What do you think?
Rate this book
Guns n' Boys #8
A Breath of Innocence
“I would wait a lifetime for this.”
“You don’t have to wait anymore. I want you.”
Mark is done with flings. He is looking for something real, and he knows just where to find it. Years ago, he fell in love with Charlotte Elswood, but after saving her life, he made the difficult choice to stay in a cartel for the sake of his family.
Now, free of the bloodstained work, he’s ready to rekindle what he’s lost.
But in England, he meets someone who is also blond, blue-eyed, and irresistible. Problem is, Griffith Elswood is Charlotte’s brother. Should Mark even consider putting his hands all over an innocent who would push him away if he knew what kind of monster Mark is?
After years of homeschooling, Griffith wants nothing more than to finally spread his wings at university. Secretly, he dreams of meeting a man he can fall madly in love with. A man he would have all the firsts with. But it’s hard to trust anyone after witnessing his sister’s heartbreak.
When Mark moves in next door, Griffith reaches out despite his sister’s warnings. Mark is mysterious, experienced, cocky, and just oh-so-dreamy. Alternating between hot and cold, Mark’s presence sends Griffith into a frenzy of passion like he’s never known before. So hot in fact, it might just burn him if he isn’t careful.
POSSIBLE SPOILERS:
Themes: mafia, organized crime, family ties, secrets, innocence, British setting, dance, homophobia, in the closet, coming out, coming of age
Genre: M/M romance
Length: ~125,000 words (Book 8 in the series)
WARNING: Adult content. Scorching hot, explicit love scenes. Dark humor.
“You don’t have to wait anymore. I want you.”
Mark is done with flings. He is looking for something real, and he knows just where to find it. Years ago, he fell in love with Charlotte Elswood, but after saving her life, he made the difficult choice to stay in a cartel for the sake of his family.
Now, free of the bloodstained work, he’s ready to rekindle what he’s lost.
But in England, he meets someone who is also blond, blue-eyed, and irresistible. Problem is, Griffith Elswood is Charlotte’s brother. Should Mark even consider putting his hands all over an innocent who would push him away if he knew what kind of monster Mark is?
After years of homeschooling, Griffith wants nothing more than to finally spread his wings at university. Secretly, he dreams of meeting a man he can fall madly in love with. A man he would have all the firsts with. But it’s hard to trust anyone after witnessing his sister’s heartbreak.
When Mark moves in next door, Griffith reaches out despite his sister’s warnings. Mark is mysterious, experienced, cocky, and just oh-so-dreamy. Alternating between hot and cold, Mark’s presence sends Griffith into a frenzy of passion like he’s never known before. So hot in fact, it might just burn him if he isn’t careful.
POSSIBLE SPOILERS:
Themes: mafia, organized crime, family ties, secrets, innocence, British setting, dance, homophobia, in the closet, coming out, coming of age
Genre: M/M romance
Length: ~125,000 words (Book 8 in the series)
WARNING: Adult content. Scorching hot, explicit love scenes. Dark humor.
330 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 1, 2018
46 people are currently reading
574 people want to read
About the author
K.A. Merikan
130 books3,025 followers(Goodreads profile run by Kat)
K. A. Merikan is a duo of queer writers who don’t believe in following the well-trodden path. In their books you can dip your toe into dangerous romance with mafiosi, outlaw bikers and bad boys, all from the safety of your sofa. They love the weird and wonderful, stepping out of the box, and bending stereotypes both in life and in fiction. Their stories don’t shy away from exploring the darker side of M/M romance, and feature a variety of anti-heroes, rebels, misfits, and underdogs who go against the grain.
Be prepared for shocking twists, dark humor, raw emotions, and sizzling hot scenes.
K.A. Merikan also writes steamy M/M romcoms as Devon Doe.
e-mail: kamerikan@gmail.com
More information about ongoing projects, works in progress and publishing at:
K.A. Merikan’s author page: http://kamerikan.com
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/kamerikan
K. A. Merikan is a duo of queer writers who don’t believe in following the well-trodden path. In their books you can dip your toe into dangerous romance with mafiosi, outlaw bikers and bad boys, all from the safety of your sofa. They love the weird and wonderful, stepping out of the box, and bending stereotypes both in life and in fiction. Their stories don’t shy away from exploring the darker side of M/M romance, and feature a variety of anti-heroes, rebels, misfits, and underdogs who go against the grain.
Be prepared for shocking twists, dark humor, raw emotions, and sizzling hot scenes.
K.A. Merikan also writes steamy M/M romcoms as Devon Doe.
e-mail: kamerikan@gmail.com
More information about ongoing projects, works in progress and publishing at:
K.A. Merikan’s author page: http://kamerikan.com
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/kamerikan
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
May 13, 2018
"I am your shadow.Always there,always yours."
I feel as though I'm being a bit unfaithful to Dom and Seth here because this is definitely one of my favourite books in this series.The Mark in this book was not what I was expecting at all and he completely charmed me.
Mark is done with casual sex,he wants to settle down and find the one.The only person he's been in love with is Charlotte Elswood,a girl he met years ago in less than perfect circumstances.He travels to England hoping to reconnect with her,what he wasn't expecting was temptation to be put in his way in the form of her brother...
Griffith is sweet and innocent.He's led a pretty sheltered life after being home schooled and is finally ready to spread his wings when he starts University in Bristol.He's studying to become a Lawyer but dance is his real passion.When he meets Mark he's flustered,aroused,and more than ready to let his passion have free reign.Mark is all kinds of mysterious and insanely sexy and has Griffith longing for things he's surpressed.
This book is extremely sensual.While Dom and Seth are all raw passion,Mark and Griffith are extremely erotic together.The first time Mark watches Griffith dance was very moving,you could feel his attraction and desire ramping up.He knows how innocent Griffith is and tries to hold back but for how long?(...)"The more I know you,the more I adore you.I've tried to be chill about it,but I can't anymore."
And a delicious twist (that I totally didn't see coming),further complicates things...
Another fantastic book in this highly addictive series.Fans of this series will devour this and fall in love with Mark and Griffith.
Highly Recommended.
Review copy provided by the Authors.My reviews are posted on DirtyBooksObsession
![Profile Image for Imme [trying to crawl out of hiatus] van Gorp.](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1700013408i%2F101358081._UX200_CR0%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
March 8, 2025
|| 3.0 stars ||
I definitely liked this more than I thought I would. It’s been a while since I enjoyed anything in this series and I was really getting sick and tired of Domenico, so I guess it’s not surprising that I liked this book better now that it was finally about a different couple!
Mark and Griffith were incredibly different from Seth and Domenico, and it really did feel like a breath of fresh air (or innocence, I guess).
There was no toxicity and they were actually very cute. There was a sweet build-up with a lot of tenderness. I didn’t expect Mark to be so gentle, but he was. And Griffith was just a complete sweetheart, who deserved the absolute best.
I really liked the first half of this book the most, and got a little bored in the second half. I lost quite a lot of interest in them after they had sex for the first time since I enjoyed the build-up much more and the book became more smutty than I would have liked after that as well.
I also didn’t appreciate Mark dumping Griff for the son he didn’t know he had. Sure, he eventually changed his mind pretty quickly but it irked me that he even entertained the idea of shoving Griff to the side like that. Especially since he is supposed to adore Griff completely!
'Guns n' Boys' series:
1. He Is Poison - 3.0 stars
2. He Is Mine - 4.0 stars
3. Homicidal Instinct - 2.5 stars
4. Swamp Blood - 3.0 stars
5. Chokehold - 3.5 stars
6. Bloodbath - 2.0 stars
7. Gilded Agony - 1.5 stars
8. A Breath of Innocence - 3.0 stars
10. Black Lies - 1.5 stars
Other K.A. Merikan books:
‘Sex & Mayhem’ series - var. ratings
Mr. Jaguar - 3.0 stars
Not Like Other Boys - 4.5 stars
The Cattery - 3.5 stars
Break My Shell - 3.5 stars
The Black Sheep and The Rotten Apple - 3.5 stars
‘Kings of Hell MC’ series - var. ratings
Wrong Way Home - 4.0 star
‘Wrong Side of the Tracks’ series - var. ratings
I definitely liked this more than I thought I would. It’s been a while since I enjoyed anything in this series and I was really getting sick and tired of Domenico, so I guess it’s not surprising that I liked this book better now that it was finally about a different couple!
Mark and Griffith were incredibly different from Seth and Domenico, and it really did feel like a breath of fresh air (or innocence, I guess).
There was no toxicity and they were actually very cute. There was a sweet build-up with a lot of tenderness. I didn’t expect Mark to be so gentle, but he was. And Griffith was just a complete sweetheart, who deserved the absolute best.
I really liked the first half of this book the most, and got a little bored in the second half. I lost quite a lot of interest in them after they had sex for the first time since I enjoyed the build-up much more and the book became more smutty than I would have liked after that as well.
I also didn’t appreciate Mark dumping Griff for the son he didn’t know he had. Sure, he eventually changed his mind pretty quickly but it irked me that he even entertained the idea of shoving Griff to the side like that. Especially since he is supposed to adore Griff completely!
'Guns n' Boys' series:
1. He Is Poison - 3.0 stars
2. He Is Mine - 4.0 stars
3. Homicidal Instinct - 2.5 stars
4. Swamp Blood - 3.0 stars
5. Chokehold - 3.5 stars
6. Bloodbath - 2.0 stars
7. Gilded Agony - 1.5 stars
8. A Breath of Innocence - 3.0 stars
10. Black Lies - 1.5 stars
Other K.A. Merikan books:
‘Sex & Mayhem’ series - var. ratings
Mr. Jaguar - 3.0 stars
Not Like Other Boys - 4.5 stars
The Cattery - 3.5 stars
Break My Shell - 3.5 stars
The Black Sheep and The Rotten Apple - 3.5 stars
‘Kings of Hell MC’ series - var. ratings
Wrong Way Home - 4.0 star
‘Wrong Side of the Tracks’ series - var. ratings
May 16, 2018
4 Stars!
I had been anticipating Mark's book for some time now. We've been able to get into Mark's head here and there in previous books and our boy had always been a bit naïve in some situations and a quite reckless in his decisions. Another one of those decisions has taken him to England in hopes of rekindling a past love that he let go in order to stay with his family. Like most of Mark's previous decisions this one too lands him in a mess especially when he's met with nothing but hostility from the person he moved to England for.
Charlotte was the reason for Mark's rash decision to come to England but once he lands his eye on another blonde blue-eyed beauty his attention changes. Unfortunately this new distraction is Griffith who just happens to be Charlottes younger brother. But the more hostile Charlotte is the more the pull to Griffith becomes. Mark is hesitant to put his hands on the porcelain skin of Griffith out of fear of tarnishing him with his past. But Griffith's innocence and his dance moves are just too much and the pull too strong that Mark gives in. He's done with one night stands and wants to find the connection Dom and Seth have found. He is ready for something real and thinks he just might have found it in this beautiful boy.
Griffith is nearing his 18th birthday and is desperate to be out of his parents clutches. Ever since Charlotte disappeared in Columbia (she returned later) his parents has had a tight leash on him. He was forced to leave his boarding school to be homeschooled and didn't have the chance to make many friends or a chance to date. So to say he is eager to be on his own at UNI is an understatement. But even at school his choices are clouded by his parents and decides to study law. If Griffith could have all his dreams come true it would to meet a man and fall in love and to study dancing and to make it his future living. Meeting Mark makes all his dreams a possibility. Mark brings out feelings in Griffith that leaves him feeling flustered, turned on, and at times, confident. Although he's repeatedly warned by his sister that Mark is nothing but poison and to stay away from him Griffith just can't. Mark has a hold on him that he refuses to deny himself of any longer.
This relationship was vastly different from Dom and Seth's. Literally like night and day. While there was passion between these two it was a different brand from Mark's fathers. Mark and Griffith's passion was sweet carnal desire with a touch of kink. Seth and Dom's passion is fierce and all consuming. I liked that it was different. I liked that we got to see a more mature and put together Mark falling in love.
Don't let all that talk of sweetness fool you though. Mark lets out his Domenico side a couple times. And I did mention Mark lands himself in a mess and I wasn't joking. There's a surprise thrown at us as well that was so far from my mind that I was like, "what!?". But soon after the shock I was like, "aw!". It definitely made Mark's situation more messy and complicated. But I was so happy with the way Mark handles it in the end. I didn't care for how he dealt with it at first. Nope.
I'm not completely sure why this wasn't a 5 star read for me. I just felt like I was missing something. Or maybe it was someone's. I didn't get enough of Dom and Seth in this. The little I did get made me want to re-read their books all over. Ugh! The hold that this couple has on me is not healthy. LOL
This book was amazing in it's own. I loved Griffith for Mark. He needed someone sweet after all he's been through.
I can not wait for the next book. I hate waiting for these men but getting the new book is always worth it.
Happy reading dolls! xx
ARC kindly given by the authors in exchange for an honest review.
I had been anticipating Mark's book for some time now. We've been able to get into Mark's head here and there in previous books and our boy had always been a bit naïve in some situations and a quite reckless in his decisions. Another one of those decisions has taken him to England in hopes of rekindling a past love that he let go in order to stay with his family. Like most of Mark's previous decisions this one too lands him in a mess especially when he's met with nothing but hostility from the person he moved to England for.
Charlotte was the reason for Mark's rash decision to come to England but once he lands his eye on another blonde blue-eyed beauty his attention changes. Unfortunately this new distraction is Griffith who just happens to be Charlottes younger brother. But the more hostile Charlotte is the more the pull to Griffith becomes. Mark is hesitant to put his hands on the porcelain skin of Griffith out of fear of tarnishing him with his past. But Griffith's innocence and his dance moves are just too much and the pull too strong that Mark gives in. He's done with one night stands and wants to find the connection Dom and Seth have found. He is ready for something real and thinks he just might have found it in this beautiful boy.
Griffith is nearing his 18th birthday and is desperate to be out of his parents clutches. Ever since Charlotte disappeared in Columbia (she returned later) his parents has had a tight leash on him. He was forced to leave his boarding school to be homeschooled and didn't have the chance to make many friends or a chance to date. So to say he is eager to be on his own at UNI is an understatement. But even at school his choices are clouded by his parents and decides to study law. If Griffith could have all his dreams come true it would to meet a man and fall in love and to study dancing and to make it his future living. Meeting Mark makes all his dreams a possibility. Mark brings out feelings in Griffith that leaves him feeling flustered, turned on, and at times, confident. Although he's repeatedly warned by his sister that Mark is nothing but poison and to stay away from him Griffith just can't. Mark has a hold on him that he refuses to deny himself of any longer.
This relationship was vastly different from Dom and Seth's. Literally like night and day. While there was passion between these two it was a different brand from Mark's fathers. Mark and Griffith's passion was sweet carnal desire with a touch of kink. Seth and Dom's passion is fierce and all consuming. I liked that it was different. I liked that we got to see a more mature and put together Mark falling in love.
Don't let all that talk of sweetness fool you though. Mark lets out his Domenico side a couple times. And I did mention Mark lands himself in a mess and I wasn't joking. There's a surprise thrown at us as well that was so far from my mind that I was like, "what!?". But soon after the shock I was like, "aw!". It definitely made Mark's situation more messy and complicated. But I was so happy with the way Mark handles it in the end. I didn't care for how he dealt with it at first. Nope.
I'm not completely sure why this wasn't a 5 star read for me. I just felt like I was missing something. Or maybe it was someone's. I didn't get enough of Dom and Seth in this. The little I did get made me want to re-read their books all over. Ugh! The hold that this couple has on me is not healthy. LOL
This book was amazing in it's own. I loved Griffith for Mark. He needed someone sweet after all he's been through.
I can not wait for the next book. I hate waiting for these men but getting the new book is always worth it.
Happy reading dolls! xx
ARC kindly given by the authors in exchange for an honest review.
Read
May 5, 2018
Mark meets his beau.
Coming in 2018 thanks to the support on Patreon ( https://www.patreon.com/kamerikan )
We wouldn't have been able to write another book in this series this year otherwise, so we're over the moon that we got the support to write Mark's book!
*
“I would wait a lifetime for this.”
“You don’t have to wait anymore. I want you.”
Mark is done with flings. He is looking for something real, and he knows just where to find it. Years ago, he fell in love with Charlotte Elswood, but after saving her life, he made the difficult choice to stay in a cartel for the sake of his family.
Now, free of the bloodstained work, he’s ready to rekindle what he’s lost.
But in England, he meets someone who is also blond, blue-eyed, and irresistible. Problem is, Griffith Elswood is Charlotte’s brother. Should Mark even consider putting his hands all over an innocent who would push him away if he knew what kind of monster Mark is?
After years of homeschooling, Griffith wants nothing more than to finally spread his wings at university. Secretly, he dreams of meeting a man he can fall madly in love with. A man he would have all the firsts with. But it’s hard to trust anyone after witnessing his sister’s heartbreak.
