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The Men of Halfway House #2
A Hunted Man
After surviving ten years in prison, Cameron Pierce is attempting to put the past behind him. He tries to adjust to his newfound freedom with a place at the halfway house and a job. But one lesson he learned in prison keeps him hope is a dangerous thing.Hunter Donovan, Assistant State Attorney, is a man of justice who loves a challenge. After a lifetime of putting his career first, a milestone brings him to a harsh realization—he's lonely.Hunter's world changes when he meets Cam. The wary young man intrigues him and awakens a desire unlike anything he's ever experienced. When Cam's past resurfaces and threatens to rip them apart, their budding relationship is challenged and Cam's hope for a future begins to dim.These outside forces hunting Cam will stop at nothing to send him back to prison. But they'll have to get past Hunter Word 111,200. This story is a romantic suspense/mystery novel and the second installment in The Men of Halfway House series. Although characters reappear from book one, this story can be read as a stand-alone.
379 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 27, 2014
116 people are currently reading
1131 people want to read
About the author
Jaime Reese
9 books722 followersI get this huge dorky grin on my face when I receive a message from someone who has taken the time to read my book. I know readers have a choice in a sea of many options. I'm humbled when someone chooses one of mine. Thank you. ~JR
About me...
Jaime Reese is the alter ego of an artist who loves the creative process of writing, just not about herself. Fiction is far more interesting. She has a weakness for broken, misunderstood heroes and feels everyone deserves a chance at love and life. An avid fan of a happy ending, she believes those endings acquired with a little difficulty are more cherished.
...and yes, it was totally weird reading something about myself in 3rd person :)
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About me...
Jaime Reese is the alter ego of an artist who loves the creative process of writing, just not about herself. Fiction is far more interesting. She has a weakness for broken, misunderstood heroes and feels everyone deserves a chance at love and life. An avid fan of a happy ending, she believes those endings acquired with a little difficulty are more cherished.
...and yes, it was totally weird reading something about myself in 3rd person :)
Where am I?
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 329 reviews
February 3, 2015
I adored this book in all its romantic, angsty glory.
Cameron is damaged, and, as other reviewers have mentioned, seems much younger than 27. But this felt real to me. Cam was arrested at 17 and spent 10 years in brutal circumstances in prison. His one and only concern was self-preservation and survival. He never developed emotionally and never let people get close.
Hunter, bemoaning his 40th birthday, is alone and lonely. When he meets Cam at the diner he frequents, Cam becomes the one spark in his existence. Hunter is a government attorney, and the big drug case he's investigating is intricately related to Cam's unjust conviction a decade ago.
There was a lot of plot here involving drugs, bribery, and dirty cops/politicians. Both Hunter and Cam are in physical danger. But the plot did not overwhelm the story for me. Was it entirely realistic? Maybe not, but let's not pretend bribery and deceit aren't common political practices.
Cam needed to believe that he was innocent, and justice had to be served to the fuckers who used him as a scapegoat.
The slow, delicious buildup between Cam and Hunter led to plenty of tension, a sexy slow burn, and KISSING. I loved all the kissing!
Both guys were fiercely protective of one another, which made the steam all the hotter.
As Cam and Hunter's relationship deepened, and as Cam began to trust that Hunter was not going to leave him, Cam become stronger; he learned to trust Hunter and himself. The scene at the tattoo shop was perfect. It was all about taking back the power.
I loved seeing Matt and Julian again, even though they don't play a big role in this story. Matt's birthday celebration was a wonderful addition.
Hunter's dad was a great character, his feisty demeanor hiding a heart of gold. I also really liked Hunter's Marine/cop (excuse me while I drool a little) buddy Aidan, as well as Jessie, Hunter's assistant, and Cole, a new guy at the Halfway House (I think Cole was right; it does need a better name) who lovesto steal fast cars. I can see some pairings coming up!
There was so much warmth in this book. I can see how some might find it sappy, but I'll take it. Love conquers all here, and that made me insanely happy. The ending was lovely if slightly bittersweet. The last page just melted me.
I so look forward to the next installment in this series.
Cameron is damaged, and, as other reviewers have mentioned, seems much younger than 27. But this felt real to me. Cam was arrested at 17 and spent 10 years in brutal circumstances in prison. His one and only concern was self-preservation and survival. He never developed emotionally and never let people get close.
Hunter, bemoaning his 40th birthday, is alone and lonely. When he meets Cam at the diner he frequents, Cam becomes the one spark in his existence. Hunter is a government attorney, and the big drug case he's investigating is intricately related to Cam's unjust conviction a decade ago.
There was a lot of plot here involving drugs, bribery, and dirty cops/politicians. Both Hunter and Cam are in physical danger. But the plot did not overwhelm the story for me. Was it entirely realistic? Maybe not, but let's not pretend bribery and deceit aren't common political practices.
Cam needed to believe that he was innocent, and justice had to be served to the fuckers who used him as a scapegoat.
The slow, delicious buildup between Cam and Hunter led to plenty of tension, a sexy slow burn, and KISSING. I loved all the kissing!
Both guys were fiercely protective of one another, which made the steam all the hotter.
As Cam and Hunter's relationship deepened, and as Cam began to trust that Hunter was not going to leave him, Cam become stronger; he learned to trust Hunter and himself. The scene at the tattoo shop was perfect. It was all about taking back the power.
I loved seeing Matt and Julian again, even though they don't play a big role in this story. Matt's birthday celebration was a wonderful addition.
Hunter's dad was a great character, his feisty demeanor hiding a heart of gold. I also really liked Hunter's Marine/cop (excuse me while I drool a little) buddy Aidan, as well as Jessie, Hunter's assistant, and Cole, a new guy at the Halfway House (I think Cole was right; it does need a better name) who loves
There was so much warmth in this book. I can see how some might find it sappy, but I'll take it. Love conquers all here, and that made me insanely happy. The ending was lovely if slightly bittersweet. The last page just melted me.
I so look forward to the next installment in this series.
May 23, 2014
*sigh*
Jaime Reese has done it again! I fell in love with her writing and her characters in A Better Man. Then I heard this was going to be a series and I was ecstatic and I was going mad waiting for this. But do you know what? It was so worth the long and painful wait. So worth it! I was in heaven reading this book and I really do believe it is just as wonderful as A Better Man.
Where should I start with these guys? Cam, oh poor Cam, he had been through so much and he had lost the one person who ever really loved him. He was betrayed by the only two family members he has left and if that wasn't he just got out of prison after spending ten years inside. He was left broken and afraid to hope from all this. I just wanted to hug him, he was so lovable. Then you have Hunter and I really loved him too. His life wasn't bad but he's married to his job and his love life is nonexistent. He was a really sweet, supportive guy and I loved him for Cam.
One thing I adore about this couple, and the couple from book one, is the fact they make sense. I know a lot of couples do. But I've often found that some couples just don't really work well together and I'm not talking about chemistry. Cam and Hunter and Matt and J make sense to me, they really do. They are great couples and they fit together in a way some romance couples don't. Hunter was a great support for Cam. He never pushed and he was there supporting his boyfriend when needed. Together they were sweet and adorable, almost. I loved their romantic moments and there were a lot of sweet, swoon worthy moments in this. There were a few sex scenes that were really well done and fitted with the couple.
The mystery aspect of this book was wonderful. I did not see everything coming, which was nice, but I also guessed a couple of things, which was also nice. I loved the fact the neither the romance or mystery overshadowed the other. It was a good mix and I loved the fact the two elements of the book were there from beginning to end. I was wrapped up in the things that were happening in this book and I wanted to read more. And this wasn't a short book by any means, it is over 300 pages. But I seriously could have read another 50 pages of this and I think I would have loved that just as much as the rest of this book.
What else can I say? Um... Did I mention how much I loved this book? Yeah? Okay then, I think that's about all I can say so, without spoiling the book anyway and I don't want to do that. But I would highly recommend you go read this book if you enjoyed the first one, and even if you didn't love it as much as I did, I think you should give this one a shot!
Jaime Reese has done it again! I fell in love with her writing and her characters in A Better Man. Then I heard this was going to be a series and I was ecstatic and I was going mad waiting for this. But do you know what? It was so worth the long and painful wait. So worth it! I was in heaven reading this book and I really do believe it is just as wonderful as A Better Man.
Where should I start with these guys? Cam, oh poor Cam, he had been through so much and he had lost the one person who ever really loved him. He was betrayed by the only two family members he has left and if that wasn't he just got out of prison after spending ten years inside. He was left broken and afraid to hope from all this. I just wanted to hug him, he was so lovable. Then you have Hunter and I really loved him too. His life wasn't bad but he's married to his job and his love life is nonexistent. He was a really sweet, supportive guy and I loved him for Cam.
One thing I adore about this couple, and the couple from book one, is the fact they make sense. I know a lot of couples do. But I've often found that some couples just don't really work well together and I'm not talking about chemistry. Cam and Hunter and Matt and J make sense to me, they really do. They are great couples and they fit together in a way some romance couples don't. Hunter was a great support for Cam. He never pushed and he was there supporting his boyfriend when needed. Together they were sweet and adorable, almost. I loved their romantic moments and there were a lot of sweet, swoon worthy moments in this. There were a few sex scenes that were really well done and fitted with the couple.
The mystery aspect of this book was wonderful. I did not see everything coming, which was nice, but I also guessed a couple of things, which was also nice. I loved the fact the neither the romance or mystery overshadowed the other. It was a good mix and I loved the fact the two elements of the book were there from beginning to end. I was wrapped up in the things that were happening in this book and I wanted to read more. And this wasn't a short book by any means, it is over 300 pages. But I seriously could have read another 50 pages of this and I think I would have loved that just as much as the rest of this book.
What else can I say? Um... Did I mention how much I loved this book? Yeah? Okay then, I think that's about all I can say so, without spoiling the book anyway and I don't want to do that. But I would highly recommend you go read this book if you enjoyed the first one, and even if you didn't love it as much as I did, I think you should give this one a shot!
January 16, 2016
***3.75 Stars***
This was a great read that I really enjoyed, but I gotta admit that it felt a bit too long. I found myself bored at times with the pacing of the story.
I really liked Cam and Hunter, even if it was a little too "insta" for my liking, and wish the story was a little more balanced when it came to the romance and suspense. I was interested in unraveling the mystery of Cam's past, but I would have liked to have seen more of Hunter and Cam's time together building their connection and falling in love. Also, some more steam would have definitely been welcome because what was here was HOT! The HEA was great and satisfying, but a little too saccharine for me.
The secondary characters were well developed and I really enjoyed the sense of family created. Seeing Matt and Julian was fantastic, but Bill, Lucy and Hunter's dad really stole the show.
"You know what's the best part of having a gay son?"
"What's that?"
"I inherit a second son."
Cole's introduction definitely has me intrigued and I'm looking forward to his book next. I'm also hoping there will be something down the line with Hunter's friend, Aiden. He's got delicious Alpha written all over him!
August 30, 2018
I love this series and I loved this book even more than I did book 1.
When Cameron was 17 years old he was sentenced (unfairly) to 10 years of prison time. I loved Cam from the very start.
Cameron has been through a lot and he is also hiding a lot.....
After serving his time, he is welcomed at the Halfway House, by Matt and Julian. He has some difficulties adjusting, because 10 years is a very long time.
He tries his best though and he get's a job at a diner. While at work he meets Hunter.
Hunter is older, gorgeous, sexy and a lawyer, an assistant state attorney, to be exact. These two share an instant attraction with one another. These two get to know each other and Hunter is willing to do anything to protect Cam and to prevent him going back to prison again.
I absolutely loved the mystery/suspence part of this book, and it didn't take anything away from the romance.
