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Between These Sheets
“I fought one war on the battlefield. Now I fight another in my mind.”
Jay is always on the run—always looking for the next place to start a new life. But no matter how much he moves, he can’t escape the painful memories that haunt him. As he settles into his latest job in the warehouse at a glass bottle factory, he finds himself the target of his co-workers’ teasing. When he takes a stand against one of the bullies, a fight breaks out. His boss, a war vet named Reese, steps in, and Jay accidentally shoves him to the ground, revealing Reese’s prosthetic leg. Jay’s sure he’s gonna lose his job, but he’s blown away when he’s given another shot.
Reese is annoyed by the new guy. Jay is reckless and temper prone. Maybe Reese shouldn't have given him a second chance, but his attitude reminds him of his war buddy—a guy who he cared deeply for and who he lost under tragic circumstances. He just hopes Jay doesn’t let him down.
When an accident in the factory triggers one of Reese’s PTSD episodes, Jay returns the favor by being there for him and keeping anyone else from discovering the incident. Reese wants to move on and forget it ever happened, but Jay won’t let it go. And as much as Reese tries to keep his distance, there’s a heat—a passion—between them that he can’t resist. It leads them to the bedroom again and again, but Reese quickly realizes they’ve ignited more than the sparks they create between the sheets. And despite the tough-guy façade Jay puts on, underneath there’s a soul just as tortured and hurt as he is. He’s starting to fall for Jay, but he knows there’s a dark storm lurking in the back of his own mind—a storm that will return one day and destroy the beautiful connection they share.
Between These Sheets is a standalone romance novel with no cheating, no cliffhangers, and a happy ending.
Jay is always on the run—always looking for the next place to start a new life. But no matter how much he moves, he can’t escape the painful memories that haunt him. As he settles into his latest job in the warehouse at a glass bottle factory, he finds himself the target of his co-workers’ teasing. When he takes a stand against one of the bullies, a fight breaks out. His boss, a war vet named Reese, steps in, and Jay accidentally shoves him to the ground, revealing Reese’s prosthetic leg. Jay’s sure he’s gonna lose his job, but he’s blown away when he’s given another shot.
Reese is annoyed by the new guy. Jay is reckless and temper prone. Maybe Reese shouldn't have given him a second chance, but his attitude reminds him of his war buddy—a guy who he cared deeply for and who he lost under tragic circumstances. He just hopes Jay doesn’t let him down.
When an accident in the factory triggers one of Reese’s PTSD episodes, Jay returns the favor by being there for him and keeping anyone else from discovering the incident. Reese wants to move on and forget it ever happened, but Jay won’t let it go. And as much as Reese tries to keep his distance, there’s a heat—a passion—between them that he can’t resist. It leads them to the bedroom again and again, but Reese quickly realizes they’ve ignited more than the sparks they create between the sheets. And despite the tough-guy façade Jay puts on, underneath there’s a soul just as tortured and hurt as he is. He’s starting to fall for Jay, but he knows there’s a dark storm lurking in the back of his own mind—a storm that will return one day and destroy the beautiful connection they share.
Between These Sheets is a standalone romance novel with no cheating, no cliffhangers, and a happy ending.
9 pages, Audible Audio
First published February 20, 2017
352 people are currently reading
875 people want to read
About the author
Devon McCormack
48 books1,529 followersDevon McCormack grew up in the Georgia suburbs with his two younger brothers and an older sister. At a very young age, he spun tales the old fashioned way, lying to anyone and everyone he encountered. He claimed he was an orphan. He claimed to be a king from another planet. He claimed to have supernatural powers. He has since harnessed this penchant for tall tales by crafting worlds and characters that allow him to live out whatever fantasy he chooses. Devon is an out and proud queer man living in Atlanta, Georgia.
Devon's body of work ranges from erotica to young adult, so readers should check the synopses of his books before purchasing so that they know what they're getting into.
Devon's body of work ranges from erotica to young adult, so readers should check the synopses of his books before purchasing so that they know what they're getting into.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 216 reviews
March 12, 2017
3.5 stars.
First things first. I don't like the guy on the cover. Yes, it hints at dark past, but it is scary.
Now getting onto the main part of my review. The first half of the story was good. Great, actually. I was enjoying myself, looking forward to how Reese and Jay's relationship will develop. But then things started going sour:
First, the author took the title literally, and we spend half the book "between the sheets" only.
Second, the sex parts got to be very repetitive in terms of how they were written, the words being used for description.
Third, there was too much conversation, very less break from dialogues.
Fourth, the monologue parts were, again, repetitive, the characters thinking the same thoughts again and again, and not even changing the wording of the thoughts!
Fifth, if I read "beams" or "passion" one more time, I am going to break something. I'm completely serious. The number of times those two words took space in the book was ridiculous!
Sixth, I struggled with Jay's character a bit. I really couldn't connect with him past the halfway point of the book.
Seventh, after all the fussy attention to detail to Reese's struggle and Reese and Jay's intimacy scenes, the ending felt pretty rushed.
I liked the overall, general story. I liked Reese. But there are a lot of tiny things that prohibited me from connecting emotionally with the story. Very disappointed. *sighs*
First things first. I don't like the guy on the cover. Yes, it hints at dark past, but it is scary.
Now getting onto the main part of my review. The first half of the story was good. Great, actually. I was enjoying myself, looking forward to how Reese and Jay's relationship will develop. But then things started going sour:
First, the author took the title literally, and we spend half the book "between the sheets" only.
Second, the sex parts got to be very repetitive in terms of how they were written, the words being used for description.
Third, there was too much conversation, very less break from dialogues.
Fourth, the monologue parts were, again, repetitive, the characters thinking the same thoughts again and again, and not even changing the wording of the thoughts!
Fifth, if I read "beams" or "passion" one more time, I am going to break something. I'm completely serious. The number of times those two words took space in the book was ridiculous!
Sixth, I struggled with Jay's character a bit. I really couldn't connect with him past the halfway point of the book.
Seventh, after all the fussy attention to detail to Reese's struggle and Reese and Jay's intimacy scenes, the ending felt pretty rushed.
I liked the overall, general story. I liked Reese. But there are a lot of tiny things that prohibited me from connecting emotionally with the story. Very disappointed. *sighs*
April 12, 2018
This felt raw, and gritty and very masculine with a touch of too many abs, biceps and triceps, and I wasn't sure if I liked that to start with.
Reese and Jay certainly are direct and to the point, particularly when it comes to sex. Their kind of'dirty talk' is maybe not quite up my street, but I can't deny that I felt the heat between them.
I loved, however, Devon McCormack's in-depth look at what post traumatic syndrome can do to you and your life. It is (at least to me) incredibly well described: the horror of panic attacks, the depression, the guilt what it does to the people you love.
I loved, how Jay faced his own issues head on and how both guys are determined to fight for their relationship.
I loved how both MCs, as damaged and deeply flawed as they are, deal with their problems in a most realistic way.
My earlier reservations soon went up in a puff of air, and when my heart got torn into a few pieces towards the end, I could only concede sweet 'defeat' - Be prepared for a tough ride - but it is a really worthwhile one.
Reese and Jay certainly are direct and to the point, particularly when it comes to sex. Their kind of'dirty talk' is maybe not quite up my street, but I can't deny that I felt the heat between them.
I loved, however, Devon McCormack's in-depth look at what post traumatic syndrome can do to you and your life. It is (at least to me) incredibly well described: the horror of panic attacks, the depression, the guilt what it does to the people you love.
I loved, how Jay faced his own issues head on and how both guys are determined to fight for their relationship.
I loved how both MCs, as damaged and deeply flawed as they are, deal with their problems in a most realistic way.
My earlier reservations soon went up in a puff of air, and when my heart got torn into a few pieces towards the end, I could only concede sweet 'defeat' - Be prepared for a tough ride - but it is a really worthwhile one.
September 22, 2020
I ended up reading this during Mammamiathon and recorded a reading vlog where I also ended up playing Tanya and Cher from Mamma Mia 1 and 2. It's a weird mix but I say a whole lot about this book in that vlog, which you can watch here: https://youtu.be/RGU0Dqa3Vw4
March 9, 2017
Not My Favourite.
I'm going to be very unpopular. This book was not the delight I expected. I've read almost everything this author has published, romance as well as the darker, grittier stories and while this story might hit the spot (pun intended) in terms of heat factor, the body of the story really wasn't my style. 80% repetitive personal introspection and 20% dialogue and narrative. I liked the direction of the story, I loved the thing scene, I just did not like the telling of the story. Chances are most people will disagree with me and that's ok. Reading is a personal thing. It won't put me off reading this author's work and I'm still very much looking forward to his next collaboration with author Riley Hart.
I'm going to be very unpopular. This book was not the delight I expected. I've read almost everything this author has published, romance as well as the darker, grittier stories and while this story might hit the spot (pun intended) in terms of heat factor, the body of the story really wasn't my style. 80% repetitive personal introspection and 20% dialogue and narrative. I liked the direction of the story, I loved the thing scene, I just did not like the telling of the story. Chances are most people will disagree with me and that's ok. Reading is a personal thing. It won't put me off reading this author's work and I'm still very much looking forward to his next collaboration with author Riley Hart.
June 11, 2017
This was an intense journey- wasn't so much about the romance, more about the way trauma can leave a dark shadow around you. Often this barrier means keep out, step back- but in this story Jay took the risk to step in. While Reece suffered from PTSD, Jay continued to show love & understanding- even though he fell apart at times he seemed to bounce back. I felt the angst for these characters regardless of their flaws.
March 2, 2017
2.5 stars
Too angsty and repetitive. It didn't work for me.
Both MCs were so insecure of themselves and had so many issues, real ones and the ones they made up in their minds, that I got tired of their internal diatribe half the way through the book.
I skipped whole paragraphs.
The sex was hot, but this book just wasn't my cuppa.
Too angsty and repetitive. It didn't work for me.
Both MCs were so insecure of themselves and had so many issues, real ones and the ones they made up in their minds, that I got tired of their internal diatribe half the way through the book.
I skipped whole paragraphs.
The sex was hot, but this book just wasn't my cuppa.
abandoned
March 26, 2017Lots of telling, little showing. DNF.
May 17, 2022
Love hurt/comfort with trauma.
Iove how they are supportive to each other and help to overcome their problems. Could have been five stars but I did not like Jay's reaction to bisexuality.
Loved it nevertheless
Iove how they are supportive to each other and help to overcome their problems. Could have been five stars but I did not like Jay's reaction to bisexuality.
Loved it nevertheless
January 10, 2020
A very strange book... There were parts I really liked but also things that I didn't, hence - 3 stars.
I couldn't really understand the MCs sometimes. I get it that with their tragic pasts ,and current fears and problems, it was hard for them to open up to someone else, to trust and to simply 'let go'. I get that what they started was, at the beginning, mostly pshysical and nonemotional. (Although that PTSD attack scene packed quite a punch.) But later on I simply couldn't find the chemistry and emotional growth between them.
Reese and Jay are both damaged, inside and out, and they learn to find comfort in being with each other. We get a lot of sex, followed by sex, that ended up with sex. For me it was too much show and too little feel. The MCs sometimes acted in a totally selfish way and were unable to meet each other halfway. It seemed an entirely physical attraction with little depth, I'm afraid :(
Sorry, I think that's the case of 'it's me, it's not the book', especially since there's a whole lot of very positive opinions about it on GR.
The one thing I really appreciated? The '10-years-after epilogue'. That's so very welcome! I've read many good books that I enjoyed and that lacked epilogues... :( I'd really love to see how the MCs fare and if they manage to stay together, despite their flaws.
I couldn't really understand the MCs sometimes. I get it that with their tragic pasts ,and current fears and problems, it was hard for them to open up to someone else, to trust and to simply 'let go'. I get that what they started was, at the beginning, mostly pshysical and nonemotional. (Although that PTSD attack scene packed quite a punch.) But later on I simply couldn't find the chemistry and emotional growth between them.
Reese and Jay are both damaged, inside and out, and they learn to find comfort in being with each other. We get a lot of sex, followed by sex, that ended up with sex. For me it was too much show and too little feel. The MCs sometimes acted in a totally selfish way and were unable to meet each other halfway. It seemed an entirely physical attraction with little depth, I'm afraid :(
Sorry, I think that's the case of 'it's me, it's not the book', especially since there's a whole lot of very positive opinions about it on GR.
The one thing I really appreciated? The '10-years-after epilogue'. That's so very welcome! I've read many good books that I enjoyed and that lacked epilogues... :( I'd really love to see how the MCs fare and if they manage to stay together, despite their flaws.
October 7, 2020
Devon is an auto buy author for me now...I love his darker reads and his joint books with Riley Hart...This one though I think is my favourite....It's an emotional read and truly gets your heart racing for both Jay and Reese.....Reese has made his way to the top of my bbf list....The emotion from this man...What he's gone through is truly hard to read....His reactions to things going on around him is hard.....I've heard about ptsd and I've even suffered major panic attacks so I have an idea of what goes on in his head....But the way he felt about Jay is amazing....How he feels Jay doesn't cure his problems but helps him get through each day...Their relationship wasn't too quick to get going but just about right...They were good for each other.....
Jay had his own problems from his past...I.E his father...How a parent can treat a child like that i'll never know....Jay was a strong man and knew what he was getting into......He wanted to be there for Reese and he was...numerous times...The times he would pick Reese up and throw him about was great to read...Jay's reactions to everything that happened to Reese were perfectly done.....I really felt for these two guys...An amazing book and one I will definitely be reading again x
Jay had his own problems from his past...I.E his father...How a parent can treat a child like that i'll never know....Jay was a strong man and knew what he was getting into......He wanted to be there for Reese and he was...numerous times...The times he would pick Reese up and throw him about was great to read...Jay's reactions to everything that happened to Reese were perfectly done.....I really felt for these two guys...An amazing book and one I will definitely be reading again x
March 6, 2017
4.5 stars.
I was mightily impressed with the writing in this book. It's like with every book this author releases, the writing gets better.
I also was mightily impressed that such difficult topics as PTSD and psychological trauma were handled with realism, insight, and depth.
Jay is the new guy at a factory, having recently moved to town. He never stays long in one place, preferring to run when the going gets tough, always trying to escape the memories of the past that are still haunting him.
Reese is the supervisor at the factory, and annoyed with Jay's being prone to temper tantrums. He sees that the tough guy persona Jay shows to the world isn't what's beneath the shell, and when Jay gets himself into trouble on the factory floor, Reese lays down the law, but gives him another chance.
See, Jay reminds Reese of someone he used to know, someone he couldn't save, someone who saw too much and never got help to learn to live after traumatic experiences in war zones.
Shortly after Reese has a come-to-Jesus meeting with Jay, a loud noise sends Reese into a PTSD tailspin, and Jay instinctively knows how to protect the other man. And then educates himself on the topic.
Their physical attraction is fiery, and they burn up the sheets. The bedroom is also initially where they are fully equal, not boss and employee, but simply two men scratching an itch. Well, at least at first it's just an itch. And then it becomes much more. Which is of course what I expected.
However, their ultimate happy ending, as promised in the blurb, is not something that comes easy. The men have to fight for it, find compromises, realize that a strong connection such as theirs doesn't come along all that often, and that they're worth fighting for. They have to overcome their personal demons, and the author did a fantastic job describing their struggles, and making me root for them both. With each setback, with each insecurity raising its ugly head, I watched them push forward and fight to get what they want, while I was cheering them on. Neither one gave up, even when it sometimes seemed easier to let go than keep holding on.
I really liked how the author allowed each man to find his stride, how both Reese and Jay grow (and in Jay's case, grow up) in realistic increments as the book progresses, and how sometimes the goal is reached with two steps forward, and one step back. The fact that the book is written in the first person present tense also really helps the reader feel as if we are right in the middle of their developing relationship, and really conveys the emotional aspects of this love story.
This was the best book I've read by this author thus far, and I am definitely looking forward to more.
** I received a free copy of this book from its author. A positive review was not promised in return. **
I was mightily impressed with the writing in this book. It's like with every book this author releases, the writing gets better.
I also was mightily impressed that such difficult topics as PTSD and psychological trauma were handled with realism, insight, and depth.
Jay is the new guy at a factory, having recently moved to town. He never stays long in one place, preferring to run when the going gets tough, always trying to escape the memories of the past that are still haunting him.
Reese is the supervisor at the factory, and annoyed with Jay's being prone to temper tantrums. He sees that the tough guy persona Jay shows to the world isn't what's beneath the shell, and when Jay gets himself into trouble on the factory floor, Reese lays down the law, but gives him another chance.
See, Jay reminds Reese of someone he used to know, someone he couldn't save, someone who saw too much and never got help to learn to live after traumatic experiences in war zones.
Shortly after Reese has a come-to-Jesus meeting with Jay, a loud noise sends Reese into a PTSD tailspin, and Jay instinctively knows how to protect the other man. And then educates himself on the topic.
Their physical attraction is fiery, and they burn up the sheets. The bedroom is also initially where they are fully equal, not boss and employee, but simply two men scratching an itch. Well, at least at first it's just an itch. And then it becomes much more. Which is of course what I expected.
However, their ultimate happy ending, as promised in the blurb, is not something that comes easy. The men have to fight for it, find compromises, realize that a strong connection such as theirs doesn't come along all that often, and that they're worth fighting for. They have to overcome their personal demons, and the author did a fantastic job describing their struggles, and making me root for them both. With each setback, with each insecurity raising its ugly head, I watched them push forward and fight to get what they want, while I was cheering them on. Neither one gave up, even when it sometimes seemed easier to let go than keep holding on.
I really liked how the author allowed each man to find his stride, how both Reese and Jay grow (and in Jay's case, grow up) in realistic increments as the book progresses, and how sometimes the goal is reached with two steps forward, and one step back. The fact that the book is written in the first person present tense also really helps the reader feel as if we are right in the middle of their developing relationship, and really conveys the emotional aspects of this love story.
This was the best book I've read by this author thus far, and I am definitely looking forward to more.
** I received a free copy of this book from its author. A positive review was not promised in return. **
February 27, 2017
This story had a bit more of a serious feel to it than the others I’ve read by Devon. Not only did the storyline contain serious issues, but the writing itself had a more mature feel to it. It is written in present tense, which I generally don’t enjoy, however, I am able to forget about that issue when the story is well written and interesting enough that it makes it less noticeable.
I love reading about damaged characters and seeing men overcome or manage their disabilities or PTSD issues. Here, we have Jay who is a bit of an unsteady guy, moving on to a new location when things don’t work out for him, which until this point, they have yet to do. He has some issues from his childhood that affect him as an adult and lead to many of his current issues. Then, there is Reese, Jay’s supervisor, and and ex-military man who suffers greatly from PTSD, in addition to dealing with a lower leg amputation. So, these guys have a lot going on.
I thought Devon did a wonderful job with the PTSD issue. Reese has been dealing with and somewhat managing it for almost a decade. It is a major part of him and his life, and thus, a major part of the story. I loved and easily saw how Jay was the perfect match for Reese and really enjoyed watching them work through Reese’s episodes. A side issue, or side affect of the PTSD is that Reese struggles with not wanting to hurt anyone (or anyone more than he already has). While understandable, there were times his inner struggles felt a bit repetitive at times, and I wanted to jump in and help him out myself. Thankfully, Jay does some major maturing and does the right thing for them both.
As a funny side, do men having office/supply closet quickies really totally undress to do so? This made me chuckle each time, and I almost wanted them to get caught just to see it all play out.
February 24, 2017
Epic epilogue on top of a beautifully told story of pain and redemption
I love it when the epilogue of a story jumps years into the future and not just a few weeks. The one in this romance is wonderful, it brings with it such hope and happiness and it makes everything that went before it a well earned journey.
War isn't kind, it's cruel and vicious, destructive and damaging, even in those times of justified conflict, the suffering it brings has lingering effects.
This book looks at what it's like afterwards, when you have to deal with the aftermath of a war zone, what PTSD can do to a person's brain and how it affects every single thing they do.
Reese and Jay were fully fleshed out characters, their flaws and faults as real as their positive traits. Reese was terrified he'd hurt Jay simply because he couldn't always cope. Jay was scared he'd be the second choice, the one not good enough for anything but sex.
And speaking of sex, Devon sure knows how to write those, this book has some incredibly passionate moments between the two men and some off the charts hot action to leave you flustered.
What I enjoyed the most about this though was that, in spite of all their hang ups and insecurities, they leant on each other and they talked, truly talked, through the pain.
And a shout out for the stunning cover from Jay Aheer and Allan Spiers Photography.
I love it when the epilogue of a story jumps years into the future and not just a few weeks. The one in this romance is wonderful, it brings with it such hope and happiness and it makes everything that went before it a well earned journey.
War isn't kind, it's cruel and vicious, destructive and damaging, even in those times of justified conflict, the suffering it brings has lingering effects.
This book looks at what it's like afterwards, when you have to deal with the aftermath of a war zone, what PTSD can do to a person's brain and how it affects every single thing they do.
Reese and Jay were fully fleshed out characters, their flaws and faults as real as their positive traits. Reese was terrified he'd hurt Jay simply because he couldn't always cope. Jay was scared he'd be the second choice, the one not good enough for anything but sex.
And speaking of sex, Devon sure knows how to write those, this book has some incredibly passionate moments between the two men and some off the charts hot action to leave you flustered.
What I enjoyed the most about this though was that, in spite of all their hang ups and insecurities, they leant on each other and they talked, truly talked, through the pain.
And a shout out for the stunning cover from Jay Aheer and Allan Spiers Photography.
April 4, 2017
This book made me realize that Devon Mccormack is just not my thing.
I tried to read and like his book but I just don't connect with his characters.
1. "tricks" really fucks my head when refering hook-ups, specially when the character has a shady past, I think about prostitution and in here that word was used a lot.
2. Look I'm cool with super erotic content but it boggles me when it's like super dirty in the middle of a romantic scene, and the sex scenes here just left very confused.
3. I honestly dont't remember much else and I finished this not long ago.. so there you go.
good thing, this couple owned lube so there was no painful sex, thank glob.
I tried to read and like his book but I just don't connect with his characters.
1. "tricks" really fucks my head when refering hook-ups, specially when the character has a shady past, I think about prostitution and in here that word was used a lot.
2. Look I'm cool with super erotic content but it boggles me when it's like super dirty in the middle of a romantic scene, and the sex scenes here just left very confused.
3. I honestly dont't remember much else and I finished this not long ago.. so there you go.
good thing, this couple owned lube so there was no painful sex, thank glob.
May 5, 2018
i loved this book so much i read it less then 24 hours it was that addicting. The two main characters were so amazing they are both dealing with there past battles but they make each other a better person and i just loved it. my heart broke on some parts and i literally cried my eyes out i just can not get though of these two characters. I would really recommend this book especially if you love m/m romances and love heart felt stories.
February 28, 2017
Even though I'm not a fan of military themed stories, I really enjoyed this story. I liked seeing how Jay and Reese's own turbulent backgrounds brought them together and allowed them to heal. This was the second book by McCormack I read with him as the sole author and it was wonderful. It was so detailed especially on Reese's military service and the events resulting in PTSD. It was nice McCormack focused more on the psychological scars than the physical. He touched on the prosthetic leg for a few chapters but it wasn't a main focus. I know this will sound cold but I'm glad there was a scene where Reese lashed out at Jay physically during his nightmare. I understand we want love stories to be sweet and easy but most love stories aren't. Sometimes they are hard and bumpy but still filled in love like this one. If you want a good m/m stories, give this one a try.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 27, 2017
Could not finish. Unnatural dialogue flow and repetitive.
March 6, 2017
I'm really enjoying this author's style. His books are a little gritty, a little filthy and not pretty - he doesn't brush the ugly emotions away or dance over them. His characters are usually profane (maybe a tiny bit much in this one and I'm not offended by cursing at all, it's essentially my second language) and very human. This book fits the style I've come to expect from him to a T.
With respect to this story, both main characters are damaged, Reese is grappling with PTSD and Jay has his own demons from a brutal childhood. I loved how Reese and Jay evolved, gradually slipping into a relationship, but I wish that Reese would have done more to help Jay with his demons. It's possible that this is the subtle takeaway of the story, that PTSD is a brutal and cruel mistress, that takes and takes... but the inequity bothered me a little bit. Some of the issues that bothered Jay deserved a little more analysis or attention, in my opinion.
All in all, this is a good bet for people who like hurt/comfort; ex-military men, and dirty talk.
With respect to this story, both main characters are damaged, Reese is grappling with PTSD and Jay has his own demons from a brutal childhood. I loved how Reese and Jay evolved, gradually slipping into a relationship, but I wish that Reese would have done more to help Jay with his demons. It's possible that this is the subtle takeaway of the story, that PTSD is a brutal and cruel mistress, that takes and takes... but the inequity bothered me a little bit. Some of the issues that bothered Jay deserved a little more analysis or attention, in my opinion.
All in all, this is a good bet for people who like hurt/comfort; ex-military men, and dirty talk.
September 22, 2017
I must admit that I had very mixed feelings about this.
For a long time, it was a typical 3-star book for me, an okay read but also several things that I really didn`t need or like. For example, there was so much sex in it, it started bothering me - as Achim pointed out, I could have guessed after reading the title ;-)
Also, the baggage and problems those 2 main characters brought along were sometimes just too much to be taken seriously.
Jay is always on the run, he`s got a new job in town but certainly, as soon as it gets tough he will be gone again, that`s how he lived his whole life.
Reese - his new boss - is a big and tough guy, however as it soon turns out he not only lost one leg in the war but also his sanity. His PTSD is severe and a loud noise can cause a major breakdown.
When Jay pushes Reese on the floor by accident, revealing his prosthesis in front of the whole crew, it looks like Jay would be leaving his new job rather sooner than later. But then, those 2 broken men turn to each other and start fighting their problems together.
As annoyed, as I was with the exaggerated problems of those two and the story often revolving around one bed scene after the other, it was still too interesting to me, to abandon it. At the end I must say, I am really glad because this story and those two guys definitely grew on me and I really think the last third of the book made it worth struggling through the beginning...
Yes the cover is awful and yes the problems are over the top, but still reading how those 2 guys overcame their fears and insecurities was beautiful and satisfying at the end.
Although I would not generally recommend this book, I can definitely say, that in the end it worked well for me and I even added an extra star to my rating.
For a long time, it was a typical 3-star book for me, an okay read but also several things that I really didn`t need or like. For example, there was so much sex in it, it started bothering me - as Achim pointed out, I could have guessed after reading the title ;-)
Also, the baggage and problems those 2 main characters brought along were sometimes just too much to be taken seriously.
Jay is always on the run, he`s got a new job in town but certainly, as soon as it gets tough he will be gone again, that`s how he lived his whole life.
Reese - his new boss - is a big and tough guy, however as it soon turns out he not only lost one leg in the war but also his sanity. His PTSD is severe and a loud noise can cause a major breakdown.
When Jay pushes Reese on the floor by accident, revealing his prosthesis in front of the whole crew, it looks like Jay would be leaving his new job rather sooner than later. But then, those 2 broken men turn to each other and start fighting their problems together.
As annoyed, as I was with the exaggerated problems of those two and the story often revolving around one bed scene after the other, it was still too interesting to me, to abandon it. At the end I must say, I am really glad because this story and those two guys definitely grew on me and I really think the last third of the book made it worth struggling through the beginning...
Yes the cover is awful and yes the problems are over the top, but still reading how those 2 guys overcame their fears and insecurities was beautiful and satisfying at the end.
Although I would not generally recommend this book, I can definitely say, that in the end it worked well for me and I even added an extra star to my rating.
February 24, 2017
Two broken men become whole together
What a sweet, sweet book. I wasn't certain what to expect from the author of the Bastards series, and it certainly wasn't the insightful romance of this book. The author dealt with the extremely difficult subjects of PTSD and abuse, with an honesty and compassion I've rarely seen. In spite of my extreme dislike for first person books, I loved it. I spent most of this book in tears, but often laughing at the same time. I could not recommend this book more highly. It's that damn good.
What a sweet, sweet book. I wasn't certain what to expect from the author of the Bastards series, and it certainly wasn't the insightful romance of this book. The author dealt with the extremely difficult subjects of PTSD and abuse, with an honesty and compassion I've rarely seen. In spite of my extreme dislike for first person books, I loved it. I spent most of this book in tears, but often laughing at the same time. I could not recommend this book more highly. It's that damn good.
February 26, 2017
This will never go away. It can’t. This is a part of who I am now, and I’ve known it all along.”
My beautiful, beautiful Reese! Suffer from PTSD and is pushes people away, because he thinks that being with him will suck the life out of you! It breaks my heart to see him in so much pain.
How alone I feel. How alone I’ve always felt”
Jay and his insecurity. (I'm not good enough for him, why would someone like him, fall for someone like me..etc.) were driving me nuts! Why couldn't he just see what a good/strong person he was.
If you need a cum-slut tonight, you can just have at it.”
So even though neither man is perfect here, and from time to time I did feel, that they were not good for one another, because they were both struggling with some heavy stuff in their lives, and I felt they did more harm than good by being together.
I still end up loved it, because the further I get into the book, the more I could see, that they are exactly what the other needs.
Epilogue could not have been more PERFECT!
The scene with
I definitely didn't see that coming, but I so appreciate it! I'm a happy girl!
May 27, 2025
3.5 but rounded up
The tail end really got on my nerves with how Jay reacted to Reese being bi.
I think it was really 70/30 with Reese being the 70 and Jay being the 30 with how much you learned about them and how present they were in the book.
Which I feel makes sense with Reese having PTSD and some other trauma that he went through.
Just wish I got a little more of Jay.
Also, I feel like they had sex every other chapter which honestly got a bit much lol Problem, then sex, Sad, then sex. Work, then sex. Not all bad but eh
The tail end really got on my nerves with how Jay reacted to Reese being bi.
I think it was really 70/30 with Reese being the 70 and Jay being the 30 with how much you learned about them and how present they were in the book.
Which I feel makes sense with Reese having PTSD and some other trauma that he went through.
Just wish I got a little more of Jay.
Also, I feel like they had sex every other chapter which honestly got a bit much lol Problem, then sex, Sad, then sex. Work, then sex. Not all bad but eh
May 21, 2017
In minority, not a fan. I'm exhausted after listening to this one. Too much angst for me. The 2 MC's had sex then drama and repeat each chapter. The sex (there was tons of it) actually was kind of cheesy - listening on audio did not help that either. I had more than one eye roll. I appreciated the PTSD storyline but it was just too much.
April 5, 2018
I really liked the story. However, this book had a lot of editing mistakes (spelling, grammar). Hence, I could not give it 5 stars
The romance made me believe in their HEA
The romance made me believe in their HEA
March 5, 2017
Not my cuppah. The blurb sounded awesome. Love a good love story w/ broken MCs. This was boring. And very repetitive. It's just like most of the 2 star ratings said it's meh.
March 4, 2017
5 stars
I loved this book, not just because I'm a fan of Devon, but I enjoyed the story immensely. PTSD is not a light subject, I gre up with a dad who suffered from his time in Vietnam. I loved the dynamics between the two and the mature way they worked through their issues. My little heart broke a few times, but the boys and their sweetness were able to reboot my heart. And I love epilogues, thank you for a great one.
I loved this book, not just because I'm a fan of Devon, but I enjoyed the story immensely. PTSD is not a light subject, I gre up with a dad who suffered from his time in Vietnam. I loved the dynamics between the two and the mature way they worked through their issues. My little heart broke a few times, but the boys and their sweetness were able to reboot my heart. And I love epilogues, thank you for a great one.
September 5, 2017
Story: 5
First MC: 8
Second MC: 8
Secondary characters: 3
Mystery: 3
Sexual tension: 6
Humor: 3
Hotness: 8
Product placement: 5
Ridiculousness: 5
Annoying: 6
Audio: 9 (8h 20min)
To re-read: 7
Not much of a story really. One guy with PTSD from the war, and one guy with trust and self-esteem issues (calls himself trailer trash)
They spent their time between the sheets (and all over the house, the office etc) having hot hot sex. Between the sex marathons we learn of their pasts, their fears and insecurities.
This is porn with a plot. Nothing happens but sex and some scenes are work. Lots of inner monologues that got boring soon. I'm not a fan of the whole PTSD thing, it just takes the majority of pages.
The narrator gets really excited during the sex scenes, he sounds like an announcer during horse races hehe
If you are in the mood for some hot sex between two guys by all means go ahead. And oh there is an epilogue 10 years later.
Nightmares, panties, sex, self-esteem issues, sex, wise old men, sex, and sex
First MC: 8
Second MC: 8
Secondary characters: 3
Mystery: 3
Sexual tension: 6
Humor: 3
Hotness: 8
Product placement: 5
Ridiculousness: 5
Annoying: 6
Audio: 9 (8h 20min)
To re-read: 7
Not much of a story really. One guy with PTSD from the war, and one guy with trust and self-esteem issues (calls himself trailer trash)
They spent their time between the sheets (and all over the house, the office etc) having hot hot sex. Between the sex marathons we learn of their pasts, their fears and insecurities.
This is porn with a plot. Nothing happens but sex and some scenes are work. Lots of inner monologues that got boring soon. I'm not a fan of the whole PTSD thing, it just takes the majority of pages.
The narrator gets really excited during the sex scenes, he sounds like an announcer during horse races hehe
If you are in the mood for some hot sex between two guys by all means go ahead. And oh there is an epilogue 10 years later.
Nightmares, panties, sex, self-esteem issues, sex, wise old men, sex, and sex
June 30, 2017
Audiobook Review:
This was my first read/listen from Devon McCormack and holy hell was that intense. I really liked Jay and Reese and their journey. Both men are deeply flawed and can't seem to move on from their pasts. Although I didn't fully understand Reese's grief over the loss of his friend nor his reluctance to give Jay a chance, I still felt for him and his pain. Jay took a little longer to warm up to, but in the end, he showed his vulnerability and his steel as he stepped out of his comfort zone to fight for the man he loved. So . . .respect! Michael Pauley does a fabulous job with this story. His performance didn't have a lot of diversity in the MCs voices, but he does a great job with the emotional aspects of the story. His timing and pacing were spot on. Great performance overall.
This was my first read/listen from Devon McCormack and holy hell was that intense. I really liked Jay and Reese and their journey. Both men are deeply flawed and can't seem to move on from their pasts. Although I didn't fully understand Reese's grief over the loss of his friend nor his reluctance to give Jay a chance, I still felt for him and his pain. Jay took a little longer to warm up to, but in the end, he showed his vulnerability and his steel as he stepped out of his comfort zone to fight for the man he loved. So . . .respect! Michael Pauley does a fabulous job with this story. His performance didn't have a lot of diversity in the MCs voices, but he does a great job with the emotional aspects of the story. His timing and pacing were spot on. Great performance overall.
March 3, 2017
This was my 1st Devon McCormack read, and it did not disappoint.
A beautiful story of two broken people falling in love. The epilogue was epic!!
A beautiful story of two broken people falling in love. The epilogue was epic!!
March 12, 2017
loved it!!!
I simply fell in love by Reese and Jay...
All the hurt that Jay carries inside, always explode in fights and confrontations...
Reese has to carry all the bagage from his time serving his country. The war left him broken, and he didn't think he could / deserved to have a relationship.
These two broken sould find each other and the sparks fly... Their love scenes are hot, their love is heartwarming. This book took me into a rollercoaster of emotions and I loved every minute.
Amazing book
I simply fell in love by Reese and Jay...
All the hurt that Jay carries inside, always explode in fights and confrontations...
Reese has to carry all the bagage from his time serving his country. The war left him broken, and he didn't think he could / deserved to have a relationship.
These two broken sould find each other and the sparks fly... Their love scenes are hot, their love is heartwarming. This book took me into a rollercoaster of emotions and I loved every minute.
Amazing book
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