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The Way Home #2
The Long Way
Sometimes the shortest distance between ruin and restoration, between lies and truth, is the long way.
Damon Fitzpatrick’s life is in ruins. Vilified as the pilot responsible for the plane crash that killed Levi and Charlotte Seaver, Damon lost everything – his reputation, his livelihood, his family, and his future. And Damon knows exactly who to blame - none other than powerful Senator Emmett Shaw, the criminal mastermind behind the crash. No matter how long it takes, Damon is determined to get justice, and to get his life back.
Cain Shaw is the poster child for success. As the young, rich, handsome son of a picture-perfect family and the face of his father’s conservative political campaign, he has a bright future ahead of him. But the senator has been hiding secrets that threaten to crack that flawless facade - secrets he’s killed to protect. Cain is determined to make sure no one else gets hurt, even if it means keeping his own long-held secret.
When Damon’s quest for justice goes awry, Cain becomes the older man's unlikely savior, and the two are thrown together in a hunt for evidence that will free them both. But as the road gets longer, the stakes get higher, and the danger that stalks them draws closer, they must find the strength to trust one another... because the one complication they can’t outrun is each other.
Damon Fitzpatrick’s life is in ruins. Vilified as the pilot responsible for the plane crash that killed Levi and Charlotte Seaver, Damon lost everything – his reputation, his livelihood, his family, and his future. And Damon knows exactly who to blame - none other than powerful Senator Emmett Shaw, the criminal mastermind behind the crash. No matter how long it takes, Damon is determined to get justice, and to get his life back.
Cain Shaw is the poster child for success. As the young, rich, handsome son of a picture-perfect family and the face of his father’s conservative political campaign, he has a bright future ahead of him. But the senator has been hiding secrets that threaten to crack that flawless facade - secrets he’s killed to protect. Cain is determined to make sure no one else gets hurt, even if it means keeping his own long-held secret.
When Damon’s quest for justice goes awry, Cain becomes the older man's unlikely savior, and the two are thrown together in a hunt for evidence that will free them both. But as the road gets longer, the stakes get higher, and the danger that stalks them draws closer, they must find the strength to trust one another... because the one complication they can’t outrun is each other.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 6, 2017
170 people are currently reading
461 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 152 reviews
November 11, 2017
If you liked the first book, you'll like this one since it follows a similar formula:
- two men forced to work together during a potentially dangerous situation;
- lust to love turned in the blink of an eye (to be fair, emotions run high when you're running for your lives);
- plenty of HEAT (I loved Damian and Cain together!);
- age gap (more significant than in the first book: Damian is almost 17 years older than Cain; Cain jokingly calls him "Big Daddy," but that's only in retaliation for Damian calling him "kid");
- family (Damion's sister, whom he just discovered he has, and her 3-year-old daughter are in danger);
- a suspense plot that's very present in the story but that somehow doesn't overtake the romance (this is a huge pet peeve of mine);
- and a HEA (no epilogue this time, but still very much a happy ending for the MCs).
The Long Way cannot be read as a standalone (it's part of a series with a yet to be determined name). Both characters are introduced in book 1, The Easy Way, and the plot won't make much sense if you haven't read Cort and Cam's story.
A year ago, I might have rolled my eyes and said the plot was ridiculous (in a nutshell, , but since we're actually LIVING this right now, I'm a believer.
I'm becoming quite a fan of this author. I look forward to the series wrapping up with Bas and Drew's story; you can cut the sexual tension between those two with a knife.
- two men forced to work together during a potentially dangerous situation;
- lust to love turned in the blink of an eye (to be fair, emotions run high when you're running for your lives);
- plenty of HEAT (I loved Damian and Cain together!);
- age gap (more significant than in the first book: Damian is almost 17 years older than Cain; Cain jokingly calls him "Big Daddy," but that's only in retaliation for Damian calling him "kid");
- family (Damion's sister, whom he just discovered he has, and her 3-year-old daughter are in danger);
- a suspense plot that's very present in the story but that somehow doesn't overtake the romance (this is a huge pet peeve of mine);
- and a HEA (no epilogue this time, but still very much a happy ending for the MCs).
The Long Way cannot be read as a standalone (it's part of a series with a yet to be determined name). Both characters are introduced in book 1, The Easy Way, and the plot won't make much sense if you haven't read Cort and Cam's story.
A year ago, I might have rolled my eyes and said the plot was ridiculous (in a nutshell, , but since we're actually LIVING this right now, I'm a believer.
I'm becoming quite a fan of this author. I look forward to the series wrapping up with Bas and Drew's story; you can cut the sexual tension between those two with a knife.
October 5, 2020
Audiobook - 4 stars
Story - 3.5 stars
Story - 3.5 stars
April 6, 2018
This must be the best *3 stars* series I have read.
Despite all my niggles (and there are plenty) I am really enjoying this.
So first ...
Who is that guy on the front cover? It's clearly not Damon (hair!), but Cain is supposedly a young looking early twenties - and this guy looks way older to me.
And as for Damon ... I am having such a hard time picturing a very handsome 40 year-old with shoulder length white hair (I googled and the results gave me the shivers).
And yet ... I liked the age gap and the way it was dealt with - lots of banter, plenty of winding up on both sides and snarky humour.
