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Show No Mercy
A chance encounter brings them together, but in a world of danger, it might not be for long.
When a blind date ends in disaster, Hector is about to swear off dating for good, until he sees a handsome face across a bar and changes his mind. A drink with a troubled man called Callum leads to something far more meaningful. After an instant connection, Hector offers Callum the chance to off load his problems.
But the night soon takes a turn for the worse. When they’re attacked by two men carrying knives, Hector is plunged into a dangerous world of vengeance and retaliation. His decision to stand by Callum puts his life at risk in ways he could never have imagined. Is he prepared to lose everything for a man he barely knows?
A sizzling MM noir full of suspense and passion from the author of the Jagged Shores series.
Praise for Thom
"a great mix of romance and suspense and had me hooked right from the start. "
“Another great mix of romantic relationship development and mystery from this author.”
“This story kept me on the edge of my seat for nearly the whole thing. There were nice romantic and spicy moments mixed in with the intrigue”
"The climax is so suspenseful I couldn’t put the book down."
" speaking of bad guys, this story has one of the evilest villains to ever do evil."
"The villain and the mystery/suspense in this one was excellent"
“romantic, suspenseful and entertaining”
When a blind date ends in disaster, Hector is about to swear off dating for good, until he sees a handsome face across a bar and changes his mind. A drink with a troubled man called Callum leads to something far more meaningful. After an instant connection, Hector offers Callum the chance to off load his problems.
But the night soon takes a turn for the worse. When they’re attacked by two men carrying knives, Hector is plunged into a dangerous world of vengeance and retaliation. His decision to stand by Callum puts his life at risk in ways he could never have imagined. Is he prepared to lose everything for a man he barely knows?
A sizzling MM noir full of suspense and passion from the author of the Jagged Shores series.
Praise for Thom
"a great mix of romance and suspense and had me hooked right from the start. "
“Another great mix of romantic relationship development and mystery from this author.”
“This story kept me on the edge of my seat for nearly the whole thing. There were nice romantic and spicy moments mixed in with the intrigue”
"The climax is so suspenseful I couldn’t put the book down."
" speaking of bad guys, this story has one of the evilest villains to ever do evil."
"The villain and the mystery/suspense in this one was excellent"
“romantic, suspenseful and entertaining”
- GenresM M Romance
195 pages, ebook
Published November 14, 2024
7 people are currently reading
24 people want to read
About the author
Thom Collins
25 books155 followersThom Collins is the author of the novel Closer by Morning, with Pride Publishing. His love of page turning thrillers began at an early age when his mother caught him reading the latest Jackie Collins book and promptly confiscated it, sparking a life-long love of raunchy novels.
His novella Silent Voices will be published by Pride in May, followed by the novel Anthem of the Sea, the first book in the Anthem Trilogy. He has recently finished writing the second book in a series and is making plans for the third.
Thom has lived in the North East of England his whole life. He grew up in Northumberland and now lives in County Durham with his husband and two cats. He loves all kinds of genre fiction, especially bonk-busters, thrillers, romance and horror. He is also a cookery book addict with far too many titles cluttering his shelves. When not writing he can be found in the kitchen trying out new recipes. He’s a keen traveler but with a fear of flying that gets worse with age. Since taking his first cruise in 2013 he realized that sailing is the way to go.
His novella Silent Voices will be published by Pride in May, followed by the novel Anthem of the Sea, the first book in the Anthem Trilogy. He has recently finished writing the second book in a series and is making plans for the third.
Thom has lived in the North East of England his whole life. He grew up in Northumberland and now lives in County Durham with his husband and two cats. He loves all kinds of genre fiction, especially bonk-busters, thrillers, romance and horror. He is also a cookery book addict with far too many titles cluttering his shelves. When not writing he can be found in the kitchen trying out new recipes. He’s a keen traveler but with a fear of flying that gets worse with age. Since taking his first cruise in 2013 he realized that sailing is the way to go.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
November 30, 2024
4 Stars ⭐️
Wow, this story caught my attention from the start and did not let up until the end! These two were great together, their chemistry undeniable and heated. Without spoiling I'm going to say that this story had pretty much everything and then some but the edge of your seat anticipation had me clamoring for more! I would absolutely recommend.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
Wow, this story caught my attention from the start and did not let up until the end! These two were great together, their chemistry undeniable and heated. Without spoiling I'm going to say that this story had pretty much everything and then some but the edge of your seat anticipation had me clamoring for more! I would absolutely recommend.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
November 15, 2024
3.7
After a disastrous date, Hector decides to go to a bar to have a drink and get over the bad experience. What he doesn't expect is to meet Callum, a man with a melancholic look that will change his life.
