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Welcome to Alvarado #3
In The Wind
Sometimes you have to get good and lost before you'll have any hope at finding yourself. Dustin Hunter has returned to Alvarado after seven years of military service and one bad shot that shattered his self-assured ego. Struggling to forget what he left behind in the desert, he finds himself drifting in the wind, homeless and without direction. When the wind blows something unexpected his way, he has to decide if he's ready to feel emotion again and deal with what he lost in the sand. Scott Weller's red hair, strange clear blue eyes, glasses and mechanically inclined intellect have always made him the perfect lure for bullies. Despite being well past the age of school yard harassment, Scott's reoccurring bruises don't go unnoticed by his friends and the newly returned Dustin. Scott's easy smile and calm voice give Dustin a needed sense of peace, and Scott's blushing freckles make Dustin feel something he never has before. As the desire to protect Scott grows, Dustin finds himself in a different kind of war. An unsettling wind is blowing through Alvarado, dividing families and bringing change. When the dust settles, the small town of Alvarado will never be the same again.
192 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 4, 2016
About the author
C.E. Kilgore
51 books187 followersC.E. Kilgore (1981 - ) is an author without genre, who likes to dabble in several genres from romance to science fiction. She also enjoys pushing the boundaries of those genres, trying new things, venturing outside formulas and turning tropes on their heads. Admittedly a control freak, she is currently a self-published author under the name Tracing The Stars, and hasn't quite found the publisher who fits all her quirks. Be sure to check out her website, cekilgore.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
February 23, 2020
This was another super sweet story!
Somehow I'm quite impressed with the simple but effective concept of this series.
Two extremely likable characters finding love despite many hardships and on the last few pages a new character is introduced that's super sweet and tragic and who will be the hero in the next book.
Quite a way to keep me hooked ;-)
In this story, Dustin returns from his deployment only to find his grandma's house sold to the couple from book 1 who rented it out to the couple from book 2.
They give him a roof over his head of course, but it doesn't take long for Dustin to find comfort and relief from his PTSD with the 18 year old junk yard owner Scott whose life didn't give him many breaks from pain and torture.
Together they become something amazing just before tragedy strikes yet again...
5 stars for this sweet and touching romance.
Somehow I'm quite impressed with the simple but effective concept of this series.
Two extremely likable characters finding love despite many hardships and on the last few pages a new character is introduced that's super sweet and tragic and who will be the hero in the next book.
Quite a way to keep me hooked ;-)
In this story, Dustin returns from his deployment only to find his grandma's house sold to the couple from book 1 who rented it out to the couple from book 2.
They give him a roof over his head of course, but it doesn't take long for Dustin to find comfort and relief from his PTSD with the 18 year old junk yard owner Scott whose life didn't give him many breaks from pain and torture.
Together they become something amazing just before tragedy strikes yet again...
5 stars for this sweet and touching romance.
November 29, 2018
Yee gods PURPLE, the heart is bruised and crying, the wind talks, energy explodes. It's all happening!
It's all a bit too much:
does that even make sense? and has anyone got a hose?:
Basically Dustin returns home meets up with characters from a previous book with whom he discusses the characters from the other previous book, there's a load of small town politics and family dramas, oh and somewhere in there he meets a ginger (I kept getting confused between his name and nickname but know he has freckles) has a very personal discussion about his feelings, classifications and gay porn with one of those previous book people who he's just met, then there's love and small town bullies and rushing to the rescue...
The main couple sort of go on a date but it's lost to all the other characters past and to-be, with the series arc regarding the town overwhelmed everything. Got the feeling it's going to end up a gay town.
There's some very odd behaviour like the girl left behind.
PTSD is layered in there with a heavy hand, feeling rather more drama-llama than anything real and heart-felt.
I quit at 57% couldn't take any more. My energy waned, my eyes shuttered, my heart burped displeasure and the winds did what winds do.
It's all a bit too much:
“No!” My hand is on his arm, quick as a striking rattler, with that word exploding from past lips as cry from my heart.
does that even make sense? and has anyone got a hose?:
Alone, we’re barely an ember, but together we’re a fire.
Basically Dustin returns home meets up with characters from a previous book with whom he discusses the characters from the other previous book, there's a load of small town politics and family dramas, oh and somewhere in there he meets a ginger (I kept getting confused between his name and nickname but know he has freckles) has a very personal discussion about his feelings, classifications and gay porn with one of those previous book people who he's just met, then there's love and small town bullies and rushing to the rescue...
The main couple sort of go on a date but it's lost to all the other characters past and to-be, with the series arc regarding the town overwhelmed everything. Got the feeling it's going to end up a gay town.
There's some very odd behaviour like the girl left behind.
PTSD is layered in there with a heavy hand, feeling rather more drama-llama than anything real and heart-felt.
I quit at 57% couldn't take any more. My energy waned, my eyes shuttered, my heart burped displeasure and the winds did what winds do.
November 12, 2018
Freebie at amazon.com right now: https://smile.amazon.com/Wind-Welcome...
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This was by far the best of the series!
Dustin returns from the war in book 2, and is taken in by Clint and Rick. He meets Scott and sparks are flying, even though Dustin was pretty sure he was 'asexual'.
Scott lives and works at the scrapyard that he has taken over from his grandfather (who suffers from Alzheimers.)
They knew each other when they were younger, where Dustin was a kind of protector of Scott.
Now Scott offers Dustin some peace when they are together, which Dustin does not think is possible.
The small-town issues from book 2 are further investigated in this one. The golf course and the fight for land, as well as the "Gay Invasion" bring out the worst and best in people.
Scott's grandfather is a DOUCHE, and I feel that the end in this book is another case of ridiculous forgiveness, because they are family.
Also we have gay conversion therapy and overall more evil citizens, which make this book a darker read.
I liked Scott and Dustin together, I thought they were freaking cute, and I loved that they were so effortless... BUT there is almost insta-love and I don't care for that very much.
All in all, the best book in the series with some more serious issues thrown in and a better romance than the other couples.
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This was by far the best of the series!
Dustin returns from the war in book 2, and is taken in by Clint and Rick. He meets Scott and sparks are flying, even though Dustin was pretty sure he was 'asexual'.
Scott lives and works at the scrapyard that he has taken over from his grandfather (who suffers from Alzheimers.)
They knew each other when they were younger, where Dustin was a kind of protector of Scott.
Now Scott offers Dustin some peace when they are together, which Dustin does not think is possible.
The small-town issues from book 2 are further investigated in this one. The golf course and the fight for land, as well as the "Gay Invasion" bring out the worst and best in people.
Scott's grandfather is a DOUCHE, and I feel that the end in this book is another case of ridiculous forgiveness, because they are family.
Also we have gay conversion therapy and overall more evil citizens, which make this book a darker read.
I liked Scott and Dustin together, I thought they were freaking cute, and I loved that they were so effortless... BUT there is almost insta-love and I don't care for that very much.
All in all, the best book in the series with some more serious issues thrown in and a better romance than the other couples.
May 23, 2016
Another sweet romance - I'm really enjoying this series. It's not angsty or gritty and at times is a little over the top with acceptance and forgiveness but the message is clear ! I'm glad these two found peace - Dusty & Scooter both supporting each other as they clawed their way out of trauma... Makes me happy
March 31, 2016
It's been a while since I've read something that's tugged at my heart so sweetly. A great story, full of understanding, pride, and love. Definite thumbs up.
October 9, 2019
This was much better than both Books 1 and 2. Both characters were very likeable, and I felt like their storyline was not only a bit more believable, but that their romance was not quite as rushed as the previous ones. There still wasn't any resolution on the golf course issue; I guess it's to be resolved in the next installment (which the last page says see author's website for release date but it's not there). Also, I feel as though there just wasn't enough background given on the Ryan/Scott situation. Ryan was constantly beating Scott to a pulp, so when did Scott have enough time to know the inner workings of Ryan's mind and what he was going through? Even before Ryan left Scott that letter, Scott was talking about how he wished he had been able to help Ryan and he'd told Ryan to talk to someone about his issues. Were they friends at one time, possibly more, given the nature of Ryan's letter? There was no resolution there. Also, the editing was not nearly as bad as it was in Book 2.
May 12, 2019
I have read all 3 of this series so far. And fell in Love with all 3. These 3 couples of Gay Males falling in Love has the run from ghosts of the pass. The last couple is not hard to fall in love with. Dusty and Scott are wonderful. Clint and Ricky and Sam and Cody are too. I just fell thet Sam and Cody were saddy left out. I would love to see these 3 couples grow in their relationship and there friendship grow more
March 18, 2019
The best (and most emotion evoking) of this series. I am eagerly awaiting Jay-Jay and Riley’s story!
September 6, 2024
Waking up to truth.
In this book Scott and Dusty play the dance routine and try to manage what is growing between them. Things explode when bigots try to stop them for being in love. Some come around others face uncertainty and jail time. The worst is possible murder.
In this book Scott and Dusty play the dance routine and try to manage what is growing between them. Things explode when bigots try to stop them for being in love. Some come around others face uncertainty and jail time. The worst is possible murder.
May 27, 2021
Feeling Very Welcomed
Okay, I'll have to start by saying that this genre of books is not to everyone's taste, but, believe me when I say that anyone would be ensnared within the stories right fro the beginning. The "Welcome to Alverado" series by C. E. Kilgore have a way of catching your interest and never letting go. Male to male relationships are becoming more prevalent in society, on tv, and in the movies, so you should be past being shocked. C. E. Kilgore has a way of explaining how such a relationship can begin between two people who seem to be at opposite sides of the spectrum. Innocent friendship can lead to a closer understanding and after that nature takes its course.
The stories unfold in a truly understandable manner and before you know it you are hooked. You can get so enraptured by the tale that you don't want it to end until you have grasped every facet. Near the end of each book, Kilgore ends a chapter in such a way that it feels like you have reached the end, but as you turn the page, you are surprised by yet another beautifully written chapter. You eagerly look to see if their is another visit to Alvarado.
I am eagerly waiting to read book 4 of this series. I am pretty sure you will be too.
Okay, I'll have to start by saying that this genre of books is not to everyone's taste, but, believe me when I say that anyone would be ensnared within the stories right fro the beginning. The "Welcome to Alverado" series by C. E. Kilgore have a way of catching your interest and never letting go. Male to male relationships are becoming more prevalent in society, on tv, and in the movies, so you should be past being shocked. C. E. Kilgore has a way of explaining how such a relationship can begin between two people who seem to be at opposite sides of the spectrum. Innocent friendship can lead to a closer understanding and after that nature takes its course.
The stories unfold in a truly understandable manner and before you know it you are hooked. You can get so enraptured by the tale that you don't want it to end until you have grasped every facet. Near the end of each book, Kilgore ends a chapter in such a way that it feels like you have reached the end, but as you turn the page, you are surprised by yet another beautifully written chapter. You eagerly look to see if their is another visit to Alvarado.
I am eagerly waiting to read book 4 of this series. I am pretty sure you will be too.
November 24, 2019
This will bring you more into the dark of what the LBGQT, well in this case gay men face from a small town country town with a divided alliance for committed supporters and the bigots that hate these gay men. From threats, murder, to bullying to these guys and even the messed up ones that are so confused and when though conversion therapy, (abuse) ,and they don’t know what to think or their actions. Cuz they are messed up and will lead into beating and raping a defenseless man. This story will even touch on the subject of suicide and the aftermath... PTSD a will also be talked about since Dustin is a honorable discharge from the Army Rangers and the event that took place when he shoot his last bullet at enemy fire and a second event to happen where he couldn’t pick up his gun to save his team brothers. The ghosts he still carries when he’s back in his hometown will be with him for most of this story but those ghosts will save Dustin and Scott’s lives.
August 20, 2018
2.5 stars rounded up because I loved the characters.
I must say that I am disappointed in this third book. I loved books one and two so much that I didn't hesitate to pay $4.99 for a book that is only 182 pages. However, this just doesn't live up to the others. It's too rushed... no depth for what should have been emotional issues. Tragic happenings that were only used to introduce topics. Also the time line feels completely off.... severe injuries and severe disabilities that needed time instead are just somehow better sooner than the time line allows for it to be believably real. Instead we're given this rushed, fairytale ending and of course the lead in to the next book.
I must say that I am disappointed in this third book. I loved books one and two so much that I didn't hesitate to pay $4.99 for a book that is only 182 pages. However, this just doesn't live up to the others. It's too rushed... no depth for what should have been emotional issues. Tragic happenings that were only used to introduce topics. Also the time line feels completely off.... severe injuries and severe disabilities that needed time instead are just somehow better sooner than the time line allows for it to be believably real. Instead we're given this rushed, fairytale ending and of course the lead in to the next book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2019
3.5 stars
I was less enthralled by this book than I was by the previous two. While I definitely enjoyed Scott and Dustin's story, I felt that the anti-gay faction has started to devolve into caricature. I certainly don't dispute that conversion camps happened and are absolutely horrific and should be definitely and firmly outlawed; and that those who propogate them should be prosecuted. I just found the confluence of everything that happened here to feel more like it was added to shock and horrify the reader for most of this book, which made my enjoyment of the story lessen.
I was less enthralled by this book than I was by the previous two. While I definitely enjoyed Scott and Dustin's story, I felt that the anti-gay faction has started to devolve into caricature. I certainly don't dispute that conversion camps happened and are absolutely horrific and should be definitely and firmly outlawed; and that those who propogate them should be prosecuted. I just found the confluence of everything that happened here to feel more like it was added to shock and horrify the reader for most of this book, which made my enjoyment of the story lessen.
October 8, 2019
Great book
I really enjoyed this book. Dusty had ghost and PTSD like so many returning veterans, but his friends and family was there for him, especially Scott. But Scott shouldn't have ever taken Roy's abuse. He could be kept his secret without taking his abuse. Maybe if he had called the cops earlier Roy would've got some help. This series is phenomenal, and I'm definitely waiting on book 4.
I really enjoyed this book. Dusty had ghost and PTSD like so many returning veterans, but his friends and family was there for him, especially Scott. But Scott shouldn't have ever taken Roy's abuse. He could be kept his secret without taking his abuse. Maybe if he had called the cops earlier Roy would've got some help. This series is phenomenal, and I'm definitely waiting on book 4.
August 22, 2020
This third installment is better than the last one and equal to the first book of the series. The author writes hurt/broken MCs very well and draws them steadily together through all manner of roadblocks, bigotry and endangerment. There is insta-attract but at least there's no M-M action within the first half TG! A few very touching moments drew tears.
The author continues themes of forgiveness and acceptance - rejecting/judgemental parental figures are given opportunities to move through their hate to find acceptance and seek reparation of broken relationships (without coming across as simplistic/unbelievable). 3.5 stars.
The author continues themes of forgiveness and acceptance - rejecting/judgemental parental figures are given opportunities to move through their hate to find acceptance and seek reparation of broken relationships (without coming across as simplistic/unbelievable). 3.5 stars.
August 19, 2021
Love Wins Out in the End
Dusty returns home to Alvarado after seven years in the Army. He had never been attracted to anyone, neither woman or man, until he meets Scott. Their story includes a lot more psychological issues and tragedy than the previous stories in the series, but they fight their way through to their HEA. I had to stay up late to finish it, because I couldn't leave the story.
Dusty returns home to Alvarado after seven years in the Army. He had never been attracted to anyone, neither woman or man, until he meets Scott. Their story includes a lot more psychological issues and tragedy than the previous stories in the series, but they fight their way through to their HEA. I had to stay up late to finish it, because I couldn't leave the story.
September 20, 2018
Best one yet.
This one really brought the messages home. I hope the author writes more of these stories from Alvarado. I am liking this town and the good folk who live there. Plus, we need to know if they are able to shut down that Golf Club that Aunt Emily is pushing for. Now that's one disloyal cold woman.
This one really brought the messages home. I hope the author writes more of these stories from Alvarado. I am liking this town and the good folk who live there. Plus, we need to know if they are able to shut down that Golf Club that Aunt Emily is pushing for. Now that's one disloyal cold woman.
April 8, 2020
Great story
I really love this series and this one was full of drama, sadness and joy. Scooter and Dusty had a lot of challenges to go through but came out the other side triumphant.You have to read the other books in the series to understand what's happening it it's worth it. Now for the Queens story.
I really love this series and this one was full of drama, sadness and joy. Scooter and Dusty had a lot of challenges to go through but came out the other side triumphant.You have to read the other books in the series to understand what's happening it it's worth it. Now for the Queens story.
March 5, 2018
Love it. All of it.
It's beautiful, accepting, tolerant. Both guys are amazing. Scott is so patient and sweet. And Dusty.. Just so true to himself. It was a pleasure reading their story. So genuine and real.
It's beautiful, accepting, tolerant. Both guys are amazing. Scott is so patient and sweet. And Dusty.. Just so true to himself. It was a pleasure reading their story. So genuine and real.
August 19, 2018
Third book in this series and the best I think. Scott was so sweet despite everything. So forgiving when he could be so bitter. I love how he brings the best out of Dustin, how they help each other get rid of their demons. Beautiful read
September 4, 2020
OMG, I loved this book and this couple. Dustin was a sweet man who was lost but eventually found his home, not just in a place but in a person. And Scott was such a cute, perfect and beautiful human being. They were more than perfect for each other and I was all here for it
December 2, 2017
Loved it and hated it
All I did was cry. Need a box of tissues with this book. I totally loved it. Great characters. Want to read it again and again.
All I did was cry. Need a box of tissues with this book. I totally loved it. Great characters. Want to read it again and again.
January 16, 2018
Fun
This book is the third in a nice series. The book is both fun and very emotional. Well written. Talks about several societal issues with homosexuality.
This book is the third in a nice series. The book is both fun and very emotional. Well written. Talks about several societal issues with homosexuality.
January 20, 2018
Enjoyed
I enjoyed this book very much-light, easy reading, likeable characters. Would have given four stars but pages were missing from the beginning of each chapter.
I enjoyed this book very much-light, easy reading, likeable characters. Would have given four stars but pages were missing from the beginning of each chapter.
February 10, 2020
I love this book! It's one that I continuously go back to.
October 26, 2021
Sweet treat
Loved this story so much I don't regularly do reviews anymore just ratings but this book made me feel so good, this couple is so cute and Scott is such a sweetheart.
Loved this story so much I don't regularly do reviews anymore just ratings but this book made me feel so good, this couple is so cute and Scott is such a sweetheart.
February 2, 2023
KSKS
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 29, 2016
This is the best book of the series so far. Dusty is a great character (I'm a sucker for military guys anyway), an Army Ranger whose last mission left him unable to serve anymore. He's lost several of his teammates as well. He doesn't have extreme PTSD, but sleep without nightmares is impossible, and he has no idea how to move on with his life. He's also someone who has so far been asexual, so this is not a GFY. He's never felt attracted to anyone, until he sees Scott, who he knew from high school. Scott has had a tough life as well with a past of abuse, bullying and a rabidly homophobic grandfather. Scott has a very sweet nature that attracts Dusty due to the calming influence Scott has on him. It is really only a short few days before Dusty realizes his feelings for Scott and they progress from old friends to more.
Cody and Sam, Clint and Ricky all appear in the story, with Ricky helping Dusty negotiate his path into the rainbow. Dusty had problems with his parents, but they raised him to be open minded and accepting. He and Scott move easily into a relationship, except for the highly homophobic element in the small town and there are a few traumatic, and somewhat dramatic, events they have to face together. It is a little too insta-love but with the prior friendship, small town backdrop and the way the characters are drawn, it works for me in this story. There is a rather horrific secret that is revealed and ultimately, the couple realizes how much support they do have from their friends, family, and the town.
The ending is a bit unicorns and dream come true, but it's a worthwhile journey to get there. The author brings up an issue that does still exist in too many places in America for those who are gay. This had much more depth to it than even the previous books. I'll look forward to the next.
Cody and Sam, Clint and Ricky all appear in the story, with Ricky helping Dusty negotiate his path into the rainbow. Dusty had problems with his parents, but they raised him to be open minded and accepting. He and Scott move easily into a relationship, except for the highly homophobic element in the small town and there are a few traumatic, and somewhat dramatic, events they have to face together. It is a little too insta-love but with the prior friendship, small town backdrop and the way the characters are drawn, it works for me in this story. There is a rather horrific secret that is revealed and ultimately, the couple realizes how much support they do have from their friends, family, and the town.
The ending is a bit unicorns and dream come true, but it's a worthwhile journey to get there. The author brings up an issue that does still exist in too many places in America for those who are gay. This had much more depth to it than even the previous books. I'll look forward to the next.
March 24, 2016
I love all three books. I feel for Riley after what happen to Scott I understand why Riley do not want his family to know he is gay. you can not live your life for other people you would never be happy. If every one did what they family expect know one would be happy some time you have to fight for what you want you may loser some friends and family because there are not willing to understand how you feel and the inside but if they love you it should not matter who you fall in love with as long as you are happy that all should matter. I also know that is not how the world works so we will always have man like Gabe McMasters in this world he chose not to love his son for who he was and in the end he lost him to his own willingness to turn his son into something he was not. A parents job is to love there child know matter what he or she is love do not come with strings because love is a gift you give with your whole heart I feel sorry for the people that can not see that. I am glad to see Sam Cody Clint Ricky and now Scott Dustin and if you add jay- Jay and Riley to the mix they are a family who love each other and who will have each other back family come from on likely of places that is where you feel the most love. I am so happy that Zeke get a chance to make thing right with Scott. can not wait for the next book P.S just remember know matter what you do in this life you can not please every one you just have to do what is right for you and what your heart is tell you. most people spend they whole life look for the kind of love that Sam Cody Clint Ricky now Scott Dustin have found because that kind of love only comes a round once in a life time. I for one is happy to see them happy.
September 3, 2016
Heaven is a place on earth
I knew that I liked this series but I loved this book. The town of Alvarado is now in my heart.
Dusty leaves Alvarado for the army, for reasons he did not even understand and returns to his hometown, full of self loathing, heart sore and lonely.
However, the town is not as he left it. Even is grandma's home does not belong to his family but he does find an initial haven in the current occupants Clint, a friend from school and his boyfriend Ricky (Book 2). From there he gets to see the town and himself in a new light, some pleasant and some less s pleasant surprises. He takes this journey with the help of Scott (Scooter), another friend from school , several years below, who seems to have a way of drawing him out. Scott has a good heart but has few external demons that he has to stand up to.
It some ways the series may seem Utopian but like every place on earth that contain humans , life is more complex than that.
Can't wait for book 4. C. E. Kilgore makes you root for the characters and it is good to see the main protagonists from the previous books develop.
I knew that I liked this series but I loved this book. The town of Alvarado is now in my heart.
Dusty leaves Alvarado for the army, for reasons he did not even understand and returns to his hometown, full of self loathing, heart sore and lonely.
However, the town is not as he left it. Even is grandma's home does not belong to his family but he does find an initial haven in the current occupants Clint, a friend from school and his boyfriend Ricky (Book 2). From there he gets to see the town and himself in a new light, some pleasant and some less s pleasant surprises. He takes this journey with the help of Scott (Scooter), another friend from school , several years below, who seems to have a way of drawing him out. Scott has a good heart but has few external demons that he has to stand up to.
It some ways the series may seem Utopian but like every place on earth that contain humans , life is more complex than that.
Can't wait for book 4. C. E. Kilgore makes you root for the characters and it is good to see the main protagonists from the previous books develop.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews