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Fly Away Home
Maybe Colson Delacourt teasing those nosy ladies in the coffeeshop with the plot of his next murder mystery was a bad idea. But does that mean he deserves to be arrested for attempting to kill his elderly neighbor? Why won’t the police believe he has nothing to do with her getting hurt? That detective Harper Rose won’t listen to him—he’s so annoying and arrogant. And sexy and gorgeous.
Then Colson also becomes the victim of a crime, and Harper is there to protect and serve with his body and lips. But after the suspects are caught, Harper returns again and again, and Colson can’t resist. There’s just something about a man with a badge and a big…gun to make a guy feel safe.
As a detective Harper is fearless, but when they’re together, he’s afraid to open his heart. He’s hiding something…or someone. Harper swears he’s not married and doesn’t have a boyfriend, so why can’t he ever stay the night? The closer they get, the more Harper pushes Colson away, ghosting him for days, then popping up and acting as if nothing is wrong. The disappearing act he keeps pulling isn’t going to work.
Colson knows what it’s like to have half a relationship, and he isn’t going to make that mistake again. He wants to be strong and walk away, but he sees Harper’s gentle, caring side and knows there’s a key that will unlock the mystery of Harper’s hidden life.
Colson wants them to plant roots and make a home. And that can’t happen unless Harper tells him the truth. Should Colson risk his heart for the possibility that they will soar together, or is it time to say good-bye?
Fly Away Home is a swoony, sexy, MM romance between two men who discover that love will find them when they least expect it. It's filled with steamy moments, tons of banter, found family, brotherly love and lots of home-made apple pie goodness.
Then Colson also becomes the victim of a crime, and Harper is there to protect and serve with his body and lips. But after the suspects are caught, Harper returns again and again, and Colson can’t resist. There’s just something about a man with a badge and a big…gun to make a guy feel safe.
As a detective Harper is fearless, but when they’re together, he’s afraid to open his heart. He’s hiding something…or someone. Harper swears he’s not married and doesn’t have a boyfriend, so why can’t he ever stay the night? The closer they get, the more Harper pushes Colson away, ghosting him for days, then popping up and acting as if nothing is wrong. The disappearing act he keeps pulling isn’t going to work.
Colson knows what it’s like to have half a relationship, and he isn’t going to make that mistake again. He wants to be strong and walk away, but he sees Harper’s gentle, caring side and knows there’s a key that will unlock the mystery of Harper’s hidden life.
Colson wants them to plant roots and make a home. And that can’t happen unless Harper tells him the truth. Should Colson risk his heart for the possibility that they will soar together, or is it time to say good-bye?
Fly Away Home is a swoony, sexy, MM romance between two men who discover that love will find them when they least expect it. It's filled with steamy moments, tons of banter, found family, brotherly love and lots of home-made apple pie goodness.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 29, 2024
130 people are currently reading
185 people want to read
About the author
Felice Stevens
89 books1,715 followersFelice Stevens writes romance because what is better than people falling in love? Her favorite part of a romance novel is that first kiss…sigh. She loves creating stories of hopes and dreams and happily ever afters. Her stories are character-driven, rich with the sights, sounds and flavors of New York City and filled with men who are sometimes deeply flawed but always real.
Felice writes M/M romance because she believes that everyone deserves a happily ever after. Having traveled all over the world, she can safely say that the universal language that unites people is love. Felice has written in a variety of sub-genres, including contemporary, paranormal and has a mystery series as well.
Felice is a two-time Lambda Literary Award nominee and the Lambda award-winner for Best Gay Romance for her book, The Ghost and Charlie Muir, as well as the e-Lit gold medal winner in romance for Broken Silence.
Felice writes M/M romance because she believes that everyone deserves a happily ever after. Having traveled all over the world, she can safely say that the universal language that unites people is love. Felice has written in a variety of sub-genres, including contemporary, paranormal and has a mystery series as well.
Felice is a two-time Lambda Literary Award nominee and the Lambda award-winner for Best Gay Romance for her book, The Ghost and Charlie Muir, as well as the e-Lit gold medal winner in romance for Broken Silence.
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November 5, 2024
Fly Away Home is a stand alone romance by Felice Stevens. First, lets just gaze at this cover! And it’s perfect for Colson. I loved having this image in my brain while reading the book. I adored both Colson and Harper, their personalities, their hearts, their dedication. They were so perfect together.
Colson Delacourt is somewhere in his thirties. I’m not exactly sure. He is an author of two best selling thrillers but after that, he has struggled with making progress on his third book. When Colson is on the phone in a coffee shop, discussing some of the more gruesome aspects of his character’s crimes with his best friend, he is overheard by a group of older women who think he’s talking about himself. And when his sweet elderly neighbor is attacked in her home, guess who the detective’s first suspect is?!
Detective Harper Rose is thirty five years old. He and his partner have been working hard at solving a string of push-in robberies. When the women tell him about what they overheard, he’s sure they’ve got their guy, until they realize what really happened.
Maybe their initial meeting didn’t go as well as it could have, with Harper accusing Colson of robbery and all! But the chemistry was there. And when Colson’s home is also broken in to, it’s the perfect opportunity to make contact again. But, both of these men have been hurt in the past by trusting someone that ended up betraying them. And both have been hurt in other ways as well. When they begin to spend some steamy evenings together, Harper never stays the night but is very vague as to why. What is he hiding? Why is he holding back? Because the more time they spend together, the more Colson gets to know the man Harper tries to keep hidden, the more he wants a deeper relationship with him. But unless Harper can be honest with him and open up to him, that can never happen.
There are two side characters in this book that I also fell so in love with. Luis that works for Harper and sweet Millie, Colson’s neighbor who is in her 80’s. Millie with her tea and cookies and brownies and her way of seeing the truth in people that maybe weren’t even aware of it themselves. Colson and Harper are both so dedicated to the people they care about, both have such huge hearts. I couldn’t have loved them more. This book made me smile, swoon and fan myself quite a few times. I loved every page.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
Colson Delacourt is somewhere in his thirties. I’m not exactly sure. He is an author of two best selling thrillers but after that, he has struggled with making progress on his third book. When Colson is on the phone in a coffee shop, discussing some of the more gruesome aspects of his character’s crimes with his best friend, he is overheard by a group of older women who think he’s talking about himself. And when his sweet elderly neighbor is attacked in her home, guess who the detective’s first suspect is?!
Detective Harper Rose is thirty five years old. He and his partner have been working hard at solving a string of push-in robberies. When the women tell him about what they overheard, he’s sure they’ve got their guy, until they realize what really happened.
Maybe their initial meeting didn’t go as well as it could have, with Harper accusing Colson of robbery and all! But the chemistry was there. And when Colson’s home is also broken in to, it’s the perfect opportunity to make contact again. But, both of these men have been hurt in the past by trusting someone that ended up betraying them. And both have been hurt in other ways as well. When they begin to spend some steamy evenings together, Harper never stays the night but is very vague as to why. What is he hiding? Why is he holding back? Because the more time they spend together, the more Colson gets to know the man Harper tries to keep hidden, the more he wants a deeper relationship with him. But unless Harper can be honest with him and open up to him, that can never happen.
There are two side characters in this book that I also fell so in love with. Luis that works for Harper and sweet Millie, Colson’s neighbor who is in her 80’s. Millie with her tea and cookies and brownies and her way of seeing the truth in people that maybe weren’t even aware of it themselves. Colson and Harper are both so dedicated to the people they care about, both have such huge hearts. I couldn’t have loved them more. This book made me smile, swoon and fan myself quite a few times. I loved every page.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
November 2, 2024
This was a sweet story with a start that entertained and sucked me in.
Colson, a best-selling author, has been hiding away since a bad breakup. Harper, an NYPD Detective, has one focus - taking care of his younger, disabled brother, David. He doesn't have time for anything else but an occasional hook-up and after his last relationship turned out to be a huge mistake, he isn't interested in another. After a meeting that is less than cute their chemistry can't be denied. Colson wants more, but Harper has dug his heels in where a relationship is concerned, regardless of what his friends think he should do.
Felice Stevens has a knack for writing characters, both main and secondary, that you can't help but fall in love with. As Harper and Colson fight through their issues they are surrounded by friends and family. David and Luis are both angels and I'm crossing my fingers for Luis to return and find someone for himself. Colson's parents were horrible, but I didn't love the resolution there (I do hope Colson found a good locksmith and got a deep house cleaning).
What I did love was this entire found family and I hope we get another peek into their future soon (if you're a newsletter subscriber you can check out the cute Halloween short).
Colson, a best-selling author, has been hiding away since a bad breakup. Harper, an NYPD Detective, has one focus - taking care of his younger, disabled brother, David. He doesn't have time for anything else but an occasional hook-up and after his last relationship turned out to be a huge mistake, he isn't interested in another. After a meeting that is less than cute their chemistry can't be denied. Colson wants more, but Harper has dug his heels in where a relationship is concerned, regardless of what his friends think he should do.
Felice Stevens has a knack for writing characters, both main and secondary, that you can't help but fall in love with. As Harper and Colson fight through their issues they are surrounded by friends and family. David and Luis are both angels and I'm crossing my fingers for Luis to return and find someone for himself. Colson's parents were horrible, but I didn't love the resolution there (I do hope Colson found a good locksmith and got a deep house cleaning).
What I did love was this entire found family and I hope we get another peek into their future soon (if you're a newsletter subscriber you can check out the cute Halloween short).
May 30, 2025
Maybe Colson Delacourt teasing those nosy ladies in the coffeeshop with the plot of his next murder mystery was a bad idea. But does that mean he deserves to be arrested for attempting to kill his elderly neighbor? Why won't the police believe he has nothing to do with her getting hurt? That detective Harper Rose won't listen to him-he's so annoying and arrogant. And sexy and gorgeous.
It was an engaging, low-angst romance. A murder mystery writer falls for a police detective who, very briefly, suspects he may be up to no good. The reasons for that were a rather silly, but when you think about it...understandable. Mystery writer, Colson Delacourt, while in a café while talking on his phone to his best friend about the plot for his next book, decides to put on a bit of a show for the group of nosy women at the next table and begins to talk about the plot for his next book. He tells how he’s going to "knock-off" his next victim; a rich old lady either by hitting her over the head or stabbing and cutting up the body. When they’re completely shocked, he leaves grinning, telling them, "Have a lovely day, ladies and I hope you get home safely… and in one piece.”
