D'amore e d'accordo

Cut & Run #5

by Abigail Roux

Seguito di Luci e ombre
Serie Armi & bagagli, Libro 5

Abbandonato a Baltimora dal suo imprevedibile partner, l’agente speciale Zane Garrett non trova di meglio che sfogare la rabbia su qualunque cosa incontri sul proprio cammino – finché non gli viene ordinato di recarsi a Chicago per assistere un collega durante un’operazione sotto copertura. L’ultima cosa che si aspetta è di trovarvi proprio il partner fuggitivo, l’agente speciale Ty Grady. La missione per cui sono stati inviati, ossia recuperare un informatore ed ex-agente della CIA di nome Julian Cross, si prospetta improvvisamente più difficile.


Ex-marine e uomo chiave del Bureau, Ty ha un debole per i tiri mancini – tratto su cui Zane può ampiamente testimoniare. Reduce da un passato tormentato, Zane viveva solo per il lavoro, ma finalmente sta iniziando a comprendere che i lutti di un tempo non devono necessariamente gettare ombra sul futuro. I due uomini sono compagni di squadra, amici, amanti, nonché la scelta perfetta per quel genere di lavoretti insoliti. Ora, con al seguito Cross e quell’ingenuo del suo ragazzo, Cameron Jacobs, dovranno affrontare gli ostacoli di un viaggio attraverso il paese – incluse imbarazzanti perquisizioni aeroportuali, tempeste di neve, prigionieri assai poco collaborativi, squadroni di killer della CIA, carenza estrema di sonno e caffeina… e loro stessi. Ty e Zane sono determinati a scortare Cross fino a Washington, ma cominciano a dubitare di poterne uscire vivi.

Genres: M M Romance, Romance, Contemporary, Mystery, Crime, LGBT, Suspense

380 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 18, 2012

About the author

Abigail Roux was born and raised in North Carolina. A past volleyball star who specializes in sarcasm and painful historical accuracy, she currently spends her time coaching high school volleyball and investigating the mysteries of single motherhood. Any spare time is spent living and dying with every Atlanta Braves and Carolina Panthers game of the year. Abigail has a daughter, Little Roux, who is the light of her life, a boxer, four rescued cats who play an ongoing live-action variation of 'Call of Duty' throughout the house, a certifiable extended family down the road, and a cast of thousands in her head.

Reviews

[Meags · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Stars

There’s just something about this series that leaves me awkwardly speechless when it comes to review writing. It’s almost been a week since I finished this story and I’m no closer to finding anything useful to say, but I’ll try.

I was a good little reader and read the fabulous Warrior's Cross before braving Ty and Zane’s fifth epic tale, and I’m so glad I did. I feel like so much of what made this story epic—the fantastic banter and macho stand-offs between Ty and Julian—would have been lost somewhere in translation had I not read Julian and Cameron’s story first. It was such a treat to revisit these guys, and better yet, have them in close proximity to Ty and Zane for pretty much the entirety of this story.

The plot for Armed & Dangerous is the catalyst for such impressively action-packed, funny and romantic moments. The story sees Ty and Zane on a mission to Chicago to “detain” the illustrious Julian Cross (along with his bf Cameron), with orders to deliver him to FBI headquarters in Washington. As can only be expected in a Cut & Run book, things don't go as planned for Ty and Zane, and soon enough their little ragtag group find themselves facing off against each other while fighting for their lives against an even bigger threat.

Essentially, what we have here is a cross between an intense on-the-run tale of action and intrigue, and a campy road trip adventure full of good humour and romance. Needless to say, I had a blast with this particular premise.

This fifth story also gained some serious acceleration in the romance department. I was already a Ty and Zane fanatic well before I reached this story, but man was I a goner during this particular offering. Within 15 pages I was a metaphorical puddle of goo on the floor. The love confessions were flying all over the place (YIPPEEEEE!!!) and I was in book heaven as a result; I spent a solid amount of reading time with a ridiculous grin plastered across my face, to the point that my face hurt like a bitch by the time I was done. And to be crystal clear, this book comprises some of the most epically passionate love scenes I’ve ever read, no joke!

To say that I loved this story would be an understatement, but to say that Cut & Run has very quickly become one of the best series I’ve ever read would be a pretty damn accurate declaration.

******************************************

Re-read: March 2018

Loved it then, love it even more now!

There is something about this particular installment that really solidifies the epicness of the love Ty and Zane share. It's probably because that love is now being voiced and embraced to the best of their abilities, and as a result this story is swimming in a shit-ton of tasty and swoon-worthy moments which work to elevate the romance ten-fold.

I can confidently say that I'll never tire of reading about these guys. Nope, never!

*dreamy sigh*

******************************************

Re-read (#3): June, 2024

Probably one of my absolute favourite crossovers of all time. The banter in this book is next level. The action-plot is enrapturing. The romance is to die for. There is not a single thing I would change.


HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!! <3


Cut & Run universe READING ORDER

Cut & Run 1 - Cut & Run (4 Stars)
Cut & Run 2 - Sticks & Stones (4.5 Stars)
Cut & Run 3 - Fish & Chips (5 Stars)
Cut & Run 4 - Divide & Conquer (5 Stars)
Julian Cross - Warrior's Cross (5 Stars)
Cut & Run 5 - Armed & Dangerous (5 Stars)
Cut & Run 6 - Stars & Stripes (5 Stars)
Cut & Run 7 - Touch & Geaux (4.5 Stars)
Sidewinder 1 - Shock & Awe (5 Stars)
Cut & Run 8 - Ball & Chain (4.5 Stars)
Sidewinder 2 - Cross & Crown (4.5 Stars)
Cut & Run 9 - Crash & Burn (5 Stars)
Sidewinder 3 - Part & Parcel (5 Stars)

[Jenn · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'll probably put more of a detailed review up later. Below may have mild spoilers, read at your own risk.


What can I say? I was one of those people that was blind rage angry at the last book. I was like explain this and that, what the fuck Nick?!?! And with this one everything was explained. The I Love You from Zane, why Nick chose to act that way, the holding back, etc.

The necklace is given to Ty, and it was done in a proper way. It wasn't a marriage proposal (yet), but it was a symbol from him to Ty. It was casually done in only a way Zane could do with those amazing lovable eyes Ty could give him.

The sex: I literally sat down and cried at the opening sex scene. It was everything to me. It had nostalgia, love, and hotness. They made comments that both of them have said throughout the series while staying in the moment. However, for a reader, having those nostalgic moments to tie back into their journey was so important. The "are you feeling this too?" Gahhhhhh, kill my heart now. It was amazing. The sex scenes/moments: is it possible you need a fan to cool off from a book? Good, lawdddyy. *pant pant*

I hated Nick in the last book. HATED him. In this one, when I first read it I was all mehhhh. I had sympathy for his POW status, but not how he acted with Ty & Zane. However, the longer I sat on it the longer everything began to fit for me. How although it may on the surface not relate: war torn anguish with real time laughter and love, it all interacts and affects how these men act and love. I got him. I felt for him. Dare I say I grew to love him? He is no threat to Ty & Zane. He is a friend that loved a fellow friend for years. Now that everyone is aware of the situation he can move on. Zane can be the confident man he once was in knowing Ty is his man despite both of their faults. And deep down I would never have felt right with Ty losing his best friend over that. I"m glad too that it was done between Zane and Nick alone.

The roadtrip: I wasn't sure I'd like that aspect, but for this book it felt right. From book 2 through 4, the boys have been stagnant. Trapped in West Virgina, on a cruise ship, and in their own emotional prison in their apartments. In this book, everything was out in the open and progressing. Their emotions, their travel, and who they were opening up with each other. It was enlightening, fun, and sigh worthy. FINALLLLLLLY.