Just like the previous book, this is a slow burn romance and the sexual tension is so thick you can cut it with a knife ;)
But if I am being completely honest....what I loved most about this book was Cole !! His book is gonna be so great !!!
When Cameron was 17 years old he was sentenced (unfairly) to 10 years of prison time. I loved Cam from the very start.
Cameron has been through a lot and he is also hiding a lot.....
After serving his time, he is welcomed at the Halfway House, by Matt and Julian. He has some difficulties adjusting, because 10 years is a very long time.
He tries his best though and he get's a job at a diner. While at work he meets Hunter.
Hunter is older, gorgeous, sexy and a lawyer, an assistant state attorney, to be exact. These two share an instant attraction with one another. These two get to know each other and Hunter is willing to do anything to protect Cam and to prevent him going back to prison again.
I absolutely loved the mystery/suspence part of this book, and it didn't take anything away from the romance.
Just like the previous book, this is a slow burn romance and the sexual tension is so thick you can cut it with a knife ;)
But if I am being completely honest....what I loved most about this book was Cole !! His book is gonna be so great !!!
This review is posted on Wendy's Wycked Words
May 1, 2014
I know the author was concerned about the length of this book, but all I have to say about that is, thank you! I loved losing myself in this full length novel and gladly will do so in the next one as well. While this was a very romantic story, it had full scale mystery and action as well. One aspect wasn’t used just to move the other along and so the balance made the book flow so well I never noticed the length until it was almost over; and then I didn’t want it to be. I would easily classify this as a mystery that happens to have gay main characters as much as I would an MM romance.
The mystery of what really happened to Cam and how he ended up with a prison record is wrapped in layers of who? and why? and wait, WHAT? As the story unfolds my heart broke for how wronged Cam was over and over and my respect for him grew. Something stunk about why Cam was railroaded when he was sent to prison, the whole time he was in and even after his release.
Through the whole book I was doing this:
1. Spidey senses are telling me all is not right with the release, I smell deception and nefarious activities!
2. Ok, so a little bit more of Cam’s past coming to light, but I don’t get the setup, there HAS to be more.
3. Oh hell, LOOK, there’s more!
4. No WAY, not him, no man would do that, would he???
5. He did, but why? WHY?
6. There’s a mole on the inside, it’s gotta be him, he’s got the perfect cover.
7. Well, shit, wasn’t him.
8. OHMYGAWD I NEED TO KNOW ALL THE THINGS!
So, yeah, I got completely sucked into the mystery, not to mention the badass ex-military hero action. That was good stuff and not over the top. Heroic AND believable and I loved it.
The secondary characters are strong in A Hunted Man and keep the story moving while adding depth to the main characters. Cam needs a support system like he’s never had before and thankfully that support starts with Sam who we met as Matt’s champion in A Better Man. Matt and Julian are back and I loved reading about them again. Especially Julian, I will ALWAYS have a special place in my heart for Julian. While the Halfway House is a major setting it’s really a connection point so this story didn’t read as merely a continuation of A Better Man, but as a completely new novel with expanding storylines and possibilities.
Cam gets a job working for Lucy and Bill at the diner that Hunter frequents. I don’t think Cam could have been set up with a better job than the one at the diner or with better people that Lucy and Bill, they aren’t characters I’ll forget about any time soon. My favorite though is definitely Hunter’s dad.
I love that man.
When you meet him you can see exactly why Hunter is the caring and fiercely loyal man that he is. Collectively we read about A LOT of awful parental units in the MM genre, but you will not read a better father than Hunter’s dad, don’t even try. The conversations between Hunter and his dad are some of my favorite parts of the book and his acceptance of Cam had me choking up at the perfectness of it all.
All that being said, I do love my romance, so let’s talk ALL about that.
Ahhhh, the romance in this story is off the charts hot, sweet and intense. Cam ends up getting loved pretty hard in this book and man did this guy need it. The reassurances and comfort Hunter gave him were powerful and while might have been too much for another character, for Cam they were perfect. He had a lot of time and loss to make up for and I think the impact of Hunter’s love made it possible for Cam to believe happiness was possible for him. Cam’s underlying theme, the thing he wants and fears more than anything is hope. The quote at the beginning of the book is perfect for Cam:
Hope. You can fear her, ignore her, resent her, but she will never abandon you when you need her most.
Cam has missed so much when he was locked away and the author captured both his confusion and resilience so well. He spent his 20’s behind bars, incredibly formative years for a young man and he missed them all, all he could do was work on surviving and look forward to the day when he would be free. When he settles into the Halfway House and gets the job at the diner he has his first chance of normalcy in a decade. Then he sees Hunter, Hunter sees him and the really intense sexual tension starts.
And, while the sexual tension was SO good to read, I loved the charming banter between the two just as much. Cam finally was able to feel comfortable and safe with someone. Cam’s true personality evolved very naturally and I felt like I was really getting to know him as a person and not an ex-con along with Hunter. There are a lot of little MOMENTS that I loved and the connection between the two of them was perfectly done. Hunter really is a sweet romantic sap and while it’s obvious Cam eats up every word and gesture like a starving man, he can’t help but call Hunter on his sappiness bringing some needed levity to their lives and the whole messed up situation they are in. Cam really is very funny and charming, and reading his evolution throughout the book was heartwarming. While, at the same time, the mystery and potential for absolute disaster kept me on edge.
The overall package that is A Hunted Man has everything I love in a good book. No, scratch that, a really great book. This is definitely going to be a reread for me as soon as I see the date of release for the third in this series. Something with Jessie maybe? Aiden? I’ll take either (preferably both) but whatever comes next I will be right there, clearing the calendar, building a couch nest and holing up so I can read it all as soon as I get my sweaty little hands on it, just like I did for A Hunted Man.
The mystery of what really happened to Cam and how he ended up with a prison record is wrapped in layers of who? and why? and wait, WHAT? As the story unfolds my heart broke for how wronged Cam was over and over and my respect for him grew. Something stunk about why Cam was railroaded when he was sent to prison, the whole time he was in and even after his release.
Through the whole book I was doing this:
1. Spidey senses are telling me all is not right with the release, I smell deception and nefarious activities!
2. Ok, so a little bit more of Cam’s past coming to light, but I don’t get the setup, there HAS to be more.
3. Oh hell, LOOK, there’s more!
4. No WAY, not him, no man would do that, would he???
5. He did, but why? WHY?
6. There’s a mole on the inside, it’s gotta be him, he’s got the perfect cover.
7. Well, shit, wasn’t him.
8. OHMYGAWD I NEED TO KNOW ALL THE THINGS!
So, yeah, I got completely sucked into the mystery, not to mention the badass ex-military hero action. That was good stuff and not over the top. Heroic AND believable and I loved it.
The secondary characters are strong in A Hunted Man and keep the story moving while adding depth to the main characters. Cam needs a support system like he’s never had before and thankfully that support starts with Sam who we met as Matt’s champion in A Better Man. Matt and Julian are back and I loved reading about them again. Especially Julian, I will ALWAYS have a special place in my heart for Julian. While the Halfway House is a major setting it’s really a connection point so this story didn’t read as merely a continuation of A Better Man, but as a completely new novel with expanding storylines and possibilities.
Cam gets a job working for Lucy and Bill at the diner that Hunter frequents. I don’t think Cam could have been set up with a better job than the one at the diner or with better people that Lucy and Bill, they aren’t characters I’ll forget about any time soon. My favorite though is definitely Hunter’s dad.
I love that man.
When you meet him you can see exactly why Hunter is the caring and fiercely loyal man that he is. Collectively we read about A LOT of awful parental units in the MM genre, but you will not read a better father than Hunter’s dad, don’t even try. The conversations between Hunter and his dad are some of my favorite parts of the book and his acceptance of Cam had me choking up at the perfectness of it all.
All that being said, I do love my romance, so let’s talk ALL about that.
Ahhhh, the romance in this story is off the charts hot, sweet and intense. Cam ends up getting loved pretty hard in this book and man did this guy need it. The reassurances and comfort Hunter gave him were powerful and while might have been too much for another character, for Cam they were perfect. He had a lot of time and loss to make up for and I think the impact of Hunter’s love made it possible for Cam to believe happiness was possible for him. Cam’s underlying theme, the thing he wants and fears more than anything is hope. The quote at the beginning of the book is perfect for Cam:
Hope. You can fear her, ignore her, resent her, but she will never abandon you when you need her most.
Cam has missed so much when he was locked away and the author captured both his confusion and resilience so well. He spent his 20’s behind bars, incredibly formative years for a young man and he missed them all, all he could do was work on surviving and look forward to the day when he would be free. When he settles into the Halfway House and gets the job at the diner he has his first chance of normalcy in a decade. Then he sees Hunter, Hunter sees him and the really intense sexual tension starts.
And, while the sexual tension was SO good to read, I loved the charming banter between the two just as much. Cam finally was able to feel comfortable and safe with someone. Cam’s true personality evolved very naturally and I felt like I was really getting to know him as a person and not an ex-con along with Hunter. There are a lot of little MOMENTS that I loved and the connection between the two of them was perfectly done. Hunter really is a sweet romantic sap and while it’s obvious Cam eats up every word and gesture like a starving man, he can’t help but call Hunter on his sappiness bringing some needed levity to their lives and the whole messed up situation they are in. Cam really is very funny and charming, and reading his evolution throughout the book was heartwarming. While, at the same time, the mystery and potential for absolute disaster kept me on edge.
The overall package that is A Hunted Man has everything I love in a good book. No, scratch that, a really great book. This is definitely going to be a reread for me as soon as I see the date of release for the third in this series. Something with Jessie maybe? Aiden? I’ll take either (preferably both) but whatever comes next I will be right there, clearing the calendar, building a couch nest and holing up so I can read it all as soon as I get my sweaty little hands on it, just like I did for A Hunted Man.
December 2, 2017
⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱*A cute story*⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱
This was alright. Something to read to pass the time. The story centers around Cameron ‘Cam’ Michael Pierce (27) and Assistant State Attorney Hunter Donovan (40). Cam is finally out of prison after 10 years; his walls a thick and gets panic attacks if he feels a twinkler of hope. And Hunter really makes him feel hope, makes him want things he thought he'd never have. Hunter has finally found a man who does it for me, only his man is in trouble... Overall, it's cute, had a little action in it; a nice, fast forward read. However, sometimes I felt like I was on the outside looking in.
Hope.
You can fear her,
ignore her,
resent her,
but she will never abandon you
when you need her most.
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Contemporary Romance (M/M)
Series: - Series (Can Be Read As A Standalone), Book Two.
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Hunter Donovan.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Unsure.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Sure.
Will I read this again in the future? - No.
Rating - 3 stars.
April 10, 2025
WOW!! I completely fell in love with and was blown away by this story. 5 stars is not enough, and this is a pic of me at the finish
Grinning like a loon **coughs** and loving it!!
Great to catch up with Matt, that hottie Julian [sighs] and Sam again, but as I said in the re-read review of A Better Man, the sex scenes were a little tame...BUT being Jaime's first foray into m/m romance I could understand that; however, this one more than made up for it, and it wasn't just the sex scenes although they were pretty damn hot, it was the kissing...the long, drugging kisses that Cam and Hunter shared, it was the way they both went weak at the knees when the other appeared, AND it was the way Hunter protected, cared for and thought Cam was the centre of his universe that I loved!! The plot was excellent, the supporting cast especially Hunter's dad, Lucy and hubbie at the diner and Aidan, Hunter's old Marine Force Recon pal, were wonderful although Cole takes some getting used to, but Aidan definitely if he's the star of the next story!! Gotta love it when the baddies are taken down, and justice prevails even if it's 10 years too late!!
