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The Release #3
Catch and Release
Dakota Landry just got out of prison after twelve years. If anyone can understand how that feels, it’s his new friend, Sage, who is determined to help him get used to life on the outside—and believes Dakota didn’t commit the crime he was in for.
Jayden Wilson is a former prosecutor who agrees to look into the case at the request of Sage’s lover, Adam. He sets out to prove Dakota is just another “innocent” ex-con, but once they meet, Jayden is more and more convinced Dakota just didn’t do what everyone thinks he did.
Trouble follows Dakota, and nothing is easy as he struggles to figure out how to live, now that he has choices. And Jayden isn’t sure how Dakota, or any lover for that matter, fits into his life. Their path from friendship to romance is a slow one, but Dakota begins to believe he deserves a chance at life, and Jayden falls a little more for Dakota every day. Now they just need to tell each other how they feel.
Jayden Wilson is a former prosecutor who agrees to look into the case at the request of Sage’s lover, Adam. He sets out to prove Dakota is just another “innocent” ex-con, but once they meet, Jayden is more and more convinced Dakota just didn’t do what everyone thinks he did.
Trouble follows Dakota, and nothing is easy as he struggles to figure out how to live, now that he has choices. And Jayden isn’t sure how Dakota, or any lover for that matter, fits into his life. Their path from friendship to romance is a slow one, but Dakota begins to believe he deserves a chance at life, and Jayden falls a little more for Dakota every day. Now they just need to tell each other how they feel.
230 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 19, 2016
46 people are currently reading
174 people want to read
About the author
B.A. Tortuga
381 books629 followersTexan to the bone and an unrepentant Daddy's Girl, BA Tortuga spends her days with her hounds and her beloved wife, texting her grandbabies, and eating Mexican food. When she's not doing that, she's writing. She spends her days off watching rodeo, knitting, and surfing Pinterest in the name of research. Following their own personal joys, BA and Julia heard the call of the high desert and they now live in the New Mexico mountains. BA's personal saviors include her wife, her best friends, and coffee. Lots of coffee. Really good coffee.
Having written everything from fist-fighting rednecks to cowboy daddies to werewolves, BA does her damnedest to tell the stories of her heart, which is committed to giving everyone their happily ever after. With books ranging from hard-hitting BDSM, to fiery passions, to the most traditional of love stories, BA refuses to be pigeon-holed by anyone but the voices in her head.
Having written everything from fist-fighting rednecks to cowboy daddies to werewolves, BA does her damnedest to tell the stories of her heart, which is committed to giving everyone their happily ever after. With books ranging from hard-hitting BDSM, to fiery passions, to the most traditional of love stories, BA refuses to be pigeon-holed by anyone but the voices in her head.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
December 27, 2019
3 Stars
It seems I have a soft spot in my heart for this series that I can’t explain at all. It must stem from the fact that The Terms of Release (go Sage and Adam!) was one of the first few M/M’s I’d read, and thus I have a certain attachment to the original characters.
Dakota, wrongly imprisoned, is finally released after 12 years of complete hell. Though he’s paid his time for a crime he didn’t commit, he just wants to live his life without drawing any attention to himself. That gets harder to do as fellow ex-con, Sage, won’t take no for an answer and slowly helps Dakota acclimate.
As a friend of Adam’s, Jayden’s innate curiosity as a past prosecutor, has him investigating Dakota's piss poor defense. When he sees some gaps, he makes it his mission to prove Dakota’s innocence. It doesn’t hurt that Dakota is attractive and wholly charming in his own quiet way. All Jayden wants to do is keep him safe and to make up for some of all that’s been taken from him.
Can these two overcome the obvious tough obstacles, and what if Jayden can’t exonerate Dakota? What then?
For me, Tortuga has never been the smoothest of writers, and to be honest, though this was better in editing than the first 2 books, there was still quite a bit of quick POV changes that were made even more mind boggling with the narration. Perhaps Lou Lambert couldn’t discern who was speaking either when reading this, but to say the least, he seemed like he was on an extra fast speed with very little variation between characters and exposition, making it all the more difficult to know what was going on and who was saying what.
However… this still had charm.
This had a good slow burn, as friendship turns into something more, and hurt comfort abounds. As a heads up though, this very disappointingly and surprisingly, had absolutely no smex - just kissing - and I do feel that the author neglected a very prime opportunity to capitalize on the potential intimacy and healing Dakota rightly deserved. Having said that though, we of course get our happy ending. I just unfortunately wanted a whole helluva lot more.
Thanks to the author/publisher for the audio in exchange for a honest review
It seems I have a soft spot in my heart for this series that I can’t explain at all. It must stem from the fact that The Terms of Release (go Sage and Adam!) was one of the first few M/M’s I’d read, and thus I have a certain attachment to the original characters.
Dakota, wrongly imprisoned, is finally released after 12 years of complete hell. Though he’s paid his time for a crime he didn’t commit, he just wants to live his life without drawing any attention to himself. That gets harder to do as fellow ex-con, Sage, won’t take no for an answer and slowly helps Dakota acclimate.
As a friend of Adam’s, Jayden’s innate curiosity as a past prosecutor, has him investigating Dakota's piss poor defense. When he sees some gaps, he makes it his mission to prove Dakota’s innocence. It doesn’t hurt that Dakota is attractive and wholly charming in his own quiet way. All Jayden wants to do is keep him safe and to make up for some of all that’s been taken from him.
Can these two overcome the obvious tough obstacles, and what if Jayden can’t exonerate Dakota? What then?
For me, Tortuga has never been the smoothest of writers, and to be honest, though this was better in editing than the first 2 books, there was still quite a bit of quick POV changes that were made even more mind boggling with the narration. Perhaps Lou Lambert couldn’t discern who was speaking either when reading this, but to say the least, he seemed like he was on an extra fast speed with very little variation between characters and exposition, making it all the more difficult to know what was going on and who was saying what.
However… this still had charm.
This had a good slow burn, as friendship turns into something more, and hurt comfort abounds. As a heads up though, this very disappointingly and surprisingly, had absolutely no smex - just kissing - and I do feel that the author neglected a very prime opportunity to capitalize on the potential intimacy and healing Dakota rightly deserved. Having said that though, we of course get our happy ending. I just unfortunately wanted a whole helluva lot more.
Thanks to the author/publisher for the audio in exchange for a honest review
December 19, 2016
4.5 happy stars rounded up to 5 because still no 1/2 stars here on GR and dammit, Dakota deserves it.
More of the same but not...
I'm starting to find myself at a loss for words when it comes to this series. I loved the first two books 'Terms of Release' and 'Articles of Release' and I have to admit I wasn't sure how it could possibly get better but for me this book is just a tiny bit better than the first two. I'm not totally sure why or how but I just felt like I connected with it just a bit more than the earlier stories.
Dakota Landry has spent the past 12 years in jail for a crime that he swears he didn't commit. When he's finally released it's Sage Redding (we met Sage in book 1 'Terms of Release) who meets him at the prison and helps him begin the task of becoming re-integrated into society. Once he's had a chance to meet him and talk with him, Sage becomes convinced that Dakota gave up 12 years of his life for a crime he didn't commit. Sage's partner, Adam "Win" Winchester, isn't quite as easily convinced and while this does create a bit of conflict between them, it's not over the top drama and they work through it, but not before asking his friend Jayden Wilson former prosecuting attorney to look into Dakota's case. Jayden's bored with his current life as a real estate lawyer so he's more than willing to take on the challenge. But it's meeting and getting to know Dakota that convinces Jayden that Dakota's been screwed over by the system. What he doesn't understand is why.
As Jayden continues to investigate Dakota's case and spend time with him these two men fall for each other but it's by no means easy. There are more than a few obstacles to overcome for both of them. The romance in this story is slower to develop than the previous ones, however, I was totally enchanted with this pairing and found that Dakota and Jayden while an unusual pairing were also a really good fit for each other.
I loved the conversations in this book. The humor was often dry and at time self-deprecating, but not to the point of being demeaning.
While the story is predominantly Jayden and Dakota's it was also really nice to see a bit of Sage and Adam as well as Eric and Troy. We were also introduced to Jayden's parents. I have to admit I really liked them both. I did have a moment where I wanted to give Jayden's momma a shake, but as a mother I also understood where she was coming from and she did have the humility to realize that she'd been out of line and Jayden's dad was even better. He loved his son and I got the impression that maybe it took him a bit to get his mind around having a gay son but it was never about not loving and supporting him...so awesome parents in my books. Dakota didn't do so well in the parent lottery so I was just as happy that his parents stayed off page. We also got to meet Patrick. Patrick is Jayden's administrative assistant and I adore him. He excels at two of my favorite activities (after reading that is) shopping and drinks. What's not to like, right? Just a thought maybe Patrick will get his own story...he needs somebody to love.
This story worked for me from beginning to ending and the ending was for me just right and that's all I'm saying about that.
'Catch and Release' is a story that can easily be read as a stand-alone but I have to say I loved that I'd read the first two books and it gave me so much familiarity with some of the secondary characters it's something that I really enjoy in a series where you get new MCs in each title, but that's just a personal preference and this book can quite easily be read on it's own if the reader chooses to do so.
********************
An ARC of 'Catch and Release' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
More of the same but not...
I'm starting to find myself at a loss for words when it comes to this series. I loved the first two books 'Terms of Release' and 'Articles of Release' and I have to admit I wasn't sure how it could possibly get better but for me this book is just a tiny bit better than the first two. I'm not totally sure why or how but I just felt like I connected with it just a bit more than the earlier stories.
Dakota Landry has spent the past 12 years in jail for a crime that he swears he didn't commit. When he's finally released it's Sage Redding (we met Sage in book 1 'Terms of Release) who meets him at the prison and helps him begin the task of becoming re-integrated into society. Once he's had a chance to meet him and talk with him, Sage becomes convinced that Dakota gave up 12 years of his life for a crime he didn't commit. Sage's partner, Adam "Win" Winchester, isn't quite as easily convinced and while this does create a bit of conflict between them, it's not over the top drama and they work through it, but not before asking his friend Jayden Wilson former prosecuting attorney to look into Dakota's case. Jayden's bored with his current life as a real estate lawyer so he's more than willing to take on the challenge. But it's meeting and getting to know Dakota that convinces Jayden that Dakota's been screwed over by the system. What he doesn't understand is why.
As Jayden continues to investigate Dakota's case and spend time with him these two men fall for each other but it's by no means easy. There are more than a few obstacles to overcome for both of them. The romance in this story is slower to develop than the previous ones, however, I was totally enchanted with this pairing and found that Dakota and Jayden while an unusual pairing were also a really good fit for each other.
I loved the conversations in this book. The humor was often dry and at time self-deprecating, but not to the point of being demeaning.
"Oh yeah? My best friend in middle school did that. He left for the summer and when he came back, he was six inches taller and twenty pounds lighter and learned how to drink beer."Along with all the laughs there were moments of heartbreaking and sometimes brutal honesty, especially from Dakota...
"Wow." Jayden tilted his head as if considering. "I think I learned how to get a wedgie."
"I learned that in the second grade, I think. I'm an overachiever."
"...I'm still an ex-con that's never had a beer or a blowjob. I still won't be able to get a job in an office. I'm still a guy who's been raped so much that I don't think you can call it rape anymore. The whole idea that I'm going to be more than I am right now just isn't true. I'm sorry, but it's a fact."(yeah, my eyes were a little damp here, I probably need to dust or something.) I liked Jayden and how staunchly he believed in Dakota and wanted to make his world better but even more I loved Dakota. He was strong...not physically...ok, maybe that too. But he had the strength of character to want to move forward and create a life for himself and not dwell in the past and let himself become consumed by an anger that quite honestly he had every right to feel. I'm not saying he didn't have any, he just didn't let it run his life or make him a bitter person.
While the story is predominantly Jayden and Dakota's it was also really nice to see a bit of Sage and Adam as well as Eric and Troy. We were also introduced to Jayden's parents. I have to admit I really liked them both. I did have a moment where I wanted to give Jayden's momma a shake, but as a mother I also understood where she was coming from and she did have the humility to realize that she'd been out of line and Jayden's dad was even better. He loved his son and I got the impression that maybe it took him a bit to get his mind around having a gay son but it was never about not loving and supporting him...so awesome parents in my books. Dakota didn't do so well in the parent lottery so I was just as happy that his parents stayed off page. We also got to meet Patrick. Patrick is Jayden's administrative assistant and I adore him. He excels at two of my favorite activities (after reading that is) shopping and drinks. What's not to like, right? Just a thought maybe Patrick will get his own story...he needs somebody to love.
This story worked for me from beginning to ending and the ending was for me just right and that's all I'm saying about that.
'Catch and Release' is a story that can easily be read as a stand-alone but I have to say I loved that I'd read the first two books and it gave me so much familiarity with some of the secondary characters it's something that I really enjoy in a series where you get new MCs in each title, but that's just a personal preference and this book can quite easily be read on it's own if the reader chooses to do so.
********************
An ARC of 'Catch and Release' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
September 17, 2020
We have a lawyer and an innocent man....
Our third story in this set is about an innocent, wrongly convicted man, Dakota, 31, dark hair and eyes, 70 lbs. lighter than when he went in at 19. He’d never had sex, male or female, and his rich family left him high and dry.
Sage picks him up on release day and guides him through the process. Adam’s friend Jayden, 32, tall and blue-eyed, looks into Dakota‘s case. The men meet, have dinners, and we learn each man’s experiences.
Dakota gets a construction job, even though he has a masters degree, plus he works with Sage at their farm, where Sage has horses and rescues he tends.
Jayden discovers the rape kit was never processed, no others were even looked for, and more information on the case and Dakota’s rich family, who didn’t lift a finger.
We have the previous book’s dynamic characters, but each story can stand alone.
There is violence, rescue, and TLC.
The girl’s father wants Dakota hurt or dead, but Dakota deserves happiness and a safe life now, a peace he didn’t get inside.
The judicial process moves ahead, plus Dakota slowly becomes more at ease, and has hope.
Jayden is by his side, with faith in Dakota’s vindication, and small steps are made with their passionate emotions.
We have a sad tale of injustice and hate, with hope and promise for the future. Deep thoughts, new friends and someone finally has Dakota’s back.
Enjoy.
=======
Our third story in this set is about an innocent, wrongly convicted man, Dakota, 31, dark hair and eyes, 70 lbs. lighter than when he went in at 19. He’d never had sex, male or female, and his rich family left him high and dry.
Sage picks him up on release day and guides him through the process. Adam’s friend Jayden, 32, tall and blue-eyed, looks into Dakota‘s case. The men meet, have dinners, and we learn each man’s experiences.
Dakota gets a construction job, even though he has a masters degree, plus he works with Sage at their farm, where Sage has horses and rescues he tends.
Jayden discovers the rape kit was never processed, no others were even looked for, and more information on the case and Dakota’s rich family, who didn’t lift a finger.
We have the previous book’s dynamic characters, but each story can stand alone.
There is violence, rescue, and TLC.
The girl’s father wants Dakota hurt or dead, but Dakota deserves happiness and a safe life now, a peace he didn’t get inside.
The judicial process moves ahead, plus Dakota slowly becomes more at ease, and has hope.
Jayden is by his side, with faith in Dakota’s vindication, and small steps are made with their passionate emotions.
We have a sad tale of injustice and hate, with hope and promise for the future. Deep thoughts, new friends and someone finally has Dakota’s back.
Enjoy.
=======
May 2, 2017
3.5 less is more stars rounded down because still no 1/2 stars here on GR and the story may have been 4.5 stars but the audio just wasn't happening for me.
Sometimes less really is more...
I really should have stopped at reading the e-book on this one.
I loved 'Catch and Release'. It's the third book in B. A. Tortuga's series 'The Release'. I loved it so much I gave it 5 stars...ok, it was 4.5 stars but I rounded up over on GR. Here's the link to my review of the e-book...be warned it's a long one because I loved this book it was a fun read...Original E-book Review
So when the audio book came available I foolishly said yes because I loved the book and I've been on a bit of a roll with my books lately both e-books and audio so I was being optimistic...very, very optimistic.
I'm sure there audiophiles out there who have or will enjoy Lou Lambert and based on a couple of other samples that I've checked out I may join them in future but this time around it was so not happening.
For me audio books are a very subjective point of view, especially if you've already read the books. The listener...or at least I go into it with some pre-conceived ideas of how the characters should sound and if you're lucky the narrator's voices match what's already floating around in your brain or at least they work in a general sense. For me there are some things that are a must such as each character's voice is distinct and I know who's talking just by hearing their voice and not because the story tells me that it's Sage or Jayden or Dakota speaking. Unfortunately in this instance the voices all felt the same no matter who was speaking it was like listening to the 50+ plus, redneck, good 'ole boys, cowboy club and the voices just all sort of ran together even the women sounded more like good 'ole boys than women.
On the upside at least that consistent voice wasn't flat and monotone...so there was that. As a matter of fact at times it just tickled my funny bone and I did get a few chuckles but I wouldn't say they were really for the right reason. I do have to admit this was one time that I was grateful for a book without any real sex scenes because honestly these voices doing a sex scene might have given me a fit of the giggles. I don't think I would have survived the actual event.
Initially the audio book was getting 2 maybe 2.5 stars from me but in the end I decided that anything that gave me a laugh...for whatever reason deserved 3 stars so I'm going with that.
At the end of it all my 4.5 rounded up to 5 stars read gets 3.5 stars for the audio version...so as I said sometimes less is more.
********************
An audiobook of 'Catch and Release' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Sometimes less really is more...
I really should have stopped at reading the e-book on this one.
I loved 'Catch and Release'. It's the third book in B. A. Tortuga's series 'The Release'. I loved it so much I gave it 5 stars...ok, it was 4.5 stars but I rounded up over on GR. Here's the link to my review of the e-book...be warned it's a long one because I loved this book it was a fun read...Original E-book Review
So when the audio book came available I foolishly said yes because I loved the book and I've been on a bit of a roll with my books lately both e-books and audio so I was being optimistic...very, very optimistic.
I'm sure there audiophiles out there who have or will enjoy Lou Lambert and based on a couple of other samples that I've checked out I may join them in future but this time around it was so not happening.
For me audio books are a very subjective point of view, especially if you've already read the books. The listener...or at least I go into it with some pre-conceived ideas of how the characters should sound and if you're lucky the narrator's voices match what's already floating around in your brain or at least they work in a general sense. For me there are some things that are a must such as each character's voice is distinct and I know who's talking just by hearing their voice and not because the story tells me that it's Sage or Jayden or Dakota speaking. Unfortunately in this instance the voices all felt the same no matter who was speaking it was like listening to the 50+ plus, redneck, good 'ole boys, cowboy club and the voices just all sort of ran together even the women sounded more like good 'ole boys than women.
On the upside at least that consistent voice wasn't flat and monotone...so there was that. As a matter of fact at times it just tickled my funny bone and I did get a few chuckles but I wouldn't say they were really for the right reason. I do have to admit this was one time that I was grateful for a book without any real sex scenes because honestly these voices doing a sex scene might have given me a fit of the giggles. I don't think I would have survived the actual event.
Initially the audio book was getting 2 maybe 2.5 stars from me but in the end I decided that anything that gave me a laugh...for whatever reason deserved 3 stars so I'm going with that.
At the end of it all my 4.5 rounded up to 5 stars read gets 3.5 stars for the audio version...so as I said sometimes less is more.
********************
An audiobook of 'Catch and Release' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review
August 19, 2022
Voto: 3.5
RECENSIONE A CURA DI SLANIF
Venite a leggerla sul nostro blog!
RECENSIONE A CURA DI SLANIF
Venite a leggerla sul nostro blog!
March 3, 2017
The Terms of Release was the first B.A. Tortuga I ever read and I loved it. This one is a very close second in being just as awesome. It didn't get first only because it had no sex at all and I'm shallow like that. It certainly didn't need it and that also fit the character of Dakota and his circumstances. He had a much harder time than Sage did, since he served 12 years for a crime he didn't commit, starting at 19. The story opens just as he's been released, as Sage picks him up. Rebuilding his life, acclimating to freedom and just navigating the world again is a steep learning curve. Jayden is a lawyer, once a DA but now in private practice. He meets Dakota because he's looking into his case as a favor for Adam. Jayden believes Dakota's innocence and is appalled by the circumstances around his arrest.
The book follows the development of Dakota's new life and a slow, gradual friendship with Jayden, as well as Sage and Adam, Eric and Troy. Then Jayden and Dakota begin to build a personal relationship. One of the best parts was, of course, seeing more of Sage and how far he has come since ToR. He was a solid support for Dakota and the only one that could understand what imprisonment does. I just loved seeing it all build, the time they all spent together and Dakota blossoming into a strong, good man. There was conflict and some angst but not the level that was in Sage's story and more than Adam and Troy.
I would dearly love to see another story for them, as the full relationship is mostly just beginning as the book ends. I would have liked to see some retribution for the evil parents and the victims dad. I also wanted to slap Jayden's mom. So there's a couple of little threads I'd want to see followed up on but the story was by no means incomplete and still quite satisfying. I'd highly recommend this story for any cowboy lovers, as it does have that strong Texas flavor B.A. does so well. Also for lovers of hurt/comfort stories. Just don't look for steam in this one. The kisses are good though!
The book follows the development of Dakota's new life and a slow, gradual friendship with Jayden, as well as Sage and Adam, Eric and Troy. Then Jayden and Dakota begin to build a personal relationship. One of the best parts was, of course, seeing more of Sage and how far he has come since ToR. He was a solid support for Dakota and the only one that could understand what imprisonment does. I just loved seeing it all build, the time they all spent together and Dakota blossoming into a strong, good man. There was conflict and some angst but not the level that was in Sage's story and more than Adam and Troy.
I would dearly love to see another story for them, as the full relationship is mostly just beginning as the book ends. I would have liked to see some retribution for the evil parents and the victims dad. I also wanted to slap Jayden's mom. So there's a couple of little threads I'd want to see followed up on but the story was by no means incomplete and still quite satisfying. I'd highly recommend this story for any cowboy lovers, as it does have that strong Texas flavor B.A. does so well. Also for lovers of hurt/comfort stories. Just don't look for steam in this one. The kisses are good though!
January 19, 2017
This book is like a twin sister of The Terms of Release, and it's a good thing, it's great. Because I love The Terms of Release, and Catch and Release is practically as good. And there is Sage, not just in the background but important in the story and actively doing things. Sage is probably one of my most favorite m/m characters ever, and after this book I just managed to fall in love with him a bit more.
The new characters, Dakota and Jayden, were great. My heart was breaking for Dakota, his story is harrowing, and he's such an appealing character, with his quiet dignity and his ability to live and enjoy life again. Jayden was a very decent guy, there was nothing about him not to like, and it was admirable how open-minded he was, how unpretentious. I was happy for him to finding friends and love. But Dakota - oh, I was all the way with him. I just loved every scene where he got back a piece of normal life, where he enjoyed something and experienced new things.
I was a bit in tears during the angsty moment before the end of the book, and angry, too - but then - then, Dakota being so self sufficient and realizing he was good enough - it just made me gasp with happiness.
I wish the story was a bit longer. I don't know - to see Jayden's mom treat Dakota as good as he deserves, for a change. To see that stupid Briony bitch properly punished (okay, I think she was punished enough but still). To see Dakota's sisters being not such monsters as his parents and finding out their brother was alive running to meet him. To see Dakota and Jayden in bed. Well, it just means I'll have something to imagine even though the book is over.
The new characters, Dakota and Jayden, were great. My heart was breaking for Dakota, his story is harrowing, and he's such an appealing character, with his quiet dignity and his ability to live and enjoy life again. Jayden was a very decent guy, there was nothing about him not to like, and it was admirable how open-minded he was, how unpretentious. I was happy for him to finding friends and love. But Dakota - oh, I was all the way with him. I just loved every scene where he got back a piece of normal life, where he enjoyed something and experienced new things.
I was a bit in tears during the angsty moment before the end of the book, and angry, too - but then - then, Dakota being so self sufficient and realizing he was good enough - it just made me gasp with happiness.
I wish the story was a bit longer. I don't know - to see Jayden's mom treat Dakota as good as he deserves, for a change. To see that stupid Briony bitch properly punished (okay, I think she was punished enough but still). To see Dakota's sisters being not such monsters as his parents and finding out their brother was alive running to meet him. To see Dakota and Jayden in bed. Well, it just means I'll have something to imagine even though the book is over.
March 16, 2017
When I bought this I didn't realize that this was book 3 in a series, but that didn't matter as I didn't feel as if something was missing.
Overall I have to say, it was one of my 3 star books - stuff I liked, stuff I didn't like and it didn't gave me the feeling that I now have to read the other books in the series.
Overall I have to say, it was one of my 3 star books - stuff I liked, stuff I didn't like and it didn't gave me the feeling that I now have to read the other books in the series.
October 1, 2020
This was a very slow burn romance, but I enjoyed the development of the relationship between Dakota, an ex-con wrongly convicted of rape, and Jayden, an ex-prosecutor who decides to help prove Dakota's innocence. I think what I enjoyed even more was Dakota's slow acceptance of his freedom and how he learned to enjoy his life again. It felt hopeful and just left me with a really good feeling.
October 1, 2024
This is much better than the second installment, whew. The story developed slower than before and that allowed this reader to have a stronger connection to the protagonists. Both were interesting and entertaining. Still Tortuga could have gone deeper into the evolution of the plot but overall it was doable. I’m coming to the conclusion Tortuga simply rushes endings and misses opportunities to end on a satisfying note.
December 21, 2016
This is book three in a series and it’s a heartbreaking group of men BA Tortuga has given us.
We met Sage and Adam in book one – and the hard, hard life Sage led, inspires him to help others, in this case, Dakota.
Dakota is a character that thoroughly smashed my heart to pieces. GAH! I cannot imagine living his life and yet he’s still persevering and trying to live his life when I think many others would have given up. He’s an amazing character.
Jayden is a bit more difficult to pin down. He’s a lawyer, and in the beginning, he’s only interested in Dakota’s case because he’s bored. Later, he admits to maintaining the research into the case because he’s attracted to Dakota. At some point these feelings deepen, but I honestly think it was his “lawyerly” interest that drove this primarily.
I have to say that I’m a big fan of this series and I’d really, loved books one and two. I was looking forward to this once I’d read the blurb because I’ve seen how well BA Tortuga can handle “broken” men and turn them around.
Unfortunately, I was left a little bewildered by the end of this story.
What worked for me: Dakota’s story. It’s one of triumph, perseverance, strong-willed, growth, discovery and faith. If you read this as a story about a man leaving prison and re-discovering life – who happens to be gay – then I think this story “works” really well.
I also loved seeing the guys from books one and two. It’s always nice seeing old MCs and following up in their lives again.
What didn’t work for me was Jayden and the “romance”. Jayden never felt like he really connected with Dakota, or vice versa. I’m just not sure how well they fit. The chemistry wasn’t there nor was there more than just a friendship/lawyer connection. For the reasons given below and more, I just didn’t feel their love like I had with other couples by this author.
(This is a bit of a spoiler – so you can skip it if you want)
(End of spoiler)
I think that this would have been better listed as gay literature, because the bulk of this is Dakota’s life story. Jayden’s presence as his lawyer and friend were more important than as his lover. It was too platonic and didn’t feel authentic to me.
If you’re a fan of the author or this series you’ll probably want to at least give this a look. If you’re new to the author/series I wouldn’t start here.
We met Sage and Adam in book one – and the hard, hard life Sage led, inspires him to help others, in this case, Dakota.
Dakota is a character that thoroughly smashed my heart to pieces. GAH! I cannot imagine living his life and yet he’s still persevering and trying to live his life when I think many others would have given up. He’s an amazing character.
Jayden is a bit more difficult to pin down. He’s a lawyer, and in the beginning, he’s only interested in Dakota’s case because he’s bored. Later, he admits to maintaining the research into the case because he’s attracted to Dakota. At some point these feelings deepen, but I honestly think it was his “lawyerly” interest that drove this primarily.
I have to say that I’m a big fan of this series and I’d really, loved books one and two. I was looking forward to this once I’d read the blurb because I’ve seen how well BA Tortuga can handle “broken” men and turn them around.
Unfortunately, I was left a little bewildered by the end of this story.
What worked for me: Dakota’s story. It’s one of triumph, perseverance, strong-willed, growth, discovery and faith. If you read this as a story about a man leaving prison and re-discovering life – who happens to be gay – then I think this story “works” really well.
I also loved seeing the guys from books one and two. It’s always nice seeing old MCs and following up in their lives again.
What didn’t work for me was Jayden and the “romance”. Jayden never felt like he really connected with Dakota, or vice versa. I’m just not sure how well they fit. The chemistry wasn’t there nor was there more than just a friendship/lawyer connection. For the reasons given below and more, I just didn’t feel their love like I had with other couples by this author.
(This is a bit of a spoiler – so you can skip it if you want)
(End of spoiler)
I think that this would have been better listed as gay literature, because the bulk of this is Dakota’s life story. Jayden’s presence as his lawyer and friend were more important than as his lover. It was too platonic and didn’t feel authentic to me.
If you’re a fan of the author or this series you’ll probably want to at least give this a look. If you’re new to the author/series I wouldn’t start here.
March 8, 2017
In a series of heartbreaking stories about ex-cons who get out of prison only to face a formidable challenge when trying to reintegrate into society, I think that ‘Catch and Release’ is the most heart-wrenching and touching one so far. Dakota was accused of a crime he did not commit, dropped by his high-society parents when they found out he was gay, abused in prison, and now that he’s out after twelve grueling years, the victim’s family wants him dead. When Dakota befriends Sage (from books one and two), a shimmer of hope appears on the horizon, but what – and whom - he needs is former prosecutor Jayden to look into his case. As the story develops and the facts emerge, it becomes clear that Jayden can mean so much more to Dakota than the legal help he needs – if only both men can see and accept the fact that they belong together.
Dakota has been dealt a horrible fate, and his determination to rise above that and make something of himself is admirable. Getting used to life outside prison is not only tough because he was very young when he was convicted, but he also faces a life without family support and in very different circumstances than the “high society” background he grew up in. To make things worse, the victim’s family is after him, terrorizing and beating him up at every turn. And while I hated that Dakota just took it, I could see how his nonexistent self-esteem made him think he “deserved” everything that happened to him. It takes him a long time to learn to trust again and to come out of his shell, but when he does, it was absolutely fantastic to watch.
Jayden used to be a criminal prosecutor, but having his life threatened and being overlooked for promotion made him leave and do real estate law. It’s not something that can keep him interested forever, so when his friend, ex-cop Adam who is Sage’s lover, asks him for help with Dakota, Jayden is curious. The more he digs into the facts, the more interested he becomes – but not just in the case. Dakota fascinates him on a deeply personal level. Jayden isn’t looking for a lover though, so the romance is not immediate or easy. And anyway, Jayden wants to do right by the man he is beginning to fall for, so the case comes first.
If you’re looking for a fantastic slow-burn romance with lots of obstacles and issues to overcome for both main characters, if fighting for what’s right and seeing innocent men get justice is your thing, and if you’re looking for a story about pain and loss, the need to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles, friendship that turns into love, and the unstoppable human spirit, the you will probably like this novel as much as I do. I think it’s a fabulous addition to a remarkable series.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review.
Dakota has been dealt a horrible fate, and his determination to rise above that and make something of himself is admirable. Getting used to life outside prison is not only tough because he was very young when he was convicted, but he also faces a life without family support and in very different circumstances than the “high society” background he grew up in. To make things worse, the victim’s family is after him, terrorizing and beating him up at every turn. And while I hated that Dakota just took it, I could see how his nonexistent self-esteem made him think he “deserved” everything that happened to him. It takes him a long time to learn to trust again and to come out of his shell, but when he does, it was absolutely fantastic to watch.
Jayden used to be a criminal prosecutor, but having his life threatened and being overlooked for promotion made him leave and do real estate law. It’s not something that can keep him interested forever, so when his friend, ex-cop Adam who is Sage’s lover, asks him for help with Dakota, Jayden is curious. The more he digs into the facts, the more interested he becomes – but not just in the case. Dakota fascinates him on a deeply personal level. Jayden isn’t looking for a lover though, so the romance is not immediate or easy. And anyway, Jayden wants to do right by the man he is beginning to fall for, so the case comes first.
If you’re looking for a fantastic slow-burn romance with lots of obstacles and issues to overcome for both main characters, if fighting for what’s right and seeing innocent men get justice is your thing, and if you’re looking for a story about pain and loss, the need to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles, friendship that turns into love, and the unstoppable human spirit, the you will probably like this novel as much as I do. I think it’s a fabulous addition to a remarkable series.
NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review.
December 20, 2016
After being released from prison Dakota Landry has a lot of issues to work out. He needs to build his self-confidence. After the abuse of prison, he doesn’t feel he’s fit for any type of physical connection. His family denied his existence, he has no friends or anyone to help him, and he even believes God hates him. The one thing he does have is an English degree he hopes to put to good use someday. It’s not easy for Dakota; all he wants is to keep a low profile and just make it from day to day, but he’s being stalked by Tim McCarthy, the father of the victim, and he’s getting beat up on the job.
Sage Redding has had his own experience with prison, and has dedicated himself to a reentry program for prisoners. He knows firsthand what Dakota is going through, and most of all, he believes that Dakota was falsely imprisoned. Sage is there to give support, by any means, to Dakota, and it causes a little rift between Sage and his boyfriend, Adam, an ex-cop who now has his own security agency and is always suspicious. Sage and Adam are having little disruptions in their relationship. Adam’s work takes him away from home, but they both have a great love for each other—though Sage has one issue, if the chance to marry Adam ever arises, he won’t take it. Being an ex-con, he doesn’t want to tarnish Adam’s reputation. Both Sage and Adam have good hearts, and it will be interesting to see where their future leads.
Jayden Wilson was once a prosecuting attorney but switched to real estate law. When Adam shares the details of Dakota’s trial, Jayden is more than interested. He has become somewhat bored with real estate law, and misses the action of criminal law. He starts his investigation into Dakota’s trial, and ends up finding a lot of unanswered questions. When he meets Dakota and they begin spending more time together, Adam begins to have doubts about Dakota’s guilt.
I’ve read many books by BA Tortuga, and I have to say that Catch and Release is different in a good way. The romance between Dakota and Jayden is slow and gradual. It’s a nice slow-burn as they really get to know each other and learn about the contrasts in their families and upbringings. Their story is about finding a place where you can fit in, and finding those special people who will stick by you.
Troy and Eric from The Articles of Release are also a part of the story, and I like how all these characters have a really special connection, no matter how different they are. I hope BA Tortuga continues the Release series—but maybe it should be called the Sage Redding series because he’s always in the midst of things, and playing matchmaker.
Reviewed by Maryann for The Novel Approach
Sage Redding has had his own experience with prison, and has dedicated himself to a reentry program for prisoners. He knows firsthand what Dakota is going through, and most of all, he believes that Dakota was falsely imprisoned. Sage is there to give support, by any means, to Dakota, and it causes a little rift between Sage and his boyfriend, Adam, an ex-cop who now has his own security agency and is always suspicious. Sage and Adam are having little disruptions in their relationship. Adam’s work takes him away from home, but they both have a great love for each other—though Sage has one issue, if the chance to marry Adam ever arises, he won’t take it. Being an ex-con, he doesn’t want to tarnish Adam’s reputation. Both Sage and Adam have good hearts, and it will be interesting to see where their future leads.
Jayden Wilson was once a prosecuting attorney but switched to real estate law. When Adam shares the details of Dakota’s trial, Jayden is more than interested. He has become somewhat bored with real estate law, and misses the action of criminal law. He starts his investigation into Dakota’s trial, and ends up finding a lot of unanswered questions. When he meets Dakota and they begin spending more time together, Adam begins to have doubts about Dakota’s guilt.
I’ve read many books by BA Tortuga, and I have to say that Catch and Release is different in a good way. The romance between Dakota and Jayden is slow and gradual. It’s a nice slow-burn as they really get to know each other and learn about the contrasts in their families and upbringings. Their story is about finding a place where you can fit in, and finding those special people who will stick by you.
Troy and Eric from The Articles of Release are also a part of the story, and I like how all these characters have a really special connection, no matter how different they are. I hope BA Tortuga continues the Release series—but maybe it should be called the Sage Redding series because he’s always in the midst of things, and playing matchmaker.
Reviewed by Maryann for The Novel Approach
January 16, 2023
I had almost forgotten about this amazing series that revolves around real people struggling with real life, and making a go of it through everything life keeps throwing at them. No matter the s**t, these are men, stronger than they realize, and struggling with things I can't begin to understand. I had not, however, forgotten the wonderful writing of BA Tortuga, and how well she knows her Texas, from its language to its men.
“Sage scowled. “No. No, you did your time. Someone paid for the crime. That’s all they get.”
He looked over at Sage and tried to smile, but he couldn’t. “But we both know that’s not how it works. They want blood, and no one will say boo when they get it.”
And then it would be like he never existed at all."
My heart broke for Dakota. I hurt for the pain that Sage suffered but at least he had loving parents who were there for him. Dakota's parents are high society in Houston and they came to see him when he was arrested. The instant he said he didn't do it and that he was gay, that was it for them. They walked away, left him to hang with a public defender, and told everyone their son died in a car accident. So, not only did Dakota serve someone else's time, he lived through a nightmare I couldn't comprehend, and as a sheltered, wealthy, overweight nerd, neither could he, but he also had no one. His family dropped him and the family of the girl who was raped wants him dead. Yes, my heart broke and bled for this man.
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
“Sage scowled. “No. No, you did your time. Someone paid for the crime. That’s all they get.”
He looked over at Sage and tried to smile, but he couldn’t. “But we both know that’s not how it works. They want blood, and no one will say boo when they get it.”
And then it would be like he never existed at all."
My heart broke for Dakota. I hurt for the pain that Sage suffered but at least he had loving parents who were there for him. Dakota's parents are high society in Houston and they came to see him when he was arrested. The instant he said he didn't do it and that he was gay, that was it for them. They walked away, left him to hang with a public defender, and told everyone their son died in a car accident. So, not only did Dakota serve someone else's time, he lived through a nightmare I couldn't comprehend, and as a sheltered, wealthy, overweight nerd, neither could he, but he also had no one. His family dropped him and the family of the girl who was raped wants him dead. Yes, my heart broke and bled for this man.
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
January 9, 2017
Catch and Release was totally unsatisfying light romance between Dakota, innocent ex-con, and Jayden Wilson is a former prosecutor. For me I couldn't really connect with Dakota and Jeyden's romance, because what happened to Dakota was to horrible. I wish that someone would pay for what was done to Dakota. I'm really unhappy with how this story ended. Sure Dakota and Jayden became a couple, but still, It wasn't enough.
October 28, 2023
Excon & The Lawyer
This is the last of the ‘Release’ trilogy where prisoners are released and trying to get back to living a normal life again.
Nothing has been easy for Dakota Jennings. Not since he was a kid at school where he was bullied for being fat among others things. After a school party, which he only attended because a boy he liked was going too, he tried to kiss that boy but everything went wrong so he ran back to his dorm to get away.
Within a short while, he’s door was opened and he was dragged away to the county jail accused of raping and cutting up a young girl. No matter how much he protected his innocence, even admitting to be gay, he was sentenced to 12 years in prison.
He had grown up in a wealthy family with siblings, but was disowned by them instantly. They had informed their friends and acquaintances that he had died. In prison, Dakota frequently wished that he had died.
Twelve years later, as he is released from prison, Sage Redding, who featured strongly in both previous books in this series, is waiting outside the gates to help him.
Dakota, doesn’t trust anyone, least if all this stranger, but he eventually gets into Sage’s truck, when he explains who he is and what he can do to help Dakota adjust to life as an excon.
If you’ve read Book 1 and 2 in this short series, (I recommended you read them in sequence) you will know just how much Sage and his friends can and will do to help others.
Dakota is introduced to Jayden, a lawyer, who is fed up of the way the legal system functions, and is now working in a small town with his own practice. Jayden when he gets to know Dakota, believes he is innocent and wants to help get the truth out there.
===============
It was so easy to connect with Dakota and sympathise with his unfair incarceration and his fight for justice, when he eventually agreed to Jayden taking up the case. Jayden seemed a bit out of his depth among all the excons and cowboys.
I have enjoyed this Trilogy and all the cowboys involved, plus the life of the ranchers. Sage and Adam’s story in Book 1, remains my favourite.
No doubt, I’ll come back to B A Tortuga’s extensive book output at some later time and for a different trope to prison life etc. still like reading about the cowboys and ranchers though.
This is the last of the ‘Release’ trilogy where prisoners are released and trying to get back to living a normal life again.
Nothing has been easy for Dakota Jennings. Not since he was a kid at school where he was bullied for being fat among others things. After a school party, which he only attended because a boy he liked was going too, he tried to kiss that boy but everything went wrong so he ran back to his dorm to get away.
Within a short while, he’s door was opened and he was dragged away to the county jail accused of raping and cutting up a young girl. No matter how much he protected his innocence, even admitting to be gay, he was sentenced to 12 years in prison.
He had grown up in a wealthy family with siblings, but was disowned by them instantly. They had informed their friends and acquaintances that he had died. In prison, Dakota frequently wished that he had died.
Twelve years later, as he is released from prison, Sage Redding, who featured strongly in both previous books in this series, is waiting outside the gates to help him.
Dakota, doesn’t trust anyone, least if all this stranger, but he eventually gets into Sage’s truck, when he explains who he is and what he can do to help Dakota adjust to life as an excon.
If you’ve read Book 1 and 2 in this short series, (I recommended you read them in sequence) you will know just how much Sage and his friends can and will do to help others.
Dakota is introduced to Jayden, a lawyer, who is fed up of the way the legal system functions, and is now working in a small town with his own practice. Jayden when he gets to know Dakota, believes he is innocent and wants to help get the truth out there.
===============
It was so easy to connect with Dakota and sympathise with his unfair incarceration and his fight for justice, when he eventually agreed to Jayden taking up the case. Jayden seemed a bit out of his depth among all the excons and cowboys.
I have enjoyed this Trilogy and all the cowboys involved, plus the life of the ranchers. Sage and Adam’s story in Book 1, remains my favourite.
No doubt, I’ll come back to B A Tortuga’s extensive book output at some later time and for a different trope to prison life etc. still like reading about the cowboys and ranchers though.
July 1, 2017
This book had an extremely unsatisfying ending. I do not recommend it. There were many unanswered questions to Dakota's wrongful imprisonment. But the greatest fault was that the relationship between Dakota and Jayden was not fully developed. The author really drew me into this story, especially into Dakota's character, and left me hanging.
Dakota was wrongfully imprisoned for 12 years for rape. He was a 19 year old gay college student at the time. He was a virgin when he went into prison and survived by prostituting himself. His rich neglectful family abandoned him even before his trial.
Dakota had never kissed a man nor received a blowjob. He had never had consensual sex. I was so looking forward to a romantic and loving physical relationship between Dakota and Jayden. But damn, there was no sex - none - nothing - nada. What a wasted opportunity for Dakota to get something good in his life.
But it wasn't just the sex. Dakota and Jayden's relationship never got off the ground past the dating stage. Dakota had never had a boyfriend period. Jayden had just gotten out of a bad situation with a man who lied and cheated. I wanted to see them come together as a couple, both personally and publicly. I definitely didn't get any romantic "feel goods". The book ended too soon as though the author was ready to quit.
I fell in love with Dakota. Jayden was a little disappointing. I thought he was a weak Mama's Boy for not standing up to his mother for both himself and Dakota when she belittled Dakota. But yes, he was great for believing in Dakota's innocence and working to exonerate him.
August 31, 2022
This is the third and final book in the Release series. The MCs from the previous books all make appearances and we get updates on their lives. In this book, we meet Dakota, a recently released ex-con who is innocent of the crime of rape for which he was accused. Horribly abused in prison, with a Master's in English earned while incarcerated, but estranged from his family with no money to his name, he lucks out when Sage (Bk 1) picks him up and gives him a lead on a roommate. Working a fencing job, he's later introduced through Win (Bk 1) to Jayden, a lawyer who takes interest in his case, believing his innocence, and becomes attracted to Dakota, too. Danger lurks, as the family of the rape victim still has it out for Dakota. This book doesn't have many surprises and almost no on-page physical relationship, but it does have a beautiful, healing love story between two men who may seem mismatched, but are in fact perfect for each other.
