Beneath This Mask

Enhanced World #3

by Victoria Sue

Enhanced World: Book Three

Gael Peterson has spent years hiding behind the enhanced abilities he wears like a mask, even though he is an important, confident member of the FBI’s exclusive H.E.R.O. team. The hurt and betrayal of his mom’s abandonment and his father’s fists are secrets buried deep beneath the ugly scars on his face, and he doesn’t trust Jake, his new regular human partner, with any of them. In a world where those with special abilities like Gael’s are regarded as freaks and monsters, it won’t be easy for him to rely on Jake to have his back, especially when the abilities of a vulnerable nonspeaking enhanced child make that child a murder suspect.

Tempers rise and loyalties are challenged, and when the serial killer targeting the enhanced finally sets his sights on Gael, not only will Gael have to trust Jake with his secrets, he might have to trust him to save his life.

Genres: M M Romance, Paranormal, Romance, Fantasy, Audiobook, Contemporary, Science Fiction

206 pages, ebook

First published January 16, 2018

About the author

Bullets and Babies!

Victoria writes about guys loving other guys in between dodging bullets, kidnappers, and serial killers. She enjoys putting them through hell to get their happy ever after—it’s a character flaw she embraces.

She also believes that family is who you choose, that dogs are often much wiser than human beings, and that we’re steadily destroying the world we live in.

And if people read more books, they'd be much happier.

Reviews

[Shin Mon Thway · Rating 5 out of 5]

Damn, I’m definitely on a roll with this series because guess what? I freaking loved this book! 😍 Now now, hear me out. 😁 Yes, I loved Finn and Talon and they are still my favorite couple but since from the beginning, I just have that soft spot for our Gael, giant, gentle, kind and vulnerable. Gael is the epitome of the children surviving domestic abuse and still turn out to be a good person. And every time I listened about him in the previous books, my heart just breaks for him 😢 and I knew his story was going to be good. And my expectations were definitely met and more. 🥰👏

Despite being a H.E.R.O agent and an enhanced human, Gael genuinely believes that people aren’t capable of loving him and looking past his scars. Growing up with an abusive alcoholic father, Gael was abused and tortured and ultimately got his face burned because of his dad. And he believes he’s not beautiful. So to say that he has trust issues and insecurities would definitely be an understatement. When his Boss assigned him with a human partner who used to be an Enu agent, Gael was definitely unhappy and bitter. It’s bad to work together with a normal human but one who used to be an Enu agent who are the arch rival of H.E.R.O? That’s a big No-No. 😁 Meanwhile, a psychotic serial killer is on rampage killing enhanced humans using their own abilities. 😳 And there’s an enhanced special need child who no one gives a care but Gael. But working with Jake doesn’t turn out to be so bad. Jake is kind, understanding and very sexy (Gael admits begrudgingly 😂). Meanwhile, Jake is also on the run from his ugly past but skeletons in the closet has a way of catching up with the present whether you like it or not. They are learning that being in a relationship with your fellow agent and balancing your love-work life isn’t that easy to juggle. And Gael has to learn and learn fast that to have a life he always wanted and to not become the victim of a serial killer himself, he has to overcome his insecurities and trust and rely on Jake’s love.

Wow, I know Victoria Sue can write. 😁 I mean she’s one of my very favorite authors for a reason. ❤️ But boy, can she write suspense and thrillers! 😱 I really had no idea who the killer was until it was revealed. Who knew what evil lurks behind the masks of the people you know. And Gael and Jake were so sweet together!!! 😍 So many “awwwwww-worthy” moments. 🥰 I love that Gael wanted to let go of the reins and submits to Jake when it comes to lovemaking. 😉 The smut was as always ... smoking hot! 🔥🔥 And I also loved the relationship dynamics and the relationship development between Gael and Jake. Insta-lust to soul-deep, true love transformation was beautiful to witness. 💜 The epilogue was everything I could ask for, a beautiful, heartwarming and heartfelt love declaration with a HEA plus a child? It was EVERYTHING!!! 😍❤️ and as always, Nick J. Russo deserves a shout out for such an amazing performance. 👏 Plus, Miss Sue is such a tease because I’m already dying for the next book, Angel and Vance. 😁 I mean sassy twinks and gentle big guys? Definitely my cuppa! 😉 I highly recommend this whole series to anyone who love urban fantasy and sci-fi. 👍



5 Jake, Gael, Derrick .. family stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️








Audio rating

Story - 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Narration - 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Performance - 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Overall- 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️












Disclaimer: An audio copy of this book was provided by the author for an honest and unbiased review.

[Simone - on indefinite hiatus - · Rating 5 out of 5]

July 2020: Audiobook = ***4 Stars***

*************************

***4.5 Stars***

"A different set of eyes never sees the same picture."

Gael Peterson does not want to feel attracted to this guy. He does not want to want him. Much less like him.

Jake Riley, former member of the ENu (short for Police Enhanced Unit), a kind of rather testosterone-ridden SWAT team that is called in everytime a so-called Enhanced seems to be out of control, reminds him of everything he hates about being different. Not only because of his special abilities, but also because of the ugly scars on his face. Even if his ability of having an impenetrable skin should give him all the security he needs, it is his uniform that makes him feel safe. And now said Jake Riley is about to turn his world upside down by not just being the newest member of Gael's H.E.R.O. team, a special unit of the FBI consisting in equal shares of Enhanced and 'regular' humans, hell no, it is getting even worse: he is supposed to be his designated partner.