Many congrats Jaime. edit. I understand Cole is the MC of the next one in the series...but I'm still looking forward to it. 😉
Grinning like a loon **coughs** and loving it!!
Great to catch up with Matt, that hottie Julian [sighs] and Sam again, but as I said in the re-read review of A Better Man, the sex scenes were a little tame...BUT being Jaime's first foray into m/m romance I could understand that; however, this one more than made up for it, and it wasn't just the sex scenes although they were pretty damn hot, it was the kissing...the long, drugging kisses that Cam and Hunter shared, it was the way they both went weak at the knees when the other appeared, AND it was the way Hunter protected, cared for and thought Cam was the centre of his universe that I loved!! The plot was excellent, the supporting cast especially Hunter's dad, Lucy and hubbie at the diner and Aidan, Hunter's old Marine Force Recon pal, were wonderful although Cole takes some getting used to, but Aidan definitely if he's the star of the next story!! Gotta love it when the baddies are taken down, and justice prevails even if it's 10 years too late!!
Many congrats Jaime. edit. I understand Cole is the MC of the next one in the series...but I'm still looking forward to it. 😉
May 1, 2014
A very enjoyable joint review with my lovely friend and review buddy Mark
Mark: So Macky what do you reckon? This book was just so…..just so…...awesome? Sexy? Gripping? Words fail me, you need to help out here.
Macky: Oh Mark, I loved it! Like you say it had everything you need to make a really exciting but still, OH SO romantic story. I'm in love with the whole package. What about Hunter? ** sigh** I fell hard for him. *sigh*
Mark: I just fell in love with everything about it. Hunter was such a sweetheart, caring but also protective of his Cam. The man would do anything for him. But oh boy did I fall for Cam. The guy had ten years of his life robbed by being in prison and when he gets out, his new found freedom just made me weep at how he finds the greatest joy in some of the simplest things in life. Also his fear and the panic attacks he gets about the thought of going back inside as he is just so afraid it’ll all be taken away from him again. It was just gut wrenching.
Macky: Aww, yeah.. Poor Cam. I loved him too. He's such a lost soul really when we first meet him. Of course at that point there are only hints as to why he's been in prison, so you don't really know what has happened to him in his past and of course we can't let too much slip to these guys can we? Lol.
Mark: lol…...you’re absolutely right. The whole plot I thought was complete genius. Well paced, building up the suspense until you get to the point where revelations start to happen and you you’re completely drawn in. I couldn’t put the book down. Not only did we have a super hot romance, but a thriller plot fit for a film.
Macky: Well I have to say that normally I'm pretty good at figuring stuff out but Jaime had me in knots with this at times. It was really well thought out and plotted. What I loved was that it didn't feel rushed or quickly thrown together, there was thought put into it and it showed. But OMG!! The chemistry between Cam and Hunter was off the charts.. The sexual tension between them was just ...deliciously tingly!
Mark: oh yeah baby! Those two were smokin’ and what about that very first kiss scene? That was off the hotness scale for me. If Jaime can write a kiss scene that is so damn hot you almost don’t need the rest - lol!
Macky: Holy smackeroo's!! Those kiss scenes have to be some of the best I've ever read. You see that's what I love. For me sexual tension when its done well can be better than any overly graphic sex scene, not that I'm saying I don't love a nice bit of ' how's your father... ' **winks** but when you can feel it jumping off the page at you and it really makes you get that funny little belly flip, that's when you know the author has got the connection and chemistry just right between her guys. I got LOTS of belly flips with these two.
Mark: That makes two of us. Couldn’t agree with you more. The tension was great and I just loved the way that Cam couldn’t accept his luck as everything until now had gone wrong for him. This I could understand though, made him cagey and protected. But Hunter what a dear. He never once gave up on Cam, remained patient and would do anything for him. Also believing in Cam’s good after he finds out that he was in prison. I thought here Jaime got the balance oh so right. Ex-con meets lawyer, that means we have some pretty good hurdles for the both of them to get over. But what about the other characters?
Macky: It was great to see Matt and Julian again. I loved them both in A Better Man, that was one of my fave reads too, got 5 stars from me. I thought they had some really good airtime in this but just enough to enhance the story, and then of course we get to meet up again with lovely Sam. He is such a great supporting character, his support for all the guys is just awesome. Such a nice guy! Who did you like Mark?
Mark: oh Macky please don’t put me on the spot - lol! I loved all of them, even the perpetrators until we find out what dirty scumbags they were. That’s why the thriller part had me guessing too. I suppose if forced I LOVED Hunter’s dad. You could just feel the love that man has for his son radiating from the page. When Cam gets to meet Hunter’s dad for the first time and they have a heart-to-heart talk I think I nearly cried when Hunter’s dad says,
“The advantage of having a gay son is you get to inherit a second.”
Considering Cam’s real dad wasn’t worth shit, I was so happy that Cam could find the love in a father through Hunter’s dad.
Macky: Hahahaha! I am so horrible to you, but I know you love me! Lol. Ahhh! Thomas. Yeah, he is a sweetie! One of my favourite scenes actually, was when Hunter goes to see him just after he meets Cam and they talk about Hunters love life, it's a scene that not only made me laugh but it also tugged at my heartstrings when it lead to a lovely memory of Thomas' about Hunters mum, that tied in with his growing feelings for Cam. Thomas is such a sweet man but he's also very funny too. I love how he teases Hunter about Cam. If only all gay sons could have a parent like that in their lives! Then I also really loved Bill and Lucy. They're another couple who you can't help taking to because considering his past history, they're so wonderful with Cam.
Mark: Yes, Bill and Lucy. The couple who owns the diner where Cam gets his first job. I liked them too, having no children themselves they almost adopted Cam in their own way as well. Just loved their match making tactics, that was so sweet. I’m sure the backroom in their diner hadn’t seen so much action for a long time - lol! I guess the reason we fell in love with all these characters is really down to Jaime’s writing. She really does lift the characters off the page with her writing and I felt they also become for me almost real, breathing, people. Quite a talent if you ask me.
Macky: Absolutely! No cardboard characters in this story. Every single member of the cast added to the richness of the story. That's what you want from a supporting character, you don't want them taking over the story but you also don't want them just hanging about in the background looking pretty but doing nothing. Everyone in this was memorable and felt essential to the plot, even the baddies! And yes they did feel real to me too. Clever Jaime!
Mark: Couldn’t agree more Macky. I just loved this book from beginning to end. I couldn’t put it down, it had me sneaking out of the office from my day job to take quick breaks to read a chapter or two. As you said at the beginning the whole package with this book was from front cover to back absolutely breath-taking. I didn’t want the book to be over. I guess we are going to have to be patient now to see what Jaime has next in store. But if it’s as good as this then I’ll be swooping on it like a bird of prey.
Macky: Actually we've forgotten a couple of characters who just might feature in the next one... Or then again, they might not, who knows, but did you not get a vibe about Jessie, Hunters assistant... or possibly Aidan, Hunters cop friend...or Cole, the cocky car thief ...oh and not forgetting Luke, the other guy who comes to transition at the Halfway House...ooh the list grows lol! Or will it be someone completely different? OMG! I can't wait because this is turning out to be a real gem of a series. I just had the best time reading it and I'll be on pins now, waiting for book three. So there you go.. two very happy readers . I'm guessing there'll be a lot more soon what do you reckon Marky?
Mark: I soooo hope so. My money is going on either Cole or Luke in the next book to be in keeping with the theme of the series. But I guess the only one that can really answer that is Jaime and until we find out I guess we’ll just have to be patient. This was so much fun Macky, it’s great reading a book that you can then later talk about and share with a friend. Looking forward to the next time.
Macky: Me too, all that was missing was a bowl of nibbles and a bottle or two of wine... Mind you if we did have those, perhaps we'd never have finished this review! Hic! .. Lol! Its been fabulous. We HAVE to do this again.. Next please Jaime!
Follow link~ http://bit.ly/1folHF6
Mark: So Macky what do you reckon? This book was just so…..just so…...awesome? Sexy? Gripping? Words fail me, you need to help out here.
Macky: Oh Mark, I loved it! Like you say it had everything you need to make a really exciting but still, OH SO romantic story. I'm in love with the whole package. What about Hunter? ** sigh** I fell hard for him. *sigh*
Mark: I just fell in love with everything about it. Hunter was such a sweetheart, caring but also protective of his Cam. The man would do anything for him. But oh boy did I fall for Cam. The guy had ten years of his life robbed by being in prison and when he gets out, his new found freedom just made me weep at how he finds the greatest joy in some of the simplest things in life. Also his fear and the panic attacks he gets about the thought of going back inside as he is just so afraid it’ll all be taken away from him again. It was just gut wrenching.
Macky: Aww, yeah.. Poor Cam. I loved him too. He's such a lost soul really when we first meet him. Of course at that point there are only hints as to why he's been in prison, so you don't really know what has happened to him in his past and of course we can't let too much slip to these guys can we? Lol.
Mark: lol…...you’re absolutely right. The whole plot I thought was complete genius. Well paced, building up the suspense until you get to the point where revelations start to happen and you you’re completely drawn in. I couldn’t put the book down. Not only did we have a super hot romance, but a thriller plot fit for a film.
Macky: Well I have to say that normally I'm pretty good at figuring stuff out but Jaime had me in knots with this at times. It was really well thought out and plotted. What I loved was that it didn't feel rushed or quickly thrown together, there was thought put into it and it showed. But OMG!! The chemistry between Cam and Hunter was off the charts.. The sexual tension between them was just ...deliciously tingly!
Mark: oh yeah baby! Those two were smokin’ and what about that very first kiss scene? That was off the hotness scale for me. If Jaime can write a kiss scene that is so damn hot you almost don’t need the rest - lol!
Macky: Holy smackeroo's!! Those kiss scenes have to be some of the best I've ever read. You see that's what I love. For me sexual tension when its done well can be better than any overly graphic sex scene, not that I'm saying I don't love a nice bit of ' how's your father... ' **winks** but when you can feel it jumping off the page at you and it really makes you get that funny little belly flip, that's when you know the author has got the connection and chemistry just right between her guys. I got LOTS of belly flips with these two.
Mark: That makes two of us. Couldn’t agree with you more. The tension was great and I just loved the way that Cam couldn’t accept his luck as everything until now had gone wrong for him. This I could understand though, made him cagey and protected. But Hunter what a dear. He never once gave up on Cam, remained patient and would do anything for him. Also believing in Cam’s good after he finds out that he was in prison. I thought here Jaime got the balance oh so right. Ex-con meets lawyer, that means we have some pretty good hurdles for the both of them to get over. But what about the other characters?
Macky: It was great to see Matt and Julian again. I loved them both in A Better Man, that was one of my fave reads too, got 5 stars from me. I thought they had some really good airtime in this but just enough to enhance the story, and then of course we get to meet up again with lovely Sam. He is such a great supporting character, his support for all the guys is just awesome. Such a nice guy! Who did you like Mark?
Mark: oh Macky please don’t put me on the spot - lol! I loved all of them, even the perpetrators until we find out what dirty scumbags they were. That’s why the thriller part had me guessing too. I suppose if forced I LOVED Hunter’s dad. You could just feel the love that man has for his son radiating from the page. When Cam gets to meet Hunter’s dad for the first time and they have a heart-to-heart talk I think I nearly cried when Hunter’s dad says,
“The advantage of having a gay son is you get to inherit a second.”
Considering Cam’s real dad wasn’t worth shit, I was so happy that Cam could find the love in a father through Hunter’s dad.
