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First Contact
Going undercover in a gay BDSM club run by the mob isn’t Rick Delaney’s idea of a good time – but for all the wrong reasons.
Sure, going undercover in a gay BDSM club run by the mob isn’t exactly an everyday assignment. Still, as a cop specializing in undercover work, Rick Delaney is used to tough gigs. The real issue is that Rick’s expected to go under with someone he barely knows. But Rick’s partner is suspended, and he doesn’t have a choice.
Newly transferred detective Jon Messina’s short a partner, too, except that his was murdered by the mafia. Jon may seem breezy and lighthearted, but he has a score to settle. And to do so, he’s willing to do whatever it takes.
Except that it may take more than either of them can afford. Because their cover as a dom and sub couple spins out of control the minute they set foot into mafia-controlled sex club Gomorrah. What should be mere pretense threatens to become desperately real. And if Rick can’t control his desires, he’s going to get them both killed.
Length: 31,000 words
Sure, going undercover in a gay BDSM club run by the mob isn’t exactly an everyday assignment. Still, as a cop specializing in undercover work, Rick Delaney is used to tough gigs. The real issue is that Rick’s expected to go under with someone he barely knows. But Rick’s partner is suspended, and he doesn’t have a choice.
Newly transferred detective Jon Messina’s short a partner, too, except that his was murdered by the mafia. Jon may seem breezy and lighthearted, but he has a score to settle. And to do so, he’s willing to do whatever it takes.
Except that it may take more than either of them can afford. Because their cover as a dom and sub couple spins out of control the minute they set foot into mafia-controlled sex club Gomorrah. What should be mere pretense threatens to become desperately real. And if Rick can’t control his desires, he’s going to get them both killed.
Length: 31,000 words
98 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 22, 2014
6 people are currently reading
277 people want to read
About the author
Alex Gabriel
9 books269 followersI am a writer. Mostly, I write gay romance – frequently with an element of the supernatural, fantastical or futuristic.
About Me
It all began when I learned to decipher the alphabet. I soon found that the world was full of wonderful stories – but not all of the tales I wanted to read were being told. In self-defense, I began to write, and haven’t stopped since.
In what little time my busy schedule of reading and writing has left me, I’ve worked as a copywriter, a translator, an English teacher, a linguistics tutor, an alibi S.O., a soap maker, a cloakroom attendant, a bartender, and other such things. Only the jobs that involve writing have stuck.
About My Stories
My primary focus is always on the characters. My goal is to create real, interesting and multi-faceted people and develop relationships that ring true… in the context of a world and a story that grab the reader and don’t let go.
I love fiction for its capacity to explore countless different worlds, ask thousands of different variations on what if.
What if time could flow backwards, what if we could travel to alternate universes, what if magic worked, what if gods and demons walked among us? What if telepathy and/or other such powers existed? What if stories were real, and reality just a fiction?
What if…?
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
February 12, 2015
I realize that this may be a bit cliché coming from me so let me back this claim up with a little story. I'm reading this at work. It's short. I figure I can knock it out right quick and get back to whatever. I got so engrossed in their second scene together at Gomorrah that I actually forgot I was at work then someone knocked on my door. I was so fashizzled that it took me a minute to (a) process what it was they were saying to me and (b) try and school my features like I hadn't gotten caught reading porn. Thankfully, my office was a little dim so she couldn't tell I was flushed and I'm fairly certain my eyes were glassy.
That's what I mean by HOT, HOT, HOT!
U period N period F period
What made it so hot was this author's prowess in the visually evocative department. In the beginning felt like it moved at a glacial pace due to all the description and I was thinking it would be maybe 3 hearts but around the 40-50% mark things shifted. Rick began describing how he saw Jon, how he looked beautiful and debauched after Rick had his way with him, biting him and clamping him, in his cock cage and all spread out before him, eyes full of lust and needing. You know how I feel about cages and needing.
INSERT HOT ADOMMY GIF THAT WON'T POST TO GR B/C GR IS LAME (blog only)
The kink isn't heavy, mostly D/s and some light bondage but there is a possible trigger-sharing. It fit within the context of the scene and probably with their case, but it'll probably be off-putting for some. If you're avoiding this because of the mystery/cops/thriller aspect, don't. The case is thin and essentially just an excuse to put Jon and Rick into a BDSM club with a bunch of kinky mobsters and forge their relationship as partners with benefits.
There were two things that I found odd and/or lacking which were the writing style at the beginning of the book is strange. It's almost third person omniscient or Rick's talking about himself in the third person, very jarring, but evolves into Rick's perspective. Also, I would've liked more backstory on both characters.
PLEASE GOD TELL ME THERE WILL BE A SEQUEL!!!
I needz.
Recommend to fans of kinky smut.
A review copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.
September 11, 2017
I think my friends and other reviewers have pretty much covered every aspect of the story, so I'm sure I won't have anything new to add. So here's to an attempt at it! ;)
The author's writing in this book was simply sensuous. We didn't just experience it all as if it were happening in front of us, the lazy, lust-filled actions were felt by us too. And it was so amazing. It was like a pot simmering on the stove. On the surface, you don't see as many ripples as you would on a high boiling water, but there are ripples deep down, and even more influential.
Yes, as my friends said, the case(s) was unresolved, so I would love to read a sequel. It would be even better to get to know both Jon and Rick more, especially after reading the last chapter.
The author's writing in this book was simply sensuous. We didn't just experience it all as if it were happening in front of us, the lazy, lust-filled actions were felt by us too. And it was so amazing. It was like a pot simmering on the stove. On the surface, you don't see as many ripples as you would on a high boiling water, but there are ripples deep down, and even more influential.
Yes, as my friends said, the case(s) was unresolved, so I would love to read a sequel. It would be even better to get to know both Jon and Rick more, especially after reading the last chapter.
December 29, 2014
Public sex freaks fans, rejoice! This story includes a big scene starring our two MC undercover police officers at a BDSM club.
I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed this short story by new author Alex Gabriel. The blurb sucked me in and managed to deliver an interesting, hot story. Not a whole lot was resolved and we didn't learn much about the characters, but that is the downfall of any short story.
