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The Men of Halfway House #6
A Chosen Man
For Wall McCormack, actions speak louder than words. He’s giving and protective, loyal to his friends, and devoted to his job. While confident and powerful enough to conquer any challenge, his greatest strength lies in his calm nature. Until an unexpected assignment sends his world into a loud and colorful chaos he never could have anticipated.
Rejection. It’s something Dylan Vaughn has known his entire life. But he’s a tough nut to crack and refuses to break. Armed with a sharp tongue and brutal honesty, he pushes through life and at anyone who attempts to take him on. Except for the quiet guardian who piques his interest and dares him to want…more.
When Dylan’s past comes back with a vengeance and jeopardizes their growing connection, Wall will stop at nothing to protect the younger man and remain by his side. But convincing Dylan that someone accepts the real man behind the cocky facade might prove to be Wall’s greatest challenge yet.
With his freedom on the line, Dylan must trust the strength of their bond and confront the forces threatening their future. Only then will he realize the dream of acceptance is real and finally have a place to call home.
Rejection. It’s something Dylan Vaughn has known his entire life. But he’s a tough nut to crack and refuses to break. Armed with a sharp tongue and brutal honesty, he pushes through life and at anyone who attempts to take him on. Except for the quiet guardian who piques his interest and dares him to want…more.
When Dylan’s past comes back with a vengeance and jeopardizes their growing connection, Wall will stop at nothing to protect the younger man and remain by his side. But convincing Dylan that someone accepts the real man behind the cocky facade might prove to be Wall’s greatest challenge yet.
With his freedom on the line, Dylan must trust the strength of their bond and confront the forces threatening their future. Only then will he realize the dream of acceptance is real and finally have a place to call home.
415 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 24, 2018
165 people are currently reading
360 people want to read
About the author
Jaime Reese
9 books722 followersI get this huge dorky grin on my face when I receive a message from someone who has taken the time to read my book. I know readers have a choice in a sea of many options. I'm humbled when someone chooses one of mine. Thank you. ~JR
About me...
Jaime Reese is the alter ego of an artist who loves the creative process of writing, just not about herself. Fiction is far more interesting. She has a weakness for broken, misunderstood heroes and feels everyone deserves a chance at love and life. An avid fan of a happy ending, she believes those endings acquired with a little difficulty are more cherished.
...and yes, it was totally weird reading something about myself in 3rd person :)
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About me...
Jaime Reese is the alter ego of an artist who loves the creative process of writing, just not about herself. Fiction is far more interesting. She has a weakness for broken, misunderstood heroes and feels everyone deserves a chance at love and life. An avid fan of a happy ending, she believes those endings acquired with a little difficulty are more cherished.
...and yes, it was totally weird reading something about myself in 3rd person :)
Where am I?
Website
Facebook Author Page
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 169 reviews
September 24, 2018
Why?
That's Wall's favorite word.
Wall wasn't always Wall, but that's what everyone calls him because he's formidable and impenetrable, a man of few words and even fewer smiles. He unleashes Dylan's inner brat something fierce.
Dylan is not the silent type. He talks and talks, and thinks even more. Dylan has a photographic memory; he's a coding genius, a hacker who can break through even the most secure firewalls.
Following his release from jail for a cyber crime he was manipulated into committing, Dylan arrives at Matt and Julian's Halfway House. Once it becomes apparent someone is after Dylan for his technical prowess, Wall, former military, is stationed at the Halfway House to protect Dylan and the other residents.
Even though I suggest reading A Mended Man (the fourth Men of Halfway House book) first, A Chosen Man can be read as a standalone. Wall first appeared in A Mended Man as Aidan's partner on the police force, and Aidan does play a relatively big secondary role in this novel, but Dylan and Wall spend most of the book alone on the run.
The two men have obvious chemistry, but both have a hard time opening up to people. Wall has been betrayed and deceived. He can't abide liars. And Dylan has secrets; he doesn't trust easily.
Wall had a warm childhood with two loving parents. He doesn't see his mom nearly as often as he should, but he knows she loves him, and he loves her (Wall's mom is the best; all the stars for Maggie!). Dylan was abandoned as a baby. He was a "mistake," and no family wanted to keep him. He was too smart, too weird, too mouthy.
Wall and Dylan aren't a likely match, but somehow they soothe each other's jagged edges. They both want something lasting and true: a family, shared smiles, memories captured in photos.
This is a long story as is Jaime's trademark, but it's perfectly paced. The MCs are given time to learn and grow, even as the anticipation of all hell breaking loose lurks on every page. The last few chapters were so intense, I couldn't read quickly enough.
This book features everything I adore about Jaime Reese's stories: strong character development; action and suspense; emotional, relationship-driven romance; slow burn culminating in tender but intense lovemaking; and a cozy, magical HEA worthy of Dylan's unicorn obsession.
Shout-out to Ox, another resident of the Halfway House and the sweetest guy in the world; Wall's private concerts just for Dylan; Wall calling Dylan his "firecracker" (it made me melt every single time); puppies and horses; and a unicorn tattoo (just look at that gorgeous cover!).
That's Wall's favorite word.
Wall wasn't always Wall, but that's what everyone calls him because he's formidable and impenetrable, a man of few words and even fewer smiles. He unleashes Dylan's inner brat something fierce.
Dylan is not the silent type. He talks and talks, and thinks even more. Dylan has a photographic memory; he's a coding genius, a hacker who can break through even the most secure firewalls.
Following his release from jail for a cyber crime he was manipulated into committing, Dylan arrives at Matt and Julian's Halfway House. Once it becomes apparent someone is after Dylan for his technical prowess, Wall, former military, is stationed at the Halfway House to protect Dylan and the other residents.
Even though I suggest reading A Mended Man (the fourth Men of Halfway House book) first, A Chosen Man can be read as a standalone. Wall first appeared in A Mended Man as Aidan's partner on the police force, and Aidan does play a relatively big secondary role in this novel, but Dylan and Wall spend most of the book alone on the run.
The two men have obvious chemistry, but both have a hard time opening up to people. Wall has been betrayed and deceived. He can't abide liars. And Dylan has secrets; he doesn't trust easily.
Wall had a warm childhood with two loving parents. He doesn't see his mom nearly as often as he should, but he knows she loves him, and he loves her (Wall's mom is the best; all the stars for Maggie!). Dylan was abandoned as a baby. He was a "mistake," and no family wanted to keep him. He was too smart, too weird, too mouthy.
Wall and Dylan aren't a likely match, but somehow they soothe each other's jagged edges. They both want something lasting and true: a family, shared smiles, memories captured in photos.
This is a long story as is Jaime's trademark, but it's perfectly paced. The MCs are given time to learn and grow, even as the anticipation of all hell breaking loose lurks on every page. The last few chapters were so intense, I couldn't read quickly enough.
This book features everything I adore about Jaime Reese's stories: strong character development; action and suspense; emotional, relationship-driven romance; slow burn culminating in tender but intense lovemaking; and a cozy, magical HEA worthy of Dylan's unicorn obsession.
Shout-out to Ox, another resident of the Halfway House and the sweetest guy in the world; Wall's private concerts just for Dylan; Wall calling Dylan his "firecracker" (it made me melt every single time); puppies and horses; and a unicorn tattoo (just look at that gorgeous cover!).