Macky: Hahahaha! I am so horrible to you, but I know you love me! Lol. Ahhh! Thomas. Yeah, he is a sweetie! One of my favourite scenes actually, was when Hunter goes to see him just after he meets Cam and they talk about Hunters love life, it's a scene that not only made me laugh but it also tugged at my heartstrings when it lead to a lovely memory of Thomas' about Hunters mum, that tied in with his growing feelings for Cam. Thomas is such a sweet man but he's also very funny too. I love how he teases Hunter about Cam. If only all gay sons could have a parent like that in their lives! Then I also really loved Bill and Lucy. They're another couple who you can't help taking to because considering his past history, they're so wonderful with Cam.
Mark: Yes, Bill and Lucy. The couple who owns the diner where Cam gets his first job. I liked them too, having no children themselves they almost adopted Cam in their own way as well. Just loved their match making tactics, that was so sweet. I’m sure the backroom in their diner hadn’t seen so much action for a long time - lol! I guess the reason we fell in love with all these characters is really down to Jaime’s writing. She really does lift the characters off the page with her writing and I felt they also become for me almost real, breathing, people. Quite a talent if you ask me.
Macky: Absolutely! No cardboard characters in this story. Every single member of the cast added to the richness of the story. That's what you want from a supporting character, you don't want them taking over the story but you also don't want them just hanging about in the background looking pretty but doing nothing. Everyone in this was memorable and felt essential to the plot, even the baddies! And yes they did feel real to me too. Clever Jaime!
Mark: Couldn’t agree more Macky. I just loved this book from beginning to end. I couldn’t put it down, it had me sneaking out of the office from my day job to take quick breaks to read a chapter or two. As you said at the beginning the whole package with this book was from front cover to back absolutely breath-taking. I didn’t want the book to be over. I guess we are going to have to be patient now to see what Jaime has next in store. But if it’s as good as this then I’ll be swooping on it like a bird of prey.
Macky: Actually we've forgotten a couple of characters who just might feature in the next one... Or then again, they might not, who knows, but did you not get a vibe about Jessie, Hunters assistant... or possibly Aidan, Hunters cop friend...or Cole, the cocky car thief ...oh and not forgetting Luke, the other guy who comes to transition at the Halfway House...ooh the list grows lol! Or will it be someone completely different? OMG! I can't wait because this is turning out to be a real gem of a series. I just had the best time reading it and I'll be on pins now, waiting for book three. So there you go.. two very happy readers . I'm guessing there'll be a lot more soon what do you reckon Marky?
Mark: I soooo hope so. My money is going on either Cole or Luke in the next book to be in keeping with the theme of the series. But I guess the only one that can really answer that is Jaime and until we find out I guess we’ll just have to be patient. This was so much fun Macky, it’s great reading a book that you can then later talk about and share with a friend. Looking forward to the next time.
Macky: Me too, all that was missing was a bowl of nibbles and a bottle or two of wine... Mind you if we did have those, perhaps we'd never have finished this review! Hic! .. Lol! Its been fabulous. We HAVE to do this again.. Next please Jaime!
Follow link~ http://bit.ly/1folHF6
March 2, 2015
2.5 stars
I had hope -- but then it crashed and burned. It started about 3.5 stars to 3 stars and now the final rating, 2.5 stars.
There is such thing as way too long for a story, and around 3/4th of this book, I stopped caring completely because it went on and on and on and on, and I got exhausted. I thought this book could definitely be trimmed, with both the mystery and romance plot being tightened. That part around 3/4th of the book () could become a climax that wrapped everything. But nope, I still had about 100 pages to go through (which I ended up skimming).
So where did it go wrong for me, when it started quite promising?
I guess I had the same issues that a couple of reviewers (Tina_K, Mercedes, and John) have mentioned.
First, Cam's attitude to flirting, calling Hunter, "Sir", and his approach towards 'the mating dance' with Hunter just didn't ring true for someone who just got out from TEN years in prison (and he got in when he was only 17 years old!). Especially when Cam also described as having experienced torture in prison, still had panic attacks, and felt scared with the thought of going back. Suddenly when facing Hunter, he got ALL the sass and confidence in the world to make the first move?! Yeah, right!! Of course later he was all about "Why don't you leave, Hunter? Everybody leaves in the end!" ... gah, will you shut up, Cam?! Please! Hunter already told you he wouldn't leave. Jeez.
Then, the whole eye-fucking and kissing and hugging and eye-fucking and kissing and hugging and eye-... you know what I was going, right? Look, I will not be one who complained about sex being put after half-way through. Most often then not, I expected minimum sex in my story. But this foreplay is monotonous and boring. When we get to the sex, I was already at that point where I didn't bloody care (I skimmed EVERY sex scenes in here, it was the same old same old, like the hundreds of MM stories I read before).
AND, finally, the mystery ... I am a huge fan of mystery. I enjoy romantic suspense and I still read detective/mystery books once in a while. Actually, it was the mystery element that kept me going when I was thinking of giving up. Unfortunately, it also failed to entertain after being way tad too long (see above explanation).
Does it have a ray of sunshine though? Oh yes, Hunter's father, Thomas, was a delight! Cole, another guest, at the Halfway House was a scene stealer in EVERY scenes he was in. I also really liked the fact that Hunter's age gap (he was 12 years older than Cam) wasn't an issue.
Will I read Cole's story next? I don't know. I see the pages (another 350+ pages!) and I'm worried it will be another case of repetitive drama. We'll see.
PERSONAL NOTE
This is the 9th story for this month (February 2015) that I gave 2.5* rating to. It is a personal new record for me. It NEVER happened before. Maybe I'm in a dry spell or maybe it's my mood. But I decided that maybe I should probably stop reading romance for awhile, or at least contemporary romance. Just to fix my mood...
I had hope -- but then it crashed and burned. It started about 3.5 stars to 3 stars and now the final rating, 2.5 stars.
There is such thing as way too long for a story, and around 3/4th of this book, I stopped caring completely because it went on and on and on and on, and I got exhausted. I thought this book could definitely be trimmed, with both the mystery and romance plot being tightened. That part around 3/4th of the book () could become a climax that wrapped everything. But nope, I still had about 100 pages to go through (which I ended up skimming).
So where did it go wrong for me, when it started quite promising?
I guess I had the same issues that a couple of reviewers (Tina_K, Mercedes, and John) have mentioned.
First, Cam's attitude to flirting, calling Hunter, "Sir", and his approach towards 'the mating dance' with Hunter just didn't ring true for someone who just got out from TEN years in prison (and he got in when he was only 17 years old!). Especially when Cam also described as having experienced torture in prison, still had panic attacks, and felt scared with the thought of going back. Suddenly when facing Hunter, he got ALL the sass and confidence in the world to make the first move?! Yeah, right!! Of course later he was all about "Why don't you leave, Hunter? Everybody leaves in the end!" ... gah, will you shut up, Cam?! Please! Hunter already told you he wouldn't leave. Jeez.
Then, the whole eye-fucking and kissing and hugging and eye-fucking and kissing and hugging and eye-... you know what I was going, right? Look, I will not be one who complained about sex being put after half-way through. Most often then not, I expected minimum sex in my story. But this foreplay is monotonous and boring. When we get to the sex, I was already at that point where I didn't bloody care (I skimmed EVERY sex scenes in here, it was the same old same old, like the hundreds of MM stories I read before).
AND, finally, the mystery ... I am a huge fan of mystery. I enjoy romantic suspense and I still read detective/mystery books once in a while. Actually, it was the mystery element that kept me going when I was thinking of giving up. Unfortunately, it also failed to entertain after being way tad too long (see above explanation).
Does it have a ray of sunshine though? Oh yes, Hunter's father, Thomas, was a delight! Cole, another guest, at the Halfway House was a scene stealer in EVERY scenes he was in. I also really liked the fact that Hunter's age gap (he was 12 years older than Cam) wasn't an issue.
Will I read Cole's story next? I don't know. I see the pages (another 350+ pages!) and I'm worried it will be another case of repetitive drama. We'll see.
PERSONAL NOTE
This is the 9th story for this month (February 2015) that I gave 2.5* rating to. It is a personal new record for me. It NEVER happened before. Maybe I'm in a dry spell or maybe it's my mood. But I decided that maybe I should probably stop reading romance for awhile, or at least contemporary romance. Just to fix my mood...
Read
April 22, 2014A few notes:
It's a romance with a little mystery/suspense mixed in.
Word count: 111,200
Characters who reappear from Book 1: Julian, Matt and Sam
It's a romance with a little mystery/suspense mixed in.
Word count: 111,200
Characters who reappear from Book 1: Julian, Matt and Sam
April 29, 2014
So Macky and I decided to review this one together and what fun we had.
Mark: So Macky what do you reckon? This book was just so…..just so…...awesome? Sexy? Gripping? Words fail me, you need to help out here.
Macky: Oh Mark, I loved it! Like you say it had everything you need to make a really exciting but still, OH SO romantic story. I'm in love with the whole package. What about Hunter? ** sigh** I fell hard for him. *sigh*
Mark: I just fell in love with everything about it. Hunter was such a sweetheart, caring but also protective of his Cam. The man would do anything for him. But boy did I fall for Cam. The guy had ten years of his life robbed by being in prison and when he gets out, his new found freedom just made me weep at how he finds the greatest joy in some of the simplest things in life. Also his fear and the panic attacks he gets about the thought of going back inside as he is just so afraid it’ll all be taken away from him again. It was just gut wrenching.
Macky: Aww, yeah.. Poor Cam. I loved him too. He's such a lost soul really when we first meet him. Of course at that point there are only hints as to why he's been in prison, so you don't really know what has happened to him in his past and of course we can't let too much slip to these guys can we? Lol.
Mark: lol…...you’re absolutely right. The whole plot I thought was complete genius. Well paced, building up the suspense until you get to the point where revelations start to happen and you you’re completely drawn in. I couldn’t put the book down. Not only did we have a super hot romance, but a thriller plot fit for a film.
Macky: Well I have to say that normally I'm pretty good at figuring stuff out but Jaime had me in knots with this at times. It was really well thought out and plotted. What I loved was that it didn't feel rushed or quickly thrown together, there was thought put into it and it showed. But OMG!! The chemistry between Cam and Hunter was off the charts.. The sexual tension between them was just ...deliciously tingly!
Mark: oh yeah baby! Those two were smokin’ and what about that very first kiss scene? That was off the hotness scale for me. If Jaime can write a kiss scene that is so damn hot you almost don’t need the rest - lol!
Macky: Holy smackeroo's!! Those kiss scenes have to be some of the best I've ever read. You see that's what I love. For me sexual tension when its done well can be better than any overly graphic sex scene, not that I'm saying I don't love a nice bit of ' how's your father... ' **winks** but when you can feel it jumping off the page at you and it really makes you get that funny little belly flip, that's when you know the author has got the connection and chemistry just right between her guys. I got LOTS of belly flips with these two.
Mark: That makes two of us. Couldn’t agree with you more. The tension was great and I just loved the way that Cam couldn’t accept his luck as everything until now had gone wrong for him. This I could understand though, made him cagey and protected. But Hunter what a dear. He never once gave up on Cam, remained patient and would do anything for him. Also believing in Cam’s good after he finds out that he was in prison. I thought here Jaime got the balance oh so right. Ex-con meets lawyer, that means we have some pretty good hurdles for the both of them to get over. But what about the other characters?
Macky: It was great to see Matt and Julian again. I loved them both in A Better Man, that was one of my fave reads too, got 5 stars from me. I thought they had some really good airtime in this but just enough to enhance the story, and then of course we get to meet up again with lovely Sam. He is such a great supporting character, his support for all the guys is just awesome. Such a nice guy! Who did you like Mark?