When Mark moves in next door, Griffith reaches out despite his sister’s warnings. Mark is mysterious, experienced, cocky, and just oh-so-dreamy. Alternating between hot and cold, Mark’s presence sends Griffith into a frenzy of passion like he’s never known before. So hot in fact, it might just burn him if he isn’t careful.
POSSIBLE SPOILERS:
Themes: mafia, organized crime, family ties, secrets, innocence, British setting, dance, homophobia, in the closet, coming out, coming of age
Genre: M/M romance
Length: ~125,000 words (Book 8 in the series)
WARNING: Adult content. Scorching hot, explicit love scenes. Dark humor.
PINTEREST! :) - https://www.pinterest.co.uk/KAMerikan...
March 24, 2023
*4.35*
His lies were good enough to convince the angel-faced boy to invite a wolf into his home with a smile.
I’m like a broken record reviewing the books in the series. They are a bit like children, I love each in a different way.
I’m still on the fence about the dynamics in this one. If it had just been Mark and Grif, this would’ve been an incredible love story. But the added family involvement made everything feel awkward and overly dramatic.
In true Merikan fashion, the chemistry between Grif and Mark simmered just right. Their first sex scene was intimate, tender, and sweetly passionate. Mark has matured so much, but he still holds the belief that he is unworthy.
His heart skipped a beat, and it was as if this time it was him coming alive, awaking to a possibility that maybe, just maybe, he was worthy of this beautiful boy.
As for Grif, he’s wonderfully sweet, but I don’t know that he has the stomach or the emotional maturity to handle being a part of this unique family. Time will tell.
I loved the video chats with Seth and Dom…who really gives terrible relationship advice, but means well.
Spoiler below:
*
*
*
I’m like a broken record reviewing the books in the series. They are a bit like children, I love each in a different way.
I’m still on the fence about the dynamics in this one. If it had just been Mark and Grif, this would’ve been an incredible love story. But the added family involvement made everything feel awkward and overly dramatic.
In true Merikan fashion, the chemistry between Grif and Mark simmered just right. Their first sex scene was intimate, tender, and sweetly passionate. Mark has matured so much, but he still holds the belief that he is unworthy.
His heart skipped a beat, and it was as if this time it was him coming alive, awaking to a possibility that maybe, just maybe, he was worthy of this beautiful boy.
As for Grif, he’s wonderfully sweet, but I don’t know that he has the stomach or the emotional maturity to handle being a part of this unique family. Time will tell.
I loved the video chats with Seth and Dom…who really gives terrible relationship advice, but means well.
Spoiler below:
*
*
*
May 10, 2018
4,25 stars
After the previous book, Guns n' Boys: Gilded Agony, which I absolutely adored, I think I had too high expectations for this one.
If you usually enjoy super sweet and pretty angst-free books, then you'll love it. I did too, but not as much as the other books in this series.
Here we got Mark's story. We get only a few glimpses of Dom and Seth, but those short scenes made my heart ache. I miss them so much!!! Well they're my favorite couple of all times!!!
This story was really sweet and so different from what I'm used to get from this series. It moved a little slow at first and angst was at minimum. Griff was so pure and trusting, naive even. It took me a while to warm up on him. And they were hot together, but I will have to admit I still can't say they blew my mind.
We get some unexpected news. And one was really unbelievable. Trust these awesome authors to surprise you!
It's actually a slow-burn romance, out-for-you and losing V-card. It has all the ingredients for a great story, good chemistry and smoking hot scenes. It was a little too sweet for my taste though. I missed the suspense and the action these authors provided in the previous books, so this is the reason I'm not rating it with 5 stars.
I loved the writing and I can't wait to read more! After reading the post-credits scenes I am super excited!! And afraid for Mark and Griff.
I will probably reread the previous books until book #9 is out.
ARC kindly provided by the authors.
After the previous book, Guns n' Boys: Gilded Agony, which I absolutely adored, I think I had too high expectations for this one.
If you usually enjoy super sweet and pretty angst-free books, then you'll love it. I did too, but not as much as the other books in this series.
Here we got Mark's story. We get only a few glimpses of Dom and Seth, but those short scenes made my heart ache. I miss them so much!!! Well they're my favorite couple of all times!!!
This story was really sweet and so different from what I'm used to get from this series. It moved a little slow at first and angst was at minimum. Griff was so pure and trusting, naive even. It took me a while to warm up on him. And they were hot together, but I will have to admit I still can't say they blew my mind.
We get some unexpected news. And one was really unbelievable. Trust these awesome authors to surprise you!
It's actually a slow-burn romance, out-for-you and losing V-card. It has all the ingredients for a great story, good chemistry and smoking hot scenes. It was a little too sweet for my taste though. I missed the suspense and the action these authors provided in the previous books, so this is the reason I'm not rating it with 5 stars.
I loved the writing and I can't wait to read more! After reading the post-credits scenes I am super excited!! And afraid for Mark and Griff.
I will probably reread the previous books until book #9 is out.
ARC kindly provided by the authors.
October 24, 2018
At 21, Mark Vincitore is ready to pursue his photography interests and wants to see if he still has a chance with the one that got away. Off to England, Mark has a plan until he starts to really see the appeal of the fresh-faced beautiful man he has befriended. With Mark’s tainted past, he has to be cautious for many reasons, but for the first time, he wants to be a better man.
“Was it so wrong of Mark to just want someone sweet and pliant for once? A late birthday present to himself in the form of a boy with skin like rose petals. He wouldn’t hurt the pretty thing. He’d be gentle, take his time, and show Griff the ropes.”
Griffith “Griff” Elswood is newly 18 years old and is pursuing a law degree at university to please his parents, though his passion is ballet dancing. Luckily, Griff can practice dance in his private studio and he manages to capture the audience of Mark. Inexperienced in relationships and not out with his orientation, Griff wants to take it slow.
“He watched Mark’s hand for a moment before glancing to his handsome face. Everything about him was mysterious, as if he were the hero of an urban fantasy novel about to reveal his true form.”
With Mark being sexually experienced, he recognizes the innocence in Griff and that only makes him more attractive. By witnessing his dads and how intense their relationship can be, Mark wants a real connection like they share and Griff offers that ray of hope. Gentle and kind, Griff feels the pull to Mark’s dominance but he also gets to see the vulnerable side Mark has hidden away for years. Not to mention the sizzling chemistry they share.
“He let Griff pull him in and gently kissed the soft lips that he craved more than even Seth’s baking. His heart skipped a beat, and it was as if this time it was him coming alive, awaking to a possibility that maybe, just maybe, he was worthy of this beautiful boy.”
Trying to avoid the fallout from what happened years ago in the jungle, Mark must protect his family and doesn’t want Griff to learn the truth of his dark past. But with a constant reminder in their life, secrets come to the forefront and they choose to find strength in each other. I was definitely surprised by one plot point, and the way Mark chose to handle it, really showcased his true nature.
Being the eighth book in the Gun n’ Boys series, it was time for Mark to establish himself as adult and accept that he’s capable of being loved. To see Mark have some of Dom’s characteristics was sexy and humorous at times, but he’s also well rounded by his own personality and Seth’s softer side. Griff is absolutely adorable in his naiveté and balances Mark perfectly.
A Breath of Innocence is a coming of age romance between two people from very different walks of life. It’s sweet and sexy, and for fans of the Guns n’ Boys series, it’s a must read.
Guns n’ Boys Series:
For more reviews/reveals/giveaways visit:
May 12, 2018
Our Mark is finally all grown up and being laid low by love. After the injury that lost him his eye, Mark decides he wants more from life. Deciding to go to Bristol, UK to see if things could be worked out with Charlotte, he finds, instead, a less than warm welcome. He also finds that her brother makes Mark's heart beat faster than Charlotte ever did.
I've been looking forward to Mark's story for what seems like ages. He's young, but he had to grow up so fast. He's experienced in way more than just sex, but he's rather new at the love thing, so Mark doesn't always think things through. It was fun watching him navigate those waters and even a little funny when I could see Dom's influence in Mark's actions. Mark is determined to be his own man, though, and I'm pretty damn proud of him.
Griffith Elswood is the younger brother of Charlotte, who was introduced in Guns n' Boys: Bloodbath. Griffith is not quite 18 when the book starts, and is rather reserved. and has been over-sheltered since his sister returned from Columbia 3 years ago. Griff has spirit, though, and he's eager to make his own way. He tries to do what is expected of him and follow his parents wishes, but his real passion is dancing. He's beautiful, graceful, innocent, and full of life and that attracts Mark like a moth to a flame.
I so enjoyed this story! I loved the push and pull between Griff and Mark. I loved the sensual spark between them. I even loved the conflict between Mark and Charlotte - I don't blame her for being angry and not trusting Mark. She went through so much and was left to deal with the aftermath on her own. She couldn't get proper counselling, either, because she couldn't talk about what really happened, so her anger was not only understandable, but completely on point. Mark was often a bit surprising now that he's on his own, too. He really wants to take a different path from Dom & Seth. He wants a somewhat normal life. He has a lot to prove in many ways, but I think he'll do just fine.
Those "post-credits", though -- What the hell are we in for in book 9?!
------------------
ARC of Guns n' Boys: A Breath of Innocence was generously provided by the authors, in exchange for an honest review.
I've been looking forward to Mark's story for what seems like ages. He's young, but he had to grow up so fast. He's experienced in way more than just sex, but he's rather new at the love thing, so Mark doesn't always think things through. It was fun watching him navigate those waters and even a little funny when I could see Dom's influence in Mark's actions. Mark is determined to be his own man, though, and I'm pretty damn proud of him.
Griffith Elswood is the younger brother of Charlotte, who was introduced in Guns n' Boys: Bloodbath. Griffith is not quite 18 when the book starts, and is rather reserved. and has been over-sheltered since his sister returned from Columbia 3 years ago. Griff has spirit, though, and he's eager to make his own way. He tries to do what is expected of him and follow his parents wishes, but his real passion is dancing. He's beautiful, graceful, innocent, and full of life and that attracts Mark like a moth to a flame.
"I am your shadow. Always there, always yours."
I so enjoyed this story! I loved the push and pull between Griff and Mark. I loved the sensual spark between them. I even loved the conflict between Mark and Charlotte - I don't blame her for being angry and not trusting Mark. She went through so much and was left to deal with the aftermath on her own. She couldn't get proper counselling, either, because she couldn't talk about what really happened, so her anger was not only understandable, but completely on point. Mark was often a bit surprising now that he's on his own, too. He really wants to take a different path from Dom & Seth. He wants a somewhat normal life. He has a lot to prove in many ways, but I think he'll do just fine.
Those "post-credits", though -- What the hell are we in for in book 9?!
------------------
ARC of Guns n' Boys: A Breath of Innocence was generously provided by the authors, in exchange for an honest review.
May 10, 2018
Well, where to begin. I'm going to start with the end and the post credits scene and just say - wtf ladies! I don't like the look of that and it seems like things are going to be heating up again soon.
Now, back to this actual story and oh my, I don't think Mark and Griffin could have been any cuter if they tried. This really is a breath of innocence in the ever more murky world of Dom & Seth and the Mark we get here is almost like a new man.
He's followed Charlotte back to the UK but finds something else way more important and real when he meets her brother. I loved the dynamics between these two.
Mark's background and upbringing - and his experiences in the last book - have left him scarred but not bowed and he's determined to make a fresh start with an honest job after his studies.
Griff's 17 at the start, but his birthday follows quickly after the two meet, and he's young and naive and sees the world through the veneer of a rich but somewhat lonely upbringing.
There's the usual shocks galore but this one is missing the violence which is usually a hallmark of the series. That's not to say there isn't hurt aplenty and I wanted to hug them both many times (and punch Charlotte in the face a lot too!)
It was a different pace to the usual Guns n' Boys but no less enjoyable an experience and I was rooting for them both as much as I do for Dom & Seth. And how beautiful is the cover?!
#ARC kindly provided by the authors in return for an honest and unbiased review.
Now, back to this actual story and oh my, I don't think Mark and Griffin could have been any cuter if they tried. This really is a breath of innocence in the ever more murky world of Dom & Seth and the Mark we get here is almost like a new man.
He's followed Charlotte back to the UK but finds something else way more important and real when he meets her brother. I loved the dynamics between these two.
Mark's background and upbringing - and his experiences in the last book - have left him scarred but not bowed and he's determined to make a fresh start with an honest job after his studies.
Griff's 17 at the start, but his birthday follows quickly after the two meet, and he's young and naive and sees the world through the veneer of a rich but somewhat lonely upbringing.
There's the usual shocks galore but this one is missing the violence which is usually a hallmark of the series. That's not to say there isn't hurt aplenty and I wanted to hug them both many times (and punch Charlotte in the face a lot too!)
It was a different pace to the usual Guns n' Boys but no less enjoyable an experience and I was rooting for them both as much as I do for Dom & Seth. And how beautiful is the cover?!
#ARC kindly provided by the authors in return for an honest and unbiased review.
May 14, 2018
Our boy Mark is a man now and he had to travel to the other side of the world not only to find himself after everything that he lived for the last few years but also to find someone to love, that loves him back.
What a fun and interesting journey it was to meet innocent, pure and at times snob Griff.
Everything around this relationship was a disaster, it was like the universe telling Mark to back off but he is the son of Domenico so he learned from his dad that sometimes you have to take what you want and fuck the rest.
I loved reading Mark journey, at the beginning of the book he is looking for something else but the beauty and innocence that Griff posses kept calling to him.
Reading how he went from the brat kid that wouldn't stop talking to the insecure man that knows he is capable of a lot of things but never fit in was a balm to the soul. I did not expect him to be so sweet but omg, I swear this guy is a charmer and I completely understand why Griff fell so hard, Mark is definitely not like his dads.. well expect when you piss him off, I was cackling with glee when he acted like a total badass. I love love his development and this coming from someone that loathed him when he was introduced (sorry my son)
The big plot twist was handled in a way that I did not expect but was glad about the outcome, it leaves a lot of questions in the air but that's just part of the fun.
There's of course a few cameos by our favorite couple, Seth and Dom are well still Seth and Dom, I swear Dom is crazy. his bad advice and way meddling into things that he is not supposed cracks me up every damn time. Our boy Seth is well practically living his dream so it was beautiful seeing him so content with his life. Which is scary because we know Kat and Agnes are not going to let that fly for long.
This book is definitely only the beginning for Mark and Griff, there's too many things that need happen in this series and that are definitely going to involve them. I am very curious to see how the first meeting is going to go so I can't wait for the next book.
What a fun and interesting journey it was to meet innocent, pure and at times snob Griff.
Everything around this relationship was a disaster, it was like the universe telling Mark to back off but he is the son of Domenico so he learned from his dad that sometimes you have to take what you want and fuck the rest.
I loved reading Mark journey, at the beginning of the book he is looking for something else but the beauty and innocence that Griff posses kept calling to him.
Reading how he went from the brat kid that wouldn't stop talking to the insecure man that knows he is capable of a lot of things but never fit in was a balm to the soul. I did not expect him to be so sweet but omg, I swear this guy is a charmer and I completely understand why Griff fell so hard, Mark is definitely not like his dads.. well expect when you piss him off, I was cackling with glee when he acted like a total badass. I love love his development and this coming from someone that loathed him when he was introduced (sorry my son)
The big plot twist was handled in a way that I did not expect but was glad about the outcome, it leaves a lot of questions in the air but that's just part of the fun.
There's of course a few cameos by our favorite couple, Seth and Dom are well still Seth and Dom, I swear Dom is crazy. his bad advice and way meddling into things that he is not supposed cracks me up every damn time. Our boy Seth is well practically living his dream so it was beautiful seeing him so content with his life. Which is scary because we know Kat and Agnes are not going to let that fly for long.
This book is definitely only the beginning for Mark and Griff, there's too many things that need happen in this series and that are definitely going to involve them. I am very curious to see how the first meeting is going to go so I can't wait for the next book.
June 9, 2018
*** More Guns n' Boys series excitement here ! Mark was going to Bristol, UK, to take classes and get by on his own. But he also needed to see Charlotte and square things with her. Instead he first meets Griff on horseback and the desire is set. * Griffin, 18, is a law student and dancer, beautiful and untouched.
* Mark, 21, is Seth and Dom's adopted son, with an eye patch and studying photography.
We get to see Dom and Seth, our favorite bad boys, in their roles. Charlotte is Griff's sister, and refuses to talk to Mark, but the guys do get closer. They like being together, plus Mark saves Griff after he's drugged and being led to be raped by a so-called friend. They bond even tighter, sharing kisses and slowly going forward. Griff is marvelously talented as a dancer, not wanting to continue with law classes his dad wants.
This is not a typical wild, bloody adventure we usually see, but we see up and coming Mark, find his "one" and finds out Charlotte's secret. Gosh, Charlotte is a horrible, harpy of a person.
Through the reveal, it's devastation, we get to see just how deeply the guys emotions reach. It's love, but can they overcome the adversities?
Their sexy times are sensual, highly anticipated, sizzling, tender, and dirty talking is added to the mix. Mark makes Griff's first times absolutely perfect.
Mark is hot-blooded, sweet and a force of nature.
I loved this story with it's HFN. Of course we will see them again in the next books slated for the series.
K. A. Merikan, two amazing writers, have made this series an all time favorite of mine.
I highly recommend the series !
ENJOY !
=======
* Mark, 21, is Seth and Dom's adopted son, with an eye patch and studying photography.
We get to see Dom and Seth, our favorite bad boys, in their roles. Charlotte is Griff's sister, and refuses to talk to Mark, but the guys do get closer. They like being together, plus Mark saves Griff after he's drugged and being led to be raped by a so-called friend. They bond even tighter, sharing kisses and slowly going forward. Griff is marvelously talented as a dancer, not wanting to continue with law classes his dad wants.
This is not a typical wild, bloody adventure we usually see, but we see up and coming Mark, find his "one" and finds out Charlotte's secret. Gosh, Charlotte is a horrible, harpy of a person.
Through the reveal, it's devastation, we get to see just how deeply the guys emotions reach. It's love, but can they overcome the adversities?
Their sexy times are sensual, highly anticipated, sizzling, tender, and dirty talking is added to the mix. Mark makes Griff's first times absolutely perfect.
Mark is hot-blooded, sweet and a force of nature.
I loved this story with it's HFN. Of course we will see them again in the next books slated for the series.
K. A. Merikan, two amazing writers, have made this series an all time favorite of mine.
I highly recommend the series !
ENJOY !
=======
March 29, 2021
LIVRO TOTALMENTE DEDICADO AO MARK, FINALMENTE ELE CONHECEU SEU GRANDE AMOR!! FOI LINDOOOOOOOO. O Griff é um rapaz tão encantador que não tenho nem palavras para expressar, me apaixonei pelo personagem fofo que fizeram para ser aquele que finalmente faria o mark sossegar. Mark sempre almejou por um amor intenso, mas só tinha se metido em ficadas bizarras de sexo. Eu já tava cansada em ver mark dando com a cara no chão, o filho de Dom e Seth tbm merecia um grande amor... Encontrou nos braços gentis de Griffith ❤ Que situação loucaaaa, o grande amor de Mark foi ser logo o irmão mais novo de Charlotte😂😂😂 Essas escritoras criam situações tão doidas que vc fica igual aquele meme : QUE VIAGEM LOUCA É ESSA, VELHO? 😂 O livro 8 foi totalmente diferente dos outros de Gun's Boys, foi leve sem romance Dark e violência, a capa demonstra completamente a leveza que o griff mostrava ao dançar. Estou muito preocupada com a cena pós crédito, querem sequestrar griff e mark? Meu Deus do céu, preciso guardar esse casal num potinho e protegê-los! Imagina griff quando descobrir toda verdade sobre a família de mark. Não quero que griff seja machucado, mas é inevitável se ele é namorado do filho de Domenico acerbi.
May 15, 2018
This series has really evolved - this was beautiful and sweet ...Mark moves away to seek the one he thought he’d lost only to find another and then some ! This story was more heart and romantic rather than the usual blood, guts and guns approach- I did miss Dom & Seth but they did pop in to keep it real ! I feel like this is just the beginning and it will be great to see the clash of families, if this happens. I think Dom and Griffs mum will be fireworks LOL
I love this series so while it wasn’t as dark as usual I’ll take it !! I’m glad Mark has found his heart- he sure reminded me of Seth ❤️
I love this series so while it wasn’t as dark as usual I’ll take it !! I’m glad Mark has found his heart- he sure reminded me of Seth ❤️
June 5, 2018
Wow do I have the worst bookhangover from this one, I need soooo much more from Mark & Griffith. I was soooo not expecting to be swept away by their story & also blindsided. I am a huge fangirl for Seth & Dom, I can’t get enough of them- their intense love and passion, yet Mark & Griffith also caught me. Theirs is also intense but in a different way, it was so enjoyable watching them both fall for each other and I want to see their relationship develop more, they are so young.
June 6, 2018
I really love Mark!!
This one was very sweet.
Griffith is certainly 'a breath of innocence'...
I feel that we will have more books with them because, for me, the couple as sweet as they are doesn't feel very strong at the end.
Griffith being only 18 and Mark being his first... Well everything...
We'll see how their relationship goes...
So, As Mark decided in the last book, here he is, 2 years later (so 21 now) and landing in England in hope to reconnecting with Charlotte.
Except, as usual with this family, nothing is going according to plan....
Charlotte doesn't want to do anything with Mark and Mark, well... He has his eyes quickly distracted from her in the form of her little brother... Griffith (18)...
I liked this little dance (see what I did there) between the 2 of them.
It was sweet. Mark was seriously adorable, helping Griffith grow and accepting who he is and what he wants.
Like I said, It feels like the beginning of a longer story.
At the end I could feel Griffith immaturity and his questions that, for an 18 y/o who ever been with only 1 guy, well.. are kind of normal...
And Mark preoccupation regarding what he discovered, take the first place in his list of priorities..
However, I also felt their connection and love so... I imagine like with Seth & Dom, there will be some bump in the road... But Love will be at the end!!!
And I'll be waiting to see that.
This one was very sweet.
Griffith is certainly 'a breath of innocence'...
I feel that we will have more books with them because, for me, the couple as sweet as they are doesn't feel very strong at the end.
Griffith being only 18 and Mark being his first... Well everything...
We'll see how their relationship goes...
So, As Mark decided in the last book, here he is, 2 years later (so 21 now) and landing in England in hope to reconnecting with Charlotte.
Except, as usual with this family, nothing is going according to plan....
Charlotte doesn't want to do anything with Mark and Mark, well... He has his eyes quickly distracted from her in the form of her little brother... Griffith (18)...
I liked this little dance (see what I did there) between the 2 of them.
It was sweet. Mark was seriously adorable, helping Griffith grow and accepting who he is and what he wants.
Like I said, It feels like the beginning of a longer story.
At the end I could feel Griffith immaturity and his questions that, for an 18 y/o who ever been with only 1 guy, well.. are kind of normal...
And Mark preoccupation regarding what he discovered, take the first place in his list of priorities..
However, I also felt their connection and love so... I imagine like with Seth & Dom, there will be some bump in the road... But Love will be at the end!!!
And I'll be waiting to see that.
June 2, 2018
“I love you.” A flash of heat went through Mark as he watched the beautiful boy he didn’t deserve yet so deeply craved.
“You shouldn’t,”…
DAWWWW!!! Our boy Mark finally grew up and got his own book. But first, I need to get this off my chest. My heart beats for Domenico Acerbi! He didn’t make an appearance in this book but his phone calls to Mark stole the show for me. He owns every scene he's in.
Ok, so this was different. I always thought that Mark's story would be as dark and crazy as the rest of the Guns n' Boys series, but it's really not. It's actually sweet. I will admit that my twisted little heart wanted Mark to become Dom's right hand man and the guy who will take things over in the future. I don't know what will happen later on, but at this point Mark is not that man. I can understand this. He's young and he deserves a chance to live a normal life.
This is what he finds in Griffith, the sweet, blond, blue-eye dancer. Who also happens to be Charlotte's brother. And that's where shit hits the fan. Lies and secrets are waiting to come out and when they do, it's pretty ugly.
For all its sweetness, the story has a fair amount of angst and grovelling towards the end. I was also more than happy to see Griffith's wild side when you mess with him.
I'm still not sure how I feel about the secret that gets revealed at some point. I suspected early on it was about to happen and it definitely serves a purpose, but we shall see how it will play out.
For me, the story is not done. There are still things that wait to come out, important stuff about Mark that Griffith doesn't know, and the sneak peak in the end makes me think that all hell will break lose in the next book. I can't wait!
Recommended!
May 16, 2018
I loved this! I've loved Mark since he was first introduced in book 4 so I was sooo excited for him to get his own book. And Griff was just amazing. He was so so so sweet but still sooo sexy. I almost died of a stroke during the scene where he was showing off with the aerial silks and then the sex after. Oh my gosh!
But this was pretty low key compared to the previous books in the series. I knew it would be from all the teasers, and it is called A Breath of Innocence. But it was still way more tame than I had expected. I thought something was going to happen. Something or someone from one of the previous books coming book to haunt Mark. Or maybe a stalker that he would have to protect Griff from and get violent and expose his past to him. But this just ended up mostly being about dealing with Griff's family. Especially Charlotte. At the end of this Griff still doesnt know about Mark's criminal history. That is definitely going to blow up in his face in the next book and I can't wait! More of Griff combined with more of Dom and Seth's usual craziness is going to be great! I cant wait for book 9!
Even though this ended up being my least favourite book in the series, it was still great, and the set up for the future is so exciting, and I am so glad that Mark finally has someone of his own.
But this was pretty low key compared to the previous books in the series. I knew it would be from all the teasers, and it is called A Breath of Innocence. But it was still way more tame than I had expected. I thought something was going to happen. Something or someone from one of the previous books coming book to haunt Mark. Or maybe a stalker that he would have to protect Griff from and get violent and expose his past to him. But this just ended up mostly being about dealing with Griff's family. Especially Charlotte. At the end of this Griff still doesnt know about Mark's criminal history. That is definitely going to blow up in his face in the next book and I can't wait! More of Griff combined with more of Dom and Seth's usual craziness is going to be great! I cant wait for book 9!
Even though this ended up being my least favourite book in the series, it was still great, and the set up for the future is so exciting, and I am so glad that Mark finally has someone of his own.
May 17, 2018
Perfection. Review to come.
May 27, 2019
4.5 stars
Finally we get Mark's story. Seems like we've been waiting forever for him to get his happily ever after. We've watched him grow up alongside Dom and Seth and become the young man that he is today. Mark's been through a lot of shit in his young life but he's finally getting a much deserved break . And that break comes in the form of Griffith Elswood.
Griffith. Sweet, lovely Griffith. I adore him! Blushing at the smallest things, my precious little cherubim. He was indeed a breath of innocence, one that Mark desperately needed. Reading about their coming together just made me happy. While Mark originally goes to England to find Charlotte, his first love, he's surprised when he finds something much better instead: her brother Griffith. His feelings for Griffith take him by surprise but as soon as he sees Griffith's real self while dancing, he can't help but fall fast for him. His protective instincts kick in when it comes to Griffith, because honestly, Griff is just too sweet for this world and there are people who want to use that against him.
All Mark wants is a normal life for once, not constantly looking over his shoulder and no life and death situations. Just slowly getting to know the boy next door who's slowly but surely stealing his heart. The biggest problems come in the form of the Elswood family, because Charlotte is not just gonna let her innocent, younger brother date a "murderer". And well Dom, who just can't leave well enough alone, but really, would we want it any other way? Mark is trying to do right by everyone but it doesn't work out as he hopes and that's where the delicious angst kicks in. A Breath of Innocence read a bit like a sweet YA novel with mighty sexy parts thrown in and it was a welcome diversion from the dark and dangerous world that Seth and Dom live in.
Mark was like a completely different character here. Where before he sometimes came off as bratty and ungrateful, he really showed us how mature and sweet he can actually be. So unlike Dom :D I loved the way he treated and cared for Griff and he really wanted to do right by Charlotte and own his mistakes. A Breath of Innocence was the culmination of his growth as a character. He has come such a long way from the time we first met him in Blood Swamp. And Griffith is so good for him. He's exactly what Mark needs in his life.
Their relationship was sweet as sugar with the right amount of angst thrown in and the lovemaking sensual and erotic. All in all A Breath if Innocence was a wonderful feel good story and exactly what our little Marky deserved. I wonder how long Mark and Griff can stay in their little bubble though, because by the end it looks like the life is catching up with them and I need their next book now!
Finally we get Mark's story. Seems like we've been waiting forever for him to get his happily ever after. We've watched him grow up alongside Dom and Seth and become the young man that he is today. Mark's been through a lot of shit in his young life but he's finally getting a much deserved break . And that break comes in the form of Griffith Elswood.
Griffith. Sweet, lovely Griffith. I adore him! Blushing at the smallest things, my precious little cherubim. He was indeed a breath of innocence, one that Mark desperately needed. Reading about their coming together just made me happy. While Mark originally goes to England to find Charlotte, his first love, he's surprised when he finds something much better instead: her brother Griffith. His feelings for Griffith take him by surprise but as soon as he sees Griffith's real self while dancing, he can't help but fall fast for him. His protective instincts kick in when it comes to Griffith, because honestly, Griff is just too sweet for this world and there are people who want to use that against him.
All Mark wants is a normal life for once, not constantly looking over his shoulder and no life and death situations. Just slowly getting to know the boy next door who's slowly but surely stealing his heart. The biggest problems come in the form of the Elswood family, because Charlotte is not just gonna let her innocent, younger brother date a "murderer". And well Dom, who just can't leave well enough alone, but really, would we want it any other way? Mark is trying to do right by everyone but it doesn't work out as he hopes and that's where the delicious angst kicks in. A Breath of Innocence read a bit like a sweet YA novel with mighty sexy parts thrown in and it was a welcome diversion from the dark and dangerous world that Seth and Dom live in.
Mark was like a completely different character here. Where before he sometimes came off as bratty and ungrateful, he really showed us how mature and sweet he can actually be. So unlike Dom :D I loved the way he treated and cared for Griff and he really wanted to do right by Charlotte and own his mistakes. A Breath of Innocence was the culmination of his growth as a character. He has come such a long way from the time we first met him in Blood Swamp. And Griffith is so good for him. He's exactly what Mark needs in his life.
Their relationship was sweet as sugar with the right amount of angst thrown in and the lovemaking sensual and erotic. All in all A Breath if Innocence was a wonderful feel good story and exactly what our little Marky deserved. I wonder how long Mark and Griff can stay in their little bubble though, because by the end it looks like the life is catching up with them and I need their next book now!
January 25, 2020
4.5 stars
RTC...
~*~
A Breath of Innocence is like taking a nice, sweet breather (of innocence ;)) from the darkness, gore, violence, morally grayness of Dom and Seth. I love Dom and Seth and all the darkness that comes with their world, but this was a nice break from that, getting some sweetness and a little bit of fluff which is rare in this series so far.
Mark has moved to Bristol, England about a half a year or so after the events over the 7th book, ready to pick himself up and become a changed man. A young man who stops sleeping around just because he can and getting away from the violence of his world as well.
At first, he comes back to try again with Charlotte, feeling changed and grown enough to be with her, but Charlotte is having none of that - and it's more than hostility over Mark leaving her at the airport and not coming home with her. We find out why at some point in the book.
But pretty soon after her rejection, Mark pretty much forgets her, because her brother, Griffith starts to capture his heart.
Griffith is the total opposite of Mark, Dom, and Seth. He's sweet, he's kind, and he's adorable, and he's lived a fairly sheltered, rich life, growing up with rich parents. Griffith just hasn't come near the type of life Mark has had. He's unexpectedly everything Mark needs.
Griffith, who starts out this book 17 years old and turns 18 near the beginning, is struggling somewhat with his sexuality, even though he has a big 'ol crush on Mark. But he isn't out to anyone, and he's a virgin, and Mark is his first (real) kiss, his first everything.
Which means things happen slowly between these two. It takes about 3 months for more to happen between them, and even then there is a few starts and stops before they start to settle into coupledom.
These two were wonderful together. I absolutely loved them together, and I loved how sweet Mark was with Griffith, and how adorable Griffith was with Mark - not that Griffith was perfect, but adorable nonetheless.
Mark did show some of his dark side on occasions with Griffith, but Mark still never told the full extent of where he comes from to Griffith in this, which part of the reason I gave .5 to this. It was definitely set up as if there will be at least another book with these two - which may be why Mark didn't tell Griffith everything quite yet - but it still bothered me.
Mark tells him about his past before he met Seth and Dom, and he does tell the truth about Charlotte eventually and such, but Mark never tells Griffith about who exactly Dom and Seth are, what world they come from, and thus what world Mark comes from, how he'd been living his life the past 4 or 5 years.
But part of me also gets that that is a huge truth to reveal and who the hell knows how sweet, kind, innocent Griffith would react to that, and they hadn't been dating that long by the end of this, so I kind of understand. I just was still expecting it all to come to light by the end of this. We better get another book focused on these two, then, or else their ending will be slightly disappointing and feel incomplete.
Dom and Seth are only in this, really, through phone convos and facetime and such, but what little we do get of them, we get to see that they're happy and living their best life with each other :P
But that peace won't last forever, and I can't wait to get into the 9th book. I'm almost caught up with this series, ah!
