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More Heat Than the Sun #2
Conscious Decisions of the Heart
Ben Rider and Nikolas Mikkelsen learn that danger comes in all shapes and sizes and often in places you least expect it.
Nikolas's dark past calls to him, inexorably dragging him back into its seductive embrace. While he goes on an errand of mercy to Russia, Ben travels to Denmark to learn Nikolas's language. Convinced Russia's vastness will swallow Nikolas, Ben doesn't see the enemy much closer to home. Thinking he has lost Nikolas, Ben then makes a terrible decision that threatens to destroy everything they have together. Focused on this very personal horror, bound by a new level of commitment, they have no idea that a greater threat is coming. And when it arrives, it changes everything---even the definition of commitment.
This story contains the violent death of a minor character and some graphic violence.
Nikolas's dark past calls to him, inexorably dragging him back into its seductive embrace. While he goes on an errand of mercy to Russia, Ben travels to Denmark to learn Nikolas's language. Convinced Russia's vastness will swallow Nikolas, Ben doesn't see the enemy much closer to home. Thinking he has lost Nikolas, Ben then makes a terrible decision that threatens to destroy everything they have together. Focused on this very personal horror, bound by a new level of commitment, they have no idea that a greater threat is coming. And when it arrives, it changes everything---even the definition of commitment.
This story contains the violent death of a minor character and some graphic violence.
316 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 3, 2014
56 people are currently reading
700 people want to read
About the author
John Wiltshire
29 books825 followersJohn Wiltshire is the fictional persona of the author of the More Heat Than The Sun series. After spending twenty-two years in the military perfecting the art
of looking busy whilst secretly writing, John left as a senior officer
when a hastily dug tunnel was ready for use. Now living in New
Zealand (at least until enough money can be raised to leave) John has no plans to return to the army. Unless the world situation gets considerably worse, that is.
of looking busy whilst secretly writing, John left as a senior officer
when a hastily dug tunnel was ready for use. Now living in New
Zealand (at least until enough money can be raised to leave) John has no plans to return to the army. Unless the world situation gets considerably worse, that is.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 273 reviews
December 23, 2014
4.25 stars. Review completed December 9, 2014
“Downstairs, you reverted to the old Ben, the SAS Ben, without a thought. What would you’ve done if I’d come over and kissed you? In front of your colleague? We both play games and have masks we like to wear.” He put his hand on Ben’s shoulder and idly rubbed his thumb on the short hair at the back of his neck. “Sometimes, I think you are my only reality.”
"Not like that. I've made mistakes by taking you for granted, assuming you knew how I felt about you when I didn't feel inclined to tell you, not letting you into the parts of my life that are painful because I wanted to protect you. You aren't my A very wise child told me recently I should dig out the shrapnel from my wounds--that I couldn't heal until I did."
At the end of Love is a Stranger we met a man from Nikolas's past. As things turn out, Gregory Because Nikolas believes that he owes him, he Meanwhile, Ben misses Nikolas terribly and decides to visit Nikolas's homeland Denmark. Besides, Ben is determined and more than eager to learn his lover's mother tongue. Once arrived, he meets a few hospitable Danes and makes new friends pretty fast. However, neither Ben nor Nikolas realize that an evil danger is lurking close to them.
When I met Nikolas and Ben for the first time in Love is a Stranger, I was more than eager to read more about these two intriguing men. I can honestly say that John Wiltshire did not disappoint at all with this second installment in the More Heat Than the Sun series. If anything, he accomplished to exceed my (secret) expectations.
"So, basically, everything I have now, everything I am, I owe to you and your very misplaced belief in me. So, that's why I'm taking you out tonight, to thank you for harassing, bullying, and manipulating me so beautifully all these years. That's why I wanted to drive. I'm taking you out. Now, are you going to sulk all night or talk to me some more in Danish and make me laugh?"
"Sut min pik. How's that?"
"Oh, that'll do very nicely. But I'm driving so maybe later?" Ben couldn't keep up his sulk, especially when Nikolas added thoughtfully, "But you're a passenger. You could sut min pik very nicely.
So far I couldn't really claim to know Ben and Nikolas. I'm hoping that every book in this series is going to reveal new puzzle pieces and in the end everything will come together to complement a beautiful picture. As it was, I did appreciate to get more information about Nikolas, The Mystery Man. Although Nikolas is still not quite comfortable to trust Ben completely, he's willing to open up in order to try to rely on him. It's hard work, no doubt about it. Even though Nikolas's were somewhat bizarre, they brought an interesting element to the story which I always appreciate. While reading this story, I gradually felt more familiar with the main protagonists. Still, the author succeeded to throw me off course once in a while.
The pace of the story was very good; I enjoyed the great storyline and I liked the suspense and action and the character growth definitely appealed to me very much.
"I'm not sure. I'll have to think about it. After all the training I've invested in you, it would be a pity to have to start again. But I wouldn't be so lenient with my next protégé, more obedience and less cheek."
"Protégé? Interesting delusion. I guess I'd be quite valuable out on the open market again. I was enslaved before I reached my full potential. Now I could name my price."
Minor quibble
Ben and Nikolas had
I'm not sure how authentic the part of the was.
Additionally, what irritated me since I started to read the series is all the pouting. These two are grown men and alphas to boot, so I do have a hard time to reconcile Nikolas and Ben with such a silly gesture.
Overall, this second installment pretty much laid the foundation upon which I will cultivate my love for Nikolas and Ben. Dang, this was such a great read; definitely better and more insightful than Love is a Stranger. Though my remarks shouldn't impair my appreciation for the first book in any way, shape or form. I'm a big believer in character growth and that's exactly what a series should provide. As I see it, a serials shouldn't fulfill the sole purpose of maximizing the sales figures. I want, however, to grow into the main characters' journey. When an author manages that and in equal measures keeps my interest and boosts my curiosity, then I think he/she has done a marvelous job. Long story short, I'm beyond stoked to discover more about Nikolas and Ben and their 'adventures' in the future.
Recommended read.
“Downstairs, you reverted to the old Ben, the SAS Ben, without a thought. What would you’ve done if I’d come over and kissed you? In front of your colleague? We both play games and have masks we like to wear.” He put his hand on Ben’s shoulder and idly rubbed his thumb on the short hair at the back of his neck. “Sometimes, I think you are my only reality.”
"Not like that. I've made mistakes by taking you for granted, assuming you knew how I felt about you when I didn't feel inclined to tell you, not letting you into the parts of my life that are painful because I wanted to protect you. You aren't my A very wise child told me recently I should dig out the shrapnel from my wounds--that I couldn't heal until I did."
At the end of Love is a Stranger we met a man from Nikolas's past. As things turn out, Gregory Because Nikolas believes that he owes him, he Meanwhile, Ben misses Nikolas terribly and decides to visit Nikolas's homeland Denmark. Besides, Ben is determined and more than eager to learn his lover's mother tongue. Once arrived, he meets a few hospitable Danes and makes new friends pretty fast. However, neither Ben nor Nikolas realize that an evil danger is lurking close to them.
When I met Nikolas and Ben for the first time in Love is a Stranger, I was more than eager to read more about these two intriguing men. I can honestly say that John Wiltshire did not disappoint at all with this second installment in the More Heat Than the Sun series. If anything, he accomplished to exceed my (secret) expectations.
"So, basically, everything I have now, everything I am, I owe to you and your very misplaced belief in me. So, that's why I'm taking you out tonight, to thank you for harassing, bullying, and manipulating me so beautifully all these years. That's why I wanted to drive. I'm taking you out. Now, are you going to sulk all night or talk to me some more in Danish and make me laugh?"
"Sut min pik. How's that?"
"Oh, that'll do very nicely. But I'm driving so maybe later?" Ben couldn't keep up his sulk, especially when Nikolas added thoughtfully, "But you're a passenger. You could sut min pik very nicely.
So far I couldn't really claim to know Ben and Nikolas. I'm hoping that every book in this series is going to reveal new puzzle pieces and in the end everything will come together to complement a beautiful picture. As it was, I did appreciate to get more information about Nikolas, The Mystery Man. Although Nikolas is still not quite comfortable to trust Ben completely, he's willing to open up in order to try to rely on him. It's hard work, no doubt about it. Even though Nikolas's were somewhat bizarre, they brought an interesting element to the story which I always appreciate. While reading this story, I gradually felt more familiar with the main protagonists. Still, the author succeeded to throw me off course once in a while.
