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The Village #3

Trapped in Your Storm

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Autumn has local DJ and disinformation agent Elliot Nicholson feeling renewed. He’s moved past the depression and anxiety that plagued him over the summer, and lately his job has been blessedly free of crisis. But for Elliot and his colleagues, nothing remains peaceful for long in Singing Bear Village. Baz, their outlandish ambassador, may be missing. Strange anomalies in the forest suggest something’s amiss with their neighbors under the mountain. And an online conspiracy theorist claims to know all the team’s secrets, and is threatening exposure. Thankfully, Elliot has Nolan, his loyal friend and teammate who’s always kept him grounded. But one night an innocent lark goes too far, and Elliot is knocked off-balance when Nolan starts looking at him in a different way.

403 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 16, 2016

4 people are currently reading
205 people want to read

About the author

Darien Cox

26 books345 followers
Author Darien Cox lives in New England and enjoys using romantic fiction to explore the intensity, insanity, humor, and chaos that accompanies cupid’s arrow.

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5 stars
121 (45%)
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113 (42%)
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26 (9%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
Profile Image for ~✡~Dαni(ela) ♥ ♂♂ love & semi-colons~✡~.
3,574 reviews1,114 followers
October 24, 2016
~4.5~

Damn, but this book has it all: danger, tenderness, friendship, passion, and things that come at you in the dark and want to shake your hand.

Something is amiss with the Whites, and Baz is nowhere to be found. The men who guard Singing Bear Village are worried and a little scared. All is not as it seems, and someone may be on to them. Meanwhile, Elliot isn't sure Ogden can be trusted.

This is best-friends-to-lovers at its best. Elliot and Nolan can't imagine life without each other, but lately Nolan feels an attraction to his best friend that can't be denied.

All it takes is one touch, one kiss.

Elliot doesn't want to ruin the one true thing he's ever found. Nolan is his lifeline. And Nolan doesn't want to be just another pretty boy Elliot fucks and leaves behind.

The romance is beautifully weaved into a suspenseful, intense (but also sweet and humerous) story. There is a lot going on here; new characters are introduced, and old ones find some closure.

The ending is a beautiful HEA for Elliot and Nolan. I have to admit I got a little emotional reading the last chapter. I'd be satisfied if the series ended here, even though I'll miss these men—their easy banter and friendship.

P.S. This book CANNOT be read as a standalone; this series needs to be read in order or the plot won't make much sense.
Profile Image for Ele.
1,319 reviews40 followers
October 18, 2016
~5++ stars~
"It had gone from being a gentle breeze to a raging storm, and Elliot was trapped in it. Battered about, out of control. Yet somehow unable to break free of it. Somehow, not wanting to."



Reading Darien Cox's books feels like watching a favorite TV show. There is always the right amount of action, a great connection between the MCs, and a strong secondary cast.

The conclusion to The Village Series was everything I wanted, and then some. My personal favorite in the series.

The romance...


“…I’ve loved you for a thousand years, Elliot.”

We know from the previous books that Nolan and Elliot are best friends. What we don't know, is that underneath these friendly feelings there's slow burning passion, and it only takes a moment to explode. After that, there's no turning back. Elliot is afraid, Nolan keeps pushing, until it's the other way around.

I loved the dual POV here. I admit that Nolan wasn't my favorite person in the previous books, but I understand his actions now.And Elliot might seem calm and collected, but there's a lot more going on inside of him.

The progression from friends to lovers was so real and natural. The sex scenes were so hot and emotional...It was never just sex between Elliot and Nolan.

“I don’t love you despite our history. I love you because of it.”

The action...



If you know me, you know that I deteste everything sci-fi, especially . I have no way to explain how Singing Bear Village and its people found a place in my heart. And a certain someone named Baz will forever be one of my favorite book characters. I wish there was a way for him to get his own story.

As far as the mystery/action is concerned, there is a surprise at every corner, and the introduction of some new interesting characters. I truly think that the author did a great job with the world building, the detailed description of , and the way it all played out in the end.

The group of friends...

The way the four friends interacted with one another was one of my favorite things in the story. Their banter was natural and hilarious, it just flowed. It wasn't all fun, though. They went through stuff, relationships got tested and came back stronger than ever.

The last 15%...

Blew my mind and slayed my life. It really evoked all kinds of feelings in me: I cried, I panicked, I swooned, I laughed like a lunatic, I was amazed. Remember my words, the last part of the book is everything!

You can't read this book as a standalone. You have to read the first two books. If you haven't already, what are you waiting for? Very highly recommended!

*Review cross-posted on Gay Book Reviews. ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.*
Profile Image for Ariana  (mostly offline).
1,680 reviews96 followers
February 5, 2019
Reread February 2019

and loved it just as much! Apart from Nolan and Elliott's dilemma and being scorching hot, what I want to say is: 'Baz 4eva'!! Love that guy so much! And Gordy, the alien. Priceless!

All I can say is this: Darien Cox outdid himself in the last instalment of this series (not counting the absolutely fantastic epilogue/Christmas story)

Definitely one of the most brilliant 'best friends to lovers' stories ever! If this is one of your favourite tropes, don't miss out on this!

Nolan and Elliot are two hard-ass alpha males, neither easily giving in or admitting to 'stuff'. So when a single touch and the acknowledgement of attraction happens just by chance, they are both rattled to the bone.

Darien Cox is a master at describing the turmoil, the "raging storm" both men fight. I loved the pull and push, the anguish and the angst, all the questioning and discussions, the arguing and the making up (I did like that part in particular, XD) and most of all the beautifully slow progression from friends to lovers. Their final decision what their relationship should be, is not based only on a certain part of their anatomy, but they really work their way through a thicket of confusion, insecurity and new emotions.

For me this is, without any doubt, the most romantic book of the three. I really heart Rudy and TJ as much as Nolan and Elliot, but I just melted at all those little romantic moments the last two have together





Just as in books 1 and 2 we get a wonderful balance between the love story and the action plot. Which was really really nail-bitingly exciting!





And then there is Baz (supposedly a 'secondary character' Ha!)- Seriously - I just LOVE that guy. His loyal friendship, his incredible humour, his tenderness and willingness to protect his friends is just outstanding and so endearing, I just .... can't. He made me put this book on my 'best of the best' shelf!

I can only recommend this series full-heartedly. I read a couple of books by Darien Cox before I really enjoyed, but this series definitely puts him on my 'most favourite authors' list!

READ IT! Don't hang about. This is 'out of this world' (yeah , I know.... don't ask ... got carried away)
Profile Image for haletostilinski.
1,519 reviews649 followers
January 29, 2019
4.5 wowed stars!

I really loved this, what a treat this story was. I was wondering how Elliot and Nolan's story was going to go and how the author would transition them from being best friends of ten years to lovers and in a relationship.

Overall, he did really well. I thought the...inciting event, as it were, was well done and made sense, and although their realizations of their feelings felt like they came a tad fast, it worked and sometimes it just comes to you all at one anyway with someone you've been friends with for so long. What's that quote? "I fell in love them slowly, and then all at once." I bet Elliot and Nolan have been in love all this time, they just never let themselves think it or consider it. Until one moment changes everything.

I felt for and understood both Elliot and Nolan and where they were both coming from, especially Elliot's caution. It was definitely need and warranted.

But I also loved that once he was all in, he was all in. Nolan was it for him.

The main story with the aliens was interesting and fun too. Baz continues to be an awesome, amazing character and I loved the expansion on alien races as well and learning a little more behind the red curtain.

What's happening with the Whites was interesting and compelling and at times, riveting. (Also even though Baz is an alien I wouldn't mind a book about him and Joff, js ;) Baz deserves some love).

I do feel that the was rushed and Elliot and Nolan should have taken some time to really be together before deciding that, but it was also sweet and these two were happy and in love in the end, so I didn't mind too much. All I wanted for these two was a HEA, and we got it, and it was wonderful. (Also, the sex between these two? HOT AF. Loved every intimate scene between these two, no question.)

Ya know, I dare say this might be my favorite book in the series. I loved and enjoyed the others, of course, but there was something about this one that I loved just a little more. Two big thumbs up from me! <3
Profile Image for Donna.
288 reviews25 followers
October 27, 2016
Loved Nolan and Elliot! This was the best book in the series, but Christian and Myles are still my favorite couple from this series. I was happy for Baz at the end! Nolan and Elliot should adopt a child! They were great with the alien baby.
Profile Image for Antisocial Recluse.
2,711 reviews
March 31, 2017
I didn't want it to end!

Wow, just wow. What a great adventure Darien Cox took us on in this third of The Village stories. I think it's the last and if so, it was quite a finish. Nolan and Elliot's story was just beautiful and so, so realistic! One of Darien Cox's great skills is drawing characters with truly relatable emotions and actions. Their dance back and forth over the transition from friends to lovers was perfectly balanced, not drawn out or dramatized.

Their decisions were interrupted by disturbing events, not the least of which is not being able to find Baz! There's a threat to the groups identity and other shakeups for the tightly bonded group of friends. It's great adventure and suspense in a sci-fi world that's been easy to get immersed in. It really doesn't overwhelm the romance for Nolan and Eliot and they find time to explore their feelings....and each other! OMG, can Darien write an awesome sex scene!

There's some new faces, new discoveries about existing characters and new developments about the base under the mountains. I think this is the final book, which did give a highly satisfying conclusion. I'll still be sorry to see the series end because I'll miss them so much, other than in the many rereads I anticipate. I'd still like to see Brett and Tyler get together!
Profile Image for Tina.
1,782 reviews1 follower
November 21, 2016

Loved it!

Darien did it again! Trapped in your Storm was as perfect as the previous books of the Village series.

Can't wait for the next book, there's more to tell in Singing Bear Village, right? :)
Profile Image for Aerin.
594 reviews1 follower
November 1, 2016
This book rocked my world! It's one of the best (if not THE best) friends to lovers story I've ever read. Elliot and Nolan were so fucking HOT together!!! Gah!

Even though I'm not usually a paranormal fan, this was absolutely fantastic! This is why Darien Cox is one of my top favorites, his unique and breathtaking world building that's tastefully done no matter how crazy things get.

And Baz!!!! I wanted Baz to get his own book but the way the book ended made me happy enough. Even though I hope this wonderful series is not over, I'd be perfectly content accepting this book as it's end. Things seem pretty wrapped up, but enough of the mystery is left to make room for another book. This was perfection!!!
Profile Image for Kathleen.
1,440 reviews140 followers
February 9, 2019
Even though this one had some exciting twists and turns, I like it least of the series thus far. Great bones; crap execution. And JC on a crutch, too much sex. Skip. Skip. Skip. Nolan and Elliott acted like teenagers half the time, it was ridiculous. And that was the lamest space battle scene I've ever read. Ever. Pitiful. A middle-school sci-fi fan could have written a better scene. Perhaps one should have been consulted?

Yeah, I'm actually moving on to the last one... hoping against all hope for better.
Profile Image for Riina Y.T..
Author 7 books60 followers
December 9, 2016
Trapped in Your Storm took me by surprise. A little. I mean, I was ninety-nine percent sure it would be great, and I adored the previous installments to bits, but with Elliot and Nolan not being my top favorite guys... *shrugs* I was positively surprised, and delighted, how much I enjoyed their romance.

Their friendship is one for the ages.

I love a good friends-to-lovers storyline, which Darien rocked the shit out of!!

Elliot has become one of my favorite guys, thank you D. He really is wonderful, just needed a chance to shine. And shine he did!!

Nolan too. Pretty awesome guy and such a good match for Elliot. They were fun together, and sexy as all hell.

So... Turns out, the entire book is a top-favorite, what with all the drama, craziness and suspense. This book has everything you want: scary things, action, light humor, friendship all around, love and passion.

Seriously, this book rocked my tiny little world :)

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

As you might know by now, Darien Cox has fast become one of my (very few) absolute favorite authors! I adore all of his books, honest, and The Village series has a special place in my heart. As I mentioned in my other review: You won't find me re-reading a book often but Darien's characters are (pretty much always) insta-favorites of mine and I enjoy revisiting them from time to time.

This series is EVERYTHING :)
Once again: ALL the freakin stars!! ☆
Yes. Okay.☆
Thank you, D. (^з^)-☆
Profile Image for Tess.
2,195 reviews26 followers
October 24, 2016
4.25 stars
Very satisfying end to the trilogy!
It's going to be sad to say goodbye to the boys, to Singing Bear and to the whites and the hybrids. Well, one hybrid in particular! Elliot and Nolan's romance wasn't my favourite of the series, it felt maybe a little bit forced but I think that's just a me thing. I was, however, especially happy that the one thing I was looking for in this book did happen :) I really recommend this series if you're good with sci-fi (well, sci-fi light) and looking for something just a little bit different.
Profile Image for Joey.
Author 2 books14 followers
October 19, 2016
Swoooooon

