Avant que tu te brises

Secrets #1

by K.C. Wells, Parker Williams, Laura Brohan (Translator)

Secrets, tome 1

Il y a six ans, Ellis assistait à son premier briefing en tant que nouvelle recrue de l’unité d’élite de Londres. Son nouvel équipier, Wayne, devint rapidement son meilleur ami. Lorsque Wayne commence à remarquer des changements dans le comportement d’Ellis – son attitude imprévisible, les effets néfastes de son manque de sommeil –, il comprend qu’il doit agir avant que son ami finisse par craquer. Il lui propose alors de venir à la soirée d’inauguration d’un nouveau club BDSM, le *Secrets*, dont il est membre. Son objectif ? Donner l’occasion à Ellis de voir en quoi consiste ce club avant de lui faire une proposition. Wayne veut retrouver son meilleur ami et, selon lui, le meilleur moyen d’y arriver est de prendre Ellis en main et de contrôler sa vie.

Cependant, il doit faire face à quelques obstacles. Ellis est hétérosexuel, borné et sexy. Wayne sait qu’il doit mettre ses propres sentiments de côté afin de venir en aide à son ami, mais il est stupéfait quand il découvre ce dont Ellis a réellement besoin.

Genres: BDSM, M M Romance, Friends To Lovers, Romance, Contemporary, LGBT, Erotica

378 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 26, 2017

About the author

K.C. Wells lives on an island off the south coast of the UK, surrounded by natural beauty. She writes about men who love men, and can’t even contemplate a life that doesn’t include writing.
The rainbow rose tattoo on her back with the words 'Love is Love' and 'Love Wins' is her way of hoisting a flag. She plans to be writing about men in love - be it sweet and slow, hot or kinky - for a long while to come.

If you want to follow her exploits, you can sign up for her monthly newsletter: http://eepurl.com/cNKHlT

You can stalk – er, find – her in the following places:

E-mail: k.c.wells@btinternet.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KCWellsWorld
Twitter: @K_C_Wells
Website: https://www.kcwellswrites.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/k.c.wells
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/k-c-w...


And for those who like things a little hotter?
There's KC's alter ego, Tantalus, who writes gay erotica.

Reviews

[Tanu Gill · Rating 1 out of 5]

Okay, I hate to say this, but I found the book to be downright boring! And the reason is that the over abundant conversations gave the book a "BDSM 101 lecture" feel. All the while I kept thinking, "Okay, stop talking. That's quite enough. Give me something entertaining please!"

The ONLY bit I truly loved was Jarod and Eli enjoying the opening night with the Collars and Cuffs family. The whole thing of Ellis's family issues just made me feel meh, and Wayne was just too much of a BDSM lecturer or perfectionist, and it all just got on my nerves.

Also, I couldn't help but think that the sub in the first story of C&C series, Alex, had family issues, and now the first book of the series gave the same category of issues to the sub.

All in all, for me, the book started and proceeded at the same dreary, uneventful pace, and I finally DNF'd at 60%, with 50% onwards seeing me just skim the pages to only read the dialogues.

A huge disappointment for me, especially because C&C had set a pretty hard standard to beat, and this book was nowhere near that.

But that's just my opinion. As I believe, a lot of my friends enjoyed the story. So you should definitely give it a chance if you loved the previous couples. I'm sure the book would be great for those who are new on the BDSM readers scene, but for those of us who just want to see the dynamic at play and not explained, I guess it can be a bit tedious. :/

[~✡~Dαni(ela) ♥ ♂♂ love & semi-colons~✡~ · Rating 4 out of 5]

~3.5~

I loved K.C. Wells’ Collars and Cuffs series and was excited to visit with Jarod and Eli (mostly Jarod because I adore him) again as they move to London and open Secrets—a modern, exclusive BDSM club for men. The book begins with Jarod’s POV before introducing us to Wayne and Ellis: police offers, partners, and best friends.

Wayne is a Dom but has never had a full-time sub. For the past few years, he’s been in love with Ellis, but Ellis is straight and Wayne doesn’t want to ruin their friendship. When Ellis starts spiraling out of control (coming to work exhausted, unable to control his temper), Wayne decides Ellis needs to be taken in hand. He takes Ellis to Secrets, and predictably Ellis freaks out.

The angst in this story comes from the truly fucked up relationship Ellis has with his family. I’ve read about a lot of weird families, but Ellis’s truly takes the cake. The dynamic between him and his sister is so bizarre, I had a hard time believing a grown man, and a police offer at that, wouldn’t see that he was being emotionally manipulated. Wayne, of course, does see it, but you can’t help someone who doesn’t want to be helped.

Something about the relationship between these two men felt a little forced to me. Regardless of circumstances, how can a man decide that his straight (supposedly) best friend should be his sub? I didn’t blame Ellis for resisting, even though his repeated running away drove me crazy.

There are plenty of sweet and steamy moments between the MCs. I liked Wayne, and I felt bad for Ellis while simultaneously wanting to shake him. The ending is quite satisfying, although I’m sure we’ll see more of these men in the next book in the series.

Overall, this was an interesting read, definitely recommended for BDSM fans. I am looking forward to the next Secrets book.

[Nazanin · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

"Hugs are powerful medicine."

Wayne and Ellis are Specialist Firearms police officer. They are colleagues for six years (from the beginning they became friends so fast). But recently, Ellis’s behavior changed. Wayne is worried that Ellis with his erratic temper jeopardizes his own life and other officers. So Wayne decided it’s time to take the situation in his hand. Therefor he shows Ellis another part of his life (BDSM club, Dom/sub…). Maybe with a little discipline he could save Ellis. Wayne always thought about Ellis but he couldn’t jeopardize their friendship by making a move on him and there is a teeny tiny problem: Ellis is straight (and this is one of my problem, when he doesn’t know Eliss isn’t gay how could he propose Ellis to be his sub??). But something that he doesn’t know is Ellis must be straight.

Okay, the story started off really good but after some chapters it felt flat for me. One of issues I mentioned above the other one, I couldn’t understand their relationship. I couldn’t feel the heart. I couldn’t feel the control Wayne had. BDSM isn’t just about flogging/whipping/spanking. I liked to see more about the control Wayne could have had over Ellis. My other problem was (maybe it’s not a problem) I wanted to see for once Ellis could have used his safe word, maybe the story was more exciting!

