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Vice City #2
Vice Enforcer
Holding on to a life worth living can be hard when the nightmares of the past come knocking.
Eight months ago, Nicholas Pierce, ex-mob enforcer, faked his death and assumed a new identity to escape sadistic mob boss Jeremy Vice. With no contacts outside the underworld, Pierce finds work with a washed-up PI. It’s an easy enough gig—until investigating a human trafficking ring drags him back to his old stomping grounds.
Miles Devonport, Pierce’s partner, is top of his class at the police academy while single-handedly holding his family together. But when one lieutenant questions Pierce’s past and his involvement in the investigation, Miles must put his future on the line to keep Pierce’s secrets.
The situation becomes dire when it’s discovered the traffickers have connections to the Vice family. The lives of everyone Pierce cares about are in danger—not least of all his own, if Jeremy Vice learns he’s back from the dead. Pierce and Miles face a conspiracy that reaches the highest levels—one that will gladly destroy them to keep operating. As Pierce uses every dirty trick he learned from organized crime to protect the new life he’s building, he realizes that no matter how hard he tries, he might never escape his past.
But he’s not going down without a fight.
259 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 3, 2018
81 people want to read
About the author
S.A. Stovall
13 books49 followersS.A. Stovall grew up in California’s central valley with a single mother and little brother. Despite no one in her family having a degree higher than a GED, she put herself through college (earning a BA in History), and then continued on to law school where she obtained her Juris Doctorate.
As a child, Stovall’s favorite novel was Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O’Dell. The adventure on a deserted island opened her mind to ideas and realities she had never given thought before—and it was the moment Stovall realized that story telling (specifically fiction) became her passion. Anything that told a story, be it a movie, book, video game or comic, she had to experience. Now, as a professor and author, Stovall wants to add her voice to the myriad of stories in the world, and she hopes you enjoy.
You can contact her at the following addresses.
Twitter: @GameOverStation
E-mail: s.adelle.s@gmail.com
As a child, Stovall’s favorite novel was Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O’Dell. The adventure on a deserted island opened her mind to ideas and realities she had never given thought before—and it was the moment Stovall realized that story telling (specifically fiction) became her passion. Anything that told a story, be it a movie, book, video game or comic, she had to experience. Now, as a professor and author, Stovall wants to add her voice to the myriad of stories in the world, and she hopes you enjoy.
You can contact her at the following addresses.
Twitter: @GameOverStation
E-mail: s.adelle.s@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
April 3, 2018
I always was attracted to bad boys and I’ve found my new book boyfriend in Nicholas Pierce. At first, I wasn’t entirely sure what to make of him in book one, Vice City, but S.A. Stovall’s deft handling of black humor and often tongue-in-cheek character portrayals was a delight. I found this story even more delightful as she goes about redeeming the irredeemable Pierce. Hiding out with Miles and living with Miles’s siblings Lily and Jayden, he’s trying to go “straight” by becoming a PI and attempting more regular pursuits, like gardening:
“I find a passage about caring for plants midgrowth. It reads: talking to your plants is one surefire way to perk them up! Talk to the plants? What do you say to a plant? “Grow, you little piece of s**t,” I say. “Don’t you wanna live? F*****g act like it.”
Added to Pierce and Miles new life as quasi-parental figures to the siblings (emphasis on quasi for Pierce), they’re contending with Shelby the shady PI, Rhett the closeted police academy instructor, their neighbor Mrs. Timo and her granddaughter Shannon. Each has a crucial place in the plot and the plot is marvelously dark and twisty. When Pierce gets sucked back into dealing with the underworld he’d clawed his way out of, Miles still “has his back” and Pierce has his, no matter what. That leads me to mention their romance, that bears little resemblance to any typical trope. The sex is still rough, Miles wants a different dynamic between them and there are few tender words or declarations, at least not always recognizable ones. The action is fierce with plenty of bullets, blood and bodily injury.
The underlying current through the entire narrative is Pierce’s slow shift away from the hard-bitten loner we saw at the start of book one. His thought processes are both funny and bleak as at times, as he weighs his criminally honed instincts against his desire to make Miles happy.
“Or… maybe I should call it quits. Move on. I’ve had a good run. And maybe it would be better for Miles, which, if I’m honest, really is the only reason I do anything anymore.”
You must read Vice City before reading this one but even at just two books so far, it has become a favorite for me. If you like books that are dark, gritty, with out of the norm romance, I can’t recommend this gem of a series highly enough.
*An ARC was provided by the author, publisher or promotional service and I have chosen to publish a fair and honest review for Jessie G Books Reviews blog*
“I find a passage about caring for plants midgrowth. It reads: talking to your plants is one surefire way to perk them up! Talk to the plants? What do you say to a plant? “Grow, you little piece of s**t,” I say. “Don’t you wanna live? F*****g act like it.”
Added to Pierce and Miles new life as quasi-parental figures to the siblings (emphasis on quasi for Pierce), they’re contending with Shelby the shady PI, Rhett the closeted police academy instructor, their neighbor Mrs. Timo and her granddaughter Shannon. Each has a crucial place in the plot and the plot is marvelously dark and twisty. When Pierce gets sucked back into dealing with the underworld he’d clawed his way out of, Miles still “has his back” and Pierce has his, no matter what. That leads me to mention their romance, that bears little resemblance to any typical trope. The sex is still rough, Miles wants a different dynamic between them and there are few tender words or declarations, at least not always recognizable ones. The action is fierce with plenty of bullets, blood and bodily injury.
The underlying current through the entire narrative is Pierce’s slow shift away from the hard-bitten loner we saw at the start of book one. His thought processes are both funny and bleak as at times, as he weighs his criminally honed instincts against his desire to make Miles happy.
“Or… maybe I should call it quits. Move on. I’ve had a good run. And maybe it would be better for Miles, which, if I’m honest, really is the only reason I do anything anymore.”
You must read Vice City before reading this one but even at just two books so far, it has become a favorite for me. If you like books that are dark, gritty, with out of the norm romance, I can’t recommend this gem of a series highly enough.
*An ARC was provided by the author, publisher or promotional service and I have chosen to publish a fair and honest review for Jessie G Books Reviews blog*
April 3, 2018
Full review at :
https://optimumm.blog/2018/04/03/vice-enforcer-by-s-a-stovall/
Eight months after faking his death, Nicholas Pierce assumed a new identity. He’s a trainee PI.
Miles Davenport, his boyfriend, is now a cop trainee and he’s at the top of his classes.
But when an investigation brings Pierce back to Jeremy Vice’s turf and his old life, Pierce and Miles realize that maybe their chance for a happy ending isn’t in the cards for them.
5 months and 1 week, that’s how long I waited this book, and yes I was counting.
After the sublime Vice City I had 5 months and 1 week to imagine and anticipated this book. And you know what, it was nothing like I was expecting.
The author took another path, a brilliant path, a necessary path.
In this sequel, we follow Pierce and Miles trying having a normal life, at least as normal as it can be with the two of them.