After fighting this partnership tooth and nail - unsuccessful I should add - he teeth-gnashingly accepts his fate and is in for a surprise. Working together is not the anticipated nightmare he feared it to be at first glance and when he discovers that his new partner is in fact not just a gorgeous face, but a decent and nice - not to say hot - guy, who has his heart in the right place, he suddenly stirs feelings in him that go way beyond being just collegial.

Home. That one word was guaranteed to push every one of Gael's buttons. It had always been a place. Somewhere secure. In his head Gael had always imagined a sturdy front door, protecting his space, his heart, strong enough to keep every one of his demons out. But it had always been a thing, a building. Suddenly it seemed like a person.

For Jake his new partner is the most beautiful guy he ever met, scars notwithstanding. Strictly speaking, they even make him more attractive to him because they tell the story of his life. Despite having to fight personal demons of his own, he is intent on making this partnership work, not only on an operational, but also on a personal level. While their desire is sparking and their bond growing, they discover that their feelings for each other might already go deeper than both expected.

When the team's still not solved case of Enhanced dying a brutal death by the hand of a vicious serial killer claims another victim and the life of a disabled enhanced child is at stake, the team apparently gets too close for comfort to the killer, who suddenly puts Gael in his crosshairs. Now Jake's least of his problems is to convince Gael of his love. Now he has to give his all to not only stop the killer, but to save his lover's life while time is about to run out.

Beneath This Mask was one of my most anticipated books for a long time and what can I say other than it was worth the wait!!! My crush on this series gets cemented with each new book and Jake and Gael really proved to live up to my expectations. I have to admit that I would have loved to get a little bit more of a quarrel between these two at the beginning, though, a bit more sparks flying aside from inside the bedroom, or the shower, or... Well, you know what I mean. The 'ugh-I-can't-stand-him' over 'okay-I-try-to-avoid-him' to 'damn-this-guy-is-awesome' happened a tad too fast for me, but that is of course just a matter of personal taste. Don't get me wrong, it was not all sunshine and roses from the get-go, of course there were some barriers to be broken down, but I missed a bit of a banter at the start. Wishful thinking aside, I loved these guys. I had a soft spot for Gael right from the start and Jake was the perfect match for him. Their chemistry was off the charts and the sex hot, but also very tender.

"Stay," Gael rasped.
Jake smiled and nodded. The one word seemed to clutch at his heart, and only a promise could be the answer. "Always."

There were a few scenes where I had my problems following their train of thoughts and internally I was like: "Umm, guys... full sentences maybe?" But that is probably all on me and my lacking ability to concentrate at the moment.

The bad guy in this story creeped the hell out of me. I had a bad feeling about him all along, so I was not surprised that I was right, but I never would have thought that he was such a sick bastard. I am glad that my next read will be something other than a mystery because my murder plotting of book characters is getting more and more out of hand and my Kindle is leading a dangerous life nowadays. ;-)

The ending gave me heart eyes and the way Jake proved his feelings to Gael and convinced him that he is in for the long haul made me all smiles and teary-eyed at the same time.

I'm sure - well, I hope! - we will get to see more of them in the next book. I'm a bit torn about whose story I want next. I'm hoping for Eli, he is actually the one I'm dying to know more about, but I guess it will be about Vance and his new partner Samuel. And let me tell you, this is a guy who already pushed all my buttons. ;-)

***ARC generously provided to me by the author in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!***

Reviews for Book Lovers

[Wendys Wycked Words · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading the first two books in this series, "Five Minutes Longer" and "Who We Truly Are", which I both loved, I couldn't wait to get my hands on this one !!!



Now before I go further with my review, I would like to advice all to read books 1 and 2 first. Even though this book is about a different couple, it's not a stand alone and these books have a continuing storyline ! No worries though...like I said, the first two books are pretty awesome ;)

Those of you, who have read the previous books, already know who Gael is, and if you are anything like me, you are probably chomping at the bit to read his story.



Gael is one of the members, of the FBI’s exclusive H.E.R.O. team, and also Talon's closest friend. His abilities are making his skin inpenetratable and speaking/communicating in any kind of language ....and I do mean any kind.

On the outside Gael seems to be very much in control of himself and his emotions, but the inside shows a much different story. There is a world of pain hidden underneath his scars ....both physical and mental.



All this means that Gael doesn't trust very easily. So it's no surprise ,that being partnered with Jake, makes Gael freak out a bit. He doesn't want a partner, what's the point if he will never trust him anyways...



Jake is the new "human" member of the H.E.R.O. team. He used to be in the ENu, but he's very excited about his new job and partnership. Too bad his new partner doesn't feel the same way. No matter how hard Jake tries....Gael just won't give him a shot.

But maybe Jake is just going about it the wrong way....maybe he needs to take a different approach :P



I really enjoyed this one and the background story about the little boy was very intriguing and sweet at the same time.

Gael and Jake were pretty awesome together..and HOT...let's not forget HOT, but Talon and Finn are still my favorite. This might change with the next book though. I am very curious about both Elis and Vance's story.....I do admit to already having a little crush on Vance's new partner..... It was love at first sight .....sigh



I'm a huge fan of this series. It has hot men with superpowers,  action, love, and some nice steam....what more does a girl need :P

This review has been posted on DirtyBooksObsession

[Meags · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

I couldn’t wait to get to gentle giant Gael’s story, and I’m glad to say it did not disappoint. In fact, Beneath This Mask is now my favourite addition to this series, with Gael and Jake proving to be a fabulous couple who won my heart fully and without reservation.

