What do you think?
Rate this book
Hell and Back
Seventeen years ago, Forge Reynolds fell in love… and had his heart broken. When Staff Sergeant Gage Livingston was brought into Forge’s Army field hospital, temporarily paralyzed, Forge sat with him, read his letters, answered his mail, and formed a connection he thought would last. But Gage was sent home, Forge transferred to a new post, and his letters to Gage went unanswered.
Now in the middle of a bitter divorce, Forge is sick and tired of his husband’s manipulation. He's almost ready to make any sacrifice to get closure—then he finds Granger murdered execution-style in their home. Forge had no idea about Granger’s illicit activities, but the killers don’t believe that. They think Forge has something they want, and they’re coming after him.
When Forge’s lawyer arranges for professional protection, the last face Forge expects to see is Gage’s. Can he even contemplate a second chance for them after almost two decades, or will hope only lead to more heartache? Before they can explore the possibilities, they must figure out what information Granger had—that others are willing to kill for—or that possible heartache could become a certainty.
Now in the middle of a bitter divorce, Forge is sick and tired of his husband’s manipulation. He's almost ready to make any sacrifice to get closure—then he finds Granger murdered execution-style in their home. Forge had no idea about Granger’s illicit activities, but the killers don’t believe that. They think Forge has something they want, and they’re coming after him.
When Forge’s lawyer arranges for professional protection, the last face Forge expects to see is Gage’s. Can he even contemplate a second chance for them after almost two decades, or will hope only lead to more heartache? Before they can explore the possibilities, they must figure out what information Granger had—that others are willing to kill for—or that possible heartache could become a certainty.
200 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 27, 2017
55 people are currently reading
180 people want to read
About the author
Dirk Greyson
21 books115 followersDirk is very much an outside kind of man. He loves travel and seeing new things.
Dirk worked in corporate America for way too long and now spends his days writing, gardening, and taking care of the home he shares with his partner of more than two decades.
He has a Master’s Degree and all the other accessories that go with a corporate job. But he is most proud of the stories he tells and the life he's built.
Dirk lives in Pennsylvania in a century old home and is blessed with an amazing circle of friends.
Dirk worked in corporate America for way too long and now spends his days writing, gardening, and taking care of the home he shares with his partner of more than two decades.
He has a Master’s Degree and all the other accessories that go with a corporate job. But he is most proud of the stories he tells and the life he's built.
Dirk lives in Pennsylvania in a century old home and is blessed with an amazing circle of friends.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
April 3, 2022
It doesn't matter if this author writes as Andrew Grey or as Dirk Greyson, he produces one fantastic, adventure and a sizzling hot romance. I liked that both Gage and Forge were strong lead characters. They had both been in the army, and they stood up for themselves. Forge and Gage reunited after losing track of one another for seventeen years, so you had to root for them to get the destiny they both so deserved. The suspense was great, and the story moved along like a well-oiled machine churning out a second chance, steamy, sexy romance with a genuine bond between two loving men.
October 21, 2017
I really enjoy mystery/suspense, as well as a second chance romance, and this book lived up to my expectations. Forge and Gage were very complete characters, with background details supporting their quickly rekindled attraction. The account shows a lot of emotional swings for Forge, as he discovers unknown facts regarding his deceased husband. That made me wish for a much slower burn than what was shown. Granted, there were months of separation and a pending divorce between Forge and Granger, but you'd think a disturbing event like murder would slow Forge down more! Gage’s thoughts and emotions made him easy to relate to and he had some extra depth since his parents were key figures in the plot.
The mystery was intriguing, although it seemed more complicated than it needed to be. I also learned an awful lot about puzzle boxes! There were a couple of action scenes and realistic investigative techniques shown, but I wasn’t quite sold on the police allowing Forge to stay in the house after the murder. There was an emotional draw as Forge and Gage made discoveries about Granger, that made me want at least a little redemption for him in the end. The pace of the story dragged in a few spots and the levels of excitement and suspense weren’t terribly high, but the narrative still held my interest.
Dirk Greyson, aka Andrew Grey, is a prolific writer, always producing solid, well written stories. I have to admit, I tend to find his characters rather bland at times, but his tales always flow along easily. He adds the right amount of interest and details to keep my attention and anticipate the resolution. I can recommend this as a fine addition to his body of work.
*An ARC was provided by the publisher via Jessie G Books Reviews in return for a fair and honest review*
The mystery was intriguing, although it seemed more complicated than it needed to be. I also learned an awful lot about puzzle boxes! There were a couple of action scenes and realistic investigative techniques shown, but I wasn’t quite sold on the police allowing Forge to stay in the house after the murder. There was an emotional draw as Forge and Gage made discoveries about Granger, that made me want at least a little redemption for him in the end. The pace of the story dragged in a few spots and the levels of excitement and suspense weren’t terribly high, but the narrative still held my interest.
Dirk Greyson, aka Andrew Grey, is a prolific writer, always producing solid, well written stories. I have to admit, I tend to find his characters rather bland at times, but his tales always flow along easily. He adds the right amount of interest and details to keep my attention and anticipate the resolution. I can recommend this as a fine addition to his body of work.
*An ARC was provided by the publisher via Jessie G Books Reviews in return for a fair and honest review*
July 19, 2018
3.5 stars! The story had a lot of promise and I was intrigued by the murder mystery. Forge and Gage were in the Military and had fallen in love seventeen years ago; but miscommunication and relocation caused them to separate and blame the other for not being together. Forge now married but going through an acrimonious divorce is thrown in the middle of mayhem when his husband is brutally murdered and secrets of his life start unravelling. To add to his angst, Gage shows up as the hired protector to safeguard his life and interests against criminals now targeting him. They both try to hide the attraction they still feel, but danger brings them closer and soon the past is no longer in the past.
I liked the book for being able to find the balance between romance and mystery. It never became too dangerous that the romance felt rushed.. but the ending seemed easy and contrived. Everything got connected and easily resolved which was a slight let-down. Nevertheless, it is an enjoyable story with two likable MCs who have plenty of steam and past angst to keep a reader entertained.
I liked the book for being able to find the balance between romance and mystery. It never became too dangerous that the romance felt rushed.. but the ending seemed easy and contrived. Everything got connected and easily resolved which was a slight let-down. Nevertheless, it is an enjoyable story with two likable MCs who have plenty of steam and past angst to keep a reader entertained.
October 19, 2017
*3,5 starts.*
I was torn between 3 or 4 for some reasons. Okay, one.
While we'll obviously hate Granger for his cheating, he's got murdered, and at some point (at the end of the book, I found out that he's not that bad as we assumed in the beginning), was it 'ethical' for Forge to 'messing around' with his long lost love, Gage on the first day?
Not a fan.
I hate cheater, sure, Granger was a cheater. Once, and there's some explanation later in the book. But can't Forge 'pretend' at least he's mourned after his dead husband?
There's a 'divorced' explanation there, of course. But still.
Scratch the love life, the mystery was quite good and interesting for me to follow. It was interesting. And fun to follow, I was glued on my chair yesterday, so yeah, it was enjoyable mystery.
If you're into some mystery, this book could probably fulfill your need. Don't expect to high for the romance, you'll be good.
*ARC provided by Dreamspinner press for an honest review.*
I was torn between 3 or 4 for some reasons. Okay, one.
While we'll obviously hate Granger for his cheating, he's got murdered, and at some point (at the end of the book, I found out that he's not that bad as we assumed in the beginning), was it 'ethical' for Forge to 'messing around' with his long lost love, Gage on the first day?
Not a fan.
I hate cheater, sure, Granger was a cheater. Once, and there's some explanation later in the book. But can't Forge 'pretend' at least he's mourned after his dead husband?
There's a 'divorced' explanation there, of course. But still.
Scratch the love life, the mystery was quite good and interesting for me to follow. It was interesting. And fun to follow, I was glued on my chair yesterday, so yeah, it was enjoyable mystery.
If you're into some mystery, this book could probably fulfill your need. Don't expect to high for the romance, you'll be good.
*ARC provided by Dreamspinner press for an honest review.*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 29, 2017
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.75 stars
Gage Livingston, retired Staff Sergeant and currently running his own security business, never thought he’d see Forge again. Forge was the medic who helped Gage through his painful recovery after an attack left him nearly paralized. Forge kept his spirits up, helped him write letters home, and promised to write to Gage even after he was sent home. But the letters never came and Gage eventually had to move on with his life. Now, though, Gage and Forge are face-to-face and alone in an empty house. Between keeping Forge safe and finding out what secrets Granger had hidden that were dangerous enough to cause his death, Gage and Forge have one more puzzle to solve. The feelings between them are still there, but is this more than nostalgia? Are either of them — or both of them — willing to take a second chance?
For months, for a year, Forge has been mourning his marriage, emotionally and physically abandoned by his husband, a man who made him doubt himself. He gave way in everything, sleeping on the right side of the bed because Granger liked the left, eating foods Granger approved of, doing things Granger accepts. He can’t even eat his favorite ice cream because Granger would make fun of him, but with Gage it’s different. For Forge, Gage represents the past — a past when he was more confident, more sure of himself, and able to make a decision without second guessing himself. He was also very much in love with Gage seventeen years ago, and a little surprised to find that those feelings haven’t faded.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
3.75 stars
Gage Livingston, retired Staff Sergeant and currently running his own security business, never thought he’d see Forge again. Forge was the medic who helped Gage through his painful recovery after an attack left him nearly paralized. Forge kept his spirits up, helped him write letters home, and promised to write to Gage even after he was sent home. But the letters never came and Gage eventually had to move on with his life. Now, though, Gage and Forge are face-to-face and alone in an empty house. Between keeping Forge safe and finding out what secrets Granger had hidden that were dangerous enough to cause his death, Gage and Forge have one more puzzle to solve. The feelings between them are still there, but is this more than nostalgia? Are either of them — or both of them — willing to take a second chance?
For months, for a year, Forge has been mourning his marriage, emotionally and physically abandoned by his husband, a man who made him doubt himself. He gave way in everything, sleeping on the right side of the bed because Granger liked the left, eating foods Granger approved of, doing things Granger accepts. He can’t even eat his favorite ice cream because Granger would make fun of him, but with Gage it’s different. For Forge, Gage represents the past — a past when he was more confident, more sure of himself, and able to make a decision without second guessing himself. He was also very much in love with Gage seventeen years ago, and a little surprised to find that those feelings haven’t faded.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
Want to read
May 15, 2018Honestly, this is only going on the TBR because Dorian Bane narrates it.
October 22, 2017
Forge Reynolds was going through a bitter divorce with his husband, Granger. When he finds Granger murdered in their back yard, his attorney calls in security for him to protect him. His bodyguard is Gage Livingston who fell in love with Forge years ago when they were in the Army.
Okay, I have to get this out of the way. For some reason I found the names of the MCs in this book too similar and had a hard time remembering who was who. I know that's silly, but it's never happened to me before and I found it really distracting. Forge, Gage and Granger were just too much alike. So, that was a major pet peeve while reading the book.
That said, I didn't dislike the book. I know that's a weird way of saying it, but it feels more honest than saying I liked the book. I struggled with Forge's character. He was surprised and happy to reconnect with Gage and I get that, but he was quick to jump into bed with him too just days after his husband was murdered. Forge struggles with loving Gage and dealing with the loss of his husband but seems to love onto Gage so easily. Forge was also written to be too delicate in my opinion.
I loved Gage. He was the perfect bodyguard, friend and was completely sympathetic of Forge's situation with just losing his husband. Although he's always loved Forge and is happy to reconnect, he's gentle, caring and never pushes for more than Forge is willing to give.
So, all in all, I enjoyed this book.
Okay, I have to get this out of the way. For some reason I found the names of the MCs in this book too similar and had a hard time remembering who was who. I know that's silly, but it's never happened to me before and I found it really distracting. Forge, Gage and Granger were just too much alike. So, that was a major pet peeve while reading the book.
That said, I didn't dislike the book. I know that's a weird way of saying it, but it feels more honest than saying I liked the book. I struggled with Forge's character. He was surprised and happy to reconnect with Gage and I get that, but he was quick to jump into bed with him too just days after his husband was murdered. Forge struggles with loving Gage and dealing with the loss of his husband but seems to love onto Gage so easily. Forge was also written to be too delicate in my opinion.
I loved Gage. He was the perfect bodyguard, friend and was completely sympathetic of Forge's situation with just losing his husband. Although he's always loved Forge and is happy to reconnect, he's gentle, caring and never pushes for more than Forge is willing to give.
So, all in all, I enjoyed this book.
October 27, 2017
Almost two decades ago, Forge Reynolds had his heart broken by a soldier he cared for that went home to heal with the promise of keeping in touch. Worlds apart, Gage Livingston sits and waits for a letter than never comes. Now, seventeen years later, they find their way back to each other. But time is a fickle thing and there is so much water under the bridge that there's a very real danger of drowning.
This book hit the ground running. I was pulled into Forge's world from the start, the conversation with his attorney. I really liked that Greyson used the first few chapters to introduce this character to the reader before pulling Gage back into Forge's orbit. And as the story progresses and you learn more about both men, what kept them apart and the lives they've been leading, you see that neither has ever truly forgotten one another.
Forge never stopped loving Gage, but he did find room in his heart for another. And though they were going through a bitter divorce, finding his soon to be ex-husband dead on the back lawn shakes Forge to his core. When Gage pops back into his life he knows he still wants him, but he's uncertain and unsteady and questions everything.
Gage too never fell out of love with the man that nursed him back to health sitting vigil at his bedside all those years ago. When the truth of what actually happened to keep them apart emerges, Gage refuses to let love slip away again. Too bad there are some pretty nasty people after Forge, people that will stop at nothing to get what they want, even if that includes more bodies on the back lawn.
Oh my, my, my... this book was fantastic. Action packed, suspenseful and so very sexy. Once these two men let their guard down the years apart seem to fade away. The problem is, they can't just pick up where they left off. First they have to figure out who killed Forge's ex and why. What is it they thing Forge has and why can't he and Gage figure it out? I will say that I'm quite pleased Greyson didn't erase the confusion and decades long ache these men felt during the time apart. I think that would have been far too cheesy, for lack of a better term. Forge can't say no to Gage, but he continues to question the rationale of what they're doing and that only added to the suspense of the story. Love, want and need, these emotions are valid, but is judgement clouded because of the situation they find themselves in?
