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Laurel Heights #1
Laurel Heights
Detectives Scott Turner and Will Harrison are sent undercover after an apparent murder/suicide in Laurel Heights, an exclusive gay housing community. Will the two closeted officers be able to hide their attraction while each believing the other is straight? And is there a killer amongst them waiting to claim his next victim?
CONTENT ADVISORY: This title includes scenes of dubious consent
CONTENT ADVISORY: This title includes scenes of dubious consent
272 pages, ebook
First published March 3, 2012
21 people are currently reading
1283 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Worrall
72 books414 followersI live in Leigh on Sea, a small seaside town just outside London on the coast of Essex, about ten minutes from Southend, which boasts the longest pier in the world. I live with my husband and two ever-growing children, who I let think are the boss of me; along with two dogs who actually are.
As the wonderful Beatrix Potter said, “There is something delicious about writing the first words of a new story. You never quite know where they’ll take you.” I know exactly what she means.
As the wonderful Beatrix Potter said, “There is something delicious about writing the first words of a new story. You never quite know where they’ll take you.” I know exactly what she means.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 271 reviews
September 2, 2015
5 stars and a big thumbs up
from me for this oneWell, another late night spent reading, and yet another Lisa Worrall book that I've really enjoyed, but hey, what's not to like - two smokin' hot cops
and a murder mystery - heaven in a book for me.Scott and Will gave each other the usual run around - their normal gaydar broken, and both thought the other was straight - although their female partners knew differently of course, amazing how intuitive we women are sometimes! The 'gay enclave' of Laurel Heights was a fabulous place and had 5 couples in residence, meaning that for the privileged few who could afford to live there, peace, quiet and of course safety could be guaranteed - until the murderer struck of course.
And, as we went through the book, it became clear that the murderer was of course part of the circle at Laurel Heights (the circle also held sex parties including partner swapping and threesomes), and normally I have to say I'm pretty good at guessing who the bad guy is, but not on this occasion. I had absolutely no idea
but of course, it doesn't end here because he had an accomplice who isn't on anyone's radar, and he's about to take over the reins as bad guy no.1 is now in jail
. So watch out Todd, they're still comin' to getcha!. The one good thing to come out of this story is that Scott and Will 'came out' as a couple
at the precinct, and no-one gives a damn apparently.Update. Buddy Read with Trisha May 2013, and good fun it was too! This is such a good book, I'd forgotten how good until this re-read, and smokin' hot!! Will and Scott are so right together, they make such a great couple and the sex between them is sensual (phew), tender and extremely hot...did I mention hot already??
** edit 22nd July 2014. Yet another re-read has come and gone. This book is outstanding, I can't WAIT for LH2 (luckily, only until next month!!) and I think I may FINALLY know who Jay's accomplice is, the mysterious Mr Kent....watch this space**
October 29, 2013
Buddy read with Bev, May 2013. Had a lot of fun second time around!
Okay, so after just finishing this for the second time, officially, I am pleased to say it's just as good this time around. I am in love with Will and Scott, this book and the majority of the characters. I'm not sure when the sequel is out, but it will go to the top of my list when the date is given. After reading this I am left with a lot of nice happy thoughts. Trying to review this well will be hard.
Will and Scott hate each other. Or do they? On the outside both MC's portray the bickering colleagues. But inside Scott will admit he has a massive crush on Will. For Will, he thinks he hates the man. Both are gay, but in the closet. They snap and bitch at each other constantly. Then they're asked to work undercover together in a gay community. The we get the array of lovely pet names, sweetums, hunnybun, pumpkin, sweet cheeks and honey to name just a few.I will admit I laughed my ass off.
During the case we get a lot of clues, some not so subtle and others were sort-of-but-not-really subtle. Everyone had their opinions, and knowing who it was this time, my mind went to, I should have known straight away. Will and Scott do a good job of winding each other up, even when they're working on the case. If it wasn't for Julie and Grace, they would have lost their jobs ages before anything was solved.They were my two favourite secondary characters.
Of course they get together just before the shit hits the fan. I loved the fact the author did that. I'm not a fan of everything happening at the very end. The romance was a big aspect as well as the crime. I felt so bad for poor Todd.I just wanted to put him in my pocket. Then we had Who I wanted to kill and make him pay for all the pain and suffering he caused.
The epilogue is a killer. We had the coming out in a fabulous way. And then we had the epilogue.It was a killer! One thing I will say.
"I came from a strict Catholic family, which in itself
wasn't the problem. The problem was the fact that my
father was the biggest bigot in the state. It wasn't just gays.
Hell, Paul Turner hated everybody, blacks, Hispanics,
Puerto Ricans, the Irish, but he had a special dislike for
what he liked to call ass-loving abominations of God.
Apparently Paul Turner would not have liked me. Do I look bothered?
Overall, this has become one of my favourite books of all time. It was my first by the authornot my last. And it really got me into cops. I would highly recommend it to people who want hot sex, a good mystery/thriller, and a great overall story.
Okay, so after just finishing this for the second time, officially, I am pleased to say it's just as good this time around. I am in love with Will and Scott, this book and the majority of the characters. I'm not sure when the sequel is out, but it will go to the top of my list when the date is given. After reading this I am left with a lot of nice happy thoughts. Trying to review this well will be hard.
Will and Scott hate each other. Or do they? On the outside both MC's portray the bickering colleagues. But inside Scott will admit he has a massive crush on Will. For Will, he thinks he hates the man. Both are gay, but in the closet. They snap and bitch at each other constantly. Then they're asked to work undercover together in a gay community. The we get the array of lovely pet names, sweetums, hunnybun, pumpkin, sweet cheeks and honey to name just a few.
During the case we get a lot of clues, some not so subtle and others were sort-of-but-not-really subtle. Everyone had their opinions, and knowing who it was this time, my mind went to, I should have known straight away. Will and Scott do a good job of winding each other up, even when they're working on the case. If it wasn't for Julie and Grace, they would have lost their jobs ages before anything was solved.They were my two favourite secondary characters.
Of course they get together just before the shit hits the fan. I loved the fact the author did that. I'm not a fan of everything happening at the very end. The romance was a big aspect as well as the crime. I felt so bad for poor Todd.
The epilogue is a killer. We had the coming out in a fabulous way. And then we had the epilogue.It was a killer! One thing I will say.
"I came from a strict Catholic family, which in itself
wasn't the problem. The problem was the fact that my
father was the biggest bigot in the state. It wasn't just gays.
Hell, Paul Turner hated everybody, blacks, Hispanics,
Puerto Ricans, the Irish, but he had a special dislike for
what he liked to call ass-loving abominations of God.
Apparently Paul Turner would not have liked me. Do I look bothered?
Overall, this has become one of my favourite books of all time. It was my first by the author
September 12, 2014
2.5 stars
What I like:
+ The banter between Scott and Will are quite entertaining
+ Their partners, the females, Grace and Julie, are wonderful.
+ The heartbreaking story of Todd, the victim, puts an edge and darker side to this story, and I truly wish that he gets his happiness, somehow in a separate story.
What I dislike:
+ The nicknames that both Scott and Will have for one another are exhausting after so many times
+ The fact that they actually busy having sex when yes, they do know that one of the males in the community is being abused, in addition that there's already two men died in Laurel Heights don't sit well for me, personally. I keep want to barge into their 'undercover house' and yell, "COME ON GUYS, INVESTIGATE!!! STOP ANALYZING YOUR OWN ISSUES!!"
