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The Protectors #1
Absolution
Length: 7 hours and 16 minutes
After four years abroad, artist Jonas Davenport has come home to start building his dream of owning his own art studio and gallery. But just as he’s ready to put the darkness of his past behind him forever, it comes roaring back with a vengeance.
The only thing keeping ex-cop Mace Calhoun from eating his own gun after an unthinkable loss is his role in an underground syndicate that seeks to get justice for the innocent by taking the lives of the guilty. Ending the life of the young artist who committed unspeakable crimes against the most vulnerable of victims should have been the easiest thing in the world. So why can’t he bring himself to pull the trigger?
After years of fighting in an endless, soul-sucking war, Navy SEAL Cole Bridgerton has come home to fight another battle – dealing with the discovery that the younger sister who ran away from home eight years earlier is lost to him forever. He needs answers and the only person who can give them to him is a young man struggling to put his life back together. But he never expected to feel something more for the haunted artist.
Cole and Mace. One lives by the rules, the other makes his own. One seeks justice through the law while the other seeks it with his gun. Two men, one light, one dark, will find themselves and each other when they’re forced to stand side by side to protect Jonas from an unseen evil that will stop at nothing to silence the young artist forever.
But each man’s scars run deep and even the strength of three may not be enough to save them…
After four years abroad, artist Jonas Davenport has come home to start building his dream of owning his own art studio and gallery. But just as he’s ready to put the darkness of his past behind him forever, it comes roaring back with a vengeance.
The only thing keeping ex-cop Mace Calhoun from eating his own gun after an unthinkable loss is his role in an underground syndicate that seeks to get justice for the innocent by taking the lives of the guilty. Ending the life of the young artist who committed unspeakable crimes against the most vulnerable of victims should have been the easiest thing in the world. So why can’t he bring himself to pull the trigger?
After years of fighting in an endless, soul-sucking war, Navy SEAL Cole Bridgerton has come home to fight another battle – dealing with the discovery that the younger sister who ran away from home eight years earlier is lost to him forever. He needs answers and the only person who can give them to him is a young man struggling to put his life back together. But he never expected to feel something more for the haunted artist.
Cole and Mace. One lives by the rules, the other makes his own. One seeks justice through the law while the other seeks it with his gun. Two men, one light, one dark, will find themselves and each other when they’re forced to stand side by side to protect Jonas from an unseen evil that will stop at nothing to silence the young artist forever.
But each man’s scars run deep and even the strength of three may not be enough to save them…
8 pages, Audible Audio
First published April 1, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 880 reviews
April 29, 2016
I need a stiff drink.
So much pain and angst and pain, followed by guns and sacrifices and Insta Love times three.
The relationship between the men happened way too fast. Cole's sexuality wasn't explored at all.
The plot was melodrama central and completely unrealistic. The descriptions of child sexual assault and murder were brutal, and yet things were resolved just a little too neatly.
The menage lovin' was hot, and the story was strangely addicting, but I don't get all the love for this book.
So much pain and angst and pain, followed by guns and sacrifices and Insta Love times three.
The relationship between the men happened way too fast. Cole's sexuality wasn't explored at all.
The plot was melodrama central and completely unrealistic. The descriptions of child sexual assault and murder were brutal, and yet things were resolved just a little too neatly.
The menage lovin' was hot, and the story was strangely addicting, but I don't get all the love for this book.
August 9, 2016
OK, get ready!
But, oh, the best kind of drama. We're talking soap opera levels of drama!
The 3 men in this book, Jonas, Cole and Mace are all kinds of fucked up. They've suffered through prostitution, rape, drugs, alcohol, deaths, PTSD, and more! They are all seriously damaged.
So, the hurt in the hurt/healing/comfort dynamic is most certainly there.
When these 3 luscious men come together, there is some delicious healing and comfort going on.
The sex? Super hot! The plot? A little silly but I really enjoy that sometimes and I really did here.
Angst that doesn't hurt, comfort that left me happy, sex that made me sweat, all in a nice, fluffy package. I didn't take this one too seriously and that really worked for me.
Recommended
But, oh, the best kind of drama. We're talking soap opera levels of drama!
The 3 men in this book, Jonas, Cole and Mace are all kinds of fucked up. They've suffered through prostitution, rape, drugs, alcohol, deaths, PTSD, and more! They are all seriously damaged.
So, the hurt in the hurt/healing/comfort dynamic is most certainly there.
When these 3 luscious men come together, there is some delicious healing and comfort going on.
The sex? Super hot! The plot? A little silly but I really enjoy that sometimes and I really did here.
Angst that doesn't hurt, comfort that left me happy, sex that made me sweat, all in a nice, fluffy package. I didn't take this one too seriously and that really worked for me.
Recommended
October 13, 2018
For me this was great book about three men, who find love together...
Books that have polyamory in it, have always made me a bit nervous, because I'm always afraid that one of the MC's will be left behind, or be less loved. lately, I have read some great books about three men being in a relationship together though, so I'm starting to get over my fears. I definitely liked this book and I can honestly say, I really prefer mmm over mfm, that's for sure ;)
Now, I don't want to go into the plot too much, because it's very easy to spoiler this one. I will however give out some info on the (delicious) MC's.
This book is about a mercenary (Mace), an ex navy seal (Cole) and an artist (Jonas). Three completely different men, coming together (pun intended !) and falling in love.
Mace is bi-sexual and has been with both men and women in the past...and let me tell you, his past broke my heart...
Cole has only ever been with women, he's dealing with his own grief, but I loved him so much for trying to take care of both Mace and Jonas...he definitely their rock !!
Jonas is gay and what he went through as a teenager was horrifying. Which reminds me that this book has some triggers, child abuse being one of them...so beware ! It isn't very detailed, but it isn't glossed over either.
These men don't meet under the best of circumstances. There is hate and hurt before there is love. But once these men open up to one another, they slowly start healing each others broken pieces...
I found this book lovely.....I also thought it was HOT !! Once they come together (again..pun intended)....damn, I needed a fan !!!
This is the first book in the "Protectors" series !!!
This review was posted on Wendy's Wycked Words
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January 4, 2020
Re-read January 2020
Still loved it.
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4.25 stars
What an awesome MMM book.
Mace is part of an underground group that takes matter into their own hands when the justice system fails. He is hired to take out Jonas, an artist, who Mace has been told has kidnapped and abused several boys.
But after watching Jonas for some time he cannot phantom the young, innocent man to be a child molester. Because of his doubts he decides to take on a job as Jonas’ handyman to get to know him better.
Jonas cannot get a feel for his new handyman. One moment he is convinced Mace is attracted to him and the other moment he acts all cold. After an almost kiss he is more confused than ever.