Callum's only wish is to help teenagers set out on a path to a bright future. In memory of a cousin, he creates a community centre, but he has to confront a drug dealer who wants to recruit young people for his business, which puts Callum at risk.
The night that Callum and Hector meet they have to flee for their lives because someone tries to hurt them, this leads Hector to want to help Callum put an end to these threats.
A book that is read very quickly, there is a lot of action and the chemistry of the characters is explosive.
After a disastrous date, Hector decides to go to a bar to have a drink and get over the bad experience. What he doesn't expect is to meet Callum, a man with a melancholic look that will change his life.
Callum's only wish is to help teenagers set out on a path to a bright future. In memory of a cousin, he creates a community centre, but he has to confront a drug dealer who wants to recruit young people for his business, which puts Callum at risk.
The night that Callum and Hector meet they have to flee for their lives because someone tries to hurt them, this leads Hector to want to help Callum put an end to these threats.
A book that is read very quickly, there is a lot of action and the chemistry of the characters is explosive.
November 8, 2024
2.5⭐️
Show No Mercy is fine. To me, it’s just not “A sizzling MM noir full of suspense and passion. . .” It starts off promising, but left me wanting in the end. The MCs, writing, and story are solid enough, but I did not find them compelling. Hector and Callum are likeable; they have great chemistry; and I rooted for their HEA. That’s about it. The character and relationship development are constrained by the limits of the single POV and time frame. The MCs personalities and burgeoning relationship are fleshed out enough to be enjoyable but not enough to be memorable or pick up the slack when the plot execution is lacking.
The writing is good; the style is straightforward but not bare bones. There is just some tonal dissonance for me. It tries, but the narrative doesn’t blend its disparate parts of suspense and insta-love well. On their own, the intimate and violent scenes work. Callum and Hector's fierce attraction and compatible personalities are conveyed well, and the action scenes are believable. Together? It feels like it's missing connectors.
With the story taking place in a week and featuring several scenes of violence, it should be gripping—a powerful instant chemistry between two good guys overshadowed by the menace of danger is a recipe for satisfying tension. But though the words are there, there is no energy behind them. There is some propulsion and promise initially, but each subsequent attack has less tension though more danger is involved. This is another weakness of the POV.
When he is not in danger, Hector’s basically living his best contemporary romance MC life. The danger level is high from the start but no matter the precarity or fear, it doesn’t translate as such outside the scene. Collins overshoots the mark of Hector being unbowed by the violence into transforming the dangerous into the inconsequential instead. The climax is well-written and serves its function as title callback, but I felt detached from it. It had to happen so it did. There’s no suspense, just obvious set up for the payoff.
I may have liked the book had I not expected more from the story. Noir is one of those genre/style descriptors that gets tossed about too freely. There’s not much that’s complex, cynical, gritty, morally ambiguous, and/or fatalistic about this story—hallmarks of the genre. The swipes at shades of gray are middling. The bad guys are mostly one-dimensional villains, and the MCs’ personalities and mindsets are the opposite of leading characters in that genre. Callum’s an unshakeable optimist willing to put everything on the line to help kids find a way out of poverty and danger, and Hector is a staunch believer in the police and doing what’s right. Even when “showing no mercy”, that’s not actually true. Callum and Hector’s relationship is a romantic light in the dark, and that’s the core of the story. The tone expected from the title and a self-subscribed noir does not jibe with that and definitely contributed to my lackluster response.
Show No Mercy is fine. To me, it’s just not “A sizzling MM noir full of suspense and passion. . .” It starts off promising, but left me wanting in the end. The MCs, writing, and story are solid enough, but I did not find them compelling. Hector and Callum are likeable; they have great chemistry; and I rooted for their HEA. That’s about it. The character and relationship development are constrained by the limits of the single POV and time frame. The MCs personalities and burgeoning relationship are fleshed out enough to be enjoyable but not enough to be memorable or pick up the slack when the plot execution is lacking.
The writing is good; the style is straightforward but not bare bones. There is just some tonal dissonance for me. It tries, but the narrative doesn’t blend its disparate parts of suspense and insta-love well. On their own, the intimate and violent scenes work. Callum and Hector's fierce attraction and compatible personalities are conveyed well, and the action scenes are believable. Together? It feels like it's missing connectors.
With the story taking place in a week and featuring several scenes of violence, it should be gripping—a powerful instant chemistry between two good guys overshadowed by the menace of danger is a recipe for satisfying tension. But though the words are there, there is no energy behind them. There is some propulsion and promise initially, but each subsequent attack has less tension though more danger is involved. This is another weakness of the POV.
When he is not in danger, Hector’s basically living his best contemporary romance MC life. The danger level is high from the start but no matter the precarity or fear, it doesn’t translate as such outside the scene. Collins overshoots the mark of Hector being unbowed by the violence into transforming the dangerous into the inconsequential instead. The climax is well-written and serves its function as title callback, but I felt detached from it. It had to happen so it did. There’s no suspense, just obvious set up for the payoff.
I may have liked the book had I not expected more from the story. Noir is one of those genre/style descriptors that gets tossed about too freely. There’s not much that’s complex, cynical, gritty, morally ambiguous, and/or fatalistic about this story—hallmarks of the genre. The swipes at shades of gray are middling. The bad guys are mostly one-dimensional villains, and the MCs’ personalities and mindsets are the opposite of leading characters in that genre. Callum’s an unshakeable optimist willing to put everything on the line to help kids find a way out of poverty and danger, and Hector is a staunch believer in the police and doing what’s right. Even when “showing no mercy”, that’s not actually true. Callum and Hector’s relationship is a romantic light in the dark, and that’s the core of the story. The tone expected from the title and a self-subscribed noir does not jibe with that and definitely contributed to my lackluster response.
November 17, 2024
Thoroughly enjoyed this read.
Firstly, let me say I’ve got this book from gay romance reviews and this is me leaving my honest review.
It’s safe to say that Hector had been on the worst blind date ever, thankfully, after off loading and getting out of the date, he went to a pub and saw a man so lost in his thoughts. It looked like he had the world on his shoulders and Hector was attracted to him straight away. Hector went over to start a conversation with the man, but it was obvious he wanted to be left alone and Hector made his way back to his table.
Callum knew that life was getting dangerous. He is a private trainer and did lots of voluntary work and he really wanted to help the young people who were struggling. But it seemed that kids are the best drug sellers because people overlook them and Callum had an issue with the local drug dealer so when the good looking man’s tried to start up a conversation, he instantly thought that that guy was there to send a message. He was wrong and went over to apologise . As they got talking, a young guy who was very out of place in the bar came over with a knife and Hector decided in that minute that he was going to do everything in his power to help Callum. But what was ahead for both of these men now??
I really like the pace of this book, the instant attraction between Callum and Hector was obvious and it is safe to say that these two men are passionate, but it’s more than a hook up . what they go through in the first week together makes them feel that they have been together forever. But with the threats of violence around the corner, could they keep each other safe. Really enjoyable. You just didn’t know how things were gonna turn out for these two men that just wanted to be left alone.
Can’t wait to read another book from this author.
Firstly, let me say I’ve got this book from gay romance reviews and this is me leaving my honest review.
It’s safe to say that Hector had been on the worst blind date ever, thankfully, after off loading and getting out of the date, he went to a pub and saw a man so lost in his thoughts. It looked like he had the world on his shoulders and Hector was attracted to him straight away. Hector went over to start a conversation with the man, but it was obvious he wanted to be left alone and Hector made his way back to his table.
Callum knew that life was getting dangerous. He is a private trainer and did lots of voluntary work and he really wanted to help the young people who were struggling. But it seemed that kids are the best drug sellers because people overlook them and Callum had an issue with the local drug dealer so when the good looking man’s tried to start up a conversation, he instantly thought that that guy was there to send a message. He was wrong and went over to apologise . As they got talking, a young guy who was very out of place in the bar came over with a knife and Hector decided in that minute that he was going to do everything in his power to help Callum. But what was ahead for both of these men now??
I really like the pace of this book, the instant attraction between Callum and Hector was obvious and it is safe to say that these two men are passionate, but it’s more than a hook up . what they go through in the first week together makes them feel that they have been together forever. But with the threats of violence around the corner, could they keep each other safe. Really enjoyable. You just didn’t know how things were gonna turn out for these two men that just wanted to be left alone.
Can’t wait to read another book from this author.
November 16, 2024
Show No Mercy was my first time reading anything by this author, and it certainly won’t be my last! I went in blind, not knowing what to expect, and ended up completely captivated. This book was an absolute page-turner that I couldn’t put down.
Callum and Hector’s chemistry is electric from the moment they meet, and their story grabs hold of you and refuses to let go. The energy between them is palpable, and the narrative is non-stop, taking you on an exhilarating journey from their very first night together. Both main characters are utterly addictive to read—flawed, layered, and unique. They brought a refreshing dynamic that stood out from anything I’ve read recently, making their story feel truly original.
The character development and plotting in this book are masterfully done, keeping you fully invested in their journey. The tension, the sparks, and the emotional pull between Callum and Hector are so compelling, and the twists and turns in the story kept me on the edge of my seat. Every time I thought I knew where things were headed, I was surprised, making the experience even more thrilling.
This book is packed with unpredictable moments, and I devoured every single one. It’s a testament to the author’s skill that the story felt fresh, engaging, and impossible to put down. If you’re looking for a gripping, character-driven read with plenty of heat and heart, this one’s for you. I can’t wait to dive into more of the author’s work!
Callum and Hector’s chemistry is electric from the moment they meet, and their story grabs hold of you and refuses to let go. The energy between them is palpable, and the narrative is non-stop, taking you on an exhilarating journey from their very first night together. Both main characters are utterly addictive to read—flawed, layered, and unique. They brought a refreshing dynamic that stood out from anything I’ve read recently, making their story feel truly original.
The character development and plotting in this book are masterfully done, keeping you fully invested in their journey. The tension, the sparks, and the emotional pull between Callum and Hector are so compelling, and the twists and turns in the story kept me on the edge of my seat. Every time I thought I knew where things were headed, I was surprised, making the experience even more thrilling.
This book is packed with unpredictable moments, and I devoured every single one. It’s a testament to the author’s skill that the story felt fresh, engaging, and impossible to put down. If you’re looking for a gripping, character-driven read with plenty of heat and heart, this one’s for you. I can’t wait to dive into more of the author’s work!
November 13, 2024
Hector left his blind date from hell and maybe met the man of his dreams, Callum, when he steps into a quiet bar to get the bad date taste out of his mouth. The men have an instant chemistry and as they leave the bar they are attacked. While they do escape there is an overwhelming sense of danger for both of them.
I think my favorite part was how two strangers felt so protective of each other. They didn’t give in to any doubts that they shouldn’t be together. Their relationship flowed naturally.
Circumstances kind of forced the book into the instalove category. Their feelings were very similar for each other (back to that chemistry thing). The book felt short but it was long enough to confirm they were very compatible.
I’ve always liked this author’s mysteries but danger they faced throughout the book just didn’t give me any sense of urgency so in that aspect the story fell short for me. I didn’t feel it was the best I’ve read but it was enjoyable and I would recommend it.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
I think my favorite part was how two strangers felt so protective of each other. They didn’t give in to any doubts that they shouldn’t be together. Their relationship flowed naturally.
Circumstances kind of forced the book into the instalove category. Their feelings were very similar for each other (back to that chemistry thing). The book felt short but it was long enough to confirm they were very compatible.
I’ve always liked this author’s mysteries but danger they faced throughout the book just didn’t give me any sense of urgency so in that aspect the story fell short for me. I didn’t feel it was the best I’ve read but it was enjoyable and I would recommend it.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
November 16, 2024
I was instantly attracted to this book by its title, and I wasn’t left disappointed at all.
I loved Hector and Callum, and their story in general. They meet in a bar after Hector literally runs away from the worst date night ever, deciding to spend some time relaxing, before going back home.
There, he sees a beautiful man, Cullum, at the counter, and he approaches him. At first, Callum’s reaction is not exactly friendly, but after a couple of minutes he apologises, and the two men sit together and chat, until a couple of young boys arrive, and they try to harm them both.
They manage to run away, and arrive at Hector’s house, where the attraction between them starts to show. No spoilers here, but I loved the action scenes, and the chemistry between the main characters.
Maybe, I expected a little bit more suspense, but it was a good reading anyway, so, I can only recommend this book.
It won’t definitely be my last one from this author. Well done!
I loved Hector and Callum, and their story in general. They meet in a bar after Hector literally runs away from the worst date night ever, deciding to spend some time relaxing, before going back home.
There, he sees a beautiful man, Cullum, at the counter, and he approaches him. At first, Callum’s reaction is not exactly friendly, but after a couple of minutes he apologises, and the two men sit together and chat, until a couple of young boys arrive, and they try to harm them both.
They manage to run away, and arrive at Hector’s house, where the attraction between them starts to show. No spoilers here, but I loved the action scenes, and the chemistry between the main characters.
Maybe, I expected a little bit more suspense, but it was a good reading anyway, so, I can only recommend this book.
It won’t definitely be my last one from this author. Well done!
November 17, 2024
After a disastrous blind date, Hector decides that maybe dating is not for him. Since he is out, he goes to a quiet bar, where he sees a very sad man and feels an instant connection. He offers Callum a chance to unload his problems. Their conversation is interrupted when two men carrying knives enter the bar. After a narrow escape, Hector resolves to do what he can for Callum.
Show No Mercy was a very dark and scary book. These guys after Callum were not going to give up and when they saw Callum was with Hector, they planned to use him to hurt Callum. Hector was able to take care of himself, fortunately. The mix of romance and danger was excellently done. You cannot help but fall in love with Hector and Callum. The two men are perfect together. The ending was incredible and very well done. I highly recommend this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. This review is my honest opinion.
Show No Mercy was a very dark and scary book. These guys after Callum were not going to give up and when they saw Callum was with Hector, they planned to use him to hurt Callum. Hector was able to take care of himself, fortunately. The mix of romance and danger was excellently done. You cannot help but fall in love with Hector and Callum. The two men are perfect together. The ending was incredible and very well done. I highly recommend this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. This review is my honest opinion.
November 22, 2024
4 – 4.5 Stars
I enjoyed this read, it was a face paced and rather intense and definitely kept me interested from start to finish! I really liked both Hector and Callum and their connection – they are electric together right from their first meeting and it stays that way through their journey. Add in the dramatic ad dangerous situation they find themselves in the middle of and it is just pretty much non-stop action.
This was one of those books that I just didn’t want to put down, always wanting to know what was going to happen next, both on the romance side and the action/danger side. It was definitely entertaining and kept my attention and just like Hector and Callum, I found myself quickly falling in love. I was rooting for them the whole time and again really enjoyed the mix of romance and danger. It was exciting and fun and just what I’ve come to expect from Thom Collins, one I would definitely recommend.
I enjoyed this read, it was a face paced and rather intense and definitely kept me interested from start to finish! I really liked both Hector and Callum and their connection – they are electric together right from their first meeting and it stays that way through their journey. Add in the dramatic ad dangerous situation they find themselves in the middle of and it is just pretty much non-stop action.
This was one of those books that I just didn’t want to put down, always wanting to know what was going to happen next, both on the romance side and the action/danger side. It was definitely entertaining and kept my attention and just like Hector and Callum, I found myself quickly falling in love. I was rooting for them the whole time and again really enjoyed the mix of romance and danger. It was exciting and fun and just what I’ve come to expect from Thom Collins, one I would definitely recommend.
