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Doubleback #3
Double Cross
Happily ever after wasn’t supposed to be this complicated.
At last, Jude Anderson and his lover, homicide detective Rowan Muir, are settling into domestic bliss. Or so it seems. Rowan says all the right things, and the sex is still hotter than ever. But something isn’t quite right, and Jude can’t put his finger on what it is.
Then Jude’s sister drops a bombshell that she’s getting married—and guess who gets to throw the bachelor party.
It’s all puppies and rainbows and wedding plans until murder rears its ugly head. The case involves a close friend, old grievances, and conflicts that set Jude and Rowan on a collision course that could tear them apart.
Double Cross is a 66,000 word novel of mystery, romance, banter and sexytimes. It is intended for mature audiences.
At last, Jude Anderson and his lover, homicide detective Rowan Muir, are settling into domestic bliss. Or so it seems. Rowan says all the right things, and the sex is still hotter than ever. But something isn’t quite right, and Jude can’t put his finger on what it is.
Then Jude’s sister drops a bombshell that she’s getting married—and guess who gets to throw the bachelor party.
It’s all puppies and rainbows and wedding plans until murder rears its ugly head. The case involves a close friend, old grievances, and conflicts that set Jude and Rowan on a collision course that could tear them apart.
Double Cross is a 66,000 word novel of mystery, romance, banter and sexytimes. It is intended for mature audiences.
254 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 20, 2016
15 people are currently reading
86 people want to read
About the author
Lissa Ford
11 books134 followersLissa Ford is a sucker for hot guys and a happy ending. Thus writing m/m romances is her idea of a perfect day. A transplanted California girl in snowy upstate New York, Lissa spends way too much time online and trying to keep her cat from destroying the furniture.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
October 11, 2016
****4.5 Stars****
I'll keep this short.
I loved Double Cross despite being the lowest in steam in this series so far. Colour me surprised when it turned out to be the best one considering I am all for a hot book. The mystery in the story sucked me in, making the lack of male/male action going almost unnoticed. Hats off to the author.
Now, let me address my only issue in the story.
I knew ahead what was coming because I asked a friend. Yet, I could not help feeling disappointed at the end.
I wasn’t expecting that at all. I’ve decided to take some time to process it all before writing a few words here. I don’t get why the author chose this path but she did.
Perhaps because life is no bed of roses and sometimes sucks?
She wanted to keep it real?
Dunno.
After mulling this over I can only say that this was not my story to tell and I came to terms with that.
That being said, I won't let the last 3% of the book taint my rate and ruin this series because it was
I hope she gives me a HEA in the next book. Scratch that!
She better gives me a HEA in the next book!
January 14, 2017
Sometimes love does not seem to be enough...
Jude's arm tightened around Rowan. The sleep-thickened words came out of the darkness. “I want you to be happy here. With me.”
Rowan's sleepy eyes snapped open. “Baby, I am happy here with you.”
“You sure?”
“I--”
I just don't want to get used to feeling happy, because if I do, it will disappear. It always does.
Oh dear! The last statement pretty much sums it all up.
This book was definitely the best in this series so far. After declaring their love for each other at the end of the previous book, Rowan moved in with Jude. Sort of. Everything seemed to be just fine and both men are – more or less forcefully – charged with the task to throw the bachelor party of Jude's sister soon-to-be husband.
But even after months of living together, Rowan's still unpacked boxes are giving Jude food for thought. Rowan is back at his job at the BCI unit after his medical furlough and has to deal immediately with his new captain who would love to see Rowan fail because he blames him and Jude for the death of his old friend and Rowan's former partner who was murdered in the first book of this series.
He makes Rowan's life – and not only his work life – a living hell, because his behavior and the simultaneous discovery of another murder victim close to home, puts a serious strain on Rowan's relationship with Jude. Jude misses being in law enforcement, but he refuses to accept this as the main reason why he is digging single-handedly into a murder investigation. He claims that he just want to help Rowan, but his interference threatens to cost Rowan his job, because he is constantly in the crosshairs of his boss.
Speaking of his boss... If you suffer from low blood pressure, I can only recommend that you read this book. Problem solved! This guy got me totally riled up and made my blood boil. I was so mad at him that I wanted to throw my precious Kindle across the room (once again! ;-)), which is saying something!
But not only him being an asshole all the time, made this book an emotional roller coaster ride. In my review to the previous book I said that I wanted to clash their heads together more than once and this time I felt the urgent need to shake some sense into them, because we were back to the 'not talking', although they promised each other that they would never do it again.
Finally I was glad that love proved to be enough.
At least for now, because then there was the end... Sweet Baby Jesus, this was just heart-wrenching and scared the shit out of me. No way, dear Lissa Ford, can you leave it at that! There has to be a sequel! There just has to be...
”I want to spend every second of our lives together. More than ever. I love you, and this is what my love for you is all about. I'll love you when times are good. I'll love you when times are bad. I just want to be with you. And you better get used to it.”
And bad times are coming...
August 7, 2021
Double Cross is not a stand-alone so you’ll need to read Doubleback and Double Down first to get up to speed on Jude and Rowan’s story. Believe me, it won’t be too much of a hardship. They’re two great books, and I think Double Cross is the best book of the series.
