What do you think?
Rate this book
Sinners #4
Sloe Ride
It isn’t easy being a Morgan. Especially when dead bodies start piling up and there’s not a damned thing you can do about it.
Quinn Morgan never quite fit into the family mold. He dreamed of a life with books instead of badges and knowledge instead of law—and a life with Rafe Andrade, his older brothers’ bad boy friend and the man who broke his very young heart.
Rafe Andrade returned home to lick his wounds following his ejection from the band he helped form. A recovering drug addict, Rafe spends his time wallowing in guilt, until he finds himself faced with his original addiction, Quinn Morgan—the reason he fled the city in the first place.
When Rafe hears the Sinners are looking for a bassist, it’s a chance to redeem himself, but as a crazed murderer draws closer to Quinn, Rafe’s willing to sacrifice everything—including himself—to keep his quixotic Morgan safe and sound.
Quinn Morgan never quite fit into the family mold. He dreamed of a life with books instead of badges and knowledge instead of law—and a life with Rafe Andrade, his older brothers’ bad boy friend and the man who broke his very young heart.
Rafe Andrade returned home to lick his wounds following his ejection from the band he helped form. A recovering drug addict, Rafe spends his time wallowing in guilt, until he finds himself faced with his original addiction, Quinn Morgan—the reason he fled the city in the first place.
When Rafe hears the Sinners are looking for a bassist, it’s a chance to redeem himself, but as a crazed murderer draws closer to Quinn, Rafe’s willing to sacrifice everything—including himself—to keep his quixotic Morgan safe and sound.
246 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 4, 2015
77 people are currently reading
633 people want to read
About the author
Rhys Ford
79 books1,890 followersRhys Ford is an award-winning author with several long-running LGBT+ mystery, thriller, paranormal, and urban fantasy series and is a two-time LAMBDA finalist and a multiple Gold and Silver Medalist by the Florida Authors and Publishers President’s Book Awards. She is published by Dreamspinner Press, DSP Publications and Rogue Firebird Press.
She shares the house with Harley, a gray tuxedo with a flower on her face, Badger, a disgruntled former alley cat, and Gojira, a mercurial Tabico as well as a ginger cairn terrorist named Gus. Rhys is also enslaved to the upkeep of a 1979 Pontiac Firebird named Tengu and enjoys murdering make-believe people.
She shares the house with Harley, a gray tuxedo with a flower on her face, Badger, a disgruntled former alley cat, and Gojira, a mercurial Tabico as well as a ginger cairn terrorist named Gus. Rhys is also enslaved to the upkeep of a 1979 Pontiac Firebird named Tengu and enjoys murdering make-believe people.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 260 reviews
January 27, 2018
The fourth installment of the murder-filled mystery/suspense Sinners series focuses on Quinn Morgan, younger brother to Connor and Kane, who has been the black sheep of the family going for academia instead of law enforcement, and Raphael Andrade, the bad boy of Rock who took his entire career and burned it to the ground, only to now hopefully rise from the ashes like a phoenix.
Quinn Morgan is used to being the odd Morgan out. Sheltered and sometimes smothered by his well-meaning family Quinn marches to the beat of a different kind of bass.
Rafe Andrade had the world at his feet and completely fucked it all up. Now out of rehab and determined not to let this new chance go, he's determined to stop fighting the feelings he's has for Quinn for years.
Rafe is the only one who really gets Quinn, allows him to be himself, and doesn't try to change him or box him into being "normal".
For me, this installment of the series was a lot different in the way it flowed. Honestly, I was very confused for the first half of the story, constantly feeling off-kilter; like I was missing something. It took a while to get into the swing of the pacing, and I'll admit it took me a bit longer than normal to warm up to Rafe.
Definitely one of my favorite Morgan siblings, I have looked forward to Quinn's story for ages. I have long suspected Quinn was somewhere on the autistic spectrum. His actions and thoughts too unusual otherwise...
It's finally a conversation Quinn has with Brigid at more than halfway through that confirmed my suspicions and made the rest of Quinn's actions make a kind of sense to me.
It was as the suspenseful, murderous situation unfolding around Quinn began to peak that I finally began to warm to Rafe, and how quick he is to always put himself in front of Quinn and stand steadfastly beside him. Ford doesn't disappoint in the mystery/suspense side, or in the heat, when Quinn and Rafe finally get together. Once again, there's plenty of biting humor, and time spent with Miki and Damie is never a dull moment.
Though I will say I personally had hoped for more "relationship" and less "mystery"...mystery lovers should definitely check out all of the action, feels, and suspense packed into the story and the definitely hard-won ending for Quinn and his rocker.
I'm pretty sure I've read this is the end of the Sinners series and while that makes me sad to find my time with the wonderful Morgan clan, Sionn, and the crazy rockers of the series come to a close, I've had a great time with them all.
Thanks for the wonderful series, Rhys Ford!
RECOMMENDED!
ETA 8/31/2015: Was told another book in the series is possibly planned...so maybe we'll see more of the Morgan clan. Yay!
Advanced Review Copy generously provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews
********************
September?! But...I want it now!!!
Quinn Morgan is used to being the odd Morgan out. Sheltered and sometimes smothered by his well-meaning family Quinn marches to the beat of a different kind of bass.
Rafe Andrade had the world at his feet and completely fucked it all up. Now out of rehab and determined not to let this new chance go, he's determined to stop fighting the feelings he's has for Quinn for years.
"Breathe, baby," Rafe murmured softly, holding Quinn's face.
They shared a kiss made only of their breath, and Quinn tasted himself on Rafe's exhale, marveling in the surety in Rafe's golden-brown eyes.
"This isn't a one-time thing, Q. Not us. Not ever. I told you. I'm in this. If you want me. Don't let that hay-and-needles brain of yours skew things sideways, and don't go borrowing trouble. You and me… we work, don't we? In our odd, weird way?"
Rafe is the only one who really gets Quinn, allows him to be himself, and doesn't try to change him or box him into being "normal".
"God, you make me feel normal," Quinn whispered. "Like I'm just… like there's nothing wrong with me."
"There's nothing wrong with you, babe," Rafe replied, stroking Quinn's cheek with his thumb. "You're who you are. You're Quinn."
For me, this installment of the series was a lot different in the way it flowed. Honestly, I was very confused for the first half of the story, constantly feeling off-kilter; like I was missing something. It took a while to get into the swing of the pacing, and I'll admit it took me a bit longer than normal to warm up to Rafe.
Definitely one of my favorite Morgan siblings, I have looked forward to Quinn's story for ages. I have long suspected Quinn was somewhere on the autistic spectrum. His actions and thoughts too unusual otherwise...
It's finally a conversation Quinn has with Brigid at more than halfway through that confirmed my suspicions and made the rest of Quinn's actions make a kind of sense to me.
"I’ve spent my whole life living in a world where I don’t speak the language everyone does." It was difficult, digging into wounds he’d let heal over, hoping they wouldn’t fester into poison beneath the surface of his heart. "I understand what you’re saying, but everyone moves and acts so oddly. Like I’m living in a world made up out of broken mirrors, and every time I try to reach for one of you, I cut myself on the edge of the glass.
"And this world, Mum." He sighed as she took his hand, squeezing back when Brigid laid her head on his shoulder. "This world… it’s all grayish. Monotones of muted hues where sometimes I can’t tell the difference between a door and a window, but everything’s sharp and everyone hurts. And there’s so much noise. Everything chattering and demanding, pushing into me."
It was as the suspenseful, murderous situation unfolding around Quinn began to peak that I finally began to warm to Rafe, and how quick he is to always put himself in front of Quinn and stand steadfastly beside him. Ford doesn't disappoint in the mystery/suspense side, or in the heat, when Quinn and Rafe finally get together. Once again, there's plenty of biting humor, and time spent with Miki and Damie is never a dull moment.
Though I will say I personally had hoped for more "relationship" and less "mystery"...mystery lovers should definitely check out all of the action, feels, and suspense packed into the story and the definitely hard-won ending for Quinn and his rocker.
I'm pretty sure I've read this is the end of the Sinners series and while that makes me sad to find my time with the wonderful Morgan clan, Sionn, and the crazy rockers of the series come to a close, I've had a great time with them all.
Thanks for the wonderful series, Rhys Ford!
RECOMMENDED!
ETA 8/31/2015: Was told another book in the series is possibly planned...so maybe we'll see more of the Morgan clan. Yay!
Advanced Review Copy generously provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews
********************
September?! But...I want it now!!!
July 12, 2018
Quinn's different than his siblings. He thinks differently. He acts differently. He processes differently. No one seems to understand him. Quinn has always had feelings for Rafe, his older brothers' friend. But Rafe leaves to go on tour with his band and Quinn (who is 15 at the time) struggles to accept who he is and to live in his own skin. Meanwhile, Rafe leads a life of destruction. After a devastating wake up call, he comes home after ruining just about everything in his life. Years later, he sees his magpie, Quinn, is all grown up.
What I loved most about this book was Rafe. I honestly went into it expecting to not connect with him or like him, much less love him. But I did. I could feel his pain in the beginning knowing how he had ruined all that he cared about.
But man, oh man, when he reconnects with Quinn, he is the perfect hero IMO. He is all about Quinn. He gets Quinn, understands him, works with him. Not even Quinn's family can be like that with him. But to Rafe, Quinn is perfect just how he is.
He was definitely the highlight of the book for me.
I struggled with Quinn. In the beginning I didn't really care for him. I don't know why...I just couldn't connect with him. But he grew on me. And I loved how he seem to blossom with Rafe.
I loved the romance aspect of the book what there was. What brought down my rating was I felt the mystery aspect overshadowed the romance. I'm a romance reader to my core. I NEED romance to be up and center. I live for the swoony moments. When Quinn and Rafe were together it was definitely swoony. I just wanted more of it.
I have been putting off reading this one. I'm not much on second chance books. But I'm glad I read it. It wasn't my favorite, but it was definitely a good addition to the series.
What I loved most about this book was Rafe. I honestly went into it expecting to not connect with him or like him, much less love him. But I did. I could feel his pain in the beginning knowing how he had ruined all that he cared about.
"He’d wasted his life. To be fair, wasted was an understatement. Decimated came closer, leaving destroyed a distant second. He’d gathered it up like he’d done to the artwork in the hotel room and set it on fire. Unlike the impromptu bonfire, he’d burned his life until there was nothing left of it but ashes and the stink of regret."
But man, oh man, when he reconnects with Quinn, he is the perfect hero IMO. He is all about Quinn. He gets Quinn, understands him, works with him. Not even Quinn's family can be like that with him. But to Rafe, Quinn is perfect just how he is.
“There’s nothing wrong with you, babe,” Rafe replied, stroking Quinn’s cheek with his thumb. “You’re who you are. You’re Quinn.”
He was definitely the highlight of the book for me.
I struggled with Quinn. In the beginning I didn't really care for him. I don't know why...I just couldn't connect with him. But he grew on me. And I loved how he seem to blossom with Rafe.
"He could just… be around Rafe. No modifying behavior, no stopping and asking himself if he said the right thing or missed the meaning of something. He had a freedom with Rafe he’d never had with anyone before."
I loved the romance aspect of the book what there was. What brought down my rating was I felt the mystery aspect overshadowed the romance. I'm a romance reader to my core. I NEED romance to be up and center. I live for the swoony moments. When Quinn and Rafe were together it was definitely swoony. I just wanted more of it.
“I see you looking at me—all warm and sweet—and all I think about is how I don’t deserve you. Don’t deserve that affection, but see, I’m an asshole, Quinn. Because I’m going to take it—and hold on tight.”
I have been putting off reading this one. I'm not much on second chance books. But I'm glad I read it. It wasn't my favorite, but it was definitely a good addition to the series.
May 2, 2018
3.5
~THE SLOWEST OF RIDES~
I think this might be my least favourite Rhys Ford book ever and that’s saying something since I also kinda really liked it. The books before in the series was just so entertaining, charming, and really fleshed out. Sloe Ride was lacking something and its overall feel was just all over the place.
Quinn Morgan is the odd child out of the Morgan children, he walks to a tune of his own. As a professor he already went far right of being a Morgan, an intellectual among his macho badge carrying older brothers and father. He lives in his own little world, and while his family can be very overbearing it doesn’t stop him from living life how he wants to. Life can be anticlimactic for him, until he’s almost run off the road by a crazy driver which causes an accident. Quinn lets it go as road rage incident and thinks nothing more of it until the bodies start to pile up around him. Throw Rafe Andrade in the mix, the man he’s been lusting after since he was a teenager and his quiet life just became a storm. Rafe is someone he’s always wanted, someone is killing those around him and Quinn has had enough of his overprotective family.
Rafe Andrade has got his own demons. Once a successful musician playing with his very successful band living his dream life, but he couldn’t stay away from the booger sugar and the pills and potions. A fatal accident leaves him questioning all his decisions, and needing to take a look at the man in the mirror. It’s time he gets clean and begin life a new because he’s already lost so much and he doesn’t want to lose himself. No matter the how crazy his life got, the Morgan’s have always been constant. Their friendship and love have kept him going. He’s got his eye on Quinn but it’s a step he can never take because he’s damaged goods and Quinn deserves better.
What ensues is something I like to call “steroids with a side of crack”. It gets crazy folks and I mean crazy, and that is saying something when it comes to a Ford book. Someone is really out for Quinn, or should I say someone is out for anyone who gets close to Quinn whether it be romantically or friendly. The killer is unhinge and Quinn is just out there living his best life. From the get go it’s quite clear that Quinn has some sort of neurological disorder, it’s without name in the book but you come to an understanding as the reader. Brain being wired differently and all that, he’s a big ole fool. His whole persona is that he’s an intelligent guy, but somehow he forgot the intelligent part and regressed into being a foolish child. He really grinded my gears and I would have accepted his death.
The romance…I don’t get it, I don’t understand it, and I really don’t care about it. Quinn and Rafe have no real substance and their story is lukewarm hotdog water. I was totally reading for the story, supporting characters, and the bodies dropping like flies. The “who done it” also kept me reading and I can’t say I was surprised by the psycho killer because of course it was that dude (made total sense).
Overall, my least fave book in the series and my least fave book by the author. The writing and story here was so disjointed and all over the place I couldn’t get a proper feel for it. Quinn and Rafe really let me down as a couple which is quite disappointing because Quinn has been a very interesting character through the series and his magic got lost in his very own book. There’s so many wonderful places this book could have gone but it remained stagnant and I’m feeling the sad feels. Upside, the big amazing Morgan family is present and they carry the book and I ain’t mad it. Rafe and Quinn definitely didn’t have enough time here for them to shine here and…that was the downfall.
More of my reviews and ramblings at PANTS OFF REVIEWS
~THE SLOWEST OF RIDES~
I think this might be my least favourite Rhys Ford book ever and that’s saying something since I also kinda really liked it. The books before in the series was just so entertaining, charming, and really fleshed out. Sloe Ride was lacking something and its overall feel was just all over the place.
Quinn Morgan is the odd child out of the Morgan children, he walks to a tune of his own. As a professor he already went far right of being a Morgan, an intellectual among his macho badge carrying older brothers and father. He lives in his own little world, and while his family can be very overbearing it doesn’t stop him from living life how he wants to. Life can be anticlimactic for him, until he’s almost run off the road by a crazy driver which causes an accident. Quinn lets it go as road rage incident and thinks nothing more of it until the bodies start to pile up around him. Throw Rafe Andrade in the mix, the man he’s been lusting after since he was a teenager and his quiet life just became a storm. Rafe is someone he’s always wanted, someone is killing those around him and Quinn has had enough of his overprotective family.
Rafe Andrade has got his own demons. Once a successful musician playing with his very successful band living his dream life, but he couldn’t stay away from the booger sugar and the pills and potions. A fatal accident leaves him questioning all his decisions, and needing to take a look at the man in the mirror. It’s time he gets clean and begin life a new because he’s already lost so much and he doesn’t want to lose himself. No matter the how crazy his life got, the Morgan’s have always been constant. Their friendship and love have kept him going. He’s got his eye on Quinn but it’s a step he can never take because he’s damaged goods and Quinn deserves better.
What ensues is something I like to call “steroids with a side of crack”. It gets crazy folks and I mean crazy, and that is saying something when it comes to a Ford book. Someone is really out for Quinn, or should I say someone is out for anyone who gets close to Quinn whether it be romantically or friendly. The killer is unhinge and Quinn is just out there living his best life. From the get go it’s quite clear that Quinn has some sort of neurological disorder, it’s without name in the book but you come to an understanding as the reader. Brain being wired differently and all that, he’s a big ole fool. His whole persona is that he’s an intelligent guy, but somehow he forgot the intelligent part and regressed into being a foolish child. He really grinded my gears and I would have accepted his death.