Mark: oh Macky please don’t put me on the spot - lol! I loved all of them, even the perpetrators until we find out what dirty scumbags they were. That’s why the thriller part had me guessing too. I suppose if forced I LOVED Hunter’s dad. You could just feel the love that man has for his son radiating from the page. When Cam gets to meet Hunter’s dad for the first time and they have a heart-to-heart talk I think I nearly cried when Hunter’s dad says, “The advantage of having a gay son is you get to inherit a second.” Considering Cam’s real dad wasn’t worth shit, I was so happy that Cam could find the love of a father through Hunter’s dad.
Macky: Hahahaha! I am so horrible to you, but I know you love me! Lol. Ahhh! Thomas. Yeah, he is a sweetie! One of my favourite scenes actually, was when Hunter goes to see him just after he meets Cam and they talk about Hunters love life, it's a scene that not only made me laugh but it also tugged at my heartstrings when it lead to a lovely memory of Thomas' about Hunters mum, that tied in with his growing feelings for Cam. Thomas is such a sweet man but he's also very funny too. I love how he teases Hunter about Cam. If only all gay sons could have a parent like that in their lives! Then I also really loved Bill and Lucy. They're another couple who you can't help taking to because considering his past history, they're so wonderful with Cam.
Mark: Yes, Bill and Lucy. The couple who owns the diner where Cam gets his first job. I liked them too, having no children themselves they almost adopted Cam in their own way as well. Just loved their match making tactics, that was so sweet. I’m sure the backroom in their diner hadn’t seen so much action for a long time - lol! I guess the reason we fell in love with all these characters is really down to Jaime’s writing. She really does lift the characters off the page with her writing and I felt they also become for me almost real, breathing, people. Quite a talent if you ask me.
Macky: Absolutely! No cardboard characters in this story. Every single member of the cast added to the richness of the story. That's what you want from a supporting character, you don't want them taking over the story but you also don't want them just hanging about in the background looking pretty but doing nothing. Everyone in this was memorable and felt essential to the plot, even the baddies! And yes they did feel real to me too. Clever Jaime!
Mark: Couldn’t agree more Macky. I just loved this book from beginning to end. I couldn’t put it down, it had me sneaking out of the office from my day job to take quick breaks to read a chapter or two. As you said at the beginning the whole package with this book was from front cover to back absolutely breathtaking. I didn’t want the book to be over. I guess we are going to have to be patient now to see what Jaime has next in store. But if it’s as good as this then I’ll be swooping on it like a bird of prey.
Macky: Actually we've forgotten a couple of characters who just might feature in the next one... Or then again, they might not, who knows, but did you not get a vibe about Jessie, Hunters assistant... or possibly Aidan, Hunters cop friend...or Cole, the cocky car thief ...oh and not forgetting Luke, the other guy who comes to transition at the Halfway House...ooh the list grows lol! Or will it be someone completely different? OMG! I can't wait because this is turning out to be a real gem of a series. I just had the best time reading it and I'll be on pins now, waiting for book three. So there you go.. two very happy readers . I'm guessing there'll be a lot more soon what do you reckon Marky?
Mark: I soooo hope so. My money is going on either Cole or Luke in the next book to be in keeping with the theme of the series. But I guess the only one that can really answer that is Jaime and until we find out I guess we’ll just have to be patient. This was so much fun Macky, it’s great reading a book that you can then later talk about and share with a friend. Looking forward to the next time.
Macky: Me too, all that was missing was a bowl of nibbles and a bottle or two of wine... Mind you if we did have those, perhaps we'd never have finished this review! Hic! .. Lol! Its been fabulous. We HAVE to do this again.. Next please Jaime!
Mark: So Macky what do you reckon? This book was just so…..just so…...awesome? Sexy? Gripping? Words fail me, you need to help out here.
Macky: Oh Mark, I loved it! Like you say it had everything you need to make a really exciting but still, OH SO romantic story. I'm in love with the whole package. What about Hunter? ** sigh** I fell hard for him. *sigh*
Mark: I just fell in love with everything about it. Hunter was such a sweetheart, caring but also protective of his Cam. The man would do anything for him. But boy did I fall for Cam. The guy had ten years of his life robbed by being in prison and when he gets out, his new found freedom just made me weep at how he finds the greatest joy in some of the simplest things in life. Also his fear and the panic attacks he gets about the thought of going back inside as he is just so afraid it’ll all be taken away from him again. It was just gut wrenching.
Macky: Aww, yeah.. Poor Cam. I loved him too. He's such a lost soul really when we first meet him. Of course at that point there are only hints as to why he's been in prison, so you don't really know what has happened to him in his past and of course we can't let too much slip to these guys can we? Lol.
Mark: lol…...you’re absolutely right. The whole plot I thought was complete genius. Well paced, building up the suspense until you get to the point where revelations start to happen and you you’re completely drawn in. I couldn’t put the book down. Not only did we have a super hot romance, but a thriller plot fit for a film.
Macky: Well I have to say that normally I'm pretty good at figuring stuff out but Jaime had me in knots with this at times. It was really well thought out and plotted. What I loved was that it didn't feel rushed or quickly thrown together, there was thought put into it and it showed. But OMG!! The chemistry between Cam and Hunter was off the charts.. The sexual tension between them was just ...deliciously tingly!
Mark: oh yeah baby! Those two were smokin’ and what about that very first kiss scene? That was off the hotness scale for me. If Jaime can write a kiss scene that is so damn hot you almost don’t need the rest - lol!
Macky: Holy smackeroo's!! Those kiss scenes have to be some of the best I've ever read. You see that's what I love. For me sexual tension when its done well can be better than any overly graphic sex scene, not that I'm saying I don't love a nice bit of ' how's your father... ' **winks** but when you can feel it jumping off the page at you and it really makes you get that funny little belly flip, that's when you know the author has got the connection and chemistry just right between her guys. I got LOTS of belly flips with these two.
Mark: That makes two of us. Couldn’t agree with you more. The tension was great and I just loved the way that Cam couldn’t accept his luck as everything until now had gone wrong for him. This I could understand though, made him cagey and protected. But Hunter what a dear. He never once gave up on Cam, remained patient and would do anything for him. Also believing in Cam’s good after he finds out that he was in prison. I thought here Jaime got the balance oh so right. Ex-con meets lawyer, that means we have some pretty good hurdles for the both of them to get over. But what about the other characters?
Macky: It was great to see Matt and Julian again. I loved them both in A Better Man, that was one of my fave reads too, got 5 stars from me. I thought they had some really good airtime in this but just enough to enhance the story, and then of course we get to meet up again with lovely Sam. He is such a great supporting character, his support for all the guys is just awesome. Such a nice guy! Who did you like Mark?
Mark: oh Macky please don’t put me on the spot - lol! I loved all of them, even the perpetrators until we find out what dirty scumbags they were. That’s why the thriller part had me guessing too. I suppose if forced I LOVED Hunter’s dad. You could just feel the love that man has for his son radiating from the page. When Cam gets to meet Hunter’s dad for the first time and they have a heart-to-heart talk I think I nearly cried when Hunter’s dad says, “The advantage of having a gay son is you get to inherit a second.” Considering Cam’s real dad wasn’t worth shit, I was so happy that Cam could find the love of a father through Hunter’s dad.
Macky: Hahahaha! I am so horrible to you, but I know you love me! Lol. Ahhh! Thomas. Yeah, he is a sweetie! One of my favourite scenes actually, was when Hunter goes to see him just after he meets Cam and they talk about Hunters love life, it's a scene that not only made me laugh but it also tugged at my heartstrings when it lead to a lovely memory of Thomas' about Hunters mum, that tied in with his growing feelings for Cam. Thomas is such a sweet man but he's also very funny too. I love how he teases Hunter about Cam. If only all gay sons could have a parent like that in their lives! Then I also really loved Bill and Lucy. They're another couple who you can't help taking to because considering his past history, they're so wonderful with Cam.
Mark: Yes, Bill and Lucy. The couple who owns the diner where Cam gets his first job. I liked them too, having no children themselves they almost adopted Cam in their own way as well. Just loved their match making tactics, that was so sweet. I’m sure the backroom in their diner hadn’t seen so much action for a long time - lol! I guess the reason we fell in love with all these characters is really down to Jaime’s writing. She really does lift the characters off the page with her writing and I felt they also become for me almost real, breathing, people. Quite a talent if you ask me.
Macky: Absolutely! No cardboard characters in this story. Every single member of the cast added to the richness of the story. That's what you want from a supporting character, you don't want them taking over the story but you also don't want them just hanging about in the background looking pretty but doing nothing. Everyone in this was memorable and felt essential to the plot, even the baddies! And yes they did feel real to me too. Clever Jaime!
Mark: Couldn’t agree more Macky. I just loved this book from beginning to end. I couldn’t put it down, it had me sneaking out of the office from my day job to take quick breaks to read a chapter or two. As you said at the beginning the whole package with this book was from front cover to back absolutely breathtaking. I didn’t want the book to be over. I guess we are going to have to be patient now to see what Jaime has next in store. But if it’s as good as this then I’ll be swooping on it like a bird of prey.
Macky: Actually we've forgotten a couple of characters who just might feature in the next one... Or then again, they might not, who knows, but did you not get a vibe about Jessie, Hunters assistant... or possibly Aidan, Hunters cop friend...or Cole, the cocky car thief ...oh and not forgetting Luke, the other guy who comes to transition at the Halfway House...ooh the list grows lol! Or will it be someone completely different? OMG! I can't wait because this is turning out to be a real gem of a series. I just had the best time reading it and I'll be on pins now, waiting for book three. So there you go.. two very happy readers . I'm guessing there'll be a lot more soon what do you reckon Marky?
Mark: I soooo hope so. My money is going on either Cole or Luke in the next book to be in keeping with the theme of the series. But I guess the only one that can really answer that is Jaime and until we find out I guess we’ll just have to be patient. This was so much fun Macky, it’s great reading a book that you can then later talk about and share with a friend. Looking forward to the next time.
Macky: Me too, all that was missing was a bowl of nibbles and a bottle or two of wine... Mind you if we did have those, perhaps we'd never have finished this review! Hic! .. Lol! Its been fabulous. We HAVE to do this again.. Next please Jaime!
February 16, 2015
Not much to say.LOVED IT LOVED IT LOVED IT.It clicked all the boxes for me:
Romance,suspense, action, amazing plot, sex, love and Julian who was even sexier and more possessive than in book one.
I know Cole is next but please someone tell me that Aidan and Jesse will have their story.Preferably together!
Romance,suspense, action, amazing plot, sex, love and Julian who was even sexier and more possessive than in book one.
I know Cole is next but please someone tell me that Aidan and Jesse will have their story.Preferably together!
May 4, 2014
Do you know what I love?
I love it when you find a sure thing.
You know, when you have extreme confidence in something, it never lets you down, and you can guarantee a good time.
I have found a sure thing in Jaime Reese’s boys.
Yep, they make me Happy. Every. Time.
If you enjoyed ‘A Better Man’ then you are in for a second round of gooey goodness. Cam and Hunter stand sexy shoulder to sexy shoulder with Matt and Julian, which speaks volumes for I was absolutely smitten with Matt and his ‘J’. Two evenly matched couples and the best part is we get both this time around! Cam and Hunter do all the heavy lifting but Julian and Matt are solid backup.
*happy twirl*
The Halfway house opens its doors and they have their first guest. Shy, evasive and unstable Cameron finds himself in new territory. A safe place where people actually care about him, include him, and believe in him. A decade of incarceration is bound to lead to secrets and apprehension, but Cam is hiding more than he is capable of sharing. He may be out of prison, but he can’t escape the demons determined to keep him under lock and key.