It all started with those boxes. Those damn boxes Rowan brought to Jude’s house once they moved in together … which remain unpacked five months later. Jude sees them as the tangible reminder of Rowan’s inability to commit to their life together. And Rowan? “Rowan was settled in. Really. He’d get around to dealing with the boxes, soon.”
But for now, each man has other matters to consider. Jude is expanding his business – Anderson Fly Fishing Tours – and Rowan is finally back to work at the BCI after a slow recovery from his shoulder wound. Roman’s new superior officer, CaptainAsshole Joe Ishmael is making Roman’s job a living hell and it certainly doesn’t help when his next case involves a murdered teenager found on Frank Reilly’s property. Ex-Marine Frank is Jude and Rowan’s neighbor and before too long Jude finds himself involved in the case, very much against Rowan’s wishes. AND on top of everything, Jude’s sister Kristy is getting married and wants Ro and Jude to plan and host the bachelor party.
Jude and Rowan are a smokin’ hot couple with a seriously combustible sex life:
I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
It all started with those boxes. Those damn boxes Rowan brought to Jude’s house once they moved in together … which remain unpacked five months later. Jude sees them as the tangible reminder of Rowan’s inability to commit to their life together. And Rowan? “Rowan was settled in. Really. He’d get around to dealing with the boxes, soon.”
But for now, each man has other matters to consider. Jude is expanding his business – Anderson Fly Fishing Tours – and Rowan is finally back to work at the BCI after a slow recovery from his shoulder wound. Roman’s new superior officer, Captain
Jude and Rowan are a smokin’ hot couple with a seriously combustible sex life:
Jude clutched Rowan’s ass, grinding their dicks together through the cloth. Then Rowan bit down on Jude’s neck tendon and all hell broke loose. Rowan found himself being lifted against the wall and body slammed. The shaking may have had something to do with a framed photo falling off, glass cracking. Rowan couldn’t do anything about it because his mouth was receiving another punishing kiss while his body was pinned by Jude’s length.The murder/mystery plot is well done and will hold your interest every step of the way … all the way to an ending that first features a glockenspiel (yeah, a glockenspiel) and then will almost break your heart. This book ends with a cliffhanger of sorts, but do NOT let that deter you from reading this book. I highly recommend “Double Cross”!
I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
October 17, 2016
4 Stars
We meet up again with our happy couple, our strapping tour guiding fisherman and tenacious homicide detective, after their hearts have spoken and love has been declared. They are living together, but bliss is short lived.
Rowan's new captain has a large grudge against him and is making his return to the force anything but a smooth transition after his injury. But the real trouble begins when Jude's prickly neighbor calls him over to verify that remains he has found on his property are in fact human. Jude can't seem to keep his nose out of the investigation which is causing Rowan even more trouble at work.
As much as I've grown to love Jude and Rowan, their lack of communication and constant doubt in each other is becoming a bit tired. This story was carried by the mystery, it was not as easily put together, at least for me, and kept me reading along when I really wanted to grab these men and give them a good shake.
While I can see both of their individual perspectives, it is my biggest complaint when a couple's problems can be mitigated by just talking to each other. The inner dialogue in this series needs to be reduced by half, let's try saying some of our thoughts shall we boys?!! Maybe I just never shut up, which I'm sure my husband can attest to, but I can't imagine anyone being able to keep all of their thoughts and feelings on such lock down.
The thing about writing a series with the same leads is to find the balance between the conflict and the happiness, usually communication gets muddled, but that can't be the cause of all their strife.
The devastating bomb that was dropped in the end of this book, will be cause for our couple to find strength in each other and for each other. I look forward to seeing them battle as a team and come together for each other, this will be the true test of love, I hope they will come out stronger in the end.
We meet up again with our happy couple, our strapping tour guiding fisherman and tenacious homicide detective, after their hearts have spoken and love has been declared. They are living together, but bliss is short lived.
Rowan's new captain has a large grudge against him and is making his return to the force anything but a smooth transition after his injury. But the real trouble begins when Jude's prickly neighbor calls him over to verify that remains he has found on his property are in fact human. Jude can't seem to keep his nose out of the investigation which is causing Rowan even more trouble at work.
As much as I've grown to love Jude and Rowan, their lack of communication and constant doubt in each other is becoming a bit tired. This story was carried by the mystery, it was not as easily put together, at least for me, and kept me reading along when I really wanted to grab these men and give them a good shake.
While I can see both of their individual perspectives, it is my biggest complaint when a couple's problems can be mitigated by just talking to each other. The inner dialogue in this series needs to be reduced by half, let's try saying some of our thoughts shall we boys?!! Maybe I just never shut up, which I'm sure my husband can attest to, but I can't imagine anyone being able to keep all of their thoughts and feelings on such lock down.
The thing about writing a series with the same leads is to find the balance between the conflict and the happiness, usually communication gets muddled, but that can't be the cause of all their strife.
The devastating bomb that was dropped in the end of this book, will be cause for our couple to find strength in each other and for each other. I look forward to seeing them battle as a team and come together for each other, this will be the true test of love, I hope they will come out stronger in the end.
October 11, 2016
Full Review to Come -
I really enjoyed this series. I am now anxiously waiting for the 4th book (well, really the 5th if you count book 2.5) anyways, I am not a huge fan of how this book ended - I feel like we were just revealed this HUGE issue and Boom - done.
However, with that being said - this was my favorite book out of the series. You got to watch these two really fight for what they have.. so yeah, loved that aspect.
oh, and did I mention these two are sexy as hell?
I really enjoyed this series. I am now anxiously waiting for the 4th book (well, really the 5th if you count book 2.5) anyways, I am not a huge fan of how this book ended - I feel like we were just revealed this HUGE issue and Boom - done.
However, with that being said - this was my favorite book out of the series. You got to watch these two really fight for what they have.. so yeah, loved that aspect.
oh, and did I mention these two are sexy as hell?
October 10, 2016
Great mystery in this one and loved the sex scenes! Rowan and Jude are both stubborn men, so they end up in many fights, but their love for each other is much stronger than their stubbornness. I could just see the love between them, because of the words of Ms Ford. I look forward to the fourth book!
September 30, 2016
Originally reviewed at Sinfully.
After the first two books in the series (you really shouldn’t read this as a standalone) there is little doubt that Jude and Rowan love each other and are better together than apart. The problem is that both of them have a stubborn streak. Rowan is constantly afraid that once he commits and gets comfortable his happiness will be taken away. Jude still hasn’t fully come to grips with the fact that he is no longer in law enforcement. He enjoys running his fishing tour business, but he can’t turn off his investigative instincts and his need to see justice done.
Rowan and Jude have been living together for a few months, but Rowan can’t bring himself to move all the way in with Jude. His clothes and toiletries have all found a place in the home, but the rest of his boxes and personal items haven’t been unpacked. He knows this bothers Jude, but deep down he still fears that Jude will be gone from his life again so why should he bother settling in further. Besides his priority is his physical recovery, which is still ongoing, and getting back to normal at work. Jude can feel Rowan holding things back from him and wonders if he still has one foot out the door.
Rowan is back to work with a new boss who holds a grudge against him and is going to make his life difficult. When their neighbor, Riley, calls Jude about some remains he finds on his property, things start to go bad very quickly. Rowan is tasked with the investigation and his new boss is all over him, especially when Jude is at the crime scene when they show up. Jude believes Riley is going to take the fall for a murder he didn’t commit. No matter how much Rowan tells Jude to stop interfering in the case, how much he explains to Jude that his new boss is looking for something to hang him with, Jude just can’t stop himself.
While the mystery is again well done, this book is all about the emotional side of the romance between Jude and Rowan. This time we get both their points of view so even though they have a difficult time there is no question that they both love each other and want the relationship to work. The problem is that once again, love might not be enough to keep them together and their old demons and habits aren’t easy to break. Jude and Rowan have gotten a bit better at talking, but neither one listens all that well. There are still things being held back and frustrations have them lashing out at each other until they finally break.
If it sounds like all the heavy tension is going to bring the mood down, don’t worry; Jude’s sister Kristy puts an end to that. She has tasked Jude and Rowan with throwing a bachelor party for her groom who lives out of the country and they have never met. The woman gets on my nerves at times, but she has nothing but love for Jude and Rowan and will do what she can to make sure they are as happy as she is.
I absolutely love Rowan and Jude as a couple. It’s only been about five months since they got back together in Doubleback and they have been five difficult months, but they have worked hard to stay together. They have moved forward and though they can’t imagine going back to a life without the other it seemed like it just may have to come to that. They love hard and they fight hard and their passion comes through on the page. Their struggle was emotional and at times and my heart was breaking as I blamed each of them for what was happening (though I blamed Jude a bit more).
While a new avenue of opportunity presents itself to Jude towards the end of this book, there is something else looming that they will have to deal with first. I don’t want to characterize the ending as a cliff hanger, but there is something that comes up that makes for an uncertain future. The men still love and are there for each other, but once again their road seems to be heading uphill.
Lissa Ford’s writing is wonderful. Both the relationship and mystery storylines consistently work well together. I am really hoping that in the next book there is more time for these two to be with each other without being torn apart. They have been put through the wringer since before the first book starts and they definitely deserve their happy ever after.
After the first two books in the series (you really shouldn’t read this as a standalone) there is little doubt that Jude and Rowan love each other and are better together than apart. The problem is that both of them have a stubborn streak. Rowan is constantly afraid that once he commits and gets comfortable his happiness will be taken away. Jude still hasn’t fully come to grips with the fact that he is no longer in law enforcement. He enjoys running his fishing tour business, but he can’t turn off his investigative instincts and his need to see justice done.
Rowan and Jude have been living together for a few months, but Rowan can’t bring himself to move all the way in with Jude. His clothes and toiletries have all found a place in the home, but the rest of his boxes and personal items haven’t been unpacked. He knows this bothers Jude, but deep down he still fears that Jude will be gone from his life again so why should he bother settling in further. Besides his priority is his physical recovery, which is still ongoing, and getting back to normal at work. Jude can feel Rowan holding things back from him and wonders if he still has one foot out the door.
Rowan is back to work with a new boss who holds a grudge against him and is going to make his life difficult. When their neighbor, Riley, calls Jude about some remains he finds on his property, things start to go bad very quickly. Rowan is tasked with the investigation and his new boss is all over him, especially when Jude is at the crime scene when they show up. Jude believes Riley is going to take the fall for a murder he didn’t commit. No matter how much Rowan tells Jude to stop interfering in the case, how much he explains to Jude that his new boss is looking for something to hang him with, Jude just can’t stop himself.
While the mystery is again well done, this book is all about the emotional side of the romance between Jude and Rowan. This time we get both their points of view so even though they have a difficult time there is no question that they both love each other and want the relationship to work. The problem is that once again, love might not be enough to keep them together and their old demons and habits aren’t easy to break. Jude and Rowan have gotten a bit better at talking, but neither one listens all that well. There are still things being held back and frustrations have them lashing out at each other until they finally break.
If it sounds like all the heavy tension is going to bring the mood down, don’t worry; Jude’s sister Kristy puts an end to that. She has tasked Jude and Rowan with throwing a bachelor party for her groom who lives out of the country and they have never met. The woman gets on my nerves at times, but she has nothing but love for Jude and Rowan and will do what she can to make sure they are as happy as she is.
I absolutely love Rowan and Jude as a couple. It’s only been about five months since they got back together in Doubleback and they have been five difficult months, but they have worked hard to stay together. They have moved forward and though they can’t imagine going back to a life without the other it seemed like it just may have to come to that. They love hard and they fight hard and their passion comes through on the page. Their struggle was emotional and at times and my heart was breaking as I blamed each of them for what was happening (though I blamed Jude a bit more).
While a new avenue of opportunity presents itself to Jude towards the end of this book, there is something else looming that they will have to deal with first. I don’t want to characterize the ending as a cliff hanger, but there is something that comes up that makes for an uncertain future. The men still love and are there for each other, but once again their road seems to be heading uphill.
Lissa Ford’s writing is wonderful. Both the relationship and mystery storylines consistently work well together. I am really hoping that in the next book there is more time for these two to be with each other without being torn apart. They have been put through the wringer since before the first book starts and they definitely deserve their happy ever after.
November 21, 2016
4,5 stars.
Best book of the series so far.
February 13, 2017
Another murder case to solve.......
A new supervisor to get used to......
Still more relationship problems between Jude and Rowan to work through.......
And then this ending!!!!!
I really hope book four will be released soon!
4,5 stars
A new supervisor to get used to......
Still more relationship problems between Jude and Rowan to work through.......
And then this ending!!!!!
I really hope book four will be released soon!
4,5 stars
September 21, 2016
5 months have passed and Rowan and Jude have moved in together. Rowan has yet to unpack all of his things which is Jude feels is cause for alarm. Rowan and Jude are communicating better than before but still not enough. Each is holding things back.
A murder investigation brings everything to a head. Rowan’s new asshole boss and Jude trying to clear a “friend’s” name cause tensions to rise. Consequences must be faced.
The story was entertaining and kept me engrossed trying to figure out what happened. No matter what I always find myself on Team Jude.
The author’s note was disturbing to say the least. It’s disgusting what people will do in the name of God.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
A murder investigation brings everything to a head. Rowan’s new asshole boss and Jude trying to clear a “friend’s” name cause tensions to rise. Consequences must be faced.
The story was entertaining and kept me engrossed trying to figure out what happened. No matter what I always find myself on Team Jude.
The author’s note was disturbing to say the least. It’s disgusting what people will do in the name of God.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 2, 2016
I received an ARC copy from the author in return for an honest review.
I was so thrilled to get this sequel about two of my favorite guys. Jude and Rowan are back and trying to adjust to living their lives together. They've had a few months of downtime as Rowan recovered from his injury but he's back to work now. He's got a new boss and the boss seems to have it in for Rowan. Then a dead body is found nearby. Rowan's on the case and Jude can't help feeling his investigative instincts kicking in. He's also concerned that Ro is holding out and hiding something. What happens if two strong willed men, with similar attitudes, can't find middle ground? And where the hell do they throw a bachelor party for Kristy's fiancée, who they haven't met yet?
Lissa Ford has written another fantastic mystery with plenty of suspense. Much of the suspense is wondering how Rowan and Jude will deal with the issues that are rocking their romance. Theyre dealing with so much tension between them, parts of it had me in anguish, waiting to find out what would occur. It's a tightly written plot, with twists, turns and too many suspects to figure out. It's an absorbing, fast read, since I could barely put it down.
I sincerely hope there another story coming for these two guys. I think this book leaves room to spend additional time with them in the future. I really want to see more of them when they've been together longer and their relationship really hits it's stride. I loved this and if you were a fan of the first two books, you won't want to miss this! If you haven't read them, it's a fantastic series.
I was so thrilled to get this sequel about two of my favorite guys. Jude and Rowan are back and trying to adjust to living their lives together. They've had a few months of downtime as Rowan recovered from his injury but he's back to work now. He's got a new boss and the boss seems to have it in for Rowan. Then a dead body is found nearby. Rowan's on the case and Jude can't help feeling his investigative instincts kicking in. He's also concerned that Ro is holding out and hiding something. What happens if two strong willed men, with similar attitudes, can't find middle ground? And where the hell do they throw a bachelor party for Kristy's fiancée, who they haven't met yet?
Lissa Ford has written another fantastic mystery with plenty of suspense. Much of the suspense is wondering how Rowan and Jude will deal with the issues that are rocking their romance. Theyre dealing with so much tension between them, parts of it had me in anguish, waiting to find out what would occur. It's a tightly written plot, with twists, turns and too many suspects to figure out. It's an absorbing, fast read, since I could barely put it down.
I sincerely hope there another story coming for these two guys. I think this book leaves room to spend additional time with them in the future. I really want to see more of them when they've been together longer and their relationship really hits it's stride. I loved this and if you were a fan of the first two books, you won't want to miss this! If you haven't read them, it's a fantastic series.
September 29, 2016
5 stars
Excellent read!
I am in love with Rowan and Jude :)
Excellent read!
I am in love with Rowan and Jude :)
September 22, 2016
I was given an ARC copy of this book for an honest review.
This is the 3rd book in the series of Doubleback. The book opened with what would seemed to be a normal newly cohabiting couple. I realized early on that I should've started from the beginning since I hadn't read the first two books in the series. I'm so glad I did too. I think by going back and buying and reading the first books of the series let me understand Rowan and Rude better than if I had just read this one alone.
The mystery is a good one, maybe a little predictable, but I still didn't guess who had done it for sure till the end.
The love between Rude and Rowan is dynamic, and I don't think we have been shown everything yet.
I found myself shaking my head at Rude, if only he would listen to Rowan.
I wanted to shake Rowan a few times and tell him to open his eyes..
This book isn't a cliffhanger in the true since of cliffhangers, but it does end with a story line that hopefully will take a favorable turn in the next book (if there is a next book).
This is the 3rd book in the series of Doubleback. The book opened with what would seemed to be a normal newly cohabiting couple. I realized early on that I should've started from the beginning since I hadn't read the first two books in the series. I'm so glad I did too. I think by going back and buying and reading the first books of the series let me understand Rowan and Rude better than if I had just read this one alone.
The mystery is a good one, maybe a little predictable, but I still didn't guess who had done it for sure till the end.
The love between Rude and Rowan is dynamic, and I don't think we have been shown everything yet.
I found myself shaking my head at Rude, if only he would listen to Rowan.
I wanted to shake Rowan a few times and tell him to open his eyes..
This book isn't a cliffhanger in the true since of cliffhangers, but it does end with a story line that hopefully will take a favorable turn in the next book (if there is a next book).
September 30, 2016
DNF @ 50% - HUGE FAIL. This one isn't for me at all and in skimming forward and to the end, I know this with absolutely unwavering certainty. I'm out. If a 4th book comes out (because this one ends on a cruel cliffhanger) I MIGHT check it out. But, as it stands, I do believe I'm done. Btw - did the author REALLY have to do that to Rowan?!!? What was the point of that?!!? No. Contrived. Pointless plot device. Rowan has been through enough!!
August 23, 2017
The Blogger Girls
Oh my God, I do believe this author is trying to kill me. Here I was, thinking book three would culminate in Rowan and Jude finally getting their act together, finally getting past the drama that is intent on destroying their relationship, and finally moving away from murder and mayhem. Well, no, not even close. This round was probably the most emotional for me as I’d kept expecting things to settle down but instead they were heading in the opposite direction. And now, I am of the mindset that they are nowhere near done and I am expecting a book four in this series.
First off, Rowan is being manhandled by his new police chief slash new partner. The man hates him and blames him for the death of Rowan’s last partner, who’d died earlier in the series. So poor Rowan is trying to recover from being shot by an arrow, dealing with unmitigated distrust and anger from his chief, and dealing with Jude not listening to him and sticking his nose in his latest homicide investigation. Jude was a pain in the butt in this one. I loved him, but he knew better than to get involved and I didn’t blame Rowan for the actions he took once the ramifications of Jude’s involvement became known. But, I do wish Rowan would have unpacked his boxes…those boxes were a reminder that they still had miles to go before they were on safe relationship ground.
The annoying aspect was Jude’s sister. I really dislike family members steamrolling over others to get their way and then complain when it’s not up to their standards. Seriously, I would never allow that in my life and I have trouble believing it in books so that never really works for me. Probably the only part of the book I skimmed a little bit on.
AND, to top it off, Rowan has this tragic medical condition that comes to light at the end of the book. It ends on a positive note, but just barely. There must be another book, right?
Overall Impression: I really liked it!
Oh my God, I do believe this author is trying to kill me. Here I was, thinking book three would culminate in Rowan and Jude finally getting their act together, finally getting past the drama that is intent on destroying their relationship, and finally moving away from murder and mayhem. Well, no, not even close. This round was probably the most emotional for me as I’d kept expecting things to settle down but instead they were heading in the opposite direction. And now, I am of the mindset that they are nowhere near done and I am expecting a book four in this series.
First off, Rowan is being manhandled by his new police chief slash new partner. The man hates him and blames him for the death of Rowan’s last partner, who’d died earlier in the series. So poor Rowan is trying to recover from being shot by an arrow, dealing with unmitigated distrust and anger from his chief, and dealing with Jude not listening to him and sticking his nose in his latest homicide investigation. Jude was a pain in the butt in this one. I loved him, but he knew better than to get involved and I didn’t blame Rowan for the actions he took once the ramifications of Jude’s involvement became known. But, I do wish Rowan would have unpacked his boxes…those boxes were a reminder that they still had miles to go before they were on safe relationship ground.
The annoying aspect was Jude’s sister. I really dislike family members steamrolling over others to get their way and then complain when it’s not up to their standards. Seriously, I would never allow that in my life and I have trouble believing it in books so that never really works for me. Probably the only part of the book I skimmed a little bit on.
AND, to top it off, Rowan has this tragic medical condition that comes to light at the end of the book. It ends on a positive note, but just barely. There must be another book, right?
Overall Impression: I really liked it!
March 22, 2018
3.5 stars. I get why Jude didn’t listen and stuck his nose where it didn’t belong and Rowan had every right to do what he did but come on guys - you’ve learned nothing in the past year plus with each other. Get it together.
August 9, 2021
I just finished book #3 and it mentions a book 4 to come, since Lissa is a new to me author, does anyone know what happened to her or why book 4 was never released? Thank you :)
September 26, 2016
These boys just keep getting better and better - can I have the next book now please, pretty please??
November 13, 2016
This is a great trilogy -- each book better than the last. They definitely need to be read together and in order. Normally I'm not a huge fan of established couples but Jude and Rowan are so appealing and real feeling and so is their relationship. Each man is likeable but with definite faults and shortcomings just like real people. At times I found myself thinking why are you being such an asshole then as their motivations or back story was revealed I'd find myself liking them even more than before. This trilogy is the story of Jude and Rowan finding their way to each other and apart and back together again in such an organic way that it's like being on the inside of a real relationship with all the daily irritations and comforts along the huge blowouts and combustible comings back together. Along the way I rooted for them to find their way to be with each other.
Musings on changes in reading habits and kindle unlimited:
I found the first book on kindle unlimited and liked it enough to continue reading though I probably wouldn't have continued if I had to buy the second book and I really would have missed out. Just makes me think about how I don't give books/series much of a chance to improve these days. When I was able to find all my reading material at the library I was much more likely to take a chance on something different or that I wasn't sure I'd like. In the past ten years or so since I've started reading m/m which wasn't readily available at the library and I have to pay for all my reading materials, I've gotten really stingy with my book buying. There's so many mediocre or just bad m/m books that I haven't been willing to take a lot of chances. I found some other good reads on kindle unlimited that I wouldn't have tried if not for kindle unlimited. I've also found a lot of really bad books, but I didn't also didn't get mad that I spent money on them.
Musings on changes in reading habits and kindle unlimited:
I found the first book on kindle unlimited and liked it enough to continue reading though I probably wouldn't have continued if I had to buy the second book and I really would have missed out. Just makes me think about how I don't give books/series much of a chance to improve these days. When I was able to find all my reading material at the library I was much more likely to take a chance on something different or that I wasn't sure I'd like. In the past ten years or so since I've started reading m/m which wasn't readily available at the library and I have to pay for all my reading materials, I've gotten really stingy with my book buying. There's so many mediocre or just bad m/m books that I haven't been willing to take a lot of chances. I found some other good reads on kindle unlimited that I wouldn't have tried if not for kindle unlimited. I've also found a lot of really bad books, but I didn't also didn't get mad that I spent money on them.
September 22, 2016
This is a great series.
I received an arc of the third book in this series for an honest review but couldn't find a way to leave my review before it became available on Amazon. So....here is my review of all three books in this series.
What a fantastic series! Jude and Rowan seemed to be at cross emotional roads through most of their relationship. Lack of honest communication was their biggest problem. Pride, personalities, and how they each handled their work ethic and protocol were their constant areas of conflict.
In this book, Double Cross, they nearly came to the end of their relationship. At the ending of this book, Rowan receives some devastating news. Differences between the two were set aside and they, finally, realized their love for one another wasn't as important as their individual wills.
I'm hoping for another book in this engrossing series. What happens next? Enquiring minds Need to know!!!
I received an arc of the third book in this series for an honest review but couldn't find a way to leave my review before it became available on Amazon. So....here is my review of all three books in this series.
What a fantastic series! Jude and Rowan seemed to be at cross emotional roads through most of their relationship. Lack of honest communication was their biggest problem. Pride, personalities, and how they each handled their work ethic and protocol were their constant areas of conflict.
In this book, Double Cross, they nearly came to the end of their relationship. At the ending of this book, Rowan receives some devastating news. Differences between the two were set aside and they, finally, realized their love for one another wasn't as important as their individual wills.
I'm hoping for another book in this engrossing series. What happens next? Enquiring minds Need to know!!!
September 27, 2016
4.5 stars! I really like this series. There's sexy times with plenty of dirty talk. Also, Jude and Rowan are both complex characters and very much their own men. They don't always see eye to eye, which is very realistic. Most people, even when they love each other, don't always see things the same way. It causes angst and conflict, two imperfect people going toe to toe over what they believe is right, a thread of love keeping them together. They have to answer the question: Is love enough?
The mystery in this one wasn't super complicated but definitely took a spin off the trail of "the usual". According to the afterward of the book, it's loosely based on a real crime. I like that. It throws in the element of religion here as well.
This book was more emotional for me than other books in the series and ends in a sort of cliff hanger. It deals with some serious issues, and it's definitely worth the read!
The mystery in this one wasn't super complicated but definitely took a spin off the trail of "the usual". According to the afterward of the book, it's loosely based on a real crime. I like that. It throws in the element of religion here as well.
This book was more emotional for me than other books in the series and ends in a sort of cliff hanger. It deals with some serious issues, and it's definitely worth the read!
September 22, 2016
To me this is the best book in the Doubleback series so far. Not only the mystery was better in this book but the emotions potrayed by both Jude and Rowan was so real and I truly felt every emotions that both the MCs went through. There were a lot of ups and downs in Rowan's amd Jude's personal live but that didn't detract from the mystery.
Oh man that ending, I really hope that this isn't the last book in the series. Overall I would definitely recommend this book to all Doubleback series fan and to those who love a good mystery and romance between established couple. ( This book can't be read as a standalone)
* I was provided with an advance copy by the author for an honest review
Oh man that ending, I really hope that this isn't the last book in the series. Overall I would definitely recommend this book to all Doubleback series fan and to those who love a good mystery and romance between established couple. ( This book can't be read as a standalone)
* I was provided with an advance copy by the author for an honest review
September 26, 2016
As a fan of the first 2 books, Doubleback and Double Down, I was really excited to start the next book. Jude and Rowan have a complicated love, but it is a strong one. If they could get their communication skills up to date. At some points I found myself yelling at them, and then cheering for them 5 minutes later.
This book was more about the case and their emotional relationship than their physical relationship. There were still s few steamy parts, but I enjoyed the emotional growth the pair went thru.
This is my favorite of the 3 books.
I look forward to the next one.
I received this book as an ARC for an honest review.
This book was more about the case and their emotional relationship than their physical relationship. There were still s few steamy parts, but I enjoyed the emotional growth the pair went thru.
This is my favorite of the 3 books.
I look forward to the next one.
I received this book as an ARC for an honest review.
April 5, 2020
What happened to Lissa Ford?
I love this series, was so looking forward to the fourth book.
Any news on her?
I love this series, was so looking forward to the fourth book.
Any news on her?
November 8, 2018
Was hoping for more
I had my hopes up for more from this series but the bar has been lowered. Various things were slightly bothersome in book two but the short story between two and three and then book three just caused issues to pile up and become aggravating and distracting.
First of all, the lazy research. This is a cardinal sin for me because there is no reason for it. The books take place in Central NY. According to the author bio she lives in this area. That makes the errors even worse and make me believe the author info is wrong as there is no way to make the errors made here if one if a resident of Central NY. Multiple times the author refers to the characters driving north or south on I80 and makes reference to a hobo encampment under I80. First of all, I80 travels East/West, as all even numbered interstates do. Secondly, I80 runs well south of the Syracuse area...like WELL south...as in through Pennsylvania. The highway that runs through Syracuse is I81 which anyone with even a passing knowledge of Central NY knows. There are other geographical errors as well.
In book two it is mentioned several times that Rowan was a lacrosse star for his Utica area high school team, recruited and offered a scholarship to play at Utica College. Utica College is Division III and therefore can’t offer athletic scholarships. Additionally Rowan says he’ll go to Syracuse as a walk on and figure out how to pay for it himself. Syracuse is an elite Division I program thus this is a ridiculous premise. It never says if he played in college but he is a huge Syracuse sports fan yet the author only mentions him going to football and basketball games at the Dome, not lacrosse?! The sport he played ? When SU has a very good program?
I realize these are minor things in the scheme of the book but it’s sloppy. And sloppy takes me head out of a story and that’s a big crime for me as a reader.
Additionally, both characters became really unlikeable in this book. It’s hard to say which one is more at fault as they both behave badly but I’m going with Rowan as his failure to be fully honest and communicate causes Jude to make some reckless, poor decisions. Plus the pulling back/not communicating thing is getting old and repetitive.
The mystery here is interesting and there’s a secondary character making things tough which makes the story more interesting. Jude’s sister’s wedding is an annoying subplot that doesn’t really add much to the book.
The ending is disappointing and clearly ends in such a way to manipulate readers into purchasing book four if they are even mildly interested in the characters. Though with no release date listed and there having been over a year’s gap between books two and three it’s likely most people will lose interest by the time book four comes out.
I had my hopes up for more from this series but the bar has been lowered. Various things were slightly bothersome in book two but the short story between two and three and then book three just caused issues to pile up and become aggravating and distracting.
First of all, the lazy research. This is a cardinal sin for me because there is no reason for it. The books take place in Central NY. According to the author bio she lives in this area. That makes the errors even worse and make me believe the author info is wrong as there is no way to make the errors made here if one if a resident of Central NY. Multiple times the author refers to the characters driving north or south on I80 and makes reference to a hobo encampment under I80. First of all, I80 travels East/West, as all even numbered interstates do. Secondly, I80 runs well south of the Syracuse area...like WELL south...as in through Pennsylvania. The highway that runs through Syracuse is I81 which anyone with even a passing knowledge of Central NY knows. There are other geographical errors as well.
In book two it is mentioned several times that Rowan was a lacrosse star for his Utica area high school team, recruited and offered a scholarship to play at Utica College. Utica College is Division III and therefore can’t offer athletic scholarships. Additionally Rowan says he’ll go to Syracuse as a walk on and figure out how to pay for it himself. Syracuse is an elite Division I program thus this is a ridiculous premise. It never says if he played in college but he is a huge Syracuse sports fan yet the author only mentions him going to football and basketball games at the Dome, not lacrosse?! The sport he played ? When SU has a very good program?
I realize these are minor things in the scheme of the book but it’s sloppy. And sloppy takes me head out of a story and that’s a big crime for me as a reader.
Additionally, both characters became really unlikeable in this book. It’s hard to say which one is more at fault as they both behave badly but I’m going with Rowan as his failure to be fully honest and communicate causes Jude to make some reckless, poor decisions. Plus the pulling back/not communicating thing is getting old and repetitive.
