Vodka & Handcuffs

Mary's Boys #2

by Brandon Witt

Vahin Arora, Hamburger Mary’s sexy bartender, plays the flirtatious role so well even his closest friends—his chosen family at Mary’s—don’t realize Vahin hasn’t had a hookup in months. Then Tall, Dark, and Handsome steps through the door, and Vahin’s libido races back to life.

Being a black cop on the Denver police force is no easy job—Marlon Barton can’t imagine adding being gay to the equation. And while Marlon loves his work as an officer, his life has taken a turn for the hellish because of his new partner, the nephew of a senator.

Fleeing his partner’s company one night, Marlon stumbles into Mary’s for the first time… and wakes up with a hangover in the bartender’s bed. The one-night stand heats up into a budding romance, but not without stress as Marlon’s partner’s actions threaten Vahin’s livelihood and Marlon’s future on the force. Can Vahin and Marlon face the challenges and hold on to the love, friendship, and family they’ve found?

Genres: M M Romance, Contemporary, Romance, Gay, Anthologies, Short Stories, LGBT

112 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 1, 2017

About the author

Brandon Witt's outlook on life is greatly impacted by his first eighteen years of growing up gay in a small town in the Ozarks, as well as fifteen years as a counselor and special education teacher for students with severe emotional disabilities. Add to that his obsession with corgis and mermaids, then factor in an unhealthy love affair with cheeseburgers, and you realize that with all those issues, he's got plenty to write about....


Visit Brandon's webpage: http://www.brandonwitt.com/

Visit him on facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brandon.witt...

Enjoy episodes of The Witty Hour: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCO5c...

Reviews

[~✡~Dαni(ela) ♥ ♂♂ love & semi-colons~✡~ · Rating 2 out of 5]

One unpopular opinion coming right up: I know Brandon Witt has a lot of fans. I've stayed away from his books because they always sound depressing, but this title drew my attention. I mean, it's Vodka. And Handcuffs. What's not to like?

First of all, get that title right out of your head. This book has naught to do with either vodka or handcuffs. Yes, one of the MCs is a cop, and the other a bartender, but this book isn't kinky or funny or cute.

Vodka & Handcuffs is a political story and deals with important issues. Marlon is a Black closeted cop; Vahin is an Indian Muslim disowned by his family. (Kudos to Witt for writing non-White MCs. I wish more authors would.)

Marlon is paired with the worst partner in the world: Andrew is a racist, xenophobic, homophobic piece of shit who gets away with everything because he's a senator's son.

The story takes place over the course of a few days. The MCs meet, and immediately there's conflict. Vahin starts getting harassed because Andrew sees him with Marlon. Marlon is outed to the force. None of these issues are fully explored, and the narrative feels rushed and frantic.

As for the romance, forget about it. The romance is dead. I didn't feel like the men connected at all. They have a drunken night of fun (or so we're told), then a date that gets cut short. And that's about it.

There is ZERO steam, and I mean ZERO, NADA, ZIP. The guys' first time together is off page and mentioned briefly after the fact. The second time is summarized in one sentence. The third time fades to black. (I was a disgruntled bitch by that point, let me tell you.)

I would rather read a fluffy YA story or a sweet romance with two ace MCs than a book about two men with a sexual connection where the sex is a mere teaser. Plus, Vahin, a supposed top, only bottoms for Marlon (or so we're told). The men never discuss this.

I can see that relationship lasting. Yeah, NO, no, I can't.

The ending is abrupt. I guess if pushed I'd call it a HFN, because the MCs are happy in the moment, but I didn't feel like I knew anything about these men and certainly didn't believe they could build a relationship. What did they even have in common besides a joint understanding of prejudice?

There's nothing wrong with Witt's writing, but I felt completely detached from the story and the characters. Nothing about this book worked for ME (but, hey, that doesn't mean it won't work for YOU).

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

*3.5 stars*

Vodka & Handcuffs is a story of expectation vs reality.

I've read many stories by Brandon Witt and I've liked them all, though some more than others. I think where he really thrives, IMO, is with his lighter stories, but they are few and far between. When I saw this cover and skimmed the blurb (I have a problem with reading blurbs- aka, I sort of... don't), I was excited for something showcasing Brandon's lighter side. That actually isn't what I got.

It took me a moment to adjust my expectations. Once I did, I got what Brandon was doing with the story, but I still kept expecting something light to crop up, despite all evidence to the contrary.

Just so readers know, this book is basically all fade-to-black, summarized sex, or sex off page . Though I'm the first to admit that I'm a kinky freak, I don't actually care that much if sex is on page or off. Some of my favorite authors rarely put sex on page (T.J. Klune, Kristan Higgins), so that isn't a deciding factor for me. However, it is important for readers to go that despite being called Vodka & Handcuffs, this isn't a sexy romp.

Where I think Brandon shone with this story is with his depictions of the harassment of POC and gay men from others, even (or especially) within the police force. It was painful to witness some of the scenes in the story, and my heart ached for the MCs. Brandon took some chances by writing about such a timely, emotionally charged topic with two POC MCs, and I give him big points for that. He is always unafraid to take those kinds of risks, and I think we, as readers, really benefit from that fact that Brandon really goes there.

That being said, when it all boils down to the guts of the story, I tend to read romance for the chemistry between the two MCs. I really look for the romancey romance, like I got in Then the Stars Fall. I read romance to fell that insane pull, that tension, that affection, and when I looked back on this story, I just didn't feel it enough between the two MCs.

Part of the issue is that this book is a novella, which much be a stretch for Brandon Witt, who writes such long novels, usually. I really struggle with novellas. When they are great, I bow down in awe to the author, but a lot of time I find the romance lacking. It is hard to make something memorable in under 200 pages, and though this book was memorable for the messages and political subtext, the romance didn't jump out for me.

I think readers should go into this book with eyes wide open. Vodka & Handcuffs was an interesting, surprisingly serious read that will really resonate with certain readers. With a little more time to develop the romance, I think this could have been a win for me too.

*Copy provided in exchange for an honest review.*

[CrabbyPatty · Rating 4 out of 5]

In the second book in Brandon Witt's Mary's Boys series, we're back at the Mile High Hamburger Mary's and ManDonna is still doing the best drag show in town. Vahin, the hot bartender ("Solid muscle. Skintight tank top. Wavy black hair. Glowing brown skin. Model face.") is mixing up a batch of Cowboy Cocksuckers for the bachelorette party at the end of the bar. The other main character Marlon is a cop ("tall, deep black skin, short hair, strong jaw, and solid muscle) with a big baton and handcuffs, and yeah ... he's heard it all before.

But Vodka & Handcuffs isn't a light fluffy romance, although there are a few steamy sex scenes. This story touches on tough choices and their consequences, getting to the point where you don't hide, you step up and you live with it. I have to admit that I read this story 3 times - the first time for the story, thinking it would be light and fun; the second time to figure out why I was disappointed that the story wasn't what I had somehow expected it to be; and the third time to read it fresh without preconceptions.

Now, having said that, I still didn't like Marlon's partner Andrew and felt he was just too over-the-top! I'm giving Vodka & Handcuffs 4 stars and looking forward to the next story about Zachary (Arial Merman).

[justanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second installment of Mary’s Boys and boy did this one speak to me on many levels.

I may not be a gay man ( not that it matters in the grand scheme of things) but I am painfully aware of what it feels like to be ostracized/ made a pariah, to be poorly judged because of the color of my skin, to be hated for the sake of hating because hate justifies the evil that some do against others. These may all seem like they all mean the same thing on the surface but they don’t. The issues that these men deal with are typically on the lips of POC. That’s what makes them so relatable . It’s what we discuss at the dinner table. It’s what we face on a day to day basis and it’s what we seek refuge, comfort and love from if we are lucky to find a strong person to share and build a life with. Vahin and Marlon are two very strong MC’s that deal with a lot of issues on both a personal and professional level. What I like about these two men is how they bond with each other due to their life experiences.

Does a book have to have on page sex to qualify as adult romance?


This is where personal preference comes into play. Marlon and Vahin have a lot of chemistry. As with 99% of relationships, physical attraction is what lures these two together initially but that’s not what drives the relationship. This book isn’t about the romantic dates and burning up the sheets. That part is easy. This book focuses on the other side of a relationship (and by extension what POC deal with on a daily basis because of society and or culture). The side that requires continuous work and effort in order to build a solid foundation that sustains love. This book is about knowing each other so well that life is richer with that person by your side because they see you and can relate to your daily struggles.
I’ve read various reviews with various opinions and I had to think long and hard on why some feel a bit mislead or let down by what I think is a very thought provoking book that speaks to those sorely underrepresented and often stereotyped.

In the end, I blame the blurb. Blurbs set a reader's expectations, therefore; it's imperative that the blurb not only entice but accurately describe the story. The blurb does read like a promise of lots of bedroom escapades.The title is perfect (given their professions) but combined with what the blurb says, I grudgingly admit, it makes logical sense that some may feel duped, thinking they were in for a light sexy read instead of a thoughtful read on the realities of the sacrifices POC make in order to live an authentic life in a world that discriminates against them based on color, culture, and sexuality. Some may say that POC's real life struggles are being objectified for the consumption of others. To be honest, some black/ brown gay men may have mixed feelings about this book because of some RL tangent issues that have deeper roots regarding the publishing world. that I'm not going to get into here. I will say that I am appreciative that Witt makes an effort to be inclusive and sensitive to POC. It’s hard finding these types of stories in this and ANY genre for that matter. Witt, demonstrates a deeper understanding than most on the plight POC deal with on a daily basis in one form or another. It's obvious lots of thought and effort was put into developing these characters and I am so appreciative he took the time to do some research before committing these MC’s to paper.

[Antisocial Recluse · Rating 5 out of 5]

What marvelous characters Marlon and Vahin are! This was such an enjoyable read but also a thought provoking one. In this story, Brandon Witt touches on some of the prejudices and divides that have intensified in our current political climate. He doesn't make it overly angst-filled but gives it just enough impact and realism. Marlon is a black police officer who is also gay. He's closeted on the job because he deals with negative attitudes from enough directions already. Vahin is of Muslim/Hindu descent and has faced his own share of prejudice. He is the bartender at Hamburger Mary's, where he is loved and respected.

The blows that come for both Vahin and Marlon are difficult but the two are wonderful together. Brandon gives us characters that are adults and not immature or naive in their reactions. I loved seeing them face their issues and having the support and protection offered by their friends. Of course, there's still plenty of fun and sexy times too! Added characters for future stories are also introduced. Highly recommended as a lighter read that still provides plenty of substance and not just fluff.

[Tamika♥RBF MOOD♥ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Yeah, Bunk that's exactly how I feel.

I took a few days off from writing my initial thoughts and feelings for this book. The blurb and the Vahin had me really excited to read his book. I liked him a lot in book one. My rating is very generous because I like the author, and know how great his stories can be. This was a total letdown for me. I feel cheated because they couldn't even build up to a relationship without all the outside interrupting them. Some might classify this as a HFN, but I can not. They spend literally a blink of eye together, and it was nothing that I read that seemed like they connected. It was not good. There, I said it.

I enjoyed Vahin as a character in book one, but in this book he kinda seems lost. I guess that has to do with his past playing heavy on his mind. I don't know if it took away from his character, but it definitely posed a bigger mystery to him? I thought it would be some resolution for him at the end since his past was presence so much, but it was none. I don't know how to write this when I feel like pieces of the story were so disjointed.

Marlon, Marlon Marlon. Why?? Two people of color as main characters and their story was not good. I don't really get Marlon. I guess he never seemed into Vahin. I felt like Witt forced them together, I didn't feel the steam, love, lust or any connection between the two. Marlon had to deal with his horrible partner as a Denver Police Officer. One could ask why he is still a beat cop at 38, but that just randomly flew out of my head. Kudos to Witt writing some realism in this story. He always is able to deliver some realistic fiction in his stories. The subject is very much true and happening so prevalent in this day and age.

It had a few funny laughs, but nothing to wow me about the book. I really wish it was light hearted, smutty with this side of drama like book one, but I digress. I'll still read Witt's forthcoming book. This just didn't work for me.

 

[Jenni Lea · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you've read the first book in this series, Nachos & Hash, then you'll remember the sexy bartender Vahin, who was outrageously flirtatious and purported to be quite the player. We get a closer look at him in this book. Vahin is in a bit of a slump. He hasn't had a hookup in months and can't seem to call up any interest in the multitude of offerings at Hamburger Mary's. That all changes when he spies tall, dark and handsome Marlon entering the bar.

Marlon is having a bit of a hard time himself. He's been saddled with the worst possible partner on the force and having to put up with the racist dickwad is taking it's toll. Pulling up to his usual watering hole, he sees his partner's flashy douchemobile and decides then and there that he just can't deal with him right now so he drives around town for a bit until he comes across Mary's. It's as good a place as any so he decides to check it out. Many, many drinks later and he's waking up in a stranger's bed with a monster hangover and a vague recollection of the wild night before.


I liked that both Marlon and Vahin are mature characters, though by far means not old. It's nice to see characters in their mid to late thirties rather than the eighteen to twenty year olds that are abundant in this genre. I also liked that the sex wasn't at the forefront of the story. Sometimes I feel that when sex is prevalent it tends to distract from the plot. Not the case here. There was just enough to set the scene, offering little peeks before continuing on with the story.


I can't decide if this book suffers from second-in-a-series syndrome or if it was just too short but I felt something was missing. While I liked what I read, I needed more. More romance, more interaction between the characters, more depth to the plot. More pages to the book... just more. It felt more like the beginning of a book than a complete story. But that's what I usually get when I read a novella which is why I tend to read longer books. I like to get lost in a story but I find that hard to do when it ends before it ever really gets going. It's probably why I don't watch much TV either.

I still liked this story though, and I am eager to read the next one in this series. Witt gave us a sneak peek into the third book and I'm very intrigued. A doctor and a drag queen? Seems like a match made in heaven to me.

[Sandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

The title of this book, much like the first one in this series, plays on the occupations of the two MCs - one a bartender, the other a cop.

Vahin, the bartender, is Muslim, and from India, and gay, and out, which has caused him to be shunned by his family. Marlon, the cop, is black, also gay, but deep in the closet. His partner on the beat is basically a Jeff Sessions wannabe - a racist, homophobic, xenophobic asshole first class, who thinks he can do what he wants because his daddy is a Senator. He's also universally hated by all, including the Chief, and only assigned to Marlon because the Chief figured it'd be best to pair the asshole with his best cop.

Marlon meets Vahin at Hamburger Mary's, they have a night of drunken fun, mostly off-page, and then shit hits the fan, what with the racist cop partner trying to frame Vahin and arrest him, and Marlon being involuntarily outed, and ... yeah... none of it is pretty. This is not a fluffy book. The blurb is a bit misleading. Okay, maybe a lot misleading. Don't expect a fluffy, easy read.

The only real fun on page is when ManDonna struts her stuff - I flove her! She takes no shit, and she will hand you your balls, and you'll thank her for it.

I didn't quite believe the romance in the time line used, and while we get a HFN, I wasn't sure that things were going to last - perhaps we'll see how that goes in a future installment for this series. I do want them to last, I do. I just have doubts that their still fresh relationship can survive the roadblocks that will continue to be in their way, despite marriage equality, and despite the tide slowly turning in their favor. I want to believe that Denver is a bit more enlightened when it comes to racism, homophobia, and xenophobia.

I think this might have worked a little better for me if the book had been longer and had taken the time to really delve into the issues, and perhaps stretch out the time frame a little bit more. The issues raised here are definitely hot topics, and I was a little disappointed that Marlon's forced coming out, and that loathsome, filthy, evil, little cockroach partner's despicable actions weren't given adequate resolutions. Perhaps that is fitting after all - in today's political climate, what with the current administration in the White House, and the "values" for which they stand, it's certainly possible to look at this and realize that, yeah, there won't be any adequate resolutions to homophobia, xenophobia, and blatant racism, until we've gotten rid of the pestilence in orange that empowered this pond scum to strut around with their ignorant flags and "white power" bullshit.

Kudos to this author for making his main characters non-white. I wish there were more books that did that. There is a message within this book too - as a POC, you have to stand up for yourself every damn day, against hatred, against persecution, against blatant ignorance, and if you're POC and gay, your resilience will be tested time and again in triplicate. I commend the author for touching on these difficult subjects with honesty and sensitivity.

The author also sets up the next book toward the end, which will feature Zachary aka Ariel Merman. I had my heart in my throat while reading that bit, and I need the next book, like, now.

This series is quickly becoming a favorite of mine, and that's primarily due to what it isn't - lighthearted fluff. I want to read books that deal with current affairs, and this one definitely does.


** I received a free copy of this book from its publisher. A positive review was not promised in return. **

[Stella ╰☆╮╰☆╮ · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

I was so happy to have Vodka & Handcuffs in my hands, the previous book in the Mary’s Boy series, Nachos & Hash conquered me and I was so curious to see what I will get next. I’m sorry to say this new release was just an okay read and nothing more to me. And I am so used to have so much more from Brandon Witt books, that I’m disappointed.

It feels to me that everything I know about Vahin and Marlon I got it from the blurb, the story actually told me nothing else. And that’s the problem. It should have been more focused on the MCs together, how much they wanted each other, but I actually saw no connection between them, I wanted to know more about their past and the present they are living. Instead the story is focused on some nasty things that are happening with Marlon police partner, and even if this gave the story reality, it was at the expense of the main couple’s romance which was almost non-existent. And even the ending was just meh

As I said Vodka & Handcuffs was an okay reading, the book is well written like everything Brandon writes, there are some secondary characters I was so hoping to meet again, I saw Cody and was happy to know he was doing great. I saw ManDonna being fabulous as always. That’s why I gave the story 3,5 stars. Now, if I could have Zachary story right this second, I would be so happy.

The cover art by AngstyG follows the style of the cover of the previous book, it’s well done and fitting the story, I can easily picture Marlon and Vahin in the models on it, I like it.

[Karen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Admittedly 'Vodka & Handcuffs' did not turn out to be my favorite story in this series. While there were several things about it that I liked...there was also one major stumbling block that I just couldn't ignore. Ssssssoooooooo...let's start with that...

You see...I liked Vahin. He's the main bartender at Hamburger Mary's and he's cocky, arrogant and overall he's a player, but he's also kind, caring and loyal to his friends. So...sue me. I like the man and I was excited to get the story where we got to see Vahin get his man.

Problem is I saw it, but I just didn't feel it and maybe that's on me, but the fact of the matter is I could easily feel the love between Cody and Darwin, it didn't take a lot of imagination for me to picture these to men together and loving one another...but, here with Vahin and Marlon...well, I just wasn't feeling the love.

Things just weren't going tickity, boo for me with these men, was it because there wasn't a lot of on page sex...no, I don't need a ton of steamy hot sex to make me believe there's a solid relationship going on...honestly, I've read books where there's been no sex going on and all I've gotten were a few well described kisses or tender moments and it's felt like the book was scorching my hands.

However, in spite of that I liked the story. that surrounded them. I liked that these men were culturally diverse. I was impressed that Marlon was portrayed as a closeted, African American police officer and that Andrew, Marlon's partner on the force was a racist, homophobic, bigoted...closeted PoS! Did I like this no...did I appreciate that the author presented Andrew as he did...yes, because sometimes life...real life needs to be represented, even when it's just not pretty.

Once again Gerrod Larkyn was the narrator and while the voices were for the most part fairly well done I again encountered the variance in the voice of a couple of the characters but again not so bad that I had a problem following who was speaking, nor did I have any issues in terms of clarity in his speech and the biggy for me...the characters were not monotone, nothing turns me off of an audio book faster than a narrator whose voice is stilted and monotone, trust me, there are some out there, thankfully Gerrod Larkyn is not one of them.

I think for me it came down to the fact that this was one that needed more time in order to allow for the romance and the story to be fully developed without anything being shortchanged along the way.

So while I enjoyed it overall a little more one on one time for Vahin and Marlon that revolved more around them getting to know each other and maybe a bit more in the ending both for the romance and the issue of Marlon's partner and what he did would have taken this from I like it to 'holy hell!!! This is awesome." for me.

So it's back to Hamburger Mary's for me. Who knows maybe I'll see you all there.

*************************
An audio book of 'Vodka & Handcuffs' was graciously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

[Trio · Rating 3 out of 5]

Another sweet hurt/comfort romance in Brandon Witt's Mary's Boys series. Vodka & Handcuffs series. Witt includes some mild kink and there are some triggers here too regarding gay bashing.

The entire series is narrated in audio by Gerrod Larkyn.

[Calila · Rating 3 out of 5]

*Received A Copy To Review From The Author*

Welp...this ended up being so very unfortunately topical. But I still liked reading it. I really enjoyed the couple together and wanted them to get their happy ending. The drama and angst is wrapped up with a bit of a wave of a magic wand but it's fine. It works. This is a just fun quick read that will warm your heart.

[♣ Irish Smurfétté ♣ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Vahin and Marlon, a power couple in the making.

I'd be satisfied with that as my review, but I don't think you would. ;)

This is ultra-contemporary, in style, social context, and dialogue. I see myself and my friends in here, all over every page.

Vahin knows who he is, where he wants to be, and what he wants to do. This personal world order of his is tossed off its axis when Marlon enters Mary's, feeling the need for a bit of an escape.

Ya see, Marlon also knows the who, where, and what, but he's not at all sure about sharing them with the world. This is especially true at work in the squad room.

Therein lies the crux of our tale.

These two walk around with doubts, worries, and wants, as they begin getting to know each other. But they never fall prey to manufactured miscommunication. Thank fuck. Instead, they give each other time to talk, and listen. As usual, Witt excels in the naked expression of whatever emotions his characters are experiencing.

Vahin and Marlon share some chemistry but it's not full blown - pun, no pun, who cares - and there was a bit of potential left on the table in that department.

However, these two guys have so much going for themselves, let alone as a team: strength, certitude, caring, deep wells of sarcasm, and enough emotional bravery to give a chance to their possible future together.

Besides the one and only irreplaceable unforgettable fantabulous ManDonna, I think Marlon's boss, the Chief, is the most intriguing supporting character. He's not cookie cutter, and certainly not one-dimensional. He makes Marlon think on more than one occasion.

Oh and Steven is as hilarious as ever, never letting Vahin off the hook. That's true friendship, folks. Something else Witt is particularly wonderful at sharing by way of his characters.

Q: Steven snapped his fingers toward Vahin's face. "Hello in there."

"I hate when you do that."

Steven grinned. "I know. Now talk to me."

Vahin considered walking away. It felt stupid, ridiculous. He felt stupid and ridiculous. He glared at Steven. "Fine, but if you call me a lovestruck twelve-year-old, I'm punching you in the face, quitting, and taking the Mary statue in my way out." /Q

Oh Vahin, resistance is futile. :D

[Annie · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars- Really enjoying these novellas

Vodka & Handcuffs threw me off a bit at first because I expected more of the charm and even humor present in Nachos & Hash, the first novella in this series. There’s a different tone from outset and I dispelled my early assumptions about the book fairly quickly. I settled in fast, caught up in the characters and enjoying another wonderful novella from Mr. Witt.

The book tackles the uncomfortable but pertinent subjects of racial profiling within the community, but especially the police community. I think the author does a great job at presenting some of the many sides of the issue, not pointing to a single “cause” but acknowledging the persistent problem. While the racial prejudices compounded with discrimination because of the heroes’ sexuality is a major factor in the plotline, this is a romance and the characters/couple remain the focus.

As the blurb mentions, Marlon and Vahin hook up as a one night stand. I really liked the progression from hook-up to recognizing the potential for more. It felt very natural with palpable and relatable emotions taking hold steadily (no instalove here). In regard to the charm of a couple finding each other and pursuing a relationship, Vodka & Handcuffs was on par with Nachos & Hash, as were the well-developed characters. Unlike the first book, the sex is referenced but happens off page save for a few lead-ins. However, this didn’t diminish their chemistry in the least and I didn’t feel like I was “missing out”.

Overall I really enjoyed the story and this couple. I liked the men together as well as watching them individually navigate the professional issues they faced. Once again, Mr. Witt delivers a balanced novella with great characters. I’m excited to see what Mary’s serves up next; undoubtedly it will be a good story, perfect for a quick weekend read.

Reviewed by Annie from Alpha Book Club

[Carra · Rating 3 out of 5]

For an author who was unsure about writing novellas, Brandon Witt is doing a great job so far with his Mary’s Boys series. Vodka & Handcuffs takes the drama up a notch with the conflict between Marlon and his partner at work (I think you’ll all agree with me once you read the book that Andrew takes the label of “jackass” to a whole new level), and spills that over into Vahin’s life-and to Hamburger Mary’s business-as well.

Individually, I liked both Marlon and Vahin. Marlon has the patience of a saint, and is normally a very level-headed, easygoing guy, though when it comes to his work relationships he isn’t truly out except to his chief and former partner. We met Vahin in the first book of the series, and he continues being the cocky, flirty bartender we first met in Nachos & Hash. When it came to the two of them together, physically they were a good match, but I didn’t feel a strong emotional connection between them. I think a big part of that for me was that by the end of the book, it felt more like a happy-for-now ending than a happily ever after.

What this book did do well was the conflict from Andrew’s excessively bigoted viewpoints and actions—something that really should get him booted from his position. He is actually one character that I’m hoping NOT to see a redemption story written for, as his character was one that I could never stomach in a leading role. Also done well were the difficulties both Marlon and Vahin faced due to their race/ethinicities—both individually and as a couple on the job and in their personal lives.

This one was a 3.5-star read for me, and is a good addition to the series though I would have liked to see a more solid resolution to Marlon and Vahin’s relationship. This book is for readers 18+ for adult language and topics as well as M/M sexual content. I’m now looking forward to Zachary’s story, and can’t wait to see what else is planned for the series.

[Robin Powers · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am really loving this Hamburger Mary's series. Vahin is the sexy bartender who not only is gay but of Muslim/Hindu decent. Disowned by his biological family, Vahin has had to make his own way with the help of his family at Hamburger Mary's. Marlon's partner in the police force is giving him a hard time with his racist attitude and political connections. I loved how when Marlon decided that he was going to try to be with Vahin, that was it. No matter what problems Marlon's partner throws his way, he finds out that he has Marlon and his Hamburger Mary's family on his side. This series is so fun to read even when serious issues are thrown into the mix. They are quick to read but you really don't want to put them down. All of the characters keep you wanting to come back for more.

[Dana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed for Rainbow Gold Reviews. 9/10 pots of gold=4.5/5 stars. A copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.

I really enjoyed book one of this series and was glad to get a chance to review book two. Nachos and Hash had been a low-angst, sweet romance. The author took me for a tour around some cool places in Denver. I kind of expected the same feel from the rest of the books in the series, but Vodka and Handcuffs showed me a different part of the city, a part that I didn’t like as much.

Both Marlon and Vahin came off as pretty strong characters right from the start. Marlon is a cop who is out to his parents, his old partner, and his chief. He isn’t shouting to everyone he is gay, but he isn’t denying who he is. Vahin works as a bartender at Hamburger Mary’s, a restaurant known for it’s drag queens. He is out to everyone, but not necessarily accepted. In varying degrees Marlon and Vahin have both faced disappointment from their parents regarding their sexuality. Still, they know who they are and seem to carry around a confidence because of that.

There is definitely an antagonist in this story. Andrew. Marlon’s partner on the job is a real piece of work. He reminded me a little of the character Percy in The Green Mile. He was part of the ugliness in the city. His racism, xenophobia, and homophobia make him an extremely unlikable character. However much I didn’t like him, he made the story feel more real. More relevant. The attitudes shared by Andrew and a few other officers could have been ripped from the headlines or at least a youtube video. He really created problems for Marlon and Vahin. They are strong, though, and they aren’t going down without a fight.

While I enjoyed book one of the series, I was more captivated by this more intense story line. I am a big fan of both Marlon and Vahin and loved their story. The surrounding characters that worked at Hamburger Mary’s and the chief of police were awesome. They became the families for the main characters and rounded out the story well. I definitely recommend this series and this book. I look forward to seeing what else the author has in store for us in the next book.

[Liza · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story touches on so much for such a short story, homophobia, racism, xenophobia, while still remaining light-hearted. I loved that about this book. There's still time to laugh and fall in love, even while dealing with the serious issues that a black man and a Muslim man would be dealing with. This story could have gone so wrong and dark, but it didn't.

[Caipi · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

*Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by Dreamspinner Press for my reading pleasure in hopes of an unbiased opinion, a review was not a requirement.*

Vodka & Handcuffs is the second novella in Brandon Witt's Mary's Boys series. It's possible that you could read this novella without reading the previous one, but I think to fully enjoy it, the series should be read in the appropriate order. This series is set around Hamburger Mary's with recurring characters.

In the first novella, we had two young guys in their early 20's, this one was with men in their 30's and I loved it! Vahin is a bartender at Hamburger Mary's and though he's always been all about hook-ups before, he's found that he's no longer interested in one-night-stands. When Marlon comes into Mary's, Vahin is willing to make an exception for him, but he'd love more than just one night. Marlon isn't looking for a one-night-stand, or anything else, but when he's had too much to drink, he's willing to take Vahin up on his offer. Even though Marlon's life doesn't allow for a relationship, there's something about Vahin that keeps him interested and willing to go outside his comfort zone. Unfortunately, they have more than just Marlon's uneasiness to work through.

I loved that this novella had diversity and men in their 30's! Even though Vahin comes across as a guy with no worries, we learn that he has lived a solitary life after telling his family that he's gay. And though Marlon still has the love and support of his family, he doesn't have their complete support as a gay man. This story covered difficult topics that are so pertinent to the times we live in. Vahin is Indian, living in the US where people with his skin tone get suspicious looks. It's a difficult subject matter, and I know there are plenty of people in the US that want to believe this is not an issue for a person of color, but it is and Brandon handled it wonderfully!

I'm not always a fan of novellas (I feel like I say that often!), so much story has to fit into those pages and it doesn't always feel like I'm getting the complete story. For this novella, I didn't feel that way! It ended with the men in a good place, and I'm sure we'll get to see more of them in the upcoming Mary's Boys novellas!

Rating: 4.5 stars

[Dawn · Rating 3 out of 5]

Vodka & Handcuffs by Brandon Witt – Review by Dawn Honeycutt
3.5 Stars

Marlon Barton is a black cop on the Denver police force. He’s also gay, but hasn’t come out at work except to the chief because he thinks that being black is enough to deal with. He doesn’t want to be black and gay at work. His partner, Andrew, is the nephew of a Senator and a racist jerk. Andrew’s comments reinforces Marlon’s decision not to come out at work.

Vahin Arora is a bartender at Hamburger Mary’s and loves his job. The people he works with are like family which is good since his family disowned him for being gay. He’s also not had a hookup in a long time.

After a particularly bad day at work, Marlon goes to Hamburger Mary’s for a drink and ends up going home with Vahin. Severely hungover the next morning, Marlon wishes he could remember more of the night with the sexy Vahin. He decides to take a risk and agrees to a date. They have a great time until they spot Marlon’s partner Andrew on the street. Marlon runs the other direction and hopes that Andrew didn’t see him, but the next day he’s informed by the Chief that Andrew has told the entire office that Marlon is gay.

Andrew tries to set Vahin up on a police sting which may cost Vahin his job and the family at work that he loves. Marlon has to come to terms with being out at work and he has to try to save Vahin’s job.

I would have liked to have a little more background on both men. The entire book takes place over a week or so. It just felt rushed. Plus Marlon was kind of a jerk to Vahin. I probably wouldn’t have been a nice as Vahin. This story was okay. Not great, but okay.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.

This story is darker than the first book in the series and much darker than the blurb suggests. I expected a slightly kinky connection between a cop and a bartender but the reality is a story about racism, homophobia and corrupt cops.

This story about race, sexuality and policing is topical and timely. I appreciated the author writing two POC leading men and I also appreciated the complexity of the problems facing both Vahin and Marlon. But I didn’t enjoy the simplicity of the ‘bad guys’ in this story. People are rarely as awful as Marlon’s partner and his OTT behaviour detracts from some of the more realistic experiences that Marlon and Vahin go through.

We met Vahin in book 1 where his difficult past is hinted at but not explored. He is still a private character in this book but he shares his past with Marlon. I really liked Vahin’s character but at the end of the story I still wasn’t sure I knew him well. Similarly, Marlon shares his immediate work problems with Vahin but there was so much more I wanted to know about Marlon as a person. Vahin and Marlon are both great characters, but they are both possibly too complex for the novella format to do justice to.

I’m really not sure this works as a romance. There is initial attraction between these two men but the attraction leads to a hook up that one of them can’t remember. Marlon’s nervous closeted behaviour doesn’t build any further chemistry between them and their sexual encounters neatly fade to grey. The HFN ending took me by surprise - I still wasn’t feeling the connection and they were apparently a settled couple.

Vahin’s family at Hamburger Mary’s provides the comfort and security we’ve come to expect in the last two books. ManDonna lifts the story with her humour and Pat provides unexpectedly fierce support for Vahin in a difficult situation.

[Veronica · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.

Vodka & Handcuff was easy reading despite some serious subject matter in the way of racism and homophobia. I enjoyed watching the relationship develop between Marlon and Vahin but there was a lot of overt romance or a lot of sex for that matter. Trouble caused by Marlon's partner Andrew causes plenty of drama and almost takes over the story but I didn't mind.

I am fan of novellas and Vodka & Handcuffs was an enjoyable read and kept my interest all the way through.

[namericanwordcat · Rating 2 out of 5]

Ultimately, the plot of this book pulled in to many direction so that I couldn't settle in and enjoy the story.

I like this circle of friends and Mary's and was happy to to see the cast but the heroes spent a great deal of time a part and the drama and angst meter was sky high from minute one.

I have some issues with consent with the drunk sex, then the subplot with the evil partner really runs the show. I like some scenes a great deal but I never get the love story I am hoping for with this two very compelling heroes.

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well, that was certainly an abrupt conclusion to what could have been a very fine "conflict" part of the story... I was prepared for a huge "family to the rescue" scene and all I got was a "hey, this problem solved itself" scene... what a major disappointment! grrrr

I fear that this series may end up being my least liked of Mr. Witt's works. :(

Moving on, with fingers crossed....

[Serena Yates · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hamburger Mary’s, a chain of GLBTQ+-friendly restaurants in the US, is the setting for ‘Mary’s Boys’ – a new series set in Denver that looks to be interesting, varied, and doesn’t shy away from some very difficult topics. Two dark-skinned characters are a rare sight in contemporary gay romance, as is a Muslim main character. Marlon is a gay black cop with a racist, homophobic partner, and Vahin is a Muslim-raised bartender of Indian descent (though he grew up in Connecticut). Both men have an intimate understanding of what it means to be "different", just based on the color of their skin, but still have some prejudice versus each other to deal with. It made the tension between them more realistic and interesting. I loved how they deal with their growing emotions and realizing that their frequent getting together goes way beyond the hookup they started with.


Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.

[Kat · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved Vodka and Handcuffs by Brandon Witt. His writing style is clear and expressive. I was completely drawn into the story of Marlon the dedicated cop that can't deny his feelings for Vahin the sweet and sexy bartender at Hamburger Marys. Vahin's family has shunned him because he is gay and Hamburger Mary's and the crew that work and play there are his family. He falls hard for Marlon whose family loves him but are having some trouble coming to terms with his sexuality. There is trouble with Marlon's near sighted and nasty partner but I loved the way this couple braced these horrible issues and grew strength from each other. Mr. Witt never fails to deliver a realistic and heart felt romance. Thank you this book was a treat to read.

[Helena Stone · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vahin and Marlon—give me a moment while I sigh and smile. I fell so very hard for these two men. They are far from perfect which made them all the more human and loveable in my eyes.

In fact, this whole story felt real to me. The issues Marlon and Vahin have to deal with aren’t a figment of the author’s imagination. Brandon Witt didn’t have to exaggerate in order to provide drama in their lives. It breaks my heart that people face this sort of prejudice every day of the week and that, unfortunately, the situation appears to be getting worse these days. Being a black cop isn’t easy. Add being gay to the equation and Marlon pretty much risks becoming an outcast in the job he loves. And it isn’t any easier for Vahin. Having already been rejected by his birth family when he came out as gay, he now suddenly finds himself in a society where his cultural background is viewed with suspicion.

Kudos to Brandon Witt for writing a story dealing with all those issues, without this book ever turning heavy or preachy. But the opposite is true too; he never diminishes the problems Marlon and Vahin encounter and the resolution to a very sticky situation was both realistic and perfect. In fact, it is safe to say that for me the balance between issues, angst, and love-story was just about perfect. Not to mention that Vahin and Marlon and rather hot when they get together and naked.

But, as much as I loved Marlon and Vahin in this book and Darwin and Cody in Nachos & Hash, it is the whole extended community of Hamburger Mary’s that has stolen my heart. The bonds between them and the loyalty that ties them together is what gives these story the ultimate feel-good vibe. I’m well and truly hooked and can’t wait for my next opportunity to visit Mary’s Boys.

[Serena Yates · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hamburger Mary’s, a chain of GLBTQ+-friendly restaurants in the US, is the setting for ‘Mary’s Boys’ – a new series set in Denver that looks to be interesting, varied, and doesn’t shy away from some very difficult topics. Two dark-skinned characters are a rare sight in contemporary gay romance, as is a Muslim main character. Marlon is a gay black cop with a racist, homophobic partner, and Vahin is a Muslim-raised bartender of Indian descent (though he grew up in Connecticut). Both men have an intimate understanding of what it means to be "different", just based on the color of their skin, but still have some prejudice versus each other to deal with. It made the tension between them more realistic and interesting. I loved how they deal with their growing emotions and realizing that their frequent getting together goes way beyond the hookup they started with.


Please find my full review of the second edition on Rainbow Book Reviews.

[Gabbi Grey · Rating 5 out of 5]

My return to Hamburger Mary’s (an audio review)

I enjoyed the first story in this series and so was quick to pick up this next one. The two men in this story couldn’t have been more different than Cody and Darwin. Both these men have some miles on them. They’ve also faced down some pretty blatant racism in their time. What I loved was the color of their skin didn’t define them or their place in the relationship. They were just a black guy and an Indian guy who hooked up for one hot night and just couldn’t stay away.

Marlon’s a cop. A black cop in Denver. A black cop in Denver with a racist partner who also appears to be a homophobe. I mean, ick. Marlon’s superiors and his former partner know he’s gay, but he hasn’t gone around announcing it to everyone. It’s none of their business. One night he’s trying to get away from it all and he winds up at Hamburger Mary’s. The bar has drag queens and caters to gay patrons as well as plenty of clientele who are just LGBTQ allies and supporters. It’s a safe place for him to be – as long as he doesn’t get spotted.

Vahin is the bartender at Mary’s. His religious family rejected him when he came out and he’s found his own family at Mary’s. I always love the concept of found family. We can’t choose the family we were born into, but we can choose the people we want to spend our lives with. Interestingly Vahin once hooked up with Mary’s owner Steve. But that’s a whole other story. This night he’s intrigued by a beautiful black man who needs cheering. A few beers lead to the harder stuff and a night Vahin isn’t likely to forget and Marlon can barely remember.

But the men are drawn to each other. Despite their disparate lives, they keep finding ways to come together and even Mandonna and Ariel the Merman the drag queens don’t dissuade Marlon from spending time at Mary’s. But homophobes are never far away, and the men face some serious challenges to their relationship and their personal safety.

I loved this book. It had humour and levity and gravitas. It brought a smile to my face and a warmth to my heart. I want to mention the narrator, Gerrod Larkyn. He does a fantastic job with this series and I couldn’t be more pleased with the way this book turned out. Can’t wait for the next one.