But when he arrives home, he finds that his elderly neighbor, Millie, has been the victim of an attack. Of course, the nosy over-hearing women point Detective Harper Rose in Colson’s direction. Fortunately, the misunderstanding is quickly cleared up. It was an unusual first meeting, and both men have reasons for not wanting to become romantically involved with anyone, but the pull of the attraction that flared between them at that first meeting is too strong to resist. They start hooking up regularly, planning to keep things between them casual. Harper certainly seems to have no trouble with that, but after a while, his general cageyness about his personal life, his refusal to spend the night or to elaborate about why he won’t stay starts to bother Colson. They agreed no strings; but the more they see each other, the more Colson realizes he’d like a chance at something more with the detective. Harper, too, is starting to think that maybe he could bend his "rules" and start something that could be real with Colson. Still, he isn’t sure he’s willing to risk it after a previous relationship crashed and burned badly.
I really liked the addition of the character of David, Harper's quadriplegic brother, who he is the care giver for and that he loves very much. He regards David as his "number one priority". He had made the mistake before of bringing a previous boyfriend into their life only to find that the boyfriend didn’t want anything to do with David and wanted Harper to put him in a home. Harper can’t ever risk that again. He can't chance getting close to someone and allowing them into David’s life only to find they can’t accept that he and his brother are a "package deal". Watching Harper’s interactions with David, his obvious love for and devotion to his brother is nothing but, heartwarming. Colson had met David previously in the park with the man that cares for him while Harper is working, but I would have liked for Harper to have told Colson about him sooner than he does.
Colson has had a zero, nada, nil, absolutely no type of relationship with his parents, who won’t accept anything about him. His mother is especially awful. She keeps talking about how he’s just "going through a phase". Colson had wonderful grandparents who raised and encouraged him to be anything he wanted to be, or that he was,
Alls well that ends well, and their romance is sweet as they learn to move past old hurts and open up to each other, finding real love and the family neither had expected.
It was an engaging, low-angst romance. A murder mystery writer falls for a police detective who, very briefly, suspects he may be up to no good. The reasons for that were a rather silly, but when you think about it...understandable. Mystery writer, Colson Delacourt, while in a café while talking on his phone to his best friend about the plot for his next book, decides to put on a bit of a show for the group of nosy women at the next table and begins to talk about the plot for his next book. He tells how he’s going to "knock-off" his next victim; a rich old lady either by hitting her over the head or stabbing and cutting up the body. When they’re completely shocked, he leaves grinning, telling them, "Have a lovely day, ladies and I hope you get home safely… and in one piece.”
But when he arrives home, he finds that his elderly neighbor, Millie, has been the victim of an attack. Of course, the nosy over-hearing women point Detective Harper Rose in Colson’s direction. Fortunately, the misunderstanding is quickly cleared up. It was an unusual first meeting, and both men have reasons for not wanting to become romantically involved with anyone, but the pull of the attraction that flared between them at that first meeting is too strong to resist. They start hooking up regularly, planning to keep things between them casual. Harper certainly seems to have no trouble with that, but after a while, his general cageyness about his personal life, his refusal to spend the night or to elaborate about why he won’t stay starts to bother Colson. They agreed no strings; but the more they see each other, the more Colson realizes he’d like a chance at something more with the detective. Harper, too, is starting to think that maybe he could bend his "rules" and start something that could be real with Colson. Still, he isn’t sure he’s willing to risk it after a previous relationship crashed and burned badly.
I really liked the addition of the character of David, Harper's quadriplegic brother, who he is the care giver for and that he loves very much. He regards David as his "number one priority". He had made the mistake before of bringing a previous boyfriend into their life only to find that the boyfriend didn’t want anything to do with David and wanted Harper to put him in a home. Harper can’t ever risk that again. He can't chance getting close to someone and allowing them into David’s life only to find they can’t accept that he and his brother are a "package deal". Watching Harper’s interactions with David, his obvious love for and devotion to his brother is nothing but, heartwarming. Colson had met David previously in the park with the man that cares for him while Harper is working, but I would have liked for Harper to have told Colson about him sooner than he does.
Colson has had a zero, nada, nil, absolutely no type of relationship with his parents, who won’t accept anything about him. His mother is especially awful. She keeps talking about how he’s just "going through a phase". Colson had wonderful grandparents who raised and encouraged him to be anything he wanted to be, or that he was,
Alls well that ends well, and their romance is sweet as they learn to move past old hurts and open up to each other, finding real love and the family neither had expected.
November 9, 2024
Fly Away Home by Felice Stevens
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 stars
⬆️ Ebook ARC
👉 Adult M/M Contemporary Urban Romance
👆 Hurt & Comfort
🥵 Sexy & 😍 Sweet
📖 Captivating Story
🤔 Has A Mystery
🔀 Dual POV Third-Person Narrative
😡 Grumpy NYPD Detective 🚔 x 🌞 Sunshiney Thriller & Mystery Author 📚
🧲🤤 Attraction At First Sight
👉🧲 Opposites Attract
👌 Bickering & Obsessing Over Each Other
😏 Longing Looks & 😳🌡 Blushes & 😅 Tons Of Mutual Pining
😧❤️🩹 Who or What Hurt You?
🍏🥧 Apple-Pie Baker & Helper Of Sweet Old Ladies 🥰
😡😍 Dislike To Love
😤😉 Enemies To Friends w/ Benefits... yeah. We Know How THAT Goes! 😏
👉☄️ Loner Falls First... Fast & Hard
🔥 Hot Tattooed Guy Gets My Blood Pumping 🌋
🥵⚡️Sexual Tension 🧨🧨
🥵 Mmmm... This Detective Is Sex On Legs
😏 Meet Cute... If Getting Arrested Is Your Thing 😉
🥵 Insta-Lust & Fast-Burn (... hot damn) 🥵🥵🥵
🥵 Spicy: 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
MC's:
🦋📚🩸🔪📖👉 Colson Delacourt (aka "Boy Scout", a nickname only Harper uses) is 33, with sky-blue eyes, tall, with a diamond earring and muscled, tattooed arms. His tattoos include all kinds of birds, butterflies among flowers, and sunrays over one pectoral.
📚 He’s a thriller and mystery author who just broke free from a three-year writer's block.
📚 It’s been close to fifteen years since he last saw his parents, and he has no regrets. His grandparents, who took him in at 18 and loved him unconditionally, were the only family he truly felt safe with, the opposite of his parents.
📚 Colson lives in his townhouse in a beautiful neighborhood.
He’s still recovering from a heartbreak eight months ago.
Even with his best friend Hogan, Hogan’s lovely family, and his elderly sweetheart neighbor, Millie Johnson, he feels lonely… until a sexy, grumpy detective arrest him, all because of a misunderstanding.
Only Colson could end up in a mess like this.
📚 First, he's a suspect, and soon after, he becomes a victim. Detective Harper Rose keeps showing up, their paths crossing constantly. Colson thinks Detective Rose is so annoying and arrogant… yet sexy and gorgeous, too. 😏🤤
🚔👉 Harper Rose: is 35, with ice-gray eyes and night-black hair that curls at his nape. He’s tall—over six feet—and well-built.
🚔 As an NYPD detective, he’s deeply devoted to his brother, David, who has a disability that requires around-the-clock care. Harper would never consider placing David in a care facility, and he manages everything with the help of David’s caregiver, Luis. Harper’s life revolves around his work and his brother.
🚔 His last boyfriend couldn’t handle sharing Harper’s attention with David and walked out. Now, Harper’s resigned to a quiet, solitary life… until a sexy, snarky, tattooed guy appears and rekindles his heart—and his days. 😏
😢🤧 Tears & Heartbreak
⚠️ Low Angst
👉 No Cheating Happens
💔 Broken Trust (Past)
❤️🩹 Love Hurt (Past)
👉 Descriptions Of Meals
⚠️ Casual Alcohol Consumption
⚠️ Homophobic Parents
⚠️ Mentions of (Past) Attempt Abuse
⚠️ Death Of A Family Members (Past)
⚠️ Suicide Of A Family Members (Past)
⚠️ Loss & Grief
⚠️ Some Physical Violence & Blood Scenes
⚠️ Disability Rep
👉 Found Family
👉 Yearning For A Family Of Their Own
👏 Solid Character Development
💯 Best Side Characters👏👏👏
👉 Standalone
😍 Love The Ending
😍 HEA
Cover: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 stars
👏👉 An easy read, very well written, with moments of reflection, and also is a beautiful, heartfelt story.
❤️🔥👉 The pull between Colson and Harper is attraction at first sight, making it clear they belong together. When they're together, the chemistry is off the charts—raw, messy, yet incredibly passionate.
Colson puts in the effort to build trust and friendship with Harper. When Harper sees Colson’s interactions and connection with David, that bond deepens their romance and ultimately earns Harper’s trust.
👉 I liked that Colson shares his thoughts about his ex without imposing or creating heaviness from past failures in their conversation.
🤧❤👉 I’m honestly at a loss for words when it comes to David.
Even as a supporting character, he’s the soul of the story, compassionate, unforgettable, and deeply human.
The author brings him to life in such a powerful way. Though he can’t express himself through words, his joy, pain, and triumphs are vividly felt.
Thank you, Stevens, for bringing visibility to characters with disabilities, showing their journeys with such depth and authenticity.
⁉️ Note: One thing I found unnecessary was the detailed descriptions of the food. I tend to prefer books that don't describe every meal the characters are having, since I feel it doesn't add any real value to the story or book.
▪︎FAV QUOTES▪︎
🐦🌺🦋🌺🐦🌺🦋🌺🐦🌺🦋🌺🐦🌺🦋🌺🐦🌺🦋🌺🐦🌺
😃👉 In "Fly Away Home by Felice Stevens", familiar places like "The O" bar and "Book Nook" bookstore, as well as Side Characters like Miles Halloran and Gordon, make a return from Felice Stevens’s Man Up Series (FYI I don’t think they have their own books).
Those were some of the first books I read by this author, and I loved the world she created. I felt deeply connected to each MC, their love stories warmed my heart with spicy, steamy moments and packed some powerful emotional punches.
I devoured this series and cherished every moment of it. 👏
👍I'm definitely going to read this again
😉Thanks for reading hope this helps you out!
I received this book for free from GRR and am voluntarily leaving this review.
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StoryGraph Review
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⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 stars
⬆️ Ebook ARC
👉 Adult M/M Contemporary Urban Romance
👆 Hurt & Comfort
🥵 Sexy & 😍 Sweet
📖 Captivating Story
🤔 Has A Mystery
🔀 Dual POV Third-Person Narrative
😡 Grumpy NYPD Detective 🚔 x 🌞 Sunshiney Thriller & Mystery Author 📚
🧲🤤 Attraction At First Sight
👉🧲 Opposites Attract
👌 Bickering & Obsessing Over Each Other
😏 Longing Looks & 😳🌡 Blushes & 😅 Tons Of Mutual Pining
😧❤️🩹 Who or What Hurt You?
🍏🥧 Apple-Pie Baker & Helper Of Sweet Old Ladies 🥰
😡😍 Dislike To Love
😤😉 Enemies To Friends w/ Benefits... yeah. We Know How THAT Goes! 😏
👉☄️ Loner Falls First... Fast & Hard
🔥 Hot Tattooed Guy Gets My Blood Pumping 🌋
🥵⚡️Sexual Tension 🧨🧨
🥵 Mmmm... This Detective Is Sex On Legs
😏 Meet Cute... If Getting Arrested Is Your Thing 😉
🥵 Insta-Lust & Fast-Burn (... hot damn) 🥵🥵🥵
🥵 Spicy: 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
MC's:
🦋📚🩸🔪📖👉 Colson Delacourt (aka "Boy Scout", a nickname only Harper uses) is 33, with sky-blue eyes, tall, with a diamond earring and muscled, tattooed arms. His tattoos include all kinds of birds, butterflies among flowers, and sunrays over one pectoral.
📚 He’s a thriller and mystery author who just broke free from a three-year writer's block.
📚 It’s been close to fifteen years since he last saw his parents, and he has no regrets. His grandparents, who took him in at 18 and loved him unconditionally, were the only family he truly felt safe with, the opposite of his parents.
📚 Colson lives in his townhouse in a beautiful neighborhood.
He’s still recovering from a heartbreak eight months ago.
Even with his best friend Hogan, Hogan’s lovely family, and his elderly sweetheart neighbor, Millie Johnson, he feels lonely… until a sexy, grumpy detective arrest him, all because of a misunderstanding.
Only Colson could end up in a mess like this.
📚 First, he's a suspect, and soon after, he becomes a victim. Detective Harper Rose keeps showing up, their paths crossing constantly. Colson thinks Detective Rose is so annoying and arrogant… yet sexy and gorgeous, too. 😏🤤
🚔👉 Harper Rose: is 35, with ice-gray eyes and night-black hair that curls at his nape. He’s tall—over six feet—and well-built.
🚔 As an NYPD detective, he’s deeply devoted to his brother, David, who has a disability that requires around-the-clock care. Harper would never consider placing David in a care facility, and he manages everything with the help of David’s caregiver, Luis. Harper’s life revolves around his work and his brother.
🚔 His last boyfriend couldn’t handle sharing Harper’s attention with David and walked out. Now, Harper’s resigned to a quiet, solitary life… until a sexy, snarky, tattooed guy appears and rekindles his heart—and his days. 😏
😢🤧 Tears & Heartbreak
⚠️ Low Angst
👉 No Cheating Happens
💔 Broken Trust (Past)
❤️🩹 Love Hurt (Past)
👉 Descriptions Of Meals
⚠️ Casual Alcohol Consumption
⚠️ Homophobic Parents
⚠️ Mentions of (Past) Attempt Abuse
⚠️ Death Of A Family Members (Past)
⚠️ Suicide Of A Family Members (Past)
⚠️ Loss & Grief
⚠️ Some Physical Violence & Blood Scenes
⚠️ Disability Rep
👉 Found Family
👉 Yearning For A Family Of Their Own
👏 Solid Character Development
💯 Best Side Characters👏👏👏
👉 Standalone
😍 Love The Ending
😍 HEA
Cover: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 stars
👏👉 An easy read, very well written, with moments of reflection, and also is a beautiful, heartfelt story.
❤️🔥👉 The pull between Colson and Harper is attraction at first sight, making it clear they belong together. When they're together, the chemistry is off the charts—raw, messy, yet incredibly passionate.
Colson puts in the effort to build trust and friendship with Harper. When Harper sees Colson’s interactions and connection with David, that bond deepens their romance and ultimately earns Harper’s trust.
👉 I liked that Colson shares his thoughts about his ex without imposing or creating heaviness from past failures in their conversation.
🤧❤👉 I’m honestly at a loss for words when it comes to David.
Even as a supporting character, he’s the soul of the story, compassionate, unforgettable, and deeply human.
The author brings him to life in such a powerful way. Though he can’t express himself through words, his joy, pain, and triumphs are vividly felt.
Thank you, Stevens, for bringing visibility to characters with disabilities, showing their journeys with such depth and authenticity.
⁉️ Note: One thing I found unnecessary was the detailed descriptions of the food. I tend to prefer books that don't describe every meal the characters are having, since I feel it doesn't add any real value to the story or book.
▪︎FAV QUOTES▪︎
😏 ■ "Colson: "...Luis said David’s brother has devoted himself to taking care of him. Find yourself a man like that.”
Colson snorted. “Trust me, they don’t exist. His brother must be a unicorn.” 🦄🤭
🐦🦋 ■ "Harper: “The birds and butterflies. Why only them?” He continued to trace the edges of the tattoo on Colson’s strong forearm, taking notice of the goose bumps.
“Because they’re so free. They can simply fly away from any and all of their problems. Find a new home.” His blue eyes were far, far away."
■ "Colson: Then there was Harper. Damn him. They might’ve started out seeing each other to scratch an itch, but like a damn mosquito, Harper Rose had burrowed under his skin, and Colson couldn’t ignore him.
Harper turning growly and possessive had ignited a flame that burned like whiskey streaming through his blood. He’d developed an unquenchable thirst for Harper’s mouth on his, those strong hands holding him down as he took Colson apart piece by piece. He liked sitting with him and trading barbs, and he enjoyed Harper’s shrewd, sharp intensity. Yeah, he was a little obsessed with the man."😵💫🤤🥵
🦋🌺 ■ "Colson: "I’m not changing who I am to fit my life to Harper’s. I’m rediscovering me. I’m more than someone who writes books. That burnout opened my eyes. I need something else in my life other than words on a page. I’m finding a family. A home.""
🥰😘 ■ "Harper: “Hi, David. We had fun that day, didn’t we? We’re going to have an even better day today.” David made kissing sounds, and to Harper’s shock, Colson offered his cheek to David for a kiss, then kissed him in return.
No one but Luis or him had ever kissed David, not since their parents died.
Tears sprang to Harper’s eyes. He grew light-headed and yet had never been so grounded. At that moment, he knew he could never let Colson go." 🤧🤧
💕 ■ "Colson: " Harper toyed with his hair. “I consider myself lucky. After spending my days looking at the worst of humanity, I get to come home to David’s sweetness and pure heart. He’s the balance in my life.”
“You are lucky.”"
■ "Colson: “I think if I can handle your grumpy ass, I’ll be fine with David.”
“I’m not grumpy. I’m focused.”" 🤣
💞 ■ "Colson: “You can’t lose someone you can find in the dark. Knowing they are with you by the currents in the air. Some hearts just call to each other without needing a sound.” Finally, Harper smiled.
“You’re very good with words. You should be a writer or something.”" 🤭
🐦🌺🦋🌺🐦🌺🦋🌺🐦🌺🦋🌺🐦🌺🦋🌺🐦🌺🦋🌺🐦🌺
😃👉 In "Fly Away Home by Felice Stevens", familiar places like "The O" bar and "Book Nook" bookstore, as well as Side Characters like Miles Halloran and Gordon, make a return from Felice Stevens’s Man Up Series (FYI I don’t think they have their own books).
Those were some of the first books I read by this author, and I loved the world she created. I felt deeply connected to each MC, their love stories warmed my heart with spicy, steamy moments and packed some powerful emotional punches.
I devoured this series and cherished every moment of it. 👏
👍I'm definitely going to read this again
😉Thanks for reading hope this helps you out!
I received this book for free from GRR and am voluntarily leaving this review.
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October 25, 2024Pre order for Fly Away Home is now LIVE!
Coming 10/29
Universal link: https://mybook.to/flyawayhome
Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DKVGX21V
The lone wolf detective, the best-selling author and an attraction so sizzling hot it should be illegal….
Coming 10/29
Universal link: https://mybook.to/flyawayhome
Amazon US: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DKVGX21V
The lone wolf detective, the best-selling author and an attraction so sizzling hot it should be illegal….
October 26, 2024
4.5
I enjoyed reading this book soo much it’s such a fresh air when recently all romance book are almost the same with Repetitive plots and tropes. This story isn’t just a love story between two men. It’s about unconditional love, that family isn’t only by blood ties, and there are still good people with big heart in this world.
David 😍
In my opinion he is the hero of this novel. I just love him so much. Thank you Felicie for shedding the light on people with disabilities like him.
Around 2018,2017 I saw a post on Instagram of a mother who have a son with same condition as David she started the post by introducing her son and his condition then she said he loves to go to the cinema and watch movies, he tends to make sounds when he is excited, but people get mad and start talking rudely to her that she should shut him up, even though they go to kids movie, the parents complain more than the kids. she said despite his brain condition her son kind of understand what’s going on because he start crying or get upset he understand that these people are talking about him. She set a date and a time and invited all people to bring their children to watch a movie with her son because she doesn’t want bad experience to deprive him from one of the things he like, she knew there are good people in this world, I couldn’t go myself but I share the post with my cousin who took her children and went and she said the cinema was almost full the mother was so overwhelmed by the response and the people who actually showed up for her son.
People like David are humans they have feelings and emotions, they understand if somone is disrespectful or starring too much at them. just because they have a disability doesn’t mean they are less of a human than you.
Harper
I want to give him a big hug, he have been through a lot and took on a big responsibility from a young age. I admire his love and dedication to his brother, I respect him for not taking the easy route and took him to a rehab facility like some people suggested. I understand his trust issues when it comes to love, after he was burned by his ex. I’m happy he find an understanding person like colson, but honestly Harper really need to see a therapist, he need somone professional to help him get through all his inner issues. I’m sure he has a lot of stuff hidden inside him.
Colson
I like colson, but I felt his character could been written with more depth. Like he was hung up on his asshole ex Evan for no good reason, specially knowing he was cheating on him but still stayed with him. it wasn’t explained if it was his first relationship or no, if this was the case then it kind of make sense. Evan was an example of people who only wants when you are at your best and dumb you when you are at your lowest.
Luis
I’m not exaggerating but he is an angel. A true example of unconditional love, this person dedicated 15 years of his life to take care of David, even on his off days, he is around them. This person deserve happiness too, I hope he can find love again with one of the widows from the widowers reading club.
Weakness point of the novel
- the investigation of the robbery took longer than necessary, specially with the second part about the girl theif, like I was skipping these parts because I got bored, unlike the beginning of the book when it was more interesting.
- The point of colson being a writer and staying at home most of the time, could’ve been used to showcase that he can take care of David which will give Luis more time to do other stuff and meet new people.
- Too much focus on Evan which should’ve been replaced with more memories or flashbacks about colson grandparents
I received an ARC from GRR in exchange of honest review.
I enjoyed reading this book soo much it’s such a fresh air when recently all romance book are almost the same with Repetitive plots and tropes. This story isn’t just a love story between two men. It’s about unconditional love, that family isn’t only by blood ties, and there are still good people with big heart in this world.
David 😍
In my opinion he is the hero of this novel. I just love him so much. Thank you Felicie for shedding the light on people with disabilities like him.
Around 2018,2017 I saw a post on Instagram of a mother who have a son with same condition as David she started the post by introducing her son and his condition then she said he loves to go to the cinema and watch movies, he tends to make sounds when he is excited, but people get mad and start talking rudely to her that she should shut him up, even though they go to kids movie, the parents complain more than the kids. she said despite his brain condition her son kind of understand what’s going on because he start crying or get upset he understand that these people are talking about him. She set a date and a time and invited all people to bring their children to watch a movie with her son because she doesn’t want bad experience to deprive him from one of the things he like, she knew there are good people in this world, I couldn’t go myself but I share the post with my cousin who took her children and went and she said the cinema was almost full the mother was so overwhelmed by the response and the people who actually showed up for her son.
People like David are humans they have feelings and emotions, they understand if somone is disrespectful or starring too much at them. just because they have a disability doesn’t mean they are less of a human than you.
Harper
I want to give him a big hug, he have been through a lot and took on a big responsibility from a young age. I admire his love and dedication to his brother, I respect him for not taking the easy route and took him to a rehab facility like some people suggested. I understand his trust issues when it comes to love, after he was burned by his ex. I’m happy he find an understanding person like colson, but honestly Harper really need to see a therapist, he need somone professional to help him get through all his inner issues. I’m sure he has a lot of stuff hidden inside him.
Colson
I like colson, but I felt his character could been written with more depth. Like he was hung up on his asshole ex Evan for no good reason, specially knowing he was cheating on him but still stayed with him. it wasn’t explained if it was his first relationship or no, if this was the case then it kind of make sense. Evan was an example of people who only wants when you are at your best and dumb you when you are at your lowest.
Luis
I’m not exaggerating but he is an angel. A true example of unconditional love, this person dedicated 15 years of his life to take care of David, even on his off days, he is around them. This person deserve happiness too, I hope he can find love again with one of the widows from the widowers reading club.
Weakness point of the novel
- the investigation of the robbery took longer than necessary, specially with the second part about the girl theif, like I was skipping these parts because I got bored, unlike the beginning of the book when it was more interesting.
- The point of colson being a writer and staying at home most of the time, could’ve been used to showcase that he can take care of David which will give Luis more time to do other stuff and meet new people.
- Too much focus on Evan which should’ve been replaced with more memories or flashbacks about colson grandparents
I received an ARC from GRR in exchange of honest review.
November 24, 2024
I initially DNF at 88% with a 2 score because I liked the first 20%. I thought I’d come back to it after a few days, but it just got worse, so had to change my score to a
The blurb for the book finishes around 20% (maybe) and everything after is complete drivel, high school writing, and just nothing except for every excuse to come up with some bs drama that absolutely only a teenager would go through. Mixed up tenses and points of view that seem to change out of nowhere happen throughout, but possibly don’t, except you wouldn’t really know it because of how poorly this was written.
So many eye rolls and head slaps I hurt myself because all the repetitive unnecessary drama.
The blurb for the book finishes around 20% (maybe) and everything after is complete drivel, high school writing, and just nothing except for every excuse to come up with some bs drama that absolutely only a teenager would go through. Mixed up tenses and points of view that seem to change out of nowhere happen throughout, but possibly don’t, except you wouldn’t really know it because of how poorly this was written.
So many eye rolls and head slaps I hurt myself because all the repetitive unnecessary drama.
April 10, 2025
It was a cute MM-romance.
I enjoyed it so much, that I couldn’t put it down. It was an easy and quick read and the language was understandable.
The idea that the characters should meet, because the detective wants to arrest the crime-thriller writer for attempted murder, is so fun and interesting.
I enjoyed it so much, that I couldn’t put it down. It was an easy and quick read and the language was understandable.
The idea that the characters should meet, because the detective wants to arrest the crime-thriller writer for attempted murder, is so fun and interesting.
October 30, 2024
4.5 Stars
Felice Stevens does it again with a story and characters that absolutely captured my heart and made me fall in love! Colson and Harper and David, because I have to include him, are great characters and so easy to love, even when there’s some grumpiness there!
Colson is an author, known for his murder mysteries but he’s been suffering from some burnout and block. One day when he’s sitting in a coffee shop plotting out ideas on the phone when he sees some nosy women nearby and has some fun with it, describing his murder scenes. While they take him seriously it’s really how he meets Harper, a detective with a lot of walls but also a lot of love in him and while it’s not exactly meet cute, it’s memorable for both men.
I really loved how things develop between Harper and Colson. Yes, there is the initial lust and attraction but there are a lot of complications for both men. Colson is processing the recent crimes that have occurred around him and impacted his life while trying to revive his writing and Harper is busy investigating those crimes and trying to balance his life with his brother David. David is such a special character, he suffered traumatic injury as a child leaving him with brain damage and disability. He really is a beautiful addition to this journey and I think helps us see the true character of both Harper and Colson.
And that brings me back to how things develop and grow between Colson and Harper, they definitely are attracted to each other but there’s so much more and their feels may be quick, but they are deep and real. Neither man expects to find real love and to build a family, but that’s exactly what happens them. They both learn to move beyond past hurts and open up to each other and discover what they build together. It’s really a stunning and beautiful journey that touched my heart. I love a good romance, and Felice delivers that and so much more because it’s not just about the romantic love side, which is there are great, but also the healing and family they find together along the way! Absolute must read!
Felice Stevens does it again with a story and characters that absolutely captured my heart and made me fall in love! Colson and Harper and David, because I have to include him, are great characters and so easy to love, even when there’s some grumpiness there!
Colson is an author, known for his murder mysteries but he’s been suffering from some burnout and block. One day when he’s sitting in a coffee shop plotting out ideas on the phone when he sees some nosy women nearby and has some fun with it, describing his murder scenes. While they take him seriously it’s really how he meets Harper, a detective with a lot of walls but also a lot of love in him and while it’s not exactly meet cute, it’s memorable for both men.
I really loved how things develop between Harper and Colson. Yes, there is the initial lust and attraction but there are a lot of complications for both men. Colson is processing the recent crimes that have occurred around him and impacted his life while trying to revive his writing and Harper is busy investigating those crimes and trying to balance his life with his brother David. David is such a special character, he suffered traumatic injury as a child leaving him with brain damage and disability. He really is a beautiful addition to this journey and I think helps us see the true character of both Harper and Colson.
And that brings me back to how things develop and grow between Colson and Harper, they definitely are attracted to each other but there’s so much more and their feels may be quick, but they are deep and real. Neither man expects to find real love and to build a family, but that’s exactly what happens them. They both learn to move beyond past hurts and open up to each other and discover what they build together. It’s really a stunning and beautiful journey that touched my heart. I love a good romance, and Felice delivers that and so much more because it’s not just about the romantic love side, which is there are great, but also the healing and family they find together along the way! Absolute must read!
March 19, 2025
Narration - A; Story - B- (4 and a bit stars!)
Fly Away Home is an engaging, low-angst contemporary romance in which a mystery writer falls for the hot detective who – very briefly – suspects he may be up to no good. The reasons for that are a bit silly; author Colson Delacourt, in a café while talking on the phone to his bestie about the plot of his next book, decides to put on a bit of a show for the group of eaversdroppers at the next table and starts talking about how he’s going to knock his next victim – a rich old lady - over the head or stab her and cut up the body. When they’re suitably shocked, he heads out and grinning, tells them to have a lovely day and “I hope you get home safely… and in one piece.”
When his neighbour, Millie, is the victim of an attack, the nosy parkers point Detective Harper Rose in Colson’s direction, but fortunately, the misunderstanding is cleared up quickly. It’s an unusual meet-cute, for sure, and both men have reasons for not wanting to become romantically involved with anyone, but the pull of the attraction that flared between them at that first meeting is too strong to resist. They start hooking up regularly, planning to keep things between them casual. Harper certainly seems to have no trouble with that, but after a while, his general cageyness about his personal life, his refusal to spend the night or to elaborate about why he won’t stay starts to bother Colson. They agreed no strings – but the more they see each other, the more Colson realises he’d like a shot at something more with the handsome detective. Harper, too, is smitten and starting to think that maybe he could bend his self-imposed rules and start something real with Colson, but isn't sure he's willing to risk it after a previous relationship crashed and burned.
Harper’s behaviour towards Colson - letting Colson think he’s little more than a convenient place for Harper to get his dick wet - makes him hard to like at times, but in his PoV the listener is allowed to know his reasons for being wary of starting a proper relationship. Harper is responsible for the care of his quadriplegic brother, David, whom he loves very much and regards as his number one priority, and he made the mistake of bringing his previous boyfriend into their family life only to find that he didn’t want anything to do with David and wanted Harper to put him in a home. Harper can’t risk that again, to get close to someone and allow them into David’s life only to find they can’t accept that he and his brother are a package deal. Getting to witness Harper’s interactions with David, his obvious love for and devotion to his brother is truly heartwarming – although I would have liked for him to fess up to Colson sooner than he does.
Colson has a difficult relationship with his parents, who won’t accept that he’s gay; his mother is especially crass in that she keeps talking about how he’s just going through a phase and that he’ll eventually return to being ‘normal’. Having begun his career with a couple of huge bestsellers, he got burnt-out and has been struggling with writer’s block for several years; the book he’s talking about at the beginning is the first time he’s felt fired-up about a project in years and he’s really excited about being able to write again. He’s also struggling to trust again after his previous boyfriend cheated on him and left him when Colson was at his lowest ebb.
Once Harper gets over himself and stops jerking Colson around, they make a good couple, and once Harper sees how caring, patient and understanding Colson is with his brother, he realises how dumb he’d been in holding back. (As a side note, I wish Colson had encouraged Harper to get some therapy or join a support group or something – he’s so clearly bottling a load of stuff up that he needs to deal with and isn’t.) Their romance is sweet as they learn to move past old hurts and open up to each other, finding real love and the family neither had expected. There’s a strongly written secondary cast – I especially loved Luis, David’s live-in carer - and it seems to me that the disability rep is pretty good. On the downside, the book feels a bit overlong, and I would have liked Harper to acted more maturely towards Colson – he blows hot and cold for too long and should have talked to him about David earlier. There were a few things that stuck out to me as somewhat implausible in terms of the police work and Colson’s writing (authors writing about fictional authors don’t always make the best judgments!) and some cringey dialogue, especially in that opening scene.
