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Rescued Hearts #2
Reunited
Ryder Daniels and Jason Mallory seem to have it all but even the most loving marriage takes work. Ryder's past leads him to remain silent yet resentful in the face of conflict while Jason strives to prove he can take care of his family without Ryder's wealth, even if it costs him precious time with his husband and daughter.
When a devastating illness leaves them shaken and helpless, Ryder is forced to face the one person he never thought to see again with a life or death request that even he isn't sure will be granted, but his decisions have far-reaching consequences. Believing he and Ryder have no secrets, Jason is distraught to discover otherwise, revealing yet another crack in their once-perfect relationship.
Adrift and uncertain, both struggle to hold onto a love previously thought unshakeable. A forbidden past is exposed, shocking Ryder to the core, but it means little without Jason by his side. Marriage is a partnership and both men must learn that only by working through their pain and heartbreak together can they achieve a lifetime of love.
When a devastating illness leaves them shaken and helpless, Ryder is forced to face the one person he never thought to see again with a life or death request that even he isn't sure will be granted, but his decisions have far-reaching consequences. Believing he and Ryder have no secrets, Jason is distraught to discover otherwise, revealing yet another crack in their once-perfect relationship.
Adrift and uncertain, both struggle to hold onto a love previously thought unshakeable. A forbidden past is exposed, shocking Ryder to the core, but it means little without Jason by his side. Marriage is a partnership and both men must learn that only by working through their pain and heartbreak together can they achieve a lifetime of love.
243 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 31, 2017
31 people are currently reading
346 people want to read
About the author
Felice Stevens
89 books1,716 followersFelice Stevens writes romance because what is better than people falling in love? Her favorite part of a romance novel is that first kiss…sigh. She loves creating stories of hopes and dreams and happily ever afters. Her stories are character-driven, rich with the sights, sounds and flavors of New York City and filled with men who are sometimes deeply flawed but always real.
Felice writes M/M romance because she believes that everyone deserves a happily ever after. Having traveled all over the world, she can safely say that the universal language that unites people is love. Felice has written in a variety of sub-genres, including contemporary, paranormal and has a mystery series as well.
Felice is a two-time Lambda Literary Award nominee and the Lambda award-winner for Best Gay Romance for her book, The Ghost and Charlie Muir, as well as the e-Lit gold medal winner in romance for Broken Silence.
Felice writes M/M romance because she believes that everyone deserves a happily ever after. Having traveled all over the world, she can safely say that the universal language that unites people is love. Felice has written in a variety of sub-genres, including contemporary, paranormal and has a mystery series as well.
Felice is a two-time Lambda Literary Award nominee and the Lambda award-winner for Best Gay Romance for her book, The Ghost and Charlie Muir, as well as the e-Lit gold medal winner in romance for Broken Silence.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
February 7, 2017
4.5 stars - Full Review posted at Alpha Book Club
❥❥**´¨)
¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)
(¸.•´ (¸.•`*ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Jaime from Alpha Book Club
❥❥**´¨)
¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)
(¸.•´ (¸.•`*ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Jaime from Alpha Book Club
January 31, 2017
Review originally posted at Sinfully.
4.5 stars
I have to say I enjoyed this follow-up even more than the first book. Jason and Ryder have been married for 5 years and love each other even more than when we left them at the end of Rescued (which you really should read first). Like every couple though, not everything is perfect. Jason is working long hours to provide for his family and Ryder just wants Jason home at night to spend time with him and their daughter. Jason is concerned about providing Ryder and Gemma with the life Ryder was used to, having grown up with money. Ryder just wants their daughter to grow up with her father around, unlike the way Ryder grew up with a father concerned more with making money than with raising his children. Unfortunately, Ryder has a tendency to just give in rather than risk a confrontation or disagreement. Another gift courtesy of his dysfunctional family.
When an author can bring me to tears with concern for a character, even knowing a happy ending is guaranteed, that’s always a good thing. Felice Stevens really captured the constant evolution a relationship goes through and how outside pressures and perceived roles can cause cracks and distance. In Ryder and Jason’s case, it’s not the complacency that can come with a long-term relationship nor the sudden medical crisis they are facing, but their unresolved personal issues that are causing strife. These two are still as hot and heavy and in love as they ever were. Little things that came up in the first book, that may have seemed resolved, but were really just pushed aside for necessity’s sake all come to a head here.
As with any of the author’s stories, family plays a big part here. All of Ryder and Jason’s family, by blood or love, are affected by a sudden medical crises. While the majority come together without batting an eye, the distance between Ryder and his mother becomes even more of an issue. Ryder’s mother’s actions are finally explained but are still, to me, unfathomable. The character is cruel and heartless and though the relationship she has with Ryder and his family changes somewhat, I was happy to see that it was dealt with in a realistic manner. The illness storyline was not a magic cure-all for the broken bits of that relationship.
I was completely emotionally invested from the start and it wasn’t the life or death situation that had me shedding tears, but the manner in which Ryder and Jason were struggling to keep themselves and their family together throughout the story. The men handle their medical crisis incredibly well and it showed just how deeply they love, support and rely each other for strength.
Felice Stevens catches us up on the whole cast of characters we first met in Rescued, and I’m sure I won’t be the only one clamoring for John’s story after his brief appearance here. Whether you wanted more of Ryder and Jason after Rescued or you’re a fan of seeing a committed, long-term couple work through tough times in their lives and come out even stronger for it, I can absolutely recommend this story.
4.5 stars
I have to say I enjoyed this follow-up even more than the first book. Jason and Ryder have been married for 5 years and love each other even more than when we left them at the end of Rescued (which you really should read first). Like every couple though, not everything is perfect. Jason is working long hours to provide for his family and Ryder just wants Jason home at night to spend time with him and their daughter. Jason is concerned about providing Ryder and Gemma with the life Ryder was used to, having grown up with money. Ryder just wants their daughter to grow up with her father around, unlike the way Ryder grew up with a father concerned more with making money than with raising his children. Unfortunately, Ryder has a tendency to just give in rather than risk a confrontation or disagreement. Another gift courtesy of his dysfunctional family.
When an author can bring me to tears with concern for a character, even knowing a happy ending is guaranteed, that’s always a good thing. Felice Stevens really captured the constant evolution a relationship goes through and how outside pressures and perceived roles can cause cracks and distance. In Ryder and Jason’s case, it’s not the complacency that can come with a long-term relationship nor the sudden medical crisis they are facing, but their unresolved personal issues that are causing strife. These two are still as hot and heavy and in love as they ever were. Little things that came up in the first book, that may have seemed resolved, but were really just pushed aside for necessity’s sake all come to a head here.
As with any of the author’s stories, family plays a big part here. All of Ryder and Jason’s family, by blood or love, are affected by a sudden medical crises. While the majority come together without batting an eye, the distance between Ryder and his mother becomes even more of an issue. Ryder’s mother’s actions are finally explained but are still, to me, unfathomable. The character is cruel and heartless and though the relationship she has with Ryder and his family changes somewhat, I was happy to see that it was dealt with in a realistic manner. The illness storyline was not a magic cure-all for the broken bits of that relationship.
I was completely emotionally invested from the start and it wasn’t the life or death situation that had me shedding tears, but the manner in which Ryder and Jason were struggling to keep themselves and their family together throughout the story. The men handle their medical crisis incredibly well and it showed just how deeply they love, support and rely each other for strength.
Felice Stevens catches us up on the whole cast of characters we first met in Rescued, and I’m sure I won’t be the only one clamoring for John’s story after his brief appearance here. Whether you wanted more of Ryder and Jason after Rescued or you’re a fan of seeing a committed, long-term couple work through tough times in their lives and come out even stronger for it, I can absolutely recommend this story.
March 25, 2017
An enjoyable follow up to Rescued, the second story in the Rescued Heart series once again follows the life and struggles of Ryder and Jason.
Note that I would not recommend this as a standalone. The two books need to be read in order to really understand all that's happening.
Told, once again, in dual POV, this time around Jason and Ryder have a lot to work through including their own relationship (I sort of felt Jason was a bit of a jackass there), their daughter's health, Ryder's mother, as well as secrets long buried.
Reunited is quite a bit more angsty than Rescued, but has the same love, passion and sweetness at its core.
This is a solid established couple romance with a worth-it HEA. All in all I enjoyed it and felt it is a pretty worthwhile sequel.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
Note that I would not recommend this as a standalone. The two books need to be read in order to really understand all that's happening.
Told, once again, in dual POV, this time around Jason and Ryder have a lot to work through including their own relationship (I sort of felt Jason was a bit of a jackass there), their daughter's health, Ryder's mother, as well as secrets long buried.
Reunited is quite a bit more angsty than Rescued, but has the same love, passion and sweetness at its core.
“And I love you more today than I did that night I came out to my parents. I could never stop loving you.”
This is a solid established couple romance with a worth-it HEA. All in all I enjoyed it and felt it is a pretty worthwhile sequel.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
October 31, 2017
*** 5 stars!***
A few months back when Felice Stevens gave us hints that there's gonna be a sequel for Rescued, honestly, I was freaking out.
I mean, these guys have their HEA already! What are you going to do revisiting and ripped their HEA again?
And Felice just didn't care (evil woman!). And she came with the story my obvious weakness... A child!
Damn.
And when 'suddenly' this book just dropped onto my hand, I need more coffee to calm down. Yeah, I'm cranky with no coffee.
So, I revisited Ryder and Jason and their four year old daughter, Gemma. After five years of their marriage.
The twist right there from the start, punching my gut and the cry fest started.
I tried not to give you any spoilers if possible, so this review won't include the story.
But a little hints of Jason and Ryder relationship won't hurt. They're my first love of Felice's boys, before I met Micah (ehem), and I didn't want Felice messing up with their life.. I made it clear that no cheating will allowed in my books. And I was glad, that Ryder and Jason as strong as they were in the beginning.
Of course there's never be always rainbow and flowers in marriage. And I think, after some crying (me, and Jason and Ryder), they're okay after all. With the family's love, and one big surprise on Ryder's side.
This is mostly about family, and how we cannot life our life alone without their love, and how much we need family support, whatever we want it or not. Family is there to support you.
I think this one of Felice's best and I'm glad I can read it right when I need some tears detox.
You won't escape the tears when you reading this, but it's all worth it.
Thanks Felice, keep on writing!
* I received the ARC from the author with no expectation to write a review or a high rating upon the ARC received. I'll still write in my blog near the release date.*
""Now here I am, back again, stuck spinning my wheels in the mud, unable to move. Scared to death this time. But I never stopped needing you. I never will.""
A few months back when Felice Stevens gave us hints that there's gonna be a sequel for Rescued, honestly, I was freaking out.
I mean, these guys have their HEA already! What are you going to do revisiting and ripped their HEA again?
And Felice just didn't care (evil woman!). And she came with the story my obvious weakness... A child!
Damn.
And when 'suddenly' this book just dropped onto my hand, I need more coffee to calm down. Yeah, I'm cranky with no coffee.
So, I revisited Ryder and Jason and their four year old daughter, Gemma. After five years of their marriage.
The twist right there from the start, punching my gut and the cry fest started.
I tried not to give you any spoilers if possible, so this review won't include the story.
But a little hints of Jason and Ryder relationship won't hurt. They're my first love of Felice's boys, before I met Micah (ehem), and I didn't want Felice messing up with their life.. I made it clear that no cheating will allowed in my books. And I was glad, that Ryder and Jason as strong as they were in the beginning.
Of course there's never be always rainbow and flowers in marriage. And I think, after some crying (me, and Jason and Ryder), they're okay after all. With the family's love, and one big surprise on Ryder's side.
This is mostly about family, and how we cannot life our life alone without their love, and how much we need family support, whatever we want it or not. Family is there to support you.
I think this one of Felice's best and I'm glad I can read it right when I need some tears detox.
You won't escape the tears when you reading this, but it's all worth it.
Thanks Felice, keep on writing!
* I received the ARC from the author with no expectation to write a review or a high rating upon the ARC received. I'll still write in my blog near the release date.*
June 18, 2017
2.5 stars. I did not like this one as much as the first the MCs went from being lovable characters to being rather annoying in this one. Plus, I have a strong dislike for Ryder's mother so the ending didn't go over well with me. I don't care what her excuse was in the end her behavior was unforgivable, granted she helped their daughter. I still think her actions afterwards cancelled it out. There was just a lot I was not loving about this book. I leave it at that.
Read
February 1, 2017 Reunited is now LIVE:
Amazon: http://bit.ly/AmazonReunited
iBooks: http://bit.ly/iBooksReunited
B&N: http://bit.ly/NookReunited
Kobo: http://bit.ly/KoboReunited
Amazon: http://bit.ly/AmazonReunited
iBooks: http://bit.ly/iBooksReunited
B&N: http://bit.ly/NookReunited
Kobo: http://bit.ly/KoboReunited
November 22, 2017
*~~*ARC kindly provided by the author to me in exchange for an honest review *~~*
When I first read about the continuation of the Rescued Heart series I was over the moon. But was also curious. I couldn't really think about a way how to make the first book even better, how to create a second novel when the first was "complete". But Felice Stevens did it... again.
The blurb this time saying it isn't the sunny-perfect life Ryder and Jason have, or at least their happy bubble seems to burst.
They are united since 4 years, happy married and have their daughter Gemma but certain circumstances bring the young, small family to its limits.
It is heart-clenching but also typical Felice Stevens to help the reader through the difficult parts. It also shows the great bond of Ryder and Jason, who are blessed with their sweet, awesome daughter Gemma.
Gemma is besides the both guys the focus in this story and you totally love her right from the start. She is a girl you wish as your own daughter, grand- or goddaughter or niece. Or sinply around you. Such a heart-warming charming girl. And you hope so heavily for her. So, so much.
The other part of the book is about Ryder's family, and both have to connect with someone they would lovely avoid.
Without revealing too much you have with this book a great mix of (low) angst and happy scenes. It is spiked with sexy erotical interactions, hot and steamy, but wonderful emotional. It hits you right in the heart. <3
Also does the book show you: even the best couple argue and have to deal with problems. This way it makes the character even more "human" and you are bonded to them on a deeper lever than before. They aren't the abstract "perfect" people who can endure everything. You really feel the love Felice had for their character and it rub to you as a reader, too.
A great book of the series. It is heavy emotional stuff but your heart will be set together again.
5 out of 5 stars. I'm (positive) done.... <3
Review originally posted on my blog with added content Mikku-chan / A world full of words
Blog Tour gracefully hosted by Give Me Books
When I first read about the continuation of the Rescued Heart series I was over the moon. But was also curious. I couldn't really think about a way how to make the first book even better, how to create a second novel when the first was "complete". But Felice Stevens did it... again.
The blurb this time saying it isn't the sunny-perfect life Ryder and Jason have, or at least their happy bubble seems to burst.
They are united since 4 years, happy married and have their daughter Gemma but certain circumstances bring the young, small family to its limits.
It is heart-clenching but also typical Felice Stevens to help the reader through the difficult parts. It also shows the great bond of Ryder and Jason, who are blessed with their sweet, awesome daughter Gemma.
Gemma is besides the both guys the focus in this story and you totally love her right from the start. She is a girl you wish as your own daughter, grand- or goddaughter or niece. Or sinply around you. Such a heart-warming charming girl. And you hope so heavily for her. So, so much.
The other part of the book is about Ryder's family, and both have to connect with someone they would lovely avoid.
Without revealing too much you have with this book a great mix of (low) angst and happy scenes. It is spiked with sexy erotical interactions, hot and steamy, but wonderful emotional. It hits you right in the heart. <3
Also does the book show you: even the best couple argue and have to deal with problems. This way it makes the character even more "human" and you are bonded to them on a deeper lever than before. They aren't the abstract "perfect" people who can endure everything. You really feel the love Felice had for their character and it rub to you as a reader, too.
A great book of the series. It is heavy emotional stuff but your heart will be set together again.
5 out of 5 stars. I'm (positive) done.... <3
Review originally posted on my blog with added content Mikku-chan / A world full of words
Blog Tour gracefully hosted by Give Me Books
February 7, 2017
I loved Jason and Ryder in Rescued, so I was very happy to hear they were getting another story in Reunited. The two of them were just as sweet together here as they were before, but now we also got to see how they handled a terrible crisis together when it's constantly threatening to tear them apart.
Reunited does have a lot more angst and tension than Rescued did, and plenty of emotion thanks to the nature of the turmoil Jason and Ryder (as well as their families) go through in this story. This time around, the intimate scenes between them didn't quite fit for me given the reason behind all of the drama--I get that they needed release, but for me those scenes actually diverted my attention from the rest of the story. Normally I'm gung-ho for those scenes, especially with Jason and Ryder since their chemistry is fantastic, but not this time around. That doesn't mean those scenes weren't hot as heck though ;-)
Their families were again a great set of supporting characters, and I still can't stand Ryder's mother-regardless of everything that happens in this story-and still wanted to throttle her just as badly as I did in the first book.
Reunited is another great romance from Felice Stevens, and was a 3.5-star read for me. It did tie things up a bit too neatly in the end for me with Ryder's mom (I'm more of a grudge-holder I guess), but otherwise it's a solid story that M/M romance lovers are sure to enjoy. This one's for readers 18+ for adult language and M/M sexual content.
Reunited does have a lot more angst and tension than Rescued did, and plenty of emotion thanks to the nature of the turmoil Jason and Ryder (as well as their families) go through in this story. This time around, the intimate scenes between them didn't quite fit for me given the reason behind all of the drama--I get that they needed release, but for me those scenes actually diverted my attention from the rest of the story. Normally I'm gung-ho for those scenes, especially with Jason and Ryder since their chemistry is fantastic, but not this time around. That doesn't mean those scenes weren't hot as heck though ;-)
Their families were again a great set of supporting characters, and I still can't stand Ryder's mother-regardless of everything that happens in this story-and still wanted to throttle her just as badly as I did in the first book.
Reunited is another great romance from Felice Stevens, and was a 3.5-star read for me. It did tie things up a bit too neatly in the end for me with Ryder's mom (I'm more of a grudge-holder I guess), but otherwise it's a solid story that M/M romance lovers are sure to enjoy. This one's for readers 18+ for adult language and M/M sexual content.
February 4, 2017
2.5 stars. Jason annoyed the heck out of me by constantly making it all about him.
June 4, 2017
Surprisingly complex follow up
3.5* I wasn't sure whether I was going to enjoy this book because revisiting an established couple when you think they've had their HEA is always a risk.
Still, this is Felice Stevens and I should have known it would be handled with consummate skill and it was. There was so much character development wrapped into this story as well as the tight and surprising plot twist.
Jase and Ryder are still a lovely pair and it was great to see them actually talking through their issues, odd sulking aside, while dealing with some serious family dramas.
3.5* I wasn't sure whether I was going to enjoy this book because revisiting an established couple when you think they've had their HEA is always a risk.
Still, this is Felice Stevens and I should have known it would be handled with consummate skill and it was. There was so much character development wrapped into this story as well as the tight and surprising plot twist.
Jase and Ryder are still a lovely pair and it was great to see them actually talking through their issues, odd sulking aside, while dealing with some serious family dramas.
September 5, 2018
Strong sequel!
Ryder and Jason have been through so much to create a life and a family together and their commitment is unbreakable. Or is it? Between work, conflicting schedules and an unexpected illness their foundation is beginning to shake. They'll have to lean on each other and their families to make it through.
I liked that there was a very realistic struggle for Ryder and Jason. Marriage is hard and takes a lot of work and encouragement from everyone involved. Communication isn't always easy and expectations aren't always agreed upon. But you keep at it, keep pushing through and find a way to make it work because at the end of the day, being able to fall asleep in the arms of the person you love makes it all worth it. And I couldn't imagine anyone other than Charlie David telling this story. Everyone has their own voice and that voice is clear.
This is a must listen for fans of the Author and Narrator, but if you're a hopeless romantic and a fan of hard fought happy ever afters then you'll love this book.
Ryder and Jason have been through so much to create a life and a family together and their commitment is unbreakable. Or is it? Between work, conflicting schedules and an unexpected illness their foundation is beginning to shake. They'll have to lean on each other and their families to make it through.
I liked that there was a very realistic struggle for Ryder and Jason. Marriage is hard and takes a lot of work and encouragement from everyone involved. Communication isn't always easy and expectations aren't always agreed upon. But you keep at it, keep pushing through and find a way to make it work because at the end of the day, being able to fall asleep in the arms of the person you love makes it all worth it. And I couldn't imagine anyone other than Charlie David telling this story. Everyone has their own voice and that voice is clear.
This is a must listen for fans of the Author and Narrator, but if you're a hopeless romantic and a fan of hard fought happy ever afters then you'll love this book.
February 2, 2017
I so loved the first book, it was my first Felice read, I loved every book by Felice but Rescued was my ultimate favourite until I just finished reading Reunited. I so love Ryder, Jason & Gemma. Oh I can't forget Pearl & Trouper :) <3 The book was a very hard read & so emotional, my tears never stopped falling from beginning to end... It was beautiful, sexy hot, very very sad, happy & shocking story to read. An emotional roller coaster ride for sure, but so worth the read. Congrats Felice! I loved it! <3
February 14, 2017
**)
.•.•*) .•*)
(.• (.•`*I am enthralled by sequels. I expect them to be better than book one, because there is more meat on the bone, more avenues to fill, more adventures to seek. Felice Stevens wrote a sequel that was part tearjerker, part discovery. And though book two did not fill me like cocoa on a winter's night, it did capture my attention.
The supporting cast as always played their part. Jason's family were amazing as pseudo relatives. They accepted Ryder and never looked back, embracing him into their fold.
The main story focused on acceptance and trust. Even after five years, Ryder and Jason allowed so much to interrupt the status quo. When Jason said this: "Everything's changed so quickly. I don’t feel like we're on the same page anymore," I wanted to strangle him because what he was saying was so contradictory to what he was doing to Ryder, wanting approval, then getting upset when he did not get it. I understood Ryder and all he was going through even more.
The past might have been better off left undisturbed, like a path of freshly fallen snow. Pure and clean.
Oh. My. Gawd! Can the saying by Sir Walter Scott (Marmion, 1808) "Oh what a tangled web we weave. When first we practice to deceive, be any more true? I thought, night-time drama, thy life is this book. Ryder was able to solve the mystery that was his mother, while still trying to bring her into his life. I cried for the little boy in him, wanting to be loved. There were moments of jaw dropping WTF!! and are you for real!? At one point I just stopped reading to absorb it all.
"I know how much you wanted your family reunited." ~Jason
And then there was the heart wrenching story of Gemma and her struggles. Beautifully written, and giving the readers hope even as the last person was vetoed off the island. I cheered her on, and her sweet words. I also loved the twists and turns to get our men back on even keel, and cherish Jason's words, that seem to sum up this whole experience. "Everything I am, everything I've ever wanted, I've accomplished because I have you by my side. Don't ever slip away from me."
Everyone deserves to be Rescued. But even more so, after the hurt and the pain, the words and the struggles, it's even better to be Reunited.
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from the Author.
Reviewed by Cee from Alpha Book Club
.•.•*) .•*)
(.• (.•`*I am enthralled by sequels. I expect them to be better than book one, because there is more meat on the bone, more avenues to fill, more adventures to seek. Felice Stevens wrote a sequel that was part tearjerker, part discovery. And though book two did not fill me like cocoa on a winter's night, it did capture my attention.
