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Marshals #4
Twisted and Tied
Deputy US Marshal Miro Jones finally has everything he ever wanted. He’s head-over-heels in love and married to the man of his dreams, his partner Ian Doyle, he’s doing well at work, and all his friends are in good places as well. Things are all tied up nicely… until they’re not.
Change has never been easy for Miro, and when situations at work force the team he’s come to depend on to break apart, and worst of all, his and Ian’s individual strengths put them on two separate paths, he’s pretty certain everything just went up in smoke. But before he can even worry about the future, his past comes for a visit, shaking his world up even more. It’s hard to tell what road he should truly be on, but as he learns some paths are forged and others are discovered, it might be that where he's going is the right course after all. If he can navigate all the twists and turns, he and Ian might just get their happily ever after.
Change has never been easy for Miro, and when situations at work force the team he’s come to depend on to break apart, and worst of all, his and Ian’s individual strengths put them on two separate paths, he’s pretty certain everything just went up in smoke. But before he can even worry about the future, his past comes for a visit, shaking his world up even more. It’s hard to tell what road he should truly be on, but as he learns some paths are forged and others are discovered, it might be that where he's going is the right course after all. If he can navigate all the twists and turns, he and Ian might just get their happily ever after.
266 pages, ebook
First published March 13, 2018
279 people are currently reading
1104 people want to read
About the author
Mary Calmes
125 books5,016 followersMary Calmes believes in romance, happily ever afters, and the faith it takes for her characters to get there. She bleeds coffee, thinks chocolate should be its own food group, and currently lives in Kentucky with a six-pound furry ninja that protects her from baby birds, spiders and the neighbor’s dogs. To stay up to date on her ponderings and pandemonium (as well as the adventures of the ninja) follow her on Twitter @MaryCalmes, connect with her on Facebook, and subscribe to her Mary’s Mob newsletter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 438 reviews
March 13, 2018
Mary is one of my favorite authors and this series is definitely one of my favorite series, which means that Miro and Ian are also one of my favorite couples...
Now I promised not to put any spoilers in my review, which is pretty hard since all info I give, can be considered a spoiler.
So I will keep this review simple and try to stick to how it made me feel.
Needless to say, this book rocked !! Just like the ones that came before.
Miro and Ian have been married for a couple of months. Now this little bit of info, is one of the reasons it wasn't a 5 star read for me. I really wanted to be part of their wedding and not read about it in a short little flashback. This also bothered me when I read Jory and Sam's story. I know....I am a needy bitch...sorry (not really).
A lot of things are about to change in this book and not just for Miro and Ian. Some of these changes are a bit of a challenge for our couple, but no worries.... true love always conquers all ;)
I was absolutely loving this book, and then I got to a part, that unexpectedly broke my heart a bit.... I didn't see it coming and I was actually surprised by my own extreme reaction....
It fit the story....but damn...
All in all this was an awesome ending to Miro and Ian's story. I hope we will get plenty more about the "Marshals" and we will see them again in future books of other couples. This is my wish ;)
I highly recommend this series. This is not a stand alone so you should start with book 1. Do it now !! You won't be sorry !!
This review has been posted on DirtyBooksObsession
August 24, 2025
5 No Brainer Hearts for the Audio and Story!
Audio Review
When I heard that the audio was finally out for this I was all grabby hands! I’ve had the pleasure of listening to Tristan James for the 1st three stories, and I had no trouble listening to the last!
James brings Ian and Miro to life - perfectly portraying them through all their challenges, harrowing situations, and the intense wonderful love they have for each other while never shirking on the smexy! Unf.
Fans of this series will not be disappointed. It’s fabulous, and I’ll be revisiting this narration often just like I’ve done with the others!
——————————
Original Review
Unless Mary Calmes killed off one of the MC’s, this was never going to be less than 5 stars for me.
Seriously, if you’ve come this far then Miro and Ian have worked their wiles into your heart, and how can one not see how this plays out? This series has always been front and center about their relationship - always. As these two go from coworkers to best friends to lovers to husbands, the focus has been on point regarding their progression, and let me tell you that from the beginning, it has been fucking hot, it has been fucking swoony, and it has repeatedly fucking melted me into a pile of ooey gooey goo.
Calmes for me can be a hit or miss (though thankfully, mostly a hit). Here she incorporates everything I love about romance. Claiming proprietary love, crazy gleeful shenanigans in and amongst the quieter moments, and it's those quiet moments that slayed me. These two love each other so much but it's not without a little doubt or insecurity despite the fact that they’ve tied the knot. What I absolutely adore is how they treasure each other, how they show their love. It's the little things just as much as the big, and it’s all in what they each say and what they each do. I cannot express how much I revel in such strong feels.
I’ve said this before. Tough alpha males just do it for me because despite all that strength, despite all that bravado and stoicism, love changes things. Miro and Ian are badass Marshals but when together, they can let their guard down, they can be themselves, and that vulnerability, that intense intimacy and the desperate painful need to have the other, kills me every damn time, and Calmes nails it with expert precision over and over again.
Many a review has talked about the changes that occur here, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Really, it was fabulous watching these two do what they're best at and come into their own individually. Also, this continued to evolve and meld such a large cast of characters, nicely expanding on what family and friendship is in all its fun funny dramatics, always with some ridiculousness but with a ton of heart too.
Even better, this sets up perfectly for the spinoff to come. I can’t fucking wait!
Sooooo, obviously that was a very long and rambling explanation as to why Miro and Ian are in my top 3 ever, and this is by far the ultimate in my Calmes experience. My liberal use of cuss words is trying valiantly to convey just how much I loved this, but don’t just take my word for it. Take a chance on these two yahoos if you haven’t already, or hurry and bask in their happily, well deserved, ever after!
Thanks to the author/publisher for both in exchange for a honest review
Marshals
1. All Kinds of Tied Down - 5 Stars
2. Fit to be Tied - 5 Stars
3. Tied Up in Knots - 5 Stars
3.5. Together Tied - 4 Stars
4. Twisted and Tied - 5 Stars
5. Balanced and Tied - 3.5 Stars (in reality)
6. Tied Over - 4.5 Stars
7. Newly Tied - 4 Stars
Audio Review
When I heard that the audio was finally out for this I was all grabby hands! I’ve had the pleasure of listening to Tristan James for the 1st three stories, and I had no trouble listening to the last!
James brings Ian and Miro to life - perfectly portraying them through all their challenges, harrowing situations, and the intense wonderful love they have for each other while never shirking on the smexy! Unf.
Fans of this series will not be disappointed. It’s fabulous, and I’ll be revisiting this narration often just like I’ve done with the others!
——————————
Original Review
Unless Mary Calmes killed off one of the MC’s, this was never going to be less than 5 stars for me.
Seriously, if you’ve come this far then Miro and Ian have worked their wiles into your heart, and how can one not see how this plays out? This series has always been front and center about their relationship - always. As these two go from coworkers to best friends to lovers to husbands, the focus has been on point regarding their progression, and let me tell you that from the beginning, it has been fucking hot, it has been fucking swoony, and it has repeatedly fucking melted me into a pile of ooey gooey goo.
Calmes for me can be a hit or miss (though thankfully, mostly a hit). Here she incorporates everything I love about romance. Claiming proprietary love, crazy gleeful shenanigans in and amongst the quieter moments, and it's those quiet moments that slayed me. These two love each other so much but it's not without a little doubt or insecurity despite the fact that they’ve tied the knot. What I absolutely adore is how they treasure each other, how they show their love. It's the little things just as much as the big, and it’s all in what they each say and what they each do. I cannot express how much I revel in such strong feels.
I’ve said this before. Tough alpha males just do it for me because despite all that strength, despite all that bravado and stoicism, love changes things. Miro and Ian are badass Marshals but when together, they can let their guard down, they can be themselves, and that vulnerability, that intense intimacy and the desperate painful need to have the other, kills me every damn time, and Calmes nails it with expert precision over and over again.
Many a review has talked about the changes that occur here, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Really, it was fabulous watching these two do what they're best at and come into their own individually. Also, this continued to evolve and meld such a large cast of characters, nicely expanding on what family and friendship is in all its fun funny dramatics, always with some ridiculousness but with a ton of heart too.
Even better, this sets up perfectly for the spinoff to come. I can’t fucking wait!
Sooooo, obviously that was a very long and rambling explanation as to why Miro and Ian are in my top 3 ever, and this is by far the ultimate in my Calmes experience. My liberal use of cuss words is trying valiantly to convey just how much I loved this, but don’t just take my word for it. Take a chance on these two yahoos if you haven’t already, or hurry and bask in their happily, well deserved, ever after!
Thanks to the author/publisher for both in exchange for a honest review
Marshals
1. All Kinds of Tied Down - 5 Stars
2. Fit to be Tied - 5 Stars
3. Tied Up in Knots - 5 Stars
3.5. Together Tied - 4 Stars
4. Twisted and Tied - 5 Stars
5. Balanced and Tied - 3.5 Stars (in reality)
6. Tied Over - 4.5 Stars
7. Newly Tied - 4 Stars
January 24, 2023
Okay I know, I know I’ve read this enough times but just one more won’t hurt.
Re-read 24th - 25th January 2023
Re-read 27th February 2022
Re-read again 16th - 17th April 2019
I love this book, I feel a whole series re-read coming on.
Re-read 16th - 17th September
I’m upping my rating to 5*. It’s only a few weeks since I re-read this and I love it.
Re-read 12th - 14th August
Enjoyed it even more on the second read.
Original review - 4.5*
While I’d been eagerly awaiting the release of this book after reading the blurb I was a little apprehensive. One of my issues with the previous books was the amount of time Ian and Miro spent apart, I wanted them together. I assumed in this book they’d be married and working together, a happy total partnership.
The blurb says “Change has never been easy for Miro..” well it’s not easy for me either and I wasn’t happy.
I mean seriously why mess with a good thing?
And this is one of the many reasons I’m a reader and not a writer. It worked brilliantly and this book just flew past, I mean I tried to take my time knowing it’s the last one from Miro’s POV but it finished far too soon.
I want to say I loved it all but I struggled getting into it a little at the beginning. I’m not sure if it was apprehension from the blurb or the fact that the weird Valentine book Together Tied was the last thing I’d read from this author or the crazy OTT beginning which had Kage...well you’ll know when you read it.
But once Wen made her appearance I was hooked and I loved every minute of this crazy ride.
Miro and Ian are perfect together I love their passion and the depth of feeling and trust they have in each other. It’s stunningly beautiful.
But this book is non stop and I really needed it to be longer. I can never get enough of these guys but here I just felt they needed a day. A day to relax with no interruptions. Now don’t get me wrong they get a lot of interruptions and I loved them all, I’m not talking about cutting anything just maybe adding an extra chapter so they can catch their breath.
There’s never a dull moment which makes the pages fly by. I really enjoyed this book and I certainly wasn’t ready for it to end.
Re-read 24th - 25th January 2023
Re-read 27th February 2022
Re-read again 16th - 17th April 2019
I love this book, I feel a whole series re-read coming on.
Re-read 16th - 17th September
I’m upping my rating to 5*. It’s only a few weeks since I re-read this and I love it.
Re-read 12th - 14th August
Enjoyed it even more on the second read.
Original review - 4.5*
While I’d been eagerly awaiting the release of this book after reading the blurb I was a little apprehensive. One of my issues with the previous books was the amount of time Ian and Miro spent apart, I wanted them together. I assumed in this book they’d be married and working together, a happy total partnership.
The blurb says “Change has never been easy for Miro..” well it’s not easy for me either and I wasn’t happy.
I mean seriously why mess with a good thing?
And this is one of the many reasons I’m a reader and not a writer. It worked brilliantly and this book just flew past, I mean I tried to take my time knowing it’s the last one from Miro’s POV but it finished far too soon.
I want to say I loved it all but I struggled getting into it a little at the beginning. I’m not sure if it was apprehension from the blurb or the fact that the weird Valentine book Together Tied was the last thing I’d read from this author or the crazy OTT beginning which had Kage...well you’ll know when you read it.
But once Wen made her appearance I was hooked and I loved every minute of this crazy ride.
Miro and Ian are perfect together I love their passion and the depth of feeling and trust they have in each other. It’s stunningly beautiful.
But this book is non stop and I really needed it to be longer. I can never get enough of these guys but here I just felt they needed a day. A day to relax with no interruptions. Now don’t get me wrong they get a lot of interruptions and I loved them all, I’m not talking about cutting anything just maybe adding an extra chapter so they can catch their breath.
There’s never a dull moment which makes the pages fly by. I really enjoyed this book and I certainly wasn’t ready for it to end.
November 20, 2019
Reading it the second time this year (2019) and I wish the author would write more, it's by far her best series/books and I'm so in love with Miro and Ian that I get a book hangover every time I'm reading this series.
Send HELP!!!
Send HELP!!!
March 1, 2020
Re-read: 01.03.2020
One thing I've noticed throughout this series is that not once have I found what hair color Ian and Miro has. Not once. Mary Calmes , what hair color do they have? Do you have any specific actors/models in mind when you think of them? In my book one review, I have a ‘sorta’ casting for them on how I picture them, but at the same time, the picture isn't clear in my mind. That being said, I like seeing Ian and Miro getting even closer and more secure in their marriage, but I still feel like there's more to their story, like this book shouldn't be the conclusion. I want more, to be truthful.
First read review:
We're back with Deputy US Marshals Miroslav ‘Miro’ ‘M’ Jones< (33) and (ex-Special Forces soldier, a former Green Beret (also a Ranger)), Ian ‘E’ Doyle's (37? 38?) final book (I think). Things are changing and promotions are coming: Mire becomes a Custodial WITSEC interim director, and Ian will take over as deputy director (the new liaison) and, going forward, will be the main point of contact in all interagency dealings. He’s the go-to guy for issues with anyone outside of this office. So a big change. Can Miro and Ian still work if they are no longer partners at work? Overall, it good to be done with the series (I really hope we are indeed done) and get a somewhat closure for the couple. I had though, wished for more like , but I was happy with Miro and Ian's relationship. It was at its best.
Other characters:
The list is somewhat long, so I've put it in a spoilers tag.
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Contemporary Romance (M/M)
Series: - Series, Book Four
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Ian ‘E’ Doyle.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Yes.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Unsure.
Will I read this again in the future? - No.
Rating - 2.5/3 stars.
One thing I've noticed throughout this series is that not once have I found what hair color Ian and Miro has. Not once. Mary Calmes , what hair color do they have? Do you have any specific actors/models in mind when you think of them? In my book one review, I have a ‘sorta’ casting for them on how I picture them, but at the same time, the picture isn't clear in my mind. That being said, I like seeing Ian and Miro getting even closer and more secure in their marriage, but I still feel like there's more to their story, like this book shouldn't be the conclusion. I want more, to be truthful.
Still holding on to Ian, I realized Kage’s attention was elsewhere, and I felt the relief Frodo and Sam must have experienced when the Eye moved off them, because I could breathe a bit more, even though I was still right there on the edge of hyperventilating.
⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱*Might contain spoilers*⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱
First read review:
We're back with Deputy US Marshals Miroslav ‘Miro’ ‘M’ Jones< (33) and (ex-Special Forces soldier, a former Green Beret (also a Ranger)), Ian ‘E’ Doyle's (37? 38?) final book (I think). Things are changing and promotions are coming: Mire becomes a Custodial WITSEC interim director, and Ian will take over as deputy director (the new liaison) and, going forward, will be the main point of contact in all interagency dealings. He’s the go-to guy for issues with anyone outside of this office. So a big change. Can Miro and Ian still work if they are no longer partners at work? Overall, it good to be done with the series (I really hope we are indeed done) and get a somewhat closure for the couple. I had though, wished for more like , but I was happy with Miro and Ian's relationship. It was at its best.
“Stop thinking I could ever leave you, all right, and I’ll stop thinking you’ll tell me to go.”
Other characters:
The list is somewhat long, so I've put it in a spoilers tag.
“You’re my husband, and I didn’t think that would ever be something I would want, and now it’s the only thing I do.”
I nodded, and he laughed softly against my back.
“All that goes ditto for you, huh, tough guy?”
“Hold me tighter, ’kay?”
And so he did.
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Contemporary Romance (M/M)
Series: - Series, Book Four
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Ian ‘E’ Doyle.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Yes.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Unsure.
Will I read this again in the future? - No.
Rating - 2.5/3 stars.
January 25, 2020
What the fuck, series?
You used to be cool.
I almost forgot to let you all know that I dnf'ed the crap out of this book. The series started fun, then got serious, and finally just dove off the cliffs of insanity. (Princess Bride, anyone?)
Yes, they do. This book was the byproduct of one. In other words, the biggest piece of shit that shouldn't have ever been.
Oh, I'm being mean? Tough.
I had high hopes. I gave good scores to the first book. Promises were implied. Trusts were broken.
And that pain was greatly increased by this book.
The book is like a crazy grandma who traps you at a family holiday party and holds you prisoner while she tells you the story of her trip to the yarn store. Every few words, she gets reminded of another story that she then has to tell you, which reminds her of another one, and so on until you want to scream, but then she goes back to the yarn-story every once in a while because that's the story you NEED to hear.
And suddenly you're the bad guy who "ruins Christmas" because you got drunk to deal with it all and may or may not have made-out with a cousin's husband in the bedroom with all the coats on the bed.
Yeah. So, just like that.... and maybe this review.... the book rambles on and on without ever getting to the bloody point. Any point. It was as pointless as trying to steal coats from a family party and realizing yours is the only one you would be caught dead in.
Useless fucking family with bad fashion sense.
Useless book.
You used to be cool.
I almost forgot to let you all know that I dnf'ed the crap out of this book. The series started fun, then got serious, and finally just dove off the cliffs of insanity. (Princess Bride, anyone?)
Yes, they do. This book was the byproduct of one. In other words, the biggest piece of shit that shouldn't have ever been.
Oh, I'm being mean? Tough.
I had high hopes. I gave good scores to the first book. Promises were implied. Trusts were broken.
And that pain was greatly increased by this book.
The book is like a crazy grandma who traps you at a family holiday party and holds you prisoner while she tells you the story of her trip to the yarn store. Every few words, she gets reminded of another story that she then has to tell you, which reminds her of another one, and so on until you want to scream, but then she goes back to the yarn-story every once in a while because that's the story you NEED to hear.
And suddenly you're the bad guy who "ruins Christmas" because you got drunk to deal with it all and may or may not have made-out with a cousin's husband in the bedroom with all the coats on the bed.
Yeah. So, just like that.... and maybe this review.... the book rambles on and on without ever getting to the bloody point. Any point. It was as pointless as trying to steal coats from a family party and realizing yours is the only one you would be caught dead in.
Useless fucking family with bad fashion sense.
Useless book.
December 21, 2019
The day I discovered my first Mary Calmes book was a life changer - many years later and the calibre and 24 carats of her series books are still just magic!The way she tied together the loose ends, the sincere loving and trust, excitement,heat,action,hope- dang this woman can write!Sheer, pure perfection.
June 16, 2018
Christ... now I need to begin my count down for Eli, Marko and then Callahan and Redeker.
Please Ms. Calmes, do pump those babies out at a quicker rate so I won’t have to reread all these books to remember who is who and with who. 😱😭
Please Ms. Calmes, do pump those babies out at a quicker rate so I won’t have to reread all these books to remember who is who and with who. 😱😭
September 24, 2022
Reread September 2022
Love these two.
Originally read September 2018
Let me begin by saying this...I wish I had reread the other 3 in the series before I started this one or at least read it right when it came out. I pretty much forgot who all the people were and there are a lot of them discussed and introduced in this one. I felt confused several times of who was who.
That being said, Miro and Ian are one of my favorite couples when they're together. I still think they spend too much time apart BUT I love Miro and love getting his POV and all that goes on with him.
Of course, it's fast paced and OTT because...hello...Mary Calmes here. And there's a lot going on with relationships building, people changing positions and promotions. It was sort of an abrupt ending imo so I'm hoping we will get more or at least some spin-offs with other couples. Of course, by then I'll need to reread it all so I can remember all the players!
Love these two.
Originally read September 2018
Let me begin by saying this...I wish I had reread the other 3 in the series before I started this one or at least read it right when it came out. I pretty much forgot who all the people were and there are a lot of them discussed and introduced in this one. I felt confused several times of who was who.
That being said, Miro and Ian are one of my favorite couples when they're together. I still think they spend too much time apart BUT I love Miro and love getting his POV and all that goes on with him.
Of course, it's fast paced and OTT because...hello...Mary Calmes here. And there's a lot going on with relationships building, people changing positions and promotions. It was sort of an abrupt ending imo so I'm hoping we will get more or at least some spin-offs with other couples. Of course, by then I'll need to reread it all so I can remember all the players!
November 24, 2019
4.5 stars!
I don't know how Mary manages to keep me on the edge of my seat again, but she did it.
In order to give a spoiler-free review, I will have to be vague, but it'll be worth it when you read it, trust me.
Quick recap first - Book 3 ended with Miro and Ian talking about going to the Justice of the Peace and "getting married next week," so it wasn't exactly a shock to see them married at this point.
Changes abound in Book 4. And even though they'll throw readers for a loop, I wasn't upset. That's how to keep the same series fresh. Ian and Miro are married now. Ian is still adjusting to life after being a Green Beret.
They're still both stubborn as hell - which is why they have stupid fights. I love angst within the relationship, and seeing these arguments play out in the story made me smile like a loon. They become more relatable and real to me in those moments. Neither men are perfect.
Sam Kage is ever-present as their boss, as are the rest of the Marshals. But Mary introduces some new people in this book - people that could have future stories?
My favorite part of this book, however, was the return of previous characters. No spoilers here - but I expected most (not all) of them, based on my reading experience in the first 3 stories.
Fans of the series will love this installment. Mary brought the action, love, angst, and emotion.
Thoroughly enjoyed!
I don't know how Mary manages to keep me on the edge of my seat again, but she did it.
In order to give a spoiler-free review, I will have to be vague, but it'll be worth it when you read it, trust me.
Quick recap first - Book 3 ended with Miro and Ian talking about going to the Justice of the Peace and "getting married next week," so it wasn't exactly a shock to see them married at this point.
Changes abound in Book 4. And even though they'll throw readers for a loop, I wasn't upset. That's how to keep the same series fresh. Ian and Miro are married now. Ian is still adjusting to life after being a Green Beret.
They're still both stubborn as hell - which is why they have stupid fights. I love angst within the relationship, and seeing these arguments play out in the story made me smile like a loon. They become more relatable and real to me in those moments. Neither men are perfect.
Sam Kage is ever-present as their boss, as are the rest of the Marshals. But Mary introduces some new people in this book - people that could have future stories?
My favorite part of this book, however, was the return of previous characters. No spoilers here - but I expected most (not all) of them, based on my reading experience in the first 3 stories.
Fans of the series will love this installment. Mary brought the action, love, angst, and emotion.