The romance…I don’t get it, I don’t understand it, and I really don’t care about it. Quinn and Rafe have no real substance and their story is lukewarm hotdog water. I was totally reading for the story, supporting characters, and the bodies dropping like flies. The “who done it” also kept me reading and I can’t say I was surprised by the psycho killer because of course it was that dude (made total sense).
Overall, my least fave book in the series and my least fave book by the author. The writing and story here was so disjointed and all over the place I couldn’t get a proper feel for it. Quinn and Rafe really let me down as a couple which is quite disappointing because Quinn has been a very interesting character through the series and his magic got lost in his very own book. There’s so many wonderful places this book could have gone but it remained stagnant and I’m feeling the sad feels. Upside, the big amazing Morgan family is present and they carry the book and I ain’t mad it. Rafe and Quinn definitely didn’t have enough time here for them to shine here and…that was the downfall.
More of my reviews and ramblings at PANTS OFF REVIEWS
September 1, 2015
3.5 stars
The Sinners series is my favorite from Rhys Ford. And though I typically don’t love books about musicians, my love for the MORGAN FAMILY is enough to override anything else!!!!
Sloe Ride is book 4 of the series, and as I read it, I realized that so much of the details and setup subtley happened in the previous books. So no, it does not work as a standalone, in my opinion. And a refresher read of at least book 3 might help out before diving into this one. I happen to LOVE book 3, Tequila Mockingbird, because Connor Morgan is my EVERYTHING. Rereading it was NOT a burden, at all. Ok, back to book 4…
Sloe Ride is where we finally get the Quinn Morgan’s story: Quinn, the non-cop in the family. Quinn, the scholar. Quinn, the one always described as “wired differently”. Quinn, slightly quirky, different than the rest, but special to all. I have been intrigued by Quinn all along and his book did not disappoint.
Rafe is bass guitarist who’s fall from grace sent him all the way to the bottom. Friend of the Morgan clan, he relies on their support as he tries to work his way back from rehab and scandal. Rafe had always had his eye on the younger Quinn as they grew up, but his own protective streak towards Quinn kept Rafe from truly acting on it. Until he couldn’t deny his feelings anymore.
The mystery element to this story might have been one of my favorites thus far in the series. I had a hunch how it was all going to play out, but it wasn’t obvious in my mind. I liked the guessing game. I also found Rafe and Quinn to be sweet and their dependency on each other, their understanding of each other when others were confused by them, all worked for me.
I really liked how Rhys Ford handled her descriptors of Quinn. It was never about something being “wrong” with him…just different.
Great installment to the series. Not my favorite, but I enjoyed it. And lots of appearances from all the characters from throughout the series. Connor!
February 9, 2017
Another awesome read by Rhys Ford !! I absolutely loved this one and I absolutely love the "Morgan" family
I think this was my favorite book in this series. I have curious about Quinn since I started this series and he did not disappoint. I loved that he was so different from all the other "Morgan" men. I think he is authistic, though the word is never really mentioned in the book.
Rafe was perfect for him and both MC's stole my heart right from the beginning.
The sexscenes between the two of them (though there weren't many), were hot, sweet and even funny. Very different, than the other books.
The mystery part was awesome (and OTT)..there were dead bodies and blood and gore !!
I was shocked when I found out who the killer was !!
Micky still makes me laugh my ass off, so I think I'm gonna have to re-read his book !! I'm a bit sad that there aren't any more "Sinners", but all good things must come to an end....
April 27, 2018
Listening to the audio raises my affection for this series. I'm arguing with myself over five starring the lot of them, the stories hold flaws but I love these guys, I love the couples, the family and the feelings. And the storytelling keeps me happily turning pages.
In the time since reading I'd forgotten how well Quinn is written and how Rafe sees him.
James is a really good narrator but as there's more characters present here and his voices/accents are inconsistent, probably wont be too noticeable to a lot of readers. Did notice the odd misread word 'three houses' becoming 'tree houses' did make me reach for the ebook to check! ;)
-- --
It was interesting to better meet the 'differently wired' Morgan, I liked how the family were shown to care but also to overwhelm, it was well conveyed. Was impressed with how his way of looking at people was written, the different details and slow associations. To me his behaviour wasn't always consistent but people do vary and overall I found him a fascinating character, Rafe's understanding heart-warming.
Rafe, despite one hell of an intro to him, there's not a lot about his healing, he's done his rehab is picking up the pieces; we see how people are wary of him but the story was more about Quinn. The bond between them was lovely. They see deeper than the surface, both men desperately need the sense of order, love and acceptance that being together brings.
Their first time is sweet and funny and hot, I really liked the humour shown between them, how friendly and together they seemed. So much better reading than instant porn-stars.
As with the others in the series there's a lot of talking over emotions, an influx of Morgans (I couldn't remember who Ian was) Brigid in full glory - I kept picturing her as Mrs Weasley! Plenty feels. The prose has a tendency to turn purple but there are also lines that cut deep.
My drinking game points were in show, though Ford didn't describe anything as 'erotic' I did a search in case I missed it! *pout*
So okay the mystery was a tad ridiculous, or perhaps more believable than a complicate reasoning, but it's not as predictable as expected which was a well placed kick at my smug cynicism ;) even on re-read I fell into suspecting the red-herring, so Major Kudos Ms Ford - you caught me!
It's easy to criticise. But. There's a whole bunch of likeable characters, they're heart-warming, hot, and perfect for curling up with on a lazy day. I'd be perfectly happy with this being a long series and feel a loss that there's only to be one more (plus a novella).
In the time since reading I'd forgotten how well Quinn is written and how Rafe sees him.
James is a really good narrator but as there's more characters present here and his voices/accents are inconsistent, probably wont be too noticeable to a lot of readers. Did notice the odd misread word 'three houses' becoming 'tree houses' did make me reach for the ebook to check! ;)
-- --
It was interesting to better meet the 'differently wired' Morgan, I liked how the family were shown to care but also to overwhelm, it was well conveyed. Was impressed with how his way of looking at people was written, the different details and slow associations. To me his behaviour wasn't always consistent but people do vary and overall I found him a fascinating character, Rafe's understanding heart-warming.
Rafe, despite one hell of an intro to him, there's not a lot about his healing, he's done his rehab is picking up the pieces; we see how people are wary of him but the story was more about Quinn. The bond between them was lovely. They see deeper than the surface, both men desperately need the sense of order, love and acceptance that being together brings.
Their first time is sweet and funny and hot, I really liked the humour shown between them, how friendly and together they seemed. So much better reading than instant porn-stars.
As with the others in the series there's a lot of talking over emotions, an influx of Morgans (I couldn't remember who Ian was) Brigid in full glory - I kept picturing her as Mrs Weasley! Plenty feels. The prose has a tendency to turn purple but there are also lines that cut deep.
My drinking game points were in show, though Ford didn't describe anything as 'erotic' I did a search in case I missed it! *pout*
So okay the mystery was a tad ridiculous, or perhaps more believable than a complicate reasoning, but it's not as predictable as expected which was a well placed kick at my smug cynicism ;) even on re-read I fell into suspecting the red-herring, so Major Kudos Ms Ford - you caught me!
It's easy to criticise. But. There's a whole bunch of likeable characters, they're heart-warming, hot, and perfect for curling up with on a lazy day. I'd be perfectly happy with this being a long series and feel a loss that there's only to be one more (plus a novella).
March 15, 2016
So I think this one was my favourite.
I liked Quinn and Rafe together a lot. How they dealt with each other and cared for one another was lovely. Rafe's love of everything that made Quinn, Quinn and Quinn's belief in Rafe. I enjoyed them. The Irishisms didn't seem to bother me as much in this and it made me cry. I think Quinn has been my favourite Morgan since he first appeared in Kane's workshop.
The brothers Morgan annoyed me at times though and I was a little confused about how things happened and what felt like random time jumps but for the first time the smexy time didn't confuse me and was a bit of alright.
Oh and 'Magpie' as a nickname?
Special animal shout out to Harley. Loved her and I kind of want a Cornish Rex now. They are ugly and adorable and stunning. How is that a thing??
September 28, 2015
Quinn and Rafe are now one of my favorite couples in this series.
