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Common Law #3
Darkness: Common Law, Book 3
A murdered prostitute. An obvious suspect. Clear evidence. For once, Jericho Crewe has a straightforward crime to investigate, and Wade Granger isn’t involved.
It all seems so simple, but Jericho’s instincts won’t let him rest. As he investigates, he finds troubling suggestions that the murder is a part of something larger and more sinister. But working within the boundaries of the law may keep him from finding the truth. If Jericho doesn’t break the rules, an innocent man may rot in jail while a killer remains free to strike again.
Inevitably, it all comes back to Wade. Because who else knows as much about breaking rules? And who else knows Jericho the way Wade does—not wisely, but far, far too well?
* * * * * * *
This title can enjoyed on its only or as the third book in the Common Law series.
It all seems so simple, but Jericho’s instincts won’t let him rest. As he investigates, he finds troubling suggestions that the murder is a part of something larger and more sinister. But working within the boundaries of the law may keep him from finding the truth. If Jericho doesn’t break the rules, an innocent man may rot in jail while a killer remains free to strike again.
Inevitably, it all comes back to Wade. Because who else knows as much about breaking rules? And who else knows Jericho the way Wade does—not wisely, but far, far too well?
* * * * * * *
This title can enjoyed on its only or as the third book in the Common Law series.
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First published March 4, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
February 6, 2017
Before I get into the meat of my review, I want to talk a little bit about fade to black sex scenes. In a word, I hate them. Ok, that was three words, but you get the idea. Now, I knew going into this series that the steam level was low and I was willing to give the series a shot because I like the author. After reading the first three books, I can say it's a good series. The writing is strong and I like the characters and the plot-lines. I'm still giving Darkness four stars, but that one scene where Jericho and Wade have penetrative sex for the first time in fifteen years? That was the only sex scene in the entire book and it was fade to black!!
So that's how I feel about that.
Now that that is out of the way, I enjoyed the rest of Darkness. Jericho is settling into his job as under-sheriff and doing his best to stay away from Wade. It's really a futile effort, though, because those two are inevitable. The UST between them, any time they were near each other was enough to heat up my Kindle a bit. Even after fifteen years, Wade still knows what Jay needs.
The suspense plot of Darkness was somewhat interesting, or at least it could have been, but I've got to admit the way it was resolved felt a bit anti-climactic. It's the other plot threads that have been carried through from books 1 and 2 that I am finding interesting. The corruption in the sheriff's department, Wade's not-so-legal business dealings, Nikki and what ever it is she thinks she's doing, Eli's murder and, of course, Jericho and Wade.
Jericho is also getting restless. He's feeling like maybe the system fails a little too often and he's not sure what to do about that. He's on the cusp of making some decisions - maybe he'll walk away, maybe he won't, but he's feeling disillusioned and maybe a little burnt out. And Wade will always be there if Jericho will only let him.
So, I'm on to book 4 to see how all this plays out.
-------------------------
ARC of Darkness was generously provided by the publisher, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
So that's how I feel about that.
Now that that is out of the way, I enjoyed the rest of Darkness. Jericho is settling into his job as under-sheriff and doing his best to stay away from Wade. It's really a futile effort, though, because those two are inevitable. The UST between them, any time they were near each other was enough to heat up my Kindle a bit. Even after fifteen years, Wade still knows what Jay needs.
The suspense plot of Darkness was somewhat interesting, or at least it could have been, but I've got to admit the way it was resolved felt a bit anti-climactic. It's the other plot threads that have been carried through from books 1 and 2 that I am finding interesting. The corruption in the sheriff's department, Wade's not-so-legal business dealings, Nikki and what ever it is she thinks she's doing, Eli's murder and, of course, Jericho and Wade.
Jericho is also getting restless. He's feeling like maybe the system fails a little too often and he's not sure what to do about that. He's on the cusp of making some decisions - maybe he'll walk away, maybe he won't, but he's feeling disillusioned and maybe a little burnt out. And Wade will always be there if Jericho will only let him.
So, I'm on to book 4 to see how all this plays out.
-------------------------
ARC of Darkness was generously provided by the publisher, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
February 13, 2017
3.5 to 4*
This is the third book in this series and I think I'm finally onboard with it. Don't get me wrong it's not that the previous books weren't good because they were just not exactly what I was expecting, I was thinking this series would be more about Jericho and Wade and less about the town and the crime but it's the other way round and it's taken me a while to sync up.
Jericho is lead on a murder which seems like an open and shut case but it's all too clean, clear and neat and it's just not sitting right with Jericho so he starts looking around for other suspects although he doesn't have to look far.
The DEA and the Feds are still in town and it's getting to the point where they must be considering making the move permanent.
I love small town books when they're done well and this series manages to find a good balance, there's enough quirky characters to keep it interesting without being completely OTT.
The problem for Jericho and Wade is that they stand on opposite sides of the law but the more into the series we get the more lines are blurring, this and of course there's the fact that they both still want each other with same passion they did fifteen years ago.
Jericho has tried his best to stay away from Wade but it's a small town and Wade is everywhere and seemingly involved in everything this coupled with the fact that Jericho is lonely and still wants Wade to the point where he can't think clearly in his presence, it's an impossible situation and something has to give.
It's no secret that Wade is my favourite character I love him and his dodgy dealings and I seriously want him and Jericho to forget the world and get together but can either of them do that or do we have to hope they manage to find a balance between life, love and small town living.
I voluntarily read a review copy of this book kindly provided by NetGalley and Riptide Publishing.
July 29, 2017
***4.5 Stars***
F. I. N. A. L. L. Y.
Okay, everyone who is waiting for the steam to explode now and the two men going at it as if the world would be crashing down on them any minute, might be disappointed. The one sex scene that was there was... yes, fade to black, but somehow I didn't mind because it was not the "intense-stare-door-falling-closed-behind-them-and-leaving-everything-to-our-imagination" scene that I expected it to be. 'No, it was not a page filling explicit description, but it was riddled with emotions and made my heart swell, so I was fine with it.
Jericho's new case is pushing at his boundaries. He is forced to question almost all of his life decisions and to ask himself -although he didn't always stay on the straight and narrow before- how far he would go to protect the innocent. But when he discovers that Wade (damn, I love that guy!!!) has no qualms about doing everything necessary to keep the man he loves save, it helps him making a decision to go for the important things in life.
Darkness is so far my favorite in this series, but since I made themistake conscious decision to already start with the next book right away, I have a feeling that it will be topped by the last one.
"God, I missed you," Wade whispered, and that was enough to distract Jericho, at least temporarily.
"You can't keep saying that. I've been back for a while."
"I missed you since the last time I touched you." A deep, wet kiss, and then Wade said, "I'm always going to miss you since the last time I touched you."
F. I. N. A. L. L. Y.
Okay, everyone who is waiting for the steam to explode now and the two men going at it as if the world would be crashing down on them any minute, might be disappointed. The one sex scene that was there was... yes, fade to black, but somehow I didn't mind because it was not the "intense-stare-door-falling-closed-behind-them-and-leaving-everything-to-our-imagination" scene that I expected it to be. 'No, it was not a page filling explicit description, but it was riddled with emotions and made my heart swell, so I was fine with it.
Jericho's new case is pushing at his boundaries. He is forced to question almost all of his life decisions and to ask himself -although he didn't always stay on the straight and narrow before- how far he would go to protect the innocent. But when he discovers that Wade (damn, I love that guy!!!) has no qualms about doing everything necessary to keep the man he loves save, it helps him making a decision to go for the important things in life.