The supporting cast as always played their part. Jason's family were amazing as pseudo relatives. They accepted Ryder and never looked back, embracing him into their fold.
The main story focused on acceptance and trust. Even after five years, Ryder and Jason allowed so much to interrupt the status quo. When Jason said this: "Everything's changed so quickly. I don’t feel like we're on the same page anymore," I wanted to strangle him because what he was saying was so contradictory to what he was doing to Ryder, wanting approval, then getting upset when he did not get it. I understood Ryder and all he was going through even more.
The past might have been better off left undisturbed, like a path of freshly fallen snow. Pure and clean.
Oh. My. Gawd! Can the saying by Sir Walter Scott (Marmion, 1808) "Oh what a tangled web we weave. When first we practice to deceive, be any more true? I thought, night-time drama, thy life is this book. Ryder was able to solve the mystery that was his mother, while still trying to bring her into his life. I cried for the little boy in him, wanting to be loved. There were moments of jaw dropping WTF!! and are you for real!? At one point I just stopped reading to absorb it all.
"I know how much you wanted your family reunited." ~Jason
And then there was the heart wrenching story of Gemma and her struggles. Beautifully written, and giving the readers hope even as the last person was vetoed off the island. I cheered her on, and her sweet words. I also loved the twists and turns to get our men back on even keel, and cherish Jason's words, that seem to sum up this whole experience. "Everything I am, everything I've ever wanted, I've accomplished because I have you by my side. Don't ever slip away from me."
Everyone deserves to be Rescued. But even more so, after the hurt and the pain, the words and the struggles, it's even better to be Reunited.
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from the Author.
Reviewed by Cee from Alpha Book Club
February 5, 2017
Let me start with that I love Felice Stevens. She is hands down one of my favorite authors in this genre. This book, the writing the people, I loved them hard. When I read Rescued and saw the blurb at the end, I have been waiting on pins and needles for this one. I was not disappointed. You won’t be either. I read this book without putting it down. I had to know, I mean I just had to. There was one of my weaknesses in this book…..a child. I knew something big was going to be happening. There was a few of them.
This book starts with Gemma not feeling well. The relationship is tested at times, but deep down these men love each other and their family. Nothing ever comes easy in Felice’s book...EVER. They have to fight and dig deep and be there for each other. Jason wants to protect Ryder and Ryder wants to protect Jason. When the unthinkable happens, it shakes their foundation. When all the possibilities are exhausted they have to go to the one person they don’t want to. That opens up, even more, things, but for the sake of Gemma, Ryder does what needs to be done. My heart broke for Ryder.
Truths are found out and omissions made. My emotions were everywhere. I couldn’t think, I just felt. I was sucked in and didn’t want it to end. There were times I was so emotional I wanted to hit both men. I loved it. I really loved this book and this families story continuing made my heart flutter and melt. Just note this story is not all hearts and flowers. There's drama and angst and above all love and family.
I can’t wait to see what comes next from this author. I will be there waiting.
*ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by JoAnna from Alpha Book Club
This book starts with Gemma not feeling well. The relationship is tested at times, but deep down these men love each other and their family. Nothing ever comes easy in Felice’s book...EVER. They have to fight and dig deep and be there for each other. Jason wants to protect Ryder and Ryder wants to protect Jason. When the unthinkable happens, it shakes their foundation. When all the possibilities are exhausted they have to go to the one person they don’t want to. That opens up, even more, things, but for the sake of Gemma, Ryder does what needs to be done. My heart broke for Ryder.
Truths are found out and omissions made. My emotions were everywhere. I couldn’t think, I just felt. I was sucked in and didn’t want it to end. There were times I was so emotional I wanted to hit both men. I loved it. I really loved this book and this families story continuing made my heart flutter and melt. Just note this story is not all hearts and flowers. There's drama and angst and above all love and family.
I can’t wait to see what comes next from this author. I will be there waiting.
*ARC provided by Author in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by JoAnna from Alpha Book Club
June 7, 2017
This book was so sad and really showed a glimpse into the life of a family who is going through an extremely difficult time. But I do have to say, I was totally team Ryder throughout the whole book. I thought Jason was acting immature and quite selfish at some points. He expected his partner to be stubborn and keep fighting...and yes, it was the right thing to do, but it was not the right thing to do right then and there. There was someone very special counting on both of them and Jason had trouble compartmentalizing his anger over his priorities. But I will put it out there that in any other circumstance I would have been on Jason's side. I did like how the author made other people bring Jason's short comings to light and really make him take a look at himself and make him talk to his husband and be a good man and father. I liked seeing these two grow throughout this book. It was a pleasure to see.
June 5, 2017
Man.... got me right in the feels!!!!! 💙
June 5, 2019
I’m rounding that to 4.5 stars.
The only flaw for me here was Astrid. If not for the story (both books)being so genuine and real, I wouldn’t have minded and probably would’ve regarded her behavior as a creative decision. But the stories are very real and the harshness of her behavior, circumstances taken into consideration, still make no sense to me.
But hey...
Definitely a great read.
The only flaw for me here was Astrid. If not for the story (both books)being so genuine and real, I wouldn’t have minded and probably would’ve regarded her behavior as a creative decision. But the stories are very real and the harshness of her behavior, circumstances taken into consideration, still make no sense to me.
But hey...
Definitely a great read.
February 6, 2017
4.5 out of 5 stars
Description ~
Ryder Daniels and Jason Mallory seem to have it all but even the most loving marriage takes work. Ryder's past leads him to remain silent yet resentful in the face of conflict while Jason strives to prove he can take care of his family without Ryder's wealth, even if it costs him precious time with his husband and daughter.
When a devastating illness leaves them shaken and helpless, Ryder is forced to face the one person he never thought to see again with a life or death request that even he isn't sure will be granted, but his decisions have far-reaching consequences. Believing he and Ryder have no secrets, Jason is distraught to discover otherwise, revealing yet another crack in their once-perfect relationship.
Adrift and uncertain, both struggle to hold onto a love previously thought unshakeable. A forbidden past is exposed, shocking Ryder to the core, but it means little without Jason by his side. Marriage is a partnership and both men must learn that only by working through their pain and heartbreak together can they achieve a lifetime of love.
My Review ~
Reunited is the sequel to Felice Stevens's very first book, Rescued. This story picks up after the events in Rescued and continues Ryder and Jason's relationship. This is truly a sequel and must be read after Rescued for the full story.
Rescued is one of my absolute favorite books by this author, so when I heard that she was doing a follow up story to Ryder and Jason, I was very excited. But...I was curious what more could she do because they had their HEA. I mean of course I'm not going to say no to more of one of my favorite couples but I had that hesitancy of what more could be spun of their story. Well, lets just say that the author didn't disappoint and I warn you now to have tissues near by while you read Reunited.
Reunited picks up five years after the end of Rescued. Jason and Ryder are happily married, living in a lovely house with their two dogs, Pearl and Trouper. They also have a beautiful little girl, Gemma, who's 4 and is the ultimate love in their lives. She's adorable and precocious, and loves her daddies and her doggies. And that's where I'll leave you with the plot because this is a story that really needs to be read for the full impact vs spoiling the plot with bits and teasers.
Reunited is a family centered continuation of Ryder and Jason's love story. We see some familiar characters from Rescued but we also get to see more of both Ryder and Jason's families. Of course there is conflict that drives the story forward and provides quite a bit of angsty moments. But it all wraps up into one well written story about two men completely and utterly in love with each other. I wish I could share more of the plot but it really deserves to be read and experienced from cover to cover (so to speak).
I highly recommend Reunited, but ONLY after you've read Rescued for the whole love story.
