first love. Jack is co-owner of The Brothers Grime, a crime scene cleanup company that sees the worst of people's messes, as well as their lives. When Jack receives a call from old friend and fuck buddy Dave about a neighbor's suicide, Jack is thrown headfirst into bad memories that he told himself he'd dealt with. Nick was Jack's first love, and after a betrayal of the worst kind, Jack hasn't seen the man. The last remnants of Nick Foasberg represent closure to Jack, but actually confronting the grisly remains brings up those ugly memories. But even worse than Nick's teenage betrayal, Jack must face his own past: the teenaged boy that lost his idealism and Jack's subsequent lack of progression into adulthood. Worst of all is confronting Ryan, Nick's cousin and the man who was housing Nick and trying to help him get back on his feet. Also, the man who looks almost exactly like Nick.
A walking shadow of his past love is haunting to see, as is the man's anger -- at Nick, at Jack and at himself. A nurse and a beacon for lost causes, Jack is drawn in right away to the man's familiar beauty and his need to shoulder the burden and face the scene himself. The two butt heads from the start, arguing (of all things) over their right to clean the scene themselves. It isn't long before Ryan's anger spills over onto Jack and Jack learns that Ryan doesn't know the full story of Nick's betrayal. But those aren't Jack's secrets to tell, especially a dead man's who isn't there to answer the accusations.
The best part of this story is Jack's own journey toward enlightenment. The romance is sweet at times and poignant at others, but mostly only because of Jack's slow realizations just what romance means to him. Jack is happy to be a hit a run type of guy before the past shows up to haunt him, but spending time with Ryan and bonding, again of all things, over their gruesome task of cleanup shows him the security in having a partner in life instead of only sex. But Nick's treachery is insidious and the rest of Jack's hasn't a piece of cake either. The loss of his other great love, being a firefighter, comes with a major work-related injury. He's floundering in a stagnate life, refusing to accept change. Despite the brief thunderstorms between them, Ryan is fresh air and sunshine in his life and the specter of Nick that has been telling him how love only brings pain slowly starts to drift away. Though I think that a point of view from Ryan could have added some much needed perspective a few times and I didn't really like the manner in which Jack's secrets come to light, I felt that for the most part ZAM made all the right choices here. Though the real charm of the story, for me, came with the several points of epiphany that Jack has as he allows himself to be open to change.
This is a relatively short novel, so there's really no excuse not to pick this one up. For some reason it seems like I read somewhere that this was part of a series called The Brothers Grime, but I have no idea if that's true or not. I'm not sure which characters would move the story forward if it were the start of a series, but I certainly wouldn't complain. I'd never complain about getting a new book from ZA Maxfield :) And this one was definitely satisfying!
August 7, 2013
Jack Masterson is one of the owners of Brothers Grime, a crime scene cleaning company. A former firefighter who suffered a career ending injury on the job, he sees this as his way to continue helping people through a traumatic time. Jack bears the scars of that injury, but is also deeply scarred by a brutal betrayal by his former best friend and first love Nick 15 years earlier. He has never gotten over Nick and has never revealed Nick’s secrets. The closest he has been with anyone since is with Dave Huntley, another high school friend and closeted cop, who is seemingly happy to remain friends with benefits.
When Jack gets a call from Dave telling him that Nick has committed suicide, old feelings that have never been dealt with rise to the surface. Jack meets Nick’s cousin Ryan, who looks like Nick, but that’s where the similarities end. Jack and Ryan bond during the cleanup of the scene, but those closest to Jack, who saw him through Nick’s betrayal, are uneasy about allowing Jack let the relationship go any further. Even Jack has to wonder if he is just using Ryan as a replacement for Nick and must confront the person he has become and who he actually wants to be.
This entire story takes place over the course of a few days. While the attraction between the two men is instant, this is not a case of insta-love. Both men have reasons to not be involved, and when Jack’s overly aggressive cousin Gabe and best friend Dave get involved, he realizes how deep Nick’s actions affected not only him, but those who love him.
Z.A. Maxfield packs a lot into this short book, with complex secondary characters (especially Dave) and a lot of issues that could have made for an angst heavy book. I particularly enjoyed Jack and Ryan’s “first date” which was filled with humor and a glimpse of what the two men could have together once they put aside their grief and Jack accepts that he can be happy in a relationship again. While I thoroughly enjoyed the story, I think the emotional impact it could have had would have been stronger had there been a little more time to explore Ryan and Jack’s issues. Since this is only the first in the series, I hope that there is more follow-up for the two.
*A copy of this book was provided by Loose ID via NetGalley*
When Jack gets a call from Dave telling him that Nick has committed suicide, old feelings that have never been dealt with rise to the surface. Jack meets Nick’s cousin Ryan, who looks like Nick, but that’s where the similarities end. Jack and Ryan bond during the cleanup of the scene, but those closest to Jack, who saw him through Nick’s betrayal, are uneasy about allowing Jack let the relationship go any further. Even Jack has to wonder if he is just using Ryan as a replacement for Nick and must confront the person he has become and who he actually wants to be.
This entire story takes place over the course of a few days. While the attraction between the two men is instant, this is not a case of insta-love. Both men have reasons to not be involved, and when Jack’s overly aggressive cousin Gabe and best friend Dave get involved, he realizes how deep Nick’s actions affected not only him, but those who love him.