Darkness is so far my favorite in this series, but since I made the
July 19, 2017
So things are heating up and falling into place .... but fading to black ??? WTF Wade & Jericho have chemistry in spades but it's only surface action that is shared which really is disappointing. I like the fact that Jericho is realizing that not everything is black & white and that there is the grey that really needs to be considered. Fingers crossed for a great book 4
February 5, 2017
3.75 stars rounded up
I think knowing that there is book #4 in the horizon sort of helped with my rating this time. I still loved reading about Jericho Crewe, and especially the inevitable sexual tension between him and Wade Granger -- I compared Jericho with moth to a fire when it comes to Wade :p -- but at times, there are things I wish to be more progressed. This is book #3 after all!!
Probably my biggest issue is with the state of Mosely as the town with problems. We get introduced with the police corruption in book #1. Then the biker wars in book #2. Plus there is a looming militia problem that sort of hanging in the background. With Darkness being the penultimate book, I wanted to see a built-up momentum... a preparation to the climax, that kind of thing.
Unfortunately, I felt like I didn't really get it. Yes, we had a dead prostitute. Yes, we had a possible innocent man being framed for a murder he didn't commit. But it didn't really add anything to the whole federal agents raining down Mosely. Plus the resolution of this particular case was anti-climactic -- to the point where I murmured to myself, "That's it?"
I understand that the case became an epiphany for Jericho; him starting to question his moral judgement, wondering whether being in law-enforcement is the right thing when he can condone crime for certain purpose. It's a good character progress. But still, it slightly frustrated me because in the grand scheme of Mosely and its problem, it didn't really go anywhere.
Despite that, Darkness is a good installment -- what can I say, I admit that I am getting into this because of Jericho and the promise his relationship with Wade. On that front, I was satisfied! Jericho finally accepts that he can't get away from Wade, despite his ex-best friend / ex-boyfriend being manipulative, skirting between that fine line of breaking the law. THAT part is always delicious to read :).
I can't wait for the conclusion...
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
I think knowing that there is book #4 in the horizon sort of helped with my rating this time. I still loved reading about Jericho Crewe, and especially the inevitable sexual tension between him and Wade Granger -- I compared Jericho with moth to a fire when it comes to Wade :p -- but at times, there are things I wish to be more progressed. This is book #3 after all!!
Probably my biggest issue is with the state of Mosely as the town with problems. We get introduced with the police corruption in book #1. Then the biker wars in book #2. Plus there is a looming militia problem that sort of hanging in the background. With Darkness being the penultimate book, I wanted to see a built-up momentum... a preparation to the climax, that kind of thing.
Unfortunately, I felt like I didn't really get it. Yes, we had a dead prostitute. Yes, we had a possible innocent man being framed for a murder he didn't commit. But it didn't really add anything to the whole federal agents raining down Mosely. Plus the resolution of this particular case was anti-climactic -- to the point where I murmured to myself, "That's it?"
I understand that the case became an epiphany for Jericho; him starting to question his moral judgement, wondering whether being in law-enforcement is the right thing when he can condone crime for certain purpose. It's a good character progress. But still, it slightly frustrated me because in the grand scheme of Mosely and its problem, it didn't really go anywhere.
Despite that, Darkness is a good installment -- what can I say, I admit that I am getting into this because of Jericho and the promise his relationship with Wade. On that front, I was satisfied! Jericho finally accepts that he can't get away from Wade, despite his ex-best friend / ex-boyfriend being manipulative, skirting between that fine line of breaking the law. THAT part is always delicious to read :).
I can't wait for the conclusion...
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
February 12, 2017
Can I just start this by saying that I love Wade Granger? I'd probably give up my morals for him too. *heart eyes*
This book picks up a month or so down the road. Jericho is doing is his best to avoid Wade and he's continuing to work as an under-sheriff for the town. He's gets a call on a murdered prostitute and while the case and the bad guy seem cut and dried, Jericho thinks something's not right. He ends up looking into it in more detail and opens up a more complex case than he initially realized.
Of course along the way he runs into Wade again. These two can't seem to stay apart. They're like moths to a flame with each other. The UST between them is off the charts as usual but as this story goes along Jericho decides he's done fighting it. He doesn't care what Wade does for a living. He wants him and he knows they're going to end up together. This leads me to my one complaint with this book. When they finally get together it fades to black. Now I don't usually complain about that. I'm not they type of romance reader who has to have sex scenes in all her books and in fact many of my favorite series are ones filled with fade to black. I just really hated it in this series because the UST has been off the charts and such a major part of the story. I feel like we were waiting for this really great thing and then it was snatched away before we could enjoy it. *boo, hiss*
I have gone back and forth in this series trying to decide if Wade really is a criminal or if he's working deep undercover for a law enforcement agency. I'm happy to say I still don't know. The author has done a great job keeping the air of mystery around Wade and even at the end of the this book I still am not sure how this series is going to end for these two.
**ARC provided through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
This book picks up a month or so down the road. Jericho is doing is his best to avoid Wade and he's continuing to work as an under-sheriff for the town. He's gets a call on a murdered prostitute and while the case and the bad guy seem cut and dried, Jericho thinks something's not right. He ends up looking into it in more detail and opens up a more complex case than he initially realized.
Of course along the way he runs into Wade again. These two can't seem to stay apart. They're like moths to a flame with each other. The UST between them is off the charts as usual but as this story goes along Jericho decides he's done fighting it. He doesn't care what Wade does for a living. He wants him and he knows they're going to end up together. This leads me to my one complaint with this book. When they finally get together it fades to black. Now I don't usually complain about that. I'm not they type of romance reader who has to have sex scenes in all her books and in fact many of my favorite series are ones filled with fade to black. I just really hated it in this series because the UST has been off the charts and such a major part of the story. I feel like we were waiting for this really great thing and then it was snatched away before we could enjoy it. *boo, hiss*
I have gone back and forth in this series trying to decide if Wade really is a criminal or if he's working deep undercover for a law enforcement agency. I'm happy to say I still don't know. The author has done a great job keeping the air of mystery around Wade and even at the end of the this book I still am not sure how this series is going to end for these two.
**ARC provided through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 6, 2017
I am enjoying the Common Law series so much! It's like one of those mini-series on TV. Full of intrigue and developing relationships between the characters.
Book 3 is my favorite so far. I've felt bad for Jericho throughout. He's such a smart man. He's also an honorable man and that puts him in difficult situations with the less than honorable people around him.
But he IS smart. It's just that his heart is big and pure.
I think Wade's heart is also big and pure. (stop laughing at me) I've had a crush on him since book 1. There's really no reason to, but I feel bad for him a lot of the time. I also feel so proud of his smarts. Go Wade!
As you can see, I'm pretty invested in this series. I'm invested in Kayla, Nikki, Nicolette and Elijah as well as Jericho and Wade. Hockley? Not so much. ;-)
We had some big reveals in this instalment. It's not to be missed!
Review ARC graciously provided by Riptide publishing via NetGalley
Book 3 is my favorite so far. I've felt bad for Jericho throughout. He's such a smart man. He's also an honorable man and that puts him in difficult situations with the less than honorable people around him.
Maybe he’d been set up and manipulated. Again. Maybe he should just sit back and get used to it, since it seemed as if everyone else in the damn universe was smarter than he was and could plan everything out far into the future.
But he IS smart. It's just that his heart is big and pure.
I think Wade's heart is also big and pure. (stop laughing at me) I've had a crush on him since book 1. There's really no reason to, but I feel bad for him a lot of the time. I also feel so proud of his smarts. Go Wade!
As you can see, I'm pretty invested in this series. I'm invested in Kayla, Nikki, Nicolette and Elijah as well as Jericho and Wade. Hockley? Not so much. ;-)
We had some big reveals in this instalment. It's not to be missed!
Review ARC graciously provided by Riptide publishing via NetGalley
February 22, 2017
Darkness is book 3 in Kate Sherwood's Serial style new Series series Common Law this series must be read in order and each book builds on the previous installment.