Quinn is, in a sense, the black sheep Morgan - he's not in law enforcement, he's incredibly intelligent and his brain is wired differently. His difficulty coping with his disorder as a teen has led the normally overprotective Morgans to be ultra-overprotective where Quinn is concerned.
Rafe is an old friend of the family, a few years older than Quinn and a close friend of Connor's. Rafe is one of the few people who ever took the time to understand Quinn. His feeling for Quinn go way back, but at the time the age difference made it impossible to be more than friends. Rafe has also had a difficult time in the past but has been fighting his addiction and is clean and sober.
I loved their connection and Rafe's understanding and acceptance of Quinn for the incredible man he is. The mystery was good, but I would have loved more time with Quinn and Rafe as their interactions were so wonderful. The Morgan clan was even more overwhelming in this story than usual and while I understood it and loved seeing Quinn stand up to them, I wanted more one-on-one with the MC's.
Quinn is, in a sense, the black sheep Morgan - he's not in law enforcement, he's incredibly intelligent and his brain is wired differently. His difficulty coping with his disorder as a teen has led the normally overprotective Morgans to be ultra-overprotective where Quinn is concerned.
Rafe is an old friend of the family, a few years older than Quinn and a close friend of Connor's. Rafe is one of the few people who ever took the time to understand Quinn. His feeling for Quinn go way back, but at the time the age difference made it impossible to be more than friends. Rafe has also had a difficult time in the past but has been fighting his addiction and is clean and sober.
I loved their connection and Rafe's understanding and acceptance of Quinn for the incredible man he is. The mystery was good, but I would have loved more time with Quinn and Rafe as their interactions were so wonderful. The Morgan clan was even more overwhelming in this story than usual and while I understood it and loved seeing Quinn stand up to them, I wanted more one-on-one with the MC's.
April 13, 2017
3.5 Stars
As with this specific series, you've got (if not insta-love) insta-proclamations between Rafe and Quinn, who have unknowingly crushed hard on each other since they were teens. They went from zero to 60 in 3 seconds flat once they meet again, but that's how all the characters have fallen. In between all these revelations and Rafe trying to get his shattered life back, there's a crazy murderer on the loose to make things a bit more exciting, further pushing these two together.
I appreciated the absence of the uber, overprotective alpha male that has been present in the last three books (tho the entire Morgan clan made up for that missing element in bucketfuls to the point of absolute ridiculousness). Quinn and Rafe were on equal footing in their unique dynamic - something I liked more than the usual push pull. However if you've gotten this far, be reassured that this had all the standard Sinners bits and parts, with grand love and great smex nicely wrapped up in a lot of pretty words. Good enough.
As with this specific series, you've got (if not insta-love) insta-proclamations between Rafe and Quinn, who have unknowingly crushed hard on each other since they were teens. They went from zero to 60 in 3 seconds flat once they meet again, but that's how all the characters have fallen. In between all these revelations and Rafe trying to get his shattered life back, there's a crazy murderer on the loose to make things a bit more exciting, further pushing these two together.
I appreciated the absence of the uber, overprotective alpha male that has been present in the last three books (tho the entire Morgan clan made up for that missing element in bucketfuls to the point of absolute ridiculousness). Quinn and Rafe were on equal footing in their unique dynamic - something I liked more than the usual push pull. However if you've gotten this far, be reassured that this had all the standard Sinners bits and parts, with grand love and great smex nicely wrapped up in a lot of pretty words. Good enough.
May 6, 2018
New RTC later:-)
-------------------------------------------
I am leaving this book for now.
The rest of the series was GREAT, and they will be read again.
This one however, did not start out well for me. Quinn would normally be the PERFECT character for me; a bumbling, 'nerdy' MC with some awkward-ness.
BUT when he arrives at the coffee-shop, sees Rafe and proposes that they sleep together, right after he was almost driven off the road/killed, without saying anything to his family, I was starting to do the mambo with my eyes.
Then we have Rafe who have all these ideas of why he stayed away from Quinn earlier, and now... *poof* gone! He is so ready...
The beginning just didn't work for me. I might return to it, when I do a re-read of this series, but this one is a DNF for now.
-------------------------------------------
I am leaving this book for now.
The rest of the series was GREAT, and they will be read again.
This one however, did not start out well for me. Quinn would normally be the PERFECT character for me; a bumbling, 'nerdy' MC with some awkward-ness.
BUT when he arrives at the coffee-shop, sees Rafe and proposes that they sleep together, right after he was almost driven off the road/killed, without saying anything to his family, I was starting to do the mambo with my eyes.
Then we have Rafe who have all these ideas of why he stayed away from Quinn earlier, and now... *poof* gone! He is so ready...
The beginning just didn't work for me. I might return to it, when I do a re-read of this series, but this one is a DNF for now.
July 24, 2022
I didn't think I was going to like this series so much when I started it...but now I wish there was going to many more stories about the guys of "Sinner's Gin and their partners. Guess that's what rereads are for. Quinn and Rafe's story is a unique one in this series. We get to see and better understand what makes Quinn's way of thinking, not wrong but just "different"...but entirely normal for him. The Morgan boys have always had the love and support of their wonderful parents who are always there any time for a heart-to-heart. Usually, it's with their dad but Quinn's talk was with his mother, and it was guaranteed to bring tears to your eyes. We see the depth of how much the family, and even Kane's Mikie, who pretends to be terrified of Bridget, the mother of the Morgan bunch, love and adore both Morgan parents. Someone is trying and succeeding to eliminate one by one the people that Quinn loves as well as some that are just good friends. Rafe, his boyfriend who he just reunited with, and his brothers have other ideas and will do anything to protect him. Meanwhile the band that was once known as Sinner's Gin now have two new members and are ready to appear again but on a much closer to home and family schedule than before. Now we can welcome Crossroad's Gin to the stage and thank Rhys Ford for providing two more books in the series for us to enjoy. Oh...almost forgot. If you can't love any of the characters...and I can't imagine that happening...you will have to love Quinn's cat.
September 20, 2016
Quinn Morgan is an enigma to himself and his family. He does not fit into the Morgan family mold. One person though, understands and feels Quinn in a way that no one else can or does. He has been in love with Rafe since he was a kid. Now, Rafe is in his life again, just as Quinn seems to be the target of deadly attacks by an unknown person.
Rafe Andrade, close friend to Quinn's older brother Kane. He has been in love with Quinn since they were young. He abruptly left, leaving a broken Quinn in his wake. Now, he is a mess, having lived the life of an addicted musician. He is kicked out of the band he started, and dealing with a tragic death that he could have prevented. He is back, but will he be welcomed by any of the Morgans, especially the most important one.
I am crazy about this series. I have long awaited Quinn's story as the lone Morgan that does not fit into the family of law and order. He walks to the beat of his own drum. Rhys Ford has captured the way his thoughts ping around in his brain like a ramped up pin ball machine. It is fascinating and makes for an excellent story. The love story is gentle and heartwarming. I love the way in this story love can heal, can soothe, and make us all the better for it.
This is worth all your pennies and all your time.
***Once again, the audio is amazing. Tristan James has a voice that needs to be bottled and sold.***
Rafe Andrade, close friend to Quinn's older brother Kane. He has been in love with Quinn since they were young. He abruptly left, leaving a broken Quinn in his wake. Now, he is a mess, having lived the life of an addicted musician. He is kicked out of the band he started, and dealing with a tragic death that he could have prevented. He is back, but will he be welcomed by any of the Morgans, especially the most important one.
I am crazy about this series. I have long awaited Quinn's story as the lone Morgan that does not fit into the family of law and order. He walks to the beat of his own drum. Rhys Ford has captured the way his thoughts ping around in his brain like a ramped up pin ball machine. It is fascinating and makes for an excellent story. The love story is gentle and heartwarming. I love the way in this story love can heal, can soothe, and make us all the better for it.
This is worth all your pennies and all your time.
***Once again, the audio is amazing. Tristan James has a voice that needs to be bottled and sold.***
March 14, 2016
Book 4 in the series rates #1 for me...
'Sloe Ride' started out being all about Quinn for me. I've wanted his story from the moment he showed up in the series. He's the Morgan sibling that's different, not just because he didn't become a cop but because 'he's wired differently'. Quinn sees the world from a different perspective than others do and I love that this is not portrayed as being bad or wrong or lesser than others just different. So often we see stories where the person who is different is shoved into one of those categories when in fact sometimes 'different' is just that 'different' simply not the same not more and not less.
The things I loved the most about this story is the way we were given the background between Quinn and Rafe in small threads woven throughout the story as part of the story. I loved that the relationship between Quinn and Rafe was a slow build in spite of the fact that Rafe has a history with the Morgan family and Quinn's feelings for him are not new but a part of that history. Still after years of separation because of Rafe's mercurial rise to stardom and subsequent fall from grace and Quinn's challenge to find his way in a world that frequently overwhelmed him these men took the time to get to know each other as who they are now and not base their relationship on who they were in the past. I loved that Rafe not only understood and accepted Quinn's uniqueness, but it was part of what he loved about Quinn. Quinn wasn't blind to Rafe's past or his ongoing struggle to remain free of drugs but he was willing to believe in him and in what they were building together. Lastly, I really enjoyed the involvement of Quinn's family and the part they all played throughout the story. Quinn's struggles to maintain his independence and yet not alienate himself from his family were also a wonderful touch to this story.
The mystery part of this story was for me very well done and even though I was fairly certain of who the villain was it wasn't a definite in my mind until the end.
So yes overall this for me was a fabulous 5 star read and what started out for me as Quinn's story became Quinn and Rafe's story, endearing both of these men as my favorite couple in this series. I can't wait to see what comes next, but I find it hard to believe that whatever it is could top how much I loved this book.
'Sloe Ride' started out being all about Quinn for me. I've wanted his story from the moment he showed up in the series. He's the Morgan sibling that's different, not just because he didn't become a cop but because 'he's wired differently'. Quinn sees the world from a different perspective than others do and I love that this is not portrayed as being bad or wrong or lesser than others just different. So often we see stories where the person who is different is shoved into one of those categories when in fact sometimes 'different' is just that 'different' simply not the same not more and not less.
The things I loved the most about this story is the way we were given the background between Quinn and Rafe in small threads woven throughout the story as part of the story. I loved that the relationship between Quinn and Rafe was a slow build in spite of the fact that Rafe has a history with the Morgan family and Quinn's feelings for him are not new but a part of that history. Still after years of separation because of Rafe's mercurial rise to stardom and subsequent fall from grace and Quinn's challenge to find his way in a world that frequently overwhelmed him these men took the time to get to know each other as who they are now and not base their relationship on who they were in the past. I loved that Rafe not only understood and accepted Quinn's uniqueness, but it was part of what he loved about Quinn. Quinn wasn't blind to Rafe's past or his ongoing struggle to remain free of drugs but he was willing to believe in him and in what they were building together. Lastly, I really enjoyed the involvement of Quinn's family and the part they all played throughout the story. Quinn's struggles to maintain his independence and yet not alienate himself from his family were also a wonderful touch to this story.
The mystery part of this story was for me very well done and even though I was fairly certain of who the villain was it wasn't a definite in my mind until the end.
So yes overall this for me was a fabulous 5 star read and what started out for me as Quinn's story became Quinn and Rafe's story, endearing both of these men as my favorite couple in this series. I can't wait to see what comes next, but I find it hard to believe that whatever it is could top how much I loved this book.
September 7, 2015
I have been looking forward to Quinn's book ever since I saw how quirky he was. He's the misunderstood Morgan boy. And I really did enjoy his story!
Quinn is the super smart Morgan son that did not follow in the law enforcement footsteps of his father and some of his brothers. He can be clueless about what goes on around him, but he just has so much going on in his brain to notice. I suspect he falls somewhere in the autistic spectrum, maybe Asperger.
And Rafe is the bad boy former rock star who fell from grace rather spectacularly. He grew up with the Morgan brothers and he has been in love with Quinn for way too long. And now, he doesn't feel like he deserves someone as good as Quinn. Rafe wants to be a better man than he was and he tries hard. And even still he feels he deserves to be shunned. He carries a lot of guilt. Most of it, deserved.
And Quinn returns Rafe's feelings. He's always held an attachment to Rafe and ad a really hard time when Rafe went away to tour with his band. But now that Rafe is back and has been enfolded back into the Morgan clan, Quinn thinks now is the time to maybe explore what they could have. But someone appears to have it out for Quinn, and Quinn being who he is has not a clue as to who it might be.
As with the other books in this series, Sloe Ride is more suspense than romance, but I love it anyway. Getting to visit with the whole Morgan clan and the ever bristly Miki was fantastic!
I don't know if there are more books planned for this series or not, but if Rhys Ford writes them, I will read.
Quinn is the super smart Morgan son that did not follow in the law enforcement footsteps of his father and some of his brothers. He can be clueless about what goes on around him, but he just has so much going on in his brain to notice. I suspect he falls somewhere in the autistic spectrum, maybe Asperger.
And Rafe is the bad boy former rock star who fell from grace rather spectacularly. He grew up with the Morgan brothers and he has been in love with Quinn for way too long. And now, he doesn't feel like he deserves someone as good as Quinn. Rafe wants to be a better man than he was and he tries hard. And even still he feels he deserves to be shunned. He carries a lot of guilt. Most of it, deserved.
And Quinn returns Rafe's feelings. He's always held an attachment to Rafe and ad a really hard time when Rafe went away to tour with his band. But now that Rafe is back and has been enfolded back into the Morgan clan, Quinn thinks now is the time to maybe explore what they could have. But someone appears to have it out for Quinn, and Quinn being who he is has not a clue as to who it might be.
As with the other books in this series, Sloe Ride is more suspense than romance, but I love it anyway. Getting to visit with the whole Morgan clan and the ever bristly Miki was fantastic!
I don't know if there are more books planned for this series or not, but if Rhys Ford writes them, I will read.
June 1, 2016
BR with Mishyjo
Rhys Ford's Sinners series is one of my favourites. Yes, it's a bit over-the-top and at times you really have to suspend disbelief, but it's so much fun. And it's got hot Irish men. What's not to love?
I'd say that 'Sloe Ride' is probably the most gritty book in this series since book 1, Sinner's Gin. In some ways, it's even more gut-wrenching because while in book 1 it was mostly just Miki who had a broken past, in 'Sloe Ride' it's both of the MCs. I thought that Rhys Ford handled both Rafe and Quinn's situations very well.
Quinn Morgan is the black sheep of the family, he's "wired differently". The author never fully explains whether Quinn has ADHD or falls somewhere on the autism spectrum, but it's hinted throughout the book. She was able to portray how difficult Quinn found daily life without making his seem "wrong."
As for Rafe, I thought the book did a good job of showing how drug addictions and recovery can have a toll on a person's perception of themselves. Rafe had spent the last couple of years holed up in his penthouse, recovering from his addiction and wallowing in guilt. He stayed far away from his family and friends, including the Morgan family, not wanting to subject them to his failings.
So obviously the two MCs are dealing with some heavy stuff. But no need to worry, because they both help each other look past their limitations. Rafe finally gives Quinn the peace of mind that he's never had, and Quinn gives Rafe the love that he didn't think he ever deserved. The two took a while to sort themselves out, but when they finally came together it was so worth it.
The mystery was as entertaining as I've come to expect from Rhys Ford. It's also as over-the-top and dramatic as I've come to expect from the Sinners Gin series. I couldn't have guessed the outcome even if I'd tried. It was lots of fun.
Of course, it was also great to catch up with the couples from the previous books. And the rest of the Morgan family. I can't say enough how much I love that family. Where can I find my very own hot Irish man with a large crazy family?
Overall, this was a great book. I'm really looking forward to the next (and apparently final) book in the series.
Rhys Ford's Sinners series is one of my favourites. Yes, it's a bit over-the-top and at times you really have to suspend disbelief, but it's so much fun. And it's got hot Irish men. What's not to love?
I'd say that 'Sloe Ride' is probably the most gritty book in this series since book 1, Sinner's Gin. In some ways, it's even more gut-wrenching because while in book 1 it was mostly just Miki who had a broken past, in 'Sloe Ride' it's both of the MCs. I thought that Rhys Ford handled both Rafe and Quinn's situations very well.
Quinn Morgan is the black sheep of the family, he's "wired differently". The author never fully explains whether Quinn has ADHD or falls somewhere on the autism spectrum, but it's hinted throughout the book. She was able to portray how difficult Quinn found daily life without making his seem "wrong."