The upside of this book being that bit overlong is that I got to spend a bit more time listening to the fabulous J.F. Harding, which is never a bad or unwelcome thing ;) He’s one of my favourite narrators whose name on the cover of an audiobook will always make me look twice, and he delivers an excellent performance here. The narration is well-paced and clearly enunciated, with a good range of vocalisations for the various secondary characters (his ‘little old lady’ voice is always a hoot when he brings it out!) and clear differentiation between them. His interpretation of the two leads is spot on – he gives Harper this low-pitched sometimes growly tone that is completely right for the grumpy, closed-off detective, while Colson’s dialogue is pitched higher with a lighter tone and has a more good-natured feel to it. He does a great job of conveying the growing emotional connection between the leads and I especially liked his portrayal of the friendship between Harper and Luis, who is just as devoted to David as Harper, and who isn’t afraid to call Harper out for being an idiot.
Fly Away Home is a heartfelt character-driven romance that, while not groundbreaking, is nonetheless enjoyable. J.F. Harding’s terrific performance takes the story to the next level, and earns the audiobook version an overall recommendation.
Fly Away Home is an engaging, low-angst contemporary romance in which a mystery writer falls for the hot detective who – very briefly – suspects he may be up to no good. The reasons for that are a bit silly; author Colson Delacourt, in a café while talking on the phone to his bestie about the plot of his next book, decides to put on a bit of a show for the group of eaversdroppers at the next table and starts talking about how he’s going to knock his next victim – a rich old lady - over the head or stab her and cut up the body. When they’re suitably shocked, he heads out and grinning, tells them to have a lovely day and “I hope you get home safely… and in one piece.”
When his neighbour, Millie, is the victim of an attack, the nosy parkers point Detective Harper Rose in Colson’s direction, but fortunately, the misunderstanding is cleared up quickly. It’s an unusual meet-cute, for sure, and both men have reasons for not wanting to become romantically involved with anyone, but the pull of the attraction that flared between them at that first meeting is too strong to resist. They start hooking up regularly, planning to keep things between them casual. Harper certainly seems to have no trouble with that, but after a while, his general cageyness about his personal life, his refusal to spend the night or to elaborate about why he won’t stay starts to bother Colson. They agreed no strings – but the more they see each other, the more Colson realises he’d like a shot at something more with the handsome detective. Harper, too, is smitten and starting to think that maybe he could bend his self-imposed rules and start something real with Colson, but isn't sure he's willing to risk it after a previous relationship crashed and burned.
Harper’s behaviour towards Colson - letting Colson think he’s little more than a convenient place for Harper to get his dick wet - makes him hard to like at times, but in his PoV the listener is allowed to know his reasons for being wary of starting a proper relationship. Harper is responsible for the care of his quadriplegic brother, David, whom he loves very much and regards as his number one priority, and he made the mistake of bringing his previous boyfriend into their family life only to find that he didn’t want anything to do with David and wanted Harper to put him in a home. Harper can’t risk that again, to get close to someone and allow them into David’s life only to find they can’t accept that he and his brother are a package deal. Getting to witness Harper’s interactions with David, his obvious love for and devotion to his brother is truly heartwarming – although I would have liked for him to fess up to Colson sooner than he does.
Colson has a difficult relationship with his parents, who won’t accept that he’s gay; his mother is especially crass in that she keeps talking about how he’s just going through a phase and that he’ll eventually return to being ‘normal’. Having begun his career with a couple of huge bestsellers, he got burnt-out and has been struggling with writer’s block for several years; the book he’s talking about at the beginning is the first time he’s felt fired-up about a project in years and he’s really excited about being able to write again. He’s also struggling to trust again after his previous boyfriend cheated on him and left him when Colson was at his lowest ebb.
Once Harper gets over himself and stops jerking Colson around, they make a good couple, and once Harper sees how caring, patient and understanding Colson is with his brother, he realises how dumb he’d been in holding back. (As a side note, I wish Colson had encouraged Harper to get some therapy or join a support group or something – he’s so clearly bottling a load of stuff up that he needs to deal with and isn’t.) Their romance is sweet as they learn to move past old hurts and open up to each other, finding real love and the family neither had expected. There’s a strongly written secondary cast – I especially loved Luis, David’s live-in carer - and it seems to me that the disability rep is pretty good. On the downside, the book feels a bit overlong, and I would have liked Harper to acted more maturely towards Colson – he blows hot and cold for too long and should have talked to him about David earlier. There were a few things that stuck out to me as somewhat implausible in terms of the police work and Colson’s writing (authors writing about fictional authors don’t always make the best judgments!) and some cringey dialogue, especially in that opening scene.
The upside of this book being that bit overlong is that I got to spend a bit more time listening to the fabulous J.F. Harding, which is never a bad or unwelcome thing ;) He’s one of my favourite narrators whose name on the cover of an audiobook will always make me look twice, and he delivers an excellent performance here. The narration is well-paced and clearly enunciated, with a good range of vocalisations for the various secondary characters (his ‘little old lady’ voice is always a hoot when he brings it out!) and clear differentiation between them. His interpretation of the two leads is spot on – he gives Harper this low-pitched sometimes growly tone that is completely right for the grumpy, closed-off detective, while Colson’s dialogue is pitched higher with a lighter tone and has a more good-natured feel to it. He does a great job of conveying the growing emotional connection between the leads and I especially liked his portrayal of the friendship between Harper and Luis, who is just as devoted to David as Harper, and who isn’t afraid to call Harper out for being an idiot.
Fly Away Home is a heartfelt character-driven romance that, while not groundbreaking, is nonetheless enjoyable. J.F. Harding’s terrific performance takes the story to the next level, and earns the audiobook version an overall recommendation.
November 2, 2024
Fly Away Home by Felice Stevens was an engaging story about mystery writer, Colson, who is briefly suspected by Detective Harper as being an attacker. Colson was being bratty and talking about murdering his next door neighbor in a phone conversation in a neighborhood coffee shop. He was simply putting on a show for some ladies who were eavesdropping. When Harper comes to investigate the attack on Colson’s next door neighbor, the attraction is instant though both fight it for different reasons. Harper was kind of a jerk for most of the story, but Colson was very patient. I actually did like these two together once Harper got over himself and treated Colson better. I loved David and Luis and the little family they all made together. I always love reading Felice’s stories. They are emotional, romantic, and enjoyable.
I received an ARC from GRR for my honest review
I received an ARC from GRR for my honest review
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November 6, 2024DNF
I had to put this one down around the 15% mark. The writing just didn’t click for me—there was way too much telling and not enough showing, so it felt like I was just reading a list of actions instead of really getting into the story or characters.
Some details didn’t feel accurate either, which made it hard to stay engaged. For instance, Harper’s brother is supposed to be quadriplegic, but he’s shown using a fork, which doesn’t really make sense for someone with full-body paralysis. It’s small stuff, but it pulled me out of the story.
Then there were some scenes that just felt… off. Like, there’s one where the main character talks openly in a coffee shop about a murder plot. Even if he’s “getting into character,” loudly announcing that he’s planning to kill his neighbor seemed bizarre and unrealistic. He also talks to himself constantly, which made him seem a little unhinged, and not in a way that felt relatable.
Overall, the writing style, plot details, and some of the character choices just didn’t work for me, so I decided not to finish.
I had to put this one down around the 15% mark. The writing just didn’t click for me—there was way too much telling and not enough showing, so it felt like I was just reading a list of actions instead of really getting into the story or characters.
Some details didn’t feel accurate either, which made it hard to stay engaged. For instance, Harper’s brother is supposed to be quadriplegic, but he’s shown using a fork, which doesn’t really make sense for someone with full-body paralysis. It’s small stuff, but it pulled me out of the story.
Then there were some scenes that just felt… off. Like, there’s one where the main character talks openly in a coffee shop about a murder plot. Even if he’s “getting into character,” loudly announcing that he’s planning to kill his neighbor seemed bizarre and unrealistic. He also talks to himself constantly, which made him seem a little unhinged, and not in a way that felt relatable.
Overall, the writing style, plot details, and some of the character choices just didn’t work for me, so I decided not to finish.
October 22, 2024
I had a hard time getting into this book. It seemed to drag on without much happening. "I love yous" came way too soon for my taste. I did like the disabled rep. I actually loved David and Luis way more than I liked the MCs. This one just wasn't for me.
October 31, 2024
Lovely character driven romance x
A well written story with a great start, that delves into the complex relationship between a crime writer and a dedicated detective. Their first meeting was certainly not a meet cute, Harper the detective actually arresting Colson the writer, for assaulting and robbing an elderly lady. Despite this craziness, their worlds seemingly far apart, they are drawn together
Both guys have lives which are problematic, still they're attracted to on but both are reluctant to get too involved. However, even as they agree it's all about the 'benefits', they find themselves getting closer.
Harper, a man burdened by the responsibility of caring for his disabled brother David, adds a layer of emotional depth to the story. His unwavering commitment to David, and David's carer, adds layers to his character making him much more than he initially seems. Felice did a cracking job skillfully exploring the challenges and sacrifices that come with such a role, highlighting the delicate balance between Harper's personal commitments, and his unwillingness to pursue a relationship.
This causes so much friction between our guys, but reality eventually forces the two to confront their own vulnerabilities and the secrets that are keeping them apart. Felice creates a thought-provoking read, and skillfully brings the two together.
Fly Away Home is a must-read for fans of crime/romance fiction who appreciate complex characters, who are determined to make life difficult for themselves. It really is a good read, you know Colson and Harper are going to get together, but it's worth reading to see how things pan out for them. The ending is incredibly sweet
A well written story with a great start, that delves into the complex relationship between a crime writer and a dedicated detective. Their first meeting was certainly not a meet cute, Harper the detective actually arresting Colson the writer, for assaulting and robbing an elderly lady. Despite this craziness, their worlds seemingly far apart, they are drawn together
Both guys have lives which are problematic, still they're attracted to on but both are reluctant to get too involved. However, even as they agree it's all about the 'benefits', they find themselves getting closer.
Harper, a man burdened by the responsibility of caring for his disabled brother David, adds a layer of emotional depth to the story. His unwavering commitment to David, and David's carer, adds layers to his character making him much more than he initially seems. Felice did a cracking job skillfully exploring the challenges and sacrifices that come with such a role, highlighting the delicate balance between Harper's personal commitments, and his unwillingness to pursue a relationship.
This causes so much friction between our guys, but reality eventually forces the two to confront their own vulnerabilities and the secrets that are keeping them apart. Felice creates a thought-provoking read, and skillfully brings the two together.
Fly Away Home is a must-read for fans of crime/romance fiction who appreciate complex characters, who are determined to make life difficult for themselves. It really is a good read, you know Colson and Harper are going to get together, but it's worth reading to see how things pan out for them. The ending is incredibly sweet
October 24, 2024
I was given an eARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I immensely enjoyed this book! I feel like a picture of this book could be placed next to the cheesy in the dictionary. It was very sweet and a corny romance palate cleanser.
