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Saints of Denver #0.5
Leveled
Love hurts…
Leveled by a broken heart
Orlando Frederick has spent so long running from a real connection with another person that he can’t remember what love even feels like. The fear of being hurt by someone leaving is almost overwhelming and he can’t get past it.
Leveled by a broken body
Dominic Voss was a cop, first and foremost, until a life-threatening injury put his career on the back-burner. Unable to face the prospect that he might never go back to his old normal, he’s ready to try anything to feel alive again.
Leveled by love
As Lando and Dom try to find a way to be together, they must find a way to be themselves first.
224 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 2, 2015
161 people are currently reading
3767 people want to read
About the author
Jay Crownover
129 books14.6k followersJay Crownover is the International and multiple New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of the Marked Men Series, The Saints of Denver Series, The Point and Breaking Point Series, and the Loveless, Texas series. Her books can be found translated in many different languages all around the world. She is a tattooed, crazy haired Colorado native who lives at the base of the Rockies with her awesome dogs. This is where she can frequently be found enjoying a cold beer and Taco Tuesdays. Jay is a self-declared music snob and outspoken book lover who is always looking for her next adventure, between the pages and on the road.
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GUYS!!! I finally have a newsletter, so if you want to sign up for exclusive content and monthly giveaways you can do that right here:
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You can email me at: JayCrownover@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 579 reviews
December 21, 2015
4 Stars!!
“Leveled” is the first installment in Jay Crownover’s newest series entitled “Saints of Denver” and tells the story of Orlando ‘Lando’ and Domenic ‘Dom’, two characters we previously met in “Marked Men” series. You don’t have to read that series to fully enjoy this one and like the next installments that will come, it can be read as a standalone. It seems this one was the author’s first m/m novel and IMO she did a great job. The story was sweet, emotional, sexy with just a little amount of angst and drama. Needless to say this short-ish read was right up my alley.
Lando is a successful physical therapist, “a miracle worker, with magic hands and the perfect touch”. He loves his job and he loves helping people. From “Marked Men” series we know Lando was the Remy's secret boyfriend. When he lost Remy he lost a piece of himself and he still blames himself for the other man's death. He still misses him and he knows for sure Remy will always have a special place in his heart.
Dom is a police officer. He loves his job. He’s one of the best. He’s hardworking, focused and determined to help Denver’s citizen in every way he can. Everything changes for Dom when he is severely injured. All he wants is to get better ASAP so he can get back to work. Lando is his new physical therapist and it seems the only one who believes Dom will have his body back if he works hard and listens to him.
Lando is attracted with Dom from the very first moment. He tries in some way to stay away because Dom is his client, wanting to stay professional. He also doesn’t want and need to get involved with someone whose job is dangerous. He believes he won’t be strong enough to lose another man he has feelings for. In order to be happy, Lando will have to accept his fears, forget some aspects of his past and learn to move on.
I really enjoyed this first installment in the series! It had a little bit of everything and overall it was an entertaining read! Both Lando and Dom were endearing characters and I enjoyed how their characters were developed. I really felt for Lando and in some way I understood his fears. He’s genuinely a good person, sweet and caring, both with his clients and his closed ones. I really enjoyed Dom’s personality, maybe a little more than Lando’s. I liked the fact he was open about his feelings for the other man and I also like how sweet he was at times.
Lando and Dom’s relationship progressed in a very natural way and despite the fact this was a short-ish read nothing between them felt rushed. Actually, everything that happened between them felt believable. I have to admit there was some insta-lust between these two, but this time it didn’t bothered me.
Overall, a great read!
“Leveled” is the first installment in Jay Crownover’s newest series entitled “Saints of Denver” and tells the story of Orlando ‘Lando’ and Domenic ‘Dom’, two characters we previously met in “Marked Men” series. You don’t have to read that series to fully enjoy this one and like the next installments that will come, it can be read as a standalone. It seems this one was the author’s first m/m novel and IMO she did a great job. The story was sweet, emotional, sexy with just a little amount of angst and drama. Needless to say this short-ish read was right up my alley.
“LEVELED.
Laid out.
Knocked sideways.
Flattened and collapsed.
Breathless and stunned.”
Lando is a successful physical therapist, “a miracle worker, with magic hands and the perfect touch”. He loves his job and he loves helping people. From “Marked Men” series we know Lando was the Remy's secret boyfriend. When he lost Remy he lost a piece of himself and he still blames himself for the other man's death. He still misses him and he knows for sure Remy will always have a special place in his heart.
Dom is a police officer. He loves his job. He’s one of the best. He’s hardworking, focused and determined to help Denver’s citizen in every way he can. Everything changes for Dom when he is severely injured. All he wants is to get better ASAP so he can get back to work. Lando is his new physical therapist and it seems the only one who believes Dom will have his body back if he works hard and listens to him.
Lando is attracted with Dom from the very first moment. He tries in some way to stay away because Dom is his client, wanting to stay professional. He also doesn’t want and need to get involved with someone whose job is dangerous. He believes he won’t be strong enough to lose another man he has feelings for. In order to be happy, Lando will have to accept his fears, forget some aspects of his past and learn to move on.
“I can’t live my life waiting for it not to hurt before I start existing again.”
I really enjoyed this first installment in the series! It had a little bit of everything and overall it was an entertaining read! Both Lando and Dom were endearing characters and I enjoyed how their characters were developed. I really felt for Lando and in some way I understood his fears. He’s genuinely a good person, sweet and caring, both with his clients and his closed ones. I really enjoyed Dom’s personality, maybe a little more than Lando’s. I liked the fact he was open about his feelings for the other man and I also like how sweet he was at times.
“I wondered how something so rash, so sudden and unexpected, could feel so necessary, so vital.”
Lando and Dom’s relationship progressed in a very natural way and despite the fact this was a short-ish read nothing between them felt rushed. Actually, everything that happened between them felt believable. I have to admit there was some insta-lust between these two, but this time it didn’t bothered me.
Overall, a great read!
December 22, 2015
4 Huge Stars
Well check you out getting all m/m on us Jay Crownover!
And doing a damn fine job of it to boot!
I especially felt a kinship with Dominic. I have dislocated my shoulder six times and have had it surgically rebuilt not one, but twice; so needless to say, I felt his pain!
I was already excited about this new series of hers, but now?
Well check you out getting all m/m on us Jay Crownover!
And doing a damn fine job of it to boot!
I especially felt a kinship with Dominic. I have dislocated my shoulder six times and have had it surgically rebuilt not one, but twice; so needless to say, I felt his pain!
I was already excited about this new series of hers, but now?
August 27, 2016
4 stars!
“Bad stuff happens sometimes and it happens to people we care about. You can’t live life insulated because you are scared of getting too close.”
Leveled is the story of Dom and Lando. If you've read the Marked Men series you are familiar with these two men, Dom was Royal's cop partner who was injured on the job, and Lando was the man dating Rule's twin brother Remy before Remy died. Dom needs a physical therapist to get him back in shape to pass his test to go back to the force. Dom gets a recommendation on Lando from a friend, and the two have an instant connection. Lando attempts to ignore their attraction based on the fact that Dom is his client, and he works a dangerous job.
“Most things that are easy aren’t worth much. It’s the things you have to work for that matter the most.”
I really enjoyed this short story, it was nice to see two side characters from a previous series get some closure, especially Lando. What happened to Remy was tragic and he never really seemed to get over it. Dom I liked the most as a main character, he followed his attraction to Lando but also stayed true to who he was. Being a cop was a huge part of who he was, and he wasn't going to give that up. I can understand Lando's struggle with Dom's career to an extent, but after a while I thought he was being a dick about it (luckily he saw that too and cleaned up his act).
This was a great start to a new series, combining past characters and creating something new, providing closure while beginning something fresh. I am really excited for the rest of the Saints of Denver series and this was a great way to kick off the series.
Giant high five to Jay Crownover on her first M/M romance, I think she did a fantastic job. The steam factor wasn't as high as I would like, but in terms of building a relationship between the two it was entirely believable. My one teeny tiny criticism would be that all of the character often seemed to say exactly the right thing to each other, to a point of being almost cliche with every sentence, but it didn't happen too often. Oh, and the use of the word turgid. Twice. No me gusta.
“I can’t live my life waiting for it not to hurt before I start existing again.”
“Bad stuff happens sometimes and it happens to people we care about. You can’t live life insulated because you are scared of getting too close.”
Leveled is the story of Dom and Lando. If you've read the Marked Men series you are familiar with these two men, Dom was Royal's cop partner who was injured on the job, and Lando was the man dating Rule's twin brother Remy before Remy died. Dom needs a physical therapist to get him back in shape to pass his test to go back to the force. Dom gets a recommendation on Lando from a friend, and the two have an instant connection. Lando attempts to ignore their attraction based on the fact that Dom is his client, and he works a dangerous job.
“Most things that are easy aren’t worth much. It’s the things you have to work for that matter the most.”
I really enjoyed this short story, it was nice to see two side characters from a previous series get some closure, especially Lando. What happened to Remy was tragic and he never really seemed to get over it. Dom I liked the most as a main character, he followed his attraction to Lando but also stayed true to who he was. Being a cop was a huge part of who he was, and he wasn't going to give that up. I can understand Lando's struggle with Dom's career to an extent, but after a while I thought he was being a dick about it (luckily he saw that too and cleaned up his act).
This was a great start to a new series, combining past characters and creating something new, providing closure while beginning something fresh. I am really excited for the rest of the Saints of Denver series and this was a great way to kick off the series.
Giant high five to Jay Crownover on her first M/M romance, I think she did a fantastic job. The steam factor wasn't as high as I would like, but in terms of building a relationship between the two it was entirely believable. My one teeny tiny criticism would be that all of the character often seemed to say exactly the right thing to each other, to a point of being almost cliche with every sentence, but it didn't happen too often. Oh, and the use of the word turgid. Twice. No me gusta.
“I can’t live my life waiting for it not to hurt before I start existing again.”
October 13, 2022
5 Lando and Dom Stars
Anyone who knows me or reads my reviews know I love a man in uniform. I am also really big on damaged or broken men, so needless to say this book really did it for me. I really loved Lando and Dom. Both men were so damn sexy and damaged in their own way. I was a little nervous going into this read. I have noticed that when it comes to Authors that write mainly M/F and then decide to add a few M/M in the mix miss the mark. They come out feeling cheesy and disingenuous. Like this is what a straight person thinks a LGBT couple acts like based on tv and stereotypes. I must say I think Jay Crownover did a great job of showing two men falling in love and made it feel real. I also really liked seeing some of the gang from Marked Men Series show up in this book. Overall a great start to the Saints of Denver series!
Anyone who knows me or reads my reviews know I love a man in uniform. I am also really big on damaged or broken men, so needless to say this book really did it for me. I really loved Lando and Dom. Both men were so damn sexy and damaged in their own way. I was a little nervous going into this read. I have noticed that when it comes to Authors that write mainly M/F and then decide to add a few M/M in the mix miss the mark. They come out feeling cheesy and disingenuous. Like this is what a straight person thinks a LGBT couple acts like based on tv and stereotypes. I must say I think Jay Crownover did a great job of showing two men falling in love and made it feel real. I also really liked seeing some of the gang from Marked Men Series show up in this book. Overall a great start to the Saints of Denver series!
November 3, 2015
LIVE on AMAZON
Oh I loved this one so hard for one freaking reason: The Archers. I know I am nut when it comes to this family, but Rule Archer will always be one of my number one book boyfriends. I sometimes think I live under a rock, because I had no idea this story would feature Orlando.
Orlando, Lando, was Remy Archer's secret boyfriend. He is now a world class physical therapist and well known for his success and results. That's how he meets Dominic. If you recall Dominic is Royal's partner on the force and was recently injured on the job. Dominic seeks help from Lando in his recovery and from there the sparks fly.
This is a quick read, but there isn't insta-love, just insta-lust which I totally understand and love in my books. Dom is completely open about his feelings and his desire to really date and get to know Lando. However, Lando is terrified of losing someone else he loves and Dominic's job is very dangerous. They have to decide if they are willing to be leveled by their feelings and accept their fears.
I loved these two so much together. Dominic was sweet and open with his feelings, after all that Lando had been through I was so happy to see these qualities in Dominic. Lando was caring and accepting. He loved Dominic for who he was and he didn't need to prove anything to Lando.
I couldn't be more please that Jay decided to write this story. I feel like it was the perfect bridge between the Marked Men and the Saints of Denver. It also provided closure and a little bit of happiness to the Archer family. I loved how Remy's death wasn't in vain and how in the end it help mend so many fences. This story was more than I expected and I absolutely loved it. If you are a fan of these characters I highly recommend this read, even if m/m isn't your usually cuppa.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Oh I loved this one so hard for one freaking reason: The Archers. I know I am nut when it comes to this family, but Rule Archer will always be one of my number one book boyfriends. I sometimes think I live under a rock, because I had no idea this story would feature Orlando.
Orlando, Lando, was Remy Archer's secret boyfriend. He is now a world class physical therapist and well known for his success and results. That's how he meets Dominic. If you recall Dominic is Royal's partner on the force and was recently injured on the job. Dominic seeks help from Lando in his recovery and from there the sparks fly.
This is a quick read, but there isn't insta-love, just insta-lust which I totally understand and love in my books. Dom is completely open about his feelings and his desire to really date and get to know Lando. However, Lando is terrified of losing someone else he loves and Dominic's job is very dangerous. They have to decide if they are willing to be leveled by their feelings and accept their fears.
I loved these two so much together. Dominic was sweet and open with his feelings, after all that Lando had been through I was so happy to see these qualities in Dominic. Lando was caring and accepting. He loved Dominic for who he was and he didn't need to prove anything to Lando.
I couldn't be more please that Jay decided to write this story. I feel like it was the perfect bridge between the Marked Men and the Saints of Denver. It also provided closure and a little bit of happiness to the Archer family. I loved how Remy's death wasn't in vain and how in the end it help mend so many fences. This story was more than I expected and I absolutely loved it. If you are a fan of these characters I highly recommend this read, even if m/m isn't your usually cuppa.
"I love you, too, Orlando, and I will never hide that from anyone."
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
May 29, 2020
*2.5 stars*
I've never read Jay Crownover before, but I bought the paperback of her first M/M romance years ago, and finally decided to give it a shot.
To be honest, I had pretty low expectations of this book because M/M romances from authors who primarily write M/F romances tend to be a bit... underwhelming. If you look at it one way, this book met my (low) expectations. It was a nice story with some stilted chemistry and some good plot points to keep things moving.
My main issues with the story was that it was very sex-forward, which for me means that it's insta-attraction, insta-lust, and we don't get that slow burn/relationship development that I like before things heat up. I like a very slow burn in my romances, and so if you are leading with the sexual aspect of a relationship, the chemistry and intensity must be that must stronger for me to get emotionally invested. I wasn't satisfied on that front.
I also was pretty confused because this was supposed to be a prequel to the Saints of Denver series, but there was a TON of characters (with insane names, I might add) thrown in that I felt like I was supposed to know. It felt like the middle of a series that I hadn't read yet. It was disorienting.
Even though the story was fairly enjoyable, I struggled with some of the writing. It didn't seem like the author was completely comfortable writing M/M, and some of the sex scenes felt awkward and stilted.
Not too shabby, but not great either.
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I've never read Jay Crownover before, but I bought the paperback of her first M/M romance years ago, and finally decided to give it a shot.
To be honest, I had pretty low expectations of this book because M/M romances from authors who primarily write M/F romances tend to be a bit... underwhelming. If you look at it one way, this book met my (low) expectations. It was a nice story with some stilted chemistry and some good plot points to keep things moving.
My main issues with the story was that it was very sex-forward, which for me means that it's insta-attraction, insta-lust, and we don't get that slow burn/relationship development that I like before things heat up. I like a very slow burn in my romances, and so if you are leading with the sexual aspect of a relationship, the chemistry and intensity must be that must stronger for me to get emotionally invested. I wasn't satisfied on that front.
I also was pretty confused because this was supposed to be a prequel to the Saints of Denver series, but there was a TON of characters (with insane names, I might add) thrown in that I felt like I was supposed to know. It felt like the middle of a series that I hadn't read yet. It was disorienting.