As for Rafe, I thought the book did a good job of showing how drug addictions and recovery can have a toll on a person's perception of themselves. Rafe had spent the last couple of years holed up in his penthouse, recovering from his addiction and wallowing in guilt. He stayed far away from his family and friends, including the Morgan family, not wanting to subject them to his failings.
So obviously the two MCs are dealing with some heavy stuff. But no need to worry, because they both help each other look past their limitations. Rafe finally gives Quinn the peace of mind that he's never had, and Quinn gives Rafe the love that he didn't think he ever deserved. The two took a while to sort themselves out, but when they finally came together it was so worth it.
The mystery was as entertaining as I've come to expect from Rhys Ford. It's also as over-the-top and dramatic as I've come to expect from the Sinners Gin series. I couldn't have guessed the outcome even if I'd tried. It was lots of fun.
Of course, it was also great to catch up with the couples from the previous books. And the rest of the Morgan family. I can't say enough how much I love that family. Where can I find my very own hot Irish man with a large crazy family?
Overall, this was a great book. I'm really looking forward to the next (and apparently final) book in the series.
June 15, 2016
Yeah, so that's my annoyed face.
Just this once, and instance would have I liked the mystery aspect to be gone. I love Rhys. We all know it. I just felt like it needed to be repeated in case someone was doubting My Queen. With that being said; Why were alllll these extra folks in this story? Excuse the eff out of me, but can Quinn & Rafe get some time together. I mean, Damn. I am not happy. I'm not happy with the progression of the plot. Really??? Quinn out of all people. I didn't find that funny or nice at all. What really is my issue is the "alluded" to story line. I don't do well with it. You know why? Because I'm not in Rhys fabulous head so I don't know the issues that we are referring to. I felt like because these are the only two in the series with a background that Quinn should have got prologue as well. It's nice to see some of Rafe past indiscretions, but Quinn, and everyone else knew things I felt like the reader should have known as well.
No people of Zoolander, I can't read minds so I'm right along with you with trying to figure out Quinn's "problems". Eventually I kinda figured it out and certain things were told. I still feel like the two main characters were cast B in their own story. And again, What the hell, Morgans? I know Quinn is the sensitive soul in the family, but cuddle him much? They didn't give him space to breathe. I felt protective over him as well. Not one chance was he able to go to someone, instead they descended on him like a flock of birds!!!
**Sidenote** I love the magpie nick name, and the coffee store name!! Rhys is amazing,and her love for my two favorite historic romance mm authors is uber fantastic!!
I can put away all my disdain for the plot, the family, and the illusions, because at the end of the day Quinn & Rafe together were amazing. They fit perfectly. I'm telling you this as a straight contemporary with the mystery would have been freaking amazing.I can feel it. I just know it would be. I liked seeing Rafe get his redemption, and even when it was on the line his first thought was whatever Quinn needed he was first. Gah! They were adorable and that made me happy in the midst of this semi-ranty review. LOL. It wouldn't be a Rhys book for me without the tears. That conversation Quinn had with his mother left me in tears. Looking forward to the next book. I liked this book, but felt like my guys were second in their own story.
Not cool.
August 25, 2015
4.5 stars, rounded up.
Full review can be found at -
Outside of Miki in Sinner's Gin (who will always be a fave), I've had a sweet spot for the younger Morgan, Quinn. He's a bit different from the others and I was curious to see where the author would take him. Then there's Rafe. I won't rehash everything Rafe has been through, but I will say that he's a broken man who made mistakes in his life that he's trying now to come back from. The two guys together? Hot as hell. Throw in a bit of mystery, the hilarious Morgan family, and you have an outstanding addition to the series.
Highly recommended.
This book was provided by the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Full review can be found at -
Outside of Miki in Sinner's Gin (who will always be a fave), I've had a sweet spot for the younger Morgan, Quinn. He's a bit different from the others and I was curious to see where the author would take him. Then there's Rafe. I won't rehash everything Rafe has been through, but I will say that he's a broken man who made mistakes in his life that he's trying now to come back from. The two guys together? Hot as hell. Throw in a bit of mystery, the hilarious Morgan family, and you have an outstanding addition to the series.
Highly recommended.
This book was provided by the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
November 8, 2020
Quinn and Rafe ' story is a unique read in this series. We get to understand what makes Quinn's way of thinking different , but normal for him. My favorite part of this story is the heart to heart talk between him and his mother. In this story, we see the depth of how much the family, and even Mikie, love and adore the Morgan matriarch.
My other favorite scenes is the deep friendship between Kane and Rafe.
This story is a key element in the Sinner ' s series, and one not to be missed. It shows how all the Morgans, their lovers, and the band fit together.
It shows how everyone can earn a second chance, and Rafe definitely has worked hard to be given his moment to shine. With the love and support of the Morgan family, the friendship and strength of Sionne, and the love of his life standing by his side, a new chapter is about to begin for them all.
My other favorite scenes is the deep friendship between Kane and Rafe.
This story is a key element in the Sinner ' s series, and one not to be missed. It shows how all the Morgans, their lovers, and the band fit together.
It shows how everyone can earn a second chance, and Rafe definitely has worked hard to be given his moment to shine. With the love and support of the Morgan family, the friendship and strength of Sionne, and the love of his life standing by his side, a new chapter is about to begin for them all.
May 11, 2018
I do still love those Morgans!
I really empathized with Quinn here, because I often feel just like he does. Like all the people around me, no matter how well meaning, just end up as this chaos in my brain that I can't turn off, and so I have to just get away for a while. Rafe was perfect, so patient and loving, and although he doesn't have the same issues, he always knew what to do to make it better. I loved that.
I really empathized with Quinn here, because I often feel just like he does. Like all the people around me, no matter how well meaning, just end up as this chaos in my brain that I can't turn off, and so I have to just get away for a while. Rafe was perfect, so patient and loving, and although he doesn't have the same issues, he always knew what to do to make it better. I loved that.
September 20, 2015
I read the Sinners series purely for fun. The books are built on that really, the tropes are so inprobable that I could not read it otherwise. So I've rated this according to the fun I had.
Unfortunately for the book I read it whilst reading shorts by Adam Haslett so the comparision did not stand. This one was all tell the other was all show.
September 7, 2015
I love this series.
But this book was more others than Quinn and Rafe IMO.
I wonder who the next book is going to be....
I may have to go re read Con and Forest cause I cant remember shit about that book
Mare~Slitsread
But this book was more others than Quinn and Rafe IMO.
I wonder who the next book is going to be....
I may have to go re read Con and Forest cause I cant remember shit about that book
Mare~Slitsread
May 4, 2016
There is a scene at the end of the movie Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, where Cameron, after a rant about his father, leans against the beautiful red Ferrari, setting in motion one of the most horrifying things I had ever seen in my childhood. No matter how many times I have watched that movie I have yet to sit thru that scene and not cry out “Not the car!” as the poor, defenceless Ferrari plummets to its death thru the plate-glass wall.
It is the same sentiment I have whenever I pick up a book by Rhys Ford. Yet no matter how many times I plead for their precious metal lives, does Rhys listen? No. No she does not. So once again we must mourn the death of yet more innocent cars at the menical hands of Rhys Ford.
Please, let us have a moment of silence for all vehicular lives lost in the course of this book
…oh, and the dead people, as well, I guess.…
*clears throat*
Well, that story certainly had everything I’ve come to expect from the pen of Rhys Ford. Gruesome deaths–-check. Twisting mysteries–-check. Complex characters-–check. Heart-gripping romance…oh yeah.
I know there have been a lot of us readers who were desperately waiting for this book after the last scene in Tequila Mockingbird. Talk about a way to leave them wanting more!
We don’t know a lot about Quinn and Rafe before this book. There have been hints, certainly, in previous books, but the wide scope of their history has been a bit of a mystery. Here as the story grows I have to say that they are two of the more interesting characters in this series.
There is just something about Rafe’s search for redemption, and Quinn’s search for understanding, that I just love. They have so much to fight in this story, and so much to fight for. It makes for a very gripping and heart-rending read.
At some points Quinn’s stubbornness and, yeah, a bit of stupidity, gets a little rough on the nerves. I’m more of a hide-in-a-hole-till-the-evil-dude-is-dead kind of person. His clashes with his brothers/father over there attempts to keep him safe just seemed a bit, well, stupid. But I think that has a lot to do with who Quinn is and how his brain works.
As frustrating as Quinn could get, I really loved this book. I was very much on the edge of my seat for the whole thing. This series has been a lot of fun (and carnage), and as chaotic as it has been at times it is something I’m going to be rereading in the future.
4.5 stars
(This was reviewed by a five of us at Love Bytes, to check out the others' reviews, head over to the blog!)
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
It is the same sentiment I have whenever I pick up a book by Rhys Ford. Yet no matter how many times I plead for their precious metal lives, does Rhys listen? No. No she does not. So once again we must mourn the death of yet more innocent cars at the menical hands of Rhys Ford.
Please, let us have a moment of silence for all vehicular lives lost in the course of this book
…oh, and the dead people, as well, I guess.…
*clears throat*
Well, that story certainly had everything I’ve come to expect from the pen of Rhys Ford. Gruesome deaths–-check. Twisting mysteries–-check. Complex characters-–check. Heart-gripping romance…oh yeah.
I know there have been a lot of us readers who were desperately waiting for this book after the last scene in Tequila Mockingbird. Talk about a way to leave them wanting more!
We don’t know a lot about Quinn and Rafe before this book. There have been hints, certainly, in previous books, but the wide scope of their history has been a bit of a mystery. Here as the story grows I have to say that they are two of the more interesting characters in this series.
There is just something about Rafe’s search for redemption, and Quinn’s search for understanding, that I just love. They have so much to fight in this story, and so much to fight for. It makes for a very gripping and heart-rending read.
At some points Quinn’s stubbornness and, yeah, a bit of stupidity, gets a little rough on the nerves. I’m more of a hide-in-a-hole-till-the-evil-dude-is-dead kind of person. His clashes with his brothers/father over there attempts to keep him safe just seemed a bit, well, stupid. But I think that has a lot to do with who Quinn is and how his brain works.
As frustrating as Quinn could get, I really loved this book. I was very much on the edge of my seat for the whole thing. This series has been a lot of fun (and carnage), and as chaotic as it has been at times it is something I’m going to be rereading in the future.
4.5 stars
(This was reviewed by a five of us at Love Bytes, to check out the others' reviews, head over to the blog!)
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
September 5, 2018
Sloe Ride is still a hella' good ride...
Listening to Rhys Ford's 'Sinner's' series has been such a treat and I have to admit I've loved being able to marathon these books.
My original review for this book said that this was my favorite book and I can believe that because it's still my favorite book. I absolutely adore Rafe and Quinn and while their journey wasn't an easy ride it was so worth taking more than once...
So I'm onto the next and final story in my audiobook journey with the 'Sinners' and it's a 'roadtrip' as the men of 'Sinner's Gin' hit the road with their new bandmates making tracks as they tour the country and mold themselves into the newly formed 'Crossroads Gin'. While audio may have been a new format for me to revisit this series, my original review still reflects how much I loved this book with the addition of the fact that once again Tristan James's narration only added to my overall enjoyment of not this book...but this entire series!
Original Review: Sloe Ride
Update: August, 2018 just another go round on a series I love nothing new here...love the series and still thinking that MC + TJ = Karen's happy place.
Listening to Rhys Ford's 'Sinner's' series has been such a treat and I have to admit I've loved being able to marathon these books.
My original review for this book said that this was my favorite book and I can believe that because it's still my favorite book. I absolutely adore Rafe and Quinn and while their journey wasn't an easy ride it was so worth taking more than once...
So I'm onto the next and final story in my audiobook journey with the 'Sinners' and it's a 'roadtrip' as the men of 'Sinner's Gin' hit the road with their new bandmates making tracks as they tour the country and mold themselves into the newly formed 'Crossroads Gin'. While audio may have been a new format for me to revisit this series, my original review still reflects how much I loved this book with the addition of the fact that once again Tristan James's narration only added to my overall enjoyment of not this book...but this entire series!
Original Review: Sloe Ride
Update: August, 2018 just another go round on a series I love nothing new here...love the series and still thinking that MC + TJ = Karen's happy place.
December 4, 2015
The Morgans are my favorite family. They are full of love and big, beautiful, kind and caring men, (and some fantastic women as well), but they're all superheroes in that way that they try and save the world. All except Quinn. And it's not that Quinn doesn't have the sweetest, kindest, most amazing heart but you have to be quiet to see it, and you have to listen and be patient. No one would have credited the ex-rocker, hard-living Rafe Andrade with being the guy for Quinn, but in this one thing, Quinn is absolute. He knows it's Rafe and in that bubble of quiet, he can be himself. For his part, Rafe wants/needs a new start but nothing and no one is more important to him than Quinn. It seems simple, the story is not. Living in Quinn's head is a treat and it frustrating and so very real. The writing is lush and tangled and it was amazing to see the Morgan's from an outsider who's also an insider. If you follow the series, this is the one that will really put your heart in a vise. It's simply stunning. Wildly recommended.
March 30, 2020
** 4.5 stars **
I liked the fact that Ms Ford chose a different way to write about Quinn Morgan's struggle with mental issues. It was rather lyrical and I enjoyed reading his thought process. Rafe was as conflicted as they came. I liked him for Q because he understood how Q's mind worked and never tried to change him. Their relationship was more settled than the previous three couples considering that Rafe and Quinn knew each other for a while and it took them a long time to get to the point where they could express their feelings.
The unfortunate events that surrounded Quinn and the Morgan clan and brought two men together escalated quickly and were at times simply vicious. I enjoyed the guessing game, the danger and the gory details. I must admit that I was a bit disappointed about the identity of the killer. I just wanted it to be someone else. Overall, I enjoyed Quinn and Rafe's road to happiness as well as the birth of Crossroads Gin.
I liked the fact that Ms Ford chose a different way to write about Quinn Morgan's struggle with mental issues. It was rather lyrical and I enjoyed reading his thought process. Rafe was as conflicted as they came. I liked him for Q because he understood how Q's mind worked and never tried to change him. Their relationship was more settled than the previous three couples considering that Rafe and Quinn knew each other for a while and it took them a long time to get to the point where they could express their feelings.
The unfortunate events that surrounded Quinn and the Morgan clan and brought two men together escalated quickly and were at times simply vicious. I enjoyed the guessing game, the danger and the gory details. I must admit that I was a bit disappointed about the identity of the killer. I just wanted it to be someone else. Overall, I enjoyed Quinn and Rafe's road to happiness as well as the birth of Crossroads Gin.
Read
April 25, 2018I honestly don't know how to rate this. If I'm being honest, I am not sure I would have finished had it not been for Tristan James. His narration was flawless, but the story just did not grab me the same way as the others from this series.
December 22, 2015
I’m so in love with this series and have read and listened to each installment. If you haven’t listened to Greg Tremblay read Rhys’s words, you haven’t listened to an audiobook. And, I digress, already. A good Tremblay will do that to you.
Miki and Kane’s story has been my favorite thus far. No one writes a stronger broken character than Rhys Ford and Miki is the epitome of that man. And then I met Rafe and Quinn up close and personal. These two aren’t epically damaged like Miki was, but they still had their own flavor of hurt that was just as powerful for them to live and for me to read.
Quinn is a different kind of Morgan, but a Morgan all the same. It frustrated me to no end to see his brothers try and keep him in the box they expected him to fit in. The dynamics were really interesting to read (again, frustrating) but still interesting. It was actually pretty refreshing to know that the Morgan’s are human and not without their flaws. They wanted to protect Quinn so badly, they no longer saw him for the man he had grown into but the Q-Bert they remembered growing up with. I have to say, I loved when Quinn got all growly and Morgan-y on them all. He may not carry a badge, but he is no less a badass than the rest of them.
Rafe is the definition of a hot mess and it’s self-induced. I really had a lot of respect for him and his attempts to make amends without sugarcoating all he’d done and glossing over the pain he’d caused. I can’t lie though, the best thing about him is his unapologetic snark. All snarking aside, he’s a man with a lot of penance to pay and he does the best he can with his limited skill set and the unwavering Morgan support.
Quinn and Rafe have history and we learn about it as the story progresses. What happened between them (or didn’t) was realistic given their ages at the time. Learning more about them, they had to have the time and distance they had to make their mistakes and grow into the men they were supposed to be.
As is customary with Sinner’s Gin, there is mystery galore to be had and it’s another reason to love this series so hard. There’s always a good amount of tension that goes along with the who and the why that keeps you moving anxiously from one page to the next. I always think the next chapter is going to give me THE clue I need and if I can have that I’m pretty sure I’m going to get a good dose of UST between the MC’s. Rhys delivers in spades with this story on both counts.
Quinn and Rafe are going to stick with me for a long time. They needed each other, but both of them recognized their need to be able to stand on their own so that they could stand for one another. Rhys has a way of weaving beautiful words around ugly realities. Her stories are like the “thinking persons” mysteries with a good dose of humor and dirty thrown in. The ending made me squee happily and my only complaint is that I would love to have more about the whole moment from every perspective.
A copy of this story was provided for an honest review.
Miki and Kane’s story has been my favorite thus far. No one writes a stronger broken character than Rhys Ford and Miki is the epitome of that man. And then I met Rafe and Quinn up close and personal. These two aren’t epically damaged like Miki was, but they still had their own flavor of hurt that was just as powerful for them to live and for me to read.
Quinn is a different kind of Morgan, but a Morgan all the same. It frustrated me to no end to see his brothers try and keep him in the box they expected him to fit in. The dynamics were really interesting to read (again, frustrating) but still interesting. It was actually pretty refreshing to know that the Morgan’s are human and not without their flaws. They wanted to protect Quinn so badly, they no longer saw him for the man he had grown into but the Q-Bert they remembered growing up with. I have to say, I loved when Quinn got all growly and Morgan-y on them all. He may not carry a badge, but he is no less a badass than the rest of them.
Rafe is the definition of a hot mess and it’s self-induced. I really had a lot of respect for him and his attempts to make amends without sugarcoating all he’d done and glossing over the pain he’d caused. I can’t lie though, the best thing about him is his unapologetic snark. All snarking aside, he’s a man with a lot of penance to pay and he does the best he can with his limited skill set and the unwavering Morgan support.
Quinn and Rafe have history and we learn about it as the story progresses. What happened between them (or didn’t) was realistic given their ages at the time. Learning more about them, they had to have the time and distance they had to make their mistakes and grow into the men they were supposed to be.
As is customary with Sinner’s Gin, there is mystery galore to be had and it’s another reason to love this series so hard. There’s always a good amount of tension that goes along with the who and the why that keeps you moving anxiously from one page to the next. I always think the next chapter is going to give me THE clue I need and if I can have that I’m pretty sure I’m going to get a good dose of UST between the MC’s. Rhys delivers in spades with this story on both counts.
Quinn and Rafe are going to stick with me for a long time. They needed each other, but both of them recognized their need to be able to stand on their own so that they could stand for one another. Rhys has a way of weaving beautiful words around ugly realities. Her stories are like the “thinking persons” mysteries with a good dose of humor and dirty thrown in. The ending made me squee happily and my only complaint is that I would love to have more about the whole moment from every perspective.
A copy of this story was provided for an honest review.
September 5, 2015
Originally posted on http://mikkysworldofbooks.blogspot.ro...
Sloe Ride.. Well, I loved it!
Because I am that moron who jumps at the chance of reviewing for one of my favorite authors, I read this book and had no clue what was going on. Still, I enjoyed every second of it.
Rafe has been through hell and lost almost everything. Being kicked out of his band after one of his wild nights, he comes back home where he tries to piece his life back together.
But, coming back reminds him of everything he left behind and brings him close to that one who got away.
Quinn is a very complex character. Everyone sees him as a nerd and that’s not far from the truth but that’s just one ��side” of him. He’s … special and he’s stronger than anyone thinks which shows over and over again throughout the book.
I’ve read a few of Rhys’s books, but this one was brilliant. One of the fascinating things about this series is how Rhys created each and every character.
There’s so much more to them than what’s immediately obvious. You’ll just have to learn how to read between the lines. I’m curious to find out what everyone who reads this book will see in Quinn.
The chemistry between the MC’s is off the charts and their connection is still present after many years apart and a lot of changing for both of them.
There’s no insta-love here. The story builds one step at a time and there’s a lot going on. The way Rhys managed to interwave the more dramatic aspects of this novel with the romance and the occasional humor, kept me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end.
It was so easy to connect with the characters, to love them; Quinn for his quiet strength and unwavering support when it came to Rafe, and Rafe for his determination and his willingness to take back what he lost, for not allowing the disappointments to rule his life.
Definitely a must read I highly recommend.
NOTE- this is NOT and standalone novel. In theory, it could be read as a one but you won’t understand much of what has happened before and you won’t be able to connect the characters and various stories. If you’re willing to give this series a try (and you should), start with Sinner’s Gin.
4.5 stars
Happy Reading!!
Sloe Ride.. Well, I loved it!
Because I am that moron who jumps at the chance of reviewing for one of my favorite authors, I read this book and had no clue what was going on. Still, I enjoyed every second of it.
Rafe has been through hell and lost almost everything. Being kicked out of his band after one of his wild nights, he comes back home where he tries to piece his life back together.
But, coming back reminds him of everything he left behind and brings him close to that one who got away.
Quinn is a very complex character. Everyone sees him as a nerd and that’s not far from the truth but that’s just one ��side” of him. He’s … special and he’s stronger than anyone thinks which shows over and over again throughout the book.
I’ve read a few of Rhys’s books, but this one was brilliant. One of the fascinating things about this series is how Rhys created each and every character.
There’s so much more to them than what’s immediately obvious. You’ll just have to learn how to read between the lines. I’m curious to find out what everyone who reads this book will see in Quinn.
The chemistry between the MC’s is off the charts and their connection is still present after many years apart and a lot of changing for both of them.
There’s no insta-love here. The story builds one step at a time and there’s a lot going on. The way Rhys managed to interwave the more dramatic aspects of this novel with the romance and the occasional humor, kept me on the edge of my seat from beginning to end.
It was so easy to connect with the characters, to love them; Quinn for his quiet strength and unwavering support when it came to Rafe, and Rafe for his determination and his willingness to take back what he lost, for not allowing the disappointments to rule his life.
Definitely a must read I highly recommend.
NOTE- this is NOT and standalone novel. In theory, it could be read as a one but you won’t understand much of what has happened before and you won’t be able to connect the characters and various stories. If you’re willing to give this series a try (and you should), start with Sinner’s Gin.
4.5 stars
Happy Reading!!
October 12, 2015
I LOVED THIS BOOK SO MUCH!!! Quinn was such an interesting sweetheart, and Rafe was PERFECT for him. Quinn is different from all his family, he's smarter, and he doesn't connect like everyone else. It's never explicitly stated, that I can recall, just hinted at but it's clear he falls on the Autism spectrum. His family doesn't understand him, though they try. They love him but they can't SEE him. The only person who gets him is Rafe. Poor Rafe who is struggling with his past and trying his hardest to move forward. I really liked that Rafe's sobriety was never in question. I love that he loves Quinn the way he does. Fully and with no blinders, all the "quirks" that make Quinn Quinn, Rafe loves him for. I love the Morgan family so seeing them again was a treat. The mystery was good, if gory. I admit I fell for the red herring so bonus points for keeping me guessing. I think this is now my favorite book in this series.
September 5, 2015
Rhys has done it again!
There is something about Rafe and Quinn that just grabbed me and refused to let go. I have a major soft spot for main characters who have major obstacles to overcome to find their HEA.
Rafe is a man with not just a past, but a neon light - two inch headline one. Quinn is a man who sometimes has trouble navigating his own mind. Together they should just scream train wreck. But they don't. Their devotion and affection for each other has long simmered and matured into a love that is breath catching. I love the fact that they not only saw the darkness in each other, they embraced and accepted it.
I also really enjoyed the Morgan family dynamics in this story. We see past the facade of the perfect family to discover a very real one.
If it wasn't for my abiding love for a certain snarky prickly lead singer, I might have to say that this is my favourite book in the series.
There is something about Rafe and Quinn that just grabbed me and refused to let go. I have a major soft spot for main characters who have major obstacles to overcome to find their HEA.
Rafe is a man with not just a past, but a neon light - two inch headline one. Quinn is a man who sometimes has trouble navigating his own mind. Together they should just scream train wreck. But they don't. Their devotion and affection for each other has long simmered and matured into a love that is breath catching. I love the fact that they not only saw the darkness in each other, they embraced and accepted it.
I also really enjoyed the Morgan family dynamics in this story. We see past the facade of the perfect family to discover a very real one.
If it wasn't for my abiding love for a certain snarky prickly lead singer, I might have to say that this is my favourite book in the series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 260 reviews