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Camp H.O.W.L. #3

Hiding In Plain Sight

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Happily ever after is right under their noses.

Harris has been keeping a big secret for years—his unrequited mate bond with his best friend, Jackson. He’s convinced himself that having Jackson in his life is enough. That, and his work at Camp H.O.W.L., keeps him going.

Things get complicated when Jackson applies for a high-ranking Tribunal job in New York City—far from Camp H.O.W.L. The position requires he relinquish all Pack bonds… and that’s when his wolf decides to choose a mate. Suddenly Jackson sees his best friend in a sizzling new light.

Their chemistry is through the roof, but they're setting themselves up for broken hearts—and broken bonds—if Jackson can't figure out a way to balance his career and the love that’s just been waiting for him to take notice.

256 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 18, 2018

8 people are currently reading
74 people want to read

About the author

Bru Baker

43 books121 followers
Bru Baker writes sophisticated gay romantic fiction with strong characters, real-world problems, and plenty of humor.

Bru spent fifteen years writing for newspapers before making the jump to fiction. She now balances her time between writing and working at a Midwestern library in the reference department. Whether it’s creating her own characters or getting caught up in someone else’s, there’s no denying that Bru is happiest when she’s engrossed in a story. She and her husband have two children, which means a lot of her books get written from the sidelines of various sports practices.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
Profile Image for * A Reader Obsessed *.
2,645 reviews566 followers
April 21, 2019
4 Surprising Stars

Whelp. I’m eating my words.

I was worried that this would be a tired, overworked trope of denying denying and denying oneself but though there was that, this had a very yummy yearning to it that appealed to what I like most in my romances. It also had some great “mate” touches that were thankfully not overdone.

Here, Harris has been pining for his bff for quite some time now. His wolf marked Jackson as his mate, but he’s been hesitant to say anything because an unrequited mate bond is far better than a rejected one. So, Harris contents himself with the small things such as the occasional platonic get together with Jackson when their schedules allow.

Jackson on the other hand is clueless, not malicious, in ignoring the mate bond. He’s basically a hard core career man that leaves no room for any romantic attachments in the foreseeable future. Suddenly though, Jackson’s konked on the head that Harris might just be more than a friend, and he can’t quite grasp the concept despite not being able to ignore the mutual pull he has towards Harris.

Perhaps these two can come to a temporary arrangement so they don’t lose their minds and eventually, go their separate ways once Jackson’s inevitable career options change.

Oh man. This soooo could’ve devolved into a shit ton of frustration and annoyance. Yes, there’s denial. Yes, there’s a bit of miscommunication. Thankfully though, the “mates with benefits” situation never lasts long and neither do these two’s stubborn obliviousness. There’s a plot device and then there’s a plot device and thankfully, it wasn’t overdone.

Throw in continued world building, some pretty darn good suspense, and a set up for more stories in this AU that I’ve already had the pleasure of reading. For me, this was the best of this now finished trilogy and I for one, look forward to the sequels to Stealing His Heart!
Profile Image for Meags.
2,450 reviews683 followers
September 30, 2024
3.5 Stars

We’re back at Camp H.O.W.L. for a third and final time, this story seeing series regular Harris, werewolf camp counselor extraordinaire, as he finally gets the desired attention of his best friend Jackson, whom Harris has secretly felt a mate-bond towards for years.

After years of friendship, Jackson finds himself perplexed when he gets inexplicably struck with some very intense and inconveniently timed feelings for his bestie Harris. Jackson is clearly slower on the uptake, but he’s starting to realise that Harris could be a whole lot more than his best friend. The problem being that Jackson is career driven guy, with his sights on a coveted enforcer job in New York that would require him to not have a mate holding him back.

I liked Harris and Jackson as friends and potential mates. Their chemistry was easy and true, and although I got frustrated a time or ten at Jackson for questioning whether pursuing a mate bond with Harris was worth reevaluating his career path, I still very much rooted for these two to find their way and get a HEA (that I felt was such a long-time coming for poor pining Harris). Add to this, their story was a bit more exciting and action-packed than the previous books, which I also appreciated, as it kept the story flowing nicely and helped with the overall entertainment factor.

This installment followed the themes of the previous stories, in so much as the mate denial was once again present and accounted for, and annoying as ever. Baker managed to make the story work a treat by the end, but I can’t rightly say that I was anything but frustrated (again) by the lack of proper communication between Harris and Jackson, and also just an overwhelming sense that Jackson was an idiot for even considering career over epic love—but that’s just me.

Still, I love the whole idea of Camp H.O.W.L. and its purpose to prepare young, new-to-the-shift werewolves for a life of heightened abilities and global secrecy. The world-building is cool and I’m glad to know there’s a spin-off to expand upon what’s being created here.

I’ll concede that this was probably my favourite of the Camp H.O.W.L. trilogy, despite my general complaints, but I won’t be missing that ongoing thread of mate denial that this series was built upon, that's for sure.
Profile Image for Santy.
1,255 reviews74 followers
September 23, 2018
This didn't go too well for me.

It was the third book in a trilogy and I somehow assumed it could be read as a standalone. That was my bad. It absolutely cannot be and reminded me of why I never ever pick up a book in a series without at least reading the first in said series.

There were characters, backstories and dynamics at play here that flew right over my head. I'm sure if I understood these inner workings, the story would have flowed much better for me.

