The Question of Us

Fisher & Church #2

by Jay Hogan

The nightmare is over. Or so I keep telling myself. Bruised and battered, we'd narrowly escaped with our lives. I should be grateful. Grateful that my captors are in custody. Grateful that the chilling, roller-coaster of events, actually brought Nick and I closer. Grateful that we’ve finally taken a step toward something more than friendship. And I am, grateful.

But life isn’t simple.
Relationships need work.
And peace of mind is elusive in the face of unbearable guilt.

Because I’m the one who unravelled the puzzle. The one responsible for sending a young man back to a life he thought he’d escaped forever. Until I know he’s safe; until I’ve done everything I can to fix what happened, there will be no pretending I’ve done my bit. No leaving it up to the authorities. I can’t forget and move on. Not in my job. Not in my life. And certainly not in my fledgling romance with Nick Fisher who stormed into my heart with a truckload of his own issues.

The fate of a young man isn't the only thing at stake. The quest for truth will push us to our limits. And the biggest question of all—do Nick and I have what it takes to survive the answers.

Genres: M M Romance, Romance, Mystery, Contemporary, Crime, Grief, LGBT

347 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 4, 2025

About the author

Heart, humour and keeping it real.

I am a two times Lambda Literary Award Finalist—2020 for DIGGING DEEP and 2024 for THE ART OF HUSBANDRY.
I have also received the The Romance Writers of New Zealand 2021 Romance Book of The Year Award for OFF BALANCE.
I am a New Zealand author writing mm romance and romantic suspense primarily set in my home country. I write character driven romances with lots of humour, a good dose of reality, and a splash of angst. I’ve travelled extensively, lived in many countries, and in a past life I worked as a critical care nurse and a counsellor. My family love and somehow put up with me, and my gorgeous Cocker Spaniel thinks I spend too much time at my desk but keeps my feet warm.

Join my reader group to keep up with my news.
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You can also find me at:
https://www.jayhoganauthor.com where you can buy my audiobooks direct at a discount.

https://www.facebook.com/JayHoganAuthor

Reviews

[Dani · Rating 4 out of 5]

The return of Nick and Mads was such an enjoyable experience and I loved how the tension of book one continued with the larger plot, even though it was a stretch to believe these guys could genuinely pull off what they did 😂

It's so refreshing to see older MCs actually acting their age though and being totally cool with the fact that they are older now and that certain things just aren't as important anymore e.g. the existence of body hair, wrinkles and softer body parts!! That said Nick and Mads have their first spicy scenes in this book and they don't disappoint! I love how they're not trying to act younger than they are which seems to be the case with a lot of the older MCs I've read. These two are who they are and their life experiences make them really engaging characters. I also love how they have to figure out how to be in a relationship together as two men who both are steadfast in their own way of living - their arguments are pretty brutal when neither wants to concede ground to the others way of thinking.

I also really like how Davis's memory is handled. Rather than shutting him away in a box because Nick is in a new relationship now, Davis is talked about. Nick and Davis's life is blended into Nick and Mads's life and it just works because they're wise enough and experienced enough to know that just because you had a significant relationship with someone else previously, it doesn't mean you can't have an equally significant relationship with someone new unless you erase the previous partner. I think Mads is really admirable for the way he totally understands Nick's feelings and loss and is totally comfortable with the memory of Davis being an important thing. The occasional insecurities he has when comparing himself to Davis are so relatable and just make him feel more like a real person. Nick's guilt over moving on was relatable too and I really liked the decisions that he made.

The subterfuge to infiltrate the big bad's situation was really entertaining, even though it was high stakes - maybe even higher than book one. I loved their makeovers so much but I was definitely getting seriously grossed out every time Mads's ponytail wig was mentioned!! Samuel having a meltdown at their behaviour was totally understandable - I loved seeing Nick knocked down a peg or two and Mads being reprimanded😂

I'm really excited for book three and to see how Nick and Mads progress with their relationship!

*****
I received an ARC of this book from Neon Rainbow, and this is my honest review

[Cadiva · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good lawd that was good, and a bit of a head rush as well!

It follows directly on from book one, so you really do need to have read that one to have an idea of just what's going on with Madigan Church and Nick Fisher, and the investigation they stumbled upon in the previous.

Things are ridiculously complicated between the two men, rightly so, but it does mean that at times you want to just lock them in a room and tell them to get over themselves!

Still, it makes the hard work they do all the more worth it as they carry on trying to find out what happened to the young man they inadvertently sent back to his abuser.