+ While I know that I'm getting into, considering that Laurel Heights IS described as a community, in which the members are involved in a gathering of partner-swapping once in awhile, personally, that is not my favorite thing. Even if Scott and Will are not exactly involved with each other and the only 'action' they have with the other members of the community is kissing. But it's NOT the author's fault. She clearly states the description of the community beforehand ... Even so, I still squirm when reading the scene of 'the gathering', I can't help it.
+ Not a huge fan of cliffhanger ending, too. All the hints that the problem is not going away anytime soon, even after the murderer is caught. I think cliffhanger should stays on TV, because at least I know when the episode will return, what's with spoilers and all. In books, they just make me want to scream!
What I like:
+ The banter between Scott and Will are quite entertaining
+ Their partners, the females, Grace and Julie, are wonderful.
+ The heartbreaking story of Todd, the victim, puts an edge and darker side to this story, and I truly wish that he gets his happiness, somehow in a separate story.
What I dislike:
+ The nicknames that both Scott and Will have for one another are exhausting after so many times
+ The fact that they actually busy having sex when yes, they do know that one of the males in the community is being abused, in addition that there's already two men died in Laurel Heights don't sit well for me, personally. I keep want to barge into their 'undercover house' and yell, "COME ON GUYS, INVESTIGATE!!! STOP ANALYZING YOUR OWN ISSUES!!"
+ While I know that I'm getting into, considering that Laurel Heights IS described as a community, in which the members are involved in a gathering of partner-swapping once in awhile, personally, that is not my favorite thing. Even if Scott and Will are not exactly involved with each other and the only 'action' they have with the other members of the community is kissing. But it's NOT the author's fault. She clearly states the description of the community beforehand ... Even so, I still squirm when reading the scene of 'the gathering', I can't help it.
+ Not a huge fan of cliffhanger ending, too. All the hints that the problem is not going away anytime soon, even after the murderer is caught. I think cliffhanger should stays on TV, because at least I know when the episode will return, what's with spoilers and all. In books, they just make me want to scream!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 10, 2012
No, No, No, No, NO!!! Why did I read the goddamn epilogue?!? I was perfectly fine with the HEA or HFN or whatever kind of happiness that was. Why did you do this to me Lisa?
And I swear to God
Ok, now that that is out of the way, this was such a fun book! Ha! See how I'm just going to pretend that the epilogue didn't happen? I'm good with denial, totally fine with it.
These characters jumped off the page at me. Oh, how I loved Gracie and Jules. The perfect female partners. So funny. And once I could kinda keep straight all the couples in Laurel Heights, it became a fun guessing game as to who the bad guy was. And there was some really bad shit going on in that neighborhood. Not the least of which was these guys total lack of respect for personal space. I mean, really, who acts like that? They were all like some super fantastic gay ninjas just popping up all over the place.
But damn, damn, DAMN, Will and Scott were totally HOT. The bickering was cute, the italicized middle names funny (if maybe a tiny overdone), but when they finally got together? Wowzers! Will was so shy and then WHAM he went all toppy-top. Ungh. Then a little payback from Scott. Yeah, totally sexy!
So, I will wait till the next book to pass judgement on the ending. But I am not kidding Lisa, if , there will be no place near Laurel Heights safe enough from this crazy red head from Oklahoma!
And I swear to God
Ok, now that that is out of the way, this was such a fun book! Ha! See how I'm just going to pretend that the epilogue didn't happen? I'm good with denial, totally fine with it.
These characters jumped off the page at me. Oh, how I loved Gracie and Jules. The perfect female partners. So funny. And once I could kinda keep straight all the couples in Laurel Heights, it became a fun guessing game as to who the bad guy was. And there was some really bad shit going on in that neighborhood. Not the least of which was these guys total lack of respect for personal space. I mean, really, who acts like that? They were all like some super fantastic gay ninjas just popping up all over the place.
But damn, damn, DAMN, Will and Scott were totally HOT. The bickering was cute, the italicized middle names funny (if maybe a tiny overdone), but when they finally got together? Wowzers! Will was so shy and then WHAM he went all toppy-top. Ungh. Then a little payback from Scott. Yeah, totally sexy!
So, I will wait till the next book to pass judgement on the ending. But I am not kidding Lisa, if , there will be no place near Laurel Heights safe enough from this crazy red head from Oklahoma!
July 23, 2014
4.5--Double in the Closet--Stars!!
This was a great read! Really enjoyed it. It was fun...had a bit of a mystery element along with the romance. Super hot sexy times.
And double in the closet....
Scott 'I'm so straight I sleep standing up' Turner and Will 'I'm so straight I sleep with a poker up my ass' Harrison are both cops. They are both gay but pretend to be straight.
They both act like they hate each other when they are both secretly crushing on each other. Their inner dialogue about each other made me laugh.
Here are a few of the things that Will thought about Scott....
Scott 'asshole' Turner
Scott 'I'm so far up my own ass I can see what I had for breakfast' Turner
Scott 'would you like to be a notch on my bedpost' Turner
Scott ' my middle name is dickhead' Turner
Scott 'my Shorts are so tight I squeak when I walk' Turner
And a few of the things that Scott thought about Will....
Will 'I'm fucking beautiful and don't I know it' Harrison
Will 'I'm built like a Greek God' Harrison
Will 'I'm so straight I can't even bend down to tie my shoes' Harrison
Will 'I'm a prima-donna' Harrison
Will 'my thighs are so hard I can crack walnuts' Harrison
There's been two deaths at Laurel Heights, an exclusive gay community, and Scott and Will are sent in undercover to solve the mystery of the deaths.
I wouldn't call this an edge of your seat thriller. It was a comedic thriller. If there's such a thing.
So gay Scott and Will, who both think each other are straight, move in to this gay community to "pretend" to be gay in order to solve this murder mystery.
It's quite simple really...
So Scott and Will move in. Between nosy neighbors, swingers and sharing parties, and pretending to be gay....their secret can only be safe for so long. Right?
Will becomes...
Will 'white picket fence and happy ever after' Harrison
Will 'I'm gay, but sssh, don't tell anyone' Harrison
And Scott becomes...
Scott 'Oh thank God, he's gay!' Turner
Scott 'Would you look at the curve of that ass!' Turner
And I must address the epilogue...
Who in the hell is ??????
Don't read the epilogue if you don't want this to be a standalone. Doesn't really affect the MCs but opens the story back up. I'll be reading the next book. I'm down for more Scott and Will.
This was a great read! Really enjoyed it. It was fun...had a bit of a mystery element along with the romance. Super hot sexy times.
And double in the closet....
Scott 'I'm so straight I sleep standing up' Turner and Will 'I'm so straight I sleep with a poker up my ass' Harrison are both cops. They are both gay but pretend to be straight.
They both act like they hate each other when they are both secretly crushing on each other. Their inner dialogue about each other made me laugh.
Here are a few of the things that Will thought about Scott....
Scott 'asshole' Turner
Scott 'I'm so far up my own ass I can see what I had for breakfast' Turner
Scott 'would you like to be a notch on my bedpost' Turner
Scott ' my middle name is dickhead' Turner
Scott 'my Shorts are so tight I squeak when I walk' Turner
And a few of the things that Scott thought about Will....
Will 'I'm fucking beautiful and don't I know it' Harrison
Will 'I'm built like a Greek God' Harrison
Will 'I'm so straight I can't even bend down to tie my shoes' Harrison
Will 'I'm a prima-donna' Harrison
Will 'my thighs are so hard I can crack walnuts' Harrison
There's been two deaths at Laurel Heights, an exclusive gay community, and Scott and Will are sent in undercover to solve the mystery of the deaths.