I'm going to recommend this one for my fellow M/M BDSM fans. I'd love to see more of these boys!
I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed this short story by new author Alex Gabriel. The blurb sucked me in and managed to deliver an interesting, hot story. Not a whole lot was resolved and we didn't learn much about the characters, but that is the downfall of any short story.
I'm going to recommend this one for my fellow M/M BDSM fans. I'd love to see more of these boys!
August 30, 2015
After Cupcake's review, I couldn't resist. Flushed and glassy-eyed? I'd like to place an order, please :)
And, man, did this deliver!
I was not expecting everything I got. I didn't expect to connect so much with the characters, especially that fast. That first scene in the club was delicious, but then there was the scene with Rick's partner and I went from being all turned on, to being really sad.
A little bit of confusion with an unmarked time jump when I was expecting a follow up with Fritz. But I soon forgot him. Seriously, it was "Fritz who?" Because the next club scene was worth way more than the price of admission. One of the hottest scenes I've ever read. *shivers*
So, yeah...the plot was not the best, but as a vehicle for those scenes? A+++++++
“You’re mine,” Rick whispers into Jon’s hair. It sounds like a statement, but feels like a plea, just like the next thing he says. “I’ll take good care of you.”
So tender, but also fierce. When he got all stern and cold with others? More shivers.
Take me now, Rick. Please.
...Of course, then he'd get all awkward and self conscious, and I'd want to hug him *grins*
And Jon...what a sweet sub, but no one to mess around with, either. I liked him. A lot.
My main issue with the story was how a serious, emotional narrative thread that centered on Fritz was introduced and then dropped. You can guess what happened, but I wanted further mention of someone so important to Rick. The story also ended before we got closure on their case, or on Jon's personal investigation, which was frustrating. Maybe there will be a sequel (please!) Otherwise, just read this for the delicious D/s scenes.
And, man, did this deliver!
I was not expecting everything I got. I didn't expect to connect so much with the characters, especially that fast. That first scene in the club was delicious, but then there was the scene with Rick's partner and I went from being all turned on, to being really sad.
A little bit of confusion with an unmarked time jump when I was expecting a follow up with Fritz. But I soon forgot him. Seriously, it was "Fritz who?" Because the next club scene was worth way more than the price of admission. One of the hottest scenes I've ever read. *shivers*
So, yeah...the plot was not the best, but as a vehicle for those scenes? A+++++++
“You’re mine,” Rick whispers into Jon’s hair. It sounds like a statement, but feels like a plea, just like the next thing he says. “I’ll take good care of you.”
So tender, but also fierce. When he got all stern and cold with others? More shivers.
Take me now, Rick. Please.
...Of course, then he'd get all awkward and self conscious, and I'd want to hug him *grins*
And Jon...what a sweet sub, but no one to mess around with, either. I liked him. A lot.
My main issue with the story was how a serious, emotional narrative thread that centered on Fritz was introduced and then dropped. You can guess what happened, but I wanted further mention of someone so important to Rick. The story also ended before we got closure on their case, or on Jon's personal investigation, which was frustrating. Maybe there will be a sequel (please!) Otherwise, just read this for the delicious D/s scenes.
January 2, 2015
...Just, brilliant.... with that Ty & Zane ring to it. Whahoohoo.
October 2, 2015
4.5 stars
First— Don’t let the blurb fool you (or the present tense narrative put you off). Yeah, we’ve read it before… cops go undercover in a BDSM/sex club trying to bust the bad guys running it. And at least one of the cops discovers that he likes the b/d/s or m part much more than he ever thought possible… But this one… In this one, the sexual heat between these two cops is so off the charts. The author knows just how to describe the turn on and ramp it up with style, all the while threading in the wrongness of it all. ’Cause these cops lose sight of where to draw the line between ‘work’ and ‘play’.
His mouth is open slightly, soft, inviting. The sheen of sweat on his skin makes him glow golden in the dim light, like something out of legend-- a creature of pure carnality and seduction.
Most of the hotness takes place in the BDSM club so there’s public sex and voyeurism (and a scene on a swing that you won’t soon forget). If that’s not your thing, stay far away. If it is… what are you waiting for? One of the best one-handed reads written by a sure hand. (Ok, pun intended.)
Second— There’s gotta be more to this. Please, please, please let the next installment come asap.
Also— Check out the wonderful story this writer did for the 2015 DRitC/LOR Event, Still Waters. Think merman... So different, so well done. Highly recommend that one too.
February 15, 2015
Four stars for the hot-as-hell club scene alone! The D/s scene was delicious! A weak/unresolved plot and entirely too short of a book along with the WTH ending but the characters alone made up for it. Did I mention the club scene? Yeah, that's worth the read alone. All I can say is I want more of these guys! Alex Gabriel I hope you are writing!
August 7, 2015
I liked this a lot. It's got a different feel to it which I love (I don't think people do want to read the same thing over and over again) and it's very, very steamy! I found the present tense awkward at first, but it grew on me as the story progressed. I'm very excited for the sequel … hopefully Mr. Gabriel doesn't make us wait too long!
December 30, 2014
Super intense, involved scenes throughout the book. Few books have created such a strong sense of place and feeling for me to be able to sink into the MC's body and mind so fully, and to be so absolutely focused on just one other person. The BDSM and sex scenes are like there is no one else around, even though they are in a club full of people watching and becoming aroused, because Rick and Jon are so extremely attuned and centered on each other, that it is only just them during those scenes. It was amazing and beautiful and arousing as hell!
Loved the plot (although it was unfinished--sequel? *perks up and smiles hopefully*), loved Rick and Jon and their chemistry and that I could see and feel it all, loved the scenes, loved the frantic pacing that the writing style created, loved the characters' voices...hmm, yup, really enjoyed this one!
Loved the plot (although it was unfinished--sequel? *perks up and smiles hopefully*), loved Rick and Jon and their chemistry and that I could see and feel it all, loved the scenes, loved the frantic pacing that the writing style created, loved the characters' voices...hmm, yup, really enjoyed this one!
September 26, 2015
Note: This book was provided to me by the author through the DBML Program in exchange for an honest review.