Looking for something that will keep you on the edge of your seat, flipping through the pages eager to see what happens next? You'll want to get a copy of Hell and Back then.
October 27, 2017
Ford is an interior designer, primarily for corporate offices and work places. His husband of 10 years, Granger, is a win-at-all-costs lawyer, who Ford recently caught cheating on him. Instead of kicking Granger to the curb Ford kicks him to the spare bedroom as they work through the divorce settlement. It’s a nasty separation and Ford is sick of the bickering. One evening Ford comes home to find Granger dead in their backyard, shot full of holes in the back.
Gage is hired to be Ford’s bodyguard since the killer or killers are unknown and still on the loose. It turns out Ford and Gage were once potential lovers, so this becomes a second-chance romance as they rediscover each other over time. Gage was badly wounded in combat and Ford helped him recover. Then they parted ways when Ford went home. Ford wrote many letters to Gage but they were returned to sender, with no explanation. This is only one of the mysteries in this story.
As Ford and Gage delve further into the puzzle of what happened to Grainger and why, the story gets wound around organized crime, trusted people turn out to be enemies, red herrings pop up, and there is plenty of fear and anxiety. Dirk Greyson holds no punches. His stories are sometimes violent, always thrilling, and dark fun to read. This is one of his best.
Gage is hired to be Ford’s bodyguard since the killer or killers are unknown and still on the loose. It turns out Ford and Gage were once potential lovers, so this becomes a second-chance romance as they rediscover each other over time. Gage was badly wounded in combat and Ford helped him recover. Then they parted ways when Ford went home. Ford wrote many letters to Gage but they were returned to sender, with no explanation. This is only one of the mysteries in this story.
As Ford and Gage delve further into the puzzle of what happened to Grainger and why, the story gets wound around organized crime, trusted people turn out to be enemies, red herrings pop up, and there is plenty of fear and anxiety. Dirk Greyson holds no punches. His stories are sometimes violent, always thrilling, and dark fun to read. This is one of his best.
October 21, 2017
Hell and Back by Dirk Greyson
4.5 stars
M/M Thriller/Second Chance Romance
Triggers: Cheating, Murder, Attempted Kidnapping, Attempted murder, stalking
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Forge and Granger have been having a difficult time as of late - but when Forge comes home, he finds something he never thought he'd see. I really enjoyed the reader's introduction in to this story. You are really seeing this through Forge's eyes and I like how the story is told.
Forge then turns to his attorney for some protection because whomever has hurt Granger is still waiting and wanting certain information that they were unsuccessful as getting. In walks Forge's old love, someone he never thought he'd see before, Gage.
Gage and Forge had fallen in love several years prior, but with their feelings jumbled, miscommunication - on purpose, these two never thought they'd get another chance.
With the bad people still out to get the information they want, it's up to Forge and Gage to fight for their relationship and Forge's life. There is plenty of chemistry, some flashbacks and a lot of making up.
I also really enjoyed the police officer in this story and Gage's friend, as well. This is a second chance romance where both men need to decide if their past needs to stay there or if they can once again, have a future.
4.5 stars
M/M Thriller/Second Chance Romance
Triggers: Cheating, Murder, Attempted Kidnapping, Attempted murder, stalking
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
Forge and Granger have been having a difficult time as of late - but when Forge comes home, he finds something he never thought he'd see. I really enjoyed the reader's introduction in to this story. You are really seeing this through Forge's eyes and I like how the story is told.
Forge then turns to his attorney for some protection because whomever has hurt Granger is still waiting and wanting certain information that they were unsuccessful as getting. In walks Forge's old love, someone he never thought he'd see before, Gage.
Gage and Forge had fallen in love several years prior, but with their feelings jumbled, miscommunication - on purpose, these two never thought they'd get another chance.
With the bad people still out to get the information they want, it's up to Forge and Gage to fight for their relationship and Forge's life. There is plenty of chemistry, some flashbacks and a lot of making up.
I also really enjoyed the police officer in this story and Gage's friend, as well. This is a second chance romance where both men need to decide if their past needs to stay there or if they can once again, have a future.
October 16, 2017
I received a copy to read and review for Wicked Reads
I really enjoyed this book. There was suspense, angst and hot guys who lost each other and found each other again and fell in love all over again. Forge's soon to be ex-husband is murdered and Gage is hired to help protect him. They used to be in love 17 years ago. I enjoyed the story, the chemistry between Gage and Forge and the hot sex. What bugged me most about this book was Forge's feelings towards his ex. He wanted that divorce to be over so he could move on, then when his soon to be ex is murdered he seems to have feelings for the guys still. Forges feelings kept flipping and flopping to me, I mean I get that you wanted the divorce but you never wanted Granger (his soon to be ex) to die, but just because he was killed doesn't make him a saint now, remember all the crap things he did to you? He seemed to push all those crap things to the side at times and it made me want to scream. The book did keep you on the edge of your seat, however, when everything was finally figured out, everything moved so fast it was like the author was trying to hurry up and and end the book. That part I didn't like. Overall, good book.
I really enjoyed this book. There was suspense, angst and hot guys who lost each other and found each other again and fell in love all over again. Forge's soon to be ex-husband is murdered and Gage is hired to help protect him. They used to be in love 17 years ago. I enjoyed the story, the chemistry between Gage and Forge and the hot sex. What bugged me most about this book was Forge's feelings towards his ex. He wanted that divorce to be over so he could move on, then when his soon to be ex is murdered he seems to have feelings for the guys still. Forges feelings kept flipping and flopping to me, I mean I get that you wanted the divorce but you never wanted Granger (his soon to be ex) to die, but just because he was killed doesn't make him a saint now, remember all the crap things he did to you? He seemed to push all those crap things to the side at times and it made me want to scream. The book did keep you on the edge of your seat, however, when everything was finally figured out, everything moved so fast it was like the author was trying to hurry up and and end the book. That part I didn't like. Overall, good book.
December 2, 2017
Rating: 3.5 stars
While I enjoyed this story well enough, there were times that it failed to hold my attention. I kept finding myself putting it down. At one point, I started to read another book before finishing this one. It wasn’t because the book was bad, I just think that I am not a big fan of this type of story. Also, some parts of it felt a bit cliché. I will say that I liked both Forge and Gage as the MCs and felt that they had good chemistry together. Forge waffled a bit which while somewhat annoying was understandable. I did like this book. Wouldn’t say I loved it, but it was a good book overall.
While I enjoyed this story well enough, there were times that it failed to hold my attention. I kept finding myself putting it down. At one point, I started to read another book before finishing this one. It wasn’t because the book was bad, I just think that I am not a big fan of this type of story. Also, some parts of it felt a bit cliché. I will say that I liked both Forge and Gage as the MCs and felt that they had good chemistry together. Forge waffled a bit which while somewhat annoying was understandable. I did like this book. Wouldn’t say I loved it, but it was a good book overall.
November 1, 2017
Num-Yummy
I am a sucker for military, former military, wounded warriors, second chance romance, and just about every other theme this book had going on. The gangland stuff seemed a little far-fetched from time to time but wasn't so entirely outside of the realms of possibility that I was rolling my eyes ... much. That said, just because some things in the book were outside of my experience, that obviously doesn't mean they are unlikely or impossible in real life. Let's just say I found the entire plot and its related themes and components relatively believable for a fast-paced, action-packed contemporary romance title, and I'll leave it at that.
I'm not typically a fan of 'rebounds' but I considered this more of a 'rediscovery' when it came right down to it. Who wouldn't want another chance with the one that was torn away? In all honesty, had events not conspired against them, Gage and Forge would probably already have been together, or I guess I should say, would still be together. It wasn't too much of a stretch that they immediately reconnected despite the circumstances or perhaps because of the circumstances would be more accurate.
I liked Gage. I liked Forge. I liked Gage and Forge together. It's been a couple of weeks since I read this one, and to be honest, I don't remember much about what was going on between the sheets. To be fair, I read a lot. My gut tells me they were hot together, but obviously not all that memorable. Then again, I read a lot so that's not saying much. Add in brain surgery and my sometimes swiss-cheese short-term memory and my opinion on the smexy times in this title are not all that reliable. Gimme a minute and I'll skim. I can't just leave it like that! It's irking me. Okay, got it. Smexy times: Uh-huh. Just like I thought. H-O-T!
I also loved the dual POV in this one. I really needed both points of view for the second chance theme to make sense. It does me no good to not know what one or the other MC is thinking when there's been a long separation and practically a life lived in the interim. This one feels like it might be the start of a series, I'm not sure, but I wouldn't mind at all. I'd love to see more of this couple or even some of the peripheral characters. I was particularly fond of Harv, and Gage's work with clients could lend itself well to some tangential plotlines. Just sayin'! *Winks*
All in all, I enjoyed this book. There are a lot of reasons why I might inherently predisposed to like it, but I honestly think it's one of the better ones I've read this year. The characters were great if a little too ... in touch with their feelings sometimes, and the story has legs. The slightly too touchy-feely conversation is the only major reason I dinged this one. It lost a half a star for that and another smidge for rubbing my personal preferences the wrong way in other ways ... bedroom ways. And no, I will not elaborate, for once [winks]! That said, I can see this story and its MCs going further in either a starring or secondary role. I like potential. I like it a lot. Pick this one up. I'm now a fan.
Other reviews by NeRdyWYRM can be read here.
Images (if present) may be subject to copyright
Galley copy of Hell and Back provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
I am a sucker for military, former military, wounded warriors, second chance romance, and just about every other theme this book had going on. The gangland stuff seemed a little far-fetched from time to time but wasn't so entirely outside of the realms of possibility that I was rolling my eyes ... much. That said, just because some things in the book were outside of my experience, that obviously doesn't mean they are unlikely or impossible in real life. Let's just say I found the entire plot and its related themes and components relatively believable for a fast-paced, action-packed contemporary romance title, and I'll leave it at that.
I'm not typically a fan of 'rebounds' but I considered this more of a 'rediscovery' when it came right down to it. Who wouldn't want another chance with the one that was torn away? In all honesty, had events not conspired against them, Gage and Forge would probably already have been together, or I guess I should say, would still be together. It wasn't too much of a stretch that they immediately reconnected despite the circumstances or perhaps because of the circumstances would be more accurate.
I liked Gage. I liked Forge. I liked Gage and Forge together. It's been a couple of weeks since I read this one, and to be honest, I don't remember much about what was going on between the sheets. To be fair, I read a lot. My gut tells me they were hot together, but obviously not all that memorable. Then again, I read a lot so that's not saying much. Add in brain surgery and my sometimes swiss-cheese short-term memory and my opinion on the smexy times in this title are not all that reliable. Gimme a minute and I'll skim. I can't just leave it like that! It's irking me. Okay, got it. Smexy times: Uh-huh. Just like I thought. H-O-T!
I also loved the dual POV in this one. I really needed both points of view for the second chance theme to make sense. It does me no good to not know what one or the other MC is thinking when there's been a long separation and practically a life lived in the interim. This one feels like it might be the start of a series, I'm not sure, but I wouldn't mind at all. I'd love to see more of this couple or even some of the peripheral characters. I was particularly fond of Harv, and Gage's work with clients could lend itself well to some tangential plotlines. Just sayin'! *Winks*
All in all, I enjoyed this book. There are a lot of reasons why I might inherently predisposed to like it, but I honestly think it's one of the better ones I've read this year. The characters were great if a little too ... in touch with their feelings sometimes, and the story has legs. The slightly too touchy-feely conversation is the only major reason I dinged this one. It lost a half a star for that and another smidge for rubbing my personal preferences the wrong way in other ways ... bedroom ways. And no, I will not elaborate, for once [winks]! That said, I can see this story and its MCs going further in either a starring or secondary role. I like potential. I like it a lot. Pick this one up. I'm now a fan.
Other reviews by NeRdyWYRM can be read here.
Images (if present) may be subject to copyright
Galley copy of Hell and Back provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
November 1, 2017
Maybe its just me but i couldnt get into this at all, may try again another time
August 26, 2020
DNF, both the writing and the narration are on the bad side, not for me.
July 16, 2020
2.5
The beginning was good, but then it started to go downhill.
Boring stuff (just an example: do we really need to know ); unbelievable or plainly stupid stuff (); too many coincidences; repetitions of facts and statements about the past and the present; sappiness galore; stereotyped sex scenes (including the notorious sentence «make me yours»). I’m glad for the author that I’m in the minority though.
The beginning was good, but then it started to go downhill.
Boring stuff (just an example: do we really need to know ); unbelievable or plainly stupid stuff (); too many coincidences; repetitions of facts and statements about the past and the present; sappiness galore; stereotyped sex scenes (including the notorious sentence «make me yours»). I’m glad for the author that I’m in the minority though.
November 28, 2017
2.5 stars. I found it boring and at 82% began skimming. The lack of condom use upset me. It felt irresponsible.
October 27, 2017
3.5 Stars
Full review at: https://optimumm.blog/2017/10/27/revi...
For the past eight months, Forge Reynolds has been in a divorce battle with his husband of twelve years, Granger, after Forge caught Granger in bed with another man. Although they are living separate lives, they are still living in the same house, but in different rooms. Both men throw themselves into their work so as their paths rarely cross. Forge is an interior designer for businesses and Granger is a successful lawyer. One night when Forge arrives home, all of the house lights are on but the house seems empty, that is until Forge switches on the light for the garden and discovers Granger’s body lying in the grass covered in blood. When the police arrive at the scene, they discover that Granger’s home office has also been trashed, as though the killer was looking for something.
Forge is questioned about any motive that there might be for the murder due to Granger’s job, but he doesn’t know of any reason that something like this could happen because Granger never kept any of his work at home, and he worked mostly in the corporate law sector, not criminal law. Forge is worried about being at home alone knowing that the killer may come back, so it’s arranged that he’ll have security with him until the case has been solved. When the security company arrives, Forge is shocked to discover that the man who will be with him for the foreseeable future is the same man who broke his heart seventeen years before.