September 24, 2018
I was so very very happy when Jaime announced, that she was releasing another book in the "Halfway House" series. I have enjoyed reading all the books in this series, but "A Restored man" man has always been my favorite. You want to know why ?? Well because of Cole Renzo of course !! So imagine my giddyness, when I found out about Dylan's sharp tongue and brutal honesty.... It reminded me a bit of Cole's food in mouth syndrome :P
Detective Wall has been introduced to us as in "A Mended Man" and I was very curious to see how this would turn out, with Wall being the very quiet man that he is, and Dylan obviously being the complete opposite ;)
Dylan has just been released from prison after pulling a big hack (he didn't mean to...I swear). Dylan is quite the genius and he has a photographic memory, which means codes and coding, are like a walk in the park for him. It's where he feels most at home, behind some sort of computer, coding away ;)
When Dylan's past comes back to haunt him, Wall is tasked with "Halfway House" security. It soons becomes clear though, that if Dylan's stays at the house, everyone else will be in danger too... And so Wall offers to take Dylan someplace safe...
I didn't take me long to see that these two had instant chemistry.... It was very obvious from the start that Dylan wanted to climb Wall like a ...well like a wall :P
Both men have been hurt in the past and neither one is willing to just open up and trust. It takes some time for them to get there....bit no worries this book is long, so they have time :P
I loved how well they fit together. I guess opposites really do make the best couples. I had the best of time reading this one, and I am so happy I got to see some of my favorites again. Now as much as I liked seeing the old crew...I also fell in love with some new characters... Ox, man you are really amazing and Maggie you are the greatest mom !!
I highly recommend this book as well as all the others in the series ;)
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October 28, 2018
4 Stars
Consistent swoony romance!
Dylan - newly on parole, always abandoned and never having known love or family is just trying to get through his stay at Halfway House with little fuss. Extremely smart and smartass, his genius mind sets him apart from others, his blatant honesty often rubbing others the wrong way. When people from his past demand he finish a job, everyone associated with him is at risk. The guy aptly named “Wall”, who’s put in charge of Dylan’s safety, makes Dylan want things he never thought he could have.
Wall - a beast of a man who’s not without his own betrayals and hurts, somehow gets caught regardless of his adamant resistance. The complete opposite of Dylan in personality and disposition, he’s drawn to the young man like no other, and Wall’s protective side is alerted full blast when killers attack not only his friends, but Dylan too.
Despite this being quite long to my poor pea brain, I did enjoy the push pull of these two and how much they contrasted and complemented each other. Both Dylan and Wall ache with want but each don’t think they’ll ever achieve love for similar and different reasons, both being scared of disappointing and afraid of being disappointed. Wall is seriously a dream MC for me. Huge *wink*, gruff, and gentle in all the right ways and not so gentle in all the more perfect ways….
Reese didn’t drop the ball here as she delivers on the romance and action, securing the fact that I will always come back for more should she continue with this series!
Consistent swoony romance!
Dylan - newly on parole, always abandoned and never having known love or family is just trying to get through his stay at Halfway House with little fuss. Extremely smart and smartass, his genius mind sets him apart from others, his blatant honesty often rubbing others the wrong way. When people from his past demand he finish a job, everyone associated with him is at risk. The guy aptly named “Wall”, who’s put in charge of Dylan’s safety, makes Dylan want things he never thought he could have.
Wall - a beast of a man who’s not without his own betrayals and hurts, somehow gets caught regardless of his adamant resistance. The complete opposite of Dylan in personality and disposition, he’s drawn to the young man like no other, and Wall’s protective side is alerted full blast when killers attack not only his friends, but Dylan too.
Despite this being quite long to my poor pea brain, I did enjoy the push pull of these two and how much they contrasted and complemented each other. Both Dylan and Wall ache with want but each don’t think they’ll ever achieve love for similar and different reasons, both being scared of disappointing and afraid of being disappointed. Wall is seriously a dream MC for me. Huge *wink*, gruff, and gentle in all the right ways and not so gentle in all the more perfect ways….
Reese didn’t drop the ball here as she delivers on the romance and action, securing the fact that I will always come back for more should she continue with this series!
October 10, 2018
Another day, another five star Jaime Reese book.
I always go into these stories with such high expectations and I’m never left disappointed. Jaime Reese just does it for me. She blends so many story elements that I crave in my reading and she does it bloody well.
In this sixth installment of the series, we follow newly released from prison Dylan Vaughn as he moves into the Halfway House after two years in lock up. As an orphan, jumping from one foster care environment to another, Dylan suffers from some serious issues of abandonment. He’s always felt unwanted and unlovable, figuring it’s his genius level brain and his lack of appropriate social skills getting in his way and resulting in one emotional rejection after another. He’s always been good with computers though, even though his not-so-legal dabblings led him to trust the wrong person and resulted in some jail time. He’s learned his lesson, at least where trusting people is concerned, but when he meets the men at Halfway House and their friends, Dylan’s defensive walls start to crumble and he begins to find the acceptance he’s always longed for.
Wall McCormack is ex-military, now working with Aiden (MC of book four) on the special task force. His name describes his physicality to a T; he’s a big man and he doesn’t say much, unless necessary. He’s been scorned one too many times in his personal life, and although he longs for someone to love and be loved by, his past experiences have made him shut that part of himself away in an attempt to avoid more heartbreak.
When Dylan’s past shows up to ruin his newly found freedom, Wall is tasked with protective duties at the Halfway House until the danger can be quelled. Dylan and Wall dance around each other, both fiercely attracted to the other, but both struggling with their interpersonal demons. But when the threat to Dylan becomes greater than anticipated, the two are thrown into an on-the-run situation that brings them closer and closer together until sparks fly and feelings can no longer be denied.
This story was hella romantic and even exciting at times with all the constant danger and general badassery on Wall’s part. I loved the way the characters developed and the relationships unfolded. Wall and Dylan were crazy sweet together, but I also ardently enjoyed Dylan’s growing relationships with Wall’s mother Maggie (legend!) and his fellow Halfway House tenant Ox (gentle giant for the win!).
It’s a fact that I connect a great deal with Reese’s personal writing style. I know some people complain about the long length of her books, but that’s one aspect that definitely works for me. Her stories are never rushed and I love that. Her characters are impressively well-developed and fully realised over the course of their journeys, making them easier to connect with and root for.
The crime and suspense elements work for me, too. There are a scattering of action scenes here that are worthy of blockbuster status, but it’s not so much as to overwhelm the story or overshadow the focus of the evolving relationship between the MCs.
I love that the romance portion of a Reese book always unfolds as a delicious slow burn, providing the couple in question plenty of time to authentically develop feelings for one another, feelings that I have no trouble believing in and rooting for. Plus, when the sex finally happens, it’s always hot and steamy, with a side of passion and swoon worthy tenderness. As I said, Wall and Dylan were super sweet together and made an excellent addition to the already well loved list of couples in this series.
The Men of Halfway House books are some of my absolute favourites in M/M contemporary romance and I couldn’t recommend them more highly to new readers if I tried.
I always go into these stories with such high expectations and I’m never left disappointed. Jaime Reese just does it for me. She blends so many story elements that I crave in my reading and she does it bloody well.
In this sixth installment of the series, we follow newly released from prison Dylan Vaughn as he moves into the Halfway House after two years in lock up. As an orphan, jumping from one foster care environment to another, Dylan suffers from some serious issues of abandonment. He’s always felt unwanted and unlovable, figuring it’s his genius level brain and his lack of appropriate social skills getting in his way and resulting in one emotional rejection after another. He’s always been good with computers though, even though his not-so-legal dabblings led him to trust the wrong person and resulted in some jail time. He’s learned his lesson, at least where trusting people is concerned, but when he meets the men at Halfway House and their friends, Dylan’s defensive walls start to crumble and he begins to find the acceptance he’s always longed for.