I wouldn't call this an edge of your seat thriller. It was a comedic thriller. If there's such a thing.
So gay Scott and Will, who both think each other are straight, move in to this gay community to "pretend" to be gay in order to solve this murder mystery.
It's quite simple really...
So Scott and Will move in. Between nosy neighbors, swingers and sharing parties, and pretending to be gay....their secret can only be safe for so long. Right?
Will becomes...
Will 'white picket fence and happy ever after' Harrison
Will 'I'm gay, but sssh, don't tell anyone' Harrison
And Scott becomes...
Scott 'Oh thank God, he's gay!' Turner
Scott 'Would you look at the curve of that ass!' Turner
And I must address the epilogue...
Who in the hell is ??????
Don't read the epilogue if you don't want this to be a standalone. Doesn't really affect the MCs but opens the story back up. I'll be reading the next book. I'm down for more Scott and Will.
July 19, 2015
2.5 stars rounded up
This book reminded me of The Assignment by Evangeline Anderson. And another 12569 m/m books I've read about cops going undercover and playing the gay couple. Only this one was better. Because, like I said on a status update, and it also reminded me of Melrose Place - the gay version.
Gorgeous gay people living in a luxurious housing complex. Night clubs, booze, record producers, country singers, designers and architects. Gossip. Nosy neighbours. Partner swapping. Amidst all this, two closeted gay cops trying to solve a crime and at the same time deal with the growing attraction between them. Sounds like fun, no?
Sadly, the answer is no. Because the writing was pleonastic and the story was packed with redundant POV shifts. The punctuation was all over the place. The crime plot/whodunit was ridiculous, the supporting characters pathetic. I had trouble remembering who was who and what they looked like. It all sounded too much like bad daytime drama.
Also, the author thought it would be fun to give the MCs middle names like Scott Next Please Turner, Scott I'm so far up my own ass I can see what I had for breakfast Turner, Scott Would you like to be a notch on my bedpost Turner, Scott My middle name is Dickhead Turner, Scott My shorts are so tight I squeak when I walk Turner, Scott I'm so straight I sleep standing up Turner. Or Will I'm fucking beautiful and don't I know it Harrison, Will I'm built like a Greek God Harrison, Will I'm a prima-donna Harrison, Will My thighs are so hard I can crack walnuts Harrison, or Will Just wipe its ass and stick it on a plate Harrison. I admit I snickered the first couple of times, but after a while I became Lenore Enough with the silly nicknames, move on with the story already.
Another detail than didn't bode well with me was the MCs calling each other "man" and "dude" in bed. Like, "Dude, you feel so good inside me." Cringeworthy.
Then came the epilogue. What the hell was that about? Especially after the way the last chapter had ended. Totally unwarranted.
So, I'd say the first half of the story (before the MCs hooked up) was a bit better, funnier, the bickering between the MCs coming across fairly well. In the second half, the buff cops became drama queens ("I would die before I let you harm him!", "Tell him I'm sorry! Tell him I love him!", that kind of stuff) and the whole thing started deflating like a punctured balloon.
Oh well.
This book reminded me of The Assignment by Evangeline Anderson. And another 12569 m/m books I've read about cops going undercover and playing the gay couple. Only this one was better. Because, like I said on a status update, and it also reminded me of Melrose Place - the gay version.
Gorgeous gay people living in a luxurious housing complex. Night clubs, booze, record producers, country singers, designers and architects. Gossip. Nosy neighbours. Partner swapping. Amidst all this, two closeted gay cops trying to solve a crime and at the same time deal with the growing attraction between them. Sounds like fun, no?
Sadly, the answer is no. Because the writing was pleonastic and the story was packed with redundant POV shifts. The punctuation was all over the place. The crime plot/whodunit was ridiculous, the supporting characters pathetic. I had trouble remembering who was who and what they looked like. It all sounded too much like bad daytime drama.
Also, the author thought it would be fun to give the MCs middle names like Scott Next Please Turner, Scott I'm so far up my own ass I can see what I had for breakfast Turner, Scott Would you like to be a notch on my bedpost Turner, Scott My middle name is Dickhead Turner, Scott My shorts are so tight I squeak when I walk Turner, Scott I'm so straight I sleep standing up Turner. Or Will I'm fucking beautiful and don't I know it Harrison, Will I'm built like a Greek God Harrison, Will I'm a prima-donna Harrison, Will My thighs are so hard I can crack walnuts Harrison, or Will Just wipe its ass and stick it on a plate Harrison. I admit I snickered the first couple of times, but after a while I became Lenore Enough with the silly nicknames, move on with the story already.
Another detail than didn't bode well with me was the MCs calling each other "man" and "dude" in bed. Like, "Dude, you feel so good inside me." Cringeworthy.
Then came the epilogue. What the hell was that about? Especially after the way the last chapter had ended. Totally unwarranted.
So, I'd say the first half of the story (before the MCs hooked up) was a bit better, funnier, the bickering between the MCs coming across fairly well. In the second half, the buff cops became drama queens ("I would die before I let you harm him!", "Tell him I'm sorry! Tell him I love him!", that kind of stuff) and the whole thing started deflating like a punctured balloon.
Oh well.
March 16, 2012
Well we all knew I'd love this one. Seems every third book i read has closeted cops. What can I say? Firemen are a fetish, sure... but cops are an obsession. Or a sport. (Holy shit, if only there was a story about a baseball playing cop [back to Ty Grady... color me pathetic])
ANYWAYS... Will and Scott are awesome. I love their bickering and how they slowly fall into each other and it just makes so much sense. And I love that they were both gay, dammit. No string of women in their past to prove some masculinity and no poor girlfriend to be tossed aside (i'm feeling quite bad for the women of m/m). Just two guys here who have no real problem with knowing theyre gay... but keeping it quiet for their job. I'm ok with that. Plenty of us have to cope with that so it was quite realistic.
As for the secondaries... I LOVED Julie and Gracie. They seemed like legit police woman. They cared about their partners and made the story a little more human. Todd. Poor poor Todd. I just wanna hug him. I can't even imagine what going through those things does for the psyche and I like how his story wasnt handled with kid gloves. Gave me more respect for that part of the story. Thank goodness for Marcus.
The rest of the biddies on the block needed a serious lesson in manners. Yes, my friends are notorious for showing up unannounced and pilfering through my medicine cabinets (and my liquor cabinet) but they KNOCK! And by god they know better than to show up and mess with my mean ass first thing in the morning and CERTAINLY know I'd pull out a baseball bat if they interrupted the morning nookie at that. But geez it made for a fun read. I laughed out loud a few times here. And kept flipping pages cuz the mystery had me baffled... totally didn't see it coming. AND HOLY SHIT: the EPILOGUE. I almost pissed my pants.
As far as our MCs story, though... it ended SO EFFING GREAT. I loved it. the EPILOGUE has me dying and screaming for a sequel!
ANYWAYS... Will and Scott are awesome. I love their bickering and how they slowly fall into each other and it just makes so much sense. And I love that they were both gay, dammit. No string of women in their past to prove some masculinity and no poor girlfriend to be tossed aside (i'm feeling quite bad for the women of m/m). Just two guys here who have no real problem with knowing theyre gay... but keeping it quiet for their job. I'm ok with that. Plenty of us have to cope with that so it was quite realistic.
As for the secondaries... I LOVED Julie and Gracie. They seemed like legit police woman. They cared about their partners and made the story a little more human. Todd. Poor poor Todd. I just wanna hug him. I can't even imagine what going through those things does for the psyche and I like how his story wasnt handled with kid gloves. Gave me more respect for that part of the story. Thank goodness for Marcus.
The rest of the biddies on the block needed a serious lesson in manners. Yes, my friends are notorious for showing up unannounced and pilfering through my medicine cabinets (and my liquor cabinet) but they KNOCK! And by god they know better than to show up and mess with my mean ass first thing in the morning and CERTAINLY know I'd pull out a baseball bat if they interrupted the morning nookie at that. But geez it made for a fun read. I laughed out loud a few times here. And kept flipping pages cuz the mystery had me baffled... totally didn't see it coming. AND HOLY SHIT: the EPILOGUE. I almost pissed my pants.
As far as our MCs story, though... it ended SO EFFING GREAT. I loved it. the EPILOGUE has me dying and screaming for a sequel!
September 29, 2016
***4 You are? Me too! Stars***
We've got two closeted cops who play "straight" for their fellow police officers and detectives. Neither one of them knows that the other is not only gay, but has a burning fire in his loins for him. Add in a murder in a gay community for which they have to go undercover as a couple and we've got ourselves a fabulous romantic suspense/comedy!
First off, let me say that this is the weirdest community I've ever heard of. Not only are they all about the swinging, orgy fun times (sharing is caring after all), but everyone comes and goes into the other houses like locks don't exist. All up in your business. Everywhere you turn, there's a neighbor in your face.
Lisa Worrall did a great job of balancing out the romance/steam with the murder/mystery. I was guessing all the way up to the big reveal. Did I see it coming? Nope, I was too distracted by the hilarious banter and hot as hell sex! And there was plenty of both!
One of my favorite parts of any GFY/OFY book is that moment when the sexual tension reaches such a peak that the characters just burst and REACT! You know, the whole...
And this one certainly didn't disappoint in that department. It was a hilarious slow burn all the way until that moment. And once these two got started...
With the murder/mystery beginning to unravel, I had a pit in my stomach. Vile things were happening at Laurel Heights. And when all came to a head and the full story came out.....I was gripping my kindle and cursing the villain!
The only negative I have with this book is once our boys got together, it was a bit insta-love. Now I know they secretly had feelings for each other for a while, but I wasn't quite at that level with them. If that makes sense.
Also, as a bit of a warning, the book ends on a kind of cliffhanger. Nothing having to do with the two main characters, but with the last chapter you think everything is done...And then the epilogue blows the plot wide open.
July 19, 2015
1.5 stars rounded up because I actually finished the book
I did not enjoy this book. The plot was contrived, the characters were indistinguishable from one another and the villain was a way over the top mustache twirler. And what is up with all the long nicknames and ellipses?
Jenni 'so annoyed her eyes rolled right out of her head' Lea is... not very... amused... at all.
Scott and Will are pretty much the same person. They are both six feet tall, closeted tough guys with a plucky female partner who is the only person who knows their Big Gay Secret. I think the only difference between them is one has blond hair and the other brown. Don't ask me which is which cause for the life of me I can't remember. They are both too concerned with each other and fucking on every available surface to do their damned job and solve the mystery or at the very least, protect the victim. It took the victim coming to them all broken and bloody for them to actually pull their heads out of each others' asses and
Their romance, once they finally revealed to each other that they were both gay, went something like this:
"You're gay."
"I'm gay."
"Yay!"
"Let's fuck."
I was gonna rant some more but I find I've run out of fucks to give.
So, yeah. Not gonna recommend this one.
June 21, 2014
I love this book so much!It's one of my all-time favorite books and Will and Scott are definitely one of my favorite book couples. They are just awesome and hot and I love them together and as individual characters (which makes me love them even more). This was my first book by Lisa Worrall and I swore to myself, after reading this the first time, that it wouldn't be my last.
I'm a huge fan of men in uniform, but cops are one of my favorites. And I was really glad this book centered around the crime as well as the romance. It was dark enough for me to really get into the mystery plot and I was trying to figure out who the killer was. Did I get it? No. I went back and forward several times in my head, and looking back, I probably should have known who it was. But I didn't guess it right. And while I would have liked to, I think I enjoyed the book more because I didn't know. It also meant I was thinking about this for a long time when I finished it. And when I re-read the book, it was nice to be able to point out the times clues were given that I didn't notice the first time. I also fell in love with the secondary characters, Todd especially, more the second time around. Jules and Grace were already up there, but I think I was able to concentrate on some of the guys more once I knew who I should hate.
The romance between Will and Scott was my favorite thing about the book, though. And it didn't win by much, but I did find myself rooting for them and wanting them to get their act together. So it made sense that they would not only become one of my favorite couples, but for me to say that it was possibly my favorite part of the book. It was almost like an enemies-to-lovers trope, since they couldn't stand each other in the beginning. But as time passed and they grew closer while solving the case, I could see them becoming friends, too. I really loved the scene they kinda got together. I thought it was nice to see Scott opening up to Will and taking that leap. Also, I'd be lying if I said I didn't enjoy their sex scenes. Lisa did an amazing job writing those, and making them super hot and steamy.
Overall, I have fallen in love with this book every time I've read it. There was just something about this book, and these characters that stayed with me. It wasn't only the book I fell in love with, though, it was the authors writing and it made me determined to read more of her books. I am so glad now, looking back, that I read this fairly early into discovering m/m romance because it has proven the test of time with me. And I hope more people discover this book and fall in love with it like I did.
I'm a huge fan of men in uniform, but cops are one of my favorites. And I was really glad this book centered around the crime as well as the romance. It was dark enough for me to really get into the mystery plot and I was trying to figure out who the killer was. Did I get it? No. I went back and forward several times in my head, and looking back, I probably should have known who it was. But I didn't guess it right. And while I would have liked to, I think I enjoyed the book more because I didn't know. It also meant I was thinking about this for a long time when I finished it. And when I re-read the book, it was nice to be able to point out the times clues were given that I didn't notice the first time. I also fell in love with the secondary characters, Todd especially, more the second time around. Jules and Grace were already up there, but I think I was able to concentrate on some of the guys more once I knew who I should hate.
The romance between Will and Scott was my favorite thing about the book, though. And it didn't win by much, but I did find myself rooting for them and wanting them to get their act together. So it made sense that they would not only become one of my favorite couples, but for me to say that it was possibly my favorite part of the book. It was almost like an enemies-to-lovers trope, since they couldn't stand each other in the beginning. But as time passed and they grew closer while solving the case, I could see them becoming friends, too. I really loved the scene they kinda got together. I thought it was nice to see Scott opening up to Will and taking that leap. Also, I'd be lying if I said I didn't enjoy their sex scenes. Lisa did an amazing job writing those, and making them super hot and steamy.
Overall, I have fallen in love with this book every time I've read it. There was just something about this book, and these characters that stayed with me. It wasn't only the book I fell in love with, though, it was the authors writing and it made me determined to read more of her books. I am so glad now, looking back, that I read this fairly early into discovering m/m romance because it has proven the test of time with me. And I hope more people discover this book and fall in love with it like I did.
March 13, 2012
The ending alone makes this a 4.5 star...I am sooooo glad I read this book.
I was blown away by the last half of this book and the ending was freakin brilliant, totally different and it makes me wonder if maybe another book could be in the making.
The ending?? O.M.F.G....the ending alone makes this book worth reading.