Cam captured my heart instantly and I longed for moment when he could laugh and smile (and I’m talking a full real-deal smile) freely. Luckily for him, the hottie regular at the diner has the same wish.
Hunter is powerful, successful and married to his job. He also happens to have an addiction to cookies and as fate would have it the new latte artist at his go-to neighborhood Mom & Pop diner raises more than just his attention.
Instant attraction with a slow burn…and once clothes finally come off, it’s remarkably erotic. And you know what? The age diff didn't bother me a bit. A dozen years separate the two, but it did not faze me in the slightest. Sometimes when it works, it simply works. Cameron and Hunter work.
Yes, there was a lot of drama.
Yes, there was a lot of need.
Yes, there was a lot of feelz….And I loved every bit of it.
The mystery had me on my toes and the new boys at the house are absolutely hilarious. Though the plot was great, that’s not what won me over. It was the relationships, the tenderness, the fierceness and the pure love.
Two skewed pieces fit together seamlessly. Each strengthens the other and proves scars may heal, but love holds the power to make one whole again. Countless beautiful moments that left me craving the sunrise. New beginnings grace us every day, and hope grants us the power to make dreams come true.
See what I mean?
It’s a sure thing baby and I am drooling for the next broken pair in ‘The Halfway House’.
*4.5 I'm ready stars*
I love it when you find a sure thing.
You know, when you have extreme confidence in something, it never lets you down, and you can guarantee a good time.
I have found a sure thing in Jaime Reese’s boys.
Yep, they make me Happy. Every. Time.
If you enjoyed ‘A Better Man’ then you are in for a second round of gooey goodness. Cam and Hunter stand sexy shoulder to sexy shoulder with Matt and Julian, which speaks volumes for I was absolutely smitten with Matt and his ‘J’. Two evenly matched couples and the best part is we get both this time around! Cam and Hunter do all the heavy lifting but Julian and Matt are solid backup.
*happy twirl*
The Halfway house opens its doors and they have their first guest. Shy, evasive and unstable Cameron finds himself in new territory. A safe place where people actually care about him, include him, and believe in him. A decade of incarceration is bound to lead to secrets and apprehension, but Cam is hiding more than he is capable of sharing. He may be out of prison, but he can’t escape the demons determined to keep him under lock and key.
Cam captured my heart instantly and I longed for moment when he could laugh and smile (and I’m talking a full real-deal smile) freely. Luckily for him, the hottie regular at the diner has the same wish.
Hunter is powerful, successful and married to his job. He also happens to have an addiction to cookies and as fate would have it the new latte artist at his go-to neighborhood Mom & Pop diner raises more than just his attention.
Instant attraction with a slow burn…and once clothes finally come off, it’s remarkably erotic. And you know what? The age diff didn't bother me a bit. A dozen years separate the two, but it did not faze me in the slightest. Sometimes when it works, it simply works. Cameron and Hunter work.
Yes, there was a lot of drama.
Yes, there was a lot of need.
Yes, there was a lot of feelz….And I loved every bit of it.
The mystery had me on my toes and the new boys at the house are absolutely hilarious. Though the plot was great, that’s not what won me over. It was the relationships, the tenderness, the fierceness and the pure love.
Two skewed pieces fit together seamlessly. Each strengthens the other and proves scars may heal, but love holds the power to make one whole again. Countless beautiful moments that left me craving the sunrise. New beginnings grace us every day, and hope grants us the power to make dreams come true.
See what I mean?
It’s a sure thing baby and I am drooling for the next broken pair in ‘The Halfway House’.
*4.5 I'm ready stars*
November 1, 2018
4,5 actually ❤️
May 8, 2014
♡ 4.5 Hunter-&-Cam-Are-Amazing Stars ♡
A Hunted Man was a wonderful follow-up to A Better Man; in fact, I think it even surpassed its predecessor. This was a lovely slow-burn romance about a man with a haunted past and a lonely lawyer.
Cam and Hunter were just amazing MCs that you could not help by love. To say that Cam, a 27-year-old who was recently released from prison, has had a hard life that has tried to knock him down over and over again would be the understatement of the century. Cam was 17-years-old when he was unfairly sent to prison, and do to the works of others who wanted to keep him quiet, he was constantly brutalized in prison and kept in far longer than he should have been. When he finally gets out of prison with Sam's help, he understandably experiences a culture shock. The world is very different now than when he went in a decade ago. He is placed in Matt and Julian's (from the first book's MCs) halfway house and gets a job at Bill and Lucy's diner. There, he finally feels like he matters and is making a difference by helping the owners. It was so heartbreaking to see how utterly excited Cam was to finally have some responsibility in his life by just working the latte machine. While working at the diner, Cam meets a gorgeous regular with piercing silver eyes by the name of Hunter. There is immediate physical attraction between the two, but this was truly a slow-burn romance and that is how they both wanted it. Cam, who has faced so much rejection during his short life, is afraid to jump into anything and trust anyone so easily. It takes a lot of effort and bravery on Cam's part to reach out to someone even a little bit since he has been burned so many times before.
One last note:
Why did I not give this the full 5 stars?
Well, it was hard for me to really get into the book until around the 30% mark because I felt that the writing at the beginning of the book was really awkward, and, I don't know...amateurish? There really was not a nice flow, and it took away from the story. But as I went along, the writing definitely got better and flowed much more smoothly, and I became 100% invested in the story and Hunter and Cam.
Overall, I definitely
and cannot wait for the "more" that Jaime Reese promised at the end of this one.
A Hunted Man was a wonderful follow-up to A Better Man; in fact, I think it even surpassed its predecessor. This was a lovely slow-burn romance about a man with a haunted past and a lonely lawyer.
Cam and Hunter were just amazing MCs that you could not help by love. To say that Cam, a 27-year-old who was recently released from prison, has had a hard life that has tried to knock him down over and over again would be the understatement of the century. Cam was 17-years-old when he was unfairly sent to prison, and do to the works of others who wanted to keep him quiet, he was constantly brutalized in prison and kept in far longer than he should have been. When he finally gets out of prison with Sam's help, he understandably experiences a culture shock. The world is very different now than when he went in a decade ago. He is placed in Matt and Julian's (from the first book's MCs) halfway house and gets a job at Bill and Lucy's diner. There, he finally feels like he matters and is making a difference by helping the owners. It was so heartbreaking to see how utterly excited Cam was to finally have some responsibility in his life by just working the latte machine. While working at the diner, Cam meets a gorgeous regular with piercing silver eyes by the name of Hunter. There is immediate physical attraction between the two, but this was truly a slow-burn romance and that is how they both wanted it. Cam, who has faced so much rejection during his short life, is afraid to jump into anything and trust anyone so easily. It takes a lot of effort and bravery on Cam's part to reach out to someone even a little bit since he has been burned so many times before.
He reached under the table and tentatively placed the tips of his fingers on Hunter's knee, hoping Hunter wouldn't reject his touch. He needed the conact, to know that he was really sitting close to this man...It had been too long since he'd shared any level of initimacy with someone.He also cannot understand why Hunter would want to be with him when so many have turned their backs on him.
Hunter was an anomaly. Cam had not been able to decipher why this man was still standing by his side through all this. Why Hunter wanted him when his own family had discarded him so easily.It is Hunter's job to show Cam that he is worthy of love and another person's compassion because Cam is a wonderful man to whom life has dealt a really horrible hand. Hunter is willing to do whatever it takes to be with Cam because this is the first time in his life that he has felt so strongly attracted to someone and has felt such a pull to be with someone.
Hunter didn't know what to expect or what exactly was going on. But there was one thing he knew--there was no way he was abandoning Cameron. He'd do anything for Cam if the situation called for it, regardless of his repercussions. He exhaled and opened his eyes, surprised by how easy it was for him to decide his fate.Hunter will not give up on Cam and will do anything for him because, for the first time, he has met a man who fits him so perfectly and understands him so well.
"You're predictable," Cam said.It was just wonderful to see the development of the beautiful and caring relationship between Cam and Hunter. These two are just so amazing. And even though my review does not make it seem like it (Oops!) there was so much more to the book than just Cam and Hunter's relationship. About 40-50% of the book dealt with Cam's clusterfuck of a past and finding out who put him away for so long and for what reason and why they were still after him. Therefore, there was some mystery involved and a lot of people from Cam's past make an appearance. It was all a tangled web of criminals and backstabbers and dirty cops/politicians, and I loved reading every word of it! XD
"You're the only one who thinks so. And that's because you know me. So you shouldn't be surprised I'm still by your side...I want you, no one else."
One last note:
Why did I not give this the full 5 stars?
Well, it was hard for me to really get into the book until around the 30% mark because I felt that the writing at the beginning of the book was really awkward, and, I don't know...amateurish? There really was not a nice flow, and it took away from the story. But as I went along, the writing definitely got better and flowed much more smoothly, and I became 100% invested in the story and Hunter and Cam.
Overall, I definitely
and cannot wait for the "more" that Jaime Reese promised at the end of this one.
May 4, 2014
HATE that this book ENDED!!!!! I really enjoy how Ms. Reese tells a story - what an excellent Author. I don't say this about many Author's but Ms. Reese is a MUST BUY for me!!! This series is one that will produce many more stories - I predict the next will tell Aidan's story - CAN'T WAIT!!!! EXCELLENT BOOK!!!!
December 19, 2015
Everything about this book is perfect.
May 23, 2017
4.75 stars!!!
WOOHOO! I LOVED IT! Cameron and Hunter! Oh how I would love to be his prey! Lol, it was just amazing. The plot is more mystery filled than I'd usually like, but the romance perfectly balanced it all out. I adored this book from start to finish. ❤️ thanks, Author-Chan.
WOOHOO! I LOVED IT! Cameron and Hunter! Oh how I would love to be his prey! Lol, it was just amazing. The plot is more mystery filled than I'd usually like, but the romance perfectly balanced it all out. I adored this book from start to finish. ❤️ thanks, Author-Chan.
May 7, 2014
“I want to wake up with you in my arms every morning. I crave the way you look at me as if I’m a fucking superhero. I love the way you touch me, the way your fingers dig into my skin. I love it when you get all territorial and feel the need to mark me.”
Nearly two years ago, I read Julian and Matt’s story in A Better Man, and for nearly two years, I’ve been waiting for Cam’s story. With that being said, I believe this can still be read as a stand-alone as there is only a brief blip mentioning Cameron in the first book where Matt is considering taking Cam in as the first guest at Halfway House.
After being sent to prison ten years ago when he was seventeen, Cameron Pierce is finally being released; finally going to be able to start a new life for himself by way of Matt’s halfway house. His biggest fear: being sent back to prison and losing his freedom forever. Matt quickly sets Cam up with a job at a nearby diner, where Cam meets Hunter. Hunter, Assistant State Attorney, is a regular at the diner and just can’t get enough of looking at the bright blue-eyed espresso guy. The two men start a sweet courtship solely at the diner, but what will happen once Hunter finds out that Cam is a convicted felon and living in a halfway house?
I absolutely loved this book! Probably even more so than I loved the first one…and that’s saying a lot because I’ve read the first book twice, and its very uncommon for me to read anything more than once.
So what are some of the things I loved?
It’s a very sweet romance. I was cheering for Cam and Hunter from the start, two very likable, yet a bit opposite characters. But once either of them are determined to do something, they are going to keep at it until they get it right. Whether its Cam’s attempts at creating latte art or Hunter unraveling Cam’s past and keeping him safe, they will figure it out and make it work…together.
There’s an awesome mystery. Seriously, I couldn’t figure out what was going on and what had really happened. At about the 50% point, it got crazy intense with all the revelations…my mind was blown! Although I think the ending was just a tiny bit too easy, it was perfect.
It’s slow-burn. Since much of their courtship takes place in the diner, well, that makes for some very delicious sexual tension! And you know me, I’m ALL for the tension. So when Cam and Hunter are finally able to be together, its very passionate and romantic…and hot.
“Mr. Donovan, feel free to slam me up against a wall…anytime…anywhere…just make me one promise.” He punctuated each word, intensely staring at Hunter, refusing to back away.
Hunter’s breathless voice shook. “Anything.”
“Don’t ever stop wanting me enough to do so.”
There’s some good humor. Yes, this is a serious book with some very serious topics. But it’s not lacking at all in the sweet humor and banter. Julian and Matt have some great scenes, and Julian is his usual growly, possessive self. (Gah, love him!!!) But Hunter’s father is equally as awesome!
“I knew I loved your mom on that first day and married her a few months later. Same thing happened to your grandpa and his. It’s part of our DNA.”
“What are we? Werewolves?”
“I have heard you growl on an occasion or two.”
Silence.
“You’re not old, Son.”
“I’m forty.”
“That’s not old, you stubborn mule,” his father said, exasperated.
“I thought I was a werewolf,” Hunter deadpanned.
There is an age gap. As you can see, Hunter is 40 and Cam is soon to be 27, and other than a few of Hunter’s insecurities about his age, it’s mostly a non-issue. Yet, Cam likes to spin it around for some good foreplay.
Umm, so yeah, I loved so many things about this book. It’s a great story with solid writing, and other than it getting a little too sweet a times, I would say that there might just be another reread in my future.
Here’s to hoping Cole gets his book next…oh boy he’s going to be trouble!
4.5 Stars
Reviewed for The Blogger Girls
September 5, 2019
BR with Elsbeth April 18 2016
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I liked this second installment of The Men of Halfway House even more than its predecessor.
Cam has just gotten out of prison after being locked up for ten years. He made the mistake trying to protect his sister from an abusive boyfriend, who turned out to be the son of an important judge.
In the coffee shop where he works he meets Hunter, a regular there. I loved the instant attraction between these two when they meet. When their eyes meet, it’s instant fireworks No insta-love, just strong attraction. These guys do meet up several times to get to know each other before anything happens between them.
Hunter is a lawyer and gets involved in Cam’s business when it is clear that people higher up want to make Cam disappear or send him back to prison.
It is so refreshing to read about men who talk things out. Cam hasn’t told Hunter about his past, but Hunter finds out anyway. No real crisis there, they simply talk about it. I loved that part. I have read too many books where a secret gets blown out of proportion and is reason for a break up. But not here, these men talk about their feelings.
There is plenty of action in this book, but the romance never took a backseat. The attraction, the sex, the love, it was always there.
This second book can also be read as a stand-alone.
-----------------------------------
I liked this second installment of The Men of Halfway House even more than its predecessor.
Cam has just gotten out of prison after being locked up for ten years. He made the mistake trying to protect his sister from an abusive boyfriend, who turned out to be the son of an important judge.
In the coffee shop where he works he meets Hunter, a regular there. I loved the instant attraction between these two when they meet. When their eyes meet, it’s instant fireworks No insta-love, just strong attraction. These guys do meet up several times to get to know each other before anything happens between them.
Hunter is a lawyer and gets involved in Cam’s business when it is clear that people higher up want to make Cam disappear or send him back to prison.
It is so refreshing to read about men who talk things out. Cam hasn’t told Hunter about his past, but Hunter finds out anyway. No real crisis there, they simply talk about it. I loved that part. I have read too many books where a secret gets blown out of proportion and is reason for a break up. But not here, these men talk about their feelings.
There is plenty of action in this book, but the romance never took a backseat. The attraction, the sex, the love, it was always there.
This second book can also be read as a stand-alone.
March 14, 2016
A Hunted Man for me was definitely every bit as good as book one. Hunter and Cameron were smokin' hot and sexy together. I loved watching Hunter break down Cameron's protective façade. Showing Cameron little by little that he wasn't going anywhere and that Cameron was not only worthy of a better life but he damned well deserved it. And then there is Cameron with his amazing ability to keep trying long after others would have given up and without even realizing that's what he was doing. It was so endearing and just made me root for him and adore him all the more.
The underlying story of what happened to Cameron and how he came to be in prison was well done and had me intrigued from start to finish. It was the perfect way for the author to impart all of Cameron's background as well as other relevant information in a very reader friendly manner, holding my interest without becoming a big info dump that bored me to tears. Because when you think about it there was a lot of information shared with us, which had it been handled wrong would have made this book crash and burn and not in that fun Ty & Zane way that we all love.
So overall yes, book 2 was every bit as awesome of a read as book 1. I am hooked and more than ready to start book 3, A Restored Man, which I'm led to understand will live up to my expectations as well...so, I'm outta' here. I have things to do and books about adorable, sexy men to read. Life is good, isn't it?
The underlying story of what happened to Cameron and how he came to be in prison was well done and had me intrigued from start to finish. It was the perfect way for the author to impart all of Cameron's background as well as other relevant information in a very reader friendly manner, holding my interest without becoming a big info dump that bored me to tears. Because when you think about it there was a lot of information shared with us, which had it been handled wrong would have made this book crash and burn and not in that fun Ty & Zane way that we all love.
So overall yes, book 2 was every bit as awesome of a read as book 1. I am hooked and more than ready to start book 3, A Restored Man, which I'm led to understand will live up to my expectations as well...so, I'm outta' here. I have things to do and books about adorable, sexy men to read. Life is good, isn't it?
June 3, 2020
Love this series !! Deeply emotional, exceptional M/M romance !!
Cam enters Matt and Julian's Halfway House and it feels like a home. He gets a job at a nearby diner, and starts to relax and enjoy life after 10 years in prison. Hunter, a Lawyer and customer, is just what Cam needs in so many ways, and vice versa.
Realistic tale of deep thoughts with wonderful characters, an interesting story, and great romantic M/M sex. The sex is explicit, and we get the emotional vibes, and true emotion. There are twists and turns, horrible people -Cam's Dad - and caring people like Sam, Matt, Julian, and Hunter's Dad.
There was corruption and manipulating by the rich, powerful and paid off, plus some action and violence. This story had deep understanding, healing, caring, personal empowerment, and extraordinary emotions.
It is a very worthwhile read. Jamie Reese"s stories are so realistic and raw, and this series is very special. Do not let the length scare you, it is a long novel, but worthwhile in each and every word. Each tale is a stand alone, but is much "richer" if you know all the previous characters also.
I highly recommend !! ENJOY !!!
=====
Cam enters Matt and Julian's Halfway House and it feels like a home. He gets a job at a nearby diner, and starts to relax and enjoy life after 10 years in prison. Hunter, a Lawyer and customer, is just what Cam needs in so many ways, and vice versa.
Realistic tale of deep thoughts with wonderful characters, an interesting story, and great romantic M/M sex. The sex is explicit, and we get the emotional vibes, and true emotion. There are twists and turns, horrible people -Cam's Dad - and caring people like Sam, Matt, Julian, and Hunter's Dad.
There was corruption and manipulating by the rich, powerful and paid off, plus some action and violence. This story had deep understanding, healing, caring, personal empowerment, and extraordinary emotions.
It is a very worthwhile read. Jamie Reese"s stories are so realistic and raw, and this series is very special. Do not let the length scare you, it is a long novel, but worthwhile in each and every word. Each tale is a stand alone, but is much "richer" if you know all the previous characters also.
I highly recommend !! ENJOY !!!
=====
October 29, 2018
Cam and Hunter's story was a great improvement on the first book, the suspense plot that ran through really kept the story moving forward and both Cam and Hunter were perfect for each other.
Love me a good hurt comfort read and this had that in spades. What Hunter wouldn't do for Cam .... be still my beating heart. Cam's insecurities were well played too, it was believable because what that bloke endured was heartbreaking.
Really liked this one.
Love me a good hurt comfort read and this had that in spades. What Hunter wouldn't do for Cam .... be still my beating heart. Cam's insecurities were well played too, it was believable because what that bloke endured was heartbreaking.
Really liked this one.
April 18, 2017
This might have been better If I read the series in the correct order. Every single Cole' appearance (MC of book#3) was like a breath of fresh air, leaving me wanting more and more of it. ♪♪♪ Maybe I'm foolish. Maybe I'm blind...... But I'm only human after all. ♪♪♪ Lol! Okay, completely abstracting his presence, the mystery, figuring out who the bad guys were, kept me digging into it while Hunter and Cam's relationship was being built a bit too over the place for me to be fully believable. The interactions seemed like boys in high school rather than grown up men. In his 40s, Cameron, after ten years in prison (convicted of murderer), is released to the Halfway house where Matt and Julian help him re-integrate into society. Through friends, Cameron finds work in a local sandwich and bakery shop. Here he meets Hunter, a prosecuting attorney and there is immediate chemistry, which is usually kind of problem for me too.But most of all there were some kind of ridiculous scenes between the two. Like when they first meet, they just stare at each other and one of them moans. Oh, come on! Or the make-out session in a public diner in front of a window where one of them works. Let's get real! The characterization of a man in his 40s blushing like a teenager every time he is called 'Sir'. Sorry, I just couldn't past all these.
Anyway, the plot is appealing and interesting. There were hoodlums, threats of and actual violence, bad guys, good guys, crooked judges. A well written action romance. A real trip. It would have been a great ride IF.........(the third condition). Can't wait to read book#4!
~3.5~
Anyway, the plot is appealing and interesting. There were hoodlums, threats of and actual violence, bad guys, good guys, crooked judges. A well written action romance. A real trip. It would have been a great ride IF.........(the third condition). Can't wait to read book#4!
~3.5~
June 18, 2014
4.5 stars
Two books in and this series is on my auto-buy list. This was a really good follow up to A Better Man. It works as a standalone, but the first book is so good I would suggest you read it.
Cam has lost 10 years of his life to a prison sentence. While he committed the act, there is something and someone behind the lengthy sentence and the brutality he suffered behind bars that is way off. Hunter is a State Attorney and a lonely man. Cam has moved into Halfway House and is working at the diner where Hunter is a regular. There is serious chemistry at first sight between the two men. There is a nice build up to a sizzling first kiss (Jamie Reese seriously writes some good first kiss scenes) as the men spend more and more time together on Cam's breaks. As Hunter angles for a real date, Cam is ready to come clean about his past, expecting to never see Hunter again. All the while, there is tension building around Hunter's work and when he realizes Cam is a real target all his protective instincts kick in.
I loved the two MC's and the relationship they built. I especially like that the characters were rational and intelligent and it did not devolve into jumping to conclusions and acting before thinking. The chemistry between Cam and Hunter was off the charts with a good mystery and nice cast of secondary characters. Julian, Matt and Sam are back from the first book and the introduction of a number of new characters setting up the future books in the series did nothing to detract from the main story. I highly recommend this story.
Two books in and this series is on my auto-buy list. This was a really good follow up to A Better Man. It works as a standalone, but the first book is so good I would suggest you read it.
Cam has lost 10 years of his life to a prison sentence. While he committed the act, there is something and someone behind the lengthy sentence and the brutality he suffered behind bars that is way off. Hunter is a State Attorney and a lonely man. Cam has moved into Halfway House and is working at the diner where Hunter is a regular. There is serious chemistry at first sight between the two men. There is a nice build up to a sizzling first kiss (Jamie Reese seriously writes some good first kiss scenes) as the men spend more and more time together on Cam's breaks. As Hunter angles for a real date, Cam is ready to come clean about his past, expecting to never see Hunter again. All the while, there is tension building around Hunter's work and when he realizes Cam is a real target all his protective instincts kick in.