Wall McCormack is ex-military, now working with Aiden (MC of book four) on the special task force. His name describes his physicality to a T; he’s a big man and he doesn’t say much, unless necessary. He’s been scorned one too many times in his personal life, and although he longs for someone to love and be loved by, his past experiences have made him shut that part of himself away in an attempt to avoid more heartbreak.
When Dylan’s past shows up to ruin his newly found freedom, Wall is tasked with protective duties at the Halfway House until the danger can be quelled. Dylan and Wall dance around each other, both fiercely attracted to the other, but both struggling with their interpersonal demons. But when the threat to Dylan becomes greater than anticipated, the two are thrown into an on-the-run situation that brings them closer and closer together until sparks fly and feelings can no longer be denied.
This story was hella romantic and even exciting at times with all the constant danger and general badassery on Wall’s part. I loved the way the characters developed and the relationships unfolded. Wall and Dylan were crazy sweet together, but I also ardently enjoyed Dylan’s growing relationships with Wall’s mother Maggie (legend!) and his fellow Halfway House tenant Ox (gentle giant for the win!).
It’s a fact that I connect a great deal with Reese’s personal writing style. I know some people complain about the long length of her books, but that’s one aspect that definitely works for me. Her stories are never rushed and I love that. Her characters are impressively well-developed and fully realised over the course of their journeys, making them easier to connect with and root for.
The crime and suspense elements work for me, too. There are a scattering of action scenes here that are worthy of blockbuster status, but it’s not so much as to overwhelm the story or overshadow the focus of the evolving relationship between the MCs.
I love that the romance portion of a Reese book always unfolds as a delicious slow burn, providing the couple in question plenty of time to authentically develop feelings for one another, feelings that I have no trouble believing in and rooting for. Plus, when the sex finally happens, it’s always hot and steamy, with a side of passion and swoon worthy tenderness. As I said, Wall and Dylan were super sweet together and made an excellent addition to the already well loved list of couples in this series.
The Men of Halfway House books are some of my absolute favourites in M/M contemporary romance and I couldn’t recommend them more highly to new readers if I tried.
June 7, 2020
I've really loved some of the books in this series but this one not so much, and really I should have because broken men with issues .... sign me up! I loved both characters, their strength and determination, their honesty with each other and their steamy parts when they eventually got to create some steam. I loved the whole hacking plot and meeting up with previous characters.
Soooo, why the meh rating? Because this book dragged on and on needlessly. The first 25% and last 25% - perfect, the middle was slow and repetitive (thanks Susan, I've borrowed your line). I get they both had insecurity and trust issues but did it really have to be pointed out and gone over repetitively?
Soooo, why the meh rating? Because this book dragged on and on needlessly. The first 25% and last 25% - perfect, the middle was slow and repetitive (thanks Susan, I've borrowed your line). I get they both had insecurity and trust issues but did it really have to be pointed out and gone over repetitively?
December 12, 2025
The one and only book I could call a 6 stars read for me
Sometimes you’re having a shit week and you just need to re-read your favorite books. This is the book I would describe as my all time favorite book, so like, it was most likely going to hold up, but I had to test it! The verdict? Still my all time favorite book. This book is special to me in ways i’m not sure how to describe, it’s just everything I could ever want in a book.
Mini-blurb: Dylan loves computers and he just out of a 2 years stint in prison because he trusted the wrong person and that person had him hack into a very private database. Dylan had access to very powerful information and now that he’s out, people are looking to find him to finish the job. In comes Wall, a grumpy and quiet man that is hired as security for Dylan. They fall in love in the process.
Lets start by making a list of everything I love in a book:
- I love a opposites attract, expecially when one of the character is grumpy and quiet and only has a soft spot for his man.
- I love a hurt/comfort romance between characters that were hurt in the past and feel lost and find their way through life through their bound with each other, expecially if it includes a cast of side characters that becomes their found family.
- I love two main characters that are well developed and have their qualities and flaws and you get to see them take on the world and how their person translates in their day to day actions.
- I love a book that focuses on the romance and the characters thoughts as the romance is developing. I want to read all of their first private thoughts about each other and then see their romance develop on page through their interactions with each other. I love to be able to see their feelings grow scene by scene.
And this book is just the perfect mix of every one of these things and so much more at the same time. These two had suffered so many hurt and less in their lives and they had been so alone for so many years and I just loved seeing how much they gave being together their everything. You could tell that everything they did was with the end goal of living their happily every after and it was so good to read.
Sometimes you’re having a shit week and you just need to re-read your favorite books. This is the book I would describe as my all time favorite book, so like, it was most likely going to hold up, but I had to test it! The verdict? Still my all time favorite book. This book is special to me in ways i’m not sure how to describe, it’s just everything I could ever want in a book.
Mini-blurb: Dylan loves computers and he just out of a 2 years stint in prison because he trusted the wrong person and that person had him hack into a very private database. Dylan had access to very powerful information and now that he’s out, people are looking to find him to finish the job. In comes Wall, a grumpy and quiet man that is hired as security for Dylan. They fall in love in the process.
Lets start by making a list of everything I love in a book:
- I love a opposites attract, expecially when one of the character is grumpy and quiet and only has a soft spot for his man.
- I love a hurt/comfort romance between characters that were hurt in the past and feel lost and find their way through life through their bound with each other, expecially if it includes a cast of side characters that becomes their found family.
- I love two main characters that are well developed and have their qualities and flaws and you get to see them take on the world and how their person translates in their day to day actions.
- I love a book that focuses on the romance and the characters thoughts as the romance is developing. I want to read all of their first private thoughts about each other and then see their romance develop on page through their interactions with each other. I love to be able to see their feelings grow scene by scene.
And this book is just the perfect mix of every one of these things and so much more at the same time. These two had suffered so many hurt and less in their lives and they had been so alone for so many years and I just loved seeing how much they gave being together their everything. You could tell that everything they did was with the end goal of living their happily every after and it was so good to read.
October 12, 2018
⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱*‘Why’ (constantly used word)*⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱
After two years in prison, computer code genius, Dylan ‘Mr. Firecracker’ Vaughn (23) is being sent to the Halfway House, which is where he meets Detective (special task force; they were the middlemen between the local police and government agencies) Grayson ‘Wall’ ‘Gray’ McCormack (36). Dylan makes Wall want to take a chance in love again, but he's been screwed over by love too many times and he doesn't know if he can do it again. Wall makes Dylan hope again, but love is a fantasy. On top of the maybe's of taking a chance at love, there's people after Dylan and Wall will do everything to keep him safe. Overall, it wasn't a bad read, filled with action (I honestly felt like I was reading a FBI book) and smartass comments. The characters made each other better, I guess, but I felt like there was a somewhat insta-love. The timeline was what, two-three weeks? I struggled a bit with the connection between the two, but they were cute.
He could have easily faked it, laughed at Aidan’s joke, but he refused to erect a facade to make it appear as if everything was hunky-dory inside his head.
He didn’t do fake.
Facades were for cowards.
He had learned that lesson years ago.
OTHER CHARACTERS:
→ Sam Dylan's reintegration officer
→ Matthew ‘Matt’ Doner and Julian ‘J’ Capeletti, the halfway house owners.
→ Detective and team leader of the force, Aidan Calloway and Jessie ‘Jess’ Vega, his partner (boyfriend).
→ Travis and Sunny, both part of the force team with Wall and Aidan.
→ Ox, one of Dylan's other housemates.
→ Robert ‘Robbie’ and Neil, a couple and
→ Patrick,
→ Tanner, the one who fucked over Dylan; got him sent to jail.