November 18, 2024
★彡 5 STARS 彡★
From blind date disaster to heart pounding suspense!
OMG, this book had me on the edge of my seat, figuratively biting my nails, nearly throughout the whole story and I loved it. I honestly wasn’t sure for a while how things were going to turn out. There is a sizzling, instant attraction between Hector and Callum and the sexy time between them is hot. But the real meat of the story is the danger that they are both in.
It all resolved well and was a thrilling and exciting read. I’ve enjoyed Thom Collins’ longer books so much that I was a bit nervous about reading one that is much shorter. Not all writers can do a good job with shorter books but I think Thom knocked it out of the park with this one.
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me at my request; my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
From blind date disaster to heart pounding suspense!
OMG, this book had me on the edge of my seat, figuratively biting my nails, nearly throughout the whole story and I loved it. I honestly wasn’t sure for a while how things were going to turn out. There is a sizzling, instant attraction between Hector and Callum and the sexy time between them is hot. But the real meat of the story is the danger that they are both in.
It all resolved well and was a thrilling and exciting read. I’ve enjoyed Thom Collins’ longer books so much that I was a bit nervous about reading one that is much shorter. Not all writers can do a good job with shorter books but I think Thom knocked it out of the park with this one.
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me at my request; my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
November 12, 2024
Wow! I absolutely loved this book. Amazing characters and wonderful plot. Very beautifully written and easy to read.
Hector wants to get back into the dating scene, so he goes on a blind date that her friend has set up. The date turns out to be a complete disaster, so he goes to a quiet bar before going home.
There he sees a sad man. He approaches him and they start talking. They see two men coming into a bar, looking for Callum. They were trouble. They managed to escape them and Callum told Hector what was going on. Hector doesn’t plan to stay away from him, he will stand by him no matter what.
Overall I loved this book very much. If you’re looking for a MM romantic suspense then you’re going to love it.
Hector wants to get back into the dating scene, so he goes on a blind date that her friend has set up. The date turns out to be a complete disaster, so he goes to a quiet bar before going home.
There he sees a sad man. He approaches him and they start talking. They see two men coming into a bar, looking for Callum. They were trouble. They managed to escape them and Callum told Hector what was going on. Hector doesn’t plan to stay away from him, he will stand by him no matter what.
Overall I loved this book very much. If you’re looking for a MM romantic suspense then you’re going to love it.
November 15, 2024
When I finished this book, I was exhausted, and I mean exhausted in a good way. This book was such a roller coaster, with each page being a page turner of action. It was intense, violent, and dark but also presented us a budding relationship. I will admit I had a hard time understanding how two men who barely knew one another were so protective of each other. They meet in a bar when Hector goes to bar after a terrible blind date and sees a man with issues, Callum, but feels an instant attraction and protectiveness of him. I was not familiar with this author but they won me over with this very different book. Just be prepared for the roller coaster ride and intensity of this book. I did receive an ARC and leave this honest review.
November 23, 2024
This has all the best characteristics of the classic noir films where a character meets a stranger, has an explosive chemistry with them that leads them to offer their help without fully knowing what they are getting into. Hector listens to Callum's story and offers his help with the problems he's having at his center to help young men. Little does he know how serious the threats hanging over Callum are and they are attacked just after they first meet. They stay together, however, and this starts a war for survival with the baddies - their own survival, that of the center and for the lives of the young men there. Another great book that balances suspense, action and romance from Thom Collins.
November 20, 2024
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarain, I was gifted my copy of this book.
Hector's blind date goes wrong, and then he finds himself running for his life with a bleeding stranger in tow.
I liked that this book jumps straight into what is going on with Callum, and that Hector gets pulled in. I wasn't sure it was going to work for me, but it holds up well through the book, that start. It's sort of sets the pace for the book.
I did feel though, at times, that the pace was WAAAAAAAAAAAAY too quick. I found myself struggling to keep up, things were happening so fast. But it's a relatively short book, 195 pages, and you can only get so much on the page count. I would have just liked a bit of a let up from everything, really. Just to catch my breath!
I would have liked some more of the suspense that is tagged with the book. There is, I felt, none. We know, right from the start, who is doing what they are doing to Callum and Hector.
But there is lots of the passion the book is tagged with, and I liked that the attraction and connection between these two men is powerful and almost instant, but it never ever wavers, not even when they are both faced with such a situation they find themselves in.
Only Hector gets a say though. And really this is the only reason I rounded my 3.5 stars down, rather than up.
3.5 stars, rounded down for the blog.
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
Hector's blind date goes wrong, and then he finds himself running for his life with a bleeding stranger in tow.
I liked that this book jumps straight into what is going on with Callum, and that Hector gets pulled in. I wasn't sure it was going to work for me, but it holds up well through the book, that start. It's sort of sets the pace for the book.
I did feel though, at times, that the pace was WAAAAAAAAAAAAY too quick. I found myself struggling to keep up, things were happening so fast. But it's a relatively short book, 195 pages, and you can only get so much on the page count. I would have just liked a bit of a let up from everything, really. Just to catch my breath!
I would have liked some more of the suspense that is tagged with the book. There is, I felt, none. We know, right from the start, who is doing what they are doing to Callum and Hector.
But there is lots of the passion the book is tagged with, and I liked that the attraction and connection between these two men is powerful and almost instant, but it never ever wavers, not even when they are both faced with such a situation they find themselves in.
Only Hector gets a say though. And really this is the only reason I rounded my 3.5 stars down, rather than up.
3.5 stars, rounded down for the blog.
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
November 2, 2024
This is my first read by Thom Collins, and it certainly won’t be my last. Callum and Hector's chemistry is captivating, and their relationship develops rapidly, especially after a harrowing encounter with two knife-wielding men on their first night together. Hector's willingness to help Callum escape sets the stage for their undeniable connection as they navigate numerous obstacles together. However, the story felt more like a novella than a full-length novel. Overall, I enjoyed it and look forward to exploring more of Thom Collins' work in the future!
November 3, 2024
Callum and Hector’s chemistry is electric, especially after their intense first night together when they faced off against two knife-wielding men. That harrowing experience cements their bond, revealing Hector’s bravery and loyalty as he helps Callum escape. Their relationship blossoms in the aftermath, marked by shared vulnerability and a fierce determination to protect one another. As they navigate the challenges ahead, the obstacles they face only deepen their connection, transforming their initial attraction into a profound partnership forged in the heat of danger.
November 16, 2024
This was a nice change of pace, I liked the mix of suspense, danger, and a nice insta love connection between Hector and Callum. The opening was particularly effective I think. From Hector’s appallingly terrible blind date, the meeting in the bar, and the quick turn from promising chemistry to run for your life - it all definitely got my attention. For me it started stronger than it ends, but this was a fun discovery from a new to me author.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
November 4, 2024
This story is seriously intense. I’m not sure what I was expecting, as I began this book, but what I got was an adrenaline rush like you wouldn’t believe. Right from the beginning the m/c’a are thrown into a nightmare of stalking and being both threatened and attacked. There is literally never a dull moment until the bitter end. My heart was pounding out of my chest. This author did a bang up job on this story. I voluntarily reviewed an arc of this book.
November 9, 2024
Show No Mercy is the story of Hector and Callum. I couldn't put this book down once I started it because I really needed to see what happened next. I loved the chemistry between Callum and Hector. I enjoyed the rush this book brought to me with all the action. This was my first book by Thom Collins and it definitely won't be my last. I just wish this book was a bit longer. I would definitely recommend this book.
November 11, 2024
ARC review
Loved this book. It was fast paced but really good.
Hector was one moment fleeing a bad date and another moment fleeing from his life with a totally diferent man. He knew it was dangerous but he wasn't willing to let Callum face it all alone.
Callum was strong and wasn't letting bad people hurt the kids that frequented his center.
They were both brave and decided to stay together no matter what
Loved this book. It was fast paced but really good.
Hector was one moment fleeing a bad date and another moment fleeing from his life with a totally diferent man. He knew it was dangerous but he wasn't willing to let Callum face it all alone.
Callum was strong and wasn't letting bad people hurt the kids that frequented his center.
They were both brave and decided to stay together no matter what
November 22, 2024
Hector and Callum go on an adventure together
This is the first book I’ve read by Thom Collins, but I will be looking out for more because I really enjoyed this one. Hector and Callum meet while having a drink at a bar and from there Collins goes totally off script for the traditional people meet in a bar and begin a relationship trope. I had a hard time guessing where this story was going next, a lot like the characters! It was great fun to follow along.
This is the first book I’ve read by Thom Collins, but I will be looking out for more because I really enjoyed this one. Hector and Callum meet while having a drink at a bar and from there Collins goes totally off script for the traditional people meet in a bar and begin a relationship trope. I had a hard time guessing where this story was going next, a lot like the characters! It was great fun to follow along.
November 5, 2024
This was a quick read. It had suspense and heat. It’s a shorter story, but I was still invested in Hector and Callum. Their worlds were turned upside down by a drug dealer and his thugs, but it didn’t stop them from exploring their strong connection. I enjoyed this story and wouldn’t hesitate to read more from this author.
November 18, 2024
A dark romantic suspense story with two characters with excellent chemistry. If you're a fan of romantic suspense reads you'll probably enjoy this one.
Featuring insta-love and some touch him and die Hector and Callum fall for each other amidst a back drop of trying to escape being caught up amongst the the villain who won't stop tracking them both down. A quick fun read by a new to me author.
Featuring insta-love and some touch him and die Hector and Callum fall for each other amidst a back drop of trying to escape being caught up amongst the the villain who won't stop tracking them both down. A quick fun read by a new to me author.
November 24, 2024
Another good read from Author Thom Collins.
This book was strong on Action , more than I would normally read, but it worked. I found myself not able to put the book down, wanting to know more. There is additionally plenty of violence. Throughout there are two guys with emotions that are building and a relationship growing.
This book was strong on Action , more than I would normally read, but it worked. I found myself not able to put the book down, wanting to know more. There is additionally plenty of violence. Throughout there are two guys with emotions that are building and a relationship growing.
October 18, 2025
I do enjoy Thom Collins' stories, usually set in real places - not been to Durham but have spent time in the North East.
Have read other stories about county lines drugs in the UK so can believe how easy it could be to get on the wrong side of the criminals.
Hector and Callum do go quite quickly into their relationship, helped by the shared danger.
Have read other stories about county lines drugs in the UK so can believe how easy it could be to get on the wrong side of the criminals.
Hector and Callum do go quite quickly into their relationship, helped by the shared danger.
October 27, 2024
After a disastrous blind date Hector decides to go to a bar before heading home when he sees Callum looking like he feels he asks him if he’s ok.
When danger comes in the form of to guys seeking out Callum Hector decides to help him escape not realising the domino effect it will have on his life.
When danger comes in the form of to guys seeking out Callum Hector decides to help him escape not realising the domino effect it will have on his life.
November 15, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This author is new to me and apart from it being 3 person POV unfortunately, it was a very good read. Filled with suspense and action, it still develops the romance well while keeping you on edge. The characters were quite good. Good read.
This author is new to me and apart from it being 3 person POV unfortunately, it was a very good read. Filled with suspense and action, it still develops the romance well while keeping you on edge. The characters were quite good. Good read.
November 16, 2024
3.5 stars. A really fast-paced story in every aspect - packed full of action and an insta-love relationship. The MCs were really good together, and the ending was very sweet after all the tension caused by the (particularly one-sided) evil bad guys.
November 17, 2024
This was the first book I’d read by this author and I enjoyed the story. It was fast paced suspenseful and action packed, Hector and Callum had plenty of chemistry and I’ll try more from this author in the future.
November 17, 2024
It seemed like the couple fell in love instantly. It's not bad but unexpected in a PNR book. The romance vs the action seemed a bit disconnected. But it was a good book
I received an ARC of this book from GRR and this is my honest review
I received an ARC of this book from GRR and this is my honest review
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