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Valor and Doyle Mysteries #8
Paternal Instincts
At the heart of a missing child case, Quaid and Aslan learn the true nature of fatherhood. With their baby due any day, Quaid ends up tangled in a case on the last day of work before his parental leave begins. Between eerie ransom notes and family secrets, unanswered questions pile up, twisting the case into something Quaid has never seen. Someone is lying. Someone knows more than they’re saying.
With the help of supportive friends and colleagues, Quaid and Aslan are determined to solve the case before it’s too late. When their surrogate goes into labor, Quaid struggles to let go and walk away. A boy has vanished. A life is in danger.
With the help of supportive friends and colleagues, Quaid and Aslan are determined to solve the case before it’s too late. When their surrogate goes into labor, Quaid struggles to let go and walk away. A boy has vanished. A life is in danger.
10 pages, Audible Audio
First published June 24, 2025
123 people are currently reading
364 people want to read
About the author
Nicky James
75 books2,238 followersI live in the small town of Petrolia, Ontario, Canada and I am a mother to a wonderful teenage boy (didn't think those words could be typed together...surprise) and wife to a truly supportive and understanding husband, who thankfully doesn't think I'm crazy.
I have always had two profound dreams in life. To fall back hundreds of years in time and live in a simpler world, not bogged down by technology and to write novels. Since only one of these was a possibility I decided to make the other come alive on paper.
I write mm romance novels that take place in fantastical medieval type settings and love to use the challenges of the times to give my stories and characters life.
I have always had two profound dreams in life. To fall back hundreds of years in time and live in a simpler world, not bogged down by technology and to write novels. Since only one of these was a possibility I decided to make the other come alive on paper.
I write mm romance novels that take place in fantastical medieval type settings and love to use the challenges of the times to give my stories and characters life.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 193 reviews
June 27, 2025
This book made me tear up. Well, first it was the author's newsletter where she says goodbye to the characters, and then this.
I loved it. I love the whole series and I love all the characters. They've become so familiar to me that it feels like reading about real people.
As with the previous books, everything worked perfectly here:
- Quaid and Aslan's relationship and how far they've come
- family dynamic and friendships
- an intriguing case they were working on together again
- the humor and the banter
- the title, which is spot on for every book in the series
In a way, this books feels like a full-circle moment, but I could read so many more books in this world. I can’t deny that finishing this one made me feel really sad. I’ll miss the feeling of anticipating the next book in the series. I’ll keep rereading it, though, and I’ll look forward to seeing Quaid & Aslan & Ruiz & co in the Shadowy Solutions series, as well as in short stories that I hope the author will gift us with in her newsletter. 😊
I loved it. I love the whole series and I love all the characters. They've become so familiar to me that it feels like reading about real people.
As with the previous books, everything worked perfectly here:
- Quaid and Aslan's relationship and how far they've come
- family dynamic and friendships
- an intriguing case they were working on together again
- the humor and the banter
- the title, which is spot on for every book in the series
In a way, this books feels like a full-circle moment, but I could read so many more books in this world. I can’t deny that finishing this one made me feel really sad. I’ll miss the feeling of anticipating the next book in the series. I’ll keep rereading it, though, and I’ll look forward to seeing Quaid & Aslan & Ruiz & co in the Shadowy Solutions series, as well as in short stories that I hope the author will gift us with in her newsletter. 😊
December 23, 2025
Unputdownable. My goodness, this series is just too perfect. I didn't think an additional book could thrill me this much again. But this final installment was epic.
The case Quaid was working on was exhausting but extremely well done.
But what's particularly amazing is that Quaid and Aslan are just so perfect. Honestly, the way these two characters are written and how they are intertwined is simply phenomenal.
I'm not a fan of birth scenes, but even that was brilliantly written. And thanks to the author for the explanation at the end of the book, I bow down to you!!!
So, a life without this couple... it's possible, but is it worth it?
Aslan understood my wants and needs like no one ever had. He read me like a treasured book. He could make my body sing with a brush of his lips or a secret smile. He knew where I liked to be touched, when to slow, and when to show no mercy. Aslan knew when I needed tenderness or a reassuring word. He knew when to joke and when to hold me so I didn’t shatter.
He was my husband, my soulmate, my everything. 🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠
The case Quaid was working on was exhausting but extremely well done.
But what's particularly amazing is that Quaid and Aslan are just so perfect. Honestly, the way these two characters are written and how they are intertwined is simply phenomenal.
I'm not a fan of birth scenes, but even that was brilliantly written. And thanks to the author for the explanation at the end of the book, I bow down to you!!!
So, a life without this couple... it's possible, but is it worth it?
Aslan understood my wants and needs like no one ever had. He read me like a treasured book. He could make my body sing with a brush of his lips or a secret smile. He knew where I liked to be touched, when to slow, and when to show no mercy. Aslan knew when I needed tenderness or a reassuring word. He knew when to joke and when to hold me so I didn’t shatter.
He was my husband, my soulmate, my everything. 🫠🫠🫠🫠🫠
July 20, 2025
4.5***** stars
All my love for Az and Quaid. And for all their friends and families.
And for Nicky. ♡
And after everything, the great mystery, the excitement about becoming parents, finally becoming parents, Quaid’s run in with his ex Jack was probably my most favorite and definitely the juiciest part to end their journey.
Okay, and Torin, of course. Because it’s always been Torin for me.
He’s just the fucking best. Best source of bestest entertainment.