Description ~
Ryder Daniels and Jason Mallory seem to have it all but even the most loving marriage takes work. Ryder's past leads him to remain silent yet resentful in the face of conflict while Jason strives to prove he can take care of his family without Ryder's wealth, even if it costs him precious time with his husband and daughter.
When a devastating illness leaves them shaken and helpless, Ryder is forced to face the one person he never thought to see again with a life or death request that even he isn't sure will be granted, but his decisions have far-reaching consequences. Believing he and Ryder have no secrets, Jason is distraught to discover otherwise, revealing yet another crack in their once-perfect relationship.
Adrift and uncertain, both struggle to hold onto a love previously thought unshakeable. A forbidden past is exposed, shocking Ryder to the core, but it means little without Jason by his side. Marriage is a partnership and both men must learn that only by working through their pain and heartbreak together can they achieve a lifetime of love.
My Review ~
Reunited is the sequel to Felice Stevens's very first book, Rescued. This story picks up after the events in Rescued and continues Ryder and Jason's relationship. This is truly a sequel and must be read after Rescued for the full story.
Rescued is one of my absolute favorite books by this author, so when I heard that she was doing a follow up story to Ryder and Jason, I was very excited. But...I was curious what more could she do because they had their HEA. I mean of course I'm not going to say no to more of one of my favorite couples but I had that hesitancy of what more could be spun of their story. Well, lets just say that the author didn't disappoint and I warn you now to have tissues near by while you read Reunited.
Reunited picks up five years after the end of Rescued. Jason and Ryder are happily married, living in a lovely house with their two dogs, Pearl and Trouper. They also have a beautiful little girl, Gemma, who's 4 and is the ultimate love in their lives. She's adorable and precocious, and loves her daddies and her doggies. And that's where I'll leave you with the plot because this is a story that really needs to be read for the full impact vs spoiling the plot with bits and teasers.
Reunited is a family centered continuation of Ryder and Jason's love story. We see some familiar characters from Rescued but we also get to see more of both Ryder and Jason's families. Of course there is conflict that drives the story forward and provides quite a bit of angsty moments. But it all wraps up into one well written story about two men completely and utterly in love with each other. I wish I could share more of the plot but it really deserves to be read and experienced from cover to cover (so to speak).
I highly recommend Reunited, but ONLY after you've read Rescued for the whole love story.
February 26, 2022
I like Rye, but I still don’t like J in this book either. He is so unaware and self-absorbed and a bad communicator. Rye repeatedly told him he would rather have him home than working even if it meant less stuff because J also refused to use the trust fund, but wouldn’t listen and wouldn’t tell him that he needed to feel needed and like he provided so they could then work through that. He can’t put himself in Rye’s shoes for one minute to understand why he might want to try and have a relationship with his mom. And he gets mad at him for not talking to him but does the same thing? Miss me with the miscommunication trope. And I didn’t like how the mom got “redeemed” not everyone needs a redemption arc. The dad is one thing, he wasn’t totally to blame because the mom was trying to manipulate him. Sure, build a new relationship with him. But the mom? I get that some people don’t want kids. It’s not me, I do, but sure, it’s not for everyone. But to be jealous of your child and treat them like trash because they got what you couldn’t have? Are you five? Go to the therapy you have the money to pay for and get help. I honestly don’t know why that woman even took her back. If she doesn’t care about her kids and never wanted them, why didn’t she eventually ask for a divorce when her parents died? Or even once she got some money in a bank account and could manage on her own? I get she had to do what they said when she was young and dependent on them and women couldn’t even have a bank account at that point but eventually you were just hurting yourself and others for no reason. Get a divorce already. And then this book was a little better but still had the same issue as the first one where there was too much “drama” that wasn’t fleshed out enough so it didn’t work for me. There was the daughter being sick, there was J working all hours, there was the mom, there was miscommunication between rye and J always. Like pick one thing and get to the meat so that the tension and resolution is actually there.
February 6, 2017
This was my first book by this author and unfortunately it just wasn't for me. I found it hard to like the characters except for little Gemma, she's so precious and I continued reading to see how things turned out with her. I have not read Rescued, Jason and Ryder's first book, so I don't know if I'm missing anything or not, but I just wasn't able to connect with them. I found myself wishing that Ryder would stick up for himself more and not let Jason walk all over him. I'm open to reading another book by this author sometime.
February 1, 2017
3.5 stars
March 19, 2018
Rediscovering love when life gets in the way (an audio review)
‘Reunited’ begins shortly after ‘Rescued’ left off. Jason and Ryder are married, they have a beautiful 4-year-old daughter Gemma, and their dogs, Trooper and Pearl, are happy. Sounds perfect, right?
I’m going to take a moment to address what I didn’t like about the book. In the first book, Jason had a hard time stopping an ardent moment, even when Ryder was insistent that he wanted Jason to stop. He believed he knew what was best and the bedroom scene where he didn’t respect Ryder’s wishes disturbed me. He grew as a character, a man, and a partner, so I held out hope that he had matured, especially because he’s now a father.
In some ways, though, he has regressed. Is it because of the stress of the illness? Perhaps. But this was his opportunity to step up to the plate. Of course, none of us can say what we would do in those dire circumstances, but there were moments I wanted to reach out and throttle him. Or smack him. (Metaphorically, of course.)
Jason is a traditionalist, and I respect that, but the ‘I know best’ and ‘I’m going to make all the decisions’ means he often rides roughshod over Ryder.
Ryder is conflict-averse, so he simply agrees to go along with Jason’s dictates, even if it often leaves him lonely and resentful. This was probably the intention of the author, but for anyone who has been in that kind of relationship, or even watched someone they care about go through that, this can be upsetting.
Okay, the last thing I will say about this is regarding Jason’s complete lack of respect to honour Ryder’s desire to reconnect with his mother. Jason has only seen the damage Astrid has wrought, so, to his credit, he wants to protect Ryder. He just goes about it in all the wrong ways, blaming Ryder when he doesn’t do EXACTLY what Jason wants him to do. Controlling and jealous partners are always a red flag for me.
Yet I’m giving this book a good review.
There were things I loved about this book—the fact that Jason’s and Ryder’s families dropped everything when illness befell the men’s little nuclear family; Ryder’s best friends Connor and Emily dedicating themselves to helping, despite the fact they have children of their own.
To know so many people care and have your back is amazing – exactly what you would wish your family would be.
The re-emergence of Ryder’s mother rips open an old wound that had barely begun to heal. In the first books – and most of this book – she was a cardboard cutout of a homophobic bitch who rejected her gay son in the cruelest way possible.
I liked that the author turned that around. Ryder’s mother was slow to change, but once her story was fully told, the reader could decide whether or not she deserves forgiveness.
Crises bring out the best and worst of people. Ryder’s and Jason’s little family will never be the same due to the illness, but the question throughout the book is will their marriage falter or get stronger?
I will again tip my hat to Charlie David, only of my favourite narrators. He is easy to listen to, carrying the story.
This was another great Felice listen.
‘Reunited’ begins shortly after ‘Rescued’ left off. Jason and Ryder are married, they have a beautiful 4-year-old daughter Gemma, and their dogs, Trooper and Pearl, are happy. Sounds perfect, right?
I’m going to take a moment to address what I didn’t like about the book. In the first book, Jason had a hard time stopping an ardent moment, even when Ryder was insistent that he wanted Jason to stop. He believed he knew what was best and the bedroom scene where he didn’t respect Ryder’s wishes disturbed me. He grew as a character, a man, and a partner, so I held out hope that he had matured, especially because he’s now a father.
In some ways, though, he has regressed. Is it because of the stress of the illness? Perhaps. But this was his opportunity to step up to the plate. Of course, none of us can say what we would do in those dire circumstances, but there were moments I wanted to reach out and throttle him. Or smack him. (Metaphorically, of course.)
Jason is a traditionalist, and I respect that, but the ‘I know best’ and ‘I’m going to make all the decisions’ means he often rides roughshod over Ryder.
Ryder is conflict-averse, so he simply agrees to go along with Jason’s dictates, even if it often leaves him lonely and resentful. This was probably the intention of the author, but for anyone who has been in that kind of relationship, or even watched someone they care about go through that, this can be upsetting.
Okay, the last thing I will say about this is regarding Jason’s complete lack of respect to honour Ryder’s desire to reconnect with his mother. Jason has only seen the damage Astrid has wrought, so, to his credit, he wants to protect Ryder. He just goes about it in all the wrong ways, blaming Ryder when he doesn’t do EXACTLY what Jason wants him to do. Controlling and jealous partners are always a red flag for me.
Yet I’m giving this book a good review.
There were things I loved about this book—the fact that Jason’s and Ryder’s families dropped everything when illness befell the men’s little nuclear family; Ryder’s best friends Connor and Emily dedicating themselves to helping, despite the fact they have children of their own.
To know so many people care and have your back is amazing – exactly what you would wish your family would be.
The re-emergence of Ryder’s mother rips open an old wound that had barely begun to heal. In the first books – and most of this book – she was a cardboard cutout of a homophobic bitch who rejected her gay son in the cruelest way possible.
I liked that the author turned that around. Ryder’s mother was slow to change, but once her story was fully told, the reader could decide whether or not she deserves forgiveness.
Crises bring out the best and worst of people. Ryder’s and Jason’s little family will never be the same due to the illness, but the question throughout the book is will their marriage falter or get stronger?
I will again tip my hat to Charlie David, only of my favourite narrators. He is easy to listen to, carrying the story.
This was another great Felice listen.
July 14, 2025
The title had me (correctly) guessing the storyline
This book is even better than Rescued (Book #1), and when I read the blurb, I had a feeling that Ryder's mother would play a big part in it.
Many of us in the LGBTQ world have heard many of the stories of the fight by gay men, the leather community, and the drag queens in the lead up to Stonewall, and the fight for equal rights that have lead to same-sex marriage and children.
What so many people that I know or have met don't realise is that lesbianism was never outlawed by Queen Victoria, who could believe that two women could be in a same-sex relationship, and therefore such relationships were never criminalised in the way that male relationships were.
After all, it was quite ordinary for centuries, for two spinsters (or widows), such as retired governesses or cooks or housekeepers, with little in the way of savings, to share a small village cottage and living expenses. How many were close, loving friendships, and how many led to full-on sexual relationships will never be known, but enough diaries and correspondence exist to show both kinds of loving.
In the upper classes, however, it could only be a well-born woman (single or widowed) and a personal maid or housekeeper who could get away with it, and the societal norms had to be strictly adhered to, with one being the employer and the other an employee. Family members would never cease trying to arrange a marriage for the lady of the house. Any hint of impropriety (like Astrid and Emmeline) would lead to forced separation, and an unwanted marriage to the "right sort of man" would become a strict necessity to avoid a scandal.
Therefore, whilst I understand their predicament (my paternal grandmother was forced into such a marriage, to my b*stard of a grandfather who beat her regularly and denied her access to her own considerable money), I still find Astrid as she is portrayed to be a very unpleasant person. At least my grandmother loved her two children and four grandchildren, whom she could see after he died in his early 50s. We four never knew him, for which I am eternally grateful.
She and Aunt Dot (Dorothy, a long-time society "friend") visited us regularly in whichever equatorial African country Pa was posted to - they loved Mauritius in 1967 so much (pre-tourist destination), that they extended their holiday from 2 months to 6 months. Several years before she told me the bare bones of her life, Nana was the first person that I came out to at 14yo, and she responded with loving kindness.
Ryder and Jason, with the love of both sides of their families (except Astrid, until the end), go on to a life of love and their child(ren?), leaving me wondering how many LGBTQ people are lucky enough to manage such a strong life story. Personal experience has taught me that it is not the norm.
Hats off again to the author, who has led us through a profoundly wonderful tale of love and forgiveness.
This book is even better than Rescued (Book #1), and when I read the blurb, I had a feeling that Ryder's mother would play a big part in it.
Many of us in the LGBTQ world have heard many of the stories of the fight by gay men, the leather community, and the drag queens in the lead up to Stonewall, and the fight for equal rights that have lead to same-sex marriage and children.
What so many people that I know or have met don't realise is that lesbianism was never outlawed by Queen Victoria, who could believe that two women could be in a same-sex relationship, and therefore such relationships were never criminalised in the way that male relationships were.
After all, it was quite ordinary for centuries, for two spinsters (or widows), such as retired governesses or cooks or housekeepers, with little in the way of savings, to share a small village cottage and living expenses. How many were close, loving friendships, and how many led to full-on sexual relationships will never be known, but enough diaries and correspondence exist to show both kinds of loving.
In the upper classes, however, it could only be a well-born woman (single or widowed) and a personal maid or housekeeper who could get away with it, and the societal norms had to be strictly adhered to, with one being the employer and the other an employee. Family members would never cease trying to arrange a marriage for the lady of the house. Any hint of impropriety (like Astrid and Emmeline) would lead to forced separation, and an unwanted marriage to the "right sort of man" would become a strict necessity to avoid a scandal.
Therefore, whilst I understand their predicament (my paternal grandmother was forced into such a marriage, to my b*stard of a grandfather who beat her regularly and denied her access to her own considerable money), I still find Astrid as she is portrayed to be a very unpleasant person. At least my grandmother loved her two children and four grandchildren, whom she could see after he died in his early 50s. We four never knew him, for which I am eternally grateful.
She and Aunt Dot (Dorothy, a long-time society "friend") visited us regularly in whichever equatorial African country Pa was posted to - they loved Mauritius in 1967 so much (pre-tourist destination), that they extended their holiday from 2 months to 6 months. Several years before she told me the bare bones of her life, Nana was the first person that I came out to at 14yo, and she responded with loving kindness.
Ryder and Jason, with the love of both sides of their families (except Astrid, until the end), go on to a life of love and their child(ren?), leaving me wondering how many LGBTQ people are lucky enough to manage such a strong life story. Personal experience has taught me that it is not the norm.
Hats off again to the author, who has led us through a profoundly wonderful tale of love and forgiveness.
February 6, 2017
I love when I fall so in love with a couple and they have a happy ending. I love it even more when that some couple comes back to me unexpected and has lived life the way that I wanted them to. That is pretty much what happens with Jason and Ryder. After all of the bad, I was so happy to be able to reunite with them and get a little more insight into their lives.
Life has been good for the both of them since the last book. They got married, moved into Jason's house, still have the 2 dogs who are like children to them, and Oh Yea.....had a baby. A little girl named Gemma who is the perfect angel that they deserve. Unfortunately we know how life goes. Things can only go so good and eventually you get a dose of the unexpectedness of life and hope that it doesn't break you along the way.
Before we can even get to love Gemma, we find out that she is a very sick little girl. The only thing that can save her is a life saving event and there is only one person that can help her. Unfortunately, it is that god awful mother of Ryder's that we hoped we had seen the end of. Really, we knew that was not going to happen and somehow she was going to turn back up one way or another.
Honestly, I didn't know how this was going to work out. Jason has the perfect family. His parents are the ever present treats that we all wish that we had in our lives. His siblings are amazing and always there whether they are wanted or not. Ryder has had a much better relationship with his dad (for whom you get a TOTALLY different perspective on) and his brother is still one of the highlights in his life ( Landon is still dating Jason's sister, Jessie. I would LOVE LOVE LOVE to read that story soon....just saying Felice if you are reading this....). It was fun to see the Ying and Yang of Ry and Jason's families and see a lot of my family in there. I literally want to jump into their house and just be a part of the love that they feel.
If course, I had some issues along the way. There were times that I really wanted to shake one or both of the guys along the way. The feels that I got from this book was heartbreaking at times and heartwarming at others. I can't imagine having to have to live with my child in a situation like that. I thought that the topic was handled with love and affection and showed what it could do to even the strongest of couples. I loved that we got to see more of Connor and Emma, Liam, Mark and John along the way.
I am very much looking forward to reading John's book and I hope we get to see more of Ryder and Jason along the way. (and maybe a book about Landon and Jessie--please)
February 5, 2017
Worth so much more than five stars
I never believed in Happily Ever Afters.
Now, before you break out the pitchforks, please allow me to explain. By their very definition, Happily Ever After would mean that once the couple finally BECOMES a couple, nothing bad ever happens to them again. But there's this little thing that happens.
Life.
Life has a tendency to throw us curveballs. It tests us in ways we never thought possible, or could see coming. From financial instability to the loss of a loved one, things happen.
I read mostly M/M romance, and every one I read has an HEA. Otherwise, what's the point of romance? But a book with a HEA requires the reader to ASSUME that nothing happens after the final page to test the relationship. Some authors allow characters from one book to make cameos in another, so you get the sense that things are still going strong. But you never know for sure until you have a direct sequel.
Which brings me to Reunited, a direct sequel to 2014's Rescued, both by Felice Stevens. When I first heard about this book, I felt a mixture of excitement and fear. I have long considered Ryder and Jason to be "my guys." Granted, I didn't create them, nor did I write about them. But "Rescued" was my introduction into a genre that I have grown to love. These two are very near and dear to my heart. Because of the attachement I have for them, I didn't want anything bad to happen to them.
But, again, Life.
"Reunited" is a continuation of their story, told five years later. The love they have for each other is still just as strong as it was in the beginning, but, as with every couple, they have had certain issues that, if left unresolved, can be detrimental to any relationship. Then, as if often the case, Life throws them a curveball. A massive, life altering curveball. Nothing tests a relationship more than the illness of a child. And my guys are put through the proverbial ringer. Most people would make decisions based on what best suits their own individual needs. It's a matter of self-preservation. But every decision, good or bad, made by Ryder and Jason is rooted in one thing: the preservation of their family unit. There were times that I wanted to thow my Kindle, or wish I could reach through the page and shake them. But I also understood why they did what they did.
Relationships get messy without either party intending for it to happen. But book is written in such a way that that motiviation is never in question. They loved each other and their family.
"Rescued" deserved THIS book as a sequel.
I never believed in Happily Ever Afters
Until now.
I never believed in Happily Ever Afters.
Now, before you break out the pitchforks, please allow me to explain. By their very definition, Happily Ever After would mean that once the couple finally BECOMES a couple, nothing bad ever happens to them again. But there's this little thing that happens.
Life.
Life has a tendency to throw us curveballs. It tests us in ways we never thought possible, or could see coming. From financial instability to the loss of a loved one, things happen.
I read mostly M/M romance, and every one I read has an HEA. Otherwise, what's the point of romance? But a book with a HEA requires the reader to ASSUME that nothing happens after the final page to test the relationship. Some authors allow characters from one book to make cameos in another, so you get the sense that things are still going strong. But you never know for sure until you have a direct sequel.
Which brings me to Reunited, a direct sequel to 2014's Rescued, both by Felice Stevens. When I first heard about this book, I felt a mixture of excitement and fear. I have long considered Ryder and Jason to be "my guys." Granted, I didn't create them, nor did I write about them. But "Rescued" was my introduction into a genre that I have grown to love. These two are very near and dear to my heart. Because of the attachement I have for them, I didn't want anything bad to happen to them.
But, again, Life.
"Reunited" is a continuation of their story, told five years later. The love they have for each other is still just as strong as it was in the beginning, but, as with every couple, they have had certain issues that, if left unresolved, can be detrimental to any relationship. Then, as if often the case, Life throws them a curveball. A massive, life altering curveball. Nothing tests a relationship more than the illness of a child. And my guys are put through the proverbial ringer. Most people would make decisions based on what best suits their own individual needs. It's a matter of self-preservation. But every decision, good or bad, made by Ryder and Jason is rooted in one thing: the preservation of their family unit. There were times that I wanted to thow my Kindle, or wish I could reach through the page and shake them. But I also understood why they did what they did.
Relationships get messy without either party intending for it to happen. But book is written in such a way that that motiviation is never in question. They loved each other and their family.
"Rescued" deserved THIS book as a sequel.
I never believed in Happily Ever Afters
Until now.
January 27, 2022
Rating : 2.5
I liked the first book but this sequel it was disappointing, it surprised me. My main issue was it was dragging and somewhat boring.
Trigger: cancer illness and mother rejection.
What I liked:
The author style of writing, grammar is good, proofread.
POV: third person but this time around I felt there was not balance ratio of inner thoughts vs dialogue from characters. Too much inner thoughts/ 3rd person explanation.
Plot: we get to see how is the life of the dear main characters (Ryder and Jason) after they got married and their little girl and doggies, also their dear friends. We also get to know the relationship between Landon and Jessie (Ryder’s brother and Jason’s sister). Their other in-laws (siblings, parents).
At the end of the book there is HEA, I am glad about how the illness was handle and the strong support of the family .
What I disliked:
My main issues was how from strong, likable main characters they turned into whinnies, weak and one of them way too selfish. Mostly Jasón turned into a jerk.
There was so much little unnecessary arguments throughout the book, that it was as if the characters were toddlers. So much lack of communication, Ryder turned into a weak, dominated doormat. Or too far fetched conflict like how the mother also turnout to have that secret.
The story in the first book had such a strong plot and a great happy ending that I feel it wasn’t necessary this sequel. Yes I did like that the conflicts in the story are real and could be relatable, but it was shadow by little fights throughout the books.
I think the book could have had just maybe 7 chapters and avoid unnecessary fluff in between.
For me since I don’t like to DNF a book, at times I was bored and had to put it down but I finished reading it.
SEX: was a little too repetitive same way, same words, same positions as always.
Main conflict: how Ryder’s mother was such cold-hearted throughout the book, didn’t grovel or wasn’t remorseful but she was forgiven too easily. It was for me too unrealistic how bitter and hatred towards having her kids. I get the bitterness but not the resentment with the kids.
Another thing that annoyed me was Jason not letting Ryder deal with his mother his way, it was always Jason’s last word, Jason’s way and even absurd the su he got upset at times. Like when he went for support with the father and brother to ask the mother for the bone marrow.
First book Jason was so understanding and helpful, this time just the opposite. I get He wanted Ry to avoid pain and hurt, but He was not putting himself into Ry’s shoes.
I liked the first book but this sequel it was disappointing, it surprised me. My main issue was it was dragging and somewhat boring.
Trigger: cancer illness and mother rejection.
What I liked:
The author style of writing, grammar is good, proofread.
POV: third person but this time around I felt there was not balance ratio of inner thoughts vs dialogue from characters. Too much inner thoughts/ 3rd person explanation.
Plot: we get to see how is the life of the dear main characters (Ryder and Jason) after they got married and their little girl and doggies, also their dear friends. We also get to know the relationship between Landon and Jessie (Ryder’s brother and Jason’s sister). Their other in-laws (siblings, parents).
At the end of the book there is HEA, I am glad about how the illness was handle and the strong support of the family .
What I disliked:
My main issues was how from strong, likable main characters they turned into whinnies, weak and one of them way too selfish. Mostly Jasón turned into a jerk.
There was so much little unnecessary arguments throughout the book, that it was as if the characters were toddlers. So much lack of communication, Ryder turned into a weak, dominated doormat. Or too far fetched conflict like how the mother also turnout to have that secret.
The story in the first book had such a strong plot and a great happy ending that I feel it wasn’t necessary this sequel. Yes I did like that the conflicts in the story are real and could be relatable, but it was shadow by little fights throughout the books.
I think the book could have had just maybe 7 chapters and avoid unnecessary fluff in between.
For me since I don’t like to DNF a book, at times I was bored and had to put it down but I finished reading it.
SEX: was a little too repetitive same way, same words, same positions as always.
Main conflict: how Ryder’s mother was such cold-hearted throughout the book, didn’t grovel or wasn’t remorseful but she was forgiven too easily. It was for me too unrealistic how bitter and hatred towards having her kids. I get the bitterness but not the resentment with the kids.
Another thing that annoyed me was Jason not letting Ryder deal with his mother his way, it was always Jason’s last word, Jason’s way and even absurd the su he got upset at times. Like when he went for support with the father and brother to ask the mother for the bone marrow.
First book Jason was so understanding and helpful, this time just the opposite. I get He wanted Ry to avoid pain and hurt, but He was not putting himself into Ry’s shoes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 28, 2017
I'm going to be honest, I wasn't sure what to expect when I got this book. The premise sounded good, but it also sounded different than most books I've read. And I will tell you, the book was amazing. This isn't about finding love, winning love, or second chance love. It's about the love that already exists between two men and staying together, keeping their love alive, through adversity. (I did find out after reading that this is a book 2, but you don't need to read book one to read this book. It is great on it's own, but I one clicked book one because of how good this one is.)
Ryder and Jason are married with a daughter, but it feels like something is separating them. Add on top of that an illness, a hateful mother, and everything else they are contending with, and things seem to be falling apart. Will they be able to work through it, or will this be the end?
As I stated previously, this is a book 2, but you do not need to read book one in order to read this book. I loved the story, the sentiment, and the hard topics addressed in this book. The author did not hold anything back, and the whole story felt real. I loved Ryder and Jason, and their many flaws, but where Jason is strong, Ryder is weaker, and vice versa. It was beautifully written and I highly recommend it to everyone. If you like M/M, this 5 star read is for you.
Ryder and Jason are married with a daughter, but it feels like something is separating them. Add on top of that an illness, a hateful mother, and everything else they are contending with, and things seem to be falling apart. Will they be able to work through it, or will this be the end?
As I stated previously, this is a book 2, but you do not need to read book one in order to read this book. I loved the story, the sentiment, and the hard topics addressed in this book. The author did not hold anything back, and the whole story felt real. I loved Ryder and Jason, and their many flaws, but where Jason is strong, Ryder is weaker, and vice versa. It was beautifully written and I highly recommend it to everyone. If you like M/M, this 5 star read is for you.
June 6, 2017
I lurve books featuring children and/or pets, especially MM romance. There is just something so sweet about a man or men (whether real or imagined) who become total marshmallows around kids and animals.
I didn't expect another Ryder and Jason story. I thought Reunited would perhaps be John’s story, but I was wrong and I am so happy I was. Reunited is the story I didn’t know I needed. Thankfully, Felice Stevens knew better.
The passion between Jason and Ryder is still there, but life has thrown them quite a few curveballs, one of them crippling. When their daughter becomes ill, Jason and Ryder’s relationship is put to the test.
Felice Stevens may give her characters the perfect happily ever after, but she doesn’t give them perfect lives. Couples in real life often miscommunicate. They argue. They neglect the ones they love, even if it’s with the best intentions. People in real life don’t always make amends.
Complex characters, raw emotions, and a realistic plot line shape this story. It ties up loose ends from the first book. Reunited is a story about heartbreak and hope. Forgiveness and acceptance. Healing (both the heart and the body) and family.
I highly recommend this and any other Felice Stevens book. She’s just that good. Please note this is not a standalone book. You need to read Rescued first as this is a continuation of Ryder and Jason’s story.
I didn't expect another Ryder and Jason story. I thought Reunited would perhaps be John’s story, but I was wrong and I am so happy I was. Reunited is the story I didn’t know I needed. Thankfully, Felice Stevens knew better.
The passion between Jason and Ryder is still there, but life has thrown them quite a few curveballs, one of them crippling. When their daughter becomes ill, Jason and Ryder’s relationship is put to the test.
Felice Stevens may give her characters the perfect happily ever after, but she doesn’t give them perfect lives. Couples in real life often miscommunicate. They argue. They neglect the ones they love, even if it’s with the best intentions. People in real life don’t always make amends.
Complex characters, raw emotions, and a realistic plot line shape this story. It ties up loose ends from the first book. Reunited is a story about heartbreak and hope. Forgiveness and acceptance. Healing (both the heart and the body) and family.
I highly recommend this and any other Felice Stevens book. She’s just that good. Please note this is not a standalone book. You need to read Rescued first as this is a continuation of Ryder and Jason’s story.
February 6, 2017
I’ve been with Ryder and Jason (and Felice) from day 1. I just love them (and their supporting cast). I will always be excited to see them again, even with the heavy emotions we get with this book.
My family situation is eerily similar to Ryder’s, with the exception being my worthless parent is my father, not my mother. My relationship with my father is basically identical to Ryder’s with his mother so this story brings out the big emotions in me. While I would love to say I don’t understand how Ryder can let his mother continue to mistreat him, I do understand as I’ve done that. I’ve not forgiven; I’ve just accepted what is being given. With that being said I’ll never like his mother or sympathize with her, even now that we know her reasons (and they are shocking to say the least).
Ryder and Jason’s relationship is put to the test in this story and they take us on a bit of an emotional ride. Even before the illness strikes the family, they are struggling. I love that they have so much family to rely on for help getting through their tough times.
This is a definite must read for Jason and Ryder fans and you will definitely need tissues handy.
My family situation is eerily similar to Ryder’s, with the exception being my worthless parent is my father, not my mother. My relationship with my father is basically identical to Ryder’s with his mother so this story brings out the big emotions in me. While I would love to say I don’t understand how Ryder can let his mother continue to mistreat him, I do understand as I’ve done that. I’ve not forgiven; I’ve just accepted what is being given. With that being said I’ll never like his mother or sympathize with her, even now that we know her reasons (and they are shocking to say the least).
Ryder and Jason’s relationship is put to the test in this story and they take us on a bit of an emotional ride. Even before the illness strikes the family, they are struggling. I love that they have so much family to rely on for help getting through their tough times.
This is a definite must read for Jason and Ryder fans and you will definitely need tissues handy.
June 29, 2017
Considero que la autora escribe bien, es su estilo y la historia en sí lo que no me ha gustado.
El estilo porque es demasiado dulce y pegajoso. Es cursi hasta decir basta y resulta cansino y repetitivo tanto amor que les sale de dentro.
Por otro lado, no me ha gustado nada el personaje de James. Es egoísta e inmaduro y se comporta como un crío; cuando no consigue imponer su voluntad a la primera se enfada y monta un Drama. Y no le gustan los dramas al niño...
Por ende, tampoco me termina de gustar el personaje de Ryder. Es majísimo, pero me ponen de mal humor los personajes alfombra. Me jode que no se defiendan y me jode más aún que cuando alguna vez deciden defenderse un poquito, acaben pidiendo perdón y echándose la culpa de todo (aunque en parte la tengan, por dejarse). Es el principal motivo por el que dejé de leer libros eteros, por que las mujeres son representadas siempre como alfombras o como niñatas histéricas.
El estilo porque es demasiado dulce y pegajoso. Es cursi hasta decir basta y resulta cansino y repetitivo tanto amor que les sale de dentro.
Por otro lado, no me ha gustado nada el personaje de James. Es egoísta e inmaduro y se comporta como un crío; cuando no consigue imponer su voluntad a la primera se enfada y monta un Drama. Y no le gustan los dramas al niño...
Por ende, tampoco me termina de gustar el personaje de Ryder. Es majísimo, pero me ponen de mal humor los personajes alfombra. Me jode que no se defiendan y me jode más aún que cuando alguna vez deciden defenderse un poquito, acaben pidiendo perdón y echándose la culpa de todo (aunque en parte la tengan, por dejarse). Es el principal motivo por el que dejé de leer libros eteros, por que las mujeres son representadas siempre como alfombras o como niñatas histéricas.
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