December 19, 2016
Title: Catch and Release
Author: BA Tortuga
Series: The Release Book 3
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Reviewer: Mollien
Release Date: December 19, 2016
Genre(s): Male/Male Romance
Page Count: 251 pages
Heat Level: 2 flames out of 5
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
Blurb:
Review:
This is the third book in the Release series. I have not read the other books and I had no difficulty in following along with this story. This is pretty much a standalone book. I am pretty sure that characters from this book are from previous books in this series. I found this book inspirational. The main character Dakota has spent a good portion of his life behind bars surviving the only way he could. Dakota was convicted of raping a girl from his college. The girl identified him as her attacker. When Dakota explained to his parents that he didn’t do it. He couldn’t have done it. Dakota is homosexual. His parents would not even pay for his defense They would rather a felon than a gay son. Twelve years later, he is out of prison and his friend Sage is determined to help Dakota transition back into society. He also feels that Dakota is innocent and has persuaded his lover Adam (both from a previous book) to have his friend Jayden, a former prosecutor to look into the case. When things don’t match up Jayden starts digging into what really happened. In the process, he falls in love with the gentle Dakota who has endured so much. The chemistry between Dakota and Jayden is gentle, sweet, loving and just plain amazing. I loved the nurturing way that Jayden handled Dakota. The pacing of this story in pretty fast and there is some action as well. Great ending to this story. Since I enjoyed this book so much, I may have to read the first two books in this series. There is strong character development in this story. I highly recommend reading this book
Categories
PLOT 5 Stars
CHEMISTRY: 5 Stars
PACING: 5 Stars
ENDING: 5 Stars
CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT: 5 Stars
Review Copy of Catch and Release provided by the Dreamspinner Press I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. Reviewed by Mollien from Alpha Book Club
Author: BA Tortuga
Series: The Release Book 3
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Reviewer: Mollien
Release Date: December 19, 2016
Genre(s): Male/Male Romance
Page Count: 251 pages
Heat Level: 2 flames out of 5
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
Blurb:
The Release Series: Book Three
Dakota Landry just got out of prison after twelve years. If anyone can understand how that feels, it’s his new friend, Sage, who is determined to help him get used to life on the outside—and believes Dakota didn’t commit the crime he was in for.
Jayden Wilson is a former prosecutor who agrees to look into the case at the request of Sage’s lover, Adam. He sets out to prove Dakota is just another “innocent” ex-con, but once they meet, Jayden is more and more convinced Dakota just didn’t do what everyone thinks he did.
Trouble follows Dakota, and nothing is easy as he struggles to figure out how to live, now that he has choices. And Jayden isn’t sure how Dakota, or any lover for that matter, fits into his life. Their path from friendship to romance is a slow one, but Dakota begins to believe he deserves a chance at life, and Jayden falls a little more for Dakota every day. Now they just need to tell each other how they feel.
Review:
This is the third book in the Release series. I have not read the other books and I had no difficulty in following along with this story. This is pretty much a standalone book. I am pretty sure that characters from this book are from previous books in this series. I found this book inspirational. The main character Dakota has spent a good portion of his life behind bars surviving the only way he could. Dakota was convicted of raping a girl from his college. The girl identified him as her attacker. When Dakota explained to his parents that he didn’t do it. He couldn’t have done it. Dakota is homosexual. His parents would not even pay for his defense They would rather a felon than a gay son. Twelve years later, he is out of prison and his friend Sage is determined to help Dakota transition back into society. He also feels that Dakota is innocent and has persuaded his lover Adam (both from a previous book) to have his friend Jayden, a former prosecutor to look into the case. When things don’t match up Jayden starts digging into what really happened. In the process, he falls in love with the gentle Dakota who has endured so much. The chemistry between Dakota and Jayden is gentle, sweet, loving and just plain amazing. I loved the nurturing way that Jayden handled Dakota. The pacing of this story in pretty fast and there is some action as well. Great ending to this story. Since I enjoyed this book so much, I may have to read the first two books in this series. There is strong character development in this story. I highly recommend reading this book
Categories
PLOT 5 Stars
CHEMISTRY: 5 Stars
PACING: 5 Stars
ENDING: 5 Stars
CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT: 5 Stars
Review Copy of Catch and Release provided by the Dreamspinner Press I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. Reviewed by Mollien from Alpha Book Club
December 20, 2016
4.5 stars
January 13, 2020
4.5 stars
Narration: This was my first by Lou Lambert. He had a deep voice with a lovely southern accent that soothed as he read. The cadence was easy to follow, and he used perfect emphasis where needed. If you write southern-themed MM stories, this is the narrator for you.
Story: As for the story. This was a sweet love story that built over time. I say sweet, but really, Dakota had been through absolute hell in jail. Jayden showed patience and a willingness to work through things. His faith in Dakota’s innocence was amazing and heartfelt. Although this is a series, I started here. I would think it would make the reading of this better knowing the past characters that are in this book, but it wasn’t a must for me. I didn’t feel like I was missing anything, but I did want to get the other books by the time I was finished!
At nineteen, Dakota was a chubby, unattractive rich kid that was accused and found guilty of raping a girl at a party. Since his release, things are tough, like the girl’s family harassing him and working for low wages. But he pushes forward and doesn’t let things get him down. He did what he had to in jail—being the laundry whore—to make it through. Because of that, he doesn’t see himself as worthy anymore. Topping that off, his parents abandoned him when he was arrested and told his siblings and the public that he’d died. Now at 32 and recently released, a pen-pal named Sage is making it his mission to help. He meets Jayden through Sage. I liked this character and how B.A. wrote him.
Jayden is a retired prosecutor turned real estate lawyer. He had his own issues, I’m guessing the book before, but it’s explained here in enough detail that I understood what was going on. He agrees to look into Dakota’s case, and he’s shocked to learn that there was DNA evidence that was never tested. So that’s where he starts. His character helped pull me into the story and kept it interesting as things moved. So there is a plot in with the romance.
I enjoyed listening to the story, and I’ll be looking for more in the series.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Narration: This was my first by Lou Lambert. He had a deep voice with a lovely southern accent that soothed as he read. The cadence was easy to follow, and he used perfect emphasis where needed. If you write southern-themed MM stories, this is the narrator for you.
Story: As for the story. This was a sweet love story that built over time. I say sweet, but really, Dakota had been through absolute hell in jail. Jayden showed patience and a willingness to work through things. His faith in Dakota’s innocence was amazing and heartfelt. Although this is a series, I started here. I would think it would make the reading of this better knowing the past characters that are in this book, but it wasn’t a must for me. I didn’t feel like I was missing anything, but I did want to get the other books by the time I was finished!
At nineteen, Dakota was a chubby, unattractive rich kid that was accused and found guilty of raping a girl at a party. Since his release, things are tough, like the girl’s family harassing him and working for low wages. But he pushes forward and doesn’t let things get him down. He did what he had to in jail—being the laundry whore—to make it through. Because of that, he doesn’t see himself as worthy anymore. Topping that off, his parents abandoned him when he was arrested and told his siblings and the public that he’d died. Now at 32 and recently released, a pen-pal named Sage is making it his mission to help. He meets Jayden through Sage. I liked this character and how B.A. wrote him.
Jayden is a retired prosecutor turned real estate lawyer. He had his own issues, I’m guessing the book before, but it’s explained here in enough detail that I understood what was going on. He agrees to look into Dakota’s case, and he’s shocked to learn that there was DNA evidence that was never tested. So that’s where he starts. His character helped pull me into the story and kept it interesting as things moved. So there is a plot in with the romance.
I enjoyed listening to the story, and I’ll be looking for more in the series.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
January 13, 2020
4.5 stars
Narration: This was my first by Lou Lambert. He had a deep voice with a lovely southern accent that soothed as he read. The cadence was easy to follow, and he used perfect emphasis where needed. If you write southern-themed MM stories, this is the narrator for you.
Story: As for the story. This was a sweet love story that built over time. I say sweet, but really, Dakota had been through absolute hell in jail. Jayden showed patience and a willingness to work through things. His faith in Dakota’s innocence was amazing and heartfelt. Although this is a series, I started here. I would think it would make the reading of this better knowing the past characters that are in this book, but it wasn’t a must for me. I didn’t feel like I was missing anything, but I did want to get the other books by the time I was finished!
At nineteen, Dakota was a chubby, unattractive rich kid that was accused and found guilty of raping a girl at a party. Since his release, things are tough, like the girl’s family harassing him and working for low wages. But he pushes forward and doesn’t let things get him down. He did what he had to in jail—being the laundry whore—to make it through. Because of that, he doesn’t see himself as worthy anymore. Topping that off, his parents abandoned him when he was arrested and told his siblings and the public that he’d died. Now at 32 and recently released, a pen-pal named Sage is making it his mission to help. He meets Jayden through Sage. I liked this character and how B.A. wrote him.
Jayden is a retired prosecutor turned real estate lawyer. He had his own issues, I’m guessing the book before, but it’s explained here in enough detail that I understood what was going on. He agrees to look into Dakota’s case, and he’s shocked to learn that there was DNA evidence that was never tested. So that’s where he starts. His character helped pull me into the story and kept it interesting as things moved. So there is a plot in with the romance.
I enjoyed listening to the story, and I’ll be looking for more in the series.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
Narration: This was my first by Lou Lambert. He had a deep voice with a lovely southern accent that soothed as he read. The cadence was easy to follow, and he used perfect emphasis where needed. If you write southern-themed MM stories, this is the narrator for you.