As the best friend of Talon (the MC of books one and two) and as a fellow member of the new, mostly enhanced, FBI generated H.E.R.O. team, Gael has a lot on his plate. His enhanced abilities make him physically invincible, but emotionally he’s anything but. After suffering through a horribly traumatic childhood, and constantly dealing with a world that largely fears and rejects those with enhanced abilities, Gael has built a wall around his heart. His self-worth is shockingly low and he doesn’t trust easily, but when he gets partnered with a regular human – in the form of ex-ENu agent Jake (from book two) – Gael finds himself fighting strong feelings and a fierce attraction that he most certainly doesn’t want to have for the guy who he thought to be an enemy.

Gael and Jake are thrown together in more ways than one as the team are brought in as consultants on a new case, helping to identify a serial killer who is offing enhanced members of the public in shockingly personal ways.

Concurrently, the team get called in to a situation involving a young enhanced child named Derrick, who suffers from FAS and autism, and who is believed to be a danger to those around him. As relentless advocates for enhanced children’s protection and well-being, the team make it their mission to clear Derrick of any wrongdoing. Gael, in particular, forms an immediate bond with Derrick, communicating with him in a way no one else seems to be able to do, and the information gleaned may just prove pivotal in breaking the bigger case at hand.

Gael and Jake were so perfect for one another and I adored them together. With all the shit these men had endured in their lifetimes, they were both in desperate need for someone to be in their corners, providing unconditional love and support in all things. In each other they unexpectedly found what they needed and longed for – true partners in every sense of the word. Their love story was a bit of a whirlwind romance, practically happening over a matter of days, but the speed at which they fell for one another didn’t bother me because it felt authentic. They were wonderfully sweet and sensual together and I couldn't get enough.

The child protection theme running throughout this series is possibly my favourite story element. I adore the children that have been introduced so far, with Derrick being my absolute favourite of the bunch. I loved the way Gael was with him – all fierce protection and unreserved love for the little boy who had so quickly stolen his heart.

This leads me to that ending. BEST EPILOGUE EVER! I was punched in the fabulous warm and fuzzy feels, and although I may have cried all over the place, it was so very worth it.

All I can say now is that I’m thoroughly addicted to this series and I’m positively buzzing with anticipation for Vance’s story. *grabby hands*

[Jenni Lea · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, Victoria Sue has hit it out of the ballpark. I loved this episode of the Enhanced series! Gael and Jake were an unlikely couple who, even with all the drama and mayhem surrounding them, fit together seamlessly.

I’ve wanted to read Gael’s story since I first got to know him in Five Minutes Longer. He had an air of mystery about him and I could tell his story was going to be heartbreaking.

Jake was a bit of an unknown going into this book. We didn’t really meet him until later in the second book so, although intrigued, I had no idea what to expect from him. Jake also had the extra stigma of coming from ENu, the police’s enhanced unit and the team’s number one archrival. It wasn’t easy for him to acclimate, but he slowly won the guys over after proving himself to be a good cop and even better human being.

I loved the slow progression their relationship took. Yeah, there were some ups and downs, but not more than what you would find in any budding relationship. Gael was averse to having a partner; he didn’t really feel that he needed (or deserved) one. Jake, not one to shirk any duty, put forth a lot of effort in breaking down the wall Gael had erected around him. First, in an effort to fit in with his partner and the team and then, after getting to know Gael a bit more, because he found he liked the guy. He liked the guy a lot. Some would say he may have even developed a crush on the mysterious man with the scarred face. Some would be correct in that assumption. ;)

Their relationship felt natural. It felt easy and genuine. I liked that the author avoided the dreaded Big Misunderstanding Due to a Lack of Communication trope that is prevalent in the genre nowadays, instead offering a natural progression to their relationship that felt real and more true-to-life.

The underlying theme to this book seems to be family and all the differences in each one you may find. There are good families and bad. Families that support you and those that hold you back. Happy families and toxic families. Ones that you are born to and new ones that you form. It doesn’t matter what type of family you come from; only what you make of yourself and the one you create. It was a strong yet subtle message that really resonated within me and made me think.

I can’t leave here without mentioning the villain in this story. What a wonderfully despicable character they were. I was fully invested in their demise. I loathed them fiercely and anticipated their comeuppance with an unholy glee. Fabulous job on the villain!

Recommended for lovers of exciting, action-packed urban fantasy that is heavy on the romance. These ain’t your mama’s superheroes!

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 stars

I love this series. I do have to say that I still like Finn and Talon better, but Gael and Jake were pretty awesome together too!

You can’t read this book as a stand-alone. You have to read these in order or you’ll be totally lost.

Gael is part of the FBI’s H.E.R.O. s team. He has the power to make his skin impenetrable. He can also understand any language in the world. When he gets partnered with Jake, Gael knows their partnership can never work.

Jake is a former member of the ENu, the Police Enhanced Unit, but quit because the ENu treats all enhanced as criminals and Jake doesn’t want anything to do with them anymore. He knows he probably has to prove himself to his new team, but he really wants to be accepted. Especially by Gael, his new partner. But it seems that Gael doesn’t want a partner at all….

I really liked that both Gael and Jake had some traumatizing experiences in their past but weren’t assholes because of it (I’ve read that in other books too many times to count). They were both actually pretty sweet. Gael didn’t want a partner, but that was only because he felt he didn’t have a lot to offer a partner and because he was dealing with some personal problems.

I’m also very happy Victoria Sue doesn’t do unnecessary relationship angst. I always feel that the problems the couple faces or the fights they have, feel natural and are never simply to insert some angst into the story or to keep them apart. Jake and Gael were attracted to each other, then got to know one another and started a tentative relationship that eventually turned into love. Yes, they fought some at times, but never without reason.

Oh, I do have to say that I really liked the villain in this. (Liked as in, I hated his guts) I didn’t care about the villains in the 2 previous books, but here I wanted to shoot the dude, or kill him slowly.

And that ending! I think I might have found my new favorite (future) couple. I can’t wait to find out if the next book will be about Eli or about Vance. Both men have very promising love interests already!

Victoria Sue has quickly turned into one of my favorite authors. This series is filed with action, a very good plotline, lots of hurt/comfort and pretty sweet romances.

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An ARC of Beneath This Mask was generously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.

[* A Reader Obsessed * · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

All I have to say is that this series just keeps getting better and better!

It definitely never ever hurts to capitalize on all the goodness that gentle giant Gael brings to the table. Tough but with a heart of gold, Gael’s a protector who keeps going despite the unrelenting hate he gets only because he’s Enhanced. However, that doesn’t stop him from wanting to help others and care for kids like him that continue to crop up in this series with their equally sad stories of being horrifically ostracized. Gael and his FBI cohorts are their champions while still fighting hard for Enhanced acceptance and equality.

Throw in Jake, new partner to Gael, who is drawn to him like no other. Jake believes in the team’s cause and just wants to be an accepted member. He and Gael don’t necessarily hit it off like one would think, but as they work together, lust of course, turns into more.

This continues to be full of smexy smex, action, suspense, and sooooo many feels. My heart clenches as it recalls what it went through while reading this, and it truly delivered. So yes, again I’m invested. This is my favorite installment thus far! Write faster please, Ms. Sue!

[Optimist ♰King's Wench♰ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I skipped the second in this series. I can't remember why but now I feel like I missed something. I remembered Gael as being sort of happy go lucky and outgoing but in this book he comes across more reserved, introverted, shy even. I still heart him but I'm thinking a backtrack is in order.

He's partnered with Jake because there is a killer on the loose who is targeting the enhanced. The whole team is put on the case but Jake and Gael don't exactly hit it off right away. Expect a dibble of enemies to lovers and a dabble of hurt comfort. Let's just say the scar on Gael's face runs deeper than his face and he needs someone to really see him, to love him.

The thriller aspects are fairly evenly matched with the romantic elements making this a true romantic suspense. Through a series of events a little autistic boy, Derrick, who was born with FAS is blamed for a death. He's also enhanced and Gael connects with him immediately. Pretty much all the events surrounding Derrick and his detention hit WAY TOO close to home and the recent immigration issue/separation of families/stripping of rights which had a me more than a little verklempt. Often. Thankfully, he has some people on his side who are vocal and the way this storyline evolved gave me a serious case of the warm fuzzies.

Gael and Jake's relationship evolved quickly and I kind of wish it was given more time to breathe, but I do understand how relationships can evolve quickly in intense situations. However, by the end of the story I was on board with Jake and Gael being truly committed to each other as partners in work and life.

There isn't an abundance of sex but there is a big guy bottoming! 🙌

There are also some torture scenes that could potentially be triggering for some, so exercise caution. However, this segued into an awesome finish. Beneath This Mask finished strong! Country strong!

Nick J. Russo did a terrific job with the voices. He differentiated them well so I never had to really pay attention to who was talking because all the voices were distinct and he emoted well.

Recommend to fans of paranormal, sci-fi and action adventure stories.

p.s. ZOMG!!!!!!!!!!! I CANNOT WAIT FOR VANCE'S BOOK!!!!!!!!! Eli is going to climb him like a tree. And it is going to epic. EPIC!




Audiobook was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[~Mindy Lynn~ · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars!

I have been wanting this story since the first book. I was completely intrigued by Gael and wanted to know about him and his past and the scars he wears.

Gael was such a cheerleader for Talon and Finn in books 1&2 and was such a positive person that you would never guess that he is hiding so much pain. His past haunts him. He has major trust issues and only puts the trust he does have in the members of his team. But still he doesn't share his pain and troubles with them. He especially doesn't trust his new partner, Jake and builds a pretty high wall to keep the man at a distance. But Jake see's him. Not the scars. It unnerves Gael that Jake continues to try and break his walls down, that he doesn't give up on him. Jake is new to the team and is excited about his job and his partner. He too has a past that haunts him and is just wanting a fresh start. He is frustrated that Gael continues to put him at arms length but he finds the more he pushes the more that wall Gael has built starts to crumble until finally he pushes all the way through. What he finds on the other side is a man he can totally fall in love with and the feeling just so happens to be mutual.

These two really were very sweet together. The chemistry was off the charts with these two. I loved them together.

I am extremely excited for Vance's book. I can't wait for his story with his new partner. It's no doubt going to be delish.

Happy reading dolls! xx

[Christelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

So entertaining !!!

Not a standalone : even if this time, the story is about a new couple, Gael and Jake, the setting can only be fully understood if the previous books have been read.
Back in this alternate world where some children are being badly and unfairly outcasted when they become, by an unknown phenomenon, enhanced. The FBI decided to build a mixed team of enhanced and regulars to intervene when there’s trouble involving an enhanced.

Gael, whose skin can withhold bullets, is supposed to be teamed with Jake, a former member of the ENu team, famous for its contempt and more than often brutal dealing with enhanced. Gael is very mixed when it comes to Jake. He’s very cautious with the fear he inspired from his status as an enhanced and the scar on his face, and his more than understandable mistrust of ENu. But at the same time, he can’t help being pulled by the very handsome and powerful Jake.
And he can’t keep avoiding this man when several suspect deaths of enhanced occur and the welfare of an enhanced kid, whose hardship is multiplied by autism and the impossibility to communicate with anybody, is once again on the line.

I have to be honest here, I wished there could have been way more sexy times between Gael and Jake because these two ones are hot together (please, dear author : more heat!!). But what gripped me the most so far is this “futuristic” setting and the action displayed to help all these enhanced kids and teens (my sense of fairness is totally on board).

Next book will probably be about Vance, the blushing teddy bear of the team, and his new “regular” and oh so teasing partner, Samuel. A release I’m looking forward to as I’m officially addicted to this series.

[Deborah · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5*

I loved this book and I’m loving this series.

Once again there’s so many well written and fabulous reviews that’s mine’s really not needed so I’ll keep it short.
While this book belongs mainly to Gael and Jake (this is not a standalone the previous two books need to be read first) we still get tons of the other guys.
This is another fabulous and emotional read and I want more and I want it now.
I’m hoping and assuming Vance is next.

[Heather K (dentist in my spare time) · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good read but just too instalovey for me. Plot got exciting towards the end but I was waiting for this to go down since the beginning. Can't wait for book 4 (couple introduced in this one were exciting!). Full review soon.

[Madison Warner Fairbanks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beneath This Mask by Victoria Sue
Enhanced World series #3. M-M paranormal romance. Can be read as a stand-alone but better as part of the series or at least aware of the specific world building.
Gael Peterson is a member of the FBI’s exclusive H.E.R.O. team but continues to hide his enhanced abilities from his new regular human partner, Jake. The two partners are sent to a hospital to help a non speaking enhanced child. Gael and Jake grow closer as they try to prevent the child from ending up in a juvenile delinquent facility. The H.E.R.O. program gets a lot of hate and threats from the outside and a killer is now focused on Gael. It’s up Jake to figure out where the threat is coming from.

Scenes between Gael and the child are both heartbreaking and heartwarming. Scenes between Gael and Jake go from tentative to steamy. Scenes in the last quarter of the book are a bit grizzly and ugly. Don’t give up. It’s a beautiful romance in the end with two very caring men that deserve the world.

[Fabi NEEDS Email Notifications · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

This book is good. It got really good towards the end. Enough to nudge it up another half star.

It's a pretty unique PNR plotline. You have to read these books in order to really understand the ongoing story.

These books always leave me craving the next one.

[CaRo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jake and Gael oh my <3

The author does a good job with keeping it interesting and the story flowing easily. Kind of sad that I have caught up now and have to wait for next book. And I think I have the answer to my question in the review of the second book - they are all gay. At least that is what I think now that we know with who Vance get partnered up.

The thing with Drew didn't make any sense to me not at all. Yeah I was not too fond of him but that he was that much of an sardistic asshole I didn't see comin.

I also liked the adoption part in the end of the book but honestly I thought really they are both cops who are always have to be callable how should that work but it made me happy so who gives a shit.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 enhanced stars rounded down because...'still no 1/2 stars here on GR'. Full review to follow soonish...

Racing on the thunder and rising with the heat...

It's gonna take a superman to sweep me off my feet...I need a hero...

"Beneath the Mask" is the third book in Victoria Sue's 'Enhanced' series and while we met the whole team in the first and second books this third installment takes the focus away from Talon and Finn to give us a look at enhanced team member Gael Peterson and his human partner Jake, bur that doesn't mean that readers should skip the first two books...trust me you really don't want to do that because both of these characters are introduced in the the first two books in this series along with the other members of the H.E.R.O. team.

Things aren't going to be easy for Gael and Jake and when they get thrown together I'm pretty sure that neither man would have anticipated they'd ever manage to be working partners much less have anything more personal between them.

As the team gets drawn into an investigation involving the deaths of enhanced humans and the evidence points to a child who may be an enhanced it doesn't mean he's not also vulnerable and Gael becomes determined to champion the young child...determined that he's not only innocent but in danger as well. What Gael doesn't count on is the fact that the real murderer has their sights set on Gael and the person that Gael trust the least it the person that he may need the most.

Gael's got a less than happy past but that hasn't kept him from becoming a compassionate and gentle soul who absolutely melted my heart. While Jake won me over with his determination and loyalty to the members of H.E.R.O. and in particular to Gael in spite of Gael's rather prickly nature towards him.

Jake knows that as a former member of the Police ENu (ENhanced unit) and a past that he'd rather not have people find out about, Jake's not expecting to have an easy time of things and he's both willing and determined to make things work as a regular member of the H.E.R.O. team.

I loved the mystery/thriller/adventure aspect of this story and while I had my suspicions as to 'who done it', it wasn't until towards the end that things were confirmed for me and the ending...wow! just wow! the ending of this story was a nail bitter and I don't bite my nails!