Then ...
The plot - like in book 1 OTT and totally removed from real life are still the MO. And yet ... it is fun to read and so easy!
And finally ...
Like in the first part the MCs are 'PERFECT' for each other (ouch, the word comes up too often), they read each other's thoughts and always know by intuition what they other one needs (yikes, these guys are super human and I wish I had their powers!), and yet, they are rather sweet (and hot) together.
In short - this series leaves me in a conundrum. I seem to like it against my better judgement.
Not thinking too much about it - I am going for book 3 now.
Despite all my niggles (and there are plenty) I am really enjoying this.
So first ...
Who is that guy on the front cover? It's clearly not Damon (hair!), but Cain is supposedly a young looking early twenties - and this guy looks way older to me.
And as for Damon ... I am having such a hard time picturing a very handsome 40 year-old with shoulder length white hair (I googled and the results gave me the shivers).
And yet ... I liked the age gap and the way it was dealt with - lots of banter, plenty of winding up on both sides and snarky humour.
Then ...
The plot - like in book 1 OTT and totally removed from real life are still the MO. And yet ... it is fun to read and so easy!
And finally ...
Like in the first part the MCs are 'PERFECT' for each other (ouch, the word comes up too often), they read each other's thoughts and always know by intuition what they other one needs (yikes, these guys are super human and I wish I had their powers!), and yet, they are rather sweet (and hot) together.
In short - this series leaves me in a conundrum. I seem to like it against my better judgement.
Not thinking too much about it - I am going for book 3 now.
March 9, 2018
***3.5 Stars***
A bit insta-y here... Oops! *pressing the 'Rewind' button*
Sorry, that was my review for the first book in this series, but, come to think of it, what I said in there basically also goes for this book.
Similar MO: a bit too insta on everything - love and trust- to make it 100% believable for me and my eyes needed a bit time to adjust again after the eye-rolling going on here due to some clichés, but the latter didn't happen quite as often as in the first book.
All in all, though, I once again really enjoyed it. The author's writing style sucked me right into the story and the characters are great, although I wish there would have been a bit more insight into Damon's past to satisfy my inner angst-junkie who craves to suffer with tortured heroes.
I'm not the biggest fan of age-gap, but I absolutely loved the way the MCs dealt with it here and the banter was hilarious.
Aaaaaand... right on to the next! :)
A bit insta-y here... Oops! *pressing the 'Rewind' button*
Sorry, that was my review for the first book in this series, but, come to think of it, what I said in there basically also goes for this book.
Similar MO: a bit too insta on everything - love and trust- to make it 100% believable for me and my eyes needed a bit time to adjust again after the eye-rolling going on here due to some clichés, but the latter didn't happen quite as often as in the first book.
All in all, though, I once again really enjoyed it. The author's writing style sucked me right into the story and the characters are great, although I wish there would have been a bit more insight into Damon's past to satisfy my inner angst-junkie who craves to suffer with tortured heroes.
I'm not the biggest fan of age-gap, but I absolutely loved the way the MCs dealt with it here and the banter was hilarious.
Aaaaaand... right on to the next! :)
May 7, 2018
4.5 stars!! I love Damon. He made this book for me. It was nice to catch up with Cort and Cam and to see some of the tension between Bas and Drew. Looking forward to their story.
July 30, 2022
May Archer is one of my favourite and this series is fantastic. It's full of tasteful banter throughout the book and characters from previous books regularly make guest appearances.
It was an easy five stars from me.
It was an easy five stars from me.
August 26, 2018
"God, the look in your eyes, Cain."
Cain seemed startled. "What look?"
"That look, like you think I'm a better person than I think I am," Damon whispered.
Deep blue eyes started into his, and Damon was lost.
While I think that Archer improved upon The Easy Way in terms of neatness and tightness, I didn’t connect with the characters as well and found myself frustrated by the occasional this and that. Despite my gripes, which are admittedly personal to my reading preferences, I still found this well-written, compelling, and sexy.
Although Archer succinctly refreshes one’s recollection of past events, the novel shouldn't be read as a standalone. And if you try to read it as a standalone, you’d miss out on The Easy Way – and you don't want to do that!
The relationship dynamic between Cain and Damon had, at least for me, unrealized potential. Given their tormented past, there was too much laughter and lightness too early. Don’t get me wrong – I wasn’t looking for an angst-fest, and the banter, the hot yet sweet smexing, the protectiveness, the care were all on-point. Yet more wariness, more animosity, more distrust would have made sense. If you're not keen on angst, you're in luck here.
I felt similarly about characterization. Details about Damon’s life – such as his time in hiding and his relationship with Cort – were lacking, but I still sympathized with him even as I struggled to feel as sympathetic toward Cain. All in all, Archer did a fine job demonstrating that it isn’t always as simple as “right vs. wrong” when it comes to family. But when Cain was suffocating beneath the weight of their expectations and receiving very little care in return, his internal struggle was difficult to understand.
The action and suspense were well-balanced. I still dislike Emmett Shaw and I still think that he belongs in jail. The revelation that read like a convenient way to avoid putting him there.