I must admit at the beginning I wasn't really sure where it was leading. And then a couple times I was thinking "okay, please don't go there" but holy cow this book just took off and captivated me to the end. WOW! Amazing turn of events. I loved it!
Oh, and Scott and Will are so totally hot together!
I was blown away by the last half of this book and the ending was freakin brilliant, totally different and it makes me wonder if maybe another book could be in the making.
The ending?? O.M.F.G....the ending alone makes this book worth reading.
I must admit at the beginning I wasn't really sure where it was leading. And then a couple times I was thinking "okay, please don't go there" but holy cow this book just took off and captivated me to the end. WOW! Amazing turn of events. I loved it!
Oh, and Scott and Will are so totally hot together!
August 29, 2012
Two cops, living together undercover on assignment, neither knows the other is gay. This is my absolute all-time favorite M/M romance. LOVE!!
May 27, 2012
This did not work very well for me. It took me a while to differentiate between the MC's. They looked different, they had different personalities, but their voices were very similar and I kept confusing them. I couldn't get a handle on the rest of the characters in the Laurel Heights community, very little connection. When the murderer was finally revealed I had to go back to remind myself what his role was at beginning of the book and it had not impact whatsoever because I had forgotten who he was. The story was too unbelievable and I never managed to go with it, where was the investigation? The ending...huh?
There were a few other issues I won't get into. I did like some of the interactions between Will and Scott, liked the banter. The tension between them in the first half of the book was good. Their female partners were cool. The rest was a bust.
There were a few other issues I won't get into. I did like some of the interactions between Will and Scott, liked the banter. The tension between them in the first half of the book was good. Their female partners were cool. The rest was a bust.
July 6, 2023
The horniest undercover cops you’ll ever see.
Read
February 4, 2013I'm trying to think how I want to rate this because there were things I loved and things I hated. But while I ponder my rating and future review let me just say if this book was given anything more than a spell check, I'll eat paper. Seriously, the 'editor' should be fired.
However, I was absolutely addicted to reading this crazy story & kept tapping my Kindle furiously to read more while my eyes went like this: O_o
The sex was hot as hell when there weren't 8,000 ellipses thrown in.
Scott Turner & Will Harrison don't need an italicized nickname every 2 pages, as well.
That epilogue cracked my shit up & I got all excited until I read there won't be a sequel. Then, I got I don't know I guess annoyed.
BUT, with all of that mentioned I found this book ridiculously addictive and amusing. It was like Melrose Place/CSI/Nip Tuck and a combination of numerous other OTT shows. Good, solid fun.
However, I was absolutely addicted to reading this crazy story & kept tapping my Kindle furiously to read more while my eyes went like this: O_o
The sex was hot as hell when there weren't 8,000 ellipses thrown in.
Scott Turner & Will Harrison don't need an italicized nickname every 2 pages, as well.
That epilogue cracked my shit up & I got all excited until I read there won't be a sequel. Then, I got I don't know I guess annoyed.
BUT, with all of that mentioned I found this book ridiculously addictive and amusing. It was like Melrose Place/CSI/Nip Tuck and a combination of numerous other OTT shows. Good, solid fun.
April 2, 2012
Well, I have to say this book had a lot of things going for it. Lots of banter, some hot guys, lots of tension. It was definitely a fun and sexy read.
After reading this story, it's easy to say Will and Scott have to be one of my top ten favorite couples. Possibly top five. They are both so cute and cocky. The way they both have this impression of the other that is completely off was hysterical to me. The way they hated each other and their nonstop bickering gave me several laughs considering they had these little sparring matches while trying to act like a loving couple. I couldn't stop laughing once they'd start throwing innocent insults towards each other. They both are way more than they appear, though. Each man has their own appeal not just to each other but I think to the reader as well. I know I loved Will because of his soft heart but I also loved Scott because he's cocky and brash. Both men speak their mind and that creates lots of yummy sexual tension between them.
The plot revolves around Will and Scott going undercover as a gay couple in a small private gay community to find the murderer of another loving gay couple. While posing as a pair in love might be easy, or not so easy, for them, staying true to the straight guy persona they both have is a bit more difficult when this small community has a special 'gathering' once a month. Even with the tension of trying to find the murderer, the intensity between Scott and Will sky rockets when their desires for each other becomes more and more noticeable and undeniable. It's interesting to see how these two men who essentially hated each other can grow into such a hot couple while having to deal with everything else the small community has to offer.
While I thoroughly enjoyed the story, there are a few reasons I can't give this book five stars. The epilogue is the main reason. Another thing is I was very uncomfortable I understand some things needed to happen but I didn't like them. And I sure as hell didn't like that Will and Scott had to It pissed me off. I didn't want to read about that.
The book was very well written except for a few slip ups. There were a few inconsistencies I noticed and one or two scenes where a random head hop would make itself known. It was unexpected because the story was going so well then all of a sudden the scene would start from Scott's POV and switch to Will's within two or three paragraphs without any indication of a scene break.
In the end, I'd definitely recommend this book. While I did have some faults with the story, I believe they were well worth sitting through to be able to read about Will and Scott's adventure towards a happy ending. And, may I say what a delightful happy ending that was for them. I had a huge grin on my face after reading the last chapter (before the epilogue). On a side note, skip the epilogue. It'll only frustrate you. But definitely read it!
After reading this story, it's easy to say Will and Scott have to be one of my top ten favorite couples. Possibly top five. They are both so cute and cocky. The way they both have this impression of the other that is completely off was hysterical to me. The way they hated each other and their nonstop bickering gave me several laughs considering they had these little sparring matches while trying to act like a loving couple. I couldn't stop laughing once they'd start throwing innocent insults towards each other. They both are way more than they appear, though. Each man has their own appeal not just to each other but I think to the reader as well. I know I loved Will because of his soft heart but I also loved Scott because he's cocky and brash. Both men speak their mind and that creates lots of yummy sexual tension between them.
The plot revolves around Will and Scott going undercover as a gay couple in a small private gay community to find the murderer of another loving gay couple. While posing as a pair in love might be easy, or not so easy, for them, staying true to the straight guy persona they both have is a bit more difficult when this small community has a special 'gathering' once a month. Even with the tension of trying to find the murderer, the intensity between Scott and Will sky rockets when their desires for each other becomes more and more noticeable and undeniable. It's interesting to see how these two men who essentially hated each other can grow into such a hot couple while having to deal with everything else the small community has to offer.
While I thoroughly enjoyed the story, there are a few reasons I can't give this book five stars. The epilogue is the main reason. Another thing is I was very uncomfortable I understand some things needed to happen but I didn't like them. And I sure as hell didn't like that Will and Scott had to It pissed me off. I didn't want to read about that.
The book was very well written except for a few slip ups. There were a few inconsistencies I noticed and one or two scenes where a random head hop would make itself known. It was unexpected because the story was going so well then all of a sudden the scene would start from Scott's POV and switch to Will's within two or three paragraphs without any indication of a scene break.
In the end, I'd definitely recommend this book. While I did have some faults with the story, I believe they were well worth sitting through to be able to read about Will and Scott's adventure towards a happy ending. And, may I say what a delightful happy ending that was for them. I had a huge grin on my face after reading the last chapter (before the epilogue). On a side note, skip the epilogue. It'll only frustrate you. But definitely read it!
August 19, 2016
Give me a thrilling mystery that brings out my inner Sherlock
Scorching hot sex...
… and Simone is a very happy little girl. ;-)
The writing was at times a tad too cheesy for my liking and that's the reason I only gave it 4 stars instead of 5. A few times I had to roll my eyes, because nobody thinks something like that...