While the plot strays onto the edge of potential eye rolling categories, it never quite reaches it, because of the skill in Jay's plotting. Yes things get a bit hairy, but it's still something you could see two amateur investigators with a strong sense for justice stumbling their way into and being too pig-headed to retreat.

We also get to spend more time with Mads' fabulous assistant Gazza as he takes centre stage in their hair-brained scheme to get access to Lee and see if he's under any duress (no spoilers, but obviously yes!) and find out if they can get him out.

The tension ramps up the closer to the final quarter of the book, while Nick and Mads navigate feelings they're not sure how to deal with, residual guilt, age related fears and all the other baggage that comes with being mature men in their early 50s.

And praise be to Jay for writing about these two silver foxes in the first place. It's such a refreshing change reading about men my own age getting a chance of making a life together, especially after Nick's losses.

While they do occasionally need a thump (see previous about the room), they also do communicated, even if they're generally forced to do so by other peoples' pointed observations rather than that they want to.

Ultimately though, this book is thrilling suspense first, the romance is important and is wrapped closely together with the main plot, but it's not the main narrative driver.

I love what Jay's done with this series so far and I am really hoping we get more.

#ARC kindly received from the author via Neon Rainbow ARC reviews, I am voluntarily leaving a review

[Ariana (mostly offline) · Rating 5 out of 5]

4,5 stars

I think I can safely say that for me Jay Hogan is the ‘queen of mature romance’.

Some of her previous books have dealt with ‘older’ MCs, and here Nick and Madigan are over 50.
But it’s the way she draws her men, the way she deals with their romance and how she manages to make them feel totally authentic and real, that does it for me.

Nick and Madigan are men who have lived a full life so far, bringing a lot of ‘back story’ into their relationship.
In book 1 it was a matter of ‘Will we give this a try?’ with some tentative kisses and feelings building slowly. This book delivers very soon on ‘more’ on the emotional part, but particularly in the bedroom.

I love the way they call each other’s BS, how they banter, and how they behave so very relatable on all levels.
Well, until you count their involvement in finding the young man who disappeared in book 1.
To call some of their behaviour ‘unwise’ is putting it mildly, and yes, you might have to suspend belief a little bit, but even then, the author makes sure to keep some realistic elements in it, so the plot doesn’t get too outlandish.

I still thoroughly enjoyed every minute of this and was totally captivated right up to the very last scene which delivers quite a twist and opens a new plotline for book 3.

Absolutely top class writing and a lot of fun!
I love these guys and am very much looking forward to see how things will pan out for them in the last book.

[Caz · Rating 4 out of 5]

B+ / 4.5 stars

The Question of Us is the second book in Jay Hogan’s Fisher & Church romantic suspense series, and it follows our two protagonists – Nick Fisher and Madigan Church – as they process the events that took place at the end of The Meaning Of You while figuring out who they are to each other and what they want from a relationship. There’s a lot of soul-searching going on in the first half of the book, and honestly, some of it feels just a tad repetitive, but things ratchet up a gear when the suspense plot kicks in properly in the second half, and we’re on a real rollercoaster ride of action and emotion as Madigan sets out to right a wrong and Nick finally comes face to face with his husband’s killers.

Note: This is a same-couple series with an overarching plotline, so you need to read The Meaning of You first. There are spoilers for that book in this review.

Three weeks after Madigan was kidnapped by the people responsible for the death of Nick’s husband, the two of them are recovering both physically and mentally from their ordeal. Nick has practically moved in with Madigan, but although they’ve spent every night together they’ve done nothing more than sleep in the same bed and haven’t really talked about where they see their relationship – if, indeed it is one – going. And Madigan is starting to feel frustrated; not just sexually (although he is that), but also with Nick’s reluctance to really talk about what they are to one another. He’s also struggling with a shedload of guilt over the fact that he got away from the kidnappers while the young man held captive alongside him, Lee Shepherd, did not – and as if that isn’t bad enough, he feels responsible for the fact that Lee was taken in the first place because he, Madigan, had inadvertantly helped Lee’s abuser to find him. Mads desperately wants to make sure Lee is alright – the police’s hands are tied because Lee isn’t talking and there’s no evidence to support Mads and Nick’s theory that he was on the run from his abuser - but he doesn’t know what to do. Between the guilt and what is starting to feel like Nick withdrawing from him, the normally equable Madigan is finding it hard to excercise his usual degree of patience – and when Nick suddenly starts expressing doubts about things Mads thought they’d agreed on (about Lee, about what led to Davis’ death, about what they should do now), it’s too much. Nick hasn’t talked to him about any of it and having his opinions dismissed with a jibe at his lack of objectivity and a seeming disregard for his need for closure has Madigan making a snap decision. He’s had enough of Nick making it all about him and now he’s going to do what he needs to do to get some peace of mind – go to Melbourne and somehow find a way to make sure that Lee is okay and maybe even help him get away again.