Story: As for the story. This was a sweet love story that built over time. I say sweet, but really, Dakota had been through absolute hell in jail. Jayden showed patience and a willingness to work through things. His faith in Dakota’s innocence was amazing and heartfelt. Although this is a series, I started here. I would think it would make the reading of this better knowing the past characters that are in this book, but it wasn’t a must for me. I didn’t feel like I was missing anything, but I did want to get the other books by the time I was finished!
At nineteen, Dakota was a chubby, unattractive rich kid that was accused and found guilty of raping a girl at a party. Since his release, things are tough, like the girl’s family harassing him and working for low wages. But he pushes forward and doesn’t let things get him down. He did what he had to in jail—being the laundry whore—to make it through. Because of that, he doesn’t see himself as worthy anymore. Topping that off, his parents abandoned him when he was arrested and told his siblings and the public that he’d died. Now at 32 and recently released, a pen-pal named Sage is making it his mission to help. He meets Jayden through Sage. I liked this character and how B.A. wrote him.
Jayden is a retired prosecutor turned real estate lawyer. He had his own issues, I’m guessing the book before, but it’s explained here in enough detail that I understood what was going on. He agrees to look into Dakota’s case, and he’s shocked to learn that there was DNA evidence that was never tested. So that’s where he starts. His character helped pull me into the story and kept it interesting as things moved. So there is a plot in with the romance.
I enjoyed listening to the story, and I’ll be looking for more in the series.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
May 8, 2023
Titolo interessante. Storia un po' meno.
Attirata da questo titolo, vuoi per le tematiche, vuoi per la storia che speravo di leggere, mi sono ritrovata davanti un titolo che aveva delle basi fantastiche su cui lavorare ma che è andato a farsi un giro mentre avveniva la stesura.
Amico, amico, amico, amico... ripetuto all'infinito. Ammetto di non conoscere il linguaggio texano, ma giuro che dopo un po' mi stava facendo venire i nervi. Nomi, parentele, soprannomi, c'è il mondo da poter usare al posto di "amico eccomi" o "grazie amico" o "grandioso amico".
Non so se è un mio problema, o la traduzione è stata gestita un po' così.
Passiamo alla storia: grandi poteri cosmici, in un minuscolo spazio vitale! Questa storia aveva del potenziale enorme, ridotto a un romanzetto quasi senza senso. La storia di Dakota avrebbe avuto la necessità di essere sviscerata e raccontata molto più del "sono un nerd, sono gay, odiato dal mondo e per questo finisco in prigione". Non ci viene raccontato quale collegamento lui possa avere con quella ragazza, la sua prima cotta e il perché è finito in mezzo ai guai. Non ci viene detto perché quella ragazza abbia mentito e lo abbia fatto usando il suo nome. Non si ha niente del background di questo povero ragazzo, qualche nozione qua e là e gettata la senza seguito.
Il rapporto con Jayden poi... oggi ci conosciamo, all'inizio provo pena, di botto mi piaci, ci si bacia, ci si dice ti amo e niente. Non viene descritta l'evoluzione di questa storia e ci si trova davanti a due che si prendono per mano la mattina e si baciano la sera stessa. Senza neanche essersi detti ciò che sentivano. La madre di Jayden poteva essere un gran personaggio (la stessa che sgancia una bomba assurda che dall'autrice non viene neanche spiegata -.-") ma che non viene valorizzata dal contesto. Insomma, una storia che avrebbe potuto parlarci di un tema importante come la riabilitazione post prigione, ma che viene trattata con molta superficialità. Tanto potenziale, ma trattato malissimo.
Attirata da questo titolo, vuoi per le tematiche, vuoi per la storia che speravo di leggere, mi sono ritrovata davanti un titolo che aveva delle basi fantastiche su cui lavorare ma che è andato a farsi un giro mentre avveniva la stesura.
Amico, amico, amico, amico... ripetuto all'infinito. Ammetto di non conoscere il linguaggio texano, ma giuro che dopo un po' mi stava facendo venire i nervi. Nomi, parentele, soprannomi, c'è il mondo da poter usare al posto di "amico eccomi" o "grazie amico" o "grandioso amico".
Non so se è un mio problema, o la traduzione è stata gestita un po' così.
Passiamo alla storia: grandi poteri cosmici, in un minuscolo spazio vitale! Questa storia aveva del potenziale enorme, ridotto a un romanzetto quasi senza senso. La storia di Dakota avrebbe avuto la necessità di essere sviscerata e raccontata molto più del "sono un nerd, sono gay, odiato dal mondo e per questo finisco in prigione". Non ci viene raccontato quale collegamento lui possa avere con quella ragazza, la sua prima cotta e il perché è finito in mezzo ai guai. Non ci viene detto perché quella ragazza abbia mentito e lo abbia fatto usando il suo nome. Non si ha niente del background di questo povero ragazzo, qualche nozione qua e là e gettata la senza seguito.
Il rapporto con Jayden poi... oggi ci conosciamo, all'inizio provo pena, di botto mi piaci, ci si bacia, ci si dice ti amo e niente. Non viene descritta l'evoluzione di questa storia e ci si trova davanti a due che si prendono per mano la mattina e si baciano la sera stessa. Senza neanche essersi detti ciò che sentivano. La madre di Jayden poteva essere un gran personaggio (la stessa che sgancia una bomba assurda che dall'autrice non viene neanche spiegata -.-") ma che non viene valorizzata dal contesto. Insomma, una storia che avrebbe potuto parlarci di un tema importante come la riabilitazione post prigione, ma che viene trattata con molta superficialità. Tanto potenziale, ma trattato malissimo.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 18, 2022
✔ Letto! Questa sarà proprio il mio piccolo gigante, mio cowboy tascabile a dare tutte due le mani a Dakota Landry un ragazzo appena uscito di prigione. Perché Sage sa benissimo come ci si sente ed è più che determinato ad aiutarlo anche perché crede nella sua innocenza.
Anche se Adam 'Win', non è tanto d'accordo con l'amore della sua vita, chiederà al suo amico e ex pubblico ministero di riesaminare il caso di Dakota. E così Jayden Wilson entra nella sua vita e più ne va a fondo più si convince che lui non abbia commesso il reato per il quale tutti lo ritengono colpevole. Nel fra tempo, lentamente rispetto alle altre due storie e due uomini si innamorano.
«Non importa dove ti trovi, se in prigione, in tribunale, in una casa grande e lussuosa o in una stalla, a chiunque piace credere di essere l’unico a sentirsi indipendente da tutti gli altri.»
Dakota è uno di quelli ragazzi dove il sistema ha fretta di trovare un colpevole, fregandosene del fatto che sia appena maggiorenne, che la vita di quel ragazzo sarebbe stata distrutta dal sistema. Più è più volta subirà abusi inauditi, più è più volte un pezzettino di sua anima sarà persa per sempre.
Forse potranno sembrare una coppia improbabile, ma è proprio li la loro forza. Era di quella forza della natura che il bambino, il ragazzo spezzato e l'uomo che un giorno sarebbe stato, aveva bisogno. Di qualcuno disposto a lottare e a credere nella sua causa, in lui. Un ragazzo puro, che nonostante avesse visto il peggio della umanità. Non si è lasciato trascinare al buio.
Rivedere tutti gli altri, sapere che stavano bene. Sapere che ci sono genitori che amano i loro figli a prescindere e la loro scelta di vita e rispettarle. Come i genitori di Jayden. Bruccireinellafiammadelloinferno quelli di Dakota.
Una finale più che perfetta.
Per me è ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ➕ per tutti loro: Sage e Win, Troy e Eric e Dakota e Jayden. La certezza che L'amore vero, forte e assoluto vince.Sempre!
Anche se Adam 'Win', non è tanto d'accordo con l'amore della sua vita, chiederà al suo amico e ex pubblico ministero di riesaminare il caso di Dakota. E così Jayden Wilson entra nella sua vita e più ne va a fondo più si convince che lui non abbia commesso il reato per il quale tutti lo ritengono colpevole. Nel fra tempo, lentamente rispetto alle altre due storie e due uomini si innamorano.
«Non importa dove ti trovi, se in prigione, in tribunale, in una casa grande e lussuosa o in una stalla, a chiunque piace credere di essere l’unico a sentirsi indipendente da tutti gli altri.»
Dakota è uno di quelli ragazzi dove il sistema ha fretta di trovare un colpevole, fregandosene del fatto che sia appena maggiorenne, che la vita di quel ragazzo sarebbe stata distrutta dal sistema. Più è più volta subirà abusi inauditi, più è più volte un pezzettino di sua anima sarà persa per sempre.
Forse potranno sembrare una coppia improbabile, ma è proprio li la loro forza. Era di quella forza della natura che il bambino, il ragazzo spezzato e l'uomo che un giorno sarebbe stato, aveva bisogno. Di qualcuno disposto a lottare e a credere nella sua causa, in lui. Un ragazzo puro, che nonostante avesse visto il peggio della umanità. Non si è lasciato trascinare al buio.
Rivedere tutti gli altri, sapere che stavano bene. Sapere che ci sono genitori che amano i loro figli a prescindere e la loro scelta di vita e rispettarle. Come i genitori di Jayden. Bruccireinellafiammadelloinferno quelli di Dakota.
Una finale più che perfetta.
Per me è ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤ ➕ per tutti loro: Sage e Win, Troy e Eric e Dakota e Jayden. La certezza che L'amore vero, forte e assoluto vince.Sempre!
August 25, 2022
Recensione a cura del blog Romantic Fairies
Primo libro che leggo di quest’autrice e devo dire che mi ha ben impressionata.
La storia di Dakota mi ha molto rattristata, per me è sempre un abominio vedere genitori che girano le spalle ai figli, perché non conformi all’idea che hanno anche solo immaginato di avere nei loro confronti.
I figli sono parte di te a cui nessuno deve permettersi di arrogarsi il diritto di trattarli male o considerarli feccia.
È giusto che chi sbaglia paghi per gli errori commessi, ma è anche giusto avere, per davvero, tutti gli elementi che diano prova certa di tale colpevolezza.
Non sempre accade, ma quando succede chi ne fa le spese è sempre un essere umano che viene considerato feccia e trattato come tale, ecco perché ogni sistema giudiziario, in qualsiasi parte del mondo, dovrebbe fare di tutto perché cose del genere non accadano mai.
Un uomo, pur riconosciuto innocente, se è stato in prigione non avrà mai indietro gli anni persi in un luogo terribile, trattato ingiustamente e colpito fin dentro l’anima.
La storia di Dakota, potrà essere vista romanzata, a lieto fine, ma mi pone davanti una domanda non semplice a cui rispondere: le sentenze sono sempre corrette?
Una lettura che consiglio per la fluidità della scrittura della Tortuga, che ha saputo con ironia e ilarità darci una bella storia pur narrando di un tema non facile.
Primo libro che leggo di quest’autrice e devo dire che mi ha ben impressionata.
La storia di Dakota mi ha molto rattristata, per me è sempre un abominio vedere genitori che girano le spalle ai figli, perché non conformi all’idea che hanno anche solo immaginato di avere nei loro confronti.
I figli sono parte di te a cui nessuno deve permettersi di arrogarsi il diritto di trattarli male o considerarli feccia.
È giusto che chi sbaglia paghi per gli errori commessi, ma è anche giusto avere, per davvero, tutti gli elementi che diano prova certa di tale colpevolezza.
Non sempre accade, ma quando succede chi ne fa le spese è sempre un essere umano che viene considerato feccia e trattato come tale, ecco perché ogni sistema giudiziario, in qualsiasi parte del mondo, dovrebbe fare di tutto perché cose del genere non accadano mai.
Un uomo, pur riconosciuto innocente, se è stato in prigione non avrà mai indietro gli anni persi in un luogo terribile, trattato ingiustamente e colpito fin dentro l’anima.
La storia di Dakota, potrà essere vista romanzata, a lieto fine, ma mi pone davanti una domanda non semplice a cui rispondere: le sentenze sono sempre corrette?
Una lettura che consiglio per la fluidità della scrittura della Tortuga, che ha saputo con ironia e ilarità darci una bella storia pur narrando di un tema non facile.
September 4, 2022
Primo libro che leggo di quest’autrice e devo dire che mi ha ben impressionata.
La storia di Dakota mi ha molto rattristata, per me è sempre un abominio vedere genitori che girano le spalle ai figli, perché non conformi all’idea che hanno anche solo immaginato di avere nei loro confronti.
I figli sono parte di te a cui nessuno deve permettersi di arrogarsi il diritto di trattarli male o considerarli feccia.
È giusto che chi sbaglia paghi per gli errori commessi, ma è anche giusto avere, per davvero, tutti gli elementi che diano prova certa di tale colpevolezza.
Non sempre accade, ma quando succede chi ne fa le spese è sempre un essere umano che viene considerato feccia e trattato come tale, ecco perché ogni sistema giudiziario, in qualsiasi parte del mondo, dovrebbe fare di tutto perché cose del genere non accadano mai.
Un uomo, pur riconosciuto innocente, se è stato in prigione non avrà mai indietro gli anni persi in un luogo terribile, trattato ingiustamente e colpito fin dentro l’anima.
La storia di Dakota, potrà essere vista romanzata, a lieto fine, ma mi pone davanti una domanda non semplice a cui rispondere: le sentenze sono sempre corrette?
Una lettura che consiglio per la fluidità della scrittura della Tortuga, che ha saputo con ironia e ilarità darci una bella storia pur narrando di un tema non facile.
La storia di Dakota mi ha molto rattristata, per me è sempre un abominio vedere genitori che girano le spalle ai figli, perché non conformi all’idea che hanno anche solo immaginato di avere nei loro confronti.
I figli sono parte di te a cui nessuno deve permettersi di arrogarsi il diritto di trattarli male o considerarli feccia.
È giusto che chi sbaglia paghi per gli errori commessi, ma è anche giusto avere, per davvero, tutti gli elementi che diano prova certa di tale colpevolezza.
Non sempre accade, ma quando succede chi ne fa le spese è sempre un essere umano che viene considerato feccia e trattato come tale, ecco perché ogni sistema giudiziario, in qualsiasi parte del mondo, dovrebbe fare di tutto perché cose del genere non accadano mai.
Un uomo, pur riconosciuto innocente, se è stato in prigione non avrà mai indietro gli anni persi in un luogo terribile, trattato ingiustamente e colpito fin dentro l’anima.
La storia di Dakota, potrà essere vista romanzata, a lieto fine, ma mi pone davanti una domanda non semplice a cui rispondere: le sentenze sono sempre corrette?
Una lettura che consiglio per la fluidità della scrittura della Tortuga, che ha saputo con ironia e ilarità darci una bella storia pur narrando di un tema non facile.
May 31, 2017
Catch and Release (The Release #3) by B.A. Tortuga
3.5 stars
M/M Romance
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
I want to start by saying that I love BA Tortuga stories, normally. However, this one, just didn't really do it for me.
Dakota is released from prison, but still having a difficult time adjusting. The police never really did a great job on his case, he paid the price and his family abandoned him.
Then you have Jayden. He likes puzzles and finds Dakota's case interesting enough to take on. However, he also sees that Dakota is a sweet and caring man. Someone who deserves to be redeemed, loved and cherished.
Their story is more of a figuring out who you are story, rather than a love story. It is well developed and the main characters are compassionate and funny. I liked where the story was going, but felt that there was so much missing from the story. What happened to the victim? The victim's family? Where was Dakota's family? Just too much was left out.
3.5 stars
M/M Romance
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
I want to start by saying that I love BA Tortuga stories, normally. However, this one, just didn't really do it for me.
Dakota is released from prison, but still having a difficult time adjusting. The police never really did a great job on his case, he paid the price and his family abandoned him.
Then you have Jayden. He likes puzzles and finds Dakota's case interesting enough to take on. However, he also sees that Dakota is a sweet and caring man. Someone who deserves to be redeemed, loved and cherished.
Their story is more of a figuring out who you are story, rather than a love story. It is well developed and the main characters are compassionate and funny. I liked where the story was going, but felt that there was so much missing from the story. What happened to the victim? The victim's family? Where was Dakota's family? Just too much was left out.
March 31, 2018
That story plot was very pulling, but that is all that is. The romance between Dakota & Jayden is something that is not appreciated in that kind of story plot. Why? Because it's more important to be part of Dakotas past and how the wrongdoing is being shown and how bad guys pays for it. But, NOO we get a silly romance and a stupid epilogue where all we actually wanted to know too, is just fastly told.
I hope Author "B.A. Tortuga" stops writing such a sill story plots because he/she is making an idiot out of herself or himself. Whichever, that is a horrible book.
I hope Author "B.A. Tortuga" stops writing such a sill story plots because he/she is making an idiot out of herself or himself. Whichever, that is a horrible book.
October 20, 2024
Four and a half stars
CATCH AND RELEASE is the third in BA Tortuga’s Release series. Dakota Landry is finally out after serving a decade for a crime he never committed. Former prosecutor turned real estate lawyer Jayden Wilson isn’t sure what to make of him, although his gut tells him this man is innocent.
A moving story about two men finding friendship and community and a future. I've really enjoyed Ms Tortuga's portrayals of Texan cowboy life, and the ties between these men and their friends.
CATCH AND RELEASE is the third in BA Tortuga’s Release series. Dakota Landry is finally out after serving a decade for a crime he never committed. Former prosecutor turned real estate lawyer Jayden Wilson isn’t sure what to make of him, although his gut tells him this man is innocent.
A moving story about two men finding friendship and community and a future. I've really enjoyed Ms Tortuga's portrayals of Texan cowboy life, and the ties between these men and their friends.
June 20, 2025
This story started off well and is probably one of the better written books by this author. Connection, tension and emotion was still missing but it was better. Jayden and Dakota were well written characters and the story started out well.
THEN
Jayden’s mom had a character transformation and was totally out of line and no one did anything about her? What she said was UNFORGIVABLE. And Jayden did nothing? I’m flabbergasted. “She’s a mom” - INEXCUSABLE.
I finished the book. But I’m not happy at all!
THEN
Jayden’s mom had a character transformation and was totally out of line and no one did anything about her? What she said was UNFORGIVABLE. And Jayden did nothing? I’m flabbergasted. “She’s a mom” - INEXCUSABLE.
I finished the book. But I’m not happy at all!
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