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Doubleback #1
Doubleback
After a tragic shooting left him wounded and in disgrace, all that remained of former deputy sheriff Jude Anderson’s life was a shattered femur, the standard disability package, and a host of issues. Jude seeks sanctuary in a remote upstate cabin and tries to get his life back on track.
Life has other plans when Jude finds a dead man draped across his front doorstep. The victim is the first hookup Jude’s had in, well, ever. Once Jude processes that shock he gets another when he learns that the homicide detective sent to investigate the murder is Rowan Muir, Jude’s ex. Their split was ugly, and Rowan isn’t the forgiving type.
Now Jude is drawn back into a world he left behind: murder investigations and fighting the undeniable attraction he has for Rowan. Rowan is still holding onto a substantial grudge. But both men need to figure out how to cope with being thrown together again, because it’s becoming increasingly clear that Jude is being targeted by a murderer – one who may have come from Jude’s past for revenge.
Warnings: if you don't like man-on-man sexytimes, this isn't the book for you. Everyone else: hot law enforcement officers, angst and hot make-up sex is on deck.
Life has other plans when Jude finds a dead man draped across his front doorstep. The victim is the first hookup Jude’s had in, well, ever. Once Jude processes that shock he gets another when he learns that the homicide detective sent to investigate the murder is Rowan Muir, Jude’s ex. Their split was ugly, and Rowan isn’t the forgiving type.
Now Jude is drawn back into a world he left behind: murder investigations and fighting the undeniable attraction he has for Rowan. Rowan is still holding onto a substantial grudge. But both men need to figure out how to cope with being thrown together again, because it’s becoming increasingly clear that Jude is being targeted by a murderer – one who may have come from Jude’s past for revenge.
Warnings: if you don't like man-on-man sexytimes, this isn't the book for you. Everyone else: hot law enforcement officers, angst and hot make-up sex is on deck.
163 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 27, 2015
41 people are currently reading
461 people want to read
About the author
Lissa Ford
11 books134 followersLissa Ford is a sucker for hot guys and a happy ending. Thus writing m/m romances is her idea of a perfect day. A transplanted California girl in snowy upstate New York, Lissa spends way too much time online and trying to keep her cat from destroying the furniture.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 151 reviews
October 10, 2016
Third read October 2016 Now on to book 3!
Holy shit, I fucking loved this book! It was absolutely delicious and outrageously passionate. The storyline was compelling but managed to keep the focus on MC Jude and MC Rowan's fractured relationship until Serious soap opera levels of drama had me absolutely swooning with delight.
The best part? A sequel is in the works! I would have said the HFN was a HEA, but it looks like Jude and Rowan's story will continue, which has me all-kinds of jacked up.
If you love M/M law enforcement related stories, glorious, angry make-up sex and simmering sexual tension that explodes into passion, read this book NOW!
Highly recommended!
ETA: This book does not contain a cliff hanger but there is a sequel, Double Down.
This review is also posted at Gay Book Reviews
October 11, 2016
4.5 Stars!
Really, really liked this one. For around 130 pages, this one still felt pretty complete.
Likable characters.
Engaging mystery - even though I did figure things out.
Nice chemistry and some steam.
Enemies (and exes) to lovers trope.
Good dialogue and banter.
I'll definitely be jumping right in to the next one.
Really, really liked this one. For around 130 pages, this one still felt pretty complete.
Likable characters.
Engaging mystery - even though I did figure things out.
Nice chemistry and some steam.
Enemies (and exes) to lovers trope.
Good dialogue and banter.
I'll definitely be jumping right in to the next one.
October 6, 2016
Available on KU ATM.
Really enjoyed this quick read.
The story was gripping with a well balanced combination of mystery, action and romance.
Last but not least, we had two hot guys with a panting chemistry.
Shooting to the next!
I've read this thanks to Simone :D
Really enjoyed this quick read.
The story was gripping with a well balanced combination of mystery, action and romance.
Last but not least, we had two hot guys with a panting chemistry.
Shooting to the next!
I've read this thanks to Simone :D
April 6, 2015
*** 4.25 Stars ***
I have to be honest: there's pretty much nothing I like more than a book about an emotionally wounded man in uniform (or former man in uniform, as the case may be), so this book didn't have to try very hard to win me over.
Jude Anderson's had a rough year. When the story starts, Jude's trying to pick up the pieces of his life after a traumatic line-of-duty shooting that resulted in the death of three people, a wrongful death suit that smeared his reputation, and a leg wound that prematurely ended his career (not to mention the post-traumatic stress, the panic attacks, and a messy breakup with the man he loved). He's vulnerable and isolated and trying to claw his way back to level; is it any wonder I was putty in this man's hands from page 1?!
But a week after Jude seeks comfort in a new man's arms, he finds the guy's lifeless body on his porch.
Poor Jude! Dude can't catch a break.
Enter the smexy Rowan Muir - the ex whose hasty exit in the wake of the shooting shredded Jude's heart. He's also the ex who Jude hasn't quite gotten over yet. Ro's back to investigate the dead man's murder and naturally, sparks start to fly between the two alpha males pretty quickly.
I really enjoyed the banter between the two men, and the evolution of their relationship from the first page to the last, but it was the chemistry between the two MCs that was the icing on the cake for me. It was the very best kind of tension, where you're not sure if they're going to throw a punch or rip each other's clothes off. (Ford, in case you're reading this, I always, always vote for ripping each other's clothes off!)
The only thing I was missing in terms of Rowan and Jude's romantic relationship was the Big Declaration. I understand why the author didn't include it - and you will too when you read the novella - but I'm a giant sap and I totally wanted it.
Note: An author's note at the end of the book says that this was the first in a series. Yay! I'm already looking forward to Double Down, but crossing my fingers that Ford sticks with the same characters - I'm not ready to let these two smexy men go quite yet. I'm also hoping that my patience will be rewarded with the "I Love Yous" that I was missing in this one.
And although I'm not usually a big fan of mysteries, I thought that this one was pretty well done. There were several plausible suspects and connections to Jude's former life as a deputy, and a handful of red herrings, but the killer's reveal at the end was still enough of a surprise to keep things interesting. Entirely realistic? Not really. But sometimes the entertainment value of something is worth throwing reality out the window. *shrug*
Bottom line: A fun, sexy story with two incredibly likable main characters. For what it's worth, Doubleback gets my seal of approval.
I have to be honest: there's pretty much nothing I like more than a book about an emotionally wounded man in uniform (or former man in uniform, as the case may be), so this book didn't have to try very hard to win me over.
Jude Anderson's had a rough year. When the story starts, Jude's trying to pick up the pieces of his life after a traumatic line-of-duty shooting that resulted in the death of three people, a wrongful death suit that smeared his reputation, and a leg wound that prematurely ended his career (not to mention the post-traumatic stress, the panic attacks, and a messy breakup with the man he loved). He's vulnerable and isolated and trying to claw his way back to level; is it any wonder I was putty in this man's hands from page 1?!
But a week after Jude seeks comfort in a new man's arms, he finds the guy's lifeless body on his porch.
Poor Jude! Dude can't catch a break.
Enter the smexy Rowan Muir - the ex whose hasty exit in the wake of the shooting shredded Jude's heart. He's also the ex who Jude hasn't quite gotten over yet. Ro's back to investigate the dead man's murder and naturally, sparks start to fly between the two alpha males pretty quickly.
I really enjoyed the banter between the two men, and the evolution of their relationship from the first page to the last, but it was the chemistry between the two MCs that was the icing on the cake for me. It was the very best kind of tension, where you're not sure if they're going to throw a punch or rip each other's clothes off. (Ford, in case you're reading this, I always, always vote for ripping each other's clothes off!)
The only thing I was missing in terms of Rowan and Jude's romantic relationship was the Big Declaration. I understand why the author didn't include it - and you will too when you read the novella - but I'm a giant sap and I totally wanted it.
Note: An author's note at the end of the book says that this was the first in a series. Yay! I'm already looking forward to Double Down, but crossing my fingers that Ford sticks with the same characters - I'm not ready to let these two smexy men go quite yet. I'm also hoping that my patience will be rewarded with the "I Love Yous" that I was missing in this one.
And although I'm not usually a big fan of mysteries, I thought that this one was pretty well done. There were several plausible suspects and connections to Jude's former life as a deputy, and a handful of red herrings, but the killer's reveal at the end was still enough of a surprise to keep things interesting. Entirely realistic? Not really. But sometimes the entertainment value of something is worth throwing reality out the window. *shrug*
Bottom line: A fun, sexy story with two incredibly likable main characters. For what it's worth, Doubleback gets my seal of approval.
April 16, 2015
Well whaddya know! This came out of nowhere and I admit I didn't have high expectations, not having read from this author before. I'm happy to say I thoroughly enjoyed this book. This is the story of Jude and Rowan.
Jude, a former deputy sheriff, must have pissed in someone' s cereal in his previous life. A year ago, he was shot in the line of duty, he lost his job and his reputation is ruined. Now he lives isolated, fighting constant pain and panick attacks. You 'd think he 's had enough, right? Nope. One bright morning he opens his door only to find the body of last week's hook-up lying across his porch. And guess who is the homicide detective assigned to the case. Yes, it is Rowan, Jude's ex boyfriend with whom things ended on a very, very bad note.