Pierce tries to have a legit job by being a PI. He’s still grumpy, blunt with no care for everyone except Miles. When the PI who trains him asks for his help in an investigation about human/child trafficking, Pierce accepts (not for free). He tries to play by the book, and the law, but in the end, because he is who he is, he decides to play by his rules, the one he knows best.
Miles is stronger than before, he’s one of the best trainees of his classes, and refuses to jeopardize his future by breaking the law, but he also refuses to let Pierce deal with his investigation alone. I love this new Miles, stronger, more mature. I love how he refuses to hide Pierce from his new friends, how he refuses to give up on Pierce at all, and when he has to make a choice between Pierce and the rest of the world, Pierce comes first…. That my friend, is love!
I love these guys. They’re perfect together, they’re the exact opposite of each other but also complementary. I also love how the book explores their relationship more. With Pierce experimenting the family life with dating his boyfriend, having kids around them (Miles’s little sister and brother), and, my favorite, jealousy. It was beautiful and poetic in a weird dark way (we’re talking about Pierce, guys), but it was also kind of naïve coming from him. I adore this about him, this vulnerability behind all his bravado and assholiness.
I love how the author took me in a completely different direction than what I expected. I admit, I was expecting a repeat of book 1 with the same dark violence atmosphere, the same noir Polar, and with the big bad revenge of Pierce. (I had 5 months and 1 week to think about it, and I have a wild imagination) I didn’t expect to see a “domesticated” Pierce, I was surprised, but in a good way. The Noir atmosphere, the dark side of the city and the ambivalence of the characters are still here, and it’s the soul of this series. But after what they’ve been through in book 1, they couldn’t go all guns blazing against Jeremy. I understand it now that they needed to heal, physically and emotionally. And I love that the author shows us this, how they healed and sealed their relationship. If we had a doubt about Pierce and Miles as couple in book 1, trust me, after this one there are none.
This sequel confirmed my love and admiration for this series and the author’s talent.
I highly recommend this book and series, really, you’ll love it, and for now, its the best Noir MM Romance I have read.
It’s 5 OptimuMMs (unofficially it’s still 20 out of 5).
https://optimumm.blog/2018/04/03/vice-enforcer-by-s-a-stovall/
Eight months after faking his death, Nicholas Pierce assumed a new identity. He’s a trainee PI.
Miles Davenport, his boyfriend, is now a cop trainee and he’s at the top of his classes.
But when an investigation brings Pierce back to Jeremy Vice’s turf and his old life, Pierce and Miles realize that maybe their chance for a happy ending isn’t in the cards for them.
5 months and 1 week, that’s how long I waited this book, and yes I was counting.
After the sublime Vice City I had 5 months and 1 week to imagine and anticipated this book. And you know what, it was nothing like I was expecting.
The author took another path, a brilliant path, a necessary path.
In this sequel, we follow Pierce and Miles trying having a normal life, at least as normal as it can be with the two of them.
Pierce tries to have a legit job by being a PI. He’s still grumpy, blunt with no care for everyone except Miles. When the PI who trains him asks for his help in an investigation about human/child trafficking, Pierce accepts (not for free). He tries to play by the book, and the law, but in the end, because he is who he is, he decides to play by his rules, the one he knows best.
Miles is stronger than before, he’s one of the best trainees of his classes, and refuses to jeopardize his future by breaking the law, but he also refuses to let Pierce deal with his investigation alone. I love this new Miles, stronger, more mature. I love how he refuses to hide Pierce from his new friends, how he refuses to give up on Pierce at all, and when he has to make a choice between Pierce and the rest of the world, Pierce comes first…. That my friend, is love!
I love these guys. They’re perfect together, they’re the exact opposite of each other but also complementary. I also love how the book explores their relationship more. With Pierce experimenting the family life with dating his boyfriend, having kids around them (Miles’s little sister and brother), and, my favorite, jealousy. It was beautiful and poetic in a weird dark way (we’re talking about Pierce, guys), but it was also kind of naïve coming from him. I adore this about him, this vulnerability behind all his bravado and assholiness.
I love how the author took me in a completely different direction than what I expected. I admit, I was expecting a repeat of book 1 with the same dark violence atmosphere, the same noir Polar, and with the big bad revenge of Pierce. (I had 5 months and 1 week to think about it, and I have a wild imagination) I didn’t expect to see a “domesticated” Pierce, I was surprised, but in a good way. The Noir atmosphere, the dark side of the city and the ambivalence of the characters are still here, and it’s the soul of this series. But after what they’ve been through in book 1, they couldn’t go all guns blazing against Jeremy. I understand it now that they needed to heal, physically and emotionally. And I love that the author shows us this, how they healed and sealed their relationship. If we had a doubt about Pierce and Miles as couple in book 1, trust me, after this one there are none.
This sequel confirmed my love and admiration for this series and the author’s talent.
I highly recommend this book and series, really, you’ll love it, and for now, its the best Noir MM Romance I have read.
It’s 5 OptimuMMs (unofficially it’s still 20 out of 5).
April 3, 2018
Book – Vice Enforcer (Vice #2)
Author – S.A. Stovall
Star rating - ★★★★★
No. of Pages – 250
Cover – Perfect!
POV – 1st person, present tense, one character
Would I read it again – Yes!
Genre – Crime, Noir, Contemporary, Mob/Mafia, May/December
Triggers – violence, criminal activities, Dom/sub elements, dub/con (if you squint)
** I WAS GIVEN THIS BOOK FOR MY READING PLEASURE **
Reviewed for Divine Magazine
Wow! Another rollercoaster ride with my favourite mob enforcer.
The story jumps right into the action, with Pierce a PI in training. And, honestly, I never knew the rules of becoming a PI, but I love the attention to detail that Stovall added here, showing us how complicated it could be, and all the hoops Pierce had to jump through to make it happen, and start his new, clean, life.
There's still that gritty, almost underground feel to the writing that I really love. It feels like a crime noir, a mobster story, without being over the top or lack the detail. It was something that I loved in book one and that is still there in this book, too. I can't say how happy I am about that, because sometimes sequels don't really do a great first book justice. This one does. So much!
The story basically picks up not far from the end of book 1. We see Pierce and Miles maybe a few months or a year after all those events, and, at first, we don't really know the consequences of all that happened. We don't know what really went down between Pierce and Jeremy – though it's easy to guess, knowing Jeremy – until nearly halfway, when Miles manages to find the right encouragement.
When it comes to characters, I'll admit that I loved the old ones just as much – and loathed Jeremy just as much! – but I also loved the new ones. I loved how Pierce handled Lacy, Shannon and especially Jayden, even the cranky old Ms Timo from next door! It really showed a side to his personality I hadn't thought was there. And I'm thrilled to see that they, and probably Rhett, will be a part of the next book. Because, there is a next book, right? I have to see Miles take on Jeremy. I HAVE to!
What I really loved was that the writing style, the flavour of the story, and the way the plot was put together, was all the same as book one. Nothing had really changed, which can often happen with a sequel, as characters do need to grow and adapt after their experiences. But, the key to this series is that they grow, but they're still essentially the same people. They just grew up a bit. Miles is still the same submissive person, with a slight dominant streak that means there's a limit to what Pierce gets away with, and he's become stronger, smarter, and more assertive. But he still supports Pierce in all the ways he never knew he needed to be supported. And Pierce is the same; he's still the same gruff personality, still doesn't like people, life or romance, but he's a little more subdued, a little angrier and off balance after his experiences with Jeremy. There's a part of him that's broken, but it's reassuring to see that both he and Miles are still the same people down at the core.
Pierce and Miles definitely have a rough-around-the-edges relationship, but that's part of the charm, for me. It's not brutal or violent, but it's not cuddly and soft, either. They have moments of both, they have tempers and different views on things, and they both have their issues. None of that is masked under a fairy-bright facade. They are who they are, without shame. But they really get each other, in a way that means they say things without totally understanding the meaning (such as what happens in this book) and I love that. They have a real connection that is palpable. Despite all the power plays and the one instance of dub-con (where they basically broke the house fighting before sex) they're aware of who they are, each other, and their limits. And, despite everything, they talk – no matter how uncomfortable it makes Pierce. Because he knows that it's necessary.
When it comes to the writing, I'll never get bored of this series. It's got clear and distinct characterisation, a well thought out and formatted plot, great attention to detail, and an incredible amount of storytelling that shows rather than tells. Any background info is given organically, rather than info dumps, and I always find out what I need to know by the end of the book.
In short, it was just as brilliant as book one. It was a crazy adventure and the fight at the end made me cry, but I couldn't ask for anything better. I need to get these in paperback. Pronto!
~
Favourite Quotes
“Jesus Christ. The Pope himself would be tempted to kick this kid's ass. I swear he has the situational awareness of a cucumber. Just when I thought I might not hate his guts...”
““I got your back.”
He grips me tight. “I love you too.”
The statement catches me off guard. Is that what we've been saying to each other this entire time?”
“I wish I was half the person he thinks I am. I'd be a goddamn superman.”
Author – S.A. Stovall
Star rating - ★★★★★
No. of Pages – 250
Cover – Perfect!
POV – 1st person, present tense, one character
Would I read it again – Yes!
Genre – Crime, Noir, Contemporary, Mob/Mafia, May/December
Triggers – violence, criminal activities, Dom/sub elements, dub/con (if you squint)
** I WAS GIVEN THIS BOOK FOR MY READING PLEASURE **
Reviewed for Divine Magazine
Wow! Another rollercoaster ride with my favourite mob enforcer.
The story jumps right into the action, with Pierce a PI in training. And, honestly, I never knew the rules of becoming a PI, but I love the attention to detail that Stovall added here, showing us how complicated it could be, and all the hoops Pierce had to jump through to make it happen, and start his new, clean, life.
There's still that gritty, almost underground feel to the writing that I really love. It feels like a crime noir, a mobster story, without being over the top or lack the detail. It was something that I loved in book one and that is still there in this book, too. I can't say how happy I am about that, because sometimes sequels don't really do a great first book justice. This one does. So much!
The story basically picks up not far from the end of book 1. We see Pierce and Miles maybe a few months or a year after all those events, and, at first, we don't really know the consequences of all that happened. We don't know what really went down between Pierce and Jeremy – though it's easy to guess, knowing Jeremy – until nearly halfway, when Miles manages to find the right encouragement.
When it comes to characters, I'll admit that I loved the old ones just as much – and loathed Jeremy just as much! – but I also loved the new ones. I loved how Pierce handled Lacy, Shannon and especially Jayden, even the cranky old Ms Timo from next door! It really showed a side to his personality I hadn't thought was there. And I'm thrilled to see that they, and probably Rhett, will be a part of the next book. Because, there is a next book, right? I have to see Miles take on Jeremy. I HAVE to!
What I really loved was that the writing style, the flavour of the story, and the way the plot was put together, was all the same as book one. Nothing had really changed, which can often happen with a sequel, as characters do need to grow and adapt after their experiences. But, the key to this series is that they grow, but they're still essentially the same people. They just grew up a bit. Miles is still the same submissive person, with a slight dominant streak that means there's a limit to what Pierce gets away with, and he's become stronger, smarter, and more assertive. But he still supports Pierce in all the ways he never knew he needed to be supported. And Pierce is the same; he's still the same gruff personality, still doesn't like people, life or romance, but he's a little more subdued, a little angrier and off balance after his experiences with Jeremy. There's a part of him that's broken, but it's reassuring to see that both he and Miles are still the same people down at the core.
Pierce and Miles definitely have a rough-around-the-edges relationship, but that's part of the charm, for me. It's not brutal or violent, but it's not cuddly and soft, either. They have moments of both, they have tempers and different views on things, and they both have their issues. None of that is masked under a fairy-bright facade. They are who they are, without shame. But they really get each other, in a way that means they say things without totally understanding the meaning (such as what happens in this book) and I love that. They have a real connection that is palpable. Despite all the power plays and the one instance of dub-con (where they basically broke the house fighting before sex) they're aware of who they are, each other, and their limits. And, despite everything, they talk – no matter how uncomfortable it makes Pierce. Because he knows that it's necessary.
When it comes to the writing, I'll never get bored of this series. It's got clear and distinct characterisation, a well thought out and formatted plot, great attention to detail, and an incredible amount of storytelling that shows rather than tells. Any background info is given organically, rather than info dumps, and I always find out what I need to know by the end of the book.
In short, it was just as brilliant as book one. It was a crazy adventure and the fight at the end made me cry, but I couldn't ask for anything better. I need to get these in paperback. Pronto!
~
Favourite Quotes
“Jesus Christ. The Pope himself would be tempted to kick this kid's ass. I swear he has the situational awareness of a cucumber. Just when I thought I might not hate his guts...”
““I got your back.”
He grips me tight. “I love you too.”
The statement catches me off guard. Is that what we've been saying to each other this entire time?”
“I wish I was half the person he thinks I am. I'd be a goddamn superman.”
April 3, 2018
This is not your average love story. This is a book that has mystery, danger, a weird sort of love between two men and their family, and it has violence as well. I will be honest in saying I did not read book one in this series but I was able to figure out what was going on without having to. This book could be read as a standalone, for that am grateful.
Pierce is trying to start his life over as a PI. He is working towards getting his licenses u see another PI. This is where this story really begins. Pierce finds himself in the middle of a huge mess when he goes along with the PI he is working for to gather information on a huge job that is going down. Though Pierce has no clue as what they are doing and what information they are gathering, he still backs up his boss when asked. Especially when his boss tells him he will cut down on some of his time in training if he helps him out.
What Pierce does not realize at the time is, he is about to step into a mess that will bring him right back face to face with the past that he has been running from. And this time he will bring the people he is coming to love with him.
When the information gathering missions turns into a gun fight, Pierce knows he is going to have to get help from the man that he loves, Miles. Miles is not happy when he finds out that Pierce has placed himself in danger but when the two end up digging deeper into what is really going on, neither man can walk away.
It seems that even when Pierce ran and faked his death, fate decided that he needed to face his past anyway because the family that is involved in the human trafficking problem that he and Miles is looking into is none other hen the Vice Family. The same Vice Famiky that Pierce has tried to make believe he was dead.