Then a man connected to his past shows up. Cole just found out his sister, who disappeared 8 years ago is dead and that Jonas was there when she died. He goes to see Jonas to find out the whole story and perhaps get some closure.
Cole forms a tentative friendship with Jonas, but he cannot help but feel attracted to Mace as well. It is obvious all three men are getting closer to each other, but there are still so many secrets. When someone tries to kill them, they run. It is there that the truth comes out and now they have to find a way to discover who is trying to frame Jonas.
I loved these men. Jonas was sweet and innocent, with a horrendous past. Mace was the tough protector of the three and Cole the quiet, sensible one. They were just perfect for each other. I loved that they all fell in love at the same time. There are no sex scenes with just two of them, only ever with the three of them.
And boy were those scenes HOT!
So if you’re looking for an exciting, suspenseful, romantic and very hot MMM book, read this one.
Still loved it.
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4.25 stars
What an awesome MMM book.
Mace is part of an underground group that takes matter into their own hands when the justice system fails. He is hired to take out Jonas, an artist, who Mace has been told has kidnapped and abused several boys.
But after watching Jonas for some time he cannot phantom the young, innocent man to be a child molester. Because of his doubts he decides to take on a job as Jonas’ handyman to get to know him better.
Jonas cannot get a feel for his new handyman. One moment he is convinced Mace is attracted to him and the other moment he acts all cold. After an almost kiss he is more confused than ever.
Then a man connected to his past shows up. Cole just found out his sister, who disappeared 8 years ago is dead and that Jonas was there when she died. He goes to see Jonas to find out the whole story and perhaps get some closure.
Cole forms a tentative friendship with Jonas, but he cannot help but feel attracted to Mace as well. It is obvious all three men are getting closer to each other, but there are still so many secrets. When someone tries to kill them, they run. It is there that the truth comes out and now they have to find a way to discover who is trying to frame Jonas.
I loved these men. Jonas was sweet and innocent, with a horrendous past. Mace was the tough protector of the three and Cole the quiet, sensible one. They were just perfect for each other. I loved that they all fell in love at the same time. There are no sex scenes with just two of them, only ever with the three of them.
And boy were those scenes HOT!
So if you’re looking for an exciting, suspenseful, romantic and very hot MMM book, read this one.
November 28, 2016
HOLY SH**!!
What a story!
I absolutely love Sloane Kennedy's m/m/m stories. The guys are tormented, likable, totally hot and in need of a group hug ;-)
Mace's past is just terrible. Losing his young son Evan to a pedophile who raped and killed the boy broke him. He drowned his pain in alcohol and wrecked his marriage, quit his job as a cop and decided to 'let justice be done' by joining an underground group that assassinates criminals that the law can't get hold of. His newest assignment is a difficult one, though.
He's observing young artist Jonas Davenport who -according to his intel- kidnapped and murdered several children. Training his rifle on the beautiful young man through the window of the shabby apartment he's rented for the kill shot, he can't make himself pull the trigger.
When he overhears the young man thrash and scream in his nightmare ridden sleep, Mace decides to learn more about the man and answers Jonas' ad for help refurbishing his studio.
The closer he gets to the younger man, the harder it becomes for him to believe the things he knows about Jonas.
Cole is a Navy SEAL who just returned from his last deployment and learns that his long lost sister Carrie was murdered. He seeks up the young man who was a witness to the murder: Jonas.
Stirring up the young artist's terrible past breaks Cole's heart and wrecks Jonas who suffers from the memories Cole's questions bring to the surface.
Jonas doesn't know what is the deal with the hot construction guy in his studio who watches him with a mix of hatred, pity and lust. When Carrie's brother Cole turns up, making him relive the girl's last moments, he breaks down.
To his surprise it's not just Cole, but also Mace who stand by his side during his darkest moments.
Can it be to have feelings for not one, but two guys? Still he knows he will not pursue anything with them, since his time as a teenage hooker left him unable to have sex with a guy and enjoy it.
It takes both men's love to overcome his inhibitions, but a dangerous conspiracy threatens to destroy the men's lives for good before they even find out what it means to be in love with each other.
Absolutely amazing. Lots of violence and angst (rape, prostitution, alcoholism, child abuse, suicide attempts, lethal injuries, murder, grief, guilt, you name it...) and in the middle you have three broken guys who need each other to collect the pieces and find happiness again.
And in case you're wondering: Jonas isn't a criminal. The book started off weird because Mace did believe Jonas was a pedophile, which was totally odd... Just don't skip this book because of this. It's a conspiracy against the young man!
And boy was the sex hot. Like REALLY hot.
I absolutely loved Mace and Cole. They're both masculine cop/soldier characters who develop feelings for each other while trying to protect Jonas, realizing that they're not competing over the young artist but want to be there for him as well as for each other.
I absolutely love how Ms Kennedy has all three guys realize their love for each other *before* two guys become an item. So there's hardly any jealousy or pain involved. And I especially loved the men's determination to be in a domestic threeway relationship in front of their families and friends. I'm totally in awe.
This book was perfection.
5 stars and on my top 10 list of books read in 2016!!
What a story!
I absolutely love Sloane Kennedy's m/m/m stories. The guys are tormented, likable, totally hot and in need of a group hug ;-)
Mace's past is just terrible. Losing his young son Evan to a pedophile who raped and killed the boy broke him. He drowned his pain in alcohol and wrecked his marriage, quit his job as a cop and decided to 'let justice be done' by joining an underground group that assassinates criminals that the law can't get hold of. His newest assignment is a difficult one, though.
He's observing young artist Jonas Davenport who -according to his intel- kidnapped and murdered several children. Training his rifle on the beautiful young man through the window of the shabby apartment he's rented for the kill shot, he can't make himself pull the trigger.
When he overhears the young man thrash and scream in his nightmare ridden sleep, Mace decides to learn more about the man and answers Jonas' ad for help refurbishing his studio.
The closer he gets to the younger man, the harder it becomes for him to believe the things he knows about Jonas.
Cole is a Navy SEAL who just returned from his last deployment and learns that his long lost sister Carrie was murdered. He seeks up the young man who was a witness to the murder: Jonas.
Stirring up the young artist's terrible past breaks Cole's heart and wrecks Jonas who suffers from the memories Cole's questions bring to the surface.
Jonas doesn't know what is the deal with the hot construction guy in his studio who watches him with a mix of hatred, pity and lust. When Carrie's brother Cole turns up, making him relive the girl's last moments, he breaks down.
To his surprise it's not just Cole, but also Mace who stand by his side during his darkest moments.
Can it be to have feelings for not one, but two guys? Still he knows he will not pursue anything with them, since his time as a teenage hooker left him unable to have sex with a guy and enjoy it.
It takes both men's love to overcome his inhibitions, but a dangerous conspiracy threatens to destroy the men's lives for good before they even find out what it means to be in love with each other.
Absolutely amazing. Lots of violence and angst (rape, prostitution, alcoholism, child abuse, suicide attempts, lethal injuries, murder, grief, guilt, you name it...) and in the middle you have three broken guys who need each other to collect the pieces and find happiness again.
And in case you're wondering: Jonas isn't a criminal. The book started off weird because Mace did believe Jonas was a pedophile, which was totally odd... Just don't skip this book because of this. It's a conspiracy against the young man!
And boy was the sex hot. Like REALLY hot.
I absolutely loved Mace and Cole. They're both masculine cop/soldier characters who develop feelings for each other while trying to protect Jonas, realizing that they're not competing over the young artist but want to be there for him as well as for each other.
I absolutely love how Ms Kennedy has all three guys realize their love for each other *before* two guys become an item. So there's hardly any jealousy or pain involved. And I especially loved the men's determination to be in a domestic threeway relationship in front of their families and friends. I'm totally in awe.
This book was perfection.
5 stars and on my top 10 list of books read in 2016!!
February 28, 2017
This wasn’t a strong start for this series for me. I’m not a huge fan of MMM to begin with which is why I had started and stopped this book several times. But I have this thing about finishing a book and then completing the series. I know I’m not alone in this OCD bullshit. It’s annoying, but I always get this sick satisfaction of finishing the book/series. It’s not healthy. Lol
Man this story turned out to be quite farfetched for me. It was hard to believe everything that was happening. It was unrealistic and full of too much drama, heavy issues, and insta love. I just couldn’t find myself really enjoying it because of these reasons. But yet I couldn’t put it down. I’ve read reviews where people have said that this author is like crack and her books are hard to put down. Well, I have no choice but to believe that since I am now a victim of it.
The hard thing for me to get by was how the three men just didn’t fit together for me. I said before I am not a huge fan of MMM and this is the reason why. I find that the majority of MMM books don’t work for me because the men just don’t fit. Most of the time, for me, there is an odd man out. It’s either only two of them really work together or one works well with either but not all together. I think I’ve only had a handful of books where the author has made it work for me. This wasn’t one of those times.
But this baby got a lot of 4* ratings so don’t just take my opinion on this book. I recommend any MM book lover give this one a go.
Happy reading, dolls! xx
Man this story turned out to be quite farfetched for me. It was hard to believe everything that was happening. It was unrealistic and full of too much drama, heavy issues, and insta love. I just couldn’t find myself really enjoying it because of these reasons. But yet I couldn’t put it down. I’ve read reviews where people have said that this author is like crack and her books are hard to put down. Well, I have no choice but to believe that since I am now a victim of it.
The hard thing for me to get by was how the three men just didn’t fit together for me. I said before I am not a huge fan of MMM and this is the reason why. I find that the majority of MMM books don’t work for me because the men just don’t fit. Most of the time, for me, there is an odd man out. It’s either only two of them really work together or one works well with either but not all together. I think I’ve only had a handful of books where the author has made it work for me. This wasn’t one of those times.
But this baby got a lot of 4* ratings so don’t just take my opinion on this book. I recommend any MM book lover give this one a go.
Happy reading, dolls! xx
July 3, 2017
***3.75 Stars***
What you're going to get here folks is one big ol' serving of escapism crack. And that crack comes in the form of three men with one hell of an addicting story.
Jonas, Mace and Cole each have some serious baggage....
Little by little the pieces of their past start coming together and each man must decide if he can trust the other two. But despite any reservations they may have, the men are drawn to each other.
Danger quickly comes knocking on their door and they're forced to face their secrets, their past and each other head on.
Once all the cards are laid out on the table...
Oh yes, folks....it's three times as
There's lots of twists and turns here and a lot of facts to keep straight, but despite that, I couldn't look away from my kindle.
This was my first Sloane Kennedy book, and I have to say, there's quite the addicting quality to her writing. It reminds me very much of Aurora Rose Reynolds, an MF author that I feel the same way about.
Despite all the melodrama and OTT scenarios, the HEA bow was big and bright with equal measure of sweet and sexy.....and that's always a win in my book.
I'll definitely be continuing on with this series and I'll definitely be checking out Sloane Kennedy's other books.
March 24, 2018
I wouldn't say it's official but I do believe I've found a new author to crush on. After discovering Kennedy through the Heart2Heart: A Charity Anthology I decided I'd try a full length novel.
I didn't read the blurb so I didn't know this was MMM. Boy, you should've seen my face when I figured it out.
Jonas, Mace and Cole are thrown together by circumstances and all are to varying degrees caught off guard by their developing feelings for one another. Mace is bi but Cole has never been attracted to a man before much less two, so virgin.
Even though it's a surprise to all of them that part of the story isn't full of angst or really even the focus. Absolution is hurt/comfort. A whole lot of hurt comfort. Trigger warning for mentions of childhood sexual abuse, prostitution, pedophilia, violence/murder and suicide attempts. Normally, all that pain would be too much for me but I think the pacing of the story coupled with the action plot helped to temper the pain somewhat.
Plus the sex was... I have no words.
Maybe the "L word" came a little quickly between them but I didn't care. It was sweet and they were sweet together and I think the story needed that to counterbalance all the pain and hurt they've all suffered.
I really wasn't crazy about Leslie's narration in this one. He didn't differentiate between the voices as well as he normally does and he kind of did the same shaky/breathy voice for Jonas and Cole which I wasn't a huge fan of. But he did emote well and I liked his voice for Ronin so I'll stick with the audio for book 2.
I would also highly recommend The Cupcake Wars as an epilogue to the epilogue.
Recommend to MMM and hurt/comfort fans.
I didn't read the blurb so I didn't know this was MMM. Boy, you should've seen my face when I figured it out.
Jonas, Mace and Cole are thrown together by circumstances and all are to varying degrees caught off guard by their developing feelings for one another. Mace is bi but Cole has never been attracted to a man before much less two, so virgin.
Even though it's a surprise to all of them that part of the story isn't full of angst or really even the focus. Absolution is hurt/comfort. A whole lot of hurt comfort. Trigger warning for mentions of childhood sexual abuse, prostitution, pedophilia, violence/murder and suicide attempts. Normally, all that pain would be too much for me but I think the pacing of the story coupled with the action plot helped to temper the pain somewhat.
Plus the sex was... I have no words.
Maybe the "L word" came a little quickly between them but I didn't care. It was sweet and they were sweet together and I think the story needed that to counterbalance all the pain and hurt they've all suffered.