The story is told in multiple POV, 3rd person. It’s the first installment in "Secrets" series but it can be read as a stand-alone. The story was well-paced. I liked both characters. It was my first read by these authors and actually I added another book by them! Over all, it was a good read, hope you enjoy it as well!

[Wendys Wycked Words · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a spin-off of the Collars & Cuffs series, which I am ashamed to say...I have not read yet .....*hangs head in shame*.



The reason for this, is that I am just not a real big fan of BDSM. Not that I mind it, it's just that it has to be written a certain way, for me to really enjoy it.

Wayne and Ellis are friends and partners on the job (London’s Specialist Firearms unit). Wayne is gay...and also a Dom. Ellis has only been with women.

Lately, Ellis hasn't been doing so well, due to several circumstanstances* (read *a very messed up family*) and he seems to be on the verge of some kind of breakdown. Wayne, who secretly has a thing for his friend, is very worried, but he thinks he has a solution for Ellis' state of mind.



He takes Ellis to a BDSM club. He thinks if Ellis would just submit, he could let go of everything else and free his mind.

Now I had to suspend my disbelief a little right here, because I would think, that when you are on a downward spiral and you are about to fall apart...maybe talking to a therapist or something would be better, but then again...I don't know shit about BDSM.



Also this is a book and not real life.....so....

As it turns out, Ellis is indeed a sub, but accepting this fact...now that's a much different story. Ellis has always been raised a certain way. The man is supposed to be the strong one....the one taking care of everything, and submitting...won't that make him weak ?



Also, he is supposed to be straight....right ?

To say that Ellis' family was messed up is putting it very lightly. His parents especially were horrible.

Now the question is...will Ellis submit to Wayne, and will Wayne finally be able to show his friend how much he really cares for him.



I enjoyed reading this book, but...I had a bit of a hard time with how Ellis was introduced into the world of BDSM. It just felt a bit forced to me. Wayne just came in and took over everything and that's probably what a Dom is supposed to do, but it made me a bit uncomfortable. I also had a hard time with Ellis just taking all the crap his family fed him all those years.  Still...I could see these men cared a lot about each other and I think BDSM fans will love this one.

 

This review has been posted on Dirty Books Obsession

[Jaime · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not fully sure of my rating yet... I have mixed feelings on this book. I am not sure if I am judging it harshly because it's NOT C&C or if I had a hard time with the behavior of a character and that is what's doing it...maybe both.

Leaning towards 3.5 stars...

Final RTC soon!

[Gigi]

This cover tho... *fans self*

[The Novel Approach · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve read my fair share of the BDSM genre, and often found the storyline to be overshadowed by the abundance of ‘scenes’ and sex performed by the Dom/sub duo. Now, many may say that is to be expected from this genre, and that may be true. Yet, having just finished this first novel in a new spin-off series by the writing team of K.C. Wells and Parker Williams, I can tell you that there are authors out there who choose to focus on the characters and allow the sex to be a byproduct of an interesting and intricate plot. Before You Break takes us on a journey where one man discovers that his need to give over control not only frees him mentally to be the strong man he has always been but also allows him to break the chains that have bound his sexuality for years.

Growing up in a repressive and abusive family, Ellis learned at a young age that his purpose in life, according to his parents, was to become a man and care for his sister. This care extended to the extreme point that when his sister disobeyed or made bad choices, it was Ellis who was held responsible and punished for it. For years, this young policeman was forced to feel that no matter what he did, it was never good enough and, by turn, his sister was never expected or taught to take responsibility for her actions. It was hammered into Ellis that he would be expected to marry and produce the heir that his parents wanted—no discussion about it. Unfortunately for Ellis, his attraction to women didn’t extend beyond friendship, but that could never mean he was gay—that simply was impossible and unheard of, according to his upbringing. While he longed to share all his worries to his best friend, Wayne, Ellis knew if he ever dared, Wayne would surely walk away and end their friendship right then and there. And that was something Ellis could not bear to have happen.

Wayne was a fellow officer in the Special Ops division that Ellis was recruited into, and the two became best mates almost immediately. Wayne began to notice how Ellis seemed to be falling apart, his judgment skills faltering and his concentration lacking—a deadly combination for someone in their field. Wayne also had a secret—two, in fact. One was he was head over heels in love with Ellis, and the other that he was a Dom and wanted nothing more than for Ellis to be his sub. So, when a mission nearly went south due to Ellis’ bad decision, Wayne knew he had to do something, and that led the two men to the newly re-opened BDSM club called Secrets.

What unfolds in this new novel by Wells and Williams can sometimes stretch the imagination a bit far and yet, the systematic unraveling of Ellis under Wayne’s sure hands is beautiful to read. He literally helps Ellis break down and rebuild into the man he was meant to be, freeing him from the chains of abuse and fear that had held him for so long. The authors take the time to introduce the characters slowly, building their backstories and fleshing out their thoughts and feelings along the way. You are pulled into their lives, their emotions, and their relationship, gradually, as they explore their new life together and discover what secrets lay beneath for both of them. To watch Wayne pour all his energy into helping Ellis find his self worth again, rebuild his confidence and stand up to a family that has spent its entire life tearing him down, makes for a compelling read. Plus, the tenderness and love these two men finally reveal to each other is just so lovely to experience.

If this series continues in the way this first installment, Before You Break, has gone, I daresay it will be a bold addition to the BDSM genre. With finesse and care, the writing team of Wells and Williams leads us into a world where men care for each other and dare to be vulnerable while still maintaining their need to be masters of their own destinies.

Reviewed by Sammy for The Novel Approach

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Where do you go once you leave Collars & Cuffs behind...

‘Before You Break’ is the first book in a new series by K. C. Wells and Parker Williams entitled ‘Secrets’. ‘Secrets’ is in fact a spin off series from the authors’ very popular ‘Collars & Cuffs’ series. While it really isn’t necessary to read that series in order to enjoy this first book and I’m proof of that as I haven’t read the original series yet.

I have to admit I can see where parts of this book would have been more enjoyable had I read the original series…like the scene where a group of the characters from ‘Collars & Cuffs’ visit ‘Secrets’ on it’s opening night…not really required to know the background on all of these characters since, with the exception of Eli and Jarod, none of them factor into the main plotline between Ellis and Wayne, the MCs in ‘Before You Break’.