**************
Valor and Doyle Mysteries
Prequel - Department Rivals - 4.5 stars
Book 1 - Temporary Partner - 4.25 stars
Book 2 - Elusive Relations - 4.75 stars ♡
Book 3 - Unstable Connections - 5.0 stars
Xmas-Novella - Relative Commotions 5.0 stars
Book 4 - Inevitable Disclosure - 4.25 stars
Book 5 - Defying Logic - 4.25 stars
Book 6 - Disrupted Engagement - 4.5 stars
Book 7 - Matrimonial Merriment - 5.0 stars
Book 8 - Paternal Instincts - 4.5 stars
------------------------
edit: 06/19/25
omg. I just read all the vignettes NJ sent out with her newsletter over the last few months and I must say I almost suffered an anxiety attack watching Quaid learning and testing everything there is in preparation for the arrival of their first child; acting like a mad man. OMG. I’m a little afraid now, tbh. *lol
Man, less than a week to release date. 😱
------------------------
edit: 12/23/24
EXCITING NEWS!! 😍😍😍 MARK YOUR CALENDARS!
Have you guys seen Nicky's Newsletter yet?? There is a new xmas short with our babies for us to grab and the bestest news of all coming with it. BESTEST GIFT 😭🙏❤️
All my love for Az and Quaid. And for all their friends and families.
And for Nicky. ♡
And after everything, the great mystery, the excitement about becoming parents, finally becoming parents, Quaid’s run in with his ex Jack was probably my most favorite and definitely the juiciest part to end their journey.
Okay, and Torin, of course. Because it’s always been Torin for me.
“Don’t you ‘Hey, Tor’ me. You’re having a baby, and I don’t get a fucking phone call? How far down your list am I, you motherfucker?”
“Torin,” Allison said, catching up but failing to smother a smile. “Watch your language.” “I have her ear covered. Relax. This calls for swearing. This motherfucker is an asshole.” “She has two ears,” Allison pointed out, relieving him of the diaper bag and placing it in the empty stroller. “Yeah, and the other one is pressed to my chest.” Allison simply stared at her oblivious husband like he was short a few brain cells, and sometimes, I thought her assessment wasn’t too far off.
Unable to contain a snort, I earned a look of death. “Don’t you start, lover boy. I’m mad at you too.” “What did I do? You weren’t on my call list.”
He’s just the fucking best. Best source of bestest entertainment.
**************
Valor and Doyle Mysteries
Prequel - Department Rivals - 4.5 stars
Book 1 - Temporary Partner - 4.25 stars
Book 2 - Elusive Relations - 4.75 stars ♡
Book 3 - Unstable Connections - 5.0 stars
Xmas-Novella - Relative Commotions 5.0 stars
Book 4 - Inevitable Disclosure - 4.25 stars
Book 5 - Defying Logic - 4.25 stars
Book 6 - Disrupted Engagement - 4.5 stars
Book 7 - Matrimonial Merriment - 5.0 stars
Book 8 - Paternal Instincts - 4.5 stars
------------------------
edit: 06/19/25
omg. I just read all the vignettes NJ sent out with her newsletter over the last few months and I must say I almost suffered an anxiety attack watching Quaid learning and testing everything there is in preparation for the arrival of their first child; acting like a mad man. OMG. I’m a little afraid now, tbh. *lol
Man, less than a week to release date. 😱
------------------------
edit: 12/23/24
EXCITING NEWS!! 😍😍😍 MARK YOUR CALENDARS!
Have you guys seen Nicky's Newsletter yet?? There is a new xmas short with our babies for us to grab and the bestest news of all coming with it. BESTEST GIFT 😭🙏❤️
June 28, 2025
~3.75~
(5 stars for the romance, 2.5 stars for the mystery)
Valor and Doyle are back, waiting for their baby to be born any day now, but of course Valor has to take on a missing child case at the last minute.
The mystery is twisty with elements of suspense but also numerous bits that just didn't fit.
Less-than-stellar mystery aside, I enjoyed this book. It's nice to see an established couple still going full steam (and how!). Quaid and Aslan are relationship goals for sure.
The secondary characters, including Oscar the chicken fiend, shine bright. I've missed them as much as I missed the MCs.
And the ending is so sunny, you gotta wear shades.
One other niggle:
(5 stars for the romance, 2.5 stars for the mystery)
Valor and Doyle are back, waiting for their baby to be born any day now, but of course Valor has to take on a missing child case at the last minute.
The mystery is twisty with elements of suspense but also numerous bits that just didn't fit.
Less-than-stellar mystery aside, I enjoyed this book. It's nice to see an established couple still going full steam (and how!). Quaid and Aslan are relationship goals for sure.
The secondary characters, including Oscar the chicken fiend, shine bright. I've missed them as much as I missed the MCs.
And the ending is so sunny, you gotta wear shades.
One other niggle:
July 5, 2025
And with the eighth installment, that is a wrap on Valor and Doyle *waves empty box of tissues*
Oh my gosh, what a beautiful send off for these two. Ending with a bang, this finale neatly tied up loose threads and enveloped their growing family in limitless love, care, and support. They’ve grown immensely as individuals and as a couple, and there’s no doubt in my mind that they’ve earned their HEA. The case kept the suspense high and shone powerfully in the parallels that made it every bit personal to Quaid (even if I was left with a few questions). Throw in Nick J. Russo’s superb narration, and you have blended together the perfect sauce.
Thank you, Nicky James, for your vulnerability, for breathing life into these characters, and for returning to share one last heartfelt glimpse into the next stage of their journey 💖
———pre-release———
It’s official, Valor and Doyle are returning on June 24, 2025!
(Or meet them earlier on June 17 by preordering direct from Nicky James: https://authornickyjames.com/product/... 😉)
Oh my gosh, what a beautiful send off for these two. Ending with a bang, this finale neatly tied up loose threads and enveloped their growing family in limitless love, care, and support. They’ve grown immensely as individuals and as a couple, and there’s no doubt in my mind that they’ve earned their HEA. The case kept the suspense high and shone powerfully in the parallels that made it every bit personal to Quaid (even if I was left with a few questions). Throw in Nick J. Russo’s superb narration, and you have blended together the perfect sauce.
Thank you, Nicky James, for your vulnerability, for breathing life into these characters, and for returning to share one last heartfelt glimpse into the next stage of their journey 💖
———pre-release———
It’s official, Valor and Doyle are returning on June 24, 2025!