→ Reinaldo ‘Rey’, Wall's ex-boyfriend?
→ Former ADA, Hunter Donovan and his partner, Cameron Pierce, who had been the first Halfway House resident.
→ Margaret ‘Maggie’ McCormack, Wall's mother.
→ Tracker and Geek, they’re part of Cole (Aidan’s self-proclaimed-future-brother-in-law, was straight-up legit now, but he hadn’t always walked the straight and legal path)’s old crew.
“They don’t want me, Julian.” He quietly sat, reliving every rejection he had endured when it came to family or a relationship. The silence at the table an obvious sign he had ruined the evening’s conversation by simply participating in the discussion. He raised his hands in surrender. “Whatever. I’m used to it.”
He excused himself from the table, not wanting to hear more about his stupid mistakes or the mess his life had become. He hadn’t wanted fame, fortune, or anything fancy. He wanted a family. A home. Someone who genuinely chose him, even when that choice might not be the smartest thing.
Someone who would inspire star-filled dreams.
Those were items at the top of his wish list. But with each passing day, he realized some wishes would always remain just that…
Wishes.
Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Contemporary Romance (M/M).
Series: - Series (Can Be Read As A Standalone), Book Six.
Love triangle? -
Cheating? -
HEA? -
Favorite character? - Dominic ‘Dom’ Russo.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - I guess.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Unsure.
Will I read this again in the future? - No.
Rating - 2.5 stars.
lgbtq-to-read
September 20, 2018This was my face when I realized the dude on the cover has A EEEEEEGSURTYUIJHGTYUI!!!!!!!!!!!! UNICORN TATTOO!
Um, yeah. ADDED!
Um, yeah. ADDED!
September 27, 2018
I liked how this started out. I cared for both Dylan and Wall and was curious to see how their romance would progress. Well, slowly is the answer. Very very slowly.
Dylan is a 23 year old computer genius. More of a genius all around, but he is mostly interested in computers. He just got out of jail, where he spent the last 2 years, because he was framed by an ex-boyfriend who asked him to hack into a server.
Dylan has grown up in foster care, but no one ever really wanted him. He constantly thinks he has no people skills, so having to connect with people in the halfway house he’s being sent to, will be a challenge for him.
When someone breaks into the halfway house to deliver a message to Dylan, he gets scared. Not scared for himself, but for the people in the halfway house. He is surprised to find out how much he already cares for Matt, Julian, and Ox. But when he asks them to please send him back to prison, they won’t allow it.
Matt calls Aidan to get Dylan to talk about who is after him. But Dylan won’t talk. And that’s where Wall steps in. Wall is Aidan’s teammate and is literally a wall of a man. He doesn’t talk much, but has is a very solid presence nonetheless.
Dylan is immediately attracted to the big quiet man, and he suddenly finds himself opening up to him, and telling him how someone might be after him because of what he found when he hacked that server 2 years ago.
Aidan thinks it’s a good idea to put Wall on security detail until they capture the men responsible, but when the halfway house gets attacked, it is determined that Dylan can’t stay there. And that’s how Dylan finds himself in the care of Wall when they leave the halfway house, who will do anything to protect him….
I normally love it when two characters are isolated for a period of time so they exist in their own little bubble for a while and enjoy each other. And I love a slow burn where both characters have to overcome some inner demons before they can fully love on one another. But here it felt repetitive. Yes, Dylan has severe abandonment issues and Wall some fear about relationships in general. But here it went on and on and on and on. It eventually started to bore me when they had yet another conversation about how they wanted to be together, but both had issues so they should take it even slower. If these guys took it any slower they would have gone backwards.
Now I did like both Dylan and Wall (hate the name though), but I thought their issues were overstretched a bit.
I was also a bit confused about Dylan’s lack of people skills as he so often mentioned. The way his people issues were described and shown, he reminded me of Cole with his lack of filter. But while I could clearly see for myself how Cole talked to people and how that indeed stroked with his own assessment of lack of filter, I had a harder time figuring out Dylan. He kept thinking he had no people skills whatsoever, that he couldn’t figure out how people ‘worked’. But other than a few things he perhaps said with weird timing, I didn’t notice him acting off in conversations with people at all. Certainly not crazy weird or in the severity he thought himself. I kind of had the feeling the author wanted to push his ‘people issues’ on us, but I was told about it a lot, but not shown, and therefore had a hard time fully buying it.
I think I would have liked this more if it had been shorter and less repetitive. It most definitely wasn’t all bad, but I did want it to be over when I was halfway through. I still love all the HH characters though, and it was great seeing Matt and Julian again. And I most definitely fell in love with Ox. He was my favorite of this book.
Dylan is a 23 year old computer genius. More of a genius all around, but he is mostly interested in computers. He just got out of jail, where he spent the last 2 years, because he was framed by an ex-boyfriend who asked him to hack into a server.
Dylan has grown up in foster care, but no one ever really wanted him. He constantly thinks he has no people skills, so having to connect with people in the halfway house he’s being sent to, will be a challenge for him.
When someone breaks into the halfway house to deliver a message to Dylan, he gets scared. Not scared for himself, but for the people in the halfway house. He is surprised to find out how much he already cares for Matt, Julian, and Ox. But when he asks them to please send him back to prison, they won’t allow it.
Matt calls Aidan to get Dylan to talk about who is after him. But Dylan won’t talk. And that’s where Wall steps in. Wall is Aidan’s teammate and is literally a wall of a man. He doesn’t talk much, but has is a very solid presence nonetheless.
Dylan is immediately attracted to the big quiet man, and he suddenly finds himself opening up to him, and telling him how someone might be after him because of what he found when he hacked that server 2 years ago.
Aidan thinks it’s a good idea to put Wall on security detail until they capture the men responsible, but when the halfway house gets attacked, it is determined that Dylan can’t stay there. And that’s how Dylan finds himself in the care of Wall when they leave the halfway house, who will do anything to protect him….
I normally love it when two characters are isolated for a period of time so they exist in their own little bubble for a while and enjoy each other. And I love a slow burn where both characters have to overcome some inner demons before they can fully love on one another. But here it felt repetitive. Yes, Dylan has severe abandonment issues and Wall some fear about relationships in general. But here it went on and on and on and on. It eventually started to bore me when they had yet another conversation about how they wanted to be together, but both had issues so they should take it even slower. If these guys took it any slower they would have gone backwards.
Now I did like both Dylan and Wall (hate the name though), but I thought their issues were overstretched a bit.
I was also a bit confused about Dylan’s lack of people skills as he so often mentioned. The way his people issues were described and shown, he reminded me of Cole with his lack of filter. But while I could clearly see for myself how Cole talked to people and how that indeed stroked with his own assessment of lack of filter, I had a harder time figuring out Dylan. He kept thinking he had no people skills whatsoever, that he couldn’t figure out how people ‘worked’. But other than a few things he perhaps said with weird timing, I didn’t notice him acting off in conversations with people at all. Certainly not crazy weird or in the severity he thought himself. I kind of had the feeling the author wanted to push his ‘people issues’ on us, but I was told about it a lot, but not shown, and therefore had a hard time fully buying it.
I think I would have liked this more if it had been shorter and less repetitive. It most definitely wasn’t all bad, but I did want it to be over when I was halfway through. I still love all the HH characters though, and it was great seeing Matt and Julian again. And I most definitely fell in love with Ox. He was my favorite of this book.
June 10, 2020
Perfect and emotional as always. Jaime Reese is an autobuy from me, and she never disappoints. I loved Dylan and Wall so much. They were so beautiful together. Dylan had the patience of a saint with Wall's continuous "Why". He was like a toddler sometimes. Reese's characters are always broken in some way, but their vulnerabilities only make me cheer them on that much more. This will be a re-read very soon. I'm always sad she doesn't put out more books, but the quality is always worth the wait! The only thing I wanted was more Cole! He just makes me laugh!
October 29, 2018
*4.5 stars*
I really love this series.
I loved Dylan. Dylan who was delt a shitty hand all of his life. Being thrown out of foster homes all the time. No wonder he had a hard time trusting people. They let him down all the time. Wall was perfect for him. All the two ever wanted was a family and that is what they got with each other. Ooh and btw Maggie, Wall's mother was awesome. Was so happy that Dylan finally experienced what having a loving mother is.
Although this was kinda of a long book, I could've read more about this couple.
Guess Dylan saw stars after all....
"Stars? No.
He saw comets, Northern Lights, auras, and constellations.
Perseus and Orion were giving him high-fives.
This wasn’t a fantasy. This was pure heaven."
Hope there wil be more of the Halfway House.
September 30, 2018
** 4.75 stars **
This book is all that it should be for the most part. The characters are well-developed, the story is interesting, the writing style is wonderful and the editing is superb. It was hard to rate this book because the one component always present for me with this author's books was unfortunately not there - the emotional one. With previous books I was literally in tears, I was deeply moved and not a second passed while reading that I felt bored. Yet here from about 55% to 80% of the book it read slightly repetitive to me, and at times I had to make myself to continue because I knew the end would be spectacular. I didn't feel the anguish and while reading these specific sets of chapters they didn't elicit either tears or, I don't know, a heart flatter as her books usually do. I felt kind of detached, and I really didn't like it. Don't get me wrong, the book is stupendous, the first part for me was read as a page turner, then this part where I was scratching my head as to why I wasn't bawling my eyes out, but then the "mojo" of the book was back with vengeance and I loved every minute of it! So maybe it was just an off day for me. But I liked most of it and I highly recommend it! Wonderful job, Ms Reese! The issue is totally my fault here!
This book is all that it should be for the most part. The characters are well-developed, the story is interesting, the writing style is wonderful and the editing is superb. It was hard to rate this book because the one component always present for me with this author's books was unfortunately not there - the emotional one. With previous books I was literally in tears, I was deeply moved and not a second passed while reading that I felt bored. Yet here from about 55% to 80% of the book it read slightly repetitive to me, and at times I had to make myself to continue because I knew the end would be spectacular. I didn't feel the anguish and while reading these specific sets of chapters they didn't elicit either tears or, I don't know, a heart flatter as her books usually do. I felt kind of detached, and I really didn't like it. Don't get me wrong, the book is stupendous, the first part for me was read as a page turner, then this part where I was scratching my head as to why I wasn't bawling my eyes out, but then the "mojo" of the book was back with vengeance and I loved every minute of it! So maybe it was just an off day for me. But I liked most of it and I highly recommend it! Wonderful job, Ms Reese! The issue is totally my fault here!
October 5, 2018
Beautiful. Really, don't miss this book if you liked the previous ones in the series. This author is an autobuy for me, and (with high expectations) I wasn't disappointed.
I loved everything about this story!
200% recommend!😍
*I'll write a better review when I'll have time!*
I loved everything about this story!
200% recommend!😍
*I'll write a better review when I'll have time!*
October 20, 2018
***** Wow ! ***** I have loved each book in this wonderful series. This tale is just as awesome. We get to see guys who have had a hard time, but find their futures and their own happiness. Priceless !
In this book our two M/Cs have amazing stories; they are great characters and we like each of them. They have endured agony and we watch the fun times and action. A lot of heartfelt emotions are displayed in this slow burn romance.
Dylan just got out of prison for cyber crime
and is going to Matt and Julian's Halfway House. The side characters here are fantastic. Dylan, 23, who has always been rejected, has hardened his defenses. With his unicorn tattoo and his sometimes dyed hair, he knew at least he'd get some attention. He wanted someone to care, because he's been turned away from two dozen foster homes. When the armed creeps come to the H.H., he's the target.
* We see the task force inaction, and we know what kind of guy Wall is, before he shows up at the H.H..
That is when we meet Wall, a task force member and ex-military man. Wall, 36, a big hunky hottie, will be guarding Dylan.
The job Dylan did for a guy, is what led to prison, but he never finished that job.
Wall, solid and serious and the king of snarkiness Dylan, really do click together. After another attack, they go into hiding, and end up at Wall's strong Mom's. Our men's needs and wants are so similar, gosh this is an excellent pairing, with tender moments and violent action, too. Of course their sexy times are through the roof.
I loved the plot flow, and we get to see Wall's excellent sniper skills in the action packed, violent rescue.
There's a magnificent epilogue, where we see their new life. It is extremely thrilling and heartwarming. Loved it !
Extra-highly recommended. ENJOY !
====
In this book our two M/Cs have amazing stories; they are great characters and we like each of them. They have endured agony and we watch the fun times and action. A lot of heartfelt emotions are displayed in this slow burn romance.
Dylan just got out of prison for cyber crime
and is going to Matt and Julian's Halfway House. The side characters here are fantastic. Dylan, 23, who has always been rejected, has hardened his defenses. With his unicorn tattoo and his sometimes dyed hair, he knew at least he'd get some attention. He wanted someone to care, because he's been turned away from two dozen foster homes. When the armed creeps come to the H.H., he's the target.
* We see the task force inaction, and we know what kind of guy Wall is, before he shows up at the H.H..
That is when we meet Wall, a task force member and ex-military man. Wall, 36, a big hunky hottie, will be guarding Dylan.
The job Dylan did for a guy, is what led to prison, but he never finished that job.
Wall, solid and serious and the king of snarkiness Dylan, really do click together. After another attack, they go into hiding, and end up at Wall's strong Mom's. Our men's needs and wants are so similar, gosh this is an excellent pairing, with tender moments and violent action, too. Of course their sexy times are through the roof.
I loved the plot flow, and we get to see Wall's excellent sniper skills in the action packed, violent rescue.
There's a magnificent epilogue, where we see their new life. It is extremely thrilling and heartwarming. Loved it !
Extra-highly recommended. ENJOY !
====
Read
June 19, 2020DNF
Unfortunately I got half way and it couldn’t keep my interest.
Unfortunately I got half way and it couldn’t keep my interest.
nope-not-for-me-not-interested
October 14, 2018DNF 52%
I tried. I really tried. But there is way too much inner dialogue and musings in this for me to enjoy the story. I'm actually skimming whole pages and paragraphs to get to some actual dialogue to help move the story along and that just pisses me off to no end.
Do I like these characters and where the story is going? Yes. But I just can't be all up in their heads for the whole book.
I tried. I really tried. But there is way too much inner dialogue and musings in this for me to enjoy the story. I'm actually skimming whole pages and paragraphs to get to some actual dialogue to help move the story along and that just pisses me off to no end.
Do I like these characters and where the story is going? Yes. But I just can't be all up in their heads for the whole book.
