Still Waters

Compass Boys #3

by Jayne Rylon, Mari Carr

Bryant is unlike other relentlessly alpha Compton men, including the three cousins he loves like brothers. While they grew up drooling over pretty girls in Compton Pass, he was sneaking peeks of the sexy men working his family’s ranch.

All that sweaty, shirtless skin… flexing, exposed muscle… tight, dusty jeans… The temptation proved too much. As a reckless teen, Bryant let a cowboy kiss him in the barn—a decision with horrifying consequences.

Grateful for college and a chance to escape the aftermath of his mistake, Bryant buried himself in his hydrology studies. Missing his family while he learned how to tame his cowboy craving seemed like fair punishment.

Now, with his education one thesis project away from completion, Bryant still isn’t prepared. There’s a gorgeous cowboy tattoo artist not-so-patiently waiting for him to return from academic exile.

Vaughn’s gracious offer of assistance on Bryant’s water conservation experiment at Compass Ranch is simultaneously a relief and the ultimate torture. One final test Bryant may just flunk. Because Vaughn is determined to cannonball into the deep, still waters of Bryant’s repressed sexuality.

Genres: Romance, M M Romance, Contemporary, Westerns, Amazon, M M Contemporary

198 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 11, 2018

About the author

Jayne Rylon is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author. She received the 2011 Romantic Times Reviewers’ Choice Award for Best Indie Erotic Romance. Her stories used to begin as daydreams in seemingly endless business meetings, but now she is a full time author, who employs the skills she learned from her straight-laced corporate existence in the business of writing. She lives in Ohio with two cats and her husband, the infamous Mr. Rylon. When she can escape her purple office, she loves to travel the world, avoid speeding tickets in her beloved Sky, and–of course–read.

Jayne is a member of the Romance Writers of America (RWA), the Central Ohio Fiction Writers (COFW) and Passionate Ink.

You can keep up with what's new in Jayne's world by subscribing to the Naughty News. 25 subscribers win prizes in each edition www.jaynerylon.com/newsletter

Chat with her on Facebook (facebook.com/jaynerylon) or Twitter (@jaynerylon)

Reviews

[JenMcJ · Rating 2 out of 5]

I keep waiting for these predominately m/f writers to blow me away with a m/m book but it really just doesn't happen.

This book was boring. The prologue got my attention but then skipping 6 years forward was a cop out. The angst was added just to have drama and made no real sense and frankly, after lashing out the way Bryant did, I don't know why Vaughn took him back. The tattoo/pen drawing sex made me actually laugh.

There were some poignant moments but they weren't between the MC's.

The science behind the thesis project and the way he described it would have been a YEARS long project to prove, talking about crops and all the other factors.

Not for me. Boring, instalove and angst for no reason.

[Kahea · Rating 5 out of 5]

***5 Stars***

I swear this series, meaning the entire Compass series, always makes me happy. I love diving in and feeling like I’m catching up with old friends and Still Waters gave me that feeling and more. It was a quick read filled with sweet and smexy moments that had all the feels that had me devouring it in no time flat!

I adored Vaughn. He’s all kinds of smexy tattoo artist/cowboy on the side who is comfortable in his own skin and, as he has matured, isn’t afraid to go after what he wants. His honesty, with himself and others, and how compassionate he was had me easily falling in love with him.

Bryant. This man is smart, almost too smart because his brain never stops working, and while it’s a great thing when it comes to academia and work situations, when it comes to one’s personal life...not so much. I loved Bryant, I did, I wanted to give him all kinds hugs and Gibbs smack him for how he saw himself and how he felt others saw him, because they were not one and the same. It was frustrating to watch, but in the end it was absolutely satisfying to see him become the man he was always meant to be.

Vaughn and Bryant’s journey to their HEA was all kinds of sweet, smexy and swoon worthy, not that it was all smooth sailing. They took their bumps, but I loved watching as they got to know each other again and found that they were able to balance each other out without losing themselves in the process.

As always, the writing was seamless and I was hooked from the beginning, which had me sniffling a bit, but you’ll have to read it to find out why. The family dynamic was on point as always, and I simply enjoyed hanging out with the Compton clan and soaking up their energy. There is one more male cousin left on the chopping block and cannot wait to see what happens with him!