This early-book spat about Madigan’s plans to look for Lee serves as a reminder that these are two mature guys who have been around the block a few times and carry a lot of baggage, especially Nick, who is still grieving the loss of his husband and is struggling to let Madigan past the thick emotional walls he built to protect himself after his mother left when he was barely eight-years-old. As was the case in the previous book, Nick can be hard to like because he’s so prickly and stubborn and doesn’t always treat Madigan with the same consideration Madigan shows him, although here, Nick at least admits that his stubbornness is partly due to his fear of losing another person he cares deeply for. And to his credit, he realises that he needs to be the one to fix things this time; he can’t just sit back and wait for Madigan to reach out like he’s done every other time – Nick has to pull up his big-boy pants and use his words.

Madigan isn’t completely free of blame for their argument, though. Like Nick, he has plenty of unhealthy established patterns of behaviour, and he allows his old, deep-rooted insecurities about not being enough to take hold when he feels Nick isn’t being supportive and is trying to put distance between them. But the ball is in Nick’s court now; Madigan has been very clear about what he needs – honest, open communication – and all he can do now is hope that he’s come to mean enough to Nick for him to want to learn to stop falling back back on old habits and let him in to his life and his heart.

Once Nick and Madigan have properly talked – with the understanding that the talking is something that needs to continue – the two of them and Gazza (Madigan’s apprentice/friend, who is struggling with his own guilt over what happened in the previous book) start working out what they’re going to do when they get to Melbourne – and realise they don’t have a lot to go on. They know that Lee is likely living with Marty Klein, a wealthy and well-known figure on the Australian horse racing scene, and they know Klein had spent two years tracking Lee down and the lengths he’d gone to to get him back. Clearly, Klein is meticulous, ruthless, and dangerous – and getting to Lee is going to be difficult, to say the least. The three men decide to head the town nearest to Klein’s stud farm and discreetly ask around – and play it by ear from there. (I admit I had to side-eye this a bit - on the one hand these guys aren’t law enforcement, so their not having much of a plan actually feels quite realistic, but on the other, it’s incredibly reckless of them to jump into a potentially dangerous situation for which they’re so woefully unprepared.)

The suspense plot is in the driving seat for the second part of the book, although it’s skilfully entwined with the romance as we see Nick learning how to get out of his own way and Madigan coming to trust that what and who he is are absolutely what Nick wants. Once arrived in Australia, it doesn’t take long for our heroes to realise how out of their depth they are, but with long-distance help from a furious and exasperated Samuel (Nick’s policeman brother-in-law), they come up with a scheme they hope will at least help them get eyes on Lee. It’s risky, but it’s their only chance – and the tension mounts as they realise they’ve stumbled across something much more nefarious than a ‘simple’ case of sexual and domestic abuse. As their plan begins to fall apart, and with danger and potential disaster facing them at every turn, we barrel towards a nail-biting, high-stakes climax that threatens to put an end to the future Nick and Madigan are looking forward to building before it even has a chance to begin.

I really enjoyed this one, although there were times I could happily have slapped both Nick and Madigan upside the head and locked them in a room until they actually started talking! Nick needs a strong push from Samuel to admit to what is staring him in the face; that he’ll lose Madigan if he keeps shutting down and failing to communicate, but when the pair do let their guards down, they talk openly about what they want and what they’re afraid of, and agree on the importance of keeping the channels open. This is them doing real and sometimes hard work on their relationship and I appreciated that.

I was pleased to see Gazza getting a larger role in this story – he’s a great friend to Madigan and really steps up here, prepared to put himself in the firing line to do whatever he can to help. Samuel plays an important part, too – albeit long-distance – offering useful advice and providing what little back-up he can even as he’s furious with them all for embarking on such a hare-brained scheme.

The Question of Us is superbly written with plenty of action and drama, some very steamy moments, and a lot of insight and humour. It’s a terrific follow-up to The Meaning of You, and although it seems that the trafficking storyline is concluded, Nick and Madigan’s story isn’t finished – they’ll be back next year in The Promise of Together.

[Cara · Rating 5 out of 5]

***5 stars- Jay Hogan can do no wrong***

I am just totally INTO this storyline Jay is spinning here with our complex but loveable silver foxes. This sequel was filled with romantic heat and tension, but tempered by the fact that these men are in their fifties- and carrying baggage- so the struggles that accompanied their developing romance felt very real, close-to-home and relatable. And lemme tell you- the suspense plot here- I was on the edge of my seat rooting for these idiots- the last 20% of this book was a TOTAL RIDE!

Nick and Madigan are reeling from the events of book one. Left with unanswered questions, Madigan cannot stop feeling guilty for the way the events unfolded, and can't rest until he attempts to rescue Lee, whose future is now uncertain. Nick is grappling with SO MANY THINGS- including his new feelings for Madigan, and his fear of putting him in danger (again--) complicated by the fact that this whole mess they are tangled up in hits very close to his heart because of his late husband's death.

Guys, the "suspense" piece of this book was ROCKING. I was so invested in Lee's safety, very interested in the background of the men who were controlling him, and thought that the entire "undercover" plotline was so much fun. Gazza and Samuel stole the show here- the roles they each played were just perfection. Those poor men, both of them trying to convince Nick and Mads to stop being such idiots when it comes to their feelings- and then trying to help them simply stay alive as they risk their lives to attempt to avenge Lee.

There were some damn hot moments here- I found the rounding out of this romance to be done so well. It was age-appropriate for men in their 50s, which was refreshing, but also spicy in a way that really worked for me. I mean... Madigan Delaney Church- that shower scene- HELLOOO- you naughty, naughty boy. I kicked my feet grinning happily right through every second of that, thank you very much!

I could NOT put this book down during the last bit. The suspense was awesome- I was dying to know how this all played out. I was also pleasantly surprised to witness what appears to be some developing romantic tension between two of our side characters- and the announcement of another book in the works for this world. I am VERY excited to see what is in store for this group!

Jay Hogan really hits the nail on the head every time- I am a longtime HUGE fan of hers. I am not surprised that her dive into romantic suspense is such a hit-- she knows how to write tension within a developing relationship like no one else, and combined with the mystery aspect, these books just fly by.

I cannot wait for the next one!

-ARC review- ARC provided by the author via Neon Rainbow ARC reviews. All opinions are my own.--

[Mal · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐️Oh my gosh. Just when I thought the adventure couldn’t get any more perilous… Mads and Nick sure know how to find trouble and I don’t know if Gazza is a good influence on them.

This book starts exactly where book 1 left off and boy do these two test the bounds and containment of the “settling in” period of the relationship - the chemistry is riding high and hot but so is the friction. Nick has a lot to come to terms with but so does Mads and he isn’t really into giving an inch when it comes to Nick self sabotaging and ruining a good thing. I love Gazza, he is the most mature of the three tbh, he sets them all straight with a few well placed moves.

When they go on to set things right for Lee, the real danger begins, they are really shaking a hornets nest here and they don’t realise how big it is or how deep it goes. Marty Kline isn’t someone to play with and neither is Freddy.

Making and amateur plan to rescue Lee with Samuel as their only ace in the hole what these men stumble into is simultaneously bone chilling and heartbreaking. Lee’s story that’s hinted at is appalling. The action and twists in the later half of the story are so well done, o could not see how they would find their way out of any predicament and it just kept getting worse.

That climax was spectacular but I wanted more comeuppance - so felt a bit blood thirsty with what had been done to Lee and Aaron and Gazza and Nick. I was happy to see everyone paid and it was an HEA, though I did not see that last twist coming and now o need to wait for book 3 impatiently

I would also love to read Lee and Gazza’s story 🥹 I hope we see that.

[Kaity]

Audio:
5 stars for Gary Furlong (audio can be found on Jay Hogan's website)

Book: DNF @ pg 131, aka 37%

I think I am not in the mood for these two... I was hoping that the book would be better than the first, but for some reason it's not keeping my attention, I have read at least 2 books since picking this up and I haven't had the desire to go back.

Maybe I will return to these two, but not in the near future. lol

[Chase Coe · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nick and Mads have returned! YAY!

What a welcome homecoming for these two. Jay Hogan builds such a beautiful and intriguing world in book one and that continues during book two. Nick and Mads barely survived a scary run-in (actually multiple of them) with some seriously scary dudes and now they have to deal with all of that trauma while still being on the hunt for these terrible people.

I love Jay Hogan's thoroughness. No stone is ever left unturned and the reader really gets a chance to dive in deep into this story and into this world. The writing is always top-tier.