Even with all the above, I liked Harris and his eternal patience for Jackson. They made a good couple and Jackson's self denial and ambition was painful to read about. I'm glad they managed to work over their differences to overcome the craziness and also glad they got their perfect HEA in the end.

** eARC Was Graciously Provided By The Publisher In Exchange For An Honest, Unbiased, Review **
Profile Image for Ami.
6,211 reviews489 followers
September 18, 2018
3.75 stars rounded up

In Hiding in Plain Sight , Bru Baker takes the spotlight on best friends Jackson Berrings and Harris Wick. Harris has been hiding his crush and mate-bond for years from his best friend, Jackson. Jackson is not ready to settle down – plus, he’s aiming his career up high as Tribunal Enforcer which doesn’t give space for any kind of relationship what-so-ever. Harris chooses his friendship over possible rejection from Jackson. Little does he know that Jackson has started seeing him in a different light.

Ah, friends-to-lovers … I don’t think I will ever feel bored with this trope. Although USUALLY, I can get a little bit frustrated when one of the characters is in denial about the possible romance, but in Jackson’s case, I can somehow understand.

Look, I know that it’s romantic to choose LOVE above everything else. However, in real life, I’d like to think that if you love someone, you will also support him/her/them to be the best that they can be, including in their career.

So, the fact that Jackson is in denial and struggling about his feelings towards Harris because it’s his long-life dream to be Tribunal Enforcer (which I assume is like an elite SEAL or SWAT team) is ENJOYABLE for me to read. I like it better compared to the “I don’t want to ruin our friendship” reasons.

I also loved Harris so much – he has been so SWEET and understanding about Jackson’s dream. That’s why Harris has been hiding his mate-bond for years, and I couldn’t help to feel for the guy and root for him.

There’s a second sub-plot in this book related to a famous wolfling actress who comes to the camp, and in results brings danger to Camp H.O.W.L.. I thought it added an intense feel to the story and a little action near the end.

All in all, it’s another wonderful installment of this series.




A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls



The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
Profile Image for Sara .
1,535 reviews154 followers
Read
October 3, 2018
5 Hearts

From my review of Under a Blue Moon : “I am really hoping there is another book because there are strong hints throughout with Harris and Jackson that need to be explored long after that flirting at the hospital. I mean, right? There’s more???? Please?”

*fist pump*

I have been waiting for Harris to get his mate and this book did not disappoint. We’ve met both Harris and Jackson from previous books in this series. Harris was Tate’s friend and fellow counselor at Camp Howl in the first book and we meet Jackson in book two as Drew’s stepbrother. What we also learn about Jackson and Harris in book two is there is way more than bro feeling’s between them. Harris acknowledges the crush he has on Jackson and Jackson just doesn’t know Harris is more than his best friend yet. It will take a literally getting some sense knocked into Jackson for him to figure it all out but it’s worth it.
His mate had been hiding in plain sight for all of their adult lives…

I love romances where our couple has known one another and been friends for years. There is a different intimacy of between friends that lends to a romance and Harris and Jackson’s history give this romance a bittersweet feels all while including some angst and serious UST.

As in the previous books, we get dual POV’s with this one and it’s always something I am thankful for. We already know that Harris knows Jackson is his mate and that he will stay in the friend zone forever if it means keeping Jackson around. What was great was to learn this isn’t all one sided and Jackson has been crushing on his best friend for years too, he just hasn’t felt the mating call, or at least he never checked the caller ID for identification. Even in Drew’s book, Harris and Jackson couldn’t stop being affections and flirty with one another…
Besides, someday his stepbrother Jackson was going to get his head out of his ass and realize he had feelings for Harris, […]

Oh, this book. There is a decent amount of angst happening with both Harris and Jackson. I can’t begin to tell you how much I hurt for Harris when we would deny himself everything he wanted as a man and wolf with Jackson. That sort of unrequited love kills me and yet I eat it with a spoon. When Jackson finally gets that Harris is his mate, a whole new level of angst arrives and these two just made me want to lock them in a room until they figure it out. Talk about self-control and denial, these two have it in spades and all that UST they were building was blinding. I was sitting on my hands waiting for them to give in and yet I was scared for both of them being hurt by doing so.

You see, Jackson is on a career path of moving up the ranks from a district enforcer to tribunal enforcer that will lead to him following in his father’s footsteps to be the second of a pack. It’s all he’s ever wanted but the pull of a mate is more than he bargained for and with that mate being Harris, Jackson becomes one hell of a mess. He can’t work, people around him notice his mood swings and it hurt to read how much his wolf was pining and crying for Harris. But, I do get why he hesitated for so long, why he denied what fate had determined with Harris. Following your heart and not your head isn’t always easy but it could leave you to everything you’ve always wanted.
“Everybody knows you two are one smoldering look away from boning. The UST was actually painful while he was here a few weeks ago.”

Harris just about broke my heart at least a dozen times reading this. You can feel how much he wants Jackson as his mate but the self-denial was intense as self-flagellation. When Jackson offers Harris a “deal”…ugh. I know Harris will always take what he can when it comes to Jackson, but I was worried for them both. I am just happy they decided to give it a shot and even though Harris acted hastily before Jackson had a chance to tell him what’s up, it gave us some great scenes with them.

I loved getting bits of Tate and Adrian again and of course being set in Camp H.O.W.L and Jackson being brothers with Drew, we get more of Drew and Nick. While Jordan didn’t sit well with me in Drew’s book, he grew on me here and I hope he will finally settle down. Also, the introduction of new supernatural beings to this world was welcomed and I am curious if the author will continue on with that storyline?