Note: These books can be read as standalones, but they will mean so much more if you start at the beginning, at least of smaller sets, though if you go back to the very start, you won’t be sorry!

~ Copy provided by the author & voluntarily reviewed ~

[Jenn · Rating 5 out of 5]

**Received ARC for a fair and honest review**
Still Waters is book 3 in the Compass Boys series and is Bryant and Vaughn's story. This book could be read as a standalone, however IMO it is best read in order. First and foremost this is an M/M book, if it isn't your thing, you might want to pass. Also, sensitive readers-- the book begins with sexual assault- if it is something that bothers you, you should pass.
Vaughn begins working on the Compton Ranch when he was 18, and Bryant had a huge crush on him that he thought was unreciprocated. After an incident on the ranch, and getting spurned by his crush, as soon as he's old enough he leave's home to go far away to school. When something happens to a dear friend, Bryant comes back home, and barely pulls up when confronted with his past.
I loved this book. I really enjoyed the characters, though a couple times I really wish I could have smacked Bryant. I really enjoyed their chemistry, I was surprised that Bryant was more on the submissive side and that Vaughn was the alpha male. Would have loved to have had a little more on some of the past characters, but that's just me being knit picky. It was good to see a few of the previous characters though. Overall, great story! Enjoyed the characters and the storyline! I can't wait for the next book in the series!! Hope this helps! Happy Reading!!!!

[Phuong · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve been dying to read Bryant & Vaughn’s story from the beginning and Jayne Rylon did not disappoint. Their story in Still Waters was totally amazing, such an emotional read and I loved it! Bryant went through so much when he was younger and I’m glad he did not let it destroy him or get in the way of giving Vaughn another chance. I loved how caring and tender Vaughn was with Bryant when he needed to be and how hot and sexy he was the next moment. The sex scenes between these two were deliciously hot just how I like them and this author sure knows how to write m/m love stories. Loved seeing the love and bond between all the Compass Boys and the entire family. Another winner in this terrific series.

[Rosemary · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jayne Rylon and Mari Carr hit it out of the ballpark with the third Compass Boys story, Still Waters. Bryant and Vaughn’s story is a sexy and emotional read that I could not put down. Bryant and Vaughn have history that they have kept hidden, but the loss of someone close them becomes a catalysts that forces them to deal with their past. I have been pretty anxious for Bryant's story and it did not disappoint me in the least. My heart broke for what Bryant went through when he was younger. See him and Vaughn get a second chance, one they were hesitant to embark on kept me glued to their story. I highly recommend this to fans of either author or anyone who loves a good emotional m/m read.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is some ourstanding writing, and a wonderful story. It is one of the Compass Boys Books, but you do not have to have read any of the others, to enjoy this one. It can be read as a standalone. It is a steamy hot book, with also a story of love. Bryant and Vaughn have known each other since they were young, with Vaughn's father working on Bryant's family's ranch. There is lots of chemistry between them. There are also some difficult topics in this book, but they are handled beautifully by Jayne Rylon. This is a m/m book that is so sexy. It is also a story of family, and love. I voluntarily reviewed this advance copy, and I highly recommend it.

[Kristine · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderfully written story that captivated my attention. The author does a wonderful job of handling a sensitive subject matter and the aftermath. The characters are complex, a little broken, likable, and believable. I could feel the emotions of the characters as I read their story. I found myself laughing, crying, and feeling the same things along with the characters. I felt a part of the story, as though I were watching events unfold as they happened. I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to read what happens next.

I received a copy of this book from the author, my review has been voluntarily submitted.

[Brandi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this story! I was waiting to find out the chemistry that was threatening to ignite each time they looked at each other. One simple glance was all it took and they both finally gave up the fight to find the other part of their soul. I’m so happy that the series was extended to get a glimpse of how the characters in the other series have evolved.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Still Waters is the 3rd book in the third Compass series, Compass Boys.
I am a fan of Jayne Rylon's and Mari Carr's books, and I have read the original Compass Brothers, the subsequent Compass Girls, and the first 2 books in this series, so I had high hopes that I would enjoy this story. I loved this book!! I don't think it's necessary to read the previous books, but I'm glad that I did, because there are terrific character back stories.

This is a m/m romance. Content warning: Contains a brief but graphic depiction of a sexual assault. That being said, this is a beautifully written romance.

Bryant is one of four Compton male cousins of his generation. His cousins are attracted to women, but he is attracted to men. Bryant also doesn’t feel like he will be able to contribute to the family ranch as his cousins will. He is intelligent and book-smart and more inclined to contribute with his mind, whereas his cousins’ contributions would be more physical.

At age 17, he decides to explore his sexual interests. When he can’t have the man he cares about, he lets another man kiss him. This event leads to long-lasting and heartbreaking consequences. Bryant needs to distance himself from the ranch, and he leaves for college.

Vaughn is the man that Bryant can’t forget, and the feelings are mutual. Vaughn regrets many things that happened when Bryant was 17. When Bryant comes back to the ranch to finish his final water conservation project before graduation, Vaughn (a talented tattoo artist) decides to help. He also decides to do everything he can to keep Bryant in his life.

This book has everything: love, romance, angst, laughter, tears, and a villain on the way to a HEA. The sex scenes were written beautifully - equally hot and emotional. I couldn’t help but fall in love with Bryant and Vaughn. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader's copy of this book. I loved this book, and I can't wait for Doug and the next Compass Boys book!

[Chera · Rating 5 out of 5]

Still Waters continues the saga of Compass Ranch as the second generation of the Compton boys grows up. Bryant Compton has grown up knowing he isn't like his brothers and cousins. Being part of a sexuality diverse family has helped him accept his own sexuality. He isn't drawn to girls, in fact only one person has ever attracted Bryant is Vaughn Sevan. Vaughn is Snake's son; Snake was a long time hand on the ranch. Vaughn had come to the ranch to take care of Snake in his last years and had stayed on. Bryant has been accepted to a college back East and knows he will soon leave Compass Ranch, he's just not sure he will ever return to live there again. His only attempt to act on his attraction to Vaughn ends in disaster.

After six years of study, Bryant has only to prove his thesis to get his masters. He needs to successfully put into practical application his idea of water conservation. There is only one place he can do that, Compass Ranch. It's expensive and untried. He can only hope his father is willing to gamble on his idea. If successful, he not only helps his family, he will be able to add to the fortunes of the ranch.

Vaughn Sevan is tempted by Bryant, but as the boss' son, he's off limits, Vaughn knows his place. Six years have changed him as well. He owns a successful tattoo parlour and is still single, he is always included in the ranch family activities but is uncertain of Bryant's reception. The past can sometimes bring more problems rather than eliminating them.

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Still Waters is the third book in the incredible Compass Boys series by bestselling authors Jayne Rylon and Mari Carr. A steamy, emotionally captivating, M/M romance that will steal your heart! It was a wonderful, heartfelt story with lots of passion, love, humor, witty banter, and twists and turns that you won't be able to put down. This story captures you right from the beginning, and holds on long after the last word is read. A fantastic book, and a great addition to this amazing series.

I absolutely loved both Bryant and Vaughn, and it broke my heart what they both went through because of one decision that each of them made. The explosive chemistry between them was literally jumping off the pages, and as much as I hate the reason why they were never together before, I think it took those extra years for each of them to grow up enough to appreciate the special connection between them. Their relationship was passionate, steamy, loving, and beautiful.

This was an emotional roller-coaster of a story that was truly incredible, just like the authors and the series. I would strongly recommend this book, series, and exceptional authors.

If you haven't read this series, I suggest that you start from the beginning. Each book can be read as a stand alone, but you'll get so much more out of the series by reading them all. They're all fantastic stories, and you won't be disappointed! I hope that you'll enjoy them as much as I have.

I have voluntarily reviewed this arc provided by the author.

[Christine Burke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vaughn and Bryant had been dancing around each other for years! And now we know why. The two have now grown into wonderful men. Time apart coming into their own and figuring out where they belong in the world made all the difference.

Vaughn with his sure sense of self, drive to accomplish his goals in the small town where others may think he doesn’t belong. Knowing he is different, but not hiding that fact from anyone. His honesty and persistence allows the shy and inexperienced Bryant to come into himself as a man, now that he has completed his academics. A compelling pair together for sure! And then with the love, trust and support of the whole family and extended Compton family.

Reading this story was a wonderful blast from the past with little updates from all the other past generations and stories of the growing Compton crew. An honest and emotional look at what the family is dealing with in the present, with the loss of a loved one and reflecting on the good times and lessons learned and yet to sink in. Just a small peek into future stories to come and with any luck another generation of Compton stories. (hint, hint) Jayne seamlessly can put this all together in a story leaving the reader satisfied….for now.

Well written, touching on all the wonders of getting lost in a good book; happy and laughing, to teary and emotional, and best yet leaving the reader wondering what’s next for this great family. Can't wait.

[Shelley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third book in this series of cousins raised together and can be read as a standalone book. Bryant has grown up feeling different from the other male cousins in his life for two reasons. First he is super smart and more inclined to contribute with his mind on their family ranch rather then his body. He also doesn't relate to all their alpha male chat about the girls they like when he finds himself attracted to men. When he decides at 17 to explore his interest with an older cowboy, the man steps over boundaries and damages Bryant's sexuality and confidence.

He leaves for college to get a doctorate is water conservation engineering. He comes home years later with a great idea for improving the ranch to support his thesis. While back home, he hooks back up with a childhood friend, Vaughn, who he was always attracted to. He finds himself both in his first real romantic relationship and getting involved deeper and deeper emotionally as well as physically. He is sometimes unsure of what he feels and how permanent what he is experiencing with Vaughn will be. Sometimes when he is too stressed, Bryant steps back emotionally and trips himself up.

Over time, and with support from both his parents, cousins, and Vaughn, Bryant finds a way to make a life partnership possible and enjoyable. This book is M/M and is very much about an emotional and loving relationship and not only rough and gruff physical action.

[Kim Green · Rating 4 out of 5]

Still Waters is the third book in the Compass Boys series and I have to say … it’s my favorite! Bryant and Vaughn were eyeing each other as teenagers and but had some growing up to do much to their distain.

From the moment the book begins we’re thrown into Bryant and Vaughn’s life when they were teenagers. No spoilers: words were said and some bad things happened. Bryant decides he should go off to college and make something of himself so he can contribute to the Compass ranch as his whole family does. He’s extremely smart and knows he can make a difference.

Fast forward to Bryant finishing up his thesis when he comes home and runs into Vaughn. My word, does it get hot from there. Not only is this a steamy MM romance but there is so much emotion. I found myself crying more than once. There was good crying and sad crying but all this was needed for Bryant and Vaughn to get where they needed to be at that time. There is also a development of trust between these characters and Bryant finds his way in his family as well. Thinking he was detached because he wasn’t “normal” and then finding out his family loves him and backs him up no matter what, that’s just a great story that you always want to hear.

These two characters have so much emotionally going on than I first thought. I’m just blown away by Jayne Rylon & Mari Carr’s storytelling.

[ButtonsMom2003 · Rating 5 out of 5]

The geeky cowboy finally gets his man.

Still Waters is a really hot story. Although it is part of a series you don't have to read the other books in order to enjoy it.

Bryant has always felt different from his Compton cousins. Partly because he's gay but also because he's not sure how he can contribute to the ranch using his brain. He pursues his education and gets three degrees in only 6 years.

Vaughn used to work on the ranch but now has his own tattoo business. He's lusted after Bryant for a long time but Bryant doesn't know that.

Wow, this book packs a lot of stuff into one story. It starts out with something awful happening but by the end of the book you're happy for everyone. Bryant and Vaughn share a secret, something they must get past if they are to find their HEA.

There are smoking hot sex scenes and at times I want to cry for the pain that both guys have had in their past. I also wanted to knock brainy Bryant in the head a couple of times but he eventually smartens up.

I love Jayne Rylon's menage stories but I think I like her M/M books even more.

An advanced copy of this book was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.

[Denise H · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautifully written story about heartbreak, loss, exploration, commitment, acceptance, understanding, love and family. The author does a wonderful job of telling a story about two broken people, each lost and closed off in a different way, who have the courage to open up and take the necessary steps to form a strong bond of friendship and love with the backing and encouragement of family and friends. There are so many strong emotions flowing through the pages of this book and there is an immediate draw to Bryant and Vaughn. They are both emotionally damaged and carry heavy baggage from the past but they are connected soul deep and when they allow themselves to open up and give each other a chance they form an intense bond of love, trust and understanding. This book pulls you in from the beginning and it is easy to get lost among the pages, wrapped up in the Compton world. The characters are strong, relatable and likeable and there is an emotional pull that keeps you invested in the tale, reading their struggles and triumphs and rooting for them along the way. Great book and addition to the series. Looking forward to more. *I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC copy of this book.

[Jennette Reid · Rating 4 out of 5]

Like most of Jayne Rylon's books, Still Waters can be read as a Stand Alone novel but is really improved if you've been following the Compass Boys (and moreso, the previous Compass series) to maximize your knowledge of the background characters.

Bryant, like most of his cousins, wants to make a name for himself at Compass ranch but where his cousins all seem to know what they want and how to get it, he struggles with his feelings towards another cowboy and how that will impact his family's opinion of him. Bryant takes the opportunity to pursue another dream, earning his phd, and shelves any personal desires as a sort of penance or punishment for poor decisions when he was younger.

Now that his PHD is almost complete, Bryant is making his way back home to Compton Pass to face his family, and his feelings for Vaughn.

I've been waiting for Bryant's story for what feels like ages and this book delivered. Not only that, but as the 3rd book in the Compass Boys collection, where the books are almost occurring simultaneously there's layers of feels over events happening with our friends in Compton Pass which really enriched the story for me. While it's quite short, there's a lot of emotion packed in which just works well.

[Maura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Still Waters is a book in the Compass Boys Series which is a spin-off of the Compass Brothers. You do not have to read any of the previous stories to thoroughly enjoy this one, but it will enrich your experience.

Bryant Compton is a nerd. He’s a nerd who is both brilliant AND gorgeous. After college he comes back home to work on his thesis and rediscover his past.

Vaughn is a guy from Bryant’s past. He works in Compton Pass on the family ranch and has fulfilled his dream of opening his own tattoo parlor as a way of expressing his artistry. He is hot and sexy and a total player. He only does one night stands and is searching for that elusive “something”.

This story is a blend of sex and romance. It’s also about facing the past and accepting the present. Bryant is brilliant scholarly, but sometimes those guys tend to be a little lax in the social skills department. Vaughn is the perfect guy for him.

This is a deep, yet quick read that has all the feels. The characters feel like old friends and I was able to feel emotions right along with them.

I absolutely recommend this book, this series and the entire Compass world.

[Christine Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is about Bryant he's the genius of our Compass boys. He's had a crush on Snake's son Vaughn since he was a teen when a traumatic event happens he decides to leave home to pursue academic endeavors and get away from the guy he's madly attracted to. When he returns years later finish his thesis project he has to deal with his emotions and where he place on the ranch is. Can Bryant move past his past demons to live in the present with the man of his dreams?

I sooo loved this book! Bryant was such a sweetie and I felt for him right from the beginning. I wanted him to be happy after what happened to him. But he is very insecure and had a lot of self doubt that Vaugh and his family were trying to get him to see past but it was a long road. Vaughn was so patient and caring but he too got hurt and had to battle with confidence in himself and that he's worthy of being with Bryant even though he's a famous Compton. I loved the family and the support and Jake oh man Jake in all the boys stories so far has made me cry! I'm going to miss that guy! Can't wait to read the final Compass Boys' book and see how Doug gets his HEA. Another great story.

[Tracy Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Still Waters is book three in the Compass Boys Series. You do not need to read the rest of the series to understand this book but I highly recommend it to get to know all the family members. Bryant has always felt a little different and out of place amongst his alpha Compton cousins. Partly because he's gay but mostly because he's not sure how he can help contribute to the family ranching operation using his brain. After an incident when he is 17 years old, Bryant goes away to school and throws himself into his studies. He gets three degrees in only 6 years.

Vaughn used to work on the ranch but now has taken over his dad’s tattoo business and made it a success on his own. He has always been attracted to Bryant and when a tragedy brings Bryant home early Vaughn decides life is too short to waste this opportunity. The only problem is they share a secret that no one else in Bryant’s family knows and they have to get past it if they want to have a chance at a life together. This story shows how as long as you can communicate with your partner anything is possible and you can overcome most anything together.

[Bookgasms Book Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

After dancing around their feelings since they were teens, Bryant an Vaughn finally get their chance for their happily ever after.

And it’s not an easy road. While there’s a whole lot of lust and desire and hope, there’s also a whole lot of lingering guilt and denial that may derail their relationship before it ever gets off the ground!

Gah . . . I’ve been anxiously waiting for Bryant and Vaughn’s chance at love. And Still Waters doesn’t disappoint. At. All. Their relationship is everything I hoped for and more—it’s smart, sexy and real. I love how Vaughn breaks Bryant out of his scholarly shell and how Bryant settles Vaughn deeper into the Compass Ranch family.

Vaughn and Bryant are perfect for each other—they both need the other to balance their lives. I loved watching them fall further for each other. How they both brought out the best in each other, and that even when times were hard, that they still loved each other enough to work it all through.

An amazing addition to this already fantastic Compass Boys series! I can’t wait for more! ~ Missy, 4.5 stars

[Dar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who wouldn't want to read a book about cowboys, and a water fixation, so, hot cowboys, dripping in water *drool* Okay, seriously, this book is super sexy, and I did have to stop a few times and catch my thoughts, because, well, Vaughn and Bryant give off that much heat

It isn't just sexy times, all the time, there is a depth of emotion that these two share that will hit you right in the heart. They have issues, things that they keep to themelves, that have defined them. Old habits are hard to break, especially those that kick in for self-preservation. These two definitely struggle with that pattern, and just when everything was going great, Bryant cracked first, followed quickly by Vaughn

They do pull it back together though, and while Bryant is all about water conservation, so no crazy shower sexy times, he definitely gives us a rainstorm to remember! Loaded with emotion, and aforementioned sexy cowboys, there is a whole storm churning below the surface of those still waters - and I loved it all

[Terry Sasada · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing book. True to form this book brings you up close and personal with the Compton family. Bryant is gay, but because he is surrounded by his male cousins who are girl crazy he just keeps his dating non existant. Then one fateful night in the barn the unthinkable happens to him. Bryant decides he needs to leave for college. His escape, leaving his ranch, his family, and the one guy he is attracted to. After 6 years, a death brings him home. Now he must face his demons, and Vaughn. Vaughn has been in love with Bryant since he met him, afraid of not being good enough for Bryant he let him go. He is also the only one that knew the secret that had shut Bryant down. Together they must leave the past and try to make a future. The story is truly well written and you feel the struggles with both Bryant and Vaughn. And you really see what the Compton family will do to help each other out and the faith they have in each other. Emotional ride of love and family and being true to yourself. A cowboy but not a cowboy learning about love and sex for the first time. Loved the HEA.

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book 3 in the Compass Boys series. What a good book. Just to warn you this is a M/M book and there is an assault in the beginning so don’t be saying you didn’t know. The Compass Boys just keep getting better and better. Bryant is a nerd and doesn’t quite feel like one of the Compass Boys even though he knows he shouldn’t feel that way. He’s always crushed on Vaughn but things happen when he turns 17 and he goes off to college to get away from it all. After another incident and three degrees later, he returns home. These two must work through things that happened in their past before they can ever go forward. I love the way the author writes the love and strength that both men have. We have been waiting for this story and it plays out wonderfully. This is such a beautiful story between these men. You will cry but you will get through it. I received an ARC for an honest review.

[Behind Closed Doors Book Review · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amount of sex 4 / 5
How explicit 4 / 5
Story 5 / 5
Overall: 5 / 5

I love being back with the men and women of Compass Ranch.   As soon as I turned my Kindle on, I was completely absorbed in their stories.  I have been looking forward to reading Vaughn and Bryant’s story for a while now, and it was even better than I hoped it to be!  The story was gripping as well as hot and steamy.

Bryant felt like he was different from the rest of his family.  Being a Compton usually required them to be an alpha male, and Bryant felt different since he was gay.  He received a full scholarship to a school out of state and decided to get away from the ranch.  Bryant then went to get his doctorate degree but finally came home when a dear family member passed away.  After six years of being away from the ranch, Bryant decided to go for the one man he has always wanted, Vaughn.

A deliciously naughty story and loved every minute of it!

*Voluntarily Reviewed an Advanced Copy*

[Sarah ~Book Addict~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Bryant Compton, son of Sam and Cindi Compton and tattoo artist Snake’s son Vaughn Sevan’s story. Vaughn worked on the Compton Ranch several years ago and Bryant was attracted to him. He flirted and made a play which Vaughn turned down and something happened after. Bryant went off to college and has spent the years since working on his doctorate. Now he’s home to do the final project for his doctorate degree and back in tattoo artist Vaughn’s vicinity. The attraction is still there and strong on both sides, but past pain presents a stumbling block. This story is very emotional with sweet moments and hot moments and humor mixed in along with sadness. It overlaps a bit with the previous book. I loved Bryant and Vaughn both and their story and getting more Compass books. I love the Comptons and have since the first book in the original series and I still reread them. I can’t wait for Doug’s book!
~ARC from author. This is my honest, voluntary review.~

[Angie · Rating 3 out of 5]

My Review: I have been a big fan of the Compass Series since the beginning but I feel like it is starting to decline. The thing I loved most about the series was the family relationships and the over arcing story lines but this series, Compass Boys, seems to be missing both of those. The conflicts and relationships feel forced and lack the development and emotion that the previous books had. I was really looking forward to this story and while I did enjoy it for the most part, there was a lot missing to hold it together. I did really like Bryant and could really connect with his character in a lot of ways. Vaughn's character fell a little flat and under developed, and that led to a bit of a flat line in the relationship. I will of course read the next book in this series, but I honestly hope that that is the end of the series, as much as I love the whole Compton family, this just isn't holding up anymore.

[Pauline Cassie · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's good to be back in Compton Pass for the youngest generation of the mighty family.

In the book's prologue, 17 year old Bryant is put off exploring any relationship, especially with the handsome cowboy, Vaughan after an incident on the ranch and decides instead to devote all his time and energy to furthering his education.

Six years later with his doctorate within reach, Bryant returns to the Compton ranch to test his academic theory and meets up once again with Vaughan.

Their love story is incredibly sweet and both Bryant and Vaughan are heavily invested in the relationship from the beginning. However, don't be concerned, sweet doesn't mean that it isn't incredibly HOT!

The author is definitely skilled in the writing of intimate scenes but her skills in bringing M/M scenes to life is hard to beat!💜

Another winner from the pens of Jayne Rylon and Mari Carr.

[Natasha Hawke · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adored Still Waters, I am very fortunate to be able to read this book a little early. I was blown away by Bryant and Vaughan's story, heart breaking but so sweet, with extra hotness! We see Bryant go through some awful experiences which have big impacts on his young life, so much so that he doesn't see how much Vaughan actually cares for him and wants to make him happy. Big changes happening on The Compass Ranch thanks to Bryant, there is such huge feeling of family and love, you cant help but be drawn back to this series of books, its like going home every time and visiting with your favourite cousins. I love the interaction with the family and cousins, how they all help each other and are there for each other no matter what, helping our hero to truly see himself and grab hold of love with both hands. Really looking forward to what comes next

[Yolanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bryant has had a thing for Vaughn for years. When Bryant finally summons up to act on his attraction he’s left feeling rejected due to poor communication by Vaughn. This leads to Bryant to making some questionable choices. When Bryant finally returns home, Vaughn is determined to set the record straight and get the only man he’s ever wanted to love.

I loved Bryant and Vaughn’s story. You can feel the love that’s been slowly simmering between them. They both have issues that creep in but what they feel for one another is real. Even if you’ve never read any of the other books in the series, you won’t feel lost. There is enough backstory to make this a true stand alone.

If you’re a lover of romance, I highly recommend this book.

I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.