The mystery here is interesting and there’s a secondary character making things tough which makes the story more interesting. Jude’s sister’s wedding is an annoying subplot that doesn’t really add much to the book.
The ending is disappointing and clearly ends in such a way to manipulate readers into purchasing book four if they are even mildly interested in the characters. Though with no release date listed and there having been over a year’s gap between books two and three it’s likely most people will lose interest by the time book four comes out.
March 14, 2017
Damn. Things were finally getting good, then more bad stuff happened, and now I am stuck waiting for a book 4 that is supposedly coming at some point.
Don't worry, this is not a cliffhanger. Jude and Rowan's story could end here but I think I need the whole thing wrapped a bit better with a nice bow to be completely happy.
Double Cross has the same mix of criminal investigations and relationship issues as the first two books in the series but the murder case in this one was the best story so far with regards to the crime aspect. And as much as Jude and Rowan don't always mesh in their personal lives, the work quite well together when they are in law enforcement mode.
Unfortunately for them, there is something like a personal life outside of work and that brings me to the topic that has been driving me nuts through all three books. Let me first point out, though, that I really really like both Jude and Rowan. I love seeing them together but if there was ever a contest for highest level of non-communication in a relationship these guys take first prize, no question about it. Throughout all three books we keep seeing them carry around their insecurities about the relationship, wondering what the other might be thinking (because just asking would be too easy?!) And they fight. Geez, do they fight. I think my strongest feeling after finishing this one was exhaustion.
But the thing is - they also realize that despite all their issues, the absolute worst thing is not being together. So they make up. In the most satisfying mix of sweet romance and the tearing off of clothes.
Please let me have book four soon?
Don't worry, this is not a cliffhanger. Jude and Rowan's story could end here but I think I need the whole thing wrapped a bit better with a nice bow to be completely happy.
Double Cross has the same mix of criminal investigations and relationship issues as the first two books in the series but the murder case in this one was the best story so far with regards to the crime aspect. And as much as Jude and Rowan don't always mesh in their personal lives, the work quite well together when they are in law enforcement mode.
Unfortunately for them, there is something like a personal life outside of work and that brings me to the topic that has been driving me nuts through all three books. Let me first point out, though, that I really really like both Jude and Rowan. I love seeing them together but if there was ever a contest for highest level of non-communication in a relationship these guys take first prize, no question about it. Throughout all three books we keep seeing them carry around their insecurities about the relationship, wondering what the other might be thinking (because just asking would be too easy?!) And they fight. Geez, do they fight. I think my strongest feeling after finishing this one was exhaustion.
But the thing is - they also realize that despite all their issues, the absolute worst thing is not being together. So they make up. In the most satisfying mix of sweet romance and the tearing off of clothes.
Please let me have book four soon?
November 14, 2017
In the last book, I was pissed at Rowan. In this book, I wanted to slap Jude several times. What the heck was he thinking? This title is perfect for what was going on, not only between certain unnamed characters (don't want to spoil the plot), but also between our MCs (as in one word). I was so frustrated with the boys. It's true that sometimes love just isn't enough. I really wanted them to break up.
There were some editing issues that bothered me. Another thing I didn't like was the use of the word "session" to describe sex; it was used rather often and that's just weird.
Even though I was only satisfied with the first book of the series, I will still read Jude and Rowan's Christmas story.
The only two things I appreciated were the scenes with the glockenspiel (very cute) and the mystery overall.
There were some editing issues that bothered me. Another thing I didn't like was the use of the word "session" to describe sex; it was used rather often and that's just weird.
Even though I was only satisfied with the first book of the series, I will still read Jude and Rowan's Christmas story.
The only two things I appreciated were the scenes with the glockenspiel (very cute) and the mystery overall.
February 18, 2018
Highly Emotional but so Good
The Doubleback series is great fun and full of twists and turns. In book 3, what I loved the most is how real these characters are. I see them as real people. They have past struggles and tons of bumps in the road, but they are kind, loving, and smart men who work and play hard. There is a young man who died. And it hurt. There is a religious subtext to this story. Not my favorite thing but I totally loved this book. Lissa Ford is an awesome writer.
The Doubleback series is great fun and full of twists and turns. In book 3, what I loved the most is how real these characters are. I see them as real people. They have past struggles and tons of bumps in the road, but they are kind, loving, and smart men who work and play hard. There is a young man who died. And it hurt. There is a religious subtext to this story. Not my favorite thing but I totally loved this book. Lissa Ford is an awesome writer.
October 11, 2020
These books have, objectively, a ton of issues. The writing could be tighter and more polished, the mysteries less predictable and more developed, the issues between the MC are repetitive... and yet I am charmed by them. I enjoy Jude and Ro and their fucked-up dynamic immensely and I'm rooting for them. Well-done, author, this was the sweet, addictive escape I needed after a hellish week at work. I devoured the three books in under two days even with the constant self-doubt and repetitive breakups.
June 26, 2017
Eh, it was okay, I guess. A lot of unnecessary angst and nobody listening to each other to instead go off and do their own thing, but the plot was interesting enough. The ending wasn't enough to make me love it though; everyone's still angry until suddenly all is solved with a glockenspiel - not really my kind of HEA, that.
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