This one, though, definitely worth a read. Should not be skipped, even though it's a different couple. It was still amazing.
Onto the next! :D
RTC...
~*~
A Breath of Innocence is like taking a nice, sweet breather (of innocence ;)) from the darkness, gore, violence, morally grayness of Dom and Seth. I love Dom and Seth and all the darkness that comes with their world, but this was a nice break from that, getting some sweetness and a little bit of fluff which is rare in this series so far.
Mark has moved to Bristol, England about a half a year or so after the events over the 7th book, ready to pick himself up and become a changed man. A young man who stops sleeping around just because he can and getting away from the violence of his world as well.
At first, he comes back to try again with Charlotte, feeling changed and grown enough to be with her, but Charlotte is having none of that - and it's more than hostility over Mark leaving her at the airport and not coming home with her. We find out why at some point in the book.
But pretty soon after her rejection, Mark pretty much forgets her, because her brother, Griffith starts to capture his heart.
Griffith is the total opposite of Mark, Dom, and Seth. He's sweet, he's kind, and he's adorable, and he's lived a fairly sheltered, rich life, growing up with rich parents. Griffith just hasn't come near the type of life Mark has had. He's unexpectedly everything Mark needs.
Griffith, who starts out this book 17 years old and turns 18 near the beginning, is struggling somewhat with his sexuality, even though he has a big 'ol crush on Mark. But he isn't out to anyone, and he's a virgin, and Mark is his first (real) kiss, his first everything.
Which means things happen slowly between these two. It takes about 3 months for more to happen between them, and even then there is a few starts and stops before they start to settle into coupledom.
These two were wonderful together. I absolutely loved them together, and I loved how sweet Mark was with Griffith, and how adorable Griffith was with Mark - not that Griffith was perfect, but adorable nonetheless.
Mark did show some of his dark side on occasions with Griffith, but Mark still never told the full extent of where he comes from to Griffith in this, which part of the reason I gave .5 to this. It was definitely set up as if there will be at least another book with these two - which may be why Mark didn't tell Griffith everything quite yet - but it still bothered me.
Mark tells him about his past before he met Seth and Dom, and he does tell the truth about Charlotte eventually and such, but Mark never tells Griffith about who exactly Dom and Seth are, what world they come from, and thus what world Mark comes from, how he'd been living his life the past 4 or 5 years.
But part of me also gets that that is a huge truth to reveal and who the hell knows how sweet, kind, innocent Griffith would react to that, and they hadn't been dating that long by the end of this, so I kind of understand. I just was still expecting it all to come to light by the end of this. We better get another book focused on these two, then, or else their ending will be slightly disappointing and feel incomplete.
Dom and Seth are only in this, really, through phone convos and facetime and such, but what little we do get of them, we get to see that they're happy and living their best life with each other :P
But that peace won't last forever, and I can't wait to get into the 9th book. I'm almost caught up with this series, ah!
This one, though, definitely worth a read. Should not be skipped, even though it's a different couple. It was still amazing.
Onto the next! :D
Want to read
March 22, 2018Coming in May?! Be still my beating heart....
June 28, 2018
Absolute Perfection, so in love with this book. 5+++ Love Mark!!!!!! I'm so happy he found his perfect man :-)
September 16, 2018
3.5 stars
October 1, 2019
I liked this book but didn’t love it. I’ve never been a huge fan of Mark, but we were shown a different side of him here. I just can’t see how Griff is going to fit in to this crazy family.
May 15, 2018
3.5
This book. Well, the Mark we get in this book is not the same Mark we are used to. His patience and maturity was a bit surprising and lot unexpected right from the beginning of this story.
To be honest here, I gotta say that as much as I adore puppy like Griffith.... I really don't see a lot of hope for this couple. As much as Mark might want to lead a normal life...he simply doesn't. There is no way to shield Griffith from the eventual truths that will come out and then Griffith is going to have to basically make decisions like Seth did.... stay and change and do things that you might never get over or let the love of your life go. Innocence gone. Blinders ripped off. Reality biting asses. Seth was from the same world as Dom when he had to decide his and Dom's fate but Griffith doesn't have any of that to help him live in a violent, underground, illegal world. The post edit scene seems to imply some of that innocence is about to be very much ripped away soon...
Sadly, I'm not sure that Griffith is mature enough to really know what Mark will or can mean to him over time. I also think that Mark wants what he sees in Dom and Seth so much that he is willing to believe anything is possible even though he knows it's not.
I'm going to add that the kinkus interuptus with the foot fetish sex was just mean for us readers and Mark as well.
Charlotte. Well, that poor girl needs so much therapy, it's sad that she can't get it. I feel for her.
I'm looking forward to the next book and I hope that the authors can make this relationship work for them...and the readers.
This book. Well, the Mark we get in this book is not the same Mark we are used to. His patience and maturity was a bit surprising and lot unexpected right from the beginning of this story.
To be honest here, I gotta say that as much as I adore puppy like Griffith.... I really don't see a lot of hope for this couple. As much as Mark might want to lead a normal life...he simply doesn't. There is no way to shield Griffith from the eventual truths that will come out and then Griffith is going to have to basically make decisions like Seth did.... stay and change and do things that you might never get over or let the love of your life go. Innocence gone. Blinders ripped off. Reality biting asses. Seth was from the same world as Dom when he had to decide his and Dom's fate but Griffith doesn't have any of that to help him live in a violent, underground, illegal world. The post edit scene seems to imply some of that innocence is about to be very much ripped away soon...
Sadly, I'm not sure that Griffith is mature enough to really know what Mark will or can mean to him over time. I also think that Mark wants what he sees in Dom and Seth so much that he is willing to believe anything is possible even though he knows it's not.
I'm going to add that the kinkus interuptus with the foot fetish sex was just mean for us readers and Mark as well.
Charlotte. Well, that poor girl needs so much therapy, it's sad that she can't get it. I feel for her.
I'm looking forward to the next book and I hope that the authors can make this relationship work for them...and the readers.
October 25, 2018
In an interesting shift of focus away from the stars of the series, Seth and Domenico, this volume is all about nineteen-year-old Mark, an interesting young man they picked up a few volumes ago. Mark used to be all about becoming an assassin and being part of Seth and Domenico’s family, but then he fell in love with Charlotte, a kidnapping victim, and has now decided to go find her in England. Based on the blurb I already knew not everything was going to happen as Mark planned, but actually reading about in in greater detail was a lot of fun!
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
January 9, 2025
This was just a breath of fresh air after Gilded Agony.
Very sweet and sexy and kinky hot, Mark and Griff story is easy but complicated, slow and fast, innocent and wanton, ordinary day life with sprinklings of danger and secrets.
Mark wants to be his own man, just to discover where he fits in the world and, at the same time, try to reconnect with an old love, Charlotte. He moves to England, but this reencounter doesn't go as he expects. But not all is lost, and he swoons all the way to her brother, the sweet and innocent Griffith aka the porcelain boy***
Their love story and approach is quite lovely and very rom-com, with market shopping, brunches, stolen kisses, sweet touches, secret dances, and photographs... All this in the incredible autumn and winter of Bristol, so totally romantic.
They are booth by day discovering who they are beyond the masks they wear, and together they fall in love in a very bumpy road.
I never liked Charlotte, and this book just proves me right, What tha hell??? She is a lunatic. Well, with parents like those, no wonder... Total dicks...
Being far away from his dads, we get the most crazy advice from Dom, the most sweetness from Seth (nothing new here), and the most incredible dad like Skype calls! Seth & Dom are the best, and we missed them very much!
I was pleasantly surprised to see this side of Mark, and not only that Dom wannabe side of him, and I like him a bit more now, but i think he has redemption left in him. He is very attentive and concerned about giving Griff the best experience and making the first time unforgettable.
I simply love Griff, his innocence and fragility are adorable, and he finally spreads his wings, and I loved to see on this wild side of him.
There are still secrets in their relationship and a lot to work for, but for now they are together.
While i loved this story, it's not your usual GnB book, and i guess that left me lacking... I felt like i was missing something that i just couldn't put my finger on.
Final note: This book just proves that Kat and Agnes are so incredible that they can make anything work brilliantly!
Very sweet and sexy and kinky hot, Mark and Griff story is easy but complicated, slow and fast, innocent and wanton, ordinary day life with sprinklings of danger and secrets.
Mark wants to be his own man, just to discover where he fits in the world and, at the same time, try to reconnect with an old love, Charlotte. He moves to England, but this reencounter doesn't go as he expects. But not all is lost, and he swoons all the way to her brother, the sweet and innocent Griffith aka the porcelain boy***
Their love story and approach is quite lovely and very rom-com, with market shopping, brunches, stolen kisses, sweet touches, secret dances, and photographs... All this in the incredible autumn and winter of Bristol, so totally romantic.
They are booth by day discovering who they are beyond the masks they wear, and together they fall in love in a very bumpy road.
I never liked Charlotte, and this book just proves me right, What tha hell??? She is a lunatic. Well, with parents like those, no wonder... Total dicks...
Being far away from his dads, we get the most crazy advice from Dom, the most sweetness from Seth (nothing new here), and the most incredible dad like Skype calls! Seth & Dom are the best, and we missed them very much!
I was pleasantly surprised to see this side of Mark, and not only that Dom wannabe side of him, and I like him a bit more now, but i think he has redemption left in him. He is very attentive and concerned about giving Griff the best experience and making the first time unforgettable.
I simply love Griff, his innocence and fragility are adorable, and he finally spreads his wings, and I loved to see on this wild side of him.
There are still secrets in their relationship and a lot to work for, but for now they are together.
While i loved this story, it's not your usual GnB book, and i guess that left me lacking... I felt like i was missing something that i just couldn't put my finger on.
Final note: This book just proves that Kat and Agnes are so incredible that they can make anything work brilliantly!
May 27, 2018
Leaving book 7, I was super miffed with Dom and Mark. I thought Mark was a super brat and deserved a smacking. What he ended up with was much worse, and I ended up feeling bad for him.
Coming into this book, I was curious how it would all play out. Would he be bratty and immature? Would he blossom even more on his own? I was very surprised as to what happens in this story, pleasantly so.
Mark not only is coming into his own, he's actually very sweet. Don't get me wrong, he's still Dom's protege, so he's willing to take an appendage or an ear. Dont let the sweetness fool you.
He goes to London to see if he can rekindle things with Charlotte, but he doesn't get a warm reception from her, at all. In fact, she's kind of an Uber bitch (but I can't blame her). Things kind of take a twist, he decides to try and get closer to her brother, and finds he is quite taken with Griffith. Watching their chemistry and relationship bloom was quite different than the rest of this series. Where Dom likes to take control of things and make them go the way he thinks they should, Mark takes a more natural, slow approach. He doesn't want to scare Griff off, but he also doesn't want to destroy this boy either.
Mark has a thing for watching Griff dance from across his balcony. So Mark asks if he can photograph Griff while he's in action.
Things get heated mighty quickly, but Griff has to slam on his brakes, and fast. See, he's not out to anyone yet, not even fully to himself. He's confused and needs time. Here is where I thought Mark was going to be an ass, but he surprised me when he was more embarrassed that he got shutdown instead of angry. They play it cool for a few weeks, and it's kind of cute. Their chemistry you can cut with a knife, but they're both so unsure.
Their relationship changes after Mark ends up sticking up for Griff at his 18th birthday party, when a "friend" decides he's going to move him and Griff along unwillingly. Marks not having it, and jumps in to be his Knight on a white horse (figuratively, though there are horses in this story :) )
Things seem to be going well, really well, but then Mark is smacked with another twist when he goes with Griff for the holiday to his families home. Blackmail, lies, deception. It's all the things you've come to know in a GnB book :)
Thankfully we get a HFN for these two. I won't spoil it with any deets though.
Of course there are a few Seth and Dom cameos, and it just makes me that much more excited (The Secret Chef!) to get back into them and watch their family grow.
Coming into this book, I was curious how it would all play out. Would he be bratty and immature? Would he blossom even more on his own? I was very surprised as to what happens in this story, pleasantly so.
Mark not only is coming into his own, he's actually very sweet. Don't get me wrong, he's still Dom's protege, so he's willing to take an appendage or an ear. Dont let the sweetness fool you.
He goes to London to see if he can rekindle things with Charlotte, but he doesn't get a warm reception from her, at all. In fact, she's kind of an Uber bitch (but I can't blame her). Things kind of take a twist, he decides to try and get closer to her brother, and finds he is quite taken with Griffith. Watching their chemistry and relationship bloom was quite different than the rest of this series. Where Dom likes to take control of things and make them go the way he thinks they should, Mark takes a more natural, slow approach. He doesn't want to scare Griff off, but he also doesn't want to destroy this boy either.
Mark has a thing for watching Griff dance from across his balcony. So Mark asks if he can photograph Griff while he's in action.
Things get heated mighty quickly, but Griff has to slam on his brakes, and fast. See, he's not out to anyone yet, not even fully to himself. He's confused and needs time. Here is where I thought Mark was going to be an ass, but he surprised me when he was more embarrassed that he got shutdown instead of angry. They play it cool for a few weeks, and it's kind of cute. Their chemistry you can cut with a knife, but they're both so unsure.
Their relationship changes after Mark ends up sticking up for Griff at his 18th birthday party, when a "friend" decides he's going to move him and Griff along unwillingly. Marks not having it, and jumps in to be his Knight on a white horse (figuratively, though there are horses in this story :) )
Things seem to be going well, really well, but then Mark is smacked with another twist when he goes with Griff for the holiday to his families home. Blackmail, lies, deception. It's all the things you've come to know in a GnB book :)
Thankfully we get a HFN for these two. I won't spoil it with any deets though.
Of course there are a few Seth and Dom cameos, and it just makes me that much more excited (The Secret Chef!) to get back into them and watch their family grow.
May 15, 2018
I have a confession to make: I haven’t read any of the previous books in the series. That being said, I felt like I’m not missing too much of Mark’s background. So, if you’re like me, and picked this up because you were intrigued by the blurb, it can stand alone.
This book follows both Mark and Griffith as they spread their wings and start continuing education. For Mark, it’s getting the British equivalent of the GED and photography classes, Griff is starting uni.
The two are neighbors, but it’s not an accident. Mark has ties to Griff’s sister, which is how he ends up so far from home. It’s not until later that everyone finds out just how tied together they actually are.
Mark may have gone to the UK for one sibling, but he’s quickly drawn to the other. Despite all her warnings, Griff just can’t stay away from the beautiful boy next door.
Theirs is a story of friendship and attraction that steadily turns to love and passion. Like all young couples, it’s not smooth sailing, but their bond remains steady and true. It ends with a strong HFN.
I thoroughly enjoyed this and will be on the lookout for future books centered around this couple.
*ARC provided by authors
This book follows both Mark and Griffith as they spread their wings and start continuing education. For Mark, it’s getting the British equivalent of the GED and photography classes, Griff is starting uni.
The two are neighbors, but it’s not an accident. Mark has ties to Griff’s sister, which is how he ends up so far from home. It’s not until later that everyone finds out just how tied together they actually are.
Mark may have gone to the UK for one sibling, but he’s quickly drawn to the other. Despite all her warnings, Griff just can’t stay away from the beautiful boy next door.
Theirs is a story of friendship and attraction that steadily turns to love and passion. Like all young couples, it’s not smooth sailing, but their bond remains steady and true. It ends with a strong HFN.
I thoroughly enjoyed this and will be on the lookout for future books centered around this couple.
*ARC provided by authors
April 27, 2021
De todos os livros dessa série, o vol 8 foi o mais diferente!
Um clima leve onde a história é focada no mark e sua tentativa
de levar uma vida mais "normal" nisso mark vai tentar reencontrar
Charlotte mas acaba se apaixonando pelo irmão delaaaaaaa 😲😲😲
Tava aqui pensando que Mark nunca iria acertar seu coração com
ninguém e aparece o fofo do Griffith para fazer mark experimentar
o que seu coração sempre desejou... Um amor de verdade 😭❤😭❤😭
Estou apaixonada por esse casal, preciso de mais deles urgentemente!
Foi um livro maravilhoso e tenso com toda situação de mark e Charlotte.
Foi uma surpresa o que foi revelado sobre a criança.
Um clima leve onde a história é focada no mark e sua tentativa
de levar uma vida mais "normal" nisso mark vai tentar reencontrar
Charlotte mas acaba se apaixonando pelo irmão delaaaaaaa 😲😲😲
Tava aqui pensando que Mark nunca iria acertar seu coração com
ninguém e aparece o fofo do Griffith para fazer mark experimentar
o que seu coração sempre desejou... Um amor de verdade 😭❤😭❤😭
Estou apaixonada por esse casal, preciso de mais deles urgentemente!
Foi um livro maravilhoso e tenso com toda situação de mark e Charlotte.
Foi uma surpresa o que foi revelado sobre a criança.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews