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The Love of Wicked Men #1.1-1.6
The Love of Wicked Men Box Set
The Love of Wicked Men is an erotic journey into the underbelly of the legal profession, the corporate culture of profit-at-any-cost, and the secret world of industrial espionage.
Six action-packed episodes!
Sid Rivers and Jack Brown are two sides of the same coin. One is a lawyer with his own firm and dreams of money and power; the other is a criminal with a lengthy record and a quest for vengeance. When they meet, sparks fly. But was their meeting an accident? Or, was it planned by the billionaires who want to control their destiny?
Six action-packed episodes!
Sid Rivers and Jack Brown are two sides of the same coin. One is a lawyer with his own firm and dreams of money and power; the other is a criminal with a lengthy record and a quest for vengeance. When they meet, sparks fly. But was their meeting an accident? Or, was it planned by the billionaires who want to control their destiny?
427 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 30, 2014
14 people are currently reading
352 people want to read
About the author
Brandon Shire
23 books402 followersGreat stories should not depend on gender or sexual preference of a character, but instead upon the strength of the characters and the honesty and urgency of the story.
Brandon Shire proves he understands the complexity of writing LGBT fiction from two very different viewpoints – serious and smexy. His serious fiction is written for those who enjoy a book which explores life’s darker elements in a more literary form, while the smexy fiction is for those who enjoy a graphically erotic romance.
Regardless of the differentiation above, Brandon writes for people who enjoy being challenged, and for those who strive to understand situations they don’t typically encounter. He pens raw, emotional stories about characters which readers will either love or love to hate.
Life and love are pretty damned special, but neither is always perfect. Life can be painful, and real love hard to find. Brandon’s fiction is an exploration of the (sometimes) arduous search for happiness we all desire.
10% of the proceeds from the sale of any of Brandon’s book are donated to LGBT Youth charities.
Learn more about Brandon Shire and the LGBT Youth charities he supports at BrandonShire.com
Brandon Shire proves he understands the complexity of writing LGBT fiction from two very different viewpoints – serious and smexy. His serious fiction is written for those who enjoy a book which explores life’s darker elements in a more literary form, while the smexy fiction is for those who enjoy a graphically erotic romance.
Regardless of the differentiation above, Brandon writes for people who enjoy being challenged, and for those who strive to understand situations they don’t typically encounter. He pens raw, emotional stories about characters which readers will either love or love to hate.
Life and love are pretty damned special, but neither is always perfect. Life can be painful, and real love hard to find. Brandon’s fiction is an exploration of the (sometimes) arduous search for happiness we all desire.
10% of the proceeds from the sale of any of Brandon’s book are donated to LGBT Youth charities.
Learn more about Brandon Shire and the LGBT Youth charities he supports at BrandonShire.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
October 20, 2015
This is only the first installment of a longer saga, ending with a near-cliffhanger, although not an acute one. The title is very apt. Both main characters live on the dark side of the law - Jack partly by force of circumstances, Sid by more deliberate choice.
Sid is a lawyer, and an all-around bastard. His difficult childhood has turned his life-philosophy into "Do unto others, first and hard, before they get a chance to screw you over." He has rare moments of human caring, but for the most part he forges ahead with his own agenda, sometimes even with gratuitous cruelty.
Jack is a data-thief, while also hunting for answers to the disappearance of his sister - an environmental activist - years ago. He's a guy with a moral code despite how he earns his money, the prototypical American romantic hero (as Amy Lane describes them) who will choose his people and his family over the greater good or the law every time. He is fascinated by Sid, after a conspiracy of big oil firms and their lawyers brings them into contact, and his newfound determination to protect Sid, even from his own mistakes, makes Jack's life and that of his team difficult.
Sid's a hard guy to like, and he's not redeemed even by the end of this book. The author is skillful enough to make me hold out hope for his future, but it's going to be an uphill climb. I admit when everyone around Jack said how perfect Sid was for him, I didn't see it. I wanted Jack to find a real good-guy. But that wouldn't be the train-wreck fascination that is this story.
A fast-reading, exciting, sometimes violent, sometimes infuriating, twisty story. I'll have to pick up the second volume, since I can't stop here.
Sid is a lawyer, and an all-around bastard. His difficult childhood has turned his life-philosophy into "Do unto others, first and hard, before they get a chance to screw you over." He has rare moments of human caring, but for the most part he forges ahead with his own agenda, sometimes even with gratuitous cruelty.
Jack is a data-thief, while also hunting for answers to the disappearance of his sister - an environmental activist - years ago. He's a guy with a moral code despite how he earns his money, the prototypical American romantic hero (as Amy Lane describes them) who will choose his people and his family over the greater good or the law every time. He is fascinated by Sid, after a conspiracy of big oil firms and their lawyers brings them into contact, and his newfound determination to protect Sid, even from his own mistakes, makes Jack's life and that of his team difficult.
Sid's a hard guy to like, and he's not redeemed even by the end of this book. The author is skillful enough to make me hold out hope for his future, but it's going to be an uphill climb. I admit when everyone around Jack said how perfect Sid was for him, I didn't see it. I wanted Jack to find a real good-guy. But that wouldn't be the train-wreck fascination that is this story.
A fast-reading, exciting, sometimes violent, sometimes infuriating, twisty story. I'll have to pick up the second volume, since I can't stop here.
October 17, 2015
~ ~ ~
Full disclosure: I was a lucky beta reader and must admit I'm a little bit involved here. Although I've written short comments on each episode of season one (see my Goodreads reviews) I hadn't written a full review. After reading this backwards and forwards many times would you believe that all I really want to do here is fangirl?
REVIEW
A complex, involved beginning turns out to be only the tip of the iceberg. The further we delve into this story the more vast and interconnected it becomes. You never get to step off, take a break or breathe.
THE CHARACTERS
Sid Rivers - Bastard Extraordinaire!
Jack Brown - Sexy criminal looser. Or something else entirely?
Drake - Big, silent, broody, badass. Trust me, you don't want to piss off Drake.
Sweeny - Tech geek genius and sex kitten.
Jeffery Marn - He's the one pulling all the strings. Right?
Larry - Sid's legal partner - or is he?
Shane -???
THE STORY
On the surface this is a roller coaster ride through an unscrupulous world of law and crime, justice and vengeance. But, oh so surprisingly, upon finishing, I think you'll find that this entire season was a mind game played by the author to see if he could make you, the reader, his bitch! So maybe that makes Brandon Shire the wicked man. Let's say it's something of an experiment to see if you can justify loving wicked men.
These guys are bad, evil, corrupt, mean, bastards that more than one reader has walked away from. These aren't good guys making nice, uh uh. So, the mission, if you choose to accept it, is to see if you can get to the end without loving these guys just a little bit.
If you can't set your moral compass in the margin for a moment maybe this one's not for you. But if you're intrigued to find out why other readers have fallen madly in love with these nefarious, debauched men then grab this and see if you can keep your own morality in check, or if you too become Shire's little pawn.
THE WRITING
It's the writing that sets this apart. Shire is a story builder. He shovels around intrigue, layers on some gritty dilemmas, and places each brick so solidly that you don't even see where you've taken your misstep. Be wary of that whiplash effect, because there is going to be more than one incident of, "I didn't see that coming!"
~ ~ ~
I would like to thank Brandon Shire for providing me with a review copy in exchange for my honest review.
~ ~ ~
Take a look at my Male/Male Romance Book Blog:
http://www.attentionisarbitrary.com
Merged review:
~ ~ ~
Full disclosure: I was a lucky beta reader and must admit I'm a little bit involved here. Although I've written short comments on each episode of season one (see my Goodreads reviews) I hadn't written a full review. After reading this backwards and forwards many times would you believe that all I really want to do here is fangirl?
REVIEW
A complex, involved beginning turns out to be only the tip of the iceberg. The further we delve into this story the more vast and interconnected it becomes. You never get to step off, take a break or breathe.
THE CHARACTERS
Sid Rivers - Bastard Extraordinaire!
Jack Brown - Sexy criminal looser. Or something else entirely?
Drake - Big, silent, broody, badass. Trust me, you don't want to piss off Drake.
Sweeny - Tech geek genius and sex kitten.
Jeffery Marn - He's the one pulling all the strings. Right?
Larry - Sid's legal partner - or is he?
Shane -???
THE STORY
On the surface this is a roller coaster ride through an unscrupulous world of law and crime, justice and vengeance. But, oh so surprisingly, upon finishing, I think you'll find that this entire season was a mind game played by the author to see if he could make you, the reader, his bitch! So maybe that makes Brandon Shire the wicked man. Let's say it's something of an experiment to see if you can justify loving wicked men.
These guys are bad, evil, corrupt, mean, bastards that more than one reader has walked away from. These aren't good guys making nice, uh uh. So, the mission, if you choose to accept it, is to see if you can get to the end without loving these guys just a little bit.
If you can't set your moral compass in the margin for a moment maybe this one's not for you. But if you're intrigued to find out why other readers have fallen madly in love with these nefarious, debauched men then grab this and see if you can keep your own morality in check, or if you too become Shire's little pawn.
THE WRITING
It's the writing that sets this apart. Shire is a story builder. He shovels around intrigue, layers on some gritty dilemmas, and places each brick so solidly that you don't even see where you've taken your misstep. Be wary of that whiplash effect, because there is going to be more than one incident of, "I didn't see that coming!"
~ ~ ~
I would like to thank Brandon Shire for providing me with a review copy in exchange for my honest review.
~ ~ ~
Take a look at my Male/Male Romance Book Blog:
http://www.attentionisarbitrary.com
Full disclosure: I was a lucky beta reader and must admit I'm a little bit involved here. Although I've written short comments on each episode of season one (see my Goodreads reviews) I hadn't written a full review. After reading this backwards and forwards many times would you believe that all I really want to do here is fangirl?
REVIEW
A complex, involved beginning turns out to be only the tip of the iceberg. The further we delve into this story the more vast and interconnected it becomes. You never get to step off, take a break or breathe.
THE CHARACTERS
Sid Rivers - Bastard Extraordinaire!
Jack Brown - Sexy criminal looser. Or something else entirely?
Drake - Big, silent, broody, badass. Trust me, you don't want to piss off Drake.
Sweeny - Tech geek genius and sex kitten.
Jeffery Marn - He's the one pulling all the strings. Right?
Larry - Sid's legal partner - or is he?
Shane -???
THE STORY
Sid went to the window and pushed the curtain aside, looking out on the street, wondering if he'd already gotten in over his head. They hadn't chosen Rivers & Dunn because Sid Rivers was a rising legal phenomenon. They wanted Sid's firm because they needed someone who was in no way associated with the oil industry, or with Jeffery Phillips Marn. They also wanted someone who was just as disposable.
On the surface this is a roller coaster ride through an unscrupulous world of law and crime, justice and vengeance. But, oh so surprisingly, upon finishing, I think you'll find that this entire season was a mind game played by the author to see if he could make you, the reader, his bitch! So maybe that makes Brandon Shire the wicked man. Let's say it's something of an experiment to see if you can justify loving wicked men.
These guys are bad, evil, corrupt, mean, bastards that more than one reader has walked away from. These aren't good guys making nice, uh uh. So, the mission, if you choose to accept it, is to see if you can get to the end without loving these guys just a little bit.
If you can't set your moral compass in the margin for a moment maybe this one's not for you. But if you're intrigued to find out why other readers have fallen madly in love with these nefarious, debauched men then grab this and see if you can keep your own morality in check, or if you too become Shire's little pawn.
THE WRITING
It's the writing that sets this apart. Shire is a story builder. He shovels around intrigue, layers on some gritty dilemmas, and places each brick so solidly that you don't even see where you've taken your misstep. Be wary of that whiplash effect, because there is going to be more than one incident of, "I didn't see that coming!"
~ ~ ~
I would like to thank Brandon Shire for providing me with a review copy in exchange for my honest review.
~ ~ ~
Take a look at my Male/Male Romance Book Blog:
http://www.attentionisarbitrary.com
Merged review:
~ ~ ~
Full disclosure: I was a lucky beta reader and must admit I'm a little bit involved here. Although I've written short comments on each episode of season one (see my Goodreads reviews) I hadn't written a full review. After reading this backwards and forwards many times would you believe that all I really want to do here is fangirl?
REVIEW
A complex, involved beginning turns out to be only the tip of the iceberg. The further we delve into this story the more vast and interconnected it becomes. You never get to step off, take a break or breathe.
THE CHARACTERS
Sid Rivers - Bastard Extraordinaire!
Jack Brown - Sexy criminal looser. Or something else entirely?
Drake - Big, silent, broody, badass. Trust me, you don't want to piss off Drake.
Sweeny - Tech geek genius and sex kitten.
Jeffery Marn - He's the one pulling all the strings. Right?
Larry - Sid's legal partner - or is he?
Shane -???
THE STORY
Sid went to the window and pushed the curtain aside, looking out on the street, wondering if he'd already gotten in over his head. They hadn't chosen Rivers & Dunn because Sid Rivers was a rising legal phenomenon. They wanted Sid's firm because they needed someone who was in no way associated with the oil industry, or with Jeffery Phillips Marn. They also wanted someone who was just as disposable.
On the surface this is a roller coaster ride through an unscrupulous world of law and crime, justice and vengeance. But, oh so surprisingly, upon finishing, I think you'll find that this entire season was a mind game played by the author to see if he could make you, the reader, his bitch! So maybe that makes Brandon Shire the wicked man. Let's say it's something of an experiment to see if you can justify loving wicked men.
These guys are bad, evil, corrupt, mean, bastards that more than one reader has walked away from. These aren't good guys making nice, uh uh. So, the mission, if you choose to accept it, is to see if you can get to the end without loving these guys just a little bit.
If you can't set your moral compass in the margin for a moment maybe this one's not for you. But if you're intrigued to find out why other readers have fallen madly in love with these nefarious, debauched men then grab this and see if you can keep your own morality in check, or if you too become Shire's little pawn.
THE WRITING
It's the writing that sets this apart. Shire is a story builder. He shovels around intrigue, layers on some gritty dilemmas, and places each brick so solidly that you don't even see where you've taken your misstep. Be wary of that whiplash effect, because there is going to be more than one incident of, "I didn't see that coming!"
~ ~ ~
I would like to thank Brandon Shire for providing me with a review copy in exchange for my honest review.
~ ~ ~
Take a look at my Male/Male Romance Book Blog:
http://www.attentionisarbitrary.com
May 31, 2015
I enjoyed this series so much and I have Lisa Arbitrary to thank for the recommendation.
It hit all my buttons: It was masculine, free of fluff, suspenseful, a great storyline, likable characters, and some smokin’ hot sex scenes. Totally awesome.
You have a new fan, Mr. Shire!
Peace,
JLT
#pleasurethroughdenial
It hit all my buttons: It was masculine, free of fluff, suspenseful, a great storyline, likable characters, and some smokin’ hot sex scenes. Totally awesome.
You have a new fan, Mr. Shire!
Peace,
JLT
#pleasurethroughdenial
June 13, 2016
4.5*
While seeking revenge, dig two graves – one for yourself ~ Douglas Horton
True. Revenge might give you a flare of satisfaction, but leaves you hollow at the same time... And this is what Jack Brown learns the hard way in The Love of Wicked Men (Season One).
Jack... the reason why I loved this book! He represents everything I adore in a book character...
Strong, yet vulnerable.
Mysterious, yet caring.
Determined, yet sensitive.
And a sight for sore eyes... ;-)
Jack seeks for revenge and Sid Rivers, lawyer and asshole by trade, is a means to an end to get it. Of course, Sid didn't suspect anything of Jack's motives and it was a cat-and-mouse game at its best.
At the beginning, I couldn't stand Sid. At all. He is an aforementioned asshole, both on and off the job and I found it hard to acquire a liking for him.
But after a while you get to know him better and you find that it's only a facade, one to keep him from allowing somebody to come near him and from getting hurt again. At the end I almost loved him as much as Jack. Almost. ;-)
And the sex... Phew! Let's just say it was “burning up the sheets” hot!!! ;-)
The case, which gets both men together, deals with a quite current difficulty: fracking. It was something I haven't read about in any of my books and I found it rather interesting. It also deals with the ensuing problems and the machinations of opponents and those who want to pursue it.
What threw me off a bit, was the story behind the story. It was difficult and quite tiring at times to keep track of “Who's been played by whom”, especially during the meetings in the law firm, when loads of technical terms were thrown around. I couldn't google fast enough to know what's going on... Normally, as a non-native English speaker I don't have to understand every single word, it's sufficient for me to know the context, but in this case it didn't work and the number of names involved didn't help either.
But I will definitely start right away with the first episode of Season Two, since the ending of Season One grabbed at my heart and squeezed it and I HAVE to know what will happen to Jack and Sid!!!
November 13, 2015
Full (NSFW) review can be found at -
There's not really a lot I can say in summary on here. I could go on and out about all 6 episodes, but I'd end up telling too much. I will say that I got sucked in with each one and couldn't wait to see what would be happening next. The author asks at the end if the reader is interested in a Season Two with these guys. Yes. I want to know what happens next and I hope to see the story continue later. While pretty much every issue is resolved, there are still a couple of things left outstanding. If 'the end' was actually the end, I'm good with that. I do, however, hope to see more.
Overall, it's hot, sexy, mysterious, and it throws out surprises at every turn. If you read this, pay attention to all the characters - even those who seem insignificant. There are a lot of details thrown out and quite a bit to process, but I promise you won't regret it.
Highly recommended.
This book was provided by the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Want to read
June 28, 2015Boxed set on sale for $5.99 at Amazon US and other retailers!
June 12, 2015
Blog Post: http://gaymediareviews.weebly.com/blo...
EPISODE 1:
I have to say that I have never started a book hating a character as much as I dislike Sid Rivers. He is someone who cared for nobody except himself, and this could well be his downfall.
Jack Brown is someone who is hell bent on revenge, and nothing will make him change his course of total revenge.
Jack and Sid actually meet, when Jack is in court, and Sid is there as a witness, but in the end Instead of saying what actually happened, Sid ensured that Jack was released.
Sid seems to care little for others, and this is shown even more when he "deflowers" a closeted shy guy in a hotel room, and also cruises the streets looking for a hot piece of ass he can take home and totally dominate.
Sid is then actually getting himself involved in something really shady, and unbeknown to him, Jack is following his every move. Jack always seems to be around when you least expect it, and at one point Sid wakes in Jacks bed with no idea how he got there....
Was the meeting between Sid and Jack just co-incidental?? What does Jack actually want from Sid?? Is it to just be fuck buddies or does he have a hidden agenda?? Hmmmm, time will tell.
EPISODE 2:
Sid is now turning very secretive, especially when someone he uses to find information is telling him that things are not as they seem - but to me it comes over that Sid is more interested in the money he can make, rather than anything happening to him.
Although Sid is half of a partnership at the firm, he decides not to tell his partner everything about what he is working on, and to me this makes Sid even more dangerous.
Jack, you learn a bit more about, and you realise that things are not always as they seem.
Sid and Jack are still dancing around their attraction to each other, and each thinks they are playing the other, and that they have the upper hand.
Finally it seems like they are finally going to meet and stop all this dancing around each other, but Sid has another plan in place, to me to try and make Jack jealous....
Do Jack and Sid actually get down and dirty, or has Sid totally blown his chances??
EPISODE 3:
Wow, now we get to see more players in the teams, and there seems to be more than I originally thought!!
Sid, to me, is hopefully going to get his comeuppance, as he really is totally arrogant, and he refuses to listen to any warnings that are given to him. I think I am getting to dislike how he treats people even more!!
However, when someone who is working for Sid rings him with some disturbing information, it seems like finally he realises that things are not as he first thought.
Jack is also slowly starting to realise that there is something else happening…. It is not just Sid or Jack trying to find information, it seems like there is somebody else interested in what they are doing. Jack realises that his cover he has in place in the virtual world is now not as it should have been….
Sid's partner Larry is now starting to realise that Sid is hiding something, and is now demanding answers to questions, as it is just not Sid that will be affected by the fallout – it is the whole firm in possible jeopardy. However, one person that works for Sid and Larry may not actually be as loyal as they think…..
I am also really beginning to love Jack in the book, he has a hidden soft side that shows itself in episode 3, when he goes visiting someone….. and who it is will surprise you…
EPISODE 4:
Well, things are really heating up now….. more secrets are coming out and to be honest you are now thinking watch out Sid, you are really going to end up on the wrong side of the law here. Sid is trusting people that now you can see should not be trusted at all.
The plot is certainly twisting and turning now, and I for one cannot put the book down. You think you know what is happening, and then all of a sudden you are “huh… how did that happen??!!”…..
I am actually starting to feel a bit sorry for Sid now, as it now Larry has his own agenda on things, and these do not include Sid…. and Sid has no idea.
Jack for some reason now has a soft spot for Sid, and is now determined to try and save Sid from himself. It did cause me to chuckle at times, at what Jack did to Sid.... and some was hot reading too. You also get an understanding of why Sid acts like he does.
However, things get worse than ever for Sid when he returns home.
What does Larry decide to do?? What has happened to Sid on his return home?? Will Jack do anything stupid to ensure that Sid is safe??
EPISODE 5:
Well, what an eventful start to this episode. Sid is really in deep trouble, but can anyone actually save him? Who has taken Sid, and what do they want with him?
Sid wakes in hospital with no clue as to who saved him, and when he is finally able to have visitors, Larry's true intentions come to life - and Sid is left full of rage. It looks like Sid is out of his partnership with Larry, but Sid is not one to go down without a fight.
You also learn more about Jack in this episode and his past - which has been his motivation for all the things he has done.
Events start happening one after the other, and you realise that you have no idea who the main player is in all of this.....
What a cliff-hanger at the end concerning both Sid and Jack - and this is not someone you would have thought of considering having a part in any of it.
EPISODE 6:
All I can say is WOW !! I am finding it hard to write a review about this episode, as I do not want to give anything away on this story.
The author has written even more twists and turns into the story, and even more characters in the book are not who they seemed to be in the earlier episodes. It is full of real surprises, and because of this, this book has now become a can't put down until you finish, as you just know things are not going to be as straight forward as it should be.
I can honestly recommend this book, it is fast paced, but you always know what is happening.... well as much as the author gives away at a given time!!
At the end of the book, it says should there be a Season Two, and I for one would love there to be another book, especially if it is as fast paced as this one.
"Complimentary copy provided by author/publisher for an honest review."
Reviewed by Dawn at Gay Media Reviews
EPISODE 1:
I have to say that I have never started a book hating a character as much as I dislike Sid Rivers. He is someone who cared for nobody except himself, and this could well be his downfall.
Jack Brown is someone who is hell bent on revenge, and nothing will make him change his course of total revenge.
Jack and Sid actually meet, when Jack is in court, and Sid is there as a witness, but in the end Instead of saying what actually happened, Sid ensured that Jack was released.
Sid seems to care little for others, and this is shown even more when he "deflowers" a closeted shy guy in a hotel room, and also cruises the streets looking for a hot piece of ass he can take home and totally dominate.
Sid is then actually getting himself involved in something really shady, and unbeknown to him, Jack is following his every move. Jack always seems to be around when you least expect it, and at one point Sid wakes in Jacks bed with no idea how he got there....
Was the meeting between Sid and Jack just co-incidental?? What does Jack actually want from Sid?? Is it to just be fuck buddies or does he have a hidden agenda?? Hmmmm, time will tell.
EPISODE 2:
Sid is now turning very secretive, especially when someone he uses to find information is telling him that things are not as they seem - but to me it comes over that Sid is more interested in the money he can make, rather than anything happening to him.
Although Sid is half of a partnership at the firm, he decides not to tell his partner everything about what he is working on, and to me this makes Sid even more dangerous.
Jack, you learn a bit more about, and you realise that things are not always as they seem.
Sid and Jack are still dancing around their attraction to each other, and each thinks they are playing the other, and that they have the upper hand.
Finally it seems like they are finally going to meet and stop all this dancing around each other, but Sid has another plan in place, to me to try and make Jack jealous....
Do Jack and Sid actually get down and dirty, or has Sid totally blown his chances??
EPISODE 3:
Wow, now we get to see more players in the teams, and there seems to be more than I originally thought!!
Sid, to me, is hopefully going to get his comeuppance, as he really is totally arrogant, and he refuses to listen to any warnings that are given to him. I think I am getting to dislike how he treats people even more!!
However, when someone who is working for Sid rings him with some disturbing information, it seems like finally he realises that things are not as he first thought.
Jack is also slowly starting to realise that there is something else happening…. It is not just Sid or Jack trying to find information, it seems like there is somebody else interested in what they are doing. Jack realises that his cover he has in place in the virtual world is now not as it should have been….
Sid's partner Larry is now starting to realise that Sid is hiding something, and is now demanding answers to questions, as it is just not Sid that will be affected by the fallout – it is the whole firm in possible jeopardy. However, one person that works for Sid and Larry may not actually be as loyal as they think…..
I am also really beginning to love Jack in the book, he has a hidden soft side that shows itself in episode 3, when he goes visiting someone….. and who it is will surprise you…
EPISODE 4:
Well, things are really heating up now….. more secrets are coming out and to be honest you are now thinking watch out Sid, you are really going to end up on the wrong side of the law here. Sid is trusting people that now you can see should not be trusted at all.
The plot is certainly twisting and turning now, and I for one cannot put the book down. You think you know what is happening, and then all of a sudden you are “huh… how did that happen??!!”…..
I am actually starting to feel a bit sorry for Sid now, as it now Larry has his own agenda on things, and these do not include Sid…. and Sid has no idea.
Jack for some reason now has a soft spot for Sid, and is now determined to try and save Sid from himself. It did cause me to chuckle at times, at what Jack did to Sid.... and some was hot reading too. You also get an understanding of why Sid acts like he does.
However, things get worse than ever for Sid when he returns home.
What does Larry decide to do?? What has happened to Sid on his return home?? Will Jack do anything stupid to ensure that Sid is safe??
EPISODE 5:
Well, what an eventful start to this episode. Sid is really in deep trouble, but can anyone actually save him? Who has taken Sid, and what do they want with him?
Sid wakes in hospital with no clue as to who saved him, and when he is finally able to have visitors, Larry's true intentions come to life - and Sid is left full of rage. It looks like Sid is out of his partnership with Larry, but Sid is not one to go down without a fight.
You also learn more about Jack in this episode and his past - which has been his motivation for all the things he has done.
Events start happening one after the other, and you realise that you have no idea who the main player is in all of this.....
What a cliff-hanger at the end concerning both Sid and Jack - and this is not someone you would have thought of considering having a part in any of it.
EPISODE 6:
All I can say is WOW !! I am finding it hard to write a review about this episode, as I do not want to give anything away on this story.
The author has written even more twists and turns into the story, and even more characters in the book are not who they seemed to be in the earlier episodes. It is full of real surprises, and because of this, this book has now become a can't put down until you finish, as you just know things are not going to be as straight forward as it should be.
I can honestly recommend this book, it is fast paced, but you always know what is happening.... well as much as the author gives away at a given time!!
At the end of the book, it says should there be a Season Two, and I for one would love there to be another book, especially if it is as fast paced as this one.
"Complimentary copy provided by author/publisher for an honest review."
Reviewed by Dawn at Gay Media Reviews
July 17, 2015
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.75 stars
This is a story where you can leave reality right at page one and the first order of recognition goes to Brandon Shire for being the master manipulator. He saw the whole picture from the start and moved the characters around as players in a high stakes drama, complete with action, deception, and a sexually charged atmosphere.
The plot of this series is difficult to discuss without everything being a spoiler. So let’s start with Sid. Likable? Well, not so much most of the time. Sid is all about profit and all about what works to his best advantage and if he needs to teeter on the edges of ethics, so be it. His designer clothes and expensive car are his shields to the world. As the episodes progress, the layers of Sid are very slowly revealed and there is a moment that his edges are not so sharp, but it’s short lived indeed. He comes off as a shark and, while he can be intelligent and cunning, he doesn’t often look at the big picture, is more insecure then he will admit to, and is blinded by dollar signs, which may ultimately be his downfall.
Now Jack was a bit easier to like. Oh, he’s a high stakes career criminal that is first presented as a common street thug, but Jack hides a bit of compassion underneath that tough exterior for a few select individuals. If you are used to reading, or even watching, dramatic legal dramas that thrive on intrigue you will be aware that nothing is as it seems and everything and perhaps everyone is connected. I was expecting this so a good portion of the intrigue and deception did not come as a surprise to me, but it was all incredibly well executed
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
4.75 stars
This is a story where you can leave reality right at page one and the first order of recognition goes to Brandon Shire for being the master manipulator. He saw the whole picture from the start and moved the characters around as players in a high stakes drama, complete with action, deception, and a sexually charged atmosphere.
The plot of this series is difficult to discuss without everything being a spoiler. So let’s start with Sid. Likable? Well, not so much most of the time. Sid is all about profit and all about what works to his best advantage and if he needs to teeter on the edges of ethics, so be it. His designer clothes and expensive car are his shields to the world. As the episodes progress, the layers of Sid are very slowly revealed and there is a moment that his edges are not so sharp, but it’s short lived indeed. He comes off as a shark and, while he can be intelligent and cunning, he doesn’t often look at the big picture, is more insecure then he will admit to, and is blinded by dollar signs, which may ultimately be his downfall.
Now Jack was a bit easier to like. Oh, he’s a high stakes career criminal that is first presented as a common street thug, but Jack hides a bit of compassion underneath that tough exterior for a few select individuals. If you are used to reading, or even watching, dramatic legal dramas that thrive on intrigue you will be aware that nothing is as it seems and everything and perhaps everyone is connected. I was expecting this so a good portion of the intrigue and deception did not come as a surprise to me, but it was all incredibly well executed
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
July 5, 2016
I loved this first season very much! Sid and Jack make a really good couple. It's really just the beginning of their romance though, so I will be reading season two's books to see how things go for them.
June 24, 2015
Reviewed for Rainbow Gold Reviews. 9.5/10 pots of gold. An arc was provided in exchange for an honest review.
It’s hard to write a review for this box set because my mind was blown reading the episodes. I have to say that this series was not what I expected at all. The blurb was a little vague and on the short side. Not that that’s a bad thing. Sometimes the best surprises come from the lack of expectation. From the title, though, I had thought it would be a romance. After reading it, I would definitely not consider it a romance. Sid and Jack did find themselves attracted to each other, and at the end of the episode 6 had developed care and concern for each other, but it was far from a love story. There was some erotica, but most of the sex scenes that took place weren’t even between the two mc’s. I would definitely place this story in the category of Gay fiction, and it was a very good example of the genre.
The characters were the first thing to surprise me. First off, Sid is a lawyer, and maybe I should blame Law and Order, but I expected him to be a good guy. Jack was standing trial for a robbery, in which he had nicked Sid with a knife. He was clearly the bad guy. Almost immediately though, my perceptions were flipped. I couldn’t believe the lengths that Sid would go through to win a case or dig up dirt on a rival law practice. Not to mention the way he treated the tricks he picked up for the night. Jack is still far from being a good guy, but he treats people 100 times better than Sid does, and he appears to be trying to stop an unnamed group from hurting people. So I was definitely thrown by them, and wondered how I could like a story whose main characters were so twisted and somewhat bad. But I did. I loved it. Throughout the story we do learn things about Sid and Jack that make them more understandable. While Sid didn’t grow on me, Jack did, and I really did like him by the end. There were a lot of secondary characters to love and hate as well. My favorites were Sweeny, Drake, and Lori, members of Jack’s team.
There was a lot of intrigue going on in The Love of Wicked Men. It had a good amount of mystery, though neither of the main characters had the job of cop, detective, or FBI agent. That was a first for me. There were so many twists and turns, and people spying on each other. Everywhere you looked someone was trying to take down someone else. Just when you think you know who set everything into play, a new character arises and adds another suspect to the mix. I had no idea who was moving the pawns around the board so effortlessly until the end of the book. I loved being surprised by an ending as much as the characters were, it really lends to the feeling of being transported into the story. Now, the box set is considered a season and each book an episode. I can’t say that I pictured this story as a television show, but I could and would definitely see it on the big screen. I loved the book, and the surprises it threw at me. At the end of the book, the author asks if the reader would be interested in a Season 2. My answer: Hell, yes!
It’s hard to write a review for this box set because my mind was blown reading the episodes. I have to say that this series was not what I expected at all. The blurb was a little vague and on the short side. Not that that’s a bad thing. Sometimes the best surprises come from the lack of expectation. From the title, though, I had thought it would be a romance. After reading it, I would definitely not consider it a romance. Sid and Jack did find themselves attracted to each other, and at the end of the episode 6 had developed care and concern for each other, but it was far from a love story. There was some erotica, but most of the sex scenes that took place weren’t even between the two mc’s. I would definitely place this story in the category of Gay fiction, and it was a very good example of the genre.
The characters were the first thing to surprise me. First off, Sid is a lawyer, and maybe I should blame Law and Order, but I expected him to be a good guy. Jack was standing trial for a robbery, in which he had nicked Sid with a knife. He was clearly the bad guy. Almost immediately though, my perceptions were flipped. I couldn’t believe the lengths that Sid would go through to win a case or dig up dirt on a rival law practice. Not to mention the way he treated the tricks he picked up for the night. Jack is still far from being a good guy, but he treats people 100 times better than Sid does, and he appears to be trying to stop an unnamed group from hurting people. So I was definitely thrown by them, and wondered how I could like a story whose main characters were so twisted and somewhat bad. But I did. I loved it. Throughout the story we do learn things about Sid and Jack that make them more understandable. While Sid didn’t grow on me, Jack did, and I really did like him by the end. There were a lot of secondary characters to love and hate as well. My favorites were Sweeny, Drake, and Lori, members of Jack’s team.
There was a lot of intrigue going on in The Love of Wicked Men. It had a good amount of mystery, though neither of the main characters had the job of cop, detective, or FBI agent. That was a first for me. There were so many twists and turns, and people spying on each other. Everywhere you looked someone was trying to take down someone else. Just when you think you know who set everything into play, a new character arises and adds another suspect to the mix. I had no idea who was moving the pawns around the board so effortlessly until the end of the book. I loved being surprised by an ending as much as the characters were, it really lends to the feeling of being transported into the story. Now, the box set is considered a season and each book an episode. I can’t say that I pictured this story as a television show, but I could and would definitely see it on the big screen. I loved the book, and the surprises it threw at me. At the end of the book, the author asks if the reader would be interested in a Season 2. My answer: Hell, yes!
August 3, 2015
I must tell you I meet the best people and authors when going to book conventions, why you ask? Because they are just like me, we all share the love of reading!!! So this month I had the pleasure of getting some wonderful books, by new authors to me at the Rainbowcon in Tampa…...
Brandon Shire has quite a following, and I was lent this book, by a fellow reader, raving about his work. Now I can see after reading this over 400 page monster what all the noise is about.
As some authors are doing now, they are serializing their stories so that they keep the interest in their characters, and feeding their readers ravenous appetite for more Now.
I do not question this, but I was happy to curl up with the entire Season One and I do love a good storyline, well written, l.o.n.g. book. Since this is my first, reading experience with this author, and did not have any expectations, all I can say is thank you Lisa Arbitrary for giving me this book.
This is not a sweet, mushy, m/m romance. This story takes you to the rough side of business, the under belly of corporate legal dealings, deceit, espionage, with strong men in power and what they do with that power. The major characters we learn about slowly, as the author allows us to see strengths and weakness as his story grows. He peels the layers slowly allowing you to learn their secrets. Therefore you are pleasantly or not so surprised that they are not what you believed them to be at our surface view. Like all people everyone has layers.
Sid Rivers and Jack Brown are our two main characters. Sid the hard Alpha that takes no crap and is always looking for more. He lives his life on the top of the food chain; expensive clothes, the best cars and restaurants, picking up rent boys to feed his sexual appetites, then throwing them away when finished. No relationships, no love, just taking. I hated Sid, I loved Sid, I worried about Sid….
Jack is the wild card, a small time hood, Sid meeting him as he is holding up a convenience store… Is Jack what we think he is? What is Jack? Their combination and sexual tension brings the lust level to a ten!!!!Wow what a story there !
Brandon Shire has written a book with such excitement, such grit, and such a great voice, I really cannot give away any more for fear of Spoilers. Please take a chance and read it, I do not think you will be sorry.
Review by Gloria Lakritz
Sr Reviewer and Review Chair for the Paranormal Romance Guild Review Team
Brandon Shire has quite a following, and I was lent this book, by a fellow reader, raving about his work. Now I can see after reading this over 400 page monster what all the noise is about.
As some authors are doing now, they are serializing their stories so that they keep the interest in their characters, and feeding their readers ravenous appetite for more Now.
I do not question this, but I was happy to curl up with the entire Season One and I do love a good storyline, well written, l.o.n.g. book. Since this is my first, reading experience with this author, and did not have any expectations, all I can say is thank you Lisa Arbitrary for giving me this book.
This is not a sweet, mushy, m/m romance. This story takes you to the rough side of business, the under belly of corporate legal dealings, deceit, espionage, with strong men in power and what they do with that power. The major characters we learn about slowly, as the author allows us to see strengths and weakness as his story grows. He peels the layers slowly allowing you to learn their secrets. Therefore you are pleasantly or not so surprised that they are not what you believed them to be at our surface view. Like all people everyone has layers.
Sid Rivers and Jack Brown are our two main characters. Sid the hard Alpha that takes no crap and is always looking for more. He lives his life on the top of the food chain; expensive clothes, the best cars and restaurants, picking up rent boys to feed his sexual appetites, then throwing them away when finished. No relationships, no love, just taking. I hated Sid, I loved Sid, I worried about Sid….
Jack is the wild card, a small time hood, Sid meeting him as he is holding up a convenience store… Is Jack what we think he is? What is Jack? Their combination and sexual tension brings the lust level to a ten!!!!Wow what a story there !
Brandon Shire has written a book with such excitement, such grit, and such a great voice, I really cannot give away any more for fear of Spoilers. Please take a chance and read it, I do not think you will be sorry.
Review by Gloria Lakritz
Sr Reviewer and Review Chair for the Paranormal Romance Guild Review Team
August 24, 2015
I got episode 1 free on amazon but I didn't like it because it was just too short and I didn't know what it's all about. I gave it 2*
I am glad that I give the series a try. It's a true page turner. I was not able to put it down. There's plot and twist and just about everything. If you don't mind a bastard MC, it's for you.
I hope season 2 will be released soon.
I am glad that I give the series a try. It's a true page turner. I was not able to put it down. There's plot and twist and just about everything. If you don't mind a bastard MC, it's for you.
I hope season 2 will be released soon.
July 13, 2015
Uh, yes to a Season 2. Are you kidding me? You can't just leave it all hanging like that. That's... I can't...
Please get on it immediately, Mr. Shire.
Please get on it immediately, Mr. Shire.
June 12, 2015
Sid Rivers is an ambitious lawyer who will stop at nothing to be successful. Being wealthy and powerful is all he's about and he will stop at nothing to achieve his goal. Then he meets Jack Brown. The sexy thug has caught Sid's eye but the last thing he needs at the moment is a distraction.
Jack Brown is out for revenge and he's determined to get it regardless of who stands in his path. Not even the arrogant, sexy lawyer that pushes all his buttons will lead him astray.
Oh what a wicked web of lies, deception, power and corruption does Mr. Brandon Shire weave!
Right from the get go we get to know Sid Rivers and all he stands for. He is arrogant, selfish and rude. He knows what he wants and he will go to any means necessary to get it. As the episode progressed we got to see Sid getting more involved in this new case and get a glimpse of how dangerous it can become for him in the long run.
I did not like Sid at all, but I was so very intrigued by him. Jack Brown, on the other hand, was as likable as he was confusing. I didn't get much from him, but the little I got had me thinking that his story was a good one.
In Episode Two the twist just keep on coming and so does the revelations. We now get to know a bit more about Jack but not enough to understand his connection to Sid. Meanwhile, Sid studies the information he retrieve and starts plotting his way through the case. He involves his partner and associates and puts his plan in motion.
Jack and Sid continue to cross paths and the tension between them keeps up mounting. Especially after that Sid's rendezvous with an old flame. It was so very wicked and such a tease for things to come!!! And I'm not even going to mention how tantalizing the ending was. This tangled web was only going to get messier!
By Episode Three, with the plan to take down the opposition in motion, Sid starts getting results. And with those come some betrayals too. The associates are doing their best to make their end goal, especially the few Sid trusts to make it happen. However, there's always one who to screw things up and puts everything in jeopardy. Oh but how I wanted to strangle that little dweeb!
Unfortunately I didn't get my fix of Jack and Sid, since they didn't get any 'screen' time together. Sid is keeping his distance since he learned Jack's not who he thought he was and Jack is off tying some loose ends and figuring out who's after him. But don't start fretting yet! We do get to see Jack getting his groove one. And what a sexy groove it was! My anticipation for Sid and Jack getting together was definitely off the charts!
With Episode Three getting all twisty and complicated it was time to take it down a notch. Or so I thought! In Episode Four Sid is feeling the pressure and is in need of unwinding. This is where he meets and get his ass handed to him by no other than Hunter Stephens. He's one of the main characters in Brandon Shire's Afflicted I and I loved seeing him again.
What also made this episode so enjoyable was that I got to know a little bit more about Sid's past and what propelled him to be the person he is at present. Jack also sheds some layers in this episode. I loved watching him struggle and seeing how his connection to Sid had him all out of sorts. But let me be honest here, what I loved, loved about this episode was that i finally got to see Sid and Jack together. And I have no words, dammit! It was all I was expecting and a whole lot more. HOT doesn't even come close.
And after that little treasure of Episode Four we find ourselves in the midst of chaos in Episode Five. And what a ride it was! We finally find some answers, encounter some more betrayals and go, go, go! There was action and violence, angst and tenderness and quite a few gasping moments thrown in there to keep you interested.
In this episode Sid realizes just how dangerous it was to take this case. We also continue to learn more about him and watch as he fights his connection to Jack at every step. Ohhh and we get one hell of a turn of events! First, there's the hook up I did not see coming but loved to experience. Then there was the news that left me reeling. This episode...epic!
With Episode Six being the last one of the season you can expect it will be as fantastic as the others. In Episode Six, Jack finally finds some closure and Sid has the power he always wanted. He has achieved what he set out to do but not in the manner he set out to do it. Now he must try to salvage what he can while coming to terms with how grave and real the danger is--not only to himself but for Jack too. It was a bittersweet conclusion for Season One, but I don't think I would've ended it any other way. Only time will tell what's in store for these wicked men!
Some will say I'm biased since I consider Mr. Shire to be one of my favorite authors, but I assure you I am not. In my experience not every author can take an idea, roll with it and deliver a fantastic story while still taking into consideration the readers' input. Add to that the fact that the cast of characters (and believe me there are quite a few!) were all intriguing in their own right, complex and developed as the story continued on.
Personally, it was the mix of characters and riveting storyline that keep me reading all through the night. The constant twists and turns, the characters that I loved to hate and the anticipation of what the hell was going to happen next had me in a fit of grunts, swearing and OH MY GAWDs! I am certainly looking forward to the next season. There MUST be a next season!
*I received a copy of this title in exchange of my honest opinion.
Jack Brown is out for revenge and he's determined to get it regardless of who stands in his path. Not even the arrogant, sexy lawyer that pushes all his buttons will lead him astray.
Oh what a wicked web of lies, deception, power and corruption does Mr. Brandon Shire weave!
Right from the get go we get to know Sid Rivers and all he stands for. He is arrogant, selfish and rude. He knows what he wants and he will go to any means necessary to get it. As the episode progressed we got to see Sid getting more involved in this new case and get a glimpse of how dangerous it can become for him in the long run.
I did not like Sid at all, but I was so very intrigued by him. Jack Brown, on the other hand, was as likable as he was confusing. I didn't get much from him, but the little I got had me thinking that his story was a good one.
In Episode Two the twist just keep on coming and so does the revelations. We now get to know a bit more about Jack but not enough to understand his connection to Sid. Meanwhile, Sid studies the information he retrieve and starts plotting his way through the case. He involves his partner and associates and puts his plan in motion.
Jack and Sid continue to cross paths and the tension between them keeps up mounting. Especially after that Sid's rendezvous with an old flame. It was so very wicked and such a tease for things to come!!! And I'm not even going to mention how tantalizing the ending was. This tangled web was only going to get messier!
By Episode Three, with the plan to take down the opposition in motion, Sid starts getting results. And with those come some betrayals too. The associates are doing their best to make their end goal, especially the few Sid trusts to make it happen. However, there's always one who to screw things up and puts everything in jeopardy. Oh but how I wanted to strangle that little dweeb!
Unfortunately I didn't get my fix of Jack and Sid, since they didn't get any 'screen' time together. Sid is keeping his distance since he learned Jack's not who he thought he was and Jack is off tying some loose ends and figuring out who's after him. But don't start fretting yet! We do get to see Jack getting his groove one. And what a sexy groove it was! My anticipation for Sid and Jack getting together was definitely off the charts!
With Episode Three getting all twisty and complicated it was time to take it down a notch. Or so I thought! In Episode Four Sid is feeling the pressure and is in need of unwinding. This is where he meets and get his ass handed to him by no other than Hunter Stephens. He's one of the main characters in Brandon Shire's Afflicted I and I loved seeing him again.
What also made this episode so enjoyable was that I got to know a little bit more about Sid's past and what propelled him to be the person he is at present. Jack also sheds some layers in this episode. I loved watching him struggle and seeing how his connection to Sid had him all out of sorts. But let me be honest here, what I loved, loved about this episode was that i finally got to see Sid and Jack together. And I have no words, dammit! It was all I was expecting and a whole lot more. HOT doesn't even come close.
And after that little treasure of Episode Four we find ourselves in the midst of chaos in Episode Five. And what a ride it was! We finally find some answers, encounter some more betrayals and go, go, go! There was action and violence, angst and tenderness and quite a few gasping moments thrown in there to keep you interested.
In this episode Sid realizes just how dangerous it was to take this case. We also continue to learn more about him and watch as he fights his connection to Jack at every step. Ohhh and we get one hell of a turn of events! First, there's the hook up I did not see coming but loved to experience. Then there was the news that left me reeling. This episode...epic!
With Episode Six being the last one of the season you can expect it will be as fantastic as the others. In Episode Six, Jack finally finds some closure and Sid has the power he always wanted. He has achieved what he set out to do but not in the manner he set out to do it. Now he must try to salvage what he can while coming to terms with how grave and real the danger is--not only to himself but for Jack too. It was a bittersweet conclusion for Season One, but I don't think I would've ended it any other way. Only time will tell what's in store for these wicked men!
Some will say I'm biased since I consider Mr. Shire to be one of my favorite authors, but I assure you I am not. In my experience not every author can take an idea, roll with it and deliver a fantastic story while still taking into consideration the readers' input. Add to that the fact that the cast of characters (and believe me there are quite a few!) were all intriguing in their own right, complex and developed as the story continued on.
Personally, it was the mix of characters and riveting storyline that keep me reading all through the night. The constant twists and turns, the characters that I loved to hate and the anticipation of what the hell was going to happen next had me in a fit of grunts, swearing and OH MY GAWDs! I am certainly looking forward to the next season. There MUST be a next season!
*I received a copy of this title in exchange of my honest opinion.
June 12, 2015
Original Blog Post: Spotlight Blitz, eARC Review, Excerpt & #Giveaway: The Love of Wicked Men (Season One Boxed Set) by Brandon Shire
Review by: multitaskingmomma
My Rating: 5 of 5 Stars
There is a new style of writing a book that divides readers opinions. This style of writing are the 'seasonal' books, much like the television series we get addicted to. Some of these productions gain interest and a following and some don't. Many readers feel this should not be done for most of the books are too short for comfort and once the whole story is out, they realize they could have just read it in one sitting without having had to sit and wait for months for the next installment. The Love of Wicked Men by Brandon Shire is one such series. Fortunately, the author did not bother to make the episodes too short, in fact, some of them were quite lengthy. This did not give it a feel of a TV series, rather it came out more like a mini-series. And this one I am reviewing is just Season One and fortunately, again, I did not have to sit out the wait, I just had to go read this back to back. This is a boxed set, you see, and at $9.99, I have to tell you, it is way, WAY! worth it. Without much ado, let me try to give this a review. It is a humongously lengthy story and quite complicated, so I will try to make it as short, sweet and really brief. (Look, peeps, I said I'll try,okay! No need to yell that I am not the brief type!)
Let's start with the main men. Warning to the future readers, they are not the typical romantic main squeezes. They read more like anti-heroes than the usual antagonist and protagonist formula. As I read this, I cannot really choose who is the antagonist or protagonist, these men are WICKED! both of them so they are anti-heroes both.
Sid Rivers and Jack Brown supposedly meet accidentally. Sid is hurt when Jack flashes a knife and 'accidentally' cuts him. Jack ends up in jail, Sid is called in to identify, he supposedly cannot be sure of identity despite meeting him eye to eye and his **ahem** rises to the occassion. Sid is a lawyer so basically, he is a guy who knows how to twist truth and fact without remorse.
Now Jack is out, Sid wants Jack. Yeah, like in bed and to work for him for a little project he is getting involved in. He seeks Jack and meets Savannah, the sister, who kind of melts his heart a bit for a reason I cannot reveal. In any case, it seems that Jack is really not the Jack he is introduced to be and Sid is clueless of the secret. Obviously, we readers know the secret, but we cannot tell Sid.
Now, neither men caught my fancy in terms of making my heart throb at the thought. They are, instead, unlikable men. Jack has his reasons, Sid has his reasons, they are sinners and manipulative. Both men are alpha like but one is more dominant than the other. I, as a reader, cannot honestly say I fell for this book because of the romance. I was just plain hooked. Simple as that. It was like watching a tennis match or a volleyball game. Watching as the ball goes over and over the net unable to fall, but knowing eventually it will. The one that fails to keep the ball up loses a score. So we have Sid and Jack, exchanging balls. They have sex and we get HOT! We want romance and we get intrigue. We want love, and we get manipulation.
So how come I could not stop reading this and wanting to find out more??????? Yeah, I got hooked on a series and cannot wait for the next one to be dropped on my lap. The way this ended, I just threw my Kindle away and glared at it. Then picked it up and hoped there was another page.
Review by: multitaskingmomma
My Rating: 5 of 5 Stars
There is a new style of writing a book that divides readers opinions. This style of writing are the 'seasonal' books, much like the television series we get addicted to. Some of these productions gain interest and a following and some don't. Many readers feel this should not be done for most of the books are too short for comfort and once the whole story is out, they realize they could have just read it in one sitting without having had to sit and wait for months for the next installment. The Love of Wicked Men by Brandon Shire is one such series. Fortunately, the author did not bother to make the episodes too short, in fact, some of them were quite lengthy. This did not give it a feel of a TV series, rather it came out more like a mini-series. And this one I am reviewing is just Season One and fortunately, again, I did not have to sit out the wait, I just had to go read this back to back. This is a boxed set, you see, and at $9.99, I have to tell you, it is way, WAY! worth it. Without much ado, let me try to give this a review. It is a humongously lengthy story and quite complicated, so I will try to make it as short, sweet and really brief. (Look, peeps, I said I'll try,okay! No need to yell that I am not the brief type!)
Let's start with the main men. Warning to the future readers, they are not the typical romantic main squeezes. They read more like anti-heroes than the usual antagonist and protagonist formula. As I read this, I cannot really choose who is the antagonist or protagonist, these men are WICKED! both of them so they are anti-heroes both.
Sid Rivers and Jack Brown supposedly meet accidentally. Sid is hurt when Jack flashes a knife and 'accidentally' cuts him. Jack ends up in jail, Sid is called in to identify, he supposedly cannot be sure of identity despite meeting him eye to eye and his **ahem** rises to the occassion. Sid is a lawyer so basically, he is a guy who knows how to twist truth and fact without remorse.
Now Jack is out, Sid wants Jack. Yeah, like in bed and to work for him for a little project he is getting involved in. He seeks Jack and meets Savannah, the sister, who kind of melts his heart a bit for a reason I cannot reveal. In any case, it seems that Jack is really not the Jack he is introduced to be and Sid is clueless of the secret. Obviously, we readers know the secret, but we cannot tell Sid.
Now, neither men caught my fancy in terms of making my heart throb at the thought. They are, instead, unlikable men. Jack has his reasons, Sid has his reasons, they are sinners and manipulative. Both men are alpha like but one is more dominant than the other. I, as a reader, cannot honestly say I fell for this book because of the romance. I was just plain hooked. Simple as that. It was like watching a tennis match or a volleyball game. Watching as the ball goes over and over the net unable to fall, but knowing eventually it will. The one that fails to keep the ball up loses a score. So we have Sid and Jack, exchanging balls. They have sex and we get HOT! We want romance and we get intrigue. We want love, and we get manipulation.
So how come I could not stop reading this and wanting to find out more??????? Yeah, I got hooked on a series and cannot wait for the next one to be dropped on my lap. The way this ended, I just threw my Kindle away and glared at it. Then picked it up and hoped there was another page.
May 17, 2015
A great author writes about characters who stick with a reader long after the final page of the book has been read. There is no doubt about the fact that Brandon Shire is a great author, and his latest story, The Love of Wicked Men, a tale broken up into six intriguing episodes, is a great contribution to Shire's tome of literature. Shire kept me intrigued and involved, turning pages and wanting to continue reading, even when I didn't like the characters' actions very much.
Jack and Drake are intense characters, and even though I disliked Sid much of the time, his character was a strong catalyst and foil for the plot and other characters. And for fans of Shire's other works, there is a surprising guest appearance from another series.
The Love of Wicked Men is a great read, and as with all of Shire's books, the prose are wonderfully descriptive. The plot is intense and addictive. And the sex, well, let's just say this story is appropriately titled.
Merged review:
A great author writes about characters who stick with a reader long after the final page of the book has been read. There is no doubt about the fact that Brandon Shire is a great author, and his latest story, The Love of Wicked Mena tale broken up into six intriguing episodes, is a great contribution to Shire's tome of literature. Shire kept me intrigued and involved, turning pages and wanting to continue reading, even when I didn't like the characters' actions very much.
Jack and Drake are intense characters, and even though I disliked Sid much of the time, his character was a strong catalyst and foil for the plot and other characters. And for fans of Shire's other works, there is a surprising guest appearance from another series.
The Love of Wicked Men is a great read, and as with all of Shire's books, the prose are wonderfully descriptive. The plot is intense and addictive. And the sex, well, let's just say this story is appropriately titled.
June 22, 2015
*Complimentary copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Well this was certainly a unique experience and kept me on the edge of the sofa whilst gripping my kindle tightly, flicking the next button as fast as I could. I knew as this was a Brandon Shire storyline it was not going to be a sparkling unicorn’s tale of fluff but this book still took me by surprise.
It was a gritty and had an in depth plot, with characters you loved to hate and hated to love. Yes you know the type – those that grab you by the scruff of the neck and stare you down to get reading. Well this was one of those gripping reads.
The episodes were released separately which I read one by one but then when the boxset was available I just had to do it all again, in case I missed something.
I won’t divulge the plot or let slip any spoilers, needless to say I shall leave that enjoyment to the new reader. All I will say is Sid and Jack in that last scene? Smoking!
This was an all-encompassing read with plenty of intrigue, intensity, suspense and hot lusty sex. Everything to engage the reader in an amazing read.
Do we want season two? Hell yes! Five stars.
Well this was certainly a unique experience and kept me on the edge of the sofa whilst gripping my kindle tightly, flicking the next button as fast as I could. I knew as this was a Brandon Shire storyline it was not going to be a sparkling unicorn’s tale of fluff but this book still took me by surprise.
It was a gritty and had an in depth plot, with characters you loved to hate and hated to love. Yes you know the type – those that grab you by the scruff of the neck and stare you down to get reading. Well this was one of those gripping reads.
The episodes were released separately which I read one by one but then when the boxset was available I just had to do it all again, in case I missed something.
I won’t divulge the plot or let slip any spoilers, needless to say I shall leave that enjoyment to the new reader. All I will say is Sid and Jack in that last scene? Smoking!
This was an all-encompassing read with plenty of intrigue, intensity, suspense and hot lusty sex. Everything to engage the reader in an amazing read.
Do we want season two? Hell yes! Five stars.
July 20, 2015
Some thoughts while reading this: Sid's kind of a dick. Wow, he's really a dick. No, maybe he's okay. I fucking HATE Sid! But I like Jack. No, I love Jack. I want to see Jack put Sid in his place
All in all, this was a fantastic read. There were quite a few pleasant surprises I adored Sweeny, and Shane, and I think Sid stands to improve with Jack at his side.
Bring on Season 2
All in all, this was a fantastic read. There were quite a few pleasant surprises I adored Sweeny, and Shane, and I think Sid stands to improve with Jack at his side.
Bring on Season 2
September 3, 2016
Would love to see this being made into actual TV series! Although I don't totally agree with Drake's comment that Jack and Sid fit each other although they both are troubled individuals, I'd still love to see how their relationship will evolve in season 2. I also expect to see more Jack-Sid-Shane triangle in the future. Oh and
August 17, 2015
4.5 stars. Hoping this series continues. Things are just starting to get interesting with Sid and Jack. The dynamic between them is super hot!
June 22, 2015
Reviewed by Amy Smith for QUEERcentric Books
4.7 Stars
In The Love of Wicked Men, Jack Brown has a huge case of revenge on his mind. Sid Rivers is a lawyer who thinks he has the world by the balls. What these two don’t know is that a proficient puppet master is playing them. Someone who knows their deepest, darkest secrets and is not above playing dirty to get what they want. Chance meetings, covert ops, and some serious sex scenes make this romantic thriller worth every minute spent reading.
In this series, the reader is captivated in the very first chapter. Wanting to know who, what, when, and where--we are kept on the edge of our seat until the VERY end. The story is so unpredictable, I was afraid to click the next page, knowing I would be drawn in deeper at every turn. Mysterious and consuming, the sex scenes are scorching, the plot unique, and the characters lovable, making this book come to life for the reader.
The story is exceptional, the writing exquisite, and the plot is so twisted, you cannot even begin to guess how this series is going to end. I fell for this story hook, line, and sinker. I still find myself shaking my head at how the plot was devised and executed by the author. Beautifully delivered, this book will keep you guessing, hanging on the edge of your seat, and loving every minute of it.
Sexy, twisted, steamy, and exceptionally written this book grabbed me by the throat and held on until the very end.
4.7 Stars
In The Love of Wicked Men, Jack Brown has a huge case of revenge on his mind. Sid Rivers is a lawyer who thinks he has the world by the balls. What these two don’t know is that a proficient puppet master is playing them. Someone who knows their deepest, darkest secrets and is not above playing dirty to get what they want. Chance meetings, covert ops, and some serious sex scenes make this romantic thriller worth every minute spent reading.
In this series, the reader is captivated in the very first chapter. Wanting to know who, what, when, and where--we are kept on the edge of our seat until the VERY end. The story is so unpredictable, I was afraid to click the next page, knowing I would be drawn in deeper at every turn. Mysterious and consuming, the sex scenes are scorching, the plot unique, and the characters lovable, making this book come to life for the reader.
The story is exceptional, the writing exquisite, and the plot is so twisted, you cannot even begin to guess how this series is going to end. I fell for this story hook, line, and sinker. I still find myself shaking my head at how the plot was devised and executed by the author. Beautifully delivered, this book will keep you guessing, hanging on the edge of your seat, and loving every minute of it.
Sexy, twisted, steamy, and exceptionally written this book grabbed me by the throat and held on until the very end.
May 31, 2016
Interesting characters and an intricate plot, with some unexpected turns.
Sid isn’t a likeable character and, although his past explains his coldness and his unwillingness to open to other people, there’s no justification for the gratuitous cruelty he displays sometimes.
He grew on me, though, especially after
I liked Jack and his team a lot and I hope to see more of Drake and Sweeny in the future.
What I don’t understand is why Drake kept telling Jack that
Maybe that was because Drake knows Jack better than the reader, but as a reader I didn’t see it.
I loved seeing Sid getting attached to Jack, even if it was at a turtle’s speed and he showed it in very little ways.
Jack was very protective of Sid from the beginning; I liked how he seemed able to see right past Sid’s façade and find some good in him, even if he wasn’t blind to Sid’s faults.
The dynamic between them feels just right, with Jack being the only one that knows how to handle Sid’s ego and get past his defenses.
The romance was almost non-existent, but the little that was there makes me look forward to future developments.
Sid isn’t a likeable character and, although his past explains his coldness and his unwillingness to open to other people, there’s no justification for the gratuitous cruelty he displays sometimes.
He grew on me, though, especially after
I liked Jack and his team a lot and I hope to see more of Drake and Sweeny in the future.
What I don’t understand is why Drake kept telling Jack that
Maybe that was because Drake knows Jack better than the reader, but as a reader I didn’t see it.
I loved seeing Sid getting attached to Jack, even if it was at a turtle’s speed and he showed it in very little ways.
Jack was very protective of Sid from the beginning; I liked how he seemed able to see right past Sid’s façade and find some good in him, even if he wasn’t blind to Sid’s faults.
The dynamic between them feels just right, with Jack being the only one that knows how to handle Sid’s ego and get past his defenses.
The romance was almost non-existent, but the little that was there makes me look forward to future developments.
June 10, 2015
When I review books I mostly focus on the emotion for review. Through the course of a month I read this 400+ box set (6 episodes) Is it weird I felt like I was watching a show? Well, I did. What I loved most was the lawyer/criminal aspect. The intensity and suspense. It was hot and it got my blood boiling for more than just one reason. The Love of Wicked Men is in fact addictive. It stays with you long after you've closed the last episode. Brandon rocked the hotness, and the storyline? Amazing! This really was a ride and I loved every second of it. Very well developed characters, of course. But, I FELT them. And that's what I need as a reader to relate, not just to them but the story and flow. Well written!!! Brandon Shire always seems to grasp what needs to be felt in the moment and that's likely why I'm such a fan of his work.
July 4, 2015
4.8 stars. Fascinating and full of surprises. The intense, exciting episodes are combined with a fair number of romantic M/M elements, just the way I like it. "These two couldn't decide whether they wanted to fight or fuck." How adorable their relationship is(?) Maybe I'd like to see Sid fight more, but his submission is enticing as well. Drake and Sweeny are also an adorable couple XD Look forward to Season Two!
March 31, 2017
Now, do I start reading Seson 2 one by one, or wait for them all to come out? Hmmm.
Rereading for shits and giggles.
1st read 12/2/15 So, how close is Season 2?
Not a lot I can add to previous reviews. Incredible world and character building. Backstabbing, hacking, corporate espionage, murder, betrayal, raunchy-good sex, sleazy, vicious attorneys and anything thing else you could want. Non-stop suspense and exciting action and more twists than a box of rotini. Loved it.
Rereading for shits and giggles.
1st read 12/2/15 So, how close is Season 2?
Not a lot I can add to previous reviews. Incredible world and character building. Backstabbing, hacking, corporate espionage, murder, betrayal, raunchy-good sex, sleazy, vicious attorneys and anything thing else you could want. Non-stop suspense and exciting action and more twists than a box of rotini. Loved it.
May 14, 2016
i did nothing all morning and afternoon but read thru these 6 episodes...
i am directly responding to the author's question about a season 2...
characters you love to hate but secretly crush on...yes please
action on top of action...yes please...
hot lovin' on the run...yes please...
yes yes and yes...
more please...
one of the best stories ive read in a while...
ten freakin stars...
i am directly responding to the author's question about a season 2...
characters you love to hate but secretly crush on...yes please
action on top of action...yes please...
hot lovin' on the run...yes please...
yes yes and yes...
more please...
one of the best stories ive read in a while...
ten freakin stars...
July 15, 2015
Dirty-dealing lawyers, revenge focused hackers, an irresistible attraction. Lots of cliffhangers, which thankfully because I bought the box set I didn't have to wait for the next ep. Would love to have seen more Sid/Jack time (and so would Sid and Jack!)
December 16, 2015
The Love of Wicked Men (Episodes 1-6) by Brandon Shire: http://reviews-and-ramblings.dreamwid... 2015 Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention (5* from at least 1 judge)
September 2, 2018
Between the cynicism and tenderness. And maybe between the bitterness and hope.
The love of wicked men was a beautiful contradiction of sorts. This Author knows his way with words -reminded me of J.Wiltshire writing at some point- and can tell so much with so little. It's engaging.
The book is about two men, who are kindred souls. A sort of mirror. Jack Brandt and Sid Rivers.
And yes, they are not your usual MC. Sid was a total utter bastard most of the time, and yet as we uncovered some truths about him, I started feeling sympathy for him. Jack was the good man since the very beginning.
I liked it a lot. More than just like in fact.
I think there are a lot of books out there that are hiding, and that need to be found and read. And get more recognition. This story deserves it. 4.8 stars.
The love of wicked men was a beautiful contradiction of sorts. This Author knows his way with words -reminded me of J.Wiltshire writing at some point- and can tell so much with so little. It's engaging.
The book is about two men, who are kindred souls. A sort of mirror. Jack Brandt and Sid Rivers.
And yes, they are not your usual MC. Sid was a total utter bastard most of the time, and yet as we uncovered some truths about him, I started feeling sympathy for him. Jack was the good man since the very beginning.
I liked it a lot. More than just like in fact.
I think there are a lot of books out there that are hiding, and that need to be found and read. And get more recognition. This story deserves it. 4.8 stars.
September 23, 2017
Absolutely LOVED it!
The characters and their personalities were so real. I am a sucker for Sid's character, his personality traits and the hidden past behind his present "asshole" personality was so well written that I could not stop wanting to read more and more about him. I love that although he was challenged and lost battles in the book he still had his "asshole" persona, he stayed strong and didn't turn to mush when something went wrong.
I also love how the author took the time to really dive deep into the world of being a lawyer, the explanations and storytelling was just mesmerizing, I couldn't put the book down whatsoever and only hope that Season 2 will be out soon!!
The characters and their personalities were so real. I am a sucker for Sid's character, his personality traits and the hidden past behind his present "asshole" personality was so well written that I could not stop wanting to read more and more about him. I love that although he was challenged and lost battles in the book he still had his "asshole" persona, he stayed strong and didn't turn to mush when something went wrong.
I also love how the author took the time to really dive deep into the world of being a lawyer, the explanations and storytelling was just mesmerizing, I couldn't put the book down whatsoever and only hope that Season 2 will be out soon!!
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