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Monstrous Survivors #2
Pieces of Us
Maison Beckett has always been the tough guy. The soldier. The leader. In all the years that he was a commander in an undercover operation, he never faltered. Not once. At least, not until the enemy got their hands on his little brother, Carter. Then Maison Beckett began to crack. Every day that passed was a piece of himself he lost. He sacrificed everything but his dying breath to get his brother back and bring the operation to a close, and if they’d asked he’d have given them that too. But it's over now. It's time to heal. It's time to put the pieces back together. Except, Carter hates him, he's butting heads with his operatives, and his own trauma is refusing to be ignored. If Maison was cracking before, he's breaking now. One wrong move and he swears he's going to shatter. Then he meets Nolan. Maison read somewhere that people in Japan will pour gold into the cracks of broken pottery, highlighting their fissures instead of hiding them. They're pieces of art - beautiful because they're broken, not despite it. He wonders if, with a little bit of gold, he and Nolan could become something beautiful too.
331 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 29, 2024
80 people are currently reading
569 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
July 11, 2025
This book totally changed my opinion of Maison. I really despised him in every other book so far, but getting to know him and being inside his mind...I think he might just be my favourite character in the whole series.
I saw the compatibility issues coming as soon as we got to see inside Maison's mind. It was really obvious he was never going to naturally want the same things that Nolan does, and it made my heart hurt. Also, the way he punishes himself for being to blame for everything was heartbreaking. I just had the biggest urge to mother him 🥹
I also really liked Nolan and thought it was really brave for him to admit what he needed and what made him happy despite everything that had been done to him. Having that realisation that loving Maison without the lifestyle he craves might not be enough actually made me cry. His friendship with Matt is adorable though, and I like how he's building strong friendships with the others, except Travis obviously!
I am really looking forward to reading the rest of their story and seeing how Hunter fits into the relationship in a way that fits Nolan's needs and doesn't make Maison feel like he isn't good enough 😭
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HRCYED2: Series Stairway / Challenge Yourself
I saw the compatibility issues coming as soon as we got to see inside Maison's mind. It was really obvious he was never going to naturally want the same things that Nolan does, and it made my heart hurt. Also, the way he punishes himself for being to blame for everything was heartbreaking. I just had the biggest urge to mother him 🥹
I also really liked Nolan and thought it was really brave for him to admit what he needed and what made him happy despite everything that had been done to him. Having that realisation that loving Maison without the lifestyle he craves might not be enough actually made me cry. His friendship with Matt is adorable though, and I like how he's building strong friendships with the others, except Travis obviously!
I am really looking forward to reading the rest of their story and seeing how Hunter fits into the relationship in a way that fits Nolan's needs and doesn't make Maison feel like he isn't good enough 😭
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HRCYED2: Series Stairway / Challenge Yourself
December 18, 2025
Would have loved this to explore something different and not just re-hash the same storyline again, gah! The idea of these two together was great in my head but in reality this really brought nothing new until the last 20% and then it ends on a bit of a downer. I kind of hate that I feel compelled to read the next one now but I’m really hoping it delivers with something new once Hunter is on the scene as this felt pretty repetitive and wishy-washy. I think there was a lot of potential for Nolan’s story to be quite interesting but this didn’t hit it.
January 3, 2025
Dude this author is crazy for rewriting the safe house arc for a THIRD TIME. I was literally rattling the bars of my cage like babes I’ve done this twice already why must you torture me so. If you have read One Last Time or Drown in You then this is almost fully unnecessary until about the 75% mark and I would like to sue for compensation of my wasted time thank you very much
March 30, 2024
⚠️ LIGHT SPOILERS ⚠️
Disclaimer: *** This is the type of review you read after you’ve read the book not the other way around because I analyze the shit out of this story***
_______________
If you stayed, buckle the fuck in.
Ngl I don’t know whether it’s because Maison and Nolan’s bond was formed outside the operation but their love just seems more pure than the other books. With them I don’t feel something vaguely wrong about it. They have such soft love;
“𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙖𝙨𝙠… 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙣𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙢𝙚? 𝙅𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙡𝙚𝙚𝙥. 𝙈𝙖𝙮𝙗𝙚 𝙠𝙞𝙨𝙨 𝙖 𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙩𝙡𝙚. 𝙈𝙖𝙮𝙗𝙚 𝙝𝙤𝙡𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪. 𝙄 𝙢𝙞𝙨𝙨 𝙨𝙡𝙚𝙚𝙥𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙮𝙤𝙪.”
love that I know stems from them not having baggage that involves each other and for me that is a breath of fresh air when it comes to this series
With the circumstances of the plot, I try not to pick favorites, not to get angry at the characters or judge their coping mechanisms cause how are you going to tell survivors of something so brutal how to act? But by God sometimes I can’t help it.
Take for instance, Maison and Carter; if Carter could forgive Travis, he should be able to forgive his brother. Dude was talking about the difference between mindfuck and what was done to his body while I just felt it was easier for him to hate his brother cause he was sure no matter what he won’t loose him. While with Travis on the other hand, what they have was filled was so much pretend/ unknown/ what the fuck that Carter felt even the ideas of “love” could fade before the blink of an eye.
Usually when I read poly books, I like the characters to develop something TOGETHER not at the absence of individual relationships but I want them to work as a unit; I need there to be a reason why you are three or more people in a relationship as opposed to just 2 partners and usually the way T.J decided to write this as Maison and Nolan first before she adds the third Hunter will usually throw me off; maybe because I feel like other authors write it in a way that feels like the third is “intruding” but I actually appreciate it here you can tell that by the time she introduces Hunter, Maison and Nolan have had the time to be secure in what they have with each other despite their circumstances now the bulk of the healing process doesn’t have to be placed on hunter and Hunter is added to relationship because there is a NEED to fulfill. It also really kind of obvious that with the way Maison loves, he won’t be able to be a Dom for Nolan and satisfy that side of his kinks
I also like that Nolan and Maison’s relationship was not bounded by sex. As a psychology major myself, I understand that most SA/ R@pe victimes usually use sex as a copying mechanism to the point where it becomes excessive or they become afraid of it or they even go threw the process of trying to navigate what the seek to like because of their abuse as opposed to what they do like outside their abuse.
With that being said, I appreciate the reflection of all these types of trauma responses in Carter and Travis’s story & jack and story but I also appreciate the Nolan and Maison having developed their love without the clouding of sex. just lingering touches, intense eye contact and scorching kisses. It’s simple with them. I like it.
____________________
It’s safe to say I’m excited for the next book. And honestly my only criticism is the way a heavy chunk of the book is repetitive. As someone that doesn’t really forget what they read, I didn’t really enjoy the beginning because I remembered a lot of it and it took everything in me not to skim; that’s why it’s not a 5 star for me.
Disclaimer: *** This is the type of review you read after you’ve read the book not the other way around because I analyze the shit out of this story***
_______________
If you stayed, buckle the fuck in.
Ngl I don’t know whether it’s because Maison and Nolan’s bond was formed outside the operation but their love just seems more pure than the other books. With them I don’t feel something vaguely wrong about it. They have such soft love;
“𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙖𝙨𝙠… 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙣𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙢𝙚? 𝙅𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙡𝙚𝙚𝙥. 𝙈𝙖𝙮𝙗𝙚 𝙠𝙞𝙨𝙨 𝙖 𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙩𝙡𝙚. 𝙈𝙖𝙮𝙗𝙚 𝙝𝙤𝙡𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪. 𝙄 𝙢𝙞𝙨𝙨 𝙨𝙡𝙚𝙚𝙥𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙮𝙤𝙪.”
love that I know stems from them not having baggage that involves each other and for me that is a breath of fresh air when it comes to this series
With the circumstances of the plot, I try not to pick favorites, not to get angry at the characters or judge their coping mechanisms cause how are you going to tell survivors of something so brutal how to act? But by God sometimes I can’t help it.
Take for instance, Maison and Carter; if Carter could forgive Travis, he should be able to forgive his brother. Dude was talking about the difference between mindfuck and what was done to his body while I just felt it was easier for him to hate his brother cause he was sure no matter what he won’t loose him. While with Travis on the other hand, what they have was filled was so much pretend/ unknown/ what the fuck that Carter felt even the ideas of “love” could fade before the blink of an eye.
Usually when I read poly books, I like the characters to develop something TOGETHER not at the absence of individual relationships but I want them to work as a unit; I need there to be a reason why you are three or more people in a relationship as opposed to just 2 partners and usually the way T.J decided to write this as Maison and Nolan first before she adds the third Hunter will usually throw me off; maybe because I feel like other authors write it in a way that feels like the third is “intruding” but I actually appreciate it here you can tell that by the time she introduces Hunter, Maison and Nolan have had the time to be secure in what they have with each other despite their circumstances now the bulk of the healing process doesn’t have to be placed on hunter and Hunter is added to relationship because there is a NEED to fulfill. It also really kind of obvious that with the way Maison loves, he won’t be able to be a Dom for Nolan and satisfy that side of his kinks
I also like that Nolan and Maison’s relationship was not bounded by sex. As a psychology major myself, I understand that most SA/ R@pe victimes usually use sex as a copying mechanism to the point where it becomes excessive or they become afraid of it or they even go threw the process of trying to navigate what the seek to like because of their abuse as opposed to what they do like outside their abuse.
With that being said, I appreciate the reflection of all these types of trauma responses in Carter and Travis’s story & jack and story but I also appreciate the Nolan and Maison having developed their love without the clouding of sex. just lingering touches, intense eye contact and scorching kisses. It’s simple with them. I like it.
____________________
It’s safe to say I’m excited for the next book. And honestly my only criticism is the way a heavy chunk of the book is repetitive. As someone that doesn’t really forget what they read, I didn’t really enjoy the beginning because I remembered a lot of it and it took everything in me not to skim; that’s why it’s not a 5 star for me.
September 24, 2024
I liked this book until it started going in poly direction.
The writing,their love everything was perfect till it wasn’t
I wish I had stopped before reading all that nonsense.if maison is not enough and nolan’s heart is breaking because he can’t force maison into being a dom then he should fucking leave him alone instead of torturing the man.
This whole story focuses alot on the survivors being accepted and loved for who they are but when it comes to maison he has to learn and be someone he isn’t comfortable about being ,the hypocrisy .
The writing,their love everything was perfect till it wasn’t
I wish I had stopped before reading all that nonsense.if maison is not enough and nolan’s heart is breaking because he can’t force maison into being a dom then he should fucking leave him alone instead of torturing the man.
This whole story focuses alot on the survivors being accepted and loved for who they are but when it comes to maison he has to learn and be someone he isn’t comfortable about being ,the hypocrisy .
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 1, 2024
I liked it, but there was a lot of repetition from Drown in You” and the Monstrous Deeds series. Maison’s and Nolan’s romance is set within the same timeline (latter stages of the series) and features a lot of dialogue from those books. It’s basically the same story, but from their perspective and showcasing their relationship development.
December 12, 2024
I love this. This whole series really. All the feels but also all the trigger warnings so please check. But for experienced readers, this was beautifully written.
April 20, 2024
3 Stars
Very repetitive of the other books in the series and narrative-heavy. It has to recap and follow along with the other books, but it was done in a way that felt more like skimming, not fully explaining what was going on, and time hopping. Besides that, I didn't care about Nolan and Maison's relationship like I had expected to. I wasn't aware they were getting two books either, so I was confused at first why this ended with them so rocky. Hoping I like their second book better.
Very repetitive of the other books in the series and narrative-heavy. It has to recap and follow along with the other books, but it was done in a way that felt more like skimming, not fully explaining what was going on, and time hopping. Besides that, I didn't care about Nolan and Maison's relationship like I had expected to. I wasn't aware they were getting two books either, so I was confused at first why this ended with them so rocky. Hoping I like their second book better.
March 28, 2024
“Beautiful even though it’s broken."
“No. Beautiful because it’s broken.”
“Only because someone put the pieces back together. Is that what you’re going to do? Piece me back together?”
“If you’ll let me. Seems only fair, since you’re already doing the same for me.”
💛✨️ The Japanese art of Kintsugi takes something broken and pieces it back together with gold to show the beauty of being broken.
After reading TJ Hamel's Pieces of Us, I'm now filled with gold cracks. I've been broken and so beautifully put back together by Taylor's incredible work.
However, I still have a large piece missing, and that won't be filled in until I get the second piece of this book in Piece Us Together.
No one writes hurt/comfort like Taylor McNiff/TJ Hamel. She can have you feeling devastated one minute with gut-wrenching scenes and laughing the next at the beautiful friendships and found family she creates.
The dark is dark, but the lightness and love make it all so worth it.
In Pieces of Us, Maison is a man on the ropes. His relationship with his baby brother is in ruins, both of them have suffered trauma - although Maison doesn't feel he deserves to be seen as a survivor, or be given the help and care needed to recover. He's trying to care for the survivors in the safe house, and each time he attempts to repair things with Carter, he makes a mistep that sets them back even further.
My heart hurt for Maison Beckett before, but reading this book, it shattered for him.
Maison is amazing. I honestly love him so much. I adore all of Taylor's characters, but Maison has joined Fitz as the one who needs that extra bit of love, who's just that extra bit broken... and it makes my heart ache to think of his pain.
Thankfully, in Pieces of Us, he meets Nolan, another survivor, who is able to read beneath Maison's veneer and see the cracks inside. And he's Maison's only bright spot.
From their fireside chats to cooking together - or trying in Maison's case! (“It was two hundred for five hours, not five hundred for two hours!”) To them slowly falling in love; they became the one they each went to when they needed someone.
And Nolan... my god, that poor, sweet boy has been through it. Honestly, I just wanted to hold him and tell him he'd be okay... he's been to hell and back, and he deserves everything he desires and all the love in the world from Maison.
Nolan has endured so many horrors, and his love of kink was twisted so badly and cruelly to make him suffer more, endure more, all to please the monsters abusing him.
It was agony to see how those monsters took something innate to him and made him think he was responsible for what happened to him, or making him hurt worse because of it... honestly, that champagne was too good for them...
Nolan is so caring, so thoughtful. He's the one who cares for the survivors, feeding them, signing for Matt, taking care of the safe house. And he's the one who can see that underneath Maison's bravado, he isn't coping.
I just loved their nightly talks. How they got to know each other, encouraging each other to seek help, to take care of themselves. They were open and honest with each other and exactly what the other needed. And I was so happy when it developed into a beautiful love that they both so thoroughly deserved.
The love they have for each other is so deep and real and beautiful. They are so good together, despite having certain areas to work on. And each time Maison would call Nolan 'baby', my heart would flutter and my belly swoop... this man is everything 🫠
But this is a T.J. Hamel book, and things don't always run smoothly... there were so many tears shed on this journey... even in the epilogue. These two are so in love and committed to their relationship, but they aren't able to be everything the other needs, despite their best efforts... and so the wait begins for the next instalment, Piece Us Together. The door has been opened for Hunter to enter the story. They both desperately need him, and I can't wait for that!
This one ends on a happily for now, but I'm beyond excited for the happily ever after... not to put too much pressure on Taylor, but she knows my anticipation levels are sky high!
Taylor McNiff is one of my favourite authors. A one-click, I-have-to-read-it-though-I-don't-even-know-the-blurb author. She creates characters that feel so real that you want to check in on from time to time, whose happiness and well-being matter to you.
Pieces of Us is another superb book in this Monstrous world. I definitely recommend having read the other books first, and always check your triggers and look after yourself. But if this genre is for you, this book is another fantastic addition to a series that is up there with my all-time favourites.
Truly outstanding.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"Our love story is going to be messy, but it’s going to be happy too. And you know what?”
“What?”
“I can’t f*cking wait.”
Neither can I, Nolan. Neither can I.
“No. Beautiful because it’s broken.”
“Only because someone put the pieces back together. Is that what you’re going to do? Piece me back together?”
“If you’ll let me. Seems only fair, since you’re already doing the same for me.”
💛✨️ The Japanese art of Kintsugi takes something broken and pieces it back together with gold to show the beauty of being broken.
After reading TJ Hamel's Pieces of Us, I'm now filled with gold cracks. I've been broken and so beautifully put back together by Taylor's incredible work.
However, I still have a large piece missing, and that won't be filled in until I get the second piece of this book in Piece Us Together.
No one writes hurt/comfort like Taylor McNiff/TJ Hamel. She can have you feeling devastated one minute with gut-wrenching scenes and laughing the next at the beautiful friendships and found family she creates.
The dark is dark, but the lightness and love make it all so worth it.
In Pieces of Us, Maison is a man on the ropes. His relationship with his baby brother is in ruins, both of them have suffered trauma - although Maison doesn't feel he deserves to be seen as a survivor, or be given the help and care needed to recover. He's trying to care for the survivors in the safe house, and each time he attempts to repair things with Carter, he makes a mistep that sets them back even further.
My heart hurt for Maison Beckett before, but reading this book, it shattered for him.
Maison is amazing. I honestly love him so much. I adore all of Taylor's characters, but Maison has joined Fitz as the one who needs that extra bit of love, who's just that extra bit broken... and it makes my heart ache to think of his pain.
Thankfully, in Pieces of Us, he meets Nolan, another survivor, who is able to read beneath Maison's veneer and see the cracks inside. And he's Maison's only bright spot.
From their fireside chats to cooking together - or trying in Maison's case! (“It was two hundred for five hours, not five hundred for two hours!”) To them slowly falling in love; they became the one they each went to when they needed someone.
And Nolan... my god, that poor, sweet boy has been through it. Honestly, I just wanted to hold him and tell him he'd be okay... he's been to hell and back, and he deserves everything he desires and all the love in the world from Maison.
Nolan has endured so many horrors, and his love of kink was twisted so badly and cruelly to make him suffer more, endure more, all to please the monsters abusing him.
It was agony to see how those monsters took something innate to him and made him think he was responsible for what happened to him, or making him hurt worse because of it... honestly, that champagne was too good for them...
Nolan is so caring, so thoughtful. He's the one who cares for the survivors, feeding them, signing for Matt, taking care of the safe house. And he's the one who can see that underneath Maison's bravado, he isn't coping.
I just loved their nightly talks. How they got to know each other, encouraging each other to seek help, to take care of themselves. They were open and honest with each other and exactly what the other needed. And I was so happy when it developed into a beautiful love that they both so thoroughly deserved.
The love they have for each other is so deep and real and beautiful. They are so good together, despite having certain areas to work on. And each time Maison would call Nolan 'baby', my heart would flutter and my belly swoop... this man is everything 🫠
But this is a T.J. Hamel book, and things don't always run smoothly... there were so many tears shed on this journey... even in the epilogue. These two are so in love and committed to their relationship, but they aren't able to be everything the other needs, despite their best efforts... and so the wait begins for the next instalment, Piece Us Together. The door has been opened for Hunter to enter the story. They both desperately need him, and I can't wait for that!
This one ends on a happily for now, but I'm beyond excited for the happily ever after... not to put too much pressure on Taylor, but she knows my anticipation levels are sky high!
Taylor McNiff is one of my favourite authors. A one-click, I-have-to-read-it-though-I-don't-even-know-the-blurb author. She creates characters that feel so real that you want to check in on from time to time, whose happiness and well-being matter to you.
Pieces of Us is another superb book in this Monstrous world. I definitely recommend having read the other books first, and always check your triggers and look after yourself. But if this genre is for you, this book is another fantastic addition to a series that is up there with my all-time favourites.
Truly outstanding.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"Our love story is going to be messy, but it’s going to be happy too. And you know what?”
“What?”
“I can’t f*cking wait.”
Neither can I, Nolan. Neither can I.
January 6, 2025
Ready for the Next Book
I slept on writing this review hoping to gather my thoughts. No dice. I’m sitting here trying to piece together what I want to say and still coming up short.
This is probably my least favorite of the series so far. I never thought I would say this at the beginning but I’m so tired of everything being about Carter. He’s not the only survivor. I KNOW this runs concurrently, I KNOW I’m reading about his brother who’s main focus was his brother and the reason he got kidnapped, but he flat out told Nolan he would go wherever Carter went and asked if he would come with him. Honestly that broke my heart. It didn’t for the character but it did for mine. Why is everyone coming second place to Carter, especially now that Maison is in a relationship?
Nolan is my favorite in this book. He puts everyone before himself. I wanted to shake Maison when Nolan told him what he NEEDED and how he reacted. Maison yet again thinking he knows what’s best for everyone instead of letting them decide for themselves.
Maison is a complicated person. I’m looking forward to seeing how things progress in the next book.
Honestly, throuples are NOT my jam but I’m begging Hunter to come into the picture at the point and save these two.
I slept on writing this review hoping to gather my thoughts. No dice. I’m sitting here trying to piece together what I want to say and still coming up short.
This is probably my least favorite of the series so far. I never thought I would say this at the beginning but I’m so tired of everything being about Carter. He’s not the only survivor. I KNOW this runs concurrently, I KNOW I’m reading about his brother who’s main focus was his brother and the reason he got kidnapped, but he flat out told Nolan he would go wherever Carter went and asked if he would come with him. Honestly that broke my heart. It didn’t for the character but it did for mine. Why is everyone coming second place to Carter, especially now that Maison is in a relationship?
Nolan is my favorite in this book. He puts everyone before himself. I wanted to shake Maison when Nolan told him what he NEEDED and how he reacted. Maison yet again thinking he knows what’s best for everyone instead of letting them decide for themselves.
Maison is a complicated person. I’m looking forward to seeing how things progress in the next book.
Honestly, throuples are NOT my jam but I’m begging Hunter to come into the picture at the point and save these two.
March 29, 2024
5⭐️ Read! T.J. Hamel does it again with another 5 star read for me! Before I go any further- before reading this book, please check all trigger warnings and it definitely helps to read the first 3 books in the series first!
I would have to say this is probably the least trigger filled book that is in this series, and as much as I LOVE all things trigger related, I was just as captivated by Pieces of Us as I was Monstrous Deeds.
Nolan and Maison both have created their own paths of not being the most loved characters in past books, I felt like they were the root of so many issues caused to Carter and Casey and I will tell you I LOVE those boys and would go to the mat for them! So when I went into this story I was not expecting to like these characters… much less fall in love with them.
These men are so broken but come together so beautifully, I love that they are facing challenges that they cannot seem to overcome together and they are both making sacrifices that do not make themselves happy for the happiness of the other. I love to watch a good relationship struggle out of love!
I am so impressed with how much these guys have grown and attached to my heart, and I CAN NOT wait to see their story finish out in Piece Us Together <3
I would have to say this is probably the least trigger filled book that is in this series, and as much as I LOVE all things trigger related, I was just as captivated by Pieces of Us as I was Monstrous Deeds.
Nolan and Maison both have created their own paths of not being the most loved characters in past books, I felt like they were the root of so many issues caused to Carter and Casey and I will tell you I LOVE those boys and would go to the mat for them! So when I went into this story I was not expecting to like these characters… much less fall in love with them.
These men are so broken but come together so beautifully, I love that they are facing challenges that they cannot seem to overcome together and they are both making sacrifices that do not make themselves happy for the happiness of the other. I love to watch a good relationship struggle out of love!
I am so impressed with how much these guys have grown and attached to my heart, and I CAN NOT wait to see their story finish out in Piece Us Together <3
April 1, 2024
Another AMAZING addition to this series which I am so addicted to and all the characters. I am so dumb because why didn't I know this was in 2 parts?? If I'd have known I'd have held off on reading. I was getting to about 97% and internally screaming THIS IS NOWHERE NEAR FINISHED. The wait for the next part might kill me.
This is such a unique series that's wildly distressing (check triggers) but so rewarding.
This is such a unique series that's wildly distressing (check triggers) but so rewarding.
March 30, 2024
Can't get enough of these characters!!!
I enjoyed this book so much!!! I love the entire series but wasn't sure about this one because Maison definitely wasn't my favorite thus far. But oh boy, did that change in this book. His pain was so real, and you could feel it through the pages as the chapters went on.
The author did an amazing job developing these characters and it is such a joy to see them grow both individually and as a couple.
I cannot wait for the rest of this series and what other characters get their story told.
I enjoyed this book so much!!! I love the entire series but wasn't sure about this one because Maison definitely wasn't my favorite thus far. But oh boy, did that change in this book. His pain was so real, and you could feel it through the pages as the chapters went on.
The author did an amazing job developing these characters and it is such a joy to see them grow both individually and as a couple.
I cannot wait for the rest of this series and what other characters get their story told.
March 20, 2024
Alright, folks! Grab your tissues, because it's about to get bumpy.
I say this as a pretty emotional person, books do not make me cry pretty much ever. With that being said, respectfully, this book tore me to pieces (haha...pieces...get it?!) But are we really surprised? This is T.J. Hamel we're talking about here...queen of the most intense hurt/comfort I've ever had the pleasure of reading.
The first part of this duo, told in the POV of Maison and Nolan, reacquaints us with the guards/survivors dynamics (to include Travis/Carter, and Daddy Jake/Casey) at the safe house, as well as some tid bits we weren't privy to in previous books. We also see many of the same altercations (I.e. the infamous kneeling scene between Travis and Nolan) from their POV instead of a third party Hallelujah!!!
However, for those of us familiar with this series, nothing new is introduced to us. We revisit the same timeline established in the previous books just from Maison/Nolan's POV. WHICH IS OK! I loved having the reminder of what happened previously, and how Maison/Nolan were effected throughout the changes that happened during Maison's capture, after the rescue, the safe house, and eventually the big house (as the survivors so affectionately name it). With that being said, I am looking forward to what transpires in the second part of this duo (the addition of new characters, the integration of characters we've already briefly met...yes, I'm talking about you Hunter;), how the survivors cope with being outside of the safe house, and how the guards deal with impending safety issues now that they have all decided to leave the safe house).
This is probably one of the most unique series I've ever had the pleasure of reading. The timeline is flawless and smooth; you can't help but lose yourself in this world that TJ Hamel has created, and even though it is a harrowing world, it's a world filled with a kind of love not many of us get to experience in our short lives earth side.
And for all of those Maison haters out there, which I was one before reading this book myself, get ready to enjoy the hell out of that crow! #TeamMaisonForLife
~I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review~
I will be adding in spoilers/specific thoughts once this book is live...stay tuned!
May 11, 2025
3.5**** stars
Huh. Who would’ve thought that Maison’s trauma as an operative was even more severe than Nolan’s who spend years in captivity of sex slavery - as a communal slave, not even a personal one like Carter was.
Does it make me a bad person that I’m disappointed that we haven’t seen practically anything from Nolan’s time at the Rourke compound? Since we met him and others in the Monstrous Deeds series I’ve been hoping for a glimpse into their lives there. How they coped, together. But their story begins at the party that ended it all and from then on follows the same timeline as the previous books, at the safe house.
With that though, we see a lot of rehashing scenes we already witnessed which would probably be less annoying when one wouldn’t have binge read these books like I did. So I hope, going forward, I won’t mind as much.
So true, the operatives all never stood a chance. ♡
Maison and Nolan finding each other was beautiful. It was heartbreaking to see when their love comes to a screeching halt by the end of this first part though.
*************
These Monstrous Deeds Series
Book 1 - Drown in You - 4.5 stars
Book 2 - Pieces of Us - 3.5 stars
Book 3 - Piece Us Together - 4.0 stars
…and more to come.
⇢ Prequel Series: These Monstrous Deed
Huh. Who would’ve thought that Maison’s trauma as an operative was even more severe than Nolan’s who spend years in captivity of sex slavery - as a communal slave, not even a personal one like Carter was.
Does it make me a bad person that I’m disappointed that we haven’t seen practically anything from Nolan’s time at the Rourke compound? Since we met him and others in the Monstrous Deeds series I’ve been hoping for a glimpse into their lives there. How they coped, together. But their story begins at the party that ended it all and from then on follows the same timeline as the previous books, at the safe house.
With that though, we see a lot of rehashing scenes we already witnessed which would probably be less annoying when one wouldn’t have binge read these books like I did. So I hope, going forward, I won’t mind as much.
“So. Fucking. Gone.”
“Oh, my friend. I am so fucking sorry.”
“Why can’t we stop falling for them? These little shitheads. They’re systematically breaking down our training. Taking us down one by one.” […] “And they burrow their way into our hearts and it’s… hopeless, really.”
So true, the operatives all never stood a chance. ♡
Maison and Nolan finding each other was beautiful. It was heartbreaking to see when their love comes to a screeching halt by the end of this first part though.
*************
These Monstrous Deeds Series
Book 1 - Drown in You - 4.5 stars
Book 2 - Pieces of Us - 3.5 stars
Book 3 - Piece Us Together - 4.0 stars
…and more to come.
⇢ Prequel Series: These Monstrous Deed
April 22, 2024
Eh. Very repetitive. The book is basically a repetition of all the events from previous books, but now from Nolan’s and Maison’s POV. All that fluff accounts for about 80% of the words in this book, which is probably the reason why there’s going to be a 2nd book for these characters. Feels like this whole book was a prologue to the next one, tbh.
March 20, 2024
4.5+⭐️
If you’ve read the other books in this world and liked them, then you’re going to like this too. (Remember to read the triggers please)
I love to learn more about the struggles the different characters go through, and their thoughts on themselves, their experiences and their healing. I also think the book talks about kink in a good way, both in general, for two people with different "kink-levels" in a relationship, and to work through the mental mindfield that is kink after experiences like these two have gone through.
My only complaint about this book is that I wished for more new stuff to happen in this world overall, as the book is very focused on just the healing journey for the two MC’s and their relationship, and the other events that happen are mostly the same ones that have been shown in previous books. Kind of missed the "can’t put it down because I have to know what happens" feeling I got from the other ones. But this might be something that will be more prominant in the next book where we’ll continue to follow these two😊
But I love these books and these characters, and the writing is excellent, so I won’t hesitate to pick up the next and the next and however many more of these we are lucky to get.❤️
(I was given a copy for an honest review, but would’ve picked it up anyway)
If you’ve read the other books in this world and liked them, then you’re going to like this too. (Remember to read the triggers please)
I love to learn more about the struggles the different characters go through, and their thoughts on themselves, their experiences and their healing. I also think the book talks about kink in a good way, both in general, for two people with different "kink-levels" in a relationship, and to work through the mental mindfield that is kink after experiences like these two have gone through.
My only complaint about this book is that I wished for more new stuff to happen in this world overall, as the book is very focused on just the healing journey for the two MC’s and their relationship, and the other events that happen are mostly the same ones that have been shown in previous books. Kind of missed the "can’t put it down because I have to know what happens" feeling I got from the other ones. But this might be something that will be more prominant in the next book where we’ll continue to follow these two😊
But I love these books and these characters, and the writing is excellent, so I won’t hesitate to pick up the next and the next and however many more of these we are lucky to get.❤️
(I was given a copy for an honest review, but would’ve picked it up anyway)
July 19, 2024
Pieces of Us is part of the Monstrous Deeds world and follows the story of Maison and Nolan. While I didn’t read the Monstrous Deeds trilogy I did read Drown in You and highly recommend diving into that one too!
This is your vibe if you like:
Hurt/comfort
Slow burn
Found family
Forced proximity
I was so curious about Maison and where his story would lead with Nolan. We get little pieces of them in Drown in You as a tiny teaser. I really enjoyed diving into this book.
Seeing Maisons point of view of the events that happened before the safe house but also whilst in the house, moments he shared that were told from Casey or Jake’s point of view was great! It provided more depth to the story overall.
Maison sacrificed pieces of himself at the detriment to his own well being, to save his brother and continue to save his friends from knowing the trauma he experienced. While it differs from theirs and the other survivors, it’s so tied up in his self worth. Something that’s so relatable.
I still can’t really tolerate Travis or Carter, their self absorbed selves deserve each other. But I cannot wait for the next book in this world. I’m keen to see where Nolan and Maisons journey will end up!
This is your vibe if you like:
Hurt/comfort
Slow burn
Found family
Forced proximity
I was so curious about Maison and where his story would lead with Nolan. We get little pieces of them in Drown in You as a tiny teaser. I really enjoyed diving into this book.
Seeing Maisons point of view of the events that happened before the safe house but also whilst in the house, moments he shared that were told from Casey or Jake’s point of view was great! It provided more depth to the story overall.
Maison sacrificed pieces of himself at the detriment to his own well being, to save his brother and continue to save his friends from knowing the trauma he experienced. While it differs from theirs and the other survivors, it’s so tied up in his self worth. Something that’s so relatable.
I still can’t really tolerate Travis or Carter, their self absorbed selves deserve each other. But I cannot wait for the next book in this world. I’m keen to see where Nolan and Maisons journey will end up!
October 28, 2024
I loved Maison and I’m so glad we finally saw what goes on in his head because I never hated him. I just wanted to understand him!
And poor Nolan, loving Maison but not having everything he wants😭
I can’t wait to see Hunter coming into the mix and bringing balance to the relationship!
And poor Nolan, loving Maison but not having everything he wants😭
I can’t wait to see Hunter coming into the mix and bringing balance to the relationship!
December 22, 2024
3.5 stars RTC
April 3, 2025
this series is everything!!!
Nolan you are an absolute precious baby and I LOVE YOU!!!
This is Nolan and Madison’s story; two men who have been through complete horrors before they found each other. From the moment they meet each other, there is definitely something there, but they’ve both been through terrible trauma and know they have to heal. TJ does an amazing job of showing life beyond trauma, and how it oscillates between being ok, being happy, and being hopeless in the blink of an eye. Both men struggle with their pasts and triggers, but they’ve are so supportive of each other. Their relationship grows slowly, as they both work on themselves and their new lives. They start building a really beautiful friendship, and they genuinely get to know each other, the good and the worst of it.
At the end of this book, we know that there’s things they need to figure out if this is going to work, and I definitely need to jump into the next book because NOLAN HAS TO HAPPY!!!
Nolan you are an absolute precious baby and I LOVE YOU!!!
This is Nolan and Madison’s story; two men who have been through complete horrors before they found each other. From the moment they meet each other, there is definitely something there, but they’ve both been through terrible trauma and know they have to heal. TJ does an amazing job of showing life beyond trauma, and how it oscillates between being ok, being happy, and being hopeless in the blink of an eye. Both men struggle with their pasts and triggers, but they’ve are so supportive of each other. Their relationship grows slowly, as they both work on themselves and their new lives. They start building a really beautiful friendship, and they genuinely get to know each other, the good and the worst of it.
At the end of this book, we know that there’s things they need to figure out if this is going to work, and I definitely need to jump into the next book because NOLAN HAS TO HAPPY!!!
August 19, 2025
Denna bok var väldigt ärlig. Nolan var min favorit i förra boken and he did not disappoint👍🏼. Maison- jag gillade honom verkligen. Jag gillade honom speciellt mot slutet. Han var så ärlig? Och allt kändes så äkta?
April 4, 2024
3.5⭐️
Overall I liked this story. I've been waiting for Maison and Nolan's book after reading the previous other's and was happy to get their povs. It's a happy for now and we will get the conclusion in part 2 which I really need to see how this all plays out. Because the first few books in the series were fresh in my mind, parts of this felt repetitive at times as we had already read them in the previous books. That just took away from it a bit for me. Also, I really feel for Maison. I feel like he's being pressured into doing things and becoming someone he's not comfortable in at all and I don't like that. Even the final in the book feels like an ultimatum of sorts "Learn"
Overall I liked this story. I've been waiting for Maison and Nolan's book after reading the previous other's and was happy to get their povs. It's a happy for now and we will get the conclusion in part 2 which I really need to see how this all plays out. Because the first few books in the series were fresh in my mind, parts of this felt repetitive at times as we had already read them in the previous books. That just took away from it a bit for me. Also, I really feel for Maison. I feel like he's being pressured into doing things and becoming someone he's not comfortable in at all and I don't like that. Even the final in the book feels like an ultimatum of sorts "Learn"
August 24, 2024
I think I enjoyed this one more than the last one. The daddy kink in Jake and Casey's story just didn't do it for me all that much. I've been waiting for Nolan and Maison's story, I've been wanting to know more about Nolan since reading the first book. I did find it a little repetitive, going over the same timeline that we've covered in the first three books. Carter really pissed me off for not letting Maison off the hook. It was easier for him to be pissed off at Maison than blame Travis. I'm excited for Hunter's arrival in part two, hopefully it will be here soon!
October 17, 2024
4.5★
MY HEART HURTS.
I’ve never been a fan of poly. It’s just not for me but this is the first time I can say I am genuinely excited for a third to be added to an already established relationship. MAISON AND NOLAN NEED HUNTER AND I NEED BOOK 2.
MY HEART HURTS.
I’ve never been a fan of poly. It’s just not for me but this is the first time I can say I am genuinely excited for a third to be added to an already established relationship. MAISON AND NOLAN NEED HUNTER AND I NEED BOOK 2.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 4, 2024
Dark contemporary romance, survivor/rescuer, hurt/comfort, forced proximity.
Maison Beckett is a veteran who commanded a team of undercover operatives tasked with infiltrating a sex trafficking ring for a period of ten years, with the aim of bringing down the organisation and freeing as many slaves as possible. In the prequel series (Monstrous Deeds), we learn that Maison's involvement in the operation resulted in his brother Carter being kidnapped and sold into sexual slavery. Carter was "bought" by one of Maison's operatives, Travis Kenton (aka "Master Nathan Roarke") and his eventual rescue, along with many other slaves, is the point when this series begins.
At the safe house, Maison is struggling to deal with the physical and mental impact of the brutal sexual assaults he endured before the rescue. His mind is "wrapped up in grief and guilt". He has trouble sleeping and refuses to see the in-house doctor for his injuries. His sessions with the therapist are also brief. He is finding it difficult to make any progress with Carter, who blames Maison for not rescuing him sooner. His only solace comes in the form of Nolan, one of the survivors rescued along with Carter.
Nolan was nineteen when he was kidnapped and sold into sexual slavery. Following his rescue, Nolan is having an identity crisis and struggling to come to terms with his newfound freedom. For so long, he was conditioned to be a sex slave with the sole purpose of pleasing his "Master". He thought he was in love with "Master Roarke", who turned out to be one of Maison's operatives.
Nolan strikes up a close friendship with Maison, who is chasing his own demons. They start to support each other through their difficult recovery process and develop feelings for each other. Their fledgling relationship is tested when Maison realises that Nolan wants a dom/sub relationship, something like consensual slavery, which makes Maison uncomfortable given what they both witnessed and experienced before the rescue. The story ends on a HFN and will continue with the next book in the series.
This book felt very similar to the first one in the series in terms of the plot so I think I enjoyed it a bit less as a result. Before reading it, I didn't realise it was the first part of Maison and Nolan's story. I might have waited otherwise for the second part before reading the whole story at once. I am also a bit uncomfortable with the idea that so many of the survivors are becoming attracted to their rescuers (not just Carter/Travis, Casey/Jake but other potential couples mentioned in this book), rather than trying to forge a new life on their own, and the way those rescuers are getting close to the survivors without fully appreciating how vulnerable they are and giving them time to recover from their ordeals. I know that would defeat the purpose of the series but I would feel better if, when the time came for each survivor to form a romantic bond, they had more freedom of choice.
Maison Beckett is a veteran who commanded a team of undercover operatives tasked with infiltrating a sex trafficking ring for a period of ten years, with the aim of bringing down the organisation and freeing as many slaves as possible. In the prequel series (Monstrous Deeds), we learn that Maison's involvement in the operation resulted in his brother Carter being kidnapped and sold into sexual slavery. Carter was "bought" by one of Maison's operatives, Travis Kenton (aka "Master Nathan Roarke") and his eventual rescue, along with many other slaves, is the point when this series begins.
At the safe house, Maison is struggling to deal with the physical and mental impact of the brutal sexual assaults he endured before the rescue. His mind is "wrapped up in grief and guilt". He has trouble sleeping and refuses to see the in-house doctor for his injuries. His sessions with the therapist are also brief. He is finding it difficult to make any progress with Carter, who blames Maison for not rescuing him sooner. His only solace comes in the form of Nolan, one of the survivors rescued along with Carter.
Nolan was nineteen when he was kidnapped and sold into sexual slavery. Following his rescue, Nolan is having an identity crisis and struggling to come to terms with his newfound freedom. For so long, he was conditioned to be a sex slave with the sole purpose of pleasing his "Master". He thought he was in love with "Master Roarke", who turned out to be one of Maison's operatives.
Nolan strikes up a close friendship with Maison, who is chasing his own demons. They start to support each other through their difficult recovery process and develop feelings for each other. Their fledgling relationship is tested when Maison realises that Nolan wants a dom/sub relationship, something like consensual slavery, which makes Maison uncomfortable given what they both witnessed and experienced before the rescue. The story ends on a HFN and will continue with the next book in the series.
This book felt very similar to the first one in the series in terms of the plot so I think I enjoyed it a bit less as a result. Before reading it, I didn't realise it was the first part of Maison and Nolan's story. I might have waited otherwise for the second part before reading the whole story at once. I am also a bit uncomfortable with the idea that so many of the survivors are becoming attracted to their rescuers (not just Carter/Travis, Casey/Jake but other potential couples mentioned in this book), rather than trying to forge a new life on their own, and the way those rescuers are getting close to the survivors without fully appreciating how vulnerable they are and giving them time to recover from their ordeals. I know that would defeat the purpose of the series but I would feel better if, when the time came for each survivor to form a romantic bond, they had more freedom of choice.
October 9, 2025
I first read Drown in You and gave it 3 stars, as Casey and Jake's story didn't quite convince me and I wasn’t fully vibing with it. I decided then that I wouldn't continue with the series. Later, I read the These Monstrous Deeds series and overall, it was worth 5 stars. I finally now decided to give Pieces of Us a chance as well. I liked this much more than the book about Casey and Jake. I agree with others that this is very repetitive, but that didn't bother me so much because it had been a while since I read the previous books. The story of Maison and Nolan progresses slowly, but that makes sense because it continues in the second book.
I really like both Nolan and Maison. In this book, we get to know them better and get inside their heads after everything that has happened. Previous books don't reveal how much Maison has actually suffered not only the physical abuse he went through but also the emotional damage from this whole operation, and considering that, I'm not surprised that Nolan's needs are difficult for him to fulfill. He is very brave to even try. They build a strong relationship in the book and share some beautiful moments together.
I think the book has good dynamics, as the problems between Maison and Nolan feel realistic, meaning that for once in a book, not everything falls into place immediately for the couple (especially after all the trauma they went through), and even though they clearly love each other, their sexual and, to some extent, emotional needs do not match. However, they want to make it work, and I can't wait to read about how they progress with this.
The book is a little slow but at the same time also it isn't, because it quickly moves through the events leading up to the moment when Maison and Nolan find each other. And since we know what happens through out, it is not heavy on plot. I can imagine that if someone started with this book, they wouldn't be convinced. However, this book is an important part of the whole, and I'm glad I finally decided to read it.
______
“Your eyes are very blue.
I love you.
Were those the wrong words too?
My head hurts.”
“No, baby,
Not the wrong words at all.”
______
”It turns out I’m not everything he wants me to be.” Travis shakes his head. “That man looks at you like you hung the moon. Hell, more than that. Like you created the entire fucking universe. He never looked at me like he looks at you, even back when he had himself convinced he loved me.”
I really like both Nolan and Maison. In this book, we get to know them better and get inside their heads after everything that has happened. Previous books don't reveal how much Maison has actually suffered not only the physical abuse he went through but also the emotional damage from this whole operation, and considering that, I'm not surprised that Nolan's needs are difficult for him to fulfill. He is very brave to even try. They build a strong relationship in the book and share some beautiful moments together.
I think the book has good dynamics, as the problems between Maison and Nolan feel realistic, meaning that for once in a book, not everything falls into place immediately for the couple (especially after all the trauma they went through), and even though they clearly love each other, their sexual and, to some extent, emotional needs do not match. However, they want to make it work, and I can't wait to read about how they progress with this.
The book is a little slow but at the same time also it isn't, because it quickly moves through the events leading up to the moment when Maison and Nolan find each other. And since we know what happens through out, it is not heavy on plot. I can imagine that if someone started with this book, they wouldn't be convinced. However, this book is an important part of the whole, and I'm glad I finally decided to read it.
______
“Your eyes are very blue.
I love you.
Were those the wrong words too?
My head hurts.”
“No, baby,
Not the wrong words at all.”
______
”It turns out I’m not everything he wants me to be.” Travis shakes his head. “That man looks at you like you hung the moon. Hell, more than that. Like you created the entire fucking universe. He never looked at me like he looks at you, even back when he had himself convinced he loved me.”
April 4, 2024
Is it wrong to say how happy I am to be back in the Safe House with these guys? I've missed them so much🤍
Knowing he’s going to remove my collar isn’t enough to prepare me for when it happens. For when it falls off like it’s nothing. Like I haven’t had it on for years. Like I haven’t tied my entire identity, my entire fucking existence, to it. Like it means nothing to him at all.
VS.
The urge to make a dirty joke about his load comes and goes quickly, a remnant from past-Nolan who dominated locker rooms and diner booths with his cocky grins and quick wit. I sometimes wonder if that part of me is still inside somewhere.
I was looking forward to Nolan's POV as he was the "perfect" slave and also the jock in his prior life. I wish we had gotten more of his back story tbh as I was really looking forward to getting to know him. Between his struggles with his feelings of love for his Master and realizing that his need for submission was present even when he was a jock, I feel he's such a dynamic character that needs more exploring and hopefully we'll see that in part 2.
On the sixth night, he laughs for the first time. It’s all deep and warm and goddamn beautiful.
Watching Maison & Nolan slowly orbit each other after the rescue was one of the greatest joys of the prior book. They are both held back by their own trauma from the operation so allowing themselves time to heal before attempting any type of relationship is the appropriate thing to do except...
He’s better off without me. He’ll learn that soon enough. All I do is hurt people. All I do is ruin things. No more being selfish.
Maison is an idiot who is emotionally unsafe for Nolan at this point. I never realized how much I don't like Maison until this book. While he was actively attempting to keep Travis & Carter apart he was also not taking are of himself and causing stress to a very fragile Nolan. We have already, collectively as readers, decided to accept that the former slaves & slave owners live together and it's Ok (not OK but OK). So now we have Maison ignoring both his mental & physical health while Nolan, and his innate caretaking urges, is forced to suffer along side him.
Part TWO. We all know Hunter is coming...and I for one am wary of how the dynamic will play out. It's set-up very well in this book that Maison is unable to be the sexual partner Nolan needs and presumably Hunter will step in as a Dom instructor. How he'll fit into their sexual dynamic remains to be seen. Can't say I'm excited for them to add a third but I'll keep an open mind.
Waiting to see if my suspicions about Keats are correct...
Knowing he’s going to remove my collar isn’t enough to prepare me for when it happens. For when it falls off like it’s nothing. Like I haven’t had it on for years. Like I haven’t tied my entire identity, my entire fucking existence, to it. Like it means nothing to him at all.
VS.
The urge to make a dirty joke about his load comes and goes quickly, a remnant from past-Nolan who dominated locker rooms and diner booths with his cocky grins and quick wit. I sometimes wonder if that part of me is still inside somewhere.
I was looking forward to Nolan's POV as he was the "perfect" slave and also the jock in his prior life. I wish we had gotten more of his back story tbh as I was really looking forward to getting to know him. Between his struggles with his feelings of love for his Master and realizing that his need for submission was present even when he was a jock, I feel he's such a dynamic character that needs more exploring and hopefully we'll see that in part 2.
On the sixth night, he laughs for the first time. It’s all deep and warm and goddamn beautiful.
Watching Maison & Nolan slowly orbit each other after the rescue was one of the greatest joys of the prior book. They are both held back by their own trauma from the operation so allowing themselves time to heal before attempting any type of relationship is the appropriate thing to do except...
He’s better off without me. He’ll learn that soon enough. All I do is hurt people. All I do is ruin things. No more being selfish.
Maison is an idiot who is emotionally unsafe for Nolan at this point. I never realized how much I don't like Maison until this book. While he was actively attempting to keep Travis & Carter apart he was also not taking are of himself and causing stress to a very fragile Nolan. We have already, collectively as readers, decided to accept that the former slaves & slave owners live together and it's Ok (not OK but OK). So now we have Maison ignoring both his mental & physical health while Nolan, and his innate caretaking urges, is forced to suffer along side him.
Part TWO. We all know Hunter is coming...and I for one am wary of how the dynamic will play out. It's set-up very well in this book that Maison is unable to be the sexual partner Nolan needs and presumably Hunter will step in as a Dom instructor. How he'll fit into their sexual dynamic remains to be seen. Can't say I'm excited for them to add a third but I'll keep an open mind.
Waiting to see if my suspicions about Keats are correct...
July 26, 2024
Despite how dark this universe is, it's one that has some of my most beloved characters. Drown In You was such a great spin off that I ended up loving it more than the original trilogy, and this one is a great follow up. A solid 4 stars.
I have to say that at the beginning I wasn't much into it because the whole thing of recounting events felt a bit lazy and could've been shown in the aftermath instead of what felt like a summary. But then it started getting better. I've always liked Nolan so my love for him grew, he is a very endearing character. Maison is the one who surprised me because he wasn't someone I cared for, but his character was well fleshed out here and I started caring for him. That's the power of an author.
I also need to mention that this book reminded me of how I ended up disliking both Travis and Carter, as well as their relationship lol, they were just too messy, self-absorved into each other and insufferable. While I agree that Maison's actions weren't the best and that he needed to realize what his brother needed, I was on his side about Travis, because him not giving Carter space to heal was freaking irresponsable and unhealthy. That's why their couple wasn't as convicing to me as Casey and Jake.
Speaking of couples, Maison and Nolan make a good one. It's adorable seeing how they become each other's support. Maison needed someone who convinced him he needed help, and Nolan needed someone on the dominant side who could become his anchor. It was refreshing to see the portrayal of their not-so-great sex, which is part of a relationship. The trauma from both sides was well handled too.
Now, I cannot say I'm too invested in the idea of adding a third - Hunter - from what it was hinted and the author's notes (I read MMM and poly as well so it's not because of that), but perhaps he can become the last piece both of them need in a relationship. I'm excited for what's to come. I also have to say that Max's story is the one I am looking forward the most, I can't wait.
I have to say that at the beginning I wasn't much into it because the whole thing of recounting events felt a bit lazy and could've been shown in the aftermath instead of what felt like a summary. But then it started getting better. I've always liked Nolan so my love for him grew, he is a very endearing character. Maison is the one who surprised me because he wasn't someone I cared for, but his character was well fleshed out here and I started caring for him. That's the power of an author.
I also need to mention that this book reminded me of how I ended up disliking both Travis and Carter, as well as their relationship lol, they were just too messy, self-absorved into each other and insufferable. While I agree that Maison's actions weren't the best and that he needed to realize what his brother needed, I was on his side about Travis, because him not giving Carter space to heal was freaking irresponsable and unhealthy. That's why their couple wasn't as convicing to me as Casey and Jake.
Speaking of couples, Maison and Nolan make a good one. It's adorable seeing how they become each other's support. Maison needed someone who convinced him he needed help, and Nolan needed someone on the dominant side who could become his anchor. It was refreshing to see the portrayal of their not-so-great sex, which is part of a relationship. The trauma from both sides was well handled too.
Now, I cannot say I'm too invested in the idea of adding a third - Hunter - from what it was hinted and the author's notes (I read MMM and poly as well so it's not because of that), but perhaps he can become the last piece both of them need in a relationship. I'm excited for what's to come. I also have to say that Max's story is the one I am looking forward the most, I can't wait.
March 29, 2024
SPOILERS- don’t read if you don’t want ‘em!
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All I can say is OMG OMG OMG! I can’t wait to see how Hunter can help Maison. Maison and Nolan are meant to be!
I was SOBBING in chapter 5 for the burden that Maison carries. He’s trying to be that person who can be relied on to care for EVERYONE, but feels like he doesn’t deserve the same care for himself? Utterly heartbreaking.
The guilt, the responsibility and the burden Maison carries for each operative and for each survivor that they rescued, for their physical and mental health and general wellbeing - gosh, most people would crumble under that weight. He nearly does too, trying to bury his pain with drinking and physical hurt and exhaustion in the gym, to the point where his body is literally breaking, until Nolan pulls him out of it. I understand his reluctance and distress at being Nolan’s Sir, because of Nolan’s history and the part he played in the undercover op.
Nolan’s journey to recovery and acceptance is just as difficult as Carter’s and Casey’s, but also so so different too. The shame he carries about his preferences is so profound and emotionally devastating that I did wonder if he’d come out the other side.
And the end? Where Nolan was burying those submissive servitude parts of himself because he’s scared of losing Maison? Omg. He’s never put himself first, always pretending to be someone he’s not (before he was taken), because he’s never been comfortable to be able to. He has finally come to accept that it’s ok that he needs that lifestyle and not to be ashamed of it despite his trauma and experiences over the years being a slave, so I hope that changes in part 2. I hope that he finally puts himself first and allows himself to be authentic.🤞🤞
Urgh. Another book that had me on an emotional rollercoaster Taylor! 10/10! ❤️❤️❤️
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All I can say is OMG OMG OMG! I can’t wait to see how Hunter can help Maison. Maison and Nolan are meant to be!
I was SOBBING in chapter 5 for the burden that Maison carries. He’s trying to be that person who can be relied on to care for EVERYONE, but feels like he doesn’t deserve the same care for himself? Utterly heartbreaking.
The guilt, the responsibility and the burden Maison carries for each operative and for each survivor that they rescued, for their physical and mental health and general wellbeing - gosh, most people would crumble under that weight. He nearly does too, trying to bury his pain with drinking and physical hurt and exhaustion in the gym, to the point where his body is literally breaking, until Nolan pulls him out of it. I understand his reluctance and distress at being Nolan’s Sir, because of Nolan’s history and the part he played in the undercover op.
Nolan’s journey to recovery and acceptance is just as difficult as Carter’s and Casey’s, but also so so different too. The shame he carries about his preferences is so profound and emotionally devastating that I did wonder if he’d come out the other side.
And the end? Where Nolan was burying those submissive servitude parts of himself because he’s scared of losing Maison? Omg. He’s never put himself first, always pretending to be someone he’s not (before he was taken), because he’s never been comfortable to be able to. He has finally come to accept that it’s ok that he needs that lifestyle and not to be ashamed of it despite his trauma and experiences over the years being a slave, so I hope that changes in part 2. I hope that he finally puts himself first and allows himself to be authentic.🤞🤞
Urgh. Another book that had me on an emotional rollercoaster Taylor! 10/10! ❤️❤️❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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