But all in all it was a great read and – oh, God – the epilogue...
*off to start with the next one*
Two adorable -while at the same time- hot undercover cops who permanently make me laugh out loud
Scorching hot sex...
… and Simone is a very happy little girl. ;-)
The writing was at times a tad too cheesy for my liking and that's the reason I only gave it 4 stars instead of 5. A few times I had to roll my eyes, because nobody thinks something like that...
It was almost as if Will was trying to taste his very soul. As if he were the last drink of water in the driest of deserts and he was the only one who could assuage Will's thirst.
But all in all it was a great read and – oh, God – the epilogue...
*off to start with the next one*
September 2, 2015
There seem to be a lot of varying opinions on Laurel Heights, but I loved it.
The plot is not exactly original, the dialogue... well, not great, and sometimes my eyes went rogue and rolled of their own accord, but it was a good, fast-paced story. I liked the bantering MC's, the baddie was truly despicable, and the sex was...
Now, the big problem that everyone warned me about was the epilogue. All I've got for the epilogue is...
The plot is not exactly original, the dialogue... well, not great, and sometimes my eyes went rogue and rolled of their own accord, but it was a good, fast-paced story. I liked the bantering MC's, the baddie was truly despicable, and the sex was...
Now, the big problem that everyone warned me about was the epilogue. All I've got for the epilogue is...
September 5, 2014
I truly have no idea where to start. Some would say at the beginning, but I have this strong urge to start from the epilogue, because it was wow... just WOW! I'm still reeling from what happened there. Oh well, I will get there, eventually.
Scott Turner and Will Harrison are two cops sent undercover to find out the truth about what recently happened in Laurel Heights, an exclusive gay housing community, one resident of which supposedly killed his lover and then commited suicide. Nothing special, huh? Wrong! The thing is, both detectives not only have to live there together and pretend to be a couple, a gay couple, but also engage in partner swapping and other kinky things (but don't worry, apart from kissing and some groping nothing happens, not really). For straight guys it's a lot to take in. Because Scott and Will are straight, right? Right? Um... no? And that's what makes this story abso-bloody-lutely amazing. It's not another Gay for You story, not in the slighest.
Will, having seen what being gay in the academy means and having understood that coming out of the closet would undoubtedly end with his dreams of being a cop staying just that, dreams, decides to create this second persona, Will Harrison, a straight guy with a steady girlfriend, though an imaginary one, but nobody has to know she doesn't really exist, right?
Scott, on the other hand, having seen and experienced his father's bigotry, creates his own persona, a lady man, in whose bed every night there's a different woman. After all, the fact that he plays for the other team and there has never been a woman in his bed is nobody's business. Nobody has to know that, right?
Oh, and did I tell you that these two can't stand to be in other's company? *snickers*
So we have two gay cops pretending to be straight that have to pretend they are gay, and let's not forget, have to live together and behave as if they were a couple. PDA including *snickers* Oh, and it turns out Scott has had the hots for Will from the moment they met. And Will? He's not far behind let me tell you ;) Add to this not only incredibly hot kisses, which will leave you breathless, but also hot as hell possessiveness, jealousy and finally the scorchingly hot sex and all you want to do is shout wooohooo, give me more baby, so good!!
And nope, I'm not going to tell you more. Curse me all you want, but to find out what happened in Laurel Heights you will just have to read this book for yourself.
Oh, I nearly forgot about the epilogue. But now I'm not so sure it's a good idea to reveal what happened there. All I'm going to say is that you're either going to hate it or love it. And how I feel about it? God, I loved the twist so freaking much!! Such an excellent opening to a sequel! So brilliant!!
Now go and buy this book. Lisa Worrall did a truly wonderful job. If I didn't love her so much already I would after reading this book. Laurel Heights hit all my buttons! I so can't wait for more of Will and Scott!! These guys rock!
Highly recommended read!
5+ stars
Scott Turner and Will Harrison are two cops sent undercover to find out the truth about what recently happened in Laurel Heights, an exclusive gay housing community, one resident of which supposedly killed his lover and then commited suicide. Nothing special, huh? Wrong! The thing is, both detectives not only have to live there together and pretend to be a couple, a gay couple, but also engage in partner swapping and other kinky things (but don't worry, apart from kissing and some groping nothing happens, not really). For straight guys it's a lot to take in. Because Scott and Will are straight, right? Right? Um... no? And that's what makes this story abso-bloody-lutely amazing. It's not another Gay for You story, not in the slighest.
Will, having seen what being gay in the academy means and having understood that coming out of the closet would undoubtedly end with his dreams of being a cop staying just that, dreams, decides to create this second persona, Will Harrison, a straight guy with a steady girlfriend, though an imaginary one, but nobody has to know she doesn't really exist, right?
Scott, on the other hand, having seen and experienced his father's bigotry, creates his own persona, a lady man, in whose bed every night there's a different woman. After all, the fact that he plays for the other team and there has never been a woman in his bed is nobody's business. Nobody has to know that, right?
Oh, and did I tell you that these two can't stand to be in other's company? *snickers*
So we have two gay cops pretending to be straight that have to pretend they are gay, and let's not forget, have to live together and behave as if they were a couple. PDA including *snickers* Oh, and it turns out Scott has had the hots for Will from the moment they met. And Will? He's not far behind let me tell you ;) Add to this not only incredibly hot kisses, which will leave you breathless, but also hot as hell possessiveness, jealousy and finally the scorchingly hot sex and all you want to do is shout wooohooo, give me more baby, so good!!
And nope, I'm not going to tell you more. Curse me all you want, but to find out what happened in Laurel Heights you will just have to read this book for yourself.
Oh, I nearly forgot about the epilogue. But now I'm not so sure it's a good idea to reveal what happened there. All I'm going to say is that you're either going to hate it or love it. And how I feel about it? God, I loved the twist so freaking much!! Such an excellent opening to a sequel! So brilliant!!
Now go and buy this book. Lisa Worrall did a truly wonderful job. If I didn't love her so much already I would after reading this book. Laurel Heights hit all my buttons! I so can't wait for more of Will and Scott!! These guys rock!
Highly recommended read!
5+ stars
April 5, 2014
What a great read!
Will and Scott, two detectives, are both deeply in the closet at work. Neither knows the other is gay. When they are send undercover after an apparent murder/suicide in Laurel Heights, an exclusive gay housing community they begin to panic. Will the two closeted officers be able to hide their attraction while each believing the other is straight? And is there a killer waiting to claim his next victim?
The banter between Will and Scott was fun, and giving the reader a good look at their inner thoughts worked well.
The pacing was perfect in terms of relationship development and how and what happened when. The suspense was good as well. Lisa did a great job of not letting too early know who the killer was. It really could have been almost anyone!
All in all it was an entertaining read and I'm looking forward to reading more stories from Lisa Worrall.
March 4, 2012
4.5 Stars. What a great story from beginning to end and what an ending. I never saw that coming! Just when you think everything is tied up nice and sweet, the author throws an ending in that stunned me. Both the main characters and the secondary characters are great. Laurel Heights is definitely a different place to live. Scott and Will are both lovable and frustrating at times when they are both denying so much, but there are alot of sweet and tender moments. The whodunit, I thought was well done and had me guessing until the end which does not often happen in books. I hope that there may be a sequel - there needs to be a sequel with this ending.
October 29, 2014
Can't wait for the next one, especially after that Epilogue!
Really enjoyed this story. The mystery kept me guessing and Scott and Will had great chemistry. Loved the set up for the next book and am already thinking of who that "lawyer" was.
Really enjoyed this story. The mystery kept me guessing and Scott and Will had great chemistry. Loved the set up for the next book and am already thinking of who that "lawyer" was.
August 25, 2017
Update March 30, 2015
I reread this in prep for the second book and it was just as wonderful as before.
-----
I just, I'm not, I don't even know what to say. I'm going to write the review for the book up until the epilogue first:
This was exactly what I was looking for: a good cop story, with intense love, danger, a killer who really wasn't obvious until the end (even though I thought it fairly predictable, I wasn't sure at all who the killer was). The pace was excellent, I couldn't put the book down. Usually I'm checking regularly to see how much longer a book was, but I pretty much forgot to even check as I read.
There were a few tropes that annoy me, like how fast the trial happens and is over, the overly touchy-feely gay men, the ease with which they get into and are accepted by the community, how easy it is to just buy a house and move in a week after you're accepted and it's fully furnished, etc. But I accept the creative license with these.
The characters were mostly interesting and not black and white for the most part. There were two women who were important and strong and smart. I loved them. The captain was grumpy but he was also a great guy and not hiding it. I really hate the trope of the angry police captain with the heart of gold. This wasn't like that.
The two guys were really sweet and cute, and while they were both blinder than an eyeless shrimp, their misinterpretations do make sense most of the time. I really like that it's two closeted gay guys and not the GFY, which I hate. Plus, the sex was really hot.
There's lot of action and enough danger and intrigue that it worked for me, and I'm pretty demanding, sick fuck that I am. I was going to rate it 4.5 stars plus one because the author got that the expression is "if you think such and such, you have another think coming." Most people get that wrong and it's a huge pet peeve of mine, so kudos to her.
THEN I read the epilogue which just pissed me off. There better be a sequel and this not like some horrible horror novel that leaves you hanging just to keep you scared. The only good thing about it is that it cleared up a plot hole:
So as not to scare you, I'll tell you that the epilogue doesn't have anything to do with the MC's romance.
So now I'm thinking of rounding my 4.5 stars down because of that. But then I think that if I knew for sure there would be a sequel, I wouldn't round it down. So I'm going to be nice and keep it rounded up to five stars.
I reread this in prep for the second book and it was just as wonderful as before.
-----
I just, I'm not, I don't even know what to say. I'm going to write the review for the book up until the epilogue first:
This was exactly what I was looking for: a good cop story, with intense love, danger, a killer who really wasn't obvious until the end (even though I thought it fairly predictable, I wasn't sure at all who the killer was). The pace was excellent, I couldn't put the book down. Usually I'm checking regularly to see how much longer a book was, but I pretty much forgot to even check as I read.
There were a few tropes that annoy me, like how fast the trial happens and is over, the overly touchy-feely gay men, the ease with which they get into and are accepted by the community, how easy it is to just buy a house and move in a week after you're accepted and it's fully furnished, etc. But I accept the creative license with these.
The characters were mostly interesting and not black and white for the most part. There were two women who were important and strong and smart. I loved them. The captain was grumpy but he was also a great guy and not hiding it. I really hate the trope of the angry police captain with the heart of gold. This wasn't like that.
The two guys were really sweet and cute, and while they were both blinder than an eyeless shrimp, their misinterpretations do make sense most of the time. I really like that it's two closeted gay guys and not the GFY, which I hate. Plus, the sex was really hot.
There's lot of action and enough danger and intrigue that it worked for me, and I'm pretty demanding, sick fuck that I am. I was going to rate it 4.5 stars plus one because the author got that the expression is "if you think such and such, you have another think coming." Most people get that wrong and it's a huge pet peeve of mine, so kudos to her.
THEN I read the epilogue which just pissed me off. There better be a sequel and this not like some horrible horror novel that leaves you hanging just to keep you scared. The only good thing about it is that it cleared up a plot hole:
So as not to scare you, I'll tell you that the epilogue doesn't have anything to do with the MC's romance.
So now I'm thinking of rounding my 4.5 stars down because of that. But then I think that if I knew for sure there would be a sequel, I wouldn't round it down. So I'm going to be nice and keep it rounded up to five stars.
April 20, 2012
It's tough when you work with jerks. That's what Detectives Scott Turner and Will Harrison think, and are constantly taunting each other about how rigid Will is and how much of a ladies man Scott can be. Will has a long-term girlfriend and it irritates him that Scott is such a man-slut. And Scott thinks Will should have the stick removed from his butt.
When there's what appears to be a murder/suicide at a gay housing community - think Knot's Landing cul-de-sac - the case is initially closed. But some who live there think it's too...handy. The guys were in love, not fighting, no depression. It just doesn't track.
So Scott and Will are ordered to go undercover, as lovers, to investigate. Holy. Hell. No way, they think. Neither wants the other to know he's really gay. So this is their worst nightmare.
When the guys get there and meet the residents, they realize they have to make it believable. Hard line to walk when you're trying to keep a secret. And of course, it explodes over - they really have an attraction. A passion for each other.
Can the two guys discover the many secrets being hidden at Laurel Heights? Will they be able to go back to being just partners? Or will it prove to dangerous in more than one way?
Lisa Worrall has stepped out big time and written a funny, sexy and romantic mystery that succeeds on so many different levels. The characters are well drawn and believable, the murder mystery puzzling, and the action hot and steamy.
Scott and Will are fantastic guys. Manly, hiding in the closet, but truly nice guys at heart. And both so afraid to be all of who they are. It was only a matter of time before their not-so-friendly bickering flamed into something hotter and deeper. They share so many similarities, and are so truly blind to each other. And their snarking at each other? Priceless.
This is a deeper and darker cut for Ms. Worrall, and it's hugely successful. Many of her works are so delightfully lighthearted, and much of her success is in her innate ability to draw out the heart of her characters and make us like them first, then love them. She layers that in this story with a here-to-fore unseen dark edge that I really, really like.
There's a huge twist in the last few pages that will work some folks up int a frenzy. I loved it. I like to be left on the edge of my seat, making up my own endings. And I'm told by the author, there won't be a sequel. Hooray!
Fantastic job, so well done!
Tom
When there's what appears to be a murder/suicide at a gay housing community - think Knot's Landing cul-de-sac - the case is initially closed. But some who live there think it's too...handy. The guys were in love, not fighting, no depression. It just doesn't track.
So Scott and Will are ordered to go undercover, as lovers, to investigate. Holy. Hell. No way, they think. Neither wants the other to know he's really gay. So this is their worst nightmare.
When the guys get there and meet the residents, they realize they have to make it believable. Hard line to walk when you're trying to keep a secret. And of course, it explodes over - they really have an attraction. A passion for each other.
Can the two guys discover the many secrets being hidden at Laurel Heights? Will they be able to go back to being just partners? Or will it prove to dangerous in more than one way?
Lisa Worrall has stepped out big time and written a funny, sexy and romantic mystery that succeeds on so many different levels. The characters are well drawn and believable, the murder mystery puzzling, and the action hot and steamy.
Scott and Will are fantastic guys. Manly, hiding in the closet, but truly nice guys at heart. And both so afraid to be all of who they are. It was only a matter of time before their not-so-friendly bickering flamed into something hotter and deeper. They share so many similarities, and are so truly blind to each other. And their snarking at each other? Priceless.
This is a deeper and darker cut for Ms. Worrall, and it's hugely successful. Many of her works are so delightfully lighthearted, and much of her success is in her innate ability to draw out the heart of her characters and make us like them first, then love them. She layers that in this story with a here-to-fore unseen dark edge that I really, really like.
There's a huge twist in the last few pages that will work some folks up int a frenzy. I loved it. I like to be left on the edge of my seat, making up my own endings. And I'm told by the author, there won't be a sequel. Hooray!
Fantastic job, so well done!
Tom
January 23, 2013
3.5 stars rounded up to 4.0
Detectives Scott Turner and Will Harrison are closeted gay cops who are assigned to work undercover as a gay couple. Victor Victoria much? (Granted, that movie was about a girl pretending to be a guy pretending to be a girl … but you get my drift.) These cops are pretending to be straight (Will even has a framed photo on his desk of his fiancé, Amanda, but it’s actually the photo that came with the frame) and are sent undercover to “pretend” to be gay. Both are attracted to each other, terrified of being outed, and convinced that the other is straight. What a glorious, angst-ridden mess!
Admittedly, this story line was frustrating at first; but, ultimately, I really enjoyed this book. I liked both MCs and happily didn’t at first. But they both grew on me. There was great character development in this book and the mystery of who-dunnit kept me guessing to the end. The premise of a gay-only housing development was far-fetched and unbelievable (being illegal and all) but I just rolled with it. As the warning indicates, this book did contain scenes involving dubious consent and torture. Definitely on the dark side and, honestly, a little uncomfortable for me but it was only a few scenes and were for purposes of the underlying mystery and did not involve the MCs. BTW, Lisa Worrall can write some super, hawt, smexy love scenes. Yummmmmmy!
Bottom line: a story set on an unrealistic premise but an entertaining read nonetheless. The end was a bit of a cliff hanger which leads me to wonder about ... and hope for ... a sequel. Recommend.
Detectives Scott Turner and Will Harrison are closeted gay cops who are assigned to work undercover as a gay couple. Victor Victoria much? (Granted, that movie was about a girl pretending to be a guy pretending to be a girl … but you get my drift.) These cops are pretending to be straight (Will even has a framed photo on his desk of his fiancé, Amanda, but it’s actually the photo that came with the frame) and are sent undercover to “pretend” to be gay. Both are attracted to each other, terrified of being outed, and convinced that the other is straight. What a glorious, angst-ridden mess!
Admittedly, this story line was frustrating at first; but, ultimately, I really enjoyed this book. I liked both MCs and happily didn’t at first. But they both grew on me. There was great character development in this book and the mystery of who-dunnit kept me guessing to the end. The premise of a gay-only housing development was far-fetched and unbelievable (being illegal and all) but I just rolled with it. As the warning indicates, this book did contain scenes involving dubious consent and torture. Definitely on the dark side and, honestly, a little uncomfortable for me but it was only a few scenes and were for purposes of the underlying mystery and did not involve the MCs. BTW, Lisa Worrall can write some super, hawt, smexy love scenes. Yummmmmmy!
Bottom line: a story set on an unrealistic premise but an entertaining read nonetheless. The end was a bit of a cliff hanger which leads me to wonder about ... and hope for ... a sequel. Recommend.
March 11, 2012
Omg the end is horrible.....
The getting together story is romantic, comical and sarcastic. This part was really enjoyable and good. I liked the mystery part of a whole storyline, but the ending, bad bad bad bad bad. This kind of epilogue was wrong and it's logical this can only be Erik. I hate this end.
The getting together story is romantic, comical and sarcastic. This part was really enjoyable and good. I liked the mystery part of a whole storyline, but the ending, bad bad bad bad bad. This kind of epilogue was wrong and it's logical this can only be Erik. I hate this end.
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May 22, 2014The mixed reviews have caused me to go back and forth on whether to read this or not. But what the hell.
I like cops!
I like sex!
I like cops having sex with other cops!
Besides, if I hate it, I can always blame Smith.
(Why, yes, I am writing this to avoid holiday celebrations. Thank you for noticing.)
I like cops!
I like sex!
I like cops having sex with other cops!
Besides, if I hate it, I can always blame Smith.
(Why, yes, I am writing this to avoid holiday celebrations. Thank you for noticing.)
May 11, 2016
This book had SO much potential, but it was a real let down for me.
It was the perfect premise- two supposedly straight cops, who supposedly hate each other, forced to go undercover as a gay couple, in a gay community, to find a murderer. Only you know what they say, there's a thin line between love and hate, right? Awesome premise, even if it has been done before.
However, our closeted cops are pretty much interchangeable. They are both gay, both in the closet to protect their careers, both have female partners on the job, both confided the truth about themselves after six months of working together, both even have the same habit of extending each other's names, "Scott so hot I can't stand it Turner", "Will why did I have to fall for the straight guy Harrison"(those are just examples,not actually used in the book).
Then there was the community, this gay Stepford Community, they infiltrated. So many names to learn, and other than Todd and Brent, they were pretty much the same, too. I admit, I didn't guess the baddie, but only because I couldn't tell the guys apart, and I figured Brent's abrasive personality was a red herring. The men in this community had NO boundaries, coming and going in each other's homes a they pleased, kissing and grabbing each other. It was all pretty skeezy and gross, even the sex parties. Not hot in the least.
The UST between Will and Scott was the best part of the story, and the only reason I gave this 2 stars. You could feel how much they wanted each other, and once they finally came together, it was super hot (if a bit unrealistic, three orgasms, one right after the other, with absolutely no recovery time?? These guys aren't teenagers!)
The story ended in such a way that I want to know who the other baddie is, but probably not enough to spend the money. Maybe I can beg a loan from someone?
It was the perfect premise- two supposedly straight cops, who supposedly hate each other, forced to go undercover as a gay couple, in a gay community, to find a murderer. Only you know what they say, there's a thin line between love and hate, right? Awesome premise, even if it has been done before.
However, our closeted cops are pretty much interchangeable. They are both gay, both in the closet to protect their careers, both have female partners on the job, both confided the truth about themselves after six months of working together, both even have the same habit of extending each other's names, "Scott so hot I can't stand it Turner", "Will why did I have to fall for the straight guy Harrison"(those are just examples,not actually used in the book).
Then there was the community, this gay Stepford Community, they infiltrated. So many names to learn, and other than Todd and Brent, they were pretty much the same, too. I admit, I didn't guess the baddie, but only because I couldn't tell the guys apart, and I figured Brent's abrasive personality was a red herring. The men in this community had NO boundaries, coming and going in each other's homes a they pleased, kissing and grabbing each other. It was all pretty skeezy and gross, even the sex parties. Not hot in the least.
The UST between Will and Scott was the best part of the story, and the only reason I gave this 2 stars. You could feel how much they wanted each other, and once they finally came together, it was super hot (if a bit unrealistic, three orgasms, one right after the other, with absolutely no recovery time?? These guys aren't teenagers!)
The story ended in such a way that I want to know who the other baddie is, but probably not enough to spend the money. Maybe I can beg a loan from someone?
April 14, 2017
★★ - Won't bother with a reread, off-putting plot/characters/writing.
March 23, 2012
I really enjoyed this story. Starts out a little slow with the typical cops pretending to be straight to cover up their feelings for each other, who then have to go undercover as a gay couple. Scott and Will are so good together. Their funny banter had me laughing out loud more than once. When they get together, they sizzle. Throw in the mystery they are trying to solve, and poor Todd who they are trying to help, and this is a winner. I thought I had it figured out, but was pleasantly surprised to be wrong. And the ending? I hate not being able to jump right into the sequel when a book ends the way this one does. I think I have it figured out again though, so I hope the wait isn't too long.
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