Detective Rick Delaney and his newly assigned partner Jon Messina are assigned an undercover operation at a gay BDSM club. Ostensibly, they are going in to bust up a crime family, but in reality, most of the story centers around prepping for the visit, the visit itself, and getting through the aftermath of what happens.
And what happens is an extremely graphic, extremely well-written, hot, sexual tension-riddled interaction between the two men that ultimately seals their partnership in more ways than one.
Considering the fact that they barely know each other as the story opens, and Rick was pretty resentful of getting a new partner after his regular partner was suspended, when the two get together as pseudo-Dom and sub, their chemistry is off-the-wall. Without dwelling on just how hot that chemistry is, I caution that personal fans should be kept nearby. Just sayin’.
I did like the characters, and I believe the setup for an ongoing series is in place as the two will likely need to try to resolve the death of Jon’s former partner who was killed by a crime family in Chicago, as well as solve the current case their captain has assigned them.
The story is fairly short, leaves the two men with the promise of a HFN, if not a HEA, and is just one of the most smokin’ hot stories I’ve read in a long time, and I read a lot of stories! The BDSM is very mild, limited to a cock cage, vibrator, and swing in the club itself so if you have never read one, this is a good place to start.
I recommend it to all who like alpha men, a buildup of sexual tension, and explicit sex with a twist of BDSM and undercover police work. Yummy!
Detective Rick Delaney and his newly assigned partner Jon Messina are assigned an undercover operation at a gay BDSM club. Ostensibly, they are going in to bust up a crime family, but in reality, most of the story centers around prepping for the visit, the visit itself, and getting through the aftermath of what happens.
And what happens is an extremely graphic, extremely well-written, hot, sexual tension-riddled interaction between the two men that ultimately seals their partnership in more ways than one.
Considering the fact that they barely know each other as the story opens, and Rick was pretty resentful of getting a new partner after his regular partner was suspended, when the two get together as pseudo-Dom and sub, their chemistry is off-the-wall. Without dwelling on just how hot that chemistry is, I caution that personal fans should be kept nearby. Just sayin’.
I did like the characters, and I believe the setup for an ongoing series is in place as the two will likely need to try to resolve the death of Jon’s former partner who was killed by a crime family in Chicago, as well as solve the current case their captain has assigned them.
The story is fairly short, leaves the two men with the promise of a HFN, if not a HEA, and is just one of the most smokin’ hot stories I’ve read in a long time, and I read a lot of stories! The BDSM is very mild, limited to a cock cage, vibrator, and swing in the club itself so if you have never read one, this is a good place to start.
I recommend it to all who like alpha men, a buildup of sexual tension, and explicit sex with a twist of BDSM and undercover police work. Yummy!
July 7, 2016
You can probably file this under “a typical case of it’s not you, it’s me”…
It's not a secret that I'm not really the biggest BDSM fan on earth, unless it is part of a thrilling story which keeps me interested.
Funnily enough, this time it was rather exactly the opposite. I enjoyed the BDSM scenes more than everything else, which is saying something.
I did not buy the story. For me it was too clichéd and quite unbelievable. Well, as you can imagine, I’m not really an expert as far as BDSM is concerned, either in books or otherwise ;-). But both cops, who barely know each other, practice together for two days - TWO DAYS - and are offhandedly able to pull off being an established D/s couple? Uhm, no… I don’t think so. Especially since Rick, who barely gets out one coherent sentence (it was sometimes a bit exhausting to follow his thoughts), is supposed to be a self-confident Dom. This performance probably would get him an Academy Award nomination if this would have been a movie and not a book...
Aside from that, there are too many things unsolved, e. g. the case itself, the question who killed Jon's former partner etc. It's possible that the author plans to make this a series, but as for me, I'm not interested enough to read a sequel, if there ever will be one.
But do not let yourself be put off by this review because this is just my personal opinion and fans of BDSM stories might really enjoy this book.
August 24, 2016
Holy hell, please tell me there's going to be a sequel to this!
I'm not much for BDSM, particularly the club type that was, but this was great. Sure, the case(s) weren't solved, and I'd like to know if Fitz was ok, so hopefully, there's a sequel coming.
I'm not much for BDSM, particularly the club type that was, but this was great. Sure, the case(s) weren't solved, and I'd like to know if Fitz was ok, so hopefully, there's a sequel coming.
September 27, 2015
Wow, this one packed a punch for under 100 pages! Laughs, hot sex, feelz...and did I say hot sex? :P
I have to admit, I’m not normally one for shorter stories, as I prefer the depth you get with a longer book, but I REALLY wanted to read this one anyway, as I love the other works I’ve read by Alex Gabriel so far. I did think that it was a little difficult to build up much of a picture of any of the characters because of the length, especially the secondary characters, but we still got a really good impression of Rick, our main narrator, and I LIKED him! :) In fact, I was surprised quite how fast I felt like we knew him, despite not really knowing THAT much about him. I did feel that I wanted to know a lot more about Jon, as the other main character, so I was a little disappointed we didn’t get more of his back story – but from what we see, he seemed to fit well with Rick.
I guess thinking back on it, I had a couple of other niggles, but again they were kind of related/constrained by the length of the read – for instance the main case doesn’t get wrapped up/there’s really no progress on it during this story at all, and there were a couple of plot points that were introduced but then either dropped or we didn’t find out anything much about them. What happened to . However, I tried to see this more as a short glimpse/window into the lives of these guys, rather than a whole story – with the case and everything else really taking a back seat to Rick & Jon being undercover in the BDSM club and all this entailed. In that way it worked and I’m just hoping that this will be the first in a series of little glimpses!
The humour woven through this was great – I don’t know why I didn’t expect it, but for some reason I hadn’t considered there was going to be that element in this, so it was a good surprise. I love Alex Gabriel’s humour. This wasn’t as laugh out loud hilarious as Love for the Cold-Blooded, or The Part-Time Evil Minion's Guide to Accidentally Dating a Superhero but it was still there, running through a lot of the story.
And oh my god, these guys were SCORCHING hot together. I stupidly decided to read this through a break at work and had to stop, lol! ;) Alex writes some seriously HOT sex scenes, that’s for sure!! The descriptions are so real, you feel completely caught up in them.