Drew and Bas. Oh boy. On one hand, I find the potential pairing so tantalizing and promising. The keychain, gah! On the other hand, I was turned off by the fact that they were both in relationships with each other’s SIBLINGS. Again, this is a personal gripe since the idea of being with any of my sisters’ former boyfriends gives me the heebie-jeebies 😧 And if Amy hadn’t died, would she and Bas have lived happily-ever-after while Drew longed unrequitedly for the rest of his life?!
Overall, I think that this was a case of my wants and the novel's trajectory not aligning. I still enjoyed it and still had a difficult time putting it down. Readers should give this refreshing series a shot!
Cain seemed startled. "What look?"
"That look, like you think I'm a better person than I think I am," Damon whispered.
Deep blue eyes started into his, and Damon was lost.
While I think that Archer improved upon The Easy Way in terms of neatness and tightness, I didn’t connect with the characters as well and found myself frustrated by the occasional this and that. Despite my gripes, which are admittedly personal to my reading preferences, I still found this well-written, compelling, and sexy.
Although Archer succinctly refreshes one’s recollection of past events, the novel shouldn't be read as a standalone. And if you try to read it as a standalone, you’d miss out on The Easy Way – and you don't want to do that!
The relationship dynamic between Cain and Damon had, at least for me, unrealized potential. Given their tormented past, there was too much laughter and lightness too early. Don’t get me wrong – I wasn’t looking for an angst-fest, and the banter, the hot yet sweet smexing, the protectiveness, the care were all on-point. Yet more wariness, more animosity, more distrust would have made sense. If you're not keen on angst, you're in luck here.
I felt similarly about characterization. Details about Damon’s life – such as his time in hiding and his relationship with Cort – were lacking, but I still sympathized with him even as I struggled to feel as sympathetic toward Cain. All in all, Archer did a fine job demonstrating that it isn’t always as simple as “right vs. wrong” when it comes to family. But when Cain was suffocating beneath the weight of their expectations and receiving very little care in return, his internal struggle was difficult to understand.
The action and suspense were well-balanced. I still dislike Emmett Shaw and I still think that he belongs in jail. The revelation that read like a convenient way to avoid putting him there.
Drew and Bas. Oh boy. On one hand, I find the potential pairing so tantalizing and promising. The keychain, gah! On the other hand, I was turned off by the fact that they were both in relationships with each other’s SIBLINGS. Again, this is a personal gripe since the idea of being with any of my sisters’ former boyfriends gives me the heebie-jeebies 😧 And if Amy hadn’t died, would she and Bas have lived happily-ever-after while Drew longed unrequitedly for the rest of his life?!
Overall, I think that this was a case of my wants and the novel's trajectory not aligning. I still enjoyed it and still had a difficult time putting it down. Readers should give this refreshing series a shot!
January 23, 2018
4 Stars!
I was looking forward to this one and it didn't disappoint. Although I did wait on it because I knew the series wasn't finished. I wanted to wait until the third and final book was released to finish the series because of the suspense that the book was surrounded in.
I was a little hesitant to get on board with Damon being matched up with Cain. I mean Cain's father is the reason Damon lost everything. Also Cain came off a bit weak in the last book and I was afraid he wouldn't be a good match with Damon's strong character. But boy did this author pleasantly prove me wrong. I absolutely loved these two together and Cain completely stole my heart. He was such a lost soul in need of someone to love him, to make him feel comfortable in his skin, to accept him fully. Damon does all of that and more. This couple is the perfect example of opposites attract. Damon comes from a world of struggle where Cain comes from a world of the privilege. Damon feels his best qualities is the love and loyalty he has for his family. Cain in stuck in a world where his family dictates his every breath. Both men were in need of acceptance and love and it was a awesome to have them find it in each other. They were a very sweet couple.
I love that I was totally won over with this couple when I had so many doubts. It is the best kind of read when that happens.
The suspense and twists that take place were really planned out. I liked that things weren't as wrapped up as we thought in the first book.
A great read and addition to the series.
Happy reading dolls!
I was looking forward to this one and it didn't disappoint. Although I did wait on it because I knew the series wasn't finished. I wanted to wait until the third and final book was released to finish the series because of the suspense that the book was surrounded in.
I was a little hesitant to get on board with Damon being matched up with Cain. I mean Cain's father is the reason Damon lost everything. Also Cain came off a bit weak in the last book and I was afraid he wouldn't be a good match with Damon's strong character. But boy did this author pleasantly prove me wrong. I absolutely loved these two together and Cain completely stole my heart. He was such a lost soul in need of someone to love him, to make him feel comfortable in his skin, to accept him fully. Damon does all of that and more. This couple is the perfect example of opposites attract. Damon comes from a world of struggle where Cain comes from a world of the privilege. Damon feels his best qualities is the love and loyalty he has for his family. Cain in stuck in a world where his family dictates his every breath. Both men were in need of acceptance and love and it was a awesome to have them find it in each other. They were a very sweet couple.
I love that I was totally won over with this couple when I had so many doubts. It is the best kind of read when that happens.
The suspense and twists that take place were really planned out. I liked that things weren't as wrapped up as we thought in the first book.
A great read and addition to the series.
Happy reading dolls!
August 24, 2018
**2.5 stars**
Second instalment of the “Way home” series : not exactly a standalone as the plot is on-going but with different MCs in each book.
The general plot : several people died in a plane accident and the pilot of the plane, Damon, who disappeared, was pointed as responsible for the accident. In book 1, Damon’s brother tried what he could to clear Damon’s name, and discovered that a US senator was in fact implicated in this killing. But without enough proof (ô_ô), Damon’s life is still in shambles. Damon is desperate to unravel the truth and finds the unexpected help from Cain, the US senator’s son.
The plot in book1 drifted to the “suspend belief” zone as it moved forward. The direction it took at the start of book2 fast became eye-rolling for me, but not in a way I found entertaining. The implication of the Russian mob by the end raised my interest and I cross my fingers this new revelation will help to salvage the plot in book3.
As for the MCs and their romance, I never really warmed up. Not too “insta-love” as I feared based on the other reviews, an age-gap, which I always like, some good banter and great steam, but…the recipe just didn’t work for me.
I will still read the last book from the series because I’m curious, but I’m dragging my feet a tiny bit.
Second instalment of the “Way home” series : not exactly a standalone as the plot is on-going but with different MCs in each book.
The general plot : several people died in a plane accident and the pilot of the plane, Damon, who disappeared, was pointed as responsible for the accident. In book 1, Damon’s brother tried what he could to clear Damon’s name, and discovered that a US senator was in fact implicated in this killing. But without enough proof (ô_ô), Damon’s life is still in shambles. Damon is desperate to unravel the truth and finds the unexpected help from Cain, the US senator’s son.
The plot in book1 drifted to the “suspend belief” zone as it moved forward. The direction it took at the start of book2 fast became eye-rolling for me, but not in a way I found entertaining. The implication of the Russian mob by the end raised my interest and I cross my fingers this new revelation will help to salvage the plot in book3.
As for the MCs and their romance, I never really warmed up. Not too “insta-love” as I feared based on the other reviews, an age-gap, which I always like, some good banter and great steam, but…the recipe just didn’t work for me.
I will still read the last book from the series because I’m curious, but I’m dragging my feet a tiny bit.
November 25, 2017
Well, this is no sophomore slump for May Archer. That's a win all by itself. I liked this second book almost as well as the first book. However, I'm going to give this one 3.5 stars because Eli almost, almost overshadowed both MC's. For the very small part he plays, he is overpowering in his presence. The other reason for a small bump down is the obvious cell phone issue. This is 2017. No way they didn't think about his phone being an issue for them.
I think Cain held onto the secret of Jessie, using it as a crutch to stay stagnate in his life for too long which made him a bit too weak for me at times to get behind 100% for Damon. There were very obvious ways to ensure his safety/success as Damon points out very quickly, but at least he let it go without unnecessarily holding onto it when it was time.
I like that this book presents the villains in shades of gray instead of black and white.
I think the Drew/Bas animosity was just a tad overdone compared to the first book when it seemed a bit more nuanced and organic.
Let's see what the next book brings.
I think Cain held onto the secret of Jessie, using it as a crutch to stay stagnate in his life for too long which made him a bit too weak for me at times to get behind 100% for Damon. There were very obvious ways to ensure his safety/success as Damon points out very quickly, but at least he let it go without unnecessarily holding onto it when it was time.
I like that this book presents the villains in shades of gray instead of black and white.
I think the Drew/Bas animosity was just a tad overdone compared to the first book when it seemed a bit more nuanced and organic.
Let's see what the next book brings.
November 12, 2017
4.25 stars
I enjoyed this one a lot. Not as much as the first book, but close to it. I think this is still a strong follow up to the first book, it just didn't reel me in as much, or really Damon and Cain didn't real me in as much as Cort and Cam. I still very much enjoyed Damon and Cain, they just didn't have as great as a connection, I felt, then our first couple.
The story continues in this book from the first, so this can't be read as a standalone. You'll be lost with what is happening with the plot if you didn't read the first one.
This one does unveil a ton near the end, and it gets more into what is really going on and why the plane crash that killed the Seaver's happened.
Cain and Damon did have really good chemistry, and they really gained a more romantic connection, I felt, in the second half than in the first. They made me smile the most near the end, and they were really sweet together.
There is a bit of age difference and because Damon keeps calling Cain "kid," Cain starts calling Damon "Big Daddy" as a joke but it kind of sticks, but always in a teasing manner. They never actually venture into any Daddy kink. Their age difference is brought into this, but they just worked so well together it never felt like an obstacle to overcome.
It was interesting getting more with Emmett Shaw, in that we find out that he is indeed an asshole manipulator, but he isn't a black and white evil kind of guy and there is more to what happened then we thought (or well, I thought) and while he's not a good guy, he does love his family. Still don't like him though. But he isn't a complete psychopath or anything either.
And okay, so, I definitely expect the next book to be about Drew and Bas. There is definitely something going on there. Or maybe something already has? Hmmm...
Anyway, this is an enjoyable second installment, I just didn't love these two quite as much as I loved Cort and Cam. Definitely worth a read if you've read the first in the series already, though :)
I enjoyed this one a lot. Not as much as the first book, but close to it. I think this is still a strong follow up to the first book, it just didn't reel me in as much, or really Damon and Cain didn't real me in as much as Cort and Cam. I still very much enjoyed Damon and Cain, they just didn't have as great as a connection, I felt, then our first couple.
The story continues in this book from the first, so this can't be read as a standalone. You'll be lost with what is happening with the plot if you didn't read the first one.
This one does unveil a ton near the end, and it gets more into what is really going on and why the plane crash that killed the Seaver's happened.
Cain and Damon did have really good chemistry, and they really gained a more romantic connection, I felt, in the second half than in the first. They made me smile the most near the end, and they were really sweet together.
There is a bit of age difference and because Damon keeps calling Cain "kid," Cain starts calling Damon "Big Daddy" as a joke but it kind of sticks, but always in a teasing manner. They never actually venture into any Daddy kink. Their age difference is brought into this, but they just worked so well together it never felt like an obstacle to overcome.
It was interesting getting more with Emmett Shaw, in that we find out that he is indeed an asshole manipulator, but he isn't a black and white evil kind of guy and there is more to what happened then we thought (or well, I thought) and while he's not a good guy, he does love his family. Still don't like him though. But he isn't a complete psychopath or anything either.
And okay, so, I definitely expect the next book to be about Drew and Bas. There is definitely something going on there. Or maybe something already has? Hmmm...
Anyway, this is an enjoyable second installment, I just didn't love these two quite as much as I loved Cort and Cam. Definitely worth a read if you've read the first in the series already, though :)
August 26, 2018
OMGosh, I liked Cort and Cam, but I LOVED Damon and Cain. I honestly didn't know how the pairing was going to work. Cain, a closeted poltician's son with no backbone, and Damon, a fugitive on the run who's 15 years older than Cain, the immediate connection seems like it couldn't work.
But their mutual attraction starts early, Damon not wanting to allow himself to give into it. He labels Cain 'kid', much to Cain's dismay, so in retaliation, he called Damon 'Big Daddy' and the running joke is probably my most favourite thing about the book. It had me giggling every time it's brought up.
I'm VERY interested in book 3 and the dynamics included. Bas, who's fiancee died along with his parents, and Drew, Bas's brother's ex boyfriend and the brother of his fiancee... hello crazy family drama! SIGN ME UP. <3
But their mutual attraction starts early, Damon not wanting to allow himself to give into it. He labels Cain 'kid', much to Cain's dismay, so in retaliation, he called Damon 'Big Daddy' and the running joke is probably my most favourite thing about the book. It had me giggling every time it's brought up.
I'm VERY interested in book 3 and the dynamics included. Bas, who's fiancee died along with his parents, and Drew, Bas's brother's ex boyfriend and the brother of his fiancee... hello crazy family drama! SIGN ME UP. <3
April 22, 2020
Reviewed: 04-15-20
I liked it but...
The Long Way
By: May Archer
Narrated by: Michael Dean
Overall: 3 stars
Performance: 3 stars
Story: 3 stars
Listening to The Long Way, took me a while, not because it's 8 hours long, as I read or/and listen 1 or 2 books a day. But, by virtue of , I couldn't get into the story a 100%. My mind kept wondering it just didn't keep my attention.
The factors are twofold , the narration and the heroes.
Is undeniable Michael Dean is a talented, prolific narrator , and I had the pleasure of enjoying many of his others books but his narration of this story is a bit OTT and it felt fake.
Damon and Cam, the heroes, each had lots of personal baggage that it took forever to unpack, I grew impatient and frustrated.
With all that said, is a fine, steamy read but not one I will be re-listening.
I liked it but...
The Long Way
By: May Archer
Narrated by: Michael Dean
Overall: 3 stars
Performance: 3 stars
Story: 3 stars
Listening to The Long Way, took me a while, not because it's 8 hours long, as I read or/and listen 1 or 2 books a day. But, by virtue of , I couldn't get into the story a 100%. My mind kept wondering it just didn't keep my attention.
The factors are twofold , the narration and the heroes.
Is undeniable Michael Dean is a talented, prolific narrator , and I had the pleasure of enjoying many of his others books but his narration of this story is a bit OTT and it felt fake.
Damon and Cam, the heroes, each had lots of personal baggage that it took forever to unpack, I grew impatient and frustrated.
With all that said, is a fine, steamy read but not one I will be re-listening.
February 28, 2025
It’s really hard for me to say this, but I really didn’t care much for this book. I love May Archer and thought she couldn’t write a book I wouldn’t love. I was wrong. I listened to the audiobook. Michael Dean is the only reason I finished. There are some incredible narrators and Michael is certainly one of them.
I found the story kind of flat. I cringed every time Cain called Damon “big daddy.” In fact, I found Cain to be a wimp. Damon was the only thing good about that relationship. I also didn’t like the way it ended. I just didn’t get the feels I usually do from a May Archer book. I was relieved when it ended.
I found the story kind of flat. I cringed every time Cain called Damon “big daddy.” In fact, I found Cain to be a wimp. Damon was the only thing good about that relationship. I also didn’t like the way it ended. I just didn’t get the feels I usually do from a May Archer book. I was relieved when it ended.
December 25, 2020
I had a harder time connecting to this book. Everything was good just not as good as the first book
January 7, 2018
I liked these guys. It's far from perfect but it's very readable and considering the w/e I've had me saying that means something! Just what's with the names: Cam, Cort, Cain, why do authors do that?
The plot concludes with more tangles, doesn't feel like a cliff-hanger as it's never the focus of the book, but nothing of the larger picture gets solved.
Would have liked more of Damon considering his history to this point I'd have expected more layers to him, the getting together was too insta-insta easy, though I did feel they got to know each other along the way it was more Cain. Cain I got, I liked his mix of fragility and strength. Preferred this couple to the previous, their characterisation made more sense to me.
The relationship is the story, complete with stopping for sex at incomprehensible times. There's joky banter between them with Damon being called 'big daddy' in response to calling Cain 'kid' .
There was a complete change in attitude for sister Chelsea that came out of the blue. Made me blink. And a car journey that took an hour one-way inclusive of a stop to explain and get a car, but then a forty hours trip! I took that to be one hell of a scenic route back, but a good bit later its mentioned that Damon still hadn't said where they're going.
Eli was bit of a show-stealer. Wonder if there's a m/f story to come. Bas/Drew are likely next. Interesting though I'm not sure how I feel with them both having dated the others sibling.
The plot concludes with more tangles, doesn't feel like a cliff-hanger as it's never the focus of the book, but nothing of the larger picture gets solved.
Would have liked more of Damon considering his history to this point I'd have expected more layers to him, the getting together was too insta-insta easy, though I did feel they got to know each other along the way it was more Cain. Cain I got, I liked his mix of fragility and strength. Preferred this couple to the previous, their characterisation made more sense to me.
The relationship is the story, complete with stopping for sex at incomprehensible times. There's joky banter between them with Damon being called 'big daddy' in response to calling Cain 'kid' .
There was a complete change in attitude for sister Chelsea that came out of the blue. Made me blink. And a car journey that took an hour one-way inclusive of a stop to explain and get a car, but then a forty hours trip! I took that to be one hell of a scenic route back, but a good bit later its mentioned that Damon still hadn't said where they're going.
Eli was bit of a show-stealer. Wonder if there's a m/f story to come. Bas/Drew are likely next. Interesting though I'm not sure how I feel with them both having dated the others sibling.
November 12, 2017
4 Stars
The first thing I’ll say is this book CANNOT be comfortably read as a standalone. Although the couple is different, there is an ongoing storyline and a plethora of names, mentioned just in the first 10% of the book, and I was completely lost at first.
Once I caught up, the story was enjoyable, fast-paced and well-written. The chemistry between Damon and Cain was out of this world, and while sorta insta-lovie, it worked for them.
The author kept me sitting on the edge of my seat guessing at what would happen next. She threw in some twists, turns and surprises I didn’t see coming.
This was a really enjoyable story and I’m looking forward to the next installment! Recommendable, but not without reading the first book!
*copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by the author/publisher*
June 1, 2018
4.5 Stars!
July 20, 2018
4.5 Stars Even better than book 1
I really liked the story arc starting in Cam and Cort’s book and it becomes more complex with Cain and Damon joining forces to try and clear Damon for the plane crash. (There are too many names starting with the same letters though) Cain is trying to cope with the aftermath of discovering his father bears some responsibility for the deaths of Cam’s parents and Drew’s sister. He’s staying in the closet and on the campaign trail out of love for his family but he’s torn up inside. Damon is still angry that there’s still not enough proof to clear his name. Cain and Damon have to team up when another threat appears.
The UST between this May-December couple was phenomenal! I really liked how it developed, not exactly slow but still had decent build-up. There were great secondary characters too; Damon’s friend Eli and his sister and niece. There’s also another excellent twist in the arc to keep this going through yet another book. This is not a simple matter of pinning blame somewhere, it’s more complex than that and I loved it! Fantastic use of tropes too. I think I’ve found another favorite author.
I really liked the story arc starting in Cam and Cort’s book and it becomes more complex with Cain and Damon joining forces to try and clear Damon for the plane crash. (There are too many names starting with the same letters though) Cain is trying to cope with the aftermath of discovering his father bears some responsibility for the deaths of Cam’s parents and Drew’s sister. He’s staying in the closet and on the campaign trail out of love for his family but he’s torn up inside. Damon is still angry that there’s still not enough proof to clear his name. Cain and Damon have to team up when another threat appears.
The UST between this May-December couple was phenomenal! I really liked how it developed, not exactly slow but still had decent build-up. There were great secondary characters too; Damon’s friend Eli and his sister and niece. There’s also another excellent twist in the arc to keep this going through yet another book. This is not a simple matter of pinning blame somewhere, it’s more complex than that and I loved it! Fantastic use of tropes too. I think I’ve found another favorite author.
November 10, 2018
I liked this better than the first even though they seemed a lot alike. I really adore Cain, he frustrates me, but he is sweet. Damon is growl-y and hot and I like that of course, but he's really great with Cain. I'm looking froward to seeing how things play out with bas in the next one.
November 8, 2017
Mystery, fast pace, insta-love, politics, all in one frame.
The first 8 percent mark I was adjusting and kinda dizzy reading the names, I didn't read the first book (I'll read about Cort and Cam after this, promise), so, there's some spoilers here and there. Please notice that you cannot read this as a stand alone, this is a continuation of the first book, different couple, but the mystery continues.
This is my first book of this author, after adjusting with the writing style, I'm good and I guess I'll read her other books in the future.
Damon and Cain came from a different root, moving in a same circle. But fate made them counting to each other to survive.
The mystery is half solved, the love grows, and I believe we'll read about impending love affair about Bas and Drew in the near future.
I also hope the mystery solved permanently, so the author can move on to write another series, perhaps? Because I want these boys to have their HEA.
* ARC is provided by the author for Lelyana's Book Blog.*
August 8, 2022
Love this series! On to book 3.
November 17, 2017
Action, danger, adventure and plenty of hot sexy times. I loved it! Damon and Cain burn up the pages. Not reading the first book didn't take away from the story at all. I didn't even realize that this was a second book in a series until after I finished it. The story was so engaging it was like the rest of the world disappeared while I was reading. I will be reading the first book soon. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
November 13, 2017
Good follow up
This was nicely done. The author did a great job developing both Cain and Damon showing their strengths and weaknesses. No crying and whining. More twists and turns and the mystery continues.
This was nicely done. The author did a great job developing both Cain and Damon showing their strengths and weaknesses. No crying and whining. More twists and turns and the mystery continues.
November 10, 2017
¸.•´¸★*´¨) ¸.•*¨)
(¸.★¨*.¸¸.•`★¤Five stars for Big Daddy & the Kid.¤★¨*.¸¸.*ˑ˞★
"Damon had been locked in a kind of static prison for nearly a year and a half now, and Cain could only imagine he had to fight tooth and claw to regain whatever control he could over his circumstances."
Holy effing cow. This story started off with a bang and continued throughout the book. I thought book one set the precedence for how many times can you make me gasp in awareness. No, I choked on my juice from laughter...these two were hilarious! We see so much growth in Cain throughout this book and watched Damon's whole personality change for the better. There was no half stepping anywhere. Damon and Cain were on a mission to protect each other and find the answer that would clear Damon's name. I love the dynamics between these two, from sarcasm and laughter, to downright want, Cain had seen something all too familiar in his gaze, an echo of Cain’s own loneliness and his desperate need for connection.
It is months following the reveal, and Cain is coming to grips with his decision not to go against his powerful father for obvious reasons. When Damon placed himself in a precarious position, it is Cain who saved the one man who can ruin his father and take the senator down once and for all. On the run following threats against Damon's sister and niece, Cain decided his future. Help the man he had started to care for or be forever beholden to his father. Because if you thought about it: "as awful as the ends are, they're what make the beginnings possible." and Cain was going all out to go the long way for love.
Once you start this story, the mystery continues and romance ensues. I absolutely LOVE these guys. I thought Cam and Cort were it for me, but there was something about Damon and Cain. A healthy dose of realism, splashed with laughter, suspense and more questions than answers. I wait with bated breath for episode three. I suggest you read book one to follow this story line, as The Easy Way sets up the arc for this series. What are you waiting for? Get to one clicking!
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from the author.
(¸.★¨*.¸¸.•`★¤Five stars for Big Daddy & the Kid.¤★¨*.¸¸.*ˑ˞★
"Damon had been locked in a kind of static prison for nearly a year and a half now, and Cain could only imagine he had to fight tooth and claw to regain whatever control he could over his circumstances."
Holy effing cow. This story started off with a bang and continued throughout the book. I thought book one set the precedence for how many times can you make me gasp in awareness. No, I choked on my juice from laughter...these two were hilarious! We see so much growth in Cain throughout this book and watched Damon's whole personality change for the better. There was no half stepping anywhere. Damon and Cain were on a mission to protect each other and find the answer that would clear Damon's name. I love the dynamics between these two, from sarcasm and laughter, to downright want, Cain had seen something all too familiar in his gaze, an echo of Cain’s own loneliness and his desperate need for connection.
It is months following the reveal, and Cain is coming to grips with his decision not to go against his powerful father for obvious reasons. When Damon placed himself in a precarious position, it is Cain who saved the one man who can ruin his father and take the senator down once and for all. On the run following threats against Damon's sister and niece, Cain decided his future. Help the man he had started to care for or be forever beholden to his father. Because if you thought about it: "as awful as the ends are, they're what make the beginnings possible." and Cain was going all out to go the long way for love.
Once you start this story, the mystery continues and romance ensues. I absolutely LOVE these guys. I thought Cam and Cort were it for me, but there was something about Damon and Cain. A healthy dose of realism, splashed with laughter, suspense and more questions than answers. I wait with bated breath for episode three. I suggest you read book one to follow this story line, as The Easy Way sets up the arc for this series. What are you waiting for? Get to one clicking!
I voluntarily and honestly reviewed this book without bias or persuasion from the author.
November 13, 2017
You don’t expect the second book in a series to be better than the first. You don’t expect the characters to be more alive, more vivid. You don’t expect the story to suck you in so much that you can’t put it down until you’ve reached the last page. You don’t expect things between the two main characters to be a perfect blend of sweet, snarky, funny, romantic and incredibly hot. You don’t expect any of this with a book two. But you should. Because that’s exactly what you get with this amazing book.
January 22, 2018
3.5 stars
February 6, 2018
*** 3.5 Stars ***
February 18, 2018
4.5 stars. Moving on to book 3! I’m really looking forward to reading about Bas and Drew.
November 15, 2017
Wow. This is my first book by this author and I am so very happily satisfied with the story and the writing as well. The synopsis seemed gritty, angsty, frustrating, and had the potential for a really great romance as well. In just about every way this book filled the brief.
My favorite thing about this book was that the romance didn't take precedence over the plot and that the plot didn't take precedence over the romance. Make sense? No? Yeah, that's a little confusing, I know. So here's what I mean...
There is so much loneliness in both men that they need someone who understands, accepts, and can love them for all the damaged souls they are and despite all the baggage they carry. Throughout the story we have Cain and Damon getting to know one another in harrowing situations and learning to trust themselves and one another even though the circumstances are stacked against them. They need love and some hot lovin' and at so many turns they could have become so wrapped up in one another that they might have let pasts and overwhelming drama go so they could forge their own future away from all of it. They didn't, though, so we get to see that they have strength, fortitude, and a sincere desire to do what's right and not just think about themselves and the other man who could so easily complete them. I mean, with chemistry this incendiary I'm surprised they weren't more distracted. Loved their hotness together. And then there was their banter when they finally become more comfortable with one another. They prove that they have humor, passion, and trust building between them and making a really great foundation for a relationship that lasts beyond the roller coaster of drama they're riding.
And then there's the drama itself. There's more than enough subterfuge, sin, and sinister plots to go around and we get to see it almost all the way through. Well, just enough to move us along to Drew and Bas' story. Since I didn't read The Easy Way featuring Cam and Cort's part in the story, I didn't get to see how things all started. It is highly advised that you read book one, The Easy Way, first because quite a few plot points would make more sense as well as the relationships they all share. Despite that, though, we get a clear enough view of all the craziness that makes up their world. A father who is more than likely behind the crash that killed Cam and Bas' parents, a lying lover between Damon and Cain, mob ties, money and politics sharing a metaphorical bed, etc. There are so many threads that weave in and around Damon and Cain that the problem and solution are both either very simple or very complex. Their romance brings them together and helps them to solidify themselves as a true team to begin unraveling all these threads and bring them closer to finding who should be brought to justice.
So the plot encourages their romance to sink or swim and their relationship allows the plot to move forward by finding answers and truths behind guises. Make more sense now? Hopefully so. Either way, it's apparent that I'm a fan.
Overall there are two men who make a great pair with and without the turmoil surrounding them. There's a solid support cast that each get their own stories. The villain is more complex than expected and even though the reasons behind terrible actions are valid and difficult to resolve, they don't justify what was done. I'm eagerly anticipating Drew and Bas' story and am seriously hoping they get their own happiness together. (I mean, the key chain thing? Yeah, angst and hidden affection city! So excited...)
Read and willingly reviewed this ARC for the author.
My favorite thing about this book was that the romance didn't take precedence over the plot and that the plot didn't take precedence over the romance. Make sense? No? Yeah, that's a little confusing, I know. So here's what I mean...
There is so much loneliness in both men that they need someone who understands, accepts, and can love them for all the damaged souls they are and despite all the baggage they carry. Throughout the story we have Cain and Damon getting to know one another in harrowing situations and learning to trust themselves and one another even though the circumstances are stacked against them. They need love and some hot lovin' and at so many turns they could have become so wrapped up in one another that they might have let pasts and overwhelming drama go so they could forge their own future away from all of it. They didn't, though, so we get to see that they have strength, fortitude, and a sincere desire to do what's right and not just think about themselves and the other man who could so easily complete them. I mean, with chemistry this incendiary I'm surprised they weren't more distracted. Loved their hotness together. And then there was their banter when they finally become more comfortable with one another. They prove that they have humor, passion, and trust building between them and making a really great foundation for a relationship that lasts beyond the roller coaster of drama they're riding.
And then there's the drama itself. There's more than enough subterfuge, sin, and sinister plots to go around and we get to see it almost all the way through. Well, just enough to move us along to Drew and Bas' story. Since I didn't read The Easy Way featuring Cam and Cort's part in the story, I didn't get to see how things all started. It is highly advised that you read book one, The Easy Way, first because quite a few plot points would make more sense as well as the relationships they all share. Despite that, though, we get a clear enough view of all the craziness that makes up their world. A father who is more than likely behind the crash that killed Cam and Bas' parents, a lying lover between Damon and Cain, mob ties, money and politics sharing a metaphorical bed, etc. There are so many threads that weave in and around Damon and Cain that the problem and solution are both either very simple or very complex. Their romance brings them together and helps them to solidify themselves as a true team to begin unraveling all these threads and bring them closer to finding who should be brought to justice.
So the plot encourages their romance to sink or swim and their relationship allows the plot to move forward by finding answers and truths behind guises. Make more sense now? Hopefully so. Either way, it's apparent that I'm a fan.
Overall there are two men who make a great pair with and without the turmoil surrounding them. There's a solid support cast that each get their own stories. The villain is more complex than expected and even though the reasons behind terrible actions are valid and difficult to resolve, they don't justify what was done. I'm eagerly anticipating Drew and Bas' story and am seriously hoping they get their own happiness together. (I mean, the key chain thing? Yeah, angst and hidden affection city! So excited...)
Read and willingly reviewed this ARC for the author.
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