So, I'm not much for sci if, it this was just grab you by the throat amazing. This author is relatively new to me and I'm fully binging on all his work. I loved this series and I could read about these wonderful characters and their adventures forever. Seriously, this was the perfect blend of smexy, sweet, funny and fun!!!!
Profile Image for Al *the semi serial series skipper*.
1,659 reviews850 followers
May 22, 2017
Just when I thought this series couldn't get any better this one comes and blows it out the park. This was the absolute best, I can't believe I read the entire series in one day, now I hate myself for rushing through it. I need more, I never know how to pace myself. I can't wait to read about Baz and Joff.
Profile Image for Lauren Woods.
113 reviews
October 18, 2016
Everything I was hoping for....but I still don't want it to be over!

I love every character in this book, but I still have to say: <3 Baz For Life <3

Profile Image for Viki Evans.
297 reviews1 follower
May 3, 2018
To infinity and beyond 🙋


So so good, I loved it and couldn't put it down. This was for me the best in the series by far. Baz,I adore him and I really hope we get more from this series,great job xxx
Profile Image for Joyfully Jay.
9,065 reviews516 followers
June 5, 2017
A Joyfully Jay review.

4.5 stars


Trapped in Your Storm brings us to the third book in Darien Cox’s The Village series. This series is a continuing story and this book is not meant to stand alone. The larger story with the all of the happenings in Singing Bear Village continues on, as does the story of all the main characters from each book.

This book focuses on Elliot and Nolan. While the entire team is close, Elliott and Nolan are just a little closer to each other. They can’t imagine life without the other, but have never had any sort of romantic relationship or allowed themselves to think of the other in any way but true friendship. One touch changes all of that for Nolan. While Elliott feels it too, he is resistant of messing with their friendship. Nolan tries to push and then tries to be patient until Elliott finally comes to him. This is the best of a friends-to-lovers book. The first kiss between the guys is something to read, only to be followed up by their first time together. They know each other so well and the dialogue and banter between the men is well done and entertaining.

Alongside of their relationship, and possibly taking over a little more of the book, is the happenings that go on in the Village. I have remained evasive in my reviews of this series as to what the team actually does as it is definitely best to experience it first hand. The men are threatened with exposure and there is a bit of suspense and a bit of intrigue surrounding that. Then there are the Whites and what they are currently up to and the men cannot get in contact with Baz. Baz still remains a unique and special character and continues to steal every scene even when he is merely being talked about.

Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.


Profile Image for TT.
2,018 reviews5 followers
October 11, 2017
I was a little worried when I read the coupling for this book. I liked both characters but didn't get a vibe between them but the author definetly built this one up nicely. Friends to lovers is always hit or miss for me, but DC knows how to write and did a great job of bringing the two together with plenty of heat! I do feel though my impressions and understanding of Elliott's character changed with this book and he wasn't the person I thought he was in previous books. Having said that, I didn't mind. I got the impression 'Ellytot' was a tougher guy than he actually appeared to be in this book, but his softer side enabled him to submit to the big military guy (also a vibe I didn't get as strongly in previous books for Nolan) and make the relationship work. It was a bit touchy too because Nolan had been involved with another team member at the start of the book (and he's bisexual) so I wasn't sure how that would be intertwined, but it all worked out. I really did enjoy this book, and the parts with Baz and the addition of Gordy and the Gregs made for even more drama. It was sweet watching Elliott try to relax and let Nolan take care of him, (again in previous books Elliott felt more in charge and more alpha than he does in this book) and when they meet the baby Grey, its so sweet! And I loved the ending when they get the meet the daddy grey!

I will say I noticed at the start of the series and I really noticed it by this book but when there were a lot of characters all together it got a little hard to keep track of them all. I would stop mid paragraph and say 'now who was this person'?? Might need a character chart for this book!

Anyways, an excellent ending to an incredible series, 4.5 stars, wish we had more!
Profile Image for Bogusia.
1,063 reviews28 followers
October 25, 2016
5+ stars
Darien Cox is a genius!!! This series is so good! What makes it so good? Everything :)
Ah ah ah. Okay. Yes.
Asking why you should read this series is really stupid.
You don't want to be left behind do you? ;)
Be well. Baz goodbye...
Profile Image for Pianisuparse.
2,265 reviews47 followers
January 1, 2017
6 'One of my favourite series, paranormal intrigue, awesome characters and now we have to of my fave characters trying out the friends to lovers trope that I love. How could this be anything but fucking awesome. Elliot and Nolan swoonworthy, plus all our other faves and Baz, ohhh' stars.
Profile Image for Ziezie.
826 reviews27 followers
June 22, 2020
Happy sighs. My fav book in this series so far!!
Profile Image for Zander.
137 reviews20 followers
January 21, 2017
Gay romance with a sci-fi twist, set in a remote village. mm romance.

Again, author is very creative, excellent imagination and I enjoyed the story.

Best friends to loves at it's finest. I'd love to be Elliot in Nolan's lap or be Nolan with Elliot in his lap, or even between them, sexy as hell!

The story is more developed in this book and it's impressive. We get to see more developed main charters as well as the aliens and what's going on around the Earth.

The sex scenes are good, still would like to read more. Love mm books.

I'm hoping there will be more books in this series! So far well done!

.
Profile Image for Paul.
648 reviews
November 21, 2016
Fantastic Trilogy 4.5 STARS, This BOOK 5 STARS
I can't review this amazing trilogy, it's 3 decent sized books that are both Urban Fantasy and PNR. Although it's wrapped up well, the author has left it wide open for future novel's and I'll buy them the day they're released. There is so much within the books to play with and take this excellent series further. I really hope they continue. A closing book using the three pairs of MC's from each book has the potential to make one kick ass epic finale :)
Profile Image for Chrystal Hendrix.
112 reviews2 followers
April 9, 2019
5 Stars ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️


I’ve never been a fan of the Science Fiction type books but Darien Cox has certainly changed that with this series. I enjoyed Nolan and Elliott’s story so very much! They live a unique life in Singing Bear Village....and a Secret government job that few are cut out for. After starting to have romantic feelings for one another Nolan is ready to jump in with both feet but Elliott fears their close friendship will be harmed if their relationship falls apart. During this time a serious issue becomes a threat to the village and they are called upon to help....This part of the story was fantastic and I couldn’t put the book down until I finished the last word......Let’s talk about Baz....Sweet Sweet Baz. We have gotten to know Baz in every book and when I feel like I couldn’t love him more.....I do. Baz is a hybrid and he’s wonderful. When Baz talks about his Love for “ChrisChris”, my heart aches for him.....If you haven’t yet read this book or haven’t started reading this series ...What are you waiting for?? You are missing out on something fantastic.
Profile Image for Wyntir White.
158 reviews4 followers
July 27, 2018
I loved this book for a few reasons.
One: I loved how the relationship wasn't completely perfect. The other books didn't have instant happy endings of course but i felt like with this one there was more of a struggle to get to that blissfully happy point.
Two: The alien conflict was extra interesting to read! I felt like the plot was really driven in this book. I got behind what needed to be done and I liked how it all played out.
Three: Baz, frankly I just love him in every scenario.
I was a little upset with the pairing at first. I thought Nolen would be with Tim but no luck. I still liked it though, the relationship played out a lot better than I thought it would. I'm curious about what will happen with the next book, everything seems tied up in a nice little bow. I hope it won't be too forced. This book was great and would have been a nice way to end it all. I don't want that ruined.
Profile Image for Lissel.
544 reviews15 followers
October 30, 2016
Nice!!! I really like this series! Elliot and Nolan’s relationship was very different than the ones portrayed in the previous books, because they´d been best friends for many years. They know each other too well, and they fear – particularly Elliot – that pursuing a romantic relationship will screw their friendship. I think their fears were understandable and I didn’t feel like the drama dragged for too long. I was very happy to see them together; they were very compatible and deserving of each other.
The plot with the aliens was really good too. I think, in regards to that story line this was the best book so far. Baz is my favorite and I hope we will get his book soon. I like to think in an alternative universe he got Christian for himself LOL. In any case, maybe Gordy would be a good guy for him?
Profile Image for John.
162 reviews4 followers
February 1, 2024
Wow, I really enjoyed this novel!

This third of the series is much better than the second that felt a bit rushed. I think it's also better than the first.

The writing was spectacular, especially about the description of the evolving feelings and the sex was quite hot and just perfect.

I'm quite amazed that I enjoyed this novel so much, because the MCs are not my favorite at all. (they're still better than the second in the series). And the plot is not perfect, especially in the first half. But the romance and the writing make this novel a little treasure. It's also one of the best executed friends to lovers tropes I know.
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