It incorporates BDSM from a different angle to the normal stuff I read too – i.e. the guys are supposed to be undercover cops, and from what we are shown, BDSM clubs are really not meant to be the kind of thing they are used to, but they seem to fall into their roles very believably anyway! There was one thing I am a little conflicted over - This is normally the kind of thing I don't like, but I just kind of went with it, and it was fine.
I loved the way the author described some of the thoughts that run through Rick’s mind during times when he is experiencing high emotions – his thoughts are all kind of jumbled and passionate and it really gives you a good impression of how he’s feeling – raw and emotional and slightly out of control almost.
“He feels fierce, helpless, filled up, spilling over with emotions fiery and uncontrollable and tender and wild, too much for any one person to contain, and centred entirely on the man in his arms.”
Rick’s kind of surly and private, but a big softie inside – he’s also not very good at using his words out loud! I’m really hoping Alex creates more in this world so we can see more of these guys together and learn more about Jon.
Overall this was burning hot, funny and at the same time there were glimpses of something more tender...there was just no ending to anything, and I would definitely love to read more in this ‘verse!
PS: Ooooooooo, I’ve read on Alex’s blog that there’s a potential sequel to this in the works, so yeay!! :) Definitely 4 stars knowing there’s more to come!
*This book was provided for free by the author in exchange for an honest review.*
I have to admit, I’m not normally one for shorter stories, as I prefer the depth you get with a longer book, but I REALLY wanted to read this one anyway, as I love the other works I’ve read by Alex Gabriel so far. I did think that it was a little difficult to build up much of a picture of any of the characters because of the length, especially the secondary characters, but we still got a really good impression of Rick, our main narrator, and I LIKED him! :) In fact, I was surprised quite how fast I felt like we knew him, despite not really knowing THAT much about him. I did feel that I wanted to know a lot more about Jon, as the other main character, so I was a little disappointed we didn’t get more of his back story – but from what we see, he seemed to fit well with Rick.
I guess thinking back on it, I had a couple of other niggles, but again they were kind of related/constrained by the length of the read – for instance the main case doesn’t get wrapped up/there’s really no progress on it during this story at all, and there were a couple of plot points that were introduced but then either dropped or we didn’t find out anything much about them. What happened to . However, I tried to see this more as a short glimpse/window into the lives of these guys, rather than a whole story – with the case and everything else really taking a back seat to Rick & Jon being undercover in the BDSM club and all this entailed. In that way it worked and I’m just hoping that this will be the first in a series of little glimpses!
The humour woven through this was great – I don’t know why I didn’t expect it, but for some reason I hadn’t considered there was going to be that element in this, so it was a good surprise. I love Alex Gabriel’s humour. This wasn’t as laugh out loud hilarious as Love for the Cold-Blooded, or The Part-Time Evil Minion's Guide to Accidentally Dating a Superhero but it was still there, running through a lot of the story.
And oh my god, these guys were SCORCHING hot together. I stupidly decided to read this through a break at work and had to stop, lol! ;) Alex writes some seriously HOT sex scenes, that’s for sure!! The descriptions are so real, you feel completely caught up in them.
It incorporates BDSM from a different angle to the normal stuff I read too – i.e. the guys are supposed to be undercover cops, and from what we are shown, BDSM clubs are really not meant to be the kind of thing they are used to, but they seem to fall into their roles very believably anyway! There was one thing I am a little conflicted over - This is normally the kind of thing I don't like, but I just kind of went with it, and it was fine.
I loved the way the author described some of the thoughts that run through Rick’s mind during times when he is experiencing high emotions – his thoughts are all kind of jumbled and passionate and it really gives you a good impression of how he’s feeling – raw and emotional and slightly out of control almost.
“He feels fierce, helpless, filled up, spilling over with emotions fiery and uncontrollable and tender and wild, too much for any one person to contain, and centred entirely on the man in his arms.”
Rick’s kind of surly and private, but a big softie inside – he’s also not very good at using his words out loud! I’m really hoping Alex creates more in this world so we can see more of these guys together and learn more about Jon.
Overall this was burning hot, funny and at the same time there were glimpses of something more tender...there was just no ending to anything, and I would definitely love to read more in this ‘verse!
PS: Ooooooooo, I’ve read on Alex’s blog that there’s a potential sequel to this in the works, so yeay!! :) Definitely 4 stars knowing there’s more to come!
*This book was provided for free by the author in exchange for an honest review.*
September 23, 2015
First Contact is hot as hell. The sex scenes between the two main characters are visceral and engaging and entirely convincing that the reader is immersed in the thoughts and feelings of undercover cop Rick. This is voyeuristic erotica at its best.
The writing is hypnotic and deftly captures the scattered thoughts of Rick Delaney. He is expected to go undercover with newly transferred detective Jon Messina. Both men are dealing with personal issues, Jon’s previous partner was murdered by the mafia; and Rick's partner is currently suspended.
The story is told in the third person from Rick's perspective, as they create an identity as a D/s couple in Gomorrah, a mafia-controlled sex club, and begin to mingle with the potentially deadly clients.
'Words have always been a problem for Nick' we are told, and yet he is clearly bright and intelligent and entirely swamped by feelings of lust and attraction.
Rick needs to keep his wits about him, but feels his professionalism is sorely tried because of his unexpected passion for Jon whom he barely knows. He worries that they must appear convincing, but that he may be stepping over the line (especially as he has taken the role of Dom in the pairing) and they have limited chance to discuss and agree what happens next once they enter Gomorrah's threshold.
He struggles with his desires especially when he and Jon are so closely scrutinised by other players in the club and a wrong move could get them both killed. The sexual tension is high and the chemistry between the protagonists rockets.
Their sexual encounter at the club is explosive and the way each of them deal with the consequences was fascinating and unexpected for me.
This book would have shot to a place on my favourites shelf except for the issue that it feels incomplete. The eroticism is brilliant but other story threads woven throughout are forgotten - no further details on their investigation. No update on Nick's partner. No resolution on Jon's murdered partner.
My hope is that the series will continue and each of these details will be addressed. In which case I will gladly bump my rating up to five stars and give First Contact a warm welcome to my favourites shelf. I would like much, much more of Rick and Jon.
* I was provided with a complimentary copy by the author in exchange for an honest review as part of the Male/Male Romance group's Don't Buy My Love event *
The writing is hypnotic and deftly captures the scattered thoughts of Rick Delaney. He is expected to go undercover with newly transferred detective Jon Messina. Both men are dealing with personal issues, Jon’s previous partner was murdered by the mafia; and Rick's partner is currently suspended.
The story is told in the third person from Rick's perspective, as they create an identity as a D/s couple in Gomorrah, a mafia-controlled sex club, and begin to mingle with the potentially deadly clients.
'Words have always been a problem for Nick' we are told, and yet he is clearly bright and intelligent and entirely swamped by feelings of lust and attraction.
Rick needs to keep his wits about him, but feels his professionalism is sorely tried because of his unexpected passion for Jon whom he barely knows. He worries that they must appear convincing, but that he may be stepping over the line (especially as he has taken the role of Dom in the pairing) and they have limited chance to discuss and agree what happens next once they enter Gomorrah's threshold.
He struggles with his desires especially when he and Jon are so closely scrutinised by other players in the club and a wrong move could get them both killed. The sexual tension is high and the chemistry between the protagonists rockets.
'...Jon meets Rick's gaze for just a moment. He's not smiling, but somehow weirdly, he manages to look like he's grinning from the inside...'
Their sexual encounter at the club is explosive and the way each of them deal with the consequences was fascinating and unexpected for me.
This book would have shot to a place on my favourites shelf except for the issue that it feels incomplete. The eroticism is brilliant but other story threads woven throughout are forgotten - no further details on their investigation. No update on Nick's partner. No resolution on Jon's murdered partner.
My hope is that the series will continue and each of these details will be addressed. In which case I will gladly bump my rating up to five stars and give First Contact a warm welcome to my favourites shelf. I would like much, much more of Rick and Jon.
* I was provided with a complimentary copy by the author in exchange for an honest review as part of the Male/Male Romance group's Don't Buy My Love event *
March 12, 2022
You try sitting squashed up on a plane and reading this one...go on, I dare you!! Was I squirming...you betcha, with a red face and sneaky looks at my fellow passengers. Heathrow to Barcelona will never seem so interesting again ;)
Rick and Jon, undercover cops at a BDSM club owned and run by the Mafia. Phew!! I've put it on my Erotica bookshelf cos the scene in the club was bloody hot...what few brain cells I still have left spontaneously combusted, and also cos we never got to discover whether the big guns at the club were brought down by the undercover op (or what the op was actually...my brain was fried!!) It's almost as if the author couldn't quite believe himself how hot the club scene between Rick and Jon was, and then forgot to let us in on the rest of the story or just didn't think the resolution of the story mattered after that scene, hehe (maybe his brain exploded too!!). Wowza!! 4.5 brain fried stars from me 🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯.
Rick and Jon, undercover cops at a BDSM club owned and run by the Mafia. Phew!! I've put it on my Erotica bookshelf cos the scene in the club was bloody hot...what few brain cells I still have left spontaneously combusted, and also cos we never got to discover whether the big guns at the club were brought down by the undercover op (or what the op was actually...my brain was fried!!) It's almost as if the author couldn't quite believe himself how hot the club scene between Rick and Jon was, and then forgot to let us in on the rest of the story or just didn't think the resolution of the story mattered after that scene, hehe (maybe his brain exploded too!!). Wowza!! 4.5 brain fried stars from me 🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯.
November 6, 2015
MM Romance Group AOM. October 2015.
~2.5~
Let me begin by saying how excited I was by the blurb for this book. I love mm MCs with guns and badges--law enforcement. So when I read that a pair of cops would be going undercover in a BDSM club, I salivated and expected reading entertainment of no common order!
Boy was this a disappointing book. There was no police business or investigation that I could identify, just a lot of posturing at the BDSM club and finally actual sex. Some readers enjoyed the sexual tension and activity, while not bad at all. I truly wanted police stuff/business etc. and there wasn't any. If this novella had been the the beginning of a serial, it would have been just fine--I could have waited for the crime investigation and police business, but this seems to be a stand alone.
A very disappointing read.
~2.5~
Let me begin by saying how excited I was by the blurb for this book. I love mm MCs with guns and badges--law enforcement. So when I read that a pair of cops would be going undercover in a BDSM club, I salivated and expected reading entertainment of no common order!
Boy was this a disappointing book. There was no police business or investigation that I could identify, just a lot of posturing at the BDSM club and finally actual sex. Some readers enjoyed the sexual tension and activity, while not bad at all. I truly wanted police stuff/business etc. and there wasn't any. If this novella had been the the beginning of a serial, it would have been just fine--I could have waited for the crime investigation and police business, but this seems to be a stand alone.
A very disappointing read.
September 11, 2022
2.5 stars
This was a fun, under-cover, fake relationship type of story. It was a bit too short, both in that many of the scenes were brief and didn't dive that deep into the characters' thoughts and feelings at several moments where I would have liked that kind of internal exploration, and in that the actual crime part of the plot is barely focused on and not resolved in any way. It's more of a backdrop for the relationship and kink discovery, which made the book feel a bit more dissatisfying than if it had been longer and balanced a bit better.
This was a fun, under-cover, fake relationship type of story. It was a bit too short, both in that many of the scenes were brief and didn't dive that deep into the characters' thoughts and feelings at several moments where I would have liked that kind of internal exploration, and in that the actual crime part of the plot is barely focused on and not resolved in any way. It's more of a backdrop for the relationship and kink discovery, which made the book feel a bit more dissatisfying than if it had been longer and balanced a bit better.
May 31, 2016
"Words have always been a problem for Rick."
Well, I am experiencing some of the same problems. I have started and re-started this review again and again. Not knowing how to put what I want to say, into coherent words and sentences. Luckily, Alex Gabriel does not suffer from this same affliction!
Rick's partner is suspended and he is assigned a new one, Jon, for an undercover job at a gay BDSM club. But whilst working under cover, it is sometimes very hard to separate reality and the job.
I have read all of Alex Gabriels books so far, and there is no denying the author's talent and unique voice. But this is a wholly grown up Alex Gabriel, and holy hell, that Alex Gabriel is HOT! Rick and Jon scorches the pages together!
The story works very well, as it is, as a short hot 'slice of life' story of two cops undercover, Rick is quite well described through his actions and thoughts and Jon comes off as a very likable sympathetic character, even if we do not get much information about him, but I hope to God, that the author plans to run with the set up of the club and the undercover job, because it could be a phenomenal series. Please, please, pretty please?
Well, I am experiencing some of the same problems. I have started and re-started this review again and again. Not knowing how to put what I want to say, into coherent words and sentences. Luckily, Alex Gabriel does not suffer from this same affliction!
Rick's partner is suspended and he is assigned a new one, Jon, for an undercover job at a gay BDSM club. But whilst working under cover, it is sometimes very hard to separate reality and the job.
I have read all of Alex Gabriels books so far, and there is no denying the author's talent and unique voice. But this is a wholly grown up Alex Gabriel, and holy hell, that Alex Gabriel is HOT! Rick and Jon scorches the pages together!
The story works very well, as it is, as a short hot 'slice of life' story of two cops undercover, Rick is quite well described through his actions and thoughts and Jon comes off as a very likable sympathetic character, even if we do not get much information about him, but I hope to God, that the author plans to run with the set up of the club and the undercover job, because it could be a phenomenal series. Please, please, pretty please?
March 12, 2022
Uh, kinky romantic smut? Hottest thing I've read in ages.
I guess this has been done before, but it feels really fresh to me and just works beautifully. Maybe you'd have to call it erotica because it skips over any plot transitions that might slow down the rising heat. And yet, there's enough (highly convenient, I have to admit) plot to make us care about the story and to make the coming together matter. And, of course, it's a novella, so it has to be compact.
Short, sweet and hot.
I guess this has been done before, but it feels really fresh to me and just works beautifully. Maybe you'd have to call it erotica because it skips over any plot transitions that might slow down the rising heat. And yet, there's enough (highly convenient, I have to admit) plot to make us care about the story and to make the coming together matter. And, of course, it's a novella, so it has to be compact.
Short, sweet and hot.
Want to read
August 29, 2015to buy or not to buy? i have ARe-bucks, but then I'll have to pay full price O.o
what do we do, my precious, what do we do????
what do we do, my precious, what do we do????
July 29, 2025
He'd try to break Jon, try to force him to submit when the entire point is that the submission is willing, voluntary. Control handed over, not ripped away. Trust, not force.
Bit of a mixed bag. I really wanted more of the mystery/cop part here. It was definitely just an excuse to get these two into the BDSM scene. Cooper made things almost worse. I wanted a bit more information as to why he acted the way he did towards Rick. Came off creepy.
And that's where more background information or just if the case had been followed more closely (or at all) could have come in handy. The brief part about Jon's previous partner was especially glossed over. It was also really sad to see the scene with Rick's previous partner, Fitz.
More information.
I was a bit iffy about the scenes at the club/dungeon since it had been said that they had spoken about certain things and that sex was off the table, was crossing the line, and then Rick was able to read Jon in a way that showed that things were okay. The two barely even knew each other... So, had to get past that to enjoy this more. But the scenes were hot.
Really, I just wanted more insight into the characters. First by this author and will check out more.
"Yeah, dinner just like a date thing.
Bit of a mixed bag. I really wanted more of the mystery/cop part here. It was definitely just an excuse to get these two into the BDSM scene. Cooper made things almost worse. I wanted a bit more information as to why he acted the way he did towards Rick. Came off creepy.
And that's where more background information or just if the case had been followed more closely (or at all) could have come in handy. The brief part about Jon's previous partner was especially glossed over. It was also really sad to see the scene with Rick's previous partner, Fitz.
More information.
I was a bit iffy about the scenes at the club/dungeon since it had been said that they had spoken about certain things and that sex was off the table, was crossing the line, and then Rick was able to read Jon in a way that showed that things were okay. The two barely even knew each other... So, had to get past that to enjoy this more. But the scenes were hot.
Really, I just wanted more insight into the characters. First by this author and will check out more.
"Yeah, dinner just like a date thing.
July 30, 2025
5-⭐
So, usually I'm totally annoyed by people being unprofessional (especially regarding ) but this time I'll allow it. This book didn't instantly hook me but it turned out to be sizzling HOT.
I'll admit, if this was a mainly suspense/crime novella, I would not be quite this enamored. The plot is there but essentially just as a backstory for the erotica and budding romance.
So, usually I'm totally annoyed by people being unprofessional (especially regarding ) but this time I'll allow it. This book didn't instantly hook me but it turned out to be sizzling HOT.
I'll admit, if this was a mainly suspense/crime novella, I would not be quite this enamored. The plot is there but essentially just as a backstory for the erotica and budding romance.
October 9, 2015
The author was kind enough to provide me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
If I had to describe this book with one word, it would be: HOT. This is my fifth book by Alex Gabriel and the hottest one I’ve enjoyed the most so far.
There’s Rick, slightly awkward, can’t string two words together when nervous. And then there’s Jon, happy-go-lucky, friendly, confident and taller than Rick. Clearly, Rick’s going to end up the sub and Jon’s going to be the Dom. At least, that’s what I thought when I started this. Turns out I was wrong. Rick becomes the Dom and Jon the sub. And damn, that was HOT.
First, Rick is anything but thrilled to have to work with Jon. He’s already got a partner, after all and just because he’s currently suspended doesn’t mean he wants a new one. And going undercover in a gay BDSM club with a man he knows nothing about isn’t his idea of fun either.
But the moment Rick and Jon set foot into the BDSM club, it all suddenly becomes very real. Rick is incredibly attracted to Jon and has a very hard time controlling himself. UST of the kind that had me drooling and melting ensues. FINALLY a book with some serious tension between the MCs! Everything set in the club was incredibly hot, even though the two of them didn’t engage in anything particularly kinky. There’s a bit of voyeurism and some serious exhibitionism later on in the book, but otherwise it was relatively kink-free. But that was enough to create a smouldering hot atmosphere. When the sex finally did happen, I was blown away. Again, I can only say: Hot, hot, hot!
This wasn’t pure porn, though. Jon’s partner was killed by the mob and Rick’s partner is obviously in trouble as well. I really liked that the two of them actually talked to each other, something that sadly doesn’t always happen in romance. And while the lust started burning hard and fast, the love was kept in check. No insta-love here!
I liked that the author didn’t stick to the common stereotypes. Not only Rick and Jon are unexpected in their roles, there’s also a mob prince, who is openly submissive and who seems to be very nice. I’d love to read about him and his Dom.
Now, the ending was very open, leaving almost everything unresolved. But the author did say she was working on a sequel, so I’m not going to complain too much.
“First Contact” was incredibly hot, ignored common D/s stereotypes and was generally very addicting. If I’d had the time, I would have read this in one sitting.
I can’t wait for the promised sequel!
Cover Art: The cover by Ethiriel is very simple, and yet it speaks volumes. Somehow, it’s incredibly hot, although it only shows a pair of cuffs and nothing else. Well done!
If I had to describe this book with one word, it would be: HOT. This is my fifth book by Alex Gabriel and the hottest one I’ve enjoyed the most so far.
There’s Rick, slightly awkward, can’t string two words together when nervous. And then there’s Jon, happy-go-lucky, friendly, confident and taller than Rick. Clearly, Rick’s going to end up the sub and Jon’s going to be the Dom. At least, that’s what I thought when I started this. Turns out I was wrong. Rick becomes the Dom and Jon the sub. And damn, that was HOT.
First, Rick is anything but thrilled to have to work with Jon. He’s already got a partner, after all and just because he’s currently suspended doesn’t mean he wants a new one. And going undercover in a gay BDSM club with a man he knows nothing about isn’t his idea of fun either.
But the moment Rick and Jon set foot into the BDSM club, it all suddenly becomes very real. Rick is incredibly attracted to Jon and has a very hard time controlling himself. UST of the kind that had me drooling and melting ensues. FINALLY a book with some serious tension between the MCs! Everything set in the club was incredibly hot, even though the two of them didn’t engage in anything particularly kinky. There’s a bit of voyeurism and some serious exhibitionism later on in the book, but otherwise it was relatively kink-free. But that was enough to create a smouldering hot atmosphere. When the sex finally did happen, I was blown away. Again, I can only say: Hot, hot, hot!
This wasn’t pure porn, though. Jon’s partner was killed by the mob and Rick’s partner is obviously in trouble as well. I really liked that the two of them actually talked to each other, something that sadly doesn’t always happen in romance. And while the lust started burning hard and fast, the love was kept in check. No insta-love here!
I liked that the author didn’t stick to the common stereotypes. Not only Rick and Jon are unexpected in their roles, there’s also a mob prince, who is openly submissive and who seems to be very nice. I’d love to read about him and his Dom.
Now, the ending was very open, leaving almost everything unresolved. But the author did say she was working on a sequel, so I’m not going to complain too much.
“First Contact” was incredibly hot, ignored common D/s stereotypes and was generally very addicting. If I’d had the time, I would have read this in one sitting.
I can’t wait for the promised sequel!
Cover Art: The cover by Ethiriel is very simple, and yet it speaks volumes. Somehow, it’s incredibly hot, although it only shows a pair of cuffs and nothing else. Well done!
January 9, 2015
I encourage you to pick up this book if you are looking for a fast, entertaining, OMG HOT read. This is the first case for newly minted partners Rick and Jon. Their mission is to assume undercover identities as D/s in a BDSM club. A crash course in kinkery is necessary because they have no experience in this lifestyle and very little time to prepare for their roles. Rick is gay and out, and Jon's sexual preference is unknown. There is no shortage of chemistry and attraction between them, and the guys are willing to do
whatever
it takes in order to build their cover. Rick and Jon work well together. They enjoy their assignment (and each other)
a lot
. LOL
This book is deliciously smutty. It also has sweet, tender, comical moments. I hope the author writes a sequel because I see the potential for a romantic series featuring two hot detectives who already love their jobs and are falling for each other. Hmmmmm, sound familiar to anyone? I am hoping for a "Second Contact."
This book is deliciously smutty. It also has sweet, tender, comical moments. I hope the author writes a sequel because I see the potential for a romantic series featuring two hot detectives who already love their jobs and are falling for each other. Hmmmmm, sound familiar to anyone? I am hoping for a "Second Contact."
February 11, 2015
Blazing hot and very intense for such a short story. Two men undercover who discover that what they want most is to NOT pretend anymore, but to become what they are portraying.
Loved it. Recommended.
Loved it. Recommended.
July 2, 2016
Fantasy Police Force Rules
Really hot little book. Very unbelievable as far as the plot goes, the police force they work for, the rules, their boss... It's a little ridiculous. Still, it was fun and pretty sexy.
Really hot little book. Very unbelievable as far as the plot goes, the police force they work for, the rules, their boss... It's a little ridiculous. Still, it was fun and pretty sexy.
May 28, 2018
Well. This felt like it was missing SEVERAL moments. It was a really short book but, in my opinion, even short books need to be coherent. I did enjoy it but there are things I didn't understand. Strange time jumps that went unannounced, a couple conversations they should have had, and so on. It could have done with an extra 50 pages.
June 29, 2015
This was adorable. I skimmed through most of it, but what I did read was so cute.
Rick reminds me of myself. He tends to over think things, and throughout the book he's in a situation he's not familiar with and left feeling off kilter. I really liked him, and the book is told solely through his 3rd person pov, which was great, but also the reason why I had to skim so much. I tend to really get into books, so when Rick felt off balance I felt off balance. When he felt embarrassed, I felt embarrassed. Basically we felt out of our element together, and I can not stand feeling like that. It makes me uncomfortable, so I skimmed just to get a break.
It was hard to take this book seriously. Rick and Jon go undercover in a bdsm club to spy on a mobster, or something. It felt unbelievable, but in a fun cooky way (remember I skimmed a lot). I really liked that Rick didn't know what he was doing and was fumbling along.
I felt good reading this even when I was feeling uncomfortable which was an interesting experience. There were some serious issues mentioned like murder and alcoholism and Rick was critical of his lack of control at times, but I never felt depressed.
My main complaint is how things don't feel resolved. Their relationship left off in a satisfying place, but the story lines with didn't really have closure. They were left hanging. Then again I skimmed a lot of pages (even the swing sex scene lol).
Final Thoughts: This was so adorable. I just wanted to hug Rick and tell him everything was going to be okay. It's too bad I couldn't handle actually reading the whole story, but I hear there's going to be a sequel so maybe by then I'll try again and succeed.
Rick reminds me of myself. He tends to over think things, and throughout the book he's in a situation he's not familiar with and left feeling off kilter. I really liked him, and the book is told solely through his 3rd person pov, which was great, but also the reason why I had to skim so much. I tend to really get into books, so when Rick felt off balance I felt off balance. When he felt embarrassed, I felt embarrassed. Basically we felt out of our element together, and I can not stand feeling like that. It makes me uncomfortable, so I skimmed just to get a break.
It was hard to take this book seriously. Rick and Jon go undercover in a bdsm club to spy on a mobster, or something. It felt unbelievable, but in a fun cooky way (remember I skimmed a lot). I really liked that Rick didn't know what he was doing and was fumbling along.
I felt good reading this even when I was feeling uncomfortable which was an interesting experience. There were some serious issues mentioned like murder and alcoholism and Rick was critical of his lack of control at times, but I never felt depressed.
My main complaint is how things don't feel resolved. Their relationship left off in a satisfying place, but the story lines with didn't really have closure. They were left hanging. Then again I skimmed a lot of pages (even the swing sex scene lol).
Final Thoughts: This was so adorable. I just wanted to hug Rick and tell him everything was going to be okay. It's too bad I couldn't handle actually reading the whole story, but I hear there's going to be a sequel so maybe by then I'll try again and succeed.
January 8, 2016
Holy hotness! Let me start by saying this book really doesn't have much in the way of plot. However, what it does have is some of the hottest scenes I've ever read!
At first glance, this is the story of two cops going undercover in a BDSM club run by the Carlsburgh Clans, a mafia group that may or may not be trying to expand their territory. Rick Deacon and newly transferred officer Jonathan Messina, formerly of Chicago, are paired up for the first time and sent into the club to make contact and establish themselves as a D/s couple.
The book starts out painfully slow and awkward, and you're almost instantly wondering about the thought process in the writer's mind. However, it picks up fairly quickly and you are sucked into the chemistry the two main characters share. There isn't a lot of buildup before they are suddenly in the club with Jon kneeling at Rick's feet. It is here that the author's amazingness really takes off.
Descriptive writing of the most provocative nature ensures that you will fall into an almost trance-like state. 90% of this book takes place in the club and 90% of what happens in the club is sexual in nature. The is light bondage and not much more as pertains to the D/s side of things, but it's the way the two characters interact that is so compelling.
If you're in the market for hot and steamy, you'll want to give this a try. I'm hoping against all hope that Alex Gabriel plans on extending this into another book. I'll be first in line to buy! 4.5 stars of happiness!
At first glance, this is the story of two cops going undercover in a BDSM club run by the Carlsburgh Clans, a mafia group that may or may not be trying to expand their territory. Rick Deacon and newly transferred officer Jonathan Messina, formerly of Chicago, are paired up for the first time and sent into the club to make contact and establish themselves as a D/s couple.
The book starts out painfully slow and awkward, and you're almost instantly wondering about the thought process in the writer's mind. However, it picks up fairly quickly and you are sucked into the chemistry the two main characters share. There isn't a lot of buildup before they are suddenly in the club with Jon kneeling at Rick's feet. It is here that the author's amazingness really takes off.
Descriptive writing of the most provocative nature ensures that you will fall into an almost trance-like state. 90% of this book takes place in the club and 90% of what happens in the club is sexual in nature. The is light bondage and not much more as pertains to the D/s side of things, but it's the way the two characters interact that is so compelling.
If you're in the market for hot and steamy, you'll want to give this a try. I'm hoping against all hope that Alex Gabriel plans on extending this into another book. I'll be first in line to buy! 4.5 stars of happiness!
September 26, 2015
This book was provided for free by the author in exchange for an honest review.
This is not what I expected. I've read some of this author's other works before and loved them, so I'd been expecting a light-hearted, maybe quirky, humorous romance. This is not that. But for what it is, it's pretty darn good.
Rick is an undercover cop who's been asked to infiltrate a gay BDSM club run by the mob. He is assigned a partner (because his own is suspended), Jon, who immediately gets into the spirit of the job. Try on a cock cage/butt plug combo? Why not? The club scenes are pretty hot. And all the other scenes between the two MCs are great as well as they flirt with crossing the line from being partners on the job to even more. As I've come to expect, the writing is good and the story flows easily.
But my biggest issue is that this is clearly not the the end. So fair warning to all of you who hate cliffhangers or even kinda-cliffhangers. Even though it's not marked such, it has to be the first of a series. There is no resolution at the end. I flipped past the last page expecting to see more, but there it wasn't. And it's barely a HFN. I'm someone who likes to have a solid ending (even if it's not the end of series).
This is not what I expected. I've read some of this author's other works before and loved them, so I'd been expecting a light-hearted, maybe quirky, humorous romance. This is not that. But for what it is, it's pretty darn good.
Rick is an undercover cop who's been asked to infiltrate a gay BDSM club run by the mob. He is assigned a partner (because his own is suspended), Jon, who immediately gets into the spirit of the job. Try on a cock cage/butt plug combo? Why not? The club scenes are pretty hot. And all the other scenes between the two MCs are great as well as they flirt with crossing the line from being partners on the job to even more. As I've come to expect, the writing is good and the story flows easily.
But my biggest issue is that this is clearly not the the end. So fair warning to all of you who hate cliffhangers or even kinda-cliffhangers. Even though it's not marked such, it has to be the first of a series. There is no resolution at the end. I flipped past the last page expecting to see more, but there it wasn't. And it's barely a HFN. I'm someone who likes to have a solid ending (even if it's not the end of series).
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