I admit it’s just a quirky little thing of mine that I love it when characters from books that I’ve read previously show up in the book I’m reading at the moment, it makes me all happy and bouncy…so, had I read ‘Collars &Cuffs’ I would have had my happy bouncy moment. However, it still made me smile and want to read Collars & Cuffs as soon as possible…so not a fail.

‘Before You Break’ is a steamy friends to lovers story and starts off around the same time that Eli and Jarod arrive in London to begin the next step in their lives together as the owners of London’s newest BDSM club, Secrets. I really liked this couple and look forward to reading the book that covers their story, but enough about them. I want to talk about Ellis and Wayne.

Ellis and Wayne are members of London’s Specialist Firearms unit and best mates they have been for the past 6 years. Their friendship was immediate from their first meeting when they were partnered together. But what Ellis doesn’t realize is that Wayne’s also in love with him and Wayne’s a DOM. Ellis knows that Wayne’s gay and while Ellis is supposedly straight…sexuality isn’t what defines their relationship.

I felt a little skeptical as to how this was going to be even slightly believable and was pleasantly surprised when I realized that in general this story was working for me.

One of the main things that made this all come together for me was the fact that while Wayne may have been gay and a DOM and in love with Ellis, I also felt that Wayne’s heart was in the right place. Sure, he wanted it all with Ellis but his first priority for me felt like it was Ellis’s well being. He wanted to help him get himself back on track because as Ellis’s best friend he could see how out of control Ellis was spinning and while he didn’t feel that a D/s relationship was or should be a replacement for any kind of therapy he also knew that his friend was resistant to the idea of therapy so it felt like his hope was that he could help get Ellis grounded and put some discipline and structure back into his life. It felt like Ellis’s well being was what came first for Wayne.

I liked the changes and growth that came between these two men as Ellis learned to trust Wayne in ways that he had never really considered before and I loved seeing Wayne step up not only as he introduced Ellis tot what it meant to truly be in a D/s relationship but as Wayne’s protective instincts took over and he helped Ellis navigate the minefield that was his family.

Ellis’s family…as families go was more than a little messed up and it was the strength of Wayne’s love, trust and faith in Ellis that helped him to make the changes necessary to preserve his well being both mentally and physically.

‘Before You Break’ was a solid start for this series and I look forward to seeing what happens next for all of these men, Jarod and Eli, Ellis and Wayne as well as any new characters that are introduced and taking a jump back and getting myself caught up with ‘Collars and Cuffs’ where it all began. If you’ve read, Collars and Cuffs’ I think you’ll enjoy this next part of the journey and, if like me you haven’t, you can jump in here and go forward without reading the first series but if it’s as good as this why miss out? I know I’m not going to.

********************
An ARC of ‘Before You Break’ was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Saimi Vasquez · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wayne y Ellis pertenecen al cuerpo armado de la policia de Londres. Wayne es el lider, dispuesto a ayudar a sus companeros en lo que se pueda, pero tambien dispuesto a organizar el trabajo dia a dia y dar las ordenes correspondientes tanto en el trabajo como en su vida personal. Asi que cuando se da cuenta que su mejor amigo y companero Ellis esta en una espiral descendente, esta dispuesto a arriesgar todo con tal de ayudarlo, incluso mostrarle el lado oculto de su vida y ver si es posible que Ellis pueda entrar en su vida como su sumiso.
Ellis sabe que esta fallando, es incapaz de decirle no a su hermana, a sus companeros de trabajo, a sus padres, pero no sabe como solucionarlo. Hasta que Wayne le ofrece una solucion que parece totalmente extrana, pero sera esa la unica manera de volver a tener el control de su vida? Cediendo el control? Sera que es lo suficientemente fuerte para depender asi de alguien? Sera que Wayne no lo va a rechazar cuando sepa cual es la raiz de sus problemas?
Ahora Wayne y Ellis deben enfrentar una relacion para la que ninguno de los dos esta preparado, y quizas solo su terquedad y amor del uno por el otro pueda mantenerlos en el camino para una vida tranquila, exitosa y feliz.

El libro tiene una premisa interesante, un par de policias dentro de un grupo tipo SWAT en londres, ambos amigos y "enamorados" en secreto casi desde que se conocieron, pero dispuestos a hacer lo que sea por el otro, aunque los lleve fuera de su area de confort. Hasta ahi, todo estaba muy bien. Me gustaron los protas, estaban bien delineados, hasta que la "madurez" de Ellis fue de 0 a 100 en un solo capitulo, y despues al final vuelve a caer en 0. El autor no supo plasmar como el personaje de Ellis realmente consiguio la fuerza y la madurez necesaria para enfrentar a sus padres, y como despues de todo lo que habia pasado todavia se consideraba una "carga". Puedo entender los sentimientos, lo que no me gusto fue como el autor no nos supo llevar poco a poco con el razonamiento del prota. Ahora, me hubiera gustado conocer a los padres de Wayne, o por lo menos algun dialogo entre ellos.
Sin embargo, me gusto mucho la forma como interactuaron los Jarod/Eli, los duenos del Club y la base de este spin-off. Tambien me gusto mucho la aparicion de la mdre de Jarod, ese fue un toque divertido, asi como las interacciones de su grupo de policias, las bromas, los dialogos, la forma en que se apoyaban, fue muy bien manejado.
En fin, me gusto este primer libro, voy a seguir con esta serie y espero que los proximos resulten tan entretenidos como este.

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read nearly everything that K C Wells & Parker William has ever write, either together or individually. No matter which they are great either way. This series could be entitled "Collars & Cuffs" part 2, but it's a new club owned by two characters from the last book in the Collars and Cuffs series, called "Secrets" and located in London instead of Manchester. It doesn't keep the friends from Manchester from visiting though, for which I am extremely grateful. Eli & Jarod have started their new life here and of course with new group of members. Wayne became a member almost immediately but his best friend, Ellis took a bit more convincing. Life happened to this couple in ways they could never have imagined, but they faced it together and worked it out, thanks to Wayne's belief and love for Ellis and him never giving up showing him that life is what you are willing to make it. There are many ups and downs on their journey, but these authors have created a trip that fans of the Collars and Cuffs series will love taking and meeting the members of Secrets.

[Chris · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 stars here - while I enjoyed it something didn't quite hit the mark .... this was a long book, lots happening and often moments that felt almost repeated. Weird I know, but Wayne & Ellis annoyed me at times and I definitely know that wasn't the intention! Hmmm it's hard to put my finger on it so maybe I need to leave this to the readers 😜

[Debra ~~ seriously slacking on her reviews ~~ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review originally posted at Sinfully.

4.5 stars

It’s no secret that I’m a big fan of the collaboration between K.C. Wells and Parker Williams, and they are off to another good start in this first book in the spin-off from their popular Collars and Cuffs series.

Wayne and Ellis have been co-workers on the police force and friends for six years. Wayne is openly gay and is secretly in love with his friend, although he is aware Ellis is straight and doesn’t expect anything other than friendship. Unfortunately, Ellis has been on a months-long spiral and Wayne isn’t sure why. Ellis is keeping some secrets from his best friend Wayne, secrets he believes would drive him away if he knew. When Ellis finally snaps, threatening his job, Wayne lays out his options for him: see the department psychologist, let me help you or continue on your downward path. When Ellis finds out just how Wayne wants to help him, by “taking him in hand” and controlling all aspects of his life until he gets his head straight, Ellis isn’t sure what to think, but Wayne is the only person who has ever been there for Ellis and even though it’s a bumpy start, Ellis decides to give in. He’s willing to give it a try, as long as he doesn’t have to spill his shameful secret.

When things start between the men, there was something different here for me, and that was the initial dynamic between Wayne and Ellis. Wayne’s attitude of taking complete charge and knowing what’s right for Ellis might have bothered me (and has in other stories under other circumstances) but the fact that they had an established friendship of six years prior to their agreement made me think twice. Wayne’s not a magic Dom just seeing submissiveness in Ellis’ eyes. The fact that Ellis had always sought out Wayne’s guidance as a friend and co-worker, had capitulated to Wayne’s decisions on things for so long, made this “taken in hand” relationship seem like just another step forward and while Wayne loves and is attracted to Ellis, his isn’t expecting anything sexual in the situation at the start since Wayne assumes Ellis is straight and he respects and values their friendship. As much as Ellis likes the feeling of being taken care of for a change, it’s not an easy position for him to accept and he fights Wayne on it even as he knows Wayne offers just what he has always wanted.

Things eventually change between them, of course (this is romance after all) as Ellis opens up to Wayne in a way he hasn’t been able to with anyone, but it doesn’t happen right away. Ellis has issues courtesy of his awful family and his needing to deal with them is a big focus of the story. Ellis’ parents did major damage leaving Ellis with feelings of never being good enough even while trying hard to please everyone. At first I scoffed a bit, but then realized it was almost as if they’d brainwashed him. As Ellis grows more comfortable with how much Wayne cares about him, he finally starts to take some control of his own well-being. He is also free to explore things he’s repressed and the newfound world of BDSM. I’ll also mention, since it’s not something I find too often, that Ellis is bigger and stronger than his Dom and he has a tendency to be a bit mouthy.

There is still plenty of drama even after it seems like all is going well and the two men are tested with a life changing event. The incident shakes Ellis’ trust in Wayne’s love and devotion, but luckily Wayne isn’t one to give up easily, especially on the man who has become his life.

If you didn’t know, my love of Jarod from the Collars & Cuffs series (Dom of Ages) knows no bounds so I am thrilled that he and Eli are here in supporting roles as the owners of Secrets and I hope that will continue through the series. Jarod is in his element when he is helping and caring for others and with his experience he the perfect character to support some subs new to the lifestyle. Bonus points also for cameos by some of my other C&C favorites, but you don’t need to have read any of those stories to start here.

I enjoyed this friends to lovers story with a side of kink. I appreciated the way the relationship built, as we really got to know the men as friends even as the power dynamics came into play and then saw it continue into their D/s lifestyle. I’m definitely looking forward to more in the series.

[Antisocial Recluse · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars. What a wonderful return to the BDSM club world that began in the Collars & Cuffs series. The narrative is my favorite 3rd person, alternating POV’s, written with the authors’ usual strong skills in character and world-building. The story was engaging and exciting, with only minor niggles for me.
Eli and Jarod are in London, opening their new club, Secrets, where a previous club had operated. One of those prior members is Wayne, gay and out, a Dom, and a police officer working in the Specialist Firearms unit. His best friend Ellis, who dates only women, is in the same unit, but lately Ellis is over-tired, short-tempered and making errors on the job that could endanger himself or fellow officers. With an invitation to the club’s re-opening, Wayne manages to get Ellis to invite himself along. Wayne has the idea to use D/s techniques to help his friend, platonically, he thinks. Ellis reacts badly at first, but he needs help, doesn't want therapy and eventually agrees to try it. Before too long, Wayne learns what has been causing Ellis’s issues.
Most of my niggles were in this first part of the story, centered around the reasons given for Ellis’s behavior. I think it was partly due to my personal views, so I'm not giving it too much weight. As the story progressed though, I was completely on board! This book does have a high steam factor and some really good BDSM scenes. It's quite moderate though, and it ramps up fairly slowly. The term “boy” is used but not excessively and it wasn't a 24/7 D/s relationship. Ellis had an independent attitude and their dialogue was mostly that of equals, even outside of their job. I dislike when a sub character acts, sounds and is treated like a young boy, rather than their age. I was quite pleased there was little of that here.
The story is longer than many in the prior series but it was paced well, and a lot of events were covered. Along with resolving Ellis’s problems, there's dangerous action on the job, some interactions with Jarod and Eli at the club and a brief visit from the C & C characters.
It will certainly please fans of the C & C series but it's not necessary to read them first. Anyone wanting to dip a toe into a BDSM storyline should enjoy it, without being uncomfortable. Mostly, if you enjoy friends to lovers, with a dose of hurt/comfort, this should be a satisfying read for you, too.

*ARC provided at no cost, in exchange for an unbiased review*
Reviewed for Jessie G. Book Blog
http://jessiegbooks.com/scatterbrain/

[Laina Gruver · Rating 4 out of 5]

4-4.25 stars

Secrets is a spin-off of Collars & Cuffs, while this book has a few similarities, it IS different. This book focuses on 2 police officers who are work partners and friends. Wayne is a Dom and has had feelings for his friend and partner, Ellis who he believes is straight and has been in a downward spiral in his personal and professional life for months. Wayne believes he could help Ellis by 'taking him in hand'.

While the MCs do visit the newly re-opened BDSM club a few times, the book focuses mostly on uncovering Ellis' issues with his family and how Wayne helps him deal with all the new changes in his life. While Wayne's attitude is very frustrating through a good portion of the book, I LIKED that he questioned things and argued with Wayne, it was a nice change of pace. We get 'cameos' from Eli, Jarod, Alex, Leo and a few other friends from C&C.

*****

POV... third person

Standalone or series... first book in a series

Did it give me a hangover... slight

Would I recommend it... yes

Would I read it again... yes

[Trio · Rating 4 out of 5]

K.C. Wells and Parker Williams team up again to bring us Before You Break, the first book in their new Secrets series. A spin-off of Collars and Cuffs, you don’t need to have read those stories to appreciate this one, though fans will be as excited as I was to have a few beloved characters popping in.

Aptly named, Before You Break is an intimate and moving story of one man whose world is falling apart and how, using BDSM, his friend intervenes to save him. Partnered for six years in London’s Specialist Firearms unit, Wayne takes note of Ellis’ increasingly erratic behavior, bouts of uncontrolled anger, and dangerous mistakes at work. It takes some time, but Wayne finally gets the story of what’s going on in Ellis’ life. In addition to the stresses of the job, his family obligations are doing him in both physically and mentally.

Wayne presents a D/s relationship as a way to give Ellis some control and provide the support he needs to get his life back on track. Their relationship starts to change as the men navigate the challenges this presents in their friendship and as colleagues. As the attraction between them grows and they incorporate other elements of BDSM into their relationship, the passion between them explodes.

I really enjoy the way this story unfolds and what happens to both men along the way. Clearly a proud and capable man, Ellis has become overwhelmed and reached his breaking point. As he starts to see how having the support Wayne gives as his Dom affects him, other aspects of Ellis’ life begin to change as well.

For Wayne the changes are more subtle, having finally found his ideal submissive his confidence grows and his character softens. He’s tender and patient but also deliciously commanding as he guides Ellis through some very intense events in his life.

K.C. Wells and Parker Williams do a marvelous job with the dynamic between these two men and the changes that happen in their relationship. Done in the third person, we get both Wayne and Ellis’ stories, plus their impressions of what the other is experiencing. It really moved me to see how Ellis embraces his need for submission, and I enjoyed how Wayne responds to the challenges along the way. Wayne has such a sexy way about him, when Ellis gets bratty and tests his limits... so hot.

This is an intimate and emotional story and Joel Leslie emphasizes it nicely with the intensity in his narration. The consistent, dependable strength of Wayne flows throughout, whereas Ellis runs the gamut of emotions. His desperation and fear, his panicky breakdown, and his heartbreaking defeat all come across loud and clear and stay true to Ellis’ character as he navigates this journey.

Joel Leslie does an amazing job shifting between the alternating points of view, he keeps Ellis and Wayne’s voices unique and distinct. Additionally, there are a wide variety of characters in this story: co-workers, club members, family members, and Leslie brings something special to each of them. His skill with accents is on full display in Before You Break and it is a pleasure to listen to from beginning to end.

This was a deeply moving story for me. Watching Ellis discover and embrace his needs, and seeing the joy it gives Wayne to provide it was really lovely. These two unfulfilled men come together and become whole in the process. In Ellis’ words as he kneels at Wayne’s feet, “For the first time in his life he’d found his place.”

[Christy · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars ~ I was so sad when 'Collars and Cuffs' ended, even though I loved how the authors finalized everything, so when I discovered they were going to continue, simply in a different venue with mostly new characters, I was thrilled. Eli and Jarod were featured in 'Dom of Ages', book seven in C&C, and I fell completely for both of them, especially Jarod. When they got the opportunity to take over ownership of Secrets, a gay BDSM club in London, I was so happy.

As strange and weird as this is going to sound, I really empathized with Ellis's initial reaction to Wayne wanting him to be his sub. Ellis always feels better around Wayne, he often takes his muddled thoughts to him, and Wayne helps him work through his confusion, along with Wayne always making Ellis feel taken care of and safe. But Ellis's first response is to think that Wayne looks at him as less than a man. I think anyone unfamiliar with the true concepts of a power exchange would think this way. Wayne just wants to help his best friend, regardless that Wayne has had feelings for Ellis for years, because Wayne can see something is obviously wrong, and Ellis isn't sleeping or taking care of himself.

"He’d known he was on a downhill slide for over a year. Every time he found himself floundering, he tried harder. And then he’d redouble his efforts, but they always led to the same conclusion. You’re a failure."

It isn't immediate, but when a confrontation with a coworker has Ellis enraged, he finally admits that trying Wayne's idea can't hurt. When Ellis reaches his breaking point and finally is totally honest with Wayne about what's been going on, and, especially, his family, Wayne is left stunned at the revelation and more determined than ever to help his best friend. (Personally, I thought Ellis's family - his father's views in particular - was something more suited for some strange, right-wing, ultraconservative cult in America). An additional revelation by Ellis leaves the two men in a position to finally admit their feelings.

'Before You Break' is a very unique take on a BDSM relationship that I've only seen done a handful of times in prior reads. Wayne isn’t what I've come to expect, so to speak, from a Dom, but I loved his attitude, his strength, and his all-encompassing understanding of his boy. Ellis is a marvelous character and I was really able to see the absolute trust it takes to submit to someone so fully. I wasn't surprised, at all, to see Jarod reaching out and befriending Ellis, as that is just who the man is.

I absolutely loved this book, but especially the ending and how it wrapped up. I was sad for both Wayne and Ellis when disaster struck them, but so thrilled to see Eli and Jarod continuing the lessons they learned at Collars and Cuffs, by making their own family at Secrets and helping the people they care about. I'm going to be on pins and needles waiting to see who the next couple will be, although I might have an idea. *grins*

Thank you, K.C. and Parker. You've given me a whole new series to eagerly anticipate and characters to fall in love with!

NOTE: This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Before I begin this review, I feel I must, at first, administer a caveat. There is a such thing as fully enjoying a book. To get the best enjoyment out of Before You Break, it would behoove you to read, at the very least, the last two books in the Collars and Cuffs series: Dom of Ages and Endings and Beginnings. In these books, you meet the men who are the catalyst for this series, Jarod and Eli, the owners of the club Secrets.