Can Pierce and Miles father all ththe evidence to take down this operation without being found out about? Or will Pierce finally have to come face to face with the mob family that he has tried to avoid all this time? Will Pierce finally have to pay for his past mistakes?
This was a really good book. At first I did not really care for Pierce but as the book goes on I come to like the gruff, angry man. I see in the end why these two opposites attract so much. I look ok forward to the next book in this series.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
Pierce is trying to start his life over as a PI. He is working towards getting his licenses u see another PI. This is where this story really begins. Pierce finds himself in the middle of a huge mess when he goes along with the PI he is working for to gather information on a huge job that is going down. Though Pierce has no clue as what they are doing and what information they are gathering, he still backs up his boss when asked. Especially when his boss tells him he will cut down on some of his time in training if he helps him out.
What Pierce does not realize at the time is, he is about to step into a mess that will bring him right back face to face with the past that he has been running from. And this time he will bring the people he is coming to love with him.
When the information gathering missions turns into a gun fight, Pierce knows he is going to have to get help from the man that he loves, Miles. Miles is not happy when he finds out that Pierce has placed himself in danger but when the two end up digging deeper into what is really going on, neither man can walk away.
It seems that even when Pierce ran and faked his death, fate decided that he needed to face his past anyway because the family that is involved in the human trafficking problem that he and Miles is looking into is none other hen the Vice Family. The same Vice Famiky that Pierce has tried to make believe he was dead.
Can Pierce and Miles father all ththe evidence to take down this operation without being found out about? Or will Pierce finally have to come face to face with the mob family that he has tried to avoid all this time? Will Pierce finally have to pay for his past mistakes?
This was a really good book. At first I did not really care for Pierce but as the book goes on I come to like the gruff, angry man. I see in the end why these two opposites attract so much. I look ok forward to the next book in this series.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
April 3, 2018
4.5 Stars!
Vice Enforcer is book two in the Vice City series and it can't be read as a standalone, as it follows the same couple from book one and there's an ongoing storyline. However, if you're fond of Noir/suspense books, you don't want to miss this series.
Pierce is having a bit of trouble adapting to his new life, whereas Miles is doing great in the Police Academy, top of his class and teacher's pet all rolled into one. This, of course, creates friction in their relationship, especially when one of Miles's trainers shows a special interest in him and Pierce is feeling inadequate and jealous. Add to that, that the case that Pierce's boss at the PI office is working has to do with Jeremy Vice and Pierce is all out of sorts and unsure.
Pierce is still his grumpy self, but he's not certain where he stands with Miles, now that Miles is doing so well at the Academy and that bleeds into almost everything he does. And Miles, well, I'm not going to say he's oblivious to this, although perhaps he is a bit, but he also has a lot on his plate with his training, helping his mom with his siblings and Pierce.
Sometimes reading a follow-up story with a newly established couple can be tricky. Recapturing the chemistry and what made them work in the previous installment(s) is not easy. However, I think Ms. Stovall did a great job here in Vice Enforcer, showing us a more, dare I say, vulnerable side to Pierce, and at the same time, Miles' growth and maturity. It wasn't an easy road, but I felt that they were more secure in their relationship at the end of this book than they were at the start, which is always a good thing in my book.
The case Pierce was working on was really interesting and well done, and while there's some romance, well, that's not the focus of the story. The book is gritty and dark and deals with human trafficking, so yeah, not your usual run-of-the-mill hearts-and-flowers-romance, I still enjoyed it, though, so I have no trouble recommending it!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by DSP Publications for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Vice Enforcer is book two in the Vice City series and it can't be read as a standalone, as it follows the same couple from book one and there's an ongoing storyline. However, if you're fond of Noir/suspense books, you don't want to miss this series.
Pierce is having a bit of trouble adapting to his new life, whereas Miles is doing great in the Police Academy, top of his class and teacher's pet all rolled into one. This, of course, creates friction in their relationship, especially when one of Miles's trainers shows a special interest in him and Pierce is feeling inadequate and jealous. Add to that, that the case that Pierce's boss at the PI office is working has to do with Jeremy Vice and Pierce is all out of sorts and unsure.
Pierce is still his grumpy self, but he's not certain where he stands with Miles, now that Miles is doing so well at the Academy and that bleeds into almost everything he does. And Miles, well, I'm not going to say he's oblivious to this, although perhaps he is a bit, but he also has a lot on his plate with his training, helping his mom with his siblings and Pierce.
Sometimes reading a follow-up story with a newly established couple can be tricky. Recapturing the chemistry and what made them work in the previous installment(s) is not easy. However, I think Ms. Stovall did a great job here in Vice Enforcer, showing us a more, dare I say, vulnerable side to Pierce, and at the same time, Miles' growth and maturity. It wasn't an easy road, but I felt that they were more secure in their relationship at the end of this book than they were at the start, which is always a good thing in my book.
The case Pierce was working on was really interesting and well done, and while there's some romance, well, that's not the focus of the story. The book is gritty and dark and deals with human trafficking, so yeah, not your usual run-of-the-mill hearts-and-flowers-romance, I still enjoyed it, though, so I have no trouble recommending it!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by DSP Publications for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
April 3, 2018
3.5 stars- A little slower and lackluster at the start, but a great finish
I was surprised how much I enjoyed Vice City, the first book in this series, and after that book’s exciting conclusion, I was so looking forward to Vice Enforcer. Overall, I enjoyed it, but I think I was expecting a little more, both in excitement and in terms of the relationship deepening.
Once again, it took me a while to adjust to the writing style and first person narration by Pierce. Though this approach makes it easier to embrace Pierce’s character, the staccato rhythm is jarring at first. That said, the writing is very descriptive and it’s easy to get lost in the story. Vice Enforcer picks up many months after Vice City ends, treating readers to a new side of both Pierce and Miles, which was nice considering the intensity and violence that marked the first book. However, I kept finding myself antsy waiting for some of the action and suspense that are hallmarks of this author and series. I also found the romance between Miles and Pierce to be a little wanting. Though I wasn’t expecting hearts and flowers per say, I certainly didn’t expect the first half of the book to feel so flat. However, both the romance and action markedly picked up as the book progressed, pulling me in and making it difficult to put my e-reader down. The action of the latter chapters was fast-paced and dramatic and I really liked how the relationship between Miles and Pierce progressed at the end.
I have to admit to being a bit underwhelmed with Vice Enforcer at first, but it definitely ended up being a satisfying conclusion to Pierce and Miles’s story. If you’re a fan of redeemed anti-heroes or mafia books, this series is definitely worth the read.
Reviewed by Annie from Alpha Book Club
I was surprised how much I enjoyed Vice City, the first book in this series, and after that book’s exciting conclusion, I was so looking forward to Vice Enforcer. Overall, I enjoyed it, but I think I was expecting a little more, both in excitement and in terms of the relationship deepening.