If, I had to sum up this installment of the series with one word it would be, "connection." You see it is in this book that many connections are made, different people in the story, different backgrounds, different ways of thinking.
We come back to Mosely Montana, which by the way has become the utter perfect setting for this cast of characters, and we are back with Jericho Crewe and Wade Granger our MC along with a slew of secondary characters that make this story thrive. As you remember from reading the previous books, Jericho "Jay" Crew is the Under-Sheriff of Mosely, a new job after coming back to his hometown when he was notified his Dad died, and Wade Granger is Jay's past along with the town Godfather of sorts - nothing happens in Mosely Montana - Legal or Illegal- that Wade isn't either directly involved with, in charge of, agreed to, coordinated, manipulated, or has allowed to happen with some subtle maneuvers. That's right...he is the man of Mosely. He is a local. He is smart. He is conniving. He is someone people " trust " to get the job done, regardless of him doing it legally or illegally. Wade is a man who sticks to his word and Never says something he doesn't mean and hasn't thought out the repercussions of action, ten steps ahead. Take all of that and he is opposite of everything the Under-Sherrif has sworn to uphold and protect...yet, he is the very man that Jay can't stay away from and comes to depend on more and more...he is the man, Jay is falling in love with...again. These two men have an unresolved sexual attraction that adds its own brand of sexual tension to the story - it makes each encounter between the two full of an underlying unresolved pressure that wears on their encounters. The attraction between these two is palpable as you read the story.
Throughout this story I found myself on the edge of my seat, watching the community interact with each other, watching Jay and Wade's relationship evolve, trying to figure out the mystery of the crime that was central to the plot and development of our story - and of course, watching Jay realize that not everything can fit into perfect categories of "right or wrong" but there are shades of gray everywhere and he has to make a choice if he is going to delve into those gray areas or just let them be and focus on the bigger picture.
Some issues with this series - small issues for me, as you can see I still rated the book 5 stars:
The sex - or lack thereof - this is a fade-to-black series. If that annoys you and you are one who must have on page sex scenes then this book might not be for you.
Lack of Wade's POV - I really, I mean REALLY wanted to get inside his head. I am sure his mind is one of those places that once you go there you may never return.
Overall, these issues did not take away my enjoyment of the story and I am totally loving this series. I recommend this book/series to all who love to read romance stories with some twists and turns.
5 Stars -
Review Copy of Darkness provided by Riptide Publishing for an honest Review.
If, I had to sum up this installment of the series with one word it would be, "connection." You see it is in this book that many connections are made, different people in the story, different backgrounds, different ways of thinking.
We come back to Mosely Montana, which by the way has become the utter perfect setting for this cast of characters, and we are back with Jericho Crewe and Wade Granger our MC along with a slew of secondary characters that make this story thrive. As you remember from reading the previous books, Jericho "Jay" Crew is the Under-Sheriff of Mosely, a new job after coming back to his hometown when he was notified his Dad died, and Wade Granger is Jay's past along with the town Godfather of sorts - nothing happens in Mosely Montana - Legal or Illegal- that Wade isn't either directly involved with, in charge of, agreed to, coordinated, manipulated, or has allowed to happen with some subtle maneuvers. That's right...he is the man of Mosely. He is a local. He is smart. He is conniving. He is someone people " trust " to get the job done, regardless of him doing it legally or illegally. Wade is a man who sticks to his word and Never says something he doesn't mean and hasn't thought out the repercussions of action, ten steps ahead. Take all of that and he is opposite of everything the Under-Sherrif has sworn to uphold and protect...yet, he is the very man that Jay can't stay away from and comes to depend on more and more...he is the man, Jay is falling in love with...again. These two men have an unresolved sexual attraction that adds its own brand of sexual tension to the story - it makes each encounter between the two full of an underlying unresolved pressure that wears on their encounters. The attraction between these two is palpable as you read the story.
Throughout this story I found myself on the edge of my seat, watching the community interact with each other, watching Jay and Wade's relationship evolve, trying to figure out the mystery of the crime that was central to the plot and development of our story - and of course, watching Jay realize that not everything can fit into perfect categories of "right or wrong" but there are shades of gray everywhere and he has to make a choice if he is going to delve into those gray areas or just let them be and focus on the bigger picture.
Some issues with this series - small issues for me, as you can see I still rated the book 5 stars:
The sex - or lack thereof - this is a fade-to-black series. If that annoys you and you are one who must have on page sex scenes then this book might not be for you.
Lack of Wade's POV - I really, I mean REALLY wanted to get inside his head. I am sure his mind is one of those places that once you go there you may never return.
Overall, these issues did not take away my enjoyment of the story and I am totally loving this series. I recommend this book/series to all who love to read romance stories with some twists and turns.
5 Stars -
Review Copy of Darkness provided by Riptide Publishing for an honest Review.
February 14, 2017
3,5 stars
***Could be spoilerish***
The third book in the series confirmed my initial suspicious of Mosely being the most corrupted small town not only in Montana but in the whole country, if not worldwide.
It is a MM romance MYSTERY series. Let's talk about mystery.
What did Mosely offer us in the previous sequels?
No wonder that the FBI and the DEA practically live in Mosely, mostly because they've got surveillance on Wade .
Let us TRY NOT to talk about WHY and HOW they all think that Wade is the main criminal brain and power behind EVERY SINGLE CRIME in Mosely, this criminal El Dorado and how their 24/7 observation makes all possible sexual interaction between our MCs even more complicated as it is already.
But honestly, I didn't get WHAT else the FBI and the DEA were doing there. It was a lot of noise around their job/activity in the previous sequels, but suddenly they moved in the background and it looks like their main task in the third book became just to stand in the way.
Darkness added some new activities to the criminal list of the citizens of Mosely. (Their criminal energy is tireless!) We got a meth labor right next to school - not that DEA starts to get bored there, but it is nothing comparing to a serial killer who suddenly appeared in the town!
Well, one can question the methods how this serial killer's case has been solved at the end. And, honestly, I don't want even start to complain about the investigation (what investigation?!). I just say, WHY the hell not?
And judging from the way it was solved, I dare to guess how the last sequel will end: our under-sheriff Jericho will take over the leading position of the Mosley Sheriff's Department. And his wannabe lover Wade will get a medal as Robin Hood of the 21th century.
But who cares? The most important thing for now - they will be together. And I swear, they made a huge step forward in fulfilling THIS all-reader's collective dream. They are such a hot bunch together, the chemistry is fantastic and I enjoyed the dialogues, the heated banter between them in this sequel more than in the previous ones. Not to mention the inexorable progress of their relationship.
The bottom line:
Even if my mystery soul got frozen in a eye-roll pose at the end of the book,
my romance soul was perfidiously SATISFIED.
***ARC provided by the publisher, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
***Could be spoilerish***
The third book in the series confirmed my initial suspicious of Mosely being the most corrupted small town not only in Montana but in the whole country, if not worldwide.
It is a MM romance MYSTERY series. Let's talk about mystery.
What did Mosely offer us in the previous sequels?
Drug trafficking and semi-organized crime. The fact that it happens on the Canadian border is indeed very unusual-I could better understand it if it took place somewhere more southern - though the idea is refreshing- it contradicts all my imaginations of Canada being a place too dull to be criminal.
No wonder that the FBI and the DEA practically live in Mosely, mostly because they've got surveillance on Wade .
Let us TRY NOT to talk about WHY and HOW they all think that Wade is the main criminal brain and power behind EVERY SINGLE CRIME in Mosely, this criminal El Dorado and how their 24/7 observation makes all possible sexual interaction between our MCs even more complicated as it is already.
But honestly, I didn't get WHAT else the FBI and the DEA were doing there. It was a lot of noise around their job/activity in the previous sequels, but suddenly they moved in the background and it looks like their main task in the third book became just to stand in the way.
Darkness added some new activities to the criminal list of the citizens of Mosely. (Their criminal energy is tireless!) We got a meth labor right next to school - not that DEA starts to get bored there, but it is nothing comparing to a serial killer who suddenly appeared in the town!
Well, one can question the methods how this serial killer's case has been solved at the end. And, honestly, I don't want even start to complain about the investigation (what investigation?!). I just say, WHY the hell not?
And judging from the way it was solved, I dare to guess how the last sequel will end: our under-sheriff Jericho will take over the leading position of the Mosley Sheriff's Department. And his wannabe lover Wade will get a medal as Robin Hood of the 21th century.
But who cares? The most important thing for now - they will be together. And I swear, they made a huge step forward in fulfilling THIS all-reader's collective dream. They are such a hot bunch together, the chemistry is fantastic and I enjoyed the dialogues, the heated banter between them in this sequel more than in the previous ones. Not to mention the inexorable progress of their relationship.
The bottom line:
Even if my mystery soul got frozen in a eye-roll pose at the end of the book,
my romance soul was perfidiously SATISFIED.
***ARC provided by the publisher, via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
December 30, 2019
Darkness is the third book in Kate Sherwood's engrossing Common Law series and for once, the murder is straightforward and the murderer obvious. Or is it? Will Archer, Jericho and Wade's mentally incapacitated former classmate, is charged with the murder of a prostitute. Fingerprints and blood evidence is all there ... yet ... Jericho's gut instinct tells him something is not right.
The Common Law series has been toying with the idea of sides, loyalties and absolutes - are Wade and Jericho on opposite sides of the law? Is one right and the other wrong? How much "gray" is acceptable in the black and white arena of law enforcement? As DEA Agent Hockley says:
But as the world around them battles with absolutes and moral ambiguity, Wade and Jericho are slowly coming into sync with each other:
All I can say is don't miss the opportunity to read the Common Law series! FYI, the fourth book Home Fires is coming in April, 2017.
I received an ARC from Riptide Publishing, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Stop by my new blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
The Common Law series has been toying with the idea of sides, loyalties and absolutes - are Wade and Jericho on opposite sides of the law? Is one right and the other wrong? How much "gray" is acceptable in the black and white arena of law enforcement? As DEA Agent Hockley says:
“It’s a small town. I’m learning what that means. Relationships aren’t as black and white up here. In the city, cops can stay away from criminals. Up here, they might have gone to school with you, live next door to you, be related to you, whatever. It’s not a mess, it’s just different.”I know I keep saying this, but this series keeps getting better and better with every book. And in Darkness Sherwood really pushes the reader to decide where the limits are - is one murder better or worse than another? Does every murderer deserve to be punished? Are there things that can't be fixed, "not with all the laws you could ever come up with"?
But as the world around them battles with absolutes and moral ambiguity, Wade and Jericho are slowly coming into sync with each other:
But he [Wade] seemed confused, surprised by Jericho’s words. “You and me are always on the same side,” he said as if it were an obvious truth, at least to him. “Any way that counts, any way that matters? We’re on the same side.”Wade and Jericho have progressed from a kiss to a blow job to a fade-to-black love scene, but IMHO it reads more intense, more meaningful than any number of graphic sex scenes.
All I can say is don't miss the opportunity to read the Common Law series! FYI, the fourth book Home Fires is coming in April, 2017.
I received an ARC from Riptide Publishing, via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Stop by my new blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
March 13, 2017
4.5 shining stars rounded down to 4 mostly because still no 1/2 stars here on GR.
Well that was unexpected...
We've all been waiting for the sexy times to arrive and they did...I'm betting it was seriously hot...but, I can't say for sure because damned if I didn't get the bedroom door slammed in my face...figuratively speaking.
There was one scene in this book that was definitely the lovin' and sexy times I've been waiting for these men to share. Unfortunately it seems that Jericho and Wade prefer to have their privacy and while things started on page that was not where they finished. I admit I was the tiniest bit disappointed because for me the passion and sexual tension between these two is off the charts. Needless to say I had to let my imagination take over so let me just assure you a good time was had by all in my mind.
While I may have been a little disappointed by the whole fade to black issue the rest of this book did not disappoint me at all. The main story line for this book became fairly predictable early on but that really doesn't bother me because it's the bigger picture here that's got me hooked. It's the stories playing out in the background that are why I keep coming back so willingly. The local police corruption, Jericho's efforts to sort out what really happened to his father, his sense of responsibility to his new-found siblings and their mother, Nikki. Nikki's role in some of the criminal activities going on around town and just generally anything and everything involving Wade.
Jericho's having a bit of a crisis of faith. He's a cop and he believes in the system, or at least he does until it seems like the system is failing and the innocent are looking guilty while the guilty are getting away with murder and who knows what else. While Wade's got his back at least he does as much as Jericho will allow. It would seem that Jericho's not sure of much anymore. Just like the city of old, Jericho's walls are crumbling and while he's not sure what or how, he's thinking things need to change.
Without a doubt my absolute favorite part of this story has been the relationship dynamics between Jericho and Wade. I'm more than a little curious to see where things are heading between these two men and can't wait to dive in to the next book and hopefully get the answers to all my questions.
So far things are sitting happily at 4.5 stars with me and while I'd love some sexy times between these two that's just the voyeur in me and no real reflection on the amazing story that this author has been telling. I'm so looking forward to the next book because hell yeah, more Jericho and Wade! But sadly it's also the final installment in this series so it's a mixed blessing but I'll take it.
********************
An ARC of 'Darkness' was graciously provided via NetGalley by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Well that was unexpected...
We've all been waiting for the sexy times to arrive and they did...I'm betting it was seriously hot...but, I can't say for sure because damned if I didn't get the bedroom door slammed in my face...figuratively speaking.
There was one scene in this book that was definitely the lovin' and sexy times I've been waiting for these men to share. Unfortunately it seems that Jericho and Wade prefer to have their privacy and while things started on page that was not where they finished. I admit I was the tiniest bit disappointed because for me the passion and sexual tension between these two is off the charts. Needless to say I had to let my imagination take over so let me just assure you a good time was had by all in my mind.
While I may have been a little disappointed by the whole fade to black issue the rest of this book did not disappoint me at all. The main story line for this book became fairly predictable early on but that really doesn't bother me because it's the bigger picture here that's got me hooked. It's the stories playing out in the background that are why I keep coming back so willingly. The local police corruption, Jericho's efforts to sort out what really happened to his father, his sense of responsibility to his new-found siblings and their mother, Nikki. Nikki's role in some of the criminal activities going on around town and just generally anything and everything involving Wade.
Jericho's having a bit of a crisis of faith. He's a cop and he believes in the system, or at least he does until it seems like the system is failing and the innocent are looking guilty while the guilty are getting away with murder and who knows what else. While Wade's got his back at least he does as much as Jericho will allow. It would seem that Jericho's not sure of much anymore. Just like the city of old, Jericho's walls are crumbling and while he's not sure what or how, he's thinking things need to change.
Without a doubt my absolute favorite part of this story has been the relationship dynamics between Jericho and Wade. I'm more than a little curious to see where things are heading between these two men and can't wait to dive in to the next book and hopefully get the answers to all my questions.
So far things are sitting happily at 4.5 stars with me and while I'd love some sexy times between these two that's just the voyeur in me and no real reflection on the amazing story that this author has been telling. I'm so looking forward to the next book because hell yeah, more Jericho and Wade! But sadly it's also the final installment in this series so it's a mixed blessing but I'll take it.