I was very fond of both the MMCs and enjoyed the dual POV. I cared about both of them and loved the banter between them. I also appreciated the disabled representation, I feel it was done very well. I wasn't surprised to read that the author lived in Brooklyn and she wrote with a familiarity of the neighbourhood that I enjoyed.
There were parts I thought were a bit clunky and awkward, such a Harper's rant to Colson's father. It felt out of place and took me out of the story. I also felt that the villains were a bit too obvious in their villainy.
Despite this, I read the book in a day and thought it was a great MM romance, and I will be reading more of this author.
I immensely enjoyed this book! I feel like a picture of this book could be placed next to the cheesy in the dictionary. It was very sweet and a corny romance palate cleanser.
I was very fond of both the MMCs and enjoyed the dual POV. I cared about both of them and loved the banter between them. I also appreciated the disabled representation, I feel it was done very well. I wasn't surprised to read that the author lived in Brooklyn and she wrote with a familiarity of the neighbourhood that I enjoyed.
There were parts I thought were a bit clunky and awkward, such a Harper's rant to Colson's father. It felt out of place and took me out of the story. I also felt that the villains were a bit too obvious in their villainy.
Despite this, I read the book in a day and thought it was a great MM romance, and I will be reading more of this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 1, 2024
This was a beautifully written story about crime writer Colson and detective Harper. They both have their battles which shaped them. Colson has a difficult relationship with his parents who don't accept him being gay and is still reeling from his last boyfriend cheating on him. Harper looks after his disabled brother after losing his parents. He isn't good at letting people in especially after a bad relationship. When Colson gets wrongly accused of attacking his elderly neighbour they class but there's so much chemistry between. They keep getting drawn to each other and when they realise they have fallen in love with each other, they have to overcome their fears and take a chance on each other. This story had me hooked from the start. Loved the side characters too. Another great story by Felice.
November 3, 2024
I love a good detective romance. Throw in that the love interest is an author of detective novels who is suspected of committing a crime and you've got me intrigued. I like Colson as a character. The scene at the beginning where he's in the coffee shop intentionally playing up his phone conversation to freak out the ladies who are eavesdropping had me laughing. The romance between the two MMCs fell a little flat for me and the criminal plot wasn't quite enough to get me invested. Overall this was a pretty good read but not super exciting.
I received an eARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews. This is my honest review.
I received an eARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews. This is my honest review.
November 2, 2024
“How was it possible this man lit up all the dark, lonely spaces of a heart he’d given up on?”
This is a gorgeous book. Sweet, sassy, funny, heartwarming, interesting and so much more. It can be a little frustrating at times, because I just wanted to smack our MC’s heads together and tell them to trust and make the leap. But, they couldn’t if they weren’t ready, and it makes sense. They obviously do figure things out, and oh my heart. David, Luis and Millie are stand out secondary characters, though all are well-written and relevant.
This is a gorgeous book. Sweet, sassy, funny, heartwarming, interesting and so much more. It can be a little frustrating at times, because I just wanted to smack our MC’s heads together and tell them to trust and make the leap. But, they couldn’t if they weren’t ready, and it makes sense. They obviously do figure things out, and oh my heart. David, Luis and Millie are stand out secondary characters, though all are well-written and relevant.
November 4, 2024
I did enjoy this book. I must admit I thought the first 60% dragged a little bit and I was getting very frustrated with Harper (no spoiler) but it definitely picked up after that and had a wonderful happy ending.
October 30, 2024
Dnf 46%
The writing just feels so abrupt, it doesn't flow very well.
The writing just feels so abrupt, it doesn't flow very well.
November 1, 2024
Police detective investigates author. Sparks fly. Secrets abound. Steamy, sweet, frustrating, enjoyable. Disability rep (SC). Dual point of view. Solid 3.5 rounded up to 4.
Set in an adorable (and crime stricken, holy moly) neighborhood in Brooklyn that feels like a small town, Fly Away Home delivers another entertaining read from Felice Stevens. Something about this one felt more rough than previous (my favorite is On the 2, followed by All That Matters), more…forced? Heavy handed for sure, with some cringey dialogue and with the disability rep messages, plus some contrived situations. It wasn't effortless. But I still enjoyed it a lot, so, don’t let that put you off. The romance is lovely and has strong tension in it.
MC bestselling author Colson spots MC police detective Harper in a coffee shop and can’t tear his gaze away. Little does he know, after being overheard talking with his bestie about how he’s plotting the murder that starts off his next book, he’ll be investigated by that same riveting policeman for real as suspect #1 for attempted murder of his neighbor.
That’s how they meet, but the attempted murder is soon resolved and isn’t the focus. In fact, in the secondary threads, Harper is involved in chasing down a LOT of freakin’ crime in this book, mostly robbery on the streets and home invasions, but the story is mostly about his and Colson’s attraction, reconnections, missed opportunities, dancing around each other, and Harper’s fear of letting anyone into his life because his #1 priority is his brother, SC David, who was injured as a boy in a terrible accident that resulted in a TBI and put him in a wheelchair for life. He lives with Harper at home along with a caregiver (another SC, Luis). Much of the conflict revolves around Harper hiding his home life due to his ex not accepting David in Harper’s life.
Colson doesn’t know why Harper blows hot then cold, but even when Harper treats him like crap—and Harper does, when he could have given Colson a simple explanation while still being protective of his brother—Colson is so intrigued and attracted to the detective he keeps opening his door to him. Honestly I wish he’d given Harper more of a hard time, because Harper behave immaturely about it, ghosting Colson, not explaining when Colson inadvertently upset him. But it did keep tension high. Both men have awful exes and bear scars from those relationships that play into the present in different ways.
There is a touch of OM drama, in case that matters to you (no sex with non-MC though): The scene was a tad jarring and not set up well; it comes out of the blue in Harper’s POV and could have stood for some setup in Colson’s. But whatever.
Overall I enjoyed the read and loved the neighborhood feel the author created. Colson’s friendship with his across the street neighbor, older lady Millie, and his friends, and Harper’s police partner and his brother and Luis all add strong layers to the story, and it’s a book I would read again.
HEA, police detective meets bestselling author, suspect to lover, hurt-comfort, disability rep (the representation seemed authentic and respectful to me, but I am very much a lay person). No cheating, one scene of other-man drama, see spoiler above. Still safe for me! Recommended.
My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for the ARC; this is my free and impartial opinion.
Set in an adorable (and crime stricken, holy moly) neighborhood in Brooklyn that feels like a small town, Fly Away Home delivers another entertaining read from Felice Stevens. Something about this one felt more rough than previous (my favorite is On the 2, followed by All That Matters), more…forced? Heavy handed for sure, with some cringey dialogue and with the disability rep messages, plus some contrived situations. It wasn't effortless. But I still enjoyed it a lot, so, don’t let that put you off. The romance is lovely and has strong tension in it.
MC bestselling author Colson spots MC police detective Harper in a coffee shop and can’t tear his gaze away. Little does he know, after being overheard talking with his bestie about how he’s plotting the murder that starts off his next book, he’ll be investigated by that same riveting policeman for real as suspect #1 for attempted murder of his neighbor.
That’s how they meet, but the attempted murder is soon resolved and isn’t the focus. In fact, in the secondary threads, Harper is involved in chasing down a LOT of freakin’ crime in this book, mostly robbery on the streets and home invasions, but the story is mostly about his and Colson’s attraction, reconnections, missed opportunities, dancing around each other, and Harper’s fear of letting anyone into his life because his #1 priority is his brother, SC David, who was injured as a boy in a terrible accident that resulted in a TBI and put him in a wheelchair for life. He lives with Harper at home along with a caregiver (another SC, Luis). Much of the conflict revolves around Harper hiding his home life due to his ex not accepting David in Harper’s life.
Colson doesn’t know why Harper blows hot then cold, but even when Harper treats him like crap—and Harper does, when he could have given Colson a simple explanation while still being protective of his brother—Colson is so intrigued and attracted to the detective he keeps opening his door to him. Honestly I wish he’d given Harper more of a hard time, because Harper behave immaturely about it, ghosting Colson, not explaining when Colson inadvertently upset him. But it did keep tension high. Both men have awful exes and bear scars from those relationships that play into the present in different ways.
There is a touch of OM drama, in case that matters to you (no sex with non-MC though): The scene was a tad jarring and not set up well; it comes out of the blue in Harper’s POV and could have stood for some setup in Colson’s. But whatever.
Overall I enjoyed the read and loved the neighborhood feel the author created. Colson’s friendship with his across the street neighbor, older lady Millie, and his friends, and Harper’s police partner and his brother and Luis all add strong layers to the story, and it’s a book I would read again.
HEA, police detective meets bestselling author, suspect to lover, hurt-comfort, disability rep (the representation seemed authentic and respectful to me, but I am very much a lay person). No cheating, one scene of other-man drama, see spoiler above. Still safe for me! Recommended.
My thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for the ARC; this is my free and impartial opinion.
October 28, 2024
Author Colson Delacourt has finally broken a three year writer's block. When sharing the grisley plot of his new novel with a friend, he is overheard. This lands him a little hot water when he is suspected of attacking his neighbor in her home.
Detective Harper Rose can't help but notice the guy with the piercing and tattoos in the coffee shop. Imagine his surprise when he finds that same guy at the scene of the attack he's called to investigate.
Colson, having been burned by his last boyfriend, is reluctant to get involved again. He'll devote himself to his writing and let that be enough. But deep down he knows it really isn't. He misses having someone to be with.
Harper is devoted to his brother, David. An accident when David was 5 let him a quadriplegic and with a brain injury. Harper will never think of placing David in a home. With the help of David's caregiver, Luis, Harper lives his life for is job and for David. His last boyfriend wasn't willing to be second to David and walked out on them both. Harper isn't willing to put David through that again, so he accepts his life as it is.
Felice Stevens is a master of creating sensitive, vulnerable characters. The pain felt by both Colson and Harper simply emanates from the page. I couldn't help but want to take each of them in my arms and give them a hug.
The chemistry between Colson and Harper is apparent from the first. It's clear they belong together. I'm not usually a fan of a slow burn romance, but this doesn't have the angst of most slow burn stories. I think because, despite the heat between them, Colson makes the effort to develop trust and friendship with Harper. It's that friendship the strengthens the romance in their relationship.
Additionally, I love the way Ms Stevens portrays David. He's a man, with feelings, who, despite his inability to vocalize, can still feel and express his joy, his happiness and his pain. And he's the central character of the story. Harper, then Colson, are fervent defenders of David. And Colson's interactions with David are ultimately what leads Harper to trust him.
This is another incredible story from Felice Stevens, emotionally charged, realistic and completely unputdownable.
Detective Harper Rose can't help but notice the guy with the piercing and tattoos in the coffee shop. Imagine his surprise when he finds that same guy at the scene of the attack he's called to investigate.
Colson, having been burned by his last boyfriend, is reluctant to get involved again. He'll devote himself to his writing and let that be enough. But deep down he knows it really isn't. He misses having someone to be with.
Harper is devoted to his brother, David. An accident when David was 5 let him a quadriplegic and with a brain injury. Harper will never think of placing David in a home. With the help of David's caregiver, Luis, Harper lives his life for is job and for David. His last boyfriend wasn't willing to be second to David and walked out on them both. Harper isn't willing to put David through that again, so he accepts his life as it is.
Felice Stevens is a master of creating sensitive, vulnerable characters. The pain felt by both Colson and Harper simply emanates from the page. I couldn't help but want to take each of them in my arms and give them a hug.
The chemistry between Colson and Harper is apparent from the first. It's clear they belong together. I'm not usually a fan of a slow burn romance, but this doesn't have the angst of most slow burn stories. I think because, despite the heat between them, Colson makes the effort to develop trust and friendship with Harper. It's that friendship the strengthens the romance in their relationship.
Additionally, I love the way Ms Stevens portrays David. He's a man, with feelings, who, despite his inability to vocalize, can still feel and express his joy, his happiness and his pain. And he's the central character of the story. Harper, then Colson, are fervent defenders of David. And Colson's interactions with David are ultimately what leads Harper to trust him.
This is another incredible story from Felice Stevens, emotionally charged, realistic and completely unputdownable.
October 30, 2024
I cannot begin to express to you just how much I loved Fly Away Home! The opening lines will grab your attention and make you wonder if this is a romance or murder mystery. But you will soon discover it is the very best of love found in a forever dream come true.
Colson’s and Harper’s story is one you won’t soon forget. It is a story that will stay with you long after you have finished reading. Their mutual attraction is undeniable when they set eyes on one another for the first time.
A group of women overhears Colson telling a friend on the phone his idea for his newest novel. A best-selling author, Colson has been in a slump for a few years, but this idea has him really excited. He tells his friend of the alleged murder of his neighbor in gruesome detail. The women immediately report this to NYC Detective Harper Rose. When he goes to investigate, he finds Colson in the woman’s house, with a knife, and covered in blood. Even so, Harper finds himself fighting his attraction for Colson.
Of course, Colson is able to explain that he’d come to visit the woman named Millie, a good friend of his, and found her stabbed and bleeding. After a conversation with his friend who confirms that Colson was telling him a story idea on the phone and in no way was a murderer, Harper begins to believe his story. When Millie wakes up in the hospital, she quickly tells the police who attacked her and Colson is cleared. Once the two men are free to explore their mutual attraction, Harper ignites the flame between them with one very unforgettable kiss.
But Harper has a secret that is close to his heart and one he is unwilling to share with anyone ever again. Colson has his own demons to fight with an ex who only stayed with him during the good times and parents who want nothing to do with him because he is gay. Both have been deeply hurt in past relationships and must find a way to make their happiness last and become theirs forever.
Fly Away Home is a book I will want in all formats, book, kindle, and audio. It is a story to be enjoyed and savored. Don’t hesitate to snap this one up. It’s a keeper!
Colson’s and Harper’s story is one you won’t soon forget. It is a story that will stay with you long after you have finished reading. Their mutual attraction is undeniable when they set eyes on one another for the first time.
A group of women overhears Colson telling a friend on the phone his idea for his newest novel. A best-selling author, Colson has been in a slump for a few years, but this idea has him really excited. He tells his friend of the alleged murder of his neighbor in gruesome detail. The women immediately report this to NYC Detective Harper Rose. When he goes to investigate, he finds Colson in the woman’s house, with a knife, and covered in blood. Even so, Harper finds himself fighting his attraction for Colson.
Of course, Colson is able to explain that he’d come to visit the woman named Millie, a good friend of his, and found her stabbed and bleeding. After a conversation with his friend who confirms that Colson was telling him a story idea on the phone and in no way was a murderer, Harper begins to believe his story. When Millie wakes up in the hospital, she quickly tells the police who attacked her and Colson is cleared. Once the two men are free to explore their mutual attraction, Harper ignites the flame between them with one very unforgettable kiss.
But Harper has a secret that is close to his heart and one he is unwilling to share with anyone ever again. Colson has his own demons to fight with an ex who only stayed with him during the good times and parents who want nothing to do with him because he is gay. Both have been deeply hurt in past relationships and must find a way to make their happiness last and become theirs forever.
Fly Away Home is a book I will want in all formats, book, kindle, and audio. It is a story to be enjoyed and savored. Don’t hesitate to snap this one up. It’s a keeper!
January 2, 2025
Oh this book is absolutely awesome! For me this is author Felice Stevens at her best.
This story entails so much. It’s exciting, kind and gentle, filled with compasion, light fun, genuine feelings, caring, loving, sexiness and very well written!
The love that Harper has for his brother is so true so compasionate and fullfilling you just feel warm inside and the way Colton responds even from the beginning not knowing who or what is adorable.
Both men feel the attraction towards each other before knowing who they are and what is happening but both were severely burned in former relationships.
On top of that Harper ignores his own needs and wants because of his obligation to his brother David. And Colten struggles with his own rejections from his parents.
As a reader you just feel a connection towards one or both of these men. If it is toward Harper, because of how his life revolves around his brother or towards Colton, who struggles with the behavior of his family but the lovely memories of his grandparents, or both!
I loved the built up in this story, the finding out how they want to be together, the struggles and how to deal with what life throws at you.
If I have to give a small critic note I would mention, I didn’t need so much more noticable sexy stuff towards the end of the book. The story had settled itself already and was made with the terrific storytelling and built up. Of course seeing Colten and Harper finding their way together is wonderful don’t let there be a mistake about that. But what really sold me was their lives and how their story was told.
Of course it is seriously nice that Colton is a writer, I mean come on that is cool! And Harper being a police officer isn’t a bad thing either 😀
Can I just give a shout out to Luis? Gosh I love that guy! Luis you are amazing a rock and a genuinly amazing human being!
Not forgetting Miss Millie and Hogan who definitely hold their part in this “family” both these man created for themselves.
If you are searching for a low angst, sweet and loving story, I can only highly recommend this book. Go and read it yourself and you will know I am right 😉
This story entails so much. It’s exciting, kind and gentle, filled with compasion, light fun, genuine feelings, caring, loving, sexiness and very well written!
The love that Harper has for his brother is so true so compasionate and fullfilling you just feel warm inside and the way Colton responds even from the beginning not knowing who or what is adorable.
Both men feel the attraction towards each other before knowing who they are and what is happening but both were severely burned in former relationships.
On top of that Harper ignores his own needs and wants because of his obligation to his brother David. And Colten struggles with his own rejections from his parents.
As a reader you just feel a connection towards one or both of these men. If it is toward Harper, because of how his life revolves around his brother or towards Colton, who struggles with the behavior of his family but the lovely memories of his grandparents, or both!
I loved the built up in this story, the finding out how they want to be together, the struggles and how to deal with what life throws at you.
If I have to give a small critic note I would mention, I didn’t need so much more noticable sexy stuff towards the end of the book. The story had settled itself already and was made with the terrific storytelling and built up. Of course seeing Colten and Harper finding their way together is wonderful don’t let there be a mistake about that. But what really sold me was their lives and how their story was told.
Of course it is seriously nice that Colton is a writer, I mean come on that is cool! And Harper being a police officer isn’t a bad thing either 😀
Can I just give a shout out to Luis? Gosh I love that guy! Luis you are amazing a rock and a genuinly amazing human being!
Not forgetting Miss Millie and Hogan who definitely hold their part in this “family” both these man created for themselves.
If you are searching for a low angst, sweet and loving story, I can only highly recommend this book. Go and read it yourself and you will know I am right 😉
October 29, 2024
This book had me hooked from the first chapter. Colson, a writer who has had writers block since writing two best selling thrillers, drags himself out of his home to work on his new novel in a local coffee shop and decides to tease a group of nosy old women who are listening in to his phone call by talking about his murder mystery plot. Harper a local detective walks in and is instantly attracted to the pierced tattooed Colson who also notices him.
Imagine their surprise when Harper comes to arrest a man for a crime he didn’t commit because he was overheard plotting a murder and finds it’s the guy from the coffee shop. This event changes the lives of two commitment phobes.
Felice is so good at creating sensitive, vulnerable characters, Colson who was thrown away by his parents for being gay and Harper who lost his parents when he was still young. The pain simply jumps off the page and I felt for them both. When we discover Harper’s life of care and devotion for his younger brother David who, at the age of five had a terrible accident which left him brain damaged and paralysed, Harper soared in my estimation.
Thank you Felice for shedding light on this disability and writing about it so sensitively. David was a brilliant addition to this story and emphasised the ignorance of people, adults more so than children, and how they treat people like David. He's a man, with feelings, and although he can’t vocalize them he still feels happiness, joy and pain and when David cried over people’s reactions to him, I cried with him. Harper never considered putting his brother into a rehab facility and I loved him for that.
Once Colson and Harper got past their reservations and their tumultuous pasts and ex’s their relationship blossomed into trust, love and passion. Colson’s interactions with David were pivotal in Harper letting down his defences.
Special shoutout to Luis, David’s live-in aide for 15 years and a part of the family. He loved David and dedicated his life to helping Harper give him the best time.
Another winner from this author.
Imagine their surprise when Harper comes to arrest a man for a crime he didn’t commit because he was overheard plotting a murder and finds it’s the guy from the coffee shop. This event changes the lives of two commitment phobes.
Felice is so good at creating sensitive, vulnerable characters, Colson who was thrown away by his parents for being gay and Harper who lost his parents when he was still young. The pain simply jumps off the page and I felt for them both. When we discover Harper’s life of care and devotion for his younger brother David who, at the age of five had a terrible accident which left him brain damaged and paralysed, Harper soared in my estimation.
Thank you Felice for shedding light on this disability and writing about it so sensitively. David was a brilliant addition to this story and emphasised the ignorance of people, adults more so than children, and how they treat people like David. He's a man, with feelings, and although he can’t vocalize them he still feels happiness, joy and pain and when David cried over people’s reactions to him, I cried with him. Harper never considered putting his brother into a rehab facility and I loved him for that.
Once Colson and Harper got past their reservations and their tumultuous pasts and ex’s their relationship blossomed into trust, love and passion. Colson’s interactions with David were pivotal in Harper letting down his defences.
