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Loaded #1
Loaded
“I know when a man's heart belongs elsewhere.” Denver Hayes is almost as proud to be a NYPD detective as he is of his daughter, though he and her mother divorced three years ago. He's been partners and best friends with Eugenio for years. Through thick and thin, they always have each other's backs, and there's no one else Denver trusts more with his life. But Denver's desire for more than a bromance with his partner just won't go away. You can't just use me like that. Detective Eugenio Mendes is a tough cop who likes gallows humor but loves his expressive, outgoing family – and he counts his cop partner, Denver, as family, too. He's been best friends with Denver for so long that he's never considered pursuing something more... besides which, he's straight. Still, there's something different about their relationship. If only he could figure out what it is. There was murder in his eyes. When Eugenio's cousin comes to them bruised and desperate for help, the detectives spring into action. The tension of their job leads to a sudden passion between them that they never saw coming. Can they get past the confusion and lust to become something more? Or will the harsh reality of this case and Internal Affairs destroy their future together as partners in every sense? Loaded is a gay romance novel. It's the first novel in the “Loaded” series but can stand alone. It has a happily ever after ending with no cliffhanger.
222 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 27, 2016
39 people are currently reading
95 people want to read
About the author
Casey Ashwood
10 books38 followersCasey Ashwood is a gay romance author who was born and raised in Canada before moving to the UK to chase romantic rainy days. He has always had a passion for writing, although it took years before he made it his career. His romance stories center around dramatic tension, steamy encounters, and happy endings.
When he's not writing about tantalizing trysts, he's busy traveling Europe or cuddling his two cats. He is also passionate about art, aquariums, and gaming.
Email Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/bMA8ir
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Casey-Ashwood
When he's not writing about tantalizing trysts, he's busy traveling Europe or cuddling his two cats. He is also passionate about art, aquariums, and gaming.
Email Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/bMA8ir
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Casey-Ashwood
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
August 17, 2016
This was a very quick read and better than most KU formulaic books. It isn't deep but it didn't offend. The sex was ok, but nothing to write home about.
Enjoyable for what it is, gay-for-you cops on the cheesy side. Still recommended.
Enjoyable for what it is, gay-for-you cops on the cheesy side. Still recommended.
July 25, 2016
This is only the second Casey Ashwood book I've read, and I enjoyed this one even more than the last one. I'm such a huge sucker for friends to lovers stories. The fact that they are cops/partners is even better! This is a GFY (gay for you) style romance that is going to be part of a new series, but can be read as a stand alone and has a HEA ending.
Eugenio is a straight man that recently has been looking at his partner in a new way. He's heard from multiple people that he talks about his partner nonstop, so when a woman ends their date by saying that she can see that his heart lies elsewhere he decides he wants to give things a try with Denver. He doesn't always say or do the right things, but you can tell how much he cares about those closest to him.
Denver has been harboring feelings for Eugenio for quite a while, but never makes a move because he "knows" Eugenio is straight, and he doesn't want to lose his best friend. Denver has been with people that have wanted him to go back in the closet and doesn't want to be in that situation again. He is really understanding and patient with Eugenio as they get used to their new feelings for each other.
While trying to navigate their new relationship they end up with a case that is very personal for Eugenio. His cousin has been keeping a few secrets and has gotten himself into a tough position and into a dangerous, violent relationship.
I'm really looking forward to the next book in this series! I can't wait to see what Casey Ashwood comes up with next.
**I received a free ARC of this title in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. **
Eugenio is a straight man that recently has been looking at his partner in a new way. He's heard from multiple people that he talks about his partner nonstop, so when a woman ends their date by saying that she can see that his heart lies elsewhere he decides he wants to give things a try with Denver. He doesn't always say or do the right things, but you can tell how much he cares about those closest to him.
Denver has been harboring feelings for Eugenio for quite a while, but never makes a move because he "knows" Eugenio is straight, and he doesn't want to lose his best friend. Denver has been with people that have wanted him to go back in the closet and doesn't want to be in that situation again. He is really understanding and patient with Eugenio as they get used to their new feelings for each other.