I really wasn't crazy about Leslie's narration in this one. He didn't differentiate between the voices as well as he normally does and he kind of did the same shaky/breathy voice for Jonas and Cole which I wasn't a huge fan of. But he did emote well and I liked his voice for Ronin so I'll stick with the audio for book 2.
I would also highly recommend The Cupcake Wars as an epilogue to the epilogue.
Recommend to MMM and hurt/comfort fans.
November 20, 2017
**Reread November 2017 Upping my rating 4.5 stars**
I don't know if it's my mood or what but on reread I enjoyed this more. It was just what I needed. I absolutely love these 3.
**Originally read October 2016 4 Stars**
Wow....these were three really broken men who truly needed each other. Each had their own set of problems and issues. It took the three coming together to be complete and to let the demons go.
I was very surprised at the angst level. There were a couple of times I was tied in knots but I HAD to keep reading. I could not put it down.
Some of the stuff was a little OTT and unrealistic....like a completely straight guy all of a sudden is attracted to not one, but two men? But it worked and I loved it! I'm looking forward to reading more in the series.
I don't know if it's my mood or what but on reread I enjoyed this more. It was just what I needed. I absolutely love these 3.
**Originally read October 2016 4 Stars**
Wow....these were three really broken men who truly needed each other. Each had their own set of problems and issues. It took the three coming together to be complete and to let the demons go.
I was very surprised at the angst level. There were a couple of times I was tied in knots but I HAD to keep reading. I could not put it down.
Some of the stuff was a little OTT and unrealistic....like a completely straight guy all of a sudden is attracted to not one, but two men? But it worked and I loved it! I'm looking forward to reading more in the series.
January 30, 2019
This book ranks as my second favorite polyamory (menage) story behind Bound by Law by S.E. Jakes. It was one of the most angst filled books I’ve ever read and I loved it! Mace Calhoun was a hired mercenary with an assignment to take out Jonas Davenport, a gay pedophile who supposedly used his art to lure young artists and molest them. In the course of his surveillance, Mace began having doubts about Jonas’ culpability, so Mace began insinuating himself into Jonas’ life for more tangible proof of his crimes against little boys. Mace learned that Jonas was still recovering from the murder of his roommate, which he was an eyewitness too. Soon Mace and Jonas became attracted to each other. Just as their attraction was peaking, Mace’s plan was discovered by an ex-navy seal Cole Bridgerton, who was the older brother of Jonas’ murdered roommate.
When it was revealed that someone was after Jonas, Mace & Cole teamed up to protect Jonas and that’s when the three of them came to rely on each other. The three men had such baggage and were so emotionally damaged. It was a group of drowning men barely holding to each other to keep from drowning. It was an emotion plot, and I felt for all three equally. I really applaud this author for not making one character “more” important in the trio. Despite having different needs, I felt like Mace, Cole and Jonas were equally important members of their triad. Each person had chemistry with the other so any two of the trio could have been a hot couple. The author balanced them really well and thus I never saw them as anything but a threesome.
I wish the rest were available in audio because I would have gone right into the next book. It appears that there are at least 2 more books in this series so I am planning to read them as soon as I can.
When it was revealed that someone was after Jonas, Mace & Cole teamed up to protect Jonas and that’s when the three of them came to rely on each other. The three men had such baggage and were so emotionally damaged. It was a group of drowning men barely holding to each other to keep from drowning. It was an emotion plot, and I felt for all three equally. I really applaud this author for not making one character “more” important in the trio. Despite having different needs, I felt like Mace, Cole and Jonas were equally important members of their triad. Each person had chemistry with the other so any two of the trio could have been a hot couple. The author balanced them really well and thus I never saw them as anything but a threesome.
I wish the rest were available in audio because I would have gone right into the next book. It appears that there are at least 2 more books in this series so I am planning to read them as soon as I can.
July 24, 2017
***4.5 Stars***
*M/M/M
*Age-gap
*Insta-love
For me, probably the most pet-peeviest collection of pet peeves in one single book and a more than likely go-down-the-drain in progress, BUT...
... somehow the whole package just worked for me and I loved it!
Granted, I have a soft spot for hurt/comfort in my books and this story delivered it in spades, only amplified through the more than great narration of Joel Leslie who did an awesome job with the audio by giving the three men different voices. Who made the hurt almost palpable and the scorching hot sex even hotter... Now, all you have to do is visualize flustered-me showing up at work and you get an idea what this story did to me.
On to the next one...
*M/M/M
*Age-gap
*Insta-love
For me, probably the most pet-peeviest collection of pet peeves in one single book and a more than likely go-down-the-drain in progress, BUT...
... somehow the whole package just worked for me and I loved it!
Granted, I have a soft spot for hurt/comfort in my books and this story delivered it in spades, only amplified through the more than great narration of Joel Leslie who did an awesome job with the audio by giving the three men different voices. Who made the hurt almost palpable and the scorching hot sex even hotter... Now, all you have to do is visualize flustered-me showing up at work and you get an idea what this story did to me.
On to the next one...
February 24, 2018
3.5
ABSOLUTE ABSURDITY
I like to think I’m a connoisseur in all things M/M/M, I know what I’m looking for and I want to see the things that make it a relationship and not just something that’s only about sex. Absolution offered up an OK take on a ménage relationship but it fell short in some areas.
Jonas Davenport has been through some things. A life on the street has taught him that humans can be downright evil and sometimes there’s no one to save you. Jonas has gotten through every hardship life has thrown at him and he’s got the scars to show for it. Now he’s making a new life for himself, leaving his demons behind and maybe getting a chance at being happy.
Mace Calhoun has got a job to do, but why is it so damn hard to pull the trigger. Getting rid of Jonas Davenport should be easy peasy, his rage for what he’s done to children should make putting a bullet through his head a no brainer. Yet, Mace is unable to pull the trigger and he finds himself wanting to get closer to the beautiful man. Is his innocent face and demeanour hiding something more sinister. Is he just a wolf in sheeps clothing. He protects but he also attacks.
Cole Bridgerton, his ass just shows up. I’m having a hard time understanding his place and why he shows up. His connection is that Jonas was close with his sister for a bit, and had information to share. He gets caught in the web and so on and so forth. Now he’s got to protect the man/men he’s falling for.
Alright Sloane Kennedy, I see you. I see what you were trying to do here but I feel the content was too heavy and the relationships not executed well. In what reality can anyone comeback from someone thinking they’re a pedophile. This disgraceful thing forever hanging in the air, and the only reason Jonas is alive is because Mace was thinking with his dick and not with his head (well his big head). While there was some anger on Jonas’s part I feel like his anger wasn’t enough. In a realistic feel, this shit needed a a few weeks to settle.
The plot devices are “meh” at best. Would have made for a better read if the relationship was the focus instead of the after school special type bad guys. The relationship, and I use that word with some trepidation because it was three guys boning. A ménage needs to be discussed and handled with care and these three were running around like chickens without their heads. I have no clue what their setup was, and the intricacies that make a great ménage. Like can two guys have sex if one isn’t there, and at one point it felt like it was going down that road and it made me uncomfortable. I wanna know the details man….
I can’t say I like anyone character more than the other, they all felt very one dimensional and for me easily forgettable, actually let me retract that statement. I will never forget that Mace was gonna kill Jonas because he thought he was a pedophile. On god, that will stay with me. Never forget.
Overall, I didn’t hate it but I can’t say I’m in like either. It was a fun read 🤷🏽♀️ and I did get through the book quickly, but as I said it didn’t quite come together for me and I don’t find the ménage relationship believable. I will be checking out the rest of series because I do enjoy Sloan’s writing style and I’m interested in these protectors. Who else will they be shooting by mistake.
ABSOLUTE ABSURDITY
I like to think I’m a connoisseur in all things M/M/M, I know what I’m looking for and I want to see the things that make it a relationship and not just something that’s only about sex. Absolution offered up an OK take on a ménage relationship but it fell short in some areas.
Jonas Davenport has been through some things. A life on the street has taught him that humans can be downright evil and sometimes there’s no one to save you. Jonas has gotten through every hardship life has thrown at him and he’s got the scars to show for it. Now he’s making a new life for himself, leaving his demons behind and maybe getting a chance at being happy.
Mace Calhoun has got a job to do, but why is it so damn hard to pull the trigger. Getting rid of Jonas Davenport should be easy peasy, his rage for what he’s done to children should make putting a bullet through his head a no brainer. Yet, Mace is unable to pull the trigger and he finds himself wanting to get closer to the beautiful man. Is his innocent face and demeanour hiding something more sinister. Is he just a wolf in sheeps clothing. He protects but he also attacks.
Cole Bridgerton, his ass just shows up. I’m having a hard time understanding his place and why he shows up. His connection is that Jonas was close with his sister for a bit, and had information to share. He gets caught in the web and so on and so forth. Now he’s got to protect the man/men he’s falling for.
Alright Sloane Kennedy, I see you. I see what you were trying to do here but I feel the content was too heavy and the relationships not executed well. In what reality can anyone comeback from someone thinking they’re a pedophile. This disgraceful thing forever hanging in the air, and the only reason Jonas is alive is because Mace was thinking with his dick and not with his head (well his big head). While there was some anger on Jonas’s part I feel like his anger wasn’t enough. In a realistic feel, this shit needed a a few weeks to settle.
The plot devices are “meh” at best. Would have made for a better read if the relationship was the focus instead of the after school special type bad guys. The relationship, and I use that word with some trepidation because it was three guys boning. A ménage needs to be discussed and handled with care and these three were running around like chickens without their heads. I have no clue what their setup was, and the intricacies that make a great ménage. Like can two guys have sex if one isn’t there, and at one point it felt like it was going down that road and it made me uncomfortable. I wanna know the details man….
I can’t say I like anyone character more than the other, they all felt very one dimensional and for me easily forgettable, actually let me retract that statement. I will never forget that Mace was gonna kill Jonas because he thought he was a pedophile. On god, that will stay with me. Never forget.
Overall, I didn’t hate it but I can’t say I’m in like either. It was a fun read 🤷🏽♀️ and I did get through the book quickly, but as I said it didn’t quite come together for me and I don’t find the ménage relationship believable. I will be checking out the rest of series because I do enjoy Sloan’s writing style and I’m interested in these protectors. Who else will they be shooting by mistake.
March 1, 2017
***** Hot ! Hot ! Hot ! *****
With action and passion, this is a stunning tale of three men who find what they've needed from life. Each other.
* Established artist, Jonas, 23, is trying to make his life meaningful by teaching kids art.
* Mace, 30ish, is a sniper, an assassin of bad guys who need to be gone, to make the world safer.
* Cole, also 30ish, is a Navy SEAL who's come home to his sister's funeral, and to get his Dad sober.
They seem like an unlikely trio, but you will be glued to the tale of intrigue, scandal, past abuse, and pain that these men have endured.
Mace is sent undercover to kill his target, Jonas. He's marked because he's a pedophile, but is he? It's not true. He's been the abused.
Cole visits Jonas to find the truth behind his sister's murder. Jonas was there eight years ago.
The deeply emotionally tragic people have been through hell, each in their own way. We feel their pain and suffering as stories are told. We see their need to reach for each other. Sloane Kennedy's magnificent writing captures our minds and gives us action, lies, suspense, violence, passion and intrigue. It's a web of horrific events that tie these men together. Their slow realization of their feelings are so beautifully told.
They love and cherish each other before they have sex. The anticipation is fantastic. Their menage is erotic, exciting, enticing and emotional.
Mace's mission changes as he sees the truth. An attack sends them fleeing for a safe house and to search for the twisted truth.
Cole's love for the two men and their draw to each other are new for him.
First times for Cole. Mace receives the healing comfort and love he's desired. Jonas gets to feel the freedom of being cared for, cherished, and protected.
Beautifully written. Astonishing, astounding, absolutely mesmerizing.
One of THE best menage relationships I've read.
Highly recommended. ENJOY !
==========================
triggers: description of abuse
No cliffhanger
=========================
With action and passion, this is a stunning tale of three men who find what they've needed from life. Each other.
* Established artist, Jonas, 23, is trying to make his life meaningful by teaching kids art.
* Mace, 30ish, is a sniper, an assassin of bad guys who need to be gone, to make the world safer.
* Cole, also 30ish, is a Navy SEAL who's come home to his sister's funeral, and to get his Dad sober.
They seem like an unlikely trio, but you will be glued to the tale of intrigue, scandal, past abuse, and pain that these men have endured.
Mace is sent undercover to kill his target, Jonas. He's marked because he's a pedophile, but is he? It's not true. He's been the abused.
Cole visits Jonas to find the truth behind his sister's murder. Jonas was there eight years ago.
The deeply emotionally tragic people have been through hell, each in their own way. We feel their pain and suffering as stories are told. We see their need to reach for each other. Sloane Kennedy's magnificent writing captures our minds and gives us action, lies, suspense, violence, passion and intrigue. It's a web of horrific events that tie these men together. Their slow realization of their feelings are so beautifully told.
They love and cherish each other before they have sex. The anticipation is fantastic. Their menage is erotic, exciting, enticing and emotional.
Mace's mission changes as he sees the truth. An attack sends them fleeing for a safe house and to search for the twisted truth.
Cole's love for the two men and their draw to each other are new for him.
First times for Cole. Mace receives the healing comfort and love he's desired. Jonas gets to feel the freedom of being cared for, cherished, and protected.
Beautifully written. Astonishing, astounding, absolutely mesmerizing.
One of THE best menage relationships I've read.
Highly recommended. ENJOY !
==========================
triggers: description of abuse
No cliffhanger
=========================
April 11, 2019
3 Solid Stars
So this was an entertaining quick read but I am finding it hard to rate. I really liked the plot and all three main characters, they all had sad and troubled pasts that they work through together.
My issue is I wasn't feeling the romantic connection or any heat between the three lovers but as there is not very much of that in the book it's not that much of an issue.
So this was an entertaining quick read but I am finding it hard to rate. I really liked the plot and all three main characters, they all had sad and troubled pasts that they work through together.
My issue is I wasn't feeling the romantic connection or any heat between the three lovers but as there is not very much of that in the book it's not that much of an issue.
February 17, 2020
I wasn't really sure what to expect with this book but ... WOW! I've only read a few male menage books so I wondered how this one would be different.
Three damaged men are thrown together under unusual circumstance and they aren't sure who to trust.
The feelings these men shared was so raw and so beautiful that it was no wonder none of them saw it coming!!
This story has mystery, intrigue, action, and LOTS of steaminess.
While this book was very well written, I found myself getting a few of the characters confused with others (similar names). Once I got them straightened out in my head, I was so engrossed in the story that I didn't want to put it down.
Three damaged men are thrown together under unusual circumstance and they aren't sure who to trust.
The feelings these men shared was so raw and so beautiful that it was no wonder none of them saw it coming!!
This story has mystery, intrigue, action, and LOTS of steaminess.
While this book was very well written, I found myself getting a few of the characters confused with others (similar names). Once I got them straightened out in my head, I was so engrossed in the story that I didn't want to put it down.
August 30, 2016
I'm sorry, but no.
Absolution was not for me and I'm not sure why? Well it might have been that the drama was so far stretched that it was laughable, or that the angst was way overboard, or simply that Cole, Mace and especially Jonas just did not work for me.
This was my first menage story (that was truly menage...not just some random one night thing) and while I didn't hate it, I didn't like it either. I'm not giving up, I just think that this series is not my cup of tea.
On to the next!
October 8, 2018
I liked Absolution the first time round but decided, on doing a series re-read in between my other reads, that I loved it even more this time round. Kennedy sure excels on the feels.
Who would've thought I would rate a MMM so highly because I'm not a menage fan at all.
4.5 stars
Who would've thought I would rate a MMM so highly because I'm not a menage fan at all.
4.5 stars
November 28, 2016
Where to start. It was readable, and I finished it, but this review is going to sound very negative ;)
For me the mix of serious issues aka paedophilia and child abuse stopped me from turning my brain off and reading for the hotness. Those are dark themes that if included need to be dealt with seriously which I didn't feel happened here. The resolution felt very neat, quite deus ex machina and unsatisfying. . Sometimes working through ugliness is what's needed.
There's a lot of angst in this. Family drama, lost relatives, abusive pasts. It doesn't give up. The romance is a case of insta-lust times three; they all fall for the other two on sight without there being time to know anything beyond the physical. The speed of their connection took away all emotional impact. The fact Cole considered himself straight prior to meeting these two men at a very emotional time in his life, is unexplored; a brief visit to google and he seems to know all.
Mace and Cole became fairly interchangeable as I read on, both big strong growly men able to use a rifle. While with Mace and Jonas there was the beginning of a connection, Cole just appeared and was then part of it. Jonas sometimes seemed quite whiny, which feels a terrible thing to say given his back-story. I kept thinking he'd be stronger, more a jaded survivor.
The sex was hot. But the story has three povs and the story got sex-obsessed as each pov detailed a bout. For all the heat and cum sharing going on, it started to read as highly orchestrated. Without discussion or any wrong moves the three seemed to know exactly what the plan was, which...hmmm. Got the impression it was more about each trying every role than any personality/preferences being shown.
For all the griping it kept me entertained and I'm not sorry I read it. If I thought more on it it might loose a star, but it's something I'll leave on my kindle for now.
For me the mix of serious issues aka paedophilia and child abuse stopped me from turning my brain off and reading for the hotness. Those are dark themes that if included need to be dealt with seriously which I didn't feel happened here. The resolution felt very neat, quite deus ex machina and unsatisfying. . Sometimes working through ugliness is what's needed.
There's a lot of angst in this. Family drama, lost relatives, abusive pasts. It doesn't give up. The romance is a case of insta-lust times three; they all fall for the other two on sight without there being time to know anything beyond the physical. The speed of their connection took away all emotional impact. The fact Cole considered himself straight prior to meeting these two men at a very emotional time in his life, is unexplored; a brief visit to google and he seems to know all.
Mace and Cole became fairly interchangeable as I read on, both big strong growly men able to use a rifle. While with Mace and Jonas there was the beginning of a connection, Cole just appeared and was then part of it. Jonas sometimes seemed quite whiny, which feels a terrible thing to say given his back-story. I kept thinking he'd be stronger, more a jaded survivor.
The sex was hot. But the story has three povs and the story got sex-obsessed as each pov detailed a bout. For all the heat and cum sharing going on, it started to read as highly orchestrated. Without discussion or any wrong moves the three seemed to know exactly what the plan was, which...hmmm. Got the impression it was more about each trying every role than any personality/preferences being shown.
For all the griping it kept me entertained and I'm not sorry I read it. If I thought more on it it might loose a star, but it's something I'll leave on my kindle for now.
April 14, 2021
"It had taken me a while to understand that my own absolution had to come from myself."
My lazy and picky ass finally finished something! Sloane Kennedy saved me from the pits of my own hell with this one. Yesterday I was browsing my shelf and I was randomly choosing my next read based on the cover then I saw this. Then the blurb says MMM with not only one protector but two of them? I was definitely in. The biggest positive that I can think about in this was how the characters handled their relationship. I liked how they didn't really tiptoe with one another for too long unlike those other books with this trope. They were already clear on what they can and can't give right from the beginning. Also, the story packs so much intensity, drama, and danger. Young artist Jonas is clearly in danger, hitmen and all that, and we don't know why. Mace and Cole need to step up their game in order to protect their common love interest. Only for each of them to fall for one another too. Dark pasts between the characters were discovered and hot steamy circus of sex goodness made me one happy reader.
August 23, 2016
3.5 stars for this one. Enjoyed the characters and their chemistry - but the insta love after such anger really threw me. I'm not sure how " l love you" could happen as quickly as it did. Never the less, it was hot in parts and certainly enjoyable
February 12, 2019
The hurt, the angst, the drama!!! I loved it! Three men with painful pasts come together in times when they are drowning in guilt and fear to find love, redemption and absolution. Their love is quick to form but in times of everything going to hell they have something to hold onto. So I didn't fault them for seeking each other - the closeness, the heart-wrenching confessions and the scorching heat made this book a wonderful read for me.