I loved every bit of this book. Of course being a hopeless romantic the romance comes first but I loved how Harris and Jackson are friends and lovers. How they can talk about what they want even if they dance around the issue at first and what their first argument was about. I love that these men understand how important career is to both of them but how they can’t deny the mating bond that is happening.
Looking back, it was kind of an odd thing to love about a friend. Maybe he’d known Harris was his mate all along, but his brain hadn’t been ready to process it.

I’m sad that this is the last in the Camp H.O.W.L series but it’s ending on a positive note. I like where the book left Harris and Jackson; what they are both doing with their mate and their careers. The authors note at the end made me excited and I can’t wait for the new series and more shifters!


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Profile Image for Amber.
1,683 reviews7 followers
November 8, 2018
Full available at: https://optimumm.blog/2018/09/18/revi...

I loved Hiding in Plain Sight by Bru Baker. It’s the third book in the Camp H.O.W.L. series and the twenty-eighth book in the Dreamspun Beyond series. The book is a standalone, so you don’t have to read the other two books in the series to know what’s going on with the couple in this book but reading the other two books will only enhance your reading experience since there are cameos from the other couples in this book. And the returning characters from Camp H.O.W.L. like the camp director Anne Marie and the camp counselors, doctors, and therapists. The story was well written with a great storyline and well-developed complex characters.

I liked that in this book we get to see more of how the campers get to spend their days while also getting to watch Harris while he works through his unrequited mate bond with his best friend, Jackson.

I loved Harris. I loved his dedication to the camp as a therapist and to keeping in touch with his friends. He’s known that he and Jackson were mates for a while, but he also knows that Jackson isn’t looking for a mate and so he decides he would rather keep Jackson as a friend than to try and mess that friendship up by pushing for more and potentially being rejected. Harris knows that an unrequited bond is easier to live with then a rejected mate bond. But that can’t help him from pining for his mate. When the camp gets a new celebrity camper, Harris is assigned as her therapist and the person in charge of her. Having such a big celebrity in the camp will mean upping their security system and border patrols while she’s there and guess who put in their security system? That’s right…Jackson, who works for Jordan at Fangs and Fury in between working as a police officer. For Harris having Jackson at the camp for the length of the celebrity’s stay will be both heaven and hell. Heaven because he’ll get to be around his mate every day and hell while he waits to find out if Jackson has gotten the Tribunal Enforcer job and will be moving to New York City and will have to break all of his bonds, both pack and personal.

I loved Jackson. He’s a little oblivious to the attraction between him and Harris until his wolf decides that Harris is his potential mate. He’s completely focused on his career and doesn’t have any plans for a mate. And actually to get the career that he wants as a Tribunal Enforcer he’ll have to break his bonds with both his pack and any personal bonds that he also has. His ultimate job is to be a pack second like his dad, and he knows that if he gets the Tribunal job that he won’t have any problem getting a job as a pack second. After getting back from his interview for the Tribunal job he learns that Jordan has taken a job for camp H.O.W.L. to overhaul their security for a high profile celebrity camper. Which would normally be no problem but for some reason, Jackson’s wolf has been pushing him to bond with his best friend Harris, which with the potential job requirements is inconvenient and is making him second guess if he really wants to continue with his plans for his career or give it up and keep his mate. Poor Jackson feels like a yo-yo.

I loved this addition to the series, and I think that you will too. If you have enjoyed the other books in the Camp H.O.W.L. series, then I recommend giving this book a try.

***The ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press. My review is an honest opinion of the book ***
Profile Image for Colin Hardy.
230 reviews9 followers
September 7, 2018
The writing style of the series remains strong with emphasis on characterisation. It is disappointing therefore that this, the final book in the series, should be largely a restyling of relationship development seen in both of the previous books. The concept of a camp to allow for teens to pass through their first turn as werewolves was quite different from other books on the genre, but the environment largely remains static and although there are scenes in other locations the camp just doesn’t seem complex enough to hold three books.

Where this book differs from the others is that other faery creatures are introduced. One wonders where they were in the preceding books. The use of such creatures should have allowed for a different approach to characterisation, allowing for the development of backstory, history and cultural differences. Sadly none of this is here, the characters are presented but there is nothing that really distinguishes them from humans or werewolves. Hints are provided about this larger faery world but they are not explored. As such there is no real reason for them to be used, in fact, their relevance to the plot and their physical presence is marginal. What they do provide is an opportunity to visit a different location.

The focus of the story is a young starlet. Once again, much more could have been made of how her life is affected by becoming a werewolf. There is no discussion of family or any noticeable backstory.

As noted above the relationship between the two lead characters is a variation on the theme used in the other books. It would have been interesting to see something other than ‘he is my mate but he is not interested in me that way’, a series of misunderstandings that are resolved quickly without any residual angst. The sex is satisfactory but offers nothing that hasn’t been seen before in the series, different partners, same responses.

The action obviously centres around the arrival of the new girl and what happens as a result of this. Where tension is introduced it is at a distance so there is nothing visceral about the action. The consequences are also something that is not dealt with in any detail. There is always something going on, but there is a sense of the familiar and repetition. In addition, the action sequences are quite predictable.

At the end of the book, all of the threads are resolved with a number of skips forward in time. The story comes to a conclusion but there is nothing that rounds off the series. As such it takes feedback from the author to make clear that although the focus of the stories has concluded there will be more books to follow that are within the same world.

This review is also posted at Gay Book Reviews
Profile Image for Penumbra.
1,178 reviews19 followers
September 18, 2018
Hiding in Plain Sight is the third and final book in the ‘Camp H.O.W.L.’ series. It stars Harris, a counselor at Camp H.O.W.L., and Jackson, who provides security for were camps and communities. This book is told in third person from both Harris and Jackson’s pov.

3.5 Stars

29 reviews
September 17, 2018
I requested and was given an advance copy of this novel for an honest review.

We're back at Camp H.O.W.L! Everything I wished a camp would be if going the old-fashioned rustic way is not appealing. The camp counselors are either therapists or leaders in the field they teach at CH. We met Harris and Jackson in the previous books as part of the cast ensemble. Though in book two of the series there were hints that Harris and Jackson are oblivious to each other's feelings. In this book, they are overly solicitous to each other, giving each other some space, and not mentioning the results of the strong attraction is getting in the way of things. Denial. Angst (not too much). Career Path. Resignation. Idiocy.

Harris has known for years that he and Jackson are mates and is resigned to the fact that Jackson is clueless about it. Harris wants to keep Jackson in his life, so, he will remain silent about being mates, and let Jackson, the Regional Enforcer and security specialist, continue on with his ultimate goal-- Tribunal Enforcer. TE's cannot have a mate or have a link to someone. It's the job or nothing.

Jackson is suddenly starting to feel things when Harris is around. More than friendship feelings. He's shocked to find these feelings are popping up at the most inappropriate times. Why? Denial is not only a river in Egypt, that's why. This complicates things with his career path. And on top of it, a very famous teen starlet is coming to CH for her turn, and Jackson will be working very closely with Harris.

Now, there are other forces in play. By learning about the Tribunal Enforcers, we also learn there are other supernaturals that exist. Mostly, they all stick to their own species. Only one, the Fae, takes it into their hands when they feel supers are in danger of being exposed. Consequences seem to be piling up from page one, and it had me intrigued throughout the whole book. One thing I learned about Ms. Baker's Camp H.O.W.L's universe—don't come to the attention of the Fae. Just don't!

This can be read as a standalone, though reading the previous two books gives you a better vibe on what's going on in this universe. Is it tropey? Yes, it is. Is it engaging? Yes. It is a good way to spend a few hours in a quiet area, enjoying the last of the summer, or on a rainy day, snuggled up on the couch? Why yes it is. Some of the other reviewers downgraded this, not really understanding this not an attempt at great literature. I enjoyed it for what it is, a pleasant way to escape and read something easy, enjoyable, entertaining, and gratifying.

Okay, now for the playlist that came to mind as I read this book. It's a pretty eclectic mix (as my mind picks up on some things as I read). Of course, CCR's Bad Moon Rising is the theme (and even more so for this book) for the CH series. Enjoy!!

CCR – Bad Moon Rising
Glenn Hughes – The Valiant Denial
Radiohead – House of Cards
Human League – Don't you Want Me Baby?
Taylor Dane – Tell it to My Heart
Tonic – If You Could Only See
Third Eye Blind – How's It Going to Be
Fuel – Hemorrhage
Savage Garden – I Want You
BTS – Truth Untold (Feat. Steve Aoki)
The Turtles – Happy Together
Profile Image for Dana.
Author 6 books23 followers
September 19, 2018
Reviewed for Rainbow Gold Reviews. A copy was provided in exchange for an honest review.

I am so glad I reviewed the first book of the Camp H.O.W.L. series because I have been treated to some cool world building, sweet romance and a little bit of angst while reading that and the other two books in the series. Camp H.O.W.L. is a remote place in an Indiana state park. There young were shifters can make their first turn with the safety of trained professionals to help them deal with physical, emotional, and social changes that come with being werewolves. 

Each couple that has been featured has had something special about them from an adult facing their first shift years after it's supposed to happen, to a human and wolf being mated. In this book, Harris and Jackson are both wolf shifters and have been for awhile. Their romance isn't necessarily rare or unconventional, but their friends to lovers story is right up my alley. Harris has been a secondary character in the previous books and while I liked him, I wouldn't have said I needed his story until some flirting with Jackson happened in book two and I just had to see them get together.

It's not a easy path for them, though. Harris loves helping out the kids and doesn't want his incomplete bond with Jackson to be a rejected bond, so he pretends there's nothing there whenever he sees him. Jackson has big goals. He wants to become a tribunal enforcer to pave the path to becoming an alpha's second. He can't be an enforcer and mated, though, so he ignores any attraction to Harris. A high profile client at Camp H.O.W.L. puts them together a lot and soon they can't help but act on their desires. But is their affection for each other enough to give up either's dreams. A lot of what holds these two back is the lack of communication. Which seems to be the problem for many couples in romance.

This book was a great addition to the Camp H.O.W.L. series. I saw that this was the last book in the series and I was sad because I will miss seeing the camp and some of the characters there. I am very excited, though, to see that this werewolf universe will be expanded and the author will continue writing about them in a spin off series featuring a pack from New York. There will be familiar faces to be seen and I am curious how much further the author will expand the series. In this book, we first see that there are other supernatural beings out there, like selkies and fae. The peace between the different species seems to be fragile and I wonder if the problems we saw in this book will be carried further into the series. The bit of action and "political" drama added to this story and I definitely recommend this book.

9/10 Pots of Gold (90% Recommended) – Compares to 4.5/5 Stars
Profile Image for Katherine.
2,852 reviews13 followers
March 10, 2019
Another great Camp HOWL book- and really the last one as the characters Baker is exploring at the camps are now finished their stories. And what the perfect last couple to finish on! Jackson and Harris were characters from the last book that, to quote a character in this book, had some serious UST and needed their story to be told. It was an excellent story that worked really well, from the questions of mates and fate with choice, to choosing love or the job, and whether they are mutually exclusive. Great book!

This was a bit more difficult of a read (emotionally) because right off the bat there is a one-sided love that hurts the heart a bit. Harris has fallen in love with his best friend Jackson, and further his wolf has formed a mate bond. Harris knows Jackson does not wan to settle down and does not want to experience rejection so he settles for their continued friendship all while feeling his heart pull towards his mate. The surprising part is that Jackson has now formed his own independent mate bond to Harris, right at the time when he cannot. Each man has a mate bond to the other but with the upcoming job that Jackson has applied for they both know it is not possible and each one is denying the feelings to themselves.

What with this being a camp that has on hand psychologists, Harris being a psychologist, and some of their best friends and family being psychologists, it seems that the obvious thing would be for Harris and Jackson to actually talk about what is going on to each other. After all, Harris has known they have a mate bond for years, and Jackson is starting to feel the physically ill effects of denying his own. Talking to figure out their feelings would make sense, as their friends tell them A LOT. But then people so often have difficulty following their own advice and their own teachings, which is no different here. There are so many times that you can almost see them getting there and truly talking but it is not an easy path with each man so scared about the change to their future and risk to their heart. It was a bit hard on the heart but never felt overly angsty or ridiculously dramatic. This was simply a difficult decision of the next path in life for these tow men, and an amazing read.

A great finish to the Camp portion of this series I look forward to the spin-off series in this world following the Connell pack. Looking forward to more wolfy stories to come!
Profile Image for Natosha Wilson.
1,274 reviews15 followers
September 7, 2018
Another amazing book in the CAMP HOWL series. This book was a great read with unrequited love and fated mates who try and fight fate. Big mistake let me tell you. Fate will get its way in the end whether you like it or not. What I love about this book is one of the main characters believes that he knows what he wants for his future only to realize that in the end, there is something better for him but only if he quits trying to pull a fast one on Fate.

Jackson and Harris have been best friends forever. There is nothing wrong with them being best friends other then the fact that Harris realized long ago that Jackson is his fated mate as well but he cannot tell Jackson. The reason being is because Jackson has plans for his life that do not include having a mate. Much less Harris. So Harris does what he believes is bet and keeps the information to himself and longs for Jackson in silence.

Jackson knows that Harris is his mate and had known for a while but he refuses to do anything about it. His plans do not include being mates especially since the job he is up for will not allow a mates individual to become their Enforcer. The job in question is a dangerous job and will set Jackson up to eventually find a pack that will allow him to become a 2nd in command. This has been Jackson’s goal for as long as he can remember, so taking Harris as a mate is not an option.

Too bad for Jackson, because Jackson's Wolf has other plans and is not going to make it easy on Jackson in the least. So Jackson comes up with his own plan, spend time with Harris and make a clean break when the time comes to leave for the job.

Harris is shocked when Jackson kisses him. Even more shocked when Jackson suggest they make the most of their time together till time for him to leave. Well you know the saying, the best laid plans and all that.... well Jackson finds out the hard way how this is going to turn out for him and Harris as well. Might end up surprising you how it all plays out in the very end.

This was a great read and I hope that there will be another Camp Howl book but if not hopefully the guys from camp howl will return in other books as guest appearances. Bru Baker is an incredible author.

Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
Profile Image for Kristin.
1,190 reviews32 followers
September 16, 2018
While this is book number three in the series, you probably could read this as a stand-alone, but you’ll get more out of the book if you read #1 and #2 first. There are some references to established characters that reading in order would provide some context.

This was a bit of an “angsty” read. Harris is worried about loosing what little contact he has with his mate, trying to be realistic about the situation and generally failing. Jackson is mostly clueless, more concerned about his career and status. All the supporting characters are rolling their eyes and telling both Harris and Jackson to just talk to the guy! Which, of course, neither one does for altruistic reasons. So there is much wringing of paws.

The secondary plot revolves around Camp H.O.W.L. hosting a high-profile teen actor, which is what throws Harris and Jackson into each other’s paths, and that of the Fae.

Yes. Apparently, there are Fae and they aren’t happy. I thought the addition of additional paranormals was a tiny bit out of left field, book three being the first mention of something other than werewolfs in the greater world. Still, I could roll with it – the author did well enough sliding the other Paranormal tribunals into the mix without bogging down the story.

Like the previous books, Hiding in Plain Sight is strongly character driven. My main issue with the book – and this is my quirk – is we have a Big Misunderstanding. Because, you know, someone jumps to an assumption and there is running away and phones are turned off so amends can’t be made… Not MY favorite plot device, but others enjoy that dynamic.

To sum up, I have to admit, I think my favorite character was actually Candice, the high profile teen actor. Overall, an enjoyable read and strong closure to this series.

Review is cross posted at link: Gay Book Reviews
A copy of the book was provided by the author and publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
Profile Image for Tanja.
575 reviews19 followers
September 17, 2018
This was a good addition to the Camp H.O.W.L. series and is Harris and Jackson’s story. They are mates, and in the shifter world, that would have been simple, but not in the world Bru Baker created. Once again she writes about a well-known trope with a twist of her own. Yes, Harris and Jackson are mates, but they have a choice in whether they want to give in or not. Nothing is cast in stone here.
They are very much human, but still, there are the unmistakable wolf traits that I so love in shifter stories.
The story develops at a rather fast pace, and to be honest, sometimes a bit too fast for my taste. There is a lot happening: tensions around a high-profiled wolfling, Jackson’s career choices, and the presence of other paranormal creatures. The events are linked together and affect each other profoundly, which results in heart-pounding, captivating moments. But I found it a bit disappointing that they were solved so quickly, maybe because there was too much going on. The thrills were good but short-lived.
That also had its effects on the characters. I really liked them. Especially Harris. He is a good guy, very considerate of each and everyone in the camp, even to the extent of giving up his own possible forever happiness. But with all the things happening around them, I didn’t feel their connection as much as I would have liked. I found there were mere glimpses of their attraction than a full-on relationship. The times they were together, though, were sweet and sexy.
So, although this is not my favorite in the series, I thoroughly enjoyed this story.
I hate to see the last of Camp H.O.W.L., but luckily this author promised a spin-off series, and I can’t wait to read that.
This is the third installment in the Camp H.O.W.L. series and can be read as a stand-alone. However, as there are recurring characters, I recommend reading the books in order.
767 reviews6 followers
September 19, 2018
4 Stars!

In this third book centered around Camp H.O.W.L., we get the story of Harris, one of the camp counselors, and Jackson, his best friend. Jackson also happens to be the brother of Drew, the camp doctor. Drew's story was in Under a Blue Moon, but I think that you could read this one as a standalone for the most part.

Harris and Jackson have been best friends for a long time, but Harris has been hiding the fact that he has since formed a mate bond with Jackson. Jackson has a defined career path, one that requires him to have no bonds, pack or mate for several years yet. Harris doesn't want to be rejected and deals with the unrequited bond instead of losing his friend. Just when Jackson has a chance at his dream job, he realizes that he's forming a mate bond with Harris.

I liked both Harris and Jackson. They both are dedicated to and love their jobs. Their friendship is amazing. I could understand Harris's reluctance to admit his bond, but I found myself a little frustrated with the lengths that Jackson went to deny the change within himself. That being said, I enjoyed reading this book and didn't want to set it down. The way Jackson found Harris was a great way to show the power of even a fragile, uncompleted mate bond. While I thought it was a little too convenient how well their career plans worked out in the end, I was nevertheless happy to see them both settled in and content with both their professional and personal lives.

There was a lot of action in this book, more so than the others in the series. A celebrity wolfling attracted a lot of unwanted attention to the camp and a camp worker only exasperates the situation. There were new supernatural creatures introduced into this book, and I would love to see more of this world.

*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by Dreamspinner Press for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Profile Image for Didi.
1,535 reviews86 followers
September 15, 2018
3.75 Stars

For a story that revolved around wolf-shifter “Camp H.O.W.L” universe took on an interesting aspect in the way the shifters involved weren’t slave to their basic urges. I loved that Baker mould her shifters as enhanced human version who not only focus on their animal instinct. This displayed brilliantly by Harris, the senior counselor at camp who - despite knowing for years that he mate bond with his best friend - managed to keep Jackson from finding out. He basically represent the title as a whole. Even with his unrequited feeling, Harris still managed to function and did his work at the camp.

In his part, Jackson mainly thought Harris as having crush on him. His own attraction to Harris didn’t take effect until his nesting urge - for want of a better word - rose. In short, he was maturing. That their finding their way together went through quite a number of obstacles, self-acceptance, internal once-over, and not a little selfless act/decision was another positive point here. The character development really made the romance between these two friends delicious to follow!

This third installment to “Camp H.O.W.L.” series also put appearance on other supernatural beings (after they were only mentioned as an aside so far). Also, their turn-out into the plot was such that it gave added oomph to the overall plot, including romance between Harris and Jackson. I thought this other paranormal being aspect put interesting spin to the Camp H.O.W.L. universe especially for upcoming stories. Who know what would happen, especially given the way Harris and Jackson ended up with.


Advanced copy of this book is kindly given by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Cathy Brockman.
Author 5 books95 followers
September 15, 2018
I have enjoyed this series but I have to admit the going was slow on this book. I like both Jackson and Harris but there were things that just slowed down the reading for me. Like how many jobs Jackson had and him trying for this Eastcoast enforcer job. But he was an Enforcer though we never see any of that and I didn't understand why this was there unless it was a requirement to join the higher up Enforcers. He was a police officer, though he sure missed a lot of work and he worked with Jordan at Fang and Fury which seemed they did the most. All of these jobs just overwhelmed me and made me wonder how he had time for any romance though he didn't want any since he couldn't have any bonds or ties if he got this new Enforcer job. As far as I was concerned the Fangs and Fury and Enforcer tryouts were good enough. I was dead on a 3 for this book because though it was slow for me I loved all the characters and the premise of the story and that too is why I soldiered on. I am so glad I did. Suddenly the story broke and there was lots of action with the campers, the high profile camper which in the beginning I wondered why they would take on such a thing but it does make it worth it. Candace is a great character on her own! I guess there was just so much going on in such a short story at first it was overwhelming then BAM the dam broke and it was awesome. There were some nailbiting twists I never saw coming, and the end was one of the o most satisfying I have read in a long time! There are just enough heat and a touch of wit and charm that makes this a really good book.
If you like paranormal books, werewolves, enforcers, camp councilors, suspense, twists, tension, mates, and a surprise super happy ending this is for you! Now bring on the new series!
Profile Image for Kendra Patterson.
953 reviews11 followers
September 20, 2018
Rate 3.75