While I definitely enjoyed the book, it read incredibly slow for me. I think I was expecting, especially after the ending of book one, that book two would really hit the ground running. It did not. In fact, my biggest issue is that I feel as if 3/4ths of the book is everyone arguing about a plan and going back and forth instead of actually taking action. Then, around the 75% mark things finally start to take off.

Regardless, this series is so intricate and detailed and lovely. Looking forward to book three!

Thank you to Jay Hogan for the ARC!

[Barb ~rede-2-read~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Currently listening to the audio. Biting my nails, incorporating the characters into my dreams, and afraid to find out what happens to the guys who went to the party. Yikes!

Update: Done. And the first thing I must say is Gary Furlong is outstanding in his narration of this story. When he cries, I just wilt. I swear it's better than watching a movie.

This story picks up where the first leaves off with Madigan feeling guilty about Lee, the young man who was "returned" to his abuser when his false identity was discovered. Of course everyone goes along with him, his partner, Nick, who is still grieving the loss of his first husband, and Gazza, Madigan's assistant who knows he can get them into the complex where the wealthy man lives via an invitation he finagles when he's undercover as a hot model at a club.

Long story short, there's lots of drama, action, suspense, danger, and more in this story and from beginning to end it's very difficult to put down. I most definitely highly recommend this and can't wait for the next, and likely last, book in the series. Hopefully it will be Gazza and Lee but the author will have to go pretty far to match the thrill of this one. If you are reading this and trying to decide, don't hesitate to pick it up.

[Joyfully Jay · Rating 3 out of 5]

A Joyfully Jay review.

3.5 stars

This book picks up after The Meaning of You and the men have a lot to reconcile. I like Nick and Madigan, two men in their 50s trying to build a relationship. Nick is a recent widower under tragic and dramatic circumstances and he’s not the most easygoing guy on the best of days. He’s a bit closed off and a bit inflexible and he wants Madigan to do all the rearranging and I do enjoy seeing them try to make a go of a relationship. Unfortunately, it’s the larger plot that doesn’t work here for me.

Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.

[Edga · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love how Jay Hogan can take a couple of auld blokes, make them as sexy as sin, and then offer a refreshing and poignant look at love later in life. Mind you, this isn't just a sweet story about two silver foxes finding one other and falling in love. It's a gripping action packed thriller in which two older guys work together, with their merry men to blow apart a sex scandal involving young men.

The development of their relationship isn't all plain sailing. Nick is still reeling from the sudden death of his husband, Davis. If you've read the first book in the series, you'll be aware that his husband was secretly working to help free these young men from sexual and domestic abuse. Also, it was in the last book that Nick met Madigan, and almost immediately, there was a palpable attraction between them. However, both are as stubborn as the other, and there is a lot of heart searching that they need to overcome before they are even close to becoming a couple.

It's Davis's actions that originally pulled them into the dangerous world of high stakes human trafficking. This plot made me so delighted that Jay has ventured back into writing crime and adventure. Her action sequences are so intense and well organised. They show that these two guys, despite their age, are more than capable of handling themselves. I loved how the dynamic between them shifted from the quiet tentative romance, at the end of the first book to a thrilling partnership, with Nick's grief fueling his determination. Mad's pigheaded, mulish, and dogged bloody minded stubbornness pushes them on to safety, with a little help from the beleaguered Samuel, Nick's brother in law, who I happen to love.

The story succeeds on so many levels. It's masterfully written, Jay (who never ceases to amaze me!), has produced a touching love story, with a tense and thrilling plot. You find yourself rooting for everyone involved, not just to succeed in their mission but to find love and happiness with one another. All the characters are well written and have a role within the story. Gazza, Lee, Aaron Samuel, and Aunt Shirley are immense! If you're looking for a book that proves love stories can be exciting and dangerous, as well as romantic and sweet, this is a must read. It isn't a standalone, by the way. It follows straight on from book one, The Question of You.

Having just finished the audible of this, I'm just blown away. Gary Furlong really is one of the best narrators out their. Gary Furlong doesn't just read the story; he performs it with a level of empathy that mirrors Jay’s writing style. If you are a fan of slow burn romances where the character growth is just as important as the plot, this audiobook is gold. Gary just brings the story/characters to life. In this case the audio version might be superior to the print version because of the sheer warmth/strength/ humour Gary brings to the story.

What an ending! I'm so happy there's going to be a third book. Sqeee 🤯🥰❤️

TW: This story features discussion of the death of a spouse who is not a main character and references to domestic and sexual abuse.