I loved the two MC's and the relationship they built. I especially like that the characters were rational and intelligent and it did not devolve into jumping to conclusions and acting before thinking. The chemistry between Cam and Hunter was off the charts with a good mystery and nice cast of secondary characters. Julian, Matt and Sam are back from the first book and the introduction of a number of new characters setting up the future books in the series did nothing to detract from the main story. I highly recommend this story.
May 3, 2014
*Sigh* I really2x wanted to like this because I love the first book,A Better Man. It started out really great. There was a bit of instalove but it was cute and Cameron was adorbs but it got a little bit too much halfway through. Too much hugging, kissing, sniffing each other, etc, it got really annoying. I skimmed large parts of the book and because of this I ended up not really caring about the mystery anymore.
I loved the supporting cast, Bill, Lucy, Hunter's dad, Cole, Matt and Julian, especially Julian. He was so hot here!
This could have been better if some parts were edited out and made the book shorter. This honestly turned up to be quite a disappointment. Im still thinking of changing my rating to 2 stars. I would buy the next book if it is Cole's story and hoping it will be a lot better.
I loved the supporting cast, Bill, Lucy, Hunter's dad, Cole, Matt and Julian, especially Julian. He was so hot here!
This could have been better if some parts were edited out and made the book shorter. This honestly turned up to be quite a disappointment. Im still thinking of changing my rating to 2 stars. I would buy the next book if it is Cole's story and hoping it will be a lot better.
October 10, 2019
Cameron's story was heart-wrenching. So many emotions, so much angst and pain. I loved it. Oh, and Hunter, can you please be my book boyfriend?! This was so good. Made me cry! My kind of book! The best part of the story was how Cameron finally opened up to Hunter, how he gained his self-confidence and found his self-worth. This story was something else.
The whole tangle that was Cameron's life was hard to even imagine. And to live through that and come out a decent human being albeit slightly dented and bruised - Cameron, sweetheart, you are the strongest bravest man I know in fictional Miami. I adored him, his journey and where it took him. Hunter won me over with his warmth, caring nature and protectiveness. He was an integral part in Cameron's healing. I loved them together - the cute, the angry and the passionate.
This was well-paced, suspenseful, angsty romance between two men who made sure the justice was served, past was put to rest and who grabbed their chance at happiness.
The whole tangle that was Cameron's life was hard to even imagine. And to live through that and come out a decent human being albeit slightly dented and bruised - Cameron, sweetheart, you are the strongest bravest man I know in fictional Miami. I adored him, his journey and where it took him. Hunter won me over with his warmth, caring nature and protectiveness. He was an integral part in Cameron's healing. I loved them together - the cute, the angry and the passionate.
This was well-paced, suspenseful, angsty romance between two men who made sure the justice was served, past was put to rest and who grabbed their chance at happiness.
January 3, 2022
5 Stars
I am utterly addicted to The Men of Halfway House series!! What great, easy reads! Beautifully written, fantastic male leads, well paced story-line, addictive romantic arcs, brilliant side characters... I couldn't ask for more!
Book 3 couldn't come any sooner!!
I am utterly addicted to The Men of Halfway House series!! What great, easy reads! Beautifully written, fantastic male leads, well paced story-line, addictive romantic arcs, brilliant side characters... I couldn't ask for more!
Book 3 couldn't come any sooner!!
February 3, 2023
Update 20.05.22. / 03.02.23.
Po kolejnym przeczytaniu mogę śmiało stwierdzić, że kocham Cama i Huntera miłością nieskończoną 😁
* * * * * * *
Update 13.04.21 / 17.10.21.
Nie wiem, jak to się stało - tutaj też miałam tylko podczytać sobie kilka fragmentów, które uwielbiam - a skończyło się na drugim/trzecim przeczytaniu całości 😂🤦♀️
Kocham tę serię, kocham tych chłopaków - każdej jednego osobno, i wszystkich razem - ze wszystkich tomów 💙
* * * * * * *
Wiedziałam, że przede mną cała masa świetnych książek do odkrycia - i ta seria, po tych dwóch tytułach, które do tej pory przeczytałam, zdecydowanie się do nich zalicza 😁 Sam temat raczej nietypowy - więźniowie, którzy są na zwolnieniu warunkowym, którzy nie mają gdzie się podziać, a w których jeden, konkretny człowiek zobaczył coś, co świadczy, że pomimo iż popełnili błędy, to dobrzy z nich ludzie, trafiają do domu przejściowego, prowadzonego przez Matta i Juliana, żeby rozpocząć nowe życie. Ich historie będą zapewne przeróżne, ale po tych dwóch tomach mogę powiedzieć, że ciężko się od nich oderwać.
Cameron i Hunter - jakże inna jest ich historia od historii Matta i Juliana. Dla Cama właściwie od samego początku serducho boli. Ma 27 lat i ponad 1/3 swego życia spędził w więzieniu. Jego mury są tak grube i wysokie, że on sam nie jest się w stanie przez nie przedrzeć. Ale gdyby ich nie postawił, nie przetrwałby. To, co tam przeżył sprawiło, że słowa "nadzieja", "marzenia", "przyszłość", "miłość", "rodzina" dla niego nie istnieją, że nie ufa nikomu - i jak się czyta, to nie ma się co temu dziwić. Chyba jedynym zdziwieniem może być to, że ciągle żyje... Hunter - asystent prokuratora stanowego, 40-letni, samotny, pracujący x razy więcej, niż powinien, który stracił już nadzieję na to, że uda mu się ułożyć życie osobiste z osobą, którą będzie kochał - bo przez tyle lat nie udało mu się takiej znaleźć...
Już w drugiej książce miłość jest pokazana w sposób, który mnie rozczula w najlepszym tego słowa znaczeniu. Dla niektórych może to być ckliwe czy sentymentalne - dla mnie było pięknie, wiarygodnie, jestem po prostu zachwycona. Biorę ich z całym inwentarzem i umieszczam bardzo, bardzo wysoko 😁
Postać ojca Huntera - rewelacyjna. Ich rozmowy - nieziemskie 😁
Matt i Julian, z przyczyn oczywistych, również się pojawiają i cieszy mnie to niezmiernie, bo świetna z nich para. Przewijają się też w tle bohaterowie z następnych części i sprawiają, że apetyt tylko na następne tomy wzrasta 😁
W dodatku w kilku miejscach książka mnie po prostu zaskoczyła - co wcale nie zdarza się aż tak często. I pomimo francowatej migreny, która raczyła mnie nawiedzić przez weekend, to i tak, na raty, starałam się czytać, bo naprawdę ciężko się było oderwać.. Poszło dwa razy dłużej, niż powinno, ale zdecydowanie było warto...
Po kolejnym przeczytaniu mogę śmiało stwierdzić, że kocham Cama i Huntera miłością nieskończoną 😁
* * * * * * *
Update 13.04.21 / 17.10.21.
Nie wiem, jak to się stało - tutaj też miałam tylko podczytać sobie kilka fragmentów, które uwielbiam - a skończyło się na drugim/trzecim przeczytaniu całości 😂🤦♀️
Kocham tę serię, kocham tych chłopaków - każdej jednego osobno, i wszystkich razem - ze wszystkich tomów 💙
* * * * * * *
Wiedziałam, że przede mną cała masa świetnych książek do odkrycia - i ta seria, po tych dwóch tytułach, które do tej pory przeczytałam, zdecydowanie się do nich zalicza 😁 Sam temat raczej nietypowy - więźniowie, którzy są na zwolnieniu warunkowym, którzy nie mają gdzie się podziać, a w których jeden, konkretny człowiek zobaczył coś, co świadczy, że pomimo iż popełnili błędy, to dobrzy z nich ludzie, trafiają do domu przejściowego, prowadzonego przez Matta i Juliana, żeby rozpocząć nowe życie. Ich historie będą zapewne przeróżne, ale po tych dwóch tomach mogę powiedzieć, że ciężko się od nich oderwać.
Cameron i Hunter - jakże inna jest ich historia od historii Matta i Juliana. Dla Cama właściwie od samego początku serducho boli. Ma 27 lat i ponad 1/3 swego życia spędził w więzieniu. Jego mury są tak grube i wysokie, że on sam nie jest się w stanie przez nie przedrzeć. Ale gdyby ich nie postawił, nie przetrwałby. To, co tam przeżył sprawiło, że słowa "nadzieja", "marzenia", "przyszłość", "miłość", "rodzina" dla niego nie istnieją, że nie ufa nikomu - i jak się czyta, to nie ma się co temu dziwić. Chyba jedynym zdziwieniem może być to, że ciągle żyje... Hunter - asystent prokuratora stanowego, 40-letni, samotny, pracujący x razy więcej, niż powinien, który stracił już nadzieję na to, że uda mu się ułożyć życie osobiste z osobą, którą będzie kochał - bo przez tyle lat nie udało mu się takiej znaleźć...
Już w drugiej książce miłość jest pokazana w sposób, który mnie rozczula w najlepszym tego słowa znaczeniu. Dla niektórych może to być ckliwe czy sentymentalne - dla mnie było pięknie, wiarygodnie, jestem po prostu zachwycona. Biorę ich z całym inwentarzem i umieszczam bardzo, bardzo wysoko 😁
Postać ojca Huntera - rewelacyjna. Ich rozmowy - nieziemskie 😁
Matt i Julian, z przyczyn oczywistych, również się pojawiają i cieszy mnie to niezmiernie, bo świetna z nich para. Przewijają się też w tle bohaterowie z następnych części i sprawiają, że apetyt tylko na następne tomy wzrasta 😁
W dodatku w kilku miejscach książka mnie po prostu zaskoczyła - co wcale nie zdarza się aż tak często. I pomimo francowatej migreny, która raczyła mnie nawiedzić przez weekend, to i tak, na raty, starałam się czytać, bo naprawdę ciężko się było oderwać.. Poszło dwa razy dłużej, niż powinno, ale zdecydowanie było warto...
September 21, 2024
3.5 Stars Rounded Up
Again. Thoroughly enjoyable.
What was missing in angst from the first book surely found its way here.
Cameron has been through hell. He can barely hang onto his fragile hope, and he fears the people trying to keep him imprisoned will succeed in putting him back. He wants to believe in Hunter, but every time he experiences a bit of happiness, he goes into full blown panic.
Hunter knows he's overworked and alone, but no one has made him want to change that. That is, until he meets Cameron. What's slowly uncovered is a criminal conspiracy threatening the burgeoning love he's trying to build with him, and he's determined to keep Cameron safe.
This reads kinda like romantic suspense. It may also have some over the top insta-lust and love, but for some reason it totally works - especially since the UST and smex are quite yummy. So if you like a growing cast of characters who are slowing becoming family, including two growly, possessive guys fighting for their lives, then there's no reason not to continue on with the series!!
Again. Thoroughly enjoyable.
What was missing in angst from the first book surely found its way here.
Cameron has been through hell. He can barely hang onto his fragile hope, and he fears the people trying to keep him imprisoned will succeed in putting him back. He wants to believe in Hunter, but every time he experiences a bit of happiness, he goes into full blown panic.
Hunter knows he's overworked and alone, but no one has made him want to change that. That is, until he meets Cameron. What's slowly uncovered is a criminal conspiracy threatening the burgeoning love he's trying to build with him, and he's determined to keep Cameron safe.
This reads kinda like romantic suspense. It may also have some over the top insta-lust and love, but for some reason it totally works - especially since the UST and smex are quite yummy. So if you like a growing cast of characters who are slowing becoming family, including two growly, possessive guys fighting for their lives, then there's no reason not to continue on with the series!!
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