Once again, it took me a while to adjust to the writing style and first person narration by Pierce. Though this approach makes it easier to embrace Pierce’s character, the staccato rhythm is jarring at first. That said, the writing is very descriptive and it’s easy to get lost in the story. Vice Enforcer picks up many months after Vice City ends, treating readers to a new side of both Pierce and Miles, which was nice considering the intensity and violence that marked the first book. However, I kept finding myself antsy waiting for some of the action and suspense that are hallmarks of this author and series. I also found the romance between Miles and Pierce to be a little wanting. Though I wasn’t expecting hearts and flowers per say, I certainly didn’t expect the first half of the book to feel so flat. However, both the romance and action markedly picked up as the book progressed, pulling me in and making it difficult to put my e-reader down. The action of the latter chapters was fast-paced and dramatic and I really liked how the relationship between Miles and Pierce progressed at the end.
I have to admit to being a bit underwhelmed with Vice Enforcer at first, but it definitely ended up being a satisfying conclusion to Pierce and Miles’s story. If you’re a fan of redeemed anti-heroes or mafia books, this series is definitely worth the read.
Reviewed by Annie from Alpha Book Club
April 4, 2018
A few months have passed since the end of the first book. Pierce is training to be a PI, and Miles is in the police academy. During his PI training, Pierce gets mixed up with his trainer in looking into a human trafficking ring.
I liked that although the human trafficking ring was present it wasn't at the forefront of the book which focused more on the lives of Miles and Pierce and Miles' siblings.
It ends in a good place but I think there is definitely more in this series.
I liked that although the human trafficking ring was present it wasn't at the forefront of the book which focused more on the lives of Miles and Pierce and Miles' siblings.
It ends in a good place but I think there is definitely more in this series.
Read
April 4, 2018A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
Vice Enforcer is the direct sequel to Vice City and you really need to read the first book in the series to fully understand what’s happening here. Vice Enforcer picks up months after Pierce faked his death and fled with Miles. Oddly, they didn’t go very far, just to a nearby city. If I were trying to escape the mob, I’d probably think about going a bit further, but we’ll leave that for now. Miles is the top of his class at the police academy and seems to have a bright career in front of him. But Pierce is definitely struggling to adjust to the slower paced life of a PI trainee and part time terrible gardener. And that struggle is really at the heart of this book. The author does an excellent job of showing the chasm that has sprung up between Miles and Pierce, despite their love for one another. Pierce has lost his position of power, both in his profession and in their relationship, and he’s not exactly known for his flexibility. Pierce is as surly, brusque, and rude as ever, but now he seems adrift and as a reader it’s easy to sympathize with him.
Some aspects of Vice Enforcer seem slightly contrived and the plot is definitely plays out with a bit too much obviousness. But the pacing is strong and there is a consistent sense of tension between the characters and the challenges they face. And Vice Enforcer does a better job of defining itself when compared to its predecessor. There is less ambiguity and a better sense what kind of genre it wants to be. It’s not a perfect fix, but there is definite improvement. One complaint I have is how the age difference between Miles and Pierce is portrayed. Miles is 21 and Pierce is in his late 30s. Now I appreciate there is well over a decade that separates them, but Pierce is often described as borderline decrepit. There is no doubt Pierce had lived a hard life and that kind of darkness is bound to attach itself to a man, but there is a limit to that and if often felt as though the author wanted to pound the idea of their age difference into readers by any means necessary.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
Vice Enforcer is the direct sequel to Vice City and you really need to read the first book in the series to fully understand what’s happening here. Vice Enforcer picks up months after Pierce faked his death and fled with Miles. Oddly, they didn’t go very far, just to a nearby city. If I were trying to escape the mob, I’d probably think about going a bit further, but we’ll leave that for now. Miles is the top of his class at the police academy and seems to have a bright career in front of him. But Pierce is definitely struggling to adjust to the slower paced life of a PI trainee and part time terrible gardener. And that struggle is really at the heart of this book. The author does an excellent job of showing the chasm that has sprung up between Miles and Pierce, despite their love for one another. Pierce has lost his position of power, both in his profession and in their relationship, and he’s not exactly known for his flexibility. Pierce is as surly, brusque, and rude as ever, but now he seems adrift and as a reader it’s easy to sympathize with him.
Some aspects of Vice Enforcer seem slightly contrived and the plot is definitely plays out with a bit too much obviousness. But the pacing is strong and there is a consistent sense of tension between the characters and the challenges they face. And Vice Enforcer does a better job of defining itself when compared to its predecessor. There is less ambiguity and a better sense what kind of genre it wants to be. It’s not a perfect fix, but there is definite improvement. One complaint I have is how the age difference between Miles and Pierce is portrayed. Miles is 21 and Pierce is in his late 30s. Now I appreciate there is well over a decade that separates them, but Pierce is often described as borderline decrepit. There is no doubt Pierce had lived a hard life and that kind of darkness is bound to attach itself to a man, but there is a limit to that and if often felt as though the author wanted to pound the idea of their age difference into readers by any means necessary.
Read Sue’s review in its entirety here.
April 7, 2018
This book picks up where the exciting Vice City left off. Nicholas and Miles are now living different lives as they try to move on from their past. Miles is now training to be a police officer, and Nicholas is working towards getting his PI license. But it doesn’t take long to see that they haven’t put enough distance between them and their old life.
Nicholas is quickly pulled into the thick of things when the PI he is working under to obtain his required experience gets into some trouble and pulls Nicholas right into the middle of it all. He finds himself forced to tread in the same waters as Jeremy Vice when he wants nothing more than to keep off that man’s radar.
Meanwhile, one of Miles’ superiors is making waves and asking questions about Nicholas and their relationship sending up more red flags for them. The combination of things doesn’t help convince Nicholas that Miles isn’t better off without him, that Miles is with him out of some misplaced obligation, etc. Underlying it all though is the fact that Nicholas truly wants what’s best for Miles and wants him to be happy. This shows in many ways, one of which is how much he puts up with Miles’ siblings, who also make things difficult for Nicholas.
It doesn’t take long, however, for Miles to convince Nicholas of his feelings and need for him. There is much more to them than their shared past, and while this isn’t overly sweet or romantic, there are definitely some feelgood romantic moments. But, things pretty much follow the same path as the previous book in that regard, which is what had me so captivated about these two in the first place. Even though you can’t see a way for them to be together and be happy, they find a way and you find yourself rooting for them the whole time. You should definitely read Vice City to truly understand how these two built their relationship and how much they really mean to each other. I was not disappointed with this installment and hope to see more of them in the future.
Review written for Love Bytes Reviews.
October 7, 2018
This book was provided for free by the author in exchange for an honest review via the MMRG Don’t Buy My Love Program.
Vice Enforcer by S.A. Stovall
Vice City #2
Themes: M/M, Mafia, Crime, PI, Cops, Kidnapping Ring.
Stovall does it again. This one is better than the first. This isn't a fluffy romance. You're not going to find that here. Pierce is the definition of emotionally constipated. He's a true anti-hero, an ex-mafia enforcer who will kill to protect his own.
Pierce and Miles are hiding from Jeremy Vice, and establishing new lives when Pierce's PI trainer almost gets him killed during a surveillance mission.
Pierce gets wrapped up in a new mission that could endanger not just himself, but the family he and Miles are building.
Meanwhile, Miles is training with a charming police lieutenant named Rhett. He's smart, charismatic, onto Pierce, and a little too interested in Miles. Pierce hates his guts.
This is probably my favorite book since the Cut and Run series by Abigail Roux.
It's not for everyone -- a little dubcon, if you squint, dark, gritty, and unapologetic. Occasionally crude and bombastic. But I honestly can't wait for another installation. A true 5-star review, I thoroughly enjoyed it. I like how realistic the characters are. How determined Miles is, even how insistent Pierce is about seeing himself as a bad person, and his dry, deadpan sense of humor.
So, will we be seeing more of Rhett?
Vice Enforcer by S.A. Stovall
Vice City #2
Themes: M/M, Mafia, Crime, PI, Cops, Kidnapping Ring.
Stovall does it again. This one is better than the first. This isn't a fluffy romance. You're not going to find that here. Pierce is the definition of emotionally constipated. He's a true anti-hero, an ex-mafia enforcer who will kill to protect his own.
Pierce and Miles are hiding from Jeremy Vice, and establishing new lives when Pierce's PI trainer almost gets him killed during a surveillance mission.
Pierce gets wrapped up in a new mission that could endanger not just himself, but the family he and Miles are building.
Meanwhile, Miles is training with a charming police lieutenant named Rhett. He's smart, charismatic, onto Pierce, and a little too interested in Miles. Pierce hates his guts.
This is probably my favorite book since the Cut and Run series by Abigail Roux.
It's not for everyone -- a little dubcon, if you squint, dark, gritty, and unapologetic. Occasionally crude and bombastic. But I honestly can't wait for another installation. A true 5-star review, I thoroughly enjoyed it. I like how realistic the characters are. How determined Miles is, even how insistent Pierce is about seeing himself as a bad person, and his dry, deadpan sense of humor.
So, will we be seeing more of Rhett?
April 9, 2018
~ 4.5 Stars ~
To escape what’s left of the notorious Vice family in Noimore, Illinois, Nicholas Pierce finds himself with a new identity as Percy Adams. He now has a new life, along with Miles, in Joliet, where he’s now working with the Michael Shelby Private Investigative company to get his PI license. His boss, Shelby, has Pierce and Miles out on a case that turns into a shocker for Pierce—and that says a lot after what he’s seen and done. When the police get involved, Shelby is willing to give Pierce his PI license if he continues with the case. But, not before Shelby warns Pierce not to get the police involved.
Miles is still the best thing that’s ever happened to Pierce, and sometimes he tries not to really think about it. Miles has been more than a support system to Pierce and has stuck with him through some dangerous times. With their new start, Miles is now in training at the police academy, doing well, and has caught the eye of Lieutenant Rhett Walker, his instructor. That doesn’t sit well with Pierce; he doesn’t trust Rhett at all.
Besides dealing with Miles’ irritating brother, young sister, a little neighbor girl, and a garden that doesn’t grow, Pierce finds himself and Miles in danger. They continue with the weird and horrific trafficking case—but not without Pierce being accused of a murder as well as the fear of being sent back into the clutches of Jeremy Vice.
I really got into this sequel to Vice City mostly because of Pierce, and I honestly have to say this was even better than the first book—and that one was very good. Pierce still portrays himself as a tough guy, but he’s gradually changing. He’s really trying to be strong, but Miles has a way that breaks him down. It’s interesting to watch Pierce go through so many emotions that encompass his feelings for Miles. Miles has a somewhat calm personality and is just low-key, but he and Pierce certainly have a unique chemistry. I like the idea of Pierce being a PI and Miles always being part of the crime solving. His knowledge of the law sort of keeps Pierce on the straight and narrow, which he’s not used to.
This is definitely a page-turner. I liked the danger, grit, the snark and things do get bloody. The plot and action scenes are intense and well written. This is one wild ride, and there was no way to guess what was going to happen next.
I highly suggest reading Vice City before tackling Vice Enforcer. There’s a lot to learn about Pierce and his connection to the notorious Vice family of Noimore. I’m hooked on this series and S.A. Stovall’s unique storytelling, and can’t wait to see what she creates for the next installment.
Reviewed by Maryann for The Novel Approach
To escape what’s left of the notorious Vice family in Noimore, Illinois, Nicholas Pierce finds himself with a new identity as Percy Adams. He now has a new life, along with Miles, in Joliet, where he’s now working with the Michael Shelby Private Investigative company to get his PI license. His boss, Shelby, has Pierce and Miles out on a case that turns into a shocker for Pierce—and that says a lot after what he’s seen and done. When the police get involved, Shelby is willing to give Pierce his PI license if he continues with the case. But, not before Shelby warns Pierce not to get the police involved.
Miles is still the best thing that’s ever happened to Pierce, and sometimes he tries not to really think about it. Miles has been more than a support system to Pierce and has stuck with him through some dangerous times. With their new start, Miles is now in training at the police academy, doing well, and has caught the eye of Lieutenant Rhett Walker, his instructor. That doesn’t sit well with Pierce; he doesn’t trust Rhett at all.
Besides dealing with Miles’ irritating brother, young sister, a little neighbor girl, and a garden that doesn’t grow, Pierce finds himself and Miles in danger. They continue with the weird and horrific trafficking case—but not without Pierce being accused of a murder as well as the fear of being sent back into the clutches of Jeremy Vice.
I really got into this sequel to Vice City mostly because of Pierce, and I honestly have to say this was even better than the first book—and that one was very good. Pierce still portrays himself as a tough guy, but he’s gradually changing. He’s really trying to be strong, but Miles has a way that breaks him down. It’s interesting to watch Pierce go through so many emotions that encompass his feelings for Miles. Miles has a somewhat calm personality and is just low-key, but he and Pierce certainly have a unique chemistry. I like the idea of Pierce being a PI and Miles always being part of the crime solving. His knowledge of the law sort of keeps Pierce on the straight and narrow, which he’s not used to.
This is definitely a page-turner. I liked the danger, grit, the snark and things do get bloody. The plot and action scenes are intense and well written. This is one wild ride, and there was no way to guess what was going to happen next.
I highly suggest reading Vice City before tackling Vice Enforcer. There’s a lot to learn about Pierce and his connection to the notorious Vice family of Noimore. I’m hooked on this series and S.A. Stovall’s unique storytelling, and can’t wait to see what she creates for the next installment.
Reviewed by Maryann for The Novel Approach
April 3, 2018
This book is an excellent continuation of the first book, and it takes the story to a place that I think it had to go to really work... the beginning of Pierce's road to the light.
The first book may have has his "redemption" moment when he gives up everything to save Miles, in a sense doing good to make up for all his bad, but since he survives the gesture he made he didn't intend to "survive", it falls on this book to deal with the "what's next" aspect of their story. What is next for a guy whose only skills are illegal, with no job history or degrees; what's next for a relationship that is both May-September and doesn't have as much in common as many, and what's next for a guy whose lives for action but still wants a domestic life. The answers, and the costs to acquiring them, are a huge part of what makes this story great.