********************
An ARC of 'Darkness' was graciously provided via NetGalley by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
March 9, 2017
“I want you to know I’m doing it for you.”
Darkness, Book 3 in the Common Law series by Kate Sherwood, cranks it up a few notches. Words, emotions, and actions *waggles eyebrows* were finally said, done, and discovered! And I loved how it all played out.
Again my favorite part and addiction here is Wade and Jay’s chemistry. Their energy is simmering heat, surprisingly sweet, smirky & fun, and full of history. You can feel the weight and tension every time they cross paths. I linger on every single one of their interactions. I re-read, fantasize, and wonder what the hell that meant every time they share the page! Haha… But Jericho actually said a lot out loud this time. He got the words and emotions out of his head finally! Words and actions that made me swoon even harder. Oh, how I love back alley loving.
“Wade was pliant at first, then quickly responsive. His fingers tightened in the sweat-soaked fabric of Jericho’s shirt, holding on as if Jericho might try to escape. Might stay away for another fifteen damn years.”
I loved the case this time too. We get a needed time out from the FBI/DEA vs. small town law BS and politics from the two previous books. The investigation and murder of a local prostitute brings Jericho’s small town into focus again. Everything from the people to their protectiveness to the everyone-knows-everyone-else’s-business comes into play in this hunt for a killer. I mean hells-bells we even meet Wade’s mama! Can Jericho solve the case before an innocent man goes to jail though? Or before another woman is killed? Maybe with a little help from Wade. A helping hand from Wade is exactly what Jay needs. :)
Go pay Mosely, Montana a visit. They have it all—corruption, murder, drugs, snakes, and one or two sexy as hell men. What’s not to love? Just watch yourself around the man in gray with the devilish grin.
Recommended. I can't wait for the next book!
August 6, 2017
Once again Jericho’s nose for something that doesn’t seem to appear quite right leads him down a path of investigation that turns out to be more complicated and not as cut and dry as everyone is led to believe. I enjoyed this book immensely purely for the murder / mystery aspect. Jericho’s relationship with Wade becomes more complicated at least there seem to be more questions about him than answers. Still playing his mind games with Jericho but in this book it seems that Jericho is more likely to accept this.
In this book we get to meet Wade’s mother briefly and this puts a lot of things into perspective as to explaining how Wade is the way he is. I always say if you want to get into the head of person and know how they tick then you have to meet the parents. We are all a product of our upbringing and meeting Wade’s mum explains a lot about Wade. However, there has been a murder and town and once again the shadow over Wade raises its ugly head once more. Is he involved? If yes, to what extent? As in the previous books the questions just keep on coming. But that’s OK as it drives the reader on. Will we get the answers we need about Wade in the last book or will we be still left guessing? Wade is obviously involved in the criminal network in town but is he prepared to give that up to be with Jericho?
In this book Wade’s and Jericho’s relationship seems to move forward in as far as Jericho can’t deny himself anymore that Wade is who he wants. Paradox is that Wade stands against everything that Jericho represents in law enforcement. Two guys on opposite ends of the scale but they know each other inside out.I love the way Wade explains things that you can never define things as being black or white, right or wrong, it’s something all in between and never cut and dry “It’s just broken” in his own words. Jericho can see this but it doesn’t make his life easier as a police officer who is bound by living by the rules or law. But what happens when the laws are wrong leading to the wrong person being arrested? This we learn through the investigation when Jericho’s instinct tells him something different to what is going down.
Once again there are no full on sex scenes or erotica but we see the relationship between Wade and Jericho coming closer together and maybe, just maybe, in the final book we might get some kind of closure on this relationship that isn’t a relationship. At least Jericho now has a pretty good idea of what happened to his father but as his father was an extremely abusive man then maybe it was only ever what he deserved anyway. Nothing can be proved or confirmed and after Wade teaches us that nothing is black and white then Jericho accepts this too. We can see in this book the influence that Wade has over Jericho but also vice versa.
I’m really enjoying these books for the plot and story line. They are well written and have me invested which means they have kept my interest all the way. So I’m looking forward to the last and final book to see if we get closer to seeing their relationship taking on some form of normality rather than the cat and mouse game it currently is which has been a fascinating dynamic between two characters to read.
In this book we get to meet Wade’s mother briefly and this puts a lot of things into perspective as to explaining how Wade is the way he is. I always say if you want to get into the head of person and know how they tick then you have to meet the parents. We are all a product of our upbringing and meeting Wade’s mum explains a lot about Wade. However, there has been a murder and town and once again the shadow over Wade raises its ugly head once more. Is he involved? If yes, to what extent? As in the previous books the questions just keep on coming. But that’s OK as it drives the reader on. Will we get the answers we need about Wade in the last book or will we be still left guessing? Wade is obviously involved in the criminal network in town but is he prepared to give that up to be with Jericho?
In this book Wade’s and Jericho’s relationship seems to move forward in as far as Jericho can’t deny himself anymore that Wade is who he wants. Paradox is that Wade stands against everything that Jericho represents in law enforcement. Two guys on opposite ends of the scale but they know each other inside out.I love the way Wade explains things that you can never define things as being black or white, right or wrong, it’s something all in between and never cut and dry “It’s just broken” in his own words. Jericho can see this but it doesn’t make his life easier as a police officer who is bound by living by the rules or law. But what happens when the laws are wrong leading to the wrong person being arrested? This we learn through the investigation when Jericho’s instinct tells him something different to what is going down.
Once again there are no full on sex scenes or erotica but we see the relationship between Wade and Jericho coming closer together and maybe, just maybe, in the final book we might get some kind of closure on this relationship that isn’t a relationship. At least Jericho now has a pretty good idea of what happened to his father but as his father was an extremely abusive man then maybe it was only ever what he deserved anyway. Nothing can be proved or confirmed and after Wade teaches us that nothing is black and white then Jericho accepts this too. We can see in this book the influence that Wade has over Jericho but also vice versa.
I’m really enjoying these books for the plot and story line. They are well written and have me invested which means they have kept my interest all the way. So I’m looking forward to the last and final book to see if we get closer to seeing their relationship taking on some form of normality rather than the cat and mouse game it currently is which has been a fascinating dynamic between two characters to read.
March 1, 2017
More insight and a crisis of conscience
Darkness employs roughly the same format as the previous two books in the Common Law series. A single crime investigation drives the bulk of the plot, while the unresolved conflicts from the past books continue their arc. Darkness thrusts the reader immediately into the action and the pace never slows throughout the course of the book. I found this more reminiscent of the first novella. It drew me in and kept my attention fixated on the story.
The crime itself was interesting and was different than those in the last two books. There’s no chance of monotony in this series, especially within the law enforcement and investigation aspects. Previously unknown connections are revealed and unexpected alliances formed. The third book also exposes more depth in the primary and secondary characters, drawing me further into the story. I really liked how the relationship between Wade and Jericho developed in Darkness. Their slow-burn, second chance romance arcs across the series, but enough progression happens in each novella that I am never left frustrated. I’ll admit I was disappointed with the fade to black scene given how long feelings have simmered between these two. I prepared for fireworks, only to have it rained out.
Once again the writing is fluid and reads very quickly. The dialogue felt more comfortable in this book and the banter further exposed Jericho’s witty, sardonic outlook. Darkness examined additional aspects of police work and the effects on Jericho and others on the force. It specifically addressed law enforcement within a small town and how the residents’ connections and histories with one another adds gray areas to policing. These tensions culminate in a crisis of conscience for Jericho, creating an exciting development in the storyline.