For those wondering about Cameron and Julian: if you were a huge fan of them before, I think this book will get you even more excited. If you weren't, well I don't think they are in it enough to be that distracting. While there is a crossover, this book is all Ty and Zane. It was nice, however, to see Ty & Zane interact with individuals that were gay, not in their work field, and not family. Maybe down the road they will even have them as friends. But, Cameron and Julian are easy, and the dynamics between Julian and Ty were hilarious. Not to mention when Zane went all badass on Julian I may or may not have done a little fist pump.

The ending. Its not a cliffhanger, but its not a HEA. How can it be with more books in the series? However, goddamnnnnnnn, its what we've been waiting for. An ending that has relationship progression that shows the readers that big decisions can come with pure joy and happiness. Yes, they know the road ahead might have some battles, but dammit they believe in each other, they are honest now, and they both know that they aren't willing to ever lose the other.

All in all, a fantastic read!!

[* A Reader Obsessed * · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Fantastic Stars!! - Reread 6/2024

No more doubts. No more excuses. No more running.

Sexy swoony, combustible chemistry, the love finally flows freely! Hallelujah!

—————————————————————

*Update - Reread 2/13/15*

Finally Ty and Zane are on board and have come to an understanding. The satisfying result is explosively hot, tender, and intense. This was probably the best entry in showcasing how in sync these two are with each other and why they are perfect partners in and out of bed!

I would love to say that all the cards are on the table and they have nothing to hide but that isn't the case. And I have to be honest, I flinched a bit regarding Ty, knowing what I do now. Obviously his sense of duty is strong and we all know the consequences and repercussions of how this plays out. One wonders if Zane too has some big reveals in the final chapter.

I recommend reading Warrior's Cross first to get background history on the supporting characters Julian and Cameron. These two are the perfect foil to our MC's. As always, it amazes me when witnessing the strength of Ty and Zane's feelings for each other, and I continue to marvel at these two uber tough, alpha men showing their softer sides. In essence this had plenty of action, seriously scorching smex, and continuous swoon worthy moments - all of which should satisfy and keep you coming back for more!


Cut & Run Series
1. Cut & Run - 5 Stars
2. Sticks & Stones - 5 Stars
3. Fish & Chips - 5 Stars
4. Divide & Conquer - 5 Stars
Warrior’s Cross - 4.5 Stars
5. Armed & Dangerous - 5 Stars
6. Stars & Stripes 5 Stars
7. Touch & Geaux - 5 Stars
Shock & Awe (Sidewinder #1) - 5 Stars
8. Ball & Chain - 5 Stars
Cross & Crown (Sidewinder #2) - 4.5 Stars
9. Crash & Burn - 5 Stars
Part & Parcel (Sidewinder #3) - 5 Stars

[Baba · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Ty," Zane said between kisses, his hands firm on Ty's body. "Be mine, just for now. There's time."
Ty reached for Zane's face, meeting his eyes. "I was always yours," he said with difficulty.

5+++++ stars.

Holy smokes! Kissing my Goodreads stars…kissing my Kindle…kissing Ty! Wow, wow, wow what a revelation!! Abigail had to fly solo and I'm super happy that she did such an outstanding job with Armed & Dangerous! Ladies, I'm rolling my eyes…in ecstatic delight!

That's love.

I loved A&D from start to finish! Frankly, there was not one single dull moment to be found. Wonderful and well-drawn main AND secondary characters, witty dialogue and a really sensible and good plot made this story to something very special. I don't want to give away too much of the plot though. It's enough to say that Ty and Zane have to escort Julian and his lover Cameron from Chicago to Washington DC. The big question: who are the real bad guys? When they are on their merry way, the road gets a bit bumpy from time to time. Honestly, the prospect of a long trip on the road was not all that promising. With that said, I was pleasantly surprised that the journey was incredibly entertaining, action-packed, and utterly hilarious at times. No boredom at all. Ty and Zane never disappoint, that's for sure. I totally adored the way Ty and Julian were bitching at one another. My oh my, do we feel a little bit upset and cranky, my lovelies? By the way, beside Ty and Zane I really liked Julian and Cam. These two guys cranked up the fun factor tremendously! Oh, and don't forget Ty's brother Deuce. It's always a pleasure to see you again!

Ty is the same but then again, somehow he is different. There's so much more emotional depth when these two guys are together now. Well, I don't know if it's due to their relationship development (it's the fifth book, after all) OR if it's the fact that Abigail had to fly solo when she wrote A&D. Ultimately, I don't care and I'm so incredibly happy with the outcome. The love scenes are so super hot, passionate, and yet incredibly intimate, moving, and tender. Man, I wanted to crawl under their skin. What I especially loved as well was the kissing and touching. Lots of affectionate kissing and touching. *Le sigh*

I adored the compass rose thingie. I just knew Zane's answer.

"Because you gave me direction when I was lost. You showed me the way." He looked up to meet Ty's eyes. "You're like my very own compass."
"Zane."
"I know, I know. I'm a sap."
"Maybe. But you're my sap," Ty said fondly.

Further, I loved Nick and Zane's heart-to-heart. After Nick and Ty's "incident" in Divide & Conquer so many readers were angry with Ty. I wasn't. I have your back, Ty. Always. That's why I was so glad that all of us got this important insight. I hope the readers will understand you way better now, Ty.

"Sometimes I…I just need a break. Up here," he said, tapping his forehead. "I have to go somewhere on my own to let life hit me. If I don't, too much piles up and…I end up not really able to deal. I just have to get away sometimes."

Yeah, being a tortured prisoner of war can do that to you. Twenty-three days, nine hours, and fifty-one minutes. I'd love to know Ty's point of view. Maybe in the next book? This must have been so utterly life-changing for Ty.

After having finished A&D, I ended up smiling like a fool. It's fan-freakin-tastic. I'm happy.

[Elise ✘ a.k.a Ryder's Pet ✘ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Second re-read: 11.09.2021
Technically the series could've ended here. I'm glad it didn't as I remember book six is my favorite. That said, this time reading it I realized something: the first times I read it I hated that it seemed like Zane or Julian was stronger and better than Ty, but as you read, you see Julian - and Zane - surprised by how good and dangerous Ty is. I love that. The world of Cut & Run should be glad that Ty is one of the good guys... Overall, I love Ty, I loved how closer Ty and Zane have gotten and have I mentioned how much - yes you guessed it - I love Ty?
New rating: 3 stars.

⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱*MY BABY TY*⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱

Re-read: 11.06.2017
Why I started re-reading this one as well is a good question... I think I just wanted more Ty. Because Ty is amazing and I love him so, so much. I still don't like how Julian appeared to be 'better' than Ty, but Ty clearly wins that one; he's simply the best. I also don't get how Burs can turn out to be the bad guy late in the book series. I mean, we read his POVs, and he doesn't seem like the bad guy. So it's safe to say that I didn't like that twist. Overall, I adore and love Ty way too much so the storyline obviously comes second as Ty comes first. I have a feeling that I'll re-read this one again...along with all the others I keep re-reading.

First read review:
The book was alright, I guess. A bit boring, even with the twists and turns it had. I loved, though, seeing Ty Grady and Zane Garrett more free and more open with each other. It was kinda interesting to see Ty and Zane through someone else's eyes, though I wasn't really interested in Cameron and Julian's relationship, but I liked see how they saw Ty and Zane. Also, I didn't like how the book made me think that Julian was...stronger, more dangerous and more powerful than Ty. In my head, Ty's the most dangerous, the strongest and the most powerful, and I don't like people messing with that.