The pace of the story was very good; I enjoyed the great storyline and I liked the suspense and action and the character growth definitely appealed to me very much.
"I'm not sure. I'll have to think about it. After all the training I've invested in you, it would be a pity to have to start again. But I wouldn't be so lenient with my next protégé, more obedience and less cheek."
"Protégé? Interesting delusion. I guess I'd be quite valuable out on the open market again. I was enslaved before I reached my full potential. Now I could name my price."
Minor quibble
Ben and Nikolas had
I'm not sure how authentic the part of the was.
Additionally, what irritated me since I started to read the series is all the pouting. These two are grown men and alphas to boot, so I do have a hard time to reconcile Nikolas and Ben with such a silly gesture.
Overall, this second installment pretty much laid the foundation upon which I will cultivate my love for Nikolas and Ben. Dang, this was such a great read; definitely better and more insightful than Love is a Stranger. Though my remarks shouldn't impair my appreciation for the first book in any way, shape or form. I'm a big believer in character growth and that's exactly what a series should provide. As I see it, a serials shouldn't fulfill the sole purpose of maximizing the sales figures. I want, however, to grow into the main characters' journey. When an author manages that and in equal measures keeps my interest and boosts my curiosity, then I think he/she has done a marvelous job. Long story short, I'm beyond stoked to discover more about Nikolas and Ben and their 'adventures' in the future.
"You are the conscious choice of my heart.(…)"
Recommended read.
September 4, 2015
Written March 30, 2015
4.3 Stars - Addictive hot 'agents' fun, a M/M couple to care about and a want for much more
Book #2
I was amazed and quite stunned after the first novel, #1 - Love is a Stranger (4.5 stars), in John Wiltshire's (this M/M romance-winter) talked about agent-suspense series 'More Heat Than the Sun' (~ 4 books published 2014 and #5 now in March).
And the second book, as good?
Yeah, just as addictive good. This isn't novel winning literature or the highest fine novel writing kind but jeez it is fun to read. I'm by now a huge fan of John Wiltshire and his entertaining M/M romances either it is contemporary suspense, like these, or adventurous historicals like A Royal Affair (5 stars).
Recommended to 'chicks' looking for steaming hot gay heroes and a rollercoaster never ending journey.
***********************************************************
The first instalment was just like a small tempting and enticing appetizer to continuing this series. I was actually surprised how much I enjoyed it. There are some lacks and minor errors to complain about, but "jeez" it was a fun journey in best Agent Action Story style.
Welcome back to London and two intriguing, amazing good-looking, but not perfect, "dream" men.
# Benjamin (Ben) Rider, the smiling adventurous "pretty boy" (‘...in all his raw beauty, like the template of the first perfect man from which all men were copied.’). - A former British agent / soldier in his late twenties. Most of their adventures are told from his point of view.
# Sir Nikolas Mikkelsen, a former Britain’s Intelligence Agency department boss. Born Danish . - A blond (‘...six-foot-four Nordic god..’), a few years older, with sleek style and posh manners. A man who not long ago lived a (well suited) married upper (high) class life.
~ Many things changed in book #1...
Rough, kinky, horny manly men but sweet romantic
I didn't love, or even always liked, these two characters in the first book but they fascinated me.
These two are for sure not good examples of good nice men, or even easy to like. They interested me and made me to want to know much much more. So also this second time. As someone else wrote in a review: I have a kind of love and hate relationship with these guys. They are messed up but irresistible.
***********************************************************
CDotH consists of 3 parts (topics / adventures).
The first quite short is set in London and is about a sick old man from Nikolas previously awful tough life. Interesting and a bit anxious.
The main book topic (suspense) is maybe however the second part. The quite long Denmark visit.
This "learning Danish" adventure over six months ends with horror, fear, abuse, a brave dog and a lot of blood (see the cover). All of it set in a beautiful countryside on (at the end very snowy Christmas) the small island Ærø in Denmark. I liked this part. I liked Ingrid, her garden, Ben's library visits, those sweet (ordinary people) friends Ben got, those long sandy amazing beaches, etc. Both Ben and I needed that peace. ~ Then Nikolas arrives and it is full speed, bed tumbling and horrible things starts to happening again.
At last is there a third part about recovery, return to the rainy everyday life in London and finally yummy sunny days on a paradise island. And then was I knocked. Totally shocked. Oh dear...
***********************************************************
In between the most action filled scenes are there a lot of good days and lovely man-loving-man moments but also arguments, withholding of facts, tough hard sex encounters, jealousy etc etc etc. Not angst free (and never a boring read).
Nikolas isn't a simple or easy man to try to make a "normal" partnership life with. I really, sincerely, admire Benjamin and his brave patience. It takes great dearly strong love to manage ...and it might end grandly heartbreaking beautiful. So very romantic and swoon'ish touching.
***********************************************************
“Jeg elsker dig.”
More or less a whole year went on in Conscious Decisions of the Heart. —Memorable! Preceptive!— And best of all: Grandly Romantic!!
It will be good to meet these men once again in the third book, The Bridge of Silver Wings (a buddyread with Bev is already planned to April 30)
I LIKE - I'm enchanted and I'm stucked
***********
BR with my dear Bev.
And dear brave Radulf of course. Maybe my favorite team member. (dog gif)
4.3 Stars - Addictive hot 'agents' fun, a M/M couple to care about and a want for much more
Book #2
I was amazed and quite stunned after the first novel, #1 - Love is a Stranger (4.5 stars), in John Wiltshire's (this M/M romance-winter) talked about agent-suspense series 'More Heat Than the Sun' (~ 4 books published 2014 and #5 now in March).
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
•••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
And the second book, as good?
Yeah, just as addictive good. This isn't novel winning literature or the highest fine novel writing kind but jeez it is fun to read. I'm by now a huge fan of John Wiltshire and his entertaining M/M romances either it is contemporary suspense, like these, or adventurous historicals like A Royal Affair (5 stars).
Recommended to 'chicks' looking for steaming hot gay heroes and a rollercoaster never ending journey.
***********************************************************
The first instalment was just like a small tempting and enticing appetizer to continuing this series. I was actually surprised how much I enjoyed it. There are some lacks and minor errors to complain about, but "jeez" it was a fun journey in best Agent Action Story style.
Welcome back to London and two intriguing, amazing good-looking, but not perfect, "dream" men.
# Benjamin (Ben) Rider, the smiling adventurous "pretty boy" (‘...in all his raw beauty, like the template of the first perfect man from which all men were copied.’). - A former British agent / soldier in his late twenties. Most of their adventures are told from his point of view.
# Sir Nikolas Mikkelsen, a former Britain’s Intelligence Agency department boss. Born Danish . - A blond (‘...six-foot-four Nordic god..’), a few years older, with sleek style and posh manners. A man who not long ago lived a (well suited) married upper (high) class life.
~ Many things changed in book #1...
Rough, kinky, horny manly men but sweet romantic
I didn't love, or even always liked, these two characters in the first book but they fascinated me.
‘He couldn’t count the number of times he’d returned from punishing runs, every muscle in his body screaming, unable to move the next day, only to do it again and again until the pain turned into a confidence in his own physical ability that nothing and no one could shake. This was the same. They pushed and pushed at their limits until they were both sure of themselves and of each other. Nikolas had given the gift of confidence back to him that night.’
These two are for sure not good examples of good nice men, or even easy to like. They interested me and made me to want to know much much more. So also this second time. As someone else wrote in a review: I have a kind of love and hate relationship with these guys. They are messed up but irresistible.
***********************************************************
CDotH consists of 3 parts (topics / adventures).
The first quite short is set in London and is about a sick old man from Nikolas previously awful tough life. Interesting and a bit anxious.
The main book topic (suspense) is maybe however the second part. The quite long Denmark visit.
This "learning Danish" adventure over six months ends with horror, fear, abuse, a brave dog and a lot of blood (see the cover). All of it set in a beautiful countryside on (at the end very snowy Christmas) the small island Ærø in Denmark. I liked this part. I liked Ingrid, her garden, Ben's library visits, those sweet (ordinary people) friends Ben got, those long sandy amazing beaches, etc. Both Ben and I needed that peace. ~ Then Nikolas arrives and it is full speed, bed tumbling and horrible things starts to happening again.
At last is there a third part about recovery, return to the rainy everyday life in London and finally yummy sunny days on a paradise island. And then was I knocked. Totally shocked. Oh dear...
***********************************************************
In between the most action filled scenes are there a lot of good days and lovely man-loving-man moments but also arguments, withholding of facts, tough hard sex encounters, jealousy etc etc etc. Not angst free (and never a boring read).
Nikolas isn't a simple or easy man to try to make a "normal" partnership life with. I really, sincerely, admire Benjamin and his brave patience. It takes great dearly strong love to manage ...and it might end grandly heartbreaking beautiful. So very romantic and swoon'ish touching.
‘For all the things Nikolas bought Ben, gave him, organised for him, it was a simple thank you from him that actually brought Ben the most pleasure. Nikolas was chastened and resolved to do better.’
***********************************************************
“Jeg elsker dig.”More or less a whole year went on in Conscious Decisions of the Heart. —Memorable! Preceptive!— And best of all: Grandly Romantic!!
It will be good to meet these men once again in the third book, The Bridge of Silver Wings (a buddyread with Bev is already planned to April 30)
I LIKE - I'm enchanted and I'm stucked
***********
BR with my dear Bev.
And dear brave Radulf of course. Maybe my favorite team member. (dog gif)
November 10, 2016
**** 4 Stars ****
Another great and fast paced story.
In this instalment we have Ben and Nikolas going through a very rough time in Denmark and as if it wasn’t enough, when they decide to take a holiday to recover, fate strikes again. Hard! But hey, the guys are in one piece for the next one!
This time around, I was more aware of what to expect romantically wise ops... I mean, lust wise ;-) The highlights weren’t the action and mystery but very much their relationship which is still growing and getting stronger.
Hawt Ben
and enigmatic Nikolas
have an amazing chemistry. They are super *ahem* inventive and I never know what’s coming up next from them when they are being consumed by each other.
What I like the most about that is the certainty that there is no chance of this couple becoming boring. The surprise element in their inventive sex life combined with the fight for control gives me a tangible sense/hope that the author is going to explore this field much more in the future. I like that A LOT.
Another great and fast paced story.
In this instalment we have Ben and Nikolas going through a very rough time in Denmark and as if it wasn’t enough, when they decide to take a holiday to recover, fate strikes again. Hard! But hey, the guys are in one piece for the next one!
This time around, I was more aware of what to expect romantically wise ops... I mean, lust wise ;-) The highlights weren’t the action and mystery but very much their relationship which is still growing and getting stronger.
Hawt Ben
and enigmatic Nikolas
have an amazing chemistry. They are super *ahem* inventive and I never know what’s coming up next from them when they are being consumed by each other.
What I like the most about that is the certainty that there is no chance of this couple becoming boring. The surprise element in their inventive sex life combined with the fight for control gives me a tangible sense/hope that the author is going to explore this field much more in the future. I like that A LOT.
March 10, 2021
Audio 5+++++ Stars Gary Furlong 😍
Story 4 Stars
This series is proving to be brutal and heartbreaking as well as humorous and endearing. The author really knows how to make it all work.
Am I the only one who finds Nikolas' insistence that Ben not curse at him hilarious?! 😂😂 These guys are the best couple ever! ❤
Story 4 Stars
This series is proving to be brutal and heartbreaking as well as humorous and endearing. The author really knows how to make it all work.
Am I the only one who finds Nikolas' insistence that Ben not curse at him hilarious?! 😂😂 These guys are the best couple ever! ❤
![Profile Image for moonlight ☾ [semi-hiatus].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1645500038i%2F37448930._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
October 20, 2022
4.5 stars ☆
They laughed together, a little ruefully, and Nikolas leant his forehead to Ben's. "I'm sorry. I should've told you."
"Nothing to tell. I don't care, Nik. I don't. The real you, remember?"
"The real me."
"Come on, real you. And make sure you eat something, yeah?"
Nikolas gave him a patronising eye roll. Ben nodded. "Yep, there's the real Nikolas."
✧ their text messages during the time frame when they were apart felt so heartbreaking yet sweet at the same time. the fact that Nikolas called Ben during his birthday, said i love you, even though he knew how dangerous it was to communicate with him, was just 🥺🥺
✧ Ben learning Danish for Nikolas 🥺
✧ the way i thought Nikolas' whole past was revealed in the first book... LMAO. i should have known better. it made sense though that he's never revealed everything bc he stated before he tends to omit the truth and he's scared Ben would leave him if he knew the whole truth. now it just makes me curious what else is there bc everything we've discovered in the first two books were A LOT. too much pain, too much heartbreak. :(
✧ can't we just get one book where Nikolas and Ben get a break and are simply happily in love without life—or any of their pasts—getting in the way?? 😩
✧ in the second half, my heart felt so broken seeing Ben be so... different (bc Ben is usually more of the light in the darkness between the two so i just wanted to hug him) but, after everything they've been through in this book, i can't even blame him at all. :(
✧ kinda scared to read the rest of the series, but i'm obsessed with these two to even stop at this point. 🥹
They laughed together, a little ruefully, and Nikolas leant his forehead to Ben's. "I'm sorry. I should've told you."
"Nothing to tell. I don't care, Nik. I don't. The real you, remember?"
"The real me."
"Come on, real you. And make sure you eat something, yeah?"
Nikolas gave him a patronising eye roll. Ben nodded. "Yep, there's the real Nikolas."
✧ their text messages during the time frame when they were apart felt so heartbreaking yet sweet at the same time. the fact that Nikolas called Ben during his birthday, said i love you, even though he knew how dangerous it was to communicate with him, was just 🥺🥺
✧ Ben learning Danish for Nikolas 🥺
✧ the way i thought Nikolas' whole past was revealed in the first book... LMAO. i should have known better. it made sense though that he's never revealed everything bc he stated before he tends to omit the truth and he's scared Ben would leave him if he knew the whole truth. now it just makes me curious what else is there bc everything we've discovered in the first two books were A LOT. too much pain, too much heartbreak. :(
✧ can't we just get one book where Nikolas and Ben get a break and are simply happily in love without life—or any of their pasts—getting in the way?? 😩
✧ in the second half, my heart felt so broken seeing Ben be so... different (bc Ben is usually more of the light in the darkness between the two so i just wanted to hug him) but, after everything they've been through in this book, i can't even blame him at all. :(
✧ kinda scared to read the rest of the series, but i'm obsessed with these two to even stop at this point. 🥹
November 16, 2023
Who needed rings to bind you unto death when you had scars and stitches, bruises and blood?
I will admit they were quite a few plot holes in this second installment that almost derailed my enjoyment, but not quite! I’ll put those below in spoilers.
There was one moment when it could have gone either way. Nikolas's heart told him one thing, but his cock another, and it was the cock that won, his cock made the right decision.
Nikolas returns to Russia to assist an old “friend,” while Ben decides to take this time, traveling to Denmark to learn Nikolas's language.
Stilted yet sweet text messages
Excellent backstories
Richly atmospheric
Codependency x1000
Intense & brutal
Radulf, bestest dog EVER
These men have always had quite a volatile and complex relationship. However, the fight in front of the lake, and the subsequent abuse that followed, might have fit the characters, but was VERY unpleasant to read. I HURT for Ben. I HURT for Nicolas. The emotional manipulation these two characters have survived not only as children, but for their profession is overwhelming. I’m surprised the psychotic breaks haven’t happened sooner.
For all the things Nikolas bought Ben, gave him, organized for him, it was a simple thank you from him that actually brought Ben the most pleasure. Nikolas was chastened and resolved to do better.
Issues and plot holes:
That ending though. What the…..
I will admit they were quite a few plot holes in this second installment that almost derailed my enjoyment, but not quite! I’ll put those below in spoilers.
There was one moment when it could have gone either way. Nikolas's heart told him one thing, but his cock another, and it was the cock that won, his cock made the right decision.
Nikolas returns to Russia to assist an old “friend,” while Ben decides to take this time, traveling to Denmark to learn Nikolas's language.
Stilted yet sweet text messages
Excellent backstories
Richly atmospheric
Codependency x1000
Intense & brutal
Radulf, bestest dog EVER
These men have always had quite a volatile and complex relationship. However, the fight in front of the lake, and the subsequent abuse that followed, might have fit the characters, but was VERY unpleasant to read. I HURT for Ben. I HURT for Nicolas. The emotional manipulation these two characters have survived not only as children, but for their profession is overwhelming. I’m surprised the psychotic breaks haven’t happened sooner.
For all the things Nikolas bought Ben, gave him, organized for him, it was a simple thank you from him that actually brought Ben the most pleasure. Nikolas was chastened and resolved to do better.
Issues and plot holes:
That ending though. What the…..
April 8, 2015
3,4 stars
BR with Nick and Mark
I promised to be serious in my review for the second book.
More Heat Than the Sun series is a clever mixture of Cut&Run, Dangerous Ground and K-9 series. (The last one is a TV-series, but nothing else springs to my mind! If you know any mystery series or a standalone with a dog in the main role, please, let me know!)
If you like Cut & Run and Dangerous Ground, you might also know that they are NOT skilfully written mysteries or a documentarily and close to the reality representation of Special Forces activities.
The whole series is a LOVE story. We have here two guys who are destined to meet, fell in love and whose insatiable sexual hunger for each other breakes all records, that per se not something unusual for mm-romance genre, but HERE we got a bonus --> Radulf, a dog from an animal shelter who couldn't be rehomed and who became an important participant of the plot, and --> humour, that wraps around the series like a warm comfort blanket. Talking about humour, I don’t mean only a continuous witty banter between Ban and Nik, but in the first place a narrator's voice behind the story.
On the side, our good guys DO their best to safe the world from bad guys and each other from crazy admirers, reveal secrets of their pasts (I'm sure there are more of them coming), TRY to build a stable mutual life, suffer ocasionally and alternately from PTSD and provide assistance in the event of natural disaster on their own.
John Wiltshire has perfectly understood how to satisfy entertainment needs of the reader.
You ask why not more than 3,5 stars?
I CAN'T GUARANTEE that you’ll immediately fall in love with the series, but I CAN ASSURE you that there is a high probability that you’ll become a fan of it. I've already developed kinda addiction to it.
And here our CASTING:
February 3, 2015
3.75-4 Stars
This was really good.
The writing, of course, was awesome, as well as the tone and dialogue. Ben and Nik are just awesome together and their relationship grows and becomes more defined in this second installment.
Plus, we find out a lot more about Nik and his past (although I am a greedy hag and want more).
There was a lot of action in this one as well - although sometimes said action did not seem to necessarily fit perfectly into the frame of the story in my opinion.
The first book had spy/espionage type action that fit really well within the overarching plot and characters. In this one, however, while I was willing to accept , I found the limits of my believability being tested by the at the end. It just didn't flow well for me but, whatever, I'll take it.
In short?
On to number three!
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Sign that you loooved the first one?
Paying $8.99 for this one.
I can't remember the last time I paid this much for a book LOL
This was really good.
The writing, of course, was awesome, as well as the tone and dialogue. Ben and Nik are just awesome together and their relationship grows and becomes more defined in this second installment.
Plus, we find out a lot more about Nik and his past (although I am a greedy hag and want more).
There was a lot of action in this one as well - although sometimes said action did not seem to necessarily fit perfectly into the frame of the story in my opinion.
The first book had spy/espionage type action that fit really well within the overarching plot and characters. In this one, however, while I was willing to accept , I found the limits of my believability being tested by the at the end. It just didn't flow well for me but, whatever, I'll take it.
In short?
On to number three!
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Sign that you loooved the first one?
Paying $8.99 for this one.
I can't remember the last time I paid this much for a book LOL
February 14, 2022
Reread in preparation for release of the final book.
Reread with Ele - I finally convinced her to fall in love with this couple!
4.5 stars. Just finished my reread. This series is a bit darker than I usually read. But I have just completely fallen in love with Ben and Nik.
Even the blood, gore, dub/non con flashbacks aren't turning me off. I can't explain it. Their tender moments mean that much more because of all they've been through before each other and with each other.
And the fact that they're so alpha that neither of them will admit to being gay just makes me giggle.
Will be continuing with Book 3 soon.
Reread with Ele - I finally convinced her to fall in love with this couple!
4.5 stars. Just finished my reread. This series is a bit darker than I usually read. But I have just completely fallen in love with Ben and Nik.
Even the blood, gore, dub/non con flashbacks aren't turning me off. I can't explain it. Their tender moments mean that much more because of all they've been through before each other and with each other.
And the fact that they're so alpha that neither of them will admit to being gay just makes me giggle.
Will be continuing with Book 3 soon.
March 18, 2024
I loved the first book in this series and I loved the second one even more.
John Wilthire’s style of writing is outstanding. You not just read a story, you are THERE, right in the middle of it.
The feelings were almost overwhelming: loneliness, angst, pain, despair, deep love (sometimes close to bordering on obsession on Ben’s part), followed by happiness… They put me through the wringer and yet I couldn’t put this book down.
A few more of Nik’s secrets are revealed and the idea of what Nik had to suffer during his childhood nearly made me want to cry.
Half through this book I was a nervous wreck because of the course of events , but afterwards both guys even managed to enjoy some peace and quiet. Of course, knowing Ben and Nik, it’s rather impossible this situation would last, so I wasn't surprised that this book ended with a bang. I'm a little bit anxious to see what they get themselves into in the next book, but apparently I have some kind of masochistic tendencies. Soooo.... on to the next!
John Wilthire’s style of writing is outstanding. You not just read a story, you are THERE, right in the middle of it.
The feelings were almost overwhelming: loneliness, angst, pain, despair, deep love (sometimes close to bordering on obsession on Ben’s part), followed by happiness… They put me through the wringer and yet I couldn’t put this book down.
A few more of Nik’s secrets are revealed and the idea of what Nik had to suffer during his childhood nearly made me want to cry.
Half through this book I was a nervous wreck because of the course of events , but afterwards both guys even managed to enjoy some peace and quiet. Of course, knowing Ben and Nik, it’s rather impossible this situation would last, so I wasn't surprised that this book ended with a bang. I'm a little bit anxious to see what they get themselves into in the next book, but apparently I have some kind of masochistic tendencies. Soooo.... on to the next!
December 23, 2016
If I thought book 1 was action-laden, this one easily beats that! In fact, if I think back to the beginning of 'Conscious Decision of the Heart' I can hardly believe this was the same book! So much happened!
I think we all knew that Nik and Ben parting for a few months (!!!) would neither be easy on them, nor spare them from complications.
I liked Ben's stay in snowy Denmark, until some pretty harrowing events turn his time there into a living nightmare. It was so sad to see Ben change under the pressure he is put under, and I could hardly believe he takes that mind-blowing personal decision that almost finishes off everything Nik and Ben have.
Nik has his own injuries and demons to face, and (please forgive me) his visit at the doctor's and his reluctance to even go there made me chuckle. There was something infinitely touching about it, too. He seems so infallible, so insurmountable, him 'chickening out' like that made my lips twitch, but I also wanted to hold his hand at the same time!
Most notably there is a HUGE shift in Nik and Ben's relationship. The L word is not a 'stranger' anymore. Both openly acknowledge what they are to each other, and alas, there are tentative developments to behave like an 'out' couple in public. This happens in tiny little baby steps, but they always head in the right direction.
Speaking of which - it is rather amusing that neither man sees himself as gay. It seems a step too much for them to use that label. Which is 'just a bit' hypocritical considering the 1001 ways they enjoy sex with other! .
The chemistry between these two is still as intense as before and their total inability to keep their hands off each other result in some highly adventurous, steamy encounters.
But, most interestingly, there are signs that the power imbalance between the two men is starting to change even in this department.
Last but not least I have to say a word about Radulf. He nearly broke my heart in this book. His loyalty and bravery are just out of this world! (And I love how soft Nik has become with him!)
All in all this is a highly satisfying second instalment to this series. We leave Nik and Ben in a pretty good place, but I have a funny feeling that neither man is completely healed. And surely Nik's past will catch up with him at one point?
Highly recommended.
I think we all knew that Nik and Ben parting for a few months (!!!) would neither be easy on them, nor spare them from complications.
I liked Ben's stay in snowy Denmark, until some pretty harrowing events turn his time there into a living nightmare. It was so sad to see Ben change under the pressure he is put under, and I could hardly believe he takes that mind-blowing personal decision that almost finishes off everything Nik and Ben have.
Nik has his own injuries and demons to face, and (please forgive me) his visit at the doctor's and his reluctance to even go there made me chuckle. There was something infinitely touching about it, too. He seems so infallible, so insurmountable, him 'chickening out' like that made my lips twitch, but I also wanted to hold his hand at the same time!
Most notably there is a HUGE shift in Nik and Ben's relationship. The L word is not a 'stranger' anymore. Both openly acknowledge what they are to each other, and alas, there are tentative developments to behave like an 'out' couple in public. This happens in tiny little baby steps, but they always head in the right direction.
Speaking of which - it is rather amusing that neither man sees himself as gay. It seems a step too much for them to use that label. Which is 'just a bit' hypocritical considering the 1001 ways they enjoy sex with other! .
The chemistry between these two is still as intense as before and their total inability to keep their hands off each other result in some highly adventurous, steamy encounters.
But, most interestingly, there are signs that the power imbalance between the two men is starting to change even in this department.
Last but not least I have to say a word about Radulf. He nearly broke my heart in this book. His loyalty and bravery are just out of this world! (And I love how soft Nik has become with him!)
All in all this is a highly satisfying second instalment to this series. We leave Nik and Ben in a pretty good place, but I have a funny feeling that neither man is completely healed. And surely Nik's past will catch up with him at one point?
Highly recommended.
February 24, 2015
YouTube Booktrailer More Heat than the Sun - Nikolas
Holy moly, this one was worth a few more stars than only five. The continuing journey of Nik and Ben is just exceptional written, I wasn’t able to put the book down, I even couldn’t be bothered with mundane tasks like eating or... sleeping.
It’s a thrilling roller coaster ride, the book is dark, gritty, emotional, enthralling, funny, addictive. And the feelings… OMG
Yes, I fell for Nik, Ben and Radulf in the first book. Hard.… But I wasn't prepared for loving them even more after reading this one.
John Wiltshire is definitely a new auto-buy author for me! I am hooked... he’s my new personal brand of heroin! :)
October 28, 2016
Damn these books are addictive. I love all the secrets that get revealed, it makes me go "ohhhh" and "ahhhhhh". There is still so much mystery left between Nik and Ben.
I also have to say that I was quite a bit shocked over some scenes. These men are both utterly insane.
I do understand they love each other, though sometimes they have a very fucked up way of showing it.
I'm pretty sure there are much more secrets to be revealed and I can't wait to read what they are ! Also big points for Radulf the dog and Squeezy, they were both great characters. Don't know about Kate yet.....
For those wanting to read this series. These books are not stand alones !! Read book 1 first :)
On to the next one for me....
April 9, 2018
Not exactly sure what I expected going into this book, but it definitely wasn't this. I think I was expecting more of Nikolas's past catching up to him, them having to run away or having to fight bad guys. But certainly not this.
Not saying that it was bad per se, since I still quite enjoyed it, but the storyline and plot just seems kind of weird and off, especially when we have main characters who is an ex-SAS and a guy who was in the Soviet Army who has been through a nasty amount of shit.
The first quarter of this book was kind of weird. Even after finishing this book, I'm still not sure what exactly does Anna/Gabby (who had a crush on Ben and kidnapped and tortured Nikolas because jealousy duh. Why else would you kidnap someone) has anything to do with enhancing the plot. It seems like she was just there to fill in the empty space.
I keep trying to figure out what is it exactly about her presence in this book and in Nikolas and Ben's life that might add anything to the story and came up empty.
And then what with Nikolas's constant headache and hallucination after the kidnapping incident. I mean, I am pretty sure that needed more capitalizing, but it seems like the author just swept it under the rug and acted like it wasn't a big deal.
I mean, ummm, I am pretty sure he needs more medical attention than to just be advised by the doctor to "have lots of sex" and "be stress free".
But then again, I am not a doctor so what do I know.
And then the last quarter of the book was again, kind of off. What with the sudden natural disaster and then Ben and Nik eventually become such a vital part of trying to save everyone and putting everything together. Not to mention that Ben and Nik become so vital after the disaster that everyone look up to them and need them around to make all the decisions for them. I mean, don't you have the authorities for that kind of shit? Do you just immediately let civilians dabble in it if they have enough sway?
Who knows.
Altogether, I enjoyed the story, as implausible as the plot seems because these two are starting to look like unfortunate people who seems to get stuck into unfortunate situations that has nothing to do with the plot to further their own story.
But again, what do I know? Maybe this will all eventually serve as a puzzle piece to the bigger picture that I am not seeing maybe? Or something like that?
Who knows.
Bottom point is, I will continue reading the series as I am still intrigued with how the story will go.
Blog : Click here for more of my reviews
October 17, 2018
4,5
Si no le he dado 5 estrellas y redondeo a la baja, es porque he visto algún momento WTF que me ha dejado un poco alucinada, pero no sé como se las ha apañado el autor que ha conseguido que mi desconcierto inicial de paso a un "Lo compro!!!! Bring it on!"
Señor Wiltshire, aquí le saluda su nueva fan, a sus pies ;)
Al empezar esta serie pensaba que me iba a encontrar otro Special Forces - Soldiers, pero no, More Heat Than the Sun es otra cosa muy distinta, en estos libros la construcción de la relación y las emociones entre Ben y Nik lo son todo, la parte militar es mucho menor de lo que parece y, aunque en esta entrega momentos límite hay a tope (vamos, que no nos aburrimos), lo que me tiene enganchada son esas conversaciones entre ellos, ese sentido del humor, y la lucha interna que sufren consigo mismos y con sus sentimientos.
Ben es un personaje maravilloso, es amor, es leal y es honesto, ¿qué más se le puede pedir? Pues quizás que se quiera un poquito más, que me está haciendo sufrir. Y Nik, nuestro enigma con patas, con más capas que una cebolla y lo que nos queda por ver. Nik es fuerte, pero es dolor, está sumamente jodido, atrapado, pero a la vez ves como quiere salir de ahí por Ben y por sí mismo, ahí no cede, esa mentalidad que le han inculcado es lo que le va salvando, es como un gato, siempre cae de pié, aunque le flaqueen las fuerzas, sobrevive.
Con dos MC así, las escenas amorosas son asdfghjklñ, y una cosa que me gusta mucho es que se sienten muy naturales, integradas en su rutina, un día un maratón sexual, al otro abrazos, besos y fundido en negro, no hay que estar todo el rato con el dale que te pego ^^
No me resisto a no comentarlo...
No quiero desvelar mucho por no destripar, quedaros con que es una serie a la que merece la pena darle una oportunidad. Ya hablamos si os animais
Si no le he dado 5 estrellas y redondeo a la baja, es porque he visto algún momento WTF que me ha dejado un poco alucinada, pero no sé como se las ha apañado el autor que ha conseguido que mi desconcierto inicial de paso a un "Lo compro!!!! Bring it on!"
Señor Wiltshire, aquí le saluda su nueva fan, a sus pies ;)
Al empezar esta serie pensaba que me iba a encontrar otro Special Forces - Soldiers, pero no, More Heat Than the Sun es otra cosa muy distinta, en estos libros la construcción de la relación y las emociones entre Ben y Nik lo son todo, la parte militar es mucho menor de lo que parece y, aunque en esta entrega momentos límite hay a tope (vamos, que no nos aburrimos), lo que me tiene enganchada son esas conversaciones entre ellos, ese sentido del humor, y la lucha interna que sufren consigo mismos y con sus sentimientos.
Ben es un personaje maravilloso, es amor, es leal y es honesto, ¿qué más se le puede pedir? Pues quizás que se quiera un poquito más, que me está haciendo sufrir. Y Nik, nuestro enigma con patas, con más capas que una cebolla y lo que nos queda por ver. Nik es fuerte, pero es dolor, está sumamente jodido, atrapado, pero a la vez ves como quiere salir de ahí por Ben y por sí mismo, ahí no cede, esa mentalidad que le han inculcado es lo que le va salvando, es como un gato, siempre cae de pié, aunque le flaqueen las fuerzas, sobrevive.
Con dos MC así, las escenas amorosas son asdfghjklñ, y una cosa que me gusta mucho es que se sienten muy naturales, integradas en su rutina, un día un maratón sexual, al otro abrazos, besos y fundido en negro, no hay que estar todo el rato con el dale que te pego ^^
No me resisto a no comentarlo...
No quiero desvelar mucho por no destripar, quedaros con que es una serie a la que merece la pena darle una oportunidad. Ya hablamos si os animais
February 6, 2015
I'm feeling emotionally drained. A novel of two halves, in fact it feels like two separate novels involving the same characters. So that's value for money.
Radulf...you made me cry. Your utter devotion to Nik overwhelms me.
Ben...Jeg elsker dig (I so love that online translate function that Kindle offers).
I feel...I feel as if I've read an m/m novel for grownups.
5 definite stars. The love just keeps on growing.
Radulf...you made me cry. Your utter devotion to Nik overwhelms me.
Ben...Jeg elsker dig (I so love that online translate function that Kindle offers).
I feel...I feel as if I've read an m/m novel for grownups.
5 definite stars. The love just keeps on growing.
February 1, 2017
Book 2 of the “More Heat than the sun” series. It’s not a standalone : book 2 picked up right where it left the readers on book 1.
No question about it : Ben and Nikolas are insane, but insanely good !!
Nikolas’s past is coming back and Nikolas deals with it by going back to Russia for a few months. Ben decides than to spend that time learning more about Nikolas. Who would think danger can come from a small Norwegian town and a quiet librarian ??
I so loved the way the relationship between Nikolas and Ben grows deeper and stronger, how they both face their demons, their fear. Unconventional guys, unconventional partnership, and fucked-up situations…it’s gripping, fast-paced, hot, with a good dose of banter and sexual chemistry, sometimes disturbing, heart-breaking and…even sweet.
8 books in the series : 6 more to go. I’m going to enjoy following these guys.
Thank you, Ariana, for gifting me this book !!!
No question about it : Ben and Nikolas are insane, but insanely good !!
Nikolas’s past is coming back and Nikolas deals with it by going back to Russia for a few months. Ben decides than to spend that time learning more about Nikolas. Who would think danger can come from a small Norwegian town and a quiet librarian ??
I so loved the way the relationship between Nikolas and Ben grows deeper and stronger, how they both face their demons, their fear. Unconventional guys, unconventional partnership, and fucked-up situations…it’s gripping, fast-paced, hot, with a good dose of banter and sexual chemistry, sometimes disturbing, heart-breaking and…even sweet.
8 books in the series : 6 more to go. I’m going to enjoy following these guys.
Thank you, Ariana, for gifting me this book !!!
July 27, 2021
One thing REALLY stood out for me in this instalment of More Heat than the Sun....the LOVE between Ben and Nikolas, which seems to be growing in leaps and bounds. I'm giving this one 4.5 stars, which includes half a star for that very brave gay dog of indeterminate nature, Radulf.
We had everything in this story, and I'm not going into great detail - HUGE spoiler alert
And through it all, neither of them looked at another person, and Ben even got Nik to hold his hand in public!! I've fallen in love with them as a couple, and they're now in the top 10 of my 'Favourite Gay Couples' list. Oh Ben...how I love thee, let me count the ways!! 🖤💜💛💚💙
We had everything in this story, and I'm not going into great detail - HUGE spoiler alert
And through it all, neither of them looked at another person, and Ben even got Nik to hold his hand in public!! I've fallen in love with them as a couple, and they're now in the top 10 of my 'Favourite Gay Couples' list. Oh Ben...how I love thee, let me count the ways!! 🖤💜💛💚💙
February 1, 2015
Still in love with this series, and I have found a new auto-buy author! LOVE BEN AND NIK. And all the twists and turns, this is a dark, gritty story.
February 8, 2015
I have a love/hate thing going with Nik and Ben. It's easy to list what I don't like about these books (misogynist rants, crazy and meandering plot lines, no lube ever...), but I am hard pressed to articulate why I actually do enjoy them. So, as an exercise to understand this strange attraction, I have constructed a top 10 list of reasons why I like this book in particular, and this series in general. In no particular order...
1. Nik is enigmatic
2. Ben is loyal
3. Side character named Squeezy
4. Ben gets a library card
5. Nik and Ben are responsible dog owners
6. Hot sex
7. Nik gives just enough
8. Ben isn't needy
9. Radulf/Daddybark
10. I was blown away by the ending
1. Nik is enigmatic
2. Ben is loyal
3. Side character named Squeezy
4. Ben gets a library card
5. Nik and Ben are responsible dog owners
6. Hot sex
7. Nik gives just enough
8. Ben isn't needy
9. Radulf/Daddybark
10. I was blown away by the ending
March 6, 2015
I am completely addicted to Ben and Nik... full review to come!
January 7, 2015
4.5 stars.
I loved this one so much more than the first one (and I enjoyed the first one quite a bit!)
It felt as though the author found his Ben and Nikolas, after a little struggle in the first book.
They both felt more like complete whole characters, a thing that I didn't feel in book #1.
I loved Ben and Nikolas's witty/sarcastic conversations/banter. Their sence of humor is bloody marvelous!
I also loved seeing the big love they both have for each other, especially Ben's... It was heart wrenching at times to witness his strong connection to Nikolas.
I loved this one so much more than the first one (and I enjoyed the first one quite a bit!)
It felt as though the author found his Ben and Nikolas, after a little struggle in the first book.
They both felt more like complete whole characters, a thing that I didn't feel in book #1.
I loved Ben and Nikolas's witty/sarcastic conversations/banter. Their sence of humor is bloody marvelous!
I also loved seeing the big love they both have for each other, especially Ben's... It was heart wrenching at times to witness his strong connection to Nikolas.
December 26, 2014
***4.5 stars***
April 4, 2022
From this installment I expected Russian mob war and guns and I dunno the mafia going all kaboom. Yeah no.
This book was about Nik and Ben just being in love. Obviously they have to deal with some stuff. A little separation, which I liked, coz it allows the characters to grow and/or appreciate what they have and what they could lose. And the pining.... yes, I love that. :)
But after that they are really just... living. Or they would, but trouble seems to find them out of nowhere. And it has nothing to do with either of their past. That aspect of the series is a bit unbelievable and OTT... but I love it.
I loved seeing them happy, and especially how Nik gradually opened up and continues to do so.
The ending was totally unexpected, I was just a smidge buffled. But again I loved it.
Squeeezy is da MAN! ;D I loved him too.
Basically this was yet another enjoyable read.
This book was about Nik and Ben just being in love. Obviously they have to deal with some stuff. A little separation, which I liked, coz it allows the characters to grow and/or appreciate what they have and what they could lose. And the pining.... yes, I love that. :)
But after that they are really just... living. Or they would, but trouble seems to find them out of nowhere. And it has nothing to do with either of their past. That aspect of the series is a bit unbelievable and OTT... but I love it.
I loved seeing them happy, and especially how Nik gradually opened up and continues to do so.
The ending was totally unexpected, I was just a smidge buffled. But again I loved it.
Squeeezy is da MAN! ;D I loved him too.
Basically this was yet another enjoyable read.
December 6, 2014
4.5 flailingly awesome stars on Prism Book Alliance
This story pretty much picks up right there Love is a Stranger left things off. Nik is feeling vulnerable (ha, that’s an understatement) and determined, and Ben is sarcastic, dramatic and also determined – to keep Nik alive and with him, which is exactly where Nik wants to be. Now, to figure out how to get there… together.
So, I’m in chapter two and my connection to Ben and Nik, the connection twixt them to which I’d been attempting to make in Love is a Stranger, came piercing through my heart like a harpoon. In a story like this, with stakes like this, it would have been so easy to have fallen into the trap of Nik and Ben entering into a pattern of pulling away from each other, suffering miscommunication, getting back together, rinse and repeat. Not here. Despite their life histories up to this point, they’re compelled to reach for each other, to continue strengthening that connection, building their belief in it. What did that mean for me? My stakes were now reaching levels worthy of the fluffy cloud-filled sky. I can’t ask for more than that.
Actually, what it meant for me was that I had to admit that these two endeared themselves to me. Yes. Endeared . You read that right. Amidst the horribly serious circumstances, their pain-filled pasts and questionable future (is it, though?), these two wormed their not so little wriggly selves right into my heart and set up shop. Done and done.
”You need a heart to want someone, and I gave mine to you, Benjamin. Or did you forget?”
That’s Nik, to Ben (obvs), and in that single sentiment we know that Nik loves him, Ben loves Nik, they are incredibly serious about that love (even if they haven’t articulated it in words yet) and also have a mighty healthy sense of humor about themselves and each other. What a giddy mix of characteristics to foist upon these two for my enjoyment, for our enjoyment. Oh, how I enjoyed. That’s a pretty clever trick, getting me to care so much about these two decidedly not at all angelic characters.
Ben continues to demonstrate his unwavering faith in Nik. It’s a conduit through which Ben has shown that they can and do deserve each other, their life together, this love. Nik is still struggling to reciprocate but he keeps trying. Never give up, even in the moments where it appears one of them just might do that, they don’t.
The more Ben and Nik share with each other, with us, the more their humor reveals itself. They each definitely know the ways to disarm each other, teasing and poking, smirking and cajoling. It allows Nik’s insecurity to shine through at the same time he is winding Ben up, feigning exasperation. And around and around they go.
This is a romance. No matter which way you slice and dice, no matter the setting, no matter the cover of crime and adventure under which it’s found, this is a romance. Nik and Ben struggle and then succeed, doubt and then overcome. Nik has it right when he tells Ben he’s done wrong in trying to protect him from Nik’s past, all of the bad, horrible things recorded in it. He’s right. As strong and inclination many of us have to “protect” people we love from the parts of our past we wish to hide, the real power is in sharing, in reminding and rewarding trust with naked truth and vulnerability. Incredibly difficult to achieve but so true.
Here’s the bottom line – one of several, probably, but true nonetheless – which I knew before I even finished reading this book: Wiltshire, with these particular words and these two characters, found the shortest, most direct route to the swoon-loving part of my heart. Do not pass go, do not collect that measly two hundred bucks, I went right to the Swoony Pokey, where I remained, swooned for all eternity when it comes to Nik and Ben.
As I said, neither of these guys are angels. They never really had a chance given their starts in life. There are dark times in this story. I don’t mean violence, though it’s definitely here, but old and new demons doing their best to take hold. It’s all immediate and real, it left me breathless more than once. By the same token, that intimacy is evident in every tender, pointed gesture, in every kiss, in every sizzling moment between these two. They both carry old, deep scars, and they show up, desirous for the wreaking of havoc.
Also? They make me smile. They make me cringe, and stop and think. They make me hot. They make me hopeful. They make me sigh in contentment.
For all of the sex, flirting and very personal moments, none of it feels gratuitous. Every scene is relevant to the story and, more importantly, very relevant to the progress of these two characters. Delicious and meaningful.
I’ll end with this: have book three, The Bridge of Silver Wings, ready to read when you’re done with this book. Not because there’s a specific cliffhanger but because you’ll feel a great need to find out what comes next for Nik and Ben. Enthralling. A thrilling ending written so very well. It had my heart pounding.
This story pretty much picks up right there Love is a Stranger left things off. Nik is feeling vulnerable (ha, that’s an understatement) and determined, and Ben is sarcastic, dramatic and also determined – to keep Nik alive and with him, which is exactly where Nik wants to be. Now, to figure out how to get there… together.
So, I’m in chapter two and my connection to Ben and Nik, the connection twixt them to which I’d been attempting to make in Love is a Stranger, came piercing through my heart like a harpoon. In a story like this, with stakes like this, it would have been so easy to have fallen into the trap of Nik and Ben entering into a pattern of pulling away from each other, suffering miscommunication, getting back together, rinse and repeat. Not here. Despite their life histories up to this point, they’re compelled to reach for each other, to continue strengthening that connection, building their belief in it. What did that mean for me? My stakes were now reaching levels worthy of the fluffy cloud-filled sky. I can’t ask for more than that.
Actually, what it meant for me was that I had to admit that these two endeared themselves to me. Yes. Endeared . You read that right. Amidst the horribly serious circumstances, their pain-filled pasts and questionable future (is it, though?), these two wormed their not so little wriggly selves right into my heart and set up shop. Done and done.
”You need a heart to want someone, and I gave mine to you, Benjamin. Or did you forget?”
That’s Nik, to Ben (obvs), and in that single sentiment we know that Nik loves him, Ben loves Nik, they are incredibly serious about that love (even if they haven’t articulated it in words yet) and also have a mighty healthy sense of humor about themselves and each other. What a giddy mix of characteristics to foist upon these two for my enjoyment, for our enjoyment. Oh, how I enjoyed. That’s a pretty clever trick, getting me to care so much about these two decidedly not at all angelic characters.
Ben continues to demonstrate his unwavering faith in Nik. It’s a conduit through which Ben has shown that they can and do deserve each other, their life together, this love. Nik is still struggling to reciprocate but he keeps trying. Never give up, even in the moments where it appears one of them just might do that, they don’t.
The more Ben and Nik share with each other, with us, the more their humor reveals itself. They each definitely know the ways to disarm each other, teasing and poking, smirking and cajoling. It allows Nik’s insecurity to shine through at the same time he is winding Ben up, feigning exasperation. And around and around they go.
This is a romance. No matter which way you slice and dice, no matter the setting, no matter the cover of crime and adventure under which it’s found, this is a romance. Nik and Ben struggle and then succeed, doubt and then overcome. Nik has it right when he tells Ben he’s done wrong in trying to protect him from Nik’s past, all of the bad, horrible things recorded in it. He’s right. As strong and inclination many of us have to “protect” people we love from the parts of our past we wish to hide, the real power is in sharing, in reminding and rewarding trust with naked truth and vulnerability. Incredibly difficult to achieve but so true.
Here’s the bottom line – one of several, probably, but true nonetheless – which I knew before I even finished reading this book: Wiltshire, with these particular words and these two characters, found the shortest, most direct route to the swoon-loving part of my heart. Do not pass go, do not collect that measly two hundred bucks, I went right to the Swoony Pokey, where I remained, swooned for all eternity when it comes to Nik and Ben.
As I said, neither of these guys are angels. They never really had a chance given their starts in life. There are dark times in this story. I don’t mean violence, though it’s definitely here, but old and new demons doing their best to take hold. It’s all immediate and real, it left me breathless more than once. By the same token, that intimacy is evident in every tender, pointed gesture, in every kiss, in every sizzling moment between these two. They both carry old, deep scars, and they show up, desirous for the wreaking of havoc.
Also? They make me smile. They make me cringe, and stop and think. They make me hot. They make me hopeful. They make me sigh in contentment.
For all of the sex, flirting and very personal moments, none of it feels gratuitous. Every scene is relevant to the story and, more importantly, very relevant to the progress of these two characters. Delicious and meaningful.
I’ll end with this: have book three, The Bridge of Silver Wings, ready to read when you’re done with this book. Not because there’s a specific cliffhanger but because you’ll feel a great need to find out what comes next for Nik and Ben. Enthralling. A thrilling ending written so very well. It had my heart pounding.
March 14, 2016
And the award for Literature's most dysfunctional couple of the year goes to...
...very possibly Ben and what'shisname? Yep, I refuse to give him a name because honestly, I'm not sure what the hell his name is. Ok, seriously for the sake of argument we'll let him be Nikolas for now, but honestly guys don't get to attached to it because I'm pretty sure it's going to change.
These two men are just emotionally exhausting, but I'm pretty sure I'm addicted. I have no doubt that I'll carry on reading this series if not before than definitely after the holidays but for now I'm taking a short break...I think because that little voice in my head is whispering 'book3 we need to read the next book. Come on it's on your e-reader and you know you want too.' Sadly the little voice is right I do want to. So I guess we'll see what the day brings.
I'm not even sure where to begin with this one. Both of these men are damaged and flawed beyond belief and at the same time in their own way they will each own up to their flaws. The power balance, or imbalanace as it sometimes tends to be, between Nik and Ben fascinate me. I'm not sure of the how and why of it but the author makes the relationship work between them. At times it's I find myself amazed that they can be in the same room without at the very least wanting to kill each other and other times there's a passionate beauty that shines between them.
This was definitely one of the busiest stories I've read in a while but it flowed well and in spite of the fact that there was actually 3 separate plotlines going on here the story flowed from one thing to the next and we weren't given a jumbled mess of stories overlapping so for me there was no confusion at all as to what was happening and to who and when and all that good stuff that I like to be able to follow in a story.
The events at the end of the book have left me extremely curious as to what will come next and what direction those events are going to lead these two rather fascinating men in and I think I just talked myself into reading the next book...oh, well what's one more right? I've got 7 days before Dec. 1 and my Christmas reading marathon begins. Piece of cake...right?
I basically read this book in two stages the first half was really good and probably over all I would have given it between 3.5 and 4 stars. I was a little ragey with Nik for going to Moscow. I understood his decision but sorry, nope, nope, nope I did not like it or agree with it, however, the second half of the book I sat down and tore through yesterday. I couldn't stop reading. It was working tickity boo for me and I loved it definitely at 4.5 stars at least and with that I'm giving it an overall rating of 4 slightly dysfunctional stars.
...very possibly Ben and what'shisname? Yep, I refuse to give him a name because honestly, I'm not sure what the hell his name is. Ok, seriously for the sake of argument we'll let him be Nikolas for now, but honestly guys don't get to attached to it because I'm pretty sure it's going to change.
These two men are just emotionally exhausting, but I'm pretty sure I'm addicted. I have no doubt that I'll carry on reading this series if not before than definitely after the holidays but for now I'm taking a short break...I think because that little voice in my head is whispering 'book3 we need to read the next book. Come on it's on your e-reader and you know you want too.' Sadly the little voice is right I do want to. So I guess we'll see what the day brings.
I'm not even sure where to begin with this one. Both of these men are damaged and flawed beyond belief and at the same time in their own way they will each own up to their flaws. The power balance, or imbalanace as it sometimes tends to be, between Nik and Ben fascinate me. I'm not sure of the how and why of it but the author makes the relationship work between them. At times it's I find myself amazed that they can be in the same room without at the very least wanting to kill each other and other times there's a passionate beauty that shines between them.
This was definitely one of the busiest stories I've read in a while but it flowed well and in spite of the fact that there was actually 3 separate plotlines going on here the story flowed from one thing to the next and we weren't given a jumbled mess of stories overlapping so for me there was no confusion at all as to what was happening and to who and when and all that good stuff that I like to be able to follow in a story.
The events at the end of the book have left me extremely curious as to what will come next and what direction those events are going to lead these two rather fascinating men in and I think I just talked myself into reading the next book...oh, well what's one more right? I've got 7 days before Dec. 1 and my Christmas reading marathon begins. Piece of cake...right?
I basically read this book in two stages the first half was really good and probably over all I would have given it between 3.5 and 4 stars. I was a little ragey with Nik for going to Moscow. I understood his decision but sorry, nope, nope, nope I did not like it or agree with it, however, the second half of the book I sat down and tore through yesterday. I couldn't stop reading. It was working tickity boo for me and I loved it definitely at 4.5 stars at least and with that I'm giving it an overall rating of 4 slightly dysfunctional stars.
March 1, 2019
A lot of this seems quieter with them spending time apart, then stuff happens with a vengeance, it slows for a holiday before again stuff happens and keeps happening. An interesting read. The relationship pushes boundaries with dubious-(if not outright non-)consent at times. Nik is a self acknowledged 'bad man' and for all his likeability Ben has his own demons.
On to the next book :)
-- --
Dark, melodramatic and humorous. I loved how unpredictable the ride and that we got to see some of Nik's view.
Good friend 'Squeezy' made me laugh and other friends reappear. 'Sticky' Radulf gets his blankie and earns all the sausages he wants.
While I enjoyed the story, I did glance at my progress a few times - the different story pieces didn't tie together that well, the result being what felt like separate stories. Disjointed but still good reading.
Believability got challenged, while it's never been set up as realistic here coincidence, 'treasure' and natural disaster did cause a snort.
Nik's masks fracture further and Ben has his own darkness. Not everything about them is 'nice' but they are definitely each what the other needs. There's a lot of sex, which often seems to be their most honest communication. As others have said, it's a roller-coaster ride.
This books ends at a good place and you could easily finish the series here, but I'm caught and wanting the rest of their story.
On to the next book :)
-- --
Dark, melodramatic and humorous. I loved how unpredictable the ride and that we got to see some of Nik's view.
Good friend 'Squeezy' made me laugh and other friends reappear. 'Sticky' Radulf gets his blankie and earns all the sausages he wants.
While I enjoyed the story, I did glance at my progress a few times - the different story pieces didn't tie together that well, the result being what felt like separate stories. Disjointed but still good reading.
Believability got challenged, while it's never been set up as realistic here coincidence, 'treasure' and natural disaster did cause a snort.
Nik's masks fracture further and Ben has his own darkness. Not everything about them is 'nice' but they are definitely each what the other needs. There's a lot of sex, which often seems to be their most honest communication. As others have said, it's a roller-coaster ride.
This books ends at a good place and you could easily finish the series here, but I'm caught and wanting the rest of their story.
March 9, 2015
I need you, Benjamin. Everything else in this world I've discovered over the last few days is unnecessary to me. I need life, and I need you. Now, we're leaving. Make yourself more useful than you usually do and pack my bag.
How on earth was so much packed into just 278 pages? I seriously loved the first book but this one had just so much more to it, it was intense and seriously emotional at times. I just can't get enough of Nik and Ben, these two tough guys have been through so much and are so in love and there is literally nothing they wouldn't do for each other. Their relationship has evolved a lot since the first book and I found myself laughing out loud at all the witty moments shared between them and just love their passion for life.
A special mention must go to Radulf their loyal and fearless dog!
At least we've maybe now discovered why he couldn't be rehomed, yes? He rubbed his own throat thoughtfully.
How on earth was so much packed into just 278 pages? I seriously loved the first book but this one had just so much more to it, it was intense and seriously emotional at times. I just can't get enough of Nik and Ben, these two tough guys have been through so much and are so in love and there is literally nothing they wouldn't do for each other. Their relationship has evolved a lot since the first book and I found myself laughing out loud at all the witty moments shared between them and just love their passion for life.
A special mention must go to Radulf their loyal and fearless dog!
At least we've maybe now discovered why he couldn't be rehomed, yes? He rubbed his own throat thoughtfully.
February 14, 2019
The romance is hitting all my buttons. The plot is on crack and the sexist comments from both MCs hit on my nerves but the romance....the relationship angst....the feels....the banter...Radulf, wolf of the house....I very rarely feel that kind of connection between characters especially in darker reads and this is something that surprises the hell out of me given that I did not like these two together in the first book, especially the first time I read it. My buddy reader knows me too well. On to the next one...
November 8, 2016
Re-read October-November 2016.
Read October 2015.
Original review:
**** 4,5 what a ride stars ****
----------------------------
"You are the conscious choice of my heart."
----------------------------
Such a great read!
And so much better than the first book (which was just confusing, really).
I fell so in love with both the main characters, Ben and Nik! They are such complex characters and they grew so much during this book. All sorts of things happens to them and it was a thrill to be along for the ride.
Uhm yeah, that didn't quite work out either... O.o
Holy shit, what a major plot twist!
I'm not giving anything away, because it just needs to be read for the shock effect! What's true is, it really showed me you can never know what Wiltshire is going to throw at you story wise. I love that.
---------------------------
"I need you, Benjamin. Everything else in this world I've discovered over the last few days is unnecessary to me. I need life, and I need you."
~Nik~
---------------------------
On to the next!
Recommended!
Read October 2015.
Original review:
**** 4,5 what a ride stars ****
----------------------------
"You are the conscious choice of my heart."
----------------------------
Such a great read!
And so much better than the first book (which was just confusing, really).
I fell so in love with both the main characters, Ben and Nik! They are such complex characters and they grew so much during this book. All sorts of things happens to them and it was a thrill to be along for the ride.
What you got to know about this book, though, is that there are two (separate) story lines. The first half of the book, the story takes place in Denmark. What happens here is reflected on the cover.
Uhm yeah, that scene was just... O.o
*****************************************************
The second half of the book, Ben and Nik travels somewhere in the Philippines for a nice relaxing vacation.
Uhm yeah, that scene was just... O.o
*****************************************************
The second half of the book, Ben and Nik travels somewhere in the Philippines for a nice relaxing vacation.
Uhm yeah, that didn't quite work out either... O.o
Holy shit, what a major plot twist!
I'm not giving anything away, because it just needs to be read for the shock effect! What's true is, it really showed me you can never know what Wiltshire is going to throw at you story wise. I love that.
---------------------------
"I need you, Benjamin. Everything else in this world I've discovered over the last few days is unnecessary to me. I need life, and I need you."
~Nik~
---------------------------
On to the next!
Recommended!
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