[Sara · Rating 3 out of 5]

It does seem a bit bananas that 2 people with zero crime solving experience are trying to solve crimes. lol.

[Lacie Scout Bateau · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Question of Us takes place 3 months after The Meaning of You (the first book). We rejoin Madigan the book restorer and Nick the forensic accountant. They are officially in a relationship, but it’s not perfect. If you’ll remember, Nick isn’t the easiest person to get along with, but Madigan’s attraction and feelings toward him are strong. Nick has deep feelings for Madigan as well, and he too wants it to work. But Madigan feels that Nick’s deceased husband Davis is still lingering between them. I like that Nick’s husband’s death isn’t miraculously gone. It’s still something to deal with and is a true issue in their budding relationship. Mads is respectful of Davis’s memory and trying to give Nick time.
I was really impressed with how well Jay wrote these two older men. They’re relatable, and smart, and sexy.
But this story isn’t just about two 50+ men trying to make a relationship together, it deals with another mystery that needs to be solved. This time, Gazza, Mads’ assistant joins them as they go to Australia looking for a man from the first book. The man, Lee Shepard left New Zealand in a suspicious manner. And Mads feels the need to go over to Australia to investigate the situation against the wishes of Samuel… a police detective and Davis’s brother. There are some really funny parts while the three play amateur detectives and even don disguises! And of course, they get into some serious trouble. Instead of Mads being in the middle of it this time, Gazza and Nick are. This keeps the story fresh and exciting. Hogan knows how to write suspense well, keeping the reader on the edge of their seat.
I thoroughly recommend this series. It’s exciting and fresh. These are not standalone; you must start with book one. You’ll be happy you did!

[Janette · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s finally here! The continuation of Nick & Madigan’s heart wrenching, emotional journey through grief, tragedy, and all sorts of trauma. This book picks up pretty much where Book One left off, so I highly recommend reading these in order. There are a few loose ends from that story that pick up and evolve into the main plot here, a classic clash between good and evil with more than a little mischief mixed in.

Mads & Nick’s story is about as accurate of a depiction of what it’s actually like for two guys in their 50’s to fall in love as I’ve ever read. There are things about being in this phase of life that impact their experience, and Jay Hogan’s realistic and up front about all of them. I like that it’s not simple and easy; things get messy, and there’s plenty of bickering as they work things out. But it’s balanced with plenty of warmth and understanding, and ultimately their romance is the epitome of tender.

This one doesn’t shy away from Nick’s grief or how both of them struggle with the challenge of letting Davis into their relationship. I don’t mean that Mads is his stand in or replacement, but the acknowledgement that he’ll always hold a place in Nick’s heart and be a part of what’s between them is really beautiful.

The breakout star of this book is Gazza. I 100% did not see that coming, and he has my whole heart! He’s funny, charming, witty, and oh so brave, and we see new sides to him I didn’t dream possible. I’m hopeful that we’ll get to see more of him in the future, because as much as he has my heart, it’s clear a certain someone has his. And lord help us all, that promises to be its own brand of messy.

*I voluntarily read a complimentary copy of this book*

[Showarst · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fabulous book 2!

The Question of Us by Jay Hogan is book 2 in the Fisher & Church series. I loved book 1 and have desperately been waiting for book 2. It was phenomenal. Madigan and Nick are obviously in love, but are struggling to figure out how to be in each other’s lives. Early in the book, I was angry with Nick for not opening up to Mads. However, these two actually act like adults and communicate with each other. It is refreshing to see how Mads laid it on the line and Nick listened. It did take a little nudge from his brother-in-law, but once he realized that he would lose Mads, he stepped it up. I was on the edge of my seat watching Nick, Gazza, and Mads go undercover to find out if Lee was safe with Marty or not. I could not put it down. I was anxious to see if they all would be able to get out safely. I have to say, that I am very invested in whatever is happening with Lee and Gazza. I hope that either something happens in book 3 or they get a story of their own. I highly recommend this series. Jay Hogan’s writing is so beautiful and the story has just the right amount of mystery, spice, angst, and romance. I cannot wait for book 3!

I received an ARC from the author and Neon Rainbow Reviews for my honest review

[Vicki · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a ride Nick and Mads find themselves on in this second book of the series. Their relationship whilst new is not without some serious issues as both these men have strong characters, flaws and all. Luckily Nick has his brother-in-law Samuel to hit him with a few truth bombs to keep him and Mads on track.
The delightful Gazza plays a significant role once again as these three wonderful men head to Australia to right a wrong carried over from the first book. A wrong that hasn’t sat well with any of them. Their mission to help Lee escape his abuser is fraught with danger as their plan falls apart. Naturally the villains aren’t too keen on being exposed so here’s plenty of drama and action as their dastardly plot unravels. Throughout all of this the romance between prickly Nick and jaded Mads continues to slowly but surely grow deeper with plenty of sweet mixed with steam.
This beautifully crafted story had me fully engaged from start to finish. It gave some emotional moments, both sad and happy. I continue to be amazed by the story telling ability of Jay Hogan and am very excited for the next book in the series.

[Sarah☀️ Somerville]

DNF @ 41% - I do want to finish this book. Maybe. The plot is interesting. I can't resist books set (partially) in Australia. However.

We know the main characters are in their fifties. We get it. You/they don't need to bring it up every single scene. It's exhausting. Age is comparative, right? So if you have a big age gap, you might notice it a bit... maybe... but if two people are the same age, they generally aren't going to think about it that much, and they're definitely not going to obsess about it the way Nick and Madigan and every single other character in this book are obsessing about it and omg i just can't.

I mean, they go to Australia and the local Aussies are making comments about their extreme old age rather than teasing them about their accents. I cannot even begin to explain how wrong this is.

[Ami · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 stars rounded up

While the last several chapters were pretty intense... like WOWZA! but I liked it slightly less than book #1. Mainly because I thought the plans that Madigan, Nick, and Gazza concocted to get Lee out of his abusive boyfriend's clutch felt undercooked as best. I guess I also couldn't really relate with all of them planning it in the first place.

Like, they are AMATEURS and they plan to deal with someone like Marty Klein, who clearly has the money and means to kill Nick's husband in the first place just to get his boyfriend back?!? Seriously?

But yeah, it was still enjoyable. And now I really wish Jay Hogan will write a different book for Gazza and Lee...

[Crisana · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this second instalment and these characters are fun to read about but it all feels a bit farfetched. I wish it was just slightly toned down because it then affects how I see their romantic relationship. But I think that's on me, as the writing is really good and they read real enough with all their issues and decision making.
I'm hoping that there are more books to come as I think there's a lot of story to be told but please make it less planned and more instinct for them to act on the mystery. I do love fumbling heroes who have no idea how they got there but manage to successfully get out of their predicament.

[Betty Loves Books Galore · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a mystery / suspense romance, featuring Nick Fisher and Madigan Church, and is book one in the Fisher & Church series.

After escaping a traumatic ordeal, Madigan and Nick grow closer, but Madigan is weighed down by guilt over the damage caused by uncovering the truth. As they search for answers to make things right, their new relationship is tested by danger, trauma, and hard truths.

I really enjoyed the second instalment of this series and can’t wait for the next book.

Things to expect in this book are:
Book 2 in series
MM romance
Continued story
Mystery / suspense
New relationship
MC in their 50s
Pet dad - cat
Truth-seeking
Hurt / Comfort
Emotional baggage
Spicy times
Have a bath together
Undercover mission
Kidnapping
Rescue
Admit feelings
HFN

[Pam _P who cusses A Lot · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm a bit torn with this one. The subject matter of the mystery adventure is something that is hard for me to read personally, but I adore these characters and how they interacted and reacted, so I don't know where to go 🤷‍♀️ They're complete amateurs going against sadists FFS! I'll re-read the parts that don't involve the Evil-Scooby doo-Epstein-like sex trafficking aspect going forward I guess 😏

[Elsbeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yup, this was just as good as the first. The “Lee-situation” was exciting. I was biting my nails.
I especially loved how Mads kept the memory of Davis high. He had no problem whatsoever talking about Davis. I loved him for that. Can’t wait for the 3rd installment.

Pssst, can I say I secretly am curious about Lee and Gazza. What is going on between these two?
Gimme - Gimme

[Sheena · Rating 5 out of 5]

- ongoing series
- established couple
- older MCs

This is the second in a series, it's a continuing story and as such needs to be read in conjunction with the first book as the storyline picks up where that left off. I love that this series has older MCs, I like both Nick and Mads very much, and I was happy to see them in the next instalment of their story. There were threads left over that I was happy to see picked up and resolved, but there is still scope for more with these two.

Nick is still grieving his husband and I really like how that was dealt with, not just swept away under the carpet - they acknowledge Davis and his part in Nick's life while learning to move forward together. I also loved how Mads wouldn't stand for any of Nick's crap, we don't meet Davis but from snippets of Nick and Davis' life we do see, Mads is very different to him and thus their relationship is very different to what Nick and Davis had.

I really enjoyed the story too, maybe a little far-fetched with how they managed to pull it all off but those are the best type of stories.

I really enjoyed this, I like the progression of the relationship and I want to see more of Gazza too. I'd love for more with these two.

[Coni]

Revisit for Bk3?

[Christina · Rating 2 out of 5]

1.5 Stars

[BevS · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was just too much of a stretch for me to believe that our intrepid heroes could bring down an international sex trafficking ring with little to no help from the cavalry [Aussie police]; will Samuel get a severe telling off read bollocking from his superiors [as he should]? What a nasty, slimy all round git that Marty was, and as for his henchmen Freddie, Jack and Ronnie? More like the 3 vicious Stooges. They screamed violent men who were never happier than when making other people suffer, mostly at the behest of poor Marty dead, dead, dead thank goodness 🥳👌.

At least things have moved on between grumpy Nick and bossy Madigan. Will fabulous Gazza and Lee [Graham] get together? Hopefully Madigan's therapist can help everyone. 4 stars from me.

[Pjm12 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Always love me some Jay Hogan. Got quite suspenseful there.

[Lillian Francis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 2 of the series and it follows straight on from the end of the previous book. It’s essential that you read it before tackling this one.
Another excellent read from Jay Hogan.
Older MCs. Jay writes believable older MCs. These guys are 50+ and it shows. They aren’t physically perfect, no abs and smooth unblemished skin. Grey hair, soft bits, wrinkles, and natural body hair abound. And they are both set in their ways and sometimes reluctant to concede.
Which leads me on to the Relationship Progression. In this book the slow burn ramps up a tad as the relationship moves forward. We get their first intimate scene. Always hot - it is Jay Hogan, after all- but age appropriate. We also get several clashes as these two stubborn men butt heads and don’t want to give ground.
Or they allow Nick’s deceased husband into the relationship. Occasionally Madigan is jealous of the part he played in Nick’s life or Nick feels guilty about learning to love again. But thankfully they handle things like grownups and talk about him rather than ignoring his presence in their relationship.
The suspense plays a big part again and I loved it even though it was necessary to suspend disbelief on occasions. Doesn’t the best thrillers ask us to do just that and it is the quality of the creative’s expertise that allows us to do this. Here it is handled just the right side of that line, and in keeping with the characters.

I can’t wait for the next instalment. And maybe an audio too, so I can do a reread. That would be a joy.

ETA:

I got my wish for the audio. Loved it just as much as the first read through, if not more. Gary Furlong always gives a great performance and this is no exception.

[Janom · Rating 2 out of 5]

Genre: MM Romance / Romance Suspense
Steamy?: Yes but not too much
Cliffhanger?: Probably
Format: E-book
Can be read as Standalone?: No
Rating: 2 out of 5 Stars

***THANK YOU TO THE AUTHOR FOR MY COMPLIMENTARY REVIEW COPY. ALL OPINIONS AND THOUGHTS ARE MY OWN***

I am sad it came to this but I had to DNF this book at 49% (chapter 13). The good thing about this book is that it picks up exactly where the previous book left off. The bad thing is that the things I didn’t care for in the first book continued on in the book. I had a problem with the main MCs because I felt they acted like immature teenagers instead of two grown men with maturity born from 5 decades worth of life experiences. Additionally, I felt this book had excessive dialogue and too many characters to keep track of. Every chapter I felt dragged on and on with useless conversations or descriptions that didn’t move the story forward. And, maybe because I was bored, I had a hard time concentrating on which character was who and doing what. A lot of other readers love this story so it very well could’ve just been me so maybe I’ll give it a second try at a later time when I’m in the right head or emotional space. I am a huge fan of many of Jay Hogan’s previous books so I still look forward to reading more from her in the future, though maybe not from this series.

[Liza Broadaway · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved these two just as much in this continuation. I was a little distracted yesterday so I wasn’t as invested but that’s not book that was me.

We get more banter and holding each other accountable. The three amigos in Mads, Gazza, and Nick go to help someone and even more suspense ensues. Mads and Nick continue to “gross” Gazza out with their PDA and Gazza gets to prove he’s more than a pretty face!

The relationship between Nick and Mads isn’t perfect but man the ways these two find to love eachother is just the best! And like book one their age is one of my favorite things in this book! They are flawed-yet communicate, stubbornly. They recognize the other has their own issues while also realizing their own….

This series is a breath of fresh air-not gonna lie for this 40+ mom.