“You’re not going to kill them, are you?” Cameron asked, shifting uneasily in the seat. “I mean, they’re just doing their jobs.”
“Not unless they make me,” Julian said as he looked back at Cameron. “The threat from Grady is negligible, but Garrett will kill both of us if he thinks he’s justified. Remember that before you get too attached to them.”

Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Contemporary Romance (M/M)
Series: - Series, Book Five
Love triangle? - No.
Cheating? - No.
HEA? - Open ending?.
Favorite character? - Ty Grady.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Sure.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Sure.
Will I read this again in the future? - No.
Rating - 2.5/3 stars.

[Blacky *Romance Addict* · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ty and Zane could power an entire city with how much electricity they produce together!
Throw Julian and Cameron in the picture and you got yourself free enegry everywhere

This book was amazing! We get not only two absolutely fabulous characters, but 4 My mind was on overload, didn't know who to love more in every new scene



It starts right after the ending of Divide & Conquer, Ty calls Zane and appologizes, but he can't come back home bacause he's sent on a new mission. Lucky for Zane, Burns sends him on the same mission to be Ty's backup and they make up and at that point I was somewhere on the ground, fanited with all the swoon, it was just so lovely and beautiful and I just loved it!!! He finally gave Ty the compass and they said "I love you" to each other again. And again. And no matter how many times they say it in the future it won't be enough And in this one they pretty much made love for the first time, it wasn't just hot sex and f*cking themselves sensless :) very beautiful scene (it was hot too, don't get me wrong ).


Their mission is to force Julian Cross to come to DC and testify, but of course, Julian is a tough cookie, he doesn't want to goo back to his old job, so Ty and Zane pretty much abduct/arrest them both XD They were all hilarious together XD Julian and Ty absolutely couldn't stand each other, and they fought ALL the time, throwing jabs and insults - LOVED IT Cameron was a sweetheart, a total nice guy caught in all the mess
It was a bumpy ride, trying to prevent Julian and Cameron from escaping, and then all of them trying to escape CIA/FBI operatives :)



Great story, full of dynamics, Ty and Zane's relationship progressing further , Ty and Julian throwing insults , Zane dealing with Nick and Ty's past , and Cameron being the brains in one situation which had me laughing my ass off


Just a brilliant book, confirms my addiction (obsession ) with T&Z



One more thing - I strongly suggest you read Warrior's Cross before this one, it's the story of Julian and Cameron and it's fantastic! You won't regret it! And you'll know and love them even before you start this one

[LenaRibka · Rating 4 out of 5]

This series is like a holiday, a spa for my soul.



And Armed & Dangerous is like the best day of it.

Ty



and Zane



are not just the most adorable and amazing couple of the gay fiction,
THEY ARE CULT. And this series is a MUST READ not only for the fans of M/M-genre.

I don’t know how Abigail Roux does it, but every sequel, every her next book is better than the previous one.



EVERYTHING IS GETTING BETTER HERE!

♥ Not only the relationship between Ty and Zane.
There are no misunderstandings.
They speak with each other.
They trust each other.
THEY LOVE EACH OTHER.
♥ Not only sex.




Oh yeah...Sex deserves only superlatives!



The sex scenes are one of the best I have ever read.



♥ Though also a suspense part!



Yes, you can forget the weakest point of the first books!!
There is nothing of a B-action movie in it!
The plot turned into an excellent thriller.
Nothing predictable, nothing secondary, nothing insignificant.



♥ It is a perfect mixture out of a heartbreaking romance, an action thriller, a mind-blowing erotic and a warm sweet romantic comedy!

FANTASTIC READING EXPERIENCE!



I ENJOYED EVERY SINGLE MOMENT OF THIS BOOK!
IT IS FUN!
IT IS A GOOD MOOD!
IT IS SMILE ON MY FACE ALL DAY LONG!!

I CAN'T HAVE ENOUGH OF TY AND ZANE!
AND I WANT MORE!!!!!!!!!!!

[Nancy · Rating 2 out of 5]

Posted at Shelf Inflicted

I think I’m done with Ty and Zane.

In this fifth book of the Cut & Run series, it seems that one half of the author duo is now going it alone. And the other half has absconded with the Ty and Zane I loved in the earlier books.

Don’t get me wrong. I’m happy that Ty and Zane are now at the stage of their relationship where they have found a happy equilibrium. The problem is, their behavior is so out of character, especially after Ty’s sudden departure in the last book. Forgiveness happened a little too quickly for my liking, and the excessive declarations of love, the “oh, baby’s” and humming by most of the male characters made me want to stick a fork in my eye.

Number of hums
Ty Grady – 10
Zane Garrett – 6
Julian Cross – 5
Cameron Jacobs – 2
Nick O’Flaherty – 1
Richard Burns – 1

These guys are supposed to be badass. Instead, they are sitting around talking about feelings! I miss the verbal sparring and the snarky humor of the earlier books. The action scenes, though, are as ridiculous and unrealistic as always. While I was able to overlook that before, I am unable to do so now.

“Julian struck out at him so quickly it was easy to think it was imagined. He grabbed the gun and pulled the slide, his free hand moving in a flash, and the gun fell apart in Leatherface’s hand. Julian swung at him with the slide, hitting him in the temple and dropping him in a heap.”

This scene confuses me. No matter how scrappy Julian may be, I seriously doubt he would be able to disarm a rogue CIA agent, strip the slide off his pistol and knock him unconscious. If Julian grabbed the gun to pull the slide, wouldn’t the gun be in Julian’s hand? And while many guns may be designed to be quick and easy to disassemble, they don’t just “fall apart” in someone’s hand.

Unlike earlier books where the focus was on the main couple, we are introduced to two new characters, Julian Cross (the only witness to a contract killing) who Ty and Zane must bring to DC in one piece, and his milquetoast boyfriend, Cameron Jacobs.

The lengthy road trip undertaken by these four guys while Julian and Cameron were often restrained was excruciatingly slow. I quickly tired of their banter. I skimmed through the sex scenes, which were drawn out and repetitive. Julian’s cats, Smith and Wesson, were a nice touch. I hope Ty and Zane get permanent custody.

Since I have the next book on my Kindle, I’ll probably read it. But I don’t have high expectations.

[Jilly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one was like Vacation or Planes, Trains, and Automobiles (80's movies. Look it up, kids). A comedy of errors with guns, killing, an over-zealous TSA agent in rubber gloves, and more handcuffs and ropes than a BDSM convention. In other words, lots of fun.


Yes, just like this but with less childhood trauma.

Ty and Zane are tasked with bringing in two guys that we met in the spin-off book, Warrior's Cross. One of them is a deadly, gorgeous, highly skilled assassin. The other is his boyfriend - a waiter who is constantly described as small and "average looking." Okay, whatever floats your boat. These two guys are not going to come willingly with Ty and Zane, so hijinx abound since the assassin is so darn skilled and deadly and whatnot.


No cage can hold him, baby.

There was a lot of action and hilarious moments, and since I had read the other book I enjoyed both couples. It was hard to know whether to root for them to escape, or not escape. I wanted them all to win, and maybe everyone get a trophy and stuff.


Pizza party for everyone!

The only thing I didn't like was the very last line in the book. That sucked.

[Deborah · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book features Julian and Cameron from Warrior’s Cross and while it’s not necessary to read that first I would.

I love this book.
For a long time Divide & Conquer was my favourite. And like I said in my review whenever I think of Ty & Zane the first image I always have is the dash to the aquarium.

But this book is all that and more. I love the dry sarcastic humour. I had to stop reading last night because I couldn’t stop giggling and my hubby was trying to sleep. You know what it’s like once you start?

Anyway this book is brilliant, I’m not going to give spoilers but I was glued to every page and I’ve read this at least three times now.