Jackson is a cop, part-time security expert w/ friend Jordan and training to get a position on the tribunal w/ the ultimate goal of being a second in command of a pact. He's not ready to settle down and get serious and if he gets his tribunal position he can't have a mate. He's starting to realize he likes Harris a little more than just friends.
Harris is a camp counselor at Camp H.O.W.L. He's secretly been in love w/ Jackson for over a decade and knows that they are mates but he's afraid to tell Jackson because he doesn't want to lose him. He knows that Jackson has his eye on becoming a tribunal member and that means no mate.
The next set of turns arrive at the camp and one of them is famous. Catty BS starts almost immediately because that's what teen girls do. Harris nips it in the bud but it's a constant thing that keep cropping up. Trouble comes to Camp H.O.W.L. and a camp worker turns on one of their own.
Jackson slowly comes to the understanding that Harris is his mate but still intends to ignore it and continue on his course. This causes trouble for Jackson and Harris both. More trouble comes to Camp H.O.W.L. and this time Harris is in the middle and Jackson has to make a hard choice.
There's not much romance in the book and what there is is pretty tepid. I felt at times that Jackson and Harris showed more emotion of two best friends w/ benefits than two men in love. I didn't feel a deep emotional connection w/ these two. The ending is rushed and tied up a little too neatly. This is the end of Camp H.O.W.L. and there is going to be spin-off books.

ARC given for an honest review
Profile Image for Tiuri.
457 reviews
September 5, 2018
A very worthy end to the Camp H.O.W.L. trilogy and a great set-up for the spin-off series, which I look forward to very much because I know one of my favourite characters from the series will be in it. Nevertheless, I'm sad this is the end of the series because I think the entire idea of werewolfing as a second puberty is such a great idea that it could easily have supported more books. Still, there will be more books set in this world, so that's great.
Harris and Jackson, the two main characters in this one are very well-written and, like in previous books, the supporting cast is also amazing. I always like books that don't forget previous books in a series and it was great to see some of the characters from books 1 and 2 again and play a role in the HEA for Harris and Jackson. Sometimes one of the main characters speaks more to you than others and in this case I connected with Harris more than with Jackson. He's just so sweet and adorable. They make an excellent couple who complement each other, while still being hot for each other. Highly recommended if you're interested in a well-written shifter love-story with great characters, original ideas and a contemporary setting with excellent 'background building'. It's not world building because it's set in our world but the way the author has developed and integrated being a werewolf in our world is fantastic.
414 reviews
September 6, 2018
one of the things i've enjoyed about this series is how the author has made each book in the series unique from the characters relationship and situation in each installment while maintaining true to the back drop of Camp HOWL. There was a bit of sweet, a bit of frustration (on the characters' part not the readers), a bit of action and sexy time all rolled up into an enjoyable read. Sometimes the dreams and plans of childhood need to give way to new paths and possibilities. Harris's dream is to help others & maybe one day to have more than a one-sided unrequited (& secret) mate bond with Jackson. Jackson's dream, since he was a child, was to be the 2nd for a pack like his father is and he's had the path to that goal all mapped out since--get involved in law enforcement as a human and in the shifter community become an enforcer working his way up the ranks to district then as a tribunal enforcer (top dogs, best of the best) and from there he'd have his pick of opportunities. The questions become: is there more than one path to happiness? is what we've always thought would bring us that happiness really it? and can 2 long time friends have a happy ever after together along with their different dreams?
Profile Image for meep.
754 reviews16 followers
September 5, 2018
Hiding in plain sight is the third and last (?) book in the camp H.O.W.L series by Bru Baker. This book's focus is on Harris and Jackson. Harris is one of the camp psychologists and Jackson a cop. Jackson is one of Drew's (who is a human doctor in book 2) stepbrother.

I liked Harris. He popped up in recent books a bit and his character was very steady. He had a good personality and clearly cared about the wolflings and even formed a very good relationship with their high profiled guest. I love how even in the epilogue she is mentioned. Jackson is a cop at the beginning then he applies for tribunal towards the beginning of the book and while we see Harris being a psychologist we don't see much about Drew's work except his and Jordan's private security company.

I have to say this is my favorite in the trilogy. I was hoping Harris would get a book. Harris and Jackson were perfect for each other. The book had just the right amount of drama. My only complaint is after so much sexual tension we do not see much of a follow through.

*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie by Dreamspinner Press for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Profile Image for Susana.
1,292 reviews36 followers
September 10, 2018
3 to 3.5 stars
Harris has known that Jackson was his mate for years, but Jackson is his best friend, does not feel the same, and he is so focused on his career that does not want a permanent relationship. So Harris keeps his secret. But what happens when Jackson realises Harris is his mate? Will he give up his dreams? Or will he give their relationship a chance?
Another really entertaining story in the Camp H.O.W.L. series, this one about Harris and Jackson, who are kept apart by Jackson’s ambition and Harris’ inability to confess his real feelings for fear of losing his best friend. Despite the best intentions of their mutual friends to bring them together, it is a decision Jackson has to make on his own…. But he realises there is no choice for him, at the end he will get what he needs most…
This is a great series, with endearing characters, and every book can be read as a standalone. Besides the romantic plot, there is also some kind of mystery going on in the camp, which helps make the story intriguing as well as sweet.
I received a ARC and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
240 reviews
September 17, 2018
Harris's unrequited mate bond with long time friend, Jackson is painful to watch. It's something that happened over time, by accident with really only Harris suffering until Jackson gets hit upside his head when he figures it out. But, the timing is all bad.