I liked that each man had a voice. They were so different yet at the same time they had this instinct to protect and desire to finally live. Mace's story was gut-wrenching, and I am glad that he finally was able to let go. Jonas was a survivor, so didn't deserve the troubles that his past brought him. Cole, I guess, couldn't forgive himself for not being there for those he loved. All of them needed each other.
There was betrayal, intrigue, so much suffering but also hope that the wounds will finally start to heal. I loved how everything turned out for the guys. I really enjoyed reading this book and will definitely continue with the series. I highly recommend it!
I liked that each man had a voice. They were so different yet at the same time they had this instinct to protect and desire to finally live. Mace's story was gut-wrenching, and I am glad that he finally was able to let go. Jonas was a survivor, so didn't deserve the troubles that his past brought him. Cole, I guess, couldn't forgive himself for not being there for those he loved. All of them needed each other.
There was betrayal, intrigue, so much suffering but also hope that the wounds will finally start to heal. I loved how everything turned out for the guys. I really enjoyed reading this book and will definitely continue with the series. I highly recommend it!
February 24, 2018
3,75 stars
I absolutely loved the writing! The world building too. The MCs and their back stories are amazingly written, even if they are so broken and scarred, BUT I couln't get past the insta-lust and insta-love.
I loved this book, minus those things that bothered me a lot. We got action, a little suspense in the last chapters, and so much hotness. Three super hot men who fitted so well.
I adore this author's writing and will probably read the whole series. I've been told the stories get better and better so I can't wait to get more.
I absolutely loved the writing! The world building too. The MCs and their back stories are amazingly written, even if they are so broken and scarred, BUT I couln't get past the insta-lust and insta-love.
I loved this book, minus those things that bothered me a lot. We got action, a little suspense in the last chapters, and so much hotness. Three super hot men who fitted so well.
I adore this author's writing and will probably read the whole series. I've been told the stories get better and better so I can't wait to get more.
April 6, 2016
I was up until 2am reading this one last night!
I cold picked this one from a FB blog ad because the cover was hot and I hadn't read a good M/M/M in a long time.
It was the perfect mix of sweet, drama, and hot. I'll be reading more from this author ASAP.
I cold picked this one from a FB blog ad because the cover was hot and I hadn't read a good M/M/M in a long time.
It was the perfect mix of sweet, drama, and hot. I'll be reading more from this author ASAP.
June 24, 2019
4 Stars!! 😍 Loved it!! As all my GR friends know by now, I love (ahem) Threesome stories, be it M/F/M or M/M/M.. 💕 I can't resist picking a book by even an unknown author.. much to my pleasant surprise. However, I was looking forward to reading this one ever since I discovered Ms. Kennedy and her steamy-angsty books. 😁😍 and I was not disappointed.😃
Jonas, Mace and Cole's story captured me from the very first chapter and kept me at the very edge of my seat till the very end. So much hurt and pain that they had to endure before finding each other and salvation.., it was heart-breaking. Jonas had suffered so much that it was unbelievable to see his resilience and strength with both Mace and Cole. And the steam and sizzle they generated was just out of the world. 🔥🔥🔥💘.... It almost made up for the insta-love/lust and some OTT moments.. 😉😁
Highly recommended to all M/M/M fans..👍 😍
Jonas, Mace and Cole's story captured me from the very first chapter and kept me at the very edge of my seat till the very end. So much hurt and pain that they had to endure before finding each other and salvation.., it was heart-breaking. Jonas had suffered so much that it was unbelievable to see his resilience and strength with both Mace and Cole. And the steam and sizzle they generated was just out of the world. 🔥🔥🔥💘.... It almost made up for the insta-love/lust and some OTT moments.. 😉😁
Highly recommended to all M/M/M fans..👍 😍
May 5, 2018
I have been trying to figure out what's going on here.
I mean:
.) m/m/m has worked for me on occasion, but I am always wary of it.
.) The plot, as expected after reading some other reviews, needs a LOT of suspending belief.
.) The fact that three guys equally broken for different reasons would fall for each other like this - highly unlikely! (dare I mention the insta-love?)
.) Considering that one is a GFY for two guys at the same time makes it even more unbelievable.
.) Not to talk about the way everything goes honky-dory happy at the end, year long hurt being resolved in a matter of a few pages.
So why the heck did I like this as much as I did???
My brain is at a loss, but my heart said yes! to all of it.
.) I really liked each of the guys and loved that we got all three POV. Tbh each of them had enough anguish and hurt in the past to last a life time.
.) I loved how tender and loving they were with each other.
.) For some reason the theme of "hired killer falls in love with his mark" hit a nerve I didn't realize I had.
.) Yes, there could have been more depth, but I felt these guys, how they connected and cared for each other, and their bond was clear and strong and felt GOOD:
.) and sigh, they were so hot together. Scorching hot.
.) This was pure entertainment with the right amount of angst, hurt and comfort, and Sloane Kennedy's writing definitely resonated with me.
So what else can I do but go for book 2. I really need to find out about tall dark and mysterious Ronan.
I mean:
.) m/m/m has worked for me on occasion, but I am always wary of it.
.) The plot, as expected after reading some other reviews, needs a LOT of suspending belief.
.) The fact that three guys equally broken for different reasons would fall for each other like this - highly unlikely! (dare I mention the insta-love?)
.) Considering that one is a GFY for two guys at the same time makes it even more unbelievable.
.) Not to talk about the way everything goes honky-dory happy at the end, year long hurt being resolved in a matter of a few pages.
So why the heck did I like this as much as I did???
My brain is at a loss, but my heart said yes! to all of it.
.) I really liked each of the guys and loved that we got all three POV. Tbh each of them had enough anguish and hurt in the past to last a life time.
.) I loved how tender and loving they were with each other.
.) For some reason the theme of "hired killer falls in love with his mark" hit a nerve I didn't realize I had.
.) Yes, there could have been more depth, but I felt these guys, how they connected and cared for each other, and their bond was clear and strong and felt GOOD:
.) and sigh, they were so hot together. Scorching hot.
.) This was pure entertainment with the right amount of angst, hurt and comfort, and Sloane Kennedy's writing definitely resonated with me.
So what else can I do but go for book 2. I really need to find out about tall dark and mysterious Ronan.
February 10, 2017
Overall book rating: 4 Stars
Audio book: n/a
Book Cover: 4 stars
MC1: Jonas
MC2: Cole
MC3: Mace
This was an intriguing and suspenseful book, it had me on the edge of my chair for about half the book and it kept me wondering wtf was going on.
There were bitter sweet moments and one or two great menage love making scenes, but the reason I loved this book so much is plain and simple I loved the connection between these three men. I loved how Mace did not just except his mission but trusted his instincts. Jonas felt like the lost case between the tree of them and I just wanted to fold him up and keep him save. Cole, well he had this protector vibe - but this frogman had his special place in my heart as well. All of them have a special place in my heart the loss and pain all of them went through brought them together and in some way they found home, they found peace and the love between them made them better men, it made them complete.
Audio book: n/a
Book Cover: 4 stars
MC1: Jonas
MC2: Cole
MC3: Mace
This was an intriguing and suspenseful book, it had me on the edge of my chair for about half the book and it kept me wondering wtf was going on.
There were bitter sweet moments and one or two great menage love making scenes, but the reason I loved this book so much is plain and simple I loved the connection between these three men. I loved how Mace did not just except his mission but trusted his instincts. Jonas felt like the lost case between the tree of them and I just wanted to fold him up and keep him save. Cole, well he had this protector vibe - but this frogman had his special place in my heart as well. All of them have a special place in my heart the loss and pain all of them went through brought them together and in some way they found home, they found peace and the love between them made them better men, it made them complete.
April 12, 2016
I would give the first 50-60% of the book a solid 4.5 stars! I was really hooked and thinking to myself..
...I was a little surprised by how much I liked it. I liked the build up of the story, how the MCs meet, seeing the MCs start to have feelings for each other.
BUT, then we get to a sort of climax in the story....a turning point and the "I Love You's" start coming.
It all happened just a bit too fast. The next IDK 30% is them connecting sexually, which don't get me wrong was hot. But at that point, you had already kind of lost me.
So the last 40% or so gets more like 3.5 stars. I'll give this one a nice rounded 4 stars as a whole. Still a pretty good read. I don't always care for menage stories, but this aspect was done pretty well. And I definitely plan to read the next in the series.
...I was a little surprised by how much I liked it. I liked the build up of the story, how the MCs meet, seeing the MCs start to have feelings for each other.
BUT, then we get to a sort of climax in the story....a turning point and the "I Love You's" start coming.
It all happened just a bit too fast. The next IDK 30% is them connecting sexually, which don't get me wrong was hot. But at that point, you had already kind of lost me.
So the last 40% or so gets more like 3.5 stars. I'll give this one a nice rounded 4 stars as a whole. Still a pretty good read. I don't always care for menage stories, but this aspect was done pretty well. And I definitely plan to read the next in the series.
October 4, 2018
Second time around
Still enjoy it very much. Leaving my original review as is.
Still enjoy it very much. Leaving my original review as is.
March 12, 2021
This is a very nice story that surprised me in several points.
I haven't read too many MMM books (it's not a theme I'm particularly looking for, but I also have no problem if it shows up), but I have some idea of these stories. Compared to those that I have read, this story was a bit different. First of all, usually two of the three men already know each other at the beginning of the book, sometimes they are already in a relationship, and sometimes they are just friends. It was completely different here. All three men only met during this book and I find it really interesting. I liked this concept very much, it added some interesting balance to this relationship.
Generally, I believe that this balance in their relationship is what distinguishes them from other MMM. I like the dynamics in their relationship. There is no one obvious dominant partner and one who is clearly weaker. Although Jonas is less epitome of the alpha archetype, he has a rather strong personality and is not merely passive in the bedroom. The dynamics between Cole and Mace, both of whom have strong personalities, are also particularly interesting.
This complexity and uniqueness of their relationship can be also seen in the erotic scenes. In them, too, you can clearly feel the balance that we see in this relationship. Again, there is no one definitely stronger partner and one definitely weaker. There is also no BDSM or dominance and submission theme. In general, I think that the sex scenes are written very well and with great feeling, and they perfectly reflect the dynamics of this relationship. You actually feel like Jonas, Cole and Mace complement each other perfectly.
The suspense part is nice enough, although not very extensive. Besides, I don't think I will remember this book for that part. But of course any kind of contract killers are always my sweet spot.
My biggest doubts are about the development of their relationship, which I consider to be way too fast. They talk about love much too quickly for me. While I have no doubt that all three are fascinated by each other, the words of love, which appear quite early in the story, came much too early in my opinion.
And I find it very strange that not one of these guys is actually questioning his feelings for the two men. Neither finds it out of the ordinary, not even at first. I believe that should be the case at least for Cola. Overall, I think this story would benefit if it wasn't Cole's first relationship with a man at all. He accepts this rather radical change in his preferences a little too easily. Especially since it is about two men at once. It all goes a little too smoothly.
Anyway, it's a nice story, and the next book is about Ronan, it'll be fun to read his story.
I haven't read too many MMM books (it's not a theme I'm particularly looking for, but I also have no problem if it shows up), but I have some idea of these stories. Compared to those that I have read, this story was a bit different. First of all, usually two of the three men already know each other at the beginning of the book, sometimes they are already in a relationship, and sometimes they are just friends. It was completely different here. All three men only met during this book and I find it really interesting. I liked this concept very much, it added some interesting balance to this relationship.
Generally, I believe that this balance in their relationship is what distinguishes them from other MMM. I like the dynamics in their relationship. There is no one obvious dominant partner and one who is clearly weaker. Although Jonas is less epitome of the alpha archetype, he has a rather strong personality and is not merely passive in the bedroom. The dynamics between Cole and Mace, both of whom have strong personalities, are also particularly interesting.
This complexity and uniqueness of their relationship can be also seen in the erotic scenes. In them, too, you can clearly feel the balance that we see in this relationship. Again, there is no one definitely stronger partner and one definitely weaker. There is also no BDSM or dominance and submission theme. In general, I think that the sex scenes are written very well and with great feeling, and they perfectly reflect the dynamics of this relationship. You actually feel like Jonas, Cole and Mace complement each other perfectly.
The suspense part is nice enough, although not very extensive. Besides, I don't think I will remember this book for that part. But of course any kind of contract killers are always my sweet spot.
My biggest doubts are about the development of their relationship, which I consider to be way too fast. They talk about love much too quickly for me. While I have no doubt that all three are fascinated by each other, the words of love, which appear quite early in the story, came much too early in my opinion.
And I find it very strange that not one of these guys is actually questioning his feelings for the two men. Neither finds it out of the ordinary, not even at first. I believe that should be the case at least for Cola. Overall, I think this story would benefit if it wasn't Cole's first relationship with a man at all. He accepts this rather radical change in his preferences a little too easily. Especially since it is about two men at once. It all goes a little too smoothly.
Anyway, it's a nice story, and the next book is about Ronan, it'll be fun to read his story.
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