October 1, 2018
I absolutely loved this ... I stopped my day and refused to move until I finished it ! Wall - the big, beautiful vulnerable man, who fell for Dylan - the bratty, guarded and most adorable person. Both guys so careful about showing weakness or letting anyone in. It was like watching layers of an onion slowly being peeled as they carefully allowed each other in, one honest step at a time. What I loved is that this storyline has depth and wasn’t rushed. We have time to really get to know the characters and become part of the scenario... it gave the story credibility. I really enjoyed reading this... adore this series ❤️
October 8, 2018
✮4.5 Stars✮
💗
September 27, 2018
How do you perfect perfection? I’m not sure but I am sure Jaime Reese knows…you’ll have to ask her. Somehow, someway The Men of Halfway House grow stronger and stronger with every couple. I hope her muse continues to bombard her with more men, more stories, and more greatness because I can guarantee you, I’ll never tire of another addition to this magnificent series. In the past, I’ve found myself gravitating towards series that involve the same couple. But this series tackles a fresh couple every time and I find myself contemplating if they have become my new favorite. I think it’s a blessing I only have one child because this is a prime example of me whispering ‘you’re my favorite” to each and every new couple that Reese delivers. I love them all…fiercely. Just when I think it can’t get any better, it does. Wall is stoic, sturdy and ohhh-so-sexy. Dylan is smart, sassy and equally sexy. Put them together? Blinding brilliance. Their story is brimming with adrenaline, attitude, and an abundance of love. And it’s calling your name.
What's to like: When it comes to strong stubborn characters, Reese delivers in full force. Let’s start with Wall. He’s a cop. More precisely, he’s a member of a tactical team, SRT to be exact. What is SRT? Well, some would say, the police that the police call for help. “Special Response Teams” are the officers that handle the high-risk situations. The raids and the extremely dangerous calls. The known criminals and felons almost guaranteed to fight back are the people they tango with on a daily basis. A law enforcement officer must always…walk a thin line. We expect them to embrace the darkness to protect us. Tactical officers face a greater challenge because they deal with the bottom of the barrel….day in and day out. Holding onto humanity isn’t always easy. Wall has come to realize, his profession has an expiration date and he’s almost there. When a stranger trying to hide in spite of his bright and vibrant aura catches his eye, everything shifts in his world. Dylan is the newest member of The Halfway House and he’s proven to be a challenge within the first 24 hours. He was born with a gift that has felt almost like a curse at times. His unimaginable powers of memory and computer wizardry marked him…with a bullseye on his back. His entire life, no one has ever…selected him. He’s never been preferred or chosen…until now. Wall grants him a first. The first time someone has ever wanted him for himself. *sigh* Which takes us to what I loved most about this story…
What's to love: Dylan longs for someone to understand him. And he’s even more desperate for someone to love him. Abandoned at birth and discarded his entire childhood has left him jaded and aloof. When he finally let down his guard and thought someone actually cared, he was burned in the worst possible way. People can’t be trusted. You can’t rely on anyone. Or is it…he hasn’t met the right person to trust and rely on? Wall silently shatters all of his preconceptions. One of the many things I love about Jaime’s stories is the depth and purity of her characters. She pens with meticulous sincerity. The flavor may change slightly but the base elements are still there. I always chuckle, smile, melt, and swoon whenever I devour her books. And once is never enough for me. I immediately dive back in for a second dose. Rereading is an indulgence I rarely allow myself because I always have a stack of books to read. But Wall and Dylan struck me with such a profound impact, I wasn’t ready to let them go. To be honest, I’m still not. They are very different men in a very difficult and dangerous situation…but you can’t stop love. Trust, tenacity and tender hope spark a fire between them. A blaze that burns red-hot and it was absolutely mesmerizing. I would be remiss not to mention the stunning secondary cast. Of course, we have our HH guys but Ox and Wall’s mom are equally incredible. Secured with a striking cover, the package is complete. It’s everything I wanted and then some. And I hope you have the immense pleasure of joining them on their action-packed ride.
Beware of: Dangerous men. Guns blazing. And hearts merging. Not only is Wall hefty in size but so is his story. I was blissfully absorbing every page and didn’t want it to end. I could have easily read another several hundred pages.
This book is for: The Men of Halfway House fans have most likely already greedily grabbed this gem…but! If you haven’t met Matt, J, and their guys yet…this is truly a fabulous place to start. I’m typically a stickler about reading books in proper order but this honestly can be read as a stand-alone. Just forewarning you…another five books are about to hit your TBR if this is your first ride with Jaime’s guys. One time won’t be enough.
Book UNfunk
What's to like: When it comes to strong stubborn characters, Reese delivers in full force. Let’s start with Wall. He’s a cop. More precisely, he’s a member of a tactical team, SRT to be exact. What is SRT? Well, some would say, the police that the police call for help. “Special Response Teams” are the officers that handle the high-risk situations. The raids and the extremely dangerous calls. The known criminals and felons almost guaranteed to fight back are the people they tango with on a daily basis. A law enforcement officer must always…walk a thin line. We expect them to embrace the darkness to protect us. Tactical officers face a greater challenge because they deal with the bottom of the barrel….day in and day out. Holding onto humanity isn’t always easy. Wall has come to realize, his profession has an expiration date and he’s almost there. When a stranger trying to hide in spite of his bright and vibrant aura catches his eye, everything shifts in his world. Dylan is the newest member of The Halfway House and he’s proven to be a challenge within the first 24 hours. He was born with a gift that has felt almost like a curse at times. His unimaginable powers of memory and computer wizardry marked him…with a bullseye on his back. His entire life, no one has ever…selected him. He’s never been preferred or chosen…until now. Wall grants him a first. The first time someone has ever wanted him for himself. *sigh* Which takes us to what I loved most about this story…
What's to love: Dylan longs for someone to understand him. And he’s even more desperate for someone to love him. Abandoned at birth and discarded his entire childhood has left him jaded and aloof. When he finally let down his guard and thought someone actually cared, he was burned in the worst possible way. People can’t be trusted. You can’t rely on anyone. Or is it…he hasn’t met the right person to trust and rely on? Wall silently shatters all of his preconceptions. One of the many things I love about Jaime’s stories is the depth and purity of her characters. She pens with meticulous sincerity. The flavor may change slightly but the base elements are still there. I always chuckle, smile, melt, and swoon whenever I devour her books. And once is never enough for me. I immediately dive back in for a second dose. Rereading is an indulgence I rarely allow myself because I always have a stack of books to read. But Wall and Dylan struck me with such a profound impact, I wasn’t ready to let them go. To be honest, I’m still not. They are very different men in a very difficult and dangerous situation…but you can’t stop love. Trust, tenacity and tender hope spark a fire between them. A blaze that burns red-hot and it was absolutely mesmerizing. I would be remiss not to mention the stunning secondary cast. Of course, we have our HH guys but Ox and Wall’s mom are equally incredible. Secured with a striking cover, the package is complete. It’s everything I wanted and then some. And I hope you have the immense pleasure of joining them on their action-packed ride.
Beware of: Dangerous men. Guns blazing. And hearts merging. Not only is Wall hefty in size but so is his story. I was blissfully absorbing every page and didn’t want it to end. I could have easily read another several hundred pages.
This book is for: The Men of Halfway House fans have most likely already greedily grabbed this gem…but! If you haven’t met Matt, J, and their guys yet…this is truly a fabulous place to start. I’m typically a stickler about reading books in proper order but this honestly can be read as a stand-alone. Just forewarning you…another five books are about to hit your TBR if this is your first ride with Jaime’s guys. One time won’t be enough.
Book UNfunk
September 25, 2018
I know this is Book 6 of the series, but A Chosen Man can definitely work as a standalone, similar to other books in the series. This time the new member of the Halfway House is Dylan, convicted for cyber crime. As usual, Dylan came into the house like rebellious teenager that is in need of some serious TLC.
Wall is from the police force and although I have a kink for broody, stoic hero, Wall gives broody a whole new meaning. Wall is a man of few words and I remember a scene of him with his friend Jess, whereby Jess carried the entire conversation without Wall uttering a single word. However, Jaime really bring Wall's character to life with his POV, so even though he doesn't speak much, we know exactly what's on his mind. Wall might appear like a tough unfeeling robot, but we know that inside hide a soft gooey heart, especially after Dylan thawed it with his special brand of sass.