“Oh look, Mr. Rubber Glove Man, he has a bomb. Och, we missed our plane.”....
“You need a Valium or something,” Cameron said under his breath as he tried to hurry enough that Ty wouldn’t drag him.
“Yes, I do. I should also be given a cigarette after what that TSA agent did to me,” Ty snapped.

“We apologize for the necessity of the strip search. But it seems you have a reputation for… producing keys.”
Ty shrugged. “Don’t worry about it, that’s not even the first one I’ve had this week,” he said, voice wry.


Original review.

Wow..if Ty and Zane aren't enough they're joined by Julian and Cameron from Warrior's Cross so this was always going to be a good book but it's even better than that it's just...words fail me, you just have to read it and see for yourself

[Morgana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Some readers said they had resigned themselves to not expecting too much from this book, since it's not, as the previous ones, the product of the collaboration between Madeleine Urban & Abigail Roux. I can proudly say I was not among them. I DID expect a lot, because I knew Abigail Roux's an amazing author. One of the very best, whether she works with or without a co-author. But Jesus Christ Almighty, not even in my wildest dreams did I expect this book to actually be so freaking awesome and exceed all my expectations!! So if you have any lingering doubts as to whether this book is worth reading, just do yourself a favour and give up on them. Go and buy this book, and prepare for THE RIDE OF YOUR LIFE!!!!! If Ty & Zane together with Julian & Cameron won't rock your world than nothing, abso-bloody-lutely nothing can!

Now on to the actual review, which, by the way, contains SPOILERS, so if you haven't read the book yet, but still want to read this review, you're doing it at your own risk.

Those who know me certainly remember my reaction to Divide & Conquer. While I loved that book, some events, especially the Nick incident left me seething. It didn't help that Ty ignored the first time Zane said he loved him. I tried to rationalize, justify Ty's behaviour, his reaction to that one and so many other things, including, of course, the ending and why he left. Finally, I came to terms with almost everything that happend in that book. Yep, almost. The name Nick. Ringing a bell?

Okay, so that was how I saw things after reading Divide & Conquer (full review of book 4 here).

Armed & Dangerous opens a new chapter in Ty & Zane's relationship. It's truly amazing how far these guys have come and how much their relationship has progressed. Zane is much more confident, no longer living in the past, no longer denying his feelings. And yet, there's still a lingering vulnerability somewhere deep inside him. He knows that Ty loves him. There can never be any doubt about it. Still... when he finds out the whole truth about the kiss, when Ty tells Zane that he kissed Nick back and enjoyed it, Zane feels like he's been punched. Hard. And every time the name Nick O'Flaherty comes up something inside Zane's chest twists. I really felt for Zane. He finally left the past behind only to have his present and future overshadowed by fear that Nick O'Flaherty may try to steal Ty away from him. And then, of course, comes O'Flaherty himself. And THE TALK between him and Zane, without Ty being present. And OMG! The things that have been revealed! Jesus Christ! I was stunned speechless!!!! I HATED Nick after D&C but now I just can't. What happened in Afghanistan and Nick's silence soon after, the reason he didn't tell Ty about his feelings is now crystal clear. Obviously, I'm glad he didn't tell Ty then he loved him, but nobody deserves to go through the shit Ty and Nick went through together. Nobody. Besides, now that I know Nick is no longer a threat to Ty & Zane's relationship I find myself sympathizing with him (dare I say it?: liking him, or even if I'm not there yet, I will get to that point soon, I think).

"Nick nodded and swallowed hard. “I was in love with him. I’d already made up my mind to tell him after our tour was over. Consequences be damned, I just needed him to know. But after that….” He shook his head and cleared his throat. “There are some friends you don’t risk for your own peace of mind. Some things… at the time it wasn’t worth the risk of losing him.”

“Last month when you….”

“I knew I’d already lost him.” "



"(...) if you’re asking if I intend to make another move on him, the answer’s no. I’ve regretted what I did every day since.” "

Oh, and I absolutely loved that Nick actually helped Zane to understand Ty better. He didn't have to give Zane the CDs with some films from when Ty and Nick and their other Recon buddies had been in service. But he did. If this isn't an olive branch, a peace offering, if this doesn't scream 'I'm sorry, I won't try anything like this ever again. You make Ty happy and I want us to get along', than I don't know what does. And I guess it's good that they are trying. Ty confessed to missing his best friend, though if he had to choose he would always choose Zane, but why make him do it?

So, the Nick issue is no longer a problem. Whoa, I really had it bad after D&C if I'm making this all about Nick, but bear with me, will you? I really had to get it out of my system.

Okay, back to the relationship stuff. I loved that Ty & Zane decided to share with each other things about their pasts. No more secrets. No more hiding. They are more open with each other. Every single time one of them said 'I Love You' I had this silly grin on my face, which means I was grinning A LOT! :D

And the sex, no, scratch that, because it was not just sex or f*cking, but MAKING LOVE! Such tenderness! And the connection they share! *sighs* God, so beautiful! I DIED AND WENT TO HEAVEN!!! And FINALLY what we all were waiting for: Ty bottoming! SQUEEEEEEEEE!!! So perfect! I had happy tears in my eyes while reading that scene. ALL the sex scenes were hot and earth-shattering! So much passion and love:

"“Ty,” Zane said as he released Ty’s other wrist and moved his hand to splay his palm across Ty’s chest. “Look at me. Open your eyes, baby.”

"Zane swallowed hard as he drew a shaky breath. “Are you feeling this too?” he asked (...).

“Yes,” Ty answered, surprised at how desperate the honest answer sounded.(...) He couldn’t hear a thing but his own heartbeat. “I’ll always be yours, baby.” "

*sighs* Yep, it's official, I'm a sap. But who cares?! It's TY & ZANE!!!!

And Lord, was I happy that Zane gave Ty the necklace! FINALLLLLYYYYYYYY!!! :D And when Zane explained to Ty its meaning, how Ty was like his compass, and then the sap comment delivered with fondness, awwwww, so romantic! *sighs*

Uhm, I think I've calmed myself enough to continue.

Damn, this review is way too long and I have yet to mention Julian and Cameron. Let me tell you this: I loved Julian in Warrior's Cross, but here I REALLY, REALLY LOVED the guy! The wit! The sarcasm! Now enter a very pissed, in kill mode and on Red Bull, Special Agent, Ty Grady and... BANG!!! I LOVED, LOVED their banter! God, some comments that came out of Julian's mouth! *snickers* Priceless! And Cam with his constant never-knows-when-to-shut-up chattering and the "“Ty is like… a ninja on crack. " comment made me laugh so hard that I thanked God nobody was home and saw me. They would think me batshit crazy, LOL

Oh, and I loved Smith and Wesson! :D

All right, I'm wrapping this up. There's only one thing left to say and that would be the ending. No cliff-hanger this time! :D Our boys get a solid Happy For Now ending, which shows that although a lot has already changed for the better, there are some things that still need working on, like coming out to their FBI co-workers, which seems not a best thing to do. Not yet. But hey! Zane is moving in with Ty! *happy dance* (if their co-workers ask, Zane rents a room *shrug*). But progress is progress and each new book brings us closer to a true Happily Ever After that Ty & Zane so deserve - and which I have no doubt Abigail Roux will finally grant them.

All in all, Armed & Dangerous is a fabulous read. A spectacular book, which is definitely my favourite in the whole series. 5 + stars.