Even though the story was fairly enjoyable, I struggled with some of the writing. It didn't seem like the author was completely comfortable writing M/M, and some of the sex scenes felt awkward and stilted.
Not too shabby, but not great either.
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February 18, 2016
This is just a great book an what I needed for Orlando
I m so so so happy I got to read this an the JC wrote it I 've wondered what would happen to Orlando since Rule an Rome's book I really wanted him to have his HEA he so deserved it I luv him so much he as gone through so much since Remy an I really wanted him to meet a super hot sexy man an this is where the even sexier hotter Dominic comes into it God is this man super sexy an when u get them together OMG OMG OMG they r so smoking hot I can't see from the steam in the room ; ) they can't get enough of each other in its so hot but there is a few problem they have to get over first
Dominic is a cop an as been in a accident on the job his shoulder an leg is not mended an he needs help if he is goin to get back on the job Orlando is a top physical therapist an as a waitin list so long but with Royal Dom's best friend pull in a few strings Dom got to c him once they set eyes on each other the sexual tension turned up to max once they started to working with each other the tension got even more hotter but they both didn't want to get hurt an Dom's job was a big problem for Orlando he wasn't sure if he could b with someone who had a job as a cop
I can't say enough good things about this book I luvd it from start to finish it's was great to c a few of the other characters from the Marked Men series I luv them al so much an like i said Orlando getting his HEA was a great thing for me an I wasn't disappointed at with who he got with an how they got together it just made me happy an super hot up the collar OMG what idols it with MM that's so hot an these to were just so sexy together I would highly recommend this book an the Marked Men series an I can't wait to read Built an anything else from this author she's just brilliant xxx
I m so so so happy I got to read this an the JC wrote it I 've wondered what would happen to Orlando since Rule an Rome's book I really wanted him to have his HEA he so deserved it I luv him so much he as gone through so much since Remy an I really wanted him to meet a super hot sexy man an this is where the even sexier hotter Dominic comes into it God is this man super sexy an when u get them together OMG OMG OMG they r so smoking hot I can't see from the steam in the room ; ) they can't get enough of each other in its so hot but there is a few problem they have to get over first
Dominic is a cop an as been in a accident on the job his shoulder an leg is not mended an he needs help if he is goin to get back on the job Orlando is a top physical therapist an as a waitin list so long but with Royal Dom's best friend pull in a few strings Dom got to c him once they set eyes on each other the sexual tension turned up to max once they started to working with each other the tension got even more hotter but they both didn't want to get hurt an Dom's job was a big problem for Orlando he wasn't sure if he could b with someone who had a job as a cop
I can't say enough good things about this book I luvd it from start to finish it's was great to c a few of the other characters from the Marked Men series I luv them al so much an like i said Orlando getting his HEA was a great thing for me an I wasn't disappointed at with who he got with an how they got together it just made me happy an super hot up the collar OMG what idols it with MM that's so hot an these to were just so sexy together I would highly recommend this book an the Marked Men series an I can't wait to read Built an anything else from this author she's just brilliant xxx
December 16, 2025
I read/reread the Marked Men series earlier this year, and felt like it was time to jump into Saints of Denver before 2025 ends, so that's exactly what I did.
Originally, my plan was to finish this series before the end of the year, and leave only The Forver Marked for 2026, but my brain had other plans, so I'll probably get through half of this series now, and the rest of it in January, which is fine with me.
This is the first M/M romance I've read by this author, and it was sweet, but not as good as some of the books in the previously mentioned series.
I enjoyed it more for the character cameos and the filler content it provided than for the romance itself, because a lot of it was lust based. I'm sure we all know I'm not the biggest fan of those...
It's also a novella, so there wasn't enough time to properly develop the characters outside of their sexual chemistry, which was a let down. But I am glad Lando got his happy ending, he deserves it.
Originally, my plan was to finish this series before the end of the year, and leave only The Forver Marked for 2026, but my brain had other plans, so I'll probably get through half of this series now, and the rest of it in January, which is fine with me.
This is the first M/M romance I've read by this author, and it was sweet, but not as good as some of the books in the previously mentioned series.
I enjoyed it more for the character cameos and the filler content it provided than for the romance itself, because a lot of it was lust based. I'm sure we all know I'm not the biggest fan of those...
It's also a novella, so there wasn't enough time to properly develop the characters outside of their sexual chemistry, which was a let down. But I am glad Lando got his happy ending, he deserves it.
November 6, 2015
Story rating:
Hotness rating:
Overall rating:
Leveled gives us the story of Orlando Frederick who we met in Rule as being the boyfriend to Remy Archer that was kept a secret for many years. Lando never got over Remy's death and still blames himself for fighting with him right before he died. Years later he faces another challenge when he gets Dominic Voss as a Physical Therapy Client.
Dom was injured in the line of duty as a police officer and was told that Lando is the best PT to work with. When the two meet there is an instant attraction between them that neither were prepared for. But Lando is scared of losing someone else he cares about, and Dom has a high risk job. Now he just has to avoid the sexy officer.
I loved this story and that it was sweet but not overly lovey dovey. The internal struggle that Lando was dealing with over whether or not he should take a chance on Dom made the story a lot more intriguing and I couldn't wait to see when he would realize there was no fighting the attraction.
I was expecting something really hot from this book so I was a little disappointed at the lack of sexiness. There wasn't zero smexy parts but there weren't a lot and the scenes that were just weren't as great as expected.
Overall, I loved this book even with the lack of hotness. Dom and Lando started this series off with a bang and now I am even more excited to read Built.
Hotness rating:
Overall rating:
Leveled gives us the story of Orlando Frederick who we met in Rule as being the boyfriend to Remy Archer that was kept a secret for many years. Lando never got over Remy's death and still blames himself for fighting with him right before he died. Years later he faces another challenge when he gets Dominic Voss as a Physical Therapy Client.
Dom was injured in the line of duty as a police officer and was told that Lando is the best PT to work with. When the two meet there is an instant attraction between them that neither were prepared for. But Lando is scared of losing someone else he cares about, and Dom has a high risk job. Now he just has to avoid the sexy officer.
I loved this story and that it was sweet but not overly lovey dovey. The internal struggle that Lando was dealing with over whether or not he should take a chance on Dom made the story a lot more intriguing and I couldn't wait to see when he would realize there was no fighting the attraction.
I was expecting something really hot from this book so I was a little disappointed at the lack of sexiness. There wasn't zero smexy parts but there weren't a lot and the scenes that were just weren't as great as expected.
Overall, I loved this book even with the lack of hotness. Dom and Lando started this series off with a bang and now I am even more excited to read Built.
November 12, 2015
4 Stars
I am a lover of all things m/m and when I realized I we were getting Dom and Lando's story, let just say I was stoked! Rule is one of my all time favorites books, and all the Marked Men have been a pleasure to get to know. I think I enjoyed Leveled in the same way, as an extension of the Marked Men, not so much as an m/m story. It had elements of what I love from a that genre, just not quite everything I've come to expect. I am excited for this new series and for Build, bring on that rugged builder!!
I am a lover of all things m/m and when I realized I we were getting Dom and Lando's story, let just say I was stoked! Rule is one of my all time favorites books, and all the Marked Men have been a pleasure to get to know. I think I enjoyed Leveled in the same way, as an extension of the Marked Men, not so much as an m/m story. It had elements of what I love from a that genre, just not quite everything I've come to expect. I am excited for this new series and for Build, bring on that rugged builder!!
March 8, 2017
This book right here is why I absolutely love M/M. I got the humour, the feels and the romance without any unnecessary drama.
It's been a while since I read a Jay Crownover book, and I've no idea why! Loved this one.
4.5 stars
It's been a while since I read a Jay Crownover book, and I've no idea why! Loved this one.
4.5 stars
June 15, 2017
5 Leveled Stars
I have been a fan of the Marked Men Series since I first read Rule.
I have read the rest of the Saints of Denver Series but how I didn’t know about this Novella is a mystery. But I sure am glad I picked it up and read it.
It really does bring in elements from the M M Series and the S of D Series. It also gives me some measure of closer. I always had this doubt and wonder about what happened to Orlando, because he was such a big part of Rule’s book even if others might not think so he was to me.
Orlando was Remy’s boyfriend no one knew about. And Shaw was Remy’s beard. It was sad and heart breaking learning of their story but for me it was more, because I felt so much for Orlando way back in that book.
