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The Square Peg #4
The Final Round
Reeling from the news of his mother's death, Shane heads back to England to face a hostile father. Benedict's with him every step of the way, providing a shoulder to cry on and an escape from sorrow by way of their increasingly powerful and intense scenes.
Grieving and guilty, seeking a reconciliation with his father, Shane makes a hasty decision that brings him peace of mind, but at a heavy cost to his relationship with the man he loves. Is it time to call it quits or time to grow closer still? In the wake of his loss, Shane finds that question doesn’t have a simple answer--but questions of the heart never do.
Grieving and guilty, seeking a reconciliation with his father, Shane makes a hasty decision that brings him peace of mind, but at a heavy cost to his relationship with the man he loves. Is it time to call it quits or time to grow closer still? In the wake of his loss, Shane finds that question doesn’t have a simple answer--but questions of the heart never do.
298 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 17, 2015
4 people are currently reading
186 people want to read
About the author
Jane Davitt
64 books479 followersRetired from pro writing, pretty much. Any books where the rights are with me I've put up at A03, along with all my fic, which I'm still writing.
[Free reads and my fanfic are here:
Jane Davitt at AO3]
Thank you to all who read my books. It meant a lot.
[Free reads and my fanfic are here:
Jane Davitt at AO3]
Thank you to all who read my books. It meant a lot.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
December 30, 2015
Ben, Shane,
The end.
Kidding. You know how I do! C'mon.
I do love them, though. True story. I was so excited to learn these authors were revisiting the original Peggers I believe people the next county over heard me. There isn't a bit of disappoint in me either. They're one of those couples that makes even the most banal events seem sexy and oftentimes a little naughty.
Brace yourselves, people, because this book is HOOOOOOOOOTTTTTTTTT! I was reading this at work and at one point I seriously contemplated "faking an illness" so I could go home for some "me time". Another true story. Which reminds me, as a side note/word of caution: I wouldn't read this in public. Because high probability of embarrassing situation arising.
Ben and Shane go across the pond to organize Shane's mother's funeral. Trigger warning: Shane's father is a bigot. He's provincial, narrow-minded and an alcoholic. He was abusive to Shane as a child and a shitty husband. In other words, he hit the jackpot in the Asshat Lottery. But he's the only father Shane's got. I do think he loves Shane in a twisted way and age has mellowed him some, but he's not a likable character.
Complex layers of character development are what held my interest in this slice of life book that isn't action packed or full of dramatics. Shane's guilt over his estrangement from his parents, his self-worth issues and struggle to figure out his place in the world are the engine that drives this story. Ben is his North Star. Always. Through this tragedy, though, their relationship is tested and strengthened.
It's a walk down memory lane for Shane and brings forth emotional turmoil that Shane doesn't know how to cope with on his own which is where Ben comes in. I wouldn't go so far to say that he reads Shane like a book but he knows his tells, isn't afraid of his bluster and pushes him to open up which sets off new avenues to explore within their relationship.
I think for me what makes them so interesting to read about is their relationship is this organic entity that keeps growing and evolving; they're not static even after 2 yrs together. They're still exploring the kinky aspects of their relationship and both are willing to try things, some successful, some less so, but all learning experiences that they can alter to fit their dynamic.
I have my suspicions about the direction of their relationship but I shall keep them to myself.
Most of the book is spent in England with some bizarre food worthy of Andrew Zimmern that's got me thinking Brits have a weird obsession with chicken. I did thoroughlyturn green with envy enjoy how Shane was Ben's own personal tour guide. Everyone should have that person who says don't eat there or if you do that you're totally getting ripped off. Someone should invent this, though I believe they'd be receiving some side eyes from me were they to suggest a chicken and sweet corn sandwich. *still gagging*
The characters from the previous books made appearances and a couple of new ones were introduced who, I'm guessing, may get their own book? Soon? And please let them be kinky.
Pulled out the BIG GUNS!
Highly recommended but cannot be read as a standalone, though you really only need to read The Square Peg to get caught up.
A review copy was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
The end.
Kidding. You know how I do! C'mon.
I do love them, though. True story. I was so excited to learn these authors were revisiting the original Peggers I believe people the next county over heard me. There isn't a bit of disappoint in me either. They're one of those couples that makes even the most banal events seem sexy and oftentimes a little naughty.
Brace yourselves, people, because this book is HOOOOOOOOOTTTTTTTTT! I was reading this at work and at one point I seriously contemplated "faking an illness" so I could go home for some "me time". Another true story. Which reminds me, as a side note/word of caution: I wouldn't read this in public. Because high probability of embarrassing situation arising.
Every thrust threatened to life Shane off the ground, and he literally couldn't move, not with Benedict's arm around him, Benedict's cock inside him, and his jeans around his calves. He wasn't much more than a sex doll, unable to do anything but be manhandled and fucked as Benedict pleased.
Ben and Shane go across the pond to organize Shane's mother's funeral. Trigger warning: Shane's father is a bigot. He's provincial, narrow-minded and an alcoholic. He was abusive to Shane as a child and a shitty husband. In other words, he hit the jackpot in the Asshat Lottery. But he's the only father Shane's got. I do think he loves Shane in a twisted way and age has mellowed him some, but he's not a likable character.
Complex layers of character development are what held my interest in this slice of life book that isn't action packed or full of dramatics. Shane's guilt over his estrangement from his parents, his self-worth issues and struggle to figure out his place in the world are the engine that drives this story. Ben is his North Star. Always. Through this tragedy, though, their relationship is tested and strengthened.
It's a walk down memory lane for Shane and brings forth emotional turmoil that Shane doesn't know how to cope with on his own which is where Ben comes in. I wouldn't go so far to say that he reads Shane like a book but he knows his tells, isn't afraid of his bluster and pushes him to open up which sets off new avenues to explore within their relationship.
I think for me what makes them so interesting to read about is their relationship is this organic entity that keeps growing and evolving; they're not static even after 2 yrs together. They're still exploring the kinky aspects of their relationship and both are willing to try things, some successful, some less so, but all learning experiences that they can alter to fit their dynamic.
"You're mine. You don't get to hide. I own you, Shane. Mine. Every scream, every smile, every bruise. And I won't settle for the parts of you you're willing to share. Got that?"
I have my suspicions about the direction of their relationship but I shall keep them to myself.
Most of the book is spent in England with some bizarre food worthy of Andrew Zimmern that's got me thinking Brits have a weird obsession with chicken. I did thoroughly
The characters from the previous books made appearances and a couple of new ones were introduced who, I'm guessing, may get their own book? Soon? And please let them be kinky.
Pulled out the BIG GUNS!
Highly recommended but cannot be read as a standalone, though you really only need to read The Square Peg to get caught up.
A review copy was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
February 12, 2016
Gah, perfect ending for Shane and Ben! Now it's time to read the second and third books in the series.
December 16, 2015
Full review originally posted at Sinfully.
The series, and really Ben and Shane’s story, comes full circle in this book. As Ben and Shane were brought together in the first book as a result of Ben’s father’s death, here Shane must return to England after his mother dies. Shane has no desire to see his drunken, violent, homophobic father, nor any desire to subject Ben to his nastiness; after all, he was the main reason Shane left 20 years ago and never returned.
Ben and Shane’s relationship is as strong and kinky as it ever was. Ben will do anything for Shane so when the phone call comes about his mother, Ben jumps into action and takes care of everything. Shane is surprised to feel a bit of homesickness when he returns, even though things go pretty much as expected with his father, Alfie. What Shane didn’t expect, however, was that Ben would get on with Alfie.
This is mostly Shane’s story. His past is laid out with his father, his ex, Daniel, who he followed to the States and then dumped rather than return to England, and his mother. Shane is struggling with guilt over not having visited her since he left and that guilt and his grief begins to color what he sees for his future. I enjoyed watching him introduce Ben to his old friends and the England that he loved even when he left. Even though the Shane who returns has changed in 20 years, his memories of his father haven’t and it’s hard for him to even consider that perhaps Alfie has changed a little bit as well.
Fear not Ben fans. Shane’s story can’t be told without him and Ben is the strength and control that Shane needs to hold himself together throughout this trip. Their rough sex and BDSM play has never been structured, more just what works for the two of them. Ben has grown more confident in his ability to give Shane what he needs, while Shane is more willing to accept that he needs it. Their scenes together are hot and their connection is amazing.
By the end of the story Ben and Shane will have tested their kink a bit more, but even more so, tested just how far they will go to keep their relationship together. As the story played out, there were hints dropped as to what was going to happen, but the authors kept me guessing as to just how everything would be resolved.
While most of the action takes place away from The Square Peg, there are still appearances by Patrick and Vin, and Dave, who uses his experience from the last book to help Ben out when he fears he has lost control of everything. After a bit of tension at the end, the story is wrapped up in a fitting happy ending that I think fans of the series will really enjoy.
The series, and really Ben and Shane’s story, comes full circle in this book. As Ben and Shane were brought together in the first book as a result of Ben’s father’s death, here Shane must return to England after his mother dies. Shane has no desire to see his drunken, violent, homophobic father, nor any desire to subject Ben to his nastiness; after all, he was the main reason Shane left 20 years ago and never returned.
Ben and Shane’s relationship is as strong and kinky as it ever was. Ben will do anything for Shane so when the phone call comes about his mother, Ben jumps into action and takes care of everything. Shane is surprised to feel a bit of homesickness when he returns, even though things go pretty much as expected with his father, Alfie. What Shane didn’t expect, however, was that Ben would get on with Alfie.
This is mostly Shane’s story. His past is laid out with his father, his ex, Daniel, who he followed to the States and then dumped rather than return to England, and his mother. Shane is struggling with guilt over not having visited her since he left and that guilt and his grief begins to color what he sees for his future. I enjoyed watching him introduce Ben to his old friends and the England that he loved even when he left. Even though the Shane who returns has changed in 20 years, his memories of his father haven’t and it’s hard for him to even consider that perhaps Alfie has changed a little bit as well.
Fear not Ben fans. Shane’s story can’t be told without him and Ben is the strength and control that Shane needs to hold himself together throughout this trip. Their rough sex and BDSM play has never been structured, more just what works for the two of them. Ben has grown more confident in his ability to give Shane what he needs, while Shane is more willing to accept that he needs it. Their scenes together are hot and their connection is amazing.
By the end of the story Ben and Shane will have tested their kink a bit more, but even more so, tested just how far they will go to keep their relationship together. As the story played out, there were hints dropped as to what was going to happen, but the authors kept me guessing as to just how everything would be resolved.
While most of the action takes place away from The Square Peg, there are still appearances by Patrick and Vin, and Dave, who uses his experience from the last book to help Ben out when he fears he has lost control of everything. After a bit of tension at the end, the story is wrapped up in a fitting happy ending that I think fans of the series will really enjoy.
May 24, 2016
I enjoyed the return to Ben and Shane, whose relationship anchored the beginning of the series. This is Shane's story, as he returns to England after the death of his mother to confront the father who drove him away, and the country he left behind, but still feels tied to. Ben is at his side, his rock, his Dom, but also his loving partner.
While Shane struggles to redefine his relationship with his father, Ben tries to figure out how to support him. What is reasonable? What is being a good lover and friend, or a good Dom? When does Shane need to just be accepted, and when does he need someone to pull him up short? And what happens when their various needs clash?
The focus here is very much on the emotional and the familial. It's about the ways the past can have hooks in you that are invisible, until something else changes. And it's about how a relationship is always a balance, each one unique, but with two people whose needs will sometimes conflict, challenging them to find a middle way.
Shane's unreasonable moments come from being devastated by his mother's loss, his regrets, and the homesickness he'd not realized he felt. Ben's love for Shane goes so deep that he has a hard time knowing when to take his own needs into account. I really enjoyed the byplay of these two familiar and well-loved characters.
While Shane struggles to redefine his relationship with his father, Ben tries to figure out how to support him. What is reasonable? What is being a good lover and friend, or a good Dom? When does Shane need to just be accepted, and when does he need someone to pull him up short? And what happens when their various needs clash?
The focus here is very much on the emotional and the familial. It's about the ways the past can have hooks in you that are invisible, until something else changes. And it's about how a relationship is always a balance, each one unique, but with two people whose needs will sometimes conflict, challenging them to find a middle way.
Shane's unreasonable moments come from being devastated by his mother's loss, his regrets, and the homesickness he'd not realized he felt. Ben's love for Shane goes so deep that he has a hard time knowing when to take his own needs into account. I really enjoyed the byplay of these two familiar and well-loved characters.
February 23, 2020
Great end
4 stars ⭐️
Great end to the series.
I loved seeing Ben and Shane and how they’ve progressed in their relationship. They are so comfortable with their dynamic and understood the limits and how far they could go. Ben was great in the way he read and understood what Shane needed.
I also enjoyed the challenges presented in this one. I understood from both perspectives and thought there probably wasn’t a good compromise available. I’m glad it worked out in the end and everyone was happy.
It was also good to see Shane interactions with his family and mending bridges with his dad.
All in all a great series
4 stars ⭐️
Great end to the series.
I loved seeing Ben and Shane and how they’ve progressed in their relationship. They are so comfortable with their dynamic and understood the limits and how far they could go. Ben was great in the way he read and understood what Shane needed.
I also enjoyed the challenges presented in this one. I understood from both perspectives and thought there probably wasn’t a good compromise available. I’m glad it worked out in the end and everyone was happy.
It was also good to see Shane interactions with his family and mending bridges with his dad.
All in all a great series
December 10, 2015
REVIEWED FOR PRISM BOOK ALLIANCE
Shane and Ben are back but their life is about to become a whole lot more difficult.
Smiling, living in the afterglow of sex one minute and then a phone call to change everything. Shane’s mum has died unexpectedly and he is returning to England for the first time in nearly 2 decades with Ben at his side.
He comes face to face with the reason he left home and moved to America almost as soon as he lands. His father doesn’t appear to have changed at first glance and it isn’t long before both men are posturing. Shane is stuck in the past, still holding on to past hurts but with Ben’s help its time to try and move forward.
Shane seemed much younger and unsure of himself once he arrived home in the UK. Memories from the past assailed him and added to his grief and feelings of guilt at letting his mother down and he is aggressive and stubborn. Bens calming influence, and the fact that he seems to get on with Shane’s father help the two men to mend a few bridges but it seems their relationship will only ever be fixed so far.
Things between Ben and Shane are tense and I didn’t like the fact that Shane went off with his own plans without really thinking of Ben. His guilt and grief left him blinkered and he ended up hurting the one man in the world that truly loved him. I loved the dynamics of their relationship, they make and follow their own rules and it seems to work well for them. This was a good conclusion to the The Square Peg Series but they had to work hard for their HEA.
Shane and Ben are back but their life is about to become a whole lot more difficult.
Smiling, living in the afterglow of sex one minute and then a phone call to change everything. Shane’s mum has died unexpectedly and he is returning to England for the first time in nearly 2 decades with Ben at his side.
He comes face to face with the reason he left home and moved to America almost as soon as he lands. His father doesn’t appear to have changed at first glance and it isn’t long before both men are posturing. Shane is stuck in the past, still holding on to past hurts but with Ben’s help its time to try and move forward.
Shane seemed much younger and unsure of himself once he arrived home in the UK. Memories from the past assailed him and added to his grief and feelings of guilt at letting his mother down and he is aggressive and stubborn. Bens calming influence, and the fact that he seems to get on with Shane’s father help the two men to mend a few bridges but it seems their relationship will only ever be fixed so far.
Things between Ben and Shane are tense and I didn’t like the fact that Shane went off with his own plans without really thinking of Ben. His guilt and grief left him blinkered and he ended up hurting the one man in the world that truly loved him. I loved the dynamics of their relationship, they make and follow their own rules and it seems to work well for them. This was a good conclusion to the The Square Peg Series but they had to work hard for their HEA.
March 19, 2016
I fell in love with Shane and Benedict when I read The Square Peg and was very excited when I discovered this book was featuring them. It was a one sit read that kept me up far too late, but I have no regrets.
Shane and Ben are still going strong, and still growing and learning together. Things are still very spicy in their bedroom.
Most of this story was set in England, as Shane goes home to deal with the death of his Mother, with Ben by his side. This causes conflict and stress, and we get to meet Shane's family and friends. Some are good and others not so much. I enjoyed the reality of this, but my heart hurts for those who are discriminated or bullied because of their sexuality. Shane struggles as this trip home brings about a severe case of homesickness that I doubt he was expecting. His ideas for overcoming this surprised me, but made fr a very enjoyable read. I will not say more here, as I don't want to spoil any of this story for anyone.
We do spend a little time in America and at the peg, which was nice, as we get to catch up with a quick glimpse of the characters we already know from previous books.
I do have to mention that the ending left me with a big goofy smile, and I know that this book will be read again in the future.
Shane and Ben are still going strong, and still growing and learning together. Things are still very spicy in their bedroom.
Most of this story was set in England, as Shane goes home to deal with the death of his Mother, with Ben by his side. This causes conflict and stress, and we get to meet Shane's family and friends. Some are good and others not so much. I enjoyed the reality of this, but my heart hurts for those who are discriminated or bullied because of their sexuality. Shane struggles as this trip home brings about a severe case of homesickness that I doubt he was expecting. His ideas for overcoming this surprised me, but made fr a very enjoyable read. I will not say more here, as I don't want to spoil any of this story for anyone.
We do spend a little time in America and at the peg, which was nice, as we get to catch up with a quick glimpse of the characters we already know from previous books.
I do have to mention that the ending left me with a big goofy smile, and I know that this book will be read again in the future.
October 6, 2024
Benedict and Shane are back! A return to these two hotties, I am now imagining them as Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman. This is an emotional distraught read which left me with a bad case of book hangover. I expected to just sneak in a few chapters at midnight and ended up reading the entire book into the wee hours of the morning. Pick this book up late at night only on the weekend. You have been warned.
Shane is in a downward spiral. He celebrates his birthday and unbeknownst to him, his mother dies at the same time. He rushes to England as the prodigal son returned, only too late. Because the mother who loved, supported and cared for him is dead. His terribly estranged relationship with his father carries on right where it left off. Benedict helplessly watches Shane mimicking his father's destructive mode.
This story is filled with messy emotions and guilt. Relationships are not easy between parents and child in this series. We started this journey with Benedict loathing his father and we come full circle with Shane detesting his. What Ms. Davitt and Ms. Snow bring to life are regrets. Shane is filled with regrets because he did not ever consider his mother would die. His desire for his mother to be alive and someone else to be dead in her place also causes him anger. Shane is a whole ball of rage with little way of releasing it and healing. Fortunately, Benedict loves him and supports him through this entire melt down.
The dynamic between Shane and his father is dysfunctional. With Benedict there as a different filter, the reader is exposed to two sides of Shane's dad. Neither are right or wrong. Both are accurate and it is a hard thing to witness Shane's childhood disillusionment of his father. One wants to be outraged and slay Shane's dad. When Benedict seeks to understand and does not have the same past experiences, it places Shane in an even more sour mood. Sometimes only family can tear and rend a person apart so badly. Both Shane and his father do considerable damage to each other.
The relationship between Shane and Benedict is predictably strained throughout this book. The authors do an excellent job of showing the ups and downs of a relationship going through turmoil. The grief Shane experiences makes him do a few foolish things. He inadvertently hurts Benedict. I want to shake and smack Shane around. This disconnect made it hard for me to enjoy the sex in this book. Yes, the sex is well done, graphic and hot. The kinky D/s parts to it are delicious. I felt ill at ease because it is only masking the discord between the two. It is as if they are in constant make-up sex mode which does not work for me. This is personal pet peeve.
What I really enjoyed were the tie-ins to England. It brought a sense of nostalgia for me and reading this book makes me realize I missed London. The stores, the food and the terminology all remind me of the time I lived in London. The locations, mannerism and language all bring back fond memories. All the English things are accurately described and easy to see. It is as if the places in the book came to life in my mind. This m/m romance is recommended to kinky readers who enjoy heartbreak, angst and love everlasting.
June 16, 2016
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
The Final Round is the fourth book in Jane Davitt and Alexa Snow’s The Square Peg series. The first book also features Ben and Shane, with different MCs in the second and third books. Now we have come back to these guys for what (based on the title) I’m assuming is the final book in the series. I love Ben and Shane and The Square Peg was my favorite of the series so I was thrilled to get a chance to connect with these guys again in this story.
What I love most about this book is Ben and Shane themselves. The start out the series as enemies, with Ben being left half the bar by his father and Shane, who worked there, being left the other half. So the guys are at odds at the start, and fall in love over the course of the first book. What really shines here is how strong a couple they are, how much in love, and how dedicated to each other they are. Yes, there are times that both the men made me a little nuts with their behavior, but when it comes down to it, these guys place a priority on their relationship and really care about one another. The love just shines through and the focus on their relationship, as well as the connection to their friends, really makes this story work well as the finale to the series.
In addition to the romance end, these guys are super steamy together. I would call their relationship sort of BDSM-light. They don’t identify as a Dom/sub, but there are clear dominant and submissive roles these guys play, as well as lots of kink. It is something the guys never explored until they met, and it develops in the first book and continues here. I loved the interplay between them and they are super sexy. And again, you can see the love and the connection between them through everything.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
The Final Round is the fourth book in Jane Davitt and Alexa Snow’s The Square Peg series. The first book also features Ben and Shane, with different MCs in the second and third books. Now we have come back to these guys for what (based on the title) I’m assuming is the final book in the series. I love Ben and Shane and The Square Peg was my favorite of the series so I was thrilled to get a chance to connect with these guys again in this story.
What I love most about this book is Ben and Shane themselves. The start out the series as enemies, with Ben being left half the bar by his father and Shane, who worked there, being left the other half. So the guys are at odds at the start, and fall in love over the course of the first book. What really shines here is how strong a couple they are, how much in love, and how dedicated to each other they are. Yes, there are times that both the men made me a little nuts with their behavior, but when it comes down to it, these guys place a priority on their relationship and really care about one another. The love just shines through and the focus on their relationship, as well as the connection to their friends, really makes this story work well as the finale to the series.
In addition to the romance end, these guys are super steamy together. I would call their relationship sort of BDSM-light. They don’t identify as a Dom/sub, but there are clear dominant and submissive roles these guys play, as well as lots of kink. It is something the guys never explored until they met, and it develops in the first book and continues here. I loved the interplay between them and they are super sexy. And again, you can see the love and the connection between them through everything.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
December 4, 2015
Well, I’m so glad I can say that I'm still as in love with Shane and Ben after this book as I was after the first one!! *happy sigh*
I'm always a bit anxious when I start reading a sequel to a story I loved, because I’m afraid the characters will go places I don't want them to go, or won’t feel the same to me. It’s my own personal hell when the boys I came to love suddenly behave totally out of character, just to create some new storyline after the initial HEA. *shudders*
So, like I said, always the worrier, I started reading The Final Round very carefully... and then came those first few chapters!
Bloody hell, there they were, the same Ben and Shane, who work and play so beautifully by their own rules. Now, a couple of years into their relationship, their dynamics have evolved, their games have gotten more intense, but Shane and Ben still have that uniqueness to them that I immediately fell for. And lots of sizzling magic between them that is demonstrated right from the beginning. Want a sample of the aftermath?
Oh, how I missed them!
In the following chapters of The Final Round we accompany Shane through his own worst nightmare. His mother dies and he returns to England for the first time since he burned all bridges and now has to confront/help his drunken good-for-nothing of a dad. Of course with Ben at his side for moral support.
In these DELICIOUSLY English weeks (I loved the whole atmosphere so much I had to eat loads of salt and vinegar crisps/chips while reading this) we learn more about Shane and his past and what made him the man he is.
We get to watch him fight, and hurt, and beg, and love, and be loved and learn to accept himself in a whole new way.
But while I’ll always love Shane as one of my favourite characters of all time – in this book, really, Ben was my hero. Remember my fangirling review from The Square Peg where I told Ben to knock it off with the doubts and all? He totally did. And that completely did it for me. So now, while Shane’s whole world is falling apart around him, it’s the most natural thing for Ben to step up and help him deal with his demons. We get to see a deeply in love and more than ever confident, self assured Benedict, who's grown into himself and is completely accepting and cherishing the nature of his relationship with Shane. And that’s so fucking hot.
*melts*
Yes, this new mind-set bestowed some very appreciated *coughs* moments upon us, like the one in Shane's old school... Did I mention this book was hot?
The thing that wasn't 100% perfect for me in this book was its flow. Though the writing itself was flawless, smart and beautiful as usual, sometimes the journey Ben and Shane took felt a bit like they did it on a hop-on-hop-off bus.
There were certain moments when they abandoned the main road to explore things that didn't completely fit or didn’t contribute to the story itself in my opinion.
In the first book each one of those incredibly, INCREDIBLY face meltingly hot sex scenes served a purpose to push the story forward or make some kind of point. In this book one or two of them felt a bit off, like they were written not because they suited Shane and Ben naturally, but only because the authors thought they would be hot as hell – and they were, don’t get me wrong. (Why am I complaining about this again?!)
Other parts like that time in the club... I couldn’t decide if I was seriously turned on or worried that this might take things too far away from Shane and Ben’s usual dynamics. Like I said: Beloved characters suddenly behaving out of character is one of my worst fears…
BUT (and that’s why I’m telling you all of this, I know I’m blabbering and this review is getting way too long, though I haven't even mentioned some things I wanted to): Even if you are a worrier like me: Trust the authors. There’s no need to worry. Everything’s fine. Ms Davitt and Ms Snow did it again and looking back now, I think like they love the characters as much as me, they took care of them so well :-)
Because that last part? That was perfect again. It was all Shane and Ben like we know and love them and though I'm I ended up loving it. Oh and the very last bit? Awwww...
P.S. One more thing: Ladies, that thing you do with the little snippets of scorching hot images of what Ben could do to Shane sometime or would do if they were at home that you like to throw around all over your book? That's. Just. MEAN! As it was in the first book, some of them seriously left me wanting more... *drools*
Can’t wait for the final novella!
I'm always a bit anxious when I start reading a sequel to a story I loved, because I’m afraid the characters will go places I don't want them to go, or won’t feel the same to me. It’s my own personal hell when the boys I came to love suddenly behave totally out of character, just to create some new storyline after the initial HEA. *shudders*
So, like I said, always the worrier, I started reading The Final Round very carefully... and then came those first few chapters!
Bloody hell, there they were, the same Ben and Shane, who work and play so beautifully by their own rules. Now, a couple of years into their relationship, their dynamics have evolved, their games have gotten more intense, but Shane and Ben still have that uniqueness to them that I immediately fell for. And lots of sizzling magic between them that is demonstrated right from the beginning. Want a sample of the aftermath?
"He flexed muscles he wasn't always aware of and winced at the vicious throb radiating from his fucked-raw hole without regretting what had caused it. In fact he grinned at his reflection, noting the bite mark on his shoulder with satisfaction. He’d earned that by keeping his mouth stubbornly closed when Benedict had told him to beg, even though the words Benedict wanted to hear had crowded his mouth, desperate to be spoken. He'd pushed for the punishment…“
Oh, how I missed them!
In the following chapters of The Final Round we accompany Shane through his own worst nightmare. His mother dies and he returns to England for the first time since he burned all bridges and now has to confront/help his drunken good-for-nothing of a dad. Of course with Ben at his side for moral support.
In these DELICIOUSLY English weeks (I loved the whole atmosphere so much I had to eat loads of salt and vinegar crisps/chips while reading this) we learn more about Shane and his past and what made him the man he is.
We get to watch him fight, and hurt, and beg, and love, and be loved and learn to accept himself in a whole new way.
But while I’ll always love Shane as one of my favourite characters of all time – in this book, really, Ben was my hero. Remember my fangirling review from The Square Peg where I told Ben to knock it off with the doubts and all? He totally did. And that completely did it for me. So now, while Shane’s whole world is falling apart around him, it’s the most natural thing for Ben to step up and help him deal with his demons. We get to see a deeply in love and more than ever confident, self assured Benedict, who's grown into himself and is completely accepting and cherishing the nature of his relationship with Shane. And that’s so fucking hot.
"Ben stepped closer, and bent to touch it, pressing his palm against what would be a beautiful bruise later, letting the heat of it warm his skin. He realized he felt eager, anticipating what was ahead of them. He’d tripped the switch from the place where he felt guilty about wanting to put marks on Shane and gone into the space where it was what he wanted to do.
This was going to be fun.“
*melts*
Yes, this new mind-set bestowed some very appreciated *coughs* moments upon us, like the one in Shane's old school... Did I mention this book was hot?
The thing that wasn't 100% perfect for me in this book was its flow. Though the writing itself was flawless, smart and beautiful as usual, sometimes the journey Ben and Shane took felt a bit like they did it on a hop-on-hop-off bus.
There were certain moments when they abandoned the main road to explore things that didn't completely fit or didn’t contribute to the story itself in my opinion.
In the first book each one of those incredibly, INCREDIBLY face meltingly hot sex scenes served a purpose to push the story forward or make some kind of point. In this book one or two of them felt a bit off, like they were written not because they suited Shane and Ben naturally, but only because the authors thought they would be hot as hell – and they were, don’t get me wrong. (Why am I complaining about this again?!)
Other parts like that time in the club... I couldn’t decide if I was seriously turned on or worried that this might take things too far away from Shane and Ben’s usual dynamics. Like I said: Beloved characters suddenly behaving out of character is one of my worst fears…
BUT (and that’s why I’m telling you all of this, I know I’m blabbering and this review is getting way too long, though I haven't even mentioned some things I wanted to): Even if you are a worrier like me: Trust the authors. There’s no need to worry. Everything’s fine. Ms Davitt and Ms Snow did it again and looking back now, I think like they love the characters as much as me, they took care of them so well :-)
Because that last part? That was perfect again. It was all Shane and Ben like we know and love them and though I'm I ended up loving it. Oh and the very last bit? Awwww...
P.S. One more thing: Ladies, that thing you do with the little snippets of scorching hot images of what Ben could do to Shane sometime or would do if they were at home that you like to throw around all over your book? That's. Just. MEAN! As it was in the first book, some of them seriously left me wanting more... *drools*
Can’t wait for the final novella!
March 6, 2018
4.5 stars
December 12, 2022
This series definitely deserves a proper review (for each book). It‘s one of the best series I read this year. And it’s pity that author has retired from writing. Of course, I respect their choice, but these books are so good that as a reader I just can’t not to be sad. I rarely reread books, but definitely would come back to The Square Peg series.
I already miss The Square Peg family.
I already miss The Square Peg family.
December 7, 2015
3.5 star review by The Blogger Girls.
Square Peg owners, Shane and Ben, are off to England to see to Shane’s mother’s funeral. Shane does not get along with his father who was an abusive alcoholic at the best of times. He is the reason Shane left for the States all those years ago, and not much has changed with their relationship.
Much of this story is about Shane dealing with the loss of his mum and his somewhat reconciliation with this father. In between all of that is Ben trying his best to keep Shane grounded through it all. As in their previous story, book 1, The Square Peg, these guys are just perfect for each other in every way. Their sexual encounters, which are off the charts hot, still maintain a level of Shane’s submission and Ben’s domination, though it is very unstructured. I love this about them. They both need what they do, and try to provide for each other, yet in every day life, they are partners with equal say.
The other side of this story is Shane dealing with some major homesickness after his return and finding he wants to give England another try. Needless to say, this puts a lot of strain on their relationship. Should Shane stay where the only blood relative he has lives or is the U.S. really his home now? Is the Square Peg more than just a building or does it hold the key to his true family? It takes a while and some bad decisions by Shane to figure it all out, but there is light at the end of the tunnel.
Unfortunately, as I said earlier, the bulk of this story was about Shane’s return and dealing with things there, which I found to be a bit boring after a while. I found myself wanting to skip ahead to get to some more interesting parts, which do come around 75% through where things pick up. Had it not been for that last $25%, I would have said this was a rather anticlimactic end to this series. But, the end did save it for me, and everything wrapped up nicely.
This duo has a great style with equal amounts of dialog and storytelling. Their D/S and regular sex scenes are hot stuff and definitely held my interest. I found I missed the other guys from the series, even though we see them here and there. I’m sad to see the end of the Square Peg gang, but definitely look forward to whatever is coming next from Ms. Davitt and Ms. Snow.
March 20, 2016
4.5 stars
really good final story in the series. Back with Shane and Ben from book 1 as the main pairing as they go to England following the sudden death of Shane's mum. Shane has to face his past, deal with his guilt and loss and in doing so makes some rash decisions that could end his relationship with Ben.
The physical side of their relationship is still one of rough sex but with a little more of an SM feel to the kink, with creative use of a wet towel...
really good final story in the series. Back with Shane and Ben from book 1 as the main pairing as they go to England following the sudden death of Shane's mum. Shane has to face his past, deal with his guilt and loss and in doing so makes some rash decisions that could end his relationship with Ben.
The physical side of their relationship is still one of rough sex but with a little more of an SM feel to the kink, with creative use of a wet towel...
May 10, 2019
Amazing. Particular loves of mine*--grown-ups, commitment, bdsm without outside the bedroom D/s, family of origin and found family, looking at where you come from...this book spoke to me on so many levels. Great romance, great novel.
*even though this book hit all my sweet spots, I love these authors for the way their work works for me even when it doesn't. I've read other books of theirs with stuff that's not my kink, ranging from good in fantasy but not my reality, to, usually don't even like to read about it. But I can always feel the desire and need and how it words from the characters' POV.
*even though this book hit all my sweet spots, I love these authors for the way their work works for me even when it doesn't. I've read other books of theirs with stuff that's not my kink, ranging from good in fantasy but not my reality, to, usually don't even like to read about it. But I can always feel the desire and need and how it words from the characters' POV.
June 25, 2018
Well Ben and Shane certainly put us through the wringer in this one.
As a Brit reader from the northwest I liked it was set in Birkenhead and there were some glimpses of the place, and all those delicacies - fish chips and mushy peas, cheese and onion crisps!
Shane was really screwed up over his mums death and that came over with his temper, mood swings and anger.
His dad is a piece of work and I liked how Ben balanced out our perception of him.
Ben was very much Shane’s support in this, though sometimes the sex did detract a little for me (who’d have thought!!).
The last portion was very much to be expected and yet not at the same time - why more regular visits didn’t come up earlier I don’t know.
I did find it was a roller coaster but did overall enjoy the round up. Enough from The Peg to be satisfied and enough hooks for more books too.
As a Brit reader from the northwest I liked it was set in Birkenhead and there were some glimpses of the place, and all those delicacies - fish chips and mushy peas, cheese and onion crisps!
Shane was really screwed up over his mums death and that came over with his temper, mood swings and anger.
His dad is a piece of work and I liked how Ben balanced out our perception of him.
Ben was very much Shane’s support in this, though sometimes the sex did detract a little for me (who’d have thought!!).
The last portion was very much to be expected and yet not at the same time - why more regular visits didn’t come up earlier I don’t know.
I did find it was a roller coaster but did overall enjoy the round up. Enough from The Peg to be satisfied and enough hooks for more books too.
December 13, 2015
It has been a long time since I read the books in this series so I was a little fuzzy on the characters. But it didn't take me long to get back into their story and enjoy it. I really liked this for a final book of the series where we get to see and explore Shane's relationship with his own parents. Like Ben, Shane's relationship with his father isn't the best and I liked the parallels between both men's relationships with their fathers. Instead of focusing on the kink and sex this one deals more with Shane and Ben as a couple. It was interesting to watch Ben trying to deal with Shane's grief, guilt, and wild idea at the end.
December 24, 2017
★★★☆☆½ ~ 3.5 Stars
Ben and Shane came together when Ben's father died. A few years have passed and Shane's mother has passed and Shane must return to his childhood home and abusive father. Will Ben and Shane's relationship survive?
This series has come full-circle with beginning and ending the series with Ben and Shane. It was nice to visit with old characters and see how things have come along over the years.
Ben and Shane came together when Ben's father died. A few years have passed and Shane's mother has passed and Shane must return to his childhood home and abusive father. Will Ben and Shane's relationship survive?
This series has come full-circle with beginning and ending the series with Ben and Shane. It was nice to visit with old characters and see how things have come along over the years.
February 8, 2016
I've really enjoyed this whole series but was especially excited to hear of a new release featuring Ben and Shane! As much as I enjoyed getting to know some of the other characters in the series, the original MCs are definitely my favorites. This book was even hotter than the first and also much more emotional since we see them negotiate a real turning point in their lives together. I just loved it!
April 10, 2016
What an awesome HEA for Benedict and Shane. This book was so much more on every level. More intense, so much hotter and much more kinky. Ben and Shane are still exploring their kinks, even after years together. They barely survive the tragic and sudden death of Shane's mom and when they come out the other side, they've grown exponentially and end up soooooo much better. Hope there's more to follow in the series!
November 25, 2015
For sure had plenty of up' s and down' s in this book but the end was well worth it. I loved reading Shane and Ben's story again and what makes them click as a couple and the interesting dynamics of the relationship, so very different and intriguing to read. Probably my favorite and most interesting couple in this series!!
December 18, 2015
I enjoyed this. Thinking about going back and reading the earlier books in the series.
I will read more by these authors.
I've just been reading some goodreads reviews. I really admire people who write those thoughtful, analytical long reviews and have so much that is pertinent and helpful to say. My reactions tend to be either "Forn"or "yucko".
I will read more by these authors.
I've just been reading some goodreads reviews. I really admire people who write those thoughtful, analytical long reviews and have so much that is pertinent and helpful to say. My reactions tend to be either "Forn"or "yucko".
April 1, 2016
Sad and messy. But still the same lovable Shane and Benedict. Wish you could have more. And it was nice to see Shane back in England.
Good book nice to have a new visit with the people at the Peg.
And you have to love Toffee.
Good book nice to have a new visit with the people at the Peg.
And you have to love Toffee.
November 29, 2015
Loved this sigh
June 27, 2016
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1st read - Jun 25, 2016
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