Abigail, thank you. I can't even put into words how much the fact that you keep writing this series despite Madeleine's decision to stop her writing career means to us, readers. You truly are an amazing writer and a wonderful person. Thank you! *hugs*

[moonlight ☾ [semi-hiatus] · Rating 5 out of 5]

✧ MY FAV BOOK SO FAR. i loved both the romance (obviously), as well as the events that occurred in this book. although the previous books were still good, plot-wise, i admit this was my fav where i was invested in not just the romance, but also the other characters in this book. i absolutely loved the road trip and how Ty, Zane, Julian and Cameron started from Ty and Zane taking Julian and Cameron to Burns as a mission to Ty and Zane protecting, and even risking their lives, for them. omg when Julian went back to help Ty fight off those agents?? my heart seriously melted bc the development was chefs kiss.
✧ Ty and Nick’s past was so heartbreaking with what happened while they were being held captive. 🥺

fav quotes/scenes:

“Next time… next time I need to go, will you go with me?”
“Yeah,” he said, reaching to trail his fingers over Ty’s cheeks.
Ty gripped his hand and smiled, looking relieved. “Even if it involves the wilderness?”
Zane couldn’t help but laugh. “Even if it involves the wilderness.”
Ty hugged him tight and let out the breath he’d been holding in a rush. “I love you. I will always be yours, Zane—no matter where I am or where you are. I promise you that,” he said, the words as serious as Zane had ever heard Ty utter.

“Why a compass?” Ty asked. He hadn’t taken his eyes off Zane’s yet.
Zane smiled and ran his thumb across the pendant. “Because you gave me direction when I was lost. You showed me the way.” He looked up to meet Ty’s eyes. “You’re like my very own compass.”
“Zane.”
“I know, I know. I’m a sap.”
“Maybe. But you’re my sap,” Ty said fondly. He reached for Zane and leaned in to kiss him.

tmw i normally cringe during cheesy ass scenes such as this but, bc it’s Ty and Zane and you just wouldn’t expect it from them (after how they started off in book 1), it fits them so well and i only crave cute scenes from them at this point sjfhsg

“Watch the elbows.”
“Watch your fingers,” Julian snapped.
“Welcome to TSA training, bitch.”

LMAO, Ty and Julian’s interactions crack me up 😭

A noise from the bathroom drew Ty’s attention just long enough for him to miss the next intended kiss. He sighed and pressed his nose and mouth to Zane’s cheek. “I know I’m not easy,” he whispered. “I promise I’ll make it up to you.”
Zane shook his head. “I knew what I was getting when I realized I loved you. I don’t expect—don’t want you to change, no matter how crazy you make me sometimes.”

“I thought you were going to kill him back there.”
Ty turned to face him. “Next time I will,” he said, his voice cold and determined.
A shiver ran down Zane’s spin, and he had to admit, a part of him liked it. “What is it about him that gets you so riled?”
“It’s not him, Zane. It’s you.”
“Me? What’d I do?”
“He is a threat to both of us. You’ve seen what he’s capable of, and I have to tell you, I don’t think he’s trying yet. I think he’s just a fucking raptor testing the fences. When I look at him, I see him hurting you.”

Cameron waved a hand. “Okay, I get how they found us in the car you stole.”
“Borrowed,” Ty said.
“Whatever, psychopath. But how did they find us after?”

“Goddammit!” Zane lashed out without warning and hit the water bottle, sending it skidding across the carpet and splattering at Julian’s feet. “I’m gonna end up in the fucking madhouse because of you!” He reached out and grabbed Ty’s wrist, pulling him closer. “Loving you is going to make me fucking insane! I said no, and I mean it!”

Zane shook his head, his breaths coming harder as they stared at each other. “What if you live with me and you change your mind?”
“Zane,” Ty said in frustration. He held up one hand. “In the time you’ve been with me, have I ever changed my mind after deciding something? Even when we both knew I was wrong?”
Zane smiled weakly and shook his head.
“I love you,” Ty said, the quiet words devoid of any self-consciousness or his usual bravado. “And I’ve never been able to say that before with such conviction. I can’t remember a time that you weren’t the first thing I thought of, and I want to spend the rest of my life with you. I don’t care what stands in our way.”

[Mo · Rating 4 out of 5]

I still don't get the Julian and Cameron relationship....


All the books are jumbling into one in my mind...


I am still enjoying this series. I love Ty and Zane! Did I mention that a few times?

[Lucie V. · Rating 5 out of 5]

✅ Characters
✅ Ty and Julian bickering non-stop 👌
✅ Relationship development
✅ Action and betrayal
✅ Plot
✅ Pace
✅ 2 POVs
❗️❗️ Trigger warnings: attempted murder, death, shootings
❗️❗️I recommend reading The Warrior’s Cross between Divide & Conquer and this book so you know who Cameron and Julian are.

_______________________

Second read: Ty and Julian are hilarious. 👌

_______________________


4.5 stars

After the cliffhanger at the end of Divide & Conquer, I couldn’t wait to read this book, but I still took the time to read Warrior’s Cross before, and I am glad I did because Julian and Cameron are at the center of this book’s intrigue.

One week after he left in the middle of the night to clear his head and get some breathing room, Ty is sent to Chicago to retrieve Julian Cross, an ex-CIA operative who has been off the grid for months now. He is believed to be very dangerous, which is why Burns sends Zane as backup. Julian refuses to cooperate, as he believes that he will be killed as soon as he arrives in Washington. Julian has no choice, though, when Ty and Zane threaten to prosecute Cross’ boyfriend, Cameron, for harboring a criminal, and decide to bring him to the FBI headquarters, knowing that Julian will follow. What was supposed to be a “simple” retrieval of a dangerous operative turns into a crazy and deadly chase across the country as teams are sent after Ty and Zane to make sure that Julian Cross does not reach Washington alive.

There are lies, deceptions, and double-crossings in this book, and I loved it! There are fights and action, as well as sweet and tender moments, and funny ones too. On one hand, Ty and Julian kept annoying each other, and on the other hand, this mission away from Baltimore allowed Ty and Zane to spend some time together, away from the prying eyes of their colleagues.

“You and your partner, you’re not really the average field agents, are you?”
“Zane is not an average anything,” Ty said, voice soft and hoarse.

Ty and Zane are both shocked when they come face to face and realize that they have been assigned to the same secret mission, but it allows them to clear the air of the tensions that remain after Divide & Conquer. Now that Zane is finally ready and willing to admit his feelings out loud, their relationship becomes more grounded. There are fewer uncertainties and insecurities, and they are working towards having a strong relationship based on trust and honesty. Ty is even willing to reveal some of his well-guarded secrets to Zane (even some he is not allowed to), and they are planning to move in together after this mission. We can see that they are eager to be together at home again now that they know where they stand, and they don’t even care anymore if people find out about them. They just want to be happy together.

I loved Julian and Cameron and their dynamic more in this book than in Warrior’s Cross. I discovered that Julian actually has a personality besides being intimidating and soft-spoken! He can be snarky and enjoys making chaos. When I read Warrior’s Cross, I couldn’t decide if Julian reminded me more of Zane or Ty, but after reading Armed & Dangerous, he is definitely more like Ty. These two are so alike, they spent half of the book bickering like an old couple, and I hope to see Julian and Cameron again in the future because those 4 together were so entertaining. Cameron also felt less like a naïve puppy following Julian around in this book; he was able to stand for himself and to put his foot down, which is an improvement, too.

I still have questions, and hopefully, they will be answered eventually. I want to know what will happen to Preston, and I also want to know more about Zane’s black ops for Burns. It was made clear from the start that Burns would ask Ty to do some off-the-book missions, but now we learned that Zane used to do those unofficial missions too, but we got no details at all about it!


1. Cut & Run ⭐⭐⭐⭐
2. Sticks & Stones ⭐⭐⭐⭐
3. Fish & Chips ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
4. Divide & Conquer ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
⭕️ The Warrior’s Cross ⭐⭐⭐ (standalone)


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[Optimist ♰King's Wench♰ · Rating 4 out of 5]

11/7/18 re-listen

I still really enjoyed this one for it's relationship development and romantic suspense. I actually really enjoyed Cam's role in this one unlike my first rodeo. *shrugs*

I also think I'd put this at 4 stars rather than 5. I seem to be getting finicky or maybe it's fickle? Tomato, to-mah-toe.

Crisden did an excellent job with the narration. He gave everyone a distinct voice so I never got confused as to who was talking and even did some accents!

************Original Review************

When I started Armed & Dangerous it was with a good deal of trepidation and an even great degree of peevishness. You see, Ty has been my knight in shining armor since Cut & Run. My Superman. He could do no wrong until Divide & Conquer. So, not only did he need to redeem himself with Zane, he needed to redeem himself with me and he did. In spades.

“I love you,” Ty said, the quiet words devoid of any self-consciousness or his usual bravado. “And I’ve never been able to say that before with such conviction. I can’t remember a time that you weren’t the first thing I thought of, and I want to spend the rest of my life with you. I don’t care what stands in our way.”

Better. More groveling, please.

“I’ll always be yours, baby.”

Oh alright, you're forgiven. But, don't let it happen again.

Ms. Roux has some kind of special magic to continue to achieve this level of entertainment in a continuing series. In my humble opinion, it just continues to get better between these two knuckleheads. How she and her usual co-author, Ms. Urban, have managed to avoid the doldrums, I've no idea but kudos to them.

I'd characterize this installment as the most romantic thus far with both Ty and Zane declaring themselves, sharing their feelings and even discussing expectations for the future. All things they've managed to avoid, for the most part, until now. Don't misunderstand me, this is Ty and Zane's version of romance which usually includes a fist fight, one or both getting shot, sometimes ending up in the hospital, coloring outside the lines in a legal sense and they are probably going to rack up a body count. *shrug* That's how they roll.

Ty sighed, an almost inaudible release of air. The look in Zane’s eyes was something Ty had never seen. It was intense and heated, possessive, filled with emotion that made Ty’s chest hurt all over again, like the first time he’d ever looked into that fire in Zane’s eyes and known that there would be no one else in the world for him.

Though it was nice to have some background information on Julian and Cam, I continue to stand by my review of Warrior's Cross. Actually, I'm not completely convinced the pertinent information wasn't provided here. The most entertaining part was adding Julian to the mix and getting to be a fly on the wall for Ty and Julian's interactions. Ty is always hilarious but him and Julian together? Good Lord! I laughed out loud many, many times. My pick for best conversation between them:

“Fine,” Julian said, his tone making it clear he was reaching the end of his patience. “We’ll solve this like men.”

“What do you want, MacGuffin, a duel?”

“No.” Julian held out both hands, one palm flat, the other held over it in a fist. “Rock, paper, scissors. Two out of three.”

Ty rolled his eyes and held out his fist, apparently willing to play. Julian hit his palm three times, and Ty kept time with his fist in the air. But when Julian threw a paper, Ty reached into his jacket with his other hand and pulled his gun, aiming it at Julian.

“Ty!” Zane said in exasperation from the front seat.

“Glock, paper, scissors. I win."

No, Ty, we all win!

Cam managed to prove himself to be just this side of window dressing. I will give him credit for keeping his cool through all the shenanigans and his ingenuity in a crunch.

The action aspect of Armed & Dangerous was entertaining enough although, I still think Cut & Run was the best plot line of the series. Nick and Deuce make appearances and Nick provides some painful insights into Ty. We actually learned quite a bit about Ty, some about Zane, both of which set things up nicely for the future. Still, the character and relationship development are what keep me coming back for more. Well, that and the sexy times. I tell you what, the sexy times are few and far between in these books but… Wow! Patience is rewarded with long, slow, thorough, visceral and achingly erotic scenes.

"Ty whimpered at the tone of Zane’s voice and the promise in it. “I should do this for you more often,” he said in a tortured voice.

“Do what?”

“Give you everything I have.”

All of these elements combined to make Armed & Dangerous yet another 5 star book in the Cut & Run series.

[Shurrn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderful twists and turns; a wild ride befitting this cross-country mission, and cameo appearances all over the place!

Ty had been told not long ago that he shouldn't enjoy the almost-getting-killed part of his job as much as he did. Zane didn't know who had said it, but ever since, Ty had been making a concerted effort to hide his unholy glee during melees.

This installment of the Cut & Run series is a journey which pits the FBI against the CIA...

Corrupt government officials,
A contract killer,
A clueless boyfriend,
Bomb threats,
Stolen vehicles,
Cavity searches,
Five States,
Four dogs,
two giant cats,
& some of the hottest Ty & Zane moments ever...



(Note: I recommend reading Warrior's Cross before this book so you have the benefit of Cam & Julian's backstory. It's not required, but it will enhance your enjoyment.)

Our boys have been called on a Black Ops mission by Director Burns. The Mission: Escort Julian Cross from Chicago to DC without anyone getting killed... As usual with Ty & Zane the non-killing/dying clause in their mission is not an easy one to accomplish...



We get several cameos from beloved characters seen in previous books:
- Cameron and Julian from Warrior's Cross.
- Nick O'Flaherty from Divide & Conquer
- Deuce Grady from Sticks & Stones
The cameos served to make all those gentlemen even more lovable... I even have an admiration for Nick despite his unflattering behavior in the last book...

In the midst of all the danger, Ty & Zane are moving forward in their relationship. They're sharing secrets and becoming more tender, and the love between the two is a wonderful thing to see... Though they still have moments where they want to strangle each other.



The plot line in this one kept me guessing until the very end - much like Cut & Run... I do love a book with enough mystery to add to the thrill of the mission.

The romance was spectacular.
The humor was perfection.
The characters were outstanding.
The suspense was amazing...

I have officially added this series to my Favorite Romantic Series Shelf! It took me five books and one spin-off to solidify my devotion to the series... Much like Ty & Zane's relationship, it has been a gradual buildup into an unstoppable love for me.



I'd like to thank Wendy (Wendy's Thoughts) for sending me a beautiful gift: The final books in this series. Sending someone a book is like sending them a hug. I'm overjoyed and immensely thankful.

My Other Reviews in the Cut & Run Series:

Cut & Run - My Review
Sticks & Stones - My Review
Fish & Chips - My Review
Divide & Conquer - My Review
Armed & Dangerous - You're Reading it
Dine & Dash - My Review
Stars & Stripes - My Review
Touch & Geaux - My Review
Ball & Chain - My Review
Crash & Burn - My Review

My Reviews in the Cut & Run Universe:
I will update the list as more books are published.
Warrior's Cross - My Review
Shock & Awe - My Review
Cross & Crown - My Review

[Glass · Rating 5 out of 5]

PERFECT. JUST PERFECT.

[Lyn❤Loves❤Listening to Real Voices Only!!!!❤️&#x1f3a7;&#x1f4da; Addict ON HIATUS · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series just keeps getting better.

[Gerbera_Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

05/25/2024 reread

Reread January 2020.

I loved rereading this book especially that hotel scene in Gettysburg. It was so sweet and sexy! I enjoyed the humor, the characters, the fast pace. Contrary to some complainers, I like how Ty and Zane's relationship changed and became settled and gentle. I don't know why people expected them to be at each other's throats after professing their feelings, plus both men changed since they first met! For me those sweet nicknames, their quiet moments when they shared past and secrets were the best! I do not care much about Julian and Cameron as a couple but Ty and Julian as verbal sparring partners - yes please! And I really liked Ty and Deuce getting a little more page time in the book. I always liked Deuce - he is such opposite to Ty, but the way the author shows their affection for each other through humor and little conversations they manage to sneak in between the events is perfect! Awww, love my men Ty and Zane!

***

I love reading series about one couple and see how their relationship evolves with time, and it can't get any better than this. Ty and Zane are so in love and finally are able to express it. Their intimate moments were so profound and passionate, so beautiful and I seriously didn't want the book to end. I am slayed and I converted myself to Ty and Zane's devotee.

This time the simple case of grab and deliver turns into run for you life and don't get dead again. The trouble magnet duo is joined by a pair consisting of loving deadly assassin Julian Cross and his partner Cameron who believes that Julian is the best thing since sugar. Somewhere during their adventures enemies turn into friends, and grudging respect turns into admiration. The humor and sarcasm were flying like ping pong ball between Ty and Julian with Zane and Cameron being constant spectators, and I loved every page of it. Some of the time I thought they would not make it simply because one of them would snap but in the end all it took was loyalty and Wesson to sway Julian's opinion.

Anyway, I loved this book, I loved the characters - all of them. There were secrets shared that were painful but necessary to know, trust established and new bonds forged. It was all great, and now I am off to the next one! Highly recommend it!

[*J* Too Many Books Too Little Time · Rating 5 out of 5]

Definitely my favorite of the series so far!

Love where Ty and Zane's relationship is at.

Really enjoyed the plot in this one.

I even liked Cameron and Julien!

And I always love getting to see Deuce!

Perfection!

[Fabi NEEDS Email Notifications · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not going to review it because you all have already read it. :-)

I loved it too!

[Diana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am going to keep this short since there are so many reviews out there for this little gem. I absolutely loved it. Up until this book, I had a hard time feeling Ty and Zane’s true feeling towards one another. This book has all the feels!! They were sweet, funny, and I could finally see the connection they had.

Ty and Zane are off to Chicago to bring in a CIA “contact” back to D.C. Of course, it is just another adventure for Ty and Zane. This contact is dangerous, and it takes all Ty and Zane’s resources to keep everyone alive.

I highly recommend you read Warrior’s Cross before you start Armed & Dangerous. It will definitely help you understand and enjoy A & R even more.

[Valerie ❈M/M Romance Junkie❈ · Rating 5 out of 5]

loved loved loved!!!!

[Shile (Hazard's Version) on-hiatus · Rating 5 out of 5]

More than 5 plus stars...

Ty and Zane, Zane and Ty... These two were meant for each other. Their relationship have grown, they are so sweet to each other...

I loved the road trip, the interactions between Ty and Julian, Ty and Zane being open about how they feel.

“I love you" Ty said, the quiet words devoid of any self-consciousness of his usual bravado. " And I've never been able to say that before with such conviction. I can't remember a time when you weren't the first thing I thought of, and I want to spend the rest of my life with you. I don't care what stands in our way.”

Loved it before,Loved it now, will always love these series





______________________________________________________
Jan 2017

Wow this keeps getting better. I fell in love with Ty and Zane even more and also Cam and Julian. I think its about time i read warrior's cross.

[Cristina T. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely epic! This book is my favorite in the series so far.

Recipe for perfection? Take Ty & Zane, add Julian & Cam (Warrior's Cross) to the mix, sprinkle with Nick O'Flaherty (Divide & Conquer) and Deuce Grady (Sticks & Stones). For more flavor, throw in a road trip and shake it all up. Et voilà! Bon appetit!

I don't want to spoil the plot, so I'm gonna keep this short. Ty & Zane get a new assignment from Burns, specifically to escort Julian Cross to Washington DC. Julian refuses to go without his lover, Cameron, because he wants to keep him safe. Of course, with Ty & Zane's history, the trip is anything but safe. At first, Julian keeps trying to escape, but then he realizes that Ty & Zane are the good guys and they earn his respect. So, they fight as a team against the enemy.

I'm so glad I read Warrior's Cross before this one, since it helped me understand Julian & Cam better. They worked so well together, drawing strength from each other, supporting and loving one another, just like Ty & Zane. Having all four MCs together was a lot of fun! I loved their conversations; Ty & Julian bitching at each other; Zane & Cam being hilarious - it was a fun ride!

After the cliffy ending of the last book, we get some insight into Ty's mind and Zane gets the answers he needs. Their time apart has changed Ty in a good way and it has only managed to make their relationship stronger. The sex scenes were hotter than ever, but at the same time Ty & Zane were also more tender and much more intimate, expressing their love without boundaries. They also enjoyed their stolen moments where they could do simple gestures like holding hands, without the fear of being recognized in a strange city.

"Baby," Ty whispered against Zane's lips. He had never felt this sort of heat and longing for another person. He didn't know how Zane did it, but Ty knew that there would never be anyone else for him. He wanted Zane to feel that too, to have that assurance both physically and emotionally. He would do whatever he had to do to make sure that Zane knew he was his.

"I love you. I will always be yours, Zane–no matter where I am or where you are. I promise you that," he said, the words as serious as Zane had ever heard Ty utter.

Ty looks at his partner as if he can see right into his soul sometimes. Zane has asked himself repeatedly what his lover sees in him and we finally get an answer...

Anyone with any sense would have steered clear. But from the first moment Ty had really looked into Zane's eyes, he's seen behind them, into the man Zane was capable of being. He's seen a phoenix waiting to rise from the ashes, and he still did. Every time he looked into Zane, he saw something extraordinary.

Another thing which played with my emotions was Zane & Nick's conversation about Ty & Nick's past as tortured war prisoners, which lasted for twenty-three days, nine hours, and fifty-one minutes. That's a long ride through hell and my heart broke for Nick & Ty. I didn't blame Nick for his actions before, but I appreciated his apology to Zane anyway. I just couldn't and still can't hate this guy; Nick's just awesome!

Oh, I almost forgot! Zane FINALLY gave Ty the rose compass he bought a while ago and I was grinning like an idiot throughout the whole scene...

"Why a compass?" Ty asked. [...]
"Because you gave me direction when I was lost. You showed me the way." He looked up to meet Ty's eyes. "You're like my very own compass."
"Zane."
"I know, I know. I'm a sap."
"Maybe. But you're my sap," Ty said fondly.

Fantastic reading experience! I just can't get enough of Ty & Zane!

* * * * *

First read: May, 2014
Re-read: May, 2015

* * * * *


My other reviews in the Cut & Run series:
will be updated as soon as new books are published
Cut & Run (Cut & Run, #1) - my review
Sticks & Stones (Cut & Run, #2) - my review
Fish & Chips (Cut & Run, #3) - my review
Divide & Conquer (Cut & Run, #4) - my review
Armed & Dangerous (Cut & Run, #5) - you're reading it
Dine & Dash (Cut & Run, #5.5) - my review
Stars & Stripes (Cut & Run, #6) - my review
Touch & Geaux (Cut & Run, #7) - my review
Ball & Chain (Cut & Run, #8) - my review
Crash & Burn (Cut & Run, #9) - my review

My reviews in the Cut & Run spinoffs:
will be updated as soon as new books are published
Warrior's Cross - my review
Shock & Awe (Sidewinder, #1) - my review
Cross & Crown (Sidewinder, #2) - my review

Important note: I highly recommend the books to be read in the following order...
will be updated as soon as new books are published
Cut & Run; Sticks & Stones; Fish & Chips; Divide & Conquer; Warrior's Cross; Armed & Dangerous; Dine & Dash; Stars & Stripes; Touch & Geaux; Shock & Awe; Ball & Chain; Cross & Crown; Crash & Burn ...

[S.J.D. Peterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

NFWS!!!!

a little of this


a little this


a lot of this


and thank GOD plenty of this


Makes


But sooooooooooo

[Geri Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

The fifth installment of the Cut & Run Series certainly lived up to its name, and then some. That "some" would be Julian Cross, Cameron Jacobs, Preston (forgot his last name), Blake Nichols and yes, even Smith and Wesson made an appearance here.