The mystery here is a big part of the book and pretty much everything revolves around it. Someone is after Jude and he has to cooperate with Rowan to get to the bottom of it. At some point everyone was a suspect but I have to admit that towards the end it became obvious to me. It was handled very well, though, quite a page turner.
One might think that the romance suffers here because the main focus is on the mystery.THIS IS SO NOT THE CASE The tension between them is palpable throughout the book and sometimes unbearable. The sex scenes are scorching hot, although not overly descriptive, but with real emotion to support them.
These guys are not perfect. They are stubborn and they act childish sometimes. They don't open up to each other and yes, I did want to smash their heads together at times. What happens to them is not the result of just a misunderstanding or miscommunication. It is because they are selfish. Once they overcome their selfishness though, and they get together...it is beautiful and real. After all, this is a story of second chances, because sometimes they are worth it.
Jude, a former deputy sheriff, must have pissed in someone' s cereal in his previous life. A year ago, he was shot in the line of duty, he lost his job and his reputation is ruined. Now he lives isolated, fighting constant pain and panick attacks. You 'd think he 's had enough, right? Nope. One bright morning he opens his door only to find the body of last week's hook-up lying across his porch. And guess who is the homicide detective assigned to the case. Yes, it is Rowan, Jude's ex boyfriend with whom things ended on a very, very bad note.
The mystery here is a big part of the book and pretty much everything revolves around it. Someone is after Jude and he has to cooperate with Rowan to get to the bottom of it. At some point everyone was a suspect but I have to admit that towards the end it became obvious to me. It was handled very well, though, quite a page turner.
One might think that the romance suffers here because the main focus is on the mystery.THIS IS SO NOT THE CASE The tension between them is palpable throughout the book and sometimes unbearable. The sex scenes are scorching hot, although not overly descriptive, but with real emotion to support them.
These guys are not perfect. They are stubborn and they act childish sometimes. They don't open up to each other and yes, I did want to smash their heads together at times. What happens to them is not the result of just a misunderstanding or miscommunication. It is because they are selfish. Once they overcome their selfishness though, and they get together...it is beautiful and real. After all, this is a story of second chances, because sometimes they are worth it.
October 21, 2016
* "Sometimes you have to look back to move forward" *
Jude Anderson, injured on the job, auburn hair and stubble,
freckled, 6'2", ex-cop, now fishing guide.
Rowan Muir, brown hair flopped on his forehead, 6',
muscular, black belt, a detective with swagger. Once lovers, both flawed, now Rowan has shown up to investigate why a dead body was on Jude's porch. Suspenseful tale of mystery, past mistakes, a questionable future, and reigniting passions. Who poisoned the dog? Who killed the bartender? Is it related to the case that caused his injury?
Deeply erotic and sexy, these two men sizzle. Well written by Lissa Ford, with perfect flow, you'll be excited to turn every page.
Highly entertaining!! ENJOY !!
===========================
===========================
Jude Anderson, injured on the job, auburn hair and stubble,
freckled, 6'2", ex-cop, now fishing guide.
Rowan Muir, brown hair flopped on his forehead, 6',
muscular, black belt, a detective with swagger. Once lovers, both flawed, now Rowan has shown up to investigate why a dead body was on Jude's porch. Suspenseful tale of mystery, past mistakes, a questionable future, and reigniting passions. Who poisoned the dog? Who killed the bartender? Is it related to the case that caused his injury?
Deeply erotic and sexy, these two men sizzle. Well written by Lissa Ford, with perfect flow, you'll be excited to turn every page.
Highly entertaining!! ENJOY !!
===========================
===========================
October 7, 2016
After reading some great reviews from my friends about this one, I just had to give it a try. Lucky for me this book was just what I needed.
Ex-lovers finding their way back into each others lives after a year apart. A hot former deputy and a homicide detective going at.
Throw in some crime and mystery. ....what more does a person need.
For me this was a perfect and hot little read and I can't wait to jump into book 2.
July 6, 2015
3.5 stars
My experience with this book went as follows:
“Oooooh, yes! Second chances, lovers-to-enemeies-to-lovers, growly alphas, damaged characters, and murder! BRING IT ON”
“Sexual tension…unf!”
“Sex, hot sex, yes!”
“Ummm…sex kinda makes these guys act like dorks and I’m losing the characters”
*skim* *skim* *skim*
*skim the sex too*
“I guessed that whodunnit a mile away”
“meh…the book was ok. Strong start, dragged in the middle, decent end”
“oooohhh…look! there’s a book 2!!!”
Not awful, fairly entertaining. Read for the high alpha-male value.
May 24, 2015
Second chance theme in romance is like a catnip for me, and my friend Irene knew me quite enough to point me to the right direction with Doubleback (she even lured me by mentioning Josh Lanyon's Fair Game in the same sentence). CATNIP dangling over my nose!
Well, this definitely MY kind of read. The pain, the hurt, and the anger between the two men was written in a compelling way for me. I was hooked from the get go. I was drawn to the arguments as well as the tension that clearly was still strong between them. Although the core of Jude and Rowan's relationship issue was leaning heavily on the big "M" word (a.k.a. men's failure to communicate) but I was able to keep my irritation at bay. I guess maybe because as the sole narrator, I loved Jude's voice.
I was a bit annoyed at Rowan though and he needed a little more groveling to do, in my humble opinion. His argument about Jude's 'being closed-off' during the ordeal felt flimsy as an excuse when Rowan was the one unable to stay on Jude's side at the hospital. Yes, Rowan had his reason, with his memory of his father, but I had to agree with Jude when he said "I’m the asshole for not being transparent about my fucked-upedness, but you can cock block any questions I have about your past and that’s okay?". NOT cool, Rowan. Not cool. Things resolved between them a tad too quickly -- I could definitely take several more pages in order for Jude and Rowan to really talk before trying again (good sex doesn't mean it will solve everything, you know).
The mystery was nice, it didn't overwhelm the romance but also not being forgotten with the progress of Jude and Rowan getting back to together. Of course I easily guessed the perpetrator AND the motive as soon as the suspect appeared on page. It wasn't complicated nor surprising. But I couldn't say that it was disappointing either since I was not expecting a heavy suspenseful murder mystery. So the balance between the mystery and the romance was good. I also got lucky that I caught my most hatred endearment "baby" prior to actually reading it. Let's just say that deleting all of those "baby's" reduced the mushiness that I would've had experienced otherwise (haha!).
All in all, I loved it. It was a really good read and totally helped my reading mood for the better
Well, this definitely MY kind of read. The pain, the hurt, and the anger between the two men was written in a compelling way for me. I was hooked from the get go. I was drawn to the arguments as well as the tension that clearly was still strong between them. Although the core of Jude and Rowan's relationship issue was leaning heavily on the big "M" word (a.k.a. men's failure to communicate) but I was able to keep my irritation at bay. I guess maybe because as the sole narrator, I loved Jude's voice.
I was a bit annoyed at Rowan though and he needed a little more groveling to do, in my humble opinion. His argument about Jude's 'being closed-off' during the ordeal felt flimsy as an excuse when Rowan was the one unable to stay on Jude's side at the hospital. Yes, Rowan had his reason, with his memory of his father, but I had to agree with Jude when he said "I’m the asshole for not being transparent about my fucked-upedness, but you can cock block any questions I have about your past and that’s okay?". NOT cool, Rowan. Not cool. Things resolved between them a tad too quickly -- I could definitely take several more pages in order for Jude and Rowan to really talk before trying again (good sex doesn't mean it will solve everything, you know).
The mystery was nice, it didn't overwhelm the romance but also not being forgotten with the progress of Jude and Rowan getting back to together. Of course I easily guessed the perpetrator AND the motive as soon as the suspect appeared on page. It wasn't complicated nor surprising. But I couldn't say that it was disappointing either since I was not expecting a heavy suspenseful murder mystery. So the balance between the mystery and the romance was good. I also got lucky that I caught my most hatred endearment "baby" prior to actually reading it. Let's just say that deleting all of those "baby's" reduced the mushiness that I would've had experienced otherwise (haha!).
All in all, I loved it. It was a really good read and totally helped my reading mood for the better
April 13, 2015
I thoroughly enjoyed this book - 4.5 stars worth of enjoyment.
This story involves two law enforcement officers who parted a year ago after a job went wrong. They didn't deal well with the fall out of Jude being injured.
Jude has spent twelve months recovering in the coutnry side, with a new career in leading fishing tours. He has been lonely and his first foray back into sex ends badly - dead body badly. When Rowan (Ro) turns up to investigate the murder, the two men have to face their past and talk about things they'd avoided up until now.
I loved the mystery (although maybe not totally sold on the motives of the bad guy), the hot sex, and the way Jude and Ro faced up to their past mistakes. It wasn't dragged out, which resulted in an excellent pacing - these men wanted each other and were willing to do what they needed to do to overcome the past.
The author sent me a copy of this book because I'd reviewed her paranormal series (which I thoroughly enjoyed as well) but there was no expectation of a review. However I enjoyed this so much, it was no hardship to drop a line or two to share my thoughts.
Highly recommended.
This story involves two law enforcement officers who parted a year ago after a job went wrong. They didn't deal well with the fall out of Jude being injured.
Jude has spent twelve months recovering in the coutnry side, with a new career in leading fishing tours. He has been lonely and his first foray back into sex ends badly - dead body badly. When Rowan (Ro) turns up to investigate the murder, the two men have to face their past and talk about things they'd avoided up until now.
I loved the mystery (although maybe not totally sold on the motives of the bad guy), the hot sex, and the way Jude and Ro faced up to their past mistakes. It wasn't dragged out, which resulted in an excellent pacing - these men wanted each other and were willing to do what they needed to do to overcome the past.
The author sent me a copy of this book because I'd reviewed her paranormal series (which I thoroughly enjoyed as well) but there was no expectation of a review. However I enjoyed this so much, it was no hardship to drop a line or two to share my thoughts.
Highly recommended.
January 2, 2016
Pretty good page turner
A bit formulaic on the mystery side, the depth of the characters was really well done, particularly for a shorter length novel.
I'll look forward to seeing what happens in the next book of the series "Double Down".
A bit formulaic on the mystery side, the depth of the characters was really well done, particularly for a shorter length novel.
I'll look forward to seeing what happens in the next book of the series "Double Down".
July 6, 2015
4.5 stars. Surprisingly good!
It's not often I liked the police case stuff in M/M romance. But I liked this one. I'm intrigued. (Although I could guess who's the bad guy) *grin*
I loved the angry sex. It was so hot. I liked both characters. Even though they're so insecure with each other. This book was was told from Jude's POV, fast paced, and ended in HFN. I really liked this!
It's not often I liked the police case stuff in M/M romance. But I liked this one. I'm intrigued. (Although I could guess who's the bad guy) *grin*
I loved the angry sex. It was so hot. I liked both characters. Even though they're so insecure with each other. This book was was told from Jude's POV, fast paced, and ended in HFN. I really liked this!
December 8, 2018
Quick re-read to freshen up my memory, so I can start with book #3 soooooon! ;-)
And I have to admit, I loved it as much as the first time around!
Adorable characters
Hot sex scenes
A nice mystery
Recommended!
And I have to admit, I loved it as much as the first time around!
Adorable characters
Hot sex scenes
A nice mystery
Recommended!
April 7, 2015
I can't wait for the next one, I loved these guys. The story all of it.
June 24, 2023
I enjoyed the characters and the story, I just wish it had been a bit longer. The murder mystery was solved way too fast and too easily, and the MC's got back together way too quickly. I guess what I'm trying to say is that there just wasn't enough ANGSTY goodness!
This book would have been perfect for it too, with the stoic ex-cop suffering so deeply from his past, and the ex-lover who is trying so hard to not fall in love all over again. Oh, and that was another thing that was missing. I really wanted to hear Rowan's POV, I just think it would have given the story more depth if I could see things from his side every once in a while. (Love that name Rowan btw, very sexy!)
So I could definitely see potential in this story. The writing itself was smooth, with easy transitions from one scene to the next. And the author was able to make me really care about Jude and his history, and want to see him and Rowan work things out and be together again.
So yeah, I'm definitely going to keep my eye out for the next book.
This book would have been perfect for it too, with the stoic ex-cop suffering so deeply from his past, and the ex-lover who is trying so hard to not fall in love all over again. Oh, and that was another thing that was missing. I really wanted to hear Rowan's POV, I just think it would have given the story more depth if I could see things from his side every once in a while. (Love that name Rowan btw, very sexy!)
So I could definitely see potential in this story. The writing itself was smooth, with easy transitions from one scene to the next. And the author was able to make me really care about Jude and his history, and want to see him and Rowan work things out and be together again.
So yeah, I'm definitely going to keep my eye out for the next book.
August 2, 2016
Four and a half stars! I really liked Jude and Rowan. This story was written in Jude's POV only, but I still got to know Rowan and understand his emotions. It looks like the second book with these characters will have Rowan's POV. The half star off was because the mystery was solved very quickly and I knew who it was after the killer's character was introduced in the story. The rest of the rating goes to the romance and how well the MCs were written.
July 17, 2020
4.5 stars
August 26, 2015
Reviewed for Sinfully...Addicted to All Male Romance
3.5 stars
The book starts off with former deputy sheriff Jude Anderson opening his front door to find the dead body of the man he had hooked up with a few nights before. His morning only gets worse when the trooper in charge of the investigation turns out to be his ex, Rowan Muir. One year ago their relationship ended abruptly after Jude was shot in the line of duty, which also eventually resulted in his leaving the job. Rowan is all business when he arrives. He is well dressed, moving up in his career and in the closet, just like Jude remembers.