I started this book thinking the thing was about Harris, but it's not. And that's what I really liked. Jackson is a big, badass alpha with a life plan to become a Tribunal Enforcer so he can eventually retire to start a family. That type of work is what he's made for and the job would be great except he must change packs and can't have a mate. So there are decisions to be made by both men.

The last installment of Camp H.O.W.L has good action, some suspense and smexy scenes. I liked the sinister take on the fey and the moments when Jackson mopes on the couch eating bon bons while pining over Harris. I also appreciated the times Harris was able to show he's tough and resourceful. Neither guy was a pushover and they both worked for their HEA. This is a delightful, funny read that will keep you smiling all the way through the end.

* Advanced copy provided for an honest review.
Profile Image for Milly Molly.
224 reviews
September 20, 2018
Hiding in Plain Sight is the last book in the Camp H.O.W.L series and it wraps it up nicely but also gives us a peek at the end at characters from the spin of series.
So far we’ve had complete strangers, enemies (kinda) to lovers and now friends to lovers in the series. This can be read as a stand-alone but characters from the earlier books are in the story albeit as secondary characters so if you’re reading the series I’d do it sequentially.
Harris was a sweetheart from the beginning of the book but Jackson grew on me over time. I totally understand someone struggling with balancing logic and emotions when trying to make life changing decisions.
The plot line involving Candice added to the story and gave me insight into Jackson and also Harris. I also enjoyed the scenes where they interacted with the wolflings.
I really enjoy the characteristics Bru gives her werewolves, I’m not a massive shifter fan as they can come across as one dimensional in some books. However Bru has nuanced characters that have a range of personalities and preferences.
I’d definitely recommend this book and I’m looking forward to the spin off series.
Profile Image for Zane Kage.
3,311 reviews31 followers
September 19, 2018
4.25 stars

I'm a sucker for stories of unrequited love, and it absolutely thrills me when the focus of said unrequited love finally notices their admirer. Throw in a good old fashioned friends to lovers trope, and I'm good to go. Harris and Jackson fit the bill perfectly - their friendship was paramount throughout the story, with each putting the other first and their own feelings second. Even though that led to some miscommunications and conflicts (which usually irk me), it made me root for them even more. While their romance and sexy times were more of a slow burn, they were hot for each other, and the sparks definitely flew. By the time we reached the end of their story, everything was wrapped up at Camp HOWL, but their future was just beginning. Not only did I love that, I loves how the storyline not only involved Camp HOWL, but it took us outside of the camp, setting the stage for what I hope is a spin off. Now that would help me get over the fact that this sweet, fun shifter series has come to an end.


***ARC granted for honest review***
Profile Image for Terri.
1,636 reviews
September 20, 2018
This is the third and final book in the Camp W.O.L.F series. I somehow missed the second book, but I'll definitely be going back to read that one. This is such a fun series, and this book is terrific. Harris is the counselor to many of the teens at the camp, where they experience their first turn to wolf and learn how to make it as a werewolf without exposing the supernatural world. Harris is kind and caring, and for years he's been secretly aware of the mate bond he has with his best friend Jackson. Jackson is strong, dedicated, and has a life plan that does not include room for a mate until he's accomplished the many goals he has set for himself professionally. When he first feels the mating bond pulling him toward Harris, he isn't happy about it.
This story is full of love, lust, action, sacrifice, and friendship. I'm so glad to know there will be a spinoff series where I can revisit characters from this one. I enjoy this world and the people in it, and I'm glad the author isn't completely done with it. I'm not either!
Profile Image for Vanessa.
28 reviews3 followers
September 23, 2018
I was given a ARC for an honest review.

Hmm I had a little trouble here I really liked the first two books but i kinda found this one a little slow. I had two main issues with this:

Firstly I wanted to shake the Main characters and tell them about a wonderful thing called Communication! They were both talking to secondary Characters about the same thing you have thought they would eventually talk to each other! It just went on far too long with no communication.
They were after all supposed to be best friends for years!

Secondly the introduction to a whole other world that us mere humans can never see more creatures and extremely powerful beings.....Meh if they were that prevalent why were they not built into the world sooner? It felt like they were used as a plot escape and it just didn't fit in with the world I had built up reading the previous two books.

In itself its and OK read but I preferred the character building in the previous two books.
Profile Image for blub.
2,040 reviews
April 26, 2019
Harris and Jackson's story. The stories can probably be read as standalone but it's my belief that it reads better in chronological order. Harris has known Jackson was his mate since they were in his teens but... well... Jackson never saw him as anything more so Harris resigns himself to just accepting what he can get from him.

Jackson has his life together and is set on further his career with the Tribunal (werewolf council that polices weres). He also works with his friend in their security firm. When a high profile case comes to Camp H.O.W.L, the security firm is tasked with insuring extra security. This puts Harris and Jackson in closer proximity and Jackson starts noticing things about Harris he didn't before.

I enjoyed this one a lot and it's probably my favorite of the three books. Harris and Jackson were fun characters and have good chemistry. The action was exciting.
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