Special shoutout to Luis, David’s live-in aide for 15 years and a part of the family. He loved David and dedicated his life to helping Harper give him the best time.
Another winner from this author.
November 5, 2024
Parts of this are sad, and yet so beautiful, these two lonely, damaged men with so much to give but afraid to trust and try again. When author Colson and Detective Harper first meet, it is not the most auspicious beginning. Both had glimpsed each other in a coffee shop earlier that day, each thought the other was hot, then dismissed them from their minds, only to be in a confrontation less than an hour later. Thus begins a hit or miss attraction as Colson works to get his new book written and Harper works to catch the bad guys, the attraction leading to stolen steamy meetings out of their busy lives. Harper’s wheelchair bound brother David plays a large part in the slow development of their arrangement (not yet a relationship) as Harper has made David his whole life outside of work, very protective of him and the life they share. Colson is different, sensitive and caring, but Harper has trust issues, afraid to be hurt again if he lets down his guard and lets Colson in. There are parts that brought tears to my eyes with the emotional interactions between David and Colson under the watchful eye of Harper, and the character of both just shines throughout the book. With robberies to solve, a horror mystery with added romance to write, a young man locked inside a damaged body but with love to give, zoo visits with seals, a loyal caregiver, a feisty old woman who loves to bake, close supportive friends on both sides, and two men hoping that love will be the outcome, the story flows smoothly and kept me engaged the whole time. The main characters are well-written, and they came alive in my mind as the story unfolded in front of me. This is a book that will stick in my mind and go on my To Reread List. If you like low angst, letting go and learning to trust after hurtful past experiences, slow moving romance with steamy times, this may be the book for you. Definitely 5 stars from me. Loved it.
I received a copy and this is my voluntary review.
I received a copy and this is my voluntary review.
December 18, 2024
Colson is a famous thriller writer who is in the middle of a writing crisis. When he has an idea for his new book, he tells the planned plot to his best friend in a coffeeshop, knowing full well that he has an audience. This brings Detective Harper Rose onto the scene. And before Colson knows it, he's a suspect in handcuffs.
Harper is one sexy detective you can't help but love. He spends a lot of time with his disabled brother David, who needs round-the-clock care. The rest of the time he is an NYPD detective.
This story has some fascinating secondary characters. The real star of the story is David, who is disabled after an accident, and whom Harper takes good care of. The author manages to sensitively convey David's needs and also his emotions, even though he can't speak. But Colson's neighbor Milli is also a very likeable character who I quickly took to my heart. Harper himself is simply very hot and absolutely loveable. But as far as relationships are concerned, he totally holds back after his last flop. Colson is similar when it comes to failed relationships. And then there's his past. Admittedly, it took me a little longer to grow fond of Colson, but he's earned it with his actions.
When they meet, the chemistry is palpable right from the start. They slowly build a relationship that starts off with friendship. I loved the way Colson and Harper interacted with each other. One open, the other less so, but they found their way and it was a pleasure to listen to this audiobook.
And of course there is also some suspense, as a series of burglaries in the neighborhood keeps the police on their toes.
J.F. Harding performed the story perfectly. He has a very pleasant voice and a great reading tempo. He portrayed the characters and emotions accurately and brought the story to life. For me, the story has everything you need for a good book: romance, suspense, sizzle, some drama, likeable characters and a fantastic narrator.
Harper is one sexy detective you can't help but love. He spends a lot of time with his disabled brother David, who needs round-the-clock care. The rest of the time he is an NYPD detective.
This story has some fascinating secondary characters. The real star of the story is David, who is disabled after an accident, and whom Harper takes good care of. The author manages to sensitively convey David's needs and also his emotions, even though he can't speak. But Colson's neighbor Milli is also a very likeable character who I quickly took to my heart. Harper himself is simply very hot and absolutely loveable. But as far as relationships are concerned, he totally holds back after his last flop. Colson is similar when it comes to failed relationships. And then there's his past. Admittedly, it took me a little longer to grow fond of Colson, but he's earned it with his actions.
When they meet, the chemistry is palpable right from the start. They slowly build a relationship that starts off with friendship. I loved the way Colson and Harper interacted with each other. One open, the other less so, but they found their way and it was a pleasure to listen to this audiobook.
And of course there is also some suspense, as a series of burglaries in the neighborhood keeps the police on their toes.
J.F. Harding performed the story perfectly. He has a very pleasant voice and a great reading tempo. He portrayed the characters and emotions accurately and brought the story to life. For me, the story has everything you need for a good book: romance, suspense, sizzle, some drama, likeable characters and a fantastic narrator.
October 30, 2024
What happens when an author of grisly murder mysteries runs his mouth off about his next ‘crime’ in public? Well, he gets arrested for an attempt on a sweet old lady’s life. It's a good job the detective is absolutely the perfect man for him, though neither Colson (author) nor Harper (detective) are willing to admit it at first.
Both of these men have a ton of emotional baggage from losing their family in one way or another and from prior toxic relationships. Their navigating the journey to trusting and supporting each other is a path to love that both of them crave and fear equally. It's a bumpy ride but Colson and Harper get there, nudged all the way by their friends and found family.
There's lots to like here. The side characters are fantastic - I adore David, Luis and Millie in particular. I also love the pairing of the author and the cop, and that the detective works in a division other than homicide - it's a fresh take on things. The romance between Harper and Colson gets spicier the closer they grow, too
The elements that didn't work quite as well for me were a couple of plot devices later in the book that felt unnecessary to me by that point and I would have much preferred to spend more time seeing Colson integrate into the Rose household with Harper, developing the fraternal bond with David and Luis. I also would have liked to see the investigation wrapped up a little differently and quicker.
Those are, of course, just my opinions and I'm sure other readers will devour Fly Away Home as a super sweet, sentimental romance. It's 3.5* rounded up from me for Colson and Harper.
An e-copy was provided by GRR. These are my honest thoughts.
Both of these men have a ton of emotional baggage from losing their family in one way or another and from prior toxic relationships. Their navigating the journey to trusting and supporting each other is a path to love that both of them crave and fear equally. It's a bumpy ride but Colson and Harper get there, nudged all the way by their friends and found family.
There's lots to like here. The side characters are fantastic - I adore David, Luis and Millie in particular. I also love the pairing of the author and the cop, and that the detective works in a division other than homicide - it's a fresh take on things. The romance between Harper and Colson gets spicier the closer they grow, too
The elements that didn't work quite as well for me were a couple of plot devices later in the book that felt unnecessary to me by that point and I would have much preferred to spend more time seeing Colson integrate into the Rose household with Harper, developing the fraternal bond with David and Luis. I also would have liked to see the investigation wrapped up a little differently and quicker.
Those are, of course, just my opinions and I'm sure other readers will devour Fly Away Home as a super sweet, sentimental romance. It's 3.5* rounded up from me for Colson and Harper.
An e-copy was provided by GRR. These are my honest thoughts.
November 4, 2024
Fly Away Home by Felice Stevens is a fun blend of romance, mystery, and unexpected connection. The story introduces us to Colson, a mystery writer with a playful, if somewhat bratty, sense of humour, who finds himself in an awkward situation after being overheard joking about "murdering" his irritating next-door neighbour in a local coffee shop. His offhand remarks catch the attention of Detective Harper when Colson’s neighbour is, in fact, attacked.
While Harper’s initial suspicion of Colson leads to a rather tense first encounter, the spark between them is undeniable. They’re immediately drawn to one another, but both have reasons for resisting it. Harper’s blunt and often guarded demeanour makes him difficult to read, while Colson’s patience and resilience become crucial in breaking down Harper’s walls. Through tension, banter, and slow-building intimacy, the two work through their differences and learn to trust each other.
The warmth of this story doesn’t stop with Harper and Colson; it extends beautifully to David and Luis, who add a sweet familial layer to the narrative. Together, they create a small, unconventional family, bringing moments of comfort, support, and heart to an otherwise suspenseful tale. Watching this dynamic take shape adds a layer of emotional depth.
For those who enjoy slow-burn romance with a touch of mystery, Fly Away Home is a fantastic pick, with well-drawn characters and a storyline that combines intrigue with heartfelt connection. Highly recommended for a cozy and captivating read.
While Harper’s initial suspicion of Colson leads to a rather tense first encounter, the spark between them is undeniable. They’re immediately drawn to one another, but both have reasons for resisting it. Harper’s blunt and often guarded demeanour makes him difficult to read, while Colson’s patience and resilience become crucial in breaking down Harper’s walls. Through tension, banter, and slow-building intimacy, the two work through their differences and learn to trust each other.
The warmth of this story doesn’t stop with Harper and Colson; it extends beautifully to David and Luis, who add a sweet familial layer to the narrative. Together, they create a small, unconventional family, bringing moments of comfort, support, and heart to an otherwise suspenseful tale. Watching this dynamic take shape adds a layer of emotional depth.
For those who enjoy slow-burn romance with a touch of mystery, Fly Away Home is a fantastic pick, with well-drawn characters and a storyline that combines intrigue with heartfelt connection. Highly recommended for a cozy and captivating read.
October 28, 2024
FLY AWAY HOME is a story about a detective and a crime writer. Sounds like a match made in heaven, right? Well, not so when the writer is accused of harming his neighbour and arrested by the detective.
Harper works in the Robberies division, spending his time hunting down thieves. Apart from that, he spends time at home with his disabled brother, David, who is the real star of the show. Colson is a writer suffering from burnout. Not only that, but his partner left him with a vague "We'll see how it goes in a year." These two have a lot of reasons why they can't be together, but they can't seem to be apart either.
While I enjoyed this story and read it in one sitting, it didn't resonate with me as much as the author's previous stories have. I found both Harper and Colson slightly annoying. As previously said, David is the one I kept reading for. His character was so incredibly well-written, plus other people's reactions, both good and bad. I've seen them too many times and was happy to see David written as a person with feelings, rather than just a prop.
A heart-warming story that I enjoyed and recommend.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
28 Oct, 2024
Harper works in the Robberies division, spending his time hunting down thieves. Apart from that, he spends time at home with his disabled brother, David, who is the real star of the show. Colson is a writer suffering from burnout. Not only that, but his partner left him with a vague "We'll see how it goes in a year." These two have a lot of reasons why they can't be together, but they can't seem to be apart either.
While I enjoyed this story and read it in one sitting, it didn't resonate with me as much as the author's previous stories have. I found both Harper and Colson slightly annoying. As previously said, David is the one I kept reading for. His character was so incredibly well-written, plus other people's reactions, both good and bad. I've seen them too many times and was happy to see David written as a person with feelings, rather than just a prop.
A heart-warming story that I enjoyed and recommend.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
28 Oct, 2024
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