As the investigation moves along, the events that ended Jude’s career are dredged up in the search for a suspect and he is forced to face his past failed relationship with Rowan. The two men have vastly differing recollections as to why things ended and the accusations as to who was at fault get heated. Through flashbacks and arguments their story begins to come out. As the danger mounts and Jude spends more time with Rowan, his attraction to the man he hasn’t gotten over surges once again no matter how much he wants to prevent it.
The chemistry between Jude and Rowan is out of this world! They dance that fine line between love and hate but the underlying sexual tension is always simmering. When their arguing finally tips over into passion the payoff is worth it. The two are smoking hot together. While it is clear both men want to be back together and are willing to each own up to the part they played in their breakup, there are still issues that could prevent them having a future. The story is told from Jude’s POV, and while I would have liked to have had some of Rowan’s, their discussions gave me a good enough sense of his feelings.
The story’s real focus is the relationship but the mystery was done well and kept me guessing between a few suspects for quite a while. Although the final showdown was a bit over the top, it was tense and exciting. Overall the story was well written with a nice pace. Since this is the first in the series I would say the ending is HFN. There is no cliff hanger and the storyline is complete, with the men agreeing to take things one day at a time. This was my first book by Lissa Ford and I’ll be looking forward to the next installment.
3.5 stars
The book starts off with former deputy sheriff Jude Anderson opening his front door to find the dead body of the man he had hooked up with a few nights before. His morning only gets worse when the trooper in charge of the investigation turns out to be his ex, Rowan Muir. One year ago their relationship ended abruptly after Jude was shot in the line of duty, which also eventually resulted in his leaving the job. Rowan is all business when he arrives. He is well dressed, moving up in his career and in the closet, just like Jude remembers.
As the investigation moves along, the events that ended Jude’s career are dredged up in the search for a suspect and he is forced to face his past failed relationship with Rowan. The two men have vastly differing recollections as to why things ended and the accusations as to who was at fault get heated. Through flashbacks and arguments their story begins to come out. As the danger mounts and Jude spends more time with Rowan, his attraction to the man he hasn’t gotten over surges once again no matter how much he wants to prevent it.
The chemistry between Jude and Rowan is out of this world! They dance that fine line between love and hate but the underlying sexual tension is always simmering. When their arguing finally tips over into passion the payoff is worth it. The two are smoking hot together. While it is clear both men want to be back together and are willing to each own up to the part they played in their breakup, there are still issues that could prevent them having a future. The story is told from Jude’s POV, and while I would have liked to have had some of Rowan’s, their discussions gave me a good enough sense of his feelings.
The story’s real focus is the relationship but the mystery was done well and kept me guessing between a few suspects for quite a while. Although the final showdown was a bit over the top, it was tense and exciting. Overall the story was well written with a nice pace. Since this is the first in the series I would say the ending is HFN. There is no cliff hanger and the storyline is complete, with the men agreeing to take things one day at a time. This was my first book by Lissa Ford and I’ll be looking forward to the next installment.
April 7, 2015
Gripping, entertaining, the final chapters slightly over the top for my liking - anyway, I'm waiting for book #2!
August 1, 2015
This book was written so well. I could feel the feelings. I love when I can feel the feelings. Love it.
February 28, 2016
The writing didn't immediately click with me though I ended up enjoying the story.
It started out as a decent mystery full of possible avenues to investigate and the characters had enough complexities to be interesting. Unfortunately I had the mystery solved within seconds of meeting the guilty, while that's not always a deal-breaker it did tarnish the shine and the dramtic showdown was rather eye-rolling. It was a really great set-up that never got explored; a shame, because with a little more thought and a few more pages this could have been a great taunt read.
There's a decent mix of mystery to re-kindled romance, though no real detecting. I liked the intensity of feelings while battling the need to bang the character's heads together and demand they talk. Jude caught up in his stoic man-pain and capable martial-artist Rowan blushing constantly. I skimmed the 'oh baby, baby' sex scenes being more investigated in the mystery aspect (still hoping it wouldn't be the obvious at that point). At times they lacked maturity and it crossed the line of them being stubborn non-communicating alpha-types caught up in their own heads to being irritating.
Not the greatest but an enjoyable enough read, and there was potential here.
But Jude's concept of justice? That's.... did no-one else find issue with that?
It started out as a decent mystery full of possible avenues to investigate and the characters had enough complexities to be interesting. Unfortunately I had the mystery solved within seconds of meeting the guilty, while that's not always a deal-breaker it did tarnish the shine and the dramtic showdown was rather eye-rolling. It was a really great set-up that never got explored; a shame, because with a little more thought and a few more pages this could have been a great taunt read.
There's a decent mix of mystery to re-kindled romance, though no real detecting. I liked the intensity of feelings while battling the need to bang the character's heads together and demand they talk. Jude caught up in his stoic man-pain and capable martial-artist Rowan blushing constantly. I skimmed the 'oh baby, baby' sex scenes being more investigated in the mystery aspect (still hoping it wouldn't be the obvious at that point). At times they lacked maturity and it crossed the line of them being stubborn non-communicating alpha-types caught up in their own heads to being irritating.
Not the greatest but an enjoyable enough read, and there was potential here.
But Jude's concept of justice? That's.... did no-one else find issue with that?
April 28, 2015
2.75 stars
Yeah, so the mystery wasn't mysterious enough. The mc's didn't develop enough in my mind. I was interested enough to read through this. I liked Jude, sure he was surly after everything he went through. Boy was Rowan and him pig-headed. Everything had to be a fight. I had some doubts with certain things in the story, but it's fiction writing and I'll have to deal with it. I might be interested enough if the same couple are in book two. I would like to see them together!
Yeah, so the mystery wasn't mysterious enough. The mc's didn't develop enough in my mind. I was interested enough to read through this. I liked Jude, sure he was surly after everything he went through. Boy was Rowan and him pig-headed. Everything had to be a fight. I had some doubts with certain things in the story, but it's fiction writing and I'll have to deal with it. I might be interested enough if the same couple are in book two. I would like to see them together!
November 23, 2018
3,5 very positive stars
A 3 star mystery thriller with a 5 star relationship and steam rating.
I love a good reconciliation and this story delivered on all fronts. The sparks were flying from the moment they saw each other again and never let up. When they finally, finally 'reunite' I was so ready for it and it was a very well smutty scene.
I do think that the book is overall too short to really get our teeth into Rowan and Jude but I liked what I know of them so far. Even if they are inexplicably bad a communication. I'm willing to eyeroll a little for plot reasons when everything is fun.
The mystery was utterly predictable. I appreciate that things got really dangerous even if the outcome was never in doubt.
I'm definitely reading the sequel but I'd like more focus on the guys - clearly the author is not *that* into the procedural aspect of their professions and I'm cool with leaving that in the background for more good m/m action!
A 3 star mystery thriller with a 5 star relationship and steam rating.
I love a good reconciliation and this story delivered on all fronts. The sparks were flying from the moment they saw each other again and never let up. When they finally, finally 'reunite' I was so ready for it and it was a very well smutty scene.
I do think that the book is overall too short to really get our teeth into Rowan and Jude but I liked what I know of them so far. Even if they are inexplicably bad a communication. I'm willing to eyeroll a little for plot reasons when everything is fun.
The mystery was utterly predictable. I appreciate that things got really dangerous even if the outcome was never in doubt.
I'm definitely reading the sequel but I'd like more focus on the guys - clearly the author is not *that* into the procedural aspect of their professions and I'm cool with leaving that in the background for more good m/m action!
March 30, 2015
After receiving ARC and totally devouring this book here's my honest review.
throughout this book I felt anger- Jude's anger about how his life turned out, how 'the incident' (no spoilers) caused him to relocate to bear swamp forest. when he opens his door and finds 'the gift' his previous life is dredged up forcing him to deal with his past. the arrival of Rowan in an official capacity shows us another side of Jude, his vulnerability of having to face his former lover and how things ended for them. I liked watching both Rowan and Jude evolve and resolve past, present, and future. I almost didn't see the 'bad guy' coming until it was too late. I like when that happens. I have already recommended this to several of my friends.
throughout this book I felt anger- Jude's anger about how his life turned out, how 'the incident' (no spoilers) caused him to relocate to bear swamp forest. when he opens his door and finds 'the gift' his previous life is dredged up forcing him to deal with his past. the arrival of Rowan in an official capacity shows us another side of Jude, his vulnerability of having to face his former lover and how things ended for them. I liked watching both Rowan and Jude evolve and resolve past, present, and future. I almost didn't see the 'bad guy' coming until it was too late. I like when that happens. I have already recommended this to several of my friends.
May 4, 2015
3.5 stars
A well written, pacey read that did become a tad OTT towards the end but I loved the first 60% enough to keep ploughing through. I finished it faster than many full length books I've tried recently. The hurt and emotionally wrecked MC reminded me of something by Lanyon, at least in the first half. I absolutely adored that. But then, as many reviewers have said, things between Jude and Rowan resolved too quickly for my liking and it got too mushy with a whole load of sex thrown in for good measure.
Less is more, authors! ;)
A well written, pacey read that did become a tad OTT towards the end but I loved the first 60% enough to keep ploughing through. I finished it faster than many full length books I've tried recently. The hurt and emotionally wrecked MC reminded me of something by Lanyon, at least in the first half. I absolutely adored that. But then, as many reviewers have said, things between Jude and Rowan resolved too quickly for my liking and it got too mushy with a whole load of sex thrown in for good measure.
Less is more, authors! ;)
February 5, 2017
About a year after their breakup, a body, draped on Jude Anderson's front door, brings his ex, homicide detective Rowan Muir, back into Jude's live.
Argh, these two are prime examples for misinterpretation and of the inability to communicate! Although I loved both MCs, I really wanted to slap them both and tell them that they should just spit out what they actually felt and thought!
The mystery part is not a nail biting one, but quite entertaining.
I'll certainly read the sequel soon.
Argh, these two are prime examples for misinterpretation and of the inability to communicate! Although I loved both MCs, I really wanted to slap them both and tell them that they should just spit out what they actually felt and thought!
The mystery part is not a nail biting one, but quite entertaining.
I'll certainly read the sequel soon.
October 7, 2019
Really enjoyed this one. I love law enforcement of any type and Jude's history with Rowan really made this shine. Lots of conflict and butting of heads. The action was steady and the eventual bad guy took me a while to figure out. Props for that.
October 11, 2016
My first impression of these two is: HOT! Next: Communication, anyone? But then again if they were perfect we wouldn't have these sexy stories.
Full review to come - 4 stars - the mystery was not all that mysterious in this book. But still a solid read.
Full review to come - 4 stars - the mystery was not all that mysterious in this book. But still a solid read.
April 7, 2015
Loved it. The mystery wasn't earth shattering but I loved the characters. Well done for a shorter read. So glad I randomly picked this up. Can't wait for the sequel.
May 8, 2015
4.5 Stars
I started this one late last night with the thought...."I will just read a few pages". What a joke that was because I finished it at around 3am this morning. That alone should tell you how much I enjoyed it.
What I liked about this book:
* The sexual tension, passion and eventual sex scenes where all amazingly well written and realistic. I knew these two characters had history and it was pretty hot. I totally enjoyed the re-romance between these two. It was slightly different to read then normal because we didnt have to watch them fall in love....we knew the love had been there and wouldnt take much to come back.
* The murder mystery idea...........a dead body on your doorstep. I really liked the premise but I discovered that this book ended up not really focusing on the mystery. I didnt mind this as the author decided to follow the past history of the characters, the issues that needed healing and eventually rekindling of the love.
* I didnt guess the bad guy but as I said, the bad guy and the mystery were a parallel plot line throughout the book and in my opinion this book is more about the romance development and healing that needed to take place.
What I thought could have turned this into a 5+ Star Book:
* The characters are well written and developed enough that we know them and get to like them. However if a bit more time was spend developing them individually then I would have LOVED them. We really only get to know them through their past relationship to each other and how they dealt with the tragedies in their past.
* The murder mystery...as I stated above, I don't mind that it was not the main focus. However, if the author had used the mystery to evolve the character and the who dunnit then this book could have turned out as one of the best of 2015 so far.
Conclusions to be had:
* Read the book for yourself :) You will enjoy it as there is enough there that this book is really enjoyable and you might not have the same hang ups as I did.
* Enjoy the sex scenes and tension - they are well written and I love that in my books.
I started this one late last night with the thought...."I will just read a few pages". What a joke that was because I finished it at around 3am this morning. That alone should tell you how much I enjoyed it.
What I liked about this book:
* The sexual tension, passion and eventual sex scenes where all amazingly well written and realistic. I knew these two characters had history and it was pretty hot. I totally enjoyed the re-romance between these two. It was slightly different to read then normal because we didnt have to watch them fall in love....we knew the love had been there and wouldnt take much to come back.
* The murder mystery idea...........a dead body on your doorstep. I really liked the premise but I discovered that this book ended up not really focusing on the mystery. I didnt mind this as the author decided to follow the past history of the characters, the issues that needed healing and eventually rekindling of the love.
* I didnt guess the bad guy but as I said, the bad guy and the mystery were a parallel plot line throughout the book and in my opinion this book is more about the romance development and healing that needed to take place.
What I thought could have turned this into a 5+ Star Book:
* The characters are well written and developed enough that we know them and get to like them. However if a bit more time was spend developing them individually then I would have LOVED them. We really only get to know them through their past relationship to each other and how they dealt with the tragedies in their past.
* The murder mystery...as I stated above, I don't mind that it was not the main focus. However, if the author had used the mystery to evolve the character and the who dunnit then this book could have turned out as one of the best of 2015 so far.
Conclusions to be had:
* Read the book for yourself :) You will enjoy it as there is enough there that this book is really enjoyable and you might not have the same hang ups as I did.
* Enjoy the sex scenes and tension - they are well written and I love that in my books.
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