While trying to navigate their new relationship they end up with a case that is very personal for Eugenio. His cousin has been keeping a few secrets and has gotten himself into a tough position and into a dangerous, violent relationship.
I'm really looking forward to the next book in this series! I can't wait to see what Casey Ashwood comes up with next.
**I received a free ARC of this title in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. **
September 11, 2016
Didn’t get into the story about 2 cops being partners and best friends and then lovers. It dind't work for me because I felt it too clinical, predictable and too easy for me. Like Gigi said : nothing to write home about.
August 7, 2016
Read like a Silouhette Romance novel - very formulaic with a lot of telling. As for the MCs, they had a great friendship but Denver seemed more attracted to Eugenio than vice versa. The first time the MCs had penetrative sex, it was weirdly from experienced bisexual Denver's POV instead of first time gay for you Eugenio's POV. What a missed opportunity!
August 3, 2016
I love me a good cop story!
Eugenio and Denver are partners as well as best friends. Of course they are; they spend the majority of their time together.
Denver is a bisexual man who's still on great terms with his ex wife and they have a daughter together that they raise together. I loved seeing the way that they co-parent. Nobody was judgemental or catty; his ex wife had moved on and was re-married and they all got along great. Even if Denver did feel a little envious of their relationship. Not because he missed her or felt any jealousy towards her personally; but just because he wanted that for himself.
Eugenio is straight. He's secure in his sexuality so he and Denver are always playing around and pushing each others buttons but one time when Eugenio is faced with the possibility of losing Denver; he starts seeing him in a different light.
Eugenio's cousin Jaco is involved in a case that Eugenio and Denver are working. Both of them detectives and trying to solve a robbery from a jewlery store. The boyfriend of Jaco is putting him in a bad situation and he finally goes to the guys for help.
I have to say, that I totally saw it coming. I knew right away that they were some how connected and I got a little bummed about it. It's low angst which I love, I'm not big on heart attack books that make me want to die from page to page lol but I really enjoyed how this one went down.
I especially loved how they all became one big family after they realized they wanted to be "partners" as well as work partners. It was a gripping read and I'm glad I didn't pass it up! :)
Eugenio and Denver are partners as well as best friends. Of course they are; they spend the majority of their time together.
Denver is a bisexual man who's still on great terms with his ex wife and they have a daughter together that they raise together. I loved seeing the way that they co-parent. Nobody was judgemental or catty; his ex wife had moved on and was re-married and they all got along great. Even if Denver did feel a little envious of their relationship. Not because he missed her or felt any jealousy towards her personally; but just because he wanted that for himself.
Eugenio is straight. He's secure in his sexuality so he and Denver are always playing around and pushing each others buttons but one time when Eugenio is faced with the possibility of losing Denver; he starts seeing him in a different light.
Eugenio's cousin Jaco is involved in a case that Eugenio and Denver are working. Both of them detectives and trying to solve a robbery from a jewlery store. The boyfriend of Jaco is putting him in a bad situation and he finally goes to the guys for help.
I have to say, that I totally saw it coming. I knew right away that they were some how connected and I got a little bummed about it. It's low angst which I love, I'm not big on heart attack books that make me want to die from page to page lol but I really enjoyed how this one went down.
I especially loved how they all became one big family after they realized they wanted to be "partners" as well as work partners. It was a gripping read and I'm glad I didn't pass it up! :)
March 21, 2021
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
Cops - check
Partners - check
Best Friends - check
Falling in love - *sigh*
I really loved the dynamics between Denver and Eugenio. They truly knew each other, had each others back, and supported each other no matter what. Denver had been crushing on Eugenio for quite a few months (after a scary on the job incident), but Eugenio was clueless and thought he was straight. It wasn't until one of his dates points out that he can't stop talking about Denver that Eugenio starts to realize that there sometimes is a fine line between platonic love and romantic love. Once he opened himself up to the possibility of happiness with Denver, he found contentment that he hadn't experienced before.
I loved Denver's ex-wife and the relationship they had while co-parenting Pepper. It was refreshing to see parents put their children first, support each other, and not have any evil judgement for decisions they make. They accepted each other and that they were better off as friends/parents. The relationship was very healthy.
I really, really enjoyed this!
Cops - check
Partners - check
Best Friends - check
Falling in love - *sigh*
I really loved the dynamics between Denver and Eugenio. They truly knew each other, had each others back, and supported each other no matter what. Denver had been crushing on Eugenio for quite a few months (after a scary on the job incident), but Eugenio was clueless and thought he was straight. It wasn't until one of his dates points out that he can't stop talking about Denver that Eugenio starts to realize that there sometimes is a fine line between platonic love and romantic love. Once he opened himself up to the possibility of happiness with Denver, he found contentment that he hadn't experienced before.
I loved Denver's ex-wife and the relationship they had while co-parenting Pepper. It was refreshing to see parents put their children first, support each other, and not have any evil judgement for decisions they make. They accepted each other and that they were better off as friends/parents. The relationship was very healthy.
I really, really enjoyed this!
August 2, 2016
Really Good!
This was a really enjoyable story! I enjoyed Denver & Eugenio and the supporting characters. I'd love to read a follow up story about them and one about Jaco finding his HEA!
This was a really enjoyable story! I enjoyed Denver & Eugenio and the supporting characters. I'd love to read a follow up story about them and one about Jaco finding his HEA!
August 15, 2016
I'm a sucker for law enforcement books. Especially when partners fall for each other. Loaded did not disappoint. There was low drama (at least between the two MCs) and the story kept me entertained. Recommended for a quick, light read.
July 30, 2016
This is an new author to me. The book ended up being pretty good. I thought their chemistry together was great and the sex was hot.
September 13, 2018
So, I did enjoy this book. The ending left me with a huge smile, and I found both main characters pretty relatable - especially Eugenio, whose family and how he relates to them reminded me pretty strongly of my own family. I love cop romance stories, so this really hit all those buttons for me.
My biggest beef with this was how strongly the book pulled toward the problematic GFY trope. It's hard to write about a guy having his sexual awakening AND a best friends to lovers romance while avoiding the GFY trope, and I'm not sure the author intended to go there. Not everyone finds the trope as challenging as I do, either, so there's that. And it didn't make me stop reading, it didn't make me run away screaming or anything.
It did make me put the book down a couple of times, but that's okay. Like I said, in the end, I did enjoy the book, especially in the end.
My biggest beef with this was how strongly the book pulled toward the problematic GFY trope. It's hard to write about a guy having his sexual awakening AND a best friends to lovers romance while avoiding the GFY trope, and I'm not sure the author intended to go there. Not everyone finds the trope as challenging as I do, either, so there's that. And it didn't make me stop reading, it didn't make me run away screaming or anything.
It did make me put the book down a couple of times, but that's okay. Like I said, in the end, I did enjoy the book, especially in the end.
July 3, 2019
Everything about this was dull. So dull, I found myself skimming the sex scenes. Didn't matter, those scenes were just as boring and corny as the rest of the book. And there was little effort put into the secondary story (which is build-up for Book 2) that it might as well have not even been there. And absolutely NO ONE had any problems with them being together? Not a single homophobe in the whole city? By the way, it wasn't hard to pick out the British terms in this story taking place in NYC. Not planning to continue the series.
September 18, 2017
This one wasn't as bad as the Coastal Charm series, but still had the same "Like what you see?" and "big boy".
New material, please. I won't be reading on, so I guess new material doesn't matter to me.
New material, please. I won't be reading on, so I guess new material doesn't matter to me.
February 28, 2018
3.75 ⭐️
February 28, 2018
3.75 ⭐️
September 1, 2018
Great read
Action packed and full of love and excitement. Absolutely enjoyable, cute and worth the 99 cents! What a great deal!
Action packed and full of love and excitement. Absolutely enjoyable, cute and worth the 99 cents! What a great deal!
October 22, 2018
DNF...writing just awful. Slow moving, got about 30% in and couldn’t continue. Premise up to that point ridiculous.
August 29, 2019
Likeable characters and a decent story.
August 7, 2016
**Grammar**
This book focuses around 2 detectives and partners, Denver and Eugenio and their growing relationship from being best friends and working together for 3 years, till one day when they understand they feel something more than friendship for the other, and while we read about their changing relationship, we also read about their investigations to catch a robber.
Denver is still not 30 and divorced with a 6 years old daughter. He is bi and on good terms with his ex-wife and her new husband. He is present in all the most important days of his daughter and is an awesome dad. One of the reasons they divorced was Denver's job, being a detective that risked his life each day and at the same time didnt spend much time home, didnt help. I liked the fact that he and his ex have a really good relationship and she was happy when Denver and Eugenio finally got together.
Eugenio has a big and noisy family, but he loves them and they love him. Eugenio never thought he would like another man, he has always gone out only with women and he was a sort of playboy never having a real relationship with any of his ex-girlfriends. 3 years ago he met Denver (they are the same age) and slowly something started to change. Eugenio cares a lot about Pepper,Denver's daughter and the little girl loves him, Eugenio is a great friend and a better partner. They are one of the best team in the police department and without them knowing all their collegues and their chief, believe they are already a couple and are fine with that. Their families think the same and are ok with that and also if this was a bit absurd, since in this shitty world and in most families there are still many homophobes, I was happy to see that at least in this book there wasnt any drama on this front.
Denver understood that he felt something more for Eugenio when 6 months before they almost died during the job. He couldnt lose Eugenio, he couldnt live without him, and for months he had nightmares about that day. He doesnt know that Eugenio felt the same, also if at that moment he didnt understand that what he felt wasnt something you would feel for a friend also if a best friend.
While we see this part of the book, there is also another darker part. The part of the plot where the MCs are investigating on some robberies and find out that Eugenio's little cousin, was abused and used as a whore by his first boyfriend. I was really sad for the guy, he was only 20 and for the first time in a relationship, and he was abused and physically hurt by someone he loved and should have protected him. Luckily they are able to catch that dirtbag and put him in jail.
I really liked Denver and Eugenio relationship, how they went from an innocent flirting to their first kiss and then their first time together, and loved the fact that they change roles. They were both kind and caring, and also if Eugenio wasnt gay, the development of their relationship and how all happened, was believable.
The sex scenes were hot and the plot was interesting, and I'm sure I will read more books from this author.
This book focuses around 2 detectives and partners, Denver and Eugenio and their growing relationship from being best friends and working together for 3 years, till one day when they understand they feel something more than friendship for the other, and while we read about their changing relationship, we also read about their investigations to catch a robber.
Denver is still not 30 and divorced with a 6 years old daughter. He is bi and on good terms with his ex-wife and her new husband. He is present in all the most important days of his daughter and is an awesome dad. One of the reasons they divorced was Denver's job, being a detective that risked his life each day and at the same time didnt spend much time home, didnt help. I liked the fact that he and his ex have a really good relationship and she was happy when Denver and Eugenio finally got together.
Eugenio has a big and noisy family, but he loves them and they love him. Eugenio never thought he would like another man, he has always gone out only with women and he was a sort of playboy never having a real relationship with any of his ex-girlfriends. 3 years ago he met Denver (they are the same age) and slowly something started to change. Eugenio cares a lot about Pepper,Denver's daughter and the little girl loves him, Eugenio is a great friend and a better partner. They are one of the best team in the police department and without them knowing all their collegues and their chief, believe they are already a couple and are fine with that. Their families think the same and are ok with that and also if this was a bit absurd, since in this shitty world and in most families there are still many homophobes, I was happy to see that at least in this book there wasnt any drama on this front.
Denver understood that he felt something more for Eugenio when 6 months before they almost died during the job. He couldnt lose Eugenio, he couldnt live without him, and for months he had nightmares about that day. He doesnt know that Eugenio felt the same, also if at that moment he didnt understand that what he felt wasnt something you would feel for a friend also if a best friend.
While we see this part of the book, there is also another darker part. The part of the plot where the MCs are investigating on some robberies and find out that Eugenio's little cousin, was abused and used as a whore by his first boyfriend. I was really sad for the guy, he was only 20 and for the first time in a relationship, and he was abused and physically hurt by someone he loved and should have protected him. Luckily they are able to catch that dirtbag and put him in jail.
I really liked Denver and Eugenio relationship, how they went from an innocent flirting to their first kiss and then their first time together, and loved the fact that they change roles. They were both kind and caring, and also if Eugenio wasnt gay, the development of their relationship and how all happened, was believable.
The sex scenes were hot and the plot was interesting, and I'm sure I will read more books from this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 3, 2016
**)With chemistry burning up the pages...
.•.•*) .•*)These guys were locked and...
(.• (.•`*Loaded.
It was hard to walk away from the book when 200 pages were not enough. Casey Ashwood of the Coastal Charm Series brings book one of the new series Loaded.
The bisexual and the not so straight.
As different from one another as they can be, NYPD detectives Denver Hayes and Eugenio Mendes were not only partners but best friends and considered each other family. Where Denver was the geek, Eugenio was the playboy. What no one knew was Denver's secret crush on his straight partner. It was while helping a family member who revealed that he was gay, that feelings and thoughts got in the way.
Everyone in their squad and department thought they were a couple and they were treated as such.
There was nothing off limits with these guys and that was what made this book a joy to read. They could tease and laugh easily and had each other's back. Nothing got to them, not even the teasing they got from friends, colleagues and family.
"So, what, you think there might be something between us?" - Denver
"I'm just saying I'm open to the possibility." - Eugenio
Aaand, that right there is why I loved this book. Except for one slight disagreement, the men fell into a relationship that needed no explanation. There was an investigation that involved Eugenio's nephew and a lot of action between the bad guy and the officers.
I personally cannot wait for book 2. If you like friends to lovers and hot cops to boot, this summer read won't disappoint.
ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Cee from Alpha Book Club
.•.•*) .•*)These guys were locked and...
(.• (.•`*Loaded.
It was hard to walk away from the book when 200 pages were not enough. Casey Ashwood of the Coastal Charm Series brings book one of the new series Loaded.
The bisexual and the not so straight.
As different from one another as they can be, NYPD detectives Denver Hayes and Eugenio Mendes were not only partners but best friends and considered each other family. Where Denver was the geek, Eugenio was the playboy. What no one knew was Denver's secret crush on his straight partner. It was while helping a family member who revealed that he was gay, that feelings and thoughts got in the way.
Everyone in their squad and department thought they were a couple and they were treated as such.
There was nothing off limits with these guys and that was what made this book a joy to read. They could tease and laugh easily and had each other's back. Nothing got to them, not even the teasing they got from friends, colleagues and family.
"So, what, you think there might be something between us?" - Denver
"I'm just saying I'm open to the possibility." - Eugenio
Aaand, that right there is why I loved this book. Except for one slight disagreement, the men fell into a relationship that needed no explanation. There was an investigation that involved Eugenio's nephew and a lot of action between the bad guy and the officers.
I personally cannot wait for book 2. If you like friends to lovers and hot cops to boot, this summer read won't disappoint.
ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Cee from Alpha Book Club
September 16, 2016
Gotta love partners who fall for each other. Nice fun read.
September 5, 2016
**I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.**
Eugenio and Denver are proud to be NYPD detectives. They have been best friends and partners for years. They both depend on each other and neither trusts anyone more than they trust each other.
Denver has always known he was bisexual and has harbored feelings for his friend for a while, but in respect to his friend whom he knows is straight he has kept his attraction to him quiet. Little did Eugenio realize that his feelings for his best friend might actually run much deeper than he thought himself. When he starts to realize his feelings, a slight panic sets in and tries to date again. When on a date, Eugenio can't help but talk what he always talks about, Denver. When the woman suggest perhaps his feelings run deeper than he realizes, he decides maybe he needs to talk things through and give them a chance.
When their next case hits too close to home and while navigating their newfound mutual attraction, Denver and Eugenio rush help Eugenio's cousin Jaco from the dangerous and violent situation he has fallen into...
I really loved seeing the connection between Denver and Eugenio bloom into something more. I am so happy I got to read this and am excited for the next book!
Eugenio and Denver are proud to be NYPD detectives. They have been best friends and partners for years. They both depend on each other and neither trusts anyone more than they trust each other.
Denver has always known he was bisexual and has harbored feelings for his friend for a while, but in respect to his friend whom he knows is straight he has kept his attraction to him quiet. Little did Eugenio realize that his feelings for his best friend might actually run much deeper than he thought himself. When he starts to realize his feelings, a slight panic sets in and tries to date again. When on a date, Eugenio can't help but talk what he always talks about, Denver. When the woman suggest perhaps his feelings run deeper than he realizes, he decides maybe he needs to talk things through and give them a chance.
When their next case hits too close to home and while navigating their newfound mutual attraction, Denver and Eugenio rush help Eugenio's cousin Jaco from the dangerous and violent situation he has fallen into...
I really loved seeing the connection between Denver and Eugenio bloom into something more. I am so happy I got to read this and am excited for the next book!
August 3, 2016
An ARC was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.
Detective Denver Hayes and Detective Eugenio Mendes have been partners for a few years and are very close on and off the job. Denver is pretty much in love with Eugenio, Eugenio is straight so Denver doesn't want to risk their relationship. But when it's made apparent to Eugenio that he might have more than friendly affection towards Denver. Eugenio starts to become more conscientious of Denver. Their relationship starts to change. Then Eugenio's cousin, Jaco, gets into a bit of trouble, the two jump to help.
I really enjoyed this new series. Denver and Eugenio were likable characters and it was interesting to see their already established relationship and just learn about them. I don't usually like seeing kids in the stories I read but Pepper seemed like such a good kid. I liked that Denver had a great relationship with his ex.There was a good amount of action in the story. Jaco's situation, while not uncommon story wise was still intriguing to see unfold. The police procedure involving Eugenio and Denver may not have been exactly correct but it is fiction. I'm really looking forward to seeing what the author have in store for the next book in the series.
Detective Denver Hayes and Detective Eugenio Mendes have been partners for a few years and are very close on and off the job. Denver is pretty much in love with Eugenio, Eugenio is straight so Denver doesn't want to risk their relationship. But when it's made apparent to Eugenio that he might have more than friendly affection towards Denver. Eugenio starts to become more conscientious of Denver. Their relationship starts to change. Then Eugenio's cousin, Jaco, gets into a bit of trouble, the two jump to help.
I really enjoyed this new series. Denver and Eugenio were likable characters and it was interesting to see their already established relationship and just learn about them. I don't usually like seeing kids in the stories I read but Pepper seemed like such a good kid. I liked that Denver had a great relationship with his ex.There was a good amount of action in the story. Jaco's situation, while not uncommon story wise was still intriguing to see unfold. The police procedure involving Eugenio and Denver may not have been exactly correct but it is fiction. I'm really looking forward to seeing what the author have in store for the next book in the series.
September 13, 2016
KU
I didn't care for the writing or the characters. Not for me.
I didn't care for the writing or the characters. Not for me.
July 25, 2016
I received this book free for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this book. It was a real friends to lovers story. This seemed different though and I don't know why. I loved the whole crime side of this and liked how that was written.
There was a real. connection between the two Mcs all the way through the book from the start as friends and work partners and then when they became more.
The story was well written with really good secondary characters. I loved the interaction between them all. Pepper was adorable. I wouldn't mind a book with Jaco in it now also. It would be good to see a happy ending for him too.
I would have liked to hear more about the bet though and see what that was really about.
I think k Eugine did really well not questioning himself about the change in his sexuality. I think another book a bit further down the line with maybe this as a topic could be good and then we would know it's definitely a HEA rather than a HFN.
I have read this author before and really like her and her writing style.
I really enjoyed this book. It was a real friends to lovers story. This seemed different though and I don't know why. I loved the whole crime side of this and liked how that was written.
There was a real. connection between the two Mcs all the way through the book from the start as friends and work partners and then when they became more.
The story was well written with really good secondary characters. I loved the interaction between them all. Pepper was adorable. I wouldn't mind a book with Jaco in it now also. It would be good to see a happy ending for him too.
I would have liked to hear more about the bet though and see what that was really about.
I think k Eugine did really well not questioning himself about the change in his sexuality. I think another book a bit further down the line with maybe this as a topic could be good and then we would know it's definitely a HEA rather than a HFN.
I have read this author before and really like her and her writing style.
July 27, 2016
The last ones to know...
I really enjoyed Denver and Eugenio’s story, and how the connection between them was so obvious to everyone but Eugenio. Before they begin to explore the chemistry between them, their friendship is fun to read, filled with the sarcastic banter that comes from unconditional trust and acceptance, but once they begin to explore the sexually charged tension between them, it gets even better. As they investigate the mess Eugenio’s cousin has found himself tangled up in, and the danger hits close to home, I loved how clearly aware they were that they are better together than apart, regardless of how they define their relationship. These partners are such a great complement to each other in every other facet of their lives that making the step to being lovers felt like a natural progression, with my only regret being that we never find out who won the betting pool at the station.
Please note that I received a complimentary advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I really enjoyed Denver and Eugenio’s story, and how the connection between them was so obvious to everyone but Eugenio. Before they begin to explore the chemistry between them, their friendship is fun to read, filled with the sarcastic banter that comes from unconditional trust and acceptance, but once they begin to explore the sexually charged tension between them, it gets even better. As they investigate the mess Eugenio’s cousin has found himself tangled up in, and the danger hits close to home, I loved how clearly aware they were that they are better together than apart, regardless of how they define their relationship. These partners are such a great complement to each other in every other facet of their lives that making the step to being lovers felt like a natural progression, with my only regret being that we never find out who won the betting pool at the station.
Please note that I received a complimentary advance copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
August 4, 2016
I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest, unbiased review.
Denver and Eugenio were very lovable characters as I read their story. Detectives and partners, they have been friends for a long time, each firmly and deeply entrenched in the others' extended family lives as well. They blend well as partners at work and when they have to handle a personal problem with a member of Eugenio's family that spills over into their work life, they never bat an eye, determined to help the young man, Jaco, out of the bad situation he has found himself in.
Though the fact that everyone in their lives were completely supportive of them suddenly being gay as opposed to straight (Denver having been married and now having a young daughter as well) was a tad unrealistic, I still enjoyed reading about everyone involved and liked the simple resolution to their legal problems with Jaco's dangerous criminal ex-boyfriend and their HEA that followed. I will be happy to read more from this author!
Denver and Eugenio were very lovable characters as I read their story. Detectives and partners, they have been friends for a long time, each firmly and deeply entrenched in the others' extended family lives as well. They blend well as partners at work and when they have to handle a personal problem with a member of Eugenio's family that spills over into their work life, they never bat an eye, determined to help the young man, Jaco, out of the bad situation he has found himself in.
Though the fact that everyone in their lives were completely supportive of them suddenly being gay as opposed to straight (Denver having been married and now having a young daughter as well) was a tad unrealistic, I still enjoyed reading about everyone involved and liked the simple resolution to their legal problems with Jaco's dangerous criminal ex-boyfriend and their HEA that followed. I will be happy to read more from this author!
August 10, 2016
Copy provided in exchange for honest review.
I did like this story Eugenio and Denver are nice together. They're partners in the force, Denver a divorced single father, and Eugeino his straight partner. Denver has realized his feelings towards his partner and things change when Eugeinio is let in on the secret.
So the overall story is very uneventful. Mild angst, but there's no significant relationship development between the two. I guess it's in part because they've been partners for a while. The plot was slow and shallow, so I can't say that made the story better.For example the things with Denver's ex could have been woven in better as a serious part of Denver's character story. We don't see a whole lot of her or their daughter and they are important characters
I did like the MC interactions overall, I just wish there was a bit more drama and shake up in the plot, Good read in general, though.
I did like this story Eugenio and Denver are nice together. They're partners in the force, Denver a divorced single father, and Eugeino his straight partner. Denver has realized his feelings towards his partner and things change when Eugeinio is let in on the secret.
So the overall story is very uneventful. Mild angst, but there's no significant relationship development between the two. I guess it's in part because they've been partners for a while. The plot was slow and shallow, so I can't say that made the story better.For example the things with Denver's ex could have been woven in better as a serious part of Denver's character story. We don't see a whole lot of her or their daughter and they are important characters
I did like the MC interactions overall, I just wish there was a bit more drama and shake up in the plot, Good read in general, though.
July 27, 2016
Denver and Eugenio have been best friends and work partners for years. They work in the burglary division of their police station and come across a new case that hits close to home. Eugenio's young cousin is involved and the two cops have to help him out. While all this is going on, Denver, who is openly bisexual, is drawn more and more to his straight friend. However, Eugenio has also been questioning his feelings for his partner. The two men have to decide where they want to take these new feelings while dodging bullets and navigating family relations on both sides.
I enjoyed the story and look forward to the next one.
The editing needs work in several areas to make this book a true pleasure to read.
I received an ARC in return for an honest review.
I enjoyed the story and look forward to the next one.
The editing needs work in several areas to make this book a true pleasure to read.
I received an ARC in return for an honest review.
August 7, 2016
I wanted to like this story. The premise is interesting and the characters have potential and the bisexual representation is handled well.
Unfortunately, the writing still needs improvement/editing. Every time anything happens - even minor stuff - the flow of the story is interrupted so that it can be explained for the reader. I can take a little of this info dump at the beginning of a story but in this case it kept on, and it felt like there were two paragraphs of explanation for every one paragraph of anything happening. Also what did happen felt a bit disjointed and not always following what was happening before.
Unfortunately, the writing still needs improvement/editing. Every time anything happens - even minor stuff - the flow of the story is interrupted so that it can be explained for the reader. I can take a little of this info dump at the beginning of a story but in this case it kept on, and it felt like there were two paragraphs of explanation for every one paragraph of anything happening. Also what did happen felt a bit disjointed and not always following what was happening before.
August 20, 2016
Nice
The parts are all there for a good story, but it doesn't quite coalesce. Maybe if we had more of a chance to see what a good team they are (we mostly just get to hear from others how "destined" they are) then it might have made more of an impact when they did decide to "explore. It seemed like the story just jumped to the "good bits" without all the slow build-up to make the good bits really mean something.
Some editing notes: each chapter is named after either Denver or Eugenio, but the narration isn't necessarily contained to that man's perspective in that chapter.
There was a reference to Eugenio facing racism for not being white, but he's Portugese-American.
The parts are all there for a good story, but it doesn't quite coalesce. Maybe if we had more of a chance to see what a good team they are (we mostly just get to hear from others how "destined" they are) then it might have made more of an impact when they did decide to "explore. It seemed like the story just jumped to the "good bits" without all the slow build-up to make the good bits really mean something.
Some editing notes: each chapter is named after either Denver or Eugenio, but the narration isn't necessarily contained to that man's perspective in that chapter.
There was a reference to Eugenio facing racism for not being white, but he's Portugese-American.
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