But another huge part of why I like this series is the new/growing cast of secondary characters, from all walks of life; Jayden is back and fat, as is the precocious Lily; and we meet a grandma dealing with tragedy, a kinda closeted police officer, and a hard bitten P.I. out for revenge. They are a varied cast that is extremely interesting, and mostly likable in their own different ways. Not all of them make it!
Except for the first chapter, which opens rather excitingly, the first half to 2/3rds of the book mostly deals with domestic issues, with only occasional hints of the darker elements in the first one and what is the over-arcing plot, instead introducing new characters, following the slow burn mystery, and showing us Pierce struggling to adapt to his new life and trying to make a great family. The last third of the book, however, takes us hard back to the style of book one, when pierce unleashes his old skills to save those he cares about and take vengeance on those threatening them, and the end is all the better for the fact that we care about all the secondary characters by the time we get there; by the end of this book, I want to see not just Pierce and Miles story continue, but I want to see the stories of about 5-6 other characters play out.
As a side note, I am not personally into the gay sex scenes as a matter of personal preference, but the relationship is quite powerful and feels very real; I recommend this to anyone who won't be actively put off by the sex as the elements of crime noir, romance, character, and dark humor are all extremely strong on their own, making this a book with what is I feel alot more appeal than its niche alone would suggest.
Overall, I strongly recommend this book, and eagerly look forward to the next books in the series.
The first book may have has his "redemption" moment when he gives up everything to save Miles, in a sense doing good to make up for all his bad, but since he survives the gesture he made he didn't intend to "survive", it falls on this book to deal with the "what's next" aspect of their story. What is next for a guy whose only skills are illegal, with no job history or degrees; what's next for a relationship that is both May-September and doesn't have as much in common as many, and what's next for a guy whose lives for action but still wants a domestic life. The answers, and the costs to acquiring them, are a huge part of what makes this story great.
But another huge part of why I like this series is the new/growing cast of secondary characters, from all walks of life; Jayden is back and fat, as is the precocious Lily; and we meet a grandma dealing with tragedy, a kinda closeted police officer, and a hard bitten P.I. out for revenge. They are a varied cast that is extremely interesting, and mostly likable in their own different ways. Not all of them make it!
Except for the first chapter, which opens rather excitingly, the first half to 2/3rds of the book mostly deals with domestic issues, with only occasional hints of the darker elements in the first one and what is the over-arcing plot, instead introducing new characters, following the slow burn mystery, and showing us Pierce struggling to adapt to his new life and trying to make a great family. The last third of the book, however, takes us hard back to the style of book one, when pierce unleashes his old skills to save those he cares about and take vengeance on those threatening them, and the end is all the better for the fact that we care about all the secondary characters by the time we get there; by the end of this book, I want to see not just Pierce and Miles story continue, but I want to see the stories of about 5-6 other characters play out.
As a side note, I am not personally into the gay sex scenes as a matter of personal preference, but the relationship is quite powerful and feels very real; I recommend this to anyone who won't be actively put off by the sex as the elements of crime noir, romance, character, and dark humor are all extremely strong on their own, making this a book with what is I feel alot more appeal than its niche alone would suggest.
Overall, I strongly recommend this book, and eagerly look forward to the next books in the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 4, 2018
A Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words Review
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
For the full review visit https://wp.me/p220KL-dgT
From that review: " I fell in love with Pierce back in Vice City (Vice City, #1), a stunning introduction to the man and his lover,Miles Devonport. Now in the equally intense and incredible sequel, Vice Enforcer (Vice City #2) , S.A. Stovall picks up shortly after the first one leaves off. Supposedly mob enforcer Nicholas Pierce has "died" and PI in training Percy Adams (much to Pierce's dismay at the name) is alive and well and living with Miles in a rundown house in suburbia, along with visits from Miles brother and sister. And it's going exactly as well as you might expect."
For all our reviews, author interviews and such, visit us at http://scatteredthoughtsandroguewords...
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
For the full review visit https://wp.me/p220KL-dgT
From that review: " I fell in love with Pierce back in Vice City (Vice City, #1), a stunning introduction to the man and his lover,Miles Devonport. Now in the equally intense and incredible sequel, Vice Enforcer (Vice City #2) , S.A. Stovall picks up shortly after the first one leaves off. Supposedly mob enforcer Nicholas Pierce has "died" and PI in training Percy Adams (much to Pierce's dismay at the name) is alive and well and living with Miles in a rundown house in suburbia, along with visits from Miles brother and sister. And it's going exactly as well as you might expect."
For all our reviews, author interviews and such, visit us at http://scatteredthoughtsandroguewords...
April 16, 2018
If possible, I enjoyed this book MORE than Vice City.
Pierce is trying to start a new life with Miles...as a law abiding citizen and a PI in training. He's trying to smoke less, and has even started gardening, but trouble seems to find him--even in suburbia.
Pierce's new boss assigns him a case involving human traffickers--how's a former mob enforcer supposed to solve the case while staying within the confines of the law?
He can't even relax in his own home because Miles's siblings live with them. The next-door neighbor won't keep her nose out of his garden, and one of Miles's instructors has been asking very delicate questions about Pierce's past.
Of course the only luck Pierce has is bad luck, and it's about to get worse when Jeremy Vice finds out Pierce is still alive.
The suspense and action in this book kept me turning pages way past my bedtime!
Pierce is trying to start a new life with Miles...as a law abiding citizen and a PI in training. He's trying to smoke less, and has even started gardening, but trouble seems to find him--even in suburbia.
Pierce's new boss assigns him a case involving human traffickers--how's a former mob enforcer supposed to solve the case while staying within the confines of the law?
He can't even relax in his own home because Miles's siblings live with them. The next-door neighbor won't keep her nose out of his garden, and one of Miles's instructors has been asking very delicate questions about Pierce's past.
Of course the only luck Pierce has is bad luck, and it's about to get worse when Jeremy Vice finds out Pierce is still alive.
The suspense and action in this book kept me turning pages way past my bedtime!
January 3, 2019
Loved this series so much. Hopefully there will be a book 3.
Read
April 25, 2018Wow - a truly bad MC, gritty and tough but still SEXY. Paired up with a truly good MC. Ahh, what a match up. Of course, true loves wins out in the end. This is the 2nd book and you really do need to read the first one before this, although each book does have an "ending" the characters story can definitely continue longer.
May 8, 2018
This was even better than "Vice City" the first book in the series. Can't wait to see what S.A. Stovall
has cooked up for Pierce next.
has cooked up for Pierce next.
December 14, 2018
Back in 2017, I had a chance to read Vice City, which is the first book in this series. I had read that book in a few short days and was instantly hooked with the gritty and dark underground of Stovall's crime-ridden, mob family novel.
I'm not a detective fiction kind of guy, but the main character, Pierce, just seemed to latch onto me - and the fact that a mob enforcer was also gay? Here...take my money.
And now we have book two! Stovall does a fantastic job creating her crime underworld - complete with bad neighborhoods, rotten cops, even more rotten criminals, and derelict cityscapes. Pierce, once a brutal enforcer for a violent mob family, is now trying to make it 'straight' by becoming a Private Investigator. He clings onto the scraps of what's left of his human decency, an honor code if you will, of his own making, that served him well in book one, and also in book two. However, in this new installment, Pierce begins to grow as a respectable human being by questioning his past, what it means for him now, how that might influence his future. Most notably, Pierce constantly judges his relationship with his boyfriend Miles and the possible ramifications of his sordid past sullying Miles potential career as a cop.
But Miles is the glue. He holds everything together, confident and yet, still young and learning how to spread his own wings and be his own person. Miles is the 'don't worry, everything will be okay' kind of guy, and he's fiercely loyal. Pierce is trying so hard to be 'the good guy', but inevitably falling short. There are a few times throughout the story where his self deprecating evaluation of his abilities and worth gets to be a bit much - but then, it truly makes you feel for the guy. And that's commendable. After all - how do actually feel bad for someone whose special skill was back alley assassinations and sharp shooting gun fights?
And yet, here I am, rooting for Pierce, the once bad guy now turned sort-of good guy, the gay anti-hero, an ex-mob enforcer who loves his guy and will sacrifice himself to ensure a better life for his better half.
And then there's the whole human trafficking thing woven through this tale too! Honestly, Stovall did such a good job of making this seem as dirty and creepy and utterly disgusting as it really is...and makes me wonder - how DO you do research for that kind of story-telling? How do you become an expert in that?
This is not a warm and fuzzy read. This is gritty, dark, and violent (even the sex between Pierce and Miles is rough). But WOW, what a ride, and what a story.
Pick this up, and its predecessor. You won't be disappointed. Promise.
I'm not a detective fiction kind of guy, but the main character, Pierce, just seemed to latch onto me - and the fact that a mob enforcer was also gay? Here...take my money.
And now we have book two! Stovall does a fantastic job creating her crime underworld - complete with bad neighborhoods, rotten cops, even more rotten criminals, and derelict cityscapes. Pierce, once a brutal enforcer for a violent mob family, is now trying to make it 'straight' by becoming a Private Investigator. He clings onto the scraps of what's left of his human decency, an honor code if you will, of his own making, that served him well in book one, and also in book two. However, in this new installment, Pierce begins to grow as a respectable human being by questioning his past, what it means for him now, how that might influence his future. Most notably, Pierce constantly judges his relationship with his boyfriend Miles and the possible ramifications of his sordid past sullying Miles potential career as a cop.
But Miles is the glue. He holds everything together, confident and yet, still young and learning how to spread his own wings and be his own person. Miles is the 'don't worry, everything will be okay' kind of guy, and he's fiercely loyal. Pierce is trying so hard to be 'the good guy', but inevitably falling short. There are a few times throughout the story where his self deprecating evaluation of his abilities and worth gets to be a bit much - but then, it truly makes you feel for the guy. And that's commendable. After all - how do actually feel bad for someone whose special skill was back alley assassinations and sharp shooting gun fights?
And yet, here I am, rooting for Pierce, the once bad guy now turned sort-of good guy, the gay anti-hero, an ex-mob enforcer who loves his guy and will sacrifice himself to ensure a better life for his better half.
And then there's the whole human trafficking thing woven through this tale too! Honestly, Stovall did such a good job of making this seem as dirty and creepy and utterly disgusting as it really is...and makes me wonder - how DO you do research for that kind of story-telling? How do you become an expert in that?
This is not a warm and fuzzy read. This is gritty, dark, and violent (even the sex between Pierce and Miles is rough). But WOW, what a ride, and what a story.
Pick this up, and its predecessor. You won't be disappointed. Promise.
April 5, 2018
It says “Crime. Corruption. Death. Same shit, different day.” right there on the book cover, and it is a very accurate description of what this novel is all about. ‘Vice Enforcer’ is a very worthy sequel to ‘Vice City’ in every way that counts: Nicholas Pierce and Miles have grown only to face more challenges and are as intriguing as ever, the continuing threat of the mob, specifically the Vice family, is credible enough to freak me out, and the stakes are higher than ever. Dark and gritty, this is a peek into how tough it is to stay alive even when everyone assumes you are dead. It’s intense, nail-bitingly suspenseful, and contains a lot of violence and brutality – pretty much what you’d expect from a story like this. Oh – and I’d definitely recommend the first volume before this one, there is a lot of backstory (not to mention excitement) you’ll miss if you don’t.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
June 23, 2018
I loved the second book as much as I loved the first one. The characters were likable and pulled you in to wanting to know more about them. The story had just the right amount of stuff going on to keep ones interest as you read along. I thought the story kept a steady pace as things unraveled to show what was going on. Hope to read more from the author for a long time to come. I hope you enjoy the book as much as I did.
Thank you for sharing your book with us.
Thank you for sharing your book with us.
August 19, 2018
I really love the book one and was waiting for a sequel. But unfortunately i just flipped through this book. Long story short, i like alpha Pierce in the 1st book as much as i dislike "alpha Miles" behavior in the 2nd. I know he's matured but it was too much for me. Sometimes i wondered "Is this Miles or another character?"
October 5, 2018
This is a voluntary and honest review for an advanced copy
I was so happy to receive this second book because I thoroughly enjoyed the first one. I can say with absolute surety that this book was just as good.
In this book we see Pierce a little vulnerable.....don't be fooled though, he is still full-on dominant bad boy and would still kill you without thought or guilt if needed.
Miles is still kind of heart and still in ore of Pierce. He has become stronger in character and body and with his new inner strength he stands up to Pierce when needed.
They are both trying to keep their relationship on track, sorting through problems as and when they appear, but on top of that there is the fear of Pierce being discovered, threats to family, solving a human trafficking ring, dirty cops and not knowing who to trust.
This is a well written, exciting, fast paced story, not too predictable and I couldn't put it down. I would most definitely recommend this book but I suggest you read the first book. It wouldn't matter if you didn't but you would get a better feel for the characters.
I was so happy to receive this second book because I thoroughly enjoyed the first one. I can say with absolute surety that this book was just as good.
In this book we see Pierce a little vulnerable.....don't be fooled though, he is still full-on dominant bad boy and would still kill you without thought or guilt if needed.
Miles is still kind of heart and still in ore of Pierce. He has become stronger in character and body and with his new inner strength he stands up to Pierce when needed.
They are both trying to keep their relationship on track, sorting through problems as and when they appear, but on top of that there is the fear of Pierce being discovered, threats to family, solving a human trafficking ring, dirty cops and not knowing who to trust.
This is a well written, exciting, fast paced story, not too predictable and I couldn't put it down. I would most definitely recommend this book but I suggest you read the first book. It wouldn't matter if you didn't but you would get a better feel for the characters.
not-for-me
December 8, 2018I decided to DNF when I reached 25% and found myself wondering why anyone would like, much less love the mc when he was a jerk to everyone all of the time, at least to that point. I just wasn't in the mood to search for something positive about a character. Must have waited too long in between books in the series.
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