This book picked up where Divide & Conquer left off, where Zane woke up finding a note and Ty gone. Well, I'm happy to say that all is well in paradise once again for these two. Ty got his head on straight and is in deep cover for another case and Zane was sent to back him up. Thank you, Dick!

Anyway, Zane wants Ty to grovel. Ha! So cute really. I was smiling the whole the time during their reunion at the airport, all the way to their hotel room where the proper reunion took place. And boy, what a reunion it was! I was thinking maybe they should be apart more in the future just so I can witness another reunion between them. It was that hot!

Turns out that our boys are tasked to transport a very important witness and bring that witness back to D.C. The witness is, of course, Julian Cross. Julian was a hostile witness. He wasn't up to cooperating with Ty & Zane. With Cameron in tow, he made Ty & Zane's job hilariously difficult. Yeah, the four of them inside one car and even sharing hotel rooms in between was funny. I found myself laughing out loud many times. Julian stoic and deadpan humor was a match for Ty's snarky one-liner. Haha! I won't list them all here but you can check out my statuses to see what I mean.

The whole mystery with who wants Julian killed was a little obvious to me but it was still fun reading about it especially the ending. LoL! But I was a little sad too when Ty & Zane realized that they could never be as free to express their feelings especially since they work together. And when Zane thought that Ty could never introduce him to his family the way Deuce can with his girlfriend, I felt really bad for them.

This series just keeps getting better and better, and I can't wait to read more of Ty and Zane! Five down, two more books to go!

For more reviews, visit Ever After Romance Blog

[Heather K (dentist in my spare time) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phew! A return back to awesomeness from my favorite Ty and Zane. I love their openness in this book. Such a nice change of pace! I also loved how they played off of Cam and Julian. All and all it was sweet, exciting, and very enjoyable. I have a lot of time and energy invested in Ty and Zane's relationship so I'm just excited to be along for the very bumpy ride!

[Renée · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reread

~BR reread with Jewel - doing the whole series over from start to finish! ~

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 ★★★★★’s

Pfftt!! Do I even need to say it??!!! OK..I WILL…ANOTHER FUCKING AMAZING BOOK!!!!!!!!

It’s getting a little bit more challenging to write good reviews… because I’m starting to sound like a broken record. But I take comfort in knowing that anyone whose read a Cut & Run book totally gets it. And by this point I really don’t need to say much. These boys just freaking ROCK MY WORLD!!!!!!!!!!

Armed & Dangerous is no exception. In fact the stories just keep getting better and better….if that is even possible. But then I’m a girl in love, so my opinion may be slightly biased!!!!!

Just a quick recap…

This story picks up after Ty’s big exit. He’s been off the grid now for only a few days…but Zane’s been feeling the loss deep in his soul, not knowing where Ty’s gone, or why. He doesn’t even know where their relationship stands after that abrupt and secretive exit. Especially after Zane’s big declaration, and Ty’s encounter with Nick.

”I told you I loved you, and the next day you were gone.

And meanwhile, before Ty can set things right, he gets an unexpected call from Richard Burns, which will require him to complete a job, going dark for an unknown period of time. Ty does move on this order, but not without contacting Zane first. He has been gone now for almost a week, and he knows Zane isn’t going to easily forgive him for his abrupt departure. And about this …he is absolutely right. He doesn’t give away much to Zane… but he does attempt to ease his fears… and to let him know his feelings haven’t changed.

Meanwhile, Zane gets a call from Richard Burns as well….also sending him out on a special assignment. No details, just a plane ticket to Chicago, and a hint that he will be backing up another agent off the grid. But it doesn’t take him long to find out, once he arrives that indeed, he will be taking Ty’s back on this case. And it’s no secret that he is torn from being completely thrilled at seeing his partner again, and wanting to beat the life out of him at the same time.

Well…long story short…they kiss and make up, but quickly, because the case they’ re working is exploding fast. They must quickly locate and take into custody a CIA wet works operator that is the last living evidence to clear a higher up in the agency who is being framed for multiple crimes, such as misappropriation of funds, and multiple ordered assassinations.

Julian Cross was their target. He was also a highly trained and a very apt assassin. He was also gay. In fact they locate him through his lover Cameron Jacobs. Cross was an Irishman, and very much-resembled Zane in appearance, and in a similar way was a very smooth operator. His lover, Cameron, was a waiter at a local restaurant that he frequented. But Cameron was a no-nonsense guy…an innocent. He knew Julian was into something dangerous rather than just the antique business he admitted to. But he figured the less he knew, the better. He knew that Julian loved him, and would protect him, and that was all he decided to care about.

Well put these four guys together on a trip from Chicago to DC and let me tell you it was a trip to remember. Emotions were high; egos were flaring, and not without blood shed. Cross was determined to escape. And let’s just say that Ty made it his life mission to keep that from happening. What a wild ride. It was like Midnight Run on steroids!!! Lots of verbal sparring, creative usage of hand-cuffs, and four-letter-words!!! And not to mention inventive traveling games….

”Glock, paper, scissors, I win.”, - Ty

So funny, so intense, and between Ty and Cameron the one-liners are never ending and absolutely priceless!!!!

”I don’t think I’ve ever been gayer than I am right now.”

***

”You need a Valium or something,” Cameron said under his breath as he tried to hurry enough that Ty wouldn’t drag him.
“Yes, I do. I should also be given a cigarette after what that TSA agent did to me,” Ty snapped.

***

”You need a little love in your life,” Cameron told him.
Ty narrowed his eyes but had nothing sarcastic to say to that.
“Really, “ Cameron said, just to get in a dig of his own for being dragged around. “It did wonders for Julian’s attitude.”

***

”If we start freezing, we’re eating Cameron first,” Ty grunted before unbuckling his seatbelt and climbing out of the car.

Just so you know…Cameron was just adorable. So innocent, such a romantic. Ty and Zane both felt guilty about his involvement in the case, but his presence was very important nonetheless. His dialogue was just fantastic, warm and heartfelt… naïve, but at the same time practical. There was no doubt, that by the end, Ty and Zane both developed both a respect and fondness for both Julian and Cameron. I expect more involvement from these two in future books.

”I hate it when mother and father fight,” Julian said under his breath.
“Shut up,” Ty snapped at him, then turned on Zane, who stood to meet him. “Sit down, take a bubble bath or something, I need to take a walk.”
“Goddammit!” Zane lashed out without warning….”Loving you is going to make me fucking insane! I said NO, and I mean it!”

Oops…busted… ”I did not see that coming,” Julian said to Cameron under his breath.

“You totally just outed us to the criminals."

Then there was Nick. Called back into play to help out in a time of need. But was also called out by Zane, wanting answers. What an enlightening moment that was too!!!!! But in the end, Zane got what he needed in order to move forward. But I don’t think that’s the last we’ll hear from Nick O’Flaherty.

And lastly, there’s Ty and Zane. Wow…such tension, newfound trust, and feelings of uninhibited love!!!! But with that will come the desire to expose their relationship and finally be able to be together…live together. But this will not accepted by their employer…no exceptions. So where they go from here will be interesting.

And I can’t wait to get to the next chapter in their life… Stars & Stripes, here I come!!!

"Ready to go fuck with the Agency?" A cold ball of determination settled in the pit of Ty's stomach. He took the handcuffs and grinned wolfishly. "They messed with the wrong Feebs this time."

This story was much more involved than I could have imagined. Very suspenseful. Unpredictable. Riveting. Hilarious. Sexy. Romantic. Fan-fucking-tastic!!!!

"This is stupid," Cameron muttered as he rubbed his hands over his face. "I can't believe this is real life."

Here are my pics…

Special Agent Ty Grady


Special Agent Zane Garrett(with the ferret's nest!)


Julian Cross


Cameron Jacobs