I loved the glimpses we got of Talon, Finn and the other team members and can't wait to find out who's story is next and if it was more Gael and Jake, I can honestly say that won't upset me in the slightest. This pairing was superb. I'm not even sure when it happened but Gael and Jake ever so smoothly slid from being interesting and likable to a pairing that I want more of because for me they just worked. I think it was the fact that initially they just didn't click and it took time for them to find that connection, especially for Gael but when it happened it worked for me and I was all in.

The icing on the 'enhanced' cake for me was the narrator...Nick J. Russo. I adore his audiobooks and without fail his narration works. He's on of my very short list of narrators whom I don't need to check out the audio sample before getting a book I just need to decide if it's a book that I want to listen to. Although this book was pretty much a no brainer...a series that I love, a narrator who's at the top of my list...so how could I loose? I couldn't...see...no brainer and very much recommended.

*************************

An audio book of 'Beneath This Mask' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Trio · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ah, the sweet anticipation. Good news for fans of Victoria Sue’s Enhanced series, our patience has paid off. Beneath This Mask is out in audio, narrated by the sensational Nick J. Russo, and it is worth the wait! This is Gael’s tale in the continuing story of the agents in the FBI’s H.E.R.O. team, and the series must be read in order.

One of my favorite aspects of the Enhanced series, aside from the sweetly smutty sex, is how well developed the plot lines are. Victoria Sue pulls out another excellent story with Beneath This Mask. There are some heavy subjects covered in this one, and this wonderful author works her magic to tug on your heartstrings. The delicate topics are important aspects to the continuing story arc, but if you’re sensitive please check the tags.

From the very beginning of this series Gael has intrigued me. Between his unusual abilities, his stoic demeanor, and his incredibly heartbreaking backstory, this hunky enhanced agent has quite a fan club! I know I’m not alone in wishing for him to find a little romance. As soon as Jake was introduced at the end of the second book, I knew he’d be the perfect man for Gael.

Between his scars and his history of past abuse, Gael can’t imagine anyone being attracted to him. Jake sees beyond the physical when he looks at Gael, and he’s got it bad! Gael does everything he can to avoid the handsome former ENu agent, but Jake isn’t giving up - and his persistence pays off. These two are adorable together, and when they finally work it out, oh boy the sparks start flying.

It feels as though the bigotry and prejudice toward enhanced humans is just getting worse. Not only are folks going out of their way to avoid the enhanced, they’re also rushing to accuse them of every crime that occurs. This unjust behavior reaches a new low in Beneath This Mask when the suspect is an enhanced child with special needs.It’s no surprise Gael would reach out to this child, but also that he’d become a champion for him. Just another example of what an amazing guy he is, selfless and brave. A true hero.

I’ve been waiting a long time now for my man to get his happy ending, and it feels like this book was over way too soon. I’ve got my fingers crossed we’ll get another installment in Gael and Jake’s story, after all Gael still has a lot of trauma to work through and their journey is a good one.

Beneath This Mask is another excellent episode in the Enhanced series and if you haven’t given this one a go, I urge you to start with Five Minutes Longer. This isn’t your typical Sci-Fi Romance, and Nick J. Russo’s creative and upbeat narration is the perfect compliment to Victoria Sue’s fantastic story.

[Rachel Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another winner in this series and from this author! Although Talon and Finn might still be my favorite couple (so far anyway - CANNOT wait for Vance's book now!) I have loved Gael since the beginning of the series and I loved getting his story and getting to know him better.

I think one thing I really loved in this was that despite all the action going on, all the drama, Gael and Jake just found each other and totally fell for each other when neither of them was looking for a relationship and there was just an ease to the progression of their relationship. I do wish we had gotten like, another epilogue with them or something, as their story seems a bit unfinished still, but I know we will see them plenty in future stories.

Also? I loved the whole part with Derrick, I am so happy that kid got a happy ending too!

I also really liked the villain in this one - obviously, not like liked him, but what he was doing to the enhanced and his motivation was well written, interesting, and kept the story really moving along.

I love this group of characters and I can't wait for whoever's story is next (OK but I really hope it's Vance!). You definitely need to read them in order as they are all continuations and feature the entire cast of characters, so start with the first book and enjoy!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Christy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am completely besotted with this new series and its characters. Gael and Jake both have a lot of secrets and, even though Gael is enhanced while Jake is human, their horrible childhoods share some distinct similarities. Gael’s was filled with more physical abuse but I think it’s safe to say that abuse is abuse regardless of type, especially when dealing with a child. ‘Beneath the Mask’ gave me more worldbuilding, more background, an exciting story, and a hot romance. Pretty much what I’ve come to expect from this author.

Gael had a drunk, physically, mentally, and emotionally abusive father growing up, and when Gael was trying to cover his enhanced scar before going to school one day, his father took a butane lighter to it to burn it off his face, leaving him horribly scarred. This new serial killer case is throwing everyone for a loop and when a young enhanced boy, suffering from fetal alcohol syndrome and possibly autism, is accused of murder, Gael takes it very personally as he is the first person to effectively communicate with the boy. To say stressors are running high is an understatement.

Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews

[Aki | nose buried in books | ❤️ | · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars rounded up

I couldn't wait for Gael's story, but this book wasn't as great as I expected.
I loved the charactes, but there was too much going on...

[I~❤️~Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Story- ✮4.5 Stars✮ 💗
AudioBook Narration- ✮5 Stars✮ 💗

[Jinx · Rating 2 out of 5]

Gael and Jake didn't possess any head over feet, over the moon, I'd love him in this life and the next couple building qualities. The kind where you read the traits and characteristics of two MC's and instantly think to yourself I ship them soooooo hard. But, sadly no, this book had none of that. It just felt like I'm here, your here, wanna fuck?

There were a lot loose ends in this book. The author would make mention of something seemingly important and or integral to the story and then... nothing.

Loose ends being, Jake's issues with his dad, his tentative relationship with his mother, Gael's sister, why was Wyatt never seen? It confounds how someone Gael spent his childhood protecting and chose homelessness to be able to pay for his college tuition would be absent from GAEL'S book (mentioning him here and there didn't give me enough insight in to all of Gael's sacrifices). I saw more of Vance's family than I did of the two MC's combined.

The one thing I truly liked about this book was Angel. How someone so insignificant to the story could have had such an impact should say something about how under-developed and lackluster the MC's were. Their story felt unfinished. I just wish the author would have made them their own people and not something meant to live in the shadows of the couple who came before them and the couples who will follow. To me it kinda felt like she just wanted to get them out of the way so she could write more books revolving around Talon and Finn interspersed with books from the rest of the team.

[Novia · Rating 1 out of 5]

So here's the thing...... (some spoilers ahead)

By reading the third book in this series I feel pretty confident in saying that I gave the series a fair shot. I REALLY REALLY wanted to like this because the concepts of the series are really my jam.

-Paranormal *check
-A militaristic/police/FBI crime solving and mystery vibe *check
-Hot guys that are flawed (we'll obviously!!) *check

But...the connections aren't there. I get zero feels from amongst the teammates or their significant others. Bump kiss. Nada. Ziltch. Alllll ze nopes. And I don't just mean romantic feels, I mean comradeship as well.

Regarding this book, if you're into a hate/insta-love story that comes mystical land of "where the hell did that come from?" Where nothing makes sense and the characters go from hating each other for reasons I still can't comprehend to calling each other 'baby' and giving each other's hand s ones for you.

I just.....what? I'm not expecting literary award winning material when I buy a book like this but I AM expecting a STORY. And don't get me started on the rape!. It came out of left field and served ZERO PURPOSE, she (the author)could've went through that entire scene without that bit. It contributed NOTHING to the story at all.

One. Fucking. Star. For at least writing a book. And that's saying something because I usually give 2 stars for books I get through even if I don't like them because it takes balls to write a book. That's how ridiculous that scene is to me.

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

RTC

[BWT · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Enhanced series keeps kicking it up a notch and is definitely getting better with each installment and what makes them even better, for me, is how much I love Nick J. Russo's narration of the characters. I love how well Nick J. Russo brings the story and characters to life. His character voices are great and consistent, his tone and pitch are good, and his pacing is terrific.

Told from a dual POV, Beneath This Mask has a fantastic plot, a lot of action, some of which is pretty intense, and some sexy times interspersed between crises.

What Gael goes through in this story...*shudders* Victoria Sue put him through the ringer and not just in the will-they-won't-they-get-their-stuff-together relationship with Jake. There's a lot of information that comes out in this installment, and you should make sure to read the first two books before starting Beneath This Mask, because even though this has a different character set's POV, it is not (in my opinion) a standalone.

This series is sexy as hell, super entertaining, and a great listen with awesome narration.

Recommended!

4.5 Stars

Audio copy of Beneath This Mask (Enhanced #3) provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.

This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.

[The Novel Approach · Rating 5 out of 5]

Third times a charm goes the saying, and it couldn’t be more apt with this latest book in Victoria Sue’s Enhanced World series, Beneath this Mask. We veer away from Finn and Talon to begin focusing on the stories of the other enhanced members of the task force. We also get a taste of what’s in store for the group as the director in charge introduces another non-enhanced human to partner to the group, this time with Gael. Gael’s abilities are rather interesting, as they combine armor-like skin that can deflect bullets with the ability to instantly assimilate and understand any language, including nonverbal ones such as sign language. That is going to come in handy when the team is called out on the case of a mute, autistic boy who is accused of hurting other students at his school.

Talon met Gael when he discovered him living on the docks where Talon worked. Homeless, hungry and badly scarred from an attempt by his drunken father to burn off the unique facial mark that suddenly appears when a child comes into their powers, Gael is wary of interacting with others. Gael had been his father’s punching bag in order to protect his younger brother, Wyatt, after their mother had disappeared, leaving the boys behind. Gael had always kept Wyatt safe, often denying his own basic needs in order to put his brother through school. When the team found out that they would be getting human partners, and Gael’s turn was next, the shock as to who the new guy was going to be could not be more profound.

Jake Riley was part of the enemy in most of the team’s view. A former SWAT member, his last gig was with the ENu—a tactical team that responds to any threats by an enhanced human. Known for using brute force and tranquilizers that are way too strong, the team has an apparent dislike for any person they deem irregular. Jake has a secret—one that forced him to leave the SWAT team behind and attempt to bury his painful past. He knows Talon is aware of the circumstances of his leaving his former job, and that he joined the ENu as a way to make amends, unware that the ENu was so hard on the enhanced. Jake knows he should inform the rest of the team of the reason he left the SWAT team, particularly since his previous partners at ENu have found out and are determined to make his life a living hell for joining forces with the enhanced team they despise.

Unfortunately, before he can come clean, his attraction to Gael spikes, and their one moment of unguarded intimacy allows Gael to hope that he and Jake can be more than just partners. Then Gael discovers Jake’s secret and is absolutely gutted, deciding he was a fool to trust the other man. He asks to have a new partner, and Talon reluctantly agrees, giving Jake to Vance and allowing Drew to temporarily join their team to work with Gael. Those who have read the series thus far will remember that Drew has ambitions to join the FBI’s BAU unit and is waiting to hear back from them while being assigned initially to help Finn assimilate to the enhanced team. With Drew now annoyingly partnering with Gael, and Jake trying to persuade the man to give him another chance, Gael finds himself drawn deeply into the life of an orphaned autistic boy who holds the key to the identity of the serial killer currently murdering enhanced adults. Little does Gael know he will be the killer’s next target.

I think this was the best book in the series to date. The depth to which Gael’s and Jake’s pasts were discussed gave such life to these characters. The things Gael had to deal with emotionally and physically from an early age just broke my heart. His sensitivity and gentle attitude toward little Derrick was a real indicator as to what type of man Gael was—a protector, loyal and kind. While Jake was similar, he was the stronger of the two, and as such he became the one to pursue Gael in the story.

There were several storylines running simultaneously through this novel, and the way in which the author tied them all together and created an incredibly well executed murder mystery was just outstanding. First, there was the serial killer who was going after adult enhanced victims. There seemed to be no common thread to the killer’s decision as to who he tortured and murdered next. When we get to the end of this story and see the killer in action, it is incredibly disturbing and for some might be triggering—just a warning to those who cannot handle torture and abuse. Then, we meet two new characters—one the autistic child, Derrick, who finds a unique way to communicate with Gael. I love that authors are becoming more inclusive in their characterizations, this being the second novel in as many weeks to include an autistic individual in a key way. The second person we meet is Angel, and how he figures into the story and what he turns out to be is just delightful. I am betting he and Vance will be the next story we get from this author.

Along with the serial killer plot, we revisit the “mole” thread that was introduced in book two. Finally, we are made privy as to who the person is and their motivation in playing a key role in trying to bring the enhanced/human task force to its knees. They were most decidedly hell-bent on destroying these men, and the coldblooded way in which the mole used the team and turned on them was cleverly developed and well written.

In so many ways I think the author really hit her stride with this third book. I felt that the story was more cohesive, more action packed and well balanced between the mystery and suspense elements and the romance thread. I look forward to the next chapter in this series with great excitement!

Reviewed by Sammy for The Novel Approach

[Andi]

DNF. I couldn't get into it. It's probably me and not the book. Might try again one day.

[JustJen "Miss Conduct" · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review by The Blogger Girls.

This is a really interesting series where enhanced team members are paired with non-enhanced partners to make up the H.E.R.O. Team. They are fighting criminals but also those who believe enhanced don’t belong in any type of power position. There are those who want the teams dismantled and to basically criminalize the enhanced. Then there are the young enhanced, who are vulnerable for obvious reasons.

In this segment, we have Gael, whom we have come to know pretty well from the first two books. He gets his partner in this installment, but he is not happy about it. He’s not fully on board with the whole partner thing and the fact that he doesn’t much like Jake isn’t helping any. Jake comes from the rival ENu department (the ones called in to handle out of control Enhanced), so Gael doesn’t trust Jake to have his back and is very reluctant to let him in. Jake has to work extra hard to win that trust, as well as fully win over the rest of the team. When the case of an enhanced child in danger heats up, and other enhanced are being murdered by using their abilities against them, matters are taken out of their hands and Gael and Jake end up working together for the greater cause, even after Jake is switched to another partner.

I like that there is more going on in this series than just the pairings. The future of the team, the issues they each deal with in regards to their enhancements, as well as the actual events of each story, make for an exciting and interesting tale that keep the pages turning. There are quite a few underlying lessons learned as well. Beauty is only skin deep, there is a lot more to people than meets the eye, etc. Luckily, these guys see through things pretty quickly where each other is concerned, even if it takes a while for them to fully get on board with it together. They end up being perfect for each other, and it was really enjoyable to watch that all play out.

If you are looking for a solid paranormal that is a bit different from the every day, you won’t be disappointed in this one, and each story equally delivers. I can’t wait to see what’s next for this unique group of characters!

[Joyfully Jay · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Joyfully Jay review.

3.75 stars

Beneath This Mask is the third book in Victoria Sue’s Enhanced series and the first one to focus on a new couple in Jake and Gael. Despite the new pairing, I think the series is soundly enough linked in plot and characters that you really need to have read the other books to be up to speed on everything here.

As much as I liked Talon and Finn from the first books, I enjoyed the chance to focus on a new couple and to start expanding the story to encompass the rest of the teammates. I wish we had gotten to see Gael’s abilities in action more, as part of the fun of this series is that the guys all have extraordinary abilities. In Gael’s case, it is an ability to speak and understand any language, as well as impenetrable skin. Although we get to see a teeny bit of each, I wished these abilities played more into the story. Gael is Talon’s number two guy, so he is a leader on the team. At the same time, he has a lot of insecurities about his past, as well as his appearance due to a large facial scar. He can’t quite believe in Jake’s affection for him, something that challenges their relationship quite a bit.

Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.

[Ronie Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

A mask indeed. I knew something was wrong with that guy. After his improper advance. Okay there is childhood trauma. It takes care. Yet! If all else fails. I wouldn't recommend a spree.

Why my guy! To do this to such a sweet guy. Well at least Finn stayed out of surgery or needing first aid. What a relief! Now excuse me, my face is leaking. Weird to have allergies acting up in the middle of winter.