Before you break is the first book in what is promising to be a very successful series; Secrets. This series picks up with Jarod and Eli, the opening of their newly acquired and renovated BDSM club Secrets, and introduces us to some new friends while reacquainting us with some old.

The m/m romance and fiction genres are full of stories about men who are straight and in one way or another find themselves in situations that provide a major paradigm shift in the way they move through life. No one writes stories of self-discovery, hurt/comfort, and life renewal like the dynamic team of Wells and Williams. Before You Break is not only no exception to the past performance of this team, it is a shining example creating a fascinating, high speed, train ride from the lives of two seemingly ordinary people. It picks you up at the station and doesn’t let you off even when the ride is over.

I was already attached to Eli and Jarod, but the man who broke my heart was Ellis. Elis a stubborn, straight, sexy paragon of all things manly. From the moment you meet this bad boy you just want to save him. As the newest member of London’s Specialist Firearms Unit (think SWAT or military special forces in the U.S.) Ellis finds a fast and enduring friend in Wayne. Wayne has spent the length of their careers together not only as Ellis’ partner but as his trainer and, when need be, defender. Lately, the need to defend Ellis has increased with alarming speed. Ellis has developed an erratic temper, poor decision making, and slow reflexes, all clear evidence of sleep deprivation. What Wayne doesn’t know is why. Wayne, is gay and is out at work. What is a secret, is, that Wayne is also a Dominant who has been invited to the opening of the new BDSM club, Secrets. When Ellis’ behavior reaches a point that endangers his place on the team in particular and his career in general, Wayne believes taking Ellis in hand giving him the stability he needs to get his life back on track, is just the ticket. How to expose Ellis, a vanilla, straight man, to the lifestyle and get him to accept him and his help is the problem Wayne hopes to solve by inviting Ellis to attend the club opening with him. Additionally, to quote the authors “Wayne knows he has to put his own feelings aside to be what Ellis needs. What surprises the hell out of him is finding out what Ellis actually requires.”

If you think Before You Break is a man meets broken man, man fixes broken man, men fall instantly in love, with a few whips and floggers for spice, story you are just in for the surprise of your life. I would tell you how it all plays out but what fun is there in that? I would never spoil, the twists and turns on the track of this amazing story. Besides, it’s a secret!

[Jordan · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5- Another fantastic book from K.C. Wells and Parker Williams... AND a continuation of one of my favorite M/M series!

I'm really in love with this series. I saw this book and I knew I had to have it. The ending of the Collars and Cuffs series by these two was bittersweet and I was hoping they'd team up for another book or two. But oh man, we get a whole new series? Yes! Yes, this is more than I could have hoped for.

This series takes place in London, where Jarod and Eli took over an old BDSM club and renovated the place. Wayne has been a long time member and has stuck around as the name, atmosphere, and owners of the club have changed hands. He's been without a submissive for a long time, but he gets by and is so busy with his job that he doesn't spend too much time fretting over it.

Ellis, the other MC, is a coworker of Wayne's. I loved the relationship these two had right from the beginning. Ellis was clearly having some personal issues and letting it interfere with his job performance (which could be deadly, considering the kind of work they do) but Wayne didn't let that touch how he felt about Ellis as a person. They had a tight friendship and Wayne knew that somebody had to do something to help Ellis before he got himself or someone else killed.

Now, I'm calling BS on propositioning him in this way. Based on Wayne's actions in other situations (and his attitude through the rest of the book) he wouldn't be the type of person to just push DS at his friend as a magical solution to his restlessness. BUT that little plot bunny aside, I think this was a really good book. The relationship these two formed brought them closer together and, though it was a bit of a learning curve for Ellis, he had Eli there to give him some advice.

AND THE RETURN OF THE BOYS!! I was so happy to see not only Eli and Jerrod come back in this book, but Scott and some of the other boys too. This series has become somewhat special to me so I was really happy to see the whole family back togehter. All in all, this was a really good book. I would recommend reading Collars and Cuffs first, but if you're a fan of that series, then you're surely going to love this one too.



Reviewed by Jordan at Alpha Book Club.

Disclaimer: This book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed herein are my own and not influenced by the author or the publisher in any way.

[Shee Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Before You Break By KC Wells and Parker Williams

Review by Shee Reader for Boy Meets Boy Reviews

Find us on the web at www.boymeetsboyreviews.com

Rating 5 hearts!

Oh my gosh, where do I start with this book?

It was so wonderful to revisit Eli and Jarod from the Collars and Cuffs series with their new life in London, starting with their BDSM club, Secrets. I loved reading about all their friends coming for the grand re-opening. Super fun.

Now this story: Wayne and Ellis are specialist armed police officers. They work in a tight-knit team and have been best friends for over six years. In all that time, Wayne has never seen Ellis how he has been in the last few months. Exhausted, strung out, emotional and prone to flares of rage. Ellis is near breaking point. In all their years of friendship, Wayne has never made any move towards his straight best friend. He has never revealed aspects if his personal life. Never admitted that he is in love with his best friend. As Ellis gets closer and closer to a full break down, Wayne knows he must do something. Will Ellis accept his best friend as a Dom? Will Ellis let Wayne take control of his life and help him find peace and balance?

This is such a great set-up for a story that is told with mastery. The characters are realistic and likeable from the outset. Ellis’ family problems that lead to his breaking down are dreadful and tangible. I adored the relationship between these two guys and the development of each of them and them as a couple. It was enthralling and absorbing from the outset. I rooted for them from page 1 and the ending was just right. I loved the genuineness of their communications, the problems they encountered were gripping and the knowledge that the HEA was there in the end kept me going.

This is a beautifully written, engaging story of self awareness and new beginnings. Highly recommended!

I was gifted an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Anu · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

This is sort of a spin off from the Collars and Cuffs series, Jarod and Eli have moved to London to open their own club, Secrets. But that's really only a background plot here as the action centers on police officer Wayne and his partner Ellis as they start their journey to a relationship on the opening night of Secrets.

Wayne is a Dom but Ellis is neither a sub nor gay but Wayne wants to take care of his friend as he sees Ellis slowly fall apart. But Wayne persists and soon enough takes Ellis in hand and the two become partners in more than just at work.

This was a difficult book to review for me. I read this on the back end of a BDSM binge so I was kinda overloaded on the scene already by the time I got to this one. While the story is well written and the characters tight I just couldn't quite get into it. Jared and Eli's appearance was almost incidental, they could have been any couple opening the club for all it mattered for the story - I would have liked to have seen them shown off a bit more, considering the series is named after their club.
While I enjoyed the book, I didn't *love* it but I can't quite put my finger on the exact reasons why. Probably I just wasn't in the right headspace for this but that's just me - don't let my irritation put you off reading this :)

[Tammy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked it okay BUT it just dragged out way too long. I felt bad for Ellis for what his father put him and his sister through but he also annoyed me after his accident with the back and forth with Wayne. To be honest I listened to this on audio and near chapter 26 I had to skip through the chapters because I was getting to the point where I wanted to just DNF this one 😳. I hate giving up so I just pushed on through with a little help from my skip forward button ⏭🥺. This was a good read but I just felt the author could have condensed the book some. 😉

[Alexis Woods · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars.
Another great start to a series for Wells and Parker. I quite enjoyed watching these two friends finally getting together and how they worked through Ellis' family issues and then his injury. Seeing Jarod and Eli from the Collars and Cuffs series was an added bonus. They'd been too of my favorite characters in that series.
The only drawback was I couldn't hear any on the British accent in the dialogue. Arse and bollocks alone does not fully encompass all the wonderful slang.

[Lesley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved collars and cuffs and am so pleased this is a new series.
I'm can't wait to find out how on earth Rob ends up in London with a Dom.

[Helena Stone · Rating 5 out of 5]

Before You Break is the first book in Secrets, the Collars and Cuffs spin-off series and if this is any indication of what’s to follow we’re in for another treat. While, as the blurb indicates, this is the story of Wayne and Ellis, we also get to watch Eli and Jarod as they move to London and open their newly refurbished club. This wonderful combination of old familiar and brand new meant I was fully invested in the story, and the rest of the series, before I’d even finished the second chapter.

Ellis and Wayne were fascinating characters, both because of their personalities and because of the very dangerous job they share. They’ve been friends for six years, although Wayne’s feelings run quite a bit deeper. But that’s something he’ll never share with Ellis; after all, his friend is straight and Wayne won’t do anything to put their friendship at risk.

Ellis may be a strapping, ‘big bruiser’ of a man on the outside, deep inside he’s still the insecure thirteen year old who was forced into a role he was in no way equipped to handle and still hasn’t come to grips with. For reasons he’s keeping very close to his chest, Ellis is losing control. He’s pretty much a little boy lost, and although he doesn’t realise it, needs Wayne to save him from himself and discover who he really is.

And Wayne is perfect for Ellis. When he decides to take Ellis in hand before the man destroys his life and his loses his job, it has nothing to do with the attraction he feels. His plans are platonic because, as far as Wayne knows, anything else is out of the question. Already knowing Ellis very well before they agree to the D/s dynamic Wayne knows exactly how to make the man he’s loved for years soar and where to draw the line.

‘It’s my responsibility to ensure your pains weren’t related to your begging for more physical ones.’

Slowly and carefully Wayne puts Ellis back together; teasing out what has been bothering him, discovering the secrets Ellis has been holding close. The combination of patience and persistence start to ground Ellis, make him open up until the moment arrives when Ellis at last breaks down and admits to the feelings he’s been hiding for as long as he can remember. And from that moment on it appears to be plain sailing. Ellis blossoms under Wayne’s dominance and discovers a world of heat, pleasure and peace in his submision to the man who has saved him from himself, the man he loves.

And then, just when it appears that Wayne and Ellis have reached their summit, the rug is pulled from under their feet in a suspense filled incident, and everything they’ve created together tumbles to the ground, or so it seems. But, of course, this wouldn’t be a Wells & Williams book if love didn’t conquer all. I have no intention of telling you what happens, or how the situation is resolved but you can trust me when I say it will bring tears to your eyes, tug on your heartstrings, and make you love Ellis and Wayne even more than you did earlier in the story.

I’m probably stating the obvious when I say that the sexy scenes in this book are off the charts. I can almost hear you say, ‘aren’t they always when these two authors get together?’ And you would be right. What will never cease to amaze me is that even after this many books set in the BDSM scene they still manage to give each story a fresh feel, and to come up with kinky games we haven’t read about before. Never a boring moment doesn’t begin to describe it.

There is a lot more I could say about this story. I could share the anger I felt once the reasons for Ellis’s decent into despair became clear. I could wax lyrical about the beauty of these two men together, or bore you with examples of all the times they made me sigh, smile and laugh. And I could probably write a few paragraphs about how much fun it was to see the interactions between Jarod and his mother who is, of course, still up to no good. But I won’t. Instead I’ll just advice you to go and read the book already. You won’t be sorry.

[Rachel Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had been looking forward to this spin-off series ever since it was announced! I was a HUGE fan of their Collars and Cuffs series and loved the idea of Eli and Jarod moving and starting their own club. And this did not disappoint!

Wayne is a Dom and he begins to notice that his best friend and the man he has a secret crush on, Ellis, is starting to come apart...mistakes at work, emotional outbursts, exhaustion, etc. He thinks that introducing him to the BDSM lifestyle might give him focus and help get him back on track. As we get to know more about them, we learn about Ellis' horrible family and how they treated him and his sister.

Although Ellis resists at first, he's straight, he's not into kink, he does agree to try and their relationship really blossoms. I loved their scenes together, I loved all the time they had together becoming more than friends, and how supportive and fun their friends and coworkers were about it. Wayne is the perfect dom for Ellis, he's strong and commanding but knows exactly what his friend needs.

Also loved getting to see Eli and Jarod again, and also some of the other characters (and characters from another series completely!) and I know that we will definitely be seeing more of Ellis and Wayne in future books. Can't wait for the next one in this series. If you're looking for heat, passion, kink, and good storytelling, you should give this series a try. You could definitely start with this one, but why would you when you have 8 other amazing books to read also?!

[Theresa · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 stars. Mixed bag.

Lovely D/s relationship. Nice BDSM scenes.

Poor transition from Collars and Cuffs series. C&C cameos distracted more than added value. Inconsistent portrayal of Eli and Jacob as they started up Secrets. They oscillated between a new business venture couple one moment and then as fellow waitstaff the other.

The opening SWAT tactical procedures that introduced Wayne and Ellis were illogical, lame, and laughable.

Ellis' family background was contrived and artificial. His total lack of personal boundaries was unbelievable. At the end, Ellis' impulsiveness was exposed by Wayne's superior to have been a long term problem. Ellis was not LE calibre and had been propped up by Wayne the whole time. This negatively impacted Ellis' character and retroactively changed the dynamics of their D/s relationship.

Ellis getting so grievously injured to where he could no longer have an active job or lifestyle was a disappointing copout. His physical rehab and mental adjustment was rushed. The process of Wayne and Ellis both leaving the force and starting a security business at Secrets was too simplistic. This segment of the plot deserved a separate book.

[Carra · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is definitely my favorite book of the ones these authors have written together. The more they write together, the better their collaboration gets. I do admit that I was unsure of the matchup between Wayne and Ellis at first given how everything appeared at the start of the story. I was actually not terribly fond of Ellis in the beginning since I felt like his family ran roughshod over him, and I get frustrated when people don’t stick up for themselves (even characters in a book of fiction). But appearances can be deceiving, and I’m glad I kept an open mind with his character.

Wayne is absolutely hands-down, one hundred percent Dom. It’s evident not just in his private life, but in his public one as well even if it’s not called that. He is strong, extremely protective of anyone he cares about, and a true leader. Ellis has had his life shaped by parents-his father in particular-who have antiquated views of life and family, and it’s been to his personal detriment. He is stretched to the max emotionally and physically, and it’s taking a toll on him in more ways than one. When Wayne first considers the idea of taking Ellis in hand thru BDSM to get him back under control, I was a bit wary. But Ellis’s character fits the submissive role like he was born to it—even when he’s pushing back against it.

This story allows for a lot of character growth for Ellis as Wayne guides him, and as he really comes into his own and takes back his life. Where I had doubts in the beginning, by the end it all fit much better when it had become obvious that it was everything Ellis needed. In another nod to Wayne’s no-nonsense, take-charge personality, he never lets Ellis run from his problems, and helps him figure out how to confront them head-on, solving them together. While you might think when you first start reading this story that it’s going to be GFY (gay-for-you), don’t let initial appearances color your opinion. There’s always more to things than meet the eye.

I really liked that we got to see some of the characters from the Collars & Cuffs series return for some cameos, and even more that we got to see Jarod and Eli in these fresh roles. It made me like Eli a bit more (I wasn’t his biggest fan in Dom of Ages), and I loved how Jarod seems to be spreading his wings. I am really looking forward to many more books in this series, and I think that Before You Break was a really good start to it. 4.5 stars, and I would recommend this story to any M/M BDSM romance fan…and if you’re already a fan of Collars & Cuffs, you’re going to love a return to the themes found there and some of the characters too. This book is only for readers 18+ due to adult language and explicit M/M sexual content.

[Mekare · Rating 3 out of 5]

3,5 stelline
Bella la parte iniziale e quella finale, ma quella centrale, quando il rapporto tra i due cambia drasticamente e inizia la storia d'amore, non mi ha convinto.

[Light · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 / 5 Stars

A good beginning to a new series by one of my favorite duos, KC Wells and Parker Williams. I adored their Collars & Cuffs series and I've been looking forward to reading their new work.

Wayne and Ellis have been friends and partners in their unit for years. Something Ellis doesn't know is that Wayne has been in love with him since the moment they met and has wanted him to become his "boy"... because something else's he doesn't know is that Wayne is a Dom.

Wayne is not the only one with secrets. He knows something's going on with his straight friend, as he's not the strong and confident Ellis he's known for years, on the contrary, he looks on the edge of a breakdown. His Dom nature is coming to the surface more often that not and it's time to make a deal with Ellis so he can help him go back to the way he used to be. But things might be a teeny tiny bit more complicated than they seem.

The book barely gives us a glimpse of Wayne and Ellis before switching POVs to Jarod and Eli, characters from a previous book in Collars & Cuffs who make an appearance at the very beginning and throughout the story. The story changes focus on them and that can be a little confusing for those who haven't read their book. I like to revisit old characters, though, as long as they don't take away the spotlight from the new ones and I was afraid this would be the case. However, it didn't happen, it's done in a way that it didn't feel like they were stealing the show from Wayne and Ellis and I highly enjoyed it, especially Ellis and Jerod's conversations.

Ellis' parents are unpleasant and don't care about their children, so much that it was maddening. Her sister was obnoxious, having two kids to take care of but acting like a child herself. Her relationship with Ellis was complicated at best and unhealthy at worst. To have a family like is... well, better to have .

I liked the main characters' relationship, the sex scenes were hot and I enjoyed the scenes they had at the club (those were more than hot!). But at times things didn't seem to go as smooth as possible, they felt a little forced, mainly because Ellis was a closeted case but suddenly he accepted everything so easily (maybe it was his submissive nature?).

Overall, I enjoyed the story and made me want to re-read Collars & Cuffs series while I wait for book 2.

*I received a copy for my reading pleasure*

[Aղցela W. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a good read. Ellis Mann's life is spinning out of control and with a dangerous job he is putting himself in the line of fire. His bestfriend Wayne knows that he needs to do something and fast or self he will lose him. When Wayne takes Ellis to the opening of a new club "Secrets" Ellis gets an eye opener. When Wayne tells Ellis that he is a Dom and wants to take him in hand he is even more shocked. This was a good read I liked both of these character's Ellis comes from a family that forced him to take of a sister that was out of control and a father that know matter what he did it was never good enough it was taking care of his sister and her two kids that was making him crack along with the fact that he was living a lie and when he told Wayne who is openly gay that he was gay that Wayne saw it as his chance to be with Ellis because Wayne has been in love with him for six years. I read this book during gay pride month and it broke my heart when I read how Ellis's father acted and treated him when he told him he was gay. When Ellis is shot after rescuing a little girl both he and Wayne are both devastated Ellis is angry because he will never be able to walk right and he no longer has a job and Wayne knows that he can't put his life on the line and risk losing Ellis. This book had some really hot sex scenes although the book was a little too long. I have read Ms. Wells before although I haven't read "Collars and Cuffs" but I will be reading them soon. This book was well written with no errors in grammar or spelling. I am looking forward to reading more books in this series.
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