Z.A. Maxfield packs a lot into this short book, with complex secondary characters (especially Dave) and a lot of issues that could have made for an angst heavy book. I particularly enjoyed Jack and Ryan’s “first date” which was filled with humor and a glimpse of what the two men could have together once they put aside their grief and Jack accepts that he can be happy in a relationship again. While I thoroughly enjoyed the story, I think the emotional impact it could have had would have been stronger had there been a little more time to explore Ryan and Jack’s issues. Since this is only the first in the series, I hope that there is more follow-up for the two.
*A copy of this book was provided by Loose ID via NetGalley*
September 19, 2013
3.5 stars
This was my first Z.A. Maxfield novel, and there are certainly things to recommend this author. For one, she's funny, and she knows how to write dialogue.
Grime and Punishment has an interesting premise: Jack, an injured former firefighter, now runs a crime clean-up company; when his former high school friend/crush, Nick, commits suicide, Jack works with Nick's cousin, Ryan, to clean up the bloody mess left behind. How's that for a romantic scenerio?
Ryan reminds Jack of Nick, but there are things about Nick that Jack isn't telling Ryan, who's a nurse and a self-described sucker for lost causes.
I liked both Ryan and Jack, but I thought the novel felt truncated, and their relationship was never fully developed. The entire novel takes place over the course of a few days. There's not a whole lot of angst, and issues are resolved too easily (Jack is supposedly a relationship phobe, yet within 24 hours of meeting Ryan, he's yearning to be his boyfriend). I would have liked to see more of the secondary characters, including the in-the-closet cop Dave.
Also, if you like a lot of steamy scenes in your romance, this will disappoint. There are three sex scenes, all of them very short and not particularly passionate. Both Cameron Dane and Heidi Cullinan write better sex scenes.
This was my first Z.A. Maxfield novel, and there are certainly things to recommend this author. For one, she's funny, and she knows how to write dialogue.
Grime and Punishment has an interesting premise: Jack, an injured former firefighter, now runs a crime clean-up company; when his former high school friend/crush, Nick, commits suicide, Jack works with Nick's cousin, Ryan, to clean up the bloody mess left behind. How's that for a romantic scenerio?
Ryan reminds Jack of Nick, but there are things about Nick that Jack isn't telling Ryan, who's a nurse and a self-described sucker for lost causes.
I liked both Ryan and Jack, but I thought the novel felt truncated, and their relationship was never fully developed. The entire novel takes place over the course of a few days. There's not a whole lot of angst, and issues are resolved too easily (Jack is supposedly a relationship phobe, yet within 24 hours of meeting Ryan, he's yearning to be his boyfriend). I would have liked to see more of the secondary characters, including the in-the-closet cop Dave.
Also, if you like a lot of steamy scenes in your romance, this will disappoint. There are three sex scenes, all of them very short and not particularly passionate. Both Cameron Dane and Heidi Cullinan write better sex scenes.
June 5, 2013
4.0 Stars
Jack Masterson is the owner of The Brothers Grime, a bio-hazard cleaning company. Jack is a former fire fighter whose career was ended by a disability. One day, Jack gets a call to clean up a suicide scene of an old flame, Nick Foasberg. Ryan Halloran is Nick's cousin. Nick had been on a downhill slide for a while, despite Ryan's attempts to help him. Ryan knows very little about what happened between Nick and Jack in high school but he realizes that he and Jack both need closure. Jack and Ryan work together to clean the scene and despite the situation, heat flares between them.
I enjoyed this one. The crime scene clean-up was a new and interesting twist. The details of the clean-up gave this story a darker bent. The history between Nick and Jack - and the secret that Jack insisted on carrying - likewise infused the book with some heavy baggage. I liked both MCs and the extended cast of characters. The cat was cute (but I'm more of a dog person). Regarding Dave .
Bottom line: the bio-hazard clean-up crew made for an original story line; an entertaining - albeit a little dark - read sprinkled with scenes that made me go 'ewww'.
Jack Masterson is the owner of The Brothers Grime, a bio-hazard cleaning company. Jack is a former fire fighter whose career was ended by a disability. One day, Jack gets a call to clean up a suicide scene of an old flame, Nick Foasberg. Ryan Halloran is Nick's cousin. Nick had been on a downhill slide for a while, despite Ryan's attempts to help him. Ryan knows very little about what happened between Nick and Jack in high school but he realizes that he and Jack both need closure. Jack and Ryan work together to clean the scene and despite the situation, heat flares between them.
I enjoyed this one. The crime scene clean-up was a new and interesting twist. The details of the clean-up gave this story a darker bent. The history between Nick and Jack - and the secret that Jack insisted on carrying - likewise infused the book with some heavy baggage. I liked both MCs and the extended cast of characters. The cat was cute (but I'm more of a dog person). Regarding Dave .
Bottom line: the bio-hazard clean-up crew made for an original story line; an entertaining - albeit a little dark - read sprinkled with scenes that made me go 'ewww'.
May 21, 2021
For some reason I just couldn't connect to these characters. The story sounded interesting and the whole crime scene clean up didn't bother me but I just didn't connect with either MC nor did I feel the connection between them.
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