I’m really loving this series. I enjoy how each book feels complete in and of itself, yet the plotlines connecting the novellas keep me invested. The chemistry and tension continues to crackle between Wade and Jericho, and I’m eager to see how that progresses in the final book. Up until this point, the relationship was the main driving force in this series for me. However, after Darkness, I find myself drawn to Jericho as an individual character. I really liked that he continues to develop throughout the series, and am interested in how it will all turn out for him.
Reviewed by Annie from Alpha Book Club
Darkness employs roughly the same format as the previous two books in the Common Law series. A single crime investigation drives the bulk of the plot, while the unresolved conflicts from the past books continue their arc. Darkness thrusts the reader immediately into the action and the pace never slows throughout the course of the book. I found this more reminiscent of the first novella. It drew me in and kept my attention fixated on the story.
The crime itself was interesting and was different than those in the last two books. There’s no chance of monotony in this series, especially within the law enforcement and investigation aspects. Previously unknown connections are revealed and unexpected alliances formed. The third book also exposes more depth in the primary and secondary characters, drawing me further into the story. I really liked how the relationship between Wade and Jericho developed in Darkness. Their slow-burn, second chance romance arcs across the series, but enough progression happens in each novella that I am never left frustrated. I’ll admit I was disappointed with the fade to black scene given how long feelings have simmered between these two. I prepared for fireworks, only to have it rained out.
Once again the writing is fluid and reads very quickly. The dialogue felt more comfortable in this book and the banter further exposed Jericho’s witty, sardonic outlook. Darkness examined additional aspects of police work and the effects on Jericho and others on the force. It specifically addressed law enforcement within a small town and how the residents’ connections and histories with one another adds gray areas to policing. These tensions culminate in a crisis of conscience for Jericho, creating an exciting development in the storyline.
I’m really loving this series. I enjoy how each book feels complete in and of itself, yet the plotlines connecting the novellas keep me invested. The chemistry and tension continues to crackle between Wade and Jericho, and I’m eager to see how that progresses in the final book. Up until this point, the relationship was the main driving force in this series for me. However, after Darkness, I find myself drawn to Jericho as an individual character. I really liked that he continues to develop throughout the series, and am interested in how it will all turn out for him.
Reviewed by Annie from Alpha Book Club
March 2, 2017
GRRRRRRR...... My frustration is so out of here with this series. I might have blue balls reading this series. You know what I hate more then no sex in my books, I hate FADE TO BLACK SEX. I'm not one to need the sex, the romance might suffice enough for me, but the motherf***** UST has been off the rails so far. Goodness, I made a promise to myself if it isn't any on page sex in the next book then Sherwood and I are done. I can't keep up with the frustration levels that she gives me.
Book three picks up right along with the events from the previous two books with the same shady characters, crimes, Alphabet agencies around, and Wade Granger. I can't wait to dive into the last book, because I hope my thoughts about him are proved true. Jericho acted really green during certain scenes in this book. My frustration with him almost costing the case was small compared to my reaction to the fade to black action. I knew Will was innocent, there was no freaking way he did it.
Jericho has finally pieced information together surrounding his father's death. He has come to the realization about his career and his feelings for Wade. Wade who bothers me with his smarmy face and kindness at times!! Ugh, I totally wanted to strangle both of them. I liked the case alot, it was interesting enough, but I do feel like it wasn't answered in the how. I know who the killer was, but I wanted it laid out, and it kinda ended abruptly on that front.
Despite my rage and feelings, it was still a good story, and I enjoyed seeing these together. Hopefully by next book I've read enough smut to last me over while reading this. Another good installment of the Common Law Series. A definite recommend.
February 18, 2017
Darkness is the third installment of the Common Law series featuring intrepid cop, Jericho Crewe, back in his small hometown of Montana where nothing is easy whether it is his cases or his relationships.
The Common Law series really must be read in order as it flows one book into the next.
Jericho is coming to realize that his life has gone a new direction that won't allow him to just cut ties again and head back to his homicide work in LA. For now, he's under sheriff work of helping his friend Kay, the county sheriff root out corruption and work local crime while still figuring out his dad's murder keeps him busy if not fulfilled. There is also that niggling itch of attraction and need between him and the enigmatic Wade Granger who works the other side of the law.
Jericho is almost relieved to be given a homicide case involving the death of a prostitute until his cut and dry case gets troubling real fast. And is it bad of him to be glad that for once, Wade seems to have nothing to do with it? But others are involved and Jericho is faced with a tough dilemma that makes him question what he believes about his work as an officer of the law and justice.
In the meantime, he also looks hard at what he knows has always been there between him and Wade. He wants Wade, but how can it be possible when they stand on two sides of the law? For the present, he'll take what he can get even if it puts his career in jeopardy.
Yes, things are heating up between Jericho and Wade even as Jericho must face some tough truths and a difficult moral dilemma from his murder investigation. Each installment has me more enamored with Jericho than ever. I enjoy the mysteries with each book, but it is being along with Jericho as he faces trouble at work, his mixed up relations, and his even more complicated relationship with childhood friend and lover.
The overall series arc moves forward with certain reveals and threads tied up, but it is obvious that things are coming to a head. I can't wait to see what happens in the final book.
Those who appreciate a slow-build plot and romance in an m/m romantic suspense should definitely take a look at this series.
My thanks to Riptide Publishing for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
The Common Law series really must be read in order as it flows one book into the next.
Jericho is coming to realize that his life has gone a new direction that won't allow him to just cut ties again and head back to his homicide work in LA. For now, he's under sheriff work of helping his friend Kay, the county sheriff root out corruption and work local crime while still figuring out his dad's murder keeps him busy if not fulfilled. There is also that niggling itch of attraction and need between him and the enigmatic Wade Granger who works the other side of the law.
Jericho is almost relieved to be given a homicide case involving the death of a prostitute until his cut and dry case gets troubling real fast. And is it bad of him to be glad that for once, Wade seems to have nothing to do with it? But others are involved and Jericho is faced with a tough dilemma that makes him question what he believes about his work as an officer of the law and justice.
In the meantime, he also looks hard at what he knows has always been there between him and Wade. He wants Wade, but how can it be possible when they stand on two sides of the law? For the present, he'll take what he can get even if it puts his career in jeopardy.
Yes, things are heating up between Jericho and Wade even as Jericho must face some tough truths and a difficult moral dilemma from his murder investigation. Each installment has me more enamored with Jericho than ever. I enjoy the mysteries with each book, but it is being along with Jericho as he faces trouble at work, his mixed up relations, and his even more complicated relationship with childhood friend and lover.
The overall series arc moves forward with certain reveals and threads tied up, but it is obvious that things are coming to a head. I can't wait to see what happens in the final book.
Those who appreciate a slow-build plot and romance in an m/m romantic suspense should definitely take a look at this series.
My thanks to Riptide Publishing for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 8, 2017
4.25 stars
Another exciting addition ... bring on book #4!!
Another exciting addition ... bring on book #4!!
March 8, 2017
This would be a 5 star series if there was just a little bit of steam. It has everything else. Loved it. 4.5 stars
March 6, 2017
My Review:
Gah, I love this series so, so much. There's just something about an author who can take an impossible situation with characters who may (Jericho) or may not (Wade) be hero material and manages to make it work. And you should know right now that this is a series that you should read in order. The four books (this is number 3) follow the same couple as they have a second chance at embracing their love.
Wade and Jericho were high school lovers, but since then they went completely different directions in life. Jericho is a cop. Wade is a criminal. But despite their differences when Wade comes back to town, they still have incredible chemistry. The thing is...now acting on that attraction could have devastating effects on both their lives. It's a great series...omg, talk about slow burn. I love it so, so much.
Each book in the series features a different crime as the focus that Jericho is investigating. With Wade being so in touch with the criminal element in town, he usually comes to aid Jericho at some point. And despite their need to stay away, their relationship is growing and deepening with each book. I love that.
I have no real clue how the author is going to conclude this all. I have ideas, but haven't figured out a way for this all to play out so that it works out for everyone. Because the stories are not just about Wade and Jericho. There's also the sheriff (Kayla?) that Jericho came back to work for. There's Jericho's half-siblings and their mother who's mixed up in all kinds of bad things. Then there's also this town where they've both grown up. They each have commitments there. I'll admit, I'm kind of biting my nails, but I can't wait to read the final installment in the series.
It's simply been an amazing series that despite the lack of heat, has been filled with a slow burn and sexual suspense that I've loved every step of the way. I love both these characters and the flashes of vulnerabilities that each of them show throughout the series. Just so good!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
Gah, I love this series so, so much. There's just something about an author who can take an impossible situation with characters who may (Jericho) or may not (Wade) be hero material and manages to make it work. And you should know right now that this is a series that you should read in order. The four books (this is number 3) follow the same couple as they have a second chance at embracing their love.
Wade and Jericho were high school lovers, but since then they went completely different directions in life. Jericho is a cop. Wade is a criminal. But despite their differences when Wade comes back to town, they still have incredible chemistry. The thing is...now acting on that attraction could have devastating effects on both their lives. It's a great series...omg, talk about slow burn. I love it so, so much.
Each book in the series features a different crime as the focus that Jericho is investigating. With Wade being so in touch with the criminal element in town, he usually comes to aid Jericho at some point. And despite their need to stay away, their relationship is growing and deepening with each book. I love that.
I have no real clue how the author is going to conclude this all. I have ideas, but haven't figured out a way for this all to play out so that it works out for everyone. Because the stories are not just about Wade and Jericho. There's also the sheriff (Kayla?) that Jericho came back to work for. There's Jericho's half-siblings and their mother who's mixed up in all kinds of bad things. Then there's also this town where they've both grown up. They each have commitments there. I'll admit, I'm kind of biting my nails, but I can't wait to read the final installment in the series.
It's simply been an amazing series that despite the lack of heat, has been filled with a slow burn and sexual suspense that I've loved every step of the way. I love both these characters and the flashes of vulnerabilities that each of them show throughout the series. Just so good!
I received a complimentary copy of this book in return for an honest review.
February 5, 2017
Darkness is the third book in Kate Sherwood's Common Law series. I would probably recommend reading all of the books in order, so you can better get to know the characters. Each book is about the same group of characters, but dealing with a new problem, and also some continued storylines from the previous books.
When we left off in book #2 things were starting to heat up between Jericho and Wade. In this book Jericho really starts to give in the his attraction to Wade. After so much buildup for the two main characters to "get together", I felt a little underwhelmed because it was a fade to black kind of love scene. Maybe I'm a creeper, or just really enjoy my steamy scenes, but I was so disappointed! After waiting and waiting for something to happen for it to be a fade to black was a bummer. BUT that being said, I really did enjoy the rest of this book.
Wade was a little less mysterious in this one and started to show his true feelings more. He even helps Jericho out more than once. There is a lot left hanging at the end of this book, so I'm anxious to read book 4 to see how everything is wrapped up. I don't want to give too much away so I will leave it at that. Jericho did get a bit of closure on his father's murder in this one. The end of Darkness leaves you thinking that's for sure.
* I received an ARC of this title via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. *
When we left off in book #2 things were starting to heat up between Jericho and Wade. In this book Jericho really starts to give in the his attraction to Wade. After so much buildup for the two main characters to "get together", I felt a little underwhelmed because it was a fade to black kind of love scene. Maybe I'm a creeper, or just really enjoy my steamy scenes, but I was so disappointed! After waiting and waiting for something to happen for it to be a fade to black was a bummer. BUT that being said, I really did enjoy the rest of this book.
Wade was a little less mysterious in this one and started to show his true feelings more. He even helps Jericho out more than once. There is a lot left hanging at the end of this book, so I'm anxious to read book 4 to see how everything is wrapped up. I don't want to give too much away so I will leave it at that. Jericho did get a bit of closure on his father's murder in this one. The end of Darkness leaves you thinking that's for sure.
* I received an ARC of this title via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. *
March 11, 2017
Very much enjoyed this episode.
Twisty and sexy. Looking forward to the final instalment.
Twisty and sexy. Looking forward to the final instalment.
May 2, 2017
3.5 stars for overall book
0.5 star for cover
Would have been 4 stars for book, but knocked half a point for scene at 69%. Was truly frustrating. Oh well. The book was still good. :)
0.5 star for cover
Would have been 4 stars for book, but knocked half a point for scene at 69%. Was truly frustrating. Oh well. The book was still good. :)
March 3, 2017
I was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
I love this dark and gritty series so much! The third book brings us back to Mosely, Montana where Jericho Crewe is now working as an under sheriff. This time, while the problems of smuggling, drugs and organised crime still swirl around the town, Jericho’s focus is on a simple homicide.
This is the first story in the series with a contained story arc. This murder mystery has more depth and complexity than a stand alone novel could ever manage. The wonderfully complex characters were established in the first two books - the complicated relationships and dubious morality aren’t new but they are expanded on in this third story.
For the first time, we see moments of actual intimacy between Jericho and Wade. I wouldn’t go so far as to describe it as romance but there are flickers of vulnerability that humanise both the cop and the criminal. The chemistry between these two continues to build and deepen even as the barriers that keep them apart remain in place.
This story focuses less on the FBI investigation and more on Jericho and Kay. Kay gets more and more interesting as the story progresses and I’m really starting to love her. Similarly, Nikki and the bikers take a backseat this time as the murder investigation consumes Jericho’s time and attention.
In this third book, there are some important revelations that push the main series storylines forward, but they aren’t central. I really enjoyed the murder mystery interlude that allows for character and relationship development without complicating the story any further.
This is such a brilliant series and I can’t recommend it highly enough!
I love this dark and gritty series so much! The third book brings us back to Mosely, Montana where Jericho Crewe is now working as an under sheriff. This time, while the problems of smuggling, drugs and organised crime still swirl around the town, Jericho’s focus is on a simple homicide.
This is the first story in the series with a contained story arc. This murder mystery has more depth and complexity than a stand alone novel could ever manage. The wonderfully complex characters were established in the first two books - the complicated relationships and dubious morality aren’t new but they are expanded on in this third story.
For the first time, we see moments of actual intimacy between Jericho and Wade. I wouldn’t go so far as to describe it as romance but there are flickers of vulnerability that humanise both the cop and the criminal. The chemistry between these two continues to build and deepen even as the barriers that keep them apart remain in place.
This story focuses less on the FBI investigation and more on Jericho and Kay. Kay gets more and more interesting as the story progresses and I’m really starting to love her. Similarly, Nikki and the bikers take a backseat this time as the murder investigation consumes Jericho’s time and attention.
In this third book, there are some important revelations that push the main series storylines forward, but they aren’t central. I really enjoyed the murder mystery interlude that allows for character and relationship development without complicating the story any further.
This is such a brilliant series and I can’t recommend it highly enough!
March 19, 2017
3.5 stars
March 7, 2017
Things are heating up as the lines between cops and criminals starts to blur. Is Wade really the bad guy? Is he undercover? What exactly is his story? I kept turning pages to find out the answers! I'm just as confused and turned on as Jericho is by the sexy mysterious Mr. Granger. One thing is becoming clearer - he has feelings for Jericho. Actions speak louder than words here, and though it still doesn't seem these two can have an actual relationship, given their respective professions, it seems that Wade is on Jericho's side as more things unfold in this installment. I can't wait to jump into book 4 to see how it all plays out!
Read
March 6, 2017The third book in the series but probably my favorite. You know the characters so well already that it allows more mystery, intrigue, and dare I say...romance? I'd give this one more of a 4.5 for rating!
February 14, 2017
More Wade and Jericho, happy days. I've been glomming these books the minute I get my grubby little hands on them.
I enjoyed the mystery in this one, what seemed like a clear-cut case was anything but and I loved that Wade stopped Jericho from doing something that he likely would ave regretted forever. Jericho finally gets closure on his dad's death and it's a big relief to him that it wasn't what he most feared.
The sexual tension between Jericho and Wade is still off the charts hot but surprisingly the steam levels are low, fade to black. Other threads like the corruption in the police station are still dangling, so off to book 4 for some resolution.
*Received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
I enjoyed the mystery in this one, what seemed like a clear-cut case was anything but and I loved that Wade stopped Jericho from doing something that he likely would ave regretted forever. Jericho finally gets closure on his dad's death and it's a big relief to him that it wasn't what he most feared.
The sexual tension between Jericho and Wade is still off the charts hot but surprisingly the steam levels are low, fade to black. Other threads like the corruption in the police station are still dangling, so off to book 4 for some resolution.
*Received from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
February 18, 2020
For the entire first half of the book I entertainted the thought that this instalment would raise the bar much higher than the previous one could due to its ridiculously convoluted plot about arson and the fabricated drug-peddling triangle between Wade, the bikers club and the Chicago mob; for once, there was solid suspense, decent on-page sleuthing about the newest criminal misdeed Mosely is home to, a very welcome respite from the DEA and FBI bashing upon which the two first books relied so much, and no omnipresent Wade as a pervasively nefarious influence to keep the pot boiling. The balance between the romantic intrigue and the various subplots was beautifully managed here, until the identity of the killer is revealed and his motivations come to the fore. Then things took a tragic turn for the worse; each and every side of the serial killer plotline ventures far into moronic territory, the villain behaving as a raving lunatic whose actual agenda makes scarcely more sense than Jay's return to his white hat preposterous tactics, so much so that the actual, rather cliché, resolution to this narrative arc comes out of the blue with nary an ounce of the required foreshadowing; the chase after the corrupt officer, on which so much agonizing and wordy brainstorming had taken place, no less unexpectedly ends, and does so on such subdued fashion that it could have happened offpage as well, for what little dramatic closure the reader is offered therewith; and what should have been the culmination of the series thus far, viz. the moment when Jay lets go of his assumptions and does embrace without any reservation his love for Wade, peters out into a fade to black moment, with the, coy more than tantalizing, mention of a condom and pack of lube (this romantic scene should have packed a lot of punch, yet it ends on a most underwhelming note with the following bit of purple prose: "and for a while, there in the forest, with no one to watch or judge them, Jericho was more than happy to give in to that temptation. It was Wade, and it was Jericho, and they were together—all was right with the world"). Another letdown of high calibre was the resolution of the series' longest pending plot point, viz. Eli's murder, the agency of which comes to Jay like an afterthought at the very end of the book; for sure it is handled quite shrewdly, yet no amount of clever writing can beat off into submission the fact that Mrs Sherwood eschews proving a rationale for this big reveal, apart from the transparently obfuscatory statement that it is "inexcusable that it had taken him [viz. Jay] so long to figure it out. Sexist, probably, assuming that a woman (...) couldn’t have committed the crime. But once he’d gotten past whatever the mental barriers had been, it all made sense". Too many details still do no cohere even after this instalment, whether they relate to the plotting (the dead cat relates but very loosely to the murder of its owner, the harlot who happens to be very chummy with Wade's mother; we never get told how the killer planted the handprints of his designated false perpetrator on the bloody weapon or in which respect the victim's notebook needed to be destroyed or he managed to have his scapegoat discover the dead body and incriminate himself, to name but a few howlers) or to the character and universe building; on this respect, Kayla's psychology still flip flops a lot, and irrationally, so between concerned friend and harsh boss, with the fresh concern for her reelection, a challenger within her precinct being conjured out of thin air, to add yet less cogency to her mindset; Jay and Wade still have no heart to heart chat about the nature and specifics of their relationship before becoming an unit and having anal sex in the very dissapointing scene alluded to above; the reader still remains wholly in the dark as to the specifics of Wade's life, including something so basic as his actual dwelling, not to mention the rationale behind the shocking act he performs as a token of love for Jay, something which I am not sure anybody with a modicum of brains will condone in anything resembling Jay's and Kayla's quiet validation qua the least bad option. Last but not least, I felt the writing to be rather less articulate and much more hackneyed than previously, especially whenever Jay's internal monologue is concerned; let two samples suffice to back up this claim:
"Jericho had the discipline to keep an open mind, and he honestly hoped he’d find evidence to cast suspicion away from Will Archer. But he’d investigated a lot of murders, and they were rarely all that complicated, once you got the basics figured out. When there was an obvious suspect, that was usually the person who’d committed the crime.
It didn’t matter that Will was one of Mr. Appleby’s protégés, just as Jericho had been. Didn’t matter that he’d gone to school with Jericho and always seemed like a good guy. Didn’t matter that the accident that had injured his brain hadn’t been his fault. If he’d done this to Lorraine, he would have to be caught and punished. The town would have to be protected. That was Jericho’s job, and he would do it, no matter what."
"He didn’t really expect an answer, and Hockley didn’t give him one. So he headed out the door. Maybe he’d been set up and manipulated. Again. Maybe he should just sit back and get used to it, since it seemed as if everyone else in the damn universe was smarter than he was and could plan everything out far into the future.
He couldn’t worry about that stuff right then. He had a goal, a mission, and he needed to ensure its success. He’d worry about the rest of it when he was back at base. Or never. Maybe he’d worry about it never. That had a nice ring to it.)
In a nutshell, both the mystery aspects and the romantic element underperformed, while I never got the feeling that I actually knew Wade and the extent of his affection towards Jay. Two weak and rather pallid stars.
"Jericho had the discipline to keep an open mind, and he honestly hoped he’d find evidence to cast suspicion away from Will Archer. But he’d investigated a lot of murders, and they were rarely all that complicated, once you got the basics figured out. When there was an obvious suspect, that was usually the person who’d committed the crime.
It didn’t matter that Will was one of Mr. Appleby’s protégés, just as Jericho had been. Didn’t matter that he’d gone to school with Jericho and always seemed like a good guy. Didn’t matter that the accident that had injured his brain hadn’t been his fault. If he’d done this to Lorraine, he would have to be caught and punished. The town would have to be protected. That was Jericho’s job, and he would do it, no matter what."
"He didn’t really expect an answer, and Hockley didn’t give him one. So he headed out the door. Maybe he’d been set up and manipulated. Again. Maybe he should just sit back and get used to it, since it seemed as if everyone else in the damn universe was smarter than he was and could plan everything out far into the future.
He couldn’t worry about that stuff right then. He had a goal, a mission, and he needed to ensure its success. He’d worry about the rest of it when he was back at base. Or never. Maybe he’d worry about it never. That had a nice ring to it.)
In a nutshell, both the mystery aspects and the romantic element underperformed, while I never got the feeling that I actually knew Wade and the extent of his affection towards Jay. Two weak and rather pallid stars.
November 10, 2019
3.5 That was unexpected
Not quite where I thought things would go. Jericho was a bit of a douche at times and I’m still not sure why Wade even wants him. There’s a little sexy time but very quick and not very explicit. I’m not feeling this story arc like I hoped to. Maybe the last book will make it up.
Not quite where I thought things would go. Jericho was a bit of a douche at times and I’m still not sure why Wade even wants him. There’s a little sexy time but very quick and not very explicit. I’m not feeling this story arc like I hoped to. Maybe the last book will make it up.
March 6, 2017
4.5 stars. My favourite of the series so far.
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