So getting to know Lando and Dominic in this book it was a mending of hearts there and mine. Yep I get that “into” my books what can I say. Jay Crownover can write the heck out of some hunky hot fellas and make me come back for more.
The struggle both of these men go through in this book is inspiring. Lando is struggling with loving someone with his whole heart and being so afraid of losing that kind of love again. Dominic is afraid to love and beloved in return for who and what he is whether it’s a police officer or a former police officer hurt on the job. He never had to put his heart out on the line and hope it would be returned.
Magical and Sweet and HOT… Oh they very much steam up the pages. This book is the perfect balance of the old and the new series. Love it, love it, loved it .. Would it be corny if I said it Leveled me. ;)
*You don't have to like my review but its 100% my opinion, and I am allowed to have it.*
I have been a fan of the Marked Men Series since I first read Rule.
I have read the rest of the Saints of Denver Series but how I didn’t know about this Novella is a mystery. But I sure am glad I picked it up and read it.
It really does bring in elements from the M M Series and the S of D Series. It also gives me some measure of closer. I always had this doubt and wonder about what happened to Orlando, because he was such a big part of Rule’s book even if others might not think so he was to me.
Orlando was Remy’s boyfriend no one knew about. And Shaw was Remy’s beard. It was sad and heart breaking learning of their story but for me it was more, because I felt so much for Orlando way back in that book.
So getting to know Lando and Dominic in this book it was a mending of hearts there and mine. Yep I get that “into” my books what can I say. Jay Crownover can write the heck out of some hunky hot fellas and make me come back for more.
The struggle both of these men go through in this book is inspiring. Lando is struggling with loving someone with his whole heart and being so afraid of losing that kind of love again. Dominic is afraid to love and beloved in return for who and what he is whether it’s a police officer or a former police officer hurt on the job. He never had to put his heart out on the line and hope it would be returned.
Magical and Sweet and HOT… Oh they very much steam up the pages. This book is the perfect balance of the old and the new series. Love it, love it, loved it .. Would it be corny if I said it Leveled me. ;)
*You don't have to like my review but its 100% my opinion, and I am allowed to have it.*
July 18, 2017
4 stars!
Leveled by Jay Crownover is my first book by her and wow it was good! It also can be read as a standalone even though the other characters from different stories make an appearance. From here on out, I feel like I should only read M/M stories. They make me awfully happy and I seriously love them.
This is a short-ish story about Dom and Lando and trying to out where they fit in this world and with each other. Lando is a sought-after physical therapist hired to help Dom after he got shot in the line of duty when he was a cop. Although their lives are great and they both have things they need to overcome before they can be happy together and individually.
I do wish the book was a bit longer because I would have liked to see them grow more into a couple but that's just a personal preference. Them being together is always hot and I loved how they helped each other be better people. I thought it was a nice touch to see how developed each character were especially the secondary characters. They really shined.
I can't wait to get going and start reading more books by Jay.
Bad things happened, it was how we navigated the fallout afterward that really defined what our new normal would be. You could do it gracefully, generously, thoughtfully like this precious little girl, or you could do it sloppily, haphazardly, and blindly like I had done.
Leveled by Jay Crownover is my first book by her and wow it was good! It also can be read as a standalone even though the other characters from different stories make an appearance. From here on out, I feel like I should only read M/M stories. They make me awfully happy and I seriously love them.
This is a short-ish story about Dom and Lando and trying to out where they fit in this world and with each other. Lando is a sought-after physical therapist hired to help Dom after he got shot in the line of duty when he was a cop. Although their lives are great and they both have things they need to overcome before they can be happy together and individually.
Caring about someone else, being with them is a risk regardless of what they do to pay the bills.
I do wish the book was a bit longer because I would have liked to see them grow more into a couple but that's just a personal preference. Them being together is always hot and I loved how they helped each other be better people. I thought it was a nice touch to see how developed each character were especially the secondary characters. They really shined.
I can't wait to get going and start reading more books by Jay.
December 19, 2015
Great read and a nice Segway into the new series :)
February 29, 2016
Original review on Julalicious Book Paradise
rating: 4.5/5
I finally got the chance to start this and devoured it in less than a day. I really believed Jay took the best story to merge the two series together; adding old and new characters into this.
I always wanted to know more about Dominic and I really hoped that we were going to have a story about him in the new series and I'm sure that I wasn't the only one so when Jay told us that this novella was coming out, I was nearly jumping on my chair excited to read this. It's only circumstances of life that stopped me from reading this before now.
So back to the story, I really enjoyed being immersed into Orlando and Dominic's minds. Both of them had fears that pushed their relationship to the edge that could have sent them either way. I found myself often yelling at them in my mind (seriously, I couldn't really yell in my office, that would be just weird) to just man up and tell each other everything.
While Orlando had to work to make peace with certain aspects of his past life, Dominic had to work around to acceptance that his life was never going to be the same. I really feel like both men were meant to help one another as I read more about them throughout this novella.
Both had personalities that were opposites, but similar at the same. It's hard to explain, but that's how I felt.
And don't get me started on their chemistry. Jay seriously make the most passionate couples in her books and this one was no exception.
So am I more excited about the Saints of Denver? Hell yea I am, especially with the little sneak peek of Built and now, I just want to stalk Jay and steal a copy of the book hahaha
rating: 4.5/5
I finally got the chance to start this and devoured it in less than a day. I really believed Jay took the best story to merge the two series together; adding old and new characters into this.
I always wanted to know more about Dominic and I really hoped that we were going to have a story about him in the new series and I'm sure that I wasn't the only one so when Jay told us that this novella was coming out, I was nearly jumping on my chair excited to read this. It's only circumstances of life that stopped me from reading this before now.
So back to the story, I really enjoyed being immersed into Orlando and Dominic's minds. Both of them had fears that pushed their relationship to the edge that could have sent them either way. I found myself often yelling at them in my mind (seriously, I couldn't really yell in my office, that would be just weird) to just man up and tell each other everything.
While Orlando had to work to make peace with certain aspects of his past life, Dominic had to work around to acceptance that his life was never going to be the same. I really feel like both men were meant to help one another as I read more about them throughout this novella.
Both had personalities that were opposites, but similar at the same. It's hard to explain, but that's how I felt.
And don't get me started on their chemistry. Jay seriously make the most passionate couples in her books and this one was no exception.
So am I more excited about the Saints of Denver? Hell yea I am, especially with the little sneak peek of Built and now, I just want to stalk Jay and steal a copy of the book hahaha
May 22, 2016
Me prometi a mi misma que me leeria una novela gay algun dia, y ese dia llego. No me atraia mucho la idea pero vi este libro de Jay y sabiendo lo mucho que me gustan sus libros, pense que si alguien podia conseguir que me gustaran iba a ser ella. ¡No me equivocaba! Ha sido una historia preciosa y conmovedora. Ha habido tantas luchas en esta historia: Lando luchando con la culpa por la muerte de Remy y al mismo tiempo luchando para tener una relacion von Dom, Dom luchando para que Lando deje de tener miedo y luchando contra las lesiones para poder volver a ser policia, pero sobre todo lo mas conmovedor fue las historias tan tragicas de los clientes de Lando. Como los niños y adultos tienen que luchar con lesiones permanentes o temporales para poder seguir con sus vidas. Me he enamorado de esta historia, creo que me costará encontrar algo igual.
June 26, 2017
This review was originally posted on (un)Conventional Bookviews
Leveled has me questioning why I haven't read a Crownover series before now! I was enchanted, and she now has a new fan! Lando and Dom were both characters that made me feel, and their development through this story was truly well done.
I read Leveled as part of my Can You Read a Series in a Month challenge, and I have read all the Saints of Denver series in June. I enjoyed the characters, the story, the secrets, and also the very strong sense of family and friendship. Dom and Lando both thought they weren't deserving of love and a real relationship. Until there was no way for either of them to resist any longer.
Lando lived with a secret that had kept him from being fully happy before, but when he started to have feelings for Dom, everything kind of changed for him. Leveled brought him some much needed closure, and it was really nice to see that he had met someone who loved all the parts of him, and who could be proud to be seen with him everywhere.
Leveled also showed a different side of the Marked Men, which was a very good one, in my opinion. Dom and Lando slowly built a new relationship, while also keeping up with their various friends, some of whom they had in common. A great start to the series, and one that also made me go back to read the whole Marked Men series as well.
Written in first person past tense, dual point of view from both Lando's and Dom's perspective, Leveled brought out the feels big time.
I always played my cards close to my chest. Being a cop was already a hard job. Being a gay cop made the job that much more challenging, so I learned early on that my personal life wasn't a topic of conversation I wanted open for discussion.
He rolled his heavy shoulders and turned to walk over to the hooks on the wall that held his discarded clothes. "Most things that are easy aren't worth much. It's the thing you have to work for that matter the most."
I leaned forward so I could kiss him, so I could show him that I didn't care who or what or why just as long as it was me and him. He kissed me back, but it was softly, reverently. It was a kiss that said thank you for something I didn't even know that I did.
Leveled has me questioning why I haven't read a Crownover series before now! I was enchanted, and she now has a new fan! Lando and Dom were both characters that made me feel, and their development through this story was truly well done.
I read Leveled as part of my Can You Read a Series in a Month challenge, and I have read all the Saints of Denver series in June. I enjoyed the characters, the story, the secrets, and also the very strong sense of family and friendship. Dom and Lando both thought they weren't deserving of love and a real relationship. Until there was no way for either of them to resist any longer.
Lando lived with a secret that had kept him from being fully happy before, but when he started to have feelings for Dom, everything kind of changed for him. Leveled brought him some much needed closure, and it was really nice to see that he had met someone who loved all the parts of him, and who could be proud to be seen with him everywhere.
Leveled also showed a different side of the Marked Men, which was a very good one, in my opinion. Dom and Lando slowly built a new relationship, while also keeping up with their various friends, some of whom they had in common. A great start to the series, and one that also made me go back to read the whole Marked Men series as well.
Written in first person past tense, dual point of view from both Lando's and Dom's perspective, Leveled brought out the feels big time.
I always played my cards close to my chest. Being a cop was already a hard job. Being a gay cop made the job that much more challenging, so I learned early on that my personal life wasn't a topic of conversation I wanted open for discussion.
He rolled his heavy shoulders and turned to walk over to the hooks on the wall that held his discarded clothes. "Most things that are easy aren't worth much. It's the thing you have to work for that matter the most."
I leaned forward so I could kiss him, so I could show him that I didn't care who or what or why just as long as it was me and him. He kissed me back, but it was softly, reverently. It was a kiss that said thank you for something I didn't even know that I did.
November 3, 2015
I really enjoyed all of the books in the original series and this is a promising start to the new series. It was great to get more insight on Remy and Lando's relationship and I'm glad that he's finally going to be happy with Dom.
July 18, 2016
Finito il libro di Asa, mi sono subito fiondata sulla novella. Volevo, anzi DOVEVO leggere il lieto fine di Lando e ora mi sento meglio. Grazie zia Jay, ti voglio bene.
Questi due sono così belli insieme, così teneri e dolci e sexy che mi hanno commossa. E brava Jay...
Questi due sono così belli insieme, così teneri e dolci e sexy che mi hanno commossa. E brava Jay...
February 3, 2016
"Most things that are easy aren't worth much. It's the things you have to work for that matter the most."
November 7, 2015
3.5 Stars
When Jay Crownover announced the sneaky release of a series crossover novella from the Marked Men series to the Saints of Denver series, I about keeled over with excitement! I am a huge, huge, huge fan of Jay's books, and I couldn't wait to see how she would set up the story for Built, as well as give us another dose of some of my very favourite fictional guys.
As novellas go, Leveled was a pretty long one! I was expecting to finish it in a couple of hours but it actually took me a lot longer. I loved, loved, love seeing the Marked Men again, though I wished we'd seen more of the Saints of Denver crew. After all, this is a SoD novella...
I did find the book lacking Jay's usual sizzle and spark, and I felt some parts were rushed. I didn't feel the connection between the two main characters like I usually do with Jay's books, but my excitement and anticipation for the first SoD novel, Built, has now officially doubled!
Whether you're already a fan of Jay's book, or you're a newcomer, I think everyone will enjoy Lando and Dom's story. They were really sweet together and I liked seeing them each overcome their own issues, so they could find their new normal together.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
When Jay Crownover announced the sneaky release of a series crossover novella from the Marked Men series to the Saints of Denver series, I about keeled over with excitement! I am a huge, huge, huge fan of Jay's books, and I couldn't wait to see how she would set up the story for Built, as well as give us another dose of some of my very favourite fictional guys.
As novellas go, Leveled was a pretty long one! I was expecting to finish it in a couple of hours but it actually took me a lot longer. I loved, loved, love seeing the Marked Men again, though I wished we'd seen more of the Saints of Denver crew. After all, this is a SoD novella...
I did find the book lacking Jay's usual sizzle and spark, and I felt some parts were rushed. I didn't feel the connection between the two main characters like I usually do with Jay's books, but my excitement and anticipation for the first SoD novel, Built, has now officially doubled!
Whether you're already a fan of Jay's book, or you're a newcomer, I think everyone will enjoy Lando and Dom's story. They were really sweet together and I liked seeing them each overcome their own issues, so they could find their new normal together.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
June 13, 2016
Ho tentennato un po’ prima di buttarmi su questa storia, e me ne pento.
Mi è piaciuta tanto, mi ha catturato a tal punto che l’ho cominciata stamattina e ho saltato la pausa pranzo per finirla.
Adoro le storie di rinascita, quelle delle seconde possibilità. Quelle dove devi guarire le ferite dell’animo e del corpo. Quelle che ti fanno commuovere e poi ti fanno spuntare un sorriso.
Questo libro offre tutto questo, perciò è impossibile che non mi sia piaciuto.
Lando e Dom sono adorabili, si completano a vicenda e ho amato l’attrazione istintiva che li accomuna, ma anche il valzer di emozioni e ripensamenti che rendono tutto più verosimile.
Carinissimi anche i personaggi secondari, dei buoni sostegni per i nostri protagonisti.
Mi spiace solo che non sia l’inizio di una saga, ma darò un’occhiata al suo seguito, perché mi ha incuriosita.
Voto: 4.5 stelline.
Mi è piaciuta tanto, mi ha catturato a tal punto che l’ho cominciata stamattina e ho saltato la pausa pranzo per finirla.
Adoro le storie di rinascita, quelle delle seconde possibilità. Quelle dove devi guarire le ferite dell’animo e del corpo. Quelle che ti fanno commuovere e poi ti fanno spuntare un sorriso.
Questo libro offre tutto questo, perciò è impossibile che non mi sia piaciuto.
Lando e Dom sono adorabili, si completano a vicenda e ho amato l’attrazione istintiva che li accomuna, ma anche il valzer di emozioni e ripensamenti che rendono tutto più verosimile.
Carinissimi anche i personaggi secondari, dei buoni sostegni per i nostri protagonisti.
Mi spiace solo che non sia l’inizio di una saga, ma darò un’occhiata al suo seguito, perché mi ha incuriosita.
Voto: 4.5 stelline.
Want to read
October 22, 2015I'm always leery of MF authors crossing over. Often times than not, the writing style doesn't work for me, hence why I barely read het romances these days.
But...this author's writing I've enjoyed.
Consider me intrigued. :)
I hope to be proved wrong.
*fingers crossed*
But...this author's writing I've enjoyed.
Consider me intrigued. :)
I hope to be proved wrong.
*fingers crossed*
October 1, 2017
Cortito y entretenido. Lo he leído sin saber que muchos de los personajes salen en la serie Marked Men, con la que tendré que ponerme en algún momento, pues algunas de sus historias me han llamado mucho la atención.
January 5, 2016
Totally sweet. Dom and Lando were great characters.
November 11, 2015
Originally posted at Smexy Books- http://smexybooks.com/2015/11/review-...
Favorite Quote: “The guy across from me was a cherry-red Ferrari and I was a rusted out John Deere tractor.”
Officer Dominic Voss is slowly recovering from falling off a building while in pursuit of a suspect. On medical leave until he recovers, Dominic is seeking out a much in demand physical therapist to help him get back to crime fighting duty.
Orlando Frederick knows all about wanting the impossible. After losing someone precious to him, Lando focuses all his energy into helping others recover from pain even though he is unable to heal from his own. When a sinfully sexy cop begs him for his help, Lando is shocked by the punch of lust that zings him.
The attraction between them grows from a slow simmer to a burning inferno in no time but Lando has already loved and loss one stubborn man…his heart can’t risk another break. While Lando heals Dominic’s body, Dominic sees Lando needs some healing of his own, but Lando isn’t making it easy. Dominic will have to show Lando that love is all about taking risks and sometimes the worse pain of all is not losing, but never trying.
Leveled is the bridge that links Crownover’s Marked Men series to her new spinoff series- Saints of Denver. It is also the perfect farewell for all the fans who have waited patiently for Crownover to ‘lay Remy Archer to rest for good. If you haven’t read the Marked Men series, I wouldn’t start here. Nor would I use this as an introduction to the Saints of Denver series. This novella addresses a long standing storyline that has flowed beneath the entire Marked Men series and was the main conflict for book one-Rule.
SPOILER FROM MARKED MEN SERIES!!!! Remy Archer hid his love for Orlando Frederick from the world, going as far as to use their best friend, Shaw Landon, as his beard. When Orlando has enough and tells Remy either he comes clean with their relationship or their through, Remy leaves and ends up getting into a fatal car accident. For years Orlando blamed himself for Remy’s death and because of Remy’s secrets, wasn’t even able to seek out or offer comfort to the Archers. It’s only after Rome Archer comes home for good that Remy’s double life comes to light and everyone begins to see that no one knew Remy at all.
Leveled picks up years after Remy’s death. Lando still grieves for Remy and walls himself off emotionally to ensure he never suffers that sort of pain again. Now a physical therapist, Orlando helps others get back into fighting shape. When an old friend asks him for a favor, Orlando agrees to see a cop who was injured on the job. When Lando meets Dominic the sparks fly. This built, broody, sexy, scarred, warrior affects Lando something powerful and he experiences something that reminds him of his love for Remy. And that scares him to death.
“The instant I laid eyes on the big brooding cop, it was like a full body assault. There was nothing easy or comfortable about it.”
Dominic doesn’t come looking for anything but help when he meets his new physical trainer but he finds much more when he meets Lando. A tall sexy ginger with a lean build and freckles that beg to be licked and kissed. Dominic knows Lando feels the attraction too but he quickly nips it in the bud when Lando tells him he doesn’t date his clients. Dominic takes offense and the sparks turn to flames.
“You are distracting good looking, Dominic, but I don’t date my clients, and I don’t think I could even get involved with a cop.”
“I don’t know what I find more insulting, the fact you just assume I want to date you or the fact that I’m a cop somehow makes me beneath you. You have a lot of nerve, Mr. Fancy-Pants, a lot of nerve and a lot of ego.”
Even though we get alternating points of view, I couldn’t help but feel this was more Lando’s story. Emotionally poignant and filled with moments of heartache & passion, Leveled touches on several topics, the most important being forgiveness and learning to let go. Crownover writes a sexy, steamy, sorrow touched love story about two men who must deal with their own demons if they want to move forward with their lives and each other. Both are standing on the edge and it take some heavy duty loving, honesty, and a little help from their friends to give this couple their happily ever after.
“We are worth taking risks and venturing into the unknown.“
Crownover also includes a tiny excerpt from Built, the first in her Saints of Denver series, which is scheduled to release January 5, 2016.
GRADE: B+
Favorite Quote: “The guy across from me was a cherry-red Ferrari and I was a rusted out John Deere tractor.”
Officer Dominic Voss is slowly recovering from falling off a building while in pursuit of a suspect. On medical leave until he recovers, Dominic is seeking out a much in demand physical therapist to help him get back to crime fighting duty.
Orlando Frederick knows all about wanting the impossible. After losing someone precious to him, Lando focuses all his energy into helping others recover from pain even though he is unable to heal from his own. When a sinfully sexy cop begs him for his help, Lando is shocked by the punch of lust that zings him.
The attraction between them grows from a slow simmer to a burning inferno in no time but Lando has already loved and loss one stubborn man…his heart can’t risk another break. While Lando heals Dominic’s body, Dominic sees Lando needs some healing of his own, but Lando isn’t making it easy. Dominic will have to show Lando that love is all about taking risks and sometimes the worse pain of all is not losing, but never trying.
Leveled is the bridge that links Crownover’s Marked Men series to her new spinoff series- Saints of Denver. It is also the perfect farewell for all the fans who have waited patiently for Crownover to ‘lay Remy Archer to rest for good. If you haven’t read the Marked Men series, I wouldn’t start here. Nor would I use this as an introduction to the Saints of Denver series. This novella addresses a long standing storyline that has flowed beneath the entire Marked Men series and was the main conflict for book one-Rule.
SPOILER FROM MARKED MEN SERIES!!!! Remy Archer hid his love for Orlando Frederick from the world, going as far as to use their best friend, Shaw Landon, as his beard. When Orlando has enough and tells Remy either he comes clean with their relationship or their through, Remy leaves and ends up getting into a fatal car accident. For years Orlando blamed himself for Remy’s death and because of Remy’s secrets, wasn’t even able to seek out or offer comfort to the Archers. It’s only after Rome Archer comes home for good that Remy’s double life comes to light and everyone begins to see that no one knew Remy at all.
Leveled picks up years after Remy’s death. Lando still grieves for Remy and walls himself off emotionally to ensure he never suffers that sort of pain again. Now a physical therapist, Orlando helps others get back into fighting shape. When an old friend asks him for a favor, Orlando agrees to see a cop who was injured on the job. When Lando meets Dominic the sparks fly. This built, broody, sexy, scarred, warrior affects Lando something powerful and he experiences something that reminds him of his love for Remy. And that scares him to death.
“The instant I laid eyes on the big brooding cop, it was like a full body assault. There was nothing easy or comfortable about it.”
Dominic doesn’t come looking for anything but help when he meets his new physical trainer but he finds much more when he meets Lando. A tall sexy ginger with a lean build and freckles that beg to be licked and kissed. Dominic knows Lando feels the attraction too but he quickly nips it in the bud when Lando tells him he doesn’t date his clients. Dominic takes offense and the sparks turn to flames.
“You are distracting good looking, Dominic, but I don’t date my clients, and I don’t think I could even get involved with a cop.”
“I don’t know what I find more insulting, the fact you just assume I want to date you or the fact that I’m a cop somehow makes me beneath you. You have a lot of nerve, Mr. Fancy-Pants, a lot of nerve and a lot of ego.”
Even though we get alternating points of view, I couldn’t help but feel this was more Lando’s story. Emotionally poignant and filled with moments of heartache & passion, Leveled touches on several topics, the most important being forgiveness and learning to let go. Crownover writes a sexy, steamy, sorrow touched love story about two men who must deal with their own demons if they want to move forward with their lives and each other. Both are standing on the edge and it take some heavy duty loving, honesty, and a little help from their friends to give this couple their happily ever after.
“We are worth taking risks and venturing into the unknown.“
Crownover also includes a tiny excerpt from Built, the first in her Saints of Denver series, which is scheduled to release January 5, 2016.
GRADE: B+
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 4, 2015
There is not a single doubt with how much I adore anything written by Jay Crownover. She just has this unique flare in writing romance novels about badass tattooed men and such strong willed women that would never leave you. I was honesty surprised when she first announced details about Leveled, not only because it kicks off her new series, Saints of Denver, earlier than I expected, but because it's a story about two boys kissing. Well, you get what I mean. It is incredibly hot, fun and sexy, yet it was heartfelt and touching at the same time. It will actually teach you about moving on, accepting the past and learning to cope with your new normal. She had so many lines in this book that I just want to put up on my wall so I could see them and have them remind me everyday that sh*t happens and life goes on. This book is also such a great bridge from her Marked Men series to the upcoming one. It elaborates more on the connections and relationships between the characters from one to the other, which means most of the Marked Men we love so much make their appearance here as well. That in itself made my heart fill to the brim and want to burst with so much love and giddiness for these characters.
I loved the chemistry between Dominic Boss and Orlando Frederick. I loved the relationship they built and thrived on. Plus, they just complemented each other so well in so many ways. Dom is a cop who got badly injured at work and Lando, apparently is one of the best physical therapists. Dom loved his job so much that he would stop at nothing to get his badge back and return to work. Lando, after losing his one big love several years ago, has never really mended his heart and grieved what he lost. He blamed himself for Remy's death for so long, he was scared to get seriously attached and involved to somebody anymore, knowing what he could yet again lose. So imagine his surprise when the injured cop strides into his office and sparks fly everywhere, igniting something within him that he thought has died along with Remy all those years ago. Dom was just perfect for him. He never hid being gay and that was what Lando needed the most—to be accepted and loved for who he is, for his love to be proud to be with and seen with him. Though Lando's fear of losing another great love will always be there, it's up to him to take the plunge and risk everything to get his happiness. For me, they just worked so darn well together as a couple and as a team. And I loved them hard.
I was so excited to read this book and get to know Lando more. I wasn't expecting I'd love Dom this much though. He captivated me with how he handled and focused on everything Lando needed and his love for him just shone so bright, it made my heart full. I also know that I'd love this no matter what, given that it was written by such an amazing author, but it still surprised me at how much it gripped at my heart. Not only because it was steamy or because the characters I love so dearly from the Marked Men series were very much alive and still mentioned here in this book. Those were already a given. What captured me the most was the lesson it taught me, the way it opened me up more to coming to terms with something life changing and coming back from something so devastating. The way it made me see how only you could teach yourself to get back up and take that stride in order to win at happiness, to not let fear hold you back. I guess I got the deeper end of Lando and Dom's story, and I couldn't be any happier that I did. I seriously couldn't wait to see what Jay has in store for us in Zeb and Sayer's story in Built.
I loved the chemistry between Dominic Boss and Orlando Frederick. I loved the relationship they built and thrived on. Plus, they just complemented each other so well in so many ways. Dom is a cop who got badly injured at work and Lando, apparently is one of the best physical therapists. Dom loved his job so much that he would stop at nothing to get his badge back and return to work. Lando, after losing his one big love several years ago, has never really mended his heart and grieved what he lost. He blamed himself for Remy's death for so long, he was scared to get seriously attached and involved to somebody anymore, knowing what he could yet again lose. So imagine his surprise when the injured cop strides into his office and sparks fly everywhere, igniting something within him that he thought has died along with Remy all those years ago. Dom was just perfect for him. He never hid being gay and that was what Lando needed the most—to be accepted and loved for who he is, for his love to be proud to be with and seen with him. Though Lando's fear of losing another great love will always be there, it's up to him to take the plunge and risk everything to get his happiness. For me, they just worked so darn well together as a couple and as a team. And I loved them hard.
I was so excited to read this book and get to know Lando more. I wasn't expecting I'd love Dom this much though. He captivated me with how he handled and focused on everything Lando needed and his love for him just shone so bright, it made my heart full. I also know that I'd love this no matter what, given that it was written by such an amazing author, but it still surprised me at how much it gripped at my heart. Not only because it was steamy or because the characters I love so dearly from the Marked Men series were very much alive and still mentioned here in this book. Those were already a given. What captured me the most was the lesson it taught me, the way it opened me up more to coming to terms with something life changing and coming back from something so devastating. The way it made me see how only you could teach yourself to get back up and take that stride in order to win at happiness, to not let fear hold you back. I guess I got the deeper end of Lando and Dom's story, and I couldn't be any happier that I did. I seriously couldn't wait to see what Jay has in store for us in Zeb and Sayer's story in Built.
October 27, 2015
Leveled by Jay Crownover is a kick off novella to her new spin-off series Saints of Denver based in the Marked Men world and boy does it pack a punch. Not only does Jay need to set up the new series but because it’s based in the world of her old series, she needs to do some backstory explaining as well as tell the M/M love story of Dominic Vos and Orlando Frederick who are characters in both series now and do it all in a novella. Yeah, you see where I’m going with this…….
So first let me give you a little synopsis for those new to Jay’s Marked Men world and also for those who’ve never read the books. Dominic Vos is a beat cop who’s best friend and partner is Royal (whom we met in previous Marked Men books). He was gravely injured on the job (he fell from a freakin’ building) and has been put on leave until he can be reevaluated and reinstated for duty. As you can imagine this leaves the very macho cop in the doldrums but he is bound and determined to get his job and life back. With the help of Royal and some of others, they pull strings to get him into the best physical therapist around, Orlando Frederick. Lando is often called a miracle worker and has a very famous client list. He not only takes on famous athletes and celebrities but also everyday heroes like the super sexy cop, Dom. The two are instantly attracted to each other and sparks fly but can they get over all their past baggage to find happiness together? You’ll have to read it to find out but yes, there is a HEA, LOL.
What I loved about this story is getting to revisit all our old Marked Men friends and getting the epilogues we so desperately wanted from them. We also get another side of Remy’s story from Marked Men. As it turns out Lando and Remy were lovers until one tragic night. Leveled brings all that and paves the way to Saints of Denver. Dom and Lando’s story literally closes one series and opens another.
Now onto what I didn’t love so much…….ugggggg are you really going to make me hate on a series I love……..Alright maybe I can just break it down by points.
1. It’s a dual POV and to be honest, I couldn’t tell except for the fact that each POV was titled with the character’s name. To me it read as one character, if that makes sense. There was no distinguishing characteristics to either man that came through on the pages. If there weren’t chapter titles telling me who’s voice it was, I would have thought the whole story was being told from one POV.
2. I felt the love story got lost with all the series backstory and setting up of the new series.
3. Sorry but I DIDN’T FEEL THE HEAT. I don’t care if it’s a M/M, M/F or F/F, I want to feel the sparks coming off the pages in my love stories. I want the awkwardness of the first meeting, I want the angst, I want the sizzle and it doesn’t need to be raging sex but I don’t want it to feel like an old married couple. I’m telling you, these two guys felt like two people who fit together perfectly but there was no steam.
4. Lastly, I loved getting the goods on all my Marked Men family and learning the backstory on Remy but I honestly think that there was too much of it *ducks from the flying fruit*.
I’d break the book down to 1/3 epilogue and filling in story hole for Marked Men, 1/3 world building and 1/3 love story, so because of all the 3’s, I’ll give this one a 3.
So first let me give you a little synopsis for those new to Jay’s Marked Men world and also for those who’ve never read the books. Dominic Vos is a beat cop who’s best friend and partner is Royal (whom we met in previous Marked Men books). He was gravely injured on the job (he fell from a freakin’ building) and has been put on leave until he can be reevaluated and reinstated for duty. As you can imagine this leaves the very macho cop in the doldrums but he is bound and determined to get his job and life back. With the help of Royal and some of others, they pull strings to get him into the best physical therapist around, Orlando Frederick. Lando is often called a miracle worker and has a very famous client list. He not only takes on famous athletes and celebrities but also everyday heroes like the super sexy cop, Dom. The two are instantly attracted to each other and sparks fly but can they get over all their past baggage to find happiness together? You’ll have to read it to find out but yes, there is a HEA, LOL.
What I loved about this story is getting to revisit all our old Marked Men friends and getting the epilogues we so desperately wanted from them. We also get another side of Remy’s story from Marked Men. As it turns out Lando and Remy were lovers until one tragic night. Leveled brings all that and paves the way to Saints of Denver. Dom and Lando’s story literally closes one series and opens another.
Now onto what I didn’t love so much…….ugggggg are you really going to make me hate on a series I love……..Alright maybe I can just break it down by points.
1. It’s a dual POV and to be honest, I couldn’t tell except for the fact that each POV was titled with the character’s name. To me it read as one character, if that makes sense. There was no distinguishing characteristics to either man that came through on the pages. If there weren’t chapter titles telling me who’s voice it was, I would have thought the whole story was being told from one POV.
2. I felt the love story got lost with all the series backstory and setting up of the new series.
3. Sorry but I DIDN’T FEEL THE HEAT. I don’t care if it’s a M/M, M/F or F/F, I want to feel the sparks coming off the pages in my love stories. I want the awkwardness of the first meeting, I want the angst, I want the sizzle and it doesn’t need to be raging sex but I don’t want it to feel like an old married couple. I’m telling you, these two guys felt like two people who fit together perfectly but there was no steam.
4. Lastly, I loved getting the goods on all my Marked Men family and learning the backstory on Remy but I honestly think that there was too much of it *ducks from the flying fruit*.
I’d break the book down to 1/3 epilogue and filling in story hole for Marked Men, 1/3 world building and 1/3 love story, so because of all the 3’s, I’ll give this one a 3.
October 31, 2015
Ahhhhh, an M/M read from Jay Crownover? One that bridges my beloved Marked Men with the Saints of Denver? GIMME. NOW. <<-- Essentially all the words I was capable of when I found out about it. And now I'm done, my words are more like, ‘I want more. Now!’
Dominic Voss and Orlando Frederick both know what it is to suffer. Dom’s trying to get to back to full fitness and his job on the beat—a job that defines who he is—after a life-threatening injury, while Lando has closed himself off to the idea of love after the worst kind of ending to his relationship with his first—and true—love.
They weren't supposed to be more than therapist and patient—Lando’s job was to put Dom’s broken body back together. But their intense attraction means that Lando isn't the only one doing the healing…if he can break down his barriers, Dom might just have a chance at mending Lando’s broken heart.
Is it January yet? Because I raced through this steamy, emotional novella and now I'm done, I'm so ready for more of this new series. Leveled was an excellent introduction to the Saints of Denver, with a couple of little Easter Egg moments to tease what's to come—and it included cameos from some of those Marked Men characters I didn't (still don't) want to say goodbye to, giving a bit more closure to fans of the original series. Not that you must have read those to be able to enjoy the story of Dom and Lando. Knowing a little of their respective back stories made it easier to get invested in this story for sure (as well as a grip on the relationships that pop up between these characters and their friends/family), but nonetheless, I think you could get by without. Wonderful.
And speaking of wonderful, there were a couple of moments, in particular, that packed a real punch for me—and one of them didn't even directly involve the main couple. Instead, it served as a reminder about the importance of forgiveness and love. And that's really what this book is about. Accepting what's happened, and trying not to let it affect what's to come. Dom’s trying to heal his injury, Lando needs to mend his broken heart, and they both need to embrace the future—whatever it holds.
I loved Dom and Lando’s story, and was thrilled that Ms. Crownover gave them a second chance at life and love. Seeing them struggle to find balance with one another—to heal and move on—was fun, sexy and rewarding. This couple just worked together, and I only wish it could have been longer, since it's STILL not January yet…and I really, really wish it was… ~ Beth, 4.5 stars
Dominic Voss and Orlando Frederick both know what it is to suffer. Dom’s trying to get to back to full fitness and his job on the beat—a job that defines who he is—after a life-threatening injury, while Lando has closed himself off to the idea of love after the worst kind of ending to his relationship with his first—and true—love.
They weren't supposed to be more than therapist and patient—Lando’s job was to put Dom’s broken body back together. But their intense attraction means that Lando isn't the only one doing the healing…if he can break down his barriers, Dom might just have a chance at mending Lando’s broken heart.
Is it January yet? Because I raced through this steamy, emotional novella and now I'm done, I'm so ready for more of this new series. Leveled was an excellent introduction to the Saints of Denver, with a couple of little Easter Egg moments to tease what's to come—and it included cameos from some of those Marked Men characters I didn't (still don't) want to say goodbye to, giving a bit more closure to fans of the original series. Not that you must have read those to be able to enjoy the story of Dom and Lando. Knowing a little of their respective back stories made it easier to get invested in this story for sure (as well as a grip on the relationships that pop up between these characters and their friends/family), but nonetheless, I think you could get by without. Wonderful.
And speaking of wonderful, there were a couple of moments, in particular, that packed a real punch for me—and one of them didn't even directly involve the main couple. Instead, it served as a reminder about the importance of forgiveness and love. And that's really what this book is about. Accepting what's happened, and trying not to let it affect what's to come. Dom’s trying to heal his injury, Lando needs to mend his broken heart, and they both need to embrace the future—whatever it holds.
I loved Dom and Lando’s story, and was thrilled that Ms. Crownover gave them a second chance at life and love. Seeing them struggle to find balance with one another—to heal and move on—was fun, sexy and rewarding. This couple just worked together, and I only wish it could have been longer, since it's STILL not January yet…and I really, really wish it was… ~ Beth, 4.5 stars
November 4, 2015
Synopsis:
We all need a hero...let the Saints of Denver begin
Orlando Frederick knows what it is to be leveled by pain. Instead of focusing on his own, he’s made it his mission to help others: sports stars, wounded war vets, survivors of all kinds. But when Dom, a rugged, damaged, sinfully attractive cop, makes his way into Lando’s physical therapy practice, he might be the biggest challenge yet. Lando loved one stubborn man before and barely survived the fallout. He’s not sure he can do it again.
Dominic Voss is a protector. The police badge he wears is not only his job, it’s his identity, so when he’s sidelined because of an injury, the only thing he cares about is getting back on the force. He expects Lando to mend his body, he just doesn’t realize the trainer will also have him working toward a hell of a lot more. As attraction simmers and flares, Dom sees that Lando needs repair of his own...if only the man will let him close enough to mend what's broken.
My Thoughts:
I enjoyed this, but not as much as I hoped. I've never read the other books in the original series, but I wanted to check this out. Maybe one day I'll look into those.
I liked Orlando and Dom quite a bit, especially Dom. I'm glad Lando got his happy ending because his relationship with Remy was pretty sad. He frustrated me, though. It felt like he wasn't really trying. I understand protecting your heart, but that isn't fair to the other person in the relationship. He's lucky Royal basically came to give him a kick in the ass or Dom may well have walked away.
Things move a bit fast with these two and there some times where I felt there was more tell than show, but I really liked the way they met and how into each other they were. The book isn't heavy on the sex, but what was there was pretty good.
My biggest issue is that Dom's decision at the end seemed a bit convenient. It takes care of Lando's worrying about his job quite nicely. I'm just not sure if rang true for me. He worked all that time to go back to work and even worried that he'd have to choose between Lando and his job and then decides he'll do something else? Perhaps he really did lose his passion for being a beat cop, but since we really only got to see that something wasn't working for him because Lando observed he was moody and then he told Lando it wasn't working for him, I didn't really get to feel like he had a change of heart. Other than that, I didn't have many issues and this was a nice, sweet read.
We all need a hero...let the Saints of Denver begin
Orlando Frederick knows what it is to be leveled by pain. Instead of focusing on his own, he’s made it his mission to help others: sports stars, wounded war vets, survivors of all kinds. But when Dom, a rugged, damaged, sinfully attractive cop, makes his way into Lando’s physical therapy practice, he might be the biggest challenge yet. Lando loved one stubborn man before and barely survived the fallout. He’s not sure he can do it again.
Dominic Voss is a protector. The police badge he wears is not only his job, it’s his identity, so when he’s sidelined because of an injury, the only thing he cares about is getting back on the force. He expects Lando to mend his body, he just doesn’t realize the trainer will also have him working toward a hell of a lot more. As attraction simmers and flares, Dom sees that Lando needs repair of his own...if only the man will let him close enough to mend what's broken.
My Thoughts:
I enjoyed this, but not as much as I hoped. I've never read the other books in the original series, but I wanted to check this out. Maybe one day I'll look into those.
I liked Orlando and Dom quite a bit, especially Dom. I'm glad Lando got his happy ending because his relationship with Remy was pretty sad. He frustrated me, though. It felt like he wasn't really trying. I understand protecting your heart, but that isn't fair to the other person in the relationship. He's lucky Royal basically came to give him a kick in the ass or Dom may well have walked away.
Things move a bit fast with these two and there some times where I felt there was more tell than show, but I really liked the way they met and how into each other they were. The book isn't heavy on the sex, but what was there was pretty good.
My biggest issue is that Dom's decision at the end seemed a bit convenient. It takes care of Lando's worrying about his job quite nicely. I'm just not sure if rang true for me. He worked all that time to go back to work and even worried that he'd have to choose between Lando and his job and then decides he'll do something else? Perhaps he really did lose his passion for being a beat cop, but since we really only got to see that something wasn't working for him because Lando observed he was moody and then he told Lando it wasn't working for him, I didn't really get to feel like he had a change of heart. Other than that, I didn't have many issues and this was a nice, sweet read.
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