There are some suspense element with nefarious people trying to hunt Dylan for his hacking skill, which ended up Wall and Dylan being on the run together. My favourite part of the story was definitely when they got the down time together and getting to know each other. They both have some painful past that make them afraid to try and risk their heart again, but with each tentative steps forward, they manage to shed their armour and embrace the possibility. Dylan can be such a brat and Wall a stubborn mule, but they definitely wormed their way into my heart.
Wall is from the police force and although I have a kink for broody, stoic hero, Wall gives broody a whole new meaning. Wall is a man of few words and I remember a scene of him with his friend Jess, whereby Jess carried the entire conversation without Wall uttering a single word. However, Jaime really bring Wall's character to life with his POV, so even though he doesn't speak much, we know exactly what's on his mind. Wall might appear like a tough unfeeling robot, but we know that inside hide a soft gooey heart, especially after Dylan thawed it with his special brand of sass.
There are some suspense element with nefarious people trying to hunt Dylan for his hacking skill, which ended up Wall and Dylan being on the run together. My favourite part of the story was definitely when they got the down time together and getting to know each other. They both have some painful past that make them afraid to try and risk their heart again, but with each tentative steps forward, they manage to shed their armour and embrace the possibility. Dylan can be such a brat and Wall a stubborn mule, but they definitely wormed their way into my heart.
February 8, 2023
Update 29.10.21. / 27.05.22. / 08.02.23
Po drugim, trzecim i czwartym czytaniu ciągle: 💙🤗💙
* * * * * * *
Ten, którego nikt nie chciał, który całe życie był odrzucany i ignorowany oraz ten, który został okłamany zbyt wiele razy. Geniusz z fotograficzną pamięcią i nieprzeciętnymi umiejętnościami hakerskimi oraz były żołnierz, pracujący w specjalnej, międzywydziałowej jednostce policji. Były więzień spędzający swoje zwolnienie warunkowe w domu przejściowym Matta i Juliana, nieprzystosowany społecznie, potrafiący wyrzucać z siebie fakty, liczby czy książki telefoniczne ciągiem i wierzący, że zawsze - prędzej czy później, coś spieprzy w kontaktach międzyludzkich przez powiedzenie brutalnej prawdy czy czegoś niewłaściwego oraz były snajper, pragnący jedynie szczerości, nienawidzący kłamstwa, który jest uosobieniem spokoju, porozumiewający się z otoczeniem zmarszczeniem brwi, chrząknięciami, warknięciami czy spojrzeniem, które potrafi utrzymywać na człowieku nieskończenie długo, aby wydobyć bez słowa z niego to, co jest mu potrzebne, którego ulubionym słowem - jeżeli w ogóle się odzywa - jest "Why?".
Dylan i Wall.
Fantastyczni.
Kochani.
Niezapomniani.
Do tego świetne tło - bohaterów, których już znamy z poprzednich części oraz dwie niesamowite, nowe postacie: Oxa - też mieszkańca Domu w Połowie Drogi, dużego miśka, z bardzo słabą pamięcią, którego nikt nie potrafi zdiagnozować, co z nim jest nie tak, który przez większość czasu jest jak duże dziecko, ale ma taaaaakie serducho, jest szczery do bólu i świadomy, że z jego głową jest coś nie tak; oraz Maggie - mamy Walla. Nie sposób ich nie pokochać.
Po drugim, trzecim i czwartym czytaniu ciągle: 💙🤗💙
* * * * * * *
Ten, którego nikt nie chciał, który całe życie był odrzucany i ignorowany oraz ten, który został okłamany zbyt wiele razy. Geniusz z fotograficzną pamięcią i nieprzeciętnymi umiejętnościami hakerskimi oraz były żołnierz, pracujący w specjalnej, międzywydziałowej jednostce policji. Były więzień spędzający swoje zwolnienie warunkowe w domu przejściowym Matta i Juliana, nieprzystosowany społecznie, potrafiący wyrzucać z siebie fakty, liczby czy książki telefoniczne ciągiem i wierzący, że zawsze - prędzej czy później, coś spieprzy w kontaktach międzyludzkich przez powiedzenie brutalnej prawdy czy czegoś niewłaściwego oraz były snajper, pragnący jedynie szczerości, nienawidzący kłamstwa, który jest uosobieniem spokoju, porozumiewający się z otoczeniem zmarszczeniem brwi, chrząknięciami, warknięciami czy spojrzeniem, które potrafi utrzymywać na człowieku nieskończenie długo, aby wydobyć bez słowa z niego to, co jest mu potrzebne, którego ulubionym słowem - jeżeli w ogóle się odzywa - jest "Why?".
Dylan i Wall.
Fantastyczni.
Kochani.
Niezapomniani.
Do tego świetne tło - bohaterów, których już znamy z poprzednich części oraz dwie niesamowite, nowe postacie: Oxa - też mieszkańca Domu w Połowie Drogi, dużego miśka, z bardzo słabą pamięcią, którego nikt nie potrafi zdiagnozować, co z nim jest nie tak, który przez większość czasu jest jak duże dziecko, ale ma taaaaakie serducho, jest szczery do bólu i świadomy, że z jego głową jest coś nie tak; oraz Maggie - mamy Walla. Nie sposób ich nie pokochać.
June 30, 2020
4.5 Stars!
This series is going to stay high on my list of favorites because they’re are truly great hurt/comfort reads, most with added suspense that really grabs my interest. Dylan is the newest addition at HH, a mathematic savant who spends his life waiting for people to reject him, and throw him away. He seemed to be a bit autistic in the way his mind works and his responses to anxiety. I wanted to hug him to death the minute he appeared on page. Nothing changes Dylan’s innate desire to belong and Matt, Julien and Ox, another resident who’s memory-challenged, start to make him feel accepted, until his past breaks in. Aiden shows up to help, bringing Wall with him.
Being physically imposing gave Wall his nickname along with his lack of verbal responses, preferring to grunt, stare down or perpetually ask “why”. Wall was harder to like sometimes, his lack of communication skills made him seem almost mean or dismissive at times. Much of the narrative is dedicated to how Wall and Dylan learn to interpret and understand each other. It helps immensely that Wall uses his mothers house to hide Dylan and the mom is a good buffer between them. The relationship between these two is a slow build and the heat an even slower burn. Very satisfying when it catches fire though!
I enjoyed the action sequences, even when they wandered too far out of realism. There were a few other details I saw as too anomalous, taking me out of the flow a little. The epilogue was excellent, sexy and happy, the HEA nearing perfect! I hope Jaime Reese continues adding residents to HH and I’d love to see Ox get his own book and find find someone.
This series is going to stay high on my list of favorites because they’re are truly great hurt/comfort reads, most with added suspense that really grabs my interest. Dylan is the newest addition at HH, a mathematic savant who spends his life waiting for people to reject him, and throw him away. He seemed to be a bit autistic in the way his mind works and his responses to anxiety. I wanted to hug him to death the minute he appeared on page. Nothing changes Dylan’s innate desire to belong and Matt, Julien and Ox, another resident who’s memory-challenged, start to make him feel accepted, until his past breaks in. Aiden shows up to help, bringing Wall with him.
Being physically imposing gave Wall his nickname along with his lack of verbal responses, preferring to grunt, stare down or perpetually ask “why”. Wall was harder to like sometimes, his lack of communication skills made him seem almost mean or dismissive at times. Much of the narrative is dedicated to how Wall and Dylan learn to interpret and understand each other. It helps immensely that Wall uses his mothers house to hide Dylan and the mom is a good buffer between them. The relationship between these two is a slow build and the heat an even slower burn. Very satisfying when it catches fire though!
I enjoyed the action sequences, even when they wandered too far out of realism. There were a few other details I saw as too anomalous, taking me out of the flow a little. The epilogue was excellent, sexy and happy, the HEA nearing perfect! I hope Jaime Reese continues adding residents to HH and I’d love to see Ox get his own book and find find someone.
October 30, 2018
Dylan is more comfortable with computers than people. His brain runs a mile a minute and sometimes he can't control what comes out of his mouth when he speaks. His longest relationship ended with a two-year stint in prison. He expects rejection at every turn but really just wants someone to choose him. He wants to be a part of a family. Wall is a big, silent, protector. Past relationships brought him nothing but lies, betrayal and pain. But Wall can't deny he's drawn to the firecracker that is Dylan and when it becomes clear someone is after Dylan, Wall will do everything in his power to protect him.
I fell in love with these two men, Wall and his guarded words and Dylan's sass and tentative hope that someone will want the real him. There's a bit of touch-and-go at the start. Both men have a stubborn streak, but once they start opening up to each other they're a perfect match with plenty of chemistry.
There are quite a few swoon-worthy moments, some danger and some humor. There is also one more resident at Halfway House who stole my heart - if you don't come out of this book loving Ox and his bond with Dylan, you may need to get that heart of yours checked out.
Wall and Dylan became one of my favorite couples from the series. Although Wall appeared in a previous book (A Mended Man) this can easily be read as a standalone.
I fell in love with these two men, Wall and his guarded words and Dylan's sass and tentative hope that someone will want the real him. There's a bit of touch-and-go at the start. Both men have a stubborn streak, but once they start opening up to each other they're a perfect match with plenty of chemistry.
There are quite a few swoon-worthy moments, some danger and some humor. There is also one more resident at Halfway House who stole my heart - if you don't come out of this book loving Ox and his bond with Dylan, you may need to get that heart of yours checked out.
Wall and Dylan became one of my favorite couples from the series. Although Wall appeared in a previous book (A Mended Man) this can easily be read as a standalone.
November 16, 2021
Wall and Dylan had great chemistry. The story was beautiful.
October 26, 2018
This was a long book that didn't need to be as long as it was. While no scene was exactly alike, a lot of them trod over the same ground and could have been cut to tighten up the storytelling. I wasn't a huge fan of either of these main characters.
September 30, 2018
3.75 rating. Wooo! This one was saccharine sweet! I'm a sucker for MC's who feel unloved (does that make me a bad person?) so Dylan's backstory (dropped off at a fire station, never adopted) was like crack to my system. That said, I took a long time for me to connect with Wall (because he was walled off? Get it? Okay, I'll stop!) and it got pretty schmaltzy towards the end. Still, it was great to see so many of the characters from the previous books and I enjoyed Jaime Reese's writing style. It was definitely a fun weekend read. :)
June 14, 2020
I have a little (but good) problem with this author: I love all her books.
And when I think she's outdone herself in a story, in the next book she proves it can get even better.
I really like this series (all books can be read as stand alone). The couples are wonderful, but I confess that I ended up choosing Cole and Ty, from A Restored Man (the third book).
Suddenly, Wall and Dylan appear, and once again I fall in love.
Dylan spent two years in prison because he got involved with the wrong guy.
With his high IQ and a photographic memory, he is a computer genius. Now, he is in parole and forbidden to get even close to a laptop.
On a barbecue weekend that Matt and Julian always offer to the residents of Halfway House and friends, Dylan meets Agent Wall McCormack.
Wall is the quiet kind of guy.
Twice he was betrayed by trusting the wrong guys. But when he meets Dylan, he soon becomes fascinated by Dylan's playful manner, his multicolored hair and his tattoo of a winged unicorn.
Dylan struggles to fit into the correct life outside the prison, but some people from his past still want to get him to finish a job, and then Wall becomes the fortress to protect Dylan and show him that he was THE chosen man.
Read and fall in love, just like me.
5 stars
And when I think she's outdone herself in a story, in the next book she proves it can get even better.
I really like this series (all books can be read as stand alone). The couples are wonderful, but I confess that I ended up choosing Cole and Ty, from A Restored Man (the third book).
Suddenly, Wall and Dylan appear, and once again I fall in love.
Dylan spent two years in prison because he got involved with the wrong guy.
With his high IQ and a photographic memory, he is a computer genius. Now, he is in parole and forbidden to get even close to a laptop.
On a barbecue weekend that Matt and Julian always offer to the residents of Halfway House and friends, Dylan meets Agent Wall McCormack.
Wall is the quiet kind of guy.
Twice he was betrayed by trusting the wrong guys. But when he meets Dylan, he soon becomes fascinated by Dylan's playful manner, his multicolored hair and his tattoo of a winged unicorn.
Dylan struggles to fit into the correct life outside the prison, but some people from his past still want to get him to finish a job, and then Wall becomes the fortress to protect Dylan and show him that he was THE chosen man.
Read and fall in love, just like me.
5 stars
October 2, 2018
It seems like forever since I have read a Halfway House series, however it was like I never left once I delved into the pages of A Chosen Man.
I completely and utterly adored Dylan. I love that he is a little bit different, his quirks that he thinks make him unlikable made me adore him more.
Wall (soooo not a fan of that name) is quiet and gruff an enamoured with Dylan.
What we get is a slow burn with lots of suspense and intrigue thrown in for good measure . What I did find lacked a little from the other books in the series was the emotions. In the other books there have been tears, but not in this one - and I wanted them.
It did get a little repetitive for part of the second half of the book (but this could just be me)
I loved getting more of Matt and Julian and the other guys from the Halfway House series. It has made me want to go back and read the previous books all over again.
I hope we get more HH books in the future
I completely and utterly adored Dylan. I love that he is a little bit different, his quirks that he thinks make him unlikable made me adore him more.
Wall (soooo not a fan of that name) is quiet and gruff an enamoured with Dylan.
What we get is a slow burn with lots of suspense and intrigue thrown in for good measure . What I did find lacked a little from the other books in the series was the emotions. In the other books there have been tears, but not in this one - and I wanted them.
It did get a little repetitive for part of the second half of the book (but this could just be me)
I loved getting more of Matt and Julian and the other guys from the Halfway House series. It has made me want to go back and read the previous books all over again.
I hope we get more HH books in the future
September 5, 2020
The consistently high quality of stories in this series – from the complex characters who face painful growth to an intriguing plot – keeps me coming back despite their emotionally draining nature. Or, to be more specific, because I know that the payoff at the end will be worth all the suffering the author "inflicts" on me throughout. ‘A Chosen Man’ was especially intriguing because it is the story of Wall, the enigmatically stoic teammate of one of the previous book’s main characters, detective extraordinaire Aiden. Pairing him with Dylan, a sassy, computer-hacking brat who is thirteen years younger and has recently been released on parole was bound to lead to problems – I just had no idea how many when I started reading this tale. It’s compelling, suspenseful, and left me emotionally exhausted.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
September 26, 2018
LOVED IT!! Old characters, new friends, and an overwhelming [and hopefully everlasting] love between Gray [nope, not calling him Wall] and Dylan, two men who've had s**t thrown at them all their lives and finally deserve some happiness AND someone to love them for who they are. Big shout out to Gray's mum Maggie, she was awesome!! You keep writing Jaime, and I'll keep reading.
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