Thoroughly enjoyed!
May 29, 2018
***4.5 Stars***
"I've got you, I'll always be here...I'll always have you."
I mean COME ON...just when I thought I couldn't love this couple more, I read this book. Seriously....me....while reading...
Full review to come, but I just wanna say that Ian and Miro were on my favorite couples list before...but now they're side-eyeing all the others on the list wanting a fight for the top spot.
"I love my life."
"That's lucky cause you're stuck with it."
"And I love you."
"Same principle applies."
December 17, 2024
4.5 STARS rounded up to 5
I really enjoyed this book, but it is bittersweet. Ian and Miro are two of my favorite characters of all time. I just love all the characters Mary creates. There are a lot of changes going on in this book, but I will give no spoilers. However, my only complaint is it's just too busy. There are too many characters doing too many different things. I would explain, but no spoilers. I had to backtrack quite a bit because the number of people in this book was somewhat a little ridiculous. It is a book I will reread many times I am sure. I'm gonna need a chart of job roles if this series continues. I was so happy, but sad knowing this will be Ian and Miro's last full book!😢😫
I really enjoyed this book, but it is bittersweet. Ian and Miro are two of my favorite characters of all time. I just love all the characters Mary creates. There are a lot of changes going on in this book, but I will give no spoilers. However, my only complaint is it's just too busy. There are too many characters doing too many different things. I would explain, but no spoilers. I had to backtrack quite a bit because the number of people in this book was somewhat a little ridiculous. It is a book I will reread many times I am sure. I'm gonna need a chart of job roles if this series continues. I was so happy, but sad knowing this will be Ian and Miro's last full book!😢😫
July 22, 2018
So, once again, those with an ARC have been instructed to not allow any spoilers whatsoever into their reviews. Which makes this a real bitch to write out - because, man, do I want talk about this story!
You know I started out a little nervous about where this was going from the blurb, but I was also really excited for this being it's the last story in the Marshals series told from Miro's POV.
Then once I began reading, whoo! Let me tell you boys and girls, BIG changes are coming....
Changes that mean Ian and Miro don't always see eye to eye...
The love between them though is too strong for anything to get in the way...
Even a monster...
Especially when it's time to say goodbye...
And at the end of it all, his family - Ian and the girls and a few other friends who love him - will always be there for him. Especially Ian.
I loved it. I loved it and can see all the changes that happen only making them all stronger. I'm looking forward to new threads being used to weave new stories, and getting to see what happens next in the Marshals universe, even if it's not Miro who will be the single POV narrating it all.
I think I might just go ahead and re-read this right now.
P.S.: Tristan James is going to kick this audio's ass. I cannot wait!!
Advanced Review Galley copy of Twisted and Tied (Marshals #4) provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
You know I started out a little nervous about where this was going from the blurb, but I was also really excited for this being it's the last story in the Marshals series told from Miro's POV.
Then once I began reading, whoo! Let me tell you boys and girls, BIG changes are coming....
“You have to think about the whole picture, and if you do that, I’m gonna be all right.”
“Without a doubt,” he agreed. “I mean, have you ever known Kage to be wrong?”
And I thought about that for the first time that day, just about him, about my boss and how his mind worked.
“Sometimes instead of being all twisted up about something, you just gotta have a little faith.”
Changes that mean Ian and Miro don't always see eye to eye...
“Stop thinking I could ever leave you, all right, and I’ll stop thinking you’ll tell me to go.”
It was a powerful thing, taking for granted that the person you loved would simply be there through thick and thin, forever. It was faith and trust, neither of which I was any good at before Ian.
“That’s what our marriage is gonna be about, sticking it out because we love each other more than anything.”
The love between them though is too strong for anything to get in the way...
I took a breath so I wouldn’t do something stupid to ruin the moment. Like cry.
“You’re my husband, and I didn’t think that would ever be something I would want, and now it’s the only thing I do.”
I nodded, and he laughed softly against my back.
“All that goes ditto for you, huh, tough guy?”
“Hold me tighter, ’kay?”
And so he did.
Even a monster...
He breathed in deeply. “Leaving Chicago is so odd. I never thought I would.”
I nodded.
“I’m glad I was able to see you.”
“So am I,” I whispered, and I realized a part of me was happy because this, right here, was finally closure.
Especially when it's time to say goodbye...
I was the one who saved him.
I was the one who visited him when he was locked up in Elgin.
I was the one who sat and listened for hours on end to his thoughts, to the why of what he’d done and became his witness—the voice in his head, he’d told me once—and eventually, after he saved my werewolf, a man I didn’t break out in cold sweats over anymore.
We weren’t friends, it wasn’t that, but we were… something. I’d have to figure out what at some point.
And at the end of it all, his family - Ian and the girls and a few other friends who love him - will always be there for him. Especially Ian.
He was mine, my husband, my partner in all things, and the job didn’t matter, only life did, and for my life, there was Ian.
I loved it. I loved it and can see all the changes that happen only making them all stronger. I'm looking forward to new threads being used to weave new stories, and getting to see what happens next in the Marshals universe, even if it's not Miro who will be the single POV narrating it all.
I think I might just go ahead and re-read this right now.
P.S.: Tristan James is going to kick this audio's ass. I cannot wait!!
Advanced Review Galley copy of Twisted and Tied (Marshals #4) provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
January 30, 2024
"Sometimes, stupidly, I wondered if I was as important to Ian as he was to me. But always, inevitably, inexorably, he proved to me I was paramount in his mind."
If you listen to the audiobook, be aware that the words don't always align with what's written in the book. The book has been edited since the release of the audiobook to be more coherent and chronologically sound. Some changes are small, like adding or deleting portions of conversations, while others, like making Lorcan Ian's half-brother instead of just his stepbrother, are more significant.
It's hard to say anything about the conclusion of Ian and Miro's story without giving anything away, so suffice it to say that besides the seemingly random and completely unnecessary drama concerning Miro's friend, Janet, I have no complaints. This was a great love story, and I wouldn't have minded there being another book showing them five or ten years down the road.
There are two more books in this series, but they focus on other couples. I'm only interested in maybe reading Redeker and Callahan's story because I love the good age gap trope, but based on the reviews, I'm in no hurry. 5 stars
If you listen to the audiobook, be aware that the words don't always align with what's written in the book. The book has been edited since the release of the audiobook to be more coherent and chronologically sound. Some changes are small, like adding or deleting portions of conversations, while others, like making Lorcan Ian's half-brother instead of just his stepbrother, are more significant.
It's hard to say anything about the conclusion of Ian and Miro's story without giving anything away, so suffice it to say that besides the seemingly random and completely unnecessary drama concerning Miro's friend, Janet, I have no complaints. This was a great love story, and I wouldn't have minded there being another book showing them five or ten years down the road.
There are two more books in this series, but they focus on other couples. I'm only interested in maybe reading Redeker and Callahan's story because I love the good age gap trope, but based on the reviews, I'm in no hurry. 5 stars
February 12, 2021
✨5 stars!✨
“You’re an idiot.”
“Yeah, you knew that before you married me, so—who’s the idiot now?”
I absolutely LOVED Twisted and tied, and I’m really sad that the Marshals series has come to an end.
I read Twisted and Tied in the week where three of my assignments were due, and despite being way behind schedule, i just couldn’t put it down until i finished it.
To be honest, that thrill of the illicit, and sense of forbidden fruit really added to the experience, and made me experience this book that much more intensely.
It felt like my heart was pounding the whole time while reading, with butterflies in my stomach and a sense of urgency accompanying me the whole way through.
However, i definitely don’t recommend reading a book while 3 major assignments are waiting to be done, because once i finished the book and crashed back to reality, i spent a hellish 2 days with barely any sleep writing 7000 words. Still no regrets.
In this one, Miro and Ian have been married for a few months, and they’re even swoonier than usual as a married couple.
“It was a powerful thing, taking for granted that the person you loved would simply be there through thick and thin, forever. It was faith and trust, neither of which I was any good at before Ian.”
“That’s what our marriage is gonna be about, sticking it out because we love each other more than anything.”
I grew so attached to them, seeing their relationship progress from work partners, to best friends, to lovers, to now married.
“I love my life,” I yelled down to him.
“That’s lucky ’cause you’re stuck with it.”
“And I love you.”
“Same principle applies.”
Lucky.
“I love you too. Marrying you was smartest thing I ever fuckin’ did.”
“Oh, you romantic, you,” I said, turning my head to kiss him over my shoulder.
He made sure to find my lips in the dark.”
Together, they’re stunningly exquisite, they’re the epitome of passionate love and unconditional trust. They’re truly made for one another.
“Lifting off him, shifting sideways, I watched the decadent sight of Ian lifting to his hands and knees, head hanging between his shoulders, waiting for me like some gorgeous, erotic piece of sculpture”
Despite their moments of doubt, insecurity and simply fear of losing each other, they’re flawesome.
Beautifully flawed and perfectly imperfect.
“And not that I’m complaining, because you cooking for me is very domestic and all, but we usually just have coffee, so what gives?”
“I just—I’m worried that something will come up and you won’t get a chance to eat.”
“Minutes later, as he was inhaling his food, I got a begrudging smile coupled with flashing eyes that made my knees wobble as I clutched at the counter. There was no doubt about it. Ian Doyle had me wrapped around his finger”
I don’t really want to spoil anything about this book or series in general, as i think it’s best to experience the action and twists as they happen.
However, i just have to say get this off chest because i can’t believe the twist that happened 80% in, i literally cried so hard, and if i remember correctly, it was the only time i cried reading this series, so for anyone who is interested in reading this series, just stop here and go read the series first, because I’m about to spoil.
⚠️‼️ SPOILER: READ AT YOUR OWN RISK ‼️⚠️
I was reading the book, enjoying myself immensely, and feeling sad because i was already almost finished with it, and thereby with the series in general.
Then, i hit the 80% mark and this happened:
“Useless,” he husked as a tear rolled from his left eye down toward his ear.
“The hell were you thinking?” I rasped, my voice, fractured, stilted, sounding odd, frightened and hollow.
“Well,” he huffed, each syllable a labor. “I was thinking that no one is allowed to kill Miro Jones… but me.”
“Smooth talker,” I murmured, hearing my heart pound in my ears.
He tried to smile.”
“Oh,” he said so softly I had to lean down, my ear close to his mouth. “You’re really scared, aren’t you?”
“I don’t—this isn’t how I wanted—we’re supposed to be even,” I said, turning to look at him, into his eyes, so close, our noses almost bumping. “I saved you, you saved me—how am I gonna pay you back?” I asked, my eyes filling.
“Next time,” he whispered, lifting his chin. “Come here.”
Without thought, I turned my head so his lips pressed to my cheek as he squeezed my hand, so tight for just a moment.
“Always knew you were mine,” he said, exhaling.
I stayed there, frozen for a second, and then turned to meet his gaze as his grip slowly lessened, and his hand would have slipped from mine if I wasn’t the one holding on.
The last tear slipped down the side of his face, and I brushed it away before closing his eyes.
It made no sense to cry. He was not a good man. He was, in fact, a monster. But somewhere between him shoving a kitchen knife into my side and taking a rib from me, and telling me that, no, my dog was not dead… he had become my monster. We were not what we once were, and in the end, he took a pair of bullets meant for me and saved my life. People would be writing about him for years.”
I. Literally. Broke. Down.
I never expected to feel this deeply about Hartley, considering he’s a serial killer which has killed dozens, kidnapped Miro and tortured him so horribly, i felt sick.
I certainly wasn’t expecting i would be this affected by his death, i should’ve been happy he finally died and can no longer hurt Miro.
But the way things happened was so heartbreaking, so agonizing, i was devastated .
Hartley and Miro’s dynamic has always been extremely interesting to me, they interacted almost like flirty lovers, and the sense of rapport and connection they shared grew on me without me even realizing it.
So yeah, his death literally broke my heart, and even days later, while I’m writing this review, I’m still sad Hartley is dead, and i really wish things had ended differently for Miro and Hartley 💔😭
“God help me, but he was my friend in some freaky way that made no logical sense.
So I sat there, bawling, chest tight, tears running down my face because Craig Hartley was the first person I’d ever lost who meant something to me, who was close to me and who had altered the course of my life. I had no parents, no birth family, no one besides Ian and the girls and a few other friends who loved me, and none of them had ever died. This serial killer was the first, and so I broke down there beside him in the mud and felt what it was to lose one of the people who’d helped shape the man I’d become.”
😭😭😭😭
⚠️‼️ END OF SPOILER ‼️⚠️
Apparently I’ve read this out of order, as i was supposed to start with Sam and Jory’s book series, A Matter of Time Book I. However, since it didn’t impede my enjoyment of this series, I’m okay with reading out of order. But you best bet, I’m gonna immediately go jump into the A Matter of Time Book I series and i can’t wait to get more of sexy, alpha Sam Kage 😍😍
Highly recommend this series!
“Aww, that’s nice,” I placated, stepping in close and kissing the side of his neck, ending with a bite before stepping back. “But I want to get in bed with you now, and my brain is pretty much completely occupied with that.”
He coughed softly. “So you’re asking me to table our discussion about life here so we can go home and have sex.”
“Yes. Exactly.”
He ran his eyes over me from head to toe. “Yeah, okay, let’s go.”
It was nice he had it just as bad as me”
✄ ┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈
My Reviews of the Marshals Series:
𝟙 All Kinds of Tied Down ➳ 4 🌟
𝟚 Fit to be Tied ➳ 4,5 🌟
𝟛 Tied Up in Knots ➳ 5 🌟
𝟛.𝟝 Together Tied ➳ 3,5 🌟
𝟜 Twisted and Tied ➳ 5 🌟
✄ ┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈
“You’re an idiot.”
“Yeah, you knew that before you married me, so—who’s the idiot now?”
I absolutely LOVED Twisted and tied, and I’m really sad that the Marshals series has come to an end.
I read Twisted and Tied in the week where three of my assignments were due, and despite being way behind schedule, i just couldn’t put it down until i finished it.
To be honest, that thrill of the illicit, and sense of forbidden fruit really added to the experience, and made me experience this book that much more intensely.
It felt like my heart was pounding the whole time while reading, with butterflies in my stomach and a sense of urgency accompanying me the whole way through.
However, i definitely don’t recommend reading a book while 3 major assignments are waiting to be done, because once i finished the book and crashed back to reality, i spent a hellish 2 days with barely any sleep writing 7000 words. Still no regrets.
In this one, Miro and Ian have been married for a few months, and they’re even swoonier than usual as a married couple.
“It was a powerful thing, taking for granted that the person you loved would simply be there through thick and thin, forever. It was faith and trust, neither of which I was any good at before Ian.”
“That’s what our marriage is gonna be about, sticking it out because we love each other more than anything.”
I grew so attached to them, seeing their relationship progress from work partners, to best friends, to lovers, to now married.
“I love my life,” I yelled down to him.
“That’s lucky ’cause you’re stuck with it.”
“And I love you.”
“Same principle applies.”
Lucky.
“I love you too. Marrying you was smartest thing I ever fuckin’ did.”
“Oh, you romantic, you,” I said, turning my head to kiss him over my shoulder.
He made sure to find my lips in the dark.”
Together, they’re stunningly exquisite, they’re the epitome of passionate love and unconditional trust. They’re truly made for one another.
“Lifting off him, shifting sideways, I watched the decadent sight of Ian lifting to his hands and knees, head hanging between his shoulders, waiting for me like some gorgeous, erotic piece of sculpture”
Despite their moments of doubt, insecurity and simply fear of losing each other, they’re flawesome.
Beautifully flawed and perfectly imperfect.
“And not that I’m complaining, because you cooking for me is very domestic and all, but we usually just have coffee, so what gives?”
“I just—I’m worried that something will come up and you won’t get a chance to eat.”
“Minutes later, as he was inhaling his food, I got a begrudging smile coupled with flashing eyes that made my knees wobble as I clutched at the counter. There was no doubt about it. Ian Doyle had me wrapped around his finger”
I don’t really want to spoil anything about this book or series in general, as i think it’s best to experience the action and twists as they happen.
However, i just have to say get this off chest because i can’t believe the twist that happened 80% in, i literally cried so hard, and if i remember correctly, it was the only time i cried reading this series, so for anyone who is interested in reading this series, just stop here and go read the series first, because I’m about to spoil.
⚠️‼️ SPOILER: READ AT YOUR OWN RISK ‼️⚠️
I was reading the book, enjoying myself immensely, and feeling sad because i was already almost finished with it, and thereby with the series in general.
Then, i hit the 80% mark and this happened:
“Useless,” he husked as a tear rolled from his left eye down toward his ear.
“The hell were you thinking?” I rasped, my voice, fractured, stilted, sounding odd, frightened and hollow.
“Well,” he huffed, each syllable a labor. “I was thinking that no one is allowed to kill Miro Jones… but me.”
“Smooth talker,” I murmured, hearing my heart pound in my ears.
He tried to smile.”
“Oh,” he said so softly I had to lean down, my ear close to his mouth. “You’re really scared, aren’t you?”
“I don’t—this isn’t how I wanted—we’re supposed to be even,” I said, turning to look at him, into his eyes, so close, our noses almost bumping. “I saved you, you saved me—how am I gonna pay you back?” I asked, my eyes filling.
“Next time,” he whispered, lifting his chin. “Come here.”
Without thought, I turned my head so his lips pressed to my cheek as he squeezed my hand, so tight for just a moment.
“Always knew you were mine,” he said, exhaling.
I stayed there, frozen for a second, and then turned to meet his gaze as his grip slowly lessened, and his hand would have slipped from mine if I wasn’t the one holding on.
The last tear slipped down the side of his face, and I brushed it away before closing his eyes.
It made no sense to cry. He was not a good man. He was, in fact, a monster. But somewhere between him shoving a kitchen knife into my side and taking a rib from me, and telling me that, no, my dog was not dead… he had become my monster. We were not what we once were, and in the end, he took a pair of bullets meant for me and saved my life. People would be writing about him for years.”
I. Literally. Broke. Down.
I never expected to feel this deeply about Hartley, considering he’s a serial killer which has killed dozens, kidnapped Miro and tortured him so horribly, i felt sick.
I certainly wasn’t expecting i would be this affected by his death, i should’ve been happy he finally died and can no longer hurt Miro.
But the way things happened was so heartbreaking, so agonizing, i was devastated .
Hartley and Miro’s dynamic has always been extremely interesting to me, they interacted almost like flirty lovers, and the sense of rapport and connection they shared grew on me without me even realizing it.
So yeah, his death literally broke my heart, and even days later, while I’m writing this review, I’m still sad Hartley is dead, and i really wish things had ended differently for Miro and Hartley 💔😭
“God help me, but he was my friend in some freaky way that made no logical sense.
So I sat there, bawling, chest tight, tears running down my face because Craig Hartley was the first person I’d ever lost who meant something to me, who was close to me and who had altered the course of my life. I had no parents, no birth family, no one besides Ian and the girls and a few other friends who loved me, and none of them had ever died. This serial killer was the first, and so I broke down there beside him in the mud and felt what it was to lose one of the people who’d helped shape the man I’d become.”
😭😭😭😭
⚠️‼️ END OF SPOILER ‼️⚠️
Apparently I’ve read this out of order, as i was supposed to start with Sam and Jory’s book series, A Matter of Time Book I. However, since it didn’t impede my enjoyment of this series, I’m okay with reading out of order. But you best bet, I’m gonna immediately go jump into the A Matter of Time Book I series and i can’t wait to get more of sexy, alpha Sam Kage 😍😍
Highly recommend this series!
“Aww, that’s nice,” I placated, stepping in close and kissing the side of his neck, ending with a bite before stepping back. “But I want to get in bed with you now, and my brain is pretty much completely occupied with that.”
He coughed softly. “So you’re asking me to table our discussion about life here so we can go home and have sex.”
“Yes. Exactly.”
He ran his eyes over me from head to toe. “Yeah, okay, let’s go.”
It was nice he had it just as bad as me”
✄ ┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈
My Reviews of the Marshals Series:
𝟙 All Kinds of Tied Down ➳ 4 🌟
𝟚 Fit to be Tied ➳ 4,5 🌟
𝟛 Tied Up in Knots ➳ 5 🌟
𝟛.𝟝 Together Tied ➳ 3,5 🌟
𝟜 Twisted and Tied ➳ 5 🌟
✄ ┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈
March 24, 2018
Sorry, ranting ahead. Frenetic pace, lack of focus, far too many characters, and what the hell was the author thinking turning Miro into some kind of Mary Sue, bodice-ripper crusader? I couldn’t even finish the book. It read like a bunch of short stories cobbled together and certainly never introduced to an editor. Glad it’s over.
March 18, 2021
It's a good series. Nothing off the charts. Hot, emotional sex. Lots of bantering (that frankly I skip a lot of). The serial killer psychopath thing throughout was the most interesting plot device. It ended up with strings still untied (in terms of what Hartley left Miro) but good enough.
Sometimes I felt like the love story took a back seat to the disturbed psycho story. But...it was a good quick gobble.
Wouldn't probably read this again. So def not 5 stars.
Sometimes I felt like the love story took a back seat to the disturbed psycho story. But...it was a good quick gobble.
Wouldn't probably read this again. So def not 5 stars.
February 20, 2018
Perfection!
January 6, 2019
NO!!! It can’t be over. I need more. So much more. Best series I’ve read in a long long time.
March 29, 2022
Honestly I'm sad Hartley died so much more than ending this series.
👏 What an enigmatic character 👏
3.5 stars ⭐
👏 What an enigmatic character 👏
3.5 stars ⭐
March 17, 2018
It was even better the second time reading. More little details jumping out at me. I’m so in love with this series.
March 14, 2018
Holy shit! That was so good. Today, I’m glad that I suck at writing reviews. There’s no way I could do it justice AND no way to review the story without giving anything away. I will simply say this was the absolute best! 😍😍😍😍😍 so good that I’m going read it again tomorrow (ok. Probably today).
April 13, 2018
Change is coming...
Without a doubt this is my favorite series by Mary Calmes. I love all of her writings but this one is definitely at the top of my list and with each new story I've come to love all things Miro and Ian.
When things ended in 'Tied Up In Knots' Miro and Ian were planing on tying the knot and between then and now it's become a done deal and life for Ian couldn't be better. He's married to the man of his dreams, his friends are doing well, work is going well...until things at work begin to change and change is not Ian's friend...Ian doesn't do well with change.
While I'm a little late to the party with this one...real life just refuses to quit kicking my backside these day...so my sincerest apologies to both the publisher and the author and I promise like other reviews there are no spoilers here because regardless of this there's no way I'd want to spoil the awesomeness that was this book.
At the same time as 'Twisted and Tied' brings some things to a close for Ian and Miro, it also opens up a wealth of new possibilities for the author to continue sharing this wonderful world that she has created for us to enjoy, as readers and fans of this series.
'Twisted and Tied' while creating new paths to be traveled in the world of the Marshals has also given closure to others and all while answering some questions and creating new ones.
There's so much in this book that I loved from beginning to end with all of the changes and connections that came about this was one hella' fun and awesome adventure and I'm so looking forward to seeing what comes next for this series...in the immortal words of Shrek..."Change is good donkey." and in this case it's much of the change that's going to keep this series fresh, interesting, fun and just generally full of Mary Calmes awesomeness!!!
Now without details I just need to say the ending for this story was surprising but not and much of it came to what for me was the natural...even inevitable conclusion. I have to admit the only real issue I have is with the fact that the next installment in this series isn't sitting on my e-reader waiting for me...oh well, good things come to he...mmmmm ....eeerrrr...she who waits, right?
P.S. You also might want to keep a pen and paper handy to keep track of who all shows up for this party because it's a fun and interesting list.
************************
An ARC of 'Twisted and Tied' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Without a doubt this is my favorite series by Mary Calmes. I love all of her writings but this one is definitely at the top of my list and with each new story I've come to love all things Miro and Ian.
When things ended in 'Tied Up In Knots' Miro and Ian were planing on tying the knot and between then and now it's become a done deal and life for Ian couldn't be better. He's married to the man of his dreams, his friends are doing well, work is going well...until things at work begin to change and change is not Ian's friend...Ian doesn't do well with change.
While I'm a little late to the party with this one...real life just refuses to quit kicking my backside these day...so my sincerest apologies to both the publisher and the author and I promise like other reviews there are no spoilers here because regardless of this there's no way I'd want to spoil the awesomeness that was this book.
At the same time as 'Twisted and Tied' brings some things to a close for Ian and Miro, it also opens up a wealth of new possibilities for the author to continue sharing this wonderful world that she has created for us to enjoy, as readers and fans of this series.
'Twisted and Tied' while creating new paths to be traveled in the world of the Marshals has also given closure to others and all while answering some questions and creating new ones.
There's so much in this book that I loved from beginning to end with all of the changes and connections that came about this was one hella' fun and awesome adventure and I'm so looking forward to seeing what comes next for this series...in the immortal words of Shrek..."Change is good donkey." and in this case it's much of the change that's going to keep this series fresh, interesting, fun and just generally full of Mary Calmes awesomeness!!!
Now without details I just need to say the ending for this story was surprising but not and much of it came to what for me was the natural...even inevitable conclusion. I have to admit the only real issue I have is with the fact that the next installment in this series isn't sitting on my e-reader waiting for me...oh well, good things come to he...mmmmm ....eeerrrr...she who waits, right?
P.S. You also might want to keep a pen and paper handy to keep track of who all shows up for this party because it's a fun and interesting list.
************************
An ARC of 'Twisted and Tied' was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
July 28, 2021
Re-read 07/28/2021
It's over and I'm so sad!! I forgot how much I enjoyed this series until I re-read them. My one thing would've been maybe that we should've gotten an epilogue or something of the sort?
4.5 stars.
I love Mary for writing this series.
Easily one if not my favorite series and couple ever written.
I loved everything about Miro, Ian, Chickie and the rest of their friends. I loved the action, suspense and the romance aspect and how well they all blended together.
I'm telling you, I need spin-off books. Please and thank you.
It's over and I'm so sad!! I forgot how much I enjoyed this series until I re-read them. My one thing would've been maybe that we should've gotten an epilogue or something of the sort?
4.5 stars.
I love Mary for writing this series.
Easily one if not my favorite series and couple ever written.
I loved everything about Miro, Ian, Chickie and the rest of their friends. I loved the action, suspense and the romance aspect and how well they all blended together.
I'm telling you, I need spin-off books. Please and thank you.
“You’re my husband, and I didn’t think that would ever be something I would want, and now it’s the only thing I do.”
January 1, 2025
5th re-read December 2024
____________
So excited for the next book! It’s Eli’s turn!
____________
So excited for the next book! It’s Eli’s turn!
July 26, 2024
⭐⭐⭐.5
Here's the thing. I have things I love in this series and then there are things that annoyed me so bad. Ian and Miro? At places I felt Miro very immature especially in book 3 but here too because technically yes Ian did leave the Army because Miro was whining about it all the time. And there were places where I felt Miro gaslighted and manipulated Ian into doing things that he didn't want to, he used Ian's insecurities. And Ian too, boy, I had to get atleast a little mad when he "forbid" Miro from going for the job though I understood which place he was coming from. Glad that they acted like adults through it later.
Another thing. I love the girls. Don't get me wrong. I really do love them very much with each other and with Miro and Ian. But here's the thing, we got everything with Miro as the centre and I know that's mostly because it was his POV but even when Ian went to get drinks with people from his work, Miro would kinda manipulate him into being with him and not going alone. Like, we all see people in relation to Miro. There's literally no one there in relation to Ian. Ian has Miro and Miro has everyone.
Let's get to the best part of the series. Craig Hartley (There's some problem with the book when you are more interested in the serial killer than the main characters). Even though the whole get arrested, get free game he played with the FBI was getting repetitive, I absolutely am on the edge of my seat when he shows up. Miro and Hartley had such a fucked up dynamic but it also somehow made sense?? And I'm not even talking abt the bit sexual interest we got but from just their conversations. Hell their shared interest in shoes. I actually felt very sad at one point in this book related to Hartley.
AND CAN SOMEONE PLEASE LET ME KNOW WHAT IS IN THE SAFE?!?! I CAN'T- I'M SO CURIOUS. I hope we get to see it at some point. Pretty please.
The unrelated cases didn't keep me as interested as a single case across one book would have. That's why the one linking point i.e. Hartley was most interesting.
Overall it was a good series. The writing was amazing. Their relationship did make me cry at places and I didn't feel bored. I can't wait for reading Callahan and Redeker's book!
Here's the thing. I have things I love in this series and then there are things that annoyed me so bad. Ian and Miro? At places I felt Miro very immature especially in book 3 but here too because technically yes Ian did leave the Army because Miro was whining about it all the time. And there were places where I felt Miro gaslighted and manipulated Ian into doing things that he didn't want to, he used Ian's insecurities. And Ian too, boy, I had to get atleast a little mad when he "forbid" Miro from going for the job though I understood which place he was coming from. Glad that they acted like adults through it later.
Another thing. I love the girls. Don't get me wrong. I really do love them very much with each other and with Miro and Ian. But here's the thing, we got everything with Miro as the centre and I know that's mostly because it was his POV but even when Ian went to get drinks with people from his work, Miro would kinda manipulate him into being with him and not going alone. Like, we all see people in relation to Miro. There's literally no one there in relation to Ian. Ian has Miro and Miro has everyone.
Let's get to the best part of the series. Craig Hartley (There's some problem with the book when you are more interested in the serial killer than the main characters). Even though the whole get arrested, get free game he played with the FBI was getting repetitive, I absolutely am on the edge of my seat when he shows up. Miro and Hartley had such a fucked up dynamic but it also somehow made sense?? And I'm not even talking abt the bit sexual interest we got but from just their conversations. Hell their shared interest in shoes. I actually felt very sad at one point in this book related to Hartley.
AND CAN SOMEONE PLEASE LET ME KNOW WHAT IS IN THE SAFE?!?! I CAN'T- I'M SO CURIOUS. I hope we get to see it at some point. Pretty please.
The unrelated cases didn't keep me as interested as a single case across one book would have. That's why the one linking point i.e. Hartley was most interesting.
Overall it was a good series. The writing was amazing. Their relationship did make me cry at places and I didn't feel bored. I can't wait for reading Callahan and Redeker's book!
January 1, 2024
Would happily read some fanfic of Dr Hartley (the serial killer) and our lead MC Miro. This could have been amazing, I wish it had more subtlety, everything in this is telegraphed clearly on page. The dirty cops are obvious from the moment we are introduced to them. I prefer more genuine mystery.
This followed similarly to the other books, a million thoughts all crammed in together but I’m finding it easier to decipher them now, picking and choosing which events in the book to skim over and which to pay attention to. Any storyline with Miro’s girl squad, especially the last event, just did not appeal to me. I liked seeing Miro’s new job but didn’t quite understand the level of angst this caused their relationship and things felt needlessly complicated with all the job changes and promotions of all the secondary characters. I enjoyed these two as a married couple. It seemed an odd choice to feature their wedding off page and refer back to it halfway through the book but I appreciated that it wasn’t drenched in cheesyness and we didn’t suffer through pages of wedding prep. I do like their relationship but found myself skipping through the intimate scenes.
Happy to see Chickie the dog made it through!
Another teasing lack of final resolution to the serial killer storyline, gah don’t tell me I need to read book 5 for that.
This followed similarly to the other books, a million thoughts all crammed in together but I’m finding it easier to decipher them now, picking and choosing which events in the book to skim over and which to pay attention to. Any storyline with Miro’s girl squad, especially the last event, just did not appeal to me. I liked seeing Miro’s new job but didn’t quite understand the level of angst this caused their relationship and things felt needlessly complicated with all the job changes and promotions of all the secondary characters. I enjoyed these two as a married couple. It seemed an odd choice to feature their wedding off page and refer back to it halfway through the book but I appreciated that it wasn’t drenched in cheesyness and we didn’t suffer through pages of wedding prep. I do like their relationship but found myself skipping through the intimate scenes.
Happy to see Chickie the dog made it through!
Another teasing lack of final resolution to the serial killer storyline, gah don’t tell me I need to read book 5 for that.
March 16, 2018
* This was perfection!*
I had a painful ache in my chest right now, to say goodbye to one of my favorite couple, Ian and Miro. But they do need their HEA after all this time.
This is actually the last one of Miro and Ian's story, but I didn't feel like this is the last. Because, there's some blank space that I need to know. The key Hartley gave to Miro. What's there for Miro to open, to see.
And speaking of Craig Hartley, Miro's forever enemy, and their weird 'relationship'. I think I'm sick enough that at some point, I could never hate what Miro and Hartley had. They're dancing in circles. And that day, when Hartley told Miro, "I knew you're mine" and Miro cried and didn't reject that. I cried. I was freaking cried!
But then, there's Ian, always Ian who made him complete. And I ache for Ian, how understandable he is for what Miro felt. It hurts me when they made love that nigh and Ian had to say some words to Miro to convince Miro and 'himself' that they belonged together.
From there, I knew how much Ian loved Miro and I couldn't be happier that Miro found Ian.
Sigh, these two consumed me like no others. Guaranteed, one of my favorite couple.
I loved this series, and you should too!
Recommended!
*ARC provided by Dreamspinner Press for an honest and unbiased review.*
I had a painful ache in my chest right now, to say goodbye to one of my favorite couple, Ian and Miro. But they do need their HEA after all this time.
This is actually the last one of Miro and Ian's story, but I didn't feel like this is the last. Because, there's some blank space that I need to know. The key Hartley gave to Miro. What's there for Miro to open, to see.
And speaking of Craig Hartley, Miro's forever enemy, and their weird 'relationship'. I think I'm sick enough that at some point, I could never hate what Miro and Hartley had. They're dancing in circles. And that day, when Hartley told Miro, "I knew you're mine" and Miro cried and didn't reject that. I cried. I was freaking cried!
“I don’t—this isn’t how I wanted—we’re supposed to be even,” I said, turning to look at him, into his eyes, so close, our noses almost bumping. “I saved
you, you saved me—how am I gonna pay you back?” I asked, my eyes filling.
“Next time,” he whispered, lifting his chin. “Come here.”
Without thought, I turned my head so his lips pressed to my cheek as he squeezed my hand, so tight for just a moment.
“Always knew you were mine,” he said, exhaling.
It made no sense to cry. He was not a good man. He was, in fact, a monster. But somewhere between him shoving a kitchen knife into my side and taking a rib from me, and telling me that, no, my dog was not dead… he had become my monster. We were not what we once were, and in the end, he took a pair of bullets meant for me and saved my life.
But then, there's Ian, always Ian who made him complete. And I ache for Ian, how understandable he is for what Miro felt. It hurts me when they made love that nigh and Ian had to say some words to Miro to convince Miro and 'himself' that they belonged together.
“You don’t belong to Craig Hartley, you understand?”
“Yes.”
“I know you’re hurt, but I won’t allow you to be lost, you understand?”
“You belong to me. You’re mine, and no one and nothing comes between us, not ever.”
From there, I knew how much Ian loved Miro and I couldn't be happier that Miro found Ian.
Sigh, these two consumed me like no others. Guaranteed, one of my favorite couple.
I loved this series, and you should too!
Recommended!
*ARC provided by Dreamspinner Press for an honest and unbiased review.*
September 23, 2021
There were far too many silly errors [yet again, as usual] in Tristan's narration...such as Marshals/parents/employees with an added 'es' on the end seemingly every single time he said them, 'langoriously' instead of languorously [is that really so difficult to say??] and 'calvary' instead of cavalry to name but a tiny few, so only 2.5 stars rounded up for the narration, which obviously hadn't been checked...as if!! 🙁. In fact, I think some of Tristan's narrations are so full of errors that I've started a new bookshelf for him and other narrators that make a complete mess of their narrations. Congrats 😕...you may not like it, but we pay good money for these audios and deserve far better than we eventually get from Tantor/Audible/and whomever else produces these things.
**Book Review***
5 stars for the series as a whole [reduced to 3.5 stars rounded up cos of the narration]. All the loose ends seemed to come together, and thank heaven Dr Craig Hartley finally met his maker...he really gave me the willies, as did Miro's quite creepy reaction to him 😨. Great ending to a really good series.
March 24, 2018
“Always knew you were mine."
========================================================
I CRIED, GODDAMNIT, I CRIED.
I DON'T CARE WHAT PEOPLE SAY, OKAY? As fucked up as he is, I love Hartley. He's practically the reason why I'm reading this whole series (the second reason is Miro). He's one of my most favorite fictional characters so after I finished this last book--of course, I cried. There's just something about him : how charming he is, how messed up, how cunning and intelligent, how so very calm and composed, how artistic, how elegant, how manipulative he is, how tortured and painfully hopeless, how elated he is when Miro understands him.
It's just so sad.
So, I don't care what people think of him, of me loving him as a character. When he said he always knew Miro was his, I fucking bawled like a kid.
It's choking me up--this unfairness.
But I get it. I get it, alright. Still, I can't help but being sad over Hartley. I like him a lot.
***
Before reading :
OH MY GOOODDDD HOLY SHIT I'M SO FUCKING READY
========================================================
I CRIED, GODDAMNIT, I CRIED.
I DON'T CARE WHAT PEOPLE SAY, OKAY? As fucked up as he is, I love Hartley. He's practically the reason why I'm reading this whole series (the second reason is Miro). He's one of my most favorite fictional characters so after I finished this last book--of course, I cried. There's just something about him : how charming he is, how messed up, how cunning and intelligent, how so very calm and composed, how artistic, how elegant, how manipulative he is, how tortured and painfully hopeless, how elated he is when Miro understands him.
It's just so sad.
So, I don't care what people think of him, of me loving him as a character. When he said he always knew Miro was his, I fucking bawled like a kid.
It's choking me up--this unfairness.
But I get it. I get it, alright. Still, I can't help but being sad over Hartley. I like him a lot.
***
Before reading :
OH MY GOOODDDD HOLY SHIT I'M SO FUCKING READY
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