(Or meet them earlier on June 17 by preordering direct from Nicky James: https://authornickyjames.com/product/... 😉)
June 27, 2025
I thought nothing would top Aslan and Quaid's wedding, but the arrival of their baby is just as beautiful and emotional. I loved reuniting with the gang one last time. There are moments of surprise, humor, and pure joy as the arrival of baby Doyle-Valor is nothing short of dramatic and intense.
Overall, I love this series and seeing these Az and Quaid finally achieve their HEAs after working so hard to overcome their addictions and traumas. These two are so utterly natural as a married couple, and watching them both humor the other while trying to solve a missing person's case when they should be on leave is the perfect way to wrap up their story.
I will miss the adventures of Az and Quaid, but knowing they are so content and at peace with their family is the perfect ending for this incredible couple. I cannot recommend this series highly enough. Tears were definitely shed while reading this fantastic finale.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
Overall, I love this series and seeing these Az and Quaid finally achieve their HEAs after working so hard to overcome their addictions and traumas. These two are so utterly natural as a married couple, and watching them both humor the other while trying to solve a missing person's case when they should be on leave is the perfect way to wrap up their story.
I will miss the adventures of Az and Quaid, but knowing they are so content and at peace with their family is the perfect ending for this incredible couple. I cannot recommend this series highly enough. Tears were definitely shed while reading this fantastic finale.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
July 8, 2025
I’ll readily admit, I choked up during the final chapters. But what really broke my heart were the authors final notes 💔
So here we are. Valor and Doyle have their HEA, the series has come to an end.
I don’t even want to go into details about everything. If you’re reading this, you’ve already read the previous books, and nothing will keep you from picking up the final one. It’s just heartwarming to see how far they’ve come, and to witness how strong their relationship is.
There’s a mystery, a child that has gone missing, one final case for Quaid, even though he’s - technically - on leave, waiting for their baby to be born.
And if I’m honest, the mystery part was… ok. Not quite as brilliant as the previous ones, so for most of the time, I thought I’ll rate it with 4 stars (I actually figured out the culprit pretty early on - it’s always the nice ones, right?).
What made me rate it with 5 stars was, unsurprisingly, the narration from Nick J Russo, who made it impossible to stay detached during the emotional parts.
And as mentioned. The ending. And the author’s note.
If you read this, Nicky, then I hope you feel the hug I’m sending you. Thank you for giving us this book, despite the fact that it was hard to write. You gave us a beautiful ending, and wrapped up neatly all the loose ends 💗
And I really hope for the odd Aslan and Quaid cameo in your other books ☺️
So here we are. Valor and Doyle have their HEA, the series has come to an end.
I don’t even want to go into details about everything. If you’re reading this, you’ve already read the previous books, and nothing will keep you from picking up the final one. It’s just heartwarming to see how far they’ve come, and to witness how strong their relationship is.
There’s a mystery, a child that has gone missing, one final case for Quaid, even though he’s - technically - on leave, waiting for their baby to be born.
And if I’m honest, the mystery part was… ok. Not quite as brilliant as the previous ones, so for most of the time, I thought I’ll rate it with 4 stars (I actually figured out the culprit pretty early on - it’s always the nice ones, right?).
What made me rate it with 5 stars was, unsurprisingly, the narration from Nick J Russo, who made it impossible to stay detached during the emotional parts.
And as mentioned. The ending. And the author’s note.
If you read this, Nicky, then I hope you feel the hug I’m sending you. Thank you for giving us this book, despite the fact that it was hard to write. You gave us a beautiful ending, and wrapped up neatly all the loose ends 💗
And I really hope for the odd Aslan and Quaid cameo in your other books ☺️
June 23, 2025
What a perfect ending for Valor and Doyle!!! The name they chose was perfect, and somehow this felt like I was present at a real life birth and part of the family.
I absolutely cried during the labour and delivery of their baby, and seeing how far Quaid and Aslan have come was just so rewarding. I've loved Quaid since book one and seeing how he's grown so much just gives me all the warm and happy feels. I totally got where he was coming from with all his baby prep anxiety too, been there, got the stretch marks and surgical scar 😂😂
A significant portion of this book was dominated by the last case Quaid is working before they take their paternity leave, and the anxiety I was getting from the woman being pregnant was right up there, but the whole plot was engaging and I enjoyed seeing things unravel and having everyone's truths out in the open! I did guess who the 'big bad' was as soon as they came into the story, but it was still enjoyable to follow the case.
Honestly I'm genuinely sad to be saying goodbye to these two. I've enjoyed their series so, so much - the fact that they have a whole book just about their wedding and I loved it so immensely when I hate anything to do with weddings in books usually.... These two are right up there with my favourite fictional couples.
I also adore how much Costa Ruiz has grown, and how he's Quaid's best friend - I always feel like a proud mum whenever Quaid is building his friendships!! At least there's still Tallus and Diem's series for Costa to pop up in though, I'm going to miss him so much too!
I absolutely cried during the labour and delivery of their baby, and seeing how far Quaid and Aslan have come was just so rewarding. I've loved Quaid since book one and seeing how he's grown so much just gives me all the warm and happy feels. I totally got where he was coming from with all his baby prep anxiety too, been there, got the stretch marks and surgical scar 😂😂
A significant portion of this book was dominated by the last case Quaid is working before they take their paternity leave, and the anxiety I was getting from the woman being pregnant was right up there, but the whole plot was engaging and I enjoyed seeing things unravel and having everyone's truths out in the open! I did guess who the 'big bad' was as soon as they came into the story, but it was still enjoyable to follow the case.
Honestly I'm genuinely sad to be saying goodbye to these two. I've enjoyed their series so, so much - the fact that they have a whole book just about their wedding and I loved it so immensely when I hate anything to do with weddings in books usually.... These two are right up there with my favourite fictional couples.
I also adore how much Costa Ruiz has grown, and how he's Quaid's best friend - I always feel like a proud mum whenever Quaid is building his friendships!! At least there's still Tallus and Diem's series for Costa to pop up in though, I'm going to miss him so much too!
July 20, 2025
Welp, this is it. I’m not ready to say goodbye to Valor and Doyle yet! I did love the wrap up, spending time with their family, blood and found and a new bundle of joy to celebrate.
When Valor and Doyle are just about to start their paternity leave, one more case pulls them back, a missing boy and Quaid was determined to find him before the birth of his child. Although, I kind of figured it out, there were still plenty of twists and turns that I didn’t expect.
Highly recommend this entire series!!!
When Valor and Doyle are just about to start their paternity leave, one more case pulls them back, a missing boy and Quaid was determined to find him before the birth of his child. Although, I kind of figured it out, there were still plenty of twists and turns that I didn’t expect.
Highly recommend this entire series!!!
July 21, 2025
A / 5 stars
It’s always sad to say goodbye to characters you’ve come to know and love over the course of a long-running series, and bittersweet, too, because even though they’ve been through the emotional wringer, they’ve ended up exactly where they’re supposed to be – happy with each other and looking forward to the rest of their lives together. Those were exactly my feelings when I finished reading Paternal Instincts, the eighth – and final – book in Nicky James’ outstanding Valor and Doyle series. Quaid Valor and Aslan Doyle have certainly had their ups and downs and Quaid, in particular, is still something of a work in progress, but Nicky James gives them a spectacular send off and does both them and her readers proud with this emotional and immensely satisfying final instalment of their story.
First off – if you’re not a fan of babies in romance novels (which I’m generally not) be assured that this is a ‘proper’ Valor and Doyle book; the guys are days away from fatherhood, yes, but the mystery is clever and intricate, and while there is baby-related talk, the impending arrival of the new member of the Doyle-Valor household doesn’t overwhelm the story.
It’s Quaid and Aslan’s final day in the office before they start six months paternity leave, and to *ahem* celebrate, Quaid – who was always adamant about not using the supply closet for anything remotely inappropriate – has dragged a surprised and delighted Aslan in there for a last minute quickie. But any afterglow is cut short when Quaid’s partner, Jordyn, starts banging on the door and says she needs help with something – which immediately sets alarm bells ringing. Jordyn is competent and capable, and wouldn’t make such a request for something she could handle on her own, especially as she knows Quaid is about to go on extended leave.
She explains that an extremely distraught man has just showed up and is asking for help to find his son, who has been missing for three days. The alarm bells get louder; three days is outside the ideal window of recovery and lessens the chances of finding the child alive. But the man – Nixon Davis – had been warned off contacting the police in a short but threatening note:
This puts a different spin on things. Jordyn has never worked a ransom case and is on her own until her temporary partner arrives the following week, so Quaid offers to help her get started and she takes him to speak to Davis. Seeing the grief-stricken father in his rumpled clothes sitting in a pose of abject despair is something Quaid has had to learn to innure himself to over the years – but looking at the little girl, who can’t be more than five or six years old, sitting at his side is a different matter. Her hair is tangled, her clothes are stained and her shoelaces are undone; clearly, she’s been forgotten in the midst of her parents’ frenzy of fear for their son - and it’s then that Quaid knows he isn’t going to be able to walk away from this case. His older sister disappeared when he was just six-years-old, changing his life and family forever, and he can’t help but see himself in this little girl, knowing how scared she must be and how unmoored she must feel because of all the upheaval going on around her and the changes in her parents’ behaviour.
He takes the girl – Sparrow – to the kitchen to find her something to eat, and then to Aslan, asking him to take care of her while he goes to talk to her dad. Aslan immediately knows this case is important to Quaid and that he’s going to delay the start of his leave to work on it – and is completely on board with that. He knows his husband too well to think he could live with himself if he doesn’t do everything possible to help this child and her family, and find the missing boy.
Right from the start, this one is tough going. In cases like this, the person responsible is almost always a family member or someone close to them, and it’s immediately clear that Davis, his wife, and their extended family are keeping a lot of secrets. The hostility between the couple and both sets of in-laws is thick enough to cut with a knife, and with tempers running high it’s not long before shouting and screaming matches break out and the accusations fly thick and fast. Quaid knows, in his very bones, that one of these people is the key to finding the boy – but no matter how strong their professions of grief or how urgent their demands for help, whoever it is remains tight-lipped and unforthcoming. And time is running out.
In more ways than one.
Running alongside the mystery plot – which is fast-paced, intense and superbly put-together, with lots of twists and turns and a thoroughly dislikeable group of suspects – is the countdown to Quaid and Aslan’s impending fatherhood. Their surrogate – an absolute gem of a woman named Bryn (who readers may recognise from the author’s Trials of Fear series) – is due to deliver their baby any day, and they timed their leave so they could be present at the birth and for the first moments of their child’s life. But now, Quaid is desperately torn between needing to solve the case and wanting to be there with Aslan and their baby and for Bryn. His conflict is palpable – his own life experiences mean family is incredibly important to him and he’s always wanted one of his own –but he feels a real kinship with Sparrow and doesn’t want her to suffer as he did.
But shining through it all is the love and devotion these two men share. Aslan is Quaid’s rock through it all, helping and supporting him in whatever way he can – which includes making sure he has the back-up he needs in order to solve the case as quickly as possible, including IT guru Costa Ruiz, who has become an amazing friend over the course of the series. His and Quaid’s bromance is in high gear in this book, and their quips and good-natured jibes provide a lot of its humour, as do Aslan’s ridiculous choices for baby names. (I admit the idea of siblings named “Phelony”, “Jedi” and “Danger” made me snort-laugh!) Yet for all his joking around, when the time comes, Aslan has the perfect name all picked out – and it’s a real lump-in-the-throat moment.
Paternal Instincts is a fantastic finale to this favourite series, and while I’m sad this is the end of the road for Valor and Doyle I’m delighted with where the author has chosen to end their story. Quaid began the series as something of a loner with a reputation as a cold, emotionless hard-arse and is ending it as a man deeply in love surrounded by people who care about him, while former-commitment-phobe Aslan has found his soulmate and has his hard-won sobriety. I was so pleased to see Quaid employing healthier coping mechanisms to deal with the negative behaviours he used to exert so he could feel in control – and I really appreciated the realistic, nuanced way their impending parenthood is dealt with; both men are excited to embark on the next stage of their lives, but (and I think this will strike a chord with most parents) vaguely terrified, too!
The Valor and Doyle series is one the best romantic suspense/mystery series I’ve read in recent years, and it’s one I will (and do) return to. I can’t do anything other than put Paternal Instincts on my keeper shelf – and say a massive “thank you” to Nicky James for coming up with the grumpy bear and the playboy in the first place and then writing them such an epic love story.
It’s always sad to say goodbye to characters you’ve come to know and love over the course of a long-running series, and bittersweet, too, because even though they’ve been through the emotional wringer, they’ve ended up exactly where they’re supposed to be – happy with each other and looking forward to the rest of their lives together. Those were exactly my feelings when I finished reading Paternal Instincts, the eighth – and final – book in Nicky James’ outstanding Valor and Doyle series. Quaid Valor and Aslan Doyle have certainly had their ups and downs and Quaid, in particular, is still something of a work in progress, but Nicky James gives them a spectacular send off and does both them and her readers proud with this emotional and immensely satisfying final instalment of their story.
First off – if you’re not a fan of babies in romance novels (which I’m generally not) be assured that this is a ‘proper’ Valor and Doyle book; the guys are days away from fatherhood, yes, but the mystery is clever and intricate, and while there is baby-related talk, the impending arrival of the new member of the Doyle-Valor household doesn’t overwhelm the story.
It’s Quaid and Aslan’s final day in the office before they start six months paternity leave, and to *ahem* celebrate, Quaid – who was always adamant about not using the supply closet for anything remotely inappropriate – has dragged a surprised and delighted Aslan in there for a last minute quickie. But any afterglow is cut short when Quaid’s partner, Jordyn, starts banging on the door and says she needs help with something – which immediately sets alarm bells ringing. Jordyn is competent and capable, and wouldn’t make such a request for something she could handle on her own, especially as she knows Quaid is about to go on extended leave.
She explains that an extremely distraught man has just showed up and is asking for help to find his son, who has been missing for three days. The alarm bells get louder; three days is outside the ideal window of recovery and lessens the chances of finding the child alive. But the man – Nixon Davis – had been warned off contacting the police in a short but threatening note:
If you ruin me, I’ll ruin you. The truth, or you’ll never see him again. No police!
This puts a different spin on things. Jordyn has never worked a ransom case and is on her own until her temporary partner arrives the following week, so Quaid offers to help her get started and she takes him to speak to Davis. Seeing the grief-stricken father in his rumpled clothes sitting in a pose of abject despair is something Quaid has had to learn to innure himself to over the years – but looking at the little girl, who can’t be more than five or six years old, sitting at his side is a different matter. Her hair is tangled, her clothes are stained and her shoelaces are undone; clearly, she’s been forgotten in the midst of her parents’ frenzy of fear for their son - and it’s then that Quaid knows he isn’t going to be able to walk away from this case. His older sister disappeared when he was just six-years-old, changing his life and family forever, and he can’t help but see himself in this little girl, knowing how scared she must be and how unmoored she must feel because of all the upheaval going on around her and the changes in her parents’ behaviour.
He takes the girl – Sparrow – to the kitchen to find her something to eat, and then to Aslan, asking him to take care of her while he goes to talk to her dad. Aslan immediately knows this case is important to Quaid and that he’s going to delay the start of his leave to work on it – and is completely on board with that. He knows his husband too well to think he could live with himself if he doesn’t do everything possible to help this child and her family, and find the missing boy.
Right from the start, this one is tough going. In cases like this, the person responsible is almost always a family member or someone close to them, and it’s immediately clear that Davis, his wife, and their extended family are keeping a lot of secrets. The hostility between the couple and both sets of in-laws is thick enough to cut with a knife, and with tempers running high it’s not long before shouting and screaming matches break out and the accusations fly thick and fast. Quaid knows, in his very bones, that one of these people is the key to finding the boy – but no matter how strong their professions of grief or how urgent their demands for help, whoever it is remains tight-lipped and unforthcoming. And time is running out.
In more ways than one.
Running alongside the mystery plot – which is fast-paced, intense and superbly put-together, with lots of twists and turns and a thoroughly dislikeable group of suspects – is the countdown to Quaid and Aslan’s impending fatherhood. Their surrogate – an absolute gem of a woman named Bryn (who readers may recognise from the author’s Trials of Fear series) – is due to deliver their baby any day, and they timed their leave so they could be present at the birth and for the first moments of their child’s life. But now, Quaid is desperately torn between needing to solve the case and wanting to be there with Aslan and their baby and for Bryn. His conflict is palpable – his own life experiences mean family is incredibly important to him and he’s always wanted one of his own –but he feels a real kinship with Sparrow and doesn’t want her to suffer as he did.
“I knew for a fact that when he looked at Sparrow, he saw a reflection of himself as a child. He saw his broken family and the suffering that had teken him thirty years to articulate. He didn’t want that for her…”
But shining through it all is the love and devotion these two men share. Aslan is Quaid’s rock through it all, helping and supporting him in whatever way he can – which includes making sure he has the back-up he needs in order to solve the case as quickly as possible, including IT guru Costa Ruiz, who has become an amazing friend over the course of the series. His and Quaid’s bromance is in high gear in this book, and their quips and good-natured jibes provide a lot of its humour, as do Aslan’s ridiculous choices for baby names. (I admit the idea of siblings named “Phelony”, “Jedi” and “Danger” made me snort-laugh!) Yet for all his joking around, when the time comes, Aslan has the perfect name all picked out – and it’s a real lump-in-the-throat moment.
Paternal Instincts is a fantastic finale to this favourite series, and while I’m sad this is the end of the road for Valor and Doyle I’m delighted with where the author has chosen to end their story. Quaid began the series as something of a loner with a reputation as a cold, emotionless hard-arse and is ending it as a man deeply in love surrounded by people who care about him, while former-commitment-phobe Aslan has found his soulmate and has his hard-won sobriety. I was so pleased to see Quaid employing healthier coping mechanisms to deal with the negative behaviours he used to exert so he could feel in control – and I really appreciated the realistic, nuanced way their impending parenthood is dealt with; both men are excited to embark on the next stage of their lives, but (and I think this will strike a chord with most parents) vaguely terrified, too!
The Valor and Doyle series is one the best romantic suspense/mystery series I’ve read in recent years, and it’s one I will (and do) return to. I can’t do anything other than put Paternal Instincts on my keeper shelf – and say a massive “thank you” to Nicky James for coming up with the grumpy bear and the playboy in the first place and then writing them such an epic love story.
June 29, 2025
Have to admit that I'm still not completely ready to say good-bye to Quaid and Aslan but now that I have to do this is a good book for that purpose. We get to meet all the important characters one final time (although I would have liked for some to have more on-page time); we see that those 2 became what they always were supposed to be and there's no doubt, that there connection is going to last, and with the naming and that occurrence in the epilogue Quaid's tale became a full circle and the past is now indeed the past. I will miss them.
In this regard does it matter that the case is an odd one and missing the usual poignancy? Do I really like to grumble about the unduly Costa-teasing? Not really, not while the series is slowly sliding into a golden nostalgia.
In this regard does it matter that the case is an odd one and missing the usual poignancy? Do I really like to grumble about the unduly Costa-teasing? Not really, not while the series is slowly sliding into a golden nostalgia.
July 4, 2025
I can't believe it's over.
I love Aslan and Quaid so, so, so much.
I love Aslan and Quaid so, so, so much.
July 22, 2025
4.5 stars
I wasn’t crazy about the mystery in this one, it started to annoy me. I was much more invested in Quaid and Aslan becoming parents. If this book was just about the mystery it’d be a much lower rating. I knew immediately who did it but that family was so annoying.
I loved the last part of the book! I teared up and even shed a tear at the name! The entire birthing scene was amazing. I love that these two men became fathers. These characters have been amazing. What a wonderful series!!!
I wasn’t crazy about the mystery in this one, it started to annoy me. I was much more invested in Quaid and Aslan becoming parents. If this book was just about the mystery it’d be a much lower rating. I knew immediately who did it but that family was so annoying.
I loved the last part of the book! I teared up and even shed a tear at the name! The entire birthing scene was amazing. I love that these two men became fathers. These characters have been amazing. What a wonderful series!!!
August 15, 2025
5 stars!! What a beautiful conclusion!! Loved the long deserved HEA for both Quaid and Aslan. The missing kid plot was a little convoluted with lots of red herrings, but my guess was correct at the end about the main villain. 🤨.. but there were still some surprises that I had not anticipated.
Nevertheless, this was a full circle moment for this couple and I can honestly say that although I hadn’t read a single book by this author before I picked up this series, I’m glad I took a chance. It has been worth it!! ❤️❤️
Nevertheless, this was a full circle moment for this couple and I can honestly say that although I hadn’t read a single book by this author before I picked up this series, I’m glad I took a chance. It has been worth it!! ❤️❤️
June 25, 2025
ALL THE STARS!!!
I swooned.
I laughed. Hard.
I cried.
I will miss my boys and their gang very deeply, but this book was everything they deserved and so much more.
~The (perfect) End~
I swooned.
I laughed. Hard.
I cried.
I will miss my boys and their gang very deeply, but this book was everything they deserved and so much more.
~The (perfect) End~
July 28, 2025
Safety info, content warnings and tropes down below.
Ugh, I'm not ready to let go of Aslan and Quaid. It's a bit dramatic, but after 8 books with the same couple you get really attached, and even though I love both characters so much, Quaid has had a special place in my heart since the very beginning. Watching him go from a deeply insecure and hurt person to someone who laughs, trusts and is secure in himself again has been so lovely and beautiful. Aslan and I had a bit of a rocky start, but it just goes to show the character development he went through as well. The way he fought for his sobriety, supported Quaid through his insecurities, and eventually let his walls down and let go of his playboy ways was simply amazing, and I'm so happy I stuck with these books even when I wanted to strangle Aslan a little bit.
I felt on the verge of crying through so much of this book because it really did feel like they got a real happy ending. Watching Quaid get his biggest wish -- becoming a dad -- made me cry a river, and the fact that the author gave them that and pushed through her own trauma to give Quaid a baby was equally heartbreaking and sweet. I can only hope it was even the smallest bit healing.
Their final case was all sorts of dramatic and intense, and even though I sort of guessed some of the mystery early on, it's always entertaining coming along for the ride as the cast of characters figure it out too. And speaking of the cast, Costa Ruiz might just be the best side character of all time. His development from angry and bigoted to being Quaid's best friend was so sweet and genuine. Their bromance is my favorite thing ever.
This was the perfect final book for them, and I can't wait to collect the 6 audiobooks I'm missing so that I can relisten to the whole series an unhealthy amount of times.
And yes, after 8 books I still don't care for Torin, lol.
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & content tags ⚠️
Established couple
Romantic suspense
Becoming dads
Police detectives
Race against time
Cat dads
Solving a mystery
⚠️ Spice menu ⚠️
Storage room sex
Mild exhibitionism
Sensual massage
Massage oil
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Explicit sexual content
Public sex
Mention of pregnancy compilations and near-death of unborn child (minor character)
Missing child
Brief mention of SCs not being able to conceive children
MC recovering from eating disorder
Alcohol consumption
Violence (minor SC stabbed off page)
Mention of statutory rape between SCs
Themes of infidelity (between SCs)
Gun violence (bad guy shot and killed)
On-page labor and birth
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No
Breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual
Genre: Romantic suspense
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Versatile
Main characters’ age: 37/38 and 44/45
Series: Series
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 363
Happy ending: Yes
“You drive me insane, hot stuff. There isn’t a single day that passes when I don’t thank god I got over my fear of dating and asked you out.”
I massaged the tips of my fingers over his scalp and cradled his head in the palm of my hand. “What do you need, hot stuff? How can I help?” “This. More of this.” He burrowed deeper into my arms. “Don’t let go yet.” “Never.” I held him close, keeping his seams from unraveling like I’d been doing for years.
“You slay me, Quaid Valor. I didn’t think I could love you more, but you always prove me wrong. You’re already an amazing dad.”
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
Ugh, I'm not ready to let go of Aslan and Quaid. It's a bit dramatic, but after 8 books with the same couple you get really attached, and even though I love both characters so much, Quaid has had a special place in my heart since the very beginning. Watching him go from a deeply insecure and hurt person to someone who laughs, trusts and is secure in himself again has been so lovely and beautiful. Aslan and I had a bit of a rocky start, but it just goes to show the character development he went through as well. The way he fought for his sobriety, supported Quaid through his insecurities, and eventually let his walls down and let go of his playboy ways was simply amazing, and I'm so happy I stuck with these books even when I wanted to strangle Aslan a little bit.
I felt on the verge of crying through so much of this book because it really did feel like they got a real happy ending. Watching Quaid get his biggest wish -- becoming a dad -- made me cry a river, and the fact that the author gave them that and pushed through her own trauma to give Quaid a baby was equally heartbreaking and sweet. I can only hope it was even the smallest bit healing.
Their final case was all sorts of dramatic and intense, and even though I sort of guessed some of the mystery early on, it's always entertaining coming along for the ride as the cast of characters figure it out too. And speaking of the cast, Costa Ruiz might just be the best side character of all time. His development from angry and bigoted to being Quaid's best friend was so sweet and genuine. Their bromance is my favorite thing ever.
This was the perfect final book for them, and I can't wait to collect the 6 audiobooks I'm missing so that I can relisten to the whole series an unhealthy amount of times.
And yes, after 8 books I still don't care for Torin, lol.
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & content tags ⚠️
Established couple
Romantic suspense
Becoming dads
Police detectives
Race against time
Cat dads
Solving a mystery
⚠️ Spice menu ⚠️
Storage room sex
Mild exhibitionism
Sensual massage
Massage oil
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Explicit sexual content
Public sex
Mention of pregnancy compilations and near-death of unborn child (minor character)
Missing child
Brief mention of SCs not being able to conceive children
MC recovering from eating disorder
Alcohol consumption
Violence (minor SC stabbed off page)
Mention of statutory rape between SCs
Themes of infidelity (between SCs)
Gun violence (bad guy shot and killed)
On-page labor and birth
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: No
Breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual
Genre: Romantic suspense
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Versatile
Main characters’ age: 37/38 and 44/45
Series: Series
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 363
Happy ending: Yes
“You drive me insane, hot stuff. There isn’t a single day that passes when I don’t thank god I got over my fear of dating and asked you out.”
I massaged the tips of my fingers over his scalp and cradled his head in the palm of my hand. “What do you need, hot stuff? How can I help?” “This. More of this.” He burrowed deeper into my arms. “Don’t let go yet.” “Never.” I held him close, keeping his seams from unraveling like I’d been doing for years.
“You slay me, Quaid Valor. I didn’t think I could love you more, but you always prove me wrong. You’re already an amazing dad.”
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
June 26, 2025
What a triumphant send off
I knew this book was going to be emotional but I don't think it really hit me until the final few chapters just how much it was going to affect me.
Everything about this narrative involves the emotions, from the fear of a missing child, the sorrows of a possible family betrayal, the anger of secrets revealed and the joy of a new life beginning.
No spoilers, I did guess who was the likely culprit but I was off on the reasons for it happening, proving beyond any doubt that Nicky James can skillfully manipulate a plotline with ease.
I'm so sad to say goodbye to Quaid and Aslan, but what a way to leave things!
I knew this book was going to be emotional but I don't think it really hit me until the final few chapters just how much it was going to affect me.
Everything about this narrative involves the emotions, from the fear of a missing child, the sorrows of a possible family betrayal, the anger of secrets revealed and the joy of a new life beginning.
No spoilers, I did guess who was the likely culprit but I was off on the reasons for it happening, proving beyond any doubt that Nicky James can skillfully manipulate a plotline with ease.
I'm so sad to say goodbye to Quaid and Aslan, but what a way to leave things!
July 4, 2025
5 stars for the narration, 5 for the story.
My review of the book is HERE, so I'll just add a few thoughts on the audio version.
Nick J. Russo delivers another superb performance. He knows this pair so well by now and it shows in the way he so effortlessly slips into character and the skill with which he conveys the strength and depth of their emotional connection. The secondary cast is appropriately voiced and expertly differentiated, so there’s never any confusion as to who is speaking, the pacing is spot on and he hits all the emotional beats of the story.
Paternal Instincts is a fantastic finale to this favourite series, and while I’m sad this is the end of the road for Valor and Doyle I’m delighted with where the author has chosen to end their story, giving them a spectacular send off with this emotional and immensely satisfying final instalment of their story. I’m so grateful to Nicky for creating these wonderful characters and stories, and to Nick for bringing them so vibrantly to life.
My review of the book is HERE, so I'll just add a few thoughts on the audio version.
Nick J. Russo delivers another superb performance. He knows this pair so well by now and it shows in the way he so effortlessly slips into character and the skill with which he conveys the strength and depth of their emotional connection. The secondary cast is appropriately voiced and expertly differentiated, so there’s never any confusion as to who is speaking, the pacing is spot on and he hits all the emotional beats of the story.
Paternal Instincts is a fantastic finale to this favourite series, and while I’m sad this is the end of the road for Valor and Doyle I’m delighted with where the author has chosen to end their story, giving them a spectacular send off with this emotional and immensely satisfying final instalment of their story. I’m so grateful to Nicky for creating these wonderful characters and stories, and to Nick for bringing them so vibrantly to life.
July 1, 2025
Wow, what a perfect ending to an amazing series! Nicky James does it again! Another mystery that kept me on the edge of my seat, Aslan and Quaid become parents, and all the wonderful banter between everyone! It was just so freaking good, not to mention all the feels. Nick J Russo, as always, nailed his performance! He really makes all the characters come to life, and it just brings everything to the next level. I laughed, I cried, I swooned, it was all bittersweet, but was left with a happy heart! I can't express how much I loved this book and the entire series, and all the characters, I can't recommend it enough!
June 30, 2025
My spreadsheet failed me! 🤦♀️😭🤣
At NO point did I figure out what the heck was going on, but I did have a pretty good suspicion of what name Az was thinking would be good if their baby turned out to be a girl... other than that? CLUELESS through the whole story!
This author is one of my favorites for a reason, I am sure that will remain so for years to come!!!
Rarely do I want to give more than 5 stars, but this story is one of those times.
At NO point did I figure out what the heck was going on, but I did have a pretty good suspicion of what name Az was thinking would be good if their baby turned out to be a girl... other than that? CLUELESS through the whole story!
This author is one of my favorites for a reason, I am sure that will remain so for years to come!!!
Rarely do I want to give more than 5 stars, but this story is one of those times.
July 3, 2025
A 5 star read AT LAST!!!
The perfect end to one of my favourite series. Absolutely loved the characters and am going to miss them. All the stars
The perfect end to one of my favourite series. Absolutely loved the characters and am going to miss them. All the stars
July 31, 2025
Can't believe the journey is over 🥹
I loved the romance part ❤️ those two are really amazing together. And the duo becoming a family is heartwarming. Precious.
I didn't like the mystery side (or case?) of the story. It seemed pretty far fetched and lacked the mind-blowing twists and turns of other cases.
Anyway this is a well deserved end to a really great series.
I listened to the audio and Nick J. Russo did an outstanding narration.
I loved the romance part ❤️ those two are really amazing together. And the duo becoming a family is heartwarming. Precious.
I didn't like the mystery side (or case?) of the story. It seemed pretty far fetched and lacked the mind-blowing twists and turns of other cases.
Anyway this is a well deserved end to a really great series.
I listened to the audio and Nick J. Russo did an outstanding narration.
July 4, 2025
A good finish to a good story with its up and downs. I liked some books better than others but it was a good journey to watch. Ultimately I still love Az and I am glad to see Q is eating a bit better and in therapy. And good laughs with Ruiz and Torin as always. Going to miss them.
July 2, 2025
No more Valor and Doyle? Living without new mysteries to solve and Aslan's shenanigans?
I love those guys so much (the secondary characters as well) and might get back to them some day.
June 21, 2025
5 stars
And 10 stars overall for Quaid and Aslans epic journey!
This was the farewell they deserved! I am equal parts happy and sad because the book had everything I hoped for, but I can't believe it's over. 😭
It was so rewarding to see that Quaids and Aslans' relationship is finally rock solid. They are truly ready for parenthood. Quaids OCD and quirky behavior is still there, but it is tempered now. He can let some things go now, even when it comes to food, and it made me so happy for him. 🥰
The banter was as hilarious as ever. I especially loved it when Quaid and Az ganged up on Ruiz, it cracked me up.🤣 I think he's my favorite side character of all time! I was stoked that he played a big part in this last book.
For me, it was also one of the best cases in the series. It really left me floundering, even though I picked the villain halfway through. But just like Quaid, I couldn't put all the pieces together for their motif to make sense. LOL
Overall, this was the ending I had hoped for. Would I love to read more and see them juggle kids and their jobs and solve more cases? Absolutely! But I respect the authors reasoning for ending the series at this point. They will always be one of my favorite couples, and I'll love to revisit them in the future. ❤️
And 10 stars overall for Quaid and Aslans epic journey!
This was the farewell they deserved! I am equal parts happy and sad because the book had everything I hoped for, but I can't believe it's over. 😭
It was so rewarding to see that Quaids and Aslans' relationship is finally rock solid. They are truly ready for parenthood. Quaids OCD and quirky behavior is still there, but it is tempered now. He can let some things go now, even when it comes to food, and it made me so happy for him. 🥰
The banter was as hilarious as ever. I especially loved it when Quaid and Az ganged up on Ruiz, it cracked me up.🤣 I think he's my favorite side character of all time! I was stoked that he played a big part in this last book.
For me, it was also one of the best cases in the series. It really left me floundering, even though I picked the villain halfway through. But just like Quaid, I couldn't put all the pieces together for their motif to make sense. LOL
Overall, this was the ending I had hoped for. Would I love to read more and see them juggle kids and their jobs and solve more cases? Absolutely! But I respect the authors reasoning for ending the series at this point. They will always be one of my favorite couples, and I'll love to revisit them in the future. ❤️
July 13, 2025
Audio 5🎧
Story 4⭐️
Spice 1🌶
Narrator: Nick J. Russo
Dual POV, 1st person
Quaid and Aslan
Established couple
Detectives working together
Journey to parenthood
HEA
Story 4⭐️
Spice 1🌶
Narrator: Nick J. Russo
Dual POV, 1st person
Quaid and Aslan
Established couple
Detectives working together
Journey to parenthood
HEA
June 28, 2025
Great ending to an epic series with one my favorite couples ever.
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