Gage Livingston is the owner of Livingston Security. When he arrives at Forge’s house to start the job, he knew there was a high chance it would be the same man from his past as the name is not very common. What he didn’t expect, was for the feelings he had in the past to appear so quickly again, and that in itself is a problem. Not only is it unprofessional to be attracted to and have feelings for the person you’re supposed to be protecting, but seventeen years ago Forge left and moved on with his life leaving Gage behind without a further thought, and Gage has never really gotten over that hurt. How can he do his job and be in such close proximity to someone he wants but doesn’t want at the same time?
Gage and Forge work together to try and find what the killer was after, and in the course of the investigation, unearth some information that proves to be a bigger concern for both of their lives and families than they could have imagined.
Personally, I found the story to be a little too far-fetched and unrealistic. I just don’t believe that two people who haven’t had any contact for seventeen years would jump straight in to bed together and declare their love for each other after just two days of being in each other’s company again. The pace of the story was also too slow for me. If I’m reading a mystery story, I want to be on the edge of my seat with intrigue and suspense trying to guess what’s coming next, I just didn’t have that with this book. A lot of the time, it was hard for the story to keep my full focus and attention. The other issue I had was that because it was written in the third person, there was a lot of dialogue between the characters which jumped around quite a bit. I found myself getting confused by who was speaking at times, so would have to back track a few sentences or to the last paragraph, just to keep everything straight in my head.
However, I did really like the “flashback” parts to when Forge and Gage were in the Army together, and would have loved for it to have been a bigger part of the story. I wanted to know what was said in the letters that Forge sent, and how they spent their last day at the military hospital together before Gage was transferred. I think getting to know more about what they were like together when they were younger would have made it easier to relate to them as they are now.
I so wanted to love this book when I first saw the blurb and then when I started reading, but unfortunately, it just didn’t push my buttons. But then, maybe you’ll love it? And isn’t that the best thing about books and reading? We all see the story in our own way.
***The ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press. My review is an honest opinion of the book ***
Full review at: https://optimumm.blog/2017/10/27/revi...
For the past eight months, Forge Reynolds has been in a divorce battle with his husband of twelve years, Granger, after Forge caught Granger in bed with another man. Although they are living separate lives, they are still living in the same house, but in different rooms. Both men throw themselves into their work so as their paths rarely cross. Forge is an interior designer for businesses and Granger is a successful lawyer. One night when Forge arrives home, all of the house lights are on but the house seems empty, that is until Forge switches on the light for the garden and discovers Granger’s body lying in the grass covered in blood. When the police arrive at the scene, they discover that Granger’s home office has also been trashed, as though the killer was looking for something.
Forge is questioned about any motive that there might be for the murder due to Granger’s job, but he doesn’t know of any reason that something like this could happen because Granger never kept any of his work at home, and he worked mostly in the corporate law sector, not criminal law. Forge is worried about being at home alone knowing that the killer may come back, so it’s arranged that he’ll have security with him until the case has been solved. When the security company arrives, Forge is shocked to discover that the man who will be with him for the foreseeable future is the same man who broke his heart seventeen years before.
Gage Livingston is the owner of Livingston Security. When he arrives at Forge’s house to start the job, he knew there was a high chance it would be the same man from his past as the name is not very common. What he didn’t expect, was for the feelings he had in the past to appear so quickly again, and that in itself is a problem. Not only is it unprofessional to be attracted to and have feelings for the person you’re supposed to be protecting, but seventeen years ago Forge left and moved on with his life leaving Gage behind without a further thought, and Gage has never really gotten over that hurt. How can he do his job and be in such close proximity to someone he wants but doesn’t want at the same time?
Gage and Forge work together to try and find what the killer was after, and in the course of the investigation, unearth some information that proves to be a bigger concern for both of their lives and families than they could have imagined.
Personally, I found the story to be a little too far-fetched and unrealistic. I just don’t believe that two people who haven’t had any contact for seventeen years would jump straight in to bed together and declare their love for each other after just two days of being in each other’s company again. The pace of the story was also too slow for me. If I’m reading a mystery story, I want to be on the edge of my seat with intrigue and suspense trying to guess what’s coming next, I just didn’t have that with this book. A lot of the time, it was hard for the story to keep my full focus and attention. The other issue I had was that because it was written in the third person, there was a lot of dialogue between the characters which jumped around quite a bit. I found myself getting confused by who was speaking at times, so would have to back track a few sentences or to the last paragraph, just to keep everything straight in my head.
However, I did really like the “flashback” parts to when Forge and Gage were in the Army together, and would have loved for it to have been a bigger part of the story. I wanted to know what was said in the letters that Forge sent, and how they spent their last day at the military hospital together before Gage was transferred. I think getting to know more about what they were like together when they were younger would have made it easier to relate to them as they are now.
I so wanted to love this book when I first saw the blurb and then when I started reading, but unfortunately, it just didn’t push my buttons. But then, maybe you’ll love it? And isn’t that the best thing about books and reading? We all see the story in our own way.
***The ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press. My review is an honest opinion of the book ***
October 29, 2017
Forge Reynolds is tired of dealing with his soon-to-be ex’s demands, and is going to give in to them just to bring their whole sordid mess to an end; after all, there was nothing left in the relationship, only arguments. Even though Granger cheated on Forge, Forge has allowed him to stay in the spare bedroom. Returning home one day, and ready to just end the mess, Forge finds Granger murdered. With the help of Vince, his lawyer, and working with the Chicago PD, Forge is eliminated as a suspect, but Vince feels Forge may need protection, so he contacts Livingston Security. And in walks Gage Livingston.
Gage is a shock to Forge. He hasn’t seen Gage for seventeen years, since their days in the military. Forge was transferred elsewhere, but not without the promise to write to a wounded Gage, and to reconnect. Gage becomes Forge’s protector, and as they rediscover each other, they also have to face the reasons that kept them apart.
Even after his death, Granger is still a big factor between Gage and Forge. Granger was a high-powered attorney with his own law firm, who’d fought to win and could very well have made enemies. He also was obsessed with unique puzzle boxes, even his office desks were a form of puzzle box, and he’d taught Forge how to examine each box to find the trick to opening them. As Gage and Forge begin to uncover information Granger had hidden, their lives are put in danger.
Dirk Greyson brings readers another action packed, suspenseful mystery, with a second chance at love. The plot itself is really intriguing, never knowing what the next puzzle box and flash drive holds in store for Forge. There’s also family drama with Gage’s parents, as they still struggle with Gage being gay. The information that Forge and Gage find could very well put Gage’s parents in danger. There are a lot of moments when Gage and Forge have to ponder whether or not there is a serious relationship in the cards for them, though the chemistry seems to be working. I also have to mention Detective Coleridge; his presence in the storyline was outstanding.
All in all, this was a very good mystery with great characters, and I was thoroughly entertained.
Reviewed by Maryann for The Novel Approach
Gage is a shock to Forge. He hasn’t seen Gage for seventeen years, since their days in the military. Forge was transferred elsewhere, but not without the promise to write to a wounded Gage, and to reconnect. Gage becomes Forge’s protector, and as they rediscover each other, they also have to face the reasons that kept them apart.
Even after his death, Granger is still a big factor between Gage and Forge. Granger was a high-powered attorney with his own law firm, who’d fought to win and could very well have made enemies. He also was obsessed with unique puzzle boxes, even his office desks were a form of puzzle box, and he’d taught Forge how to examine each box to find the trick to opening them. As Gage and Forge begin to uncover information Granger had hidden, their lives are put in danger.
Dirk Greyson brings readers another action packed, suspenseful mystery, with a second chance at love. The plot itself is really intriguing, never knowing what the next puzzle box and flash drive holds in store for Forge. There’s also family drama with Gage’s parents, as they still struggle with Gage being gay. The information that Forge and Gage find could very well put Gage’s parents in danger. There are a lot of moments when Gage and Forge have to ponder whether or not there is a serious relationship in the cards for them, though the chemistry seems to be working. I also have to mention Detective Coleridge; his presence in the storyline was outstanding.
All in all, this was a very good mystery with great characters, and I was thoroughly entertained.
Reviewed by Maryann for The Novel Approach
October 28, 2017
This is just an incredible read. Wow. Just wow. Dirk knows how to make a book grab your attention and then keep it though the whole read. I truly enjoyed this book. It was an amazing read!!!!!
Forge does not know just how his world is about to turn upside down more then it already was. He and his soon to be ex husband Granger have been fighting non stop over who gets what in the divorce. What Forge does not expect is how things are going to finally end between them. When he finds his soon to be ex husband murdered Forge life is turned upside down.
Little does he know he is about to get an even more unexpected surprise. The person that is called in to protect Forge is none other then Gage. Gave is the one that got away. Never to be heard from again or at least not until now.
Gage cannot believe his eyes when his new client is none other then the man that broke his heart many years earlier. But Gage is unwilling to let anything happen to Forge. Because even though he never contacted him when he left the military like Forge said he would, Gage has never gotten over Forge.
Forge is beyond shocked to see Gage again. He truly believed that Gage was lost to him forever. That is the only reason he moved on with his life its Granger in the first place. Now with the threat of death following Forge like a bad dream, he now has the opportunity to find out why Gage never returned his letters other gen sending them back the letters Forge wrote to Gage unopened. Now he has a chance at answers and maybe a chance to make things right between them.
The threat of danger is steadily increasing and unless Gage and Forge can figure out th puzzle hat a Granger has lwftbfor Forge, then one or both may not make it out alive. Can two men that once cared for each other so long ago find each other again amidst the danger they have found themselves in?
Dirk did such an incredible job on this book. I was captivated from the moment I started reading this book and did not want to put it down. I really look forward to more books by Dirk in the future.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
Forge does not know just how his world is about to turn upside down more then it already was. He and his soon to be ex husband Granger have been fighting non stop over who gets what in the divorce. What Forge does not expect is how things are going to finally end between them. When he finds his soon to be ex husband murdered Forge life is turned upside down.
Little does he know he is about to get an even more unexpected surprise. The person that is called in to protect Forge is none other then Gage. Gave is the one that got away. Never to be heard from again or at least not until now.
Gage cannot believe his eyes when his new client is none other then the man that broke his heart many years earlier. But Gage is unwilling to let anything happen to Forge. Because even though he never contacted him when he left the military like Forge said he would, Gage has never gotten over Forge.
Forge is beyond shocked to see Gage again. He truly believed that Gage was lost to him forever. That is the only reason he moved on with his life its Granger in the first place. Now with the threat of death following Forge like a bad dream, he now has the opportunity to find out why Gage never returned his letters other gen sending them back the letters Forge wrote to Gage unopened. Now he has a chance at answers and maybe a chance to make things right between them.
The threat of danger is steadily increasing and unless Gage and Forge can figure out th puzzle hat a Granger has lwftbfor Forge, then one or both may not make it out alive. Can two men that once cared for each other so long ago find each other again amidst the danger they have found themselves in?
Dirk did such an incredible job on this book. I was captivated from the moment I started reading this book and did not want to put it down. I really look forward to more books by Dirk in the future.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
November 20, 2017
Forge Ahead & Gage The Response
OK, OK, I know it's pushing the cute button with that headline (yes, I know the correct spelling for the word I used is "Gauge"), but I want to make a point here. The only thing I didn't like about this fine mystery and desperate romance is the names of the MC's--where did Dirk Greyson, aka Andrew Grey, come up with those two. and then slot in Forge's deceased husband's name, Granger, to boot? I like my names, and men, simple and not confusing, and these two guys are complicated and confused enough to have been hung with those monikers. Jack and Mike would have done.
In any case, that's beside the point. The point is this is a fairly difficult to believe scenario that reunites would-have-been-lovers in a tangled web of murder and slight mayhem, and Chinese box puzzles. There are tons of side trips along the way to finding out the reason that Granger was so brutally murdered, and most of them are quite good in exposition and believability.
The romance between Gage (foreground on the cover, I believe) and Forge is insta-lust redux, and handled well in so many ways because as it turns out the character you think would be aching for love is not the one who is so desperate to hold on to the other. Nice twist of expectations here.
The supporting characters at times draw suspicion, but it's the puzzles presented by Granger's Chinese box obsession that keeps Gage and Forge pushing on. The writing is super slick, of course, and there is very little filler in the episodes of angst.
I pre-ordered the book, it appeared on my Kindle when I was deep into another one, I opened to the first page and read it straight through. Usual deal for me when it comes the Greyson/Grey.
OK, OK, I know it's pushing the cute button with that headline (yes, I know the correct spelling for the word I used is "Gauge"), but I want to make a point here. The only thing I didn't like about this fine mystery and desperate romance is the names of the MC's--where did Dirk Greyson, aka Andrew Grey, come up with those two. and then slot in Forge's deceased husband's name, Granger, to boot? I like my names, and men, simple and not confusing, and these two guys are complicated and confused enough to have been hung with those monikers. Jack and Mike would have done.
In any case, that's beside the point. The point is this is a fairly difficult to believe scenario that reunites would-have-been-lovers in a tangled web of murder and slight mayhem, and Chinese box puzzles. There are tons of side trips along the way to finding out the reason that Granger was so brutally murdered, and most of them are quite good in exposition and believability.
The romance between Gage (foreground on the cover, I believe) and Forge is insta-lust redux, and handled well in so many ways because as it turns out the character you think would be aching for love is not the one who is so desperate to hold on to the other. Nice twist of expectations here.
The supporting characters at times draw suspicion, but it's the puzzles presented by Granger's Chinese box obsession that keeps Gage and Forge pushing on. The writing is super slick, of course, and there is very little filler in the episodes of angst.
I pre-ordered the book, it appeared on my Kindle when I was deep into another one, I opened to the first page and read it straight through. Usual deal for me when it comes the Greyson/Grey.
December 10, 2017
Seventeen years have passed since Forge Reynolds fell in love with a wounded soldier. Injured Staff Sergeant Gage Livingston was paralyzed and Forge spent hours with him, reading his mail to him and answering it. They formed a bond which should have been lasting, but when they separated, Forge never heard from him. All his letters went unanswered.
Now Forge is in the midst of a bitter divorce. He arrives home to find his husband murdered, execution style. Forge had no idea that his husband was engaging in illegal activities but the murderers do not believe that. Forge’s lawyer arranges for protection Forge needs and Gage is the one who shows up. Forge is surprised to see him and is not sure he wants more than a professional relationship. Heartache is not something he can handle, but as they get closer, Forge finds it might be worth it to take a chance.
Both Gage and Forge were excellent heroes. Both were damaged in their own ways and their healing can be accomplished together. They just have to get beyond someone trying to kill Forge and the scars from their past. Not easy to do but hop on for the ride and find out how these two work out their differences. You will be glad you did.
Now Forge is in the midst of a bitter divorce. He arrives home to find his husband murdered, execution style. Forge had no idea that his husband was engaging in illegal activities but the murderers do not believe that. Forge’s lawyer arranges for protection Forge needs and Gage is the one who shows up. Forge is surprised to see him and is not sure he wants more than a professional relationship. Heartache is not something he can handle, but as they get closer, Forge finds it might be worth it to take a chance.
Both Gage and Forge were excellent heroes. Both were damaged in their own ways and their healing can be accomplished together. They just have to get beyond someone trying to kill Forge and the scars from their past. Not easy to do but hop on for the ride and find out how these two work out their differences. You will be glad you did.
April 10, 2023
Repetitive, couldn’t get into it
Many of the same points were rehashed over and over and over at every stage of the book—and I’m positive, because I kept checking the percentage and was surprised that there was still so much book left every time. There were occasional technical issues, but the real struggle was the repetition and the repetition (see what I did there? ha. ha. I’m very funny).
The repetition also meant that as the same info was repeated over and over, it got really easy to spot inconsistencies and was easy ti spot when it was not, in fact, the *same* info as the previous retelling (primarily about Granger and Forge’s relationship, but between Forge and Gage we went from “oh I nearly forgot about you and am so totally over you after 17 years” to “every person I was with I pretended was you, I thought of you every day”)
It should have been a more exciting story, but the biggest/climax scene was underwhelming and over with so quickly.
Quite a few times one character would say something big or ask a question, and the other character would just… not respond. Like not even a head nod, just they would both/all move into something else. I can’t understand 🤷♀️
I’m sure I’m offending someone out there with this, but the MCs names are stupid imo
Many of the same points were rehashed over and over and over at every stage of the book—and I’m positive, because I kept checking the percentage and was surprised that there was still so much book left every time. There were occasional technical issues, but the real struggle was the repetition and the repetition (see what I did there? ha. ha. I’m very funny).
The repetition also meant that as the same info was repeated over and over, it got really easy to spot inconsistencies and was easy ti spot when it was not, in fact, the *same* info as the previous retelling (primarily about Granger and Forge’s relationship, but between Forge and Gage we went from “oh I nearly forgot about you and am so totally over you after 17 years” to “every person I was with I pretended was you, I thought of you every day”)
It should have been a more exciting story, but the biggest/climax scene was underwhelming and over with so quickly.
Quite a few times one character would say something big or ask a question, and the other character would just… not respond. Like not even a head nod, just they would both/all move into something else. I can’t understand 🤷♀️
I’m sure I’m offending someone out there with this, but the MCs names are stupid imo
October 27, 2017
*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.*
This book captured my attention from the beginning and never let go, so much so, that I read it in one day! Forge is going through an acrimonious divorce and is tired. Of course, those feelings are made worse because he and his soon to be ex-husband still live in the same house, and his ex is a lawyer who doesn't lose. Forge has reached the limit on his patience when he comes home and then he finds his ex murdered. When he refuses to leave his home, his lawyer contacts security to protect him. But, it's not just any security agency. It turns out to be Forge's first love from more than 15 years ago. Forge is reeling from the murder of his ex, and now being forced to spend time with Gage. Gage isn't any happier about the reuniting than Forge is. Gage is bitter about Forge disappearing from his life all those years ago, but made the best of the life he's living.
This was a fast-paced, mystery/suspense story and I absolutely loved it! I thought both Forge and Gage were great, likable characters. They had history and love and though they hadn't had contact for 17 years, once they were together again, it was like coming home for both of them. Once they worked through their issues, of course. I loved that both men were more mature, which I think made this story more believable. They'd had their connection and been through tough times together in the past which allowed them to be more open and honest with each other now. Gage is a great support and protector while Forge is dealing with the fallout of his ex's death, and unraveling the mystery of what really happened.
Honestly, for me, this story was just about perfect. It was a perfect melding of mystery/suspense and romance. I never felt that either parts of the story were overshadowed by the other. The love between Forge and Gage grabbed you from the pages and they were hot together! I think the author did a fantastic job of showing the depth of the love the men had felt and how when willing, that love came back stronger. I'd love to get more of Forge and Gage! This story is one you definitely need to read! I mean, it's mystery/suspense AND second chance romance!
Rating: 5++++ stars!
This book captured my attention from the beginning and never let go, so much so, that I read it in one day! Forge is going through an acrimonious divorce and is tired. Of course, those feelings are made worse because he and his soon to be ex-husband still live in the same house, and his ex is a lawyer who doesn't lose. Forge has reached the limit on his patience when he comes home and then he finds his ex murdered. When he refuses to leave his home, his lawyer contacts security to protect him. But, it's not just any security agency. It turns out to be Forge's first love from more than 15 years ago. Forge is reeling from the murder of his ex, and now being forced to spend time with Gage. Gage isn't any happier about the reuniting than Forge is. Gage is bitter about Forge disappearing from his life all those years ago, but made the best of the life he's living.
This was a fast-paced, mystery/suspense story and I absolutely loved it! I thought both Forge and Gage were great, likable characters. They had history and love and though they hadn't had contact for 17 years, once they were together again, it was like coming home for both of them. Once they worked through their issues, of course. I loved that both men were more mature, which I think made this story more believable. They'd had their connection and been through tough times together in the past which allowed them to be more open and honest with each other now. Gage is a great support and protector while Forge is dealing with the fallout of his ex's death, and unraveling the mystery of what really happened.
Honestly, for me, this story was just about perfect. It was a perfect melding of mystery/suspense and romance. I never felt that either parts of the story were overshadowed by the other. The love between Forge and Gage grabbed you from the pages and they were hot together! I think the author did a fantastic job of showing the depth of the love the men had felt and how when willing, that love came back stronger. I'd love to get more of Forge and Gage! This story is one you definitely need to read! I mean, it's mystery/suspense AND second chance romance!
Rating: 5++++ stars!
July 17, 2020
PLEASE READ MY RATING SYSTEM!!!
To my ratings:
A 3,5* is clicked with a 4* but in review marked as 3,5*:
5* - very very good and rare (it would be a Blow-Away-book like ‘Jesse's Smile’ or ‘Joey’ from Angelique Jurd, ‘Save the the kids’ series
from EM Leya, ‘Love’s Tethered Heart’ from C.L. Etta or ‘Liberty’ from Seth King),
it's like an A+
4* - very good and will be often reread and is a WOW-book with interesting plot and surprises (like most of Andrew Grey books and Davidson Kings 'Haven Hart'-series)
it's like an A
3,5* - a really good book, which will be reread a few times (most romances where you can enjoy for relaxing and during waiting times in
hospitals). I can recommend them definitively!
It's like an B+
3* - it could be more then a one-time-reader (2-3 times a year),
it's like a B
2* - it was ok to read, but it's more a one-time-reader (I wouldn't recommend it heartily, but it was ok)
It's like a C-, D
1* - sorry, but that isn't really a book for me (too many mistakes, not nice plot, illogical, so an absolute NO-GO). It's like failure in the
whole line, dismissed, repeat the class
To my ratings:
A 3,5* is clicked with a 4* but in review marked as 3,5*:
5* - very very good and rare (it would be a Blow-Away-book like ‘Jesse's Smile’ or ‘Joey’ from Angelique Jurd, ‘Save the the kids’ series
from EM Leya, ‘Love’s Tethered Heart’ from C.L. Etta or ‘Liberty’ from Seth King),
it's like an A+
4* - very good and will be often reread and is a WOW-book with interesting plot and surprises (like most of Andrew Grey books and Davidson Kings 'Haven Hart'-series)
it's like an A
3,5* - a really good book, which will be reread a few times (most romances where you can enjoy for relaxing and during waiting times in
hospitals). I can recommend them definitively!
It's like an B+
3* - it could be more then a one-time-reader (2-3 times a year),
it's like a B
2* - it was ok to read, but it's more a one-time-reader (I wouldn't recommend it heartily, but it was ok)
It's like a C-, D
1* - sorry, but that isn't really a book for me (too many mistakes, not nice plot, illogical, so an absolute NO-GO). It's like failure in the
whole line, dismissed, repeat the class
July 15, 2020
Great second chance at love, romantic suspense!
I like when both leads are strong characters and that's what you get with Forge and Gage. Both had been in the army and took no guff from anyone, although, Forge was a sweet caregiver through and through. The romance was poignant and heartbreakingly loving. The suspense was great and kept me guessing more than halfway but it could've been me since I tend to see the world through 'rose colored glasses'. I like that the plot was wrapped up well, but I wondered how the bad guy dealt with his son and the fallout? One of my cons was I wished the author hadn't made Forge an interior designer. Really? That is so cliche! He had medical knowledge from the service. Couldn't he have ended up in the medical field? And the second was I wish Gage's mother had outright apologized for what she'd done. Despite the wild cooincidence of them just happening to run into each other again after seventeen years- I do recommend this book and will look for more from this author.
I like when both leads are strong characters and that's what you get with Forge and Gage. Both had been in the army and took no guff from anyone, although, Forge was a sweet caregiver through and through. The romance was poignant and heartbreakingly loving. The suspense was great and kept me guessing more than halfway but it could've been me since I tend to see the world through 'rose colored glasses'. I like that the plot was wrapped up well, but I wondered how the bad guy dealt with his son and the fallout? One of my cons was I wished the author hadn't made Forge an interior designer. Really? That is so cliche! He had medical knowledge from the service. Couldn't he have ended up in the medical field? And the second was I wish Gage's mother had outright apologized for what she'd done. Despite the wild cooincidence of them just happening to run into each other again after seventeen years- I do recommend this book and will look for more from this author.
September 14, 2020
Actually a DNF.
There was an awkward disconnect between the characters on every page. Maybe like the dialogue was smashed into the inner dialogue later? Or almost like when you’re holding one conversation with a small child, but actually they are holding a different conversation with you at the same time; it appears two people are talking to each other, but sense is not actually made between the two dialogues. Also there was repetition straight from one paragraph to the next, and dialogue that wasn’t attributed to anyone, but couldn’t have been the POV character because he was in the other room alone, yet it was two people talking... plus there was lots of head-hopping that pretended it wasn’t head-hopping, and broad reinterpretations of emotional states from one chapter the the next
Look, what I’m trying to tell you is that the writing here is mediocre at best. You don’t have to avoid it like the plague, but you might want to socially distance yourself from it and wear a mask.
There was an awkward disconnect between the characters on every page. Maybe like the dialogue was smashed into the inner dialogue later? Or almost like when you’re holding one conversation with a small child, but actually they are holding a different conversation with you at the same time; it appears two people are talking to each other, but sense is not actually made between the two dialogues. Also there was repetition straight from one paragraph to the next, and dialogue that wasn’t attributed to anyone, but couldn’t have been the POV character because he was in the other room alone, yet it was two people talking... plus there was lots of head-hopping that pretended it wasn’t head-hopping, and broad reinterpretations of emotional states from one chapter the the next
Look, what I’m trying to tell you is that the writing here is mediocre at best. You don’t have to avoid it like the plague, but you might want to socially distance yourself from it and wear a mask.
June 25, 2020
This was a good book with an intriguing mystery, and Forge and Gage made a cute couple. My problem with this book, like it has been with quite a few books I’ve read recently, is that characters I start out liking go downhill as the story progresses. Forge makes a series of stupid decisions that really made me question just how smart he is. One led to him being kidnapped, and the other had him assaulting a man being arrested for playing a role in his husband’s murder in front of the police and the FBI. He also made a comment that I really hated, about how he’d visit the man in prison to see whose bitch he became. I’ve seen a lot of tv shows and books make jokes out of prison rape, but they are never funny in any situation. That was going too far for me.
But besides these things, it was a good book, so I’m giving it three stars instead of the two I was considering.
But besides these things, it was a good book, so I’m giving it three stars instead of the two I was considering.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 30, 2018
Gage was once military now has his own security business. he is called to protect the one man he thought he would never see and the one that broke his heart.
Forge is in the middle of a nasty divorce when he finds his husband dead and his husband's office ransacked. His Lawyer and friend call on Gage's agency to protect him. Forge is shocked to see Gage and wonders why he never answered his letters.
I loved both men. the characters are well developed and the storyline is good. The suspense keeps you on your toes and there are a few twists.
Dorian Bane is a great narrator and I love how he brings his characters to life and keeps the story moving. I listened to this in one afternoon!
Forge is in the middle of a nasty divorce when he finds his husband dead and his husband's office ransacked. His Lawyer and friend call on Gage's agency to protect him. Forge is shocked to see Gage and wonders why he never answered his letters.
I loved both men. the characters are well developed and the storyline is good. The suspense keeps you on your toes and there are a few twists.
Dorian Bane is a great narrator and I love how he brings his characters to life and keeps the story moving. I listened to this in one afternoon!
Read
July 17, 2020 Well, finally a book that has it all. Love, separation, murder, P.I.'s the whole bit.
This is one of the few books that really kept my interest. It was a logical story held together very well.
Forge is the main character but his "support" group almost surpass him. This is a story that joins all the separate parts together.
Love, is expressed in a loving way, like a normal Male/Male relation ship with hugging, caring, kisses and even sex. The sex was expressed in a way that should offend no one. It is shown with love and care and tenderness.
This book will reside on my shelves for me to re-read again when I need the up lift it brings.
Don't miss this love story!
This is one of the few books that really kept my interest. It was a logical story held together very well.
Forge is the main character but his "support" group almost surpass him. This is a story that joins all the separate parts together.
Love, is expressed in a loving way, like a normal Male/Male relation ship with hugging, caring, kisses and even sex. The sex was expressed in a way that should offend no one. It is shown with love and care and tenderness.
This book will reside on my shelves for me